Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Izuku’s back was on fire. Why? He’s not sure, but what he is confident about is that fact he needed to scratch his back. His eyes hazed in and out of focus, trying on whatever Aizawa was teaching, but he couldn't. Everything hurt so much, and it was unbelievable how much pain his back was in. The pain was slowly spreading to his fingers and toes. The burning sensation found its way to his Lacrimalcaruncle.

“Mr.Aizawa!” Izuku called out louder than he intended.

His teacher turned around and stopped his lesson, a bored look on his face. “What is it, Midoriya?”

“Can I please go to Recovery Girl?” He pleaded with a shaky voice. Aizawa raised an eyebrow at this. Izuku wouldn’t skip class, but why did he suddenly need to go to the nurse's office?

“Why?” The black-haired teacher asked with a raised eyebrow. “I have a terrible headache, and I think it’s because I haven't slept,” Izuku mumbled, feeling his classmate's eyes burning into his back. He squirmed as the pain grew even more.

Aizawa sighed but nodded nonetheless, “Go ahead. If you don’t think you're coming back, bring your backpack. I’ll write you a pass and have Iida bring your homework.” The green-haired boy nodded while grabbing his old red back and slinging it over his shoulders, wincing when the bag touched his back.

Tears started forming in his eyes, but he refused to let them fall, no matter how much pain he was in. He stood from his chair, feeling fire on his feet, before grabbing the pass from Aizawa and leaving the classroom.

The walk to Recovery Girl’s office was long and painful for Izuku. Once he got there, he nearly passed out, the older, shorter woman running to his side and laying him on the bed.

“Dear, what’s wrong.”

“M-My back; it’s on fire!” Izuku groaned, feeling tears swarm his eyes. “It feels like it’s being torn apart. My feet -- my toes are burning, and my hands feel like they are cramping!” He cried while arching his back in severe pain. Recovery girl gasped as Green-grey wings sprouted from his back, ripping the skin that had covered them for years. A choked sob left Izuku’s lips as Talons replaced his hands and claws on his feet. “Oh my, Izuku!”

The older woman didn't know what to do right now. Yes, she’d been trained for any possible situation, but this was absurd. This first time, the green-haired boy had manifested a new quirk but a mutation quirk. How? That has nothing to do with One for All! “Izuku, did you get into a fight with a villain recently?” Recovery girl asked while grabbing pain medication and water. She needed to be calm to keep him quiet.

The boy let out a small whimper as the new pair of wings flapped slightly. “N…no” Recovery girl stood there for a while; how could she help this kid? The hospital, no, maybe a quirk doctor.

“R…recovery Girl, why do you keep staring behind me! Is-Is there someone– something! Behind me? What… What's going on!” He panicked, sitting up and turning around to see nothing but the bed and the wall. The older woman raised an eyebrow at this. Is he not aware that there are wings literally attached to him?

“Izuku, Dear. You, um, you should rest.” Chiyo hummed while grabbing a stronger version of Melatonin and hanging it to the 17-year-old. Izuku nodded softly and took the pill. He laid down slowly, and all he could feel was softness. “Recovery Girl, when did you have such cozy blankets” He mumbled tiredly while snuggling into the cover and passing out. Chiyo sighed, running her hands down her face in stress.

“What to do? What to do?” She pondered; classes were done, which meant that Aizawa was free. She needed to contact the green-haired boys' primary teachers. Shooting off one of the emergency signals to Nedzu, Present Mic, Aizawa, All Might, and Midnight. The heroes arrived at her office within a second, with different panic levels. Nedzu asked, his normal bright and cheery voice ringing through the room. The lady shuffled into her office, and the teachers and principal followed.

A small gasp was heard inside the room; lay Midoriya Izuku with wings wrapped around him.

“What the fuck,” Aizawa groaned.

Chapter Text

In all honestly, Aizawa was done, so fucking done. Listen, he loved Izuku. He thought he was a great, extremely reckless kid but a good kid and a hero nonetheless. But what the actual fuck was up with this kid and randomly unlocking quirks like he was so OP game character from the 1990s?

“Chiyo-san, excuse my profanity, but why the fuck does Izuku have wings, talons, and claws?” He asked, feeling more disbelief spreading through his body as he listed new additions to Midoriyas body.

“Honestly, Shota, I have no clue. I asked the boy if he’d gotten into a fight with a villain recently, and he said no. Maybe this is the effect of a quirk from a long time ago?” Chiyo explained.

Aizawa took a deep breath, preparing to talk, but Nedzu cut him off with his normal cheery voice. “Perhaps! It’s his quirk!” Now, Nedzu wasn’t the type of person to be rash, but maybe his suggestion was for his benefit.

The Bear-mouse-dog had taken a liking to Izuku during his first year when they had their annual chess matches. He’s always let his animalistic instincts take over when it comes to Izuku; oh, how he wanted him to be a part of the pack he created.

The pack is, well, his staff.

His pups, for God's sake!

They were his family, his children, his everything. Izuku was no exception; he was practically Nedzu’s son. But now wasn’t the time to fantasize! Izuku, his pup, was in pain!

“Nedzu will completely respect. Don’t you think that’s a bit rash?” Mic commented while staring at Izuku’s sleeping figure, puffed feathers, and tiny hisses leaving the sleeping boy's mouth. If the hissing wasn’t crazy enough, you know what was insane? Within a second, the once-sleeping Izuku had grabbed Yamada’s husband and brought him back to the recovery girl's bed. His claws pierced the shit out of Shota’s skin as his wings puffed up in an ‘intimidating manner.’

“What the fuck!” Shota cried as the green-haired boy gripped his tightly as if he was protecting Shota from someone. “Midoriya, let me go,” Aizawa grumbled, trying to ignore the piercing pain in his right arm. The tired black-haired teacher didn’t get a response. The boy had fallen asleep again, Aizawa in his tight grasp. “Shota, you need to stay calm, okay,” Nedzu warned in his cheery voice.

“Okay, this is serious.” Midnight sighed as she watched the blood seep from Aizwa’s arm onto the white bedsheets. “What the hell do we do?” She cried.

“Listen, Nem; I’m sure that everything will be fine. Izuku is sleeping, so let’s get Sho out of his grip, and then we’ll figure it out from there.” Mic reasoned as he took cautious steps toward his husband. But a low growl cut his movements off.

A growl– well, hiss from Izuku cut him off. Shota gave him a warning, “Oi!” while Hizashi couldn’t even comprehend what the fuck was going on. His student, his favorite student at that, just growled at him.

What the fuck was life anymore.

A chuckle from Nedzu snapped the blonde hero out of his daze. “Ah! It seems like he sees you as a threat!” The principal smiled with glee. His favorite student had a mutant quirk! “Seems like we have another problem to face.”

“Okay, listen, I really just need this kid's claws out of my skin.” Aizawa sighed but soon tensed back up; the tiny body movement caused Izuku’s claws to go deeper inside his arm.

“Listen, Shota, as much as I’d like to help, I can’t.” Nedzu sighed even though his smile never dropped.

“Nedzu, why the hell not.” The tiredness in Aizawa’s voice left, replaced with pure irritation.

God, he was so done.

Why couldn’t he just have normal students? Why? Though everyone knows he wouldn’t trade them, those students were his fucking kids.

“To put it simply, Izuku has a mutation quirk. How? I don’t know, but I can’t do anything about it because, well, I’m prey.” Nedzu explained.

“Nedzu, what?” Aizawa grumbled as his eyebrows creased.

“From what I conducted, Midoriya possesses a Birds Of Prey Quirk type; I **would end up being this little boy’s prey. As embarrassing as it is to say, I am quite terrified of that fact. So I can not and will not do anything.”

Aizawa’s eyes widened slightly at his boss’s words. Nedzu, the slightly (extremely) psychotic mutant, was scared of Midoriya, the boy who broke almost every single one of his bones in his first two months of school.

Huh.

It’s almost laughable; it would be hilarious if Izuku’s sharp nails weren’t digging, piercing, breaking his skin.

“So am I his prey?” Aizawa asked, feeling mildly terrified. He could get rid of the other, what, eight fucking quirks Izuku had, but he could erase a mutant quirk.

