Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

His head hurts .

Shouta warily opened his eyes, a sting of harsh light emitting from above. He slowly lifted his arm and carefully blocked out the light to allow his eyes to adjust. He hauled himself into a sitting position, a thin blanket riding down to his lap.

“Eh?” He glanced down at it before taking it off. He shifted his feet off the cot and stood on his feet.

At first, he thought he was in bed. Maybe he had passed out during patrol, and Hizashi had to haul him back home. Then he realized his bed was not twin-sized.

He turned to face the cot, his feet backing away from it. His eyes noted the poor state. It didn’t have a frame. It was only a mattress in the corner. He proceeded to look around to realize he was trapped in a concrete box with no windows. The walls are a dirty gray, but smooth with no flaws. On the other side of the room was a toilet that was bolted down to the floor. His eyes scanned for a door and caught a steel one across the cot. There was a small window located in the middle of the door, reaching halfway down and coming to a stop before the doorknob. No. Not a doorknob. It was more of a handle shape.

Where the hell is he?

Shouta glanced upwards and found a fluorescent light emitting from the middle of the room. It was covered with plastic, but also bolted down to the ceiling to prevent it from being removed.

Did he somehow let his guard down on shift? He worked his brain overtime to the last thing he remembered.

He wasn’t on patrol like he thought he was, but it was night. He recalled his students… and the forest training camp.

Shit! Shouta cursed to himself. The asshole from the USJ attack had ambushed the training camp. 

It took a moment as all his memories flooded back. His student’s screaming in the forest, smoke rising from the trees, and blue fire. Something about a list that the flame Quirk user was talking about. One of his students was on it. After that, it became quite hasty in finding that damn hot-headed boy and bringing him to safety. He knew he did. He remembers throwing his binding cloth around his body and throwing himself into the arms of his other classmates, then telling them to run. He made sure to block himself between them and the villains.

Then he didn’t remember anything else.

Now he woke up here.

As his hand reached for his scarf, he froze. He didn’t feel it. He glanced down, realizing his binding cloth was missing as well as his utility belt. Dammit. Stripped him clean. He patted himself down to ensure everything was taken, and it was. It’s not like they could use his scarf since it’s fused with his DNA and only moves on his command. He’ll have to make a new one. When he escapes, that is. 

Bringing himself to the present, he turned his head to look at the door. His eyes narrowed as he slowly approached it. Fortunately, it had a window. It would be better if he could at least see something past the room he’s held captive in. As he placed his forehead on the glass, he noted that the glass wasn’t regular glass. Maybe bullet-proof or another strong form of glass he couldn’t break with his hands or small objects. 

Letting out a huff, he peered out. On the opposite side was another bland concrete wall. He shifted his head to the left, but he couldn’t see anything down the hallway. Then he turned his head to the right, and he could maybe see the hallway opening up into the larger room. It was hard to tell. The hallway was bare, cleaned, and the lights from the top were dimmed at best.

Pushing himself away, Shouta decided to examine his room more thoroughly. Maybe he could find some imperfection. Something he could use, but as he searched, he couldn’t find anything. Whoever was keeping him here knew what they were doing. Maybe it was one of the villains at the camp? He saw at least four of them. None of them really seemed stable except for the top-hat man with the mask. Even then, he doubted it could be any of them. They seem more like lackeys. Only pawns. Someone else was keeping him captive. It couldn’t be Shigaraki, right? That man acts like a toddler throwing a tantrum. Perhaps he’s working with or for someone else?

If that’s the case, this wasn’t an ordinary villain group. Someone else has to be behind this, but his theories went blank on who it could be. He could only play the waiting game. Someone is going to fetch him, and he will have to be ready for that confrontation.

Shouta glanced back at the door and froze. A pair of green eyes owlishly blinked at him from the other side. On closer inspection, He has green curly hair, bouncing in all directions. His eyes . They seemed a bit sullen, and he didn’t see any light in his iris. A cold stare with a hint of… curiosity? He couldn’t tell.

