Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Today….was a not good day, a horrible not good day. But that was most days now wasn’t it. My shoulder burned from Kacchan’s explosive touch, my left side hurt from the fingers of Kacchan’s lieutenant having cut into my side and the back of my neck, and the bruises from the rest just plan hurt. 

Coming home didn’t feel relieving at all. Standing before the door as I tried to gather myself, needing to be happy around my mother. But before I could even reach for the door it was opened and mom stood in the entrance. Her face was blank and my heart squeezed thinking of the words I heard at the doctors office the last time she took me. 

‘She's such a Saint, keeping that thing.’

‘I would have gotten rid of it.’

‘Not worth it.’

“Izuku,” mom spoke softly.

“Yes Ma'am?” Bowing my head low not wanting to see what would be in her eyes.

“Come inside baby… I think it's time we talk.” Her voice so gentle and soft and all I could do is nod my head. Stepping inside and dropping my bag by the door, taking off my shoes and putting them in their cubby. Soon being herded to the couch and waiting as mom moved around the kitchen. I rubbed my hands up and down my thighs trying not to think about what the quirkless forum said. About others being kicked out cause they were too much. Of being abandoned and hated. 

“Oh, honey,” mom was back wrapping me up in a tight warm hug after something had been put down on the table before the sofa. “I'm sorry, I'm so sorry,” She cried with me as she ran her fingers through my hair. Holding me tightly to her chest. I hugged her tight as we both just cried for a while. “I called my sister.” Mom spoke after a while. The both of us cried out. Cups of water and tissues around us. 

“Mom?” Confused, she called Aunty Mitsuki? That would just make the beatings worse.

“I… I have a little sister, and once an older brother.” Mom started to really explain. Keeping me close to her side. “And even more than just that, we are a part of a very large family, but I…. I wanted a quiet life, so I left, I got married, I had you, my little miracle baby.” Her fingers carding through my hair. “It's our fault your quirkless, not yours,” 

“Huh,” I looked up to her confused. Wondering what it was that she meant. 

“My sister is quirkless, and so is my nephew, my brother's son, and they are so many more.” She was tearing up again. “I should have taken you home so long ago. I'm so foolish. I wanted to keep you close, keep you safe.”

“What are you talking about?” looking up at him confused. Wondering why she was bringing this up. There was a knock on the door. 

“Come in,” mom called over her shoulder, still holding me tight to her side. There was a soft jiggle to the door, a moment later a key, then the door opened revealing a young lady in black pants and a white jacket. As she closed the door she pulled down her hood, revealing a kind face and black hair with green tints like mine. Long and straight just like mom's. 

“Oh Inko, he's precious,” the lady pulled off her shoes and moved into the living room. She looked like she wanted to come close but instead kept back, sitting in one of the other chairs. I got the chance to further look, her sleeves hardly shifted as her arms moved, strange bands around her wrists. When I looked up at her face again she was smiling with obvious pride. “And observant too.”

“Izuku, meet your Aunt, Rona, meet Izuku,” mom introduced the both of us. Squeezing me a little tighter to her side rather than letting me up to be fully seen.  

“It's so nice to finally meet you, Izuku,” Rona smiled widely. “Your cousin and I have been looking forward to meeting you.”

“Why haven't you before?” I asked her, and her eyes turned a little sad, glancing to mom for just a small moment before looking back to me. 

“You haven't told him?” She asked softly before reaching out to a plate of cookies that was sitting there. That must have been what mom had put down. She sniffed the cookie and rather than eating, toyed with it in her hand.  

“I only just called you, I thought you wouldn't know for a few more hours.” Mom huffed at her, finally letting me pull away from her side. Wondering what it was that they were talking about. 

“You didn’t think I would drop everything to come see my nephew, do you truly think so little of me, big sister.” Thankfully, aunty seemed more amused than anything else. Breaking the cookie apart before taking a bite out of it. 

“Well, with your duties as a Master I, well..” Mom trailed off and really that was confusing, a Master… like a teacher or something else.

“Guardian now actually, as the eldest still in the family I thought I might as well.” Rona shrugged her shoulders, but I could see the mask on her face as she focused back on mom fully now. 

“Oh, I, congratulations,” Mom didn't seem to fully mean it but was being polite. Aunty took it with a sigh but offered no complaints as she looked back at me, her eyes looked me over and hardened. 

“He's injured,” she stood up now, pulling up her Hoody to pull a wrap that was around her abdomen but above her shirt. The cloth fell down into a cloak, a bloodstained cloak.

“You brought that thing here!? What were you thinking?” Mom jumped up and in between the two of us. 

“Like you haven’t used the Shroud before, would you really deny your son medical attention now, Inko,” Rona’s words now held steel and anger in her tone as she glared at mom, and mom who at first was glaring at her but at the question mom started to relax a little. Rona took a step closer and mom backed away letting Rona close, she kneeled closer to me. She pulled the bloodstained cloak around me. It felt nice like a warm weighted blanket, a sense of security falling over me even as my shoulder and sides itched. 

“Easy little one, let the shroud do it’s job,” Rona soothed softly, a gentle hand carded through my hair and the itching subsided and the shroud was pulled away. “Well done, many others would have pulled it off on their first try.” she praised so gently I looked down at myself and felt… a lack of pain. Pulling my shirt up to see the bruises and scars are gone. 

“How,” I whispered softly as she brought the cloak around her shoulders and fastened it into place. Her eyes flashed gold and rage spiked in her gaze, but that gentle smile stayed firmly in place. 

“I will explain later, Izuku,” She smiled at me before looking to Inko, anger and rage forming on her face now and not just in her eyes. “You will explain to this boy where our line comes from.”

“Rona,”

“No, Inko, you have had your quiet life,” Rona hissed at mom before stepping towards the door. “I will be back tomorrow to speak with him. She pulled her hood up over her head. “He will at least be taught how defend himself. The rest is up to him.” 

“Rona be reasonable,” Mom begged and now I was really confused at what was going on. 

“We have respected your wish to a quiet life, we were going to keep away till he was age, but with that amount of scaring Inko, absolutely not, I will not turn a blind eye like you have.” 

“Scaring?” Mom balked as she looked from Rona to me. “Izuku what is she talking about?”

“It, it was nothing mom, just, just a game.”

“A game does not result in 3 bruised ribs and 3rd degree burns Izuku,” Rona cut through, her glare finally turning to me, I flinched and curled away. Only hearing the sigh. “As I can see the boy has hidden this, I will be lenient, Inko, but you were trained as one of the Shimura, you are not like our Uncle… are you?” The tone was accusatory and piercing. 

“How dare you accuse me of being anything like our Uncle!” Mother snarled in an anger I had never even heard before. 

“Than take care of your son, Inko!” Rona snapped right back. 

“I’m trying! I have spoken to the school, the parents, even one of the kids and it isn’t working!” 

“Then come home!” Rona demanded, a foot stomping to the floor but I dare not look up at the shouting adults. “Look at him Inko, he cowers when no harm would come to him. Has he known no kindness?!” 

“Shut up!” Mother roared and thankfully the air did go quiet. Giving me some reprieve. Tentatively looking up at the two glaring adults. 

“I am coming over tomorrow,” Rona informed mother, her chin jutting up, “And I am brining our nephew and dinner.” She turned to the door wrenching it open and starting to step out. “I will find you if you try to run.” Her eyes flashed gold again, just before the door closed fully Rona hesitated, “The cookie was good,” The words soft as she looked back for a moment longer and then fully closed the door softly behind her. Mother sagged after the door was fully shut.