“No, it seems like the boy sees you as a flock member, perhaps.” Nedzu grinned through his irritation. Aizawa was one of his pack pups, but the cherry principal couldn’t allow his own animalistic habits to take over. Or he was trying his hardest not to let them out.

“How wonderful,” Aizawa grumbled while looking down at Izuku’s sleeping figure, who never stopped hissing with his green-brown wings still spread. “What about Inui [hound dog]? Can’t he do something?” Aizawa asked.

Nedzu thought about it for a solid few seconds, obviously weighing the pros and cons of letting the dog hero help in this situation. “I don’t believe that would be beneficial.” Nedzu sighed.

“Why the hell not!” Mic whined.

“Because Mic Inui is a predator of a different animal family, he could easily overpower Midoriya, but I don’t think that would help us in the long run,” Nedzu explained to his loud pup.

All Might could only stare as the group of teachers allowed Nedzu’s words to sink in. He honestly was trying to weigh the possibilities of a former One for Alluser having a bird quirk, but there wasn’t.

The former #1 hero didn’t speak throughout this whole ordeal. It didn’t feel real, Young Midoriya, his successor, his son.

Was in more pain. He felt horrible. Toshinori also couldn’t seem to push away his mild, sure jealousy. Why was Aizawa a flock member and not him? It stung just a tad, only a little, yeah, just a little.

“Okay, so if he sees Sho as a flock member, why am I common enemy  #1,” Hizashi asked with a slight pout on his lips.

“Honestly, Zash, it could be the hair.” Midnight commented with a little smirk.

Hizashi snapped his eyes to the R-rated hero with a playful glare set, “Don’t piss me off, Nem.” In fake defense, the woman raised her arms, “Just playin' ~.”

Nedzu cut off his children's adorable, playful banter with a small shriek in joy. “Ah! I know who I can call!” He paused, building up dramatic effects, only to get hit by Chiyo.

“Spit it out!” The bear only smiled.

“My apologies; I love a good dramatic reveal. We can call Hawks!” He smiled. Aizawa blinked once, then twice, then three times. “What?”

“The number two hero–”

“I know him; Tokoyami interned under him during their first year. But how will that help us?”

“Well, Shota, Hawks is a Hawk, duh! So, him being the more authoritative/dominant bird of prey in the room would help us coax Izuku into letting you go. He thinks of everyone as an anti-flock member right now, so I’m assuming that if we were to come any closer, he’d attack, which, theoretically speaking, could get us all killed.”

Aizawa closed his eyes in defeat. “Call him.”

Chapter Text

Hawks was stripped of his animalistic traits when he was very young.

Like, very young.

The second the Hero Commission took him, they took away his whole identity, starting with his talons, claws, and feathers in his hair.

The few things they didn’t take were his double eyelids because they couldn’t; if they did, he’d go blind, and then to the commission, he’d be utterly useless.

Thank God.

They couldn’t overtake his natural instincts, like preening, mating, flocking, and nesting. The only thing is he’d gotten used to suppressing his instincts, making it so that he was just an average guy who happened to have wings, just wings. Not a hawk mutation quirk.

Just Wings.

So, low and behold, the shock he gets when he gets a call from the commission that Nedzu, the Nedzu, is dead.

The scary – prey – the principle of the U.A. needed Hawks like immediately. Just why the fuck. And if Hawks had his own say, he’d probably say no.

Because, well, he didn’t exactly want to be on U.A.’s raider; no one did. U.A. was perhaps more powerful and scarier than the commission.

Shit, after all, they did practically create every. single. one of the top heroes of Japan. So, like the excellent worker – slave – of the commission Hakws was, he got off the high perch he was using to watch the city and flew his Hawk ass over to U.A.

While Hawks took his sweet time getting to the U.A. building, whistling while he soared through the sky.

Aizawa, on the other hand, was suffering.

Literally, the claws felt like they were getting sharper and sharper, and to make matters worse, he was alone.

Nedzu had announced that it would be safer for everyone to leave before the Hawks arrived because it could get messy.

Great!

Fucking splendid!

Shota thought he would pass out; the amount of blood seeping through his punctured skin could not be normal. He had to stop himself from ripping his arm away a few times. And if Shota was gonna be honest, he was jealous of Izuku.

The green mop got to sit, sleep, and relax; nothing was wrong with him right now. For all Aizawa knows, Izuku was probably dreaming about All Might or some shit while AIZAWA WAS DYING! Okay, well, dying is a bit overboard, but he definitely was in an unpleasant situation.

He couldn’t be mad, though, not in the slightest. When Nedzu had informed him that Izuku saw him as a pack member, he couldn’t help but feel… well, a lil warm inside or whatever. Ask him to admit that; he’d rather slit his throat, but it was cute. Also, he got to one-up Toshinori in the race to become Izuku’s dad. So Yagi could suck it!

Aizawa - 23 | Yagi - 22

Win for Aizawa, fuckers.

Aizawa looked down at Izuku. The new quirk addition, whether temporary or permanent, made him look beautiful (not in a weird way). His green wings were so bright green that they mimicked the highlights in Izuku’s green hair.

The new feathers that were present on the side of his head blended in with his messy green curls. His Hawk marks in the inner corner of his eyes, the claws that were digging into his looked so natural on the boy.

If Aizawa were to think about it a little more, Izuku had always felt a little unreal, like he wasn’t in his natural skin. For instance, no kid should be that pale.

He also never tanned – he wasn’t even around during summer break, always off with his mom, and during school that they had during the hot months, he would bring an umbrella and still wear the U.A. pants instead of shorts.

Shota couldn’t help but think about Izuku's hair and how a few of the strands were extremely curly while others looked unnaturally straight. He also couldn’t forget how Izuku could stare at the board for an ungodly amount of time without blinking, and when he did blink, it didn’t seem like he meant to. More like he had to so no one would think he was weird.

And then the wings, oh god, the wings.

They seemed just to complete the Problem Child. One was draped over his sleeping body, and the other was laid in Aizawa's lap.

His tail feather was perfectly sprawled under him, making an extra blanket of some sort. No one who would randomly get a quirk – a mutant quirk at that should be able to control it like that. The feeling of talons pressing deeper into Shota’s skin snapped him out of thought; Izuku’s wings flew up in defense when the door as he finally woke up. Pulling Aizawa deeper into the bed, actually, this 17-year-old flung Aizawa behind him like he was a fucking doll.

How sweet! Not terrifying at all. No, most certainly not!

This was fine; everything was fine. This was totally okay.

Izuku’s green wings puffed up in front of Aizawa, covering his face from whoever was in the room. The new bird boy crouched on the bed, hissing at the ‘intruder.’

Hawks raised an eyebrow in shock; now he finally understood why he was being called.

Whatever the background of the situation was, the only obvious thing was that this little fledgling was so caught up in his instincts that he thought he was the leader.

How ridiculous.

The weak pheromone that the green-haired boy was releasing was pitiful. Was this baby bird really trying to intimidate him? Oh lord! Don’t make him laugh.

“Heyo~! Sorry that it took me this long, Aizawa-san; I got caught up in patrol.” Hawks explained while taking off his jacket and throwing it into a nearby corner.

“It’s whatever; just get this over with,” Aizawa grumbled, which caused the young bird in front of him to give him what he thought was a warning chirp.

“Did I just get reprimanded by my student?” Aizawa whispered to himself in shock. He was going to spiral. Oh, 100% Aizawa was going to crash the fuck out.

Hawks let a small teasing chuckle pass his lips; this was such a strange predicament. By now, a young bird – bird of prey or not – would’ve backed down, but it seemed like this little eyas was preparing to fight. Hawks shut the door behind him as he took a few steps forward. Izuku’s hissing got louder.

“Say Aizawa-san?” Hawks called out as the tired teacher only hummed in response; it was hard to hear over Midoriya’s hissing, but Hawks could hear it just fine. “Could you use your quirk to erase Midoriya’s strength enhancer quirk?” Hawks asked with a small, strained smile.

“I mean, I can, but why?” Aizawa, while searching for his eyedrops in his pocket. It was very uncomfortable having that he had to reach across his body cause his arm was still BEING MAULED by Midoriya.

“He’s going to attack me?” Hawks stated simply.