Then he realized how short he was. That’s not a man. That’s a boy. He looked like his first-year students. 

“Hello?” Shouta gruffly spoke, watching as the kid shrank away for a second, then lifted himself higher to get a better look. His eyes were wide and more curious now, but also anxious and timid. A skittish boy. He didn’t say anything, so Shouta continued. “Kid?”

The boy’s jaw opened as if to say something, then clamped down. He hesitated as if he wasn’t sure if he was allowed to speak to Shouta before deciding to just do it. “...Are you really Eraserhead?” He asked, his voice young and nervous.

Shouta narrowed his eyes. So this kid knew who he was. One of the other villains must have told him. He seemed too young to be messing around with villains, though. He had a gnawing feeling that this boy was in trouble just as much as he was. No kid should be this scared . He couldn’t see much of the boy besides his head and what looked to be his fingers on the ledge of the window to keep himself propped up. 

He then nodded. “Yeah. I am-”

“Really!?” The boy’s eyes sparkled, his curls bouncing on his head as he jumped up and down. Like a flip of a switch, his demeanor instantly swapped into fanboy mode. “That’s amazing! You’re such a cool underground hero. It’s hard to find any photos or videos of you. You’re Quirk is Erasure, right? How does that work exactly? How do you cancel out a villain’s Quirk? Is it touch-based? Or eye contact like Medusa? Oh! I also know you have a captive weapon of sorts…” His questions ended up turning into a ramble as he pitched his lower lip with his fingers, his eyes shifting off to the side as he muttered to himself.

Shouta could only blankly stare at him in shock. How the hell does this kid know so much about him? He’s a complete fanboy! It’s rare if he was ever recognized, but practically nonexistent by children. He wasn’t sure if he should be flattered, considering the position he was in.

“Kid.” He snapped the boy’s attention back to him.

The green-haired child paused, realizing dawning that he was rambling. His cheeks flushed, his head wrenching away to avoid eye contact. “I-I’m sorry. I ramble a lot. I’ll stop.” He spoke quietly as if scared he’ll be yelled at.

Children will never cease to amaze him, whether in a good way or not. Shouta stepped closer, slowly approaching the window of the door. “No need to apologize,” he gentled his tone a bit, needing to ease the boy’s tension in his shoulders. “What’s your name?”

The boy glanced back up at him, noticing he was now closer. He blinked in surprise that the hero wasn’t upset at him. “Oh… u-um, Izuku Midoriya.”

“How old are you?”

“Fourteen.”

Shouta nodded slowly, taking in the information. He watched the young one through the window, noting that he looked a bit malnourished and skinny. He wasn’t being properly taken care of. Of course he wasn’t. They were in a villain's den, but how is he walking around? This kid was so excited to learn he’s a hero, so he had to like heroes. He seemed so out of place.

“Okay, Midoriya,” he said. “Can you tell me where I am?”

Midoriya shrank, half his face no longer in view as his green eyes continued to watch the other. “Um… You’re in the lab.”

Shouta knitted his brows, a frown stilling on his lips. “Lab?” He repeated, expecting him to continue.

The boy nodded. “Y-Yeah. The lab. It’s owned and run by the Doctor. I don’t really know where we are. I know we’re underground and I only know of one exit, but it’s locked.” He explained, fumbling over his words at one point.

With a heavy sigh, the hero placed his hand on his jaw and rubbed his stubble. A laboratory. This was a lot more troubling than he thought. Could this be the place where the Nomus are manufactured? They had to come from somewhere . They are genetically engineered, so a laboratory would be the perfect place to make it happen. If that’s the case, why is he here? And the boy? What role do either of them have in this mess?

Glancing down at Midoriya, he decided to keep prodding. “How long have you been down here, kid?”

That’s when the boy fell silent. He didn’t seem to know. “Uh… I’m not sure. Ever since I was thirteen. So, over a year now?”

