Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

There is pain, darkness, and an eerie wetness against this small boy’s body. His breathing is getting harder as there is a whisper saying it will be okay. That he will be okay even as rocks fumble and move around and a pained cry is heard above him. His body is shaking as he tries to speak, then…

It all went black.

Today was his mother’s funeral.

His father, Hisashi Midoriya, doesn’t say a word as he fixes up Izuku’s clothing, giving up on the tie as soon as he tried and picking up the boy.

Izuku is only five years old. His light green eyes are blurred with slight tears, unable to help himself but want to cry, even as he tries to understand why his mom was no longer with them.

“Why are we doing this?” Izuku whispers as his father helps him put his shoes on. The man pauses and looks up at him with white eyes that seemed haunting. Almost like a ghost, his father was almost never around before the accident.

He had good memories of his father playing heroes and villains, always playing the bad guy for him and Kacchan to fight against. Though they always lost despite their best effort, his father would say it was a good lesson before being scolded by Mom for being too intense. He never minded it, as it made him want to think better, and while frustrated, it motivated him.

Then his dad just started to become busier with work. His mom became stressed when, at four, there was still no sign of a quirk, and he just didn’t come around. Now he was around, doing all these weird things since Mom got hurt.

Maybe he was ashamed that his son was quirkless.

His father’s frown deepened, and he tied the shoes a little tighter than Izuku was comfortable with before finishing up. It was clear that his father was not pleased with the question, having been avoiding talking about it.

But his father wasn’t known for tact or delicate words, regardless of if the target for his words was his own five-year-old son.

“She’s moved on from us.”

Those words hung in Izuku’s mind as he stared wide-eyed while his father continued on, as if he was used to grief and was just too exhausted to speak anymore at this point. The large man scooped Izuku up and carried him away from their home. The many boxes and movers that littered the place became more obvious. It felt like they were running away.

On the very day of Inko Midoriya’s funeral.

The day seemed to match their grief as it began to rain as soon as they arrived at the funeral. Umbrellas came out to cover everyone in a sea of black.

His father refused to put him down, as if afraid Izuku would run off, despite his clear difficulty in opening the umbrella he had brought just in case. Izuku didn’t know how to feel as he stared numbly at nothing, this terrible ache in her absence as he lay his head on his father’s shoulder.
He wasn’t listening to anything anymore.

Death was unfamiliar. It happened in the videos with All Might, but he always showed up. There was always some hero that would come to save the day, and they did save him.

So why couldn’t they save his mom?

There was a stab of pain in his chest as his vision began to blur and a stray thought came to mind—memories of his last moment with his mother. Was it his—

“Where’s Ms. Midoriya, old hag? There’s no way she’s gone!” A familiar boy’s voice cut through his thoughts, becoming a temporary distraction. In that moment he almost found his voice as his eyes lit up for just a moment.

“Kacchan—?”

But it was cut off just as quickly. As his attempt to call out to the boy was cut short by his father’s grip suddenly tightening to force him back against his torso before could speak. Forcing the small boy to wince and stop himself. Confused, he looked up at his father to see the man was less than pleased. Izuku shrank, unsure of why his dad seemed so angry, as he turned his head as much as he could to see his childhood friend.

This small boy, Kacchan, certainly held a presence despite his size, looking like he was about to fight his mom. He could only catch the woman, Mitsuki, grabbing the boy roughly to try and quiet him down. Masaru, Kacchan’s father, gave a small sigh and looked over at Hisashi and Izuku almost apologetically.

“We are so sorry, Mr. Midoriya, you know how kids are.” Masaru bowed as it seemed everyone had been talking. The funeral had ended, and now everyone was to say their peace. The Bakugou family had always been family friends. Izuku remembered how both his and Kacchan’s moms would sit on the bench chatting while they played. Yet now that he thought about it, his dad almost never talked to them even in group gatherings.

Izuku could see that Mitsuki Bakugou was whispering and hissing at Kacchan after the boy had already made a scene, trying her best to keep him quiet—an act she seemed to be doing much more often lately. His mom said it was normal to test boundaries. He really didn’t get it, but the way Mitsuki was finally able to get her son to calm down made him miss his own mom.

Mitsuki stood up, grabbing hold of Kacchan’s hand as she walked toward them after having their talk, and Masaru smiled fondly at his wife and kid. That warmth was slowly starting to feel closer, Izuku’s eyes brightening as he shifted to look at them fully.

“Sorry about Katsuki, he’s just being a bit rambunctious—he’s really worried about Izuku,” Mitsuki spoke, and it brought Izuku some comfort. He had thought the other was still going to be mean today, but that clearly wasn’t the case.

Masaru and Mitsuki’s expressions suddenly looked serious as they glanced at each other. Izuku’s father tensed—the feeling was hard to ignore—as his father’s grip stiffened and tightened a bit, as if he was anticipating something that was impossible for Izuku to comprehend. They were like family, they wouldn’t do anything bad!

“Um, Mr. Midoriya, we don’t mean to intrude,” Masaru started up as if he was speaking to a wild animal that might snap at any moment. “But we care deeply for Izuku and Inko, just like family, so we were thinking if—”

His father suddenly sneered. “We’re fine.”

Masaru was taken aback by the harsh tone from the usually indifferent or casual man who never talked much. Though Mitsuki seemed less than amused as she stepped in, “There’s no need to be hostile. We are just offering—if you need some temporary help, we can watch him a bit.”

It sounded so nice. The idea of living with the Bakugous sounded nice, even if Kacchan might still tease him about being quirkless and a Deku. It would be familiar—maybe eventually Kacchan would come to be friends with him again.

“We’re already moving,” Mr. Midoriya answered them, seeming to have calmed down. The reactions the Bakugous had, even Kacchan, were startled, making it clear that the man hadn’t even given anyone in the neighborhood a heads-up about this arrangement.

“You’re moving? Already!?” Mitsuki’s voice rose just a pitch, seeming offended and shocked at the callousness of it. “But what about the community here? Izuku has been living here all his life—”

Izuku was reeling as the adults talked, trying to register why he had to leave. He was about to open his mouth to speak, but as if his father sensed it, the man put a hand to the back of his head and pressed against it. Just enough pressure as if to say not now, or, from Izuku’s point of view, shut up. As he was pressed against his father’s shirt, he didn’t have the strength to fight it, only able to glance over and see the shock on Kacchan’s face.

Tears welled up in his eyes as his father didn’t allow him a voice. Despite the Bakugous’ best efforts, they left the funeral with any close connection being cut.

Izuku tried to beg when he got “home,” or what would be his former home, to at least say goodbye to Kacchan. At least to show that he still cared and wanted to be friends.

He was rejected. His father didn’t even entertain the idea, as their home was already mostly empty when they returned.

The movers were quick and efficient, boxing up his life without ceremony—his toys, his books, his memories swallowed piece by piece until nothing was left but empty walls. There was no time for goodbyes, no chance to explain or hold onto anything familiar; just the silent rush of movers boxing up his life, and Hisashi’s steady, almost mechanical movements as he bundled Izuku into the waiting car.

As they pulled away, Izuku pressed his forehead to the cold window, watching the apartment grow smaller and smaller until it was nothing but a smear of gray in the rain, disappearing like a dream he was already forgetting. He heard his father’s voice, low and flat, barely louder than the rain tapping against the glass:

“As if that brat even cares if you leave.”

The words carved a hollow ache deep into his chest, sharper and colder than he could have imagined, but Izuku didn’t say anything, didn’t even move, just curled his small hands into fists in his lap and held the hurt there, hidden and silent.

He had thought he was done crying at the funeral. He didn’t cry—not then, not while his father sat stiff and silent beside him, not while the world he knew was swallowed whole by distance and rain.

It wouldn’t be until much later—when the silence grew too thick, when the empty halls echoed too loudly, when the weight of everything he had lost finally pressed down on him—that the tears came, and by then there was no one left to see.

Their new home was not at all what Izuku expected after they passed through some weird mist.

It was huge! Their new home had a third story to it and was large compared to their apartment! They went through some weird black portal and suddenly they were here!.

To a five-year-old still struggling to blink away the heavy grief clinging to his chest, it didn’t feel real; it looked less like a house and more like a castle, so large it might swallow him whole if he wasn’t careful.

They had arrived through a strange black portal, stepping into a world that smelled faintly of fresh paint and something older, something heavier, something that seemed to cling to the walls and press down into the very bones of the place.

It should have been exciting. It should have felt like an adventure.

And for a little while, it was.

Izuku couldn't resist running up and down the wide staircases, his small feet echoing against polished floors as he darted from room to room, trying to memorize every corner and passageway.

There were so many rooms—an entire wing filled with comics and dusty old cartoons that still managed to fascinate him even if the heroes looked strange and outdated, a massive living room with a TV bigger than anything he'd ever seen, walls stacked with books far out of his reach, a music room with instruments he wasn't allowed to touch yet, and at the very center of it all, a sprawling courtyard that stole the breath from his lungs.

That courtyard was what truly captured his heart.

It was beautiful, overflowing with vibrant life—a garden bursting with wild trees, flowering bushes, and a small, shimmering pond where squirrels darted along branches and birds flitted overhead, singing melodies so sweet they made something deep inside his chest ache in ways he didn't yet understand.

One of the birds in particular caught his eye: a creature with brilliant, iridescent feathers that seemed to scatter rainbows wherever it flew, and he had spent hours lying in the grass, naming every animal he could find, weaving stories in his head about each one as if they were characters in some grand fairy tale.

It was amazing. It was everything he had ever dreamed a new home could be.

But as the hours dragged on and the first few days slipped past like water through cupped hands, the wonder slowly, almost imperceptibly, began to thin at the edges.

Because no matter how many doors he opened, no matter how many corridors he wandered, there were no neighbors peeking out from behind fences, no mail carriers laughing and waving hello, no passing cars rumbling down the street outside.

There were no windows that opened. There were no doors that led anywhere but further into the house—or back into the same, beautiful courtyard.

It was just him and his father. Along with the many animals trapped inside this expansive courtyard with him.

But there was no path outside this home.

The house, so massive and beautiful at first, now felt hollow and endless, every footstep echoing too loudly, every laugh from the television sounding too sharp against the walls when Hisashi disappeared into his office and left Izuku to wander the halls alone.

The first few nights, Izuku cried himself to sleep beneath thick, luxurious blankets, hiding his face and muffling the sound so his father wouldn’t hear, because even at five years old, he understood instinctively that sadness was something to be hidden.

He had wanted so badly to be strong, to be good, to not give his father another reason to be disappointed in him.

But this wasn’t a castle, no matter how beautiful it was.

It couldn't replace the sorrow he feels as the silence of his home became defeaning.

Dinner was quiet, the way it often was now.

The clinking of silverware against fine porcelain echoed strangely in the wide, empty kitchen, filling the space where once there had been chatter, where Inko’s laughter might have danced through the air like music.

Hisashi cooked—something Izuku hadn’t realized his father even knew how to do. The food was good, better than he expected, but no matter how carefully his father plated it, no matter how many new dishes appeared on the table each night, there was a hollow place inside Izuku that the food could never quite fill.

But tonight, something was gnawing at him.

"Dad," Izuku whispered, voice trembling despite his best effort to sound brave. "Are you… going to leave me alone?"

Across the table, Hisashi Midoriya froze, the glass of water in his hand pausing halfway to his lips. His eyes, so often full of a strange warmth and even stranger sadness, widened in genuine shock.

"Hm?" he uttered, caught completely off guard.

Izuku's heart pounded as he looked down at his plate. He hated saying it out loud, hated how small and needy it made him feel. It felt wrong, ungrateful even—but the fear had been growing too loud to ignore. This house had no doors to the outside. No other children. No neighbors. Just endless corridors and the gentle singing of the birds in the courtyard.

Was his father… planning to disappear too?

There was a scrape of a chair, and before Izuku could react, his father was beside him, kneeling down and scooping him up into his arms. Izuku let out a startled breath, feeling the familiar strength of his father's arms wrapping him close.

"Oh no, Izuku," Hisashi murmured, rocking him gently as he brushed a large hand through his messy green hair. "I would never leave you."

For a moment, Izuku let himself melt into the embrace. It had been so long since his father had held him like this—not since before… before everything fell apart.

The steady hum in Hisashi's chest was soothing, grounding him like it used to when he was small and the world was less broken.

But the words—the words weren't enough.

"But… what if you have to leave for work again?" Izuku burst out, the dam of all the emotions he could barely contain in his small body breaking all at once. His hands clutched fistfuls of his father's shirt as he sobbed into it. "What if… what if I'm bad, and you get tired of me?! I'm… I'm no good…!"

Hisashi tensed, but only for a second. Then his hand returned to stroking his back, steady and calm.

"Izuku," he said softly, firmly, as if stating a simple fact, "even if you were bad. Even if you were a monster. Even if you hated me—I would never leave you. You are my son. I already made that mistake once." His voice grew heavier. "I will never leave you behind."

Izuku hiccuped, still sobbing as his chest seemed to tighten. Unable to help his fear as his small body trembles at the idea of being abandoned and left all alone. He flinched as Hisashi pulled back slightly, grabbing some tissues to wipe his tears. Before finally he pressed the tissue gently against his nose.

"Blow," he instructed.

Obediently, Izuku blew into the tissue, a loud, messy sound that made Hisashi pull a face of exaggerated disgust.

"That's a lot of boogers," Hisashi said gravely, and Izuku let out a snort between hiccups.

Hisashi smiled—that real, warm smile that only Izuku ever seemed to see—and crouched down to Izuku's eye level. Those white eyes looking at him almost contemplative with that smile as if understanding how to help with this.

Then, he lifted his pinky.

"How about this?" he said. "I will make you a pinky promise."

Izuku blinked, confused. Kacchan had told him pinky promises were for babies, but… but here was his dad, dead serious, holding out his pinky.

"I promise that no matter what," Hisashi said solemnly, "even if you become mean, hate me, evil, or even if you run away it doesn't matter. I will never stop loving you. I will never abandon you. If I ever break that promise… I'll swallow a thousand needles."

Izuku gasped. A thousand needles!? That would hurt! That was serious!

Tentatively, he wrapped his tiny pinky around his father's.

"Then it's a promise," Izuku whispered, his voice shaking.

Hisashi squeezed his pinky gently.

"It's a promise," he echoed.

And for a moment—just a moment—Izuku let himself believe that maybe, just maybe, everything would be okay.

Yet a thought lingered. Would it still count if I grew into someone he didn’t love?

At first, Izuku tried to find wonder in the endless halls and towering staircases of their new home. He built forts out of the plush couches, pretended the sweeping curtains were capes fluttering behind him as he dashed through echoing corridors, filled entire notebooks with drawings of the strange birds that nested in the courtyard trees.

There was so much to explore, so many new rooms to discover, and for a little while, the loneliness stayed quiet—lingering only at the edges of his mind where he could pretend not to hear it.

But as the days slipped into weeks, and the weeks melted into months, the vastness of the house began to change.

The laughter that should have filled its halls never came. The windows never opened, no matter how hard he pushed. The doors that should have led to bustling streets or parks or neighbors led only to more rooms—or worse, nowhere at all.

Sometimes, in the dead stillness of the afternoon, Izuku would press his hands against the cold, smooth glass of a window three stories high and wonder why the outside world looked so far away. The garden, once a place of wonder, began to feel like a stage. While the animals were like carefully placed props.

And him—he wasn’t sure what he was anymore.

He tried to be good. He dressed up in whatever his father laid out for him without complaint, even if the fabrics itched or the colors weren’t quite to his taste.

He studied the books left for him, practiced his writing, smiled when he was supposed to smile, laughed when his father looked his way.

But the ache inside his chest was growing heavier with every passing day.

Izuku was six now—and loneliness gnawed at him more and more each day.

Despite the sprawling mansion, despite the towering trees and chirping birds outside his window, there was no one else his age. Just endless rooms and quiet halls, tutors who rarely stayed, and the soft hum of the television that couldn't fill the ache.

When he asked again about meeting other kids, his father only frowned, murmuring something about "safety" and "the world being too dangerous right now."

Izuku had slumped in disappointment, feeling that the old ache in his chest had tightened—until a few days later, Hisashi called him into the living room with a rare smile.

"I know you're a bit lonely, Izuku," his father said as he knelt down, cradling something in his arms. "So I got you a companion."

Izuku blinked—then gasped.

A rabbit—or at least, something like a rabbit—peered at him with odd, pupil-less green eyes. Its fur was black and sleek, gleaming almost unnaturally in the light, and a strange metallic plate sat atop its head like a tiny crown.

It was huge—far bigger than the rabbits he remembered from picture books—but in his father's arms, it still looked... manageable.

Until he tried to hold it.

As Hisashi gently passed the creature into Izuku's arms, the boy stumbled backward with a yelp, the rabbit’s surprising weight nearly toppling him over. He clumsily clutched at the rabbit's chest, and to his amazement, it simply… stood.

Balanced perfectly on its hind legs, like a furry little sentinel.

Izuku stared, awestruck—then laughed.

It was a bright, sharp sound, bursting out of him without permission, cutting through the lingering gloom like sunlight through storm clouds.

The rabbit's fur was soft against his fingers. It smelled faintly of metal and something green—like leaves in the spring.

"I love him!" Izuku cried, hugging the creature fiercely. The rabbit blinked slowly but tolerated the embrace with surprising patience, only twitching its nose in mild disapproval.

Hisashi’s smile widened a fraction, some private relief in his eyes.

"I'm going to call him… U!" Izuku declared proudly.

Hisashi tilted his head, clearly puzzled.

"U for Usagi!" Izuku beamed up at him, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Understanding dawned, and Hisashi let out a soft chuckle, ruffling Izuku's hair.

"Good choice," he said, his voice almost tender.

Before Hisashi could say anything else, Izuku was already racing toward the courtyard, the massive black rabbit hopping obediently after him.

His laughter echoed through the house as U chased him in wide, clumsy circles, occasionally catching him and pinning him to the ground with his full, heavy weight.

Izuku would squeal and squirm and giggle—and for a while, the cold weight in his heart eased just enough to let him breathe again.

For a little while, it almost felt like he wasn’t alone.

Just a boy and his strange, wonderful rabbit, running wild through a world that, for a moment, didn’t seem so empty after all.

One evening, when the sky outside had melted into a soft purple haze, Hisashi called him into the parlor.

Izuku came wobbling in, arms wrapped awkwardly around U’s huge fluffy frame, half-dragging him across the floor with determined little grunts. He beamed automatically at his father—until he noticed the spread laid carefully across the low tea table.

Clothes.

Not just any clothes. Beautiful, intricate outfits made of fabrics so soft they seemed to ripple like water, colors so vivid they almost glowed against the pale wood. There were dresses and robes, hanfu and yukata, outfits that belonged in fairy tales or on the stages of grand theaters.

Izuku stared, wide-eyed, as Hisashi knelt down beside the pile, running a hand reverently across the cloth.

"Your mother," Hisashi said quietly, his voice soft in a way that made Izuku’s heart ache, "she loved designing clothes. Before we settled down, it was her dream to make things like this. Dresses, costumes... beautiful things that could make people feel like they were living inside a story."

Izuku didn’t know what to say.

He had so few memories left of his mother—her laugh, her smell, the way she would ruffle his hair when he was upset. The idea that she had once dreamed of this—this magic—made something in his chest twist painfully.

"I thought," Hisashi continued, offering him a gentle smile, "maybe we could honor her dream together."

He held out a small hanfu, its fabric a brilliant green edged with white embroidery that shimmered like frost. It was beautiful—too beautiful for someone like him, he thought—but Hisashi’s expression was so hopeful, so soft, that Izuku couldn’t say no.

Carefully setting U down (earning a half-hearted grunt from the rabbit), Izuku allowed himself to be dressed.

The fabric was cool against his skin, sliding into place with a weight that felt far heavier than it should. Hisashi worked deftly, fastening the ties, adjusting the sleeves, his hands steady and sure.

When he was finished, he stepped back, studying Izuku with a warmth in his eyes that Izuku hadn't seen in a long, long time.

"You look just like her," Hisashi said, voice thick.

Izuku ducked his head, embarrassed but also... pleased. If wearing this made his dad happy—if it made his mom smile somewhere far away—then it was worth it.

And for a time, it became their ritual.

Sometimes Hisashi would bring out another new outfit, something he’d found or commissioned or bought on a whim. Izuku would let himself be dressed up, twirling awkwardly in the middle of the parlor while U watched with a deeply unimpressed stare from under a chair or atop a couch he had claimed as his throne.

It was strange. It was silly.

But it was also warm. And after so much loss, so much emptiness, Izuku would take warmth wherever he could find it.

Even if, sometimes, when he caught his reflection in the mirror, he didn’t quite recognize the boy staring back at him.

And the grief didn’t leave.

Izuku was still six when he asked again—asked if he could leave, if he could go outside and meet other kids his age, if he could have friends instead of just tutors and pets. The answer that came back was sharper than before; not cruel, but cold enough that Izuku flinched, Hisashi's voice firm as he demanded that he forget the old neighborhood, forget Kacchan, forget the world beyond their courtyard walls. It was too dangerous, he said. The world was cruel, and Izuku was too precious to risk.

Izuku felt a cold fear settle in his chest, the kind that made him realize, even then, that maybe his father wasn’t really seeing him anymore, only the memory of something already lost. He didn’t ask again for a long time.

He forgot why he was scared.

One of his tutors died not long after that, though Izuku never saw it happen. Only the sharp, metallic scent of blood lingering in the far hallway near the study doors, and U—usually lively—trembling and restless that night, unable to meet his eyes.

Some part of Izuku already knew, deep down, that something terrible had happened.

The replacement tutor arrived days later, stiff and distant, careful not to linger too long in conversation or step too close. None of them tried to get close to him after that, and whatever invisible line had been crossed, it sealed Izuku further inside the gilded walls that grew higher, thicker, colder around him.

He had just turned seven. And he wants to forget.

He tried to rebel after that—small things, the kind any normal child might do. He refused to eat certain foods, whined when asked to dress up, dragged his feet during lessons, tiny acts of defiance that barely felt like rebellion at all. But Hisashi didn’t see it that way.

All Izuku recalls is pain and terror as he cried feeling as if he was hated.

Hisashi’s horror—his panic, his trembling hands trying to patch the harm he'd caused, babbling desperate apologies that Izuku couldn't quite believe. He looked up at his father through wide, frightened eyes, and for the first time, a terrible truth rooted itself inside him: he was afraid.

Izuku was ten years old now, trying so desperately to bury the memories he dared not fully revisit.

Hisashi never raised his hand to him again—but the damage had been done. The fear stayed, festering like a thorn lodged deep in his chest, blooming sharper each time his father smiled too wide or spoke too softly. Izuku could never quite shake the suspicion that crept along his spine in those moments, a whisper in his mind that wondered if what gleamed in his father's eyes was truly love—or something else entirely.

He still tried to be good, tried to be the son his father wanted—the perfect little doll, obedient, smiling, safe. He wore the dresses and suits, practiced his handwriting, answered every request with a smile, each polite gesture building the careful image Hisashi needed to see.

But late at night, lying beneath too-heavy covers in a room far too grand and empty, Izuku would stare into the dark and wonder how much longer he could keep pretending. No matter how many birds fluttered in the courtyard, no matter how soft U’s fur felt against his cheek, no matter how brightly he smiled—he was still alone, still trapped, still a delicate bird in a cage so beautiful it almost made him forget the bars were there.

Almost.

How much longer was he supposed to pretend he was okay? His father had kept his promise—he had never abandoned him, never left him truly alone. But Izuku hadn’t wanted to be trapped with him either.

Every day was the same. Every routine was stagnant. If it wasn't for the tutors cycling through the manor and U, the strange rabbit who tolerated his hugs with the patience of a saint, Izuku was sure he would have lost his mind long ago. Almost seven years of growing up like this, tucked away in a cage too beautiful to see the bars at first glance.

He was eleven now. He had been homeschooled from the moment they moved here. He studied, he behaved, he wore any outfit his father chose without complaint—or at least he tried to.

So he couldn't help but wonder: When would he be "ready" to go outside? Because frankly... it felt like he was suffocating.

These thoughts gnawed at him, picking at the fragile threads holding his patience together. More and more he started to feel less like Hisashi Midoriya’s son and more like something kept, something protected, something caged. A pet. A doll. A pretty object to dress up and keep safe from the world.

It was hard to fight those thoughts. Especially when his father, for all his affection, could be so cold, so utterly detached. It wasn’t as if he forced Izuku into the dresses; he even seemed to treasure those moments, treating them as something sacred. His father would talk about his mother, about the dreams she once had of designing clothing before she gave everything up for family, and in those moments, Izuku let it happen—for his father's sake, for the faint memory of his mother.

But no matter how beautiful the clothing was, it didn’t change the truth gnawing at the edges of his mind.

He was still trapped.

Izuku sighed as he sat alone on a stone bench in the courtyard, U sprawled at his feet lazily gnawing at a wooden chair—probably one Hisashi treasured. Izuku barely even scolded him anymore. He simply watched, green eyes unfocused as they drifted up to the sky.

One bird, brilliant and iridescent, caught his gaze. Its feathers shimmered green and blue under the false sunlight that illuminated the manor’s courtyard. It stared up toward the ceiling, cocking its head as if weighing something deep within its tiny heart.

It stared up at the sky with fierce, unwavering focus. Izuku wondered if maybe, finally, one of them would leave. They weren’t native birds; there was no reason they couldn’t fly away — soar far beyond the little walled-off world he'd been trapped in. At least... someone should be able to.

And then, to Izuku’s amazement—it launched itself upward.

He watched as it launched itself upward in a burst of wild, desperate flapping. The other birds, usually so calm, were fluttering and shrieking in panic. It was strange. Unnatural.

The bird hit something.

The sky itself—what he had always assumed was sky—flared with a pulse of light, and there was a terrible snap and crackle as the creature fell.

Something invisible caught the bird mid-flight, and it tumbled, smoking, toward the ground. Izuku was already moving before he even registered what happened, leaping from the bench, sprinting to catch it.

He barely caught it — the bird’s small body twitching in agony, its once-beautiful feathers charred and smoldering against his skin. The stink of burnt feathers filled his nose. He clutched it tighter, horror and heartbreak crashing down all at once.

Its feathers were charred black at the edges. Its body was trembling.

The stink of burned flesh clung to his hands as he cradled it.

"No, no, no—" he whimpered, vision blurring as he held the broken thing. A sob tore out of him, raw and instinctive. Without thinking, he screamed the one name he had left in the world:

“Dad! Help! DAD PLEASE!”

He didn’t even register his father’s approach at first—only the sound of hurried footsteps and the sharp intake of breath as Hisashi Midoriya took in the scene before him.

"Izuku, what happened!?"

Izuku couldn’t even answer. He just sobbed harder as Hisashi knelt beside him, his large hands carefully prying the bird from his son's trembling fingers.

"Shh... it’s okay. I can fix him. Don’t cry." His father’s voice was gentle, even soothing.

But Izuku was trembling for another reason entirely.

"W-why?" he choked out, voice breaking, and Hisashi—uncharacteristically—seemed to understand exactly what he was asking.

"For their own safety," Hisashi answered, almost bewildered by the question. "They wouldn’t survive out there. All they've ever known is here. If you hadn't found it, it would have died anyway."

The words were said so simply. So logically.

As if keeping creatures locked away under an invisible, electrified sky was just common sense. As if preventing them from even trying to live was somehow... kind.

Izuku swallowed thickly, staring at the trembling bird now cradled in his father's arms. Was that all this was? Was this what his father saw when he looked at him too? A delicate creature to be preserved, even if it meant a lifetime of imprisonment?

The realization hit him like a punch to the gut.

The world he lived in—the life he thought was safe and real—was a gilded cage.

His father smiled gently at him, utterly unaware of the horror and betrayal twisting inside his son.

"It's okay," Hisashi whispered. "I would never let anything bad happen to you."

But Izuku could only sit there in stunned silence, hands trembling, wondering if he would ever see the real sky again.

Time passed. Days blurred into months, and months into years. But the cracks in Izuku’s world had already begun to spread.

In the quiet hours, when even U had tucked himself beneath furniture to sleep, Izuku would sit by the soft glow of his tablet, scrolling through streams of distractions. Sometimes it was clips of heroes—larger than life and shining with purpose. Other times, it was images of distant schools and bustling classrooms he could only dream of. But one evening, by accident or fate, he stumbled onto something he hadn’t expected—an online community devoted to beautiful, lifeless dolls.

They were exquisite. Draped in flowing silks and intricate lace, posed in carefully crafted scenes, each one preserved behind spotless glass. Their porcelain faces wore serene expressions, their glass eyes gleaming in the light. The people who owned them adored them—praised their beauty, dressed them lovingly, and displayed them like cherished trophies.

Izuku stared, and for the first time, he felt something sick curl in his stomach.

Because he saw himself.

The fine clothes, always tailored and elegant. The carefully curated life, every need met before he could even speak it. The walls built high and smooth around him, polished like glass, meant to keep him pristine. The affection—always a little too tight, a little too smothering—as if he might crack if not handled just right.

At first, he tried to shove the thought away. His father loved him. He cooked for him, read to him, brought tutors and pets to stave off the loneliness. He smiled whenever Izuku smiled—as if Izuku were the only thing that mattered. If he were just a doll, why would his father care so deeply?

But then he thought of the tutors who vanished without warning. Of U, always tense when strangers came. Of the courtyard, so bright and full of birds that could fly—but never leave. Of bruises that hadn’t come from accidents, of pain followed by whispered apologies that didn’t make it stop hurting.

And suddenly, he couldn’t unsee it.

He was twelve now—old enough to feel the weight of the cage he once mistook for home. Old enough to recognize that love, when twisted by fear and control, could become its own kind of prison. That devotion, even when sincere, could still suffocate.

He couldn’t live like this. Not forever. Not if he wanted to remain himself, to grow into more than something placed carefully on a shelf and admired.

Curling his knees to his chest, Izuku wiped his face with trembling hands. Then, slowly, something cold and steady settled inside him.

He would not be a doll. He would not let this house become his grave. He would not let fear masquerading as love dictate his life.

He was going to be a hero. He was going to live a real life. He was going to fight for it—even if it meant risking everything.

Izuku stood, breath shuddering as he steeled himself.

It was time to ask. Really ask. And this time… he wouldn’t back down.

The house was too quiet when Izuku finally found him.

Hisashi sat in the lounge, the flickering television casting ghostly reflections across the dark wood and his sharp, unreadable eyes. In the half-light, he didn’t look like a man anymore—he looked like something older, heavier, worn down by years of battles no one else could see.

Izuku lingered at the doorway, heart hammering painfully against his ribs. Every instinct screamed at him to stay silent, to not disturb the fragile peace that had settled like dust in the corners of their world. But he couldn't. Not anymore.

He stepped forward, his small hands bunching into the fine green silk of the hanfu dress he had chosen carefully, a desperate, silent plea stitched into every fold.

"Dad," Izuku said, voice barely above a whisper.

Hisashi turned his head slowly, like the simple act was too heavy to bear. His smile was thin and hollow. "Yes, Izuku?"

The words tangled in Izuku’s throat, but he forced them out anyway, squeezing his hands tighter into the fabric until his knuckles went white.

"I want to go back to a real school. I want to have real friends. I... I don't want to stay here forever."

The words hung in the air between them, trembling and naked.

For a moment, Hisashi said nothing.

The television crackled softly in the background, the only sound in a house that suddenly felt far too large, far too empty.

Then Hisashi rose from the chair with slow, deliberate movements, his figure towering in the gloom, the pressure around him growing heavier with each step. Izuku fought the instinct to flinch, to back away. Instead, he stood his ground, swallowing hard as he met his father's eyes.

"You even managed to tie it properly," Hisashi said, voice light but distant, almost like an echo from some forgotten time. "You look beautiful, Izuku."

The compliment landed awkwardly, out of place, as if trying to soften something that could not be softened.

"I'm serious," Izuku said, his voice wobbling despite his best efforts to keep it steady. "I’ve done everything you asked. I've studied. I’ve behaved. Please, I just want—"

Hisashi raises a hand to stop him and Izuku obeys able to see there is a moment.

For a long moment, Hisashi simply watched him.

The television murmured forgotten noise in the background, flickering shadows against the walls. Rain ticked faintly at the windows, a distant, steady heartbeat. And in the silence between one breath and the next, something inside him shifted—a shadow brushing old wounds he refused to name.

His hand twitched once at his side before stilling.

Izuku stood there, too small for the weight he was trying to carry, his hands clenched tight in the green silk. So earnest. So terribly fragile.

The world had taken before. It would not take again.

"You've grown," Hisashi said quietly, the words heavier than he meant them to be, the ghost of a memory passing unnoticed in his voice.

"My sweet baby boy."

His face was unreadable, but there was a sorrow there, hidden beneath the usual warmth, as if he were looking at something precious that had already started to slip away.

"You really think you’re ready?" Hisashi asked softly, his voice almost kind, but the steel beneath it was unmistakable.

Izuku nodded, unable to trust his voice.

Hisashi sighed, long and deep, like he was carrying the weight of a hundred regrets. Slowly, he knelt down so they were eye level, reaching out to brush a hand through Izuku's still green, messy hair. His touch was gentle but heavy, as if he were memorizing the feel of him before something changed forever.

"I will agree," Hisashi said carefully, "but only under certain conditions."

Izuku’s breath caught in his throat.

"Anything," he blurted out before he could stop himself, the word tumbling from his lips like a prayer. "Whatever you want, I'll do it!"

Hisashi’s smile curved just slightly. It wasn't cruel, not exactly—but it wasn't kind, either.

"One," he said, holding up a finger. "You will submit to a strict regime. Tutors, physical training, study schedules. You will not complain. You will not argue. If you fall behind—" his voice sharpened just slightly, "—you come back here. No questions."

Izuku nodded quickly. That was fine. He was used to studying, used to structure. He could handle that.

"Two," Hisashi continued, lifting a second finger, "you will write me reports. Detailed. Weekly. Everything you learn, everything your classmates say, everything that happens. If I find you omitting things, or lying—"

The warning didn't need to be finished.

Izuku nodded again, his heart thudding painfully in his chest. He could do that too. If it meant freedom—even just a little—he would endure it.

"And three," Hisashi said, his voice dropping low enough that Izuku had to strain to hear it, "you will stay out of trouble. You are not a hero yet, Izuku. You are still a child. If you are harmed, if you are endangered, if you so much as come near danger—"

Hisashi leaned in, the sharpness in his gaze cutting deeper than any blade.

"You come home. Immediately. And if you don't, I will come for you."

The promise in those words sent a chill down Izuku’s spine. Not because he doubted it—but because he believed it completely.

There was a finality in the air now, heavy and suffocating. Izuku realized with a sick, twisting feeling that this wasn’t a negotiation. It never had been.

It was a contract.

A deal struck between jailer and prisoner.

He swallowed hard, pushing down the fear clawing up his throat.

"I promise," Izuku whispered, and Hisashi ruffled his hair again with a hand that lingered just a second too long.

"You're all I have left," Hisashi murmured, almost to himself, something raw slipping through the cracks of his voice before he caught it and buried it again.

Izuku closed his eyes against the sting in his chest, holding onto the fragile illusion with both hands.

This was love. It had to be.

Because it was all he had left, too.

Chapter Text

When his father promised him training, he thought it was a dream —until the dream turned into a brutal reality. As he trained in ways he never experienced his body aching and protesting the unfamiliar motions he never had.

His father spared him no mercy until he nearly collapsed on the floor and looked down at him in amusement. The amused look reminded Izuku of when his father 'won' their old arguments—distant, smug, unreachable. Izuku practically collapsed after they did a long run, his father didn’t seem any worse for wear. He never even SEEN the man work out yet there isn’t even a sweat on him despite joining him now.

His father who used to constantly fret over the smallest thing only looked at him with amusement. A part of Izuku wonders if despite agreeing to this arrangement if his father resented it. Taking it out on him by pushing him so hard on the very first day of training. Trying to make him want to give up right when it started.

"I got a professional doctor to help out with this regime." The man spoke as kneels down beside him as if noticing his son’s weariness. As if to tease him for thinking it anything other then just what was promised. Izuku huff indignantly at his fathers smug expression.

His father expressed no sympathy for his son’s plight and allowed Izuku a chance to breathe as his own small mercy, "Considering the school you want to go into you have to be smarter, better and stronger than everyone at your base level. This is needed.."

Hisashi spoke as if it was simply a fact of life that Izuku had to be pushed to the brink to be able to keep up with UA’s standard. Despite how it might seem cruel, Izuku knows he is telling the truth. As he is, Izuku is a terribly weak and spoiled boy who hasn't been around others since he was four years old. Izuku flinches as his father's hand moves under his chin to tilt his head up as he would look at his father.

"Let me also tell you something that the TV’s and people won’t tell you. Villains aren't going to care if you're a child so you better take this seriously," his words were cold despite the affection in his eyes. Izuku can tell his father wanted him to quit, to just give up and settle for staying home. But Izuku hardens himself despite the fear. He can handle it.

"I'm not fragile," Izuku answers with conviction despite his nerves fearing his father changing his mind. His hands digging into the dirt beneath him as he tries to force himself up, able to hear the birds in the trees listening and watching in this courtyard. For years all he had felt was the gentle embrace of his father, the silk feel of dresses, and the comfort of repetition. He refused to go back to that when his dream was also being dangled in front of him!

"Right right, guess you are at that age where you need to go out and see the world. To make your own path," Hisashi sighs almost whimsically, while his son is trying his hardest to succeed. "I am proud of you though, so keep at it I want you to succeed. But I won't make it easy as I know you would hate it if I did."

And it was true. If his father had gone easy then he truly did not care actively trying to sabotage him without any help or aide. Setting him up for failure with this harsh cruelty is an attempt to help him catch up to what other students had years to prepare while he had only two. So despite the harshness in a sense this was an action of faith to truly prepare him. And he refuses to disappoint.

After all, it is only the first day of training. Keeping to his word, the training was hell pushed to his bring while being educated.

The man had more strength than Izuku thought, as he would easily lift things that Izuku struggled with. This business man was definitely no ordinary one, but then he already knew that much. Still to see his father running, moving and displaying power that seemed almost on par with All Might was baffling.

His dad never truly hid who he was, only the depths of it. A home with no entrance or exit meant there was something incredibly off by the whole situation. Able to still recall when they arrived and yet his father could leave seemingly with no issues. Never able to catch him only knowing because his father would say he needs some business to care for and disappearing for hours no matter where Izuku looked.

Yet Izuku never truly thought about it until they started training and he showed feats of strength that made him feel very weak. His father’s quirk was not firebreath as while the man has displayed it the other feats were unnatural. They were far beyond the normal human limits and Izuku hasn't studied heroes for as long as he has to not figure this out.

"Dad what is your quirk...?" Izuku questioned. Every muscle on his body ached as he was trying to eat with very little success as his hands trembled. Likely his dad will notice if he isn't careful and call off a day of training as has seen him almost do so. Despite clearly telling him had a professional doctor set him up to reach his peak, swinging from cruel to concern at the drop of a hat. As Izuku needed food and he wasn't about to endure his father trying to feed him, he pushed through it.

"My quirk? I would have thought you figured it out by now," Hisashi sounded genuinely surprised while Izuku was trying his hardest to figure it out. As there were too MANY things his father seemed to have that don’t seem to blend well into each other. Wondering if his dad had been obvious about it and he just didn't notice? No, the man’s quirk must be more complicated then that.

"I haven't. I remember when I was small that it was a fire breath quirk but... It doesn't feel like that's the case as I barely even see you working out and yet you can do everything with ease. It’s almost super human," Izuku admits. He has lived with his dad for years and still hasn't figured out his quirk. Meanwhile, here he is quirkless and trying to be a hero feeling so very small next to someone that clearly was beyond normal people. It made him feel like he shouldn't keep trying. That voice in his head was going to be ignored.

"Hmm if you haven't figured it out then I'm not going to say anything," Hisashi said casually as eats his meal, seeming amused. Izuku felt like he just had cold water dumped on him at how his father would just reject the idea of telling his own son. The very child he claimed to love and adore to the point of creating a whole mansion that is built to keep him safe! Why was his father trying to act so mysterious now!?

"Dad you can't be serious? I won't tell a soul," Izuku pleads a bit, though tries to just brush off the hurt feeling. He was always a good kid, but now it felt like his dad was being distant from him. Is it because he wants to leave? Can't he just be supportive!?

The man smiles at him as if he had not implied such a hurtful thing but then he likely doesn't see it like he does. At times it feels like his father sees the world differently or maybe Izuku does understand and just wants another reason besides the one in his head. That his dad just gets enjoyment in playing guessing games regardless if it causes his loved ones distress.

"You'll figure it out, maybe you have it too. Actually I am sure you have it and you definitely will need it," Hisashi muses almost contemplatively. Izuku was starting to get frustrated with his fathers indirect speech. He had a quirk?

But the doctor said he didn't have one and nothing ever showed up! Now his dad really was just being cruel to even try and imply it when he wasn’t even around when he and mom went to the doctor! When his mom literally cried at hearing him wish to still be a hero, was he only letting him be a hero because thinks he has a quirk!?

Izuku felt himself clench his teeth as he gave up eating right now feeling frustration. This was the same man that panicked and nearly cried when Izuku got sick for the first time. Who cooed over him when dressed up and would praise him constantly, now it felt like he was toying with him. Despite having lived together for so long it seems like his dad was still unaware about this kind of stuff.

"Dad, the doctor said I'm quirkless," Izuku hated this but he has to be honest. His dad was bound to find out or realize this but he can’t take back his promise. So even if points this out he can’t take back the promise to help him become a hero. “You would know that if you were around back then.”

His father froze with that fake smile and Izuku felt himself begin to sweat realizing he might have pushed his luck. His eyes looked away in horror as he wondered if his dad was about to just break the deal. Oh no he got carried away-!

"You've been getting very snippy lately," Hisashi interrupts him as he stares at his son. As if he was the one that changed and was being the rude one here. Which might be because did get a bit too comfortable but then his father said something insane, "Do you REALLY believe you're quirkless? That you just have an unhealthy obsession with heroes for no 'unexplained' reason?"

Having his desire to be a hero be called unhealthy made him shrink back wondering why the other was attacking his interest. As his father always indulged his hobby but to have it being called unhealthy was a surprise feeling himself shift meekly. He wanted to say he doesn't have an obsession; it's just fanboying at worst but he can't find the words wondering how this is even related to quirks. It’s just something he enjoys, even his dad enjoys it sometimes.

His father suddenly sighs and gets up from the table, his food only half eaten as if was just about to leave this conversation. Acting incredibly disappointed in his son when Izuku has no idea what he is ever talking about, if he has a quirk shouldn't he have known? It should have appeared so many years ago yet his dad is acting like he always had one. How could he not know he had one?

"I don’t understand," Izuku shouted, only to see U the rabbit suddenly running over to his father as if there had been a silent command. His dad leans down to pick up the black rabbit, gently stroking its fur and body in a loving manner before walking over to Izuku. His eyes seemed cold, making Izuku shut up instantly as the large rabbit was handed to him. The rabbit seemed almost limp once in his father’s arm, those eyes staring at nothing as they stayed still.

"Did you know that U has several quirks? Longevity, regeneration, shock absorbent, Strength and speed and of course a useless fur quirk just there to keep him soft," his dad speaks in that familiar manner of amusement. His large hand moved to brush against the creature's head plate as it stayed still. Izuku is staring at the rabbit in his arms, and how he never questioned its weird appearance. To him it was just a rabbit with something on his head like a helmet of some sort.

"You can get two of those quirks but you have to take it from him."

....What?

"I'm sorry, but um... Dad did you say take it? I can't do that!" Izuku spoke as he held the rabbit close to his chest. His father staring down at him as he spoke what honestly felt both terrifying and confusing. To take something against his rabbits will sounds almost cruel and wrong. It must be a joke right?

"I'm sure you can, go ahead it won't mind." Hisashi assures as he reaches out to grab his son's hand almost roughly to place it on the rabbit's head. The gesture had purpose as held his hand in place not about to move until he got the results he wanted, "Go ahead."

It felt different from when he would pet and stroke his rabbits head as if in this moment he is becoming acutely aware something is there. It reminded Izuku so much of a rumored villain that could steal quirks online, but there was never any evidence of their existence. Yet his father claims that he could do the same thing as this man? Who was his father?

His green eyes stared at the rabbit on his lap as his breathing turned almost labored as when he tried to pull his hand back his fathers grip tightened. The feeling was stronger.

A sharp breath escaped him as he thought he did want those quirks. He wanted strength and speed just like All Might. That his father seemed to just show off earlier during training without so much of a thought. But as Izuku held the rabbit in his arm, he felt his nerves prickle wondering what were the drawbacks to this. Such a quirk sounds to good to be true, but quirks are a part of people’s essence-

"Will it hurt?" Izuku questions softly as the rabbit glances up at him.

"That depends on you," was his father's response. Izuku's hand finally relaxes on the rabbit's head as if something instinctively finally woke up. He grabbed at the warmth he always see but never knew he could grab and for a second he could have sworn... It screamed.

Izuku is thirteen years old. He learned he wasn't quirkless and in fact had a quirk it allowed him to steal quirks. Though it was clear it had some side affects as his body seemed to have changed in response to the new quirks and activation. As the roots of his hair began to show white, more and more showed among his dark green hair. When he asked his father the man seemed a hint concerned asking if would prefer to dye his hair.

It didn’t seem as if his father was aware that his hair would lose its color but Izuku decided against dyeing it. If this was something natural then he would just have to accept that his hair that he was once familiar with is fading. There’s no point in pretending, and also it would be too difficult for him to add dyeing his hair into his routine when can do something more important.

Like nurturing and caring for U who was still in a sorry state after his quirk activated. Izuku should have known there was some kind of drawback. But he never expected that the drawback could be against others and not himself. Thankfully his childhood doctor, he’s amazed they still in contact, apparently was able to help fix the rabbit up despite not being a vet.

And he was thankfully ok, as U was hopping around like usual and was even helping Izuku train a bit. His father though, hadn't relented on his training, but at least with super speed he could do them faster. Today, though, he said that their current home did make it hard to train for as big and expansive their home and the courtyard was... limited.

"So we will be moving into the city Musutafu, Japan, the heart of heroes. There's a lot of places there that you can use to train and might help you get used to social interactions. You need to learn how to interact with others, especially for UA," Hisashi noted casually, and Izuku was excited.

He had been transferred, thankfully his home schooling was up to regulations, and was going to spend one year going to school. Though it was in a vastly different area, the chance of seeing Kacchan was minimal. He was enrolled into a much more 'prestigious' middle school compared to his more mundane preschool. He wondered if his dad had planned to have him go to a nicer school if mom stuck around or simply allow him to stay in more familiar territories. It didn't matter though as right now he hasn't interacted with another person that wasn't his father or a teacher since he was five so was going to take advantage of this.

"Ok, Izuku. You can do this," he mutters to himself nervously as he leaves the house. The feeling of a cool breeze against his leg made him realize something. His father had switched his male uniform with a female one. While many would wonder how he hadn’t noticed, they never dealt with a man who seems super powered and childish.

"DAD!" He shouts with indignation as he ran back into the house to find his proper uniform. If he didn't notice at the last minute that it would RUIN his ability to blend in. His father of course just laughed- The jerk.

Maybe it was his weird way of messing with him but Izuku was already nervous as hell. He hasn't been around people in a long time so knew he was rusty. Part of being a hero is also being able to interact with the public, which he is very inexperienced with. He only had a year in middle school to fix himself up before going to UA.

Barely enough time to train and learn to socialize. Corusan Middle School was a pretty expensive one, and though most don't emphasize it, there was merit to its courses. So it's even more of a learning curve and of course there is one student of keen interest.

Shouto Todoroki, the youngest son of the number 2 hero Endeavor. Rumored to be a prodigy and the man’s actual heir as well as a born genius.

"I wonder if I'll see him," Izuku mused softly since they would be in the same year. Also Izuku assumes he is going to UA just like his father and All Might have. Meaning if he can befriend Shouto then that would be someone guaranteed to be with him during his school year. As he doesn’t want to make friends with someone only to lose them when the year is up. As he knows many wouldn’t be able to get into UA, even Izuku’s own path toward it is shaky-

He smacks his cheeks at the negative thoughts that threatened to paralyzed him. It was fine, he was going to be fine. If he gets in then he might even meet Kacchan! He can do this!

"We’re alright we got this!" Just as he was about to take his first step into an actual middle school gate. His heart was racing as he moved slowly- Only for someone to shove past him making him nearly fall flat on his face barely catching himself in time.So barely he fell flat on his front getting a face full of dirt. A pathetic display truly, already able to hear some muttering and could have sworn someone giggled. It was bad luck to be sure...

A loud groan escaped him as he picked himself up, not at all hearing sorry. Wondering who the heck just shoves someone aside only to feel a strong heat and his body freezes. Slowly turning his head up he is horrified to see it was the number 2 hero looking down at him. The man was large though not as tall as his father, the man still towered over everyone. His presence was recognizable as a loud scoff escaped Endeavor.

Beside the man was Shouto Todoroki. Izuku had only ever heard about him but never truly seen any pictures or anything about him. Likely an attempt to make sure he would only be revealed when gets into UA. His appearance is truly unique, red and white hair split perfectly down the middle with two colored eyes. Showing off a unique trait that Izuku only seen in animals, chemeric.

Now he can understand why he is Endeavor's heir as is the perfect combination of fire and ice. Only created by a miracle of twins fusing in the womb instead of becoming individuals. Quite frankly, he looks so cool! How does the quirk work when they contrast-!?

"Stop blocking the gate, other people need to get inside," Endeavor pointed out, snapping Izuku out of his excited thoughts. Izuku shrinks a bit with a sheepish smile as he tries hard to get up onto his feet. Making sure to move out of the way allows the man to walk in with his son though Izuku can’t help but notice how unhappy Shouto looked. His face twisted into a scowl as his father’s hand pushed him forward against his wishes yet not fighting back.

There was anger in those eyes, a special kind of hatred that seemed to twist the boy's beautiful face into something ugly. Twisted as if possessed and as he looks at the father he suddenly realizes the same look was on the father's own. Though it may be for different reasons there was something familiar about the looks they had.

They had an obsession with spite.

"Shoto, get going," Endeavor speaks as if they both were normal. Lying to themselves and the world as he motions for his son toward the school. "I'll pick you up for more training so don't try to wiggle out of it. We have one more year to prepare for UA and you won’t disappoint me even if you still refuse to use your ice."

Izuku felt like they were in their own bubble where no one else existed. As they ignored him and he just awkwardly stood there wondering how he was supposed to even say hi. His original plan to befriend Shouto seemed quite difficult as from where he stood the other was closed off. Izuku knew he wouldn't be able to say anything as he slowly picked himself up feeling almost pitiful. Watching the boy, Shouto, form be hunched over as despite that rage he was helpless. Hopeless. Trapped.

Almost a reflection. A kind of pain in his chest as he thinks about his own relationship with his father wondering if he isn't just following his father's tune also. Acting like it's completely normal and unlike Shouto instead played by his rules.

...No it isn't the same. As complicated as these feelings are, he knows they are different. As for all his issues with his father he has no hatred for the man. As everything he is doing now is because it is something he wants desperately not because it is anything his dad wants. But it didn’t mean he can’t understand those feelings.

"Still to think this is what the top hero's son would look like," he noted, thinking they both carried a powerful air to them. While he couldn't even stand without falling over in seconds, basically moving aside to let them go ahead meekly. He needs to get stronger if he wants to be able to stand beside people like those. Even if his dad is afraid of the world, he refuses to be like that. He can take it, and if it means enduring everything his dad gives?

Then he will use it- But he should probably hurry to class!

Chapter Text

"You should be careful telling others about your power." His father speaks as he opens a box with all their family possessions. They were slowly moving all their stuff out of the mansion though memories of how they left the place were fuzzy to Izuku. Hisashi takes out a picture the size of his hand, "Your power both steals and gives it is something many would fear."

His red eyes wasn't looking at him. Izuku was only three years old in the image sitting in his mother's lap while his dad had to bend down to be in the picture. But they were all smiling it was genuine and joyful filled with affection and love. They were happy.

"What do you mean?" Izuku feels like he has been asking this question a lot. Everything sounded difficult as if these were all things he should know but only now is being allowed to comprehend. Feeling the weight of all those years being sheltered able to truly see the fear his father had.

"I'm sure you remember, when your 'friend' Kacchan started to be cruel calling you 'useless doll' a Deku," the man spoke with bitterness and disgust. Izuku could feel the hairs standing on end as the man turned those red eyes toward him. That hint of malice but it wasn't directed at him and it seemed he realized got a bit heated.

They softened instantly as he placed the picture on the table before walking over to him. Taking a seat beside him the sofa shifts under their weight as his father brushes his hands through his whitening hair.

"There is a lot of prejudice in the world. If you have no powers then you are inferior, if you have the wrong kind then you are a threat. So build their trust in you," he advised him softly speaking with the experience of someone who has been hurt. "When you've built up their trust they won't see it as evil but a blessing. Basically make strong allies who can be useful to you and you will be invincible."

That was his father's advice. The goal for this year was to make a friend, someone loyal to him that won't hurt him.

His quirk was a mystery but even to himself. As his father never told him a name for his own quirk and so never named his own. Only that it is the ability to give and take.

The teachers didn't know only that he had one giving only on paper work a vague description as some super speed. Hisashi, of course, made sure no one in the faculty pressed allowing him to leave it vague.

Unfortunately, speed and regeneration didn't help him with not making a fool of himself on the first day. Watching as Endeavor was steering his kid seeming firm while Shoto seemed hostile. All bark but no bite as he hasn't said anything to his dad seeming content in avoiding his gaze and trying not to sneer like his expression wants to.

"Shoto, are you even listening? You're still doing that childish rebellion?" Endeavor balked in annoyance, as his son seemed to want to be anywhere but here. "Just because you aren't responding isn't going to change anything. But you need to get over it and start using your fire as eventually you will see you need it."

It was becoming very clear that he wasn't supposed to be listening as every other student minded their own business. Walking pass the pair as Endeavor, the hero, lectured his son. Wondering why he is being so pushy toward his own son.

"Tch," was all that Endeavor received from his son it seemed to genuinely piss off the man a bit. The grip on Shoto's shoulder tightened and Shoto actually flinches despite trying to keep an expression of stoicism.

That is when Izuku decided to make his presence known wanting to some how diffuse the situation. It was clear Endeavor was already making his kid uncomfortable and worst was doing it in public where everyone can see.

"Um-" not that Izuku had any idea of what to say as it was more like a loud squeak of a mouse rather then any words a human would make. Feeling a hint of panic when those harsh eyes turned to him.

"Can we help you?" Endeavor questioned with a sharp glare, and if honest he looked more like a villain then a hero. There was no warmth nor kindness in those eyes as he stared him down with a kind of harsh demeanor. As if he was ready to make Izuku regret even daring to try interrupt yet polite enough to not completely shut him down so Izuku swallows his fear to speak.

"Oh, I'm just surprised to see Endeavor himself taking his kid to school. That's all," Izuku tried to make it seem as natural as possible and not like he was ease dropping but it did seem to break the tension. Able to see Shoto's demeanor relaxed even if seemed puzzled at his interruption but clearly not enough to miss his chance to get away.

"I'm going to end up late if you keep nagging me," a curt statement from Shoto but it seemed Endeavor's grip had loosened enough to allow him to brush it off. The boy already leaving before the man could even register that his kid took the chance to leave.

"Bah! That boy I swear," Endeavor's sneering as if the other was just being irrational clearly unaware of how he was acting was a bit harsh. Holding his own son by the shoulder so tightly it uncomfortable and calling him childish. A severe lack of awareness!

Before this man decides to question Izuku again and speed up Izuku's prematuring whitening of the hair like Marie Antonette. He is going to take this time to possibly run away from the situation as quickly as possible.

"Sorry I got to go too! It was interesting to meet you-!" Izuku piped as he decided to use his super speed for once to get to the school door. He was eager to get away from this man who may be number 2 as a hero but was clearly running for first place for worst dad.

Though when you consider it's his first time ever using the quirk in a normal setting especially considering it's illegal to use your quirk outside, this likely was a bad idea. Doing it in front of a hero likely wasn't the smartest- And of course consequences hit quick.

His body reacted much faster then his mind could register as had activated it in a panicked state. Very quickly he realized he was faced with someone's back, the middle school uniform brushing against his nose as he registered a moment too late.

Oh this isn't good-

Suddenly Izuku felt his face hitting full force against the back of a much taller and clearly well-built male. The loud gasp from the victim made it clear even he had been startled but the momentum was still going. The sound of the person he slammed into hit the door of the middle school and something like a CRACK of sort was just barely registered.

The two fall through the door at a high speed unceremoniously collapsing onto the floor. Izuku crumbled onto the person's back his face buried in the strangers back as his heart was racing really hoping he didn't break someone. His nose had just been slightly rammed against the other which did hurt but it likely better then the door the person just rammed into so thankful nothing broke. Only able to guess since it was such a soft surface it was able to cushion though it was throbbing. Unfortunately the one he ran into...

"Did that kid just ram Endeavor's kid!?" Izuku paled feeling petrified to move.

He could hear a whispering and snickers around them. Able to feel Shouto moving underneath and Izuku is quick to get off the other male feeling panic as watches the future hero in training get up. Only to spot something red drip onto the floor and his eyes widen in horror as blood spills from Shouto's nose his hand slowly moving to his face. Gently dabbing at the blood as slowly picks himself up.

This was likely the very first time Shouto has ever been inflicted with harm in anyway. The other students clearly unable to help themselves watch the scene of the most powerful student in their school with a bloody nose. The high energy buzzing now as it was likely the highlight of everyone's morning.

"He just barreled into Endeavors kid! Look at his nose!"

Izuku regret getting up in the morning. Wanting to just close his eyes and pretend that he isn't here and Shouto, the one he planned to befriend wasn't bleeding from his nose. Of course it didn't seem like Todoroki was in the mood for letting it go. Able to see the male's eyes narrow in rage he reaches out toward him. Izuku tried to pull back but reacted too late as his hair was grabbed roughly.

The sharp pain in his head from his hair made him yelp as he is forced to get an eye full of Shouto with a bloody nose. He looked kinda cool though but he is sure he would be frozen on the spot if he said that.

"The hell is your problem?" Shouto hissed with venom and annoyance. Considering he was already in a bad mood from his father, Izuku kind of has a feeling he isn't in the mood for being understanding or forgiving to a stranger. Well, so much for blending in and making friends on the first day-!

"Owowow- I'm sorry it was an accident-" Izuku whines pathetically knowing right now the guy probably hated him. Thinking he was just some student here to cause him trouble and humiliate him. When it was a complete accident with his quirk!

"I swear I wasn't trying to do that!" Izuku did not wish for the first day to end in a fight. Memories of how he attempted to fight back as a child against his childhood friend Kacchan going poorly vaguely enters his mind. Looking into those eyes though it was different as if was seeing something else unlike how Kacchan looked down he was just staring. Suddenly Izuku was shoved back falling back onto his ass while the taller male turns away.

"Just stay away from me," Shouto's words felt almost like a threat as he moved to leave the hallway. His nose was bleeding and yet he was still walking normally some how wondering what kind of pain tolerance this guy has or if was just too mad to notice. Making Izuku wonder what kind of training he does so that he can handle having a broken nose with no issues.

"But what about your nose? You should see the nurse-" Izuku at least tried to make it clear he really didn't mean to do that. Shouto didn't respond. Izuku could feel the whole school's eyes staring at him whispering and snickering as they made up their own assumptions of him. Pulling up his collar Izuku awkwardly shuffled down the hall trying to seem as small as possible.

"Great going, the one guy I should have made my ally hates me already. We are off to a terrible start," He mutters to himself angry at himself. Hoping find his class room remembering the number trying to think of how to salvage this. As of now, everyone would know him as the guy that just rammed Endeavor's kid through a door and gave him a bloody nose.

That made him seem more like a trouble maker or delinquent rather then a potential hero. When it had been completely by accident when he had thought he had more control over super speed. Then again he never did experiment with that quirk but it's too late to muse on the failure of his quirk.

At least it's likely Shouto wasn't in his class. While it was a private school there were tons of classes and he doubts everyone at the school knew about this incident so if worst comes to worst he should be able to make something out of this. So that he isn't completely alone.

Again, life seemed to not be letting him just have one good thing.

Izuku walks into his classroom just in time to see Shoto getting a handkerchief from the teacher. The clothe pressed against his nose was quite a sight until their eyes locked and Izuku felt his heart sink. Able to feel the male's hostility in that moment guessing he now be trying to make a reputation from negatives.

"Oh, there's the transfer student. Come and introduce yourself," his new homeroom teacher motioned for him to come forth clearly unaware of Shoto's gaze that wished to turn him into an ice statue. Only able to guess he didn't mention how he got a bloody nose but that didn't assure him. As it is clear many others knew.

"I-I'm Izuku Midoriya and um- It's nice to meet you all!" It was all he was able to squeak out but the feeling of being watched didn't change. Almost wishing the floor could just gobble him up.

This year is off to a great start.

_________________________________________________________

The first day was spent being able to feel Shoto Todoroki glaring daggers into him from across the classroom. For someone that moments before seeming to be doing everything to act stoic. The other sure seemed incredibly bothered by what he had done.

"He's still staring at me," Izuku mutters as he covers his head trying to ignore the stares as he focuses on class. Wondering how he was supposed to make friends when already made an enemy of probably the strongest one there. At least he wasn't talkative but he could hear the other students spreading rumors.

Of how the new kid got into a fight with Shoto and won thus the bloody nose. How they hated each other and had intense beef. They were eating up the drama that he wished would just disappear. Some seemed to enjoy it, others with disgust, but none really seemed to really want to get involved with him.

However, while he was now the talk of the school. He couldn't help but notice that no one really talked to Shoto either.

Considering he was Endeavor's kid Izuku would think that would make him the star of the school. He certainly had the looks and the smarts as well though he barely seen the others quirk Izuku is going to make a guess it fire and ice from his appearance.

Yet despite all that the boy didn't have any friends and here he thought he would have tons like Kacchan did!

With some investigation, and apparently thinking he's some deliquent, he learned it wasn't because no one wanted to. In fact apparently there have been many attempts even love confessions where people placed bets on who the next heartbroken girl will be. That's kind of mean but whatever.

Many girls have tried to confess, but most ended with rejection, though some say he seemed more baffled than anything. Commonly saying stuff like, "I don't even know you."

...Even when they are in the same class.

Ouch. So despite clearly having fire along with ice, it seemed he had more affinity for his ice.

Earning an unofficial title as the Ice Prince of Corusan Middle School, keeping everyone at the distance and being able to get away with it. As with his talent, no one would dare have the nerves to fight him which is likely why everyone made such a big deal about the bloody nose. Izuku, honestly, is even more surprised now that Shoto didn't put him on ice.

But seems that's all he needed to know.

"But why do you want to know? You trying to befriend him or something?" One of the students, Kai was probably one of the first people to be amicable to him. He didn't really have a special quirk, or anything, nor heroic aspirations. Just ordinary black hair and black eyes that don't stand out at all. Which was a surprise to Izuku since he was used to meeting people trying to be heroes as a kid.

Then again when he thinks about it he thinks his childhood school might have just been more mundane. It was tighter knit and more like the boondocks compared to now a fact it only questioned the more he learned about his dad. Since clearly money wasn't an issue and they had to travel quite a bit.

Still it shows that those in different areas had a lot more variety as not every single person had such aspirations. Though he will admit Kai's aspiration just seemed kind of mundane.

"I mean I want to get into UA and making friends with him now would make that transition easier?" Izuku started as he scratched his cheek. Considering he gave the male a bloody nose he knows that probably ain't going to be easy.

"Didn't you like, give him a bloody nose on your first day?" Kai questioned to remind him of what everyone keeps talking about.

"It was an accident!" Izuku said loudly as he covered his face wondering when the students would forget that.

"Naw it was great! Despite all that popularity no one actually likes him. He's kind of an asshole so it was great to see the 'ice prince' pretty image get a bit tarnished," Kai chuckled as it was funny to see the usually composed and sharp-eyed male walk in annoyed with a bloody nose. Trying to pretend he was alright only for the teacher to quickly try to clean him up.

"Literally no one can talk to him, you have better luck looking some where else." Kai's words were curt and almost cruel but it were said with confidence. Having knowledge that Izuku lacked. "He's scared most other people who would have gone to UA. He's no different from his dad looking more like a villain then a hero."

Izuku wasn't sure if he agreed with that assessment. He recalls that on their first day it seemed like his father was pressuring him. That he only is acting like this because it's the only way he can survive whatever his father is doing.

In fact, his father was making it quite clear he didn't get a choice and was going to stop his rebellion. Even forcefully grabbing at his shoulder to make it clear how helpless he was and to simply accept his father's wisdom.

Izuku can relate to that. As even his own father didn't seem to trust him to handle his own path. The three criteria 's he is required to complete didn't allow him much flexibility or independence. Even with the promise will allow some when he finally enters UA it felt hollow.

As if even though he's agreed to let him be a hero, it's only on his own path. Needing to report everything was a chore, but unless he wanted to be stopped from his dream he needed to endure. So...

"Maybe that's the problem," Izuku muttered softly, wondering if maybe there were issues he wasn't talking about. Possible family problems at home that affect his behavior or maybe it isn't because he doesn't want friends but doesn't know how.

"You do realize you have been muttering right? It's kinda creepy-" Kai pointed out with a weirded out expression. Though Izuku had already looked out his window feeling almost a presence before catching sight of Shoto. The male seemed to be completely by himself eating under a tree and an idea sparked.

"I-It's all good! Thanks for helping me out now excuse me!" Izuku went to finish eating his bento, needing to think about it. But- Would he even listen? That was the hard part, as while he had been trying to learn about him. It didn't mean the feeling was mutual.

But he should at least try, especially if no one else wants to help him then that is what he should do.

That's how heroes work right?

-----

"Dad, I'm home," Izuku returned home, with an idea but no clear direction on how to achieve it. While many other students recommended finding someone else, no one had the potential to succeed in going into UA.

Maybe some would think him shallow or cruel to reject other options. He did see many with interesting quirks but none really seemed to take UA as a serious option. As Kai had admitted most were intimidated out of UA because of Shoto's presence and hostility. Even though it didn't even seem like he was even targetting anyone.

"Welcome home, Izuku! I decided instead of training why don't we bond a bit," his father spoke with clear delight almost seeming stir crazy being home alone. Making Izuku wonder what the hell happened while he was gone to put him in such a jovial mood.

That is until Izuku saw what exactly his father was holding. A new dress that he clearly just got and had been dying for his son to wear.

"I understand wanting to bond but do you really think I can? I only have one more year before the UA entrance exam," Izuku spoke trying to make it clear he is trying to take this new lease on life seriously. As his father had been the one that insisted on this tight schedule in the first place.

The response he got was his dad just petting him on the head in a gentle manner nearly distracting him. Years of conditioning didn't exactly just disappear and the touch felt nice at this moment.

"Don't worry, I found some spare time and even found a nice resturant we can go too. I feel like we haven't been able to talk as much so indulge me," his father's voice was gentle as his hand moved down to stroke his cheek. Simple brushing his worries aside as he looks at him fondly.

"Go put this on, I'm sure you remember how." Hisashi 's tone grew softer as he hands the dress over to his son then goes to leave. Never really allowing Izuku much of a chance to give his own thoughts. Though Izuku realized that maybe could talk to him and ask for help with 'befriending' Shoto.

His dad also seemed to know a lot after all, every time they watched the UA festival he seemed to know most of the relationships every student seemed to have. So he might as well indulge his father for at least a bit and the dress was beautiful so it would be a waste to not try.

"Fine fine. Just give me a second," Izuku sighs as he goes to his room to change and take a quick shower. Since he could already tell this was another expensive dress, though, it looked more like something out of Shinjuku.

A black dress that reached his knees with a sash that goes around the waist. A long white sweater along with a cute beanie hat. The dress was at his ankle so this meant he had to shave too, or he just felt gross and ruin the cute outfit.

"Dad seriously?" He groans as if it meant taking even more time in the shower. knowing the guy just thinks it's cute, but he certainly was pushy about it when he got an idea. Yet it was kind of nice.

Still, Izuku showered and cleaned himself up. Wondering where they were going that had got his dad so excited...

Of course it was some place that reminded him that his dad must have a lot of money.

It was an expensive restaurant that overlooked the city reaching into the skies. The kind that needed months of reservations in advance. Izuku couldn't help but wonder if he had planned for this prior to him asking to be a hero or had friends on the inside.

"Woow," his eyes looked in awe as the sun was starting to set on the horizon able to see the lights of the city start up like stars. The heroes below patrolling, the people going home from work or going out on the town.

So Izuku got to admit he was excited by the view. As he was so used to seeing everything from the ground floor or the inside of his old home. This was the kind of thing he wanted to see unable to help but lean toward the window to try and spot the schools.

"I knew you would enjoy it. I was thinking you would love to see the city from above and enjoy a nice fancy resturant like the classy guy you are," Hisashi finally explained his excitement.

Izuku guessed he could forgive his unexpected and sudden decision to derail the usual routine. It was just like his dad to do something spontaneous to try and lighten the air between them. It had felt at times like the man was treating him as a doll but in these moments just seems to be trying to connect to him instead.

"Well I appreciate this. The city looks to pretty and I can see heroes patrolling too," Izuku piped though he then realized that he was getting distracted. While this was definitely nice, it won't help him become a hero.

"Hey dad, I know you said to make strong allies and friends. But I'm kind of struggling with that," Izuku admits. His father though looked incredibly shocked at this admission having been trying to look calm and composed. Only to seem to have taken water down the wrong tube as he quickly put it down and was now coughing.

It is very hard to imagine his father actually being capable of doing anything threatening while dying to his water.

"O-Oh yes I did say that. Well," Hisashi had to pause, moving a hand to his napkin to try and wipe his mouth clearly wheezing yet trying to act composed. "Have you considered fighting them for dominance?"

.... ....... .......... His father might be an idiot.

The face Izuku was making could only be described as pure disappointment and shame at having this man as his father. As while Izuku himself lacked social skills, courtesy of being trapped in a mansion with only teachers, he had enough sense to know that just fighting someone doesn't make them your friend.

"Don't look at me like that. There are some people that need a hit on the head to want to befriend you. But maybe I should ask who are you trying to befriend that would help," Hisashi spoke quickly. Izuku has to say he recovers fast as the male wipes his mouth of the water.

"Shoto Todoroki, the son of endeavor. Honestly the very first day I kind of rammed him against the entrance at high speed so you can imagine why it isn't going well," Izuku explained as they were given miso soup to start their meal.

"Ohh I know all about that family drama," his expression changed instantly. His earlier awkwardness changed to his more, frankly fake, composed demeanor as if he expected this conversation. Any evidence that he was dying moments prior had vanished, "I can only imagine that Endeavor is ruining another kid."

Izuku's eyes widened in surprise as it sounded like his father knew what was going on in that family, "Ruining another kid?"

"Oh right you wouldn't know anything about that. Well Endeavor has four children. His first born died because of him," he explains, as he casually mentions something quite horrific. Any respect and admiration that Izuku might have had for Endeavor even if thought was a bit harsh was being crushed like it was casual gossip.

"What? He died?" Izuku questioned at this bombshell his father dropped. This was deeply personal stuff that he is sure most people wouldn't know. Like maybe can find records that the first born died but not the reasons, "You can't just drop this on me dad-!"

His father hums a bit, as if allowing Izuku a moment to digest this revelation. There were so many questions of how, but his father finally judged him ready for more.

"Let me explain, that man is obsessed with being number one by surpassing All Might. He had a quirk marriage with a woman of ice, a Himura in all their inbred glory of pure ice." His father speaks casually but it was clear that this side of the story wasn't the focus of this topic, "In the hopes of a child with fire and ice powers. At first he raised his son, I saw him a few times going up to Sekoto Peak to train. He was a good kid trying his best to live up to his dad's unrealistic expectations with glee even if only had fire it was so much stronger then Enji's own."

To think that the first son was so excited to work with Endeavor. To be the heir his dad wants him to be to surpass the symbol of peace. But with Shoto's existence that means....

"His first son was defective," those words were said with contempt not with a belief in itself but that Endeavor believed this. "His own fire burned him as he gained no heat resistent and instead was resistant to ice. Instead of supporting his son he tossed him aside and told him to be normal as made more children."

To imagine that Shoto wasn't born out of love but simply to fill a role. A way to stop their first born to make him feel helpless. Izuku wants to ask how his father knows, why his father knows but he finds himself unable to speak.

"Neglect is a terrible thing for any child to experience, so the poor boy tried and tried to prove himself," he continues with a kind of casualness. "Then... Endeavor found his perfect son in Shoto Todoroki. A Miracle child of both fire and ice, two abilities that should never have merged so beautifully."

This wasn't what Izuku wanted to hear, feeling a strong sense of anger and bewilderment. Then he remembered the conversation on the first day he accidentally heard after they shoved him. How Endeavor was scolding Shoto to use his ice despite the fact those expectations weren't even what Shoto wanted.

"How can he do that? Are you telling me Shoto isn't seen as a son but a tool?" Izuku questioned. Now wondering if that was what his father was trying to tell him. It would explain his lack of social skills if he was barely treated as a person at home, it would be hard to open up. How do you open up?

"Bingo, hero society won't do anything against Endeavor as long as he gives results. Despite many media trying to paint Endeavor in a bad light after the death of his first born, they are all surprisingly 'silent' now," Hisashi muses and Izuku is starting to understand something. The slight resentment his father expressed about heroism but he doesn't say anything. "A boy born not out of love but to be a hero. Never allowed to find joy, never allowed to play, never allowed to be a child because he was 'special' unlike Touya. Unlike his other siblings that were tossed aside just train. And train. And train."

Their waiter came by clearly knowing better then to interfere with their conversation they were to order. Izuku's hands were a bit shaky as he looked at his menu properly barely able to order as his mind swirled with this information.

Hisashi hums with a smile, as if he seemed to be enjoying this conversation. Looking at his glass of wine as it was poured for him, "If you want to befriend him, then treat him as his own person. Be persistent, after all, this is a boy who has no one as even his mother succumbed."

It was no longer just about getting allies. This boy sounded absolutely miserable and it explained a lot about his behavior. But what can he do?

"...Do you think I can help him?" Izuku questioned softly, feeling like this might be more, than he bargained for. Endeavor was a hero the number 2 hero to be exact and even if people deemed him scary or villain looking that title still meant something. Only able to imagine how Shoto must feel being his son hearing people praising his father while he is miserable himself.

It would be greatly to his benefit if can get him as his ally but also difficult as Shoto clearly closed himself off from everyone. How was a boy that lived trapped in a mansion and was bullied as a kid supposed to help that?

All he has ever done was watch media, stories, and all he ever talked to were people online in forums at most. This was trauma.