Aizawa paused his movements (he was in the middle of putting in his eyedrops) and looked at the birdman in question, “The fuck do you mean he’s going to attack you?”

“This little eyas thinks he’s the leader in this situation, and he pretty much thinks he’s above me. So, I’m assuming he thinks of you as a part of his flock, so he’s going to try and protect you from any threat, me, which means once I step over whatever he deems his comfort lines, he will attack me.” Hakws explained while he puffed his wings out more and more.

The situation at hand slowly started to sink in more and more for Aizawa, two birds of prey were about to fight, practically mauling each other.

Shota was fucked, so fucked.

He was gonna get killed 100%.

Hawks continued to take steps forward, some larger than others. “Don’t ya’ think this is cute? A little eyas trying to be the leader; the poor thing doesn't even have enough adult feathers even to be considered anything other than a baby bird.”

Hawks teased, earning himself louder and angrier hisses from Izuku and a bored yet strained ‘mhm’ from Aizawa.

Hawks took another step. He could tell he was getting closer and closer to Izuku’s comfort line. Izuku sent one big step and a screech in a warning sent to Hawks; ah, he’d found the line.

“Aizawa-san, after you activate your quirk and I take this last step, you’ll need to get to the side of the room by the door.”

Shota couldn’t lie. He was pretty impressed with Hawk's professionalism. No one really knew Hawks that well; all they really knew was that he was a worker of the Hero Commission.

Suppose Aizawa were to be called in this situation in Hakws's position. In that case, he’d probably crap himself, like damn, a 17-year-old with wings, taken over by a bird of prey instinct, normal green eyes almost entirely black, hissing, screeching, and growling at you?

Yeah, no.

As the hissing grew louder, Aizawa turned down his hearing aids. He nodded to Hawks as his hair flew up and his eyes turned red. Hawks took one more step, and holy shit.

All hell broke loose.

Chapter Text

Izuku lunged forward, not waiting for a second to attempt to get a hand onto Hawks. He was a threat, a damned threat. This elder Hawk was a threat to Izuku and his flock, and he needed to leave.

His newly formed tails sharpened as he tried to claw hawks his face. Hawk’s eyes widened in shock as the small green-haired boy attempted to attack him. His massive red hawk wings spread wide as he descended toward Izuku.

This little eyas was out of his damn mind. When will he understand that he is not the one in charge? It was almost pitiful how caught up he was in this whole ‘leader’ persona.

The green-haired boy was quick to react, his own wings flapping rapidly as he took no time attacking. He had always dreamed of having hawk wings, but he never imagined he would be using them in a fight.

Which was strange.

Izuku would always have vivid dreams of beings able to fly, just float around, and feel free. Never in his life did he know why, but those dreams had to be his favorite dreams of all time.

The two clashed in a small nurse's office, their wings beating against each other as they exchanged blows. Izuku was smaller and less experienced, but he was determined to hold his own against the hero.

Hawks was relentless, his attacks coming fast and furious. Aizawa could only watch in pure shock.

Izuku struggled to keep up, dodging and weaving as he tried to find an opening.

Suddenly, Hawks lunged forward; his sharp talons extended – breaking through the gloves of his hero costume.

Oh… that was not supposed to happen.

Izuku narrowly avoided them, but Hawks was quick to follow up with a powerful gust of wind that sent Izuku spinning out of control, landing harshly on the opposite side of the room near a traumatized-looking Shota Aizawa. “Problem child, are you okay?”

Izuku’s wings ruffled from the impact. Hawks walked over to him, teasingly bending down, his beady eyes fixed on Izuku.

"You're not bad," he said, a smirk playing across his face. "But you're not quite ready to fly with the big birds yet."

Izuku gritted his teeth, pushing himself to his feet. He could feel the bruises starting to form on his wings, but he refused to let that stop him. He launched himself back onto his feet, prepared to fight once again. His beautiful green-brown wings beat frantically as he closed the distance between himself and Hawks. They clashed again, their wings sending powerful gusts of wind in all directions.

And holy hell, Aizawa was distraught and shocked. His student, his son, his problem child – eyas?

Who fucking knows, and who fucking cares, was brawling with the number two pro hero.

There were scratches and bruises on both birds. A part of him was proud watching his kid hold his own. And the other part of him watched im pure fear as they fought more. The more it sunk in that he could and might die.

He couldn’t even fathom this shit. He tried his hardest not to blink, the fight was fast, but he knew, just fucking knew, that if he allowed himself to blink, then Izuku would power up his “original quirk” within seconds.

But back to the birdies brawling, Izuku was holding his own, but he knew he couldn't keep this up forever. Hawks was too strong, too experienced. Suddenly, Hawks changed tactics. Instead of attacking head-on, he circled around Izuku, his wings flapping gracefully as he dodged the boy's attacks.

Izuku followed him, his eyes fixed on Hawks as he tried to predict his next move. That was when Hawks struck. He was allowed to do anything he needed to in order to calm down the newly presented and highly instinctual mutant.

Anything.

He lunged forward, his sharp teeth sinking into the space between Izuku's shoulder and his neck. His canines sank deep into the Izuku’s unnatural and ghostly skin.

The boy cried out in pain, his wings flapping wildly as he tried to shake Hawks off. But the hero was too strong, too determined.

"You're mine now," Hawks growled, tightening his grip on Izuku's shoulder. "My chick, relax, eyas" Izuku struggled to break free, but it was no use. Hawks had him firmly in his grasp. He could feel his strength fading, his vision starting to blur.

“Ma- you, huh?” Izuku's eyes darted everywhere, open widely, and he groaned as the pain shot through his shoulder and neck.

He struggled to sit up, his wings twitching awkwardly as he looked around in confusion. Izuku looked up at Keigo.

The 17-year-old couldn't help but flinch at the sight of him, remembering the fierce battle they had just fought. Hawks seemed to sense Izuku's fear, and he smiled gently.

"Easy there, kid," he said, walking over to the bed and sitting Izuku down on it. "You took quite a beating out there." Izuku looked at him incredulously. "What...what happened?" he asked; his words were slurred, so caught in his animalistic instinct it took longer for his sentences to come out.

Still trying to make sense of everything. Hawks sat down on the edge of the bed, his wings folded neatly behind him.

"You lost the fight, obviously," he said with a shrug. "But don't worry, I won't hold it against you. You put up a good fight for someone so inexperienced."

Izuku's eyes widened in shock. "But...but you, uh, the bite. I uh, mama?" he asked, his voice trembling. Hawks chuckled."

Oh, that," he said, running a hand through his feathers. "I don’t know the full lengths of your situation, but all I do know is that you, little birdy, are in too deep with instincts. So, I was given the instruction to do anything I think is necessary. You are now my chick, and I am now your Mama," Hawks spoke slowly so that the boy who was sinking into his instincts could understand.

Izuku could tell that Keigo held so much pride in his voice when he said he would “mama,” and Izuku couldn't believe what he was hearing.

He had never heard of such a thing before, and the idea of being claimed by someone he had just fought was unsettling, to say the least.

Hawks must have sensed his hesitation because he leaned in closer, his voice gentle. "Don't worry, kid," he said. "You’re my babybird now." Izuku felt his chest swell and his eyes burn.

Someone wanted him, someone claimed him, and he had a mama; something in Hawks' eyes made him want to trust him.

Hawks wasn’t like his mother; no, he was his Mama. But everything was too damn much. His new bird instincts spread through his body as he felt himself grow tired from the energy he used for the fight.

Slowly he lay down on the bed, exhaustion finally catching up with him after the fucking brawl he just had with Keigo. Even though he was bruised and bleeding slightly, his little bird brain couldn't help but feel grateful for the hero's protection.

He wrapped his hawk wings tightly around himself, feeling the familiar (even though he wasn’t sure why) warmth and safety they always brought him.

Suddenly, he felt another pair of wings wrap around him from behind, pulling him in close. He turned his head to see Hawks, his own wings wrapped around both of them.

"Sleep tight, little bird," Hawks murmured, following up with a small parental trill, his voice soft and soothing. Izuku felt a wave of comfort wash over him.