Shouta’s eyes widened, taken aback by that response. He had been stuck here for over a year? This boy is not secretly working with the villains, that’s for sure. He must have been captured instead. Why? He needed to find that out.

“A year?” He took in a deep breath, his fingers running through his greasy hair. “Do you know why you are here?”

The boy froze, his body stilling. His eyes widened, a flash of fear flickering over his face.

“ Shit .” Shouta cursed under his breath. He didn’t mean to potentially trigger the kid. He knows, but he wasn’t willing to share. He wasn’t going to force him to, or else he might run off, and his only source of information would be gone. “That’s okay. You don’t have to.” He reassured. This child is traumatized, probably tormented down here. He has to be a trusted figure for him. He’s not going to leave this kid behind. If he could establish trust, it would be easier to escape with him.

“Do you have any ideas why I’m here, then?” He decided to ask, hopefully straying from the topic.

Midoriya went back to trembling as his attention was now diverted to the new question. “Um… N-Not really, but I might have theories,” he softly spoke, almost hard for Shouta to hear. “Normally, not many people are brought down here. They’re either dead or on the brink of death. You’re the first one locked in a cell. They… might want your Quirk.”

Shouta’s eyes widened, his jaw gaping open. Want his Quirk? No way in hell was he ever going to cooperate with them. If they can find a way to take his Quirk, he has to be careful. He needed to escape fast before they were able to do anything to him. “What do you mean they want my Quirk? Do they know how to take Quirks away?”

The boy nodded in response. “U-Um… T-There’s someone here who can take Quirks and give them to others if he chooses to do so.” As he spoke, the more scared he got. He was afraid of this man in question.

A Quirk that can steal and give Quirks? Is that even possible? Whoever that is, he must be the one in charge. The way the kid was shaking was out of pure fear. This was someone to take very seriously. Possibly a no-sense man who comes and goes to get the job done and over with. That’s the worst type of villain.

He understands why that man might be interested in his Quirk. The ability to cancel out other Quirks. If that man doesn’t have a similar ability, and he takes his, he would be almost unstoppable. He can’t imagine what other Quirks he has up his sleeves. The heroes would guarantee to lose every time they’re pitted against him.

Midoriya continued. “But he would’ve taken it already.” The sentence cut Shouta out of his mind and focused back on the conversation. “I don’t know why he hasn’t. Maybe he doesn’t have enough information about how your Quirk works? I-I mean, I don’t really understand how it works. I know you can nullify Quirks, but I don’t know how.”

The hero slowly nodded as he listened. “If that’s the case, I’m assuming he’ll want to conduct experiments to understand it thoroughly.”

“M-Maybe. The Doctor would do that, though. He won’t get his hands dirty,” the boy replied with a murmur. “I think he wants to know the fullest of your capabilities before he decides what to do with it.”

“What you’re saying I have some time before he decides he wants it or not. Great.” Shouta grumbled under his breath with a huff. It won’t buy him much time, but hopefully enough to escape. The boy had mentioned there was at least one exit that was locked. He’s sure he could probably break it down, or maybe lockpick the door. It all depends on what kind of door. If it’s like the one in his cell, then he was going to have a hard time. There are too many unknown variables.

But one sticks out to him. Midoriya. He can freely roam around the laboratory. If he had to guess, they probably didn’t view him as a threat. His spirit looks crushed by any chances of escaping a long, long time ago. He gave up. Because he gave up, he’s compliant and quiet. He’s living with his captors as if he’s one of them. 

Shouta’s heart clenched for the boy. He hated cases where the kid is forced to accept their kidnapping and assume they won’t ever be saved by the heroes or police. He’ll change that. 

“How long have you been roaming these halls?” He asked.

“I-I don’t know. Maybe half a year or something.” Midoriya shrugged, his head tilting away for a few seconds before pulling it back to look at the hero. “It’s a bit boring, I guess. There’s nothing much to do.”