“Mom,” I asked softly looking up to her as she stood there looking defeated. “Is everything okay?” It took a moment before she collected herself again standing up fully once more and giving me a kind smile. 

“Of course, sweetheart,” Mom smiled at me coming back to the couch, reaching out and picking up a cookie herself. “Rona just hates to see children in pain, especially a family member.” She sighed frowning at the cookie in her hand. “I’m so sorry Izuku… and I have so much to tell you. I just don’t know where to start.”

“Um… you always tell me, that the beginning is a good place to start?” I offer her the same advise she normally gives me after I come home crying, and it seemed to help as mom just laughed. 

“So many starting points Izuku, give me a moment,” Mom got up and went to her room. I took the free moment to go to the kitchen to grab two cups and a pitcher of water. Coming back to the living room around the same time as mom. She held a small chest in her hands, sitting back down on the couch and patting the seat next to her. “Join me,” she beckoned and little did I know this would just be the start.

Chapter Text

“I… we come from a family of fighters,” Mom started softly, opening the chest in her hands to show some sort of leather contraption, that had springs and a small sharp blade, she pulled away the leather thing when I reached out to touch the contents, my eyes caught on the tribal symbol of an eagle on the lid of the box before she could shut the lid.

Mom told a story, a story of two sides, like that of a coin, one side fighting for freedom and the other peace. Both these things were respectable pursuits, but one went way too far. Seeking peace through fear and pain. Wishing to create a new world order in a world of discord and disorder. There desires infringing on the freedom of others, and so they rose up and chose to fight. These sides were known as The Brotherhood or better known as The Order, and The Templars. The war ended long ago, before the age of quirks, and the Order keep an eye on the last few practicing members, but have seen no need to act against them with few still alive leaving people’s freedoms mostly alone. 

“But just because the war is over does not mean that The Order has been idle.” Mom hummed softly, the two of us now cooking in the kitchen a basic curry and rice as she continued to tell the story of our family. “They still run around many countries even now, but Japan acts as a headquarters of sorts.” 

“Why? Japan is high in a lot of rankings but why would they choose here?” I ask looking up to her as she plated up a bowl of food and gently placed the bowl into my hands. 

“Because there is a secret city, a city called Atlantis.” Mom whispered these words quietly as if someone else might overhear us. 

“Atlantis, but that is a fake city in greece.” I looked up to her in confusion. 

“It is a very real place, the Assassin’s have far more duties than just a war. They are a chosen people, it… your aunt can explain that more later, but a Grand Master 5 generations ago discovered a way to move this city and they brought the city here. Hiding it from view, and creating a safe place for The Order and their families to live, I left when I came of age.” she explained how such a thing happened, but it still left my mind reeling. 

“What where they running from?” I asked as we sat down at the table, “And how is it hidden, is it a quirk?” 

“Humanity really, The Order, after all, wants freedom to practice their culture too, but after the quirkwars the world became a dangerous place for the Assassin’s. Even though many fought besides those who had quirks, as a mostly quirkless population. People looked upon them with fear, and what men fear they also hate. The Order itself chose to stay neutral, acting only to save innocent blood.” 

“Like heroes?” I ask her and she just smiled a small sad smile. 

“In a way, some of the Assassin’s of The Order are heroes. Have been for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. There are three rules that stand above all other rules, Stay one's Blade from Innocent Flesh, Draw not attention to one selves whenever possible, and never compromise the brotherhood.” She held her fingers up with each of the rules. “Any who live within the safety and protection of The Order are expected to uphold these rules do you understand?” She asked lowering her hand, and really I needed to think this through carefully. 

“I think so, I guess they wouldn’t want to put their home at risk.” I asked looking up at her and she smiled. 

“That is very true, and it adds in that most of the Brotherhood’s members have either weak quirks, or no quirks at all.” She was smiling sadly down to her bowl. “It was my father who was in the Brotherhood when I was born, him and his brother were taken in by The Order. My father, your grandfather, was quirkless too.”

“Why have I never met them before? My aunt and cousin?” I questioned her confused as to why she had kept me away from them. 

“You see, I didn’t want that life, one of the few of our family who had a quirk and wanting to get away from the blood and expectations. I asked to leave and was allowed. You never met your Uncle, Rio, because he died before you were born, and it was then I decided to cut your aunt and my nephew off. I didn’t want to expose you to that type of loss and pain, and when I asked them to join me they refused… it was selfish of me, I asked them to choose and your aunt, my younger sister, she tried her best to balance the scales, but as I had left and our brother dead she had to take up the duties of the head of the family until your cousin is ready.” 

“And what type of duties are those?” I continued to press. 

“I will let her explain tomorrow, now eat your dinner. I have already given you a lot to think about.” Mom prompted and really I did have a lot to think about. If Aunty Rona was truly quirkless than what was with the flashing in her eyes, the shroud that had healed everything including my scars. Something that should be impossible, but it seemed to be true. Mom nudged me to eat again, and after quickly consuming my meal I helped clean up after dinner before running to grab my bag by my door before running to my room. Pulling my notebook out, while making my way to my desk, I needed to write down all I could, this could be really important when I become a hero in the future.

The next day was worse, while it was great to know I wasn’t the only quirkless person in the family. I’d get to talk to one of them today, I just needed to wait till dinner, my notebook already had a page full of questions, even about that gold flash in her eyes. Mom had admitted that there was so much more to know. But really that was just something to look forward to. 

Right now, I was trying to run from Kacchan’s crew. Kacchan was missing and I was not happy about that. Kacchan was always careful with his beatings, making sure that even if his beatings left bruises and burns I could still walk away from. Not wanting to risk his future as a Pro by going too far. His friends though, had no such reservations, already getting caught once today and my ribs were already bruised before I had been able to escape. I turned into another alley to try and get away, only as I got halfway down the alley sharp claws dug into my calf and I feel to the hard concrete. I tried to scramble back up to my feet to get up only for a hard kick to my land against my side, knocking me back onto the floor.

As I was ready to just suffer through the pain again someone came down from the roof, dropping down onto the dumpster next to us and than onto the first of Kacchan’s friends, bringing him down in one hit. The stranger then moved on to the next, their movements smooth and flowed compared to the bullies and after the third they stopped right in front of me, between the bullies and I. Hands balled up into fists as he stood without a word. The bullies tearing off quickly to avoid the fighter. I pulled away, scrambling back a little as the fighter turned towards me. They didn't look like a hero, and  it was far too early for Underground Heroes to be out. 

“Hey, hey it’s alright, Little Cousin,” The stranger held his hands up to show his surrender, his intention not to cause more harm. “You are one of us,” he reached up pulling his hood down, he had green eyes like me but black hair. “See, I’m a Shimura like you. Well, technically a Midoriya, but still.” 

“You… your Rona’s kid?” I ask softly confused slowly started to relax. 

“Naw, she’s my aunt too, I am Kenji’s son.” The stranger smiled softly, crouching low to be on my level

“Akio?” I asked confused, “Mom’s older brother, isn’t he…” thinking back to mom’s story last night.