He had never felt so safe and protected in his life. With Hawks' wings wrapped around him, he knew nothing could harm him. He closed his eyes, feeling himself drifting off to sleep. As he did, he couldn't help but smile, knowing he had found a new home and a new family with Hawks.

Chapter Text

Hawks finally understood why he was sent. He got the general reasoning when he saw the little eyas growling at him while gripping onto Aizawa.

It was pretty clear that he was going to be dealing with someone with absolutely no control over their animalistic tendencies.

Ha-Keigo looked down at the green fluff that was lying in his lap, his gloved hands preened at Izuku’s feather, humming and chirping occasionally. Even though Izuku was sleeping, he still chirped back, perfect chips. Hawk’s parental calls were always met back with a chirp from his little hawk. It plagued his heart with love; he had a baby bird that was his and his only…

Well, actually, not really…

Hawks couldn't help but sense the jealousy emanating from Aizawa, and he understood the underlying reasons behind it.

Aizawa had been there for Izuku from the beginning, acting as his mentor and guide.

Their bond ran deep, and Hawks respected that. Although he wanted to send a glare in return, Hawks knew it wouldn't serve any purpose.

Aizawa played a crucial role in Izuku's life, and Hawks recognized the importance of their connection. After all, Izuku's respect for Aizawa was evident, and that had to be acknowledged and respected (and Keigo couldn't deny that Aizawa was mildly— extremely—terrifying).

Izuku groaned(maybe whined) a little in his sleep, shuffling in Keigo’s lap.

The small movement made Keigo shoot his eyes down to the boy who was sleeping pretty in his lap, who had now held a pained expression.

“Shh, s’ok baby bird, Mama’s here; you’re gonna be fine.” He hummed while pushing Izuku’s green hair out of his face, pecking his cheek lovingly.

“Well, this is an adorable display,” Nedzu’s voice rang through the small of Recory Girl’s office; his words were cheery and sweet, and his eyes were cold.

Nedzu was literally trying his hardest not to scratch the older blonde bird's eyes out. Keigo shuttered, feeling the rat-dog-mouse’s eyes bore into his skull.

“Since we got that little situation figured out, let’s focus on the fact that one of our students, who, as far as we know, doesn’t have a mutant quirk, now does.” Nedzu hummed; even though this was a very tense situation, the principal couldn’t help but feel excited, extremely excited.

Listen, Nedzu(or Nezu) had many pups, but now he had one(potentially two) chicks! Oh, that is just music to his damn ears. “I called a regular quirk doctor and one who specializes in mutant quirks; they’ll be here shortly,” and with that, Izuku popped up in shock.

Fear maybe? All anyone in the room could register that the once-sleeping Izuku was now up and angry.

He sat up straight and looked at Hawks with pleading eyes. His sire couldn’t help but feel his little bird’s pain; the green fluff let out a pain-filled chirp that Keigo could only translate as “Don’t make me.”

The older bird looked over to the - prey - principal. “Is there any other way we could figure this out?” Keigo asked, staring down the mutation with pleading yet sharp eyes.

“There’s no other way. No one else would be able to explain this situation other than a quirk specialist.”

Hawks looked down at his fledgling, promising with his eyes that he wouldn’t allow him to get hurt.

Izuku whimpered slightly and snuggled deeper into Hawk’s lap.

So cute!

Not to Aizawa, though. Mic had to come up behind the grumpy teacher and smack the back of his head. “You’re growling like that one time Nedzu lost us during high school, and some random hero brought us back to the school.” The loud blonde teased while pocking his husband’s shoulder, “Remember he was all like, thank you for bringing my pups back, but please unhand them now.”

“I am not acting like Da-Nedzu.”

Hawks couldn't help but chuckle softly at Mic's attempt to lighten the tension in the room. While Nedzu gave his loud pup a look of warning.

The memory seemed to ease Aizawa's scowl, his expression softening just a fraction. Moments like these reminded Hawks of the bonds that he used to have back when he was younger—the people that he knew in the hero commission—the people like him, with whom he basically trauma-bonded.

However, that’s not important! What was important was the arrival of the quirk specialists, and uncertainty weighed heavily on everyone's minds. Hawks gently cradled Izuku in his lap, protectively wrapping his wings around the young fledgling, providing a sense of comfort and security.

Nedzu observed the scene with his keen eyes, a knowing smile curling his lips.

"My dear Hawks, I understand your concerns, but we must ensure the well-being of our students. The specialists will provide the answers we seek, and they will do so in a safe and controlled environment."

Hawks nodded reluctantly, his focus never wavering from Izuku. "I know, Nedzu. But I won't let anything happen to him. I'll be there every step of the way, protecting him. Because I swear, I’ll kill the damn doctor," He growled while giving Nedzu a look showing he was dead fuking serious.

As if in response to Hawks' determination, Izuku nestled closer, his small body seeking solace within the wings that enveloped him. The sight warmed Hawks' heart, fueling his resolve to shield his little hawk from any harm, even if he had to kill someone. It’s a mama bird's job to protect their baby.

Nedzu's smile faltered, a glimmer of concern flickering in his eyes. He recognized the unwavering determination in Hawks' gaze and the underlying seriousness in his tone. The principal knew that Hawks was willing to do whatever it took to keep Izuku safe.

“No killing will be necessary, so we’ll just take that option off the table!” Nedzu hummed, clapping his paws together, trying his hardest not to show that he was genuinely petrified. A bird of prey, one that could easily kill him, would probably attack his prey ass if the doctor even caused Izuku to wince.

The room became tense, Nedzu’s pup– teachers didn’t fail to notice how, their fath– principal was terrified in this moment.

The swing of the door cut the tension of the room, a bald head leading into the room, followed by Chiyo, Nem, and Toshinori. Izuku’s eyes cracked open at the sight of the new smell in the room.

First he placed eyes on the doctor and the he growled, it was him.

The man who ruined his life before it could even start. Dr. Garaki. The devil himself (in Izuku’s eyes, that is).

He popped up from his position in Hawk’s lap and puffed out his feathers, hissing and growling at the man. The group of adults (the heros) could only stare at the boy. This was different from earlier; before, it wasn’t anger or rage. Before, it was more about protection. Wanting to protect Aizawa from any threat.

Yet, right now, Izuku was presenting pure rage. So much that Nedzu let out the tiniest squeak, hiding behind Aizawa.

The sudden shift in Izuku's demeanor took everyone by surprise. The boy's normally docile nature had been replaced by a fierce rage that radiated from his small, feathered form. The room fell into a heavy silence as the adults processed the intensity of Izuku's reaction. Hawks instinctively tightened his wings around Izuku, shielding him from any potential danger.

His eyes narrowed, a mix of concern and determination evident in his gaze. He had never seen Izuku react with such hostility before, and it only fueled his own protective instincts.

Dr. Garaki, unperturbed by Izuku's display of aggression, maintained a calm composure.

"Ah, young Midoriya. It seems you remember me," he remarked with a hint of amusement in his voice, his bald head glancing with the light's shine.

The other heroes exchanged glances, their wariness growing. They were aware of Dr. Garaki's past involvement with dangerous experiments and his connection to the League of Villains. His presence in the room raised a multitude of questions and concerns.

No way in hell did Nedzu purposely call him. Aizawa, ever the vigilant guardian, stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Dr. Garaki.

"What the fuck are doing here, Garaki? Why are you here?" his voice laced with a tinge of warning.

Izuku's growls intensified, his feathers standing on end. He could feel the weight of the room, the adults tense with suspicion and caution. Memories of his painful encounters with Dr. Garaki's creations flooded his mind, igniting a fire within him.

“Sorry, kid, you’re quirkless.”

His eyes shook in anger, his pupils dilated, and his talons became sharper as he sat up straight, ready to charge at any second—no, not charge, kill, at any moment. Hawks, sensing the rising tension, took a step forward, positioning himself between Izuku and Dr. Garaki.

His wings spread wide, a protective barrier shielding Izuku from any harm. His voice carried a steely resolve. “Izuku calm down,” He instructed, looking at the felding who slightly backed down, then he turned to the bastard in front of him, “Who the fuck are you.”

Dr. Garaki's gaze flickered between Hawks and Izuku, his interest piqued. "You truly care for him, don't you, Hawks? How fascinating. The bond between a bird and its chick, forged in loyalty and protection." Izuku's growls turned into full-fledged hisses, his eyes burning with a mix of fear and anger. This was the man who ruined his life; he needed to die.