"My son, you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Don't over think it, and if need some more aide I can help," Hisashi assures with a knowing look. His expression was gentler now as he leans in to pat his head even with the hat on. "By the way, can you give me a report of exactly what happened at school? It's the end of the first week after all. Might be able to help more."

"Oh right," Izuku had to remember after the week was supposed to give a report guessing if his father believed in him then he should keep trying. So he talks to his dad about everything, his father's eyes never left, listening to every word.

While Izuku in the back of his mind was already forming ideas of how to save the boy from his special hell. Already making the choice that if no one is going to save this boy then he will be his hero.

Even if it means standing up against the number 2 hero himself.

Chapter Text

It was just another day in this school. Izuku could feel his frustration growing even as he tried to make 'friends' none of whom he wanted to talk to. He would read and study how to talk trying to learn how to hold himself. His father was kind enough to give him a 'teacher' in between. Unfortunately, wondering if it was to his own benefit or if his father had some ulterior motive lately as the pressure grew.

His father had been incredibly helpful, and 'supportive' toward his dream of being a hero, yet was also surprisingly busy. Which some would think would give Izuku more free time, but with his tutors if he was to miss a session then they would tell his father. Meaning he might as well be saying he isn't serious about becoming a hero.

Still, he doesn't fight it, as he knows his social skills are lacking. It would only be to his detriment to refuse his father's help. He needed to talk to more people eventually, so when that happens he needs to be ready. He needed to be smarter and stronger, or he might as well go back to their old home in shame.

Yet here Izuku was watching Shoto go up to the rooftop like a stalker instead of trying to expand his social network. It probably was not a healthy habit to be following him around, but the only free time he has currently is at school. After their last talk with the report, his father promised that he would adjust for free time.

Claiming that since they started training so early, he guessed that should allow him a chance, but claims he isn't ready yet. When he will be ready is unclear and pretty sure if his dad knew he was following Shoto around school might reconsider it.

Still, Izuku can't believe he's going up there, as last he checked no one was supposed to go up there. Yet no one dared tell him to stop wondering if the faculty just didn't bother him because of his father's Endeavor. This special privilege is ridiculous, as it only made Shoto more isolated ironically, and he doubts Endeavor asked for this special treatment. Maybe Shoto just doesn't know?

Still, this was privacy that he had been wanting for a while, so it was time to do something instead of waiting for something to happen. He was no damsel in distress. He was a future hero, and he should start acting like it-

"Stop following me like a stalker," Shoto sneers loudly, interrupting Izuku's thoughts and bringing the male to reality. Those eyes turned toward Izuku as if he was annoyed at having his private time interrupted. Which might be accurate, but the other was always alone, keeping everyone at a distance. Well, shit- So he HAD been noticing him following him around a bit.

"Was I really that obvious?" Izuku questioned as he guessed there was no point in hiding anymore as he had been planning to talk to him anyway.

"Were you intending to be subtle?" Shoto answered his question with a question, though he honestly looked more surprised that this had been a subtle attempt.

Which, Izuku guessed, was fair, as it must have seemed very weird that the male that rammed him against the door was following him around. Also was sure it wasn't really a secret since people did talk and he can't pretend he doesn't notice.

"Guess I earned that," Izuku noted, but the other was still guarded. Practically glaring at him, as if subtly telling him to leave. It was honestly exciting, just like in those stories his father would read to him, the rival has a bad attitude, but is broken.

A broken home. A Broken family. A broken dream, and kept trapped. He could understand him. This was a boy who had everything but a father that restricted him. While Izuku was....

"Why do you never use your fire side?"

There was no point in beating around the bush as it was clear that Shoto had very little patience right now with games. He must have wanted to know why Izuku was prying into his business. Which is likely the only reason he hasn't just left Izuku alone on the roof.

"You have an amazing power both fire and ice, I admire it greatly and you have smarts along with training. But what I can't understand is why are you punishing yourself?" Because to Izuku that is what it felt like. That he was hurting himself to spite his father, taking the ounce of 'care' that he might have and turning it into spite.

Those dual-colored eyes narrowed at his words as he tried to register his words. Shoto's lips pursed into a hard line, not about to say the first thing on his mind. Before finally, he seemed to have an answer.

"I'm not punishing myself. It's to spite my father and show him I don't need his fire," Shoto says calmly. As if it was a simple fact, but it was more childish than he had thought and self-destructive, just for something that doesn't seem to be hurting anyone but himself.

"Are you serious? This is all just to spite your father?" Izuku examined him carefully before confirming this was in fact the case. "That's so... Stupid!"

Shoto clearly did not expect to be insulted as he was likely called many things. Gifted, special, masterpiece, and rebellious but stupid, likely not one of them.

"You're only hurting yourself! So what if it makes your dad happy if you use that side, what about you!? That's your power, it belongs to you and you shouldn't be holding back!" Izuku shouts, wondering how someone could be so gifted and just not use it. Had his father destroyed his self-image so much, that he doesn't even see his own self free from his father's shadow?

It made him angry. It made him want to scream, wondering why the hell the other would waste it all like this. Yet he could understand it, and that is what angered him the most as he doesn't want to acknowledge that similarity.

"That's not your buisiness. What did my father ask you to talk me out of this?" Shoto questioned seeming to almost bristle like a cat ready to bare its claws at him. Izuku can't even find it within himself to care that he might be ruining his chance to befriend him. The other needed to know that he shouldn't be doing this and to know he was only hurting himself!

"This is pointless," Shoto hisses as he goes to walk pass him likely now thinking he had been sent by Endeavor to talk to him. That wasn't Izuku's intention, though!

"Wait! We are not done talking," Izuku shouted as he grabbed Shoto's shoulder, maybe a bit too roughly. As soon as he grabbed the other arm it was like the hairs on his neck stood on end. His senses screamed as Shoto's arm was cold to the touch. Danger.

"Woah-!" He yanks himself away quickly, just in time to see that Shoto had just encased where he stood with ice and his own hand raised to show it had been intentional. There was so much hatred in those eyes, looking ready to try and snuff him out.

"Are you trying to pick a fight? Because if it's a fight you want," he suddenly sends ice toward the door as if to block it. "Then you better commit to it because you've really pissed me off."

...Maybe I should have planned for a fight if I was going to insult him.

Shoto's right leg stomps on the floor and another blast of Ice makes him have to jump back. If Izuku didn't have super speed, he might have already gotten iced. The blades of the ice nearly brushed against him, wondering if the guy was about to kill him or just turn him into a popsicle.

"Ok, so maybe I got a bit blunt and stuff but you got to admit you are being childish!" Izuku pointed out, only to yelp as he barely launched himself out of the ice's way. The range Shoto had was just unfair, as already half the roof top was covered in ice crawling over the fences. There was no way that no one noticed this.

"I don't understand why it is any of your buisiness. I never asked for your input," Shoto reminds. His voice was as calm as ever despite the amount of rage he was displaying. A tranquil fire encased in ice to hide the very feelings he wished to release.

At this rate there will be no place to run. You're going to be left on the roof frozen to slowly melt and miss the rest of class. No one would do anything to help you and your father is busy-

Izuku's mind raced as he knew that soon the other would make sure he had no where else to go, but it seemed there had to be a pause in between each attack. It seems the prodigy was getting a bit reckless.

Shoto was breathing heavily, breathing out frost, even though if he used his fire he could easily recover. He was hurting himself out of spite, as if to prove something to this stranger that barged in that he didn't need it. It was painful to watch.

"I am making it my buisiness if you're going to keep hurting yourself!" Izuku shouts, as darts in closing the space in a second before swinging a punch right into Shoto's stomach.

Despite his training it wouldn't have done as much, but when you do it at high speed. Well Shoto definitely felt that, being sent back right into a wall of ice. It seemed he worked fast, as Izuku had been sure there was no ice behind him. It seemed like Shoto anticipated it, but he wasn't looking too good.

"You're father isn't here! If you hate him so much that's fine but you're letting him effect and hurt you even when he isn't there!" Izuku shouts as he clenches his fist in declaration ready to fight to the bitter end to prove himself. To prove to Shoto something as well, until he finally understands this wasn't rebellion. It was self-destruction.

Shoto wipes his cheek of some of the ice that was beginning to form, but it seemed Izuku's words had bothered him. Yet those eyes were now trained fully on him, not as if looking at an insect, but someone he needed to be careful of, "You're crazy. Absolutely insane, its none of your damn buisiness so why?"

That made Izuku smile as he finally decided to answer the others burning question about why he bothered. When no one else seemed to give a damn about him always keeping him at a distance.

"Because I'm going to be a hero and I'm going to save you," those were his honest feelings knowing he was foolish, but he couldn't help it. He just couldn't look away from someone who was also trapped in his own cage.

Though it didn't mean he could play fair, knowing at that moment, as the fire began to grow, he needed to put it out. As with all this ice, it was very much going to be a bad time.

One final time, he uses his speed, even as his body creaked and vision blurred, he could push himself to get in close. Shoto's eyes widened, as the fire grew and he looked ready to use it only for Izuku to grab him by the shirt and right arm. Ignoring the flames on Shoto's left as it burned.

"I can't let you do that!" Before Shoto could even register his words, Izuku twists his body and using judo, he throws him over his shoulder hard. Maybe some might consider it foul play because Shoto was distracted, but the consequences of letting him use it would be dire.

While Izuku has regeneration, Shoto might not be able to survive an explosion of his own creation from the dual temperatures.

"Sorry. But I think in your emotional moment you forgot that if you create a fire with this much ice you be blowing us both up," Izuku said casually, as he held the arm firmly in a lock position. Needing to make sure that Shoto wasn't about to do something stupid, but honestly he was happy.

The ice that had formed on Shoto's uniform and hands was slowly melting, just leaving a slight dampness in the uniform. The other was no longer struggling and Izuku could only assume his silence meant he was no longer about to fight him.

Slowly he releases Shoto's arm from the lock to stand up himself reaching out to grab the male and help him to his feet. His eyes were bright with excitement unable to believe he had won even if it was only because when the other had gotten distracted, he took his chance. As much as he wanted to help, this would count as 'getting in trouble' if they blew up the roof top. He wasn't so hungry to be a hero that he could forget the rules his father had set for him. As much as he hated it.

"That was a good fight," Izuku piped as he waited for Shoto to take his hand. There was a long pause, maybe a moment too long, that made Izuku feel almost self-conscious at this moment. Before Shoto seemed to finally allow him to take his hand, lifting himself up onto his feet, but it was clear his eyes were different.

"So... Are we friends now?" Izuku questioned since he did accept his hand and the others eyes didn't seem as cold. His answer was silence, and the male even looked away, as if there was no way he could answer that. So he will take that as a yes.

"My name is Izuku Midoriya. I'm planning to go to UA so I hope we can be friends," Izuku smiled at the other. His sheltered life shows through as this was an unconventional way of making friends. Getting into a violent fight on the roof top, nearly being turned into a popsicle and judo throwing the boy with clear daddy issues.

"Shoto Todoroki... And I want to be a hero too." Was Shoto's honest response, but it seemed as if his whole demeanor had changed in that moment. Maybe, eventually he will come to fully understand what Izuku means and treat himself better.

"Then let us work hard together to achieve our dream," This was the first step. It's only been two weeks; there was still a whole year to go.

As long as he stays the course, everything will turn out alright. With an ally at his side, things should have become easier... Yet why did it feel like he was missing something crucial?

------

"Impressive, my little Izuku actually got that stubborn boy to roll over for him," All for One muses as he looks at the camera that he had slipped onto his son's uniform. Despite the fact he had given his son the task of reporting everything, you can never be too careful. He had been moments away from coming in himself if an explosion had occurred.

There was no way any father could allow their own son to hurt himself to that extent, but it seemed he worried for nothing. On his lap was U the rabbit just settled there, allowing itself to be stroked as the man leans back. Looking at some papers with words such as All Might rumored to teach at UA.

"Things are getting very interesting," the super villain mutters as he glances at the screen of his son continuing on to school. Unable to help the pride and amusement that he was befriending the number two heroes child.

"Wonder how long you will hold onto your heroic idealism... When you start to see society for the filth it is."

Chapter Text

Izuku was humming happily as he was dressed up for his father-son get together. To be able to connect with someone after years of isolation as well as be able to help them was something he always wished for. It certainly wasn’t in a way he wanted, getting into a fight was the last thing on his mind. Yet despite the rough start he was able to show his good intention and slowly become friends with Todoroki.

He was walking on air, only for his father to open his big mouth.

“Being allies with the number two hero's son will be quite a boon for you,” his father chimes as they were dressed up to the nines at this high end restaurant. His voice made it sound more like Shoto was just a tool rather than his friend. Despite this breakfast supposedly being a celebration for succeeding in getting Todoroki to open up to him.

Izuku’s smile turned into a grimace shifting in his seat as he tried to adjust the dress he had worn at his dads request.

It was a simple dark black kimono with a white Obi that wraps around his midsection adjusted just for his specific measurements. It used to be such a normal thing for him to dress up whenever his father came with a new outfit. Though as his eyes looked around he could see people were glancing their way. He tries to focus on the conversation, his dad seemed to be getting the wrong idea about his intentions.

“It wasn’t in the way I expected but it’s nice to actually have a friend,” Izuku made a slight emphasis on the word friend. A subtle yet clear way of making it clear to his dad that he wasn’t just collecting people as trophies to owe him. It was out of a genuine desire to help that he reached out as he saw something in Todoroki he sees in himself.

“Ah right, friends,” Hisashi Midoriya’s own tone sounded almost forced when said friends as if the word felt foreign on his tongue. The way his eyes seemed to be looking through him as thinks about those words. He was humoring him, trying not to seem insincere but his eyes tells the whole story. He does not trust anyone that isn’t blood.

Izuku hopes to never become like that.

“Yes he’s my friend, he clearly has issues at home. Also he seems to be struggling as when I fought him he refused to use his fire until I pressed him on it,” Izuku continued trying to make it clear that his dad better think of Todoroki as a friend not just some ally. As this was someone he wanted to really get along with, he hasn’t had a friend since he was four.

“And you think you can fix that? Do you even know the horrors in his home?” His father was curt, almost mocking at the fact he had befriended someone with the intent of helping. A foreign idea for a man who has resorted to locking his own son up for his protection. Yet Izuku felt a chill at the other mentioning horrors in Todoroki’s home, almost afraid to ask what he truly meant.

“I mean, I would like to try-” Izuku starts.

His father let out a small laugh, this made Izuku flinch as the harsh tone. His father made it clear that he believed him naive and was being vague about what exactly went on in the Todoroki’s household. Feeling so very small as he shrinks in his seat as he wondered why he even bothered. It seemed Hisashi realized what he had done and his expression softened.

“Sorry that was a reflex,” Hisashi apologized but likely the man was only apologetic at his feelings being upset rather than not thinking it naive, “If you want to play the hero before you even get your license, then be my guest. In fact I was thinking of giving you Sunday’s off just like school does with no tutors or anything.”

Slowly Izuku returned back to his proper sitting position looking at his father’s attempt to smooth things over. The man was smiling fondly, his eyes seeming genuinely softer and Izuku could tell he meant this. That was willing to allow him the freedom on the one day off to do whatever Izuku wished. Having some freedom is something he has been wanting since they left that manor his tone was soft in a way there was no trick.

Only Izuku would notice something like that.

“Of course, try not to get into any trouble. I also wouldn’t recommend you getting carried away with your new found freedom,” Hisashi’s voice spoke casually as he looked at him staring intently. “Like seeing your childhood friend.”

Izuku froze.

“I know you've been wanting to visit the old neighborhood since we’ve returned to the city but you’re only going to be heart broken and get hurt,” his father speaks firmly yet there is concern in his voice. But Izuku just saw red wondering how dare he ask him such a thing? Has he not taken enough from his life? Has he not followed every damn rule he gave!? Tears welled up in his eyes as he gritted his teeth. His hands slam on the table as he stands up unable to hold back his anger.

“Shut up! You already kept me locked up for ten years! You have no right to even suggest that I-” Just as he was about to finally allow himself say what he feels he saw the mask of his father cracking. The kindness slowly fading as something much darker showed there is an ominous air like a ticking time bomb. His fathers kindness was about to run out if continued after had already given him ‘permission’ to do as he wished. Izuku felt his words die in his throat as he took a sharp breath trying not to sob at his father even saying such things. And yet he can’t even fight back.

“S-Sorry, I think I’m done with breakfast. I’ll take my free day now,” Izuku whispered in between the tears that fell. His heart aching and felt guilty at the joy he felt a bit at the shock and realization his father had. It wasn’t enough to make him stay though as it was too much, already moving to leave.

“Izuku, I didn’t mean it like that. Izuku!” his father tried to make an excuse about his cruel words. As if seeing his son on the verge of crying was enough to snap him out of whatever thought he was having. But it was too late as Izuku ran out of the restaurant, his meal half eaten, unable to stand staying there any longer. He needed space, and for once his father did not go after him.

Maybe it is because he knows where Izuku would go…

A small neighborhood in Musutafu city is always on the outskirts. Close to where so many heroes live yet simple in comparison to the innermost part of the city. His father never seemed to be a fan of heroes but it had been his fathers idea for them to live here. Even when was small his mom said that they were lucky dad made so much so they could move there, saying how much safer it was.

As he stands on the sidewalk of his old neighborhood, Izuku reminisces about what had once been his childhood neighborhood.

It was as if nothing had changed, the same old shops that he used to pass by with Kacchan watching All Might on the screen. Memories of buying cards with the very little allowance they had received. The playground where used to play or get into scruffles with his friends, they were all still there. Nothing has changed and in a way there was relief in recognizing everything, his eyes are drawn to the shop with the large TV.

While playing a rerun of All Might fighting some villains, it was enough to make him forget exactly what he was running away from. As the famous hero declares, “I am here!”

His hand moves to gently touch the screen musing about how if still lived here he likely would watch it often. Maybe sneak into the deeper part of the city to see the heroes in action, he could try doing that now. He did have Sundays off so maybe he can try a little bit to see them in person. No longer were they just fantasies on the screen or in stories.

He wonders if Kacchan still lives here. His childhood friend should be around as he remembered enough that he wanted to be first in the neighborhood to get into UA. He can’t imagine he had to move as his parents always made sure he was set. As these thoughts swirled in his head he was walking toward the old playground. Which had a mix of good and terrible memories, of Kacchan being mean to him with Deku but also of them playing.

He wonders if Kacchan ever wondered what happened to him? As they last saw each other at his own mothers funeral, Kacchan had said a mean thing but then they were young. Death was a new experience for them both, especially for Izuku who-

A voice interrupts his thoughts, shattering the once calming afternoon chime.

“Ha! Once I get into UA I can say goodbye to this nothing neighborhood!” It was crass, deeper than Izuku remembered of that four year old boy. Still despite all the years every part of him seemed to recognize that voice. His head turns toward the source as a smile grows on his face, as it was the voice of his former Childhood friend.

Katsuki Bakugou was with two of his friends, wearing the Aldera uniform. A very mid school that isn’t known too much for having much going for it. Which makes sense for someone wanting to make a large impression though likely to normal people wouldn’t. Izuku is sure Kacchan is smart enough that he could have gone to a better middle school if he wanted so it was likely on purpose. He was trying to be a hero! Unless things have changed.

“Kacchan!” Izuku couldn’t wait anymore, calling out to his old childhood friend. It was a chance to reconnect with something he had lost and clung to after ten years. Being dragged away from everything he knew with barely any warning made him nostalgic as he approached them. He notices the way Katsuki tensed a bit, clearly recognizing his nickname as looks at him. That was his cue to come closer feeling nervous guessing it has been a long time, does he still go by Kacchan?

“Who the hell are you?” Katsuki spoke harshly as if a moment ago hadn’t looked like he recognized him for a second. Causing Izuku to be taken back at the question looking back wide eyed. His hair was slightly turning white but there was still some green and his face still had the same freckles. He didn’t think he changed that much-

“Oh um- We knew each other as-” His voice stuttered as his nerves grew. Maybe the other just needed a reminder- He didn’t have time to finish his sentence.

“I don’t know any crossdressers,” Kacchan’s harsh words bring Izuku down to reality as the smaller male looks down at his Kimono. He had been so desperate to see his childhood home that he had forgotten what he was wearing. It wasn’t a big deal tho was it? He knows it isn’t exactly the norm but it isn’t like it looks bad nor is it tasteless.

Though having it called out did make him feel self-conscious. He swallowed the saliva in his mouth as his heart began to race as felt himself glance around. There weren’t a lot of people around but Kacchan’s friends were looking at him intently.It felt like their eyes were on him, analyzing, weary, and judging him.

“Oh that um, don’t worry about that…” Izuku tried desperately to ignore the way the air felt tense. So maybe he just forgot because is distracted what would be something that will make him remember. As it seems like just knowing his childhood nickname isn’t enough trying to scramble for something. “I-It’s me Izuku? Your childhood friend? I used to live here it why I call you Kacchan-”

He was interrupted by one of Bakugou’s friends letting out a small laugh and playfully ribbing at the blond. There is a smirk on the unknown teen as he spoke, “Hey I didn’t know you swing that way.”

Izuku is mortified.

“I-It isn’t like that!” Izuku tries to explain but he can see Bakugou’s expression turn to disgust as he shoves the teen that is ribbing him. Already turning away from him about ready to leave and his friends taking cue. As if no longer even wanted to entertain this conversation anymore- But they do know each other.

He’s leaving him. No, He’s abandoning him.

“Wait!” Izuku doesn’t know what he was thinking as he reaches out and grabs Bakugou by the back of the other shirt. Only that he can’t go back empty handed like this, their time together must have meant something. Then he recalled that nickname, the one that the other gave him even if it was mean and his father made sure to make it clear it was a disgusting nickname.

Maybe it was a misunderstanding. Maybe that nickname is the key to helping unlock the connection between them, “Deku, do you remember that name?”

There was a moment of silence as Bakugou looked back at him. Those red eyes widening a bit showing he does remember that name. For a moment Izuku thought the other was smiling because remembering it fondly…

Then he opened his mouth as a cruel and mocking tone was all that came out.

“Deku? Oh I remember now man that name really suits you. As it explains why you look like a doll,” There was no empathy or remorse in his voice. Those cold and cruel words made Izuku’s whole reality shatter. His green eyes staring wide as his hope to regain something from the past slowly crumbles. It didn’t seem like the other was done with him as despite recognizing he brushes off Izuku’s hand. Turning to look down at Izuku as if he was beneath him just some pest.

“Also friends? Lack I checked you were just some stalker that followed me around all the time,” Bakugou painted the image that was untrue. Izuku can see Bakugou’s friends looking at him with disdain and snickering at him. Kacchan was lying, he never did anything like that! They watched shows, hunt out and caught bugs together.

“That’s not funny, Kacchan! That isn’t even close to true,” Izuku shouted trying his best to control himself wondering why the other was talking to him like this. The other was now just seeming to be attacking him as a person. All he just wanted was to reconnect and yet-

“Look Deku,” Bakugou rolls his eyes before placing a hand on his shoulder, almost like a silent threat for him to shut up. The slight fraying of the fabric made Izuku tense as those red eyes stared at him making it clear this wasn’t a joke. “You’re the one that moved away just because I’m going to get into UA and become the number one hero doesn’t mean we can suddenly be friends. Or hook up considering the outfit.”

Moved away? Hook up? Number one Hero?

Izuku saw red wanting to scream that he hadn’t wanted to move nor was he interested in hooking up with anyone. Bakugou didn’t seem sympathetic at Izuku’s stunned demeanor as moves away. Seeming content that had made it clear how little he cared about ‘reconnecting’ with someone.

“Now that you understand-” Bakugou had been about to leave but Izuku wasn’t about to let it go. Izuku’s body moved on his own as the years of anger and sorrow bubbled to the surface as he grabbed the bastard by the shirt. His free hand turning into a fist as he didn’t give a crap about anything else in this moment as he slams him down onto the floor. Ignoring the shout and shock of Bakugou’s friends, he didn’t care anymore.

“You arrogant bastard! You’re no hero!” Izuku screamed loudly as tears fell from his eyes wondering how society would allow someone like this to be a hero. How he had allowed himself for ten years to be blinded by his faith in this childhood friend who could care less. He doesn’t even feel it when he punches Bakugou’s face. Ignoring the curses or the way one of those hands moved to grab at his face.

Because all Izuku could think about was if he was wrong then it meant his father…

“GET THE FUCK OFF ME!” Bakugou screamed and a powerful burning pain blossomed against his face. The force sends Izuku back causing him to curse out loud as he recoils and hisses trembling as he covers his face with his own hand. Izuku can’t BELIEVE he used his damn quirk on him, he hated him so much that he didn’t give a shit about the law. Between his fingers Izuku glares up at Bakugou as his body rattle with the pain and rage of his world shattering.

While Bakugou looked down at him with the same rage. That this ‘nothing’ had humiliated him in front of his friends. Knocked him off his pedestal and he now wanted to bring down the hammer against the lesser, “You fucking bastard I’ll kill you!”

His father was right.

This was no hero. This was an arrogant child that had been pampered to arrogance by everyone around him and was never his friend. Izuku wasn’t sure if they could keep fighting as they were in public. If they used their quirk they could get into trouble with a hero. Yet a part of him felt an itch, like he wanted to reach out and take that bastard special little power and-

“Hey man it ain’t worth it,” One of Bakugou’s friends pointed out. “Someone probably heard you using your quirk so we should scram before we get in trouble.”

Of course they wouldn’t stay. He wasn’t worth anything, nothing more than a doll to be pranced around. He watched as the blond huffs and sneers staring him down for a moment before looking at his friend. It seemed to take him a minute but he scoffs though not before kicking up some dirt toward him. Izuku flinches, coughing at some of the dust kicking up with it to make it clear how he truly feels.

“Come near me again and see what happens. Next time I ain’t holding back,” Bakugou threatened with not a shred of sympathy treating him as if Izuku was some villain. He had never thought about why Izuku left, he never questioned what had happened, and he had never once cared. To him Izuku was nothing more than a memory while for Izuku it had been something he clung to for ten years.

What a joke.

Izuku grits his teeth as moves his hand away from his face, the bits of blood on his hand evidence of the damage Bakugou inflicted. If it wasn’t for regeneration he likely would have needed medical attention. Bitterly Izuku notes the other is lucky about that as he is sure that it would be hard to convince anyone why he needed to blow up some no body. He slowly moves to sit on his knees as he tries to take a calming breath…

Only for it to become loud sobs as he realized he really was a Deku. Just a dumb doll that posed in dresses and falsely believed in some made up friendship that never existed. He had been a naive fool for so long and here he is crying in a playground. As loud foot steps approached him he knew exactly who it was as his father wasn't even trying to hide his presence. Despite the sobs in his throat he moves a hand out as if to stop his father from approaching as struggled to speak.

“D-Don’t!” Izuku shouts just before his father can speak as the man likely knew exactly why he was crying. He didn’t need an I told you so or to be love bombed when he wants to be alone, “Don’t say anything. I get it, I don’t need to hear it from you. I just… I want to go home.”

“Reality is the harshest teacher,” his father says, ignoring his request for him to say nothing but at least he said no more than that. Izuku doesn’t even have the strength to fight as he is picked up by the large man. What did it matter anyway? He could never come back to this neighborhood. All that remained was heartbreak and pain.

There was something Izuku needed to burn when he got home as the bridges here are already burned.

The room was in disarray as Izuku was tearing through it trying to find something. U, the rabbit was hiding under the bed looking nervous as Izuku had just gone straight into the room. Tears on his face changed out into ordinary clothing as looked for something like a man possessed. Clothing left strewn everywhere as the teen looked at his room.

Izuku looked at all the All Might merch that he had obtained in their proper place. All of them ordered and collected with his fathers help no matter how ridiculous he requested. However, none of them were what he was looking for as he goes under his desk finding a small box.

“There you are,” It was a box of just small random stuff from when he was small. His dad had been the one to collect it for him and one of those was his first All Might card. He had since gotten a mint condition version from his dad but this was the one he had gotten with Kac- No.

With Bakugou.

He shouldn’t call him that childhood name. It will be a hard habit to break.

Izuku goes over to the trash and takes out the lighter that he had also been looking for when messed up his room. He flicks the lighter feeling the heat near his thumb as he stands seconds away from burning his last connection. It was sentimental, something he cherished and held onto for ten years as a memento of the time when he was normal. As he places the card against the flames the smell of burning cardboard and plastic reaches his nose before he drops it into the trash.

Watching as it slowly curled in on itself the scratches and dents from his overly enthusiastic felt being burned away. He watched as the tears finally began to dry leaving nothing left.

Izuku knows he can’t go back to the past now. He isn’t that innocent little boy anymore. Chasing after such things after learning how unimportant he was in this neighborhood despite thinking about it his whole life taught him something. Life was unfair and cruel.

But he has a new friend he needs to see. He can make new memories with him.

He is never looking back.

Chapter Text

Izuku Midoriya truly feels like there is something wrong with him.

The wreck that is his room was evidence enough along with his pet rabbit still hiding underneath the bed after he came home with a wounded ego. The so-called future hero Izuku Midoriya was rolling in bed with the knowledge that he assaulted his Ex-childhood friend. Even if Kacchan very much pissed him off, in the end, he attacked first worse and was lucky that no heroes or police were around to see him as knew he wouldn't have been the one to get off scot free. He shifts in his bed to look over at the disaster that is his room and the ember that remained in the trash.

It hurt. He had held onto the idea of seeing his old neighborhood, his old friends, and being able to reclaim something of his old life. It was reckless and stupid of him to do such a thing or even think that after ten years that the other would even care. Yet he never realized just how right his father was, the way Bakugou held himself made it clear he never expects any consequences for his actions. He has always been praised and revered since his quirk was discovered, Izuku can strongly remember that it was also after thinking he was quirkless that Bakugou began to act mean toward him.

Society had created someone who truly couldn't care less about other people's feelings only on how is perceived. Izuku still feels the horror and humiliation as the others mocked him with the intent of hurting him looking at his dress and the sneers. A hero should never say such terrible things, the wide eyed adoration he felt as a kid for the other was shattered as this isn't someone he wants to respect or look up to. Yet he couldn't even control his own reaction as risked everything by socking him for his words.

Worse there isn't even a hint of guilt at punching him as it felt good to hit someone he knows no one ever dared to touch. His father would be proud of him lashing out at the one that he had for so long tried to convince his dad that the other would be a great hero. Only to have it bite him in the ass and make him look like an idiot, because he honestly was.

At least his dad didn't take back his promise to allow him Sundays, his one day off of school, to do whatever he wanted. He should use it instead of moping, there was someone he still doesn't know enough about.

Shoto Todoroki was something he needed to keep an eye on.

"Hey, do you want to hang out this Sunday?" Izuku barely wasted any time the moment they had lunch together. Having made it a point to basically stick himself to Shoto's side as soon as the others got settled he threw this at the ice prince. The way the other's eyes widened in surprise and confusion showed it had taken Shoto off guard. Considering how seemed to never socialize with anyone Izuku guessed this was a foreign concept.

Shoto stopped in the middle of eating, actually moving an arm to try and cover his mouth when realized that had done so. Izuku watched as Shoto had to force himself to swallow his noodles in one gulp making a slight face that seemed almost pained. A hand to his chest as if to check to make sure he didn't choke it seemed that question was quite loaded or maybe never had anyone even asked him such a thing.

"Couldn't you have waited until I swallowed?" Shoto questioned with a hint of annoyance in his voice. Izuku didn't take it personally as it didn't seem hostile like when they met on the first day so he chalked it up to awkwardness. As was incredibly clear Shoto was not used to talking to other people despite being seen as someone so amazing and above everyone the others didn't do this kind of thing. Now here Izuku was inviting himself to his table and making very blunt declarations for them to hang out without any fear. So they truly must be friends.

"Well you didn't have to choke, I am more than willing to wait," Izuku pointed out, almost feeling bad if the other's faces weren't hilarious. As it was clear despite still seeming a bit cold was slowly warming up to him since felt a strong need to respond despite the bad timing. It was nice to just talk to someone who was basically on his level, in a sense anyway if ignores a lot of the others social and physical advantages.

"I guess," Shoto muttered as grabs a napkin to wipe his mouth. Despite the annoyance it didn't seem like the other was genuinely bothered by it though after a moment there seemed to be a moment of sadness. The way his eyes look away makes it clear there is something else bothering him, "Even if I wanted to hang out my old man likely won't allow it. He has been using my free time for extra 'training'."

Oh. Izuku completely forgot about Endeavor as while thinking of all the advantages Shoto has it was because of that man. He still remembers how intimidating the man was up close as well as how cold he was toward him. As well as how the man seemed to be hanging over Shoto when they first met.

Izuku must have been making a face as Shoto glanced at him, seeming a bit awkward again. Likely wondering why the other was looking at him like that as if that was just the norm. Did the other think other kids planning to go to UA had to go to hell training? Well, he did but that was because, as his father pointed out, Izuku hadn't trained at all in his pampered life so he had to catch up. But he doubts that Shoto had a pampered life considering how his dad looked.

"Then I'll just come over to watch you train," Izuku felt that was a good compromise as Endeavor can't just ban his kid from having a friend over. Also Izuku wasn't going to train on his one day off as he was already sacrificing his weekdays with extra tutoring and training. He also wasted his last Sunday practically humiliating himself and acting stupid out of spite to his father only for it to blow up in his face. So he would rather at least try to be a normal kid on other Sundays. "I mean I have nothing else going on so-"

SLAM! Izuku jolts as Shoto slams his hands on the table to interrupt him. The expression that Shoto had was almost haunting with a gaze that shows this was much more serious then some simple request. Able to see how his hands are trembling and his teeth grit tight as if Izuku had done something to personally insult him.

"He is going to kick you out," Shoto snapped looking at Izuku seeming to truly believe that. Picking up his chopsticks the white and red haired teen goes to stab his noodles in a way that the soba craftsmen and many would likely cry. There is a moment of silence between them even as everyone else seemed unaware of what is happening the air felt almost suffocating as Shoto glared holes into his food. Izuku is sure he isn't even enjoying his food anymore."So don't bother..."

Izuku felt his frown grow but he can't help but notice the other didn't tell him not to come. Only implying that his father would kick him out so in a way the other seemed to be wishing that it was possible. But felt that his father was a genuine threat to that idea...

How long does Endeavor think he can keep hovering over his child like that. Even his own father... He doesn't want to think about it.

"I might as well give it a shot then," the alternative is to be wandering the city and possibly getting into trouble. Or ending up slinking back home when he can't find anything to do as didn't have any money. Also Izuku was already committed to trying to hang out with Shoto especially after basically charging into the others life unannounced, it would be cruel to not even try. As he feels they could both use a Sunday to relax and just be regular teens.

"...Are you even listening to me? Weirdo," said the boy who nearly choked on his Soba at a question and stabbed them out of anger at the mention of his dad. If anything Shoto is a bigger weirdo since was allowing Izuku to do whatever he wants. Izuku grins as Shoto continued eating basically giving him his blessing to try, more then pleased that he could at least get the other to entertain the idea.

At least this relationship feels genuine. He will keep holding out his hand as long as it isn't rejected, he may have gotten a cruel wake up call with Ka- Bakugou but he can still make friends with Shoto. He won't mess this up.

He will make plans for this Sunday.

So far the week of middle school was uneventful. Though Izuku has to say the rumor of All Might going to teach UA certainly excited him having been looking up more stuff online now that he stopped letting his childhood fancy cloud his judgement. There were still other things he can aspire to do that didn't involve looking in the past but looking toward his new future as he can't waste his change. If All Might really is becoming a teacher at UA then he can't fail this exam as while willing to be flexible, he wants this more then anything. His ideal hero possibly being his teacher would be a dream.

Izuku wonders if Shoto knows about it?

It has been a long while since he actually had friends to talk to that weren't adults teaching or tutoring him. So Izuku had to look up all kinds of things that would be fun for them to do or just talk about having shoved all kinds of things into his backpack. He packed up newsletters, printed out forum rumors, and even some hero event pamphlets that maybe they can plan for in the future if some how they ever get a chance.

Maybe it was a bit childish but most people liked All Might and it's the only thing he has at the moment. Now the hard part...

What is he supposed to wear?!

It was only now that Izuku realized that most of his outfits were either over the top or just way too casual. They have only met each other during school and class so they have only seen each other in uniform so it never really crossed his mind until now. Still horrified about how his outfit had gotten as a reaction from Bakugou he rather not even experience another incident of people assuming the worse because his clothing just doesn't fit well. The only casual thing he had were his literal sleeping casuals which were shirts that said random stuff for fun they are meant for relaxing at home not going to other people's house.

So it might be TOO casual, and his more 'regular' were, of COURSE, his cross-dressing outfit. The very thing he had realized would not go over well, Shoto might honestly have the same reaction as Kac- Bakugou. Being weirded out by him cross dressing out in the open and he can't ruin that! Even if he is fine with it there was Endeavor who he knows would definitely make a comment on it even if Shoto doesn't mind. He isn’t giving him ammo.

"I didn't even realize how many dresses I had. I don't even wear half of these," he groaned loudly as he moved his hands through his closet shoving the dresses as even his regular none dress outfits were still too much. It seems he was going to be forced to ask his father for a new outfit, at the least when it comes to clothing as it isn't like he has any money himself. Unless he wants to wear one of the OVER THE TOP designer men's clothing and being seen as stuck up or he was wearing his casual skirt and blouse to be seen as a weirdo it his only choice. But he needs to do it now as there are only a few days before Sunday.

"DAD!" He finally caved as there was absolutely no damn way he was going to ruin his chance at befriending Shoto. He needed a great impression without making it seems like he's trying to hard ugh why is the man taking so long? He must not have heard him, "Dad, come quick!"

There he comes, Izuku can hear the foot steps running up the stairs. As the door slam open Izuku looks up from his closet to see his dad standing at the door way in just towel which would very much explain why was not immediately run over to him. The man was dripping wet so he must have been in the middle of a shower, whoops-

"What? Why are you shouting!? Did something happen? Are you ok?" The man questioned, almost frantically, that Izuku could almost forget everything as he tried not to laugh. Especially since his dad might get mad if he realized that what he's about to ask isn't so important as to run out of the shower. As they both know that his dad will always come running to him whenever he calls out to him and Izuku was abusing that ability just a little here.

"I'm fine, I just wanted to ask if you can buy me some new clothes," Izuku chimes with the most innocent smile on his face. Trying to act like he didn't just interrupt the other's shower for something that did not have an immediate reaction.

"...I ran out of the shower for this," Hisashi laments with a loud dramatic sigh acting as if his son had just ruined his day. As if the man didn't enjoy being needed by his son and it why he comes running regardless of the topic. So Izuku didn't feel bad as he's sure the man should have known he wasn't in any real danger.

"But sure I can order something-" the man spoke but Izuku had to stop him right there. As didn't want the man to misunderstand and buy him something that he thinks would like but something that can allow him to walk around society without turning everyone's head. He will do that when he becomes a hero not when just trying to be an ordinary student!

"I want casual GUYS clothing, nothing fancy or over the top," Izuku spoke firmly earning a confused look from his father. This was his element as his father was always very receptive whenever he asks for physical material. Still remembering how despite his fathers own reluctance about heroes never hesitated to buy him whatever he asks for. It does make him wonder just how much money does his dad have?

"Well that wouldn't be too hard though I don't know why you want something like that," Hisashi noted. And if Izuku was honest he had slowly realized that he had gained a preference for the more over-the-top and exaggerated clothing. They were always better material or they made him feel amazing as if he was something special but after the incident with Bakugou he rather not have to deal with that kind of attention.

"I'm going to my friends house and don't want him thinking I'm weird. You did tell me to make friends," Izuku pointed out as wanted to blend in with society. He was actually thinking very carefully about his future now so the other should be respecting that. Though his father's lips turned into a frown as those eyes stared at him intently seeming to be trying to analyze him, to see if was truly meaning this.

"So it isn't because you want or like it but just to impress others?" The man asked as it to make sure was hearing it right. For some reason it made Izuku bristle as the way the other said it felt almost like was amused at him dressing for a part. Izuku grits his teeth a bit as he shoots his glare at the man who usually didn't fuss about what clothing he wanted. So why would he decide now to try and make comments about why he is choosing something outside his normal preference.

"Does it matter why I do it? There is nothing wrong with pretending I thought that what you wanted," Izuku huffs annoyed, and is already ready to fight back on this. As this isn't at ALL related to his dreams of being a hero or school he knows he won't get in trouble for this. Still it was ridiculous that his father was even talking about this as the man seemed almost inquisitive over clothing.

"Hm, and here I thought friends were supposed to accept you for who you are. Did what happen really-" Hisashi noted only to get a slipper thrown at him the man having to side step it as his son was fuming. As he did NOT need to remember how he made a fool of himself last Sunday the wound was still much to fresh for his father to even try talking about it. He still has the stupid ashes of that card in his trash, he does not need this from the biggest pretender of all.

"How I decide to make my friends isn't any of your concerns. We had a deal," there was a slight hiss in Izuku's voice as his teeth were clenched. Staring daggers at the man who seemed startled at the sudden spine the boy had making it clear was getting close to a sensitive subject. Slowly the man seemed to retract his earlier statement as can tell this was one conversation Izuku would fight on. It seems even his father was aware this was not a battle worth fighting or pressing on.

"I can give you that much. I'll send you some pictures to pick out what 'casual' wear you prefer," the man concedes clearly not about to continue the fighting yet there is a slight smile on his face. As if he was proud in some twisted way, walking toward the boy with that wide smile that made Izuku instinctively step back trying to figure out what he was doing. Only for the man to reach out and stroke his head, it made Izuku relax a bit as he settles down. Noting the way the man was looking at his hair intently likely noticing how much his white roots have grown out, despite having suggested dye Izuku has accepted this change.

His hair was turning white like his father but maybe it is for the best that he just allows it to change there is no point in fighting this. Eventually he won't have his original green hair and it just be a ghost of the past only in old photo but he won't wear it with shame. He will wear it with pride with a smile because at least he will be true to himself here. His green eyes looks up at his father to see his father seemed to have an unreadable expression on his face.

"You know, I love you very much Izuku," the deep voice rumbles in front of him and Izuku closes his eyes knowing that he is probably the only thing his father has left that he cares about. Just slowly nodding his head because in these moments he does feel loved and cared about by his father despite everything. For all his struggles, truama and pain the man in these quiet moments truly feel like his father. He feels the man's hands leave his head and how he pulls away from him causing Izuku to open his eyes to see the man ready to leave.

"I'll get started on that task then. Can't disappoint you after all," the man smiled back at him amused already thinking about his course of action. Izuku doesn't continue the conversation, he already said what he had to say. Oh, maybe one more thing.

"...Dad you're naked," Izuku points out watching his father realize he had just dropped his towel and panic. He is making sure to look away just for his father's sake as the man was way to big to be walking around and the man can get flustered about being naked even if acts like he doesn't.

"OH-! Excuse me, I'll just finish that," the man speaks awkwardly as he runs out of the room after grabbing the towel. It's hard to believe this very man had once kept him stuck in a windowless home as at times he can just be so awkward and embarrassing. Though in these moments he can be very reliable as by the end of the night some how got him clothing, they were actually pretty good quality even if more simple. It was definitely different from what he is familiar with.

It felt fitting but as soon as Izuku wore it he realized why he felt averse as he examined himself in the mirror. It was not the clothings fault in fact they looked great but it was his face when wearing something ordinary that he felt almost shame. He looks so ordinary if his hair wasn't turning white right now he likely would just disappear into any crowd he walks in as his features are just unremarkable.

...He hated it .

It was Sunday morning and of course, he wore the outfit he requested. Just some regular jeans and shirts, making a note to possibly find something a bit nicer. He had been feeling a bit rushed and didn't realize how quick his dad would buy the clothing. If knew he might have taken more time.

"Ok dad I'm going out to my friend," Izuku shouts but doesn't even wait for the man. At least he started to give him some unneeded advice that he didn't want, he learned his lesson from the first few uncomfortable conversations.

It was a bit of a trip to get to Shoto's house, but it stood out quite a lot. It was basically a traditional mansion something out of old Japan.

His own father had chosen an apartment instead of getting a big house, claiming that there was no reason to grab attention. It only brings trouble when you just want to relax when you go home. Yet here was a house screaming, I'm important and powerful .

A shiver goes up Izuku's spine as the house feels off, slowly walks up to the house and sees the gate. The foreboding feeling seems to grow as he goes closer to the house trying to figure out where he is supposed to knock.

"Who are you?" A voice speaks up, earning a loud yelp from Izuku who turns sharply getting into a fight pose. Only to see a tall guy with white hair with broad shoulders standing there, it only took a moment to realize this must be Shoto's brother.

"Oh, I'm here to see Todoroki? I mean- Shoto Todoroki!" he squeaks realizing that the other likely had the same last name. Watching the surprise showing on the man's face before it changed to anger.

"Unfortunately, 'dad' is training him. He doesn't even let us anywhere near him," the man speaks with clear resentment. Though he seemed to pause a bit before looking at him, "I didn't know he had a friend tho. I'm sure Fuyumi would appreciate knowing that- Oh and I'm Natsuo, Shoto older brother. Not that I've seen him much or at all."

Wow, this feels like a loss. As if the other had been waiting for a chance to fill his clear resentment and displeasure.

"I want to at least try to see them if I can. I promised Shoto that I would do that," Izuku, as much as can understand the need to want to vent, needed to keep his promise to Shoto.

Natsuo seemed puzzled at this then pointed at one of the side buildings. His eyes glancing at the area he pointed out, "you might find him in that building. I have been hearing them train since this morning so he might be around a break. Good luck."

There was a kind of resignation in his voice as he walked past Izuku to enter the home leaving it open. Clearly, he trusts Izuku for reasons he has no idea why he would. All he claimed was that he was Shoto's friend with no proof.

But he isn't complaining, as he enters the home making sure to close the door as he goes to walk toward the building Natsuo had pointed out to him. He could smell the slight scent of fire and humidity as well as a feeling that screamed to keep out.

As if this side had some enchantment to ward off outsiders, a silly thought but as he goes to open the door one can easily see the atmosphere felt darker. The feeling of how you shouldn't be here seemed to choke him as he walked down the hall.

Then the loud BOOM made him jump as well as the sound of someone in pain and without thinking he ran. He has no idea where or what happened but he follows the scent as his hand grabs at the door. But his instincts were tense keeping him from slamming it open even as his grip tightened on it.

Hairs stand on end as every part of him screams to walk away... But he swallows that feeling as he slowly opens the door to a sight he knows he wasn't meant to see.

Fire licked at the floor likely made of resistant material. Charred and black as a wooden katana was tossed to the side the room was clearly a gym with workout material.

But it was only one thing he was focused on. A young boy grits his teeth on the floor while a large man hovers over him. As if he was ready to beat him still despite the boy being unable to move up.

"Is that ALL you can do? It clear you have been slacking off, UA entrance exam will be soon and you can NOT fail," the man, or beast, barks with a sneer.

And that is when Izuku realized he was staring at Endeavor talking to Shoto who looked extremely exhausted. His hand moves to cover his mouth as the man grabs Shoto to try and force him onto his feet.

This whole time Shoto didn't say anything even as a wooden Katana was forced into his hand. The teen's vision seemed unfocused as if he was anywhere but here at this moment.

"Again! We aren't stopping until you perform it perfectly like we both know you can," Endeavor sneers. Izuku trembles as Shoto slowly fixes his grip even as those eyes stare at his father with hatred, he still cooperates.

As if there is fear of not complying with the man's request, the earlier exhaustion is being pushed to the back. As he goes to strike the man, with his body tensed and prepped despite the pain.

Izuku has no idea what he is meant to do in this situation. He wasn't supposed to see this, watching as this adult man pushed his son beyond his limit. Easily striking back, unaware of the irony of how he is hurting his son.

Another harsh strike and of course Shoto of alls onto his knees with a loud hiss as his arm had been hit. As if his actions were sloppy... Izuku can't keep watching this.

Just as Endeavor was about to take another 'win' just to scold Shoto...

"ShIT!" Izuku cursed as he felt the pain in his back his arm wrapped around Shoto protectively. Knowing he wasn't supposed to be here, he wasn't supposed to see this and knew this was trouble. But as he held Shoto in his arms hearing the small gasp in his arm and the startled 'WHAT' from the larger man it was clear no one saw him coming.

"A-Ahh that hurt," Izuku hisses as it stung as with all his training never had his trainers hit him with such full force. His father said pain doesn't make strong heroes it makes scared men and he's starting to understand why. He nearly buckled but he held Shoto in his arms tightly.

"M-Midoriya!?" Shoto looked up startled his eyes wide almost horrified clearly having forgotten or thought he wouldn't show up.

"Who are you and what are you doing in my house?! And get off of him!" Endeavor shouts, he didn't recognize the boy and for all intent and purpose was an invader. Izuku could feel the man trying to pry him off of Shoto who hisses clearly slightly pained as Izuku couldn't let himself release the boy.

"No, he's my friend! You're just going to hurt him again, what kind of father hurts their son!?" Izuku snaps holding tightly onto Shoto who could barely move though it seemed there was a pause at the attempt to pry him off at his words.

"Hurt him? I'm TRAINING him and he is just being dramatic. Also you are tresspassing," Endeavor speaks as if Shoto wasn't trying his hardest to not show his emotions. That he wasn't so clearly in pain, this man-

Izuku's eyes darken as he sneers turning his gaze toward the man as he grinds his teeth, "I was invited. He needs rest, are you going to hit me too if I don't listen?"

Shoto had gone completely quiet as if was in shock this was happening. But Izuku just holds the other tightly as he stares Endeavor in the eye. It's one thing to hit your own kid but doing that to another kid? Well, that won't look good on your reputation.

Endeavor seemed to realize this and made a small tch as he seemed to back off as he realized Izuku was serious.

"We were about to take a break anyway, so this changes nothing. And Shoto you should warn me about the 'friends' you made," he speaks with clear annoyance as he goes to pick up the training items calmly and then leaves. Though likely was just running away from the possible consequences of hitting some kid that wasn't his.

Damn, Izuku is sure he would have a mark if he didn't have regeneration. He would have needed to hide that from his dad until it healed or make a very convincing excuse. Already imagining just how pissed the man would be but he knows Endeavor and Shoto wouldn't know this.

But damn he got to admit it stings, as he isn't immune to the pain.

"Midoriya, you can let me go," a small grunt escaped from Shoto and Izuku realized he had been holding him tightly. His face turned a bright red as he released the other.

"Are you ok?" He speaks quietly focused more on Shoto's physical state than anything else. That likely had been uncomfortable but it was the only way to make sure Endeavor couldn't hit him again.

"Yea... And actually that was kinda nice..." Izuku isn't too sure if he heard that right but the male continued. "Are you alright though? I heard the strike he must have hit you hard in the wrong spot."

There was slight confusion at those words before the sting on his back reminded him he had gotten in the way of Endeavor's strike. A loud almost dramatic groan escaped him as it was a terrible spot to be hit even if was already healing.

"Let me help," Shoto said softly when it was confirmed that yes Izuku had definitely hurt. It was only now that Izuku realized despite the fact his dad had clearly been beating him there were no marks. Likely if there had been then maybe someone would have noticed but as he looked over at Shoto he found nothing.

Shoto didn't seem bothered by Izuku looking him over as he went to ice his injury. He seemed quite used to this kind of thing and from his wording, there was a 'right' way to be hit.

"When you said the wrong spot... Do you mean there are right spots that don't leave mark?" the air seemed to go heavy almost chokingly so. Shoto didn't respond to that question seeming to be looking at his own hands. But then Izuku didn't need an answer.

Endeavor makes sure to not hit the other in a way that would debilitate him, even though it doesn't change the fact that it hurts.

"You didn't have to come," Shoto speaks softly. "I didn't expect you to get this far, who let you in?"

Izuku guessed the subject was too much for Shoto to be open up about. As he was already trying to divert from the topic of his own abuse. He frowns but if Shoto isn't going to talk about it then he can't force it, "Your brother Natsuo let me in when I said I was your friend."

Izuku watches as those dual-colored eyes look at him in puzzlement. Slowly registering those words before saying, "I see..."

It felt like there was more to be said but the awkward silence grew. Then suddenly Shoto just kinda of falls on him earning a small squeak from the smaller male. For a second thinking that maybe there was a serious injury, he hadn't noticed "S-Shoto!? Are you OK???"

He shouted almost ready to try and take him to the doctor. That is until he heard the other mumble, "You're soft."

Izuku felt like his pride had just taken a hit as he definitely had muscles yet he was relieved. A small sigh escaped him as he moved a hand to pat the other's heads softly. He guessed he would let the other relax on him.

But he couldn't help but smile a bit to himself, feeling like they had truly become friends as the other relaxed against him. He guessed if this is all they end up doing then this could be fine too.

There were other weekends they could hang out on anyway.

Chapter Text

This was the first in a long time. Being able to sit so close to someone that Izuku felt comfortable with. A friend who was interested in things he had to say and leaned in with interest. Memories of when he was young were faded, a foggy dream of admiration following someone else's lead. He had never been the center of the conversation, but it was different here.

Shoto seemed to enjoy the break just as much, seeming enraptured by Izuku's every word. Much to his own father's annoyance as it was clear he would have rather spent time training, instead of listening to some kid giving hero fun facts. Izuku swears he saw Endeavor's face twist into displeasure when Izuku began talking about All Might, so of course, he focused on THAT hero. Not that he needed much encouragement to talk about his favorite hero but he couldn't help a little pettiness after what he saw the man do.

This whole time Shoto never took his eye off him. Every reference to the history of All Might's outfit change, the different merch at home, and missions that helped bring the man to fame. He enjoyed every moment and Izuku felt proud at having done something when he could. A sense of comfort laid over them that they soon lost track of time.

Unfortunately, Endeavor was here to remind them that despite how much Izuku would wish to stay his own father would worry.

"It's getting late, when do you need to go home," the deep rumble of the 'hero' Endeavor was heard opening the door. It seemed he had left once realized they had no intention of stopping their hang out. The creak of the tatami must not have been enough for them to even alert them of his departure. Though Izuku allowed his gaze to look over at the windows the light from outside had dimmed into a darkened dusk.

The disappointment he felt in his chest gnawed at him as it felt like the day was just too short. Just another wasted day without any progress but there wasn't anything he could do. As he looked over at his phone it was close to his curfew. There was school tomorrow so there was no excuse he could give that his father would find satisfactory that wasn't life-threatening. His father would encourage him to go to school with a cast as long as he wasn't in any severe danger. Not wanting him to fall behind.

"I guess now. My dad did give me a curfew and we do have school tomorrow," Izuku sighed, guessing he should have expected that their time would end. There are only so many hours in the day and he could speak for hours with never an end to his topics. Years of storing knowledge with no one to talk to gave him a plethora of conversation starters. 

In the corner of his eye, he could see Shoto's lips turn into a frown as the boy had even less chance like these. Unable to even imagine if Shoto even had any friends like Izuku did at four. Even if Izuku's friends turned into his bullies it was something. So likely this was the most fun he had ever that wasn't about his family drama.

"Can't you stay a bit longer?" Yet Izuku was stunned at that selfish yet soft voice wishing for him to stay. Something in his core seemed almost giddy at the fact the other was brave enough to ask. Despite his father staring them down nor the fact Izuku had said he had a curfew. To wish for his company enough to ask such a thing despite all that.

No one has ever wanted his company like this. Usually, it was Izuku asking for a moment longer, just a minute more. Instead, it was Shoto asking such a thing showing how truly valued his company.

"Sadly I can't," Izuku had to shoot it down with a gentle smile hoping Shoto didn't think didn't wish to say. "My dad said when I get into UA and get a hero license then I won't have a curfew. Until then, he prefers I focus on school, but I will come by next Sunday again if will have me."

Endeavor, who had been watching them like a hawk–as if Izuku was about to kidnap his 'precious' heir, seemed bothered by this assertion. Before Shoto would even respond to Izuku's offer Endeavor sneers.

"You can't just invite yourself! We are training for the UA entrance exam and you are distracting him," the man shouted. "He doesn't have time for this nonsense."

A loud hiss of 'pain' escaped Izuku making a gesture as if he wanted to touch his back looking at Shoto with pain. As if it was perfectly timed with Endeavor's denial of this hangout. Able to glance to see the slight concern and shock on the man's face as was reminded of what he had done.

"C-Can I borrow your ice? My back is starting to hurt," Izuku lied through his teeth, watching the number 2 hero seem to rethink his choice of words as Shoto was quick to 'ice' the spot. Izuku looks at Endeavor with an exasperated expression, "Sorry, what were you saying? I'm still a bit hurt from when you  struck my back ."

There was a subtle threat. It is one thing for a family to hurt their own as people would stay out of it with a hundred excuses. But for the number two hero to hit a guest when had also hit his own kid in front of him. It wouldn't be a good look as there is no excuse. In the end, it would be considered assault.

Izuku may not agree with his father on the methods that Izuku heard behind closed doors. But he has to admit that whenever his dad was working the negotiation skills came in handy. As it was clear Endeavor can recognize a threat when he sees one and is unaware of his healing factor. So for all he knows there is a giant bruise that Izuku could use to expose and Shoto would side with him.

He knows that while it is one thing to have a family drama, it is another if the people and news think a hero is assaulting random civilians for the 'audacity' of hanging out with his kid. He heard the other click his tongue in an annoyed manner, realizing he had no leg to stand on. Especially as Shoto was glaring at the man for something that even Endeavor couldn't deny.

"Just Sundays," the man conceded that he was not winning this argument, but it was clear he was pissed at this. It made Izuku wonder if the man felt guilty as a part of him had thought Endeavor would fight Izuku more on it. Or maybe the man was smart enough to not start some drama when it was unnecessary.

Thankfully not smart enough to check if his injuries were that bad. But then it would be a different issue if he violated Izuku's personal space. Regardless if Izuku was seriously injured there was no way he would trust him. Especially since Endeavor was the man who had caused him harm.

He was trapped by the fact that Izuku had leverage over him that would ruin his life. But if Izuku was honest he wasn't going to expose the other or anything. It wasn't his problem as long as Endeavor didn't do it again and it would bring hardship to Shoto. Izuku was already putting away his items, a small hum escaping him, seeming content with these arrangements.

"Let me walk you out," Shoto spoke up and Izuku didn't fuss about that as they went to leave. Walking side by side the tension from having to converse with Shoto's father subsided. The realization they had spent the whole day together seemed to dawn on Shoto. As a small chuckle escaped the male, Izuku looked at him confused.

"You're insane. I hope you know that," Shoto points out casually yet there was an easy and relaxed smile. This expression seemed to soften his face in a way he had never seen before. So close to his own person it was clear Shoto felt safe as he looked at him, "But it seems your recklessness worked out... So thanks for coming, hero."

Ba-dump!

Izuku stared with wide eyes at the young man in front of him as they stood at the front door. Despite the other being taller, Shoto looked so vulnerable and it was gentle. Every day since Izuku arrived at Corusan Middle School the only expression he has seen from Shoto was cold and aloof. At his most passionate he was angry or even frustrated but this was different. There is a strong level of trust that Shoto allowed himself to express to Izuku. Izuku realizes that the other had a beautiful smile... 

It makes him want to shut him in a box for no one else to see.

Izuku turned a bright red when he realized he had been staring for a while as Shoto's smile turned to slight confusion. Likely not understanding why Izuku was staring so intently with a desire to lock him somewhere. Izuku was flustered by his own behavior wondering where the invasive thought came from.

"I-It's no problem and I said I was going to come, didn't I?" Izuku said this sheepishly with an awkward smile. Brushing away those thoughts he straightens up and looks the other in the eye to show his determination because he needs him to know. Just how important he was to him and how he values him. 

"You looked like you needed help and it is what heroes and friends are for," he spoke from the heart. Watching the gears seem to turn in Shoto's head and the soft laugh from the taller male. The laugh was soft and almost surpressed as if his laugh was embarrassing. Yet it was louder than he expected Shoto had ever allowed himself to be.

"I guess you're right... Thank you for being my friend, Midoriya," Shoto replied as his demeanor was relaxed and at ease. It was hard for Izuku to want to leave the other, but if he lingered too long he was sure his dad wouldn't be pleased. So, with a heavy heart, he leaves the other in that home playing that smile and those words in his head all the way home.

Unfortunately, as soon as he reached the door of his apartment a sense of dread washed over him. Tonight was also the night he was supposed to report everything that had occurred throughout the week. No secrets, no privacy, even time was his friend was to be reported out of his father's own paranoia. The only thing he didn't need to report was things like what he ate, bathroom, or regular things thankfully. But this?

He didn't want to share this, it was his! Can't he keep this one thing? He wants to be selfish at least with his friend.

His heart was racing as tried to figure out what he was supposed to say. How he should navigate the Todoroki drama when had imprinted it into his heart as a point of pride. His hand slowly moving toward the doorknob he can feel his very heart racing. There is no point delaying the inevitable.

His hand wraps around the doorknob with a tight grip. He grabs it and then pushes through moving into the apartment. As expected his father was in the living room waiting for him as he always does. Though doing his own thing reading some newspaper until heard him come in. His eyes looked up to acknowledge him but Izuku broke the eye contact.

"Oh, hi Dad," Izuku's tone had a slight edge to it. Already walking toward his room this week was all about his friendship. There wasn't anything important his father needed to know. This was something he should be allowed to keep private, "I'm just going to go to my room."

In his attempt to make an escape, it seemed his father had gotten wind of his intention. Able to hear his father getting up just as he was just about to go down the hall he stopped in place. Knowing he had made a mistake in moving just a bit too fast, enough to make his father think something was up.

"Aren't you forgetting something?" The man's deep voice echoes in the house and makes him pause. Izuku felt his frustration grow wondering why his father just can't get the hint.

"Can't I just... Not for one day?" Izuku spoke softly as he had already told him everything that had happened at school. Why did he also have to tell him about this? So what if technically getting into a family drama that might be an important thing to know? Shoto is  HIS  friend and none of his father's business.

"You know that isn't part of the deal. It's either you tell me everything or..." There was a strong silence and Izuku felt his breath stop in his throat. Flashes of that empty house full of treasures, but no life danced in the back of his mind. The feeling of silk that weighed as heavy as chains against his skin. His father didn't elaborate but it was clear what he was implying right now.

Izuku swallowed the saliva that pooled in his mouth as he slowly moved his hand away from the door. Returning to the living room he goes to sit on a chair beside his father as he takes off his backpack and holds it tight in his arms. His eyes stared straight ahead as he was reminded that his dream and livelihood relied on this.

"...Shoto is  my  friend," Izuku starts it off as he hugs his bag tightly. Able to feel his father's gaze turn to him as if considering him for a moment. He doesn't want to look at his face knowing he was registering and picking apart his words. Trying to gauge how to navigate his own son who was clearly upset by this.

"I know, I'm not taking him away or anything." The man starts off as if it was inconsequential. This was just a father asking his son about his day in his mind. Not understanding how Izuku wants to do his own thing even if has no idea what he is doing, "Now... Tell me what happened?"

It felt too easy to expose Shoto's private family life to his father. Maybe it was because he was so used to telling the man everything this was just another thing. Privacy was something he didn't have despite his attempts to have it. At least he knew the man wouldn't tell anyone about this.

"I saved Shoto from his father. He hit my back when I used my super speed to intercept his 'training' with his son. Making him stumble since what kind of hero hits a civilian or his own son? It allowed me to hang out with Shoto and we talked about All Might to make Endeavor more annoyed," he said it all and it was to the point. His dad seemed a bit surprised as if hadn't expected him to just summarize it all.

"That was easier to get out than expected," Hisashi said while seeming to be processing those words. "And I imagine he didn't check if you were injured since if he saw you had regeneration wouldn't have a thing to hold against him. That's quite devious of you."

Devious? Is that the word?  Izuku didn't feel like it was that devious even if it was implying that he would be willing to expose the drama, it was well-earned. He wouldn't actually do that to Endeavor as this was Shoto's story to tell.

"Guess you got that from me," the man speaks with a low chuckle as if he was amused by this. Izuku frowned, unable to understand what the heck the man was talking about. Though it seemed he was satisfied with that report even if it was short and brief. Not at all asking him to elaborate which was nice.

"Alright, I can see you told me everything that happened and I am a man of my word so you can go," Hisashi informed with a smile. He seemed quite pleased as he reached over to ruffle his son's head affectionately. Izuku didn't fuss even when was pulled into a small hug before the man finally pulled away. It was a relief.

The smaller male got up once was released from his father's embrace. His hand quickly tries to fix his hair even though it's always a bit messy. Though Izuku stared intently at the man who was his father. There was one more thing he needed to say, as while he would tell him everything he had to make it known.

"You better not take my friends away or I'll never forgive you," he threatens the man before he departs. Maybe a bit quicker than normal but he wanted to make his point clear as well as have the last word. It definitely had the intended effect as Hisashi was baffled at his son's behavior.

The man lets out a small laugh seeming amused by the threat. His eyes stared at the boy's retreating form and mused aloud, "I'm not sure being possessive of your friends is healthy. But who am I to talk?"

All for One knows it's a form of affection to want to claim those you are close to as your own possession. So he guessed he would allow that threat to linger and give him his space. His son was at that age where he was trying to figure himself out. Even Yoichi used to act out even when felt guilty for costing his brother so much.

His son was growing so fast, and his hair had become completely white since he first used his quirk. He looked even more like himself when he was his age but softer. More gentle just like his mother. My, how fast that boy has grown...

-----

As soon as Izuku entered his room he threw himself onto the bed. He dropped his bag to the side just unable to find the energy to put everything away properly. Grabbing at his pillow he buries his face into it as he thinks about what he said.

"Hmmm..." He shifts to his side thinking about what he is doing considering his own actions. Everything had gone more smoothly than he had expected even if he had a slight scare from his father. But he did his side of the deal and his head still pondered on the boy's smile and thankfulness.

Hero . It was said casually and bluntly with no hesitation at all. Maybe it was because of Shoto's own lack of social skills yet Izuku felt giddy. He had never felt like this before and was squirming a bit in bed with a goofy smile on his face.

"I'm no doll," he says out loud thinking back to last Sunday when he encountered Kacchan. How the guy laughed and repeated that  nickname  and mocked him when he had hoped for a friend. The earlier giddiness slowly turned sour as the other's vulgar insult rang in his ear.

"...What kind of hero says those kind of things?" Izuku muttered as his mood soured before shaking his head. Moving onto his back because it was a waste of time to think about Kacchan. He didn't have the energy to think about him.

He had a new friend in Shoto who saw him as someone amazing and that is what he needs right now. As he closes his eyes he focuses on that, falling asleep as he passes out in bed...

Unaware of the phone call his father was doing as he slept.

-----

"Hello Ms. Aoyama, it's been awhile sorry for calling so late. How is your son?" All for One cooed softly as he sat in his chair looking at the screen of a certain place. "Well I have a favor to ask that I think you both owe me... Have you considered sending your son to UA?"

Every supervillain knows it is always good to have extra measures in place and after all his son can always use more  friends , right?

Chapter Text

"Guess I was worried over nothing."

All for One hummed as he had allowed his son to turn in for the night. Knowing if he showed the recording from the camera on Izuku's clothing just how easily he could ruin the hero's life.

With All Might around still many would be quick to jump in to take down Endeavor. A fact he is all too sure that Endeavor is more then aware of. Trying to bridge the gap between himself and All Might while avoiding scandals many would wish to use to pull him down.

The Hero that tries so pitifully to even have a fraction of that man's heroism built on self-sacrifice and a lack of self-preservation. Fruitlessly pursuing it even at the expense of everything around him so very blind to his own fault.

It was no surprise that Izuku would be so drawn to Endeavor's son. A boy entrapped by his father's own desires and wishes for him. Another victim of society who is blind to his own pain and misfortune because it is all he has known.

Izuku is able to sweep in like the dashing hero that he always wished he could be since he was a little kid getting blasted by Katsuki for his troubles.

If his son was anything like him he wouldn't ignore it after all, this was the perfect way to validate his goal. It's likely why he ignored every other 'friendship' effort and Hisashi has seen it there have been others talking to him. But Shoto? Well when you strike gold it is easy to get a bit of tunnel vision.

His son could act like a good soul, a good boy was what Inko and himself wanted but it was clear his actions were calculated. Even if he stumbled at first by ramming the boy, such a blunder but then was still unused to superspeed, that boy was now indebted to him.

While Hisashi doesn't doubt his son in wanting to help protect the boy he has to call it into question. After all, if Izuku truly wanted to help...

He would have told the police about what happened the moment he left home or been honest on the spot and asked for help from his own father.

"So oppurtunistic I swear. Wonder where he learned that from?" he mused in amusement as he pours his glass of wine as he was doing some late work.

Shifting in his seat to the other news about All Might, a thorn in his side that he had to ignore to raise his son after the loss of his wife. But this wasn't important as he was taking care of some final arrangements.

"So that is the boy you will be helping out," he speaks up making a gesture to a picture of his son. He turns to his guest who had been quiet the whole time as it's clear Aoyama was quite... Skittish currently.

"He is insistent on being a hero and is quite genuine about that but he is reckless. So you are basically to watch and keep him safe, simple enough."

It was a simple request, since his son was to report everything to him anyway he didn't technically need another spy. But someone to keep an eye on his son?

Now that's a different story as he can't exactly swoop in during school sessions or in every single incident. Might as well be announcing to the world that All for One has returned and having his son be 'upset' at him for ruining his chance at being a hero.

"Think of him as your little cousin that you have to care about," he chimes in an attempt to help ease the boy. Despite how he might seem, Hisashi never really enjoyed playing the big bad monster towards kids in a malicious manner.

After this he plans to keep their interactions to a minimum to lower the stress since was clearly terrified of him even with the promise he won't be hurt him personally.

Honestly the other parents were quite stupid willing to sell anything just so their child isn't quirkless. Then acted so shocked that he decided to collect on that favor as even if was amicable he said he would collect.

"Aoyama, Make sure you get into UA. I'll be counting on you to take care of him if anything happens," he wanted to make sure it's clear what his role would be.

There would be no way to keep a camera on Izuku's person as the UA had a lot of precautions so they are bound to have suspicion. As he wasn't changing his deal about Izuku reporting everything to him.

Meanwhile All for One still had prior arrangements he had to take care of like Tomura. He has grown up quite a bit and while he certainly isn't at all comparable to his own precious angel the other was passable as a 'successor'. He has the hatred in his heart and a drive even if currently has no idea where to direct it besides All Might.

They both have their purpose and he would rather Tomura not interfere with his child while in such a precarious position. He will need to make sure Tomura never knows Izuku is his son unless truly is necessary.

"You can speak now. As much as I love hearing myself talk it can get tiresome and want to hear from you. Tell me your questions," All for One finally decided to grant the boy mercy. As it is clear he has something to say but was afraid to say it.

"W-What if I don't get into UA? Or they find out he's a traitor before I can do anything?" The small male looked almost ready to cry. But then he had threatened to kill his parents prior if they didn't cooperate so he knew that the poor thing has reasons to fear so he won't call attention to it.

"Hmm, you would be fine as you aren't the one who made the deal... But unfortunately your parents will have to pay for the deal they made," he speaks softly knowing the kid likely didn't want to hear that.

But All for One doesn't go back on his word. Aoyama's parents were aware they would have to return the favor when they made the effort to contact him. They had considered it worth anything just to make sure their son was normal.

All for One even made sure it was something the kid desired something bright that sparkled. Warning about the things he might need since wasn't compatible but he had made them happy.

The after effects are simply the fault of the parents not at all considering what the price would be. If parents pressure and scream at their sons to save their pathetic lives.

That isn't his responsibility, everything has a price, after all, it isn't his fault if they can't pay. They were pathetic as didn't even offer an alternative offer just quickly panicked to move to Japan.

Rich and privileged. Influential even thinking they were untouchable yet so desperate for their son to be normal. Would sell their soul to the devil then scream at their own child to save them.

What a sad state.

"Anymore questions?"

"No sir..."

At least the boy seems to understand, and hopefully he can become friends with Izuku. That boy needs more of them if he plans to go into the heart of hero society and is sure they will get along well.

-----

Considering everything that has happened, the only child to All for One has grown so fast over the years.

From that weak little boy constantly trying to appease his father for attention was now almost independent. No longer looking at his father with tears in the corner of his eyes as if was about to be punished. Now he can look his father in the eye even with those fears knowing as long as follow his rules he had nothing to fear.

His features were still soft but his muscles were firm and his intelligence had grown. To be a father was to be filled with pride as his son grows in front of his very eyes.

At this point there was no doubt in his mind that his child would pass the exam even with just a year of training. Then again in Hisashi 's opinion UA has both gotten soft or maybe their entrance exams have become repetitive. He's seen the lowest common denominators and frankly isn't too impressed.

It was easy for him to get that kind of information, collect from the failures that couldn't get in and the overly eager students of UA. They hadn't yet been informed of the need for secrecy and the information given was seemingly harmless. Perfect time to get information, and thankfully he had that boy to help find out.

Aoyama would have been a perfect spy if his own son wasn't in there. But as it was it would be redundant to get him to give information and frankly tiring seeing him constantly terrified of speaking. And the less Aoyama pokes around the less likely Izuku will suspect that his father sent someone to watch him or end up exposing him as a traitor.

So while using him to gather information now it was temporary. His main role would just be watching his son once enters UA.

Still, there was the issue with the fact that the UA registration asks about quirks. His son had once asked him what his quirks name was and of course he wouldn't answer.

Didn't need his son looking it up online and getting worried about his dad being the 'boogieman' that nearly no one believes is real. Not that his son looked very at ease with the entrance exams fast approaching so maybe it's nerves that is forcing him to act.

Those tired green eyes showed evidence that he had a less then restful sleep. Though there was a firm look and already Hisashi can sense the question that was about to occur.

"Why can't you just tell me your quirks name?" Izuku shot out just as Hisashi took a bite of his food. Izuku's expression conveyed his grumpiness as if that would make his father budge. This was the third breakfast in the week where has to interrupt the mood.

"Goodness I'm being hassled by my own son every breakfast." He speaks with dramatic flare as if he had been wounded emotionally, "All Might never gave a clear answer about his quirk, aren't I allowed to have that too? What if I just never named it?"

He watched his son's lips turn into a pout seeming to not think it fair to compare himself to All Might. It was as if the hero was allowed to be suspicious but not his own old man.

"That's definitely a lie but then what do I put on the application?" Izuku questioned seeming willing to brush off his father's avoidance for now until the next breakfast. Though it wasn't like he could help much with that either only able to shrug, enjoying teasing the boy. This earned him an exasperated sigh from the boy.

"Wow you're unhelpful," Izuku groans leaning back in his seat just as dramatic as his old man.

"I'm trying to teach you independence. But since you keep asking I guess should give something," before his son badgered him to death on this topic, "if anything you can always say not available or unsure since for all intent and purpose your 'quirk' seems to change or adapt. What they going to do? Force you to name it?"

His son was quite fussy these days constantly asking for his opinion or seeming uncertain since they moved out of their old home. He guessed it was only natural as he only ever had him to rely on. And it is not as if the teachers can teach him every little thing only school stuff everything else is the job of the parent.