“Yeah, he died about 3 years ago,” Akio’s smile melted into something pained and tired, but still somewhat relaxed and trying to convey a strong air of calm. “Aunty Rona takes care of me now, but I am about ready to take my trials.” He reached up and rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m sorry I was late, aunty asked I walk you home and… well,” his attempt to keep the happy facade up failed completely now. “Sorry.” 

“It’s okay, I didn’t know I was supposed to wait,” Akio hardly looked comforted with my apology, he offered me a hand and after a moment I reached out and took it. Being hauled up to my feet. I hissed cradling my ribs. 

“I’ll tell Aunty to bring the shroud, get you patched up, bruised ribs suck.” He reached up and pulled his hood back up covering his hair and face. 

“You don’t have too,” as he reached out and gently nudged me forward, having me start walking, all while he walked beside me, gently herding me towards home. “I’m not worth it.” 

“Izuku, you are family, and a minor,” He added the last part before he pulled out his phone from his back pocket and was pressing a few buttons on the screen before putting his phone back. “That alone makes you worth any and all effort to help.” He reached out to place a hand on my shoulder, but quickly pulling his hand away when I flinched away. What I could see of his lower face hardening for just a moment before relaxing again into a kind smile. “You know, I’m like you,” Akio tilted his head up looking up to the sky, bringing his hands up to put behind his neck.

“How, you took on all those bullies and came in like a hero, it was so cool,” I tried to keep from gushing at how cool he had been chasing Kacchan’s bullies away, only rather than annoyance from the older by, I was rewarded with a small chuckle from Akio. 

“Well, let me let you in on a trade secret, I’m quirkless,” and that reminded me of last night, of mom telling that the rest of the family was quirkless, just like me. 

“There… could I ask you a question?” I asked him twisting my fingers as I tried not to hope, and after a small hum welcoming the coming question I decided to ask. “Do you think a quirkless person could be a hero, a hero like All Might?” the silence was almost painful as it lasted probably far shorter than it felt. 

The silence came to an end as Akio laughed, shame was quick to curl in my gut. Really, if a guy like him, a fellow quirkless person who was able to beat up people who had beating up on me all on his own was laughing at me-

“Why be a hero like All Might!? The guy is an idiot,” Akio’s words were filled with mirth as he started to straighten, unknowingly making my mind and nerves freeze as I hyper focused on him. He had laughed, was still laughing, but not at me, but at All Might of all heroes, how, why would, “You could be far better than All Might, but not as you are now,” He poked my arm. “Youare  just a little string bean right now. Hard training and a good head on your shoulders,” he now poked my forehead. I stilled completely now and Akio stood in front of me with a smile. Waiting as I processed the words he had just told me and I felt tears well up in my eyes. This was the first time I had ever heard anyone say that I could be a hero.

Chapter Text

After a good cry, Akio got me home walking with me every step of the way, and when we got to the doorway of my home he knocked on the door, two fast taps, a short tap, and three more fast before opening the door. “Hello!” Akio called in, seemingly unbothered that this was not his home and likely his first time here, kicking his shoes off neatly and stepped into the living room where Mom and Aunty were. The both of them rising as they saw me. I didn’t see Aunty’s reaction, she was wearing a hood and only her mouth was visible and that was a hard line though, but mom looked at me in horror. 

“Akio, you were supposed to walk your cousin home,” Aunty Rona snipped at Akio as she approached the both of us. Mom still frozen with that look of horror on her face as she started to cry. 

“Hey, I had to drop off a package two streets down, I thought I had time,” Akio protested as Aunty Rona pushed past him. I blinked in surprise as he moved smoothly out of her way seemingly well used to her doing this. If that had been Katsuki and Mitsuki, Katsuki would have thrown a fit and dug his heels in while snarling and yelling. Instead Aunty was already standing before me. Reaching out towards my shoulder, but I wasn’t ready, flinching away from her open hand, body still expecting a beating after being caught earlier. Rather than push forward or ignore my reaction, her hand froze.

“I am sorry,” Her voice was smooth and soft, hand hovering just out of reach. “I moved too quickly for you, huh?” ger voice held no judgment as I kept my eyes on her hand, for some reason not wanting to let her hand out of my sight. “Would you like to go to the bathroom? Get patched up before we have some tea?” She moved her hand slowly as to not spook me again, but rather than grab me she ran her knuckles over my left cheek. “I’m sure it isn’t as bad as it looks, right?” I nodded my head at the question. 

“There we are, come on, I think we should forgo the Shroud this time.” her voice staying just as soft as before, just as kind and patient as before.  

“But Rona!” Mom protested, her voice breaking the calm that had settled but Aunty still moved slowly as if I had not just been startled, wrapping her arm gently over my shoulders. Hardly resting any weight on my shoulders. 

“The Shroud is only supposed to be used in emergencies, and while I doubt these injuries are his fault, these do not seem to be dangerous.“ Aunty Rona warned softly, and the warning was more than a little scary. Why couldn’t it be used more regularly. Why was she unwilling to use it a second time when she had already used it once just the day before. 

"But,” Mom protested weakly, reaching out to grasp Aunty’s sleeve. 

“Yesterday was just as much for the scars as it was for the current injuries, while these no doubt hurt, they do not require the Shroud.” Aunty Rona had made it fully to the doors that led to the bathroom and two bedrooms. “Izuku would you like to go get into shorts, or will you be okay in just your undies?” Her tone was soft again despite having been blunt with mom. 

“I, shorts?” I stuttered nervously and she only offered a small smile and pulled back a little. 

“Than get changed little one.” the name was spoken with fondness as she gently urged me away. 

Aunty Rona had been nothing but professional when wrapping my injuries and refusing to let me care for them myself. After she was don, Mom and Aunty argued, and while Aunty kept her tone light mom’s was pushy and growing with agitation. Akio looked a little uncomfortable as he watched, even with a smile as strained as it was. 

It wasn’t till after dinner that Aunty Rona stopped smiling, I ignored the shiver down my back as she reached up and finally pulled her hood down, revealing black hair and green eyes with green flecks. Akio shifted nervously in his chair. 

“I, um, I can take Izuku,” Akio started to rise knowing something that I didn’t.

“Sit Akio,” Aunty Rona’s voice was firm and left no room for any argument as she looked to him. “You are to be the next head of the family in a few short years, and your word still has weight.” Akio was slow to sit back down, but once he had her eyes came to me and her face relaxed from the harsh look it had just moments before. “I’d like you to stay as well, but I have no authority over you, Izuku.”

“Rona, what is this-”

“How long has your boy been physically abused, Inko,” i flinched at the question even though it wasn’t even directed at me, glancing over to mom who looked down in shame. 

“Rona that, it isn’t your-”

“As a licensed doctor, who is bound by law to report abuse, I am asking you for the last time, how long has your son been coming home injured,” Aunty’s tone was dark, while it wasn’t all that surprising that there were other sides of her as I had only met her the day before. 

“I, it’s from the school, I would never,” Mom protested, not answering Aunty’s question, and that seemed to make her eyes flash gold but they were still green. 

“If I thought you were hurting him I would not have left him here last night,” she brought her hands together before her and intertwined her fingers on the table. “I will take him with me Inko.” my blood went cold at the statement and mom rose red with anger. 

“How dare you, he is my son! And I left, you have no authority!” Mom roared as she reached out for me pulling me from my chair and behind her. Aunty’s eyes stayed on us, and her eyes seemed to flash again and mom went all the more tense. 