“Mommy, the doctor told me there was a chance to get a quirk.”

“Mrs. Midoriya you can send him with us, we’ll give him a quirk, put him on the right path, and just sign these papers.”

“M-mom! MA-MAMA, DON’T LET THEM TAKE ME! I’LL BE A GOOD BOY, M’SORRY, M’SO SORRY. I DIDN’T MEAN TO HAVE THEM; I DO WAN’ EM, JUST DON’T LET EM TAKE ME.”

“You’re disgusting.”

These memories. They were buried. He hadn’t thought of them in so long. It was so painful. His head was hurting. It hurts. It hurts. His back hurts. His hand hurt. His feet hurt. It hurts. Everything hurts.

Pain.

There was pain everywhere.

Ow. Ow. Ow.

Before anyone could react, a voice filled the room, authoritative and commanding.

"That's enough, Garaki. You have no place here." All eyes turned to the source of the voice—All Might, standing tall and resolute. His presence commanded respect, and even Dr. Garaki seemed to falter for a moment.

Nem, Chiyo, and Toshinori stood behind All Might, their expressions hardened with determination.

They formed a united front, ready to protect Izuku from any further harm. “Listen, I was called her; you wanna figure out what’s going on with mutation, so let me do my job.” Garaki glared with a triumphant smirk.

“Let me do my job, and I’ll be on my way.” All Might's eyes narrowed as he assessed Dr. Garaki's words. He understood the importance of uncovering the truth behind Izuku's mutation, but he also recognized the potential dangers that came with involving someone like Garaki.

“Get this shit over with” Aizawa's blunt statement cut through the tension in the room, his words reflecting the frustration and impatience he felt towards Dr. Garaki. Izuku's gaze shifted from the doctor to his mentors and Hawks(his mama), a mix of hurt and vulnerability evident in his eyes.

Hawks could sense the turmoil within Izuku, the deep-rooted pain that emanated from him. He tightened his grip around Izuku, his wings providing as much protection as they could. "We'll get through this, little hawk," Hawks whispered softly, his voice filled with reassurance. We won't let anyone harm you."

–

Who would’ve thought that a doctor's appointment would end up with Dr. Garaki being pinned to the ground by the sharp talon of Izuku Midoriya?

Dr. Garaki's arrogant demeanor faltered as he found himself pinned to the ground, Izuku's sharp talon digging into the floor just inches away from his face.

The room fell into a stunned silence as everyone processed the sight before them. Hawks' eyes widened with surprise and concern as he realized the depth of Izuku's anger and pain. His little hawk had reached a breaking point, his animalistic instincts taking over, fueled by the memories and emotions stirred up by Dr. Garaki's presence.

All Might, Aizawa, and the others sprang into action, ready to intervene and diffuse the situation. But before they could make a move, Izuku screeched.

He couldn’t speak and found himself screeching aggressively, desperately at the doctor.

How could he? How fucking could he. How could this be real?

Aizawa's eyes narrowed, his protective instincts kicking into high gear.

He swiftly approached Izuku, but before he could reach him, Hawks gently placed a hand on his shoulder, silently urging him to give Izuku a chance to express his emotions.

His eyes also remind the teacher that Izuku was not in the right straight of mind and probably would attack him or anyone at any moment. Aizawa hesitated for a moment, his eyes filled with worry and reluctance, but he nodded in understanding, stepping back but remaining ready to intervene if necessary.

Haha.

This is hilarious.

Why? Apparently, Izuku was never quirkless; this bastard made a mistake.

All mutation quirk holders have an extra bone.

What the fuck.

Chapter Text

Who would've thought that a doctor's appointment would end with Dr. Garaki being pinned to the ground by Izuku Midoriya's sharp talon? It's definitely not Aizawa, but it’s Izuku Midroiya.

Can anything really be out of the ordinary when it comes to Izuku Midoriya, his problem child? No, not really.

The unexpected screech that erupted from Izuku sent shockwaves through the room. The raw intensity of his emotions manifested in that sound was a mixture of anger, frustration, and an overwhelming sense of betrayal.

The heroes, including All Might and Aizawa, paused in their tracks, taken aback by the sudden outburst. Hawk’s grip loosened on Aizawa's shoulder as he turned to look at Izuku, concern etched on his face. It was the screech of a predator going after its prey. Izuku was going to murder this man.

“You piece of shit!” Izuku cried out, his sharp, deadly talon hovering over the doctor's face.

The room seemed to hold its breath as Izuku's scream echoed through the air. Hawks' gaze shifted from Aizawa to Izuku, his concern deepening at the intensity of the moment.

He recognized the danger that lingered in Izuku's stance – the predatory instinct that had taken over, the anger that had ignited a fierce fire of hate within him. Hawks' wings subtly adjusted, ready to intervene if necessary, though he remained hesitant to make any sudden moves; whatever his babybird was angered about just had to be justified.

It was his job as Izuku’s Mama; he’d support him no matter what.

Aizawa, who had stepped back to give Izuku space, remained alert. His eyes narrowed as he watched Izuku's talon hover dangerously close to Dr. Garaki's face.

He knew that despite Izuku's vulnerable state, the intensity of his emotions had transformed him into a predator with the potential to lash out. Why couldn’t this boy develop a cat quirk or something, like a fucking house cat?

Like a Siamese or Ragdoll. That’d be perfect.

No, no, that wouldn’t work. Izuku was more of a bunny. After all, his first-ever hero costume was based on a bunny. The green bunny ears suited him well.

Okay, Aizawa, now is not the time to think about all of this. Of course, Izuku couldn’t! He had to manifest a bird-of-prey quirk. Honestly, the more he thinks about it, the more it makes sense. 

Dr. Garaki's face screamed fear, and Izuku was loving it. If he killed this man, would Mama be proud? It’d be his first kill! He looked over at his Mama, but he wasn't happy…?

Why wasn't his Mama happy with him? He was protecting the flock. He was protecting himself, too. Shouldn't Mama be proud? Why wasn't mama proud? Was he being a bad boy?

NO

No, anything but that. Please, anything but that. When Izuku wasn’t a good boy, that meant he would get punished.

“You’re a bad boy, Izuku. Listen to your mother and hide those monstrosities.”

His breath came in ragged gasps, the sharp talon hovering perilously close to Dr. Garaki's face. The room was thick with tension, suffocating.

Hawks, always quick to act, hovered between indecision and action. His wings flared slightly, creating a gentle breeze that disturbed the papers on the desk. His sharp gaze remained locked on Izuku, trying to gauge the right moment to step in.

On one end, he wanted to fledgling to do what he wanted. Honestly, he wanted to join his little eyas in beating the man to a pulp, but it wouldn’t be beneficial in the end.

Dr. Garaki, for his part, was barely able to keep his composure. His face was pale, his eyes wide with a mixture of fear and disbelief. The man's usual calm demeanor was shattered, replaced by a frantic desperation to survive.

After all, at the end of the fucking day, this kid was a bird of prey mutation that had absolutely no control over his instincts. Of course, Dr. Garaki is to blame. If only the man hadn’t deemed it quirkless, everything would’ve been different.

Aizawa took a step forward. It was slow and calculated; he did not want to get hurt. "Izuku," he called, his tone carrying an authority that the boy was extremely used to by now.

The green-haired boy shuddered slightly. Izuku's eyes snapped to Aizawa. The black haired man could barley see the green in Izuku’s eyes. They were so dilated and it was absolutely terrifying.

Hawks slowly extended a hand, his voice gentle but insistent. "Babybird, we’re here for you. We need to talk about this. But hurting others isn’t going to make things better. Please, just put the talon down."

Izuku felt his eyes twitch. His talon trembled, and the fierce determination in his eyes wavered. A deep breath shuddered through Izuku as he slowly lowered his talon, the sharp edge retracting as he fought to regain control of his emotions.

Dr. Garaki’s face was still pale, but there was a flicker of relief in his eyes as he realized the immediate danger had passed.

Izuku’s breathing gradually steadied as he lowered his talon, his eyes locked on Aizawa and Hawks.