"Guess I'll just put that and just say my powers is Adaptation and constantly change... Though I haven't exactly gotten any new powers." Izuku notes as looks at his own hands. Though it seemed he was picking at the small holes that had developed unlike Hisashi's own they were much smaller guessing they were just more effective. No one would notice unless really looked at it.

Must be nice to not have holes so big that things can fall in it. An issue he struggled with in his youth from constant irritation. Still it likely isn't good for the boy to pick at it so as a father he reaches over and swat at his son's hand.

"Don't pick at it, and honestly that's because you just haven't looked. I would have suggest the Todoroki kid-" already he can feel his son's death stare but tries to ignore it, "But since he is your friend clearly that's out of the question. But isn't there someone... Else you be interested in taking a quirk from?"

Like a certain former bully who blasted and insulted you recently? Was what he wanted to say but he is sure his son might end up annoyed. It's clear he's still struggling over what happened even if he acts like he is fine.

After all wouldn't making him quirkless for being terrible be a great way to get back at him.

"...Not him," Izuku's voice was quiet but there was something... Off about the way he said it. Those eyes seemed to glaze over as if he was thinking intently and it made Hisashi wonder what exactly he was thinking. Alas he does not have direct mind reading powers.

So all Hisashi guessed was that he had his own ideas.

"Well regardless if you need a new quirk I would be willing to find something," he offers though he watched as his son's expression seemed almost nervous at those words.

"Oh don't worry, if I get you something I can promise that you won't hurt me. We should be able to exchange it easily unlike the mistake with U."

The poor rabbit was still quite traumatized after that incident around Izuku even though the doctor said he was perfectly fine. Apparently instincts were just that strong despite the thing being brain dead. Not that it stopped Izuku from locking him in his room once they moved as if it was Hisashi who had hurt the rabbit.

"Super strength would be nice," Izuku noted but it was under his breath as if he didn't really want to ask his father for it. "But I rather find it myself."

His son can be quite stubborn or maybe he's still mad about the rabbit incident. Able to still recall how he was crying when the rabbit went into a seizure. To think the boy was so strong he could make a mostly mindless creature that shouldn't even care about its own pain actually suffer. It had been intended as practice but things happen.

At least it was easy to fix and the rabbit was good as new in a day after a trip to Ujiko. But it was a lesson Izuku needed to learn and it was best he learned from a Nomu that they could fix then by him trying it on a person.

"If you do find it do tell me just in case something happens," he said this with meaning but his son seemed to grow quiet as looks at the time.

It seems breakfast time was over.

The boy was finishing his food much more quickly and seemed about ready to leave. However,

"Aren't you forgetting something?" Hisashi questions wondering what the hurry was for. They can't just stop their morning routine now especially when his old man put so much work into this breakfast.

A large sigh escaped Izuku knowing exactly what he meant seeming less then keen about something they had always done. They young boy looked at him almost sheepish as if silently asking if he had too and Hisashi nods.

Teenagers always get so fussy as they get older but despite the reluctance Izuku did give what was asked. He kisses his fathers cheek and gave his respects, "Thank you for the food."

"Good boy, love you," At least his son hasn't forgotten his manners and Hisashi allows him to go on his way. He had wasted enough time chatting anyway so of course he was going to drive the boy to school.

Knowing Izuku he would get distracted along the way and likely get into trouble anyway.

Now it was time to return to being All for One.

Tomura wasn't at all prepared to take over, nor capable of taking One for All back just yet. So he needed to check up on him.

As he arrives at the bar he sees the young man playing on his hand held bring careful not to put all his fingers on the device.

He swears Kurogiri spoils him then again All for One can't deny that he enjoys playing against him. Not that the feeling is mutual as after losing to All for One almost every time apparently he is now 'banned' from playing against him.

False claims about him cheating. When really All for One just plays them in his free time sometimes with Izuku and he had hundreds of years to practice prior! Even Izuku wasn't this petty, but then it is how he wanted Tomura to be.

"Nice to see you're in a good mood," he noted with amusement. But then he guessed he had been a bit lax on the others teaching. Izuku took up so much of his time he barely had time to do basically anything.

At the least it seemed to give Japan some false sense of security that he was just gone. While All Might went mental dismantling everything but never finding him.

"Kurogiri, you're spoiling the boy. Making me wonder if you're even giving him the proper education when I'm not here," All for One jests as he sits at the bar while Kurogiri makes his usual drink.

Thinking about how Gran had been working full time since he was hired in. Working every day recruiting every crook around this whole year to allow Tomura to enact his...

Well if was honest to himself this very poorly thought out plan.

"Tomura has already fulfilled his proper education anymore would be outside my expertise," Kurogiri points out as he hands the other cocktail.

All for One guessed had a point it wasn't like villains needed a college degree. Though Izuku better commit to the full education and go to college after highschool, preferably over seas.

"Then I guess mental stimulation is the issue," All for One noted as he walks over then casually snatches the game system. Earning a loud HEY from the grown man knowing that it likely was a surprise that he cared so much.

"How has your plan been working?"

It was fair for him to be curious after all he is investing in a lot of recruitment and Gran is great but this took quite a long time. But then if fails it would just be a learning experience.

"We have tons of men and the Nomu you given me should more then take out All Might," Tomura huffed. All for One felt almost offended wondering if the other truly thought that man was so easy to defeat.

Maybe he was getting a tiny hint of impatient, maybe it was because he had to prioritize Izuku who is an angel always asking for his opinion while Tomura seems like he could care less.

He sighs as reminds himself the other is still learning and needed to make mistakes just like Izuku.

He isn't this boy's dad but his mentor so he is even less inclined to interfere, after all, it won't matter when he finally gets his quirk factor in once the other is strong enough.

"Hmm, if that is how you wish to handle your first big mission that's fine with me. I can only guide you then."

Handing the game system back he could hear the other grumbling something under his breath. It reminded him of when he was young in his youth he used to play with Yoichi even if couldn't afford a handheld they would play in stores. Yoichi always got grumpy when told him they had to go home the moment Hisashi noticed the other looking tired.

Well... He still had some people to chat with anyway. But maybe if he just...

"Do you want to play against me?"

"Hell no."

Well it was worth a shot. He should focus on preparations anyway, the entrance exams were coming very soon...

Chapter Text

Izuku wakes up to find himself back at that mansion.

The feeling of soft silk against his skin from clothing across the world. A world he would never see again in this pretty cage.

As if the days in that school listening to the other students laughing, the smile of his friend, and the breeze on his face were all a lie.

It's funny in this moment as he is standing in the hall there are no emotions just quiet. Because in a sense despite this being the very thing he wants to avoid he knows there is no danger. Only the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard as he walks or rather it felt like the whole place was moving.

There was no noise in this home. Only the echoing of his foot steps as he leaves to the closest thing to the outside he ever had. A courtyard where he can feel the sun even if can not leave.

There a giant bird stood in front of him. The bird that tried to fly away... He reaches out to it as it seems to coax him on. Despite knowing that there was no escape, despite knowing all they would gain was pain. He climbs on it's back hearing the screech of the other birds as if saying

Don't do it. You will die!

His grip on the bird grew and it flies up there is a breeze they reached higher then he remembered then the bird did. All they want is just to see the outside world to be part of it and live. His eyes widen as he sees something glowing as they moved higher and he hears his father's voice.

"What are you looking for, my little treasure?"

Izuku was about to open his mouth because it felt like his father was with him not about to hurt him but then... "I'll keep you safe."

There's blood.

That golden light he saw seemed to burn his vision and struck at the bird covering him in its blood. Fear seizes his body as he looks at the bird he was riding and realizing it was headless.

"A-Ahhhhh," his voice cracks as horror at the situation grew. There's a lot of blood now staring at the bird beneath it's head that had been chopped off by that light. He didn't even have time to see it as it was already leaving while his hand is gipping at the bird desperately.

Gravity seemed to be over taking him as his transportation seemed to just disappear. Izuku's heart raced as weightlessness began to over take but not before he saw his father reach out from above.

Those very hands that had once been a source of comfort filled him with fear realizing it were covered in blood. No it isn't his hands not his time something is wrong with his Father. His face where is his-!

"Izuku, wake up-!" A voice shouts interrupting his dream and making him jolt in time to see his father seeming to sigh in relief.

"Goodness you were giving me a heart attack. I'm too old for this you know," Hisashi sighs and in his hand there was breakfast. Did I over sleep?

His dad didn't seem bothered as he handed him the tray of breakfast seeming more amused then anything. "Eat up, today's the entrance exam. It's a good thing I decided to wake you up, it looked like you were having a bad dream."

Izuku stared intently at his father's face the dream fading but the strong memories of his father's face disappearing. Of the bird dying just as they reached over the barrier to allow him to fall was clear.

It was nonsense, just a dream that made no sense when you really think carefully about it the dream likely born out of fear of being free and gettin hurt. The only thing that didn't make sense was that golden figure and his father's face...

A sharp breath escaped Izuku as his whole body shakes just at the memories barely being able to put the tray to the side. Earning a confused look from his father before the small boy just hugs the man earning a small grunt of surprise from the man. His grip tightening as he holds onto the man the emotions he felt conflicted and scared.

"Woah- Izuku!?" Hisashi's eyes widened as the teen held him tightly looking confused as the small male squeezed him tight. Just enough to cause some pain but Hisashi doesn't stop him. His gaze relaxes even if confused he gently hugs his son back so soft as if scared to break him.

"I don't want you to die," Izuku whispers this against his father. Burying his face into the man's midsection allowing his words to sink in. "Please don't die... You're my only family left please..."

It took him a bit but that dream wasn't just the bird dying. His father had died to that light too... He understood just a little bit why his father was so scared.

"Izuku?" Hisashi was startled as he had thought the boy was lately resentful or even getting fearful of him. But in this moment was his small child holding onto him tightly almost trembling at the idea of him dying. His gaze softens as a small sigh escaped him, "You're making me soft... Have I really made you that worried?"

Izuku didn't respond. Unsure of what caused that dream there was this growing fear. Afraid of being trapped in that mansion and yet there was another the more he speaks to his dad. The more danger it seemed his dad was in and how it would hurt them both... He doesn't know what it means but it terrified him.

"I'm sorry I worried you. I should be the last person you worry about..." He whispers those words yet Izuku can tell there was a small smile. As if some how this fear had eased others own worries about something. "I'm fine trust me. Nothing bad is going to happen to me, it's been a while since someone worried about my well being."

Oh... Did his father not have any friends? Then again despite seeming to know a lot of people the most he talked about was his brother and mom. But after mom's death it always a sad musing... Maybe dad still hasn't moved on from them.

"As much as I would love to just waste the day away hugging... You kind of have a entrance exam," Hisashi points out. And it was clear this seemed to physically pain the man. "But if you're ok with trying another school we can do that~"

Izuku felt a strong urge to throw the old man off the bed for making a joke about him failing to get into All Might's school. But since had a point he just scoffed pulling away to eat, though he realized something.

For once his father didn't press on what happened or what he dreamt of to make him so rattled. Did he not want to know? Or... Is this his way of assuring him can give some privacy?

It sometimes feels like his dad doesn't know how to handle emotions. As if Izuku's actions were too much or maybe like he was holding back his own emotions. Trying to keep himself controlled and relaxed...

At the least he was allowed to eat in bed and prepare for the day in peace since his dad allowed him to prepare by himself. With some light reviewing with his father it was time for the entrance exam and he couldn't lose focus on his dream. It was just a dream.

That's all he needs to think about...

"Hey dad, do you think I'll see Todoroki at the exam?" He asks needing a distraction as his father was also getting dressed. Looking over the older man just watching him fix his hat and suit.

The other blended into his surroundings in that outfit despite standing at seven feet was an amazing talent. Then again lately it felt like his father was constantly looking over his shoulders. As if was afraid of something, Izuku has noticed but he only now realized it felt like the other expected something to happen.

They are in the city of heroes and yet his father has never been relaxed since they left.

As if there was something that was about to catch him if doesn't disappear into a crowd. Izuku feels like maybe he should have noticed this prior, knowing his father was shady. It's hard not to notice once you do though.

"Oh I'm sure, if anything he likely was forced out of bed to eat in a much more rough manner. While his father tells him to stop being 'lazy' and dragging his feet," Hisashi scoffs.

Not seeming to find it odd that it seemed very weirdly specific and made Izuku wonder if knows from experience. But he thought better then to ask after enjoying a moment sometimes his father acted like those house wives with their gossip.

They arrived at the school and of course Hisashi dropped him off. Saying how he feels like would be a distraction -not that he can come into the testing area anyway- and is uncomfortable with how many heroes are around but he promised to pick him up after. Weirdly honest, but maybe his dad feels more in an open mood after seeing him upset. But it was time to focus!

Smacking his own face to get his mind off that freaky dream and his dad's reaction to it. He didn't have time! He needs to see if he can find Todoroki!

Of course there was no guarantee that he would be able to even go into the exam room with him. Though his dad seemed confident about them meeting up so he wants to be optimistic.

What he did not expect was to see Endeavor and Shoto surrounded by people seeming to be pestering for an interview just outside. Reminding Izuku how famous his current only friend is wondering how he's supposed to get through.

Especially since it seemed Endeavor was in a mood as he was holding Shoto by the back of the neck to steer him. Likely to keep the boy from just walking off like Shoto seems prone to doing even though they can't move.

But he was at least going to make an attempt since Shoto looked quite unhappy and already seemed to be disliked by Endeavor he ain't afraid to butt in. Using his speed he tries to jump waving his arms up flailing as he shouts, "Todoroki!"

Was this embarrassing and definitely not proper etiquette? Yes. Was Izuku blinded by his need for his best friend validation and attention? Also yes.

As expected Endeavor looked like he just ate a lemon likely having thought he would have missed him. But Shoto seemed to perk up no longer looking like he's about to burn the whole school down. The change was quite dramatic if Izuku was honest but that was the permission he needed to carry out his plan.

Practically shoving his way through the crowd, with a bunch of apologies as the reporters seemed baffled at who this nobody kid was. He pops out onto the other side in front of Shoto practically ignoring Endeavor.

"We should get going don't you think Todoroki~?" He chimes, not about to acknowledge the man who still had a grip on his son. Because acknowledging him would be giving him power he has no interest in exchanging.

"Boy, you should at least greet your elders," Endeavor pointed out but Izuku had no interest in that as he grabs Shoto's wrist to pull him onto his back.

"Sorry no time! It nearly exam time have fun with the reporters~!" Before anyone could process what he meant it was times like this Izuku was glad he had super speed and training. Able to practically yank Endeavor's kid right out of his grip and pick up the male using his speed to practically shoving out of the crowd.

"WHA- SHOOOTOOOO!!!!" Endeavor could be heard from behind and Izuku felt almost giddy while Shoto was more baffled then anything. Or maybe suffering from the sudden fast movement, he never did have a passenger.

"How was your first time being carried at super speed?" Izuku chimes as this time did not ram into the door able to stop right in front as he opens the door to the slightly disoriented male he put down.

"Am I supposed to be dizzy? But not bad especially for my first time kidnapping," Shoto noted but clearly was unbothered by the act then again he likely was close to committing genocide. As he had quite a nasty expression prior not at all like the one he has now glad to be of relief.

"Haha, it was my first time having a guest while running at that speed. But it should wear off," Izuku answers just a bit sheepish feeling quite proud of himself after confirming he can walk. Noting his muscles were just a tiiiiny bit sore from the extra weight but it was more then fine just meant super speed needed some weight practice. He was proud of his training.

"The hell are you doing here!?" Suddenly the good mood soured as Izuku recognized that voice. His body tensed up watching as Shoto's own changes to confusion and glances behind him.

Slowly Izuku turns around just in time to see exactly who he expected. Kacchan was standing there looking absolutely baffled. But then Izuku didn't exactly tell him that he was trying to get into UA. Not that he got a chance before the other accused him of...

"Oh hi Kacchan~!" Izuku chimes acting like it was completely normal to see the other here. Even as felt his chest burning as watched the male walk over and Shoto glance between them with a tantalize expression.

"Don't 'hi Kacchan' me! I asked you a question, why are you here Deku!" The other sneered as if he somehow was rattled by his very presence. It kind of was funny feeling like he just figured out some big weakness as his green eyes gleamed with delight. As he was only standing here!

"Well that's kind of rude Kacchan I'm here to take the entrance exam. And you haven't even said hi to my friend Todoroki~" Izuku chimes making a gesture toward the one beside him. Then he pauses, "Unless you're afraid of him because he's Endeavor's son and planned to ignore him."

Oh that struck a nerve. Maybe shouldn't have said it like that-

The blond male looked baffled likely since in comparison to last time where Izuku was desperate then went mental. He was a lot calmer but maybe it was because he wasn't alone this time. Something about being here with Shoto who seemed to admire him was very powerful high.

"Who is this Izuku?" Shoto questioned in a whisper finally interrupting seeming almost bothered by the blond's presence. Though Izuku isn't too sure why- Unless he reminds him of his dad which he can kind of see it.

"The fuck you mean afraid!? I'm not scared of shit," Katsuki sneers clearly ruffled as he looks at Shoto as if to prove it. Reminding Izuku of a rooster trying to intimidate another.

"A former childhood friend," Izuku chimes though it took all his nerves to not call Kacchan his former bully just to be petty. But maybe he still wished to remember the good memories and not taint it with the man.

He was still emotionally sore after the last encounter it was clear that the other was about to correct him. Only for an announcement to go off and saving them from a much longer and awkward conversation no one needs right now.

Hey get your butts in the auditorium if you want to take your exam! Use it or lose it as they say~!

Well this made this little exchange a bit more abrupt but a perfect excuse to eject from the conversation. Especially since it seemed Shoto and Katsuki were starting to produce an almost hostile environment. He certainly didn't expect them to already be having bad blood and wonders if it bad that he was kinda amused by it.

Gently elbowing Shoto he brings him back to reality as for a second it really looked like a fight was about to occur, "Come on we don't want to be late so lets do our best!"

The glaring contest that seemed to be occurring stopped as the two seemed to snap to their senses. It seems they both realized this wasn't a battle worth it and most likely it would get them kicked out. And Izuku would kind of prefer that to not happen tugging Shoto away.

"Don't worry about him," Izuku says only to glance and realize Katsuki was kind of following them- Or well he guessed they all were going to the auditorium. Talk about awkward, he guesses he can just try to ignore him. Though he has to admit seeing Present Mic IN PERSON was exciting.

As even in the mansion he was allowed to listen to the radio and he ADORED listening to his broadcast and podcast. Practically squirming in his seat as he watched the man announce what the physical exam was.

"It's Present Mice at home I loved listening to him even my dad thinks he's cool and allowed me to call in a few times-" Very much fan boying if wasn't for Kacchan for some god awful reason being next to him.

"Shut up I can't hear him," the blond grunts and Izuku is wondering why he is here but at least Shoto seemed to not be bothered. Even if was glaring daggers currently making it hard to enjoy wondering why he is so bothered by Kacchan.

Still he tried to pay attention to Present Mic as he explains everything saying how it's a point system. Though it seemed to imply they will make sure that middle school kids can't end up in the same block.

"That's so kids from the same middle school can't help each other out..." Shoto mutters seeming almost disappointed. It took Izuku a moment before deflating as it meant that Shoto might end up in a different block then a cold dread when realized it meant there's a chance he is ending up with Katsuki.

He was FAR from ready for this. Especially since he could feel the blond's gaze on him as if he was going to make it his personal mission to destroy him. Well crap-

"I guess that makes sense why our ID for different locations," Izuku noted and he had been hoping some how his dad could mess with that. Ok that's kinda bad why does he think his dad has that kinda power!? His dad can't help him here.

There was some guy in front asking a question about the additional enemy and Izuku honestly wasn't surprised to hear was no point. What he was surprised was when the student turned to look him in the EYE, "AND YOU!"

"Me!?" Izuku squeaked out looking frantic while his two 'friends' seemed to not be paying attention.

"Yes you! You've been muttering the whole time, It's distracting! This isn't some game or spectacle," the male spoke seeming quite hostile and honestly Izuku wonders if he can melt into the floor. Wondering why HE was being called out just because was a bit giddy.

He feels a hand on his shoulder to glance at Shoto who looks at him with a concerned expression. As if asking if he was alright and Izuku could only nod his head guessing he got a bit too excited. Just when he was starting to finally feel relaxed and more open too.

"I like your muttering it's interesting if means anything," Shoto speaks almost like out of pity earning a loud bark from Kacchan.

"The hell are you his cheerleader?" Katsuki question as if weirded out and Izuku wishes they would both just kind of shut up at the moment. This day couldn't end any sooner.

And they were surprisingly all split up into their own blocks. No Shoto nor Kacchan were in his block, he felt weirdly disappointed about Kacchan, but of course the guy that called him out in the crowd was there. Able to feel the guy's gaze on him it was like he already decided he was a bad egg and MAN it made him mad.

His green eyes glanced over at the group though he caught the eye of one very bright and flamboyant male. Who seemed to be looking almost amused if anything everyone seemed to be looking at him like he would fail. Did... Did he really look that plain and unremarkable?

Izuku felt his tongue dry as this wasn't the attention he wanted practically shrinking now as everyone was jeering. His hearing is sensitive now as they note how he looks so meek a few noting they saw him running with Shoto. Saying how seems attention hungry until it's negative but also unremarkable and he grits his teeth.

He doesn't care, they are all strangers anyway and not worth listening too.

Looking up at the big city complex he decided to tune out the world. Ignoring the way his hand seems to ache as looked at everyone in his vicinity. Then the bell rang and he uses his speed to run ahead of everyone before they could even register it had begun. Of course he was less then thrilled that the enemies were kind of... Metal.

All he had was Super Speed and Regeneration. While he had the training and strength he wasn't some powerful martial artist. So a regular punch or kick didn't do much of a dent. Able to suddenly recall during one of the training his dad's warning.

"You're quirk allows you to get other quirks but you won't get their resistance. This means your body might never become fully adapted to the quirk." His father informed him after Izuku tried to use super speed for a longer period of time and vomited. "You need to obtain other quirks to compensate, but at least with regeneration you can recover from every recoil... But..."

Izuku felt a blast of pain shoot up from his feet finally crushing the robot using super speed. Taking every ounce of his well being to not scream when he realized it had shattered.

You will be living hell as every bone in your body breaks tries to do the impossible that comes easy for everyone else to do.

Even though he had destroyed the one-pointer robot he was not crumpled beside it trying not to cry. Feeling his leg slowly being healed by his regeneration as he realized metal was not flesh. That despite his training this body was not made for this as he takes a deep breath.

"Fuuu..." He wheezes only to see that everyone had caught up and was now trying to defeat all the robots. It came... So easy for them.

They could hit them at full strength, no recoils as the one who called him out used his own speed to kick and strike. Another using a laser so didn't even need to touch and another using super strength. It was unfair.

"Hey are you alright? That looked like it hurt," A voice spoke and he looked up startled to see a young girl with brown hair and pink cheeks. Izuku's eyes widened a bit surprised seeing someone being so kind as to check up on him. Holding her hand out to him he realized she was genuinely worried... So he accepts it.

"Yeah, yeah... Thank you, I appreciate it," he speaks softly because it is strange. Just knowing one person actually cared about him despite being rivals. Despite being a competition made him feel less terrible about his situation. "Y-You should go back to the exam, I'll be ok! Thank you!"

And it was also the moment he realized this was the first time he talked to a girl. Huh.

He can't just keep using super speed and crippling himself from the force as it needs time to heal. Even now he had a slight limp still trying to heal while he walks but he can't get points other wise. Think Izuku think!

Thinking desperately he realized he can use a weapon not that any were provided but the robots did cause some damage... A pipe!

His eyes sparkled as he ran to grab it. Noting it is quite crude and his hand aches strongly knowing being around a lot of quirks always made it itch. But he was fine he didn't need anymore then what he has.

Izuku Midoriya was going to become a hero!

And of course a giant robot worth several points tried to run him over just as was getting a boost.

"EEK-!" apparently he was going to be the most feminine sounding hero as had to barely avoid being crushed by the damn this. "THIS TEST IS DANGEROUS!"

His dad should have told him how dangerous this stupid test was! He swears he's going to die if makes a mistake here!

At the least it turned out the piped was a good weapon of choice as he was finally able to start causing damage. And of course he helped out other people who were also struggling with NOT DYING TO STUPID ROBOTS. Because seriously some people were legit in danger here from these damn things.

Izuku might have developed a slight hatred for robots after this exam. Who gave permission to UA to spend so much money on these stupid things?

Though when he saw the giant 0 point behemoth for this one moment as he stared at it while everyone fled. Everyone ran, no one wanted to fight this monster and Izuku stared wide.

"These are the heroes of the future...?" He isn't sure how to feel knowing there was no points but... "W-Wait guys what if someone still!?"

Never mind they all fucking ran and of course he guessed he should run ahead to check. His pipe was damn useless against that thing but he needed to check as he didn't see everyone come back. That girl- Where did that nice girl go?

"Um brown hair girl!?" Izuku shouts as he runs toward the behemoth knowin it was suicidal and seems he was right to do so. As finds her on the floor and of course covered by heavy debris.

"Hey! Are you alright!?" He sprints over skidding to her side to see she couldn't move. "Shit- Let me help!"

"R-Run away or you will be crushed too!" The girl shouted but he tries to ignore it as he tries to pry it off. Wishing to god he had gotten super strength because this was ridiculous! "Come on come on-!"

Yeah it wasn't budging and the giant monster was getting close. Her power can take out that monster.

His face paled at the thought but it was true there was too much debris. They can take it off one at a time but the thing was almost here.

"Can... Can you trust me?" Izuku spoke watching the girl looking up confused and slightly pained. "If you can I need to borrow your quirk."

"H-Huh???" Clearly that is not a question anyone expected to be ask but they didn't have time.

"Please! I promise I'll give it back just trust me!" Izuku shouts and the girl seemed startled but nods her head.

"O-Ok, I'll lend it to you!" Izuku was thankful as he moved his hand to her head and was gentle. Praying he doesn't hurt her, he doesn't want to hurt another person who is kind... This came much more gently.

His hand formed pink tips and he turned down the giant monster having been watching the girl a bit knows the basics. "I'll keep you safe with your quirk, I promise!"

"What are you going to do-!?" The girl shouted but Izuku doesn't even wait as he uses his speed and debris for the boost to jump up at the robot. His hands coming together a feeling of weightlessness came over his body allowing him to float to the right spot. Watching the robot look at him.

Then he touched it pressing it against the robotic body suddenly it seemed to stop in its movement. Then slowly moving higher... And higher and higher...

Izuku felt very VERY nauseous. Jumping off the robot it began to float off higher and higher the sick feeling grew more and more but he tolerated it.

"Please get crushed before I puke," he mutters as he presses his fingers together and it came crashing down... That was a lot of property damage but it's a good thing it's a fake city and most people ran for it. And maybe will make UA think twice about a stupid indestructible Robot-

"Oh god," and there goes his breakfast and possibly yesterdays dinner. Such an amazing quirk but his own body definitely wasn't playing friendly with it. Trying to regain his composure he can hear the timer go off and Present Mic shout.

"TIME!!! AND WHO WOULD HAVE EXPECTED SUCH A TURN OF EVENTS!?" Izuku would have felt proud if his guts weren't trying to escape his insides... He was happy to give the quirk back after he was taken to the nurse for his uncontrollable barfing. He wonders if there is an anti-nausea quirk, he would love that right now.

His dad made sure he had a barf bag the whole ride back home as they were now waiting for the results. His dad sure thought it was funny...

Chapter Text

So his son really did pass the entrance exam. Though it seems he got carried away with his All for One and made himself ill. A pity really All for One had been hoping the boy would wow everyone with grace though he guessed he did.

He destroyed a giant machine while everyone else turned tail like cowards.

His son likely thought he didn't know the extent but he had Aoyama tagged. More then willing to risk that boy getting kicked out over his son during the exam and was pleased to see the whole thing.

While Aoyama wasn't caught though the boy was also quick to run at least stuck around to watch. Likely because it assumed if the boy did die he would be blamed. Not that Hisashi can imagine UA would allow the students to actually die and they would be the ones facing the wrath more. Or well, all of japan if was honest.

Still it was quite funny. His son was too busy puking his guts into a bag to realize his father had already anticipated this with extra bags. Taking so many trips to the bathroom the boy suffered nausea for a few days.

Almost a week and the acceptance letter finally arrived. Of course while knowing he should let Izuku see what exactly is IN the letter he can't help himself. Hisashi wasn't exactly known for minding his own business.

Though he very quickly regretted this decision when instead of a regular teacher he was greeting by All Might. Standing in front of a projector because of COURSE UA would waste money on fancy technology instead of using regular paper.

"THIS IS A PROJECTION~!" Anyone with EYES can see that. Hisashi wished he was anywhere but here listening to this man state the obvious.

"Is there a pause button on this stupid thing?" Hisashi grumbled as he tries to mess with it to no avail. He figured out how to rewind but pausing apparently wasn't a thing. So he settled on just having his son getting pissed at him later when realized saw it without him.

The blond man looked as full of life as ever but then the bastard likely thought All for One was gone for good. Chased out of the country as most of the former empire in japan was reduced to ashes. Unaware that Japan underworld itself was child's play that he has long since wrung the life out of.

"Hello there Izuku Midoriya! Surprised to see me?" At least that confirms this is prerecorded. It would be quite awkward for this man to learn that he is the father of a future student. "You see I've come to teach at UA!"

You're wasting time just say if he passed or didn't. Was the great symbol of evil's thoughts as he would love to reach in and crush that man's skull. He already knew this fact but then it wasn't in the news and likely the man was impressed by Izuku's feat. Not only in saving a girl for what seemingly seemed like a useless endeavor but able to adapt and take it out.

"Huh? I need to hurry it up?" At least someone on the camera team has sense, who could enjoy such a long exposition? "I barely even said much, I can tell him what I want to say later? Alright!"

That's... Weird. All for One is going to make a note that it seemed like All Might might have specifically requested this. Did he already suspect something because Izuku borrowed the girl's power?

All for One stares intently at this man's face with slight amusement as the man talked unaware he was from the very villain he wished to wipe out.

All for One watched blankly, feeling nothing as he was shown the girl was so thankful toward Izuku and felt guilty since couldn't get anymore points and got sick with her quirk.

That makes sense. It was only fair as Izuku wasted a lot of time that could have been spent getting more points. As it was clear his son struggled in the first half when he realized his body wasn't as sturdy as he thought. Breaking limbs is quite counter productive even if you can heal.

"That boy, he saved my life!"

All for One can already see his son rocking and giddy at the validation. Most likely he will end up hyper fixating on her the first moment he gets. Maybe it's best for her sake he doesn't share this part of the video before Izuku hurts himself. As Hisashi gets the feeling she won't be as passive as that Shoto boy if he becomes too pushy.

Still this video was passionate, raw, as he watched as it confirmed how they did in fact take into account saving people. Which is obvious to anyone who actually gave a crap about helping people.

"This will be your Hero Academy!" Dear god All Mighty enough of this pandering.

He grabs the device and shoves it into a box. He will tell his son he passed the exam but he can't just show it like this. Already seeing the ego his son might develop wondering how to dispose of this nonsense.

Guessing he can always forge an acceptance letter using it just so Izuku has something. Seems like a waste other wise and there is still the odd behavior of All Might.

He put in a request to some tech savy forgers for making a slightly more 'generic' video without all that extra dribble. All Might likely had some ulterior motive for showing all that but he doesn't know his son. They were strangers but he guessed if his son wants to meet his heroes seems he's in luck the man's interested.

"My Hero Academy... How silly, exagerated even almost like we are in a manga. I guess can keep that part in," he chuckles mostly to himself as he looks at the acceptance letter after figuring out how to 'download' it's projection. He won't take away all his son's fun after all just that girl's part.

As a father it is only natural to curate your child's experience. He's sure his son will be excited just at the knowledge he passed and All Might is a teacher.

The forgers were quite quick to have it done the next day. So didn't have to wait long to hand it to his son, who seemed better, and as expected was kicked out of the room.

Though apparently his son was so excited he could hear the boy shouting with glee running out still in his sleep gown with bright eyes. Clearly the edited video was still good enough to bring joy to his son even if didn't know about the girl giving up points for him.

"Dad! I passed! I'm going to UA!" The pure joy on his son's face as he seemed like he couldn't contain his own emotions. Already tears were in his son's eyes as if he was about to break into sobs. Hisashi is reminded that they were quite an emotional family almost made him emotional as he chuckles.

"I am so happy for you. Let's go out to eat to celebrate," Hisashi coos softly as he goes to stroke his son's head. Watching those emerald eyes glisten with tears as he expressed his joy with no restraints. No fear or anything just pure joy and Hisashi is sure he has been making the right choices.

It would be a damn shame if after two hundred years he can't learn how to keep his family happy and at his side.

"Oh and uniforms. You sure you don't want the girl uniform? I think they are quite accepting about that-" Hisashi notes only to see his son's face turned a bright red either from annoyance or embarrassment.

"Dad! You're being weird I only wear skirts casually not to school!" Izuku shouts and it seemed the moment was ruined. But he can't help it sometimes he just wants to watch his son's reaction. Just like he enjoyed Yoichi's reaction whenever he does something a part of him wonders.

What kind of face would his son make if he knew his father was evil? That All Might truly despised him? That the whole world would wish for the man who raised him dead?

Yoichi certainly seemed unsure but he wonders as he watches the teen huff and glare. If his son was also undecisive that would he let him die? Delaying the inevitable truth of disdain? Give him lies as allows heroes to inflict harm?

....Keep thinking like that Hisashi and history will repeat itself. Just stay the course and unravel society.

For a moment he had thought he saw Yoichi standing in front of him with those harsh eyes surrounded by concrete. His bones getting thinner, eyes getting wilder... Some how Hisashi can feel his brother's blood on his hand.

"Dad...? What is that face you're making?" Izuku spoke up and Hisashi realized he had just been staring silently. He offers a small smile and reaches out for a second the boy stepped back in surprise but Hisashi is quicker. Scooping up the small teen into his arms.

"I'm sorry... I was just thinking how much I love you," Hisashi chirps fondly as he ignores the ghost of his brother plaguing him. Able to hear One for All resonating with All for One despite the distance as if to remind him of his crimes. Unable to be free slowly maddening him slowly while pretending it's ok.

Izuku's squirms likely thinking he's too big for this but he was so small in his father's arms. It's clear he will be bigger then Inko those hands were slightly big on him.

They used to be so soft but now there is a slight roughness yet his palms were soft holding the boy with one arm he takes the others hand to gently hold it. The lotion and glove his son would wear likely helping him retain something. He still has a lot of growing to do but for now he was just... Small.

"I love you too..." his son spoke quietly seeming a bit confused but he stopped fighting him. He always becomes passive in his arms, likely from constantly being manhandled since his youth, but Hisashi enjoys it. He isn't fighting him, nor hating it he just seems content.

Pressing his head on top of his son he hums softly thinking about how joyful he is to have this moment. As his head had been so far gone for so long this moment doesn't feel real just a fleeting illusion.

The hunger in his chest seemed to be so much quieter in these moments. As if just his son could fill that void, and maybe they could enjoy an actual family vacation after everything is done.

"...Say something." His son was being too silent feeling the boy turn his head up to look at him. Those green eyes that looked so much like his brother and the white hair that if wasn't for the curls would remind him more.

"You don't... Seem happy. Even though your smiling it isn't reaching your eyes." It seems his son was very observant. Or maybe the tutors were too good at teaching him body language, "Hey dad? Why do you hate heroes?"

Oh this wasn't what he expected to be asked.

Hisashi never outright said it as he didn't want to make his son have the wrong idea but it seems his son has since figured out something. Even when they watched the UA festival he would avoid talking about the heroism part. It wasn't necessary it was simply 'fluff' to him that can be brushed over for how the quirks can be used.

"It's not exactly... 'Heroes' I hate it's a bit more complex," Hisashi corrects since that would simplify his feelings far too much. He did not actually hate much nor did he have any strong feelings in any which way. Long he had since buried his emotions and if had a strong hatred he likely wouldn't struggle so much to get One for All.

"Then what is it?" Izuku asks so intently staring at his face as if trying to analyze his own father. Wishing for answers, wishing to understand something about his father but All for One just smiles and shrugs. It truly didn't matter in this moment.

"That's for you to figure out," Hisashi chimes as he puts the boy down and taps his nose to remind his son he was safe. To know that despite being 'harsh' at time he still adores and loves him, "Keep on singing your little song and do your very best. I can at least tell you this, you will be the only hero I can ever love and cheer for the best."

Because he knows in his heart that this boy cherishes it. The title, the symbol and what it truly means were engraved in that boys heart. And unlike Yoichi has already seen it's cruelty at a young age to truly understand what that means.

As this boy saw his mother be his hero even at the cost of her own life.

Chapter Text

Today was the day he finally entered the Academy of his dreams. Izuku had fixed himself up and made sure his uniform fit well though he struggled with the tie. His father was no help with it as admitted he never used one despite his preference for suits. So he made do.

He was trembling with excitement as from this day forward, Izuku Midoriya is a UA Hero-in-Training. Those days in that cage feel like just a bad dream that never occurred as he is finally a step closer to his dream. His fathers training and support had truly gotten him so far showing at the least he isn’t trying to get him to fail.

It honestly reminded him of when he was small, before mom passed away. When they would place games together he remembers his father saying something to him…

"You're the only hero I can ever love and cheer for."

Those words rang in his mind of something in his childhood that he had long forgotten. Before his mother's death, before the bullying got bad, before everyone realized he was truly quirkless. His father would play heroes and villains in the park with him and Kacchan all the time whenever they asked. Allowing them to get along without worries.

As Kacchan tended to make Izuku to play as the victim to save or villain, his dad would step in to make them team up. Allowing Izuku to forget moments before about the argument as his dad played his role perfectly. He could terrorize the kids to make sure they would be distracted from their little debate. Izuku never questioned it, it was fun.

That is until one day the doctor claimed he was quirkless. Izuku had gotten wrecked by Bakugou’s crew after they picked on a kid and he wasn’t able to fight back. His dad had gone to pick him up as he was gone later than normal only to find his son just staring at the sky miserable. His father’s expression was unknowable but Izuku refused to say exactly what happened. Only that he wished he was a stronger hero.

His father seemed unsure at those words as carried him home. Moving a hand through his son’s hair as if was also in thought.

"If I was a villain would you save me?" The question startled him. Izuku had never thought about saving a villain but he remembered trying so hard to think of an answer. As never seen All Might do so at that age but then he didn’t even think about it as an option. It distracted him from his sadness as he gave an answer.

Yet he can’t even remember what that answer was. Only the memories of those words and a gentle smile from his fathers face. These were memories of the past and it was time to look at the future. He finishes fixing himself up as he is prepared for the main event, now he just has to meet with Shouto.

"Dad, I'm ready to go to school!" Izuku shouts while running to the entrance putting his backpack on as he quickly eats his light breakfast. At least dad remembered he didn’t want anything heavy just in case there were any surprises. It’s better safe than sorry, it’s one of the things he learned from his dad that he can’t deny is useful. Glancing back at the man who was saying his goodbyes and had his lunch box prepped.

"Try not to fall asleep during orientation," His father spoke with amusement as handed him the box of lunch. As if it was a sign of good will as he gives him some choice words with a look of pride. Despite everything this seemed the most honest his father has ever been, "And break some legs, hero."

...It was going to take some getting used too.

Shouto's house was not at all on the way to UA, if anything it’s a huge detour. However, with superspeed, and illegal quirk use, he was able to arrive on time. Despite having seen the others house before it was still surprising how massive the house was. But then Endeavor is the number 2 hero of Japan which has fame and fortune. It's just a pity that he’s… Not the best role model.

Yet Shouto wasn’t around at all. It made him worry if maybe Shouto forgot, or if he already left bouncing just a hint in place. Or maybe Endeavor-

Before his thoughts can go on a conspiracy spiral the sound of the door opening catches his attention just in time to see Shouto standing there but he wasn't alone. The sour scowl on his friend's face said everything he needed to know as Endeavor stood beside him. It seemed like he was telling Shouto something but he isn't sure what as Shouto just walked away from the man, seeming to perk up a bit when sees him. Thankfully it seemed his dad wasn't about to follow him, seeming to have said whatever it was he had wanted to say.

Endeavor looks over at Izuku with such a strong intensity that Izuku tensed on instinct. While he had been testing the man's patient his 'wound' was no longer something he could play up as should have healed by now. He turns his gaze toward the much more welcomed presence. Shouto noticed him and seemed to have perked up as he usually does. From a sour expression to something much more open and friendly. Glad to know it is still special for him.

"Shall we go, Midoriya?" Shouto questions, still so referring to him by last name. It did make Izuku wonder if he was ever going to use his name. As he heard many other students sometimes go by first names showing a kind of closeness. Then again he guesses Endeavor being old fashioned had rubbed off on Shouto's mannerism.

One day maybe, but it wasn't today.

"Of course! Come on we can't be late on our first day," Izuku chimes as they walk to school. He was shaking with both excitement and nerves as they walked and of course he couldn't help but talk. As he had so much energy and excitement it felt like he was about to burst so he just has to say something.

"I can't believe we are going to the same school as All Might. Can you imagine Shouto?" Izuku chimes as he can ramble about anything and the other accepts it. That ever present attentive expression never left as if he was hanging on to his every word. It felt nice to just be able to talk about whatever is on his mind but that did remind him- Did they even have the same class?

The thought filled him with dread.

"B-by the way, did you find out what class you're in? I know we've been texting but I never did ask," Izuku noted feeling a bit sheepish. As they were walking together but what if they weren't in the same class. What if they were separated and they drifted apart? What if he stuck with Bakugou as he definitely passed-

"Class 1-A,” Shouto cuts off every single thought that Izuku had that had been about to spiral out of control. That was his class too! Thank the heavens.

"T-That's great! Better than great. It’s perfect as that's the class I'm in," Izuku chimes excitedly. As if he wasn't about to panic that he had just wasted all his emotional investment into Shouto only to end up losing that friendship once he got into the school.

"Yea, I'm glad too," if Shouto had noticed Izuku just moments from having some kind of breakdown he seemed to not say anything about it. Though it seemed there was a huge bustle in front of UA as reporters seemed to be buzzing around the front. Just like they did at the Entrance Exam to Shouto guessing they were interested in interviewing all the kids that passed. Now that he thought about it he wondered if that also meant that girl would be in class or if those two…

His thoughts are once again interrupted by a loud strict voice booming as soon as they reached the classroom.

"Remove your feet from the table! That is an insult to the school and the craftment!" Izuku opened the door just at a peak and of course the two people he had hoped wouldn't be there were.

"As if I CARE about who the hell made this desk or previously sat in it. The hell you come from, extra?" Kacchan was sitting at his desk acting out more than he usually did it seemed. Hostile and clearly trying to get a much more uptight man to back off. In a sense likely trying to give off the air of superiority and create a pecking order with himself on the top. Which is odd considering he went to a very average school, Aldera he thinks it was?

His dad mentioned it off hand as if it would make him feel better. But Izuku was sure it was chosen out of ego to be the first in that school to get into UA. Rather than Kacchan being incapable of getting into some prestigious middle school. As he seemed to pass the entrance exam easily, his skills and intelligence are real.

However, it seemed the one that was lecturing thought it was a legit question. As was now answering.

"I'm Tenya Iida from Somei Private Academy!" Seems the man took Kacchan's question seriously. The way Kacchan smirk turned into a scowl made it clear he was less than amused. Since it seemed like hearing that the one lecturing him was from an expensive private school was a great offense.

"So an Elitist. I should blow you to bits." Kacchan sneers, making it clear his bark was about to turn into a bite. Izuku wonders if he has gotten worse since he left or if he never noticed how aggressive he was. Then again this was the boy that blasted him in the face with his quirk and as kids did beat him up once when tried to defend another kid.

But he used to also be someone that would fight those stronger than himself. Why has he changed so much…

“So violent!” Iida noted seeming appalled but that is a normal reaction to anyone threatening violence. Still it didn’t seem to bother him if anything it seemed was going to reconsider how handles this. That is until he looked over at Izuku and they locked eyes making Izuku freeze like a deer in a headlight. Unprepared for this encounter as the young man began to walk toward him, was it because of his tie!? He tried his best-

Shouto suddenly made his presence known, shoving himself between Izuku and pushing him back. The action had startled him as Shouto never really was this physical but there was slight relief in the buffer between him and Iida.

"If you're just going to pester him on his uniform, then I think you can take a seat. " Shouto speaks firmly, much to Izuku's surprise. As Shouto wasn’t exactly someone that enjoyed talking or interacting in general. Yet was able to just get between them though maybe he could try being a bit less harsh. Iida raised his hands defensively as if to dispel the notion.

"Oh no! On the contrary I wanted to apologize for my behavior especially after seeing what Midoriya did during the exam-" He started but honestly Izuku was overwhelmed. There were so many people around all looking at him it was different from middle school. They all paid more attention to Shouto than him, as Izuku blended into the background. While most of the classmates didn’t have any huge aspirations or anything.

All these people had just passed an incredibly rigorous exam and were supposed to be the cream of the crop. The ones that would be future heroes that are meant to save people's lives and be inspiration. It was both overwhelming but also exciting even if he couldn’t help the feeling of discomfort at his ex-childhood friend looking at him now. Wondering how someone that once wanted to be a hero could be so…

Hostile.

Even now he can feel Kacchan's eyes on him. As if his very presence was something that shouldn't exist or belong here at this moment. Izuku clenches his backpack's straps as he tries to ignore it and pretends he doesn't notice remembering how he saw him. The laugh, the sneer, the pain of the blast as it burned in his face as well as how broken he felt. A Deku.

"It's curly hair!" A young female voice rang behind interrupting his thoughts and making him yell jumping on Shouto's back. The icy hot expression that had originally been hostile was pure confusion almost flustered. Only to see that it was that girl he saved during the entrance exam! His body relaxed as he slowly slid off his best friend's back to turn to her.

For some reason Shouto just kind of... Slump onto the floor. Izuku only glanced wondering what happened but he's sure he's fine.

"A-ARE YOU OK!?" Iida asked while Izuku was currently distracted by the cute girl that he helped out.

"I'm glad you got in! I knew you could. It was so cool what you did with my power you sent that giant thing into orbit then crashing down! Even I would have struggled with that, I knew you would pass!" Ochaco chimes cheering, Izuku felt flustered by the praise. He had never had such high energy praise before as words failed to come out. It was in complete contrast to Shouto whose words were more selective and direct.

It was nice tho to hear someone thankful-

"This isn't a place to meet up if that's all you're doing then leave. This is the hero course," a gruff and firm voice was heard just outside the door. Cutting through the light hearted conversation, Izuku pauses in his thoughts. Feeling a kind of unpleasant feeling in his chest as he turns to look... Then sees what was probably his teacher on the floor in a sleeping bag.

Izuku grabs the door and without thinking just slams it close, not about to acknowledge some weirdo as his teacher. Not after all the bullshit he had to do to get into what he thought was a prestigious school. It had just been a reflex like his brain just blocked out everything he just saw as it turned back to Ochaco who was staring wide eyed.

"Um, so what were you saying? That was so weird right?” Izuku spoke with a sheepish smile trying not to think about what happened. Only for the door to slam open and it seemed the teacher that had been on the floor was likely standing behind him pissed. Then again most people probably wouldn’t be happy at having the door slammed on them.

"Did you just slam the door on me? I don't think you understand I'm your teacher," the man seemed quite pissed. And honestly Izuku was just as unamused as the man who was supposed to be his teacher.

"Um well, I just assumed since you were in a sleeping bag you had no interest in heroism," Izuku said innocently. Sure he isn't supposed to get into trouble. But he is sure even his father would be startled. Unprofessional and honestly downright embarrassing that he had thought maybe was just some weirdo. If this was a hero likely wasn’t one he knew a lot about, which can happen since his sources outside his home are limited to TV and books his father got him.

"Keep up that attitude and you won't last," the man spoke as he had to get out of his sleeping bag. The man introduced himself as Aizawa, the homeroom teacher. And Izuku wonders if he is just doomed to be surrounded by assholes claiming to be heroes. Hating that his father was starting to sound almost rational about how the word heroes is not just a job and not an actual thing people can be. Still he tried to recall if this man was a hero then who exactly he was. As he should recognize him yet nothing is sparking his memories.

"Get into your gym uniform and head out to the grounds," the teacher was gruff and direct, giving Izuku a side eye look. Seeming to be overlooking Izuku's rudeness just this once but Izuku gets the feeling it wasn't out of the kindness of his heart.

It can NEVER be simple.

"A test of our quirks!?"

It felt like the whole class was in agreement that this was completely unfair. As they were all accepted on their own merits working their hardest to get in. There was no reason for this and Izuku felt himself shaking with rage wondering who this guy thought he was. He's supposed to be teaching, not acting like some- Some- EXECUTIONER.

"What about the entrance exam ceremony! Or the Guidance Session!?!?" Ochaco shouted because these were all things they were looking forward to too. It was what IZUKU was looking forward to so can learn as much as he could. There is frustration as it wasn't fair and he could feel the man's eyes on him specifically. Likely because of his backtalk, but it only natural when their teacher was being a WEIRDO. His father didn’t prepare him for this!

"There is no time to waste. UA is known for its freestyle education system and that applies to us teachers as well," Izuku felt like his heart dropped. Staring almost blankly at the man unable to understand why he would do this to them. It felt... Unfair. Though he guessed it could be worse it just means he will have to do the required stuff later.

Aizawa lists the typical middle school tests. The standardized one where they aren't allowed to use their quirks. That is what they are supposed to be doing instead of going to their orientation or the guidance. Izuku was only half paying attention even as the man said they would be allowed to use their quirks; it didn't matter to him. He always abused the chance to use it even if it wasn't in plain sight, super speed and regeneration were subtle while his other quirk...

"DIE!" BOOM!

Izuku's eyes looked up from his pondering to see a blast of explosion as Kacchan threw the ball into the air. As it seems while he was internally musing Aizawa was doing a demonstration of using their quirks for the test.

Staring intently he is reminded of his childhood youth and the awe he felt as it flies high into the sky. As the smoke dissipated and he stared at his former childhood friend a part of him wanted to shout how cool the other was. Relive the moments of their youth both fans of All Might just want to be heroes.

"It's important for us to know our limits. That's the first rational step to figure out what kind of heroes you will be," Aizawa informs and Izuku is snapped out of his thoughts.

The other students seemed excited at the idea of taking a test using their quirks. Likely because it would be the first time to see how far they can go without holding back at all. Guessing it wasn't too bad-

"Are you all hoping to become heroes after three years and just think it's all fun and games?" Aizawa questioned and Izuku in this moment realized something... This man must have some serious issues he REEAALLLY shouldn't be taking out on them.

"Right. The one with the lowest scores across all the eight events will be judged hopeless and will be expelled," the absolute coldness and cruelty the other expressed was almost as bad as Endeavor. Telling Shouto he has to do more and push past his limits, to surpass him.

"What kind of hero are you looking for Aizawa," Izuku couldn't help himself but ask maybe it was because his tutors encouraged him to question. Or maybe his dad's not so subtle hatred of heroes that snuck into conversation made him ask. Because it seems like everyone has their own ideas of heroes that don't match his own.

"What kind of hero? You sure are chatty for someone that slammed the door in my face and should have gotten disciplinary action for that," Aizawa was curt reminding Izuku what he did earlier. But Izuku isn't apologizing for that when Aizawa was on the ground what did he expect?

"You're the only one questioning me," Aizawa was curt towards him. And Izuku realized that everyone else was already ready to compete.

They weren't thinking about how unfair this was. How it favored the physically strong over the weak, how it singles out those who likely just barely passed. Regardless of if they were trying their best, even Shouto's expression was intense.

He wonders if he is the only one seeing something wrong with this. Looking down as he knows he is pushing his luck and for the first time he feels... Like he doesn't belong.

"Welcome to the Hero course," Aizawa speaks firmly as they go to begin their test no one else questioning like Izuku did. Simply accepting that this is the way it is to be and that all they can do is not be last.

He's sorry to who ever is last, he can't do anything to stop this. All he can do is survive-

"The lowest score will be expelled...!? It only the first day and even if it wasn't the firs day that is totally unfair!" Ochaco shouted and in that moment Izuku felt a kind of kinship for the girl who seemed to also think it was unfair.

Glad he wasn't the only one thinking that as he thought maybe he was weird. But of course Aizawa was reciting how gloomy and terrible heroism can get. As if no one understood that you could die.

"Well guess you aren't the only one fussing," Aizawa seemed unamused but at least he doesn't stoop so low as to expell his students over something like talking or questioning. "Japan is full of unfair things like natural disasters, rampaging villains and pile up. Calamity is right around the corner and japan is full of unfair things, heroes?"

It's clear he is looking at Izuku directly staring at him as he speaks, "Heroes are the ones that correct all that unfairness and UA will put you through the wringer."

Izuku knows this. This man talks as if he knows they are just naive idiots and he felt his hand clench in anger. Wondering if the man even connected the irony that he as a hero is speaking the hypocrisy.

...Maybe he listens to his dad too much when he goes on those muttering rants he seems to think he doesn't have.

"That is plus ultra. So use your strength to overcome it all, so bring it." Aizawa speaks firmly and Izuku makes a note to himself to stop thinking. As his life depends on him staying even if he doesn't agree to heck if he loses.

All Izuku has is super speed and regeneration. Thankfully it is quite adaptable it was more on reflex and movement rather then a burst.

Guessing the benefit was being able to see everyone's quirk. There were so many different ones from engine, frog, Zero Gravity (the quirk that gave him week of nausea) and many others.

He was up against Kacchan in the running sprint and he realizes that the other doesn't know about his quirks. All he knows is that he saw him crossdressing, which thankfully he never brought up, and now is at UA. Moving into position he feels his quirk activating as he stares ahead.

Here he can truly show-

"EXPLOSIVE SPEED!!!" Excuse me????

And of course he just had to get a blast of smoke and nearly blasted by explosions letting out a small gah as he hadn't expected that. It caused him to stumble and the other got a head start.

Though he caught up quirk during that moment of pause. That fraction of a second-

"4.50 seconds!" It ended up being worse then Kacchans because he was distracted by smoke and his quirk ended up delayed since needed his entire focus.

Better then in middle school and some other students but worst then what he wants. So much worse then he knows what he could have done. Did the guy even notice him? Was it on purpose to sabotage or was the guy just doing his own thing?

"Uuuu," he groans knowing this wasn't good this should have been the thing he topped maybe even rivaling Iida's score. But he is just above average.

At least for the other events, it feels like he's being purposely paired up with Kacchan now, well he was more prepared. Side-step and the jump were something decent even if it was delayed on the long jump because of Kacchan just being fasted with his explosions.

That split second reaction... The other really was a prodigy.

"Stop looking at him like that," Shouto spoke to Izuku when he was sitting to wake up for their turn on the toss. Earning a slightly confused expression from the white haired male.

"Huh? Looking at who likes what?" Izuku didn't even realize he was staring. Watching the other's eyes narrowed and he turned sheepish. "Ohh Kacchan? Um it isn't what you think-"

"I said no socializing. Shouto you're up," Aizawa interrupts and Izuku could have sworn the other felt as ice cold as he left. Guessing he should focus at least he ends up really in last place by messing up the last test.

An ice then fire ball explosion was quite a spectacle since he was able to ice then turn up the heat so quick it exploded a bit in his hand. It was concentrated and got a distance comparable to Kacchans own.

...HOW CAN HE USE SUPERSPEED TO COMPETE WITH THAT!?

"Are you going to step up?" Aizawa called him out clearly curious and likely knowing that the only thing Izuku could have impressed the class with he fumbled. Clearly not prepared as should have been and everything else while his 'quirk' wasn't as specialized to it.

"I'm coming," Izuku piped up as he gets up feeling like this teacher just wants him to fail now. As he goes into the circle and stands in place wishing and praying he wins but pauses. Instincts telling him to as Bakugou nearly brushed against him though the man recoiled and sneers.

...He hopes he doesn't mind him borrowing it without permission-

"What are you doing?" Aizawa seemed to have noticed his odd behavior causing Izuku to tense up before relaxing. As realized the man didn't notice though Izuku isn't even sure if he actually grabbed it or not. His quirk was... Hard to pin point exactly it's range.

They barely touched just brushing near but he didn't feel any fight or pull just a heat of being close. As he stands in the circle he takes a moment to breathe just a deep breath as he holds the ball...

BOOM!

And it seemed like it had worked. And he can hear Kacchan shouting as the ball flies high into the sky, "THE FUCK!?!?"

He got to admit that was the most satisfying thing he felt all day. Almost giddy until he turned toward the very pissed off blond.

Red eyes were smoldering with rage and indignity at having his quirk used in such a way. As if connecting the dot that this was exactly why paused to bump into him during the crossing of paths. "Did you just imitate my fucking quirk!? Since when can you use explosion and I sure as hell didn't give you permission, DEKU!"

Izuku did not realize that was such an issue as he was allowed to use his quirk. "I-I was just borrowing it," he speaks almost sheepish as he moves his hand onto the others arms so can return before starts being accused of being a thief. Though it seems Kacchan was about ready to blast him with his required quirk-

"ENOUGH!" Seems the teacher is saving him from some more blast trauma when he's just trying to survive. Using a strong cloth to grab at the very violent boy to yank him away, "Bakugou, as long as he returns it there isn't any issue as saw you about to use it again. And Midoriya, don't try that shit again. I didn't notice it but you better not think you can just take whatever you wish from other heroes."

Aizawa clearly wasn't amused since didn't seem to have realized he did that but then no one is sure how he does as it last time he touched Ochako's head this was a hand brush and a prayer. It is quite vague as learned didn't need direct contact just needs to be close.

Though Katsuki was huffing and puffing with anger likely wanting to say more. And Izuku wonders if the other had noticed but didn't realize until they saw it exactly what happened. Did it scare him how easily he took it? Good thing Aizawa is clearly a pragmatic enough person to not say he can't use other people's quirks for the test after talking about unfairness.

Good because he should.

He remembered who this teacher is, Eraser Head! An underground hero, it's funny he only recognizes him now after everything. Then again it isn’t like this hero would be in the forefront of his mind when this is a hero that purposely stayed out of the lime light.

If only he didn't have such a bad impression he would have asked for his autograph but even he needs some pride. That quirk he has is amazing.

Izuku now can only hope this was more then enough to pull him not just from the low end but high enough.

The FUCK kind of quirk was that!? Katsuki felt his very being crawling as he had felt something when Izuku weirdly brushed against him with a weird look in his eye. As if he wasn't seeing him but something through him as he did so before continuing on.

A strange empty feeling followed only to see his quirk being used by that BASTARD in front of him as if it was his own quirk. And he is just expected to just accept that even if it was returned it felt dirty.

What fuck happened when the other shit dad took him!? He used to be quirkless and now he can just take quirks!? Then where did that speed come from!? Did he steal that shit too!?

Memories of that fragile terrified quirkless kid trying to defend someone with no powers while crying. That pathetic boy who came up to him while crossdressing looking so sad he couldn't help but laugh.

Yet here he is standing as if none of that had happened. As if that pathetic child and crossdressing boy didn't exist with an ability to steal quirks. His hair was completely white now and his demeanor was unrecognizable.

"Quirks are so cool! Doncha think, Kacchan? I hope I get mines soon~!" The image of a small Deku trailing behind him as they move into the forest. Excitement and joy as they walked together. "I bet your quirk won't be as cool as mine, deku!"

Who ever this boy was it did not match the Deku he knew and he knows something is very much up with him. And he can recall that it seemed like Izuku had wanted to say something to him.

Something important because Katsuki couldn't help but laugh. Now he wonders exactly what it is, and to hell if he doesn't find out.

As the scores were tallied those that were on top didn't surprise anyone, with Shouto in the top three only being beaten out by Momo. The girls ability to create anything for the situation to give herself an advantage is unmatched while Bakugou, the prodigy, was in third place. Izuku knows for a fact that likely stung with how prideful his ex-childhood friend was that likely was going to sting him that he isn't the best. The one in last place though...

All of Class 1-A had to watch Mineta crying and sobbing while Aizawa looked annoyed at having to get the poor guy out. Seeming to be quite firm in his decision to expel the boy even more so since started crying. Izuku almost flinched as the poor guy kicked out but was just thankful that wasn't him getting expelled for failing their second entrance exam basically. So he can't say that he enjoyed his first day of school but he's sure his dad will enjoy having ammo to rant about the school system.

"To think UA would have such a strict system no wonder it's the top school! The poor Mineta just couldn't keep up," Iida shouts as it seemed some how they were friends now. Izuku isn't sure what happened but Shouto didn't seem bothered by it anymore either. Which is good since did remember he seemed bothered guess that's over with since it nice to have a group.

"Hey wait up! Are you guys going to the station?" Izuku pauses to turn in time to see Ochako had run up to them a bit surprised. They never did properly introduce themselves since he was so excited then dumbfounded by their homeroom teacher.

"We didn't really introduce ourselves but I think I know most of your names! Tenya, Iida, Todoroki uhhh Shoot?" Shouto made only a very confused expression as she continued, "And Midoriya... Deku?"

Izuku felt his blood run cold as remembered Bakugou had called him that and he was very quick to correct. "I-It's Izuku, Midoriya Izuku is my name. That name means wooden doll and is kind of an insult that I rather not become common."

That's over sharing she didn't need all that detail- He could hear the girl gasp and instantly regret it as she seemed so startled.

"Oh my gosh I am so sorry! I didn't know that it sounded kind of cool like do your best," Ochaco spoke seeming to be trying to make it clear meant no harm.

Izuku feels almost guilty as he really liked her and enjoyed her but maybe being blasted several times made him less keen on the name. Or maybe because of his dads rather constant sneering at the name when he was small.

"So it's a derogatory pet name?" Iida questioned and Izuku kind of wants to just crawl in a hole and die at the wording. Because it is true but like he didn't expect this conversation.

"Can we change the subject to something other then my former nickname being a pet name? Todoroki at least say something-" As he went to look at his friend the male was in deep thought.

"Should we have a pet name for each other?" Shouto questioned completely serious and causing a long pause.

"Is... Is that all you got from this conversation?" Izuku is starting to think Shouto might have a few screws loose if that is all he got from the conversation.

...But he feels so much happier now then he ever has been. So maybe this day really wasn't that bad, it's a good day.

------ Back Home: Epilogue ------

"I would wringe that teacher's throat if that is how you get kicked out of school," and his dad seemed less then happy about his honestly pretty good day. So much for focusing on only the good and not the bad, his dad looked quite pissed.

"Well I didn't, I was mid tier but I wasn't terrible," Izuku points out not wanting his dad to focus on that part. "But I passed that's the point! So it's ok we don't need to focus on that."

His father was staring intently at him clearly wanting to sneer and rant about how he should just stomp to school. Likely cause some ruckus in there some how as if that would fix the unfortunately permanent teacher there. He takes a deep breath then sighs.

"Right right. Positives, good feelings, it's all alright even if it a unfair and unjust system allowing an abuse of power. It's completely fine," the man certainly knows how to not be fine as that smile was clearly a sneer. Izuku was shrinking in his chair wondering why he couldn't just enjoy the fact he survived.

It seemed his dad did notice him shrinking away. His gaze softens a bit and a sigh escapes him.

"You did amazing... If anything your quirk might be a combination of your mothers and mines from how it sounds. You might not need to directly touch," He muses just a bit as he smiles fondly as he looks at the white haired boy. "I'm sure she would have been so proud of you."

Slowly, Izuku relaxes thinking about his mom as he looks at his hands remembering how she would pull stuff to her hand. Meaning his quirk can pull quirks to himself despite that small distance.

"Do you... Think I can use this power for good?" His voice was soft as stares at his hand as Bakugou and Aizawa seemed miffed. His power can be used to permanently disable someone of their powers.

"Society doesn't know what is good or bad." His father walks over as he kneels in front of his seat. Reaching out to take his hand as he smiles, "Only what is easy to control so don't let them tell you how to feel about it. You can make your power whatever you want it."

The others hands were soft and almost warm as they held his hand and Izuku's body relaxed.

"Also I would have love to see Bakugou's face at realizing you took his quirk right under his nose," his father chimes. And Izuku now feels like his dad is trying to annoy him by focusing on the wrong things on purpose.

"Love you too and your level of pettiness. What has he ever done to you?" Izuku knows his own issues but not his dad. He felt his father's grip tighten as the smile was still on the man's face.

"It's simple. He hurt you," it was said so casually as if he wasn't talking about some child but an enemy with a deep hatred hiding just beneath the surface. A strong feeling that is buried deep, "What kind of father doesn't wish for those that hurt their child to suffer?"

And deep in Izuku's heart, he wishes he didn't agree with him. Wondering if maybe the thing he learned most from his dad was his pettiness....

It's going to be a long year.

Chapter Text

The principal of UA, Nedzu, was waiting for a certain someone that had disappeared on the first day. No warning or anything just a text that can't make it and honestly Nedzu wonders who taught this man etiquette.

So had set up a meeting and informed him to come as while Nedzu is ok with missing the day should at least show up at the end to explain why. As the first day is meant to be the most important, an introduction for the kids to their teachers and he hopes the symbol of peace had a good one.

The students were none the wiser about this only saying they would meet him later when the few students piped up and everything seemed to have gone smoothly if could ignore Aizawa expelling someone on the first day. Nedzu can easily since it has happened to so many students he doesn't even bat an eye at this point.

The door creaks open as the greatest hero All Might walks through the door looking exhausted. As if he had gone through a marathon and lost the race despite his best effort. That perked Nedzu's curiosity as almost nothing seemed to deter the man and it seems he wasn't even smiling.

"Well that's quite an expression on the worlds greatest hero. I'm going to guess you didn't disappear for a vacation then?" Nedzu chirps glad he made tea just for this as he can tell this is going to be quite a story. Since there is no way he missed a whole day over some small crimes not with that expression.

All Might is quiet for an abnormal amount as he sits across from him. A long awkward silence hung over the room as the blond man seemed to be considering his words.

"I saw... Him." All Might's voice was so quiet he almost didn't catch that it was as if the hero was in disbelief. That whatever had happened wasn't something even he seemed to believe occurred.

Nedzu tilts his head wondering what got their hero so spooked that it would look like this. Even if there is a guess he would prefer to hear it from the other's lips.

"Him... Who?"

The silence was almost suffocating as he waited for the symbol of peace to finally speak. Those blue eyes look up at him with a kind of fire seeming to finally be sure of himself as he finally answers.

"All for One."

Nedzu tenses up as he more than knows this man as one of the top schools intertwined with many evils, how could he afford not to? He leans forward in his chair staring intently as he continues, "Start from the beginning. What happened?"

All Might sighs and begins to tell him exactly what happened to make him miss a day.

--------------------

It was supposed to be a normal trip to school even if was distracted by needing to help others All Might never be bothered by it. The world seemed so peaceful the crimes were always so small and petty. They barely took his time to solve.

"Man all this running tiring me out. I should get a treat!" He boasted mostly to himself as he usually avoided such things. But he was craving it just for today, and maybe he can get some to share with the students as a surprise.

It was the perfect way to make a good impression as a teacher. After all, he had never been taught before but he was searching for a successor to share his knowledge with. Making a good relationship would go a long way so he stopped by the sweet shop that was basically across from the school.

It was also partly a cafe. Popular with students after school and workers going to and from school. As well as spectators wishing to see their favorite heroes from the school it was quite a famous little shop. Especially since it is known for being one of the safest shops around as never has it been attacked by a villain.

Many thank this boon for its proximity to UA and its wonderful location.

And that's when he saw him. For a moment All Might honestly didn't notice him as he blended into the scenery. There was no presence nor malice as if the man was just an ordinary man eating sweets. The only thing that stood out was the hat he wore just tilted enough to cover his eyes as he stared outside. So easy to overlook as some businessmen just taking a sweet break.

But the moment someone shouted, "Oh it's All Might!"

Their locked eyes as it seemed All for One couldn't resist looking. Those emotionless and cruel eyes stared at him from their spot when moments before seemed to have been staring in the direction of the school intently. And he smiled as if amused by this meeting as he slowly got up from his seat and of course, the coward went to leave when the fans swarmed.

"Can I have your autograph!?" One fan after another began to pester that on any normal day, he wouldn't mind. But not today not when it's clear THAT MAN is up to something.

"S-Sorry, I got buisiness to do!" All Might shouted as he had to shove past them apologizing as they were startled as he went to run out. Trying to find the bastard and did catch him walking down the streets just a bit fast.

"Stop right there!" He shouts, making everyone look startled wondering where the villain is. Because for all intent and purpose, All for One seemed normal, his animosity and cruelty hidden by a demeanor. But he isn't fooled!

His speed was borderline superhuman as he darts in about to grab the man who seemed intent on playing dumb. That is until a strong wave of malice brushed over him the image of streets filled with corpses. Roads cracked, buildings shattered and his guts were ripped out.

And those eyes stare at him as he pulls it right out of his body. It was brief but it was enough to make the symbol of peace pause and realize it was a threat as well as a promise. To interfere was to invite death to everyone around them and he would do so with no remorse.

"You just can't help yourself, can you?" All for One speaks coldly but almost like this was amusing at most. "Do you really want to start a brawl so close to the school? The devastation I can cause would be a high price to pay just to try and take me down in the middle of the streets."

It was hard to discern this man's true intention but All Might could more than believe he would have no remorse in dragging innocent people into this. This whole city would be his hostage if he could get away with it.

"You bastard, what are you planning?" All Might sneer but knows he has to be careful. He wants that man buried six feet under because he will never change and everything he does is cruelty.

Memories of Nana being left behind on the island as the man blows it up with no remorse. How he had ruined all their lives and still smiles like he has done nothing of note.

"Don't you have a school to attend too?" The man's voice was smooth and laced like poison with honey. There was a moment where he had to weigh if he could get the man of the city or if this was going to end in disaster.

It is the only reason All Might hasn't struck knowing the other likely had some plan. He just needs to lure him out of the city then he can-

All for One didn't even wait for him to think as suddenly struck at the other's chest to throw him back. The sound of civilians screaming in startled surprise as their symbol of peace is thrown crashing through a window.

It was disorienting wondering how the hell the bastard got him while he was trying to prevent this. Instead of proceeding in what he thought would be an all-out brawl, the man was running when he jumped out of the broken window!

"You coward!" All Might was quick to recover as spots All for One ran into an alleyway like some common thug.

"You bastard- Get back here!" All Might shout as darts toward the alleyway the man ran into. There was no way he could get away from him that quickly especially since it led to a dead end-

Nothing.

There was NOTHING in the alleyway no walls or doors just trash but no trace of the villain in sight. Vanishing as if he was a ghost the only evidence it was real was the damage to the door making a note to pay it back later he looked around.

He threw open trash cans and examined all the walls for secrets even jumping to the top of the buildings. Trying to see if maybe the man flew off but there was nothing above either.

He searched. And he searched. And he searched for hours taking care of small crimes as if somehow would bring him closer to the orientation long forgotten.

It drove him mad, wondering how this man who had disappeared for years just shows up like nothing. Having thought he had since chased him out of this country would return now of all times.

Yet in the end, he came up with nothing, he was no detective and did not have any evidence besides being tossed aside and some minor injuries this is the least destruction the man ever caused.

Able to imagine the man laughing cruelly from wherever he disappeared to as mocks him from his perch.

All Might had expected more fighting, more gloating like usual as the man never could help himself. All for One loved to hear himself told but there was something different about his demeanor compared to the last time seen him. But he isn't sure what that is.

But as long as that man is free then no one will ever be safe.

-------------------

"I spent all day looking for him. For traces because if he is here than that means he is rebuilding. But nothing, the streets are clean no traps none of the criminals that day seemed aware but one thing I know for sure... I think the school is in danger," All Might informed needing to come clean as there was no way he could keep this hidden. Not when that MAN seemed to be scoping out UA and hiding that knowledge could end up putting teachers and students in danger.

"Hmm that actually is concerning. He been around for a while but he never bothered the school before," Nedzu had to admit it was strange timing. Especially since All Might was here wondering if All for One was targeting All Might.

"It's strange that he ran off and didn't bait you to keep fighting," Nedzu notes which is even more surprising. Since it always seemed like they were the antithesis of each other. The Hero and the Villain, yet the man barely gloated or bantered once was caught just left.

"Do you think he's interested in the students?" All Might questioned. Nedzu looks at his tea knowing it isn't exactly something they want to consider. But it was something they couldn't ignore as a possibility.

"Possibly. It could still be One for All he wants and maybe he was just was aware he was at a disadvantage. But if it is the school he is targetting," getting up from his seat it was clear he was going to need to up security. "I'll make some adjustments to make extra sure our Academy is secured though we probably should avoid making any direct announcement."

Especially since the government always seemed to brush All for One aside as some boogieman. To avoid causing mass panic about a man that could steal quirks it was best to first figure out what he was planning. But more importantly, keep their students safe.

"I should continue the search-" All Might speaks about getting up to return to tracking down the man. Nedzu, of course, had other ideas.

"Aren't you here to look for a successor?" Nedzu questions watching the man tense up at the reminder. "I think you should focus on that too. We will work on dealing with him but you already agreed to work at this school."

A nice reminder that All Might did sign a contract and can't just go back to heroism full-time again. There were also still other obligations he couldn't forget, "You can investigate in your free time and I will do my best to accomodate to up security as well as share this with authorities. But these students need you too especially if All for One returned."

The symbol of peace paused seeming unsure but Nedzu smiles. "I think they can learn a lot from you, so do try to give it a chance."

All Might looked almost sheepish at this since if he was honest he had no idea how to teach. But he guessed if All for One is targetting schools then teaching at it would be the best way to keep it safe.

"And if you don't keep to your contract there is a huge penalty anyway so I think we both want to avoid that," Nedzu says of all this with a smile.

And All Might felt like he was meeting an evil mastermind telling him he had no choice. But in all seriousness, he knows they can't let their guard down and it was the best way to keep the students safe if he is around to prevent any actual harm.

All Might stare intently ahead as he mutters to himself, "What nuferious thing are you planning All for One possibly be planning...."

Nedzu looks over at the student file on the table he had originally taken out to talk to All Might about. The one that caught everyone's attention for both good and bad. The one who bore a strong resemblance to the very man they were talking about.

"By the way. You mentioned something about a certain student we accepted that caught your attention right? Mind sharing?" Nedzu questioned not calling out the resemblance as he looks at All Might.

A boy with white hair and green eyes who had dazzled the audience.

...And he could have sworn the man's expression turned grim. They can only hope they are wrong and it's only a coincidence.

Who was Izuku Midoriya?

---------------

Izuku felt a tickle on his nose though he tried to resist he couldn't help the sneeze.

"ACHOO!"

A shiver goes up his spine as he rubs his nose wondering where the hell that came from.

"Bless you, are you catching a cold?" Shoto questioned from the phone using Facetime and were both trying to relax. Thankfully Endeavor seemed to have backed off a bit now that his son was in UA something about not wanting to overwork twice.