Nodding, Shouta knew he had to get this kid on his side. This boy is the key to escaping the place. He has access to the laboratory. If he could convince him, maybe he could find a way to help him out. “Midoriya.” He leaned forward, gently pressing his head against the glass separating them. “I need you to help me.”

The boy blinked up at him in confusion. “What? But we’ll both get in trouble. You’ll be more hurt than I would be!” He protested as if the grown man’s safety was more important than his.

“I’m a pro hero, kid,” Shouta quickly silenced him as he spoke. “It’s my job to help those in need. I can handle myself, but I’m not leaving you behind. You’re coming with me whether you like it or not. I will drag your ass if it comes to it.”

If he had to knock this kid out, he would do it. Whatever it takes to bring them both to safety. They’re prisoners in this forsaken laboratory, and now they can only depend on each other if the boy wishes to do so.

The boy was quiet, shock and confusion in his eyes. Shouta could see the questions swarming in his head, no doubt wondering why a hero wants to save him after all this time. All his hope was crushed, and Shouta was determined to rekindle it.

“So please ,” Shouta crooked. “I need your help.”

Silence fell over them. Midoriya couldn’t find his courage to respond, the corner of his eyes prickling with tears. He lowered his head, his jaw clenching and his arms trembling against his sides.

Finally, he whispered. “I-I’m sorry.” He turned on his heels and quickly ran left down the hallway.

Shouta’s eyes widened, his fist pounding on the window. “KID! WAIT!” He shouted, his heart quickening at the sudden exit. He wasn’t expecting him to flee like that. “MIDORIYA!” 

He fell quiet, the footsteps fading in the distance, then silence. He slammed his forehead against the window, a frustrated groan escaping his lips. He must have gone too hard or too suddenly with his plea for help, and it spooked the kid. Now he wasn’t sure he was going to ever return or avoid this hallway like the plague.

Midoriya was concerned for his well-being instead of his own. He wondered if that had something to do with his captors. That it’ll be his fault if someone else gets hurt. The inner turmoil must be breaking that boy. He’s walking on eggshells and dancing around on his tippy toes. Any longer, he’s going to sink a hole where he can’t be saved. He might turn to the path of villainy. It seems like he’s possibly being groomed in that direction. Possibly another few years.

If Shouta can’t get him out soon, he’s going to snap and never recover. If he can’t get himself out, he might be killed with or without his Quirk. No one knows where he is, and he doesn’t know himself. If he dies, that kid can’t be saved. 

Sighing, he pushed himself off the door. He slowly made his way over to the cot and flopped down on it. He adjusted his position, his eyes staring up at the ceiling. He was used to taking naps low to the ground or even on the ground sometimes. He can’t enjoy that now. Not when he and that boy are in danger. He could only hope he would come back.

He wasn’t sure what he was going to do when he met the Doctor, or the one in charge. At least he had an idea why he was here, but he wondered if those villains only took him because he saved his student and left himself open, or if he was secretly on that list, too.

Whatever it all is, it’s in the past. He had a new kid to save now.

Chapter Text

Shouta’s eyes snapped open.

He tilted his head, his eyelids growing heavy. He felt so tired . That’s strange. He gazed upwards only to find he was staring at nothing .

He couldn’t see, but he could feel something covering his eyes. A blindfold, perhaps. It was the only logical explanation.

Light pierced through the fabric and caused his eyes to squint. It was dull, but bright enough to contrast with the dark. Where was the light coming from? It was directly above him in a possible circular motion. Most likely a lamp or a light from the ceiling, similar to the one in his cell.

Beep. Pause . Beep. Pause . Beep.

Shouta shifted his arm, his elbow extending upwards before it halted. A clank and a pull from his wrist prevented it from lifting any higher. Something metallic and hard hugged his wrist. Then he felt his other wrist being strangled with the same thing. He pulled his leg back, trying to bend his knee, but found himself unable to due to the same thing holding him down by his ankles. His back pressed against a firm, flat surface beneath him, which he chalked up as some kind of table by its sturdiness. 