Hawks remained close to Izuku, his hand still extended in a gesture of support, while Aizawa took a calming breath and glanced at the trembling form of Dr. Garaki.

The doctor looked utterly pathetic.

Dr. Garaki, though still visibly shaken, slowly began to gather his composure. He straightened up, his hands trembling slightly as he wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. The fear in his eyes had not entirely disappeared, but he now seemed more focused, as if coming to terms with the gravity of his situation.

Dr. Garaki, still visibly shaken and pale, took a deep breath, his voice trembling as he spoke. "I-Izuku’s quirk, it—it was likely suppressed during his early years. I never had a chance to fully analyze or understand its potential. I... I thought it was a fluke, something irrelevant, until now." He wiped the sweat from his brow, his hands shaking slightly. "I’m afraid his quirk might have evolved beyond what I originally assessed. The intensity... it’s far beyond what I expected."

"You’re saying that this... this situation was your fault?" Aizawa's voice was low and dangerous. "That you’ve been playing with fire all this time, and now it’s come to this?"

Dr. Garaki swallowed hard, nodding. "Yes, I—I've made mistakes. But I assure you, I never intended for any of this. My role was to merely observe and document, not to interfere."

“So you're response to that was to deem him as quirkless?” Nedzu asked in his cheerful voice, yet anyone could tell there was maliciousness in his voice. “That’s utterly pathetic,”

“At… at that moment in time, it would have best.” Dr. Garaki spoke, trying to defend himself, “B-back then, the doctors believed that an extra joint meant you were quirkless,” He rushed out. His face flushed in pure embarrassment but also frustration.

Nedzu's eyes narrowed, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced by a steely gaze. "Believed he was quirkless? What about the research you conducted?  What studies were you supposed to be monitoring? Did they not indicate that this was a mistake?"

Dr. Garaki flinched under Nedzu's scrutiny. "The research was inconclusive. We had limited data, and—"

Nedzu cut him off with a sharp tone. "Inconclusive data does not justify ignoring a potential quirk. You had a responsibility to explore every possibility, not dismiss him as a mere anomaly."

Nedzu, by now, was more than livid. His pup-- chick(?) faced years of torment over something that wasn't true. The cat-dog-bear-mouse, whatever, felt his claws start to extend as he tried his absolute hardest to stay calm.

To not maul this guy's fucking face off.

Dr. Garaki's face reddened with a mix of shame and frustration. "I... I didn’t know. I didn’t think..."

"Didn’t think?" Nedzu's voice was ice-cold. "You had the chance to change his life, and instead, you let your ignorance and misjudgment dictate his future. This isn't just a minor oversight; this is negligence of the highest order."

Hawks' eyes were locked on Dr. Garaki, his golden-brown eyes burning with hatred. He flapped his wings slightly, a gesture of barely contained frustration. "You say you didn’t mean for this to happen, but look at the result. Izuku’s in a state that could have been avoided if you had done your job correctly."

Dr. Garaki looked away, his shoulders slumping. "I understand your anger. I do. But please, understand that I was only following the protocols and knowledge we had at the time."

Aizawa's expression remained grim. "Protocols that led to a disastrous outcome. You’re not just facing our anger but also the weight of your own failures. Izuku has been suffering because of your mistakes."

Dr. Garaki's gaze fell to the floor, his shoulders hunched in defeat. His voice was barely above a whisper as he replied, "I… I realize that now. But what’s done is done. I can't undo the past."

Hizashi finally snapped. This was absurd. This whole time, he’d really been trying to give this dude some grace. But ‘what's done is done?’ IS HE INSANE?

WHAT'S DONE IS DONE?!

Yes, ruining a kid's life is just something you can blow over! Cause, you know, what’s done is done. Apparently. Izuku Midoriya’s entire childhood development was stunted by a fucking ‘mistake.’

“He needs to get the fuck out. Now.” Hizashi ordered his usual positive demeanor, absolutely shot. The blonde was beyond livid.

Hizashi's outburst echoed through the room, cutting through the tension like a knife. His eyes were blazing with a fury that was both raw and palpable. Shota had seen Hizashi like this only a few times.

One thing he learned was that an angry Hizashi was not a good one.

Izuku, on the other hand, looked at him with a confused tilt. This enemy had let out a parental screech in his honor. Maybe… he wasn't an intruder. He was flock!

It’s starting to make sense now. Flock elder with the long black hair (Aizawa) like the grounded blonde bird (Hizashi). Which means he’s flock. Gah, stupid Izuku.

The green bird began to beat himself up over almost attacking a flock elder earlier.

"Get him out!" Hizashi's voice was sharp, and each word was punctuated with anger. "Get him out of here before I lose my mind!"

The other heroes, stunned by Hizashi's sudden shift, exchanged uneasy glances.

Dr. Garaki's face drained of what little color it had left. He glanced around, clearly unnerved by Hizashi’s fury. "I-I understand. I’ll leave."

As Dr. Garaki was led away, Hizashi’s chest heaved with barely restrained anger. He only relaxed when he was talked to the ground by a specific green bird.

“Izuku!” The group of heroes practically coursed in fear; much to their surprise, Izuku started to nuzzle into Hiazahi’s being. The older male smiled softly. At least his baby bird could be himself again. He'd never have to suppress himself. Ever again. 

Hizashi swore that. 

Chapter Text

The sight of Izuku nuzzling against Hizashi’s chest left the room in a stunned silence. The heroes watched, their shock giving way to a complex mix of emotions. The green bird’s sudden, affectionate gesture was unexpected, a stark contrast to the violence that had just occurred.

Hizashi’s eyes widened, his anger momentarily forgotten as he looked down at Izuku. The intensity of his rage softened into something more tender, a mixture of surprise and relief washing over his features. He tentatively reached out, his hand resting gently on Izuku's back.

“Izuku…” Hizashi’s voice was much softer now, almost hesitant. “Are you alright?”

Izuku looked up at Hizashi, his eyes still reflecting a mixture of confusion and trust. His previous agitation seemed to dissipate in the warmth of Hizashi’s embrace. The green bird’s feathers ruffled slightly as he leaned into the comfort, his earlier aggression melting away.

Hizashi took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. He knew that while his anger had been justified, he needed to focus on calming Izuku and ensuring his well-being. His usual cheerfulness was gone, replaced by a profound concern for the young hero.

Aizawa, observing the interaction, stepped closer. His eyes were still hard, but there was a flicker of understanding in them. He placed a hand on Hizashi’s shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “It’s okay, Hizashi. We’ll take care of him.”

Hawks, watching the scene unfold, felt a pang of empathy. He moved closer, his wings folding tightly against his back. “Izuku… it’s alright. We’re here for you.”

Dr. Garaki was quickly escorted out of the room by the new medical staff, who seemed eager to distance themselves from the chaos. As the door closed behind them, the atmosphere in the room began to shift back towards a semblance of calm.

Hizashi gently pulled away from Izuku, his expression now one of concern and care rather than anger. “Izuku, you’re safe now. We’re going to get you the help you need, okay?”

Izuku nodded, though he still seemed somewhat dazed. The protective instinct he had earlier was now replaced by a vulnerable trust. His sharp talons, which had only moments ago been a symbol of his rage, were now relaxed.

Nedzu, having observed the situation, decided to step in. His voice, while still carrying a tone of authority, was tempered with a measured calmness. “We need to focus on Izuku’s immediate needs and ensure he gets proper care. We’ll also need to review our protocols to prevent such oversights in the future.”

The heroes nodded in agreement. The room was filled with a renewed sense of purpose as they began to organize themselves to address the aftermath of the situation. Hizashi remained close to Izuku, his demeanor now one of supportive reassurance.

Izuku’s gaze, though still somewhat confused, seemed to find solace in the presence of those around him. The fear and tension that had gripped him earlier began to ebb away as he felt the genuine concern of his heroes

Aizawa approached Nedzu, his expression resolute. “We need to make sure this doesn’t happen again. Izuku deserves more than what he’s been given, and we’ll make sure he gets it.”

Nedzu nodded, his eyes reflecting a shared determination. “We will ensure that the mistakes of the past are addressed and that Izuku receives the care and support he needs. We owe it to him.”