"No I think just something tickled my nose. By the way how did your dad react to the whole Aizawa test?" Izuku questioned as he moves his phone onto the bed stand behind him as he goes to sprawl out on the bed.

Shoto seemed to be in his room though was sitting cross-legged on the floor. His room was so traditional giving the image of some feudal lord's son. Though he guessed if Shoto saw his original home would seem like some rich Westerner.

"As if I would tell him anything," Shoto deadpans and Izuku is reminded that while they both have issues. In contrast to Izuku who will tell his dad everything like his life depends on it. Shoto would rather die before telling his dad anything.

"Ah- Right. That makes sense," Izuku guessed his relationship with his dad is quite odd in comparison. "Mines went into a rant about how unfair and stupid it was for a teacher to do that on the first day."

Shoto seemed a bit surprised at those words, "Really? I would think it's natural for a top rated school to be quick to cull numbers."

Izuku's more casual demeanor turns into a small scowl as he goes to sit up. Almost sneering as speaks up, " Hell no! My dad may be a jerk but I agree that was just completely unfair the orientation is important in telling us everything we might need. It meant to settle us in as well as guide us to what kind of heroes we want to be and instead we were tested and treated like idiots!"

It seemed the sudden aggressive and loud statement had surprised Shoto causing him to pause. Seeming to think deeply about those words or maybe choosing his words carefully, "I... Guess it was kind of insulting especially considering how hard it was to get in."

It didn't seem as if the other knew how to handle the sudden passionate anger the other had. But seemed to almost agree with him to an extent though it did make Izuku feel a bit bad. As he is sure the other wasn't exactly interested in such talk.

"Sorry, I'm just a bit riled up. It's just... It feels like my idea of a hero isn't matching what society deems a hero," Izuku admits as he moves to rub his cheeks to try and get the flush to dissipate. This seemed to catch Shoto's attention as he moved closer to the phone screen.

"What is your idea of a hero?" Shoto questioned. Staring intently as if this was such precious information to know and Izuku relaxes.

He's glad the other isn't bothered by his rants.

"A hero... Does what is right no matter what. Even when everyone else tells him it is against the law, or dangerous or its bad he saves no matter what," He speaks softly noting he never really talked about his idea of a hero. He always just knew he wanted to be like All Might but what did that mean, "He treats everyone with kindness and as equals even in the face of danger. He is humble and caring... Is that silly?"

It wasn't like he knew All Might too well to know if he was full of kindness and the heroism he aspires for. But every day he would watch those videos of him saving everyone with a smile feeling his heart race and the smile on his face grow.

Though he has learned to be careful about meeting your heroes there is danger in such a meeting. He is terrified if he meets him that he won't meet the man he built up in his head.

"Not at all," Shoto didn't miss a beat as those lips curled into that fond smile that made Izuku wish to lock and hold. "That sounds like a great hero to aspire to be."

Izuku just kind of slams his head into the pillow letting out some loud noise much to Shoto's confusion. Izuku looks at the other with a kind of renewed vigor, "You're my best friend and I would die for you. Thank you."

For some reason, Shoto seemed to have dropped the phone and there was some loud curse and... Fire? Wait is that fire!?

"Shoto are you ok!?!?" Izuku shouts mortified wondering how the other could have accidentally caught fire. Was the room fireproof? God, he hopes so.

"I'm fine. I'm fine and please don't die I rather that not happen," Shoto returned there were bits of ice on him and a neutral expression as if Izuku hadn't seen a burst of fire and the teen dropping the phone as if in reaction. Izuku gets the feeling they both are still very very new to these kinds of interactions but at least they are figuring out how friendship works together.

A small laugh escaped Izuku at the other's quick recovery feeling like any weight he had was gone. His green eyes light up with delight as he stares at the other dusting off the ice that was strangely covering his right side.

"By the way...." He trails off, "How does Shouchan sound as a nickname for you?"

FWOOM.

Well, Izuku will take that fire display as a yes to the nickname. Watching the chaos as he can hear Shoto trying to put out the fire he caused.

He needs to work on that fire-

Chapter Text

Getting into UA truly was a dream come true.

A school where the best and brightest heroes come to learn. This has been his dream since he was little, always watching the sports festivals and reading about All Might’s days at the school. It should be that every day he is excited about every new thing he learns as he gets closer to becoming a true hero.

Yet he looks among the students and can't help but feel like an outsider. As if they were much brighter then he had expected and if he was honest he knows why he feels like this.

He was a fraud.

His actual power could take and receive but by itself they meant nothing. Everyone at the school may not know exactly how it works, keeping it vague, but he had already shown it to many of his classmates during Aizawa’s test. When he stole a quirk in a desperate bid to outperform in one aspect of the test despite the risks. He can still feel Bakugou's eyes trained on him since that day with rage at having his quirk taken.

Like he was a criminal.

Even now there is an unsettling feeling in his stomach despite how hard he tries to ignore it. His new friends lived lives that were so different from him. Ochaco was a sweet, and kindly girl with a normal family, no tragic backstory or anything. In contrast, Iida is a part of a family of heroes and carries on a legacy from generation to generation. They feel so... Unreal.

Even as they walk together into the school he has to stop himself several times from ranting about the things he usually does. Because what if he gets carried away? What if he ends up saying something wrong? Why is it only now that he is-

"Hey Zuku?" Ochaco spoke, snapping him out of his thoughts with the very new nickname they came up with for him. They had come up with that nickname seeming to be intent on making him feel more included. Especially after he gave Shoto a nickname it was nice to have one that isn’t from mocking nor demeaning. So he enjoyed hearing it, though the concerned expression she had did surprise him.

"Um, if we are making you uncomfortable you can just tell us," she points out. Oh god did he say some of that out loud!? His face turns mortified as he tries to salvage this lunch conversation.

"N-No it isn't anything like that!" Izuku panicked as he knew that might have sounded like he didn't want to be their friend. His hands were balls into fists as he shook them feeling overwhelmed. "I-It just you guys are um-"

Not broken, unhurt. Normal? WHAT THE HECK IS HE SUPPOSED TO SAY!?

He froze as Ochaco was looking at him with those innocent and kind eyes. Feeling himself panic as he wondered how he is supposed to navigate these feelings. Don't just stand there, say something! Do you wish to lose them and be alone?

"Awesome!" He was quick to recover as he felt praises would work best in salvaging the conversation. As he isn’t aware of how much he had mumbled and what had been heard but at least he knows he didn’t say anything negative. So he needs to make sure they don’t assume his awkwardness isn’t from anything bad about them.

"Us awesome? Might I remind you that you are the one that destroyed a supposedly impossible to defeat enemy?" Iida points out as seemed to have taken his words at face value. Izuku was very relieved as he tries to continue eating his meal.

Shoto seemed to just be listening, he never talked to much even prior but it seemed both him and Ochaco seemed unsure. But at least were polite enough to not press on it.

"Ok then- So have you got any ideas on you guys hero uniform?" Ochaco chimes reminding Izuku that is what the conversation was meant to be. This was honestly the subject he had been looking forward too when first he was told about it. They were supposed to give their suggestions and ideas to the support group.

...Worst part of being the one spacing out and panicking was Izuku who suggested they brain storm together. He had rejected his dad's offer of 'top of the line' hero gear. It's sweet but he's trying to do his own thing !

"Well I already know what I want. I did explain about my family didn't I? It also quite last minute to be making request for changes." Iida questioned and Izuku did remember. He was all more then set but everyone else was a bit more....

He was looking at Shoto's idea and Ochaco's very vague idea of what they wanted on their request form. His years of looking at many different fashions across the world were tingling in his mind. But he has to ignore that urge and present his own that was sent in.

"Mine is kind of a simple flexible armor," he goes to show his own it allowed a lot of flexibility. Definitely heavy on being practical with armor in key parts like knees and shoes since has super speed and wants to avoid what happened during the entrance exam. His hands had fingerless gloves as an idea because of the whole stealing quirk, he isn't sure if having stuff over would make his power weaker so mentioned that in the notes.

"Oh wow that's a lot of notes. Also those look like bunny ears how cute yet some how fierce!" Ochaco chimes seeming surprised at the details. Especially since added some drawings to it, though originally did have some... All Might in it but after looking it over realized it would look terrible on him.

"Yeah, it went through a lot of revision. And I'm still a bit unsure about how my power works so had to add note on the gloves just in case. Also the head gear had to be changed," he noted after realizing he made it All Might color in a panic just colored it into black bunny ears. Which... Wasn't the intention but it was nearly three in the morning!

"I added a note to make them not bunny like, as put that in ink accidentally," he mutters just a bit embarrassed even though he thought it reminded him of U a bit. Even with the slight plating to avoid head injuries.

"It's cute at the least," Ochaco assures and Izuku wonders if he was trying to make him fluster. Though Shoto gently nudged him a bit as shows him his uniform request form. Clearly wanting him to see his work next now that got his own out of the way.

"It is a bit last minute to make these adjustments," Shoto noted since there was no guarantee it would be in time. It was Izuku who asked about it despite the fact this was something that had been done only after the first day. Even if it doesn’t make it for the mock training it was still a good idea to try something now, "So how can you improve mine?"

Izuku felt almost nervous as he was shown his best friend's plans and to say it was a travesty was an understatement. Wishing he had checked it PRIOR to his friend submitting it but he had been so busy he didn't think. Shoto was trying to cover his flame side with some notes seeming to imply suppressing it. Considering he has been bursting into flames he can understand but that isn't right!

"Why are you hiding your face that should be your primary feature as a hero," Izuku couldn't help himself. It felt like a crime that was trying to hide that side already erasing to make some edits. "I'm not saying sacrifice everything for the state of fashion but you need people to feel assured. You look almost like a robot and you aren't one but also your clothing should be more uniform instead of emphasizing your two sides to show some harmony."

It was a much more 'simple' design he was doing. But simple was better in Shoto's case as his offense and defense would be fire and ice. He didn't need armor since that is what his ice would be for and having better ice and fire regulated clothing would be more fitting. "I bet the support group can also make thermal regulated clothing. How about a blue color? That's a very assuring color compared to white-"

He likely didn't even realize it but he had basically redid the whole outfit. With nothing remaining of the original attire.

"Didn't you just replace everything he put in!?" Iida questioned a bit startled and Izuku realized with horror they just wanted help not a full makeover. So he basically just ruined the others' outfits without asking if they even wanted these changes. There was absolutely no way the support team would be able to make any of these adjustments on such short notice!

"Oh gosh, I'm so sorry Todoroki," Izuku was about to try and fix it back to it's original look. Only to feel it snatched from his hand feeling his own face turn a bright red as Shoto was staring at his 'request' form blankly. Did he end up offending him? He didn’t mean to imply his idea was bad or anything!

"I-It wasn't terrible! I just got carried away," Izuku tried to assure, feeling like the other was upset at him. Watching the male's eyes scan the paper staring at it intently and the whole table was quiet. Izuku was waiting for the other to just probably leave upset because didn't just suggest small changes he scrapped his best friend's original outfit…

But the scolding never came..

"I trust your judgement. It does look a lot more thought out then what I put," Shoto noted and Izuku just kind of collapsed on the table. Tears in his eyes just from relief that he didn't come across as some asshole.

"Aaaaah," here comes the tears, unable to help but cry as they look at Shoto, "you don't have to say that it's ok if you don't like it. I made it with your powers in mind but I didn't even ask what you liked-"

"I promise I do like it. You made it thinking about me," Shoto’s words were assuring as he was never one to mince words. He is someone that always says what he means and so if he says he likes it then he means he likes it. Ochaco seemed curious as she leans over to see Shoto's new costume and her eyes lit up.

"That looks so cool! Me next I have a vague idea but I'm not much of a designer, maybe you can help? I have a basic idea but maybe I'm missing something." Ochaco chimes as she hands Izuku her paper. It was just some vague idea but it didn't seem bad at all what was on there.

"Hmm, the design idea there is cute. Pink is definitely your color," he notes but then begins changing. "Lets change your shoes to platform shock absorbers. The face mask is nice, let's make sure there aren't any surprise gaps. And of course let make sure the outfit skin tight-"

Ochaco's expression turned a bright red, "S-Skin tight!?"

Izuku blinks, realizing he was getting looks from Shoto and Iida for his suggestion while Ochaco was covering her face. Before realizing WHY they were looking at him, "I-It's for actually good reasons!"

Now it feels like he needs to defend his reason as it seemed they were assuming he had less than pure reasons. But he would never soil an outfit like that! "The reason you would want it skin tight is for the same reason acrobats wear them like that. It has less air resistance especially if you are going up or dropping down then you want the least amount of drag."

Most likely the support creators would know that and already be doing so but it really did sound like it was perverse when he swears it for practical reasons. The fact that it would hug her curve and show off her- HE HAS THE BEST OF INTENTIONS!

"I swear it's for practical reasons!" He shouted his face a bright red as everyone was staring at him minus Ochaco who was a bit embarrassed as well.

"Why don't I have a skin tight outfit then?" Shoto's question cut through the whole conversation making everyone look at him. And Izuku once again is baffled by his friend's selective hearing as last he checked he doesn’t think he is flying much. He's starting to get the weird feeling that Shoto might be jealous. Sensing the tension it seemed Ochaco was quick to recover. Not wanting everyone to be over thinking everything.

"I think you're right, it would be best. Thank you for your help Zuku," Ochaco seemed to be trying to recover as they tried to brush off Shoto's behavior.

Though Shoto did persist a bit on it so Izuku ended up having to explain that he isn't going into the air but using his ice to navigate so skin tight clothing isn't exactly useful. It would only make him colder then needed.

The conversation ended with Shoto wondering if he could somehow fly. And in all honesty, Izuku can't help but be amused at the realization that his best friend was jealous at the attention. He will make sure to text him after school so he knows he is still his best friend. He hopes at the least the designs he modified would be to their benefit.

...He was naive to think he could just enjoy a normal day.

"Oi, Deku," Izuku tenses as that familiar voice sneers behind him. His body freezes as he can feel Shoto and the others turning toward the voice.

"What do you want?" Shoto was the first to say something. His usually warm and soft voice had become ice cold. Izuku was tense trying to ignore the voice as he had been starting to enjoy himself.

"I'm not TALKING to you Icy hot! HEY! Fucking Deku turn around and face me!" Kacchan sneers as he slams a hand beside Izuku against the wall. The action makes Izuku jolt as he turns to look at the blond seeing his eyes narrowed at him clearly pissed. They were still in the hallway and this brought a lot of attention onto them.

"If you're just here to bully him just back off!" Ochaco defended him, clearly upset at how Kacchan- no Bakugou was trying to demand Izuku’s attention. Izuku felt his mouth dry as he looked at his ex-childhood friend.

"We are not condoning violence here!" Iida spoke up as well and in a weird sense they were all defending him. Which definitely took Bakugou off guard, likely more used to people just backing off and giving him, even if begrudgingly, what he wants. Seems he forgot that even Izuku isn’t just ok with this either with how the reunion went.

Bakugou was unamused.

"The fuck is this your little protection group? Tell them to back off,” Those words sounded more like a demand. It was becoming clear that Shoto was also about to fight as the icy chill in the air was showing it was about to escalate. Bakugou sneers as shoots Shoto a glare then looks at Izuku again, “We need to talk and you are going to give me some answers."

He sure was demanding for someone that nobody likes but Izuku isn’t interested in escalating things. Shifting uncomfortably as he tries to think of how to get out of it but with his friends looking ready to get into a fight, he had to defuse it.

"It's ok you guys, he just wants to talk," Izuku assured them as even moved a hand to subtly motion for Shouto to keep going. Though he has to admit he felt very good at how they were all willing to fight for him. His father was right, friends were great and gave him the confidence he didn't have the last time they talked.

He wasn't going to cry.

Though just as he was about to walk toward Kacchan, he felt his shoulder being grabbed by Shoto. There was a serious expression on his face as the male seemed to think this was a bad decision, "You don't have to give him anything."

Izuku just smiles, "I'm not. I'll be ok, trust me. you guys go home!"

As the words trust me roll off his tongue he gently pats the others hands before pulling away. Walking over to Bakugou more than sure he has no interest in talking out in the open. At least not with Izuku’s 'protection' squad hovering behind him though he didn't even bother to ask if he was comfortable already walking away. Izuku can tell his friends were worried but he just waves them off promising to meet up with them later. It was after school anyway as they moved to the more tree covered area...

He should have seen this coming as soon as they were out of sight.

Bakugou had turned with such speed and grabbed at his collar that Izuku barely had time to react. Cursing himself for letting his guard down as he was slammed against the tree knocking the wind out of him. Izuku’s eyes were wide as his hands instinctively grabbed at Bakugou’s hands trying to lessen the strength against it.

"The fuck was that?" Bakugou sneered at him. Izuku is able to feel the heat from the male's hand as it was a subtle threat to not lie. Though Izuku wasn’t exactly sure what he did in this specific moment to learn the others' wrath as he shifts. Those red eyes stared him down making it clear was trying to make him feel as small as possible.

"W-What was what?" Izuku wheezes trying to recover his breath.

"Do you think I'm stupid!?” The grip tightened and Izuku tried to keep calm despite his body tensing in fear. “You were a cross dressing crybaby, wanting to talk and now you are acting like you’re some super calm, cool nerd and now you can STEAL QUIRKS!?"

"That's just how my quirk works, Kacchan," It slipped out. He couldn’t help but say that childhood name despite how hard was trying to get himself not to think about it. He had thought that maybe the other wouldn’t get violent but it seems he somehow crossed a line. Izuku tears up when the taller male grip pressed against him a bit more painfully.

"Since WHEN!?” The man hisses as if Izuku had committed some egregious sin, “When did you get these powers you didn't have them at four or five. You were dubbed quirkless! Don’t think I forgot that shit it why you shouldn’t even be here. What happened between then and now?"

Is that all the other cares about? Where did Izuku's powers come from!? And here he thought he might actually give a crap, of course he wasn’t actually caring about him in any way. He's only worth something because of his power and yet was calling that into question. The other refused to see him as an equal in any sense of the word.

This was a mistake.

"It's my POWER, Kacchan. Why do you CARE so much about that?" Izuku questioned then got a small idea as felt the others grip tighter. Memories of when they were kids how they would laugh at him for trying to defend someone without powers. How blasted him and the rage when Izuku actually tried to fight back. Wait was he- It was such a funny thought but it came out before he could even think if it was a good idea, "Are- Are you scared of me or something?"

That was not expected. The great Bakugou Katsuki was scared of the unknown and Izuku, who had once been his childhood friend, was an unknown. And clearly being asked such a sensitive thing was enough to try and trigger that hair trigger temper. He is NOT getting blasted again, watching as the blond went to hit him-

Only for Izuku to grab the other hand and there was no blast. No wave of pain at being blasted like the last time they scuffled. He isn’t his punching bag.

"I'm not just taking it this time," Izuku sneers because the other made it abundantly clear his position. He wanted to take out his rage and frustration on him, but Izuku was not going to allow it, "Let me go or I'm keeping it and claiming self-defense!"

It was a bluff. Izuku knows even if he wanted to, they would likely still choose Bakugou's side like they always do. The star child, the gifted one, the future hero, he was always the one blessed with talent. They would shame him for trying to ruin the other’s life like that and it would be easy to criminalize him. But Bakugou might not be willing to risk it going the other way if they do believe that he had actually tried to harm Izuku.

This quirk feels like it was burning him from the inside out…

But it seems his bluff was enough to make Kacchan back off releasing him. Allowing Izuku a chance to breathe though despite acting calm his body was shaking. Terrified even knowing the other was analyzing him looking at his every move. Trying to figure out a way to make Izuku cower and submit, because no one is allowed to be better than him. Especially not someone he had once seen as beneath him.

"Give it back," Bakugou warns and, of course, Izuku returns the quirk even if a bit cautiously. The other isn’t known for being that underhanded but there is always a first time for everything. Slowly approaching even though there was danger still. Even without a quirk the other was strong, violent, and intelligent.

"R-Right here," Izuku reaches out to touch the other to return the power, feeling the burning sensation leave him. So much for his earlier confidence, watching as Bakugou tests if his quirk has returned as he blasts a tree behind him. Making a show about it as Izuku shrinks avoiding the blast just barely.

"There's something fucked up in your head," Bakugou speaks firmly as he points to his own head. Those red eyes staring down at him reminding him of his own father believing in his own superiority. Everyone was beneath them, "If you have a power like that it means you stole that speed, you're a criminal. No one gives up their quirk willingly when it's a part of them. I don't care how you justified it and I'm going to find out what you've done. Since clearly you aren't telling me."

Izuku's green eyes dilate at being called a criminal. Unable to say anything as the male clearly had enough of their conversation and leaves without another word. Izuku slowly fell to his knees as the smell of burnt wood lingered and the ice cold feeling crawled into his chest. A deep breath as his heart ached trying to calm himself. A small broken tearful laugh escaped him the moment the other left leaning back as he stared up at the sky leaning back against the burnt tree.

"A criminal...?" Izuku questioned staring at the sky as he knew this power was less than ideal. It wasn't the power of a good person only able to prosper by taking from others. Every day it feels like a never ending hunger clawing at the back of his mind. Still remembering when he first used this power how his rabbit seized and stopped moving. That scream seared into his mind.

These were not the powers of someone good.

...He should go home before it's late, he was making a mess of himself wiping the tears that kept falling. Slowly Izuku picks himself up as he goes to leave knowing he can’t stay there forever. As he has to get home before his father worries, only to be startled to see on path home. Shoto stood there.

"Did- Did you wait here for me? I told you to go home!" Izuku shouted almost a bit rattled as he realized he was still shaking. He knows he must look pathetic right now, able to feel the tears in his eyes that he is trying to stop. Shoto could see just how pathetic he must look right now with tears and shaking over some asshole. Izuku knows he can and is likely going to ask him questions he doesn't want to answer. Or rather that he can't answer.

"It's about to rain," Shoto noted as looks at the sky. Making no reference to how he looked, to his demeanor, or what had happened. Instead looking up at the sky as takes out his umbrella and holds it over.

It is when Izuku realizes he was already crying and Shoto is not saying anything for his well being. Seeming to understand he can't explain what happens nor be able too.

He was thankful to not be alone on that walk home. Tomorrow he will have to fix himself up.

There's still things to do... He won't let himself stay this weak again.

Chapter Text

There is frustration. Anger. Shame and tears when he returned home after that incident with Kacchan. There is an emptiness as he wished on some level they could have been friends but it was becoming more and more clear it was a childish dream. As it is clear the only reason the guy is even looking at him is because of his power. He didn’t care about him as a person nor about his situation at all only that he is unknown and unfamiliar.

At least he isn’t alone, his eyes glance at Shoto feeling thankful that he hasn’t said anything despite the fact Izuku had been crying. They both knew that he doesn’t like talking to him about Bakugou. As the few times he has done so he has seen the other seem ready to inflict violence upon the other. Likely because it reminded him almost of his own father’s judgemental nature. When it is something Izuku has to deal with, not Shoto.

Thankfully Shoto was acting as if it was a normal day simply walking beside him with an umbrella as if it was really raining. Izuku wonders if he and Bakugou had ever even been friends as a kid, or if Bakugou truly never valued their time together. Getting that special All Might card together, all those times they had fun, or maybe those were just delusions of a four year old after being taken away from what was familiar.

Or maybe the other truly did believe he was a criminal because of these powers whose ability to give and take. His hand clenches a bit as he tries not to think about it as these were the only powers he had and he can't just start having himself down. He needs to move pass this it why he burned that card and this cements why he can't keep holding out branches for Bakugou to take unless he wants to get burned. Before moving to wipe his face knowing his father was likely going to question his appearance.

"Are you sure you're going to be ok?" Shoto questioned. Though this caused a visceral response in Izuku as he glared almost pitifully at the other. As he is unable to answer truthfully nor did he want to lie either. It seemed despite Shoto’s usual lack of social tack, he can tell when someone doesn’t want to answer.

"Just remember you can talk to me," Shoto reiterates his words. To make it less like prying and simply offering his support. It allowed Izuku to relax as just the assurance that the other would keep him company was enough. That's all he needed right now.

Unfortunately, there was someone who wouldn't accept that as an answer as he finally arrived in front of his apartment complex. As they parted he could feel the stares from his house as he had to pretend that he didn’t notice until Shoto was gone. Waving their goodbyes the male leaves to return home.

As Izuku turns his head to the apartment window he can feel dread growing as he spies his father looking down from there. His expression was hard to discern but it was clear he wasn't pleased Izuku was home later than normal. As he had forgotten to call his father to inform him that he was going to be late without a call.

He tightens his grip on his backpack as he ducks into the apartment complex deciding to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Because he knew his father wasn't going to ignore this as he would know something had happened. Slowly he goes up every step, the light workout definitely affecting him since he is on the fourth floor. Trying to prolong the inevitable.

Reaching the hallway to his apartment he takes a deep breath before walking toward his home. Reaching out his hand reached for the doorknob only to hear the click of the door opening. The door pulls away from his hand as it opens his father standing there at the entrance.

"Where have you been?" The man reaches out to grab Izuku's shoulders and almost forces him inside as he shuts the door behind him. There was an edge in the man’s voice as if was restraining himself more than normal, "What happened?"

The apartment suddenly felt much too small as his father hovered over him, something he could do so easily. So much larger and stronger than him it would probably take nothing for his father to hurt him. Now the man was staring him down waiting for an answer.

"I really don't want to talk about-" Just as he was about to say his peace he felt his father's hand on his shoulder. The grip wasn't painful but it tightened just a hint to make him aware of the pressure. His mind flashes to how Bakugou had grabbed him the same way, but he tries to hold his tongue and now show his fear.

"I'm not your little friend, Izuku. I'm your father and I need to know what happened as you're not only late but your eyes are red," there it was. The divide between them seemed to grow as his father made it clear there was no middle ground. The threat of refusing to talk was there, his father's paranoia would only grow and he would force him to leave.

This wasn't asking, this was a demand.

Izuku tears up wishing his father would trust him as well as give him some privacy on days he feeling like this. That his father wouldn't look at him as if he is trying to make him worry, "I-I just... Dad, I love you, please don't force me. I'll fix it by myself, please."

He was pleading even though he couldn't even look at the man's face as his emotions were still raw. Already expecting for him to push more until Izuku cracks and has to tell him the things he doesn't wish to say. Able to feel his father let out an annoyed sneer at his words and he feels like crying. He always became like a child in front of his father, that little four year old kid crying for his dad to stay with him.

Then the man sighs as if whatever anger the man had left him. Did this mean his dad was actually going to back off? Just as Izuku was about to look up at him suddenly he was off the ground feeling himself being carried off by his father. His eyes widened as it took him a moment to register the fact he was being held firmly in his father’s arms.

"D-Dad!?" He squeaks his eyes wide as was held bridal style by his father looking up to see a much more solemn expression. A tinge of guilt emerges in his chest as the man carries him to the couch. His father was holding him firmly as if was afraid to lose him as he stares ahead at nothing.

"I swear what am I going to do with you..." The man whispers as he pulls Izuku close to his chest as sits down making sure to remove Izuku's backpack. The heavy bag makes a loud thunk as it is tossed to the side while his father sits down cradling him. Holding him in his arms as if he was nothing more than an infant needing to be cradled and soothed.

"You are the only thing I care about in this world. You know that right?" His father’s voice was soft as he held Izuku gently like he was glass. His father was warm, as if the man was saying that he can relax now. It's strange at times he looks like he's about to force the issue then thinks otherwise. His father didn’t make sense sometimes as if he also struggled with his own emotions.

"I know dad. I love you very much," Izuku doesn't want his dad to think otherwise even if he hates what he does. Even if he hates his rules the man for all his flaws was clearly trying at this moment to understand. Or maybe Izuku was too weak to truly lash out like he had done before, already too drained.

"I won't press. You can tell me in the report but if you say you can handle it I'll trust you. I'll be here when you need me," Hisashi speaks softly as Izuku can feel him pressing a kiss against his head. Holding him close made Izuku feel like a small child, almost serene. Safe and secure...

Somehow he had fallen asleep in his father's arms just unable to keep himself awake. Thinking about how he could handle this himself.

The next day Izuku woke up in his father's bed. Which was no surprise since he fell asleep in his dad's arms the man probably was too nervous to let him go. This was something that always happened back at the mansion. Once he started crying up a storm he would take him to bed with him. As if he was afraid Izuku was about to disappear, he likely let him sleep in the same bed way too long compared to other kids. Izuku was the one that started staying in his own bed willingly as his father never told him to stop.

His father was definitely pretending to be asleep tho. He was more than aware of this as his dad has done it many times. Already trying to squirm out from his father’s grasp he goes to leave the safety of the bed. Before his dad gets any ideas of him just skipping class.

"Morning," he still gave his morning greeting once successfully escaped. Able to see the male open one eye and pretend to give an annoyed performative groan. It’s hard to tell if was really annoyed or just playing it up for him, regardless he had to return to his own bathroom. As he knows he likely still had evidence of exhaustion and stress.

Looking at himself in the mirror confirmed it as his eyes now had dark rings and were still a bit red guessing he had cried in his sleep. It made more sense now why his father refused to leave him alone though it’s strange he can’t remember his dreams it is likely a blessing. However, just because his dad knew he was crying all night didn’t mean his classmates had to know. So it was time to use his makeup knowledge.

Izuku isn’t exactly a makeup expert. It was originally face painting as a kid that his father did as enrichment for him. This was completely separate from the dress thing his dad did but likely because he was cross-dressing it was inevitable. Trying to look good in certain outfits when your face or appearance is pale or ordinary wasn’t fun. Though lately he had been avoiding too much makeup trying to give himself the 'natural' look. This time he needed to do a bit more than normal as needed to hide any evidence, and thankfully they had waterproof versions of the make up.

He made a promise to himself since all he has done is worry people who cared about him, to be better than this. Twice Katsuki has made him cry only for his father to find him close to tears and swoop in to try and soothe him. Validating Bakugou's insults of how weak and useless he is as a kid and likely how his strength is just stolen from others. Today was mock training meaning there's a chance they will end up fighting each other. It was his redemption.

There won't be a third time.

Any evidence of last night's turmoil was erased from his skin, no more tears or anything. Though he hadn't even texted to Shoto since returning home. He did send a text this morning for him to go on ahead to school since he can’t meet up with him. It felt nice to actually take care of his appearance even if it took a bit too long.

Since Izuku was stuck doing his makeup he barely had any time to eat his dad's cooking. This was his priority; he could always eat something small if needed. At the least his father should help him out since he’s busy trying to make himself look like he isn’t a wreck. Knowing he might be a bit dramatic as it shouldn’t take too long but since he is doing make up he might as well do his hair and make sure his teeth are good.

"Dad! Can you grab me my uniform!?" he shouted as he was now fixing his hair wanting it a bit wavy but also tamed. As he hears the door open the man places it on the bathroom counter looking at him amused.

"Going all out?" Hisashi questions with amusement earning a small huff from Izuku who doesn't respond. Hisashi just shrugs as if unbothered by his lack of response, still in that understanding mood apparently he doesn’t press and just leaves. Izuku doesn't even check what the man brought, though he did note maybe should have changed first he just had to be careful with the make up. Then he saw the time and his heart raced, realizing he still had a long way to get to school. So he just shoves it on only checking to make sure the make up didn’t smudge before was already going out the door.

"Bye dad!" Izuku shouts as he goes to leave his home rushing down the stairs which was much easier than the walk up. Jumping onto the guard rail to slide down on the last he knew he was messing around. He needed to play around sometimes! Though when he left the building he was more than a bit startled to find Shoto standing outside. The teen was standing for who knows how long.

"I literally texted you that I would meet you at the school," Izuku noted, wondering if the other was just going to keep doing the opposite of what he said. This was the first time the other actually came to his house now that he thinks about it. The only reason he likely didn't come inside was because he never did give him the apartment address. Just the location, probably a good thing as didn’t need him knocking on the door and his father pestering him.

"It was on the way," Shoto noted casually, and was a terrible liar. As Izuku had to use superspeed to get to his house in a timely manner since they weren't at all near each other. Meaning the other had planned this early in advance even before Izuku had woken up and texted him to go on ahead.

"Oh is that your friend?" His father's voice was behind him making the younger male turn around in absolute freight. He thought the man was still in the apartment so when did he have time to come behind him!?

“Dad!? When did you get here?” Izuku questioned only for his dad to stare at him blankly. “We have elevators in Izuku. Now then can you introduce me to your friend?”

Izuku flustered at his father pointing out they had elevators while Izuku was using the stairs. That would make a bit of a difference but that wasn’t the point as yes he was fooling around but he really would be late if they don’t leave. So as much as his dad wanted to talk-

“I’m Shoto Todoroki,” Shoto started just introducing himself. Only for him to continue, “Somehow I imagined you more intimidating.”

Izuku panicked as his father looked baffled at the bluntness, almost offended even at the fact was considered intimidating or that he wasn’t intimidating enough. Izuku wasn’t interested to find out as he was already pushing his best friend to try and get away.

"Dad, I'm literally about to be late. We can do this some other time!" Izuku felt his exasperation growing at this point knowing better than to prod about this. He didn’t need his father asking what the heck did Shoto mean by intimidating, "We need to get going so no time to get you guys acquainted. Love you dad, bye!"

"Wait Izuku-!" his dad tried to say something, but Izuku ignored him and was already hurrying Shoto to get away. As childish as it was he currently enjoyed that his best friend was not involved with his father. So if he can prolong their separation he will, as he had no intention of sharing their time together. When Izuku is ready for them to talk then he will arrange for it.

"Sorry he's just excited I have a friend," Izuku noted almost sheepishly once they were far enough that he is sure his father isn’t about to hassle them. After yesterday he needed to feel like he had some kind of control again. Though he realized that Shoto seemed to be looking at him a bit perplexed, "What is that look for?”

Did he not put on enough makeup? Did he mess up his hair? Izuku felt nervous at his friend's suddenly very critical gaze wondering if he needed to run back home to fix himself up. They didn’t have time and he is sure if that’s the case there is no way his dad won’t insist on-

"You look nice," Shoto complimented Izuku just as Izuku was just about to have a crisis. All the anxiety he was about to have faded as his shoulders relaxed. The other spoke in such a confident and assuring manner that he couldn’t help but trust him. It made him feel like he was safe and secure as he returned a sheepish smile.

“You had me worried for a second there,” Izuku noted. Giving a sheepish smile as they went on their normal route to UA. Though he did notice how Shoto seemed to be glancing around a bit more than normal. It made him begin to notice some people were side-eyeing them then again they tended to do that ever since he became a UA student. As if many could tell he was part of the hero’s division of the school yet it felt different today.

How weird.

Maybe he just looked that good with makeup as he did realize he looked much too ordinary even in uniform. He should probably do it more as while he was so worried about fitting in there didn’t seem to be anything wrong with a bit of makeup. It made him feel handsome and good about himself, unable to help the sheepish smile as thought about buying some more. He certainly had no intention of going overboard with it but maybe giving some color once in a while would be good.

Though after a point the stares went from almost admiring to uncomfortable. As it seemed as if there were a lot of people looking his way.

To the point, if he was honest, he felt anxious as he was starting to realize not all of the looks were good. As there have been some side-eyed looks as well as a few that seemed to turn away quickly like they saw something they shouldn’t have. Creating a building sense of dread as Izuku wondered if maybe he should rethink the makeup thing. He had worked hard on making the makeup subtle, but did he somehow put too much?

"Hey, are you sure I don’t look weird? Be honest as I’m getting looks." Izuku spoke firmly knowing the other isn’t one to lie but needed a more clear answer. Wondering why people were staring as he needed to know if should fix or change something. Shoto glanced around a bit then back at him in confusion as if he didn’t understand the looks either. Then the male’s eyes looked up and down his form as if finally taking in his appearance.

Izuku wanted to crawl into a hole and die when he got his answer.

"Probably because you're wearing the girl's uniform," Shoto pointed out. As if he hadn't just revealed the most horrifying thing Izuku could have done. The innocent way his best friend didn't even think to point out the uniform was for a girl much earlier. As he had asked if there was anything weird but then he should have known to specify what he meant by weird. Because this was the last thing he ever wanted to do.

Memories of when Kach- No Bakugou saw him crossdressing for the first time and crudely said those words. How laughed at him rushed into his mind and Izuku wanted to puke as his hands moved to cover his mouth in horror.

It's all because he had trusted his father to get his uniform. He had allowed himself to be vulnerable to the bastard and he took advantage of it to pull this. Likely people would ask how he didn't notice but it simply hadn't been a priority. He thought he should have been able to trust his own father and that his best friend would have pointed this out before making a fool of himself.

"Please, tell me that's a lie," Izuku felt his vision blurred as he tried not to stumble trying to comprehend what the hell he just heard. Here he was in UA where heroes were made crossdressing and looking like some weirdo. Already knowing they were thinking the worse as they whisper to each other about this odd white haired boy crossdressing.

He couldn’t help but lash out his voice more like a sneer compared to his usual upbeat or more energetic demeanor, "Why didn't you say anything!?"

It might have been an overreaction as Shoto flinches and stepped away from him. As if he was unable to keep his usual unflinching demeanor, his eyes looked at him shocked and hurt at Izuku’s reaction. Izuku knows this is unfair but at the moment his head was hot with humiliation and anger as this was the worst day this could happen. As this was the day he was supposed to finally meet All Might personally instead of through a screen. And he looked like THIS.

"I didn't know anything was wrong with it," Shoto seems uneasy and almost tense now as this was uncharted territory. Likely baffled at his best friend seeming to be flipping out over clothing but Izuku has to remind himself it is natural he wouldn’t understand. This man has lived in a bubble so fashion is a foreign concept as he just ALWAYS looks good no matter what. Blessed with beauty and grace while Izuku might as well be some pauper.

So despite himself he has to take a deep breath. Reminding himself this was his friend who would never do anything to humiliate him. That these are all his OWN issues to deal with not a burden that Shoto needs to deal with. But he might as well update the other about why it might be a bit inappropriate for a boy to wear a girls uniform.

"There's a lot of things wrong. A boy wearing the girl's uniform for seemingly no reason I might as well be saying "I'm a pervert," Izuku hisses. But he puts his hands in a prayer motion to try and calm himself before he does any more damage. As this was his best friend he was snapping at he needed to remember Shoto was innocent. It was because of Endeavor that he wouldn’t be aware of these nuances and wasn’t meant to humiliate him.

The other was always at his side and would never knowingly ruin his reputation. If anything he probably thought he was being supportive in not saying anything on it. Ugh he can already imagine Kacchan laughing or Aizawa about ready to send him home to change. As it isn’t like he’s trans or well anything really when it comes to crossdressing, he never did check the dress code. Maybe he will be excused on the improper attire since the training today so they are in their hero's costume.

"It's not that big of a deal. We aren't exactly fighting in these or anything," Shoto spoke firmly, seeming bothered at being snapped at. At the least, it was kind of nice to see the other pushback. Even if clearly didn't see the big deal at least provided some ounce of assurance that sounded passable.

Of course, after another breather, he knows the real one he should be pissed at is his own father. That bastard took advantage of his trust-!

"I wonder if there's a way to deem my dad insane and make him in my custody when I'm an adult," Izuku mutters as he's sure his father thinks he's a goddamn comedian. If he could tie the man up and just lock him up for everyone’s sake he would but Izuku isn’t that insane yet. Though now that he thinks about it maybe that is why his father tried to stop him since he hadn't noticed yet.

Izuku swears he loves his father. This is the only family he ever had and known so he is trying his best to be understanding. But now he can only hope to god that Aizawa doesn't notice-

"What are you wearing," Aizawa didn't even hesitate as soon as Izuku opened the door just had to call attention to it and everyone turned to look at him. Because, of course, Aizawa of all days was here on time. Just when Izuku thought he was getting a different teacher today or the man would be snoozing so can slip in and be as bland as possible. Already regretting the make up at this moment as well.

With everyone’s eyes now on him the class started to buzz with whispers and murmurs. As it was clear no one had expected to see Izuku coming in dressed in the female’s uniform. Now it seemed Shoto was slowly starting to realize why exactly Izuku was making such a big deal. As now Izuku stood out like a sore thumb as the only boy wearing a girl's uniform looking very out of place.

"T-The uniform," Izuku squeaks out practically shrinking under Aizawa's gaze. The guy raised an eyebrow, seeming to be considering his words on if this was worth the effort or not. As there hadn’t been any prior warning or anything to make clear about Izuku’s preference. So for all intent and purpose this was out of nowhere and thus a disrespect to the uniform. But Aizawa was contemplating if it was even worth the effort just because it was the wrong uniform as it wasn’t truly a crime.

"I don't understand kids.... Go sit," Aizawa spoke, looking more exhausted than anything as he shakes his head and rubs his forehead. It seems he was in a merciful mood though Shoto looked at Izuku with a concerned expression as he moved to his own seat. As the bell rang, he slinked toward his seat behind his former childhood friend. The blond glanced back at him with a smug look as if wanted to say how stupid he looked right now, memories of when first saw him rushed to Izuku’s mind.

Izuku wanted to sink into his seat. Staring at Bakugou who was clearly enjoying his humiliation with cruel fervor. That is until a female’s voice finally cut through the room as it seemed the classroom reached a verdict, "He looks so cute!"

Izuku’s eyes widened and his head turned to see it was Ochaco. Who was leaning over to Tsuyu who also seemed to coo, "I didn't know he liked dressing like that? He surprisingly pulls it off."

Those were some of the whispers he could hear. It was surprisingly weird and not as hostile as he had expected. If anything they seemed more curious and excited at seeing something new. Maybe the talented were all just oddballs that accepted the weirdness compared to the common masses. His grip on his bag slowly relaxes as he can see Bakugou’s smug look turned into an annoyed sneer as looked at the girls. Seems he didn’t like that everyone was now complimenting Izuku.

And like a beacon, another light came in after his initial fears started to dissipate as the door slams open. Red, white and blue moved into the room and Izuku’s eyes widened with delight as his heart jumped into his throat.

"I am here- Coming through the door like a hero!" It was All Might in the flesh!

Izuku’s world became so much brighter as the hero he had only seen on the screen was alive in front of him. Green eyes light up as his head turns toward the door to see the man that had been the target of his hyper fixation. To the point of his own father being concerned as it 'clashed' with the fashion, he tried to encourage. As well as seeming reluctant in engaging too much in that particular hero worrying about his fixation yet never able to truly stop it. So this was a dream come true for the white haired teen.

The symbol of peace was ACTUALLY here at their school! He had heard something that delayed him from actually teaching yet here he is in the flesh! In his hero's silver age uniform no less!

"Aaaaa~" Izuku was practically squealing even when Bakugou glared at him as if that would do anything. At this moment he didn't care about Bakugou as that guy wasn’t even on his radar anymore! Also he knows for a fact Bakugou is excited also as he doubts the guy just no longer likes him! He may not have seen him in a long time but he knows he is excited too!

"What took you so long," Aizawa was much less enthusiastic about meeting the symbol of peace. The darn audacity! The guy has saved so many lives and helped keep crime down by a lot! He should also be excited about him as this man is a legend that has done so much for the country! So much more than anyone that he puts every other human in the dust without comparison! How can Aizawa not see that? It wasn't even that late, just a little bit of a time crunch!

"Sorry! Just got a bit caught up, but I am here now so let's get everyone ready for the uniform subsidy~!" All Might cheered as if unbothered by the cold reception of their homeroom. Just like the cool hero, he was! Every bad feeling Izuku had, every negative thought, bitterness, or nervousness vanished. Even if it turned out his classmates weren’t as judgemental, just having All Might here made it all the better.

Everyone went to get up and get moving since they were to get their uniform. Izuku, however, had other things in mind as he was quick to go through his bag searching for his most recent hero archive notebook. His hands shaking as he ignored everyone as he rushed toward the large man noting how much bigger he was in real life.

"Can you sign my notepad!? I'm a huge fan," he piped while All Might seemed to be having some confused crisis. As if he had never expected that from him, he didn't think it was weird. He's All Might! The guy looked startled when suddenly he had a notepad being shoved toward him. Izuku didn't care, all sense of shame and decorum had just gone right out the window. As if a switch had just triggered in his brain and at this moment he was free.

Unaware it is more because he looks a lot like his dad but younger and crossdressing that All Might had to take a moment to recover.

Izuku can just FEEL Bakugou's jealous stare. It's not his fault he's too prideful to take his chance to get the man’s autograph. Izuku can worry about his appearance later. He ain't losing this chance, this is his idol. He forced his dad to watch sooo much stuff about All Might as basically his own brand of affectionate torture using his dad's need for bonding against him. Now he can show off how he got an autograph to his dad later.

"S-Sure! Anything for a fan!" All Might spoke after recovering from the initial surprise and signing his notebook. Returning it to Izuku's hands the crossdressing teen was over the moon. It was now a precious heirloom for the AGES.

His terrible day has turned from bad to his best day. Dad will be allowed freedom for one more day as he snapped out of his slump. Especially at learning All Might is the one doing the mock training not Aizawa. No more sadness here! He doesn't give a hoot~!

Meanwhile, in the background, Shoto was learning for the first time that their usually nervous friend- Lost all that nervousness the moment he saw his idol. While knows he was a big fan and always rant his ear off if they ever talked about heroes. He never imagined how it would actually look to meet said hero.

"I guess he isn't mad at me anymore," Shoto noted, seeming relieved as he was honestly concerned that Izuku would hold the dress thing against him. Even though it was because Shoto thought it just genuinely looked kind of cute on him. Izuku might still be mad later but that's a later issue for the white haired boy.

Still, they finally go put on their uniforms for the first time, and honestly? Izuku felt PRETTY badass to be wearing it. It was definitely darkly colored though when he checked the hood- Oh they kept the 'ears'. Of course, they did. Someone must have a sense of humor, he isn't a darn rabbit he had a pet one. Guessing it did kind of match U’s fur color a little.

He would just ignore that little addition as he checked out the outfit. The gloves fit on nicely; they were fingerless with a hole in the center big enough to expose the small hole but nothing more. Glad he gave exact measurements of his hand making sure to clench his fist and it was comfortable.

And of course, the armor on the shoes and legs was pretty cool without being too clunky. He felt excited and his friends looked awesome too all the adjustments he gave looked amazing. Ochaco's outfit was really cute even if only made small adjustments like specifying shoes while Shoto looked pretty cool.

Though Izuku was more surprised they were back in the cityscape area, and it was pretty fixed up. How can they afford such fast repairs when he dropped a giant robot on it or was this location somehow different???

They explained that training here would be on indoor combat. Which made a lot of sense since those are the most common crimes. All Might was very excited and Izuku was enraptured that he barely noticed his friends beside him. If anything he wasn’t even on planet earth as was practically sighing happily as he would have been holding the notebook still if he could.

"Zuku you there?" Ochaco questioned as Izuku was giddy, barely reacting after the initial compliments. Despite the fact he had been the one to help them make modifications it seemed he was focused on his hero. Not at how he had helped influence their outfit despite their attempt to literally nudge him to get his attention.

Shoto clenches his fist with such a somber expression as if he had just lost some big battle, "He's gone, I knew I could never compete with a legend."

Ochaco gives Shoto an awkward smile as Shoto acts like he lost his best friend to All Might. When really Izuku just isn't noticing anything going on so she tries to assure him, "I don't think it's like that, Todoroki. But guess this means we need to ask the real questions here and worry about his opinion on our outfits later."

Since unlike with Aizawa it was like Izuku's usually critical brain had become mush not at all questioning anything being said. So everyone wants to make sure they understand this indoor training.

"Are you going to expel one of us if we fail like Aizawa?" Ochaco was first.

"What determines victory?" Iida was second.

"How do we divide ourselves?" And many others began to follow their example of questioning the moment All Might didn’t shoot them down right away.

And it was becoming clear everyone was a lot more comfortable talking over the teacher this time. Unlike Aizawa, it was clear All Might had less experience in trying to reel in the student's expectations. It was clear that All Might was struggling but it didn’t exactly stop the students either who wanted answers.

"Woah there I don't have super hearing one at a time-" All Might tries to calm them down before he attempts to answer all their questions. Izuku only tuned in to hear finally the moment he heard his hero speaking. He perks up as the man coughed trying to start off simple.

"You will be split in between heroes and villains, but since Aizawa did expel one of your classmates. So one team is going to have an extra team mate so let's split you up!"

Izuku was blessed by the gods to be teamed up with Shoto. Though he felt bad when it turned out Ochaco AND Iida ended up on Bakugou's team. Teams were as follows: Izuku and Shoto (team A - for best), Shoji and Momo (team B), Mina & Aoyama (team c), Kaminari & Jirou (team d), Bakugou & Ochaco with Iida (Team E - E for extra), and many others.

"And let us see what we have for the first round!" All Might did a lottery to pick out who was against who. Izuku was excited to show off his favorite hero and what he can do-

"Team A as Villains versus Team E the heroes!" All Might shouts and Izuku feels like the whole world just froze as it crashed back to reality. Memories from yesterday as Kacchan blasted and sneered at him as a criminal rushed back to his mind. Slowly turning to look over he could feel Bakugou staring daggers at him as if it was a declaration of war. It was clear he had not gotten over their fight and was going to make sure Izuku ate dirt.

Shoto puts himself between the two once noticed they were looking at each other from a distance. This snapped Izuku out of the thought process though he can hear Bakugou sneering but unlike with Izuku, Shoto could care less. Izuku was flustered but also a bit thankful at Shoto for stepping between him without saying a word. The male wasn’t even looking at him as if pretending he wasn’t trying to defend him. He guessed he really did have a good friend.

Still if they had been the heroes then Shoto could just ice the whole place before they even go inside but they would be the ones inside. No one would be able to do everything against them as heroes and that's why it was exciting. As villains though they have to make sure that the item they are trying to protect doesn't get stopped which includes being iced... And three against one!

"I-Isn't it a bit unfair for heroes to have three against two?" Ochaco questioned, clearly uncomfortable at the idea of ganging up on a friend.

"Nonesense! These two clearly have the strength and cunning all they have to do is run out the timer. While you're searching for them, the villains have five minutes to get in and make a plan. They get that advantage while you have numbers should even it out," All Might assure. Though some were wondering if it really did even out, Izuku trusted it as a show of confidence not seeing anything wrong with that logic.

"What's the plan?" Shoto questioned as soon as they were inside with their bomb. Izuku was trying to figure out how they were supposed to go on the defensive as didn't want to mess this up.

"I already know Kaachan is going to go in for the charge," Izuku said as bites the skin on his thumb, feeling nervous. He wanted to show off he was no crybaby but to think he would have to do so now rather than later. He needed a plan, but there is one thing he does know about Kacchan...

"Nervous about him? I can ice him before he sets off an explosion," Shoto assured and yes he could do that. It is kind of scary how powerful the other was when Izuku compares it to everyone else. Izuku didn't really think many could even come close to his power and it would be a humbling experience to the jerk. But still...

"I mean yes you can but I want to do something also. If we going to do this we are going to do this right," Izuku spoke as he clenches his fist as he realized this was the perfect chance as a grin shows on his face. "I got a score with Kacchan to settle."

Down on the ground the 'heroes' were prepping. Or at least they were attempting to do so while Bakugou was distracted by the chance to finally show Izuku whose is boss. Rotating and mulling over ideas and plans on how to knock down the teenager a peg for daring to think they were equal. A plan he refused to share with his team mates as he was more interested in handling the reject alone.

So unfortunate to Iida and Ochaco they weren't being told the whole plan as the hot tempered blond was already charging in. Only the part they need to play.

"Bakugou wait! We need a strategy!" Iida shouted but it was clear that she was already going in right away.

"Stay behind!" Bakugou shouts as if there was already some planning going on despite it seeming like he was charging in." I'm taking out that damn crossdressing nerd you get the half and half bastard!"

As the damn 'nerd' was a big threat with his ability to take on their quirks he could render them effectively useless. While isn't too sure about the half-and-half bastard power if it is ice and fire it be harder to navigate inside. But great for protecting the assets.

Also, he's sure the nerd wouldn't miss this chance to fight him after all the BS that happened between them. So he knows for a fact will come after him first allowing the other two a chance to encounter Todoroki once he finds him.

"Muahahaha~! So you have come the so called 'hero' with the blood lust to rival the nastiest of villains~"

An 'evil' laugh? Seriously? Bakugou sneers wondering if the nerd was really eating up the villain role. Wondering if he really was that eager to show off to All Might and the hell he means he rivals the nastiest of villains! He'll kill the bastard!

The air around the building seemed to have chilled. Shit, it seems Icy Hot was given orders that would fuck with his explosion production. Not enough to stop it but he definitely needs to work up a sweat.

"Drop dead you bastard!" He shouts wondering where the bastard was only to hear footsteps running further away. There he is it seems didn't expect him to be caught so soon darting away so quickly. The ice certainly wasn't easy but he-

"Hey! Deku, where was that gloating!?" He shouts wondering what the guy's deal was as he charges catching up easily. Too easy but he has super speed so- SHIT IT A TRAP!

Bakugou barely had time to blast away before suddenly he had ice blasting in his way as he realized he had borrowed his friend's power. Of course, the bastard wouldn't face him with what he has. He has to be a parasite using other people's powers instead of his own. He just 'borrowed' his friend's power knowing he had trouble using the explosion when it was cold.

"You goddamn-" he hisses only to have to send a BLAST to avoid becoming a popsicle as Izuku seemed to be living it up. The wide grin as if he was living the time of his life though it was clear he was getting cold.

"Like that? Don't worry I lent him speed and he still got his fire it quite combo. Weirdest thing it didn't exactly want to part so was one quirk so I was required to give one up-" Izuku seemed intent on explaining when Bakugou could care less about why he fucking had it. The guy couldn't possibly master that thing in five minutes only able to send a burst and was freezing.

"Shut up! No one wants to hear your shitty rant!" Bakugou shouted as he tries to cut the distance between them. He just needs to be faster than the other to take him out and make him eat his words.

"That's the problem with you heroes. All violence and no banter," Izuku shouts barely dodging with a grin even though seemed almost nervous. No surprise since isn't as fast and the freezing was making him slower, "A mockery of the title of heroism!"

The other's speed was normal since could be the only thing he lent to Shoto. A stupid move as there was no way that Half and Half could possibly-

Suddenly Izuku was in his face with an unnatural speed with that stupid grin. And in that moment Bakugou realized he had bluffed.

"Shit-!" FUCKER STILL HAD SUPER SPEED!

Izuku didn't waste time suddenly blasting the room with an incredibly powerful power that didn't belong to him. Bakugou could feel the ice wrap around most of his body, his face the only thing not covered as he struggles. Annoyed at the fact he allowed himself to be talked into believing he gave up his speed.

"It's called lying! I use everything I can," Izuku grins, knowing full WELL it was a very underhanded tactic. Making a preconceived notion that could outspeed or outmaneuver him. Even acting slower than normal only to at the very last minute change tactics.

Never before has Izuku ever shown such cunning or the ability to trick others like this. And he took full advantage of it, he wasn't at all like the kid he was when was four trying to be a hero but too weak. Too soft, always trying even when pretending is brave and yet now was looking down at him with an expression that didn't belong on his face.

He doesn't know who this guy is anymore.

------

Izuku knew it was definitely not a heroic method. However, Bakugou was already looking down on him anyway so it is only right he makes sure he just becomes a footnote here. His sweat glands were frozen and unable to blast if too cold to start with the frost all over him.

"Sorry, were you expecting a villain to be honest? That’s the role I was assigned. Man you're naive," Izuku mocks with a grin as he moves a hand onto Bakugou's head even though he tried to resist he was still able to take it easy. Each time becoming easier even if it was like slowly ripping it out and causing pain the other was strong enough to handle it.

"Thank you~ Now excuse me, I have two others to capture." Izuku chimed in as the guy snarled. But the burning of the other's quirk would be quite fun to use returning to where Shoto was.

"That was super risky. I hope you know that. What if Iida and Ururaka got up here during that time? I would have to burn the whole place down," Shoto scoffed, seeming grumpy about his lack of ice. Izuku just smiles as he goes to return the other half of the quirk by petting his head. Watching the male relax with a small hum as he got his proper quirk returned and took back his own.

"It's fiine it's why I kept super speed so I will be able to get back fast. I rather tag team with you instead," Izuku noted with a grin though he did make sure to leave quite an ice trail. "By the way can I borrow some of your fire before they come? I'm freezing-"

"Stop villains!" Iida shouts, meaning Izuku will just have to warm himself up by actually fighting. A small groan escaped the white-haired boy who still had frost on his skin.

Of course, he had no plans to use any underhanded tactics with them but if he was honest didn't expect them to move so quickly. But in a sense, the whole point of that was not to win but to humiliate Bakugou.

And he has an explosion so it would be fun to practice it in this definitely intense battle... Too bad it turns out he wasn't actually needed.

As Shoto didn't even hesitate before suddenly turning the whole BUILDING into an icy cavern even Izuku barely avoided it if only because saw the telltale signs and his speed barely made him dodge the amount of trust Shoto had in him anticipating that insane. Poor Iida and Ochaco, however, were turned into ice sculptures much quicker and more effectively than Izuk's own poor attempt.

"Oh- Was... Was I even needed for this part?" Izuku questioned as he certainly didn't make that big of an ice feat when he used it. Guessing this counted as capturing the heroes but this was very anticlimactic after making a show with Bakugou.

"Why are you upset?" Shoto asked once again showing how he can be quite well- Unaware of the situation. Guessing when heard he was the ace in the hole to finish it quickly didn't consider would want to drag it out a bit.

"I didn't even get to do an evil speech, Shouchan..." Izuku mutters a bit embarrassed knowing it was silly. As he had been preparing one when Shoto's first reaction was to ice the rest of the building. The pros and cons of having a friend with a super powerful quirk.

"Oh... Sorry," Shoto apologizes still despite the anticlimactic scene. Izuku guessed it was fine as long as he passed. Though it definitely took a bit to get them out after declaring them the winners. Bakugou definitely tried to bite their heads off for the underhanded tactic. While Izuku was tempted to ask if can keep him a popsicle for the rest of the day. As he was clearly miserable as one and Izuku prefers him like that over him screaming.

But at least he knows Bakugou will never be able to emotionally recover from being captured and having his quirk taken in front of All Might. So Izuku will take what he can get as was helping take Bakugou out of the ice he couldn't help himself as returned the quirk.

"Keep losing your quirk to me and we might end up having issues with me giving it back," Izuku chirps happily like he was making a joke but it was a veiled threat, one that he knew Bakugou knew. As those red eyes look into Izuku's own, they barely contain hostility with a hint of worry at the validity of those words.

He will take care of himself then no one will have to worry about him again.

Chapter Text

All Izuku has ever wished for is to become a hero. He craved the light that they were showered it when the hero came onto the scene. All Might smiles despite how terrible the situation is. It has always been a comfort to him even when he was trapped in his own cage the strong and powerful heroes who can smile despite everything.

He wants to be that. He NEEDS to be that despite everything because that is what he would dream of.

Unfortunately he could never be that hero.

That kind of hero wouldn't keep chasing the bully who had turned on him and mocked him even now. The way he laughed and looked down on him burned into his mind as he sought some kind of connection. While his father came as always to pick up the pieces, always so quiet when it came to that subject.

Yet the man couldn't help himself to do that one trick. Swapping his clothing and making him look like a fool, thankfully no one seemed bothered or angered. But it didn't change the fact there had been those who looked uneasy.

The high of success from completing the mock test had helped dim the hurt and betrayal but it couldn't vanish. After having a heart to heart, opening himself up by asking him not to push he thought he cared. Only to have his trust damaged wondering why he even bothers.

Izuku was so tired by the time he got home. Unsure if he really showed his true worth or not after Shoto put on an even bigger show. His hand ached so badly just wanting to slide into his room.

It was too bad his father was standing at the entrance to their home. His expression seeming almost uneasy it could almost be mistaken for guilt. But Izuku was not in a forgiving mood as is reminded how this man keeps expecting him to be 'forgiving'.

Already feeling himself wanting to snap as he clenches his fist trying to understand why. Always trying to be understanding, always trying to be kind, but what about how he feels?

"It's not funny," Izuku speaks firmly as his hand moves to pull down the skirt. It was a miracle no one seemed to mind his outfit. At worst seeming indifferent or uneasy thankfully no disgust but it didn't change the fact that he had been tricked. That his father still felt it was fitting to do that after seeing him close to crying.

"I'm not laughing at you, Izuku," his father's voice was firm looking at him with that gaze as if he was analyzing him. As if trying to find a way to deescalate the situation that he had caused, "I tried to warn you before you ran off with your friend."

Izuku clenches his fist wondering if that is supposed to make everything better? That some how a little warning when could have just not would suffice. He shoves himself pass his father after haphazardly kicking off his shoes. His face a dark red in humiliation still remembering the stares while his dad was treating this like some game.

"That doesn't make it alright! What if I got in trouble!?" He throws his backpack hard on the couch before turning sharply to glare at the taller man, "What if everyone made fun of me!? Kicked out of class!? At this point it feels like you just want me to fail! What kind of dad are you!?"

He was so damn TIRED of pretending he was alright with his father having fun at his expense. That he couldn't help but snap only to feel the room's temperature drop, the slow sound of the door being closed and locked behind him.

"If they made 'fun' of you for wearing the perfectly legal female uniform they would be dead," his father's voice didn't sound like his own. It was almost mocking at the very idea someone would make fun of him.

Izuku's body froze his eyes widened as that had not been the response he expected slowly turning his head to his father. Trying to process if he really did just hear that threat his father was waiting for his father to take it back.

"I-Isn't that a bit extreme?" While it was nice to know he cared that sounded to much the fight he had wanting to lash out diminished. Able to tell those words were his father's true feelings as if was already calculating something.

Despite the fact he had been here ready to fight for his life on independence. The usual teenage rebellion with hormones and anger. The malice his father expressed made him tread much more carefully.

"Izuku why are you acting so surprised? I swear I thought you figured it out by now that I am not your enemy even if I do 'mess up' I'm on your side," his father sighs walking close toward him making Izuku realize just how small he was. Those eyes looking down at him as slowly reaches up to brush his son's hair back, "I would do anything for you. That is not hyperbole or some exaggeration if you asked I would even destroy this whole country. You are the only thing that matters."

It was as if his father was done with pretending to be normal. That the mask he kept putting up was falling off whether it's out of trust, a threat or something else. The malice wasn't toward him despite how thick it lingered in the air but it seemed to permeate everything. As if something was very wrong with his father.

"Nor would I actively do something with the intention of hurting you. I get I'm callous but surely you think I wouldn't want you to hate me," he speaks as if it was Izuku who was the one hurting him. His hands moving up to cup Izuku's face as a small whine escaped the smaller male. Just like he was some doll to maneuver as his father examines him as if to make sure he wasn't injured.

"I know how much you want this. You would probably wish to die if you failed even if I believe in the worst of society."

Those words hung heavily in the air as Izuku finds himself frozen staring at his father looking like an angel while speaking the words of cruelty. But he's always known this his father was more honest in that mansion with no windows or doors he would speak of atrocities on the phone. A tutor who said the wrong things that made Izuku cry soon disappears.

It was just so easy to pretend they were a normal father and son pair. That his dad wasn't hiding something much more dangerous.

"I gave you three rules," Hisashi holds up his free hand with three fingers as if Izuku would forget making sure he was listening. "One. Follow my Training Regimen. Two. Report everything to me. And finally, stay out of trouble. Do you know why I made those three rules?"

As the question hung in the air it was hard for Izuku to speak. As if suddenly his father might have abandoned him after deciding that he wasn't worth all this.

He doesn't know why at this moment he is afraid that his father might abandon him but this demeanor terrified him more. The coldness that held no warmth wasn't the dad he knew and loved. This was someone that could kill someone in front of him and think nothing of it.

"Oh Izuku... It is all for you..." the man whispers softly as the malice and hatred that had permeated from him moments before faded. His gaze softened maybe noticing how afraid he was or maybe just some how feeling better.

Slowly cupping his face in a much more gentle manner as squishes his face as the smile softened to something more familiar. So much kinder that Izuku wonders if it's real. "Please don't be scared, see? I'm not mad at you, you could stab me and I wouldn't flinch. But just the idea of people hurting you... It gets under my skin because you deserve so much better then what life gave you."

And Izuku does.

He's always known the only thing that kept Bakugou from being six feet under was his own pleads. Grabbing at his fathers arm and crying how he will hate him if does something mean to Kacchan. Because he had seen this look before but his mother hadn't, it was a core memory he locked away.

...Tsubasa disappeared instead. As if his father had to take out his rage on something even if not the direct cause. Because Izuku still looked up to Bakugou, he had still admired him even when he was mean it was the only reason.

His father was never a good person.

But he also knows.

"I'm not scared for myself," Izuku mutters as his eyes trail to the side. Because it was both terrifying but also... Weirdly assuring knowing how much his father would do even if didn't want that. "No one... Was mean some even thought it was cute. At worst they didn't care which isn't bad it means they are minding their own buisiness."

His father perked up and his smile was much more natural instead of some terrible threat. The air no longer permeating with malice practically begging to be directed at something, Izuku could breath again. It wasn't a bomb waiting to explode to do something about all the wrongs in the world in a chaotic blast. There's a weird kind of comfort in knowing he is keeping his father from doing something terrible.

"I'm glad!" his father chirps all the earlier tension vanished when the man picked Izuku up by the arm pits. Lifting him up as if seeming quite pleased almost giddy, "I knew they would, you are my precious treasure after all. That's why I was trying to encourage it you don't need to be ashamed of a thing."

You would NOT have mistaken the man giddy and twirling his son for the man who was threatening to murder and blow up a country.

As the man returned to the appearance of a normal average dad even pressing his cheek against his son in joy. Even if Izuku had to grunt and squirm least he would be actually crushed by the man's enthusiasm. He was kind of baffled at his fathers admission that he had been trying to encourage him to be open. So it wasn't a purposeful intent to humiliate him!?

He couldn't even find it in himself to fuss, he was still tired from today's mock battle. While originally wanting to snap at his dad seeing his father show the less often seen side made him rethink what his father's intentions were. As it certainly seemed he was ready to murder, so if he wasn't trying to embarrass or sabotage him...

"Wait so you just want me to wear dresses more?" Izuku questioned as that had to be the stupidest thing his father would do.

"I thought that was obvious?" Hisashi questioned. And Izuku is starting to wonder if his dad is only so single minded toward him as moments had been so terrifying. Now just seemed like an absolute idiot with no idea how to interact with his teenage son in a normal way.

"W-What about that whole Kacchan thing!? You were purposely setting me up to fail trying to act like you wouldn't punish me-" Izuku starts but his father speaks up seeming quite confused.

"Izuku," His father's voice is firm as he stares him down with a more stern expression as he continues, "Why do you doubt yourself so much? I was only worried because you were always alone and I didn't want you to get hurt. Which is exactly what ended up happening, remember?"

"...I need to go to my room," Izuku spoke quickly ignoring his father shouting at him to wait as he grabs his bag and runs to his room. Slamming the door and locking it before sliding down staring at nothing.

Because in this moment, he didn't know what to think anymore. Both a doll and a prize for his father to flaunt yet the man also seems so genuine and earnest. Protective yet malicious. Cruel yet affectionate. It feels like the more he grows the less he understands his father wondering if maybe it is his own mind that's the problem. How is he-

A vibration.

Izuku perks as he slowly picks up his phone to see a text. It was from Shoto.

Hey.

There is a pause. Izuku isn't too sure if he wants to text the other right now as he doesn't know what to say. He gets up to his feet walking over to his bed unable to decide what to say.

Are you awake?

Izuku stared at the text wondering what he could even say. That he tried to get mad at his dad for swapping his clothing then his dad got homicidal intent at him implying people made fun of him for it? Yeah, telling that to the ‘my dad can drop dead’ friend sure is going to go well.

He can hear the foot steps outside just thankful that he locked the door. Knowing at the least if his door is locked that his dad will get the message. Slowly sitting on his bed his hand hurts so badly he suddenly feels something bump against his leg.

"Oh U..." he speaks softly reaching down to scoop up the larger then normal bunny rabbit. It flinches a bit but he's learned to ignore it as he lifts him onto bed. Izuku thinking about what he is supposed to do. His hand slowly brushing against it's head thinking carefully about how today's mock training went.

"Maybe I'm relying on him too much," he mutters on both his father and Shoto. His hand brushing against his rabbits head. The palm of his hand still burned from the mock battle as his inferiority and need to prove himself grows. He knows he can't survive with just these two quirks, as he slowly glanced at the rabbit on top of him.

His father can't get involved. If he doesn't get stronger worst things could possibly happen.

"...I'm sorry, I need more or else." Izuku speaks softly holding it tightly as the rabbit seemed to realize what he was doing. It's hind legs pressing hard against his abdomen but unable to cause harm or truly fight him. Whatever his father did to this rabbit, it wasn't a normal one.

At least this time the rabbit didn't scream.

Chapter Text

It was a huge mess for Izuku Midoriya. His life just couldn't possibly be normal and in a way, he guessed it never was.

The sheltered boy who once was trapped in a mansion now learning his father might actually be someone worth being scared of. As well as finally understanding that the feeling might be mutual between his father to society itself after the death of his wife. Izuku's own mother died and Izuku was there. He HAD been there!

Izuku was the one who had to be saved by his own mother as a stand was destroyed and toppled on them. He had wanted to save his mom, and though the memories were blurry he knew it was scary thinking a hero would save them in time. Only to see her being buried trying to understand why no one did, he still doesn't understand why it happened. His father never talked and it was his fault...

His eyes are scanning the papers of reports he has given to his father wondering about the things he had told his father. Stories about the home of Endeavor, the abuse, the school curriculum, his frustration, and his anger. Things he never considered would have an effect on their lives now seemed like open wounds.

This was his friend's life that he exposed and even mentioned how he got injured there was something incredibly wrong. Suddenly it felt like every word he had written to his father was some kind of ammunition for him. Some justification for the man to dictate everything to protect his only son. Yet despite that, his dad hasn't done anything yet but the fact he could is what scares him.

He shifts in his bed as he tosses the report with a loud groan knowing at this moment he was likely overthinking. There was no one he could even talk to about any of this though moving his hands to rub his face as he love his dad. His dad may fuck up and be overbearing but he's trying, he knows he is trying but it feels like his father is moments from sliding back into something he doesn't wish to see.

Izuku allows his hands to fall as he looks at the papers on the floor. He needs to sleep, maybe that will help him.

------

Today was a new day and his dad seemed normal enough despite everything that had happened.

"Morning Izuku! I was worried for a second you might sleep in and miss breakfast," Hisashi noted as if unaware of the fact he scared the hell out of his son when he threatened terrible harm on others. Did this man just lack any empathy and have no idea what even happened? Maybe his dad literally just didn't see people outside of their family as 'people' and more as others.

"Yeah, sorry just a slow morning," Izuku said as he looks at the man trying to gauge exactly what he is thinking. He just looks content as if there was nothing wrong with the world. The malice that seemed to threaten to choke everything had no trace in this home. His face is warm, gentle even, it's strange that he is only noticing it now.

Only after seeing how cruel the man can be that he feels some appreciation it wasn't toward him. He was still his father, which is what makes this knowledge all the more upsetting as he goes to sit to eat with him. Trying to understand why his father had such a strong reaction over something that frankly wasn't even that serious.

"Um... Dad what exactly is your job?" Izuku questioned as he needs to know what exactly his father does. He always dressed in a suit as if he worked at a business and as a kid, his mom told Izuku that he worked overseas. It explained the luxuries they had as they would wear an assortment of items. But who was his dad?

"In the mansion you... Always had some odd conversations but after yesterday I want to know." Conversations he would pretend he didn't hear. Faded memories he wanted to lock away from but now he had to ask. Who was Hisashi Midoriya?

Hisashi didn't seem amused at the prodding his relaxed expression faltering just a hint. The man leans back in his seat and crosses his arms seeming deep in thought muttering something like 'of course you do' under his breath. Those eyes stared back at him with a contemplative expression as if trying to figure out if he should.

"You aren't ready to know," his voice was curt as those red eyes stared him down but there was something almost like pleading. "Or rather if you know then you will end up hurt. Not because of me but because that information will plague you and if others learn it they will hurt you for it. Even if it not your fault and please believe me, none of this is your fault but it will hurt you."

This bothered Izuku even more wondering why the man can't just say who he is. Why he was being so secretive about something if it was so bad, "You can't be serious. Dad, who ARE you!?"

Suddenly his father looked him in the eye, truly looked at him as if was subtly bearing his soul to him and he felt so... old. They were the eyes of someone who has done and felt way too much in his life forever lost and aimless. Did this man even know who he was?

"Not yet. Continue enjoying your school life and following the three rules I set up that is all you need to do," Hisashi speaks making it clear that he wasn't going to answer. The man's resolve seemed to have hardened despite the look of exhaustion returning and making it clear he won't budge.

"I won't ask anymore then," Izuku gave up wondering if it was even the right thing to do. He has memories of when he was small his dad always in his own thoughts. Never telling him a thing, "Kids should be kids." were things he had told him when brushing off his questioning. Is it because he wants to be a hero that his dad feels he can't trust him? Was it truly that awful?

"Eventually I'll tell you just... Not as everything stands just know at the very least I am on your side. I love you and I am here for you" his father speaks so gently in a tone he used to give when Izuku was young crying. Over a scrapped knee while his father was panicked or holding him in an embrace. Trying desperately to convey something to him.

"I know dad... I know."

And he swears he truly means it.

------

At school, Izuku tried to keep up the pretense that nothing was wrong. Though he did accidentally ignore Shoto's text just a hint to the point the male looked like a kick puppy. It wasn't personal it was just there was a lot on his mind and this was definitely not an easy topic to broach.

Thankfully Ochaco and Iida were able to help keep Shoto company. Or attempted to do so as he still seemed stand-offish with them.

Weirdly enough after the incident with his dad, he couldn't help but feel like he was being watched. Which honestly was not helping with this unnerving feeling that he was involved in something beyond his expectations mixed with his desire to succeed. So despite Shoto clearly wanting to hang out with him, he had to reject the other's attempts to get to the bottom of this.

He just didn't expect the eyes that seemed to be watching him to be the number four hero.

"Yo~! A student from UA how are you doing? Heard quite a lot of rumors about you," as bright red wings filled Izuku's vision it was an indication someone stepped in front of him. A winning smile as the visors hid his eyes from the sun's glare. Revealing the perpetrator was the number four hero Hawk's the fastest hero around.

At any other moment, Izuku would be over the moon at meeting the youngest hero but the timing was off. Wondering why he was here knowing there was no way this was Hawk's usual route or he would be visiting some random student.

"O-Oh really? I'm definitely no one special just one of many," Izuku said with a sheepish smile as he pulls his backpack close to his person. He looked very open and friendly when he saw him on TV but something felt off today. It felt... Forced.

"Well aren't you modest," Hawk noted as he lands in front of Izuku seeming laid back yet every hair on Izuku's body was on edge. The other's demeanor had something off as seems to be assessing him even as tried to return to a more friendly appearance, "Why you looking at me like that? I swear I'm not dangerous."