“Inko,” Aunty’s voice stayed ice cold as she glared at mom. “You are correct,” Mom seemed to relax a little before Aunty stood. “You did leave, but you are still bound by a few laws, so long as your son is a minor, he has the right to the protection of our family and allies. He has the right to a safe childhood to pursue his education and dreams. He is not safe. As such you are breaking the law of The Order.” Mom was shaking more and more with each statement. “If he had come without injury I could over look this, but he was, and I did try to see to preventing that situation by sending Akio.” The room stayed quiet for a long moment before Akio himself squirmed. 

“They were red, Aunt Inko,” Akio spoke softly, shifting as he tried to further hide behind the shadow of his hood, and mom took in a shuttered breath. “They, they could have killed him Aunty if I hadn’t of dropped in, and I don’t think they would have cared.” at these words I reached out to the back of mom’s shirt and pressed my forehead to her back. The thought scared me, but… he was right. There were some days, where I thought I was going to die, and the only reason I lived, was because Katsuki would stop the beating by claiming to be bored. 

“They, no, no, the school, they,” Mom was crying and while Aunty’s face fell a little, she still remained firm. 

“You have a quirk Inko,” Aunty rose to her feet now, her aura felt different now, no warmth or kindness, all cold and stone. “Life outside of The Order will never be kind to him unless he knows how to fight for that right, and that is not a fight you ever learned to fight.”

“I can teach him,” Mom sobbed as she turned and hugged me tight to her chest, and while it was far too tight, it was still comforting. “I can teach him!”

“Inko,” Aunty snipped, as it was too short to be anything but a snip. 

“Aunt Inko,” Akio spoke up again, voice soft as mom and Aunty both looked to him. “He’s already behind. He’s small, he’s… he didn’t try to run. Do you really think you can train him to fight the right way, how to run like us? He wants to be a hero, and you left instead of taking the trials. You can’t train him in any of the ways he needs if he is going to make that dream.” Mom’s grasp only seemed to tighten. 

“Our nephew speaks some good points, Inko,” Aunt Rona hummed before looking back to us both. “The kid will need training if he is going to make it in the hero world, and he should have started training years ago.” My heart squeezed, instead of scolding me like Aunty Mitsuki would she merely acknowledged my dream and spoke as if it were completely achievable. 

“He can’t,” Mom said brokenly and my heart clenched as I looked back at her. My heart felt like it was in a vice grip. “He’s my baby, he, I don’t want him hurt.” 

“Things happen Inko,” Aunty Rona spoke softly. “Your boy is more in danger now here in the normal world, here with you, then he ever will be with our kind.” Mom just continued to cry and I quickly joined her.

Chapter Text

I laughed as I chased after my cousin. Over rooftops, ledges, over alleys, and across wires. “Come on, little feather! Keep up, we are already late!” My cousin Akio called from over his shoulder before he was diving into a wall of water. Atlantis was the home of The Brotherhood of Assassins, and to their families. The city was in the ocean, well in Suruga Bay. I couldn’t believe how close we were to the outside population. The city was a grid of circles, one within another, divided by walls of water with a few land bridges connecting them, and why we could run on to one of the nearest bridges, swimming through the water was far faster. 

So with little thought to it, I followed Akio off the edge of the roof and into the wall of water, pulling out the rebreather everyone had as I started to swim to the next layer of city. We needed to swim lower, and really push it under the pressure of the water as it tried to push us up. Coming out in an alley and quickly running towards the street. There were no cars in Atlantis, a horrid idea for a city surrounded in water, instead horses of metal that were powered off of some sort of battery. It truly felt like going back in time, if it weren’t for the modern touches here and there and tech in peoples hands or on their person. We continued to run, needing to swim through one more layer of water. Chasing each other with a laugh and kind jabs. 

Though soon, Akio and I ran into the traditional japanese home, the paper doors wide open because, we were late and Aunty had company. In the main living room there was a group of people. A gathering of The Guardians, they were guardians because they were not only some of the best fighters but because there jobs were in someways the most important to The Order. Each of them bared some relic or power that helped them in their ability. There was the Prized Guardians, Cyclops, Medusa, Minotaur, and Sphinx. 

Cyclops was the youngest of the prized and the youngest son of the Mentor. He was a skilled fighter, even though he only had one eye. He had lost his eye in a training accident. He had an artificial one, a piece of Eden that strengthened him when he called on the power. He was the head of security, watching for threats inside and outside of The City of Atlantis. His name was Arakan Hashimoto a bold headed name of pure muscle even though he only stood at 5 feet tall. 

Than there was Medusa, she was in charge of recruitment of The Order, and the training of new recruits until they were assigned to mentors on their way to becoming full members of The Order. She was born quirkless, but also bore a piece of Eden. A snake necklace that came alive every so often. When she called upon the artifact it would give her the ability to transform into a gorgon. With all the powers that had to offer, of turning people to stone and even making these stone statues do her bidding. Though Miss Aimi Tomioko was nice, she was always kind and the only time I had even heard of her shifting there had been an ‘incident’ according to Aunty Rona.  She had long silky black hair and ice 

Than there was Minataur, or Mister Daisuke Amano he was in charge of agriculture in the city. It was his job to make sure that Atlantis had food both fresh and stockpiled in times of trouble. He had no quirk, but the horned helm in his possession allowed him to transform into a Minatour, with thick skin and even bigger than his already 7’2 frame as a normal person. 

The last of the Prized Guardians, was Miss Chikako Akabane, the Sphinx, she was the only one who did have a quirk, longevity. She was the oldest within the City, keeper of histories, and once teacher of many. She was not a fighter, but that didn’t mean she didn’t rightly deserve her position. All of the Guardians were highly protective of her as she was the one who taught each Guardian their position and responsibility as one was a Guardian until they died. Even though she had a quirk she also had a piece of Eden. A golden feather hair ornament. She never removed it, the piece gave her the ability to shift into a sphinx. 

There where more guardians here too, and far more than who were here, each carrying some piece or pieces of Eden with them. The most common were swords or rings, recreations of old artifacts with fractions of power. Most giving some ability of prenotion, forethought, or defense. Aunty Rona was a guardian herself, and when we had met she was the temporary head of the family, The Family of Shimura. Though on Akio’s 18th birthday 2 years ago he took over as the Head of the Family so that Aunty could focus on her duty. She was a Guardian herself, taking over her mother’s position as one of the best doctors in The City, and a skilled fighter. A Master for years before her mother passed and Aunty took the position of Guardian. She was one of the honorary Prized, but she would never make their ranks with how few medics the City had. 

“You are late,” Aunty Rona huffed from her place with the other Guardians at the table, eyeing our wet clothes with disapproval. 

“Sorry, Aunty,” Akio bowed to the Guardians and I was quick to follow. 

“It is my fault Aunty, we were working on my free running,” I apologized, taking the blame for making Akio late even though he had been the one insistent on going out. Aunty huffed in the way that showed while annoyed she wasn’t angry with us. 

“Come now, Guardian Shimura, to not be angry with the boys, they are still children after all,” Guardian Akabane was clearly amused as she brought a cup of tea to her lips. Aunty Rona nodded her head. 

“Prized Guardian, while your words hold wisdom, we are all but children before you,” Aunty Rona spoke with amusement in her voice, though also respect, it made Guardian Akabane laugh while the other Guardians groaned. 