He couldn’t move . His body was pinned to the table with chains - or some kind of straps - holding him in place. 

His heart raced upon the realization, his jaw clenched, and his teeth gritted together. He couldn’t move. He couldn’t see. His hearing had heightened as a result of losing his other senses. The smell was unbearable. It reminded him of a hospital, but in a twisted sense. That damn beeping grew louder and faster.

Dammit. He couldn’t think with that annoying sound blasting in his right ear. What even is that thing? 

But then he felt something inside the crook of his elbow. He gently tried to flex his arm as best as he could. A sharp sting rippled through his arm and caused him to hiss through his teeth. Is that a needle? If that was indeed a needle, then it’ll be hooked to an IV drip. Is his blood being drawn out? Was something being injected into his veins? 

He closed his eyes and forced himself to take a deep breath. He needed to calm down and think rationally. He is a patient man, after all. Panicking won’t get him anywhere.

Beep. Pause. Beep.

One beat. Two beats. Three beats.

A heart rate monitor. That’s what the beeping sounds are. 

How did he get here? He didn’t recall someone coming to his cell. He didn’t remember sleeping . He was staring at the ceiling, and now he was here. He must have been gassed. It would be the only reason why he could be transported without him fighting back. Sneaky fucks. He missed something in his cell. Maybe under the mattress or near the toilet. It could also have been behind the lights, too.

He wondered how long he had been out for. Maybe a couple of hours if it were gas. Are they waiting for him to wake up? He didn’t feel any different. They must be. He remembered what Midoriya said about the man who can steal Quirks. Is his Quirk gone now?

Eyes sparking, he felt his hair slowly rising off the table. Still had it. He relaxed his eyes, allowing his hair to tumble back down to his shoulders. They haven’t taken it yet. Perhaps they want to perform tests on him now.

He hated playing the waiting game. He had no power or control. 

A thought hadn’t occurred to him until now. Who was watching over his students? Considering a pro hero slash teacher was captured, the heroes and police are actively working together to rescue him. Is there anyone keeping an eye on those brats? Maybe Hizashi?

How was he holding up? Hizashi has always been a loose cannon. His attachment to Shouta and his anger issues were a force to be reckoned with. Shouta wasn’t there to verbally beat reason into him. He had to trust Nemuri to keep him in check, but he knew that wouldn’t last long. The longer he spent here, the more unhinged that blonde was going to get. Hopefully, it doesn’t take more than a few days. He pictured the Voice hero grabbing him by the shoulders and shaking him around in worry, the corner of his eyes filled with unshed tears. 

The thought made his lips quirk into a small smile. 

Oh Hizashi…

His thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a pair of middleweight footsteps heading his way. His ears strained as his body stilled, his breath caught in his throat. The clamping stopped for a moment before a door creaked open and shut. Then it continued to approach closer until it finally paused right beside him. He could faintly hear fabric rustling and something clicking against metal. 

He kept his breathing even, but his heart beat faintly faster. As a result, he could hear that damn heart rate monitor spiking. 

Shit .

“Ah,” A raspy voice pierced through the silence. He sounded on the older side. Most likely an elder past his seventies. “You’re awake.” He continued as if he were expecting this moment to happen sooner rather than later.

Shouta remained quiet for only a second to decide whether or not to speak, but he needed answers. Something he could get his hands on. Any bit of information that could help him figure out why he’s here. If Midoriya is right, they were interested in his Quirk. He can’t afford it being taken away or worse.

“Who are you?” He finally asked, his tone low with a hint of vexation.

“That does not matter,” the older man responded with a hum in his tone. He seemed to shuffle around, and something was clicking like a pen in the background. “Master wished to speak with you before any… arrangements happen.” 