Izuku was tired, so tired. He’d fought Hawks, beat up the doctor, and now… now his body felt heavy. His limbs ached, his mind swam with exhaustion, and the adrenaline that had once fueled him had long since burned out. It was all too much for a bird like him.

His instincts screamed at him to retreat, to find a safe nest and curl up until everything stopped feeling so overwhelming. But something warm—something safe—was holding him close, and it made him hesitate. He could feel Hizashi’s steady heartbeat beneath him, the warmth of his arms a strange but not unwelcome comfort.

His wings drooped as he nuzzled further into Hizashi’s chest, his breath coming out in slow, heavy puffs. The familiar scent of the flock elder surrounded him—warm, like sunlit feathers and something… homey. Izuku didn’t understand why, but it made his tired heart settle, made his muscles stop tensing like they were waiting for another fight.

Hizashi chuckled softly, though there was still a lingering edge of frustration in his voice. “Jeez, kid, you’re really tuckered out, huh?”

Izuku let out a soft chirp in response, his mind too foggy to form actual words.

The others watched in silent astonishment, still adjusting to the sudden shift from violent battle mode to something so… vulnerable.

Aizawa crouched beside them, his gaze serious but gentle. “He’s exhausted. We need to get him somewhere he can rest properly.”

Hawks, still nursing a few bruises, rubbed the back of his head awkwardly. He wasn’t used to seeing Izuku like this—so small, so worn down. So trusting. “Yeah,” he agreed quietly, his voice lacking its usual teasing lilt. “Kid’s been through hell. He deserves some peace.”

Nedzu nodded in agreement, his sharp mind already calculating the next steps. “We’ll ensure he’s taken care of. But for now, rest is the best thing for him.”

Hizashi sighed, adjusting his hold on Izuku so the kid was more comfortably nestled against him. “Alright, alright,” he muttered, running a hand gently through Izuku’s messy green feathers. “You rest, little bird. We’ve got you.”

Izuku slipped fully into sleep, his breathing evening out in soft, fluttery puffs against Hizashi’s chest. The room, once thick with tension, now settled into a fragile quiet—like everyone was terrified that the smallest noise might snap Izuku out of his exhausted state and throw him back into instinct-driven chaos.

Hizashi held him with careful steadiness, arms secure but gentle, as if afraid the green-feathered boy might crumble or take flight if handled too roughly. Even his movements softened—no flashy gestures, no loud breaths—just the subtle, protective sway of someone who had abruptly realized just how breakable this kid in his arms really was.

Aizawa rose slowly from his crouched position, every muscle in his body aching from stress. He scrubbed a hand down his face and exhaled sharply.

“All right,” he muttered, voice low. “We need to get him somewhere he’ll feel safe. Somewhere quiet. Somewhere away from… everything.”

“And somewhere with a door he can’t claw through,” Hawks added dryly, but the concern was obvious beneath the humor.

Nedzu tapped his paws together. “He’ll need a controlled environment. Calm, dim lighting, minimal stimulation. His instincts are overloaded—any more pressure could make him lash out or regress.” He glanced at Izuku, his expression softening just a fraction. “He’s not stable yet.”

Hizashi nodded. “I’ll carry him. Just—tell me where.”

“The staff wing,” Nedzu decided. “Not the dorms. Not the nurse’s office. Too many people. Too many sounds.” His red eyes sharpened. “Besides… the teachers can keep a better watch over him there.”

Hawks perked up a bit at that. “So we’re nest-sitting a fledgling now?”

Aizawa gave him a dead stare. “Yes. Congratulations. You’re responsible for not letting him eat anyone.”

“Rude,” Hawks muttered under his breath, though he didn’t argue.

Midnight stepped forward then, brushing loose hair from her face. “I’ll prep one of the spare rooms. Soft blankets, warm lights. Maybe something nest-like.” She gave a small shrug. “If we’re doing this, might as well do it right.”

The idea of a nest must’ve struck some internal bird switch in Hawks, because his wings twitched and his expression softened imperceptibly. “Yeah… little guy would like that.”

They began moving out, each hero falling into silent formation around Hizashi like an oddly mismatched flock, guarding their newest—and most volatile—member. Izuku shifted in Hizashi’s arms, letting out a tiny, unconscious peep. Hizashi froze. Everyone else froze.

voice was barely above a whisper. “He’s dreaming.”

Hizashi let out a breath. “Damn near gave me a heart attack.”

Izuku nuzzled deeper into his chest. A content, lazy trill vibrated from his throat. Hawks nearly died on the spot. “STOP,” Hawks hissed dramatically, gripping his chest. “He’s too cute. How am I supposed to stay mad at him?”

“You weren’t mad,” Aizawa Deadpanned.

“I WAS! A little! Kinda!” Hawks protested, flapping his arms—not his wings, his arms—in betrayal. “You try getting kicked in the ribs by talons!”

“You should be used to talons,” Midnight pointed out.

“Those are mine!” Hawks sniffed. “Not—tiny murder gremlin talons.”

Izuku let out the softest coo. Everyone melted. Even Aizawa’s eye softened. And that scared him more than anything. He cleared his throat. “Let’s move. He needs rest.” They resumed walking.

As they reached the staff hallway, Izuku stirred again—eyes half-open, unfocused. He let out a faint chitter, curling closer into Hizashi, talons lightly catching the fabric of his shirt. Hizashi voice softened instinctively. “Yeah, yeah… I’m here, little bird. It’s okay.”

Izuku blinked sluggishly, pupils still enormous. He made a questioning sound—a soft, high chirp. Not a word. Not a sentence. Just instinct. Hizashi hand came up, steady on the back of Izuku’s head. “Rest. We’ve got you.”

Izuku’s eyes drooped. Then closed. Nestling safely into sleep once more. Aizawa watched him… and something heavy unclenched in his chest. “He trusts us,” he said quietly, more to himself than anyone else.

Hawks folded his wings around himself, face softer than usual. “Yeah. And that means we can’t screw this up.”

Nedzu nodded. “Precisely.” As they entered the prepared room—dim, warm, lined with blankets and softly arranged pillows—Hizashi knelt and slowly shifted Izuku into the nest-like setup. The moment Izuku touched the blankets, his wings instinctively spread, then curled. He burrowed down, clutching at the soft fabric with small, tired chirps. He looked… young. Fragile. Like the child he never got to be.

Aizawa swallowed hard. Hizashi brushed a thumb over Izuku’s feathered hairline. “Sleep, kiddo.”

Izuku purred. Actually purred. It wasn’t quite right for a bird—more like a cross between a trill and a rumble—but it vibrated through the room. Midnight covered her mouth. Hawks keeled over dramatically. Aizawa, exhausted beyond belief, actually huffed something that might’ve been a laugh. Nedzu smiled softly—genuine, for once.

“Let him rest,” the principal murmured. “Tomorrow… we’ll figure out the rest.” But for tonight? They’d keep watch. They’d protect him. They’d be his flock. And Izuku, wrapped in soft blankets and warm light, finally slept peacefully—surrounded by the people who would never dismiss him again.

Izuku woke slowly—slower than usual, slower than a bird with instincts as sharp as his. His mind surfaced first, then his breath, then the soft sensation of something warm draped over him.

A blanket.

A nest blanket.

His wings twitched under it, feathers fluffing in instinctive approval. It was… safe. Warm. It smelled like Aizawa’s clean cotton detergent, Hizashi’s citrus shampoo, and the faintest trace of Hawks’ downy feathers.

His flock.

They must’ve built the nest around him while he slept.

He stretched one wing lazily, a soft chirp escaping him as the comfort seeped into his bones. He hadn’t felt this… held… since he was tiny. Since before everything got complicated.

Above him—soft, but unmistakably tense—voices drifted through the air.

“—she knew,” Hizashi hissed. “Don’t tell me she didn’t know. Not when the kid’s feathers were falling out and he was starving himself to stay ‘normal.’”

Aizawa exhaled slowly, the sound frayed at the edges. “I’m not excusing it,” he said, voice low and clipped. “But Inko didn’t understand bird instincts. Most people don’t. And she thought she was helping him fit in.”