“Tell me boy,” Guardian Hashimoto spoke, putting his elbow on the table as he leaned towards me. “How far have you come in your training, still behind the others of your year?” 

“I have joined the 4th levels just last month,” I had nothing but pride in my work. While I wasn’t an assassin or a part of The Order, but I was still treated as one of the people because of my place in The Family Shimura. It was far better than any treatment than that of the outside world. 

“Good,” Hashimoto hummed with a slow nod of his head. 

“It is such a shame that Civilian Inko kept you from your place here, only 2 years and you have caught up with your age mates, you are 15 now, yes?” Guardian Tomioko hummed with a pleased smile, as I nodded my head. “You must be proud of your nephew, Guardian Shimura, not many could claim to have taught such a genius.” 

“I am very proud, of both of my nephews.” Aunty had a pleased smile as she looked the both of us over. “Izuku has done most of the work on his own, a sponge thirsty for knowledge. Still dreaming of becoming a hero, yes?” Aunty asked, it wasn’t a common question, and it was never asked cruelly. 

“Yes, Aunty, and I need all the tools I can get my hands on,” I nodded my head, still fiercely determined to live out my dream. 

“Aw,” Guardian Tomioko whined, “But you would be such a skilled assassin, hardly any make it past the rank of Disciple these days, and I have no doubt you could make it to Master, if not Grand Master!” She sighed defeatedly. 

 “He’ll be of age for hero school soon,” Aunty Rona sighed, “Just think I have had a house with two rowdy boys for the last two years, already the house is too quiet with Akio off training with Master Kurin. What shall I do with myself while Izuku is away.” Aunty placed a hand over her chest a swooned sadly. Akio only rolled his eyes, and I fidgeted a little in place.

“Aunty, can we go now,” Akio whined a bit, and I could understand why, while it was only uncomfortable, we were still drying from our dips in the bay. 

“You were both late,” Guardian Amano grunted as he finally spoke. “Guardian Shimira, if you ever want to get those two into shape, I can always use more hands on the farm.” Guardian Amano offered my Aunt. 

“I’ll keep it in mind, but I think we have made them suffer long enough through our gossip,” Aunty Rona took the offer up kindly and with a nod before looking to us both. “Off with you than, and Akio, do not forget your paperwork. I am not your wife. I should not need to remind you.” She pointed at Akio with a spoon that she waved at him a little. 

“Yes, Aunty I’ll get right on that.” Akio nodded his head with a smile before turning to leave. As we left the room there was quickly conversation stricken up on a new topic. 

It was late in the evening, but I was studying. Aunty had praised my analysis to Prized Guardian Tomioko and she had decided not only to test me, but give me further lessons. While I had wanted to decline, Aunty had convinced me as it would help in my hero studies. I wasn’t expecting the knock before the door opened revealing Akio holding a bag quickly stepping in and looking very serious. He was wearing his formal robes that while looked like robes that would not be out of place for the renaissance was completely functional, with a cloak with the kanji for his rank and family head on it. 

“Good your up,” he shut the door behind me as I turned away from my desk to watch him. “Put this on quickly and get your boots on.” He tossed the bag at me and I was quick to catch it. 

“What is going on, Cousin?” I asked confused as to why he was acting strangely. 

“There is an alliance meeting taking place in the Grandmaster’s home. Only a few high members are there and you are being asked for, now hurry.” Akio snipped at me, and I moved quickly. While I may not be a member of The Order, one does not ignore a summon from the GrandMaster. They are rarely given and never to be refused. I opened the bag pulling out a…

“These are formal assassin robes,” I looked up to Akio confused. 

“I know, Aunty had them made if you ever changed your mind, but that is not what matters right now. Put them on.” Akio rushed, stepping up and pulling my night shirt off. 

“Akio,” I huffed annoyed putting the bag down on the desk. 

“It’s a meeting, Izuku, they are waiting on you, there are Heads of the Amano, and Inoue families, two of the Prized Guardians, and The Grand Master. Aunty is there too as an observer, but the Master called on her in the negotiations and now she is calling for you. So we need to go now,” Akio hissed as we rushed about to get me into the robes that were just a little too big. The others who had properly gotten their robes always said that it was like a second skin, protection between them and the world. Fitting them like a glove yet not inhibiting an ounce of movement. As I started for the door Akio grabbed my arm dragging me back. The robes were decorated in grays and blacks, accented with emerald green. 

“The robes are only part of the uniform, idiot, you need the weapon too.” Akio was latching a hidden blade to my wrist, it, it looked….

“Is this my mom’s?” I asked softly seeing the familiar eagle burnt into the leather.

“Yeah, your mom sent it to Aunty last year when she had the robes made. Now come on, and do not put that ring on, you do not need to be cutting off your finger.” And now Akio was pulling me again. Getting us out of the hose and onto a robotic horse each. Quickly we made our way to the inner most circle, I had never been here before, not allowed past the 5th of the 12 circles. While I was a part of the number of people, I was a minor with no desire to be an assassin therefore had no right to access to the inner circles, and really I shouldn’t have access to the 5th. Only having such access as it was where we lived. 

The inner circle was a mass of gardens with warehouse like buildings littered the area, but in the middle a large tower that reached up towards the water roof. Akio led me right to it, the assassins that guarded the place letting us pass without a word. Dismounting at the door, he turned to me. 

“Speak only when asked a direct question, try not to mutter, and keep your hood up unless I tell you otherwise, not even Aunty. If you need to you can pull up the face mask, it will muffle sound.” Akio couched me as we walked through the halls and to an elevator. I nodded my head, feeling nervous as I went ahead and pulled up the lower face mask, a piece of clothe that connected to the hood. Soon we came out on a floor I didn’t even know and I stepped into a large meeting room, there was a floor that was level with the elevator and raised seats on three sides. A hearth in the middle of the room behind it was the Grand Mentor, sitting in the middle before the hearth, wearing his robes of silver and gold accents, weapons adoring his body both visible and hidden. Gold eyes landed on me and I felt myself freeze under the eagle vision. The glow vanished after a moment, eyes hidden once more under the shadow of his hood. 

“Step forward, House of Healers,” The Grand Mentor beckoned both with words and with his hand, Akio stepped up first, it seemed strange to have been called by Healers rather than by Shimura, distantly I remember that there were secondary names that one was addressed by when there were outsiders present. After all there was no need to put the others at risk by speaking their names. As I followed after Akio I glanced about, there where other Assassins no doubt no lower than Master in rank, maybe 3rd class assassins if they were with their teacher, sitting in the raised seats around the room, observers to this meeting. Either interested in the topic of the meeting or here under the Grand Master’s orders so that he can ask them something of importance. A golden eagle sitting on the back of his chair.I caught a glance of Prized Guardian Tomioko was in the crowd, a second glance and I saw the statues of assassins, volunteers no doubt, standing in the corners of the lower floor. Coming up the the hearth in the middle of the room we joined with Prized Guardian Cyclops, and Aunty Rona. But it was those across the fire that was the most interesting. Pro heroes Snipe, Eraserhead, and Nezu. I barely kept from twitching. 

“Our apologies for keeping you waiting, Master, distinguished guests,” Akio bowed, folding his ring finger behind his palm as he pressed has right hand over his palm to the master. I was quick to copy his actions, as it seemed I was being presented as an Assassin rather than a civilian. 