The hero furrowed his brows, his jaw slightly tightening at that cryptic response. This must be the Doctor that kid was talking about. This “Master” character had to be the one in charge. The one who can steal Quirks. He still didn’t have a name. He certainly wasn’t going to be calling him “Master”. It’s only a little information, but it spoke volumes. This Doctor is just an underling. Maybe the second in command. Midoriya didn’t mention anyone else kept those two. 

What deeply unsettled him was the ‘arrangements’ the Doctor was discussing. So the one in charge wants to speak with him first. He had a bad feeling about this.

“What do you mean by ‘arrangements’? What are you planning to do?” He inquired, hoping to dig at something. Anything. 

“You do not have to worry about that,” The voice finally spoke after contemplating for a second. More shuffling, and now something was being written down. No doubt on a clipboard. “It is only the Master and I's concerns. In the meantime, you can relax and wait. I will inform Master that you are conscious now.”

Shouta let out a scoff. “Are you just going to leave like that?” He gruffly responded with a dash of irritation riddled in his tone. He lifted his shoulder, causing the chains to rattle from his wrist. This is pointless. He can’t move. “Who’s your boss?” He prodded.

Silence.

With a swift turn on his heel, the man began to walk away, his footsteps gradually fading into the distance as the same door that had opened earlier creaked once more.

“Hey!” Shouta shouted, but received no response. He strained to listen, but the sharp slam of the door cut through the silence, and the fading echo of footsteps dwindled until they vanished entirely from his hearing.

Son of a bitch.

He could feel the dull throb of a headache beginning to form, the weight of all his overthinking pressing heavily against his temples.

Beep. Pause . Beep. Pause.

That heart rate monitor is going to be the death of him. It was the only sound in the room, and it was becoming increasingly annoying. 

____

Shouta was pulled out of his thoughts by a door slamming and two sets of footsteps approaching. He remained quiet as the two figures settled beside the table he was strapped to. As he turned his head, he could briefly make out two figures through his blindfold. A tall, bulky figure and a short, round figure. He could feel their gaze settling on him.

He felt a shiver spiraling down his spine. 

He never felt this way about villains before, but something about this felt off .

“Greetings,” the taller figure said. An unfamiliar voice hinted with professionalism. That means the shorter figure is the Doctor. “I’ve been wanting to speak with you, Eraserhead.”

Shouta’s eyebrows knitted together, a tension building in his jaw. “Yeah. What do you want?” He gruffly responded as a wave of goosebumps trailed up his arms. 

Everything about this felt wrong . These aren’t typical villains he’d run into on the streets late at night or illegal places he would raid. There was something about their professionalism. They work behind the scenes. He knew that, but there was something different about this one.

“Ah,” the taller one spoke again, amusement tinted in his tone. “To the point, huh? I suppose we can head that route.” 

The Doctor remained quiet, but Shouta could feel his eyes watching him. He half-expected him to say something.

“When I heard you were one of the teachers during the USJ attack, I was intrigued. The underground hero Eraserhead. The ability to temporarily take away Quirks with a single glance. You don’t like being in the media, and with the safety of Yuuei’s security, it was quite hard to track what you were doing nowadays. You almost died again, haven’t you?” The taller man clicked his tongue before a slight chuckle escaped his lips. “A shame. Less time now, but I can make do.”

Shouta couldn’t fathom what he was hearing. He didn’t understand what point this villain was trying to make or what he was even talking about. Clearly he was overseeing the attack on the USJ. Shigaraki, or maybe that Warp Gate villain, must’ve told him the events of what happened. He’s been here since the beginning. Lurking. That’s one thing certain.

“What are you talking about?” Shouta asked, his tone edged with disbelief. 

“Right. We never met before this.” The villain turned, exiting Shouta’s limited vision. A shuffle towards the right side of Shouta. “You have captivated me for many years now with your Quirk. I just had to ask Tomura to add you to the list. He wanted that fiery boy. I wanted you. Although he didn’t get what he wanted, I’ll ensure he’ll receive something even better.”