That's clearly a lie.

The only reason the other wouldn't be dangerous was because there were people around able to hear some chitter chatter. The fans fawn over the hero along with their interest in who Izuku is at talking to such a hero. There is too much attention here and that had been on purpose this was just the first time Izuku didn't have a friend since going to UA. Meaning only one thing.

Hawk had been waiting for him to be alone.

"Heroes don't just randomly stop teenagers on their way home from school," Izuku's tone lowered an octave as he takes a step back. Making it clear he knew a bit better than most how heroes usually acted and something was wrong with this hero. It was as if the other didn't want to do this yet was continuing on anyway. A dissonance he has only seen with his father at times when it allows Izuku to indulge in his hero's hobbies.

"I guess it is suspicious. But I swear it isn't for anything bad I just have some..." The man seemed to be trying to find the wording for what he had to do. A small thought as he takes a sharp breath, "Questions, do you mind if I ask you about them? It's very important for an investigation so would you mind cooperating."

Izuku can only guess someone at the school noticed something off. Likely shared that info with someone outside and that meant also someone was bound to say something. The rumor mill is something that always exists funneling in the background usually though people don't get confirmation until the sports festival about the students. This means whoever sent Hawks didn't want anyone else to know who Izuku Midoriya is.

"S-Sorry it must be a mistake but I got some where else to go," Izuku tries to excuse wondering if the guy had just been waiting for him to be alone. Stepping back he tries to go around only to have wings extend out to block his path. The feathers brush near his face the slight roughness reminding him they were not as soft as they appeared. A weapon that could easily slice him if needed, and they were trained on him.

"I'm sorry I'm going to have to insist on this. I really don't want to force this as you are a kid but this is important. I am here to help to get you out of your bad situation," Hawk speak much softer clearly trying not to cause a stir. The most insane part was that the other seemed to believe that he was going to help him.

Run.

He darts toward the closest alleyway ignoring the 'Hey!' as he needs to get home before he's taken in. Knowing running away could make him a villain, that it would be his word against a hero. But he refused to go wherever the other wished to take him as he didn't wish to be separated from-

Hawk's feathers shot out like bullets one grabs at his uniform from the back of his collar almost choking him. Only to feel something hit his front noting the bundle of feathers knocking the air out of him. A loud gasp escaped as they threw him back guessing the pretense of politeness was gone as he barely had time to recover before having a winged blade to his throat as he was prone on the floor.

"I really don't want to do this," Hawk says as if wasn’t basically threatening him. If anything Izuku is sure this was more for Hawk to assure himself he was doing right. "We got some reliable intel on you and we just want to make sure you're safe. Your father is a high profile villain who has committed atrocities, we just want to take you away from him."

Safe!? That's a blade against my throat!

Izuku grits his teeth already making a guess this hero wasn't just some hero. As none would possibly think to risk their job over the scandal of literally assaulting a minor. Unless something can cover it up it was another crack in the image of heroism that he aspired for.

This hero was in the government's pocket and this wasn't a normal investigation. Otherwise, Izuku would have been allowed to leave as he had intended. He might as well ‘cooperate’ with him before it escalates. Hawk lets out a sigh of relief, seeming relieved when Izuku is the one that was being threatened! Izuku tries not to grind his teeth as just nods his head in understanding.

"I’m so glad you understand. I was worried for a second here, come on take my hand," Hawk steps over to offer the hand. An attempt to make himself seem less like a threat with the preconceived idea Izuku was agreeing with Hawk to cooperate as the teen reaches out to take his hand.

Izuku has gotten really good at acting.

Green eyes look into the other's eyes as he grabs the hero's hands tightly able to see the suspicion. Watching the caution on others' faces he doesn't fight the help cooperating as he gets to his feet. Only for Izuku to portray his newest ability as his grip tightens hard. Watching the pain on the hero's faces from the sudden pain as Izuku makes a desperate move.

"Sorry!"

Gripping Hawk's hand with untold strength he throws the man hard against the nearest wall. The element of surprise was on Izuku's side as this was one of the powers he had taken from U the rabbit. The male made a slight indentation though that seemed to be more from the wing's attempts to stop him from fully hitting it.

Though it seemed the sudden burst of strength of a quirk he only just got made his arms cramp off causing a hiss to escape as the muscles spasm. Trying to ignore it he attempts to escape as knew the other was a pro-hero and number four for a reason. If he didn't act now there was no way he would escape the fastest hero!

Too bad it seems like Hawk was far from done. Thousands of feathers surround Izuku and there was no escape route as he felt the sharpness of them brush his skin. But it was useless as seeing all the feathers cutting off his path a part of him wanted to call for help. He tried to be subtle to maybe text Shoto for help, and maybe his dad slowly trying to move his hands into his pocket-

SLICE.

"GAH-!" A shout of pain as his right thigh burned from a feather slicing through his pants and knocking his phone out of his hand. The cracks loudly resounded as the device was destroyed and the pain was immense. Heroes don't do this. They aren't supposed to hurt people like him just trying to get by!

"You're quite resistant. I really didn't want to hurt you like that but you're causing a scene," Hawk noted as he walked towards Izuku and in this moment he was absolutely terrified as the man might as well have been a villain to Izuku. Someone who was to be a hero was cornering him, looking at him with that pitiful expression despite putting him in this position. Was he truly not allowed to leave? Why can't he just go home? Why was he being treated like a villain?

And in that moment.

In this one very single moment of weakness realizing that he was about to be taken somewhere, he knows he doesn't want to go. That he might end up forced to endure something he never wished for. He lets out a pitiful cry because, in the end, he has no idea what to do against someone like Hawk. He was just some pathetic kid whose only ability was to steal powers and he was helpless as the feathers were all over and his leg was bleeding. So he calls out to the only person he never wished to do.

"Dad help."

Hawk's eyes looked startled as if realizing the one he was trying to intimidate was just some high school kid. His demeanor changed from intimidating to a man that seemed almost horrified. As if that pitiful cry was enough to make the man rethink exactly what he did.

"Woah-! Hey don't cry I swear I'm not going to do anything and it isn't that bad! I'm trying to help you that man you're calling is-"

The man stopped mid-sentence a moment of realization showing in those eyes and Izuku felt himself grabbed by some feathers lifting him up and making him squeak. Only to see a blast of flames fill the alleyway and for a moment Izuku was shocked maybe hopeful that it was Shoto. That he had decided to once again ignore him and did in fact follow him on his weird route home.

"Where did he go?" Hawk sneers holding his blade before moving behind Izuku as they land on the rooftop. Keeping Izuku on the edge of the rooftop looking down at the burning trash beneath. Izuku was at the end and it was clear that neither of them knew where the assailant was. Hawk frowns slowly stepping back out of sight likely about to look around the area.

"We need to get out of here before- SHIT!" The presence of malice was behind him as Izuku felt something was behind him. It wasn't Hawk.

"I swear I would think the newest Nagant Replacement would be much more subtle. But guess I should be glad you were attempting to be 'gentle' it is just too bad you didn't have the sense to back off," a deep and gruff voice could be heard behind him one that this morning had been soft and gentle. Now filled with a mocking tone and contempt a monster that could care less about the lives he destroys.

Izuku was scared to turn as he as memories of the bird came into his mind yet it didn't feel right. He didn't feel like he was escaping with Hawk only that he was about to fall into some cage. Wondering if he had just been the one to kill the bird by calling for this man.

"Oh don't worry he isn't dead. Just a bit... In capacitated," the voice assures as if somehow that makes things better. Which it does but as he turns he realizes the blood he had thought had been hawk's was his father's. On the floor lays Hawk with a head injury only a hint of blood that would be a surprise if he didn't suffer head trauma but it did not match the injury on his father.

A large gash across his chest was likely an attempt by Hawk to kill the man and he felt ill. The red seeped into the white of his father's suit, darkening the black of the overcoat but the gash itself seemed to run deep. Bones slightly exposed as well as organs, Hawk had truly tried to kill the man and yet his father treats it like nothing, at least he's assuming it is his father. Because the oddest thing is over his head was a helmet covering his identity looking at him intently.

"I didn't do anything wrong," Izuku speaks firmly almost instinctively as he remembers the deal to not get in trouble. He didn't do anything to earn this he swears he behaved and was a good student! He isn't being a villain or anything!

"I know you didn't. I'm not that foolish, most likely some idiot noticed the power similarity and let it slip to the government dog," his father speaks but his tone is rougher. Almost harsher in a way Izuku isn't familiar with as he clicks his tongue before walking toward him. "What a mess. At this rate..."

The man's voice was muffled in that mask and Izuku realizes he hates it unable to see his father's face it felt wrong. His eyes looked at the unconscious hawks and then at his father's injuries that seemed to be mending themselves. Explaining why his father seemed almost unbothered despite the injury seeming quite severe.

"Dad, you... You aren't going to kill him the moment I'm gone, are you?" Izuku questioned and there was a pause from the man. Slowly turning to look at him though he doesn't know what expression the man is making.

"If that's what you would prefer. Though most likely he won't be as kind the next time you reject the HPSC offer for a chat. Despite him being a optimist he is a deeply disturbed man, would have been a great villain in another life," he muses as he walks over to Izuku to look him over. Though there is a pause when noticed the small injury against his thigh. As if he was about to take back his suggestion of keeping the man alive his very body tensed as his father focused on that area.

Izuku was quick to move the injured area away from his father's sight. Knowing right now the man was likely thinking of every worst scenario and contemplating if he should even allow his son outside.

"I'm fine," Izuku insisted, just hoping his dad would just accept saving him and let them go home.

"You called for me," his father whispers softly as if registering that for once his son had wanted and needed him. His voice was soft almost gentle as he looks over at his son the mast no longer seeming as terrifying.

Izuku looks away with a grimace knowing it likely was silly of him to feel ashamed for calling for his dad. A wave of shame that he had gotten more powers for the very purpose of not needing his father. He didn't even get a chance to show them off as Hawk was faster, more experienced than he was, but he won't make the same mistake.

"I did is that such a surprise," Izuku speaks trying not to cry in frustration wishing he hadn't been so useless. He needs to try harder at this moment he realized he wasn't doing enough. Then he feels a hand on his head as if to assure him it was alright.

"No, a child should be allowed to call their parent when it becomes too much for them. I'm just glad you did," his father mutters stroking his head in a assuring manner. Izuku couldn't help his body to relax because despite the violence and chaos... He did feel safe right now.

"How did you find me?" Izuku questioned and that is when his father seemed to turn his head away.

"Don't worry about that. Let's go home before Hawk wakes up and while he is definitely the governments dog even he isn't stupid to keep chasing once out of sight," the man spoke almost suspiciously like was dodging the question. Making him wonder if the guy was stalking him or something.

His father is lucky that he is too tired to rebel or call out and also because he just saved him from being kidnapped. So he can think about it later.

Moving next to his dad he leans on him placing his head on his father's arm not wanting to look at the stupid mask. His eyes closed as the familiar warmth of his father brought him some comfort even as the scent of blood was still fresh. His dad got hurt coming to save him, who exactly was his dad?

He wished he knew more about him and why he does things that are so terrible the government wished him dead. The scent of blood was so strong but his father was gentle as holds him close.

He didn't even thank his dad, did he?

...He's sure he already knows.

Chapter Text

Unfortunately, his phone and out of commission so he can't contact or even check the news. Likely whatever the number four hero was doing it was off the books. His father had got him home avoiding attention explaining the mask was to hide his identity.

"Hero society isn't as bright and sunny as it pretends to be," his father's voice spoke as a matter of fact. It was just how the world worked in this day and age rather than a wrong to fix. Hisashi speaks with certainty at this cruelty, and Izuku wonders how long the government has done this.

"Why did Hawk do that? He's a hero and is well liked," Izuku was trying to wrap around this betrayal. Heroes aren't supposed to kidnap or harm kids. Even if Izuku is more capable than some it could not change the vast power difference between them.

"Most likely they wanted you for your powers if anything was leaked by the school. Making you a Nagant 3.0," his father finally removed the helmet before they entered their estate. Tossing it and a black mist seemed to swallow it out of nowhere. Izuku looked around but saw nothing. Did his dad have a teleportation quirk? Most likely but this wasn't the important part.

His father mentioned the hero Nagant who ended up in jail after assaulting a figurehead. The former hero disappears though his father then handed him some questionable material that implied some unsavory things. Did this mean...

"Isn't that the hero that killed her surperior and got sentenced to jail?" He questioned trying to understand what he had just avoided when all he'd done was try to be a hero. "Is this related to the HPSC?"

His father went quiet as he placed a hand against Izuku's back leading him to the couch. Likely if Izuku didn't have regeneration his father would be fretting over him more. As it stands Izuku's wounds have healed like his father's. Sitting beside him it only felt more apparent they were... Different from everyone. Being nearly kidnapped by someone he thought of as a hero made him feel more alone.

"The more you know the less able you will be to live normally. I promise I won't let them get you and once you're out in the open it will stop," he speaks seeming intent on avoiding explaining. It wasn't like the usual playfulness he would display at dinner in a teasing manner. It was firmer and even had a hint of worry on his face that Izuku had never seen.

"At least that's how it should but until you can defend yourself and debut to the world that you are here, there is no gaurantee," Hisashi looks at him. "But this knowledge that you want so badly? It will only hurt you, not help you so stay ignorant not for my sake but your own."

Well, that's ominous.

If Izuku wasn't so exhausted he would press more but as it stood his father had the fortitude to actually parent him. As it was clear the other knew a lot more about this situation than he did. So all he could do was trust that his father meant it when he said he would protect him. Even if it didn't sit right with him.

Izuku was trying to be a hero, yet he couldn't even defend himself from a hero. It was frustrating.

"Dad, can't you trust me?" Izuku speaks softly wondering if this truth truly was so terrible it would only hurt him. His father was quiet for a moment as he stroked his head once more.

"I trust you more then anything in the world. That's why I'm doing this it is all for you it is the least I could do. It's what I promised your mother even if I'm terrible at it I am trying," Hisashi spoke with a far-off expression. It has been a long time since he ever mentioned Inko to Izuku usually avoiding it. Always seeming to recoil or smooth over subjects when it came to her. But a promise?

"What you two promise?" Izuku questioned and his father was quiet for a moment. Looking far off into something that his son can't see.

"That no matter what you're wellbeing and potential happiness is to be our priority..." And for once... Izuku felt he could trust his father being genuine about this. Because his father may be shady and questionable as a father but he knows he loved his mom. His father was terrible at his promise but the fact his father also allowed him to leave to become a hero and even now isn't throwing him back into that home show is still trying. After having to save his son seemed to be trying hard to keep him safe.

Izuku can at least trust that even if misguided or odd the intention was there.

"Alright... I won't press on it dad. But in that case how about I make a promise," Izuku felt he might as well now. Memories of a promise when his father first took him away to that windowless home. Constantly terrified of being left alone and begging his dad to stay as makes he promises to always be with him. It was time he showed his feelings even if he can't agree with his dad often it means something.

"A promise? That would be like making a deal with the devil son, you don't have to do anything," the man noted with a rumble of a laugh at his son trying to make a promise. Izuku wasn't laughing as it was serious, watching the man register he was serious. Those red eyes narrowed just a hint at the fact his son wanted to make him a promise. "What is this promise?"

Izuku takes a deep breath as he looks into those eyes staring intently, "I promise to become a hero that could protect you. Then maybe you won't do any of this anymore and be just my dumb dad."

A twitch showed upturned the corner of his father's lips at those words as if considering those words. There is a moment of silence before his father lets out a sigh as a small melancholic smile shows on his face, "I see, I remember a little you once ven saying how if I got a hug maybe I wouldn't be so evil. Seems despite everything you are still a good kid, she would be thankful for that."

Izuku doesn't remember this specific incident being mentioned. His eyes were wide with confusion as he wondered if that meant his father had accepted the promise. Only for his father to stand up as he states, "But that is why I'll reject it because you have no idea what you're saying. Worry about yourself Izuku, my job as your father is to nurture and help you grow. Saving? That chance has long since passed and you're naive if you think you can do it."

Those words struck like a knife to the heart as his father's gaze was cruel at the finality of it. Rejecting the idea of his son even coming close to 'saving' him in any way. His father had always entertained his ideas even if he seemed to hate heroism but this. Even when playing with him as a kid he never complained about how.

"Dad I'm serious I'll-" Izuku tries to initiate an actual conversation about this solely for his father to cut him off. As if tired of this.

"Enough!" Hisashi shouted as he stared him down with anger that Izuku had never seen. Getting to his feet the man towered over Izuku, "You have no idea what you are even speaking. Don't promise me something you will not be able to keep nor capable of doing. Live your heroic and tasteful life, I don't need anything and I've never needed it. Be glad I'm doing any of this for you as I could have continued happily keeping you locked away."

Izuku shrunk staring wide-eyed at the man who moments earlier had been gentle to him. Holding him close and assuring him that he will be safe with him. Now able to see anger and rage that did not feel natural as if it was something the man had buried deep and Izuku's words had brought to the surface. His father turns from him moving a hand through his hair as if realizing his emotions had gotten away from him.

"I'm sorry that was too much. Izuku, please be selfish and take advantage of the things I have given you along with my protection. Don't speak such nonesense again until you fully understand what you're saying," His father's voice was of someone who had been burned before. His eyes looked at his son sadly but the threat of locking him away was there it was a way to dissuade Izuku from persisting with this line of questioning.

And Izuku is upset that it worked, unable to find it in himself to persist in his desire to show his father could become something like that. What has happened to his father to make him recoil at the idea of being saved...?

"Dad I just..." He wanted to say that he did mean it and that he wants to be able to show that despite how much he fights the man he still cares. Though the words died on his tongue unable to find the thing he needed to say to prove that he did understand. His father was closely guarding a secret that would hurt them yet not allowing his son to even express a desire to help either.

"Go rest, you have school tomorrow." Those were the last words he heard from his father only capable of watching as he left his son alone. Izuku noted that this was probably the cruelest thing his father had done. It felt like he was being pushed away by the one person who had always smothered him...

What had he done wrong?

-------

The next day it felt like everything that had happened was some weird messed-up dream. As his father was back to normal, sort of, wondering if the reason for his behavior was the stress of his son being nearly kidnapped. Though there was no way he could ask at the moment as despite the man smiling it was clear he was still stressed by it as he had bags under his eyes. Making Izuku wonder if he even slept last night.

He should at least try small talk feeling like he was on eggshells unsure of how his father would react now.

"So um... your breakfast looks great today," Izuku pipes only earning a small thanks. Instead of the usual beam of delight as his father always adored any praise given by his son. This time there was barely a response.

"Try not to take too long you do have school today," his father speaks casually not adding anything else and Izuku frowns. Knowing the man tended to be the reason he takes so long always talking too much or smothering. Yet now seemed to suddenly be tight lip and frankly unlike himself as if they were strangers.

"Ok, well I'll go get dressed," a part of Izuku had expected the usual dumb prank this time it was early so wasn't rushing but there was just his boy's uniform. If anything it seemed as if his female uniform hadn't been touched at all. He hated this, he had no idea why his father was acting so distant. He had saved him and said would keep him safe, that it wasn't something for him to worry yet now was treating him like a stranger.

He hated this. He wants his annoying and obnoxious father that doesn't understand personal space. The man who thinks it funny to switch up his clothing and fawns over him over the stupidest thing. But maybe it is just for today maybe he will feel better later?

Just return to that stupid weirdo with no personal space that needs to be constantly reminded that he isn't some doll.

The thought made him freeze, wondering what the hell is he thinking that somehow what was before was better. He should be happy that his father isn't pestering him or sabotaging him. This is exactly what he wanted just the space to become independent and his own person. That is all he wanted and what he had been fighting his father for.

As Izuku looks at the female uniform still on the hanger, he turns away guessing he was just overthinking it. He just has to get stronger then no one would have to worry about him.

-----

It didn't seem like Shoto had come today also guessing he had taken his insistence of needing space seriously after the mock battle.

Though he hadn't been able to text at all since that day and now was forced to wait on a new phone. U was also missing from his room but his dad said he was just sent for a check-up, guessing he was just missing a lot of things. Wondering how the rabbit even left his room without him noticing but then his dad likely did it while Izuku was at school. His dad didn't even elaborate on that subject of U when asked before he left just like everything else leaving him to wonder if taking the strength quirk had bad side effects.

His father never confirmed only reminding him about school.

He used his super speed to rush to school not about to risk another encounter with Hawk. Though he did meet up with Shoto at the train station to his surprise.

"Oh hey Shoucchan!" Izuku shouted honestly needing a distraction from his chaotic life.

At least he had thought he could just insert himself into 'normal high school trying to be a hero' life. The teen's mood seemed almost sour only barely acknowledging him a bit with a nod. Making him wonder if the other was upset at him ghosting him.

"Shoucchan?" Izuku felt something like a twinge of annoyance as he didn't need both his father and his best friend being curt. He clicks his tongue just a hint which certainly seemed to catch Todoroki's attention as he felt more than a bit annoyed. Why was even Shoto acting off, "Look at me, Shoto."

It was surprisingly successful as Shoto looked at him likely surprised at Izuku making such a demand or using his first name so casually. Though Izuku was just relieved guessing he wasn't purposely ignoring him, "Sorry, is something wrong? You seem out of it?"

"Oh, I thought you were still mad at me so I was giving you space." Shoto admits as the door to the subway closed. The two moved closer to each other as they waited to travel.

"Eh?" Izuku has no idea why the other would assume that. He only remembers being pissed at his dad but Shoto hasn't done anything. At least he thinks he hasn't, "Mad? Why would I be mad?"

Shoto then holds out a hand as he begins to list the reasons, "Because I didn't mention you were wearing a girl uniform, you did snap at me. You acted as if I was purposely hiding this and during the exam you got upset when I iced everyone instead of us working together. We haven't talked in three days not even a text just complete silence after you said needed space which I was fine with a day or so. We don't need to be attached but when didn't even text me all those days after we used to talk all the time it felt obvious you were upset."

Oh- Izuku didn't even realize he was ignoring the other for that long. Though he can't deny the fact he had been kind of pissed and upset about the uniform thing so when Shoto just pressed the instant win button after showing off he felt inadequate. Though he wasn't mad just disappointed after making a show to Bakugou how strong he was personally. Only to be reminded that Shoto was incredibly powerful.

Then his father threatened to kill people when Izuku tried to get justifiably mad about the uniform so the next day he kind of just dissociated from life. Then nearly gets kidnapped by a pro hero needing his dad to save him and his phone is destroyed.

One, two, three. So basically today is day three and Shoto thought he was going to be ignored more.

"I..." Though maybe he did rely on Shoto too much. The other didn't need him as much as Izuku needed him in return. That's the funny part, isn't it?

The other had a shitty home life and izuku got a chance to be the Shoto's hero in a sense but he doesn't need him as much. Once Endeavor is made to back off Shoto has had more freedom and now that they are at UA the other was shining. He moves his hands to clench the handles above his head as he wondered if he was being selfish. He didn't even explain anything that was happening and tended to just force Shoto to be his tag along.

"I guess I was," he noted as he looked at the one who he had inserted himself into his life. Into his very home with the persistence of someone who had never had a friend before. "But I'm ok now. My phone just broke yesterday even though I been meaning to talk to you, sorry."

As an uncomfortable silence hung over them he could feel Shoto looking at him. Izuku tightens his grip as he looks at the other, "Can you keep a secret? Swear it on your life when we get to the school let find a private place, I'm going to explain everything."

He needs to talk to someone before he goes insane as this was just too much and his dad was now being curt towards him. Everything that is happening is driving him mad able to still feel eyes on his very person wondering who his father was and why a hero tried to kidnap him. Maybe he is making a mistake and is dragging the other into something they wouldn't want to be a part of.

He just hopes it isn't a mistake, they are friends after all.

Right?

-----------------

"My friend, do you have any idea who is the rat who could have leaked out the information on my son?" All for One questioned as Garaki was fixing up the rabbit that his son had been unwittingly mutilating.

The poor thing's mind had been fried from being constantly messed with. It reminded him almost of Machia so they decided to add an endurance quirk, well more than one in case Izuku wants that, onto the thing. It seemed his son was becoming greedy a concerning fact as it seemed the quirk was affecting his personality. Or maybe it is because he is in an environment that has enabled that behavior, at least U is an easy and safe target. Being undead and all.

One that will allow his son to keep a clear conscience as long as he doesn't question where the quirks U has come from.

"Who can say? You have a lot of enemies though I have doubts it would be the french boy you hired," the scientist mused as he was reviving the circuits in the rabbit's brain. The body twitches and thrashes just a hint thankfully held down by restraints. "If only because he doesn't seem like he would want to kill his parents like that. Have you considered it was leaked accidentally? I do remember you bitterly lamenting someone from your son's past also being there and the details of how you would make his last moments in life miserable."

All for One did consider that also. It was possible that after encountering Izuku's quirk during the first day of 'testing' that Aizawa inflicted he told his friend. Though that would also require admitting that he got his quirk stolen a few times a fact he can't imagine the brat ever being willing to admit. However...

"Hm, could be an adults carelessness since the teachers know his quirk even if don't fully understand it," All for One muses knowing there is one man that never cared about conventionals. Aizawa may not be one to talk to the press but he is also a careless mess expelling students like there wouldn't be consequences. All the government needed was one whiff, a drunken night of revealing secrets in some way, as there were already tons of internet rumors about All for One and they had people scoring those forums. One confirmation that Izuku exists and that it would be enough to do such a reckless thing as kidnapping.

"Well young Tomura, your heir, is still planning the attack on USJ do you want him to proceed with it? The information your son has given might put them in conflict with each other," Garaki reminds and if All for One was honest with everything happening he has 'neglected' Tomura a bit. A fact that Tomura has made quite clear in his pissed-off fit at the gaps between their meetings. He was like himself sometimes when comes to a lack of attention.

"My son may have been no match for Hawks but that is because he is built on speed and my son's fortitude is still weak still learning. A Villain attack will help him know if he will sink or swim, so he will proceed with it," All for One informed already having it so the Nomu can't and won't harm Izuku. No matter what he does it would be impossible though it will also make sure he can't steal its quirks. He can't imagine what those quirks would do to his kid.

"Tomura isn't going to hold back unless you tell him. He could end up killing your son," Garaki warned, and All for One paused. Red eyes glance over at the man who is the closest thing to a 'friend' that he has as he watches the scientist move to wash the blood off his hands.

"He won't," it was said with certainty as he smiled knowing while it might seem like he is putting his son in danger he knows better. There is one thing that will make sure this doesn't become a tragedy, "Tomura is going to learn failure that day a harsh but neccessary lesson. After all... The Symbol of Peace still exist doesn't he?"

As long as that man lives then evil will always live underfoot but it didn't mean there wasn't a use for that man's continued existence. His son's fear and desire for validation, Tomura's failure and hatred, and All Might's need to protect.

His promise to his deceased wife forever holds on to help their son grow but for that to happen hardship is required. Yesterday had been proof that his son was not prepared for the hero's life the moment an actual threat happened. And eventually, his father won't be able to protect him, an idea that All for One abhors but knows it is true needing to restrain himself least he breaks the promise and repeats the tragedy of with his brother. He isn't making the same mistake again.

"I did forget that didn't I? So I guess you don't believe the Nomu can defeat him?" Garaki questioned as he returned to the rabbit and as he turns on the machine. The loud screech of the rabbit could be heard as an electric current went into its body. Before springing up, breaking the restraints with its returned strength suddenly alive and revived its brain is exposed as its large green eyes look around aware once more. An adorable abomination not allowed to die as long as his son still needs it.

"No, I don't. He's still at his peak despite his age so he will only need one punch to that nomu you're lending Tomura. But knowing him, he will be late helping every little citizen despite having students to teach more than enough to give the students a scare and that man guilt," he clicks his tongue with contempt knowing that man is the safest person to be around his son. Yet also the biggest threat if ever was to know his identity but there is at least one thing he is sure of.

"...Aren't you worried about your greatest enemy learning about your son also?" Garaki questioned. All for One smiled knowingly as he had expected this question.

"Once he gets to know him. He would practically hand over his quirk in a heart beat if he has any sense, I have no fear of that," after all. All for One may be a villain but he always had the mind of what he had wished for in a hero. He never discouraged his son from admiring heroes and always made sure to emphasize in comics the moralities of them. His son practices what he preaches, however, he is still so young, naive, and inexperienced. A diamond in the rough.

That is a hero that he is sure even All Might can't deny, but then who is to say his son won't eventually become jaded by society? The very thing that once they learn his parentage will turn on him despite his righteousness? Despite his honest desire to be a hero it wouldn't be enough because even connections by blood can damn you.

Even All Might won't be able to save him from that.

And all Hisashi can do is make sure he doesn't stumble when he falls.

Chapter Text

Izuku has known Todoroki for more than a year now. 

A story of clumsy first meetings with bloodied noses, and harsh sneers with detest in his gaze. Shoto was very bitter and spiteful when they met even when Izuku tried to talk it out. Leading to a fight on a rooftop before creating a long-lasting friendship. A classic Shonen story of friendship but lately it has been feeling like he's in something much darker.

An evil father who loves him so much he would lock him away. His old bully constantly staring him down, a friend living in abuse that is constantly overlooked and now nearly getting kidnapped by a hero because of some government conspiracy. Along with the knowledge his father would and could kill his classmates with a single word. That kind of power is terrifying yet...

Izuku can't deny this feeling that despite everything it was still better than when was trapped in that old home. Still able to recall how cold Shoto's gaze was upon their first encounter the recognition of someone else trapped in their misery. The blood running down his face from the incident as stared him down with barely contained hatred. After everything Izuku still can't bring himself to hate so strongly and yet Shoto could and it made him feel secure.

Stoic but also extremely awkward in an almost innocent way. Rude but also a great listener whenever Izuku just needed a chance to talk. Izuku considers him to be his closest friend and confidante, so he often shares his thoughts and feelings with him. While Shoto always shared his issues about his own family to the point some might think it's over-sharing.

So when the other seemed upset at being ignored for several days it felt only fair to explain some things to his best friend. He needs someone outside of his father to talk to about this and can't lose a friend over this. It felt suffocating. As if he wished to shout out to the sky with hope someone could help him but he knows that won't help anyone.

As soon as it was lunchtime, that is when Izuku ushered Shoto away from everyone. Making some excuse earlier of telling him later despite saying on the train would talk to him. His hand grabbed at his friend's wrist to practically drag him as he held him tightly. Not about to let his first friend get away, and thankfully he didn't try to pull away.

His eyes glance at the camera knowing any open chatting could end up causing more trouble. There were very few places they could hide without any cameras around, UA lives up to its reputation for safety. Though in this moment it felt almost uncomfortable knowing he was being watched. Still, Izuku always made sure to keep himself aware of his surroundings and knew one place they could talk it out.

The supply closet.

"Ok, we should be safe here," Izuku noted. 

"I know it seems like I have been ignoring you, and maybe me I been kind of taking advantage of you." It was a fair assessment since maybe he was bitter at how strong Shoto was. While Izuku got one small taste of victory only to realize it was nothing compared to the boy blessed with natural talent. It's hard not to be a little envious of the other and frustrated that the other at times seems to barely break a sweat.

In those moments he can't help but want to act cold just to watch the other be baffled. But ignoring the other was a bit too harsh and also not very heroic. A fact he felt ashamed about the moment Shoto pointed out how had been given the cold shoulder for a few days. 

"Ok..." he takes a deep breath a part of him feels guilty. As he was about to burden the other with this knowing Shoto has his own issues. He looks into his best friend's eyes that stare right back into his own unflinching. As if ready to accept whatever he wishes to say and it is enough to drag his courage to speak," You know... How your dad is a pretty terrible dad but everyone thinks he is a great hero?"

It likely was an odd way to start by bringing up Shoto's father. The way he knit his eyebrows in confusion made Izuku shift. Izuku has seen firsthand the abuse all because Natsuo had allowed him into the house without his father knowing. Allowing him a chance to see someone that only those in the family could see. The absolute horror of seeing a grown man striking at Shoto burned into his mind.

This is why Izuku could trust him to be honest when he is surrounded by lies. His father never tells him the things he needs to know and now he learned even heroes aren't truly good. But Shoto never lied about the things he has experienced, never conforming to society's need for privacy and politeness.

"Well, my dad kinda like the opposite in that he seems nice and friendly on first meeting. But in reality commits terrible atrocities as his career." Izuku knows maybe he's being dumb talking about such things but he's desperate. "I think my father is a supervillain and because of that I nearly got kidnapped by the government for it.

It sounded insane. His life was abnormal as hell the more he saw people interact. Ochaco had a regular home just a little poor but full of love. Iida came from a fancy private school but his life was normal with a nice family. There is also Bakugou who Izuku used to know everything about the boy who was spoiled and gifted with loving parents. Shoto was the closest thing to living a life he  could  understand even if knows that unlike Endeavor, his own dad did love him. Just unfortunately seems to lack empathy in any regard.

The weirdest part, however, was that Shoto did not seem as surprised as he should have been. If anything there was a weird look in the male's eyes as he straightened up. As if had somehow suspected his father was some evil villain- No he is probably imagining it.

"So that explains your odd behavior in ignoring when others tell you not to do something." Shoto noted. "As well as how aggressive you were in stalking and 'befriending' me. Despite the fact there was a whole school of other students you could have talked too."

What!? When was he aggressive!?

Izuku was dumbfounded! He only  accidentally  hit him ONCE. Yes, he bothered him afterward despite Shoto making it clear wanted nothing to do with him. As well as how he had many other students look at him with weariness when he ignored them. Maybe he also was sort of stalking Shoto which might be much. But he NEEDED the other as he was the only one who could get into UA. So he wouldn't be alone-

Oh god, he was harassing Shoto.  His dad did have a stronger influence on him than he wanted to admit. As he realized everything he had been doing was vastly outside the norm. Just like how Shoto struggled socially from his upbringing, Izuku just did as he pleased without regard for the consequences. Being raised by a father who gave in to most requests he made might have made him a bit more spoiled than he thought.

He does not, however, regret barging in and saving Shoto from Endeavor’s 'training'. It doesn’t matter if this was a family matter or not this was something he just couldn’t ignore. If that makes him bad then he doesn’t know what good truly is.

"I think... I want to return to my old home and not face the reality that I was acting like my dad," Izuku noted as his hand went to rub his face. There was the saying like father, like son but this was not a trait he would want from his father. So having it pointed out only made him realize how insane he must have seemed. Which makes him wonder why the others could tolerate him.

"Midoriya it really isn't that bad and I appreciate what you did. We should get back on the more serious topic," Shoto assured which did help Izuku feel a bit better. "Who tried to kidnap you exactly? Did anyone see or try to stop it?"

At the least, Shoto was taking this seriously as almost being kidnapped is not exactly a minor incident. There aren't a lot of people they could talk to about this. If it  is  the government it means anyone who is a 'hero' could be ready to take Izuku in. Not a situation that inspires any feelings of confidence especially for the boy who idolized heroes since his youth even when slowly became aware of his father's crimes.

Izuku hated this. He thought heroes were supposed to be the beacon of hope like All Might was. Was his father right about society? That just by association he would be damned and it why no one can ever know their relation? Even if Izuku is genuine about helping despite who his father is?

He doesn't want to think about it. The more he entertains such thoughts the more he risks himself falling prey to despair. There is no way every hero is like that and even Hawk for a moment seemed startled when realized had hurt him enough to scare him. Maybe this whole thing was just a huge misunderstanding.

"It was Hawks, one of the top heroes. He just kind of came out of nowhere after school and said he wanted to chat. I wasn't exactly sure why so I kind of tried to side step the conversation. I mean usually I be excited but he felt... Fake," he clarified as it still didn't feel real. It felt like this was all just a bad dream. As if the world itself was sneering at him for just being born. "I tried to excuse myself... And he attacked me."

Shoto is the child born only to surpass All Might, his mother had burned him and left him in only his father's care. It was probably terrible to admit but misery loves company. Izuku feels it is what allows him to trust Shoto with this. Shoto is probably the only person who would accept this.

"Hawk? Huh," Shoto seemed almost inquisitive about this fact. Rolling it over in his mind at this information he doesn't question it. He is someone who lives with a hero who has done terrible things so he knows more than anything, what they are capable of. "That honestly reminded me I think my dad mentioned him. They never talked before but he suddenly started showing up and asked him some weird stuff."

Well, this is the first time he heard of Endeavor and Hawk socializing with each other. Endeavor didn't tend to socialize with his competition outside of work or at least it seemed it was a first according to Shoto. Izuku frowns on what exactly was said, and how would this lead to Hawk even knowing he existed. Did Endeavor...?

"Why were they talking? If you eavesdropped on them," Izuku questioned hoping that this meant the other knew something. It seemed that was enough to put Shoto into thought as maybe this is how leaked. However, Izuku isn't sure how that could be the case since the government wouldn't know his face. Also, he doubts Endeavor is talking about him in detail.

"Hawk actually was asking about an interview that nearly happened during the entrance exam. I don't know if you watched the news but when you grabbed me to get me out apparently you were caught on camera," There is a pause as Izuku has not watched any news. As he had thought he was faster than any camera, "It was only a brief showing as apparently there was some legality about recording a minor. But Hawk seemed curious and asked about you."

Camera? When was he on camera-?

There is a moment of horrific realization. Even though nothing was confirmed Izuku does remember the specific moment Shoto is talking about. On the day of the Entrance Exam, he can very much recall how miserable Shoto looked as Endeavor was trying to get the interviewers to leave him be. Izuku was caught on camera, but he never thought about this fact until now. [ reference CH. 9 ]

"But they didn't get my name or anything! There is no way they could dissect so much that they want to kidnap me from that- Right?" Izuku questioned because it was so brief. However, if they were questioning Endeavor through Hawk to confirm his identity. Then it is likely they asked other students about it. Everyone in his section saw him 'borrowing' Ochaco's power during the entrance exam. They can't have known it was from him stealing a quirk right?

No- There is no way Endeavor could have said anything for them to assume he has such a quirk. He has no idea about how Izuku's quirk worked as he was tight-lipped even when visited. At least nothing that should be having the government coming AFTER him. But then if Endeavor does know what this means...

"Shoto, what did you tell your dad about me?" 

There is a strong silence. He didn't want to believe it, likely it wasn't on purpose. Maybe the other was coaxed into it yet the  idea  that his friend might have been the reason the government figured it out. He wants there to be some mysterious outside figure, he wants some unknown player. Please let this NOT be the case-

"...." Shoto seemed almost uncomfortable as if unsure how to respond his eyes looking at Izuku surprised. Yet also unsure of how to respond as if realizing what this line of questioning was implying.

"You TOLD him about my quirk!?" Izuku could barely contain his sneer unable to believe this. As the other's silence might as well have been confirmation that he told something he trusted him with.

This caused Shoto to tense up as if startled as never heard Izuku make such a sound. Even if should expect this as Izuku thought he never tells his father ANYTHING. Shoto had possibly told his father about his quirk even though Izuku had trusted him to keep quiet. That it was meant to be left vague on purpose and only told Shoto because trusted him.  HE TOLD .

"I didn't-!" Shoto was quick to defend himself seeming on high alert now that Izuku was getting riled up. Trying to salvage it seemed he had recovered from his initial shock, "Calm down. All I said was you had more than one like me, that's it!"

If his father finds out about this then Shoto could end up in trouble. If Hawk found out through Endeavor and his father finds out then they are dead. That one shot of the camera likely was on the news and his father might already be analyzing it as the thing that got him known. That brief moment of Izuku playfully kidnapping his friend, all in an attempt to help Shoto out. That would be  trouble . 

And Izuku CAN'T get in trouble!

"You're getting the wrong idea. I'm trying to say it possible just that video was enough, you're overthinking this," Shoto was quick to correct seeming a bit hurt. "I was vague, Midoriya, so unless he was psychoanalyzing everything it wasn't because of me. And also it could have been  any  other student in Class 1-A or the entrance exam group you were in, as they all knew. I can't confirm if my father did or not but I wouldn't do something that would get  you  hurt. You know that."

The white-haired teen felt something like relief and guilt at snapping. If he is honest there is a chance the government simply knows who his father is. His father always makes it clear to look as bland and ordinary as possible whenever has to go out. Meaning the government might have on record his appearance.

Ever since his hair had turned white it seemed as if he had lost his own identity. Becoming just one in the crowd even just wearing ordinary clothing made him feel wrong. Among a crowd of vibrant characters his own appearance stood out only his hair was an indicator of something else. If it is known that he has multiple powers, that might be a sufficient excuse.

The interview itself is likely how he even got the government's attention if his dad is big enough to be a concern. Especially if it had some legalities there is a chance whatever they had got from them was what was revealed.

Though now it meant any of the other students or failed students could have leaked it. The government knows his existence and maybe Izuku was overthinking this. Maybe there was no specific person that leaked out said information and it was all a hunch. One that accidentally got confirmed the moment Hawk went to talk and his father responded to his cry for help.

"Izuku, now that we know this is an issue we can work it out," Shoto interrupts his thoughts as places a hand on his shoulder. Helping to ground Izuku back to reality, "I'll walk with you. I don't think they would try to kidnap you if there is a witness and because of my father it would make a scene."

Despite the fact Shoto hated using anything his father had it seemed he was willing to put it aside for Izuku's safety. He was serious about helping make sure Izuku was safe despite the fact his father might be a villain. Nor did he even try to ask if he wanted to get away or anything as if understood. It was nice to just finally talk it out with someone who will listen truly to him.

"That might be a good idea-" A loud thump like someone had just pulled away from the door was heard. Shoto was staring intently at the door as everything became still. As if everyone had realized something dire had just occurred, slowly Izuku looked at the door. A figure slowly seems to be trying to move away from the door.

Someone heard them.

They had no idea when the guy got to the door but it seemed whoever was outside the window was trying to quietly move away. Not exactly a good sign almost like an admission of guilt. Realizing they had heard something they weren't supposed to hear.

Izuku didn't waste any time not sure what would happen if the listener was to tell a teacher. A primal fear rushed over him as he activated super speed and rushed out of the closet. The door slammed open and it seemed the listener had barely avoided being hit before being grabbed by Izuku. Holding the other roughly by the front of the shirt he lifts him with super strength wondering who would listen in.

It was- 

"Aoyama?!" He shouts more startled as this was the last person he imagined would at all care about his presence. Guessing a part of him had expected Bakugou, he isn't sure why. Maybe he thought that would be the only person with such audacity so this was a surprise.

"Mercy, Mercy! I am sorry!" Aoyama cries out underneath Izuku's grip making him aware he must look quite terrifying. Being able to lift the other so easily suddenly because of his new superstrength quirk was likely a scary image. 

"S-Sorry Aoyama! I thought um-" Izuku felt flustered as he released his classmate on instinct trying to figure out why he was there. Though he might have overreacted to assault his classmate like that. Watching the blond male back away it was weird how scared he was. Like yes maybe was a bit aggressive but he wasn't going to hurt him-

"Don't apologize to him. He was eavesdropping," Shoto said with no guilt at the fact this was their classmate. If anything it seemed he had become quite cold clearly angered at the interruption. It wasn't as if Shoto was wrong considering they both had noticed his shadow lingering. He swallowed his nerves as he looked at Aoyama.

"What did you hear?" Izuku questioned quietly watching Aoyama let out a squeak at the questioning. Practically shaking as knew that there was no way could lie and pretend he heard nothing.

"About-" Aoyama seemed like he was about to reveal everything he heard. Izuku very quickly covered the other's mouth realizing they could talk about this outside. 

"Wait stop-! Just answer if everything or half- or pieces! It is very very private," Izuku piped knowing that there were camera's around. Who knows who could be listening to them? This was already a bad enough scene if the cameras were recording them right now.

"Have you stooped to harassing people, Deku?" A familiar sneer broke through the conversation. The hairs on the back of Izuku's neck stood on end as he turned his gaze toward the voice. There stood his ex-childhood friend watching the scene and the tone was accusatory. As if isn't even surprised at him but what else is new?

Though Izuku will admit he was surprised that Bakugou wasn't alone as next to him was Kaminari. Wondering if they were friends or just happened to be going the same way. His baffled expression made it clear he had no idea what was going on, "Hey Aoyama why do you look like you're about to cry?"

Izuku decided this was the perfect time to eject from this uncomfortable situation. Slowly removing his hand from Aoyama's mouth as if he had been burned, keeping his hand raised. Trying to figure out the best way to defuse the situation. Before Kaminari tells a teacher, especially Aizawa, that Izuku is bothering another student.

"Nothing! I just um- I just wanted to ask Aoyama about his quirk! But I had more questions to ask," he lied. He's never lied before but considering he either lied or faced a chance of getting in trouble he didn't have many options. Aoyama looked startled at this looking between Izuku and then at Bakugou & friend. Izuku genuinely hoped he played along as he has no idea what he would do.

"Y-Yeah! Also, I'm not crying I just- I got something in my eye!" Aoyama informed almost like was defending Izuku. Which, Well honestly, Izuku was surprised as he looked at Aoyama wondering why would play along. It seemed despite listening in the other wasn't trying to cause trouble. This was a relief.

"Sounds like bullshit," Bakugou barked even when Kaminari seemed to have accepted Aoyama's excuse. Shoto decided to step in once Bakugou made it clear that he didn't believe them. Even though there wasn't any reason to keep bothering them. Izuku's mouth felt dry feeling like he was in an interrogation as those red eyes stared him down.

Then Shoto moves in front of him, cutting off that line of sight and bringing Izuku back to reality.

"Shouchan-" Izuku spoke up startled as could practically feel the ice radiating off of him. There was some strange assurance in knowing that Shoto had his back at this moment. 

"What are you his keeper? He doesn't have to tell you everything and we were just talking," Shoto spoke firmly. For once, instead of being subtle with his dislike. It was clear he understood the complicated relationship and was ending it here, "What are you going to do if he refuses to tell you? Intimidate him until he caves? What are you a villain?

Bakugou seemed to turn red as now was bearing his teeth at him. Sparks showed on his hand before Shoto made a gesture toward a camera drawing the blond's gaze. It seemed the threat of getting in trouble was enough to make him back off a bit even if was growling. 

Shoto glances back at Izuku with a concerned look as if to make sure he is alright. Izuku wonders if he knows that he has been having talks with Bakugou alone and the animosity. So now he was reminding him that he wasn't alone and that he didn't have to deal with this.

"It's none of your business anyway, Bakugou." Shoto's words were coarse without any politeness or niceties. Trying to make it clear he was unwelcomed to the conversation.

"You got a problem with me asking questions, Icy hot? Since when did you become Deku's guard dog," Bakugou sneers as he gets right up into Todoroki's face. Shoto didn't even flinch as stood tall as a reminder that despite everything was quite tall. Even with Bakugou's respectable height he still had to tilt his head up just a bit to keep eye level. It's clear this fact only pissed him off but Izuku doesn't have time for Bakugou and Shoto standing up reminded him there were more important things.

He wasn't alone.

"He isn't my 'guard dog', Kacchan, he's my friend. And honestly, he's a really good one," Izuku barked as he went to grab Shoto by the arm as well as Aoyama. "We're just going to get going anyway. We have things to do."

That was his chance to try and leave already leading the two away to walk past. Unfortunately, Bakugou isn't one to not have the last word especially when he feels like he is losing control of the conversation.

"Hey! You can't just ignore and look down on me!" Bakugou sneers though he didn't get in their way. As if his words were enough to catch Izuku's attention and it was frustrating it almost worked. That he felt almost bothered by his words as if somehow had done something wrong. But he grits his teeth because he knows he hasn't.

Maybe his father is a supervillain, maybe his morals are a bit skewed but his father never forced evil on him. He always made one thing clear, truly good people don't expect anything from you. So don't let anyone use you.

"You already made it clear you don't care about me," Izuku finally decided he needed to give up on this relationship. He showed how capable he was during the mock training, he made it clear time and again that he had changed. Yet Bakugou doesn't act like anything that happened had any effect on their relationship. While Shoto has changed and grown.

He needs to focus on those willing to change. Watching as those red eyes widened, Izuku noted how they looked like his father's. Wondering if maybe his admiration came from a place of familiarity long ago. His father always stood above everyone with pride as if was unshakable. Bakugou was the same in that regard and Izuku clung to that as a kid.

Now he realizes that despite everything the pride Bakugou had was artificial. He hides a fragile ego that is constantly shaken when things don't go his way. He needed to be included, needed to be involved, he needed to BE important and number one. But the reality was, he wasn't the strongest, and many others were just as strong.

Bakugou looked like he wanted to shout something as stared at him only for his mouth to close. He stared at Izuku as if was some foreign entity that he just couldn't understand. 

"Are you seriously saying that?" Bakugou sneered yet there was a kind of uneasiness. As if the other had expected him to act in some familiar manner. That small starry-eyed boy who always trailed behind him desperately trying to reach him. He had forgotten that feeling, but Bakugou reminded him in their reunion.

However, there wasn't any kindness it was mockery as if was some kind of joke. They weren't anything to each other so why does Bakugou sound so surprised? Did he forget the funeral? The loss of his mother and being taken away by his father who ran away from society?  Did he even care ?

"Kacchan, " Izuku spoke as grabbed Shoto AND Aoyama by the shoulder not about to take the bait. Knowing the other wanted him to engage but he can't, "I'm not your Deku to bully anymore, so leave me alone. Bye."

He forces them to come with him using his super strength just Aoyama doesn't try wiggling out. This wasn't Kacchan's story, ignoring the look the other gave him shocked. As if the very idea that Bakugou wasn't important to Izuku's narrative was something he could not comprehend.

There are other things to worry about right now.

---------------------------

In a lab deep underground it was the picture of madness. The 'good' doctor as he looked at his latest batch of Nomu the creatures bubbling in their containers. The dim lighting was more to save electricity rather than create such an ambiance not that All for One has any issues.

"You've become quite soft, All for One," the doctor notes the moment he recognized the man had walked in. His steps were heavy enough steps to announce his presence. A loud laugh escaped the symbol of evil at being called soft.

"I can only guess you learned about my encounter with Hawk's?" The symbol of evil questioned with a smirk.

"As if I don't have connections with other hospitals. You got injured and needed a small boost, then Hawk apparently needed a 'check up' at my hospital after a run-in with a villain. It's not hard to connect but what baffles me is you didn't kill him," the doctor noted. "I am sure you're aware he is a government dog. Now that he knows that you are active it will cause trouble. Did you not also encounter All Might a few days ago? This isn't like you."

It certainly didn't seem like himself. There were too many heroes 'surviving' against him with each encounter. All Might, especially, is someone he would have loved to take out. Most likely that man also was watching Izuku as the man clearly had his eye on his son. Likely just too awkward to find the perfect time to talk to him.

"You know me so well," All for One muses as he walks over to the Nomu tank with a hand to his chin. "So this is the Nomu that will go up against All Might? Are you still sprucing it up?"

Doctor Garaki looked bothered by his change of subject but knew that until All for One wanted to answer, he wouldn't. Though Garaki was used to always knowing what the mastermind was up to. After the incident with his wife, it has been harder for him to relate, not that Garaki could ever understand. After all the man threw away his son and grandson for him.

All for One can't expect him to understand this fully. Even if was the closest thing he had to a friend.

"Of course! I gave him shock absorption as well as regeneration, I been making sure everything is pushed to max capacity. We only have a day after all before Tomura puts it out which is why I was so startled by ANOTHER stir. They are going to guess that something is up!" Garaki tries to bring the topic back to the original topic at hand. How annoying.

"I know," All for one sneered. He wasn't stupid most likely with All Might and Hawk's both being aware he is active they will be on high alert. "It doesn't change anything and I know nothing has changed."

It wasn't as if anyone truly caught his identity on camera or anything only they knew. All Might wouldn't dare let it get around and risk panic, the same is said for Hawk's. Those two would keep this to their chest Unfortunately Hawk likely will be parroting it to the HPSC. They failed to capture what they likely saw was a Lady Nagant 3.0. He can only imagine the pretty little words they could have spun to his impressionable son.

They would try to turn his son on him until Izuku realizes all they want is another attack dog to kill what doesn't conform to their image. His son could be fooled but isn't an idiot, it just likely be too late when he figures it out. It's a good thing Izuku had called for him.

"Sir, your son is making you act off," Garaki speaks. "You claim Tomura is meant to be your heir so you can retire but you sure don't look like you want to retire. You can tell me if you have other plans for Tomura besides taking over him with your quirk."

That was the plan. It had been when realized he was getting married to Inko that he couldn't keep working as a supervillain. When Izuku was born he realized he desperately needed to be distant from this life. The cruelty and joy of being the grandchild of Nana Shimura was just a plus as there is a whole orphanage to choose from.

But Inko died and all he has is a son who dreams of heroism.

"My son still doesn't understand the cruelty this world holds. I failed him just like I failed my little brother," Hisashi speaks softly. Because he needs to speak on this as he looks at the doctor, "Tomura is still my plan for retirement. That hasn't changed, but Izuku... I have ideas on what I need to do for his sake and unfortunately, friend, this I have to keep secret as it is a family matter."

It was something he had been thinking about as had purposely kept Tomura in the dark about Izuku. As well as vice versa but eventually it will clash and his son might not be ready to endure. So eventually will need to make a choice, and in that moment will have to grow up. All Hisashi can do is make sure he is tough enough to endure.

"What a twisted yet pure love," Garaki muses and Hisashi can't deny it. If Inko was alive maybe she would be able to tell him what he should do. There is no use in what-ifs anymore as he looks over at his companion and thinks of his son. Who was right now likely rattled by the fact the government, or rather a hero, had targetted him. A crack in the facade of heroes who are meant to always do good, almost becoming a victim.

"I already failed to obtain my little brother and lost my wife. I don't plan on losing any more family," he notes before looking over at the new tube. "Still, it is a good thing we did find that reporter who leaked my son's identity to the government. It's a pity it's a bit too late to be of any use but at least letting you experiment with him is something."

All for One is a petty and cruel man. The reporter had no idea the boy he reported on had such connections when Hawk questioned him. Having snuck into the entrance exam for a story he was the leak. To think had the absolute nerve to expose a minor in such a way just for some money. That if the government hadn't stepped in the news would have been played for all of Japan to see.

As the light turned on in the tube he was looking at a loud cry escaping the originally unconscious man. Music to his ears when rats try to ruin people's lives just for a quick buck. Unaware or uncaring of the consequences, what a disgusting world they live in.

There is still so much to do, and there were more important things on the horizon to focus on.

Chapter Text

Yuga Aoyama, quirk: Navel Laser. Origin, probably of European descent as speaks with an accent and mixes words with French.

Izuku may have seemed like he only focused on the powerful but every quirk always caught his eye. On the first day of the practice test, he had memorized everyone's quirks. A habit he learned in that sheltered home from his father making games on guessing quirks at a glance. He had never questioned it as a child simply wanting to spend time with his dad instead of being alone.

Now this little quirk is a trait used to analyze everyone around them from their quirk to their personality. Another trait, he inherited from his father was the ability to assess people's quirks. A part of him wondered if his father had wanted him to hone these skills for some purpose. Or if it really was just a game that he created knowing they shared a similar quirk.

This makes the fact Aoyama had been the one to listen in even more baffling as they never talked or interacted. His quirk seemed to have matched being bright and flashy. But not it seemed like this was a ruse the quirk didn't match as much as he thought. He had a lot of questions he wished to inquire as a result of learning the other more sneaky than expected.

Unfortunately, they had to wait until after school since there was no way they could converse on school grounds. They had Kacchan questioning them already and likely the camera saw him coming out of the closet. He can only imagine what the teachers would think. A part of him did wonder if maybe Aoyama was responsible for the leak yet with how scared he seemed he seriously doubted it.

At the very least, he was going to confirm if the other was at all related to the government conspiracy. Even if it makes him feel gross that he has to basically interrogate the other, he just hopes he doesn't get too scared.

"Why were you spying on us?" Izuku questioned as they dragged him into some alley off school grounds. It was much safer than trying to find sweet spots around school, "If you wanted to be friends then you could have just talked to me. You were basically invading our privacy."

The blond seemed to be acting very unlike his flamboyant and exaggerated self. His whole demeanor seemed different from the flamboyant and over-the-top boy he had been seeing for a while. It was definitely showing evidence something was off with him.

It made Izuku wonder if that was all an act to seem much more confident than he actually was. It wasn't as if Izuku was going to hurt him or anything even if was upset he wasn't that mean. He wants to believe there was some kind of reason for him to do this. Heck, the other went along with his lie and didn't reveal to Bakugou what he did. So clearly he doesn't want him in trouble so he wants to give the benefit of the doubt. 

"I was just passing by when I heard whispering," Aoyama spoke but then paused as if realizing how untruthful that sounded. There was no passing by they had clearly seen him purposely leaning against the door. It seemed he realized lying wasn't going to do anything as he paled sweat showing on his face as he looked Izuku in the eye. He pleads, "Please don't tell your father. I am begging you."

What!?

"Of course he's involved," Izuku hissed as he pushed back his white hair in frustration. Aoyama looked mortified as if realizing what he said as covered his mouth. Clearly, he wasn't supposed to tell Izuku that he was stalking him for his father. Izuku was  seething  wondering if his father distrusted him so much to lie on his report that he had a spy!? Who the hell was his father!?

However, it seems it backfired since Aoyama knows that Izuku would report most things that happened and feared the consequences. The only thing he could do was beg for Izuku to lie- Wait a second. This is his chance to finally gain some independence as a plan formed in his mind.

"Actually," Izuku paused then looked at his best friend. An idea formed since it meant Aoyama had no choice but to spill. Or at least that is what he thinks but Izuku wouldn't be that cruel already knowing his father seems quite willing to inflict harm on those outside his family. Still, this was his chance, "I have some questions then."

Aoyama blinked seeming confused that he was still alive somehow. Lowering his hands from his mouth he whispered, "Questions?"

Izuku reached out to grab the other by the shoulder almost roughly. Wanting to make sure Aoyama doesn't look away from him. As he decides to start his interrogation, "Who exactly is my father? Why are you so terrified of him knowing? Tell me everything you know about him and I promise not to breathe a soul."

The boy's expression seemed to pale as if realizing that his options were to tell the very thing he wasn't supposed to or have his failure exposed. Izuku guessed this was pretty mean but if they worked together then they could both benefit. Especially since he's sure his dad would enjoy him having another 'friend' that he got him.

"You... You really don't know who your dad is?" Aoyama questioned. It must sound impossible considering Izuku should have some idea. He has heard rumors and stuff online but there is nothing concrete. Knowing that sounds ridiculous for a child to be unaware of who his father is. Aoyama's eyes glanced at Shoto and then at him as if to say,  should he know?

"It's fine. Shoto won't tell," Izuku assured only for Aoyama to shake his head firmly.

"I can't. I'll already get in trouble with your dad just knowing I got cause and listened in on you!" Aoyama shouted. Though it meant would be willing to talk to him guessing just needs some assurance. 

"There literally will not be any difference between just me knowing and both me and Shoto if I know my dad," Izuku informed as already made the choice to be open with Shoto. As it was clear that the other would put distance if he thought he was hiding something. He can't push Shoto away more than already did not when Shoto aired out his own issues to him. Still, it was clear this was something big to Aoyama slowly releasing him, Izuku hoped to show was sincerity as he extended his hand.

"Please, Aoyama. I know my dad is... Terrifying but I need to know. I promise I won't let him hurt you," he wants him to know he won't allow it regardless if his father does find out. Until that happens he won't breathe a soul but if does he will protect him. Izuku knows that at this point he will need to keep his inner circle smaller. He can't allow any more people in.

The scent of garbage in the alleyway and the rough wall behind the normally sparkly hero in training seemed to dim his lights. Izuku wished he didn't have to do this, that he could just allow the other to go away but life isn't fair. This knowledge was something Izuku needed to know because this ignorance might get others hurt. How long can he keep turning a blind eye because it would be easier? And how can he claim to love or know his father when won't see what he has done?

"Your father is... All for One," Aoyama finally speaks his body shaking with the kind of terror of someone who has seen things someone so young shouldn't have. The name was familiar a gossip and whisper in the forums that no one is sure truly exists. A Boogieman who hides just under the surface of hero society, "I don't know him too well personally only what my parents have told me. I was... Originally quirkless."

A cold chill moved down Izuku's spine at the word quirkless. His hand ached as he thought about how had thought he was quirkless for years. For years he had been picked on as a kid before he was taken away by his father. Only to learn he had the same quirk as the man who sired him, the power to give and take quirks. 

"My parents made a deal with him so I could have a quirk," Aoyama continued with tears in his eyes. "He said he would come to collect then a year or so ago he came. He wanted me to get into UA and keep an eye on you. When my parents hesitated about me being a spy, he killed someone in front of them to make it clear they couldn't back down. Saying how a deal is a deal and shouldn't have made it if they didn't intend to pay it back."

This wasn't the kind of information he expected as he felt like ice water was thrown on Izuku. He knows he should feel more horrified or even enraged at this information, how could his father do this!?

Yet instead, he felt only numb as his father always emphasized to never make a deal if can't risk everything in it. The rules he has to live by are an extension of his father's mentality a promise of everything as long as Izuku keeps his side. A part of him had instinctively wanted to ask why the hell would his parents make such a deal. As if wanted to blame them for being so stupid, only to bite his tongue.

That wasn't fair, he doesn't know why that was his knee-jerk response and he is glad he stopped himself. Only able to imagine his father likely seemed nice because his dad can be nice. But how he is with family might not fully extend to outsiders. People wouldn't know to make it clear-cut when making a deal you have lines. Then again being blood relatives likely had its perks in the Midoriya family, his father never made a hidden clause only hid things not part of the deal.

His father never demanded more than already agreed to, but it was clear Aoyama's family had been tricked. He keeps his mouth shut as this deal was between himself and his father no one needed to know about. His father still had a say in this deal and despite everything, Izuku still cared about his father. Which is what makes hearing about how he hurts others even more painful.

"My parents... They say he's someone who wishes to control the whole world's resources. Where he provides everything the water, food, and everything," Aoyama informed. However, Izuku felt like that oversimplified his father's desires. His dad adored being a relief to others but saying he wanted to provide and sell like some businessman seemed off. His father may seem like a hard worker but being expected to run everything didn't feel right.

Because in the end that would still technically be helping others in some twisted way. When the only ones he seemed to actually like helping with himself and his mom, it was a chore making him help strangers. But Izuku can't quite place why that motivation just didn't fit. It SEEMED genericly evil enough but it didn't seem like something his dad would pursue. 

It may be hard to swallow that his dad might be a heartless person who kills people in front of others. As well as is also willing to murder other people even kids, but it is also because he  would  do that the motive Aoyama assumed seemed... Lackluster. Like money? Power? He has more than enough of that.

Still most likely if finds out that Aoyama got caught would discard him and try to make up some excuse. At best he only keeps Aoyama alive because Izuku said so but likely terrorizing the boy in other ways. His father was very petty in that regard, years of him bitching about Kacchan and heroes made that clear. It also seemed like he was someone who enjoys seeing suffering from how it sounds. It only made the man that he sees every day harder to integrate with this All-for-one supervillain.

"I see... I guess that is all you know huh," Izuku spoke softly as it was clear that Aoyama, despite being his spy, only knew the minimum. It was clear to tell since was explaining what his parents knew. This means he isn't directly involved with his father unless it is 'need to know' basis. He sighed guessing that's all, "You know. I don't know why he sent you when I reported everything to him anyway. Seems he just paranoid."

Aoyama perked up startled as did Shoto who seemed surprised by this fact. Though Izuku isn't too sure why they seemed surprised at this information. Sure he knows it is a bit over the top to call it a report but that's all he can describe it as. Aoyama made a face but didn't say anything about that as if was unsure if he even could.

"What? Why you guys looking like that?" Izuku finally spoke up a hint annoyed at the looks he was getting. Aoyama shifts awkwardly as if unsure what to say though it seemed Shoto was willing to question. As if he realized exactly why Aoyama looked so uncomfortable.

"Does that include the event about USJ and the school events? Is that also why were sneaking around asking about teachers?" Shoto questioned as looked at him firmly. As if trying to get him to understand exactly what he was saying.

Izuku blinked in confusion at his friend's tone, "Huh? Yeah, why?"

Aoyama suddenly was very tight-lipped looking like he wanted to be anywhere but here. The implications were ringing loudly as Izuku felt his heart dropped. His father wouldn't use the information he gave like that, would he? Despite the fact, he knows he is there right? That him using it for such things would make Izuku an accomplice ,  right?

"He wouldn't- Would he? Even though I'm there?" Izuku squeaked out wanting to believe his dad wouldn't do such a cruel thing. That his father had taken his trust in him to use it for nefarious deeds. Tears welled up in his eyes unable to believe that but it was clear no one believed he wouldn't take advantage of this. It was in two days, his father was going to do something unspeakable.

"I don't know," Aoyama speaks softly unable to look at Izuku. Even Shoto was looking at him as if unsure of what to say in this situation. Despite the fact he had brought up the possibility that information Izuku had given freely would be exploited. It seemed his school life was going to become complicated. But he only felt the pain at the idea whatever was about to happen would end up being  his  fault.

---------------------------

There was no way to fix this situation. 

Izuku has given his father every bit of information about UA with enthusiasm even information on other students. Now that he had confirmation of just how dangerous his father it meant everyone was in danger. Even willing to threaten harm to someone who is his age, and worst he gave his father a map of the whole place. The implication of Aoyama asking about USJ made it clear that his father might be using this information for nefarious reasons.

He refused to talk to his father when he got home that day. He had slammed the door and refused to eat his father's dinner wondering what was going to happen. As Aoyama refused to elaborate or even tell him what was about to happen. Izuku relented knowing he couldn't keep doing this to Aoyama but kept his promise to keep this conversation quiet.

"Izuku are you alright? You seem upset," Hisashi stood outside his door with that fake kind voice. As if he didn't blackmail a kid his age, as if he hasn't killed people. As if he wasn't planning something terrible, and Izuku felt helpless to stop it unsure of what he was supposed to do. His father stood there as if was supportive but death surrounded him, "I'll leave the food outside your door then."

Izuku knows he has to say something. He needs to say something, but if he does his dad might figure out that Aoyama told him. The other may forgive and apologize to him, but he has no idea what would do to the other. They can handle it. He just needs to survive until graduation, his dad wouldn't do something that would put him in actual danger, would he? As long as he kept to the deal he could be a hero.

...Right?

-----------------------------------------------

Izuku forced himself to eat some of his father's dinner despite the stress making him lose his appetite. The meal had been extra cute looking with the rice looking like a rabbit and star-shaped carrots. U even joined him to eat since there were some vegetables. He tried to keep calm as he shared the part of the food that U can eat. Thankful he wasn't completely alone.

The next day his father had also left him breakfast at the door. His father seemed to have gained some awareness, a surprise honestly. More than used to his father's pushiness when he acted out but then his father has been changing also. Izuku just wished it also meant he was changing for the better. Still, he wondered if he was adapting to accommodate him after being nearly kidnapped.

When my parents hesitated about me being a spy, he killed someone in front of them to make it clear they couldn't back down. Saying how a deal is a deal and shouldn't have made it if they didn't intend to pay it back.

The thought invaded his mind to remind him that his father wasn't a good person. Committing atrocities while trying to pretend he is a nice and loving father. He clenches his teeth as he shakes his head looking over at his rabbit U as the small thing rubs against his side. It wasn't as if anything changed in their home life, it was only the knowledge of who his father was that changed.

A selfish part of him wants to go back to being ignorant just thinking his father was just insensitive and maybe a bit shady. His loving dad, who just wants what is best for him but has no idea how to go about it. Not this monster blackmailing and sneering at the very heroes that he had allowed Izuku to adore. Who casually threatens death to those outside their home like they were insects.

He wants to forget. He wants to go back to hugging his dad without thinking about who died today because of him. Back to just being a bit rebellious but still loving his dad who has done so much for him... But he knows he can't go back so he picks himself up to change for the day.

As promised, Shoto did walk with him to school and the day that was meant to be exciting was full of dread. He felt even more aware of his surroundings as they got to the school grounds. The chitter chatter of students in the background about mundane things. Like a crush, teachers, lamenting homework, and classes.

"Hey, it's going to be alright," Shoto's voice pierced his thoughts as their shoulders brushed together in assurance. They were always close now maybe they both felt nervous and Shoto understands the helplessness you feel when your father has all the power. Still, there was no reason to believe that his dad would try something. Despite what he heard it was only a hunch, aoyama didn't confirm anything and his father couldn't be that cruel.

So he tried to focus on allowing himself to be another student at UA. They picked a class president, and though he was baffled when people tried to give him the title he outright rejected it. Actively endorsing Iida despite people being baffled at his blunt rejection.

He wouldn't be a good president anyway if they knew what he had done revealing things to a villain. The alarm that rang during lunch and the chaos was like a prelude to something worse to come. The level of dread he felt only seemed to grow.

--------------

As Izuku stands in his hero's uniform, he fidgets the whole time tuning out the introductions of heroes to help with Rescue Training. Wishing he could turn off his brain so he could savor his excitement. All Might was also running late which is a bit concerning if his dad was planning something. Though was promised he would meet up with them later as soon as finished up his business. Able to feel the gaze of Shoto burning the back of his head as if he wished to say something.

It didn't matter what he said, just the knowledge that there was a chance he might be involved in something terrible can't be fixed. He didn't regret asking and pursuing this knowledge the fact Aoyama knew something was enough. He can't keep ignoring the fact his father might actually be a terrible person. Now he is able to understand why his father rejected him so strongly on being saved.

His father doesn't see himself as someone to be saved and depending on what he is about to do is what will show that. The violence mixed with overprotectiveness showed that his father was unstable. The death of Mom likely only made it worse, retreating into this terrible nature... Mom, he can still recall her death.

It was a blur, he just wanted to help. He begged to help and his mom tried to help but...

"You have been quite fidgety, Midoriya," Aizawa suddenly noted making Izuku tense up. He wondered if he had been that obvious and pulled Izuku from his thoughts. It was weird for him to suddenly care but it must mean he looked nervous, "I would think you would be excited to prove yourself. Is something the matter?"

Izuku lets out a sheepish smile as it did seem weird of him to act so nervous compared to everyone. Able to notice Ochaco was glancing at him with concern now that Aizawa said something. He needs to relax there was no reason to assume that his dad had some way to track him.

"I-I am! I'm just a bit nervous is all," Izuku piped with a forced smile wondering if it was bad that he had been lying a lot. It makes him feel gross as this isn't a lie he wants to keep but he isn't even sure if Aizawa would believe him. The guy didn't seem to like him much for reasons he wasn't even sure about. Maybe it is because of his initial comment and attitude, either way, he isn't sure.

"But um... Do we need to do the Rescue mission today...?" Izuku whispered this watching the way his teacher's eyes narrowed. It was like he had suspected something before he even spoke.

"I guess you heard about that incident at the gate. Don't worry, it's remote and we can handle it. You focus on training," Aizawa says. Though Izuku looked startled at the knowledge there had been an incident. They had claimed the alarm was just because of a reporter but it was clear they didn't think so- SO WHY WERE THEY STILL DOING THIS!?

Reeling from the fact the teachers did, in fact, suspect something did not assure him. If anything it made everything seem more surreal as remembered his father saying how UA cares more about image than anything. There is no way the two are related to each other right? Maybe he is just overthinking-

"Midoriya come on! You need to take the assigned seat I gave you!" Iida shouted taking him out of his thoughts. 

"O-OH! Coming!" Izuku shouted when the male started nagging at him to get onto the bus. Even tho it turned out the assigned seats he made didn't work from the weird arrangement. So he was facing the other students his eyes glancing at Aoyama for a second. He wondered what the other was thinking and how he could seem so calm.

"Ribbit," a voice next to him got him out of his stupor making him shake out of his thoughts to look over at his side. Wondering when he sat down as looked over to see Tsuyu, she had a frog quirk, right? He blinks and then looks across to see Aoyama acting like his normal self. As if two days before hadn't looked ready to cry at the idea would tell.

Guess the fact All for One hasn't come for his head was enough assurance to know he didn't tell a soul.

"So Midoriya, I tend to say what's on my mind," Tsuyu speaks making him straighten up. As he realized that she was talking to him specifically he tried to focus on the conversation. He didn't need more people becoming worried about him.

"O-Oh yeah? What do you want to say Asui?" He tries to be polite and not go by her first name.

"Call me Tsuyu." Guess they are already on a first-name basis. He guessed he should be happy with that- "So you can take or copy quirks, where did you get your speed from?"

"Geh-!" Izuku flinched guessing it was pretty obvious but she sure knew how to dig at the thing he was most worried about. As everyone saw what he did in the practice test and mock battle. It was likely obvious to everyone that his constantly changing quirk was likely copying or stealing, especially when bakugou made a big deal about his quirk being taken. Bonus points when Izuku used Shoto's quirk in the mock battle.

"Hey man it's cool! It seems you always return them back so no one here is going to judge," Kirishima piped as if to defend him. Izuku relaxed as he thought for a second thought was being accused of being a thief. "Though I do also wonder where you got your super speed."

A small awkward laugh escaped Izuku as he guessed he could reveal a little bit. Since he didn't want them to think he was just out here stealing people's quirks, "My rabbit had that specific quirk. He wasn't using it too much so I borrowed it."

"You have a quirked pet!?" Mina questioned. A small squee escaped as looked practically glowing at the fact he had a rabbit, "That's so cool! I bet he's super cute, I wish I had a pet rabbit~! Do you have pictures!?"

Just talking to everyone was helping him relax as they talked about pro heroes. His body slowly relaxed as they talked wishing he had some pictures of U right now. Maybe when gets home will take some pictures on his phone or bring some pictures he took with U that were framed. He does love U, but he feels like he hasn't shown him enough love.

"Bakugou is so unhinged he'd never be popular," Tsuyu said those words with the subtly of a sledgehammer out of nowhere. Izuku's eyes widened as he saw Bakugou suddenly perk up startled at the shit-talking. Watched Bakugou looking ready to lunge over the seat of the bus to get at her.

"What you say, frog face!?" He snapped but Tsuyu held no fear of the explosive blond. She doesn't even react to him as looks at Izuku pointing at him. As if was pointing out something that everyone knew and he had to resist the grin that threatened to show on his face.

"See?" Tsuyu notes casually and Izuku covers his mouth so as not to laugh. Not at all expect the class to pick on the most aggressive person he knows. Then again when he thinks about it everyone here is top of their class. While last he checked Katsuki likely went to Aldera or something just for the clout of being first from that school to get in. He never really had anyone that could challenge him especially since Izuku left when they were still little.

"We've only started to socialize and you aren't exactly hiding that your personality is just the worst~!" Kaminari chimed despite the fact he seemed to have been hanging with the guy it seemed even he agreed. At this moment Izuku felt like a kid again as he laughed. Shoto unfortunately was stuck behind Bakugou because of Iida's attempt but he let out a small, "Heh."

"The hell are you laughing at Icyhot!?" Bakugou shouted frustrated at the fact everyone was ganging up on him. Izuku was able to forget the possible scary future even if just for a little bit. His eyes though glanced at Aoyama and noticed him in thought.