“I thank you, Head of House for acting so promptly,” The Grand Master spoke softly, yet his voice seemed the shake the air with authority. He placed his left elbow on the arm of his stone chair, pressing his cheek into his fist, looking the epitome of boredom, all before he was gesturing to the heroes with his right. “Nezu, might you be so kind as to speak out the idea behind this proposal of yours.” The Stout smiled warmly from his place on Eraserhead’s shoulder. 

“Why of course,” He happily agreed before looking to Akio and I before looking over the rest of the room to speak. “You see, while The Brotherhood is well hidden, there are still whispers of you, and those whispers are more than enough to see the truth. The Brotherhood is a powerful force within the Underground, and I would like to propose an alliance. One forged in blood and friendship.” 

“We may follow old traditions, but not that old,” Prized Guardian Hashimoto grunted crossing his arms. The man glaring from under his hood. “A normal alliance will work fine.” I looked over to Akio but he seemed focused on the heroes alone, and so did Aunty. 

“While on paper that may be more than enough, would it not be better to have someone on both sides who knows the others traditions. Their customs, to ensure that the meaning and intention on both sides are made entirely clear?” Nezu questioned as he spoke directly to the Prized Guardian whom only hummed. 

“He proposes we take in one of theirs, that he be raised beside one whom would also be trained in their ways.” Grand Master spoke, and as the words registered my heart squeezed. A hero trained as an Assassin, and a Assassin trained as a hero. I turned my head to look at Aunty and found her gaze on me, watching me from the corner of her eye. A small near unnoticeable nod answering my silent question. 

“While I am sure your assassins are trained well, and hold much restraint, I would prefer one of the newest of your number, one with no deaths on their hands.” Nezu explained his prerequisite for the position, and if that was all he needed, all he wanted I could-

“And why,” Aunty Rona spoke up, interrupting my thoughts looking up to the Grand Master before looking to Nezu. “Should we entrust our young to you. You claim to know us, so how much knowledge is that? We should we even let you leave this place?” The words were harsh and made Eraserhead and Snipe tense, Snipe reaching for his side arm and that made the Assassins tense ready to attack. Aunty Rona’s words were harsh even though she was for the exchange else I would never had been brought here in the first place. 

“I understand that your young are important, and with the quirks you possess,” My heart squeezed and the Assassins around us did not relax. If anything most were now irritated with a few angered, the Grand Master’s eyes flashed with his own irritation, the sword at his side started to glow as well. While it did serve for none to know of the mostly quirkless status of The Order, it was aggravating to everyone to be dismissed simply for a lack of quirk as either the ones here were quirkless or respected one. Nezu seemed to realize that he had messed up as the crowd turned against him in an instant. 

“It would seem you know far less than you think, Rodent,” The Master hissed softly, his eagle bending forward and screeching. “Do not insult my people, knowledge is far more valuable than any quirk.” 

“My apologies, I did not mean to offend,” Nezu was quick to apologize. “But I-” 

“But nothing,” Aunty Rona hissed, and the glare sent her way by Prized Master, though Grand Master waved him off letting Aunty speak freely. “You want one of ours, and you would leave them to fend for themselves as we train and care for one of yours.” I looked to Akio, while he was looked blank I could see that he was nervous. That may be why the Grand Master was letting Aunty speak. The heroes didn’t need to convince Aunty even though he was the one speaking, Nezu needed to convince Akio and the Grand Master, and it seemed that the Grand Master was at least thinking over the offer if the heroes hadn’t been sent away yet. Though Aunty was speaking from the opinion of caution. Of warning that many may have at the idea of working with outsiders who now know either were we were or that we existed. 

“I meant-”

“You said what you meant,” Aunty hissed cutting Nezu off as he back tracked, turning to look at those around us in attendance. “We are The Brotherhood,” She spoke to the crowd now. Making the image that it was the ones gathered that made the decisions when their approval would be only an opinion. “We do not abandon any of ours to any unneeded danger.”

“Enough,” the Grand Master finally intercede, and Aunty turned back to the heroes and the Gran Master. He stood up and his eagle moved up to his shoulder, than he began to move. Walking around us of the Order, a clear barrier should the heroes choose to attack. “As The Guardian alluded to, we care greatly for our young, they are our future.” The Grand Master rested his hand on my shoulder, and I bowed my head low to him. “But you also have a point.” 

“Father,” Cyclops spoke up in a mere whisper, “They would have us bring an outsider, a possible traitor. He may work with heroes, but very few truly work for him.” While he plied with his familiar role, he still had the right to bring up matters of safety for the people. 

“I am aware,” The Grand Master hummed, not dismissing anything, but acknowledged him none the less. 

“Grand Master,” Akio spoke softly, seeking his permission to speak, doing so once he got an approving nod. “They want a Assassin,” He gave me a meaningful look, not giving the heroes an inch. 

“How very true, and should we agree, they will get one,” His hand squeezed my shoulder in a comforting motion, it was a promise, that if this deal went through, I would still be one of them in more than just my family, but with all of The Order. A promise of protection and support even from afar. Akio nodded his head. He looked to Aunty and rubbed his ring finger. Aunty gave another small nod. 

“Tell me more of this plan of yours, to train one of ours and we train one of yours, yes?” The Grand Master spoke, motioning for Nezu to continue. 

“We want to entrust one of ours to your care, for these two young teenagers, one of yours and one of ours. To be trained together. To go back and forth and be of both of our worlds.” Nezu finished his proposal. “The both of them would leave UA hopefully with a career in Underground Heroics position under me, so long as they pass the course and standard tests. Though they would also act as ambassadors to both of our people. They would be both of ours.” It was more than what I could hope for really. I looked to Aunty fully now and to Akio. Akio still looked uncertain and looked to the Grand Master. So, I looked to him as well, and after a long moment, he nodded his head once deliberately. 

“And who is the teenager you propose,” The Grand Master asked, he squeezed my shoulder once more before removing his hand, clasping them both behind his back. 

“My son,” Eraserhead spoke, drawing the attention from his boss whom still sat parched on his shoulder. 

 “Cyclops,” Grand Master asked a silent question, earning a nod from his son. 

“Eraserhead is one of Nezu’s, he holds little affiliation with the Hero Commission,” and that had weight to it. While The Assassins may work under and with the Hero Commission time to time, the relationship was strained even on a good day. Both sides not trusting the other much to at all.

“And why this boy of yours Eraserhead, I doubt you are very willing to hand over your son to known killers.” Grand Master prodded, though the tone gentle and intrigued. Eraserhead looked pained but still pushed on.

“His quirk is a mental one, one frowned upon by society, and he wants nothing less than to become a hero to prove them wrong. To be trained by any of yours… it would make the Commision hesitate to deny him, and give him far more tools to keep him alive.” Eraserhead pushed to move the subject off of his son, while still staying on point. The Grand Master hummed as he seemed to think over the answer. 

“This agreement can be broken at any time,” The Grand Master gave his agreement. “And should the agreement be terminated on our side, your son will stay with us, as one of ours.” The threat clear, The Order would not allow one of their trained to be at risk of exposing The Order, or being a possible asset to be used against us. Eraserhead’s lips thinned and he visibly paled in the firelight. 

“And should we be the one to break it,” Nezu asked drawing the attention from Eraserhead. 