“That doesn’t make bleaching a kid’s skin to ‘match his father’ magically okay,” Hawks shot back, feathers puffing in outrage. His tone was sharp, indignant—offended in a way only a bird could be. “He was a fledgling. Fledglings trust their parents. They follow their cues. And she taught him to hate every feather on his body.”

Midnight sighed, rubbing her temples. “Look, we don’t know the full story. People panic. Parents panic. Let’s not jump to the harshest possible conclusion—”

“No,” Hizashi snapped, something breaking hard and loud in his chest. “Nem, she wasn’t panicked. She wasn’t confused. She was involved.”

Midnight froze. Aizawa’s eyes dropped. Hawks’ wings curled tight.

Hizashi motioned sharply toward the kid bundled up asleep below them. “We all saw the records.”

His voice trembled—furious, heartbroken.

“She was part of a hybrid-quirk hate group.”

Midnight’s breath hitched. “That could’ve been years ago, people change—”

“She joined after Izuku’s transformation started,” Aizawa said quietly. No accusation. No softness. Just fact. “She attended meetings, read their materials—actively sought them out.”

Hawks’ jaw clenched, feathers rattling with barely contained fury. “She didn’t just misunderstand him. She went searching for reasons to fix him.”

Hizashi swallowed, eyes burning. “And he isn’t biologically hers. Not fully. Not the way she thought.” His voice cracked, the heartbreak slipping through. “She knew he was different. And instead of adapting… she tried to erase it.”

Silence.

Heavy. Devastating.

Izuku curled unconsciously under the blanket, sensing the tension even in sleep. One wing twitched, reaching for comfort that wasn’t there.

Aizawa’s gaze softened as he watched the movement. “He’s still defending her,” he murmured. “Even now.”

Hizashi scrubbed a shaking hand over his face. “He loves her. Of course he does. Fledglings always love the nest they grew up in—even if it was the wrong one.”

Hawks let out a raw sigh. “Poor kid… he thought hiding his instincts was the only way to make her proud.”

Midnight’s eyes softened, guilt washing over her expression. “We’ll need finesse with this. If he wakes up and hears us tearing his mother apart—”

“He already heard enough,” Aizawa said, looking down at the tiny chirping bundle of green feathers.

“And we can’t lie to him anymore,” Hizashi added. “He deserves to know why he grew up hating himself.”

Hawks nodded, expression dark. “He deserves better. A lot better.”

Izuku stirred again, feathers ruffling—instinctively seeking the flock he didn’t know was watching over him so fiercely.

Aizawa knelt beside him, lowering his voice to a whisper only birds and insomniacs could hear.

“We’ll protect you,” he murmured. “Even from the things you’re not ready to face.”

Hizashi added, voice fierce and trembling, “And we’ll be here when you are ready. No matter what.”

A soft rustling broke the heavy silence.

Aizawa’s head snapped down just in time to see Izuku’s wing twitch, then tuck, then twitch again—tiny distressed movements under the blanket.

Hizashi’s breath caught.

Hawks froze, feathers locking in place.

Izuku was waking up.

And not slowly this time.

His eyes fluttered open—bright green, glazed, unfocused. His pupils dilated immediately, the way a fledgling’s did when danger registered before thought. His talons flexed around the blanket, and he pressed himself deeper into the nest as if trying to disappear entirely.

He’d heard something.

More than one something.

Aizawa mouthed shit without sound.

Hizashi tried to ease the tension by softening his posture, lowering his hands into a non-threatening position. “Hey, little bird… morning, sweetheart. Easy, okay?”

But Izuku wasn’t listening.

His instincts were.

And they were screaming.

His gaze darted between faces, throat rumbling with a confused, frightened chirr. His feathers puffed defensively, wings half-opened beneath the blanket like he was preparing to bolt.

“—he deserves better,” Hawks whispered from above him, unaware that Izuku was already fully awake.

Izuku froze.

Deserves better?

His heart hammered, breathing turning sharp. He blinked rapidly, and the tips of his talons curled into the mattress.

Aizawa noticed the shift instantly. “Hawks—stop talking.”

Too late.

Izuku let out a shrill, confused trill. His eyes flicked between them with raw panic. What he’d heard made no sense—his flock was upset, their tones sharp, their scent stressed.

And worst of all— They were talking about Mother. Not Mama Hawks. Not actual people who raised him as a bird. But his Mother. His flock was angry at her. Angry about him. Angry… because of him? Instinct screamed: Fix it. Fix the discord in the flock. Fix what’s wrong. Fix yourself.

He sat up too quickly, wings flaring out in alarm. The blanket fell, revealing fluffed, puffed feathers.

Hizashi raised his hands. “Izuku, baby—hey. Hey, it’s okay—”

Izuku cut him off with a high-pitched chirp that broke at the end, like a call for help.

His breathing grew fast—too fast—his wings shaking from overstimulation. He wasn’t seeing people anymore. He was seeing— Large birds. Looming. Upset. Arguing over the state of their broken hatchling.

“Shhh, little bird,” Hawks tried, stepping forward, tone softening into pure parental instinct.

But Izuku recoiled immediately, wings snapping tight against his body.

Hawks stopped dead in his tracks.

Izuku’s claws dug into the nest material. His voice trembled out in a distressed, warbling chirr as he forced words through instinct:

“M-Mama… Mama’s good,” he stammered. “She’s—she’s mine—my nest—my flock—she—she didn’t—she’s good—she—she—”

Aizawa inhaled sharply, heart crumpling.

He recognized the signs—

Izuku wasn’t defending her out of logic.

He was defending her because fledglings defended the nest they hatched in—even if it was unsafe, even if it hurt, even if it starved them.

Fledglings clung to recognition, not health.

Hizashi slowly knelt—not approaching, just lowering himself to Izuku’s eye level. “Hey, hey,” he murmured gently, “no one said you couldn’t love her. We’re not taking that from you.”

But Izuku’s instincts didn’t understand nuance.

His wings flared again, trembling violently. His heart was thrumming so loud it felt like the whole room could hear it.

They were challenging his nest. They were threatening his Mother. They were upset because of him. He let out a keening cry—small, broken, terrified.

Hawks’ breath cracked. “Oh baby bird…”

Aizawa swore under his breath.

Midnight’s eyes softened, horrified. “He thinks we’re going to take her away.”

Worse.

Hizashi swallowed hard. “No,” he whispered. “He thinks we’re going to take him away from her.”

“NO!” Izuku chirped sharply, voice bursting out in pure panic. He scrambled backwards until his back hit the wall, wings flared protectively around himself. “No no no—don’t—don’t—don’t—Mama’s good—Mama—Mama—she loves—she—she—”

His breath hitched, breaking off into tiny desperate noises. He wasn’t thinking. He wasn’t reasoning. He was a frantic, terrified bird clinging to the only nest he ever knew.

Aizawa gently reached one hand out—not to touch, just to offer a point to focus on. “Izuku. Look at me.”

Izuku trembled.

“Little bird,” Aizawa continued, voice softer than a whisper, gentler than air. “You’re not in trouble. No one is taking you anywhere.”

Izuku blinked rapidly, chest heaving.

“You’re safe,” Hawks murmured.

“We’re your flock,” Hizashi added.

“We’re not angry at you,” Midnight whispered.

Izuku’s wings trembled.

His bottom lip wobbled.

And then—

A tiny, broken chirp escaped him.

Aizawa moved first.

“Come here,” he whispered.

Izuku didn’t move.

But his wings dipped—just slightly.

It was enough.

Aizawa walked slowly, carefully, until he reached the edge of the nest. Then he opened his arms—not a command. Not a trap. Just a place to land. Izuku stared at him, shaking—then let out a tiny, heart-shattering chirp— And launched straight into Aizawa’s chest.

Aizawa caught him instantly, wrapping him up in the safest, warmest, gentlest hold he had ever given a student in his life.

Izuku’s feathers flattened all at once, exhaustion and fear hitting him like a wave. Hizashi wiped his eyes. Hawks exhaled shakily. Aizawa held Izuku tighter.

“It’s alright,” he murmured into the green feathers. “You’re safe. We’re not taking anything from you. We’re just trying to give you more.”

Izuku whimpered weakly, exhausted instincts flickering out like a dying flame. But he didn’t let go. And neither did the