He shouldn't be too relaxed.

-------------------

USJ, or as it is properly called  Unforeseen Simulation Joint,  is the location for a rescue mission-type hero work. At least that is what Thirteen called it and was introduced expecting the students to be clueless about it.

Izuku had been quite excited as snooped around to get information on it and his dad had helped him confirm it. Something he did just out of his  harmless  curiosity and his father's encouragement. All Might was supposed to be with them but since he was late it was only Aizawa and Thirteen here. Izuku isn't sure if it is a good thing All Might isn't here or would just make the situation worse.

"This is so cool! The polite and proper hero who works best in rescue scenarios!" Ochaco piped seeming to be trying to get Izuku pumped up. However, he did glance at the teachers talking likely because of what Aizawa mentioned before they got on the bug. They knew something was up and the fact All Might wasn't here is concerning. There should be more heroes though if they suspect something-

"Zuku are you ok? I didn't want to say anything but you have been kind of quiet," Ochaco spoke a bit quieter. Making Izuku straighten up startled as she had gotten really close. Still not used to the nickname she thought up when he put a stop to Deku as an actual nickname. His dad and the terrible reunion made the idea of using that name too hard to swallow regardless of how much he liked her. And he did! But...

Despite them being friends, she was out of the loop about the things he was dealing with. The same was true with Iida now it to the point it felt like he was disconnected from them. A part of him wondered if by keeping quiet he was putting the other in danger. The way her eyes looked into his own it was clear she was worried. He opens his mouth to speak unsure if to assure or to admit something bad is about to happen.

"Hey! Stop chatting and pay attention, Thirteen is speaking," Aizawa interrupted. And Izuku straightens himself up able to feel Ochaco imitate him as neither wished to get in trouble. Despite himself, he glanced at her and it was clear her expression seemed almost solemn. But then maybe for now it was best, he already dragged Shoto into this. He can't keep being this selfish it will bite him later, what can he even say?

I'm sorry, I just don't know how to tell you that my dad might be a supervillain. I shouldn't be burdening everyone with this.

"My power can kill easily," Thirteen's words broke through his musing as his eyes trained on the other's form. "I'm sure there are some among you with similar powers. In our super-powered society, our quirks are heavily restricted and monitored. It may seem that this system is a stable one, but we must never forget it only takes one wrong move with a powerful quirk for people to die."

One powerful quirk for people to die...

Mom ....

-------------

Izuku was only four years old when his mother died. 

He had already been diagnosed as quirkless and his mom tried to overcompensate. He heard the conversation with his parents in the morning. His mom had allowed him to stay home from school after he refused to leave. Already knew the rest of the students were going to make fun now that he was officially quirkless.

His dreams of being a hero were shattered before they even got a chance to fully form. Now they had a justified reason to laugh at him and his dreams. So he just wanted to stay home, but he had also asked for his dad leading to this conversation. He wants his dad to tell him he is still important and could still be a hero when his mom could only cry.

"I don't know what you keep expecting me to do when you're constantly working! Our little boy has been so upset- Hisashi, I swear if you don't come home by the time that me and Izuku finish groceries. Then we are going to have a problem," she hissed into the phone. There is a pause likely his dad talking before she smiles, "Good. Look I know you care I am not claiming you don't. But unless I'm about ready to bite your head off you don't even realize it how it hurts us."

His father was saying something again and his mom sighed shaking her head yet having a gentle smile. Assuring Izuku they were still happy together and not really fighting to his relief. As he was scared for a moment that he had made things worse, "What am I going to do with you?"

Her eyes looked at Izuku and she winked as if to say everything was going to be ok. In contrast to how she had cried hugging him, it was clear she was trying hard to make some amends. The conversation ended and they went to go out to enjoy themselves in the city. It was a school day so they got some looks but they ignored them.

"Want some Taiyaki, Izuku?" she chirped as they had decided they were going to enjoy themselves before they did boring groceries. It was a nice day, it likely would have helped him feel better about himself...

But that day ended up becoming a nightmare.

"Villain attack!" 

A scream rang and then the sound of a crash hitting the building elicited shouting and chaos. People were scrambling as the building was crumbling and the whole place rumbled as if something outside had struck the building. Inko's hand slipped from Izuku's as people were running pushing and shoving.  

"Izuku!"

All Izuku can remember is being pushed and shoved letting out a loud cry as he was pushed out of the crowd. Falling back onto the floor it was a miracle he hadn't been crushed trying to comprehend what was even happening. A small whine escaped the small boy as everyone had cleared out only to look up and see police and a hero. His eyes widened almost sparkling as he realized what this meant. 

"O-Oh wow! Heroes!" Izuku piped, the initial fear and confusion disappeared as there was a hero here. It wasn't a big-time hero, to his slight disappointment, but it was an upstart hero. The name was something like Star Hero or something- It was hard for him to recall but he had been excited to see one up close.

He was on the side of the building the structure had gotten quite damaged yet still held its form. Many of the adults evacuated but he was very easy to overlook because of his small size.

"Fear not citizens! Just evacuate the area," the hero declared to the remaining evacuees and Izuku didn't even realize most people had cleared. That is until another loud crash nearby made him cry out. The villain had appeared from inside the building causing more of the structure to topple. As if had a gigantification quirk as his large tail struck at the building. A large shark-like behemoth sneered with a glazed look in his eye. It was the cause of this chaos.

"There you are, fiend!" The hero, of course, went right for the villain. He didn't at all notice a little boy a bit too close to the scene. He had gone to hide behind a trash can in fear when he realized how close he was as the large villain roared. Striking another building nearby he shrunk both amazed to see an actual villain & hero fight but also afraid of getting too close. Then again he wasn't in clear view of the hero- His mother, however, did see him though refusing to evacuate without her son.

"Izuku! Baby, I'm coming!" His mom was suddenly at his side, his eyes looked up as he was picked up quickly. Being held in her arms he felt safe wrapping his arms around her neck he buried her face against her. Though slightly peaking out as he still wanted to see the fight while her mom kissed his head, "I swear I'm never letting you out of my sight again."

They were going to leave and evacuate with the rest. Izuku wondered why there weren't more heroes fighting the monster. If the damage was so bad they need more people as the surrounding buildings were damaged. Likely it wasn't a big deal, just one villain that caused a surprising amount of chaos. Izuku wasn't afraid anymore.

That's when it happened.

"Help! Please, I'm stuck!" A plea was nearby back near a toppled building that should have already been evacuated. A young man whose leg was trapped underneath some rubble. Izuku shouldn't have stopped his mom but he tugged as he pointed toward the trapped man. He needed help, was his logic, if there wasn't a hero there then they needed to help! Inko looked worried glancing over at him and then at the man.

There was no guarantee that the hero had time to help but the buildings didn't look stable. To Izuku it would only take a minute for a hero to make time to save someone. So they just needed to call attention to it!

"Mister Star! Sir! There's a person trapped-" she tried to call his attention but the man seemed annoyed at best. Especially when got smacked by an overgrown fish letting out a loud grunt before brushing him off.

"A little busy! Just evacuate I'll get to him later!" The bluntness of it surprised Izuku as it seemed the man was more interested in bagging the villain. His eyes looked at some of the rocks, then at the man's face as it was clear. He was scared, and if they didn't do something now he might get hurt. 

"I'll help him then!" Izuku declared loudly as his eyes gleamed despite being afraid he didn't think. He just knows the guy needs their help and he wants to help.

It was an innocent wish to aid someone. This was his chance to do something if the hero wasn't able to help they couldn't expect Izuku to ignore this man. If he can prove himself then people would know how serious he is but most of all. He just couldn't ignore the other's terrified expressions.

"I am here~!" He ignored his mom's protest as he went to the trapped man to remove the rubble. His small hands tugged at the rocks despite the fact the rocks were nearly his size. Then he heard the sound of something above them crack.

Because this is reality. And foolishly going into trouble without a plan is how you get dead heroes and victims.

As if in slow-motion his green eyes looked up to see the building structure collapsing above them. The sound of his mother shrieking, "Izuku!" rang in his ear but he couldn't move. He felt her warm embrace-

Then there was something warm and wet on his face with a suffocating pressure crushing his small body. A pitiful whine escaped the small boy as if everything had slowed down to a stop. His body forcibly pressed down against the concrete floor as he tried to look up. Only to wish he hadn't, his mother's head and possibly other parts were bleeding as building concrete covered them.

There didn't seem to be any escape or exit. 

"I-It's going to be ok baby, a hero will come to save us soon," she whispered in assurance as she seemed to be using all her strength to keep the rubble from crushing him. Despite the fact the bones, lacerations, and concussion she suffered from the falling debris showed her severe condition. He cried despite her assurance as the wetness on his face was her blood.

"Mama! I'm sorry! I shouldn't have left you!" Izuku shouted and cried as he grabbed at his mom. She tried to comfort him, to assure him it was alright that a hero would come. Seconds turned into minutes, minutes seemed almost longer than they should have. His mom grew paler and all he could do was cry...

By the time help arrived, his mom seemed to have just collapsed as the medic and ambulance rushed them both. He didn't even know or remember if the guy he tried to help was alive, he just wanted his mom to be okay. Practically screaming as the paramedics fixed up his injuries wondering if instead of helping he made everything worse, "Mama, I'll be good! Please don't leave me! I'm sorry I left you-"

....He didn't realize his mom had already been dead by the time they arrived. Her body only held that position for as long as it did as if was a mother's last wish to save her child. The hero hadn't even paid attention to the disaster that occurred and other heroes that finally came as back up it was too late. 

If any hero had just noticed a little sooner they could have saved her. All Might arrived much too late, he wouldn't have even known Izuku was already taken away with his mom to the hospital. He cleared up and saved so many other people effectively and quickly. The Hero that was first on the scene got a slap on the wrist for focusing so much on the villain people got hurt and died.

While Izuku was scarred at how his one desire had ended up with only the death of his mother. Along with his father becoming so terrified of the world he hides them both away from it. That day he learned that Quirks can be devastating. He learned that very well, and sometimes good intentions aren't enough to save anyone.

Also, he can't drag anyone else down with him over a selfish wish to help.

-----------------------------------

Izuku always knew just how dangerous the world was and it is why he could not resent his father for what he had done. He had watched his careless desire to help lead to the death of his mom. A fact he never admitted to his father as he can't even forgive himself so he can't expect him to forgive him either. He might as well have dragged his mom to be crushed.

"I'm okay," Izuku assured Ochaco with a small smile despite the heaviness and guilt of another disaster. As the teacher explained everything he expressed his gratitude for her friendship. Because he knows he must be thankful least he loses it, "Thank you, I'm glad you're here."

And he truly meant it. Even if he can't burden any more people, he knows that they could still be friends. He was too selfish to waste this as it was being unselfish that led to his mother's death.

A sudden wisp of familiar mist seems to surround them interrupting Izuku of his touching moment. A strong feeling of dread instead replaced those feelings as he turned to look down at the courtyard. The malice that permeated from the group that emerged could be felt from where they stood. Izuku didn't know them, he didn't recognize any of them yet the mist was familiar. He can recall the mist is what his father used when saving him from Hawks. Did that mean his father was here?

"Thirteen and Eraserhead. We got from a very reliable source that All Might was supposed to be here," the man in the mist mused and Izuku felt his heart drop. 

"Where is... he?" this young man with hands on his face spoke almost like his father. But a poor imitation of him as if was trying very hard to show off how ominous he was. Unrefined and clumsy but the emotions were raw, "We brought so many playmates and he isn't even here?"

The male's eyes somehow met his own and there was something almost like recognition. As if they both felt something off about each other at just a glance. It wasn't just malice there was curiosity, and yet.

"I wonder if some dead kids will bring him here?" The villain spoke and Izuku knew the man did not mean any exceptions. His dad had unleashed an evil onto the world despite his own son being there.

It was like his father was saying now,  sink or swim.  Testing if he truly wished to go upon this path that would make every step painful. Every task is hell because of his father's belief in the world's cruelty.

It seems he's unaware that his son has known this since watched his mother die. He refuses to crumble.

They  all  will survive. Izuku swears on this.

Chapter Text

The wisp of mist from the villain was a familiar sight. Izuku has seen it so many times before. Used to help them leave or when his father helped them go home after Hawk's attack. No, he did meet this man once long ago as a little kid. He's the one that got him in that prison.

The figure's eyes looked at him. Izuku tensed as there was familiarity. Izuku instinctively takes a step back as it is like being hit with cold water. Wondering how he had forgotten that man? His hand moves to his head trying hard to bring up the memories of this man. It hurt-

"Izuku!" Shouto shouted with distress and Izuku looked up just in time to be face-to-face with the villain. Wondering when he had appeared in front of him as if the moment they made eye contact had a purpose.

"Kurogiri...?" Izuku felt the name leave his mouth as a weak whisper. There was no malice only a kind of indifference despite familiarity like they were strangers. That was Izuku's big mistake.

"Midoriya!" Thirteen shouts frantically.

Aizawa had already jumped in to fight the villains down below as if unaware of the fact he had left his students vulnerable. Thirteen couldn't just turn her blackholes on them as while could grab the villain Izuku was also in line of sight. Shouto to his credit tried to use his ice to encase the villain but the man was much quicker. Creating a barrier that absorbed the ice and turning it right back on his assailant.

"Shouchan!" Izuku snapped out of his stupor as Shouto had clearly not expected it and nearly got stabbed by his own ice. Using more ice to block, it seemed he was still iffy about his fire. Crap-! Why does he keep freezing up when it is most important!?

"I was originally going to prepare a greeting, but I have a certain priority. You will all get your villainess dialogue," the man of mist, Kurogiri, jeers. And honestly, it pissed Izuku off as it was being treated like some game. Was that all this was to his father? Some game?

"We don't need your dialogue!" Bakugou shouted as tried to blast the main body. It didn't seem to hit but it was a great attempt and for a split second Izuku forgot what he said about caring about more important things. Kacchan was still unfortunately cool. Though Izuku would rather not admit that suddenly the whole area was covered in mist.

"Suffer and writhe like the insects you are then," Kurogiri says. Izuku instinctively looked at Shouto wanting to say something. To make some plan to think up something. Only for the mist to cover his own person and the feeling of weightlessness to overtake him. Landing right on his ass with only a small oomph it seems despite Kurogiri's words having been 'soft' on him. Finding himself literally outside of USJ on his ass in the most unceremonious manner.

No dramatics. No flair, he wasn't being allowed such things as if his father was laughing at the idea of him even thinking could be a hero. To be involved in such a thing. How fitting.

"Of course, why would I expect to be treated like an actual hero or enemy?" Izuku speaks with rage and shame. Wondering why the hell he has to deal with this insanity. He guesses he was right his father wouldn't put him in actual danger. Or maybe his father found out that he knew and had to physically remove him because assumed he would become reckless.

Which only confirms one thing. The 'priority' was because his father made a last-minute decision on how to deal with his son. It makes him wonder if Aoyama knew this would happen and why he still seemed iffy. He grits his teeth as he stares down USJ wanting to shout profanity then go right back in. Out of spite almost but then he pauses. He was much smarter then that.

"Wait, All Might." Izuku perks up his eyes wide as he looks away from USJ knowing the man had been late. Likely from helping people and was going to be scolded by the principal. If his father wants to keep him 'safe' then at the least he can make sure those villains' plans are foiled.

"Alright dad, you don't want me in danger? Then how about I bring my favorite hero onto this playing field?" He grins as he gets up onto his feet as he fixes himself up. Stretching out his legs as he prepares himself to push his super speed to its limit.

"Guess going to have to trust Shoucchan and the others to hold the fort. Hope daddy doesn't mind that I take this to do some hero stuff 'safely'."

____________________________________________________________________________

Each of the students also got wrapped up in the mist despite thirteen attempts to stop them. Only capable of saving just those closest as every student has been thrown across USJ. Shouto was no exception, having been prepared the moment was thrown out, he used his ice as a ramp to slide back to the floor.

The loud blast near him made him flinch and of course, he had been sent with the one guy he didn't want to be with. Katsuki Bakugou was huffing and puffing with rage as grits his teeth. Clearly pissed at being taken off guard while all Shouto was concerned was where Izuku had been sent to. Though considering it was his father who set up this attack, if his father does 'care' then he might be safer than all of them.

That is what Shouto is hoping for anyway.

"Of course it would be with you," Shouto didn't even think before it slipped out, making Bakugou turn his head toward him. From the Blond's point of view, they haven't talked or communicated at all. Only for Shouto to show detest his very presence, not that the blond seemed to care. If anything he sneers and turns away.

After all, they had company, "Oh fucking shove it Icy-hot we got enemies to-"

"Move," that was the only warning Shouto was giving him. Thankfully it seemed the other wasn't stupid enough to question. With one step forward, the boy who had everything turned the whole area into a winter wonderland. It was clear these fools had no idea what they were up against, able to see the shock in these adult's eyes as they were turned into icicle statues.

"Pathetic. These are adults aren't they?" Shouto questioned with a tilt of his head. Ignoring the shock and terrified expression on Katsuki's face as realizes the difference in power. Shouto isn't an idiot, he knows just how different from everyone he is as even Izuku made him aware. Able to hear the other's breath it was clear Katsuki had never truly seen him in battle.

During that mock battle, he had only seen Izuku using his power. A temporary ruse but one that would never show how far he can go. Though this wasn't to show off, this is simply the only way he knows how to win. Overwhelming with his strength as he walked through the ice path he heard the blond snap out of his stupor.

"This doesn't mean shit!" Katsuki shouts, or maybe should just refer to him as Bakugou. This stops Shouto in his tracks as he turns his gaze to the other. Wondering what Bakugou was trying to prove as he already solved their little problem in one fell swoop. Their classmates were in trouble and if Izuku isn't here then likely will be relying on him.

"Is this really the time?" Not that Shouto had any idea what the other was even referring to. The other's expression looked so much like his father's rage and fear of failure whenever sees All Might on the TV. Then Endeavor would turn to him and how he needed to be better, that face was so disgusting.

"It isn't but you better stop looking at me like you don't even see me," Bakugou sneered and Shouto felt himself wanting to just turn him into an icicle. His hand twitches before he remembers there were better things to focus on.

"Get over yourself," Shouto starts.

"The hell you-"

"I said get over yourself. Our classmates are in danger so your ego can wait," because as much as would love to take this time to fight. He knows that some of Izuku's other friends are out there in need. He may not enjoy being around big groups but if Izuku isn’t here he should help.

"Tch, fine." So Bakugou can be sensible. It seems despite all that bark there was a brain with some kind of morals in there. "But don't think I'm forgetting this, Todoroki. I'll be taking you off your ivory tower soon enough, oh and about Deku."

This made Shouto turn his eyes narrowed in anger wondering what the hell the other had to say.

"He's using you. I don't know what the hell happened to him, but there is something wrong with him. You don't seriously believe all those quirks were given freely do you?" Katsuki spoke likely meant to be a hint of doubt. Some big revelation as the old childhood friend who once knew Izuku well. He sure seems to not realize he isn't part of this.

"You truly don't know anything do you," Shouto noted watching the other's expression turn to anger. "Talk about him again and I'll turn you into an icicle, as we don't have time for this. Have your conspiracy theories but know this. All it shows is that you don't know him anymore and it pisses you off."

The way Bakugou balked at this, those eyes wide with surprise then anger at the audacity. Though Shouto has no issues with forming more ice at their feet. A threat and once he realizes Shouto was serious that is when he backs down begrudgingly. There are a few guesses from Shouto on how Bakugou's quirk works but his ice would be more than a match-up for him if he tried something. There is a moment of hesitation before the explosive teen seems to just suddenly walk faster. At first, he thought he was about to pick a fight. Only to be startled as the shorter male practically rammed his shoulder into him with a glare.

"Let just go," he sneers as he walks past him as if to collect something from his wounded pride. An admission of a passive truce. Even if made under threat, and that was enough for Shouto.

This works. I hope you're ok Izuku. If anything you taught me is sometimes you have to make alliances even if under duress. However I don't think he is going to become my friend after this like I did with you, and frankly, I would rather not either.

But I can at least work with this.

Chapter Text

The wisp of mist from the villain was a familiar sight. Izuku has seen it so many times before. Used to help them leave or when his father helped them go home after Hawk's attack. No, he did meet this man once long ago as a little kid. He's the one that got him in that prison.

The figure's eyes looked at him. Izuku tensed as there was familiarity. Izuku instinctively takes a step back as it is like being hit with cold water. Wondering how he had forgotten that man? His hand moves to his head trying hard to bring up the memories of this man. It hurt-

"Izuku!" Shouto shouted with distress and Izuku looked up just in time to be face-to-face with the villain. Wondering when he had appeared in front of him as if the moment they made eye contact had a purpose.

"Kurogiri...?" Izuku felt the name leave his mouth as a weak whisper. There was no malice, only a kind of indifference despite familiarity like they were strangers. That was Izuku's big mistake.

"Midoriya!" Thirteen shouts frantically.

Aizawa had already jumped in to fight the villains down below as if unaware of the fact he had left his students vulnerable. Thirteen couldn't just turn her blackholes on them as while could grab the villain Izuku was also in line of sight. Shouto to his credit tried to use his ice to encase the villain but the man was much quicker. Creating a barrier that absorbed the ice and turning it right back on his assailant.

"Shouchan!" Izuku snapped out of his stupor as Shouto had clearly not expected it and nearly got stabbed by his own ice. Using more ice to block, it seemed he was still iffy about his fire. Crap-! Why does he keep freezing up when it is most important!?

"I was originally going to prepare a greeting, but I have a certain priority. You will all get your villain dialogue," the man of mist, Kurogiri, jeers. And honestly, it pissed Izuku off as it was being treated like a joke. Was that all this was to his father? Some game?

"We don't need your dialogue!" Bakugou shouted as tried to blast the main body. It didn't seem to hit but it was a great attempt and for a split second Izuku forgot what he said about caring about more important things. Kacchan was still unfortunately cool. Though Izuku would rather not admit that suddenly the whole area was covered in mist.

"Suffer and writhe like the insects you are then," Kurogiri says. Izuku instinctively looked at Shouto wanting to say something. To make some plan to think up something. Only for the mist to cover his own person and the feeling of weightlessness to overtake him. Landing right on his ass with only a small oomph it seems despite Kurogiri's words having been 'soft' on him. Finding himself literally outside of USJ on his ass in the most unceremonious manner.

No dramatics. No flair, just him on the floor staring at the clear blue sky able to just imagine his father laughing. To be involved in such a dangerous thing where he intends to harm people. But not him, even to the detriment of the plan.

"Of course, why would I expect to be treated like an actual hero or enemy?" Izuku muttered as his face flushed with anger and humiliation. Wondering why the hell he even entertained the thought that his father took him seriously as a hero. Or maybe his father found out that he knew and had to physically remove him because assumed he would become reckless. He isn’t too sure.

However, clearly this was a last-minute decision on how to deal with his son since he was just being left to his own device. It makes him wonder if Aoyama knew this would happen and why he still seemed iffy. He grits his teeth as he sits up to stare down USJ wondering what he had to do for his father to take him seriously. Did his father truly expect him to just stay outside while his friends are possibly killed?

“Damn you!” He curses as he slams his fist into the ground. The very earth cracking as the power he had stolen course through him yet it meant nothing. Wondering why he was constantly treated like he had no value. That he was just something to brush aside and to be dressed up whenever his father wished to play house. Unaware or purposely ignoring the struggles that his own son faces from the guilt of what he had done as a child.

Wishing to show he could do SOMETHING. That he won’t make the same mistake as he did and prove himself. Yet he is constantly being deprived of a chance to show his worth. His arm aches as tears are in his eyes slowly forcing himself to his feet. His body trembled as a part of him wondered if he was making a terrible mistake trying to go to help.

Another step.

He needs to get back in there. He needs to show that he can help and that he can save everyone and prove to his father he’s a hero. That he doesn’t need his protection and if truly is a villain then he will stop him.

Or get everyone killed in your arrogance. Proving to your father you can’t do anything.

He stops in his tracks as those thoughts invade his mind. Wondering if maybe he would only be a burden.

You’ve seen everyone’s strength. All you can do is steal and leech your power from others, Shouto can easily destroy everyone.

He takes a sharp breath as he is reminded of the mock battle. How he had to exchange power with Shouto to surprise Bakugou. But once he returned it, he showed what a natural born prodigy truly is. In comparison, Izuku might as well have been a child playing pretend at being a hero. Having lived in a soft cage looking outside spoiled but never allowed to try but also never knowing pain.

You are reckless. You have needed everyone else to bail you out, you had your own father save you from Hawk. For all your training, everything you have and even the quirk you wished for. All of it is because he gave them to you. And you think you can help anyone as you are?

He couldn’t even try to lie, “No…”

And it’s the truth. In a sense he had relied so much on the quirks he took from U that he never truly matched everyone else. It always backfires and only his speed allows him to even come close to everyone’s own strength. And what did he plan to do when he came back in? When there are enemies likely unaware of who his father is and will try to kill him?

Izuku felt frozen in place as he stared at the dome. His heart racing a bit as the fear that he is coming to help will only lead to more death. That if he goes back inside he would just be repeating what he did as a child. Foolishing running to help only to lead to the death of others because he thought he could help anyone.

His hand clenched into a fist staring up at the place that should have just been another day to train. To prove himself as more than capable of being a hero.

And he turns his back to it.

-------------

Each of the students also got warped to different sections of the arena. Thirteen was only capable of saving just those closest as every student has been thrown across USJ. Shouto was no exception, having to use his ice for an emergency landing.

Unfortunately he wasn’t alone.

A loud blast sounded nearby him making him flinch. There was a slight ringing in his ear as he turned toward the source to find the last person he wished to be near. The spitting image of his father standing over triumphantly over some low level thugs who dared to get too close. An almost maniacal look was on the teen’s face at the fact could go all out. It is a miracle none of the villains he blasted were dead, but then that likely is calculated.

Todoroki has been studying this man ever since he opened his mouth. Many would think it had everything to do with Bakugou’s relation with his best friend. This was something more personal. Every time the other opens his mouth, speaks or even interacts with Izuku it reminds him of that man. The one who stares with anger and hatred having craved the number one stop with cruel abandon. And Bakuou was no different.

So he turned away wanting to simply leave without being seen to deal with this his own way. It just could not be so simple as Bakugou had seemed to have finally noticed he wasn’t alone. Worse that Todoroki was trying to pretend that he didn’t see him.

However despite this that wasn’t why he was interrupted from his hasty escape. It was a slew of villains coming out of the woodworks that blocked his path. How annoying. He thinks bitterly as his hand is covered in ice. A familiar feeling of restrained anger sits in the pit of his gut as the villains seem to be trying to mock him. One he had become quite acquainted with living in that house. A big mistake.

"Move," that was the only warning Todoroki was giving as mercy. One that extended to Bakugou also, and he is lucky he even said anything at all.

Mister explosion had just barely timed himself with enough lift before the whole field was turned into ice. Villains that had been stalking toward what they had assumed to be helpless kids now stood frozen in place. Helpless and vulnerable in place, only able to stare wide eyed as the ‘kid’ looked at them with cold eyes.

Death would be too easy for these pests and wasn’t worth ruining his future for. It was laughable how easily he was able to capture them all. Despite there being men possibly twice his age and here they were trapped.

"Pathetic. These are adults aren't they?" Todoroki questioned with a scoff. Forgetting that Bakugou had only barely avoided being captured with all the villains.

“A warning besides one word would have been better,” Bakugou sneered. Though as the taller male glanced over he notes the slight tremble in the others demeanor. There is a look in the male who moments ago had been riding the high of being able to go all out against these adults. Only to see someone treat them as insects that were simply in the way. Bakugou was someone who many called blessed, Todoroki was the one who had been truly blessed.

"This doesn't mean shit!" Bakugou shouted so suddenly Todoroki was startled. Needing to take a moment to look at the blond wondering what the hell he is even barking about. Shouldn’t he be thankful he already took out the villains?

This stops Shouto in his tracks as he turns his gaze to the other. Wondering what Bakugou was even talking about as he already solved their little problem in one fell swoop. Their classmates were in trouble and if Izuku isn't here then he could prioritize saving their classmates. He may consider himself close to them yet but at the least they don’t deserve to die before he gets to know them.

"Is this really the time?"

Not that Todoroki had any idea what the other was even referring to, only knowing the other grated on every nerve. The other's expression looked so much like his father's rage and fear of failure whenever sees All Might on the TV. It’s disgusting.

"It isn't but you better stop acting like you don't even see me," Bakugou sneered despite how moments ago had been trembling. Todoroki’s hand twitches almost tempted to put him on ice but then that would be much too childish even for him. He had no interest in getting into a fight while their classmates are likely about to get killed. He’s better than that.

"Get over yourself," Todoroki shots down the others' attempt at conversation.

"The hell you-"

"I said get over yourself,” He interrupted him. Needing to make it clear he was not interested in this fight until they dealt with the actual issues. “Our classmates are in danger so your ego can wait. Unless you want to say you’re ok with letting them die?”

Todoroki allowed his words to convey the severity of the situation. Able to see those red eyes widen and narrow as there was no justifiable reason to argue. Not if delaying could end up being the difference between life or death. Not a very heroic thing to do for someone that claimed to ‘want’ to be a hero.

"Tch, fine."

Oh so Bakugou can be sensible. It seems despite all that bark there was a brain with some kind of morals in there. "But don't think I'm forgetting this, Todoroki. I'll be taking you off your ivory tower soon enough, and news flash you’re being used by Deku. And can’t wait for you to have that smack you in the face.”

This made Shouto turn his eyes narrowed in anger. Wondering who the hell was this guy to say such things to him? Was he seriously trying to claim he was being used?

"I don't know what the hell happened to him, but there is something wrong with him. You don't seriously believe all those quirks were given freely to him, do you?" Katsuki spoke likely meant to be a hint of doubt. Some big revelation as the old childhood friend who once knew Izuku in and out. The audacity of this bastard to act like that and think he knows him best.

"You truly don't know anything do you," Shouto scoffed. It was almost funny as it was clear that Bakugou was used to some kind of praise. His word was valued but he would not find a crowd in him. When Izuku told him they haven’t really talked since he was four but when asked if they talk now he seems more vague. As if Izuku was ashamed to talk about someone whose childhood name he used so often.

"Talk about him again and I'll turn you into an icicle,” it wasn’t a threat it was a promise. The more time they waste the more likely his classmates were in danger. “Have your conspiracy theories but all it shows is that you don't know him anymore and it pisses you off."

The way Bakugou balked at this, those eyes wide with surprise then anger at the audacity. Before shutting his mouth as if realizing that Shouto was already preparing to ice him. There are a few guesses from Shouto on how Bakugou's quirk works but his ice would be more than a match-up for him if he tried something.

There is a moment of hesitation before the explosive teen seems to just suddenly walk faster. At first, he thought he was about to pick a fight. Only to be startled as the shorter male practically rammed his shoulder into him with a glare.

"You’re an idiot, Icyhot," Bakugou sneers as he walks past him as if to collect something from his wounded pride. An admission of a passive truce. Even if made under threat, and that was enough for Shouto.

I hope you're ok Izuku.

-----------------------

The Symbol of Peace. A symbol of Japan’s prosperity contained in a single man's weight growing heavier and heavier every day. Like Atlas, All Might has held up Japanese society all alone with a smile on his face. Every step he takes strikes fear in villains and elation’s to those on the right side of society.

That is how they wished for it to stay. The scars of those that lived in a time before All Might can still recall the many deaths that littered the streets. Counting their blessings in this peace filled time that even allowed him to dare think of taking on an heir at all. Maybe he had achieved something that he had wished for with all his heart.

Unfortunately All for One still lives. What a fool Toshinori was to even think the man was gone after so many years of silence. To even think there would be true peace when he knew that man was out there. He never did find him as if he had simply vanished without a trace many years ago. Ignoring the warning signs until they were shoved back into his face.

That boy, Izuku Midoriya, was like being dunked in cold water as his quirk seems ever changing to those of the students around him. Able to still recall his concerns as he volunteered to invite the boy personally. Yet when he met him in person, well he had been startled at just how genuinely excited the boy was. Green eyes looking up at him with joy and excitement while wearing the female’s uniform had been a surprise. Shattering the original concern that somehow AFO had turned himself into a kid, he could never show such genuine delight.

Meaning there were only a few options remaining. All for One cloned himself, reproduced, or it just an insane coincidence.

When he encountered All for One with that malicious smile threatening to level the city if tries to fight him. He can’t imagine that man ever producing a child like that boy who looked so genuine and delighted to see him. So he feels there is no relation.

“And that’s why you don’t think he’s actually related to All for One?” Nedzu questioned. That was the current topic of the morning as All Might had arrived a bit late. Having spent most of his time helping every person on the way if anything he should have been on time. He still had all his strength but he couldn’t help but stop at every little issue. Leading to his late arrival and the principal taking the time to talk about the Midoriya boy.

“Of course it isn’t completely out of the realm of possibility,” Toshinori noted as he knows it is possible but it certainly seems outrageous to him, “After all if he is related, why would he allow his family to attend UA? If he is meant to be a spy he is sure to be very genuine about being a hero.”

It is logical. To imagine a monster like All for One not just procreating but creating a boy who aspires to such a thing is baffling. Even more so if was somehow willingly allowing him to attend UA, a school he likely knows All Might attended. With the history of One for All it was seen the closest he has done to ‘kindness’ to his family was force them in a cage and force powers onto him. The boy seemed too happy and almost comfortable with being a hero to have such relations.

“That man is a monster who is never satisfied,” All Might starts. As a hero he has seen the depths of cruelty the man can inflict. “He has killed women and children like they were insects. He does not flinch when they cry and has destroyed familiars, if he had a son I can’t imagine him ever having such joy nor ever being free.”

The miracle of this quirk’s birth despite the atrocities it had endured and survived being hounded by that monster. The idea of him even allowing his son to be a hero sounded laughable. Like a caricature created just to embarrass the monster All for One and that man would never allow such a thing. It did not match the image of the man in Toshinori’s head so there must be some other explanation.

If anything he could assume Izuku was a failed clone or something meant to infiltrate at the least. But possibly abandoned when realized he was too soft or didn’t fit the role. Though that would beg the question of why All for One did not kill the boy and erase any evidence of his existence. Regardless, Toshinori can’t imagine All for One ever raising anything.

Though Nedzu seemed a bit cautious at the idea of giving Izuku the benefit of a doubt.

“Hm regardless let us at least be Vigilant then. While the boy may not have direct relations and does seem poorly equipped to be some evil prodigy. Who is to say All for One didn’t have a one time fling and won’t get involved eventually?” Nedzu pointed out. A possibility that All Might had not considered in the many scenarios he had cooked up.

“Do you truly imagine that!? Then the boy would be in danger-” Toshinori spoke worried about that terrible man learning about Izuku’s existence. Then that would mean the boy's parents, who likely stepped up, would also be in danger. Who was to say they weren’t about to be killed in this instants-

“I was simply making a joke. We are just making assumptions,” Nedzu points out. Bringing All Might back down to ground level before he goes off to try and track down the man. “Regardless, the government did ask us to investigate a bit. Or should I say demand, in their subtle little ways. From what we did gather he lives with only his father who is usually busy as he works overseas originally but had to homeschool Izuku after his mother died in an accident. This is all the information we know and likely best to not prod.”

It felt wrong that the government was getting involved. They likely would not have cared at all if there hadn’t been a leak of information at the entrance exam. As some would say it’s the worst kept secret all because of one reporter who they talked to first. Who has since gone missing the moment someone from HPSC went to talk to him. Toshinori isn’t too sure if they had something to do with it or if there is something more sinister at work.

It left a foul taste in his mouth. Wondering if the boy knew he was being scrutinized at all angles just because of his power. The boy was trapped in the middle of all this chaos when should just be focusing on his studies. Toshinori never really considered how stressful it would be for him to keep an eye on Izuku until saw that there had still been a shred of innocence in those green eyes. Izuku was just a kid.

It’s a situation Toshi truly abhors being in. As the looming powers he ignored were starting to seem almost as dangerous as any villain prowling the streets. It had taken all their power to just try and keep the boy's identity from being leaked to the public. But it didn’t stop the government from asking questions with them only promising to look into it.

“It could all be fabricated but eventually we will see. After all, you are his teacher,” Nedzu pointed out, trying to assure him. There was no rush as they still had time to get to know each other. It was only the start of the school year, a few weeks at most. Even if there are a lot of moving parts they could only focus on their students. They can’t afford to become paranoid.

“I guess you’re right,” he was overthinking this. They barely know the boy and it didn’t seem like anything has happened besides that one incident. They shouldn’t be fretting over maybe’s but it didn’t stop this gut feeling that something was wrong. “Still I can’t help but worry that-”

BANG!!!

There had been no warning. All Might had heard something approaching the door. His super hearing allowed him to be able to notice most presence if he tried and he was always on alert these days. So he was genuinely caught off guard at the loud bang at the door.

Not until this fourteen year old boy slams the door open nearly knocking it off its hinges. Those green eyes that had been of innocence and wonder showed distress. His body trembling as if his body was about to break down as he stumbled toward them. Wasn’t he supposed to be at USJ? That isn’t exactly close, has he been abusing his quirks? Why is he here?

“Midoriya boy are you alright!?” Toshinori stood up quickly, concerned as the boy looked horrendous. His eyes are greeted by the small male who looked in absolute agony and yet still raised his head up high. They stared into his soul with shame with a kind of pleading that he never expected from someone wishing to be a hero. From the very one they had just been so suspicious of as he looked up at him.

“Please help me, All Might. There was an attack at USJ,” there is a plea in this small boy's voice. He was begging and at that moment Toshinori realized the boy was terrified, having pushed himself to the limit to get here in seconds. Something terrible must have happened at USJ and if it was connected to All for One then it is clear he is a victim. There were students who needed to be protected at this very moment.

He won’t delay this any longer.

“Don’t worry Midoriya boy,” he smiles despite the boy looking miserable and defeated. Knowing if this boy truly was his fan then what he needs most right now is his hero to stand tall. He can continue carrying the world on his back a bit longer.

“For I am here!”

Chapter Text

Izuku made it.

His lungs burned as his body suffered the backlash of pushing these quirks beyond what his body could handle. It was clear that his body could never adapt to these powers full strength needing to instead regulate. Or in this case abuse his regeneration allowing his body to be destroyed again and again as he ran to UA.

The white haired boy felt light headed that he could barely hear what his hero said only knowing that everything should be alright now. The man didn’t hesitate to assure him even if at the moment Izuku could barely register his words. Though he knew he was safe as the man said his line knowing there was nothing to fear with All Might here. Despite stumbling a bit he shakes his head as tries to hide how earlier looked like he wanted to collapse.

It was a good thing regeneration worked so well, though likely he was going to be sore later as while can heal he definitely over did it. He can’t focus on that right now he has his friends to worry about!

“Thank you, my friends are in big trouble. There were tons of villains. Like a lot! We need backup!” Midoirya was sure that All Might can handle the big villain but the other students could still be in danger.

“Then there is no time to delay,” All Might said. In contrast to his father this man made him feel like it was safe to trust him. That he was truly listening to his words and taking them into account without making judgment, “Principal, I’ll go on ahead to mitigate the damage. Gather the other teachers, Midoriya, you will stay here.”

“W-Wait I want to go with-” Izuku spoke only for Nezu to interrupt.

“Don’t push yourself recklessly,” The mouse-like principal interrupted, seeming to be staring him down. It made Izuku flinch wondering if somehow knew that he had basically torn his muscles several times using the quirk that doesn’t belong to him. He braces in fear of being forced on house arrest once again just a burden despite wanting to help.

He doesn’t expect what he actually says.

“We need you to stay here and help guide the teachers to UA. And it will give you time to recover then we will join All Might.” Nezu informed Izuku making him do a double take.

They… They weren’t going to force him to sit it out?

“He’s right, you’ll get your chance. I’ll make sure the villains don’t lay a single hand on those kids until you show up with backup,” All Might cheers with a grin. “See you at USJ!”

The man didn’t even wait for Izuku to say anything likely because of how dire the situation was there was no time to waste. Almost instinctively Izuku wanted to reach out feeling a sense of guilt and worry but he was already gone. Despite knowing All Might should be ok there was a sense of wrongness in the man going off alone. As if was allowing him into some kind of trap already able to hear those intrusive thoughts of how much trouble is causing by even being allowed to tag along still.

“Let’s go gather the teachers,” Nezu spoke. “I imagine many are already on high alert since you just burst onto the school campus. He will be fine and there was no stopping him even if I was to try. Once he knows someone in danger he just charges in.”

Despite the assurance there were still many factors that prevented Izuku from being able to ‘relax’. As it was his own father who had set up this incident and who was to say he wasn’t expecting All Might to appear as well as the teachers. Knowing he should stay and help Nezu to gather the teachers he glanced at where All Might had run off.

“Midoriya, are you listening?” Nedzu questioned as he still hasn’t responded. Despite their kindness promising that they were still allowing him to help. Izuku realizes he has grown to really dislike just being allowed his way without some fussing. Adults are supposed to be annoying and stubborn about their protectiveness, aren't they?

The teachers at UA are neglectful, cruel, or just enablers encouraging bad behavior. What should be welcomed instead felt like something was wrong. Of course he wouldn’t have listened if they told him to stay put but it felt-

Ugh, he might be listening to his father’s overprotective rants too much.

“Yes! Sorry, I was just thinking. Tell me who to gather and I’ll get to them quick!” Izuku shouts as decided to focus on the task at hand. They need more heroes.

__________

Back at USJ, there was a life and death situation for many of the students. One of those being Ochaco who had ended up tossed in the more mountainous area of USJ, likely where avalanche rescues are likely done. Practically tossed into the mountains it was honestly lucky that her quirk involved gravity as she had to use it to stop herself from falling to a possible death. Though it seemed wherever she had been sent was the very top of the Mountain.

Ochaco never expected to get involved in a villain attack in her first year of high school much less then barely a month of it. When she joined UA she had intended to just focus on making friends and studying to do the best she can to be a hero. Yet now was already in the middle of an attack, and from her position at the peak it seems there were other villains here. Most likely they weren’t here to make friends, and likely her classmates are in a similar situation.

“I hope everyone else is alright,” She whispers more to herself than anything. Especially Zuku as she had noticed how he had seemed to be discouraged and distressed for a while. Despite her attempt to cheer him up it was clear something was bothering him that he refused to share.

“Well well well look at the little girl,” A voice jeered and Oachaco let out a small squeak as snapped out of her thoughts to see that villains had joined her. Many of them seemed to have wings to fly or claws to dig into the avalanche mountain. It was clear whoever planned this fight made sure the villains had an advantage in this range.

Ochaco didn’t respond already knowing that these villains aren’t exactly going to be merciful just because she’s a minor. It seems she’s going to have to take care of herself while she could float away the villain with wings would be a problem. Unless she decides she wants to become a meteor and accidentally crush herself. Her hand brushing against the ground as tries to keep herself leveled as rock and dirt threatened to get into her eye.

“Aw she's so scared. She can’t even speak what a hero~” One of the villain’s jeered as she stepped back. Her heart raced as she knew she had to think of something but they were already approaching. She steps back as her eyes darken and before they can react, she runs trying to get down the avalanche.

“Oh no you don’t little girl! You ain’t getting away unscathed!” A villain jeered and suddenly the earth beneath her shifted making her jolt as rocks emerged. Her hands touch her own person just barely avoiding spikes that had been where she stood as she avoids the attempt on her life. This was serious, they were trying to kill her.

Meaning if she isn’t careful then she will be six feet under and her classmates were in danger too! She releases the gravity to land back knowing she can’t float forever already seeing some of the villains that seemed to semi-fly coming at her. Though it seemed as soon as she touched the floor she was ambushed by something below. A loud yell escaped her as a mole man appeared in front of her with claws ready to slice her.

No-! I can’t move fast enough-!

Her eyes stared wide in terror as the claw moved closer to the side ready to slice her in two. Wondering if this was really how this was supposed to go? Was she so weak that she was going to die here?

“Uraraka!” A shout and suddenly the villain that had been about to slice her was slammed into to the side at high speed. For a moment Ochaco almost thought it was Zuku but the sheen of silver showed it was actually Iida. It seemed he had ended up caught up in the black mist also but it seems to her benefit as the assailant was sent flying. Allowing her to land and with a large amount of rocks and debris everywhere now.

“Iida! You’re ok!” She could almost cry in relief as being alone had honestly been terrifying. They have been training to be heroes but she felt sorely unprepared for this especially all alone as she ran up to him. “Thank you for saving me. With that I can complete my plan.”

“Plan?” Iida looked confused since likely to everyone else it seemed like she was just running and dodging. Which she was but considering the environment it had given her an idea but this villain gave her the biggest one. A deep breath as she looks at the villains that seemed a bit startled at Iida appearing. Likely only needing a moment to recover but her hand then slams at the ground causing the very ground to shake and grumble as the bits of debris scattered everywhere had been set up.

“Let’s make it rain meteors!”

To say the least, it seems none of the villains here were immune to rock damage. Not so little now was she?

_______

Meanwhile, Shouto had entered an uneasy alliance with his hated classmate. In retrospect they never really talked to each other. If anything, from most people’s perspective Shouto had no reason to ‘hate’ Bakugou. It might even be considered unjust, likely on the assumption he is only having gripes because of Izuku’s clear issues with him. But then most people didn’t know the homelife that he returned to where he is pushed toward perfection by a man unable to stand not being number 1.

Even now Shouto can see the man’s scowl on the teen’s face as if the other wanted to say how it is slowing them down. How should be faster, or rather he can already imagine what his father would be saying. It certainly isn’t a fair assessment to place on the teen but it is only proven by the animosity between him and Izuku. So putting him in his place was needed least he thinks he can pull that shit with him.

It is likely only because of the earlier threat to ice him that Bakugou hadn’t snapped at their slow movement through USJ. With Shouto using the slower method to take villain’s off guard but to be frank he had to make sure they didn’t miss their classmates on their way toward Aizawa. Because they were going to the heart of USJ and that giant monster might be a problem for even them to take on. They still had no idea if that thing was even human and there was a smaller creature at its side.

It was sort of ‘rabbit’ shaked but abnormally large with a large plate on its head almost like an animal-like version of that large monster. It seemed to be acting almost independently as despite Tomura’s attempt to tell it to get back it moved only further.

“That stupid thing must be defective, ” Tomura sneered, scratching his neck in frustration as Nomu WAS listening to him and had Aizawa pinned. It seemed their teacher bit off more than they could chew, looking quite beaten up.

“So much for his quirk nullifying quirks,” Bakugou noted. Clearly trying to get something talked about anxious to barge in but also not so stupid as to do so without a plan. “Ok Icyhot since you've been doing this shitty slow and steady I’m assuming you had a plan to save his ass?”

That… Was honestly a fair question. If Shouto was honest he planned to charge in himself but considering he had allies he should be smart about it. As they could do a two prong attack as there isn’t anyway the Nomu could attack both. If they can get it off of Aizawa he can get back in the fight and nullify the enemies- Wait. Something didn’t feel right.

“THE FUCK-” Just as Bakugou cursed that is when Shouto turned around to see that weird ‘rabbit’ was standing on it hind legs. Its original rabbit-like appearance was now distorted as they could hear it audibly crack. Dark eyes started seeming to have turned black twitching erratically and Shouto just barely avoided its paw slamming down shattering the earth with a crack. Specifically aiming for Bakugou’s very being.

“Ha! Seems the rabbit thing wasn’t being useless after all. Come to die?” the edgelord villain jeered as the sudden monster rabbit attacking them caused a ruckus. Shouto wondered how it got so close but then he did hear rabbits feet were designed to be silent. Though the creature wasn’t listening to anything that was being said or even acknowledging Shouto. It clearly had only one thing on its mind.

“You know what?! I always hated rabbits anyway!” Bakugou shouted as got into attack position though that sounded like a lie as it seemed to realize it was this creature's target. Shouto guessed he should help him out, also wondering why it seemed to be ignoring him. Maybe it just isn’t smart enough to target them both?

It darts so fast in front of Bakugou the teen barely had time to react before it was punched in the gut sending him flying. The speed was dangerous making it clear if it had wanted earlier could have killed them before they realized it. The creature’s body was distorted, cracking as it stood and walked almost ‘human’ like despite its rabbit head and body. Giving off an uncomfortable feeling that this thing shouldn’t exist as its head tilts to look at Shouto. As if warning him.

“Are you little shits ignoring me?” Tomura hisses but then scoffs, “Fine I’ll let that thing kill you. Guess you get to watch your student’s die eraser head.”

Just as Shouto was about ready to cast his flames, it was suddenly in his face and for a brief moment… He felt like he just saw Izuku in those green eyes of that monster. Before it slammed his head down into the concrete floor…

Chapter Text

U used to just be a normal rabbit. An unremarkable creature born in a litter of four other blind and mute kits. Their mother tended to them in a box before focusing on eating and as he grew he thought that all life was, so was content. He didn’t care about anything besides eating and running around unaware of the horrors that would soon await him.

Human’s believe that if a rabbit is stressed enough they would die, that is a lie. A rabbit’s whole existence is being aware that they are prey that everything can and will kill them. Because of the hell he is about to endure he would have wished that had been true once the veil of ignorance subsided.

It wasn’t immediately apparent, despite the initial fear he was given things to chew, food to eat, and just enough space to move for his size. Also he already expected and feared the humans but they interacted with him at a minimum. Any good scientist would want to make sure that their lab animals would live comfortably before they are used. And when he does die, having never once touched grass nor ever felt the wind on his skin at the least his life would have been brief.

But they just had to test the limits.

Memories of the lab before he was taken to his new ‘home’ repeat in his head as if they were occurring in real time. Memories that once meant nothing now filled the creature with anger and remorse at his own ignorance. The experiments of those men in white lab coats that prodded, stabbed and forced him to run mazes like the rats. There were many different lab specimens in this lab, rats, mice, ferrets, shrews, and of course other albino rabbits like him. Maybe some were his siblings but he never thought about it at the time all he knew was it was terrifying. All of them prodded every day in rotation but then they seemed to have found something with one of the rats, their ‘favorite’ that they seemed to torture the most all because he seemed special.

And that was the problem as they tried to share that specialness with the other animals. Some by surgery, many died from that method, only apparent by blood on scrubs and disapproving tone as animals disappeared. Other methods though were much more subtle and sinister as they weren’t happy in just having one special pet. They laced their food.

U took one taste gaining enough awareness to realize if he took anymore he would regret it. They had slipped it into his water after too many died from what they called the ‘Good doctors’ methods as they were not as experienced. Just the hint of awareness angered him, turning and kicking hard at the water bottle. Hard, aggressively even enough to dislodge it and watch as it fell onto the ground feeling almost triumphant.

The scientists were startled by the sudden act of aggression. They had tried to question but he didn’t truly understand every word simply moving to the back of the cage to bite at the chew toys. His foot stomped to show his displeasure and he was deemed a failure or as some say, a spoiled rabbit that rejected the drink only because it tasted weird. But it became apparent they already got enough test subjects to fall for this ploy.

Those other lab animals weren’t as lucky. They seemed to have changed, they seemed more… Humans, which confused him to look at his neighbor and see them moving oddly. They seemed to speak almost like the humans asking why they were doing this. Now they had a voice they were questioning and screaming, it terrified him, unable to understand what is happening- Only for the cage to send a shock to all the dissenters once they got loud.

U can still hear their cries, scrambling and shutting up instantly. He didn’t like that they could talk, he understood them before just fine but now they talked like humans. It was complicated, emotional, and confusing. It was hard for him to grasp these concepts because of his own refusal to take anymore of their poison.

Only barely registering that they had done something to them and himself. Even the rats or maybe mice seemed different, their favorite seemed the most distressed. A part of U, almost vaguely like a thought, pondered if felt guilty at revealing he was so intelligent.

He should have just acted dumb instead of torturing them all with these thoughts.

Anyone that had drunk the appropriate amount, or died when he noticed some thrown into the garbage, were then put through even crueler experiments. He was the only exception, the ‘spoiled’ rabbit. They assumed he was just being stupid from stress and settled for him as the ‘control’ group. Where he was given a ‘safe’ version of the same tasks since, in their words, he was too stupid to even understand the test.

So he was forced to watch his siblings die one by one failing the experiments and never reaching the level they wanted. While he lived having to ignore the lingering thoughts that tried to form more awareness he refused to think about. Too terrified to think of what will happen when they run out of those to use.

Every other rabbit that had been cursed with sentience was cursed to suffer horrible experiments. They were more cognitive and yet none of them were good enough the rabbit side was stronger too terrified screaming and refusing. Leading to them failing as they knew they would die and the few that tried just weren’t smart enough.

Many other animals also died despite apparently being smarter then they had been before. They were all dubbed failures, unlike their favorite none seemed to reach the genius level like they expected, and he knew if he had drank that serum he likely would end up the same. He did not wish to fully understand, he ignored and focused more on his fear of the water being poisoned. An instinctive response not a rational one persisting in knocking off every bottle they gave resorting to throwing lettuce at him so he doesn’t die of dehydration before they were ‘ready’ for him.

So he refused. And refused. And refused every water they gave in fear of being forced to participate in their sadistic game. He may not have been as intelligent as his siblings but he wasn’t blind. All he knew in his still simplistic mind is that he is going to die in this cage. Too afraid to truly fight and to dumb to even plan an escape, just these essences of a feeling terrified him.

In a cruel twist of fate, he didn’t realize they had changed his food and poisoned that too. Eating all of it without even noticing the pellets were softer than normal and moist, just hungry.

His head felt like it was trying to break through his skull and he convulsed and choked. they did nothing but watch him as he thrashed and struggled. They poisoned him and they just watched him and suddenly he felt an understanding of all those emotions he feared. Hatred, he hated them as they watched knowing they had poisoned him. They allowed him to devour the whole thing knowing it would kill him and he screamed.

He claws at the cage entrance both pleading and enraged that this is how he died despite the serum he still couldn’t speak. His thoughts were racing and yet there was no cohesion, just a strong emotion. Crying shrieking as tears welled up in his eyes wondering if he was truly going to die like this. All the emotions and thoughts rushing wondering why he never tried to run, there were so many chances. Regret, cowardly, pathetic, and a part of still hoped somehow the humans would help him.

Unable to speak but pleading for them to help as his insides twist and pulled at his innards trying to speak. But despite himself he couldn’t speak, only able to think, it hurts! I’ll be good, he thought, please make the pain stop. I just want to live!

“You put too much of a high dosage in his food didn’t you?” One mentioned being annoyed when saw him thrashing and pleading in pain, “You know that would just kill it.”

“Well I wasn’t expecting it to eat so much. We can just buy more if he does at least we can study it dying,” the man that had poisoned his food surmised. And a cold feeling washed over him as these are the first words he truly understood and it was just too cruel. They were going to let him die. He let out a scream as he understood them and he wished he didn’t. He didn’t want to understand humans, he didn’t want to know they were going to let him die. He didn’t want to understand them anymore; he just wanted to be dumb, rather than knowing they were purposely letting him suffer was too cruel. Now understanding why the others screamed too.

He hates them for doing this to him.

If only death could come for him sooner, but it was slow and painful for hours. His fur falls off from stress as he scratches and thrashes before there is no more energy to fight. Laying there practically crying wondering why he was cursed with sentients he never asked for. Wanting to ask them to take it away, for him to just be back to being a regular animal that doesn’t understand how cruel humans are. Wishing they would just take him out of his misery like a predator wanting a meal.

At least that would make more sense then this torture.

But then it seems despite what should have been a pathetic end for a creature that had only briefly gained sentients. A man that held the stench of death and embodied cruelty had entered the lab hours into the evening. When most of the scientists have left for the day only the head scientist remained.

His hair was white almost soft underneath his hat with eyes as red as blood scanning the area. It looked like his own fur and eyes almost like a rabbit. It made him wonder what he has experienced to look like that. As if the man was simply a void trying to pretend he could hide his fangs…

His instincts could sense it, this person wasn’t like the scientist. There would be no prodding or anything once he decides you are of no use, if he wants you dead he will make it so. It’s just something he felt, or maybe he was delirious in his dying moment wishing for something to end his misery.

In this moment, life meant nothing. He gained enough awareness only to die worthless and alone with all of his family already dead. The idea of this human shaped turning and biting at his throat with a smile is comforting. Compared to the scientist who prod and look at him with pure indifference and cruelty. Keeping him alive just to see what ‘happens’.

“Well this thing looks in horrible shape,” the man spoke suddenly at his cage with a deep verbatim almost like a predator sizing up prey. Those large hands move to then cage as looks down at him and could see there was at most amusement, “Is there a reason you have a dying creature in a cage? Have to say if you want it dead you can just kill it as it seems like a waste of space.”

It became very clear no one had expected this stranger to arrive here the moment he spoke. Then again in the many years that U had lived here not many people come in and out of this place. At least none that weren’t already here the day he was brought in.

The usually calm and indifferent head scientist was frankly mortified at this stranger's presence turning around quickly. Almost like he had just seen a ghost as the scientist’s expression looked at this stranger. Looking exactly like all the animals that had begged and pleaded for mercy, a part of him was glad to see even this human knew fear.

“All for One, y-you didn’t tell us you were coming,” The head scientist, usually cold and indifferent, seemed on edge as forced a polite smile that didn’t meet his eyes. The ability to understand made the rabbits head throb but his curiosity didn’t allow him to stop.

“Don’t make me repeat myself,” the man, All for One, smiled but it felt more like he was baring his fangs at the scientist. The rabbit didn't understand why he seemed to be curious about him after seeing every other human not care about its existence. It was clear the scientist was also confused by this as didn’t seem to understand either.

“It’s just an animal. One of my subordinates fed it a bit too much of the experimental serum so it’s about to die and isn’t even showing a quirk like our other experiments. So we are at least studying the effects of it,” the scientist said completely in his element. Just to see what happens, that all this lab was wasn’t it? Just the depth of human curiosity and the extent it will go no matter the cost. The white furred rabbit closes its eyes guessing it will continue to suffer wondering why he ever thought there would be any mercy.

At least that had been what he thought.

“I’ll take it then since it's useless to know how long it takes for something to die.”

There is a pause. As if the scientist was registering what was being said, even the rabbit eyes shot open confused at the odd statement. Wondering what he could possibly want from a dying rabbit. There was no cure for something that had been allowed to wreak havoc in its body for hours. He was going to die and he’s sure he isn’t even going to be edible anymore. His body will just end up in the trash to rot like all his siblings that died, he had no more purpose.

“All For One, it’s about to die, there is no saving it. Surely you aren’t feeling bad you never cared about any other experi-” The scientist spoke only for the very air itself to seem to become almost choking. Even an animal on the verge of death could feel a foreboding sense that if the scientist said one more word it would earn himself a ticket to the same fate as the very lab animals he threw away. His mouth shut to show this realization even the rabbit, U, was too afraid to move.

“Open the cage, Now.” It was an order not a request, an enigma but it was clear the scientist was too afraid to refuse. Rushing over to open the cage practically shaking as the large man towered over them. Watching as if was seconds away from showing the scientist a one way ticket to the after life before the cage was flung open.

“H-Here you go. I’m so sorry for questioning you like that, I-” The scientist spoke only to suddenly have a hand pressed against his head. “Wait no!”

To this day U doesn’t know why he wanted him specifically. He couldn’t even move or understand what this man had done to the scientist. He didn’t smell dead but then it isn’t as if he would care as he glances up to see the man reach in. He was always a large rabbit yet he felt so small in this human’s arm who held him gently. Those hands felt like they were jaws that could clamp down and break him in seconds.

“I’m sure you will love my son when he’s born. But you can take that eternal rest for now, I’ll awaken you when it’s time. Or maybe you won’t ever be needed, wouldn’t that be nice.”

He didn’t understand but as his consciousness faded there was a weird peace in dying in someone’s arm instead of a cage. As if he no longer felt the need to fight anymore. That he can’t even find resentment in anything that happened after because in the end what he becomes isn’t him anymore.

By the time he had finally awakened, he was no longer white with red eyes but black with green eyes. It had likely been years since he died the passage of time was clear as the man All for One seemed like he had aged somehow and it is likely whatever had happened is why he had been brought in. Reborn as this new entity.

He didn’t recognize his reflection nor could react with a million commands in his mind to obey but he was allowed to basically just exist in that house with that little boy. Still able to remember how excited the small boy got as went to hug him. The boy hugged so tightly as if was trying to break him and it seemed there was a reason he was given all these adjustments.

He still remembers seeing this small boy and being surprised he’s related to someone so terrifying. He was gentle and sweet, seeming so excited at meeting him and hugging him, possibly a bit too tight but at the time he was bigger. His friend, his companion-

He loved him but eventually the boy just never seemed happy enough with him. As if there was a void inside also that nothing was enough even as the father dressed him up and spoiled the child's misery seemed to grow. At times Izuku would be grabbing him a bit too roughly and seeming like he always wanted to cry with U unable to do anything despite his role meant to be his friend. It made him wonder, why wasn’t he happy? Was he not enough? Why was he angry? What is he supposed to do? He’s so rough it isn’t like he is going anywhere-

As the boy grew up with U as his only companion watching as the boy stared at the TV with a blank gaze. A hero was on the TV, the boy once had such a bright joy in his eyes but now was watching almost like an obsession. Only something he would notice more than sure others would think he’s just excited. Muttering to himself just like his father with quirk he writes in those notebooks, writing and rewriting.

So U would make a habit of grabbing random pieces of the nice clothing of those dresses when he begins to write a bit too long. So anxious it was clear that the isolation was becoming too much, and when does notice the rabbit chewing on the clothing that always stir him up. “U no!” And suddenly he was back to that sweet boy again.

That sweet little boy had teeth just as cruel as his own father if he dwells too long in his thoughts. Finally approaching his father about the source of his obsession with a plea that likely was born from despair. Asking how he is supposed to be without powers but he was unable to control his own bite. And his father offered that power, and U was that sacrificial prey with an almost naive trust.

And yet that little boy had ripped those powers out of his mind as if he had dug those very claws in and tore it out himself. That pain is something he won’t ever forget.

He wanted to believe it wouldn’t happen again. He was back to being that sweet boy with some issues but his father never did help with that. U tries to support him as best he could forgiving him for the pain that he inflicted knowing it wasn’t on purpose.

It was almost better when that other boy Todoroki came around, filling the void his boy had for the longest time. Providing companionship that the father and a rabbit could never provide and U was happy for him. As well as Ochaco and Iida as new friends that he had made in the school with joy.

However, he also talked about Bakugou just to him, just a quiet sobbing saying how can’t talk to anyone about this. That boy had hurt Izuku deeply with feelings of rejection only able to tell U as could not trust his father nor Todoroki. A special kind of cruelty of someone that doesn’t understand their actions causing harm or rather not caring if it does. But then one day Izuku came home seemingly humiliated with tears that likely he didn’t even notice he was shedding. It was because of something he didn’t wish to speak about.

Grabbing U a bit rougher than normal like he did as a kid, he said an apology as needed to get stronger… And this time the pain had been inflicted once more, as U didn’t want to give the boy anymore. Struggling against his grip only for this resistance to end up making it so much worse than before, able to faintly recall when passed out Izuku screamed mortified for his dad before his vision blacked out.

And in that moment, he knew that the worsening nature must be because of that boy Bakugou. Able to recall everything Izuku has told him of every mistake and inferiority. The devil in the details that even the father doesn’t know in the mind of a terrified teenager and he is reminded.

He despises humans.

_______________________________________

Izuku couldn’t shake this unsettling feeling as he helped gather the teachers. Moving from foot to foot there was a lot of energy that was telling him he needed to get to USJ. That he was wasting his time just helping gather the teacher when he could just run after All Might.

“Anxious?” Nedzu questioned as Izuku was basically jumping around seeming incredibly uneasy since couldn’t hold still. Izuku stopped himself as it felt this rat -or was he a mouse?- of a principal was watching him carefully. The scar over the other eye showed a life of trauma but in some weird way it reminded him a bit of U. He isn’t sure why since U can’t talk, but Nedzu is polite but in a way that says is cautious of him. Like his rabbit.

“Sort of,” he answers politely. As unlike U he gets the feeling the other won’t be as forgiving with being an open book. As was sure the others priority was the school and its reputation rather than some kids actual feelings. “I’ll be fine, um can I run off after All Might to help as support?”

Nedzu stared at him intently with a smile that didn’t meet his beady eyes. It reminded him almost of when U would stare at him from the corner of the room in the mansion. Thinking that somehow Izuku wouldn’t notice the rabbit sometimes just staring him down. As if he was trying to study him but thankfully the principal let it slide. Despite clearly seeming almost distrustful for a second the other suddenly speaks in an almost kind manner.

“I wouldn’t recommend it but I can already tell you truly want to go off to your friends,” Nedzu noted. It was hard to tell what the other was truly thinking. Unlike human faces, animals don’t make the same facial expressions nor the same mannerism. And Izuku doesn’t have a lot of knowledge of what the others' own expressions mean so for all he knows would be annoyed despite the tone. Feeling almost uncomfortable at the idea of even going on the bus with the other teachers he wanted to charge ahead.

“Please, I need to help my friends and I’m faster than a bus…” Izuku knows he shouldn't be begging or pleading like this. It was frankly not a good look and there was a part of him that recoiled at this. Wanting to hide in some corner in shame at his own weakness for needing to resort to such pitiful displays. Has he not humiliated himself enough? Has he not run away once? Has he not been shown up by Shouto? Has he not been a damsel for his father to rescue?

He pushes back those intrusive thoughts by reminding himself that showing a vulnerable side is in itself a way to bargain. It seemed that Nedzu was actually considering his words for a moment almost in thought.

“No, you already pushed yourself too hard earlier. There’s no point in killing yourself, it won’t be long,” Nedzu denied him. It was like a stab to Izuku’s ego when the plea led to nothing and annoyance likely showed on his face a bit. As Nedzu looked at him almost puzzled and Izuku had to recover hoping he didn’t actually see that. Knowing that if anything should be glad at the least hasn’t asked how he escaped from USJ, but likely won’t be long.

Now if he had plans to run it was ruined, it would have been better to run and ask for forgiveness later. Now if he was to run he would likely end up in more serious trouble as would be purposely disobeying. To humiliate himself in such a way only to gain nothing was terrible, he won’t make that mistake again when it comes to decision making. Heroes can’t second guess themselves and this feeling won’t leave him.

Since when did heroes that he used to love and adore so much that he begged his father to become one- Start to feel like they were judging his every move?

He hesitates to join the heroes on the bus wondering if maybe there was just something wrong with him. These feelings of inadequacy as he looked at the bus the last teacher on the bus turned a bit concerned.

“Midoriya?” Midnight questioned with a surprisingly soft expression as if she is able to tell something was wrong. He takes a step back as he gives a sheepish smile knowing what he is about to do might be another dumb decision…

“I’m sorry,” before they could even react, knowing these heroes would be obligated to stop him, he uses his quirk to sprint. Knowing most likely All Might might already be at USJ but he needs to get there sooner. He needs to make sure.

He can ask for forgiveness later.

_______________________________________

“You stupid rabbit, aren’t you going to finish him off?”

This was the first thing that Shouto heard when he came too. There was an intense throbbing in his skull threatening to split it open while his body was wrecked with pain. It seemed he had passed out for a brief moment from the shock and despite what should have cracked open his skull he was alive. That was clearly on purpose as the creature had run in so fast and had all the chances to deal a killing blow.

Despite the villain trying to urge the monster to kill him while he’s still recovering it seemed to actually be ignoring him. Clearly to the villain’s anger and annoyance he can hear the man express as much.

“If that thing isn’t here to help us, why is it here? It is pissing me off as it is not even a good miniboss,” Tomura sneered but it did confirm something.

The villain couldn’t control this creature like he could that larger brute holding Aizawa hostage. Which did beg the question why it even joined the villains as it clearly had a different goal in mind. Stepping away, it didn't seem interested in making sure Shouto stayed down despite the fact he knew he could still be a threat. Even showing it’s back to him, something he isn’t sure if it was done out of arrogance or it truly didn’t feel threatened.

It was hard to move, Shouto’s attempt had his body protesting in pain as this was more intense then anything his father has done. Something precise that wouldn’t kill but he could feel blood dripping down his face as he shakily moved to his knees. Blood moving over his left eye he has to close it, wincing as moves to wipe it away expecting the monster to take it as a threat.

It stopped and he tenses. The creature slowly turns its head to look at him, those green eyes looking so unnatural on the creature. Like they didn’t belong to him as they reminded him more of a certain someone. Unlike him though, it was more clear and precise knowing where it was going as it turned its head away and Shouto realized it was walking toward Bakugou.

“H-Hey, don’t ignore me,” Shouto tried to sound tougher than he actually felt. Class 1-A strongest student was bleeding from his head and shaking as soon as meets a powerful opponent. The monster seemed completely unbothered as it walked away, not at all threatened by his attempt to stop him. Suddenly Shouto didn’t feel so powerful, wondering if this feeling is what Izuku feels every time looked at him.

It walked without any fear but it was clearly not from arrogance and there was intelligence in those eyes despite looking like an animal moments before. It was unnatural and there was this unsettling feeling that it seemed to know him. In the back of his mind he is oddly enough reminded of the rabbit Izuku always talks about that he could never get to show on facetime. The various attempts only revealed it was black before it would kick at Izuku, it was so big, to be released and run off to hide under the bed. He can still remember Izuku’s awkward smile, “He’s just shy.”

No. It is likely just a coincidence, there is no way Izuku could mistake a monster like this as some harmless rabbit.

Yet he is reminded that the other father was apparently some super villain and the implications did not sit well with him. That the man had done something to his own son’s pet for who knows what reason. It seems fathers that refuse to allow even a shred of personal joy is just another thing they have in common. He really hopes that isn’t the case for Izuku’s sake…

“Oh no you don’t!” He is on his feet now and of course he sends a wave of ice to encase the monster. It was overkill in most situations as this would cover every part of the monster but he needs to make sure it can’t continue. Just as he was about to go get Bakugou it seemed the one that was in charge was getting annoyed at being ignored. As just had to remind him that Shouto isn’t just dealing with one threat but multiple.

“Aren’t you forgetting something?”

Shouto turned his head just in time to see that the other threat wasn’t something he could ignore for long. As it seemed the ‘head’ of the operation was getting quite pissed off at the slow action as the rabbit didn’t go for the kill. And since was now temporarily on ice would likely get involved to spice things up.

“Ugh, this is getting boring. Where is the symbol of peace, my Noumu friend here wants a real fight. Break his arm,” Tomura said, seemingly out of nowhere almost boorishly. It wasn’t said with any sadism it seemed more like it was done out of spite. As he had waited until Shouto was looking over before giving the command, Shouto can’t help but admit he froze for a moment.

A loud audible crack was heard and some gruntled noise of pain escaped Aizawa who likely had been trying to figure out how to escape. But the large behemoth barely put any effort into its action, blood gushes from the man’s broken arm. It took only a few seconds, and it was a miracle that Aizawa didn’t scream, or maybe he was in shock from the pain happening so fast. How he is even awake he isn’t sure but if he said anything Shouto could not hear it.

Then he hears the shattering of ice turning his head startled to see the large rabbit monster breaking the ice that covered it. Piece by piece, it clawed and breaks the ice that had covered its body with inhuman strength. Those greens eyes stared at Shouto as if asking if that was all he could do just before it kicked out its leg from the ice. Making it clear that unlike all those weaker villains he would need to put much more effort in taking this monster down.

It needed all of his attention not this half-assed display that he had been giving trying to figure out both situations. Either Bakugou or Aizawa?

Shouto’s expression never once changed from it’s usually stoic demeanor even as he grappled with several powerful enemies. It was only because of his year of training under his father that he is even capable of hiding his emotions. Trying to figure out a strategy that could guarantee him saving both, but the harsh truth was he could only save one. Even he could tell those monsters were beyond any normal ‘villain’ and would require everything he has to survive.

How does he get a rabbit that is uninterested and that villain with that behemoth to both focus on him. He may not be the best at quick planning but at the least he can try to slow the rabbit down. Everyone was counting on him and if he failed that would be two lives he could not save.

“Don’t underestimate me,” Shouto warns as he feels the burning of the ice cover his right side as the creature's continue. He doesn’t hesitate sending out another giant wave of ice at the rabbit monster. Hoping he could encase it again and possibly get time to try and charge at the behemoth holding Aizawa.

It seems that trick won’t work twice. As soon as the monster saw him charging up and throwing his attack it jumped high. Landing on the created ice and shattering it as its eyes looking over at Shouto almost disappointed in him. As if saying, is that all you got? There was no delaying it unless he chooses to fight it directly as if to prove it point it suddenly kicks down shattering the ice beneath it turning it into shards. It was taunting him.

“Shigaraki, Tomura,” the dark mist that had earlier thrown all of his classmates into all corners of USJ appeared. Likely it had finished causing whatever havoc so the students were likely tossed to the winds, “I regret to inform you that a student has escaped my grasp and escaped. So he is likely to bring reinforcement.”

“Huuuh,” the large man child let out a drawl at the news. Not exactly a threatening image as he seemed to tilt his head. “Are you serious? It’s game over if all the heroes arrive, how did you fail this badly? Guess we will have to fall back.”

A part of Shouto wondered if maybe the kid that ‘escaped’ was Izuku as it likely explains why hasn’t seen him at all. Which is a relief in some part though he sort of wished he had been here as he’s sure could have found a plan to help save both and also probably be able to control that rabbit. It seemed Tomura’s eyes were looking at him now. Though just as he was prepared for a fight he heard the shattering of ice, causing him to turn his head.

A costly mistake. As soon as he looked to see the rabbit Nomu shattering ice he just threw and a dark shadow suddenly covers over him.

“At the least we can bring down the Symbol of Peace’s morals,” it seemed this man had gotten cocky getting up close and personal. Reaching out with his hands just about to touch Shouto’s face-

Fortunately the mistake was on the villain’s end and clearly he’s an idiot as had wanted him to come where can handle them both. Within moments instead of ice he changes for his whole body to become encased in fire. Burning the offending villain’s hand noting it seemed the plot to keep using only his ice did work. He’s going to need to thank Izuku’s idea of a fire barrier when enemies get too close. Too bad his clothing got a bit charred but it’s a small price to pay.

“You fucking brat!” It seems the gamer lingo dropped when suddenly got his hands burned. The nasty charred appendage was clear showing that Shouto had caused serious damage. But he was sure if he hadn’t then likely he would have ended up being the one six feet under. “Damn you, then let Nomu play with you.”

The large behemoth moves off of Aizawa’s person, it seemed the man had passed out at some point. Likely from either his head being bashed or arm being broken, Shouto isn’t sure, and won’t be able to help.

His eyes looked over at Bakugou to see the rabbit-like creature picking up Bakugou’s body as if the ice literally did nothing. Wondering how the hell he is still knocked out before seeing there was some blood where Bakugou struck against the rock.

How hard was he hit?