“So long as he abides by the Tenets of our Creed, we will only strip him only the gear we have given to him, but he will be released without reprise. Should he accomplish our tests, he will be a fully recognized member of The Brotherhood and be awarded all the benefits that entails.” That had some within the room rise in protest. They remained silent, but it was clear, they did not like the idea of an Outsider with no blood or operation to connect them. The Protest was ignored. 

“You may accompany Guardian Healer, and Head of the Healer family to speak with our candidate and see where your son would be staying while he is with us.” The Grand Master gestured to Akio. “Though the candidate will be with you in a few minutes.” The Grand Master moved towards his high backed chair, the eagle hoping off his shoulder back onto it’s perch as he sat. “Everyone but him are to leave us.” The order was clear and Akio was quick to guild the heroes to the elevator. The stands starting to empty, going out another way. Leaving me alone with the most powerful man I knew.

Chapter Text

The meeting room was slow to empty, and once the door had shut, The Grand Master pulled down his hood, revealing the white man underneath. Short black hair that was peppered with gray hair, clouded purple eyes focused on me, some stubble along his jaw.

“I am sorry that we had disrupted your evening, Izuku Midoriya, especially as you have no oath to bind you,” He apologized as he stood up. “Would you join me for a walk before you return home?” I reached up to pull down the lower face mask, the prerequisite of being allowed to speak being given.

“I’d be honored to, sir,” I agreed easily. While I wanted to go home, Aunty had said it was important to curate friendships where one could, or at the very least be polite with allies.

“You may lower your hood if you wish,” He hummed as he gestured for me to follow, his bird coming up to his shoulder again. 

“I, Head Shimira said,” I started, but quickly floundered over what to say, not wanting to insult him as I followed him through a door away from the elevator. 

“I am aware, he prepared you well for what little time he had, and you did well for your first meeting. Your aunt tells me that you have an inquisitive nature, Midoriya.” He praised with a kind smile as he continued to walk holding his hands behind his back. 

“Thank you sir, and, urm, I do like to learn,” I wasn’t too sure what else to say about it, but it seemed to be the right thing to say as he chuckled. 

“An understatement according to the Guardians, a thirst to learn, and a strong desire to be a hero.” He hummed, his smile falling away. “A difficult childhood from idiotic people, and we are only adding to such difficulty.”

“Sir, I, sorry but I do not see it that way,” I offered, not wanting to outright disagree with the man, but truely, his statement was wrong. 

“Oh, please, explain your thinking to me,” The GrandMaster pushed a door open, sounding inquisitive and curious, revealing a balcony looking over the gardens below, lights softly showing through the sea walls of the city beyond. 

“My life is many times better since I have come to live here, I am safe and we live in peace. I’m allowed to set my own goals and dreams and not be cursed for it. I hardly call being called in the middle of the night to a meeting and being given my dream on a silver platter an inconvenience, sir,” I explained myself, staying back near the door as he moved to the railing, his bird jumping from his shoulder and taking flight, leaving us both behind. 

“Quite the prospective, young one,” The GrandMaster hummed, “but are you aware that this platter comes with conditions, more than just changing people’s opinions?” I stayed quiet because this was true. This wasn’t going to be one of those, apply to as many colleges as I can and hope someone accepts me. This was a guaranteed placement in one of the top schools in Japan. In the world even. 

“Should this recruit not abide by the Creed, should he not reach our standards he would be expelled, and you will likely lose your place in their school. You would be asked to report to myself and at least two guardians regularly. Do you understand, you would be an Assassin in a world of heroes. You may feel like you are betraying someone you grow to care for, can you live with yourself with this knowledge?” 

This was heavy, but I was glad that I was being told this from the beginning. “I… I don’t know, sir.” I answered him honestly, and silence fell between us, but it was his voice that filled the air once more. 

“Tell me, in your own words, why do you want to be a hero, child?” 

“I want to help people, I want to be a person that someone can look to and know they are safe. To show people it doesn't matter who or what you are. There is good there somewhere…. I want to help, to save, with a smile on my face.” I answered him, fidgeting with my fingers as I looked up to him nervously.

“That, is a good dream, a worthy one,” The grandmaster turned to me and placed a hand on my shoulder. “You may change your mind at any time. Should you decide it is too much, only say, and I will take care of the rest, understand?” He asked me, and I was quick to nod my head. “Your training will begin in two days, child. I will send instructions.”

“Sir, but, I am still at the civilian levels?” I am confused now. I was already training, and I still had a ways to go before the next level.

“I told the heroes they would get an Assassin, child,” The Grand Master’s voice remained calm, but it took on a tone of amusement at my confusion. “That means that you need an accelerated course, I'd like you to be at the 2nd level of apprentice by the time you start college.”

“But… the final part of becoming an Initiate….” I whimper. It wasn't a secret that one of the requirements to graduate the first level was to kill a target. We were called Assassins for a reason after all. “I do not want to kill.”

“We will make an exception,” I looked up to him in confusion. Exceptions like this were rare and few in-between, the last time was during the war with the Templars when scientists and support staff were so needed on the field our ancestors ignored requirements all together. “Just this once. But you will still be taught how to kill, while you may not want to kill, one day you may have no other choice, and you must be prepared.'' We both let it hang in the air. I knew it was true, I had seen more than a few active members rush into our home with the dying and dead, held together by the desperate clinging to them. Begging for a miracle. Their sleeves and chest covered in blood. 

“Go home my boy,” The GrandMaster turned and reached out, gently patting my shoulder. “Rest, talk with our guests, learn, and prepare yourself. Your journey has only now begun.” He dismissed me, I bowed low. I did not copy the salute this time as I was a civilian, and quickly headed home.

The home was quiet, and it took a few moments to find my family. Akio may be the head of the family and own the manor, but it was Aunty's position and maneuvering that got us this home. Besides, Akio looked up to Aunty and he often agreed with her to the point Aunty felt the need to be silent on her opinion to allow Akio the space to think for himself without her opinion to taint his choices. It left Akio conflicted, often trying to figure out what she was thinking or how she would judge a case. 

But that didn’t matter now. Right now I was opening the door into the formal room. Much like the official meeting room we had been in not long ago. This room had a hearth in the middle of the room in a sunken portion of the floor. The hearth alight for the 5th time ever. Aunty was poking at the fire, with Akio trying to hide his nerves, his shoulders relaxing as I stepped in. 

“Cousin, I hope all is well?” Akio asked, the heroes were watching me from where they were, Eraserhead was sitting across from Aunty, Rona at his side as Nezu went through a few containers of Aunty's pricy tea, and Snipe standing by the wall, leaning against it faking being relaxed.

“Yes, Grand Master apologized for summoning me so late in the evening.” I offered, not thinking that speaking of this offer as a mission would put anyone at ease.

“The Grand Master is a kind man,” Aunty spoke softly as she shifted a log. 

“Yes ma'am, I hope to speak with him again soon.” I told her honestly as I came to sit beside her. “I didn't know you talked to him about me.” Her answer was a kind smile. “He says my training shall change in two days.” I warned her, she nodded her head. 

“Good, Head,” Rona looked at Akio. “With your permission?” The question was a silent one really, and Akio sighed in relief. 

“Thank fuck,”

“Mind your tongue, my nephew.” And Aunty turned back to the heroes. Reaching up and pulling her hood down. “Well, now that we are all here, I am Rona, one of the Guardians within the Ranks. I will be the one to speak for my family.” This got raised eyebrows from Eraserhead as Nezu pushed a box out to Aunty. Likely a tea selection seeing how Aunty put a kettle onto some coals to warm. 