Shouta strained his head to the side to keep tracking the man. He could barely make out his silhouette. The light didn’t reach that far. It was hard to make out what he was doing.

“Oh yeah?” He scoffed. “Why the hell was he after my student? I know now you’re interested in my Quirk.”

“Hm. That I can’t say. Tomura thought the boy might be useful. It matters not now. You interfered, but obtaining you is even greater.” The figure’s voice grew more unsettling. Something unhinged and a touch of satisfaction that he had his hands on Shouta. Like he had won.

Shouta’s jaw only tightened. “So what do you want from me?” He asked - rather demanded - again. “If you think I’d work for you, you’re sorely mistaken. I won’t let you use my Quirk.”

Both figures moved as the shorter one went to join the taller one. Shouta suddenly felt a hand resting on his forearm to keep him still. Then the rip of the tape, tearing it off his skin, and the IV drip from the nape of his inner elbow was slowly pulled out. He slightly hissed before a patch slipped over the open wound. A band-aid, perhaps.

Damn. That hurt a lot more than he was expecting.

“Not willingly,” The taller villain finally spoke. “I don’t need nor care for your consent. I have my ways.” 

Shouta then felt a palm pressing against his forehead. Fingers curled in his hair, slightly tugging the strands. Possessive .

“But I won’t take it from you,” the villain continued, his fingers intertwining around his hair. “Oh no. I have a better idea. Unfortunately, we have only a couple of days to get this done. The heroes are quite anxious to find you. It’s only a matter of time before Tomura’s hideout is raided. I must be there to help him. In the meantime, the Doctor will be assigned to your case. I entrust him to do as he’s told. I have high hopes for him to accomplish this before I have to leave.”

Gritting his teeth, Shouta shifted his head, but the villain’s hand kept him in place. It was as if he were trying to make eye contact through the blindfold. “What do you mean? What are you-”

He suddenly let out a sharp wheeze as a wave of pain jolted through his body. His limbs stiffened under the sheer amount of agony he was in. A squirming pressure just beneath the surface of his skin, as if something was alive, burrowing through his muscles and bones. The sensation pulses with a rhythm not his own. Alien and wrong. Each movement left behind a trail of fire and unease through his insides. 

It hurts. It hurts !

He couldn’t think. He couldn’t breathe, his lungs seizing and constricting with each desperate gasp. At first, he thought there were just goosebumps rising on his arms, but something felt off. The sensation was too large, too drawn out. It took him a moment to realize it wasn’t goosebumps at all. Irregular bumps of all shapes and sizes shifted and pulsed underneath his skin. They writhed just under the surface as if they were alive and pressing outward, trying to break free.

He whimpered, his jaw locked and his vision swimming, hardly able to see the light through the blindfold. He forcefully kept his eyes open, refusing to succumb to the pain and torture. He can’t pass out now. He wanted to. God, he wanted to, but if he drifts off now, he’ll play right into their filthy hands.

The fingers slowly retracted from his face before releasing him entirely. The pain didn’t stop. His body continued to burn.

“I will return tomorrow morning.”

Shouta blinked harshly, sucking in a deep, painful breath as he tried to pay attention to what they were saying.

“Doctor, bring him back to his room and ensure he takes pain medication. I want him to be in top shape when I visit. His body needs to adjust to the new addition. Don’t strain him too much.”

“Of course. I will follow it through, Master.”

“Good.”

Shouta’s hearing faded, unable to catch the last few words they shared, and he assumed the man had left after it went quiet. Then, a few footsteps approached him. The Doctor. It had to be the Doctor now. 

A few clinks and clacks later, fingers gripped Shouta’s jaw and forcefully opened it. “A-Ah-” He gasped in surprise. Suddenly, a few small objects fell into his mouth and pressed against the back of his throat. He instinctively tried to cough it up, but the Doctor shut his jaw and forced him to swallow the unknown things. Pills. The man mentioned something about pain meds if he recalled correctly. How many was that? He couldn’t tell. He could hardly think as his body trembled.