Clearly in serious condition it seemed the rabbit didn’t hold back at all with him. Just as Shouto was about to try and use his ice to make a barrier it seemed even the damned Nomu had super speed. Wondering why the hell did these things all seem to have the same speed as Izuku as he was just barely able to evade it’s strikes. Using his eyes to basically slide out of the way quickly as now had that thing after him.

Trying his damndest to get closer to the rabbit as it let out a loud shrill noise like the voice of the damned and a black mist opened. Shouto tries to send another wave of ice but it seems the rabbit creature noticed this time and with a vicious stomp sends a shove wave back that shatters the ice. It was starting to get annoying and he just barely avoided another slam as it seemed Nomu had no intention of stopping.

He barely had time to keep himself alive and knew if he didn’t do something that thing was going to take Bakugou. He can’t handle both, is he truly this weak when he has been the top of his class? Has he truly been slacking off that much?

“We got you!” A ray of hope.

Just as Shouto had thought he was going to be unable to save anyone it seemed the cavalry has arrived. The rabbit looked up only to be struck by a boulder causing it to drop Bakugou as it was sent flying. There was only one person that could possibly have the ability to have something that large fly at that speed. And as he turned his head he could see them, Ochaco and Iida had arrived on the scene already at Bakugou’s side, not about to give it a chance to steal him.

“Uraraka? Tenya?” Shouto seemed startled not turning his back to Nomu but there was relief. It seemed they were going to make sure Bakugou wasn’t kidnapped. The rabbit seemed quite pissed as it got on all four and let out a scream that seemed to echo. Seems it was pissed that it now had to actually fight.

“Focus on your opponent, Todoroki. We’ll keep our class mate’s safe,” Iida assured, and he takes those words to heart. Despite his initial weariness of the two at this moment he knows he can trust them. As he looks at the Nomu he knows he can’t defeat it. As it had clearly done a serious number on Aizawa he was going to need to use all his powers.

“Damn brats, you really think you’re a match for them?” The man who was still nursing his burnt hand seemed to have recovered a bit. Even if he was clearly sour and likely would be joining the Nomu, “You’re way too underleveled for it, as it was made to defeat All Might, guess that can be a gift for him not showing up.”

If the heroes are coming then all they can do against these monsters is hold out for as long as it takes. There were no second chances here.

_______________________________________

Ochaco and Iida were the calvary. It was a good thing Ochaco decided against Iida's better judgment to go toward the villains. As it was clear that their teacher was in danger and they needed to do something. Though she will admit the giant rabbit-like monster in front of her was quite terrifying. She didn’t get a very good look at first when grabbed a boulder and had Iida kick it precisely at the thing.

It seemed undamaged inspite of having a boulder thrown at it if anything just seemed annoyed as it looked at them and shrieks. As if it was in pain or distress rather than anger, dull claws on its front paws as it dug into the ground. Then it sprints forward clearly trying to grab Bakugou’s unconscious body.

“Oh no you don’t!” Iida shouted as he grabbed the knocked out teen to pull him away from the monster's grasp but it was incredibly fast. Just barely avoiding the creature's grasp as it skidded onto the floor and just passed them. It seemed like it had just barely avoided clawing at Iida or in a sense it looked like it missed at the last minute. Its hind legs moved into position as those eerie green eyes stared them down. Those eyes looked almost familiar but it was likely just a coincidence.

“I-Iiii daaa…. Ochaaa coo…” A gargled voice escaped the monster and they both froze as there was something unsettling on that voice. Sounding much too similar to a certain someone almost like a plea as it stared at them. For a moment they could almost mistake it for him as if it was pleading with them to stop fighting.

“Why do you sound like-” Iida was just about to question the creature mimicry but it seemed that it had been a trap. One they both realized a moment too late as it closed the distance between them. Getting in close it slammed Iida down onto the floor with its foot crushing him as it tried to yank Bakugou roughly. It did not hesitate and she knew she couldn’t either not when it was life or death.

“Oh no you don’t!”

The usually chipper young lady ran and grabbed at the rabbit monster, the action seemed to startle it as it released Bakugou practically dropping him. Its eyes stared at her wide at suddenly being touched, until it realized that she had just activated her powers on it. There was panic as it was now weightless struggling and shrieking like a terrified rabbit. She could keep it like that and it will be harmless until the heroes arrive. Though the way it struggled helplessly in the air almost made her feel bad but knew if she loses concentration she might puke and release giving it a chance to continue its assault.

Then someone might die.

Iida! Are you ok?” She questioned already feeling a bit of vertigo wondering just how heavy was this thing. She has been using her quirk a lot more than she ever had before and it was starting to hit her with its rebound more and more. There was a nod from her friend so at least it seemed she had arrived in time though she couldn't offer a hand to help him up. Much too nervous about somehow accidentally dispelling her own quirk. This is what heroes have to experience every day.

The monster’s screams did not make it easier as it switched from that voice to that of an animal’s scream of distress. Almost like it was a being of suffering wondering who or what is this thing if this is even a person. Her shoulders were trembling as she stared at this creature, those eyes looking back at her as if it was hurt. Why is it looking at her like that?

“I’m ok but it seems Bakugou’s is in a bad condition. It seems he might have broken a rib and suffered a concussion but at least he’s breathing,” Iida informed, as was checking the state of their classmate. The way Iida spoke implied there might have been some internal damage inflicted by the creature. A contrast to the state Shouto seemed to be in despite him also apparently being attacked he was still able to function and fight.

The creature seemed to finally stop screaming and go limp almost like it had just given up as tears welled up in its eyes. She would almost feel bad if moments before it hadn’t tried to crush Iida and clearly had been intending Bakugou actual harm. That is until it moved its front paw above its head and in that familiar voice shouted almost a mockery of a hero everyone adored.

“Smash!”

And suddenly the creature had created a shock wave and was darting toward them. Only to suddenly be slammed into by something large and thrown to the side.

“Have no fear,” there is a shred of hope finally as there stood All Might his smile more like gritted teeth as the creature definitely felt it that time. The rabbit was cowering in pain curled at it side looking up terrified at the hero as relief fell upon the students. They were saved!

“For I am here.”

_______________________________________

“You want to make this rabbit linked to Izuku?”

Garaki questioned, seeming a bit confused by All for One’s wording. They were working on making the perfect pet for the boy but it was also the perfect scapegoat for all those feelings.

“Not exactly linked. That would imply the feelings are mutual and I rather my boy doesn’t suffer that. While still having its own ‘feeling’ or imitation of one since it is a corpse,” All for One speaks casually staring at the rabbit that he had collected all open and exposed. In the middle of it’s very revival process, “You see… Izuku as he grows older he isn’t going to be honest. So this rabbit will be like… A window into his soul to make sense of him, a one way mirror, I’m sure you can figure out the technicalities.”

The man scientist hums softly as looks over at the sleeping six year old boy that had refused to stay home after another accident happened with his pet. At the moment passed out with some medicine. As the father didn’t wish for him to see any of this but didn’t want to leave him alone. He always hated being alone.

“I think I can manage that, it can be like a mimic in imitating the boy on a subconscious and physical level. Brainwashing isn’t anything new and in the event the boy is about to do something he shouldn’t or something is about to be revealed, I think this thing will be a good fail safe,” The doctor noted as looked at the man who funded everything. The man that had lost his wife and brother forever mourning and seething with hatred holding onto the only thing that matters. “That’s what you want isn’t it?”

“Can you do it?”

Was all that All for One asked, seeming unaffected by the doctor’s inquiry at the purpose of making this rabbit like his son in any way. A disgusting abomination that will horrify anyone wondering why they would do such a thing to their own son’s pet. Forever an enigma that the scientist is constantly trying to figure out, always a provider yet never allowing anyone to get close.

“Hmm you always become distant on subjects like this… I can do this, sir.”

“That’s all that matters.”

The end justifies the means, and if has to sacrifice even the boy's own pet it seems that is a price he is willing to pay.

Chapter Text

All the villains despaired at the sight of the greatest heroes of their time. All their attempts and planning were for nothing as they had failed to kill even one student successfully. Meaning they will at the least avoid the worst-case scenario they had been craving. A hero arriving just in the nick of time just like in those stories.

The man stands over the terrified rabbit that moments before terrorized the students trying to kidnap a boy for unknown reasons. There is no mercy for those that have done wrong. This is the truth in heroes' society, as this man brings joy to those good and true. The opposite is inspired by those on the other side.

To the villain’s All Might then might as well be a monster.

They can hear the children cheering at All Might’s appearance signaling the end of the villain’s reign. The greatest hero in the world will keep them safe! No one cared anymore about why these villains were here, or even the purpose of this attack. The man stared down at the monsters with a sneer rather than a smile, showing how they had crossed a line.

With Shouto and the other students the rabbit-like creature was unbothered content in keeping its distance. Now it trembled with wide eyes as All Might scanned the area able to see the injured children and teacher. The monster of a rabbit seemingly reverted to a normal rabbit, all the fight it had was drained out of it the moment this hero appeared. It barely waited a moment before it tried to retreat, no longer interested in kidnapping Bakugou.

“Where do you think you’re going?” All Might spoke, before suddenly grabbing the creature with incredible speed honed over decades of experience. The creature barely even had time to scream before it was slammed down. Despite the crater the creature was clearly still conscious but now frozen, unable to bring itself to move. But it seemed its original intention to run away had been halted as tears were in its eyes. All the enemies that had been his path were knocked out in a pile making it clear he was more than a match for them.

Good enough, he released the creature as he went to assure all the other students.

“Sorry I took so long, it seems Midoriya boy had to come get me himself,” the man informed knowing the kids were looking to him for security. He needed to give the credit that was due to the boy that pushed himself beyond his limits. As it was clear if he it took even a moment too long then this situation would have been dire. “You all must have been so terrified… But Fear not, I’ll take care of these villains.”

A gallant speech. One expected of the number one hero as the anxiety of the student seemed to fade away. Though it was clear the danger wasn’t fully gone just those words would bring much needed relief to them. As even the villains were looking at All Might with fear and uncertainty in their eyes stopping their assaults.

This included the Nomu that had moments prior attempted to take Shouto’s life several times during this encounter. He is once again reminded of the admiration that he once had as a child watching the man on TV. Wanting to become a hero that inspires as much awe as All Might and take care of people like him.

In a blink of an eye, Shouto is startled to feel himself being grabbed like a sack of rice away from Nomu. There was an audible gasp that sounded like Ochako and in the blink of an eye he was far from the battle area. Placed beside Ochako, Iida, Aizawa and the unconscious Bakugou far from the danger and villains.

“All of you to the entrance! Take the young Bakugou and Aizawa, reinforcements will be coming soon,” All Might informed standing protectively in front of them. It seemed he had knocked off the hand on that Tomura’s face, the male seeming a bit bothered while the rabbit like monster slowly got up. Its eyes were filled with tear and its form seemed so much smaller now it was almost pitiful if hadn’t been horrific moments before.

“So, there is state-sponsored violence. You didn’t seem to lose your edge at all, how annoying,” Tomura sneered because it was an expected reaction. No questions or talking from the number one hero even questioning why they were doing this. Just violence instantly attacking the rabbit and the villains to save the kids. No time for small talk, the rabbit-like creature moved toward almost limping, seeming to want to hide. It was not given a warm welcome as the young man sneered at it. “Don’t come near us, you pest. I should get rid of you for ignoring me.”

The now suddenly small rabbit-like monster truly seemed like an outlier among the villains as it flinched at Tomura’s tone. Despite clearly having come with the group it seemed more like a tag along. Though when a black mist appeared the rabbit seemed about ready to dart at a moment's notice into the escape route. It clearly had no intention to stay and fight.

“Kurogiri, are you serious!?” Tomura shouted, seeming pissed at the fact it seemed like the black mist was allowing the rabbit to run ogg.

“It’s about to escape-!” Shouto spoke, unable to get rid of this feeling that if it gets away then will lose the answers of why it is even there. If that thing is truly related more to Izuku and his father than just part of this villain’s plot. But there is no way they will be able to get there in time as it so close-

“I’ll handle it Todoroki-Shonen,” All Might said with a bright smile and peace sign. And within seconds the symbol of peace is on the battlefield. The monster Nomu tried to stop it but a punch sent it flying right into Tomura. This man is within his prime standing strong and before the rabbit could even try to escape it was grabbed by the back of its neck. About ready to pile drive it into the ground as no villain will escape his sight-

That is until something like red lightly sparked faster than anything as the earth itself cracked the symbol of peace feeling the creature being yanked from his hand. As a loud young man breaks through the noise, “DON’T TOUCH HIM!”

The scream seemed to have echoed, it was a banshee of a scream. It took All Might a moment to just realize the beast that he had in his hand had been snatched away. Shouto was startled having just been watching the scene as something like a blur came and grabbed the monster rabbit out of All Might’s hand. It was like some veil had just been shattered as the cloud of destruction disappeared, but no one had been hurt as a figure was crouched a bit away from All Might.

At that moment Shouto realized he knew that figure that held the small rabbit almost possessively. Much too tightly that could almost be crushing the small rabbit, the original monstrous nature seemed gone as it squirmed. But it was the one that was holding him that truly caught everyone’s attention, white hair and green eyes.

It was Izuku and he had no intention of letting go of that rabbit.

___________________________________

“Midoriya put that thing down!” All Might shouted, seeming startled but then Izuku had never been able to pull off such speed. Before it was clear that Izuku had been nearly broken by his own desperation but in this moment, it was like he couldn’t even feel any pain. Able to keep up or even surpass All Might’s own speed should be impossible for someone that suffered so many drawbacks with their quirks. Yet here he was even if was kneeling unlike earlier he wasn’t wheezing or shaking, there is conviction.

All izuku cared about was that he had saved his rabbit from being harmed. He isn’t exactly sure why his father would do this to U or even send him on this mission. It likely wouldn’t be a good look but he isn’t about to abandon his pet just because it would look bad. If saving his rabbit made him a bad guy then that’s fine with him, he isn’t abandoning him.

“He’s not going to cause any more trouble. I promise,” Izuku tried to assure, as he held the rabbit protectively in his arms. This was the most certain he has ever been about anything his usual nerves and fear had evaporated. Keeping the lagomorphs nestled against his chest he could tell neither side had the small things best interest in mind. As he knew that if he hadn’t come by there was no guarantee that All Might wouldn’t have killed the rabbit.

So, he had to prove he can keep U in check and that he is harmless if he keeps an eye on him. Which will be difficult considering- He sensed something behind him.

Slowly turning his head, he sees a villain he never met before with red eyes and a white, blue tinted hair. Their eyes locked there was something almost like recognition in the older man’s eyes. He was clearly not a teacher nor was he a hero which only meant there was one reason why he would even recognize him.

Was this guy working directly with his father?

“So you’re why that thing doesn’t listen. You look almost familiar. Did you plant that thing when I wasn’t looking for a laugh?” The man questioned as began to scratch at his own neck agitated, almost clawing at his own skin. It took Izuku a moment to realize there was killing intent and knew despite this man working for his father this guy did not know him.

Every instinct in his body was screaming at him to run, his legs trying to push up only to stumble. The teen practically fell to his knees as the recoil was still recovering, there are blood stains on his pants evidence that he had abused more than normal. Yet he can’t feel the pain, only the inability to move as quickly as he wished as he pulls U close to his person protectively.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Izuku was serious as had no idea who this man was and if was working for his dad it was clear this feeling was mutual. There was something deeply wrong with this person and it was clear he was going to take it out on him. Izuku refused to be this guy's chew toy for his own issues, noting that if his legs aren’t working, he can use his arms. Pulling one arm away he was about ready to test out this super strength, and hopefully not accidentally murder him.

Only to let out a startled yelp as he felt something grab the back of his shirt and yank away from the villain that wished him harm.

“Stay Back Midoriya my boy! I don’t know what your connection to that creature is but it is clear this man is not your friend,” All Might informed. Though it seemed Tomura was quite pissed at missing his chance to kill at least one of the students. Izuku, honestly, felt like he just got scuffed like a cat still holding his rabbit that was now just a long rabbit. Its large size always made it difficult to hold him properly as he tried to shift the poor thing into a comfortable hold. At the least it seemed U had calmed down, even if scared, instead of whatever it was moments before.

Though Izuku is startled when the other monster comes in ready to punch the daylight out of his hero. An instant panic as he barely registered that the thing had even moved, wondering what the hell even was that thing?

“All Might-!” The man barely turned with a free hand to block the punch as Izuku was allowed to land back onto his feet. Now it seemed like it was All Might versus whatever the hell that thing even was.

“Get back to your classmates, Midoriya!” All Might practically ordered. Showing that even he was surprised by this monster’s strength as it took a bit of his focus. Likely because was making sure his student was safe rather than this Nomu giving him any trouble. But Izuku noted this was the first time he ever got this close to All Might.

The small hum of the quirk felt… Odd like it was many in one just being suppressed. It likely was bad that he touched and checked without the man’s consent. Most likely he did notice him checking but his arm was free already and was right there. There was something freeing in being a bit, well, he guessed bold. As well as being curious despite the risk of trouble.

He wants to ask why his quirk did not feel like one quirk but then he is reminded by another punch and the shock wave pushed him back. Making it clear he was being a distraction; his legs have recovered enough to stand even if he was limping. He will ask All Might about it later, for now he has other priorities as he spots Shouto and the others. But one thing is for sure, after seeing that quirk there was no doubt in his mind.

These villains had been sent to be slaughtered.

His father knows how strong All Might is, they have fought debated on it quite often. It was one of the happier moments he had as a kid. As his father’s eyes lit up in amusement and seemed contemplative with his words. So why would he send men whose jobs were to instigate trouble and shake the foundation, against an opponent they were outmatched against?

…Or did he not send them there to win at all?

Another loud clash the Nomu was sent flying the overpowering force caused a shock wave as titans clashed. All Might didn’t look tired at all, a man that has never been touched by an enemy nor had any peers at his side. It seemed even this man-made creation was only barely keeping up or rather All Might was being cautious. Making sure there were no tricks.

“I see, shock absorption.” All Might spoke up, and Izuku tensed looking down at U as he was reminded that this is one of the quirks that his father said U had. He squeezes the rabbit a bit suddenly understanding despite reading how fragile most rabbits are and how U seemed to tolerate his grip. If it can absorb the shock then it was more than capable of handling even a child over enthusiastic hugs, but it was meant to handle All Might?

“Heh, it was made to combat you. You must tear him into pieces to do any actual damage,” Tomura almost seemed to gloat and Izuku wondered who the heck he thought he was. He isn’t even the one fighting All Might, a dumb thing like this brute wouldn’t do a thing. Did his dad really work with such people? If he wasn’t pretending to not know for Aoyama’s sake, he would be offended at his dad sending scrubs.

“Even Shock absorption has a limit! Don’t gloat when you aren’t even the one fighting,” Izuku shouted. Knowing he was sparking a fight and he got a glare thrown his way. If he wants to fight, then he can more then take on some damn man-child!

He didn’t even need both of his hands. The other may have death hands but he had finally recovered his speed. He just needs one hand.

“You sure talk a lot for someone that came late to the party. Who’s gloating here?” The man, whose name he still does not know, spoke pissed. Time to actually prove that he actually has some bite and isn’t some two-bit player while All Might takes out the actual threat. Izuku moves into position, his eyes narrowed as knew he shouldn’t use his quirk and sprint right toward the enemy. As he still isn’t too sure how the man’s quirk worked.

“Forgetting someone?” A voice called and suddenly just as he was about to run toward the villain he was blocked by a black mist. Izuku’s eyes widened in horror as he was about to slide toward that portal. Because yes, he had forgotten that just because the others helped him ‘escape’ didn’t mean would allow him to foil the plan. No matter how hopeless the results.

“Geh-” Izuku dug his feet into the ground, but it was clear the mist guy was moving toward him as U was panicking in his arm. Wherever they were going to go in that mist was not just ‘outside’ like last time. Trying to jump back but just as he did, he realized the bastard had placed a mist behind him, “Wait-!”

“I got you,” it was Shouto to the rescue as the mist was covered in ice allowing him to hit that instead of being teleported to god knows where. The mist inside the ice had dissipated and it looked like that had caused the mist some damage. The quirk user of fire and ice didn’t let up as he cast fire toward the villain causing it to recoil. “Hard to believe these scums actually think they have a chance against All Might.”

The amount of ice had been spread and somehow precisely hit not just that mist but had allowed it to spread to catch half of the weird dark creature.

“It won’t hold it long, did the same thing to the rabbit and it either destroyed it or regenerated,” The man of the hour spoke standing at his side as looks at him then gave just the smallest hint of a smile. “Glad you’re here by the way.”

It made him want to grin knowing Shouto only gave him that look but he held back his excitement. They weren’t out of the woods yet and also, he was more startled than anything.

Izuku looked at his best friend a bit surprised at the male being at his side as he had thought he was helping to evacuate Bakugou and Aizawa. Then again, this is what friends are for as he straightened himself up. He gives a more tamed smile as he shifts the petrified rabbit into his non-dominant arm. “You got that right. Clearly someone is playing a joke, let just give All Might a minute to get that guy packing and show them what UA truly is capable of without cheap tricks.”

As they stared down the villain of mist, the Nomu in the grips of All Might and that facepalm man -a name he decided fits best- villain. Maybe his dad was just helping him redeem himself with small fries. Ha, like he would be that nice he won’t give him that much credit but at the least he was more than ready.

“Are you going to put the rabbit down at any point?”

“No.”

“Just checking.”

Yeah, Izuku might be just a bit handicapped, but he can more than take them. And hey if he can steal their quirks without any consequences that will be a plus.

No one could blame him if he steals from villains, right?

Chapter Text

Back at USJ with their hero handling the actual monster threat. Two boys are standing together to be a distraction.

Izuku can tell just by looking at Shoto from the blood on his outfit that Shoto was in no condition to keep fighting. Likely he was running on just adrenaline and his intense loyalty to him. They would be only a hindrance if tried to fully get involved in the nomu fight or get too entrenched in battle with these villains. As Izuku’s own injuries were still healing, it seemed his regeneration was reaching its limits, never having been meant for the abuse he had inflicted on it. Self-inflicted in his case contrasting Shoto’s own injury but did make him want to tread with caution.

They weren’t here to try and show off as they both know that All Might will take out the villain’s experiment. They were just making sure there are no dirty tricks as even an ultimate number 1 hero needs friends. If there is anything he has learned since getting involved in society is that friends are important.

Huh, he guessed his dad did teach him something good.

The thought is pushed away not wanting to delve on the fact his father kept returning to his mind when he’s the reason for this mess. Especially since he is going to have to explain why his RABBIT turned into some weird thing and was with the bad guys. He desperately wants to call out the bastard for his criminal actions but no idea how to ask.

Why can’t the man just not!?

“Izuku, you’re monologuing to yourself,” Shoto interrupted his thoughts quite loudly. Izuku turned a bright red though he straightened himself up. A bit horrified hoping that no one was paying attention to what he was saying but the loud fighting certainly helped.

“Right sorry, Shouchan,” Izuku spoke sheepish but could tell this definitely got the ‘leaders’ attention. As it was basically an insult to not pay the man not much attention and treat him almost like a none threat. Able to sense his anger from where he stands he can feel the man about ready to come toward, turning to face them quickly.

“Tch, we have no interest in fighting scrubs. But you sure like taking your time,” the man speaks with annoyance only to be stopped by Kurogiri.

“Shigaraki they are clearly baiting you. Don’t fall for it, look at their injuries,” Kurogiri spoke as the voice of reason. Izuku wants to curse, wondering if he was really that observant, guessing the blood on his pants and Shoto’s head wasn’t exactly subtle. “We should focus on supporting the Nomu.”

“I didn’t ask you,” Tomura hisses with a glare as made it clear was going to attack Izuku and co despite the sound advice. It seemed this facepalm man was more eager to take out annoyances than supporting who he thought was unbeatable. As if had something to prove, relatable but quite stupid and Izuku forces an awkward smile.

“I mean if you want to run away you’re more than welcome,” Izuku taunts, knowing that was risking it as this Shigaraki isn’t the only villain around. There were many others the man can call if Kurogiri insisted on making them focus. But it was clear this guy wasn’t much of a thinker and seemed more intent on getting even as those words pissed him off.

“You-” Tomura seemed to basically shove Kurogiri, likely about to try and force the man to teleport him closer. Izuku was looking around to see where the man might pop up-

It seemed them just being weird was enough time to distract the villains. As the next thing everyone heard is a loud CRASH and everyone turned to see the Nomu sent flying. Thrown right into the ceiling crashing and who knows how far he traveled. It was a relief it meant they had delayed enough to take out the bigger threat.

“Priorities were definitely skewed,” Izuku noted. Almost playful to Shoto but he wanted to collapse.

They were bluffing after all since with Shoto having a severe head injury he can only focus on being defensive, while Izuku’s legs were a mess and was holding U. They were in absolutely no condition to do an all out fight. If anything Izuku was just surprised that Shoto is willing to join him on this risk. As he is sure the teen knew he was bluffing but it seemed it did buy them time as the villains looked baffled at the Nomu being sent flying.

It certainly wasn’t a heroic method to basically be baiting the villain and most likely All Might will be annoyed they didn’t retreat. But the villains left All Might alone and that counted for something. There is nothing wrong with a supportive role- But maybe he shouldn’t have been giving himself a pat on the back when there is someone still wanting him dead.

As a black mist appeared beside him, cutting him off from Shoto as they instinctively moved away. Or Izuku would if his leg didn’t seize with pain making him freeze able to glance through the black mist to see. Shoto’s expression turned to horror to realize his best friend truly couldn’t move, an expression Izuku has never seen before. He tried to get around the portal to grab Izuku to yank him away from the hand, reaching out almost in slow motion.

But the hand next to his head was much closer as he turned toward that palm reaching for his skull. Those hands moving to encase his head not touching but so very close almost able to feel the sensation of death. He couldn’t move, Shoto wasn’t fast but his hand was so close and his body just could not move. And as he wondered if this was how he was supposed to die, fear encasing his heart as a thought lingered.

Am I going to die?

Only for a gunshot to be heard and the hand that was seconds from grabbing him had a bullet piercing his hand. Blood hits Izuku’s face as the hand of death is yanked back almost retreating immediately at the pain. The calvary had arrived and Izuku collapsed onto the floor holding onto his rabbit for dear life as a result of what had almost happened.

“Sorry we are late everyone,” Several more gun shots went off as everyone looked to see the source and were greeted with the UA teachers and heroes. All the ones that Izuku had helped gather were at the entrance though it was just a loud echo to the hero fanboy. He could not hear anything as Shoto was at his side immediately there was no personal space. But he can’t even fight it as he was grabbed by the shoulders and held, his friend was scared and from the trembling in his arm so was U.

A hail of bullets is likely the only reason that the villain didn’t finish the job, almost sneering as those eyes of hatred looked at him. As he had been so close to eliminating him but Izuku just felt numb as Shoto held him almost protective.

“I will kill the symbol of peace and I’ll definitely not forget you,” Tomura said those words with venom. As if he had been personally sleighted by this one boy who had come late to the party taking the rabbit and making jabs. Izuku, however, couldn’t say anything at this moment as they retreated. Shoto could tell he was unresponsive so resorted to using his cold side against his legs trying to help. As Izuku knew, likely there will be things he has to answer for, disobeying the principal and his relation with the rabbit. But without thinking he just leans against Shoto… And he cried knowing at least it was over.

His friend allowed him to cry, petting his head a bit awkwardly as this was more emotions then he is familiar with. As he didn’t expect Izuku to lean on him and start sobbing but he didn't reject him.

There were still so many other issues knowing he had disobeyed the issues with U, but as All Might came over with a look of concern. Izuku didn’t care, just wanting to cry as he realized just how terrified he had truly been.

A sheltered little boy truly facing death after a series of assaults, after a life of nothing is a terrifying thing. It did not destroy his dream, it only made him realize how far behind everyone he truly is. Though his crying stopped just for a moment when he was suddenly picked up by All Might. His green eyes widened as he’s held by his hero, startled a bit scared as he held U tighter. He sniffled and hiccuped as he looked up at the man who seemed to be trying to cheer him up.

“It’s over now, young lad so don’t fret! Let’s get you help,” All Might assured almost kindly when he should be scolding him for his reckless behavior.

He ended up crying harder as the hero didn't even try to take his rabbit away. He didn’t deserve that kind of kindness from his hero.

“Oh wow you’re really crying-”

All Might clearly had not expected this. Now everyone likely knew that Izuku Midoriya, was quite a cry baby.

___________________________________

As expected, after being fixed up by the doctor and everyone was given medical care, Izuku wasn’t out of the woods yet. He certainly got a scolding from some of the teachers for running off by himself especially since they saw how badly he hurt himself. Though they did also question the rabbit he had.

He still refused to give up U even when they wanted to investigate the rabbit he will admit he might have been a bit uncooperative. Cue recovery girl having to awkwardly help heal him up while he is holding a large rabbit. As apparently Izuku’s regeneration had reached its limit. Not that anyone knew he had that quirk thankfully, but he definitely got a lecture asking why the hell he pushed so hard he tore most of his muscles.

Saying it will be a miracle if he is able to walk or run normally after the stunt he pulled. Izuku is sure once he eats well and rest that regeneration will fix the remaining, hopefully. But he just awkwardly nods his head as the nurse seemed exasperated with him. He’s only seen her once at the entrance exam but since all he had was some nausea and puking was deemed fit to go home. Still remembering how his dad thought it was hilarious and had a barf bag ready in the car for him to puke in.

When a detective came in to ask some questions, funny enough it was Nezu that interrupts before the men could ask anything.

“Excuse me sirs. I know you’re trying to do an investigation but I need to talk to this specific student privately,” Nezu said, basically cutting them off. They were definitely surprised so Izuku never did learn their identity as he was basically excused to leave. He didn’t say anything about him bringing U and wondered if the principal was about to do disciplinary actions.

He dreaded the idea.

So here he was at the Principal office awkwardly sitting on a chair noting this is his first time meeting him face to face. He knew of the man but never had a one on one conversation with him only knowing he had high specs quirk, and seemed to be a mouse or maybe a rat. In here Izuku did feel comfortable enough to place U down at the least so the creature was beside him.

Nezu seemed to be looking at the rabbit, curious and intrigued. It made him wonder how much All Might told as only All Might would be only adult able to say something. As the other teachers weren’t in the best condition, only his friends, who might not even know U was his pet, Shoto, and All Might would be able to say anything. Hopefully Shoto did tell Ochaco and Iida so they won’t tell the detective about it.

“Is this why you disobeyed and ran off ahead?” Nezu questioned as the rabbit got on all four it didn’t seem to like the man. Even though they should be similar to each other it seemed U was skeptical or even hostile to the mouse almost. In the Principal’s paw was a teacup trying to maintain a calm demeanor despite his clear skepticism and trying to be polite. Unthreatening, “All Might claimed despite it turning into a monster, you claimed it won’t harm anyone. But you are aware that it nearly killed Bakugou and injured your friend Todoroki.”

Honest to a fault. Would any of them have even felt compelled to lie at least a little bit about his pet doing all those things? To at least try to cover him since he’s sure they saw him protecting U.

Well that’s a mean thought- They had no reason to lie when he went saving what they probably deemed a monster. He went into this knowing this but he couldn’t abandon the creature but hopefully they aren’t planning to tell the detective and have it taken away.

“I know but-” Izuku went to start and try to defend himself only for U to suddenly place a paw on his lap. He looked almost started at the surprisingly intelligent action as the creature looked at him not acting like the rabbit he always is. Before it turned to look at Nezu and suddenly the principal seemed to tense up.

“...There’s no way you could have survived this long naturally,” Principal Nezu said, almost baffled as his fur seemed to stand on end. Izuku was confused as was sure U didn’t say anything but then were they speaking a different language? Did he say something? Or did Nezu realize something.

The rabbit moves its paw in a strange motion as it points to Nezu then to itself as if saying, same thing. Then the principal shakes it head seeming to be denying what the rabbit was saying leading to more confusion.

“It’s not the exact same you… It is impossible for you to have lived this long naturally, and if this is true can you not speak?” Nezu questions and the rabbit just scoffs. “Oh you just hate the idea of talking even when this boy you seem to care about has no idea what you’re speaking about?”

Oh, U was speaking on a wavelength differently from what Izuku could hear or maybe a different language. It seemed the rabbit seemed annoyed at Nezu pointing out Izuku had no idea what was being said. The rabbit didn’t seem to like the principal pointing this out and made itself known in a way that Izuku could understand. It thumps its legs hard and Nezu frowns before putting his tea down.

“You’re probably confused, so I’ll translate. He’s refusing to speak despite being capable because his hatred for human mannerism is that strong even if it to his detriment.” Nezu spoke and it was clear the rabbit seemed pissed. Its answer to this was to bite the furniture, seeming to act more rabbit-like as if out of spite. “Please stop him from eating my couch.”

Izuku did not get the feeling that was all that was said but he does stop U from biting the couch pulling the large thing onto his lap to sooth him. As he’s pretty sure that isn’t good for his stomach but he’s sure Nezu is getting to the important part.

“Sorry that part wasn’t important, he says he barely remembered what happened. Only that he felt a strong emotion and compulsion to go there and carry out this emotion before it drove him mad. But he claims he never personally planned to kill anyone just to make sure they don’t fight back at worst,” Nezu said, but it was clear was not going to elaborate on the other subjects like them being the same. And if U is refusing to speak like a human, he didn’t even know he could talk, Izuku gets the feeling he isn’t going to learn more.

“Then it isn’t his fault! Something made him do it,” Izuku points out, hoping that at the least this meant his rabbit won’t be lumped in with the villains. They can’t arrest his rabbit!

“Well, for all intent and purpose no one has yet reported the rabbit itself to the police.The fact he caused severe injuries and still admit would harm enough until couldn’t fight back is still concerning. He never claimed it was against his will and it is clear he’s hiding something but we will grant leniency just this once,” Principal Nezu corrects it was a relief the rabbit wasn’t reported to the police but it was clear they were suspicious of it. Making it clear that it didn’t mean all was forgiven and he guessed it would be too good to be true. “This still doesn’t explain your behavior, you were already injured. You pushed yourself worse after disobeying me, I spoke out of concern not to restrict you. If you’re going to be so reckless we might need to take disciplinary action so you won’t do this again.”

This caused Izuku to tense up. Even if avoided prison this definitely fit the ‘get in trouble’ criteria that his father warned him to avoid. Tears welled up in his eyes and knew if they call, it’s over, he’s screwed as his father would deem this a failure. As he basically caused a huge ass fuss enough that the school is concerned about their behavior. Already able to see his father looking disapproving at him.

Well now you are a troublemaker and they will constantly watch you. You promised not to get into trouble and you broke your end of the deal. Why should you continue in this school, and you sacrificed it over a rabbit?

“Please don’t tell my dad,” Izuku pleaded quickly. U pressed against him as Izuku realized he was in tears. “I know I did something bad. I also know I sound super selfish and bratty asking this but please, don’t tell him.”

The mouse looked at him with surprise at this teenager who had recklessly charged in and was now begging. This is all that Izuku can do, hating that he is here all alone as he pulls his rabbit into a hug. Needing the support right now and the large bunny didn’t put up a fight at all.

“I just wanted to keep everyone safe. U, Shouchan, Ochaco, and Iida as well as my classmates I swear I wasn’t trying to be a troublemaker,” he pleads yet is unable to look the principal in the eye as he asks this. “I really want to be a hero and I’m trying so hard to be worthy enough of that title. Isn’t it like a hero to do everything they can to protect others even if it is at the risk of trouble…?”

There is a moment of silence. A part of Izuku wondered why he was so quiet only to see the mouse seemed deep in thought. Then there is something almost like a smile as looks at the rabbit then at Izuku, “I guess so.”

It seems he will be able to stay at UA just a bit longer. His dad wasn’t going to be informed about any of this.

He guessed he could trust the school a bit more than he expected.

___________________________________

It’s ironic that the only students harmed were the ones that encountered U as nearly every other student was unharmed. Which was a miracle in itself. Many of the students were allowed to go back to class.

If anything the teachers were a bit more messed up as if it was more deliberate it was strange how that works. The villains were just that poor in quality besides the Nomu and main boss which amounted to nothing once All Might was on the scene.

Shoto had a bandage over his head yet seemed almost fine but at this point Izuku sure the guy doesn’t know how to express discomfort. Bakugou had finally woke up looking disoriented since several ribs of his broke so the healing definitely drained him. Izuku’s condition was still not fully recovered, he was limping but he was able to walk more or less normal again. But otherwise most of the other students besides some bumps and bruises were relatively alright.

“You’re a bad rabbit,” Izuku muttered while U seemed unbothered as if silently saying he did nothing wrong despite needing his owner to save his fuzz butt.

They were informed class the next day would be canceled and despite Izuku dreading the consequences they were lenient. It did mean unfortunately that he had to spend a day home with his father, not that fun. The man had tried to kill his classmates and All Might, also had sent U to the field of battle or at least somehow influenced it to do so. He despises knowing that his dad is a super villain but since he started UA they haven’t really talked much.

As if the man was keeping some kind of distance maybe this will give him a chance to try and talk something out. Most likely people might think he’s talking to a brick wall but he is sure-

“Midoriya-shonen,” All Might’s voice interrupted Izuku’s thoughts. U was finally allowed to walk around and was close to his side as the teen was putting his shoes on. Izuku worried he was about to get lectured, already bracing for it since while was kind he had acted recklessly. Only to feel a hand on his shoulder in a gesture meant to be assuring, “If you’re in danger, you know you can tell us and we can help you. I understand you’re trying your best.”

It seemed Nezu had talked to All Might about what they talked about. There is concern in the adult man’s eyes though Izuku didn’t understand why was looking at him like that. Izuku felt almost sheepish as he was nervous at his idol trying to assure him he was in a safe space. What exactly did they think was happening? Did they know something?

“I’m ok All Might. It’s just been a very long day, ok? I- thank you for being kind to me,” Izuku said, switching his sentence at the last minute to avoid implying anything was wrong as it would only make him more concerned. It was a family matter that he needed to confirm with his father first to know if the father that claimed to always keep him safe, wasn’t actually going to cause him harm. Still able to recall the way the villain’s hand was so close to his head moments from death but he can’t tell All Might this.

“Bye All Might!”

As he leaves with his rabbit in tow he waves goodbye to All might. He had texted Shoto he planned to leave by himself so didn’t even try to meet up with him and at least texted him about it. The walk home felt more like a death march as despite begging the teacher to not call his father, how was Izuku supposed to lie?

How is he to write this ‘report’ without the rage at knowing his father was such a terrible person. To risk all of their lives, to try and kill a man they have discussed would not be taken down so easily. The man who used to be frustrating and annoying about dressing him out while overstepping his boundaries turned out to be the biggest liar. What else is known, he likely has been sabotaging him from the start.

“I’m going to give him a piece of my mind,” Izuku huffs as he goes to open the door knowing he will think of something as he opens the door. Only to feel a sense of horrifying dread in the usually welcoming and homely setting. Even U had froze as soon as they entered their home, what should have been a safe space felt like death. Something was wrong, the lights were dimmed and only the living room had any lighting. It was deliberate.

“My fault,” U whispered but that voice sounded almost like Izuku's. His eyes widened as he stared at the rabbit as it seemed like it just remembered something it had done. He wants to ask what he means but he’s afraid to speak as if whatever in the house will hear them.

Izuku’s legs were glued in place as he suddenly heard movement in the living room. One after another a man in a suit and hat came from his living room. He looked like his father yet everything about him felt wrong like this was a stranger wearing the man’s skin. Or maybe the mask of his kind and doting father was stripping away at this very moment. Izuku barely registered how the rabbit suddenly sprints pass the man but he doesn’t even glance at it.

All for One is completely focused on him.

“Well? Speak what’s on your mind. I was told you had some choice words against me this morning. So I have been waiting quite patiently all day for you,” the man who should be his father questioned with a callous and almost mocking tone. Almost like how a supervillain mocks a hero as they talk down to their opponent. There is a burst of wind and the door slams shut behind him, Izuku turns startled feeling trapped.

He hadn’t even considered this possibly happening. When he saw U at USJ he never considered the possibility that the rabbit told his father he knew. The man knew since this morning and just been sitting here waiting?

“Pay attention little hero. The villain is talking,” the man spoke and Izuku was terrified as the rabbit had gone to hide under a side table. This felt wrong, this wasn’t how any of this was supposed to go, he was the one that’s supposed to be pissed. His face was grabbed roughly, forced to look at the man who was staring down at him. Izuku winces as he is practically dragged by the face to the living room, “Oh do come in. Let’s have a talk.”

Izuku didn’t know who this man was. His eyes welled up as his hand grabbed at the arm holding his face, unable to understand what was happening. He missed the man that dressed him up that said stupid things and gave advice badly. The awkward man his father was before was familiar even when it frustrated him how callous he could be but right now this face was unfamiliar as he struggled to find his voice as the grip on his face hurt.

He was released being shoved right onto the couch as the man stared down at him. He seemed almost larger than he remembered, almost rougher. The man with his father’s face stared down at him almost amused. A smile that didn’t reach his eyes just watching Izuku squirm as he knew Izuku had nowhere else to do.

“Well? Say it,” the man demanded but Izuku had no idea what he was even talking about as everything was happening so fast. Though in a sense it made him believe the man truly did hate him now. That he only supported in the hopes that he would fail in this pursuit despite all that intense training. Despite everything the man was waiting for him to fail wasn’t he? Despite how he wanted to stay strong he felt like his belief in his father broke as tears welled up in his eyes.

“Why do you hate me so much, dad?” Izuku couldn’t hold it back anymore as his voice cracked. His father looked stunned as that was clearly not what he had expected his teenage son to say after everything. It was as if he had been hit by cold water but Izuku wasn’t going to let that distract him. As he just wants to know why his dad is being so cruel that would ruin everything. He had claimed to love him no matter what, he promised him that no matter what would never leave even if Izuku was to hate him but it felt like that was a lie. Set up a whole incident that could have killed him, his friends, ruin his dream and even threw his pet at him.

“I could have died today. My friends could have died, you sent my PET with your villains so he could possibly die. Why would you want me to suffer so much!? Do you want me to get in trouble!? If that’s the case why even bother helping me be a hero!?” He shouts because what else could he do. His hands move to his now white hair missing when it was green like his mom, he misses mom as while was stern she was gentle. But she’s gone, she’s gone because of him and now his dad might actually hate him.

He was living with someone that was actively making him miserable and he is only realizing it now because his father got so pissed he was caught! Caught in the fact he was actually a terrible criminal trying to pretend like he’s some normal man. Ha! As if he never noticed but this? It makes him wonder if he ever even knew his father.

There is a moment of silence between them. Izuku felt like crying harder as he wondered if what he said was true. In the end his father never gave a crap and just cared about him being around but not his well being.

“I didn’t send your pet in,” Those words were a shock as Izuku didn’t understand. No he’s just lying and was avoiding every other accusation he wants to scream but his sobs made that so hard. The man continues, “Izuku, I was expecting more of a ‘stop being evil or drop dead’ talk but why would I send your own pet after your friends? Also I sent you away for a reason, even arranged for your friends to be able to work together.”

He’s lying! This bastard can’t be honest for a second so why should he believe him now.

“Dad! There’s no way U would just walk there or be around your minions unless you sent him there,” Izuku was wondering if the man was just trying to gaslight him. His father moments before looked fucking terrifying and now pretending to look confused!?!? Also was he shorter than he was moments before? He didn’t feel like he was towering; it must have been his imagination in his fear.

“Stop pretending you have no idea, you never did before you always plan everything! You've been sabotaging me since day one! You bastard!”

His father looked angered, but it was different from before, more like he was offended at this specific accusation. izuku didn’t believe he said anything false as he has felt like this from the beginning that his father would rather he do anything but this. His father didn’t love him at all and everything was just to placate him. How stupid was he to believe that his father actually cared about him as a person. That he could think about him just once.

“I can see you won’t believe me so you can believe what you wish but let me say this I don’t control U. I made it that he will imitate and help me understand you better but when it comes to commands he only listens to you. To give you some shred of-“

“Stop lying to me! You just said he told you about me knowing you’re a criminal so you clearly forced him!” Izuku was tired of the man’s excuses; he can't spin this especially when he knows he’s a super villain.

“It’s because you wanted to tell me. That’s what you wanted to do for several days, right?” the man said blankly. There were no emotions on the man’s face as stated as a fact. Izuku froze because that part was true, he kept quiet for Aoyama’s sake. As he had no way to tell the man without him suspecting who told him his identity. But inside he wanted to scream at the man ever since he learned this truth.

“I had expected a confrontation as U told me you knew as soon as you left almost spitefully before running off. Claiming will remove all the obstacles and make a clean slate.”

No- No his father is just saying shit to distract him even if Shoto did mention the rabbit acted similar to him it can’t be true. Izuku clenches his fist as he stares the man down, almost shaking wondering what the hell he did to his pet.

“I don’t want to tell you. I hate telling you everything, or being forced into this narrative you keep trying to put me in.” Izuku answers knowing he was being childish. But it felt like he was able to push back finally as the overwhelming pressure had left. No longer feeling like he was drowning he was ready to push back against his father.

“Then do it. I’ve seen this song and dance before,” the man speaks as if is expecting this. The fight earlier in his father seemed to have left him as the man’s demeanor relaxed. This bastard who had terrified and talked down to him was now acting as if this was just some father-son talk. It made him see red.

“Stop trying to claim you know what I feel! If you understood we wouldn’t be in this mess! Why don’t you just kill me if I’m such a bo-” Izuku shouts were interrupted suddenly as hands grabbed at his shoulder roughly. Fear took hold only to realize he was staring face to face with his father’s own eyes; they were white. Were they always this color? He suddenly can’t remember what his father’s eyes look like anymore as there was something different in them. There was something in those eyes almost like desperation, something he has never seen before.

His father always had that smile on his face whether it was smug, amused, or something he could almost mistake as genuine. The only time that expression disappeared was after mom’s death and moments before when Izuku came home. It felt unnatural, like he was seeing something his father actually didn’t want to show or didn’t even realize he was showing.

“Stop, I would never kill you. Izuku, I promised to always be there for you. That wasn’t a lie. Call me many things, a demon, a monster, a bastard I don’t care but I would not break a promise like that nor do I want you to die,” those words were spoken almost like a primal fear. The man’s grip was shaking as he stared into Izuku’s eyes. But it was clear he was seeing something else as holds him tightly. “I would rather be the one dead than let you die. If the only thing you believe about our relationship is that, then that’s all I care about as you are my family. Believe that at the least.”

Izuku knew his father was a liar. A man that did terrible things to people who stepped out of line but as the man was pleading for him to believe at least this one thing. Despite all the warnings he heard, the rumors he has seen, and the danger earlier. As his father moved his hands down to hold Izuku’s hands between his own he was stunned. For a moment he thought he heard the man saying ‘never again’ under his breath as moves their hands to his forehead to take a deep breath.

“O-Ok dad…” Izuku can’t believe this part is a lie. As if his father’s humanity had returned for the briefest of moments. That his father had forgotten to keep that smile he always seemed to pride himself in. How is he supposed to deny when seeing something so raw that he never expected from the man that always acted so strong. He is sure that if he told Aoyama he wouldn’t believe him nor will he likely ever see this again.

His father seemed like he was trying to calm himself down. It seemed like he was far away for a moment before slowly releasing his son’s hand. Izuku isn’t sure if he was just manipulated to calm down or there was a moment there. He never… Did know much about his father’s past. They talked about mom, quirks, stories, and the like. There was a passing mention of an uncle but he never delved into it nor did Izuku press on it. Or maybe to be more exact that he tried to ignore it because it made it hard for him to fight him. This reminded him that his father was hurting but refused to acknowledge it because it was hard for him to know how to handle it.

Those feelings felt like the Mariana Trench and he isn’t at all ready to even try and look at what his father is hiding.

“...You’re still terrible for what you did,” Izuku says softly, needing to make it clear he isn’t forgiving him. People had gotten hurt and he can’t forget that regardless of the fact his father may be hurting it didn’t change the fact he hurt others. Shoto, Aizawa, Thirteen, and he guessed Bakugou had gotten hurt regardless of the how. Even if his father claims that he didn’t control U it didn’t change everything else that happened.

A small chuckle escaped the man as he seemed to have recovered from whatever he seemed to have been thinking. His father didn’t seem to care about being hated or called terrible things yet freaked out at the idea of his son thinking he wanted him dead. Izuku isn’t sure what he is thinking, he desperately wishes that the man would tell him but he keeps the full truth hidden. He never speaks lies but he is never honest either, a tightrope of seeming open while hiding but for a brief moment he had lost control of that mask.

“But dad, I don’t hate you.” Izuku continued and for a brief moment the man’s expression shifted almost for a moment. Looking at him amused though it doesn’t meet his eyes as if subtly trying to call him a liar. “Please stop what you’re doing. You don’t have to do any of this, we can just be a normal family.”

It was a plea and then the man’s smile faltered but more into a thin line as he looked down at his son. It was almost like pity as he looked at his son as if this was the most pathetic display he has ever seen. His eyes slowly looked over the teen’s form analyzing every bandage and injury that Izuku tried to pull his pants leg down so the man didn’t see his leg was wrapped like a mummy.

“It was your mother who would have given you that. It wasn’t supposed to be me raising you, if anything I would have rather kept our interactions to a minimum. I provide and you thrive, that was the agreement,” the man informed and Izuku felt a pain in his chest. Being reminded of how his mother had died all because he recklessly tried to play hero. His father didn’t even originally plan to raise him first hand? He can recall how the man was always working but when was around he seemed to always try so hard to spend time with him.

Yet he never planned to actually raise him? Did this mean he would have rarely ever seen his dad? Was mom ok with that?

The man continues, “But the world is cruel. It doesn’t care that you both were innocent, it took her away regardless and now all we have is each other… I refuse to let it take you either but I also refuse to become the very reason you disappear. My child, you are my most precious possession and I’ll fix this at the least because you shouldn’t have been left so vulnerable.”

Before Izuku could even react, his father’s hand was suddenly upon his head. A primal fear erupted as saw it glow and he tried to fight back. His mouth opened to scream as felt it was tugging at something inside of him, “D-Dad let me go! Stop!”

The action was so fast couldn’t even defend himself it burned-

Then he woke up in his bed, eyes wide as he scanned the area trying to register where he was for a moment. The All Might poster and the All Might curtains were drawn closed as a little bit of light peeking underneath the cloth. His heart was racing still as if this was just the beginning of a nightmare as he sat up. Only to realize he knocked U off the bed the rabbit fell with a thump, it’s eyes wide with a hurt expression before moving underneath the bed.

Slowly he began to touch his body, the bandages seemed to have been removed and his body felt almost lighter. All the scars and damage were fixed up as if they had never been there before. It was almost sad. They were proof that he had worked hard to help save everyone but he guessed there was relief too. As he knows the scars on his legs were severe moving the sheets he goes to examine them.

His hands moving to brush against them, there was no pain to his touch and it felt like all blemishes had disappeared. Wondering if his dad had fixed him up, before remembering how the man touched his head he goes to look at the quirks. Super Strength, Super Speed, and- Regeneration was different. It was a lot stronger and it felt different, almost like it even regenerated any small scratches as he digs his nails into his skin and it fixes even the surface level, did his father switch it?

…Was this his dad’s attempt to make up for this?

“...He doesn’t make sense,” Izuku noted. He isn’t too sure which part of that conversation was a dream and what was real. He reaches over the edge of the bed to grab U rump and drag him out needing to hold something as his heart wouldn’t stop racing. Placing the large rabbit on his chest the added pressure helped to ease the anxiousness he felt as think about everything that was said. He begins to stroke his rabbit’s head staring intently as thinks about how he is supposed to feel.

He’s still angry, upset, and a bit freaked out at his dad suddenly grabbing him like that. But the ending had not gone like he expected.

“The only family we have, huh? I guess that’s true,” He mutters that memory replayed in his mind. There was no other family he can recall as he lays on his back then raises his hand to stare at it thinking about this family. Mom didn’t have any extended family and the only one his dad mentioned is a brother who has long since passed away. It’s why they wanted him, he remembers them staying as a kid that they were each other's favorite things. He remembers when they were together how they celebrated him so much.

It was built on a lie that his father gave, as he can’t imagine mom would have been ok with a criminal. Nor one as huge as All for One who was a menace and apparently lived for two hundred years, at least according to Aoyama. There are still a lot of things he doesn’t know about his dad and he knows the man won’t tell him.

As he clenches and unclenches his hand at the barely seeable hole on his hand he moves to pick at it. Thinking about those words knowing they didn’t justify anything that had happened nor would he allow it to do so. But it did make him realize something, “Why can’t he just say he loves me and is worried about me like a normal dad?”

It is weirdly assuring to know he is not hated or unwanted in his own home. It’s selfish, it’s messed up as knows he still is rejecting what his father is doing nor is his father even being healthy about it either. But that promise was real and the change in regeneration was a mark as he checked for any other tampering but there was nothing. Evidence his father probably expected him not to notice.

The man had realized his son hadn’t followed the cue and did get hurt that is why looked him over. Izuku wonders if there was something like regret when saw the injuries or anger that his possession got hurt from his own actions. However, rather than admit he might have made a mistake he tried to act stealthy in his concerns. Because the man refuses to allow himself to be even a bit vulnerable…

He guessed there was one moment, that plead to believe he doesn’t want him dead and the promise was real. Such an odd thing, it made him wonder…

“What a jerk,” he mutters knowing he probably should be a lot more horrified. It was a very traumatizing event that would probably make most people want to stay away from the man. His father had basically hounded him, intimidated, talked over, then tried to steer the conversation into excuses before ‘switching’ a quirk. Yet Izuku was smiling just a bit as he turned on his side to cuddle his rabbit, nothing hurt and felt like all his stress had been relieved.

He still needs to figure out how to stop his father from doing criminal acts without revealing his own connection. But he can’t find it in himself to hate the man, guessing maybe he might be a bit messed up too to find affection in the act of giving such a strong quirk even if by force. All for the sake of making sure he was safe and alright, he thinks he’s the only one who can understand that.

He was raised by All for One after all.

Chapter Text

It would be a lie to claim that Izuku slept easily but at least with U as his companion, he wasn’t alone. His soft fur against his cheek as he listens to it breathing, making soft noises as if in an attempt to soothe him. A constant companion that no matter what he says or does he is always at his side. His large body lying against him as Izuku wills away the nightmares into a dreamless night.

Slowly the sun begins to peek through the curtains as the sun finally begins to rise on Japan as if the incident at USJ never happened. Izuku refused to move from his spot pulling U a bit closer as noted he had moved just a bit. There was still time before his father would come to wake him acting like nothing happened yesterday to start the day. Especially since Izuku never did tell him he didn’t have school today so he would be questioning why he’s still in bed.

They might fight a bit, have a talk, and then his father might just try to make up for it in his usual way of holding and consoling him. This is the same song and dance they always had then yesterday’s fears would be lifted. His dad, for all his terrible flaws, still loved him enough even if fails to apologize he still tries to ease the burden.

Though Izuku nearly went back to sleep it seemed his rabbit was tired of being held like a stuffed animal. The black rabbit squirms out of Izuku’s arms earning a disgruntled noise from the teen as it jumps over him onto the floor. The rabbit was now at the door scratching it as it demanded to be freed from the room. Odd how it’s asking permission when apparently he is smart enough to cause terrible injuries. Izuku groans as he sits up from the bed with his hair a mess, guessing U was actually content in just pretending to be a normal animal.

“Ok ok, I’ll let you out.” He grumbles, a bit surprised that his dad closed his door as he got out of bed. Izuku realized his clothing had been changed also which didn’t surprise him as his father already fixed him up so of course would change his clothing. He isn’t keen on seeing the man as he gets up but he knows it better to do it now rather than later. Making sure to grab his phone off the charger guessing his dad did that too only to be surprised at the time.

It’s 9:00AM.

He freezes, his dad never woke him up. His eyes are wide as this was way past when school starts and he runs out of the room. There was a deathly silence permeating the whole apartment as U looked at him quietly. Wondering if this was why the rabbit was trying to get him up earlier as sensed there was no one there. It begins to hop toward the Kitchen looking at him as if saying to follow him and Izuku does so. To find a cold breakfast that had likely been there for who knows how long.

“Are you serious?” Izuku's voice cracked as he stared at the food laid out on the table but no man at the other end of it. His father wasn’t there waiting for him with some book, newspaper, or Ipad waiting for him to get up to eat. Just an empty table and a deep-seated feeling of being abandoned. Izuku slowly approaches the table to see a note, he tentatively reaches out to grab it as his emotions stir under the surface. Trying to understand why his father wasn’t here with him today.

I’m aware your school would likely, if they have any sense, be off today but unfortunately I’m quite busy but I made you your favorite breakfast. Just throw it in the microwave if it is cold by the time you wake up. If you leave make sure you’re careful and leave a note. We don’t need another attempted kidnapping so soon there is some money in an envelope next to the door to buy yourself something.

Dad.

It felt almost depersonalized as if the man was just writing some matter-of-fact statement. There was no apology besides the casual acknowledgment that school would be off. He looked at the breakfast and realized this would probably be the very first time he ever ate alone since was four. As that mansion was just too empty for a little boy who was still reeling from the loss of his mother, the idea of his father not being around horrified him.

Remembering how he cried whenever his dad tried to leave him after making him food. The mansion was so big and he was still adjusting so when his father tried to leave he wailed. He can recall his father being startled and seemed almost panicked at the fact his son was crying. He can remember him calling and canceling, something on the phone and the person on the other line sounded upset. Asking something about some deal, only for his father to sneer and say they will do it later and how better keep it open or else.

Izuku cried harder as his dad sounded scared so he thought he was mad. His father seemed even more distressed but he ended up keeping his dad that day and his father seemed to realize that if tried to leave him too early his son basically broke down. So he started cooking and seemed to try as well as being softer, Izuku didn’t realize until now but that was a weird tradition his father did for him. He remembered that moment so vividly but never considered it to be the reason his father would be there for every breakfast.

And yet today of all days he was just gone.

Izuku knows he shouldn’t let it bother him. He was already dreading the man trying to act like everything was normal. And yet him acknowledging it like this by just not being here somehow hurt so much more. His hands tremble holding the note as he grits his teeth before throwing the note in the trash because what is he supposed to do with these emotions now. Not even sorry, just be careful not to get caught! No mention of anything that happened last night as if it didn’t even register on this man’s radar. It made him feel-

Unimportant.

It took Izuku a moment to realize he was crying as his vision blurred as tears fell and his hands moved to wipe his tears. Wondering why he was crying he didn’t want him here, he was mad at him anyway… Yet he wished his dad was here so he could be properly angry with him to have the man deflect and be casual instead of this. That his father would hug him even if he was screaming or crying like a kid because that is still his dad. Instead, he is left all alone.

“Fine,” he whispers more to himself than anything as he can feel U pressed against his leg, those eyes staring up almost saddened as well. Despite himself, Izuku did end up reheating the breakfast as it was his favorite, a stuffed breakfast Taiyaki with eggs and pork cutlets bits inside. His dad said it was unhealthy as hell so seldom cooked it but it seemed he was willing to make an exception today. There were other things too, rice, fruits, grilled fish, and miso soup. This was more than usual so there was no way his father expected him to eat all of this.

He tried not to cry even harder at the fact his father remembered or that he honestly did wish he was here. As he had to reheat most of the breakfast, eating it begrudgingly as his mind threatened to race with all the thoughts he refused to think about. He felt anxious, and stressed, and while he could feel U next to his leg now it was hard for him to focus. All these unsaid words, these feelings felt like they were bubbling and he stopped eating.

“...U, you don’t think Dad is going to abandon me do you?” Izuku spoke softly, unable to eat anymore. The rabbit at his side was silent and he glanced down to look at the large creature as those green eyes looked back at him. Then it shakes its head. It was surprisingly confident on this but Izuku isn’t sure how assuring that was. He groans and pushes away from the table with the chair screeching against the floor. U was startled jumping away as Izuku got up to his feet as there was no way he could handle doing this all day.

“I’m going to Shouchan’s house and of course you’re coming with me,” Izuku made his choice, feeling like he would go insane if stays in this house. He knows he has other friends now but he was the most familiar. The most comfortable and loyal who has been a stable constant since he started this heroes academy. There is a chance that Endeavor was likely at work since this was a sudden day off so he wouldn’t have to worry about him. He doesn’t bother washing the dishes, just trashing anything he half ate and putting away only the fruits.

What a waste.

___________________Hero Public Safety Commission___________________

A building in plain sight to everyone was having a meeting after one of their agents had recovered from his injuries. It had certainly been a surprise as usually he was much more careful but it seemed they bit off more than they could chew. As the boy not only got away but it was clear he didn’t get away without inflicting harm on Hawk.

“Never could we have expected our best agent to fail.”

A large room with men and women seated surrounded this one agent as they tried to assess their situation.The incident had apparently made him lose some memories so now they were trying to assess their next move. As it was clear to anyone involved that it seemed All for One noticed they were trying to approach their kid. As there had been a letter left on the man’s person saying if tries this again, Japan will burn. A threat.

“The plan was simple: invite the kid and at worst, force a meeting so we can show him that his parentage is a threat that needs to be stopped. To think All for One could have noticed, it seems he watches the boy even more closely than we thought. What do you have to say for yourself? Did you hesitate because he’s a child? That’s unlike you.”

It was clear many were unsure about this method, but they were no strangers to recruiting children to the cause. This one was definitely quite a bit older compared to the agent when he became their agent. The problem is usually the parents of said children aren’t so attentive to their children. Especially since they would assume a monster like All for One would have no care for this child even if had any relation as he has shown his cruelty many times.

“As I informed you already I can’t recall what happened. Most likely if it was All for One then he has tampered with my memories,” Hawk points out as goes to tap his brain which they have been scanning and checking. As they were paranoid that he was brainwashed or had something implanted as All for One never lets anyone live. Which he suspects is only because of that boy not being a monster like his father, “If anything I’m sure it's only because of the boy that I’m alive. So there is still a chance to reason with him.”

It was a logical course to try and get the boy to come to them willingly. They can keep him protected, create lies and hide the boy's identity. It didn’t seem like they were convinced by this as they seemed to think letting him live was a warning. Rather than some kind gesture from the kid as they can’t imagine the man sparing a thought for others, even Hawk can admit it is a stretch. However…

“Considering the incident at UA that happened yesterday. It’s clear it won’t be as easy to get that meeting especially with the Sport festival,” the president sighs. She was clearly annoyed as it meant the boy was going to be known to most of Japan after that. Not caring about Hawk condition nor about the reasoning just that they failed before that event. “Instead of catching him before everyone sees it seems we are going to have to work within the system.”

Hawk can already guess what was going to happen. It hung in the air as it meant there wouldn’t be any chatting. “Has UA still denied us a chance to talk to him face to face?” Hawk questioned only to earn a glare from the president.

“Unfortunately, it seems they suspect something also and are being evasive to our inquiries. So unless we want to cause an incident we will have to go through a different plan. As we can’t have them knowing about All for One, especially with All Might there.” she notes as she leans back in her seat. They were trying to deal with this without the man getting involved as he would more interested in saving the boy. Which can lead to its own issues when he should focus on being their symbol.

“Remember, All Might is at the school teaching. We don’t need him knowing that one of the students is related to him and as he ages he needs a replacement,” the madam president muses. Her hand moving to pop up a screen showing the man’s record rescues but also the unsteadiness and decline. “It’s subtle, he’s still more than enough to keep everything down but it’s clear he’s getting up in years. If this boy is All for One’s son as well as has the same quirk, he could be a good replacement. And possibly a longer living one but we don’t need him inheriting some of that man's more reckless behavior.”

They show pictures of the boy running through the city clearly breaking the law only allowed to persist because they need him. This boy clearly lacked a lot of outside experience in the world being allowed to get away with it because of a few choice words. The Police have caught notice to him but are just as unaware as the public of his true origin, “He can be our greatest ally or our greatest threat and if he turns out to be the second option…”

Those words didn’t need to be said. They can’t suffer another one of that monster that hides in the underbelly of society. Just having one All for One is more than the world could handle being a parasite that drains others of society. Wishing to undercut everything people do just for his own selfish wishes, that boy can’t be allowed to become another one of him. Even if it means snuffing the life out of him before he can fully master his abilities and talent.

“Regardless, we can use the sports festival and the internships after. That will be on you even if he won't try to join your internship, try to entice someone close to the boy regardless of how he performs,” she informed as it was the only method since they don’t need All for One deciding to come out of hiding and make it personal. They had just gotten peace because of All might they aren’t interested in seeing how fragile it is when All for One is done playing house. As the threat was clear, if they tried to talk or force the meeting the man wouldn't hesitate to burn everything to the ground.

Hawk doesn’t say anything as knows the consequences of the boy turning out to be just as terrible of a villain as All for One. The history books have made it quite clear this man has caused all kinds of destruction. It was suppressed by All Might but with their symbol of peace being the only man around while his enemy seemed to have sired a successor. There were other concerns as well. As there was also suspicion on if that incident at USJ or assault on Hawk was also showing All for One was starting to be done playing.

Hawk isn’t about to let that man ruin this peace. He’s sure the boy will understand if they could talk to him without him trying to run to his father. As he’s seen how joyful and excited the boy genuinely seemed about being at UA. He just needs to understand if his father’s a villain it is probably best to cut him off for good and leave it all behind. This boy, if truly wants to be a hero, will denounce his father and come to them to learn the right ways to be a hero.

This is the only way… Hawk has to believe that.

___________________________________________________________

There was a chill up Izuku’s spine as he was walking towards Shoto’s house, unable to help but glance around. U was on a leash and harness they had many people looking over surprised to see him walking a rabbit. Izuku never really had a reason to use it before today as U seemed content at staying at home. But he can tell many were side-eyeing the large rabbit with curiosity, at the least if someone is trying to kidnap him they are the center of attention too.

Izuku still wonders about his near kidnapping, or well what seemed like it. As he didn’t know exactly what Hawk actually wanted from him. But the moment he began to resist and went to call home, that's when it got dangerous. Then again this was before he learned exactly who his father was, getting the feeling they didn’t want to alert All for One. Hence why got violent in the first place, with what he knows now he can understand why Hawk did it.

Izuku likely still wouldn’t agree to go with him as it was still shady but at least he can understand the fear.

Izuku looks at his text that he sent to Shoto, to make sure hadn’t changed his mind about him coming. It was only a blunt sure. No elaborating, no details if his family were there or anything really. Which isn’t surprising to some people but usually he added a bit more as a warning or heads up.

He got his answer when he arrived at the house to knock, and to his surprise Shoto was the one that answered.

“Oh! So none of your family is here today? I thought for a second you finally convinced Endeavor to stop being an ass,” Izuku questioned as glances inside. All he ever knew was that Endeavor was an abusive bastard that isolated Shoto. So he was surprised to see him just walking around the house as he admitted still stayed isolated. Shoto frowned at the questioning unsure of how to respond and Izuku knew that he didn’t want to talk about it.

Izuku knew he might have been a bit too crude, maybe his mood about his father abandoning him alone has soured him a bit. Izuku gives a sheepish smile, guessing maybe not at this moment. Still it was a subtle nudge that Shoto should try to step up to his father instead of passive aggressive spite. As Shoto still tries to rely more on his ice then fire even when he is supposed to be more comfortable with himself.

Izuku knows this isn’t his boundary to overstep; it wouldn't stop him from prodding knowing the other trusts him.

“Sorry, you know you're my best friend so I just worry,” Izuku picks his words more carefully as they move to what he assumes is the living room after removing his shoes. It seemed Shoto had taken advantage of the fact no one was home and Izuku unhooks the leash from the harness. “Behave U you’re a guest.”

The rabbit just moves his paws to clean his face, seeming unbothered by being in a new environment. Moving onto the Tatami Shoto sits down crossed legged but Izuku decided this once to sit a bit closer than normal. Waking up to an empty home as well as how yesterday had basically given him an emotional beating he needed some physical company. He barely noticed the way his best friend tensed at their knees touching.

“My dad basically ditched me today after our spat,” Izuku admitted. Watching Shoto’s eyes widen in shock since always complained about how his father is always all over him. Never letting him breath nor having any kind of independence or space. So this was likely very out of character for the man that seemed to constantly be a helicopter parent.

“Ditched you? The man that basically watches you 24/7 and is an evil mastermind at making you cooperate just left you alone to your own devices?” Shoto questioned. As if wanting to make sure he heard correctly and was assessing if it made sense. At the least it seemed as if his best friend really does listen to him, “What happened yesterday?”

Izuku took a sharp breath. Knowing he used to just vent everything about his dad to Shoto but this felt different. As always talked about how his father doted on him to the point of suffocation never respecting his independence. Dressing him up, hovering, and carefully planning all his extra tutoring and training. What happened yesterday seemed to fly in the face of all of that as in the end the man just walked away. As it basically contradicts everything Izuku had thought was their relationship prior.

“Well… He apparently knows that I know he’s a villain,” Izuku whispered as if afraid that someone else might hear. His eyes glanced around the room making sure there were no eavesdroppers, he won’t make that mistake again. After being sure that the coast was clear he continued, “And um… Let's just say he was pissed. Like I didn’t even recognize him for a moment. It was as if he was taller, bigger, and more terrifying. His eyes were different as well like they weren’t truly seeing me they were clouded.”

It was getting much harder to talk about what he experienced last night as it became more real. That there had been a moment that his father might have actually resented his existence, that he almost died because of this man. His mouth felt dry as Shoto watched him just listening to his every word. He was someone that lived stoically as it was the only way to survive under a man who beat any weakness out of him, compared to Izuku who was given everything but freedom. Izuku was allowed to cry, be meek and helpless because maybe that is the only way his father could tolerate him.

“I… I woke up today and he was gone. He left a note and I was alone,” he whispered then his vision blurred. It was becoming hard to breathe as he looked at his best friend, “But I wasn’t happy to be alone. I always complained and resented how he’s always hovering but the moment he isn’t I am crying. I missed him even though he’s such a terrible and horrible person. Shouchan is there something wrong with me? Is it bad that despite knowing that he’s a bad person I still wanted my dad to be there?”

Izuku can see his best friend’s eyes widened at his tears. The original tension of the other had melted away as he shakes his head.

“Even when they are bad people we still wish for our dads attention to truly see us even when we hate them. It isn’t bad at all,” Shoto spoke and it felt like it was from experience. And in that moment Izuku realized the line between love and hate truly is thin. Guessing in the end their feelings about their father really weren’t that different after all. And he laughs within his tears as he lays his head against the other's shoulder.

He no longer feels as alone anymore.

____________________________________________________________________________

After crying it out they just spent time together talking and enjoying themselves. Izuku had gone home expecting to see his father for dinner but food had apparently been made but his dad turned in for the day. Once again avoiding him much to Izuku’s frustration but he was too exhausted and just thankful that he spent the day with his friend. As well as the fact he still had U to keep him company as he went to bed for the night.

The next day at school, he had to bring U since apparently Principal Nezu said doesn’t trust him out of sight. Though as soon as he entered the class room his rabbit was somehow growling at Bakugou. The blond who apparently recovered from his injuries looked at the rabbit with caution. Not instantly recognizing it as the same monster that attacked him thankfully but clearly not friendly. The rest of the class didn’t seem to know how to react since the rabbit was quite an oddity.

Izuku made sure to hold the leash a bit shorter since it felt like U was moments from attacking the blond as they went to their seat. Moving his leg to push U back and away from Bakugou’s seat before the rabbit sneaks in a bit too close. He is pretty sure he would get in trouble if his rabbit did decide he was going to go for the Achilles heel.

“Behave yourself U,” he whispered as the rabbit fluffed up with rage somehow bigger than his already big size. Wondering where was this rage with his father but guessed it might be because of the things he had told U about Bakugou. He probably shouldn’t have recounted all the petty and childish things to U like that.

“Keep that rabbit away from me,” Bakugou finally hissed as he clearly noticed the thing trying to get closer. “I swear if that freakin thing bites me.”

“It’s just a rabbit Kacchan,” Izuku protested despite knowing it was anything but a normal rabbit. Before Aizawa finally came into the room. The man noticed the rabbit but likely was informed by the principal as to why the rabbit was here in class. So possibly also knew it was not a normal one either but he looked away.

“After all that chaos, it was decided that we will still be holding the Sports Festival,” Aizawa spoke and the class erupted with surprise. A completely mundane and normal event that every school has was not expected after the last ordeal. Izuku’s eyes widened as realized what exactly that meant as even his father watched the UA sports festival. This was the time to truly show everyone what he was capable of as he shook excitedly.

Unfortunately, he loosened the leash in his excitement and U took that chance to bite at Bakugou’s leg. The blond’s eyes widened in pain as he shot up, nearly blasting the table trying to hit the rabbit. U didn’t even flinch, having a vice grip with his teeth on Bakugou’s leg.

“YOU MOTHER FUCKING-”

“Midoriya! Control your rabbit, you problem child!”

“S-Sorry!” Izuku shouted as he now had to pry U away from Bakugou’s leg. Wondering how he is supposed to show off his worth if his rabbit keeps trying to maul Bakugou to death!

Chapter Text

Another day and his father didn’t greet him in the morning. U had taken to greeting him as if aware that his father isn’t going to wake him up. The rabbit had certainly caused some trouble on his first day of being at school biting Bakugou but now seemed to be his only constant companion. He stretches and groans a bit, moving a hand to reach out and strokes the rabbit head brushing against the metal plate on his skull. A reminder that this rabbit was beyond ordinary.

“Good morning to you too,” Izuku muttered before yawning, guessing this meant his dad was still being MIA. He stretches almost like a cat in his bed as he goes to get ready for the day thinking about the sports festival as well as the events that transpired. It was honestly a surprise that despite the incident they were holding the event like nothing happened. If his father was around he can already hear him making scathing comments on the school’s priority. Being hypocritical considering how had also been willing to risk his son’s friends and life just as much.

He’s sure if he said that then his father might look offended. But then these are just musing, as he changes into his uniform he looks at the female uniform on the hanger. Still remembering his father’s little trick as well as how his father questioned why he seemed to abhor it. As if he isn’t also pretending to be something else to get what he wants. He grits his teeth, “Hypocrite.”

He slams the closet door as he finishes buttoning up his uniform. He was always his father’s doll just playing pretend for him to make his father happy. But turns out his father was also just playing pretend in return acting like a dork of a man to make him happy in return while killing so many others. Who could have cared less and originally had no intentions in being the one to raise a child

…Guess they were just a family of pretenders letting others be happy to get what they want.

“Iz… Zuku…?” A deep sound that sounded raspy and graveled spoke up and Izuku turned a bit surprised as felt something touch his leg. It was U placing a paw against his leg as those green eyes looked up at him concerned. Guessing he must be super worried if is trying to speak despite his clear aversion to the action. He forces a smile as he kneels down to pet the rabbit's head once more.