“Isn't the boy the head of the family?” Eraserhead asked, he sounded bored but there was interest in his eyes.

“She raised us,” Akio spoke up in her defense, “she'll be teaching your son too. The only reason she isn't head of the family is because she is the youngest sibling of our parents. Which is a stupid rule.” Akio grunted, letting his normal frustration at taking such a high role clear

“You would still be head of the family with my rank, nephew.” Aunty's Words were enough to show she wanted to keep our identities hidden for now. “But onto business so we can turn in.” The statement was enough to get everyone to focus. She reached out and set a hand on my shoulder, gently squeezing before relaxing his grasp. “This nephew of mine is an Initiate. He has not made his first kill meeting the criteria you asked for.”

“It would seem that the selection did not take long, might i know why?” Nezu asked carefully as Aunty pulled her hand away.

“My nephew grew up outside before being brought here for his safety, which will allow for easy adaptation. He shares the same goal as your son, Eraserhead, but for different reasons that are his own, allowing for him to understand the one who will be his partner. He soaks up knowledge like a sponge and will happily learn what your school has to offer, making him suitable for college. The rest that were brought to mind have already selected their life job.” Aunty answered Nezu simply. 

“His safety?” Snipe echoed the statement as a question. Rather than answer him, Aunty remained silent and it took a long moment to realize that Akio and Aunty were waiting for me to say something. Slowly I reached up and lowered my hood now.

"I am,” I froze rather uncertain of if I should tell them, wishing once more that I had unlocked Eagle Vision myself to know for myself if I could trust someone, but, it would be best to see their reaction here rather than when I was alone with them. “I am quirkless.” This didn't give me the reactions of disgust or pity rather, but rather interest?

“Oh, how fascinating,” Nezu's eyes gleamed with interest. “ It is rare to have such a blank slate. It will only make things far easier.” He hummed pleased. 

“Easier how,” Aunty’s voice was tense, and this time I knew this wasn’t just for the sake of arguing. If the heroes answered wrong it was very likely she would see to their removal. 

“There will be no need for quirk training, allowing more focus on other avenues of education of course,” The rodent chirped and this seemed to relax aunty some. 

“When would this… arrangement begin?” I ask softly, looking between Aunty and the heroes. 

“You agree?” Eraserhead asked, “Thought it would take longer,” he hummed and really I could understand that, but it was one thing that was pretty cool about the assassin government. Policies and contracts were not allowed to just hover unresolved. When something was proposed, it first went to the Guardian Sphinx to research how any similar problems were handled in the past. Then the matter would be presented to the Grand Master, with advisors who specialize in the topic, and a decision made. It never took longer than a week. 

“I have the option to back out at any time.” I warned him, it was a weapon if used correctly could be used as a way to protect myself. 

“There will be no need for that, youngin’” Snipe spoke as he stepped up to join the rest of us. Sitting in the middle near me and between our two sides. 

“Who will be in charge of Izuku’s training,” Aunty Rona asked carefully. Seemingly unbothered by the prohero sitting next to me. 

“In charge,” Nezu repeated in clear confusion as if a student did not need a mentor. “I assure you all our teachers at UA are more than capable of teaching-” Nezu started and sighed as the aura of annoyance spiked in the air. “It seems once more I have caused offense,” Nezu conceded before he could dig himself into a new hole. “Let us try something else, would you please tell me what it is that you expect of us with Midoriya’s training.” 

“I expect the boy to be fed and cared for,” Aunty snipped rather unkindly, “For him to have a safe place to lay his head and rest. Someone making sure he doesn’t overdo it, like I know he will try to do.” Aunty reached over gently tugging at a lock of my hair as a gentle reminder not to do just that. “Because he will study or train throughout the night if you let him.” 

“A guardian than, that can certainly be arranged,” Nezu hummed, nodding his head. 

“Your, Grand Master, was it? He said that the boys would train together?” Eraserhead asked, changing the subject as he leaned towards the fire. 

“Yes,” Aunty nodded her head. “As such, I will be the one responsible for their training and care. He will stay here with my family and be treated as a guest and friend.” 

“What are the punishments you deal out,” He changed the topic again, Aunty tilted her head to the side as she thought over his question.

“Punishments are fitting for the crime, I do not take pleasure in causing harm to my charges.” She offers to the hero politely. 

“That is hardly an an-” Eraserhead started, I chose to interrupt cause he sounded upset. 

“The Outside is far crueler than here,” I whisper, unable to bring myself to speak any louder than that. 

“Would you mind explaining this to us?” Nezu asked gently, I looked up to see that they had truly all heard me. I looked up to Aunty to see if this was okay. She reached out and placed a gentle hand on my back. 

“Only say what you are comfortable saying, you are not the small hatchling you once were fledgeling.” She encouraged gently before leaning forward and pushing her lips against my temple before pulling away once more. 

“You are teachers,” it was general knowledge in a place like The Order. The Heroes at UA were some of the best in their fields. “I am sure you know the saying that ‘Children are cruel’.” I couldn’t keep my gaze on the heroes, their gazes too intense to keep, choosing instead to look at the hearth as it burned, the kettle in the coals slowly starting to create steam, and for a moment in the quiet as the water came close to a boil, aunty made the tea and handed it out. “The teachers here have only ever touched me to pull me from danger, or help me learn a stance.” Knowing what it was that Eraserhead was probably worried about. “The worst punishments have only been the withholding of food for one meal, or exercise. Your son will be kept at the civilian level no doubt until he is cleared for the more intense levels.” I looked at Aunty and she nodded her head in clear approval. 

“Causing permanent harm to any initiate or other assassin causes more harm to the order than good, even temporary pain can cause more problems than necessary. There are of course lessons that do dip into resilience, and building tolerance to pain, but those lessons are monitored by skilled teachers and medics. Some can be skipped but the student would not be allowed to progress," Aunty picked up. “We will not ask for more from your son but what he is able to give outside of tests. Tests are rigid and if he can not pass then he is not ready for the next level.” This earned nods from Eraserhead. He still looked apprehensive but let it go. 

“It’s late,” I said after looking over the heroes before looking back to Aunty. There was a tenseness in her shoulders, she was tired too and Akio’s night patrol was coming up, if he wasn’t already late. 

“You’re right, of course,” she let go of my shoulder, the heroes and Akio had finished their tea, mine cold in my hands. Aunty gently took it and poured the tea over the coals, putting out the hearth. Nezu seemed to not like that much if the twitching was anything to go by. “Bed, and don’t even think about going back to your desk.” She gently scolded me, Akio remained still despite knowing his duties. “I will scold both of you if I have to.” She warned us, and with that I was getting up. Aunty’s scolding came with knuckles and a headlock as she dragged us around. “I’ll show our guests to their rooms,” She assured us both as we both left, and Akio and I journeyed further from the room quickly to head towards the exit of the estate. I found myself walking with Akio till we came to the door for him to leave. 

“Things are going to get complicated, little cousin,” I looked up confused to my family member, who was looking down with a frown on his face. “People won’t like the fact an untested outsider will be here, and you’ll be expected to treat him like family.” He looked over to me. “You’ll….” He sighed, shaking his head before reaching out and patting my curls. “Everything is about to change, I just hope we are ready for it."