“I’m fine don’t worry,” he spoke but it seemed unlike everyone else U always knew he was lying. Those eyes stared intently but said nothing as if acknowledging he won’t do anything about these feelings. There were still things he needed to do and if his father was going to keep his distance while trying to figure out how to ‘handle’ this then Izuku had to handle his role. As he had already dedicated too much time in being a hero to just stop now and he still hasn’t broken his side of the deal with his father.

He grabs U harness as was still obligated to take him to school still in this weird limbo and he knew that All Might had been wanting to talk to him. Which used to be something he always wanted but not was honestly nervous. After all this man saw him saving U despite him clearly wishing harm to the other students. His situation was looking pretty bad, yet All Might was still kind if anything he seemed almost… Guilty.

Which is weird as the man never did anything wrong really. Like yeah he attacked U but he can’t blame him since U was causing trouble and Izuku was able to get there in time before he caused actual harm. So he isn’t too sure what exactly he wants to talk about that isn’t about the obvious fact Izuku has connections WITH said villains. It was like being on probation with everyone knowing he’s suspicious but no one knowing how to handle him.

He ate the pre-made breakfast his father left and put away the remaining that could be salvaged for later. His father was still trying to keep the habit of cooking for him despite clearly avoiding him at the moment. Or maybe he was off plotting something for god knows what, he rather not think about it.

With U at his heel he goes outside, he texted Shoto that he isn’t going to walk with him and they can meet up at the school. It seemed he was fine with it, likely because of their talk he understood that Izuku was still processing everything. While he was aware of the danger he got the feeling the original kidnappers would have to be an idiot to try after everything. Especially since he’s sure U can still do whatever he did to Bakugou to any kidnapper that tries.

“Time to get through another day,” Izuku spoke to himself as he tried to psyche himself up. He needed to prepare for the sports festival while navigating this nightmare. He hasn’t exactly mentioned to Shoto about the fact UA is keeping a closer eye on him or that All Might been wanting to talk to him. He thinks today he should at least hear the man out instead of trying to keep making some awkward excuse.

As he arrived at the school he was surprised to see Shoto was actually interacting with Bakugou or rather it seemed Bakugou was glaring daggers at shoto school. Izuku felt a hint of annoyance as they were talking or rather Bakugou was talking to Shoto. Shoto looked over at Izuku and it seemed Bakugou noticed giving a glare before leaving. It left the white haired boy feeling a prickling sensation of fear wondering what the hell were they talking about.

He forces a smile as he runs over forcing U to pick up the pace as he walks toward Shoto, “Hey Shouchan! What was that about?”

His gaze looked at Bakugou’s backside then back at Shoto who seemed to just shrug not seeing much of a big deal. They never seemed to get along but Izuku isn’t sure if it is actually animosity of their personalities just didn’t mesh at all. The white-red haired boy spoke, “He was begrudgingly thanking me for saving him at USJ. Apparently he had been wanting too but then said how it didn’t mean shit, then he just left when saw you.”

“He… Thanked you?” Izuku felt something searing hot underneath the surface though he isn’t sure why as he instinctively clenched his fist. As it didn’t sound like Bakugou at all and a part of him wondered if that was all they talked about. As they never had talked alone like that before and it made him wonder what he has missed. Trying to hide the green eyed monster that wants to sneer at the fact Bakugou can’t just try to make friends with his friends as he just smiled.

“That’s actually really nice of him. I never would have expected that from him,” Izuku noted while U seemed to be bristling. He made sure to hold the leash tighter least there is another incident where he’s stuck holding buckets because U attacked Bakugou again.

“I was surprised too. I don’t think it means much,” Shoto replied, not realizing how Izuku’s hand was gripping U’s leash so tightly. Nor how Izuku’s smile was more like gritted teeth trying not to lose control. As at the moment he isn’t exactly in the mood for any more surprises.

“Right right, that’s… Probably true,” Izuku forces himself to relax a bit. And U seemed to relax in turn it didn’t mean much. It was just a thanks and he felt a bit silly for getting riled like that and thinking some… Less than pleasant thoughts. Maybe he should try to avoid talking to All Might today too if he is still feeling this stressed out.

“By the way, I think All Might is watching you,” Shoto spoke casually and Izuku turned startled to see that All Might was peeking out. The two made eye contact and there was a very VERY awkward pause between them. Shoto blinks as they just stare at each other unaware of the turmoil that is going on at the son of a super villain meeting with his father’s POSSIBLY arch nemesis. Izuku thinks possibly as he could never confirm if his father disliked him because is a hero or if it is more personal. As he knew Izuku was a big fan of his, “Are you going to say hi?”

Izuku suddenly wished very very much that Shoto could read the room as All Might came over awkwardly. Rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish smile as towered over the students clearly having been struggling to try and find the right time. Izuku suddenly wished he stayed home.

__________________________________________________________

Apparently All Might had gotten permission to have a one on one talk with Izuku since it was related to USJ. But also about some more private things that needed to be just between them, Izuku was sitting on the couch with U on his lap. The large rabbit was becoming like an emotional support pet as he stroked its fur trying hard not to think of what his hero wanted to talk about. There were so many things that could happen and many of them aren’t pleasant.

“Do you want some tea?” Yagi Toshinori, All Might’s real name, offered to try his best to have the clearly tense teenager relax. Not that it was effective as Izuku can already tell this was likely going to be quite a subject.

“Yes, thank you” Izuku answered as he sank back in his seat knowing he likely was looking guilty right now. He used to be so excited and wanted so badly to talk to All Might. He still did but right now he was terrified of his hero thinking he’s a bad person because of his connection to the villains. As a cup was placed in front of him on the coffee table he doesn’t reach out for it just looking at the number 1 hero wanting him to just say why he wanted to talk to him.

“I imagine you’re probably wondering what I want to talk to you about huh?” Toshinori noted as he sat across from him. Izuku doesn’t say anything but nods his head in affirmation as they had already said they accept his reasoning. But he knew it was too good to be true, he pulls U in his arms to hug him a bit closer as the man seemed just as nervous as Izuku felt.

“I.. Know you aren’t exactly eager to talk about your home life or your situation.” All Might spoke and Izuku looked away. He knew it, they were definitely suspecting that at home there was villainy being involved. “Do you know All for One?”

Izuku clenched his teeth as he tightened his hold on U, almost closing in on himself wanting to turn into a ball and disappear. Of course, of fucking course All Might the greatest hero of japan would know a super villain like that. He almost wants to cry wondering if he’s about to have his whole life wrecked all because of his blood ties. This is likely why his father tried to keep it unknown even from him but Izuku couldn’t abandon U. He shot himself in the foot.

“I just want to be a hero. I’m not a villain,” Izuku answered, almost like a plea. Knowing his father likely did not know what he had done at USJ. That he had exposed himself like that and it was only by Nezu’s grace that it wasn’t reported. At the moment the man knew they were exposed he could already see him being taken away, but now it might have been pointless.

“Hey hey- Midoriya-shonen I’m-” Toshinori seemed startled when Izuku turned into a ball and curled up. Already waiting for divine justice to damned him for being related to All for One but it never came. “I’m not saying you can’t be a hero. I’m sorry that came out wrong.”

Izuku was still tense as his vision blurred with tears bracing for the worse. Only to see his hero seeming to be panicked trying to think of the best way to handle it. Then it seemed Toshinori got an idea, “Did you know All for One had a brother?”

The sudden information did startle him, he thinks he does remember his father mentioning an uncle. It was when Izuku was young he wanted to know if they had any more family since mom was an orphan and wanted to know if Dad had any other family. But when he did answer, suddenly Hisashi became… Weird as if he wasn’t there anymore, almost like a hallowed husk looking at something not even there. He never elaborated only that he missed him.

He refused to talk about him just like he refuses to talk about mom. They weren’t allowed to grieve in their home.

“Um,” Izuku spoke timidly, still cautious about talking to his hero but it didn’t seem like he was seconds from throwing him in the slammer. “Well no, not really.”

Toshinori perked at this and continued, “Well he had a younger brother. He was thought to be powerless, always being the weaker of the two but he stood up against All for One despite this. Despite them being related by blood he stood strong against adversity telling the man he won’t stand for his injustice and lies.” He smiles, “And I see that in you, Midoriya-shonen.”

It surprised Izuku to hear about his uncle as his father never talked much about him. He never would have known that his uncle actually opposed his father. He stares wide as was compared to this man that has long since passed away then he frowns. As it sounded like it ended in tragedy as the man was no longer around. Did his father…?

“What… Happened to him?” Izuku questioned him and there was a moment of silence. Likely Toshinori hadn’t expected him to ask but he needed to know this. Just how far does his father’s wrath go and Toshinori gives a pained expression.

“He died against his brother…” Oh. Of course, why would it be anything else but death even against his own family. But he still remembers the panic in his fathers face when said how it would be ok with him dying. The way his father, despite being fine with being seen as a monster, reiterated that he never wants him to die. It made him wonder, was the death an accident? Why would he be different from his brother?

“But he didn’t die in vain tho,” Toshinori continued but there seemed to be slight caution in his words as if contemplating if this was the right idea. And Izuku is suddenly reminded that when he touched Toshinori he felt a strong transferable power. After his dad forced something onto him he realized it was similar in feeling to what All Might had. He connected the dots on what was meant by not dying in vain.

“He wasn’t quirkless. You have his quirk,” Izuku spoke bluntly, staring wide as watched the number one hero tense. Likely the man was unsure if should go that far in this story, likely wanting to be a comfort. That quirk was as ancient as his father but instead of being in one person it was passed on from person to person like a relic. It was a gift, not something stolen and he felt his eyes sparkle with delight.

“That’s amazing! I mean I did feel it when you grabbed me, by accident of course, but that makes so much sense.” Izuku felt himself practically glowing as his brain was running at the realization of this fascinating quirk. It definitely was odd since it was like his dad but worked differently but, “How does it work? Is it like All for One’s where you can steal or give? If it is transferable how does that work? How did it get so massive when I touched it was like it was blinding me that didn’t seem like one quirk! How does it give you super strength and speed like that!? I have so many questions-”

“I feel like you just lost the intensity of this situation-” Toshinori shouted as Izuku was honed in on learning all about this strange quirk.

“Oh right! Sorry!” Izuku squeaked his face a bright red as he shrunk back in his seat. Knowing this was the worst time to get into his quirk analyst mode but it was fascinating. He was always trying to ask his dad about the quirk but his dad was evasive whenever it came to All Might. So it was always a topic that fascinated him, but now he knows why as it was from his uncle! So it must at least have some traits of All for One so he wants to know as it seemed so powerful!

“You’re an odd kid but definitely not a bad one,” Toshinori noted, almost laughing as if the tensions had been taken away just by his silly ranting. Izuku felt sheepish, guessing it was such an odd thing as had been so nervous before. But learning about this connection to another family member who was seen as good despite his heritage. It was assuring.

“It’s just… It’s like I’ve discovered a new family after so many years of thinking there was no one else. That quirk is kinda like we are family, well indirectly! Not like in a weird way-” Izuku tried to make sure it didn’t sound like he was trying to force some kind of family dynamic. As there is no reason for All Might to think they have any family relation. Though internally Izuku did long for it, he covers his face as looks away feeling flustered.

“Family huh? I didn’t think of it like that,” Toshinori spoke a bit surprised but didn’t seem as bothered by it as Izuku thought. Slowly the white haired male peaked out as the older man seemed to be in thought. That is when Izuku realized that most likely his hero probably didn’t have any family. In every interview, story, or media he never had any family to speak of and it is likely why the thought startled him.

“Is it… Ok to think of you like that?” Izuku spoke quietly knowing he was likely overstepping, similar to when he ignored Shoto’s attempt to reject him. There is a look of surprise, confusion and possibly panic on Toshinori’s face as Izuku stares at him hopeful. He was kind of putting him on the spot but considering how his dad was neglecting being a dad-

“I- Um well- Wait we are getting side tracked!” Toshinori seemed to have snapped out of Izuku’s attempt to crown him as a newly acquired family member. The white haired male had to fight hard to resist the annoyance but guessed it wasn’t just a family talk. He straightens himself up as he looks at Toshinori then decides to ask what he is sure he wanted clarified.

“I guess that’s fair. I’ve basically been abandoned by my dad since you asked about All for One, I’m not involved in his evil villainy at all. My rabbit U getting involved wasn’t with my consent and I regained control of him,” Izuku answered. Though he failed to mention how he is forced to report everything that he experiences and sees with his father. It feels like that would make him lose points in trust and they end up excluding him from things because of it. He will try to figure out how to bend the whole ‘report’ everything, he just needed to be smarter than his dad.

“Ah, that would explain why you have all this freedom to go to UA and dress in feminine attire however you like. I suspected as much,” Toshinori noted. Izuku didn’t have the heart to correct and point out that his dad actually encourages that. As he doesn’t think anyone wants to think about an evil super villain dressing up their son to look adorable. And many would likely get the very very wrong idea if said out of context and they only know his dad as evil.

“Yeah, U is basically the only connection to him and villainy. But as Nezu inspected and figured out he isn’t being controlled by him so apparently was just acting out,” Izuku still isn’t too sure how truthful his father was about it being all on him that U did that. He didn’t order U to come and attack Bakugou or his friends, though he did attack Bakugou’s ankle the moment he got the chance.

A part of Izuku wondered if he was stretching the truth a bit too much. But it likely helps keep things more decent if he could just pretend that AFO isn’t directly in the picture. The guilt did nag at him feeling guilty but he didn’t fully know what to do as he told Shoto he doesn’t want to lose his dad. Even if knows he is a terrible person, he just… Needed to figure something out.

“I see…” Toshinori listened and then there was a long pause. It lingered in the air as if the larger male was expecting Izuku to ask for something else. Izuku shifts in his seat, unsure of what the other was expecting before the man spoke. “So… You aren’t going to ask for my quirk?”

Izuku blinks, “Is that a thing I can ask for?”

There was a long pause and Izuku then looked hurt as he realized the other had been expecting him to act out just like his father. A greedy man that would just take whatever he wants like a kleptomaniac. It actually hurt his feelings as he had legit thought they were bonding yet not it felt like he was being tested. He teared up wondering why the hell he thought that his hero would actually just accept him completely with all his oddities as he goes to stand up, “I-I think I should go back to class.”

“Wait Midoriya-shonen that came out wrong-” Toshinori spoke up but it was clear that because of Izuku’s parentage there was caution. Would he ever be accepted as he is? Or will his hero always look at him with suspicion and skepticism? Did he think he only wanted to be family to TAKE a quirk? If it wasn’t for his father ‘showing’ him his power he would have been fine trying to be a quirkless hero.

Dammit he really was being naive.

“No it’s fine! I get it, I'm just being naive for thinking I can be trusted genuinely! I’m the irrational one that is evil and a criminal,” Izuku shouted, already about to just leave as he was about to cry. Wanting to laugh at the fact he had actually thought the other was offering a hand out of genuine kindness. Yet it seemed like he was just testing to see if would try to steal his quirk once learns it origin.

“Midoriya!” Toshinori grabbed his shoulder to stop him from leaving, feeling himself being forced back into the seat. Izuku felt himself tense up and even U actually bristled, getting up and stomping his feet as a threat for his hero to back off. “I swear that isn’t what I meant, it just came out a bit worse. I’m actually trying to ask if you would be my successor-!”

There was like a screech in his brain as the word successor was practically blaring in his brain. Staring wide eyed as he had seriously thought that this was an interrogation to gauge his demeanor with some family stories. Show the shiny quirk then once Izuku ‘reveals’ his true nature as a terrible person would show he is unsalvageable. Yet in reality he wanted him to be his successor!?

“T-That can’t be true! Why me!?” Izuku questioned. As he was now panicked as he looked around wondering if this was a joke. It sounded too good to be true wondering if his father had actually used some dream quirk to mess with him. “I-I mean I would be honored you’re like the greatest hero in the world. But like it only natural you be suspicious of me-”

“Midoriya, why do you think I told you about the first user story in relation to All for One?” Toshinori reminded him and it finally clicked. The other was trying to say that despite his origin of being born from something evil. His hero was trusting him, just like the first user, that his heroism and will is stronger then All for One’s. And considering Izuku kinda just lied about how was abandoned because is pissed at his father- Oh. Oh this is bad but he can’t reject it now.

“That um… That makes sense. Are you sure you want to trust me? I mean yeah I was about to cry for a few minutes but like that was a logical response,” Izuku noted despite the evidence of tears still on his face. Like he wasn’t just about to have a pity party later and probably destroy some trees at the fact Bakugou’s suspicion was shared with his hero.

“You're trying very hard to act like you weren’t just about to run out bawling,” Toshinori noted and Izuku sniffled, moving a hand to try and wipe his face.

“Heroes aren’t supposed to cry but I’m bad at that still I guess,” Izuku admits, embarrassed as hell at the fact he was likely now just some big cry baby. Though the man goes back to sit down seeming relieved that Izuku wasn’t about to just up and run out. He seemed relieved and Izuku honestly felt a lot better. His body relaxed as was glad that the other actually liked him and wasn’t accusing him of criminality.

“So if you’re going to be my successor I’ll be giving you my quirk. I’ve seen you train so I know you’re fit,” Toshinori spoke and Izuku felt almost excited. His eyes staring wide as he never thought he would have All Might as his mentor. He wants to get even better now that there is such a huge hero helping him he can’t have any more setbacks. Though he blinked when the man plucked out a hair and held it out to him.

“Eat this and this will imbue you with powers. That is how this quirk is transferred,” All Might said this with pride and conviction. Izuku knows he probably should have been a bit more grateful and less fussy but already every part of him was screaming don’t do it. Staring at the hair he then just raises his right hand meekly as the years of being raised with manners came like a wave.

“Or um since we are being open… You can just transfer it by hand shake or if you don't want to touch the hand I can like hover?” He squeaked out as happy as he was this was… much.

“Wait, is that how your powers work?” Yagi seemed shocked despite knowing his relation to AFO it seemed he didn’t understand it fully.

“Kinda, please don’t tell the faculty I don’t even have a name for it and don’t want to associate it with a super villain. I got these powers from my rabbit the U. So I didn’t steal them from anyone. I don't even know how he got it.”

“Well I guess we did sort of suspect it after seeing your powers in the Entrance Exam. So I guess that can work though I’ve been anticipating my successor eating the hair.”

“Yeah… I don’t think anyone enjoys eating hair and I say this as a huge fan.” So with it agreed upon to consensually pass on the torch they shake hands on it. Without eating any hair and having to live with that knowledge.

This was the end of the chapter of the lost boy leaving his cage, stumbling and crashing many times. Finally finding someone who truly wants to help him stretch his wings and fly to new heights. Even if in the back of his mind there is guilt knowing the other was giving power to someone who is still connected closer to the villain than he thinks. As well as the possible consequences if his father is to discover what he has obtained.

He knows this isn’t the best way to start a relationship. Under false pretenses but he wants a chance to prove he can make this work.

And this is the first time he truly felt like he had a chance to finally be something…

Chapter Text

Golden sunlight drifts through the curtains in this empty hallway that he has gone through a million times. The carpet that sprawled in the hallway was a familiar red as the sound of birds flicked outside. Because these windows only faced the inside of this home, never out into the actual world. Nothing more than a way to give him some sense that he isn’t trapped, an illusion of freedom.

On the branch a bird can be seen from the window looking inside as if Izuku could somehow help it escape. Izuku’s white hair covers his face as the light in his eyes has faded at the familiar cage almost resigned. Its color is a symbol that who he once was or what he could have been was smothered. His hair had grown too long, when was the last time he got a haircut? His father had always been the one to cut and trim his hair when needed.

Would it even matter now that he is back here? There had been hope and yet now…

At his side was his rabbit just looking up at him with those bright eyes knowingly as they were trapped in this cage. His constant companion, his friend given in his fathers attempt to keep his son from going insane. Entrapping the creature with Izuku as well and now Izuku knew that his father had done unspeakable things to U. A monster of his fathers creation from a rabbit that in another life would have just been a simple creature.

At this moment he can’t even remember how he arrived; the memories only ended with him falling asleep. Only to wake up in this cage, this manor that had been prettied up to make sure he has nothing to want. Slowly choking him of his freedom, only to one day when Izuku asked seemed to have given him what he wanted. Returning here made him wonder if his dad was breaking all of his promises. All because he had been given something precious, One for All.

Just the thought made Izuku’s chest tighten all the way to his throat as he tried to regain his breath. His hand slowly moved to rest on the windowsill of the courtyard only to spot someone was out there. This figure was unfamiliar with long white hair and wearing slacks that his father would never be in the company with in this place. Sitting with the birds singing around him as the sunlight came down, settling on the bench among the flower garden. Long white hair trailing down the figures back, he was so skinny, almost unhealthy and yet he seemed so relaxed. As if he was waiting for something, or maybe someone.

Slowly Izuku goes to the entrance of the courtyard, the stained glass door shining light through as he opens the door. Stepping outside he can feel the sunlight brushing against his skin yet there is a lack of warmth. This area was artificial yet as a child he remembered how excited he had been when first learned they had a courtyard. As had waited a long time as his father promised it was outside. Only to realize in the end it was still just an extension of his cage. No one else could come in here, only if his father allowed it, and yet…

“Who are you?”

The figure perks up at the teen's voice as Izuku approaches the stranger. Then the young man turns to look at him, green eyes almost like his own greet him. They were almost kind but his face almost sent Izuku reeling as he recognized those details. His fathers face was on this man yet his demeanor, clothing and mannerism screamed it wasn’t him. Especially those eyes as a small smile shows on the man wearing his fathers face.

“I think… You already know who I am,” the man’s voice is a slow drawl as it linger in the air. The birds slowly grew silent as the man looked up at the trees and artificial light. The false tranquility and warmth of this artificial home allowed Izuku to come closer. Slowly coming upon the bench as those green eyes turned to look at him with an almost gentle expression. There is a sense of understanding as Izuku bravely comes closer before taking a seat next to the figure.

“It seems my brother has gotten a lot better at building his cages after…” His words lingered just a moment, “What happened between us.”

As the man spoke it was slowly becoming more and more clear who exactly this figure was as they stood across from each other. Those green eyes seemed like his own yet his nose and face seemed so eerily like his father. This man wasn’t his father in any way nor mannerism in the sense that his actions aren’t coordinated. But like his father was taking time to gauge Izuku’s reaction showing a connection.

“It’s ok, this isn’t real. We are inside the quirk…” The man’s voice was assuring a wave of relief washed over Izuku. He hadn’t even realized how much tension he had in his shoulders until they fell. Though he looks over at U as the large rabbit settles beside him beside the bench, “It is a visage of the actual rabbit, you’re asleep. It seems you’re connected.”

Izuku takes a sharp breath as it seems the other really was the original One for All user, the man who held this quirk first. Everything here felt so real, but he never truly lingered on how alive quirks were when he borrowed them. The ones he obtained from U never really seems to have much presence but when he took from Bakugou or Shouto it always felt alive. But he never had them for long; it was always just a loan or just to show he could..

It felt like a cruel sense of irony that the place in his mind for these quirks is still the very cage he had tried so hard to escape. As if in reality he never truly left that cage despite all this time still returning here. All his powers are caged up with him, keeping him company in this place being hoarded. A vault to keep things locked up tight.

His words got stuck in his throat or rather it was like he was struggling to make a sound as if something was gripping his vocal cord. Making sure that he can’t speak or communicate for reasons he can’t comprehend. There is a somber expression on the man in front of him as Izuku’s body felt like it was covered in static. His finger felt numb as he reached for his throat as he registered it was One for All seemingly pushing against his insides. As if it was too large for his body for once he can almost feel his own ‘quirk’ how it pushes back.

It felt so small in comparison to this ancient quirk.

“It seems your body is still not used to the visage world nor do you seem comfortable here. I’m sorry about that, I can change it. I didn't realize you weren’t practiced in this,” the apology seemed sincere as the young man held out something. It seemed to glow a rainbow of colors as if he had moved the large sensation out of his body. It was marvelous, so many shades of colors and a core that holds it together.

Then the whole area seemed to vanish into a dark void. Izuku’s heart raced as for a moment felt almost light weight only for them to be in a concrete enclosure. There is a stench almost like despair compared to the false warmth of his old manor. While they sat on two throne chairs as the whole area was changed to this isolated and broken vault. The ominous door catches his intention almost seeming to linger, seeming almost aching.

But at least it was different from being trapped in his own cage now nestled in One for All cage as the first user gives him a bashful smile.

“It’s not as nice but this is what I am used to after 100 years of just being a part of One for all. I’m quite familiar with being caged for my own ‘good’,” the man speaks softly as looks at Izuku showing just how close they truly were. The connection between them traversed a century of time, “My name is Yoichi Shigaraki, but you can call me… Oji-san.”

Izuku wonders when he had agreed to house his uncle in a quirk…

In this concrete Vault it seemed there were several chairs that had been manifested for previous users. However, the only one that seemed willing to show up is Yoichi, and an ethereal looking Toshinori, at least that is what Izuku can guess. The empty chairs hanging in the background were obvious as well as the presence that there were many eyes on him. If Yoichi is here it shows that quirks can have basically pieces of the soul and that means there were many others prior.

He guesses that whatever quirks his father had given U they were likely empty since he would have probably experienced this more. And he never held onto his classmates' quirks long enough for them to affect him like this. This quirk tho? It was like the presence of all these lives weighed on him yet they weren’t showing themselves to him.

“I guess you noticed there were some missing people since it was not like it was me then Toshinori,” Yoichi noted. As Izuku looked over at All Might’s soul it was clear that he wasn’t able to speak to him. Likely because the man himself is still very much alive but he didn’t seem upset by Izuku’s presence. Still with how Yoichi was acting it seemed there had been some disagreements and here Izuku had thought maybe it was because he was weak…

“They.. Well let just say they aren’t happy at the risk you put this quirk in by being so close to All for One. So there was some fighting and some suggestions that we should…” There is a pause then he shakes his head as if unable to speak of it. There is an uneasy expression as if the memories of the arguments were still fresh. It sounded like whatever those suggestions had been… Unpleasant as Yoichi tried to change the subject.

“Don’t worry about it. I won’t let anything happen and I’m sure they will warm up to you,” He spoke as if the lingering words didn't make it clear. The other One for All users don’t trust him and likely know how much of a pretender he truly is. That inside this quirk they can see everything he does and how much lies as well as his true selfish desires.

It felt like a stab to the heart. Trying to swallow his tears as tries to understand what he had done was what he already knew. Even if he loves his father, he knows the man was selfish never admitting wrong so why wouldn’t he take this quirk. Their deal never stated that his father would allow him to keep such a thing. He isn’t so naive that he believes his father wouldn’t take from him. So him accepting it despite this risk was likely, in their eyes, selfish as hell.

Unheroic. Untrustworthy. Villainous.

What kind of hero risks the one thing that is meant to counter All for One just because desperately desires it? Izuku looks away from his uncle as he feels a heaviness in his chest as the consequences had become so much more real. Even with his uncle's assurance it is just another thing about reality he has to deal with. In the end he had done something underhanded for a selfish desire. He deserves this…

“Hey it’s ok,” Yoichi moves a hand to his shoulder. Izuku was always physically affectionate because of how he was raised but this gesture still startled him. As the closest person outside of his father that he has done this to was toward Shouto. Despite how Yoichi likely should be angry at him for putting them at such risk he was still assuring him. This whole vault was proof of the cruelty his father will commit in an attempt to keep his family close.

“I know my brother and I know what it's like to live with him. To rely on him for everything yet unable to do anything when terrible things happen,” he said this as he pressed a hand on Izuku’s head in a manner that reminded him of his dad. But much more gentle it eased a bit of his anxiety as he looked up at the man who seemed to understand. This man was seen as a hero, the first person to stand up to his father yet…

“When you live with someone that looks at the world as his enemy it is hard to not see the world a bit like him.” Yoichi spoke with understanding. As if this was the first time I could ever truly speak on this as gives a gentle smile, “Even with the best of intentions you had no idea if you deserve it yet you still desperately wanted to try. To reach that light.”

This was the first time someone seemed to understand why he seemed uncomfortable or out of his element despite his adoration. Years of his father constantly demeaning or telling him about every awful thing going out outside his prison. How cruel the world is toward those with no power, how things never change. As well as how in the end even the words his father said about Bakugou never truly being his friend was true when they reunited. In the end Kacchan called him a doll, a useless Deku.

And his father said sorry as if knew he was going to meet him but did nothing and watched as he made a fool of himself.

It was a disgusting feeling that filled him with shame as despite everything his father had been honest. That Kacchan truly did not care about him nor was his friend not even considering that he never wanted to leave. Instead mocking and jeering at him as if Izuku enjoyed being paraded around as some joke. Unable to help himself but constantly trying to show him that he was strong, that he wasn’t a doll-

He was pathetic and petty.

His hand moves to his lap as he looks down at his lap, clenching at the fabric as he was wearing such nice comfortable clothing. Clothing from dresses to modeling, masculine to feminine, it never mattered before. But when Bakugou called it out he grew to hate everything about what he used to feel nothing for. Despite the fact he claimed to not care about Bakugou, a part of him still has some fear when saw Shouto talking to him. How angry he got at what should be his best friend when realized he wore the female uniform. That in the end he will be left alone being seen as nothing more than a petty, pathetic man-

“Stop that,” The voice across from him breaks the silence, making him snap out of his thoughts. Looking up he can see Yoichi had an almost stern expression as if was able to tell that he was spiraling.

“You may lie and do things that aren’t seen as heroic, but you truly want to be a hero. You use things that might seem underhanded for the good of others, not only just to benefit yourself. You’re trying your best every day despite the fact you've been surrounded by such a horrible environment for so long,” There is a pause as a small smile forms on Yoichi’s face as moves to hold the other hand. It was such a kind and gentle gesture, able to feel the warmth of the other, that brought him down from the thought of despair, “You’re a good person at heart Izuku. You’ve been hurt and damaged, but… You might just fulfill my dream of seeing All for One being the kindest quirk in the world. Believe in yourself, you're a hero.”

Izuku’s eyes widened as he stared at the gentle and loving expression on his uncle's face. As if this was something the man had wished to see his whole life. Though the expression slowly turns solemn as his body curls in on himself as his gaze turns more intense.

“And I’m sure he knows it too. My brother is-” There is a loud crash and Izuku doesn’t have any time to register the warning. As his uncle's eyes widened and seemed to abruptly shove him out of this world.

It was time to wake up.

_______________________________________________________________________

Izuku awakens with a start as he shoots up from his bed to see that U was on high alert staring outside their window. Its body was tense, trembling like a cornered animal but there didn’t seem to be anything at the window. He walked over to the window and noticed the door was slightly open as if something had tried to enter through it.

That’s… Weird. He opened the window to look outside but there was nothing, just the sound of the city at night. Most likely U wasn’t going to tell him because of his aversion to anything human like but most likely he scared off whatever intruder it was.

He closes the window, though considering the circumstances he locks it wondering how the hell someone could get to the second floor. After all, they don’t even have any trees nearby only to remember that there was one flying hero. No they wouldn’t try that again. That would be stupid even for them since they know that his father is watching- Wait.

…Dad?

Izuku felt angered that his father came to visit yet had done so under the cover of night. He closes the curtain with force as he decides to make it difficult for anyone to visit. Then proceeds to use his super strength to place his book shelf against the window. His father had no right to visit him in the middle of the night just to enjoy bonding while he wasn't even awake to see him.

He didn’t need to see the outside at night anyway, as he glanced at the time it was close to morning anyway. Guessing he should prepare for a day of class, after all, the Sports festival would be soon.

_______________________________________________________________________

Outside the window was a strange man staring up at the window watching as the white teen blocked it from view with a bookshelf. The message was very clear to stay out, it's a pity as All for One had thought he could sneak in some visits. But he guessed being undercover spooked the rabbit Nomu instead, keying him as an invader. Even if all he did was change his hair color and eyes to not stand out, he assumes it was the hat but at least shows the rabbit programming was still strong.

The super villain sighs as he guessed should have expected his son to be more crossed with him. Likely thinking that he abandoned him when it was simply poor timing as he has to keep Tomura reigned in. The young man was still unaware of All Might’s strength though the strangest intel, what rumors that All Might is looking for an heir. As if that giant idiot had any other choice that won’t put a giant target on them. Regardless he still has plans to work on for now at least, “It seems he isn’t interested in a visit from me. Kurogiri, open a portal back to base.”

The man of mist, a living corpse of a boy, appeared from the shadows. His expression inside the shadows seemed almost puzzled.

“What is the point of allowing him to go to school if it displeases you to be separated from him? Especially when you hate heroes.” Kurogiri was prone to bursts of questions. Likely a remnant of the person they once were but All for One had no issues with talking philosophy or poetry. Though this is the first time the other asked directly about Izuku, he has known about him for a while. After all he is the one that helped them move to that manor, how else can you create a place with no escape?

“My aren’t you chatty today also I need to correct you. I don't care for heroes. Hating implies a lot more energy and emotions that I would never give them. Even my son knows that though he isn’t wrong there are specific ones I disdain,” he corrected. They were pathetic, boring, and in the end they ended up alone chasing those unrealistic ideas. He would have wiped clean of every heroic memorabilia in the household if he had such issues. His apparent disdain is more akin to annoyance rather than any personal hatred, if he can ignore All Might.

“They are an obstacle, an annoyance, they allow me to learn more about society by what kind of heroes they have. However, most of these heroes are nothing more than glorified cops chasing glory,” All for One noted with amusement. He enjoyed toying with them and breaking them down without heroes then how can he display his own villainy. Kurogiri was listening intently to him as it did not answer the question. As in the end it was clear that All for One did not seem to enjoy his son’s aspirations regardless of personal gripes.

“That doesn’t answer your question tho does it? Well, Kurogiri, if you were trapped and isolated for years. What would you do if someone came in from the outside promising to make your dreams come true?” All for One asks this question. A hard lesson he has learned from trials and errors of the past, the deadly consequences that transpire. “Would you, A: Stay in your place that supposedly keeps you safe as you don’t know these strangers intentions? Or B: Trust these strangers to fulfil your dreams no question asked?”

In his youth he had been a fool thinking that he could keep and control his little brother. That if just keeps taking and taking from him that his little brother might break. Then he would finally stop asking him to stop nor even try to leave him. Able to keep him at his side while continuing with finally getting the world underneath his rule. It only drove his brother farther away.

“The answer is obvious, you will trust strangers because you want to escape and fulfil your dream. Desperation can blind you from rash decisions and my son is no different as he always looked at heroes with awe. While resenting being trapped,” It wasn’t like he had learned nothing after all his little brother ran away with those damn rebels. Which in the end resulted in him getting killed because was trying so hard to escape. It haunts him but he doesn’t show it as he looks up at the blocked window.

“Dreams are such strong and powerful desires. They can even lead to your ruin, I knew to deny that boy would lead him to a worse fate that shouldn’t repeat. So I would rather give him his dream than have him turn against me,” Because in the end that is what happened with Yoichi. Those cretin stole his little brother and turned him against him, resulting in his death. He needs more sugar to keep his family around, not cruelty, “Now no one has that bargaining chip to make him betray me, nor to hate me. After all, I’m giving him what he wants and considering what happened with Hawk’s. Well I’ll say I made a good choice as my son called for me.”

There was no lie. He always keeps to his promise as long as Izuku keeps to his side of the bargain then All for One has no reason to deprive him. Even now despite not seeing each other the boy still leaves reports in his room for him to read. With notes that claim how wants to see him, his anger, his rage, and loneliness. The HPSC can’t use Izuku against him, even All Might won’t be able to fully turn his son against him.

As in the end, All for One is truly supporting his son being a hero. Even if not for any altruistic reasons like most, isn't that what a loving father should be like?

“I’ll let him play that role, and who knows… Maybe we can have fun playing Heroes and Villains together again if he succeeds,” He mused with a cruel smile. Knowing that his son’s eyes will always be on him even if was a hero. He already failed with his little brother but he learned and if needs to let his son play a bit he can always adjust. He already gave him things to keep the boy alive and taught him enough that won’t be taken for a fool. However… “Tho if he fails, he will just have to come home with me. I plan for every path after all.”

There is a twisted smile on the man’s face as if it was just gentle musing on a more innocent time. While Kurogiri could not fully comprehend in a sense he realized maybe in a way All for One sees himself in the boy when struggles obsessively to be a hero. Yet also with no fear if the boy was to fail either, already planning to collect the pieces.

What a cruel father…

Chapter Text

It was hard to get up in the darkness. The only sunlight that used to greet him was closed off with the dresser he used to block his window. He only woke up early because of his phone vibrating beside him, tiredly he reached out to grab it. He didn’t even think to check before he brought the phone to his ear but it wasn’t of sweet joy.

“Midoriya,” that formal voice the distance it placed between them was a sign something was wrong. There is a moment of tension as Izuku slowly moves to sit upright as his rabbit glances up in the darkness of their room. At the weight of just his last name lingered as Izuku was about to speak. Shouto didn’t give him a chance to continue.

“I kind of guess since you didn’t text or call me this morning you aren’t coming by my house. I hope we can try talking about the sports festival. My-” there is a pause as if the other was catching himself almost slipping up. There is a harshness in the other's throat as he continued, “Nevermind. Just if you have time, I have to go now.”

The phone cuts off without so much of a goodbye, only the sound of what sounds like Endeavor in the background. Izuku is reminded that they were supposed to get some more information about the sports festival in class today. A huge event that everyone came to watch young heroes to show off their talent. Where heroes go to pick their new sidekick or interns to help them gain experience in the field. UA had the most funding, of course, so they got to go all out on this.

What could Shouto possibly wish to talk about? How do others see the event?

Izuku ponders these questions as never did ask what his friends thought about heroism or these displays. He has been so focused on his own goals it is only now that he is even thinking about it. His father isn’t showing his face; there is only the darkness of the room as he gets out of bed. The sound of his pet jumping off the bed as he goes to turn on the light. His eyes adjust to the light of the room as he turns only to feel a moment of absolute dread at a figure in his house.

He jolted, his body tensed as saw white hair and lifeless eyes- Oh.

It was just his reflection in the full body mirror. His green eyes wide with terror no longer looking like what he had thought in the corner of his eye. He never realized he looked so much like his father from certain angles.

…Izuku pulls himself away from those thoughts as he gets ready for the day. Trying to remember the words of his uncle that still fondly rings in his ear.

“What do you mean the festival was postponed!?” It was hard to tell who had been the one to shout it but it was clear that most of the class were upset by this change. As many were already anticipating the greatest festivities of the semester. Aizawa lets out an exhausted sigh as it was a response he expected after they already had everyone excited about it.

“It’s only been delayed because of a security inspection within a week. Just be glad it wasn’t postponed to the end of the year as that’s what I suggested after everything,” the man spoke but it was clear there was more to the story. Though despite all the students pestering it was clear he wasn’t going to budge. All Izuku can imagine is that there had been a threat or trouble on campus forcing them to wait.

It at least would allow Izuku to mentally prepare everything stretching in his seat as there wasn’t much to be done. His eyes glanced at the one in front of him seeing Bakugou leaning away from him with a glare. It was common as he had threatened several times to steal his quirk and if Izuku was honest, he wasn’t bluffing. Ever since his father ‘helped’ him to gain this quirk his urge to steal and take was unimaginable.

Having to instead resort to distracting himself with small theft like pens, pencils and the likes. Bakugou has been a victim a few times but the other has had no proof that he is the thief for something as small and insignificant as pencils. Even better will sometimes return them at random making the blond look even more insane. It was just a fun game.

As Aizawa finally dismissed them to the next class everything went as normal as finally having lunch. Bakugou was quick to leave but had the ‘unfortunate’ lack of foresight to leave his pencil case.

He reaches out and snatches an eraser trying to hide the grin that wants to show as he pockets the prize. It wasn’t a quirk but it helped distract him-

“Hey Zuku-!” A loud feminine voice shouts, making him jolt practically slamming the pencil case back onto bakugou’s table. Staring wide eyed like a cornered animal caught in a trap terrified for his life. Already thinking of all the scenarios that could happen, of his classmate telling the teacher who takes him to the side. Bakugou taking this chance to try and force him out of the school now that has confirmation was stealing from him.

“Uh you ok?” Ochaco was the one that had caught him. Her eyes staring directly at him tho she glanced at the pencil case she doesn’t say anything about it. Was… Was she unaware that he stole something? They stared at each other in silence as Izuku was unable to speak as a million thought ran through his mind. They may have been friends but what if-

“Do you want to eat lunch with us? I know you usually eat with Shouto but it would be nice for all of us to eat with everyone,” she said. Oh well then he guessed he was not about to be called out for stealing Bakugou’s eraser. He straightens up realizing this was the perfect chance to relax. His dad wasn’t even around anymore so why shouldn’t he try branching out just a bit and get to know his friends instead of trying to dumb himself down.

“Sure! I've been wanting to talk more with you guys anyway I have a lot of questions I've been dying to ask,” Izuku chimed. His green eyes gleaming as he gets up to walk with them already intent on getting away from his worries. Getting up close to the girl he brushes his arm against hers like he does with Shouto. A way to show his familiarity as he looks at her face turns a bright red. She really was quite cute now that he is actually looking at her-

“T-to-” her voice was a stutter much to his confusion. Izuku tilts his head almost leaning in only to suddenly get a handful shoving his face back along with her screaming. “TO CLOSE!”

Izuku let out a loud startled cry as he was being sent to the ceiling as Iida and Shouto came over startled at the commotion. Izuku had to put his hand against the ceiling as the weightlessness was disconcerting. He didn’t like using it when had to during the entrance exam and he absolutely is not enjoying the helplessness he is experiencing now. “O-Ochako, what’s wrong!? What did I do!?”

It was on this day that he learned that most people actually enjoy their personal space and that Shouto is only an outlier because of his lack of social life. There was a long lecture from Iida about how inappropriate he was and while had tolerated it with Shouto this was too far. Izuku has to admit, he thinks this is stupid to put a limit only because Ochako was female but considering he was stuck on the roof of their class room. He is in no position to defend himself especially as Ochako is panicked.

He will have to be more careful in the future.

After an excruciating lecture on boundaries, personal space and the etiquettes of Japanese society from Iida. They were able to go and enjoy their lunch even if Izuku felt annoyed at having yet another thing against him. This was another social cue he had to learn but he disliked it heavily. While initially questioning how Shouto never said anything he is reminded the other could care less about people’s opinion. Even if it seems today the red and white pretty boy was distracted.

“While I’ve tried to tolerate your rude behavior you’ve gone too far. You can’t just go into people’s personal space even if Todoroki doesn’t seem bothered most people would be! This is common etiquette!” Iida continued as they were now eating their lunch. Izuku was just eating his meal trying to keep U from going to bite at Iida’s ankle as it was clear the rabbit was getting annoyed. It didn’t seem like his rabbit liked him much and while didn’t enjoy getting lectured he didn’t think he deserves to have his ankles shredded by an angry rabbit.

“It’s ok Iida! I don’t think he means anything by it and he already said he’s sorry,” Ochaco finally spoke up, clearly more embarrassed at Iida’s attempt to teach Izuku why what he did was wrong. It seems he was taking being class president very seriously. Izuku was wondered if there was some hole he could crawl into after this.

Biting the end of the chopstick he glances at Shouto who seemed to glance at him for a moment then look away. As if he was unsure of what to say because the last time Izuku messed up like this, Izuku snapped at him. Guessing it why his usually supportive friend might be a bit distant or maybe the issue with whatever happened this morning still bothering him.

So much for that.

Then again what would Shouto possibly know about etiquette when he really thinks about it. The other just doesn’t seem to care about others' opinions as he just tends to do things. He does remember in middle school his classmates mentioning how he may be popular but his personality was horrid. Guessing it was because he does rude things on purpose- Did Shouto just think Izuku is naturally a rude person too? Was he upset that he couldn’t talk this morning?

He just wanted to ask his friends some questions!

“I just wanted to ask why you guys all want to be heroes. Can we talk about that?” Izuku finally interrupts needing a change of subjects. Everyone seemed startled at the frankly innocent question. But it was something he realized he never asked any of them, not even Shouto despite all the times they talked. As while he certainly never hid his own motivation but he never asked.

“Well you know it's because of my fa-” Iida was about to talk but Izuku turned to Ochaco and interrupted. In his own passive aggressive way, possibly making it obvious he was not happy at the lecture.

“How about you first? We already know Iida here because of his legacy, you seem the more normal person around.” Izuku ignored Iida’s shocked expression as Ochaco looked at him startled. He was genuinely interested in her as she seemed the most normal, something about her just seemed so calm. More like a caregiver rather than some hardened hero ready to take on the world.

“O-Oh uh well… It is not exactly the best,” Ochaco seemed flustered as she moved a hand to the back of her neck. Izuku watches her cheeks turn a slight pink as she seems to struggle with the words she wants to say. “It honestly for… Money.”

“Hm? What did you say?” Izuku tilts his head as he did not hear what she said as she proceeded to shove a dumpling into her mouth.

“I think we can’t hear you if you’re eating,” Shouto finally spoke up while Iida was still trying to emotionally recover from the cold shoulder he received. Learning just how petty Izuku can be was definitely a new experience but even he was curious.

“He’s right. So speak without any food in your mouth,” Iida speaks up loudly. Ochaco looked embarrassed before finally letting out a sigh after swallowing her treat.

“I did it for money reasons, heroes make a lot and I want to help my family. I know it's not a very heroic or selfless reason-” Ochaco started but Izuku suddenly felt almost excited.

“Oh wow! The heck you're talking about a great reason to be a hero, nothing more noble than caring about your family!” Izuku chimed. It was definitely not at all an ideal hero but in a sense there was something very noble about that reasoning. As to him, caring about your family above all else is a great reason to want to do something.

“H-Huh? You think so?” Ochaco was startled by this as likely everyone else's reasons were fame, glory, legacy or just because dreamed of being a hero. In Izuku’s opinion it is a breath of fresh air to see someone just doing it for something like family.

“Yeah, your parents must be amazing people for you to want to help them out like that. Going into this career isn’t easy,” Izuku was genuine as much as his own family was struggling he still valued it. In a sense he was almost jealous that she can be so honest about herself, “I mean you are putting your life on the line but if you do well you can make a lot of money. Which can help your family… It shows how much you care for them.”

If her face could get any redder it would be almost the same color as Shouto’s fire side. As it seemed she was not expecting the sudden amount of praise from him. Trying her best not to shove more food in her mouth it seemed she decided to distract.

“O-Ok I think that's enough about me, what about you? Why do you want to be a hero?” And there was the question.

“That is a good question, why do you want to be a hero Midoriya?” Iida questioned. Even Shouto was looking at him curious as while knows what kind he wanted to be he guessed he never mentioned why. Why does Izuku Midoriya want to be a hero?

It was a lot harder than he thought to form it into words. As to him it isn’t really a want, it isn’t as if there had been any other jobs he looked into. Only ideas, plans, or alternatives he sought for in his whole life that wasn’t him looking at heroes through a screen wishing. His eyes furrow as he moves a hand to his chin in thought of how to answer this question.

“I just want to become the ideal hero that I wish I had,” His words were sharp. There is an obsession and need in this desire. There is no way he can be All Might. He isn't able to be so self-sacrificing no matter how much he wishes he could. It doesn't mean he doesn’t want it so badly that it drives him insane just to think he can stand as the pinnacle of heroism. That when people look at him they can think, they are ok.

Even those that have fallen and strayed were those he wishes he could save. The kind of people that his father would prey upon he wishes he can swoop in and pick up.

But he won’t say that.

“I can understand that! Having an ideal you can strive for is good motivation,” Iida spoke as it was becoming clear that Izuku wasn’t going to elaborate. Well except for one person who isn’t exactly known for reading the room.

“And what is your ideal hero?” Shouto pressed on his eyes staring intently at Izuku knowing there was more to this. As everyone's idea of an ‘ideal’ hero is different and Shouto has seen Izuku’s attempt at heroism. When the boy jumped in front of Endeavor to take a strike despite trespassing and the dangers. When pressed and pushed boundaries, when taking steps many wouldn’t dare.

Izuku was unable to keep quiet at such a question, “Someone willing to save anyone. Even those that many others wouldn’t. Even the villain that don’t want it.”

Because villain is just a word to dehumanize the strays.

Chapter Text

His answer was unconventional. Villains were Villains and heroes were heroes that is how society sees them. This line is set in stone to most people and if you stray out of line with your powers you are a villain. His answer had stunned them into silence but they had lunch to finish and other plans that he needs to follow through on.

Izuku doesn’t blame people’s skepticism, after all, hero society was drenched in a black and white morality. Izuku can imagine his own father laughing at the idea of a hero saving a villain. He has learned enough about life that it is just much too easy to end up trapped in a situation you never want to be in. Though he can’t claim to know how he could even go about saving those titled as villains.

Still, he has a long way to go before he can become the hero he wants to be. Especially since the UA festival is being delayed so will have to work on himself before it is presented to the world. Thankfully it was only delayed by a month so long enough to prepare but not so long that will drive him crazy. The principal might have been threatened as can't imagine UA ever submitting to such things without there actually being something going on. Though Izuku can't imagine his father directly attacking the school while he is still there.

At the least with the Sports Festival being delayed it meant he can focus on training. So that he doesn't make a giant fool of himself when he finally gets on TV with everyone eyes on him. He never realized how early in the semester the Sport Festival was until went to school. Most freshmen wouldn’t be able to show off their best skills as many would still be just learning the basics. So he can't waste this, already making plans on how to navigate this as Aizawa was answering questions the class had about the changes.

“Professor, if the Sports Festival is postponed does that also mean we can’t get any internships?” It was Tsuyu who asked this. It made even Izuku perk up as he had completely forgotten that for the first years there was no reason for anyone to want to recruit them. As noted in their class syllabus the internship is after the festival which is their only change to advertise themselves. As they were complete nobodies so what hero could he possibly-

Memories of Hawk conversation with him still lingers in the back of his mind. He flinches remembering how the man caught him off guard and the humiliation of needing to call his father. He needs to be careful about which hero he talks to as clearly someone knows about his dad even if they have no evidence. His options would be even more limited if they delayed the festival but still need to do the internship.

“I actually did talk to them about that. As it was ridiculous that if we were to postpone one thing we basically have to delay everything. However, I was informed that the internship will also be delayed and we should focus on training and classes,” it was clear that Aizawa was not amused by the change in scheduling. Likely because it meant he was going to need to update their syllabus for the year to accommodate.

Was this his father’s way of helping him prepare? Or was he trying to make sure less people know about his existence? Would his father have done another attack early to make a point? He had so many questions and couldn't even ask the man. He hates this he just can’t-

“Deku, your fucking Rabbit!” Bakugou's screams snapped Izuku back to reality as he realized he had allowed too much slack in the leash. The large black rabbit had moved underneath Bakugou’s with the malicious intent unbecoming of a prey animal. Bakugou had just barely avoided his ankles being mauled by jumping onto his chair looking at Izuku pissed.

Izuku flustered at the fact was now the center of attention in a bad way. He yanks at the leash the black rabbit tried resisting but Izuku’s super strength helped him yank the troublemaking bunny. While Aizawa looked like he just aged several years watching this scenario.

“Whoops, sorry my hand slipped,” Izuku apologized with a sheepish grin. Shrinking in his seat as he drags U back to his side as Aizawa continued.

“As I was saying, many things have been moved because of this change. We will hand you an updated syllabus however they are trying to see if they can find a way to do the festival earlier. So don’t get too comfortable,” the professor informed and it was clear everyone was optimistic as the sports festival was a normal school thing. Something they desperately needed so hopefully the delay won’t be too long. Even Izuku turned to look around the class to see his friends reaction-

And Shouto was looking directly at him.

Though Shouto hadn’t said anything, the look did mean that he wanted to talk. It has been a while since it was just the two of them so Izuku had to politely reject Ochaco and Iida's offer. As his best friend was keeping quite a bit of distance, something they are used to him doing as he still struggled in interacting with others.

This was different.

“Is there a reason you’re staring at me so intensely, Shouchan?” Izuku questioned with his arms crossed. For privacy sake they went to find some area without any camera which was another closet. He wondered if it was related to his motivation for being a hero as Iida had been concerned while Ochaco seemed in thought. Shouto’s expression was neither surprised nor thoughtful as if it was expected, so why would he want to talk to him.

At the sports festival,” the other starts his voice trails just a bit as if for once was considering the words. Then those eyes narrowed at him, Izuku’s body tensed as the intensity in them showed he was serious. This wasn't a simple conversation between friends, it was something more, “Even if we are friends, I won’t help you during it. On that field we will be rivals as I need to prove to myself I'm not leaning on you. You can try to steal my quirk, you can try to sabotage, but I’m coming out on top.”

Izuku stared at his best friend with wide eyes as this was the same teen who always wanted to hang out on Sunday. His first friend since leaving isolation especially after he had been absolutely humiliated by Bakugou soon after. The one he relied on and clung to.

Was now declaring him a rival to fight against.

Something had happened, either when he talked to Bakugou at USJ or something at home because of Endeavor. But if Izuku was to ask Shouto why so suddenly he is sure it would have only served to insult the other when is declaring this. Then again, he has been wondering if he truly is strong or if he has been relying on the prodigy’s power. The Mock battle had shown how powerful the other was and at USJ it was clear that his powers were beyond par to hold back a monster nomu, U and keep Bakugou alive.

And to deny that he isn’t green eyed with envy would make him a liar.

“Good, I've been wanting to fight you anyway. I need to show that I’m not some pretty doll hanging around,” it was a mistake to ever think he never wanted to fight the other. They had their issues and differences only struggling to communicate as they almost had a strange codependency they struggled with. The fight on that roof wasn’t a proper one, it hadn’t been Izuku’s intention to fight and it was cut short by him catching Shouto off guard. He is sure the other won’t make that mistake twice.

From this day they were no longer going to lean on each other. Izuku had enough of lingering in the shadows, constantly failing or needing the others' help. While Shouto wants to show he is his own person who is serious about aiming for the top for his own reasons. They both were young and inexperienced with the world outside of the shadows their fathers created.

And neither one is going to hold back. But even Izuku knows that he was looking at someone on par with a titan. Someone born, bred, and trained to take on someone like All Might, even if the father is a monster Shouto is close to that pinnacle.

He can’t do this alone.

It’s always hard to look outside on a beautiful day knowing you will be trapped indoors. The sun shines down between small clouds that dot the sky. Every day she can’t help but muse how lucky she is that she is here and yet couldn’t help but feel out of place. Ochaco had noticed Izuku and Shouto looking at each other seriously, they always seemed to have some kind of understanding.

Ever since Izuku got a bit too close to her it has been hard for her to concentrate and not notice how he interacts with the world. He had saved her life at the entrance exam and yet it was only because she interacted with him that they became friends. She wonders if he never knows about how grateful she was for him to stay by her side during that moment. When he borrowed her powers there was fear, she isn’t sure what that feeling was but he had been afraid.

Yet he still stood up against the robot despite those feelings even if he wouldn’t get any points for his struggles. He did it anyway.

His dream to save even those that no one believes in tells a story of someone that had been hurt. But it is clear he doesn’t show all of that pain toward her even when being honest it clear he is holding stuff back. Those green eyes look at her as if unsure about her sometimes even when smiling it is different from how he looks at Shouto.

“Ugh why am I thinking about this?” She groans and slams her head on the table feeling very stupid for even thinking about it. They knew each other in middle school so it only made sense that they would trust each other more. They barely even know each other they never even hung out outside of school. She turns her head just in time to see Izuku entering the classroom looking frantic- Huh, Izuku is looking her way?

She straightens up in her seat as the green haired boy makes a beeline toward her. Almost about to break her personal boundary only to stop for a moment. His eyes widened as if remembering before stepping back, she glanced to see Iida wasn’t around. She doesn’t understand why he seems desperate to be close to others but maybe she should learn to be ok with it.

“Hey it’s fine, I was just startled last time! I didn’t know it was harmless so if you want to sit a bit closer I don’t mind,” She assured as it was clear he was having something on his chest.

As soon as he was given permission he plopped himself beside her seat way closer then most people would. Enough that she could even feel the warmth of his body- How the heck does Todoroki handle this like it is nothing!? She felt her cheek heat up but she swallowed it down as tries to focus. Watching as he seemed quite nervous, his white hair seeming almost more frazzled as his hand messes it up more. Oh god what is he-

“Hey uh… Do you um…” She holds her breath before he claps his hands together and speaks his truth. His green eyes looking up at her as if nervous before he finally blurts it out, “Can you train with me?!”

“…” Her mind screeches to a halt as she never considered herself as someone he would ever ask to train. As she spoke before she could even think, “EH!? Me!? Why me!?”

This sounded so foreign. As she would think, maybe he should ask Todoroki or even Iida seemed like better sparring partners. Any of the other guys would likely be more then eager to help him train. Was this a mistake? Why would he choose her over anyone else? She’s just a normal girl.

Izuku’s expression changed to confusion, looking baffled that she was confused. Which is crazy! As she knows he is a bit strange but she isn’t exactly the best fighter around, she wants to get better but she isn’t there yet. She thinks she has a right to be surprised!

“What are you talking about? You’re very powerful,” he answers as if was baffled at her own confusion. He looks at her intently as if trying to figure out if was joking or not before he seemed to realize she was serious. “Did you forget what I did with your powers? I had to borrow your quirk against a giant over powered robot in the entrance exam?”

Of course she remembers! He was able to borrow her powers and make it be crushed under it own weight after forcing it to float. She’s never done anything like that before-

“The fact I was able to levitate a giant robot shows just how POWERFUL your quirk is!” He shouts his eyes practically sparkling as he looks at her with an almost manic delight. Those green eyes staring into her own as he steps in close, “Even if I ended up puking and basically out of commission for a few days after, it always stuck with me. Most villains would be absolutely helpless against that, you could literally move mountains if you train it up!”

Somehow, she had never thought about her quirk that way. Then she has always been careful not to go past her limits as being put out of commission isn’t good. Him admitting that he ended up sick for several days showed he had definitely pushed himself too much. Though she couldn’t help feeling a bit flustered as she wondered if her powers really WERE that great. Was her quirk really that powerful if she allowed herself to push herself? But she barely knows how to fight.

“I am not exactly good at fighting though. I didn’t exactly have any formal training before UA,” She admits. Even if her quirk was strong she was not a trained fighter so she isn’t even sure how they would train. She had thought about it but she didn’t think she was getting training like this. If this is for the sports festival she still doesn’t think she’s the best choice.

“That’s fine, that's why we can train together. I declared Shouchan as my rival for this festival and I want you to make a good impression.” he was smiling before raising a hand in a fist bump. It was a surprise to hear that the other declared Shouto as his rival as they were super close if anything they were very much ride or die. It made her wonder what exactly happened between them and she wanted to ask but he continued. “You’re strong too, you just got to show people how powerful a comet can truly be once it gets going. That’s how you get the money.”

Get the money- Haaa she felt herself trying not to smile too widely as he was clearly excited to work with her. She hadn’t even answered him yet and seemed to already be anticipating their future. She would be an idiot to reject someone who sees a lot in her more than she saw in herself. As she laughs a bit she reaches out and fist bumps his hand in return with amusement as he was such a strange guy.

“You got yourself a deal~”

But then, it’s what she likes about him.

As they discussed ideas from training he explained needed her to get strong enough to make a hailstorm. As he wants to conquer the innate instinct of humans to flinch away from pain, which did earn him a look but they will work on the details when training. As knows would first need her quirk to reach a level he knows she can reach.

He can never forget when he faced that giant robot towering over him threatening all their lives and her trusting him. And he used her very quirk to send something that was undefeatable into the air. It was like he had become a gravity itself- Before he ended up having the worst case of vertigo with constant vomiting as his father was having too much fun caring for him.

It was her quirk, so she likely could reach heights that his own body could never reach without needing hundreds of other quirks to counterbalance its drawbacks. He was mumbling this on his way home as U walked beside him without needing to be tugged. Only to hear a loud thump, the sound of U hitting his foot hard on the floor in anger.

It was a noise he was familiar with as usually it precedes U chewing on something he shouldn’t do. Though he hasn’t done this since father-

His eyes looked up to see that there were lights on in his home and he realized that U was warning him. Without thinking he begins to run to his home, his rabbit at his heels as he wondered if the man had finally returned home. His dad after a week was finally back home!

Izuku fumbled for his house keys, feeling nervous as he tries to open the door. As if he will disappear.

But the figure who was in his house wasn’t his father. As a black mist obscures the figures visage his world crashes down. It wasn’t his father.

Standing in the hall of his home is the man who had helped to attack and try to kill his classmates. A villain that stood by Tomura with the very mist that had thrown Izuku out of USJ. It was like his own father was mocking him for having gotten so excited at the fact his father came home. The pitiable look that the strange man gave him said it all.

His father wasn’t home.

Chapter Text

As Izuku walked home it was going to be hard as there was basically a month until the sports festival. Shouto had basically declared war and seemed serious about beating him and if Izuku was honest was nervous. While he acted confident, also knew Shouto was serious as it clear was struggling against something.

He no longer had the original tutors his father gave him. His father said that since going to UA school no longer needed them. But even the physical trainer was let go and since his dad is never home he has been having to adapt to being alone. He isn’t even sure how he is going to survive actually having to focus on schooling.

Why were home lights on? Even U acted up and it made him feel almost… Hopeful.

The white haired teen felt his heart race as he wondered, did his dad finally come home? Despite himself he felt himself running trying his best not to seem excited as he was frankly pissed. He knows he has to be careful, the man likely has something up his sleeve and he can’t let him touch him. As has no idea if could take one for all but-

As the door opens with a slam as the light burns his retina, “Dad!”

The light was from the kitchen but as he entered what stood in front of him was not his father. A dark figure stands in front of him; there is a dark wisp surrounding them. Every single nerve on his body felt on edge as he stared intently at the man recognizing him from USJ.

Kurogiri.

Except he was wearing uh- Wait is that an APRON!?

Izuku does a double take as the man that had helped the villains try to kill his classmates and friends is standing before him in an apron. In fact he looked so different for a moment though it was someone completely different as his clothing was different. But the black mist was recognizable even in this weird get up! That pitiable expression pissed him off, wanting to know why this man was here instead of his father.

“Why are you here!?” Izuku shouted as he got into a fighting position wondering what the hell his dad wanted now. As this was the man that can teleport him anywhere if his dad thinks he can just send someone to kidnap him he has another thing coming. He hasn’t broken his arrangement so his father better not expect him to play nicely if tried to circumvent the deal!

As Kurogiri looked at him, he was startled to see in the man’s hand was a slightly burnt pot pie which was not what he expected. Actually the man’s apron looked dirty as he placed the pie on a cloth and took off the oven mitts. Seeming almost ‘uncomfortable’ but it was hard to tell with all that black mist.

“Your father requested me to watch over you after an incident. From here on I am to be your guardian,” there was a long pause and Izuku stared at the villain trying to wonder if this was a joke. That his father would send ONE of the people who nearly killed him and his friends to watch over him. He grits his teeth as he wonders just how many times his own father was going to insult him like this. To treat everything he does like there are no consequences. As if he should just ACCEPT THIS!

He wondered how the hell his father expected this to be an alright replacement to leaving him behind. His vision wells up with tears as he feels like his world is crashing down all around him. As if his father had truly abandoned him wondering why his father would leave him after saying how much he loves him. There is anger, there is pain, as his body trembles he glares at the figure, “You-”

Kurogiri doesn’t let him speak.

“I’m sure you’re upset, especially after what has happened. Unfortunately…” There was something almost painful in that pause. Like there was something else he wanted to say but he simply bows, “I can’t refuse, and I’m sorry as I’m sure this is not what you wished to see. You’re allowed to yell, I just wished to apologize before you do.”

It startled him, staring at the figure standing across from him saying he is allowed to yell? And even apologizing to him for coming here, despite having the easy excuse to say his dad ordered it? Izuku clenches his teeth as he decides to let out the thing that was boiling in his chest.

“I don’t care if my dad sent you to watch me! I don’t accept you! He’s supposed to be the one here, but he’s being a coward! And that pie looks terrible as hell—it’s nearly charcoal!” Izuku shouted it—for the first time since he was small, he just shouted the first childish, stupid thing that came to mind. He was waiting for some excuse—for the man to say he shouldn’t talk like that. For some kind of retribution like his father.

At least it wouldn’t be from his real dad.

…But nothing happened.

“A-Aren’t you going to say anything?” Izuku hadn’t realized it, but his body had tensed, expecting some kind of punishment. Kurogiri blinked and then looked at him contemplatively. Izuku trembled. “Aren’t you going to tell my dad that I’m being bratty? Emotional? Unruly?”

Kurogiri’s face was hard to see through the black mist; only the glowing golden eyes gave any indication he was thinking. There was amusement for a moment, and the man spoke more gently than Izuku had ever heard.

“He didn’t order me to do that, he only said to keep you safe and comfortable. Even to be more ‘casual’. Also I’ve dealt with worse so if that is as bratty as you get I think I’ll be fine. I can handle it, so if you have more to say you can.”

There was a pause. Izuku wasn’t sure he heard that right. Every time he’d ever tried to get mad or lash out, his father had quickly shut it down, if not outright punished him. The intimidation was always there, subtle but suffocating.

Yet this man, who supposedly works for his father, did nothing. Only stared at him and gave him permission to speak, to scream, to shout.

He didn’t trust him.

Since the pie had been legitimately burnt, apparently it was the strange man's attempt to ease the awkwardness. They ended up buying takeout. Kurogiri had been given his father’s card to buy anything that was needed. Izuku was still weirded out, but the man never did explain what incident had happened with his dad. Only that it was “for his safety” that his actual father wasn’t around.

Which he couldn’t really argue with. He was never sure what would happen if, for any reason, UA needed to meet his parents. He still wondered if his dad had filled out the paperwork in person or indirectly. The man was always shady, and after learning exactly who his father actually was, it made sense that he had a proxy. His dad would never feel comfortable leaving his son completely alone.

It didn’t mean he liked it.

So after eating some Chinese food, he took U and returned to his room, not exactly wanting to talk to some stranger. Guardian or not, Kurogiri was an intruder in his life and someone he couldn’t bring himself to trust. Though the man, thankfully, didn’t force him to talk, so he was able to return to his room. Practically throwing himself onto his bed, he took out his phone to text his best friend like he usually did.

Only to stop himself.

He stared intently at his phone, wondering what he was even doing bothering Shouto about this. The whole point of accepting Shouto’s declaration of war was to prove he could stand on his own and be independent. His finger hovered over the send button before his senses finally got the better of him. He deleted the text. A low hiss escaped him as he shifted to lay on his back, covering his face.

Shouto always dealt with his own struggles and issues at home alone. He should be able to handle this by himself, too.

His hunger for acknowledgment was getting worse—but he could just pretend it didn’t exist like he always did.

It was incredibly uncomfortable waking up and seeing a stranger in his home. U seemed unbothered by the man’s presence, seeming indifferent to Kurogiri. Izuku’s eyes narrowed as he sat across from the man, who now wore much more “casual” clothing. It looked weird to him—he was used to the other wearing more… sophisticated stuff, kind of like his father.

“You look weird,” Izuku said bluntly. He knew he was being bratty, but he needed to see exactly how “okay” this guy actually was. Maybe if he annoyed him enough, Kurogiri would go back to his dad, and his dad would come himself.

“I think I look more like myself than I have in ages,” Kurogiri replied, seeming way too happy to be here as they were eating, once again, takeout. The man had failed at another dish. Unlike Izuku’s father, who was very meticulous, this man clearly had never cooked anything in his life. The poor kitchen had suffered from burnt pancakes—but at least the man had the decency to have a backup plan if he failed.

“My dad does realize that if All Might sees you, he’d recognize you from USJ and it’d be busted, right?” Izuku didn’t acknowledge the other’s almost positive demeanor. It felt weird—unlike the cold, robotic man who had helped Tomura nearly murder him.

“He’s aware. He says he has the doctor working on it—you know him, since you get checkups with him—to make something that can help me not be recognized by my quirk,” Kurogiri answered smoothly, as if he had an answer for everything. Izuku glared as he got up to toss his plastic plate in the trash.

“Of course our family doctor is in on this,” Izuku grumbled. His father had implied he had the man lie to his and his mom’s face—that he was quirkless. Only when it became inconvenient did he even bother to reveal that it was a lie, meant to ensure Izuku never gained a quirk. But he assumed it was surface-level. Not this deep. “Whatever, I'm going to school.”

“Have a good day at school,” the man said. Izuku felt weird at how different the guy seemed compared to USJ. As if he were unchained, or had some burden lifted that allowed him to say such things.

It made him angry.

The day at school felt like a blur. The sports festival was still delayed, but there was talk of upping security. Shouto was avoiding him like the plague, seemingly having reverted to how he was in middle school. Closed off from everyone, not even giving Izuku a glance.

Izuku hated not knowing what was going through Shouto’s mind. But he had already made arrangements to work and train more with Ochaco. Iida was helping too since they had the time, but he kind of...

“I know we have a free training session today,” Iida noted. “But don’t you think this is a bit much for the FIRST TIME!?”

“It’s fine! I did the calculations—she can handle it!” Izuku tried to assure him. He wanted Ochaco to lift several giant boulders at once. “And while she does that, I’ll smash them. I promise I wouldn’t put my friends in danger. She already agreed.”

Ochaco was taking a bit of time, seeming to be psyching herself up. Likely because this was definitely going to give her nausea—but it shouldn’t last all week. She had some tolerance to her own quirk, or so Izuku assumed. Though now he was a bit nervous, thinking maybe this was a bit much. But they didn’t know when the sports festival might start. So the sooner the better.

“You okay, Ochaco!?” Izuku shouted, unable to help but second-guess himself after Iida pointed out the obvious risks. Ochaco jumped slightly, turning with a nervous smile and a thumbs up.

“I’m fine! D-Don’t worry!” she said, putting her hands together and bracing herself to run and activate her quirk before the nausea kicked in.

Yeah, this is totally fine…

…She ended up vomiting after the first training session after getting four boulders up. Which felt like very bad luck—and earned Izuku another lecture. This time from Aizawa, who was pissed that the disaster wasn’t localized. When Izuku had attempted to smash the boulders, they shattered and scattered, hitting other students who were also training. And Ochaco had released her quirk too early.

He might have pushed too hard too early.

He could feel Shouto’s eyes on him—seeming almost indifferent, avoiding getting hit with an ice barrier. Bakugou, meanwhile, had a smug look, having easily blasted the rocks that came his way like they were nothing. Both watched as Aizawa tore into him for his reckless behavior.

After all, it had been his idea to push Ochaco that hard. And he made it worse by still smashing the boulders, causing them to hit other students.

He was so far behind, and he was bringing everyone down with him.

Day after day, there was still no confirmed date for the Sports Festival. Aizawa was pissed, even though he was no longer in a cast. Because of these delays, other events that had been planned were being restructured.

Izuku continued to train with Ochaco and Iida. She was progressing fast—much faster than he expected once they slowed the pace. The way she jumped into the air was becoming less bouncy and more purposeful. They discussed ways her hero suit could be supported with gear, but also how to adapt without it.

Then that ugly feeling returned as he watched her smile—her radiant smile. She turned to look at him with several large boulders floating behind her. Even she was leagues above everyone as despite nausea being her weakness.

“Zuku, did you see? I can lift them all up and I’m still doing alright,” Ochaco chimed a bit wobbly and Izuku tensed. Her smile faded just a hint as a look of concern showed on her face noticing how Izuku had gone quiet, “Zuku?”

Wait no, he was enjoying the smile-

“You did amazing, Ochaco!!!” Izuku shouted, startling her as she lit up with pride. This girl, who lived a nice and ordinary life, had such an amazing quirk. One that rivaled behemoths—able to possibly lift mountains, help others in need.

She smiled at his praise.

He misses mom.

Izuku was exhausted. His muscles ached from training, and his head hurt from all the lessons he’d crammed into his brain. He barely held onto U’s leash, and thankfully the rabbit granted him mercy by not tugging. It was like U could sense that the other just wasn’t feeling it.

He comes into the house, and is again for the 11th time reminded that there is a stranger in his house.

“Welcome home, Midoriya,” the man said, polite and friendly enough. Never pushing. Never asking for much. Just providing food and greeting him in the morning and at night. “How was school?”

Talking to him as if he cared. Izuku glares because he wondered if just wanted to get some kind of information out of him, “None of your business.”

He slammed the front door behind him. The scent of food filled the air—but it smelled different today. Not like another failed cooking attempt that was unappetizing or unpleasant. It actually smelled... good. He knelt down to remove U’s harness, trying to seem disinterested.

“Did you order take out instead of attempting to cook?”

“Not at all. I just baked salmon, used a rice cooker for the rice, and chopped veggies,” Kurogiri replied casually. “I’m improving a bit. It’s a very good skill to have, so I’d like you to try it.”

Something about the way the other spoke rubbed him the wrong way. This wasn’t like him—he wasn’t supposed to get irritated easily. Or angry. Or feel like everything was too much.

Izuku snapped.

“Stop that!” he shouted, watching the man look at him in surprise. “Stop acting like you actually care! You’re just some goon my dad hired to watch and spy on me—you don’t actually care! I’ve had enough tutors and adults in my life who are just doing a job, so stop acting like this means something!”

Izuku was expecting a shock, a firm look, maybe another scolding. But the man’s face still shrouded by mist was quiet. Simply watching him with a much more neutral expression not saying anything. No hostility, no offense, just watching him.

And Izuku felt himself grit his teeth.

“You helped the villains nearly kill me! You are nothing more than a terrible villain who’s going to leave anyway!” he shouted. Suddenly, all the emotions he’d been trying to ignore bubbled up. His vision blurred. “Everyone leaves! This world is cruel and I’m not going to pretend at home! I don’t need you—I want my dad!”

He could have sworn in the back of his mind he heard his uncle. As if the man was trying to break through and talk to him but his emotions were heavy. Boiling to the surface as Kurogiri wasn’t stopping him and he felt something break.

A profuse sob escaped him as he fell on his knees and cried. He didn’t even remember the last time he cried without someone trying to touch him—when he was raw and hurting. Kurogiri didn’t touch him. So he just screamed and cried, acting like the child he hadn’t been allowed to be since being isolated from the world.

“I miss mom…”

Not once did Kurogiri interrupt. The foreign presence didn’t hinder him. It just waited, as he cried out all the emotions he’d buried: anger, sorrow, the pain of abandonment. Wondering what he had done to deserve this from the man who claimed to love him. Who said he would never leave, yet had done exactly that.

It was likely childish. Most people would look at him like he was insane. He remembered the last time he snapped—he’d been blasted in the face by someone he thought was a friend. He thought he’d learned to never allow himself to be vulnerable again. But being alone was worse.

The betrayal of thinking his dad had returned—only to be met by the stranger who had threatened his school—broke something inside him.

How ironic, that this stranger was the first person to give him permission to scream and shout to his heart’s content. The neighbors were going to be furious.

Kurogiri knelt beside him but didn’t touch him. He kept a respectful distance, giving Izuku space. He didn’t speak. Not even when Izuku sneered, glared, or screamed. He stayed.

He stayed until Izuku was hoarse—U nestled against his side as he finally grieved again.

He was, for once, allowed to scream.