It felt like a blur for the next part. He felt the straps keeping him pinned down now unpealed. A set of hands - nonhuman hands - hoisting the hero up, half-dragging him across the floor. He was too weak. Too much in pain to fight back, so he reluctantly allowed it. He took a harsh breath, working to ease his mind rather than focus on the pain.

How long have they been walking? He didn’t know.

Something was carrying him. If the Doctor were as old as Shouta thought he was, he wouldn’t be able to hold him. So it had to be something else then. Whatever it was, he didn’t care right now. 

He heard the Doctor’s footsteps ahead of him, then a metal door screeching open like nails scratching down a chalkboard. He gritted his teeth, his ears unusually sensitive as he was hauled inside the room.

The next thing he knew, Shouta landed on a mattress face down. He winced as a groan left his throat. The blindfold was ripped off his eyes. Lights flashed, blinding him as he quickly shut his eyes in agitation. With another whimper, he turned his head to face down into the mattress. 

The Doctor said something, but he didn’t listen. He couldn’t be bothered to care.

The door suddenly slammed shut with a lock.

Shouta remained face down in his cot. Back in his cell and withering in pain. He knew he had to stay awake and collect his thoughts, but he felt so tired after this whole ordeal. What the hell did that man do to his body? He just… touched him and his whole insides exploded in pain. It felt like he was being rewritten. Something happened to him. These bumps aren’t natural, as if they were the start of something a whole lot darker, like a caterpillar turning into a cocoon before a butterfly emerges. 

His Quirk wasn’t going to be taken like he initially thought. They were going to test his Quirk’s capability. For what exactly? He only has a couple of days before they make up their mind. Two days to escape. If he were correct, there would be an entire day dedicated to testing his capability, and then they would decide on the second night.

He had a feeling these two days were going to be the worst days of his entire life. This was only half a day right now. 

Not only did he have to escape. He also needed to escape with that boy.

As he thought to himself to keep himself forcefully awake, he felt fuzzy inside. The pain was dulling, and his mind was clouding. He slowly pushed himself onto his back, his eyes squinting as he adjusted to the light. With a deep breath, he allowed himself to give his body a rest. If he slept now, he would be woken up for testing. If that happens, he won’t ever he able to escape in time. He needed a few more minutes.

Just a few more minutes…

Chapter Text

Hesitant footsteps echoed down the eerie corridor. Painfully empty with a single shade of the concrete wall, with the light barely flickering. A bleak sight. Even more terrifying at night, but it was always night. There were no windows. No time. Nothing to indicate what’s day and what’s night.

Izuku stared at his feet as he shuffled his way through the corridor. He felt bad for running away like that. Eraserhead didn’t deserve that. 

Why was he even here? Father didn’t have eyes unless Erasure was a touch-based Quirk, but he knew it had to be with the eyes. Why else would Eraserhead have goggles for? Distinctive yellow goggles. He had only read about them and possibly seen a blurry photo from a distance. An underground hero here? It was almost surreal.

No one lasts down here. In a few days, he might be dead. Izuku didn’t want that. Heroes are supposed to protect people, but how can they protect when they’re held captive and probably killed when they’re deemed useless? Even worse if they wanted to use his body to create a new Nomu. Hopefully that’s not the case.

He barely met the hero, but he seemed kind. Well, as kind as he could be with a deadpan look on his face. His voice was gentle with a hint of guffiness and those words…

You’re coming with me whether you like it or not.

Did he really mean that? Of course he did! He’s a hero, but why go through all the trouble for a meek fourteen-year-old boy? 

It’s not like Izuku could escape. He would only be dragged back down here and thrown into that horrid room. He hated that room. Father locks the door, and he can’t leave for weeks. The isolation is unbearable, and the only sounds came from his mouth. In the end, he has to apologize to leave so he can roam the laboratory once more. If he attempts to escape, right back in that room again…

The heroes can’t protect him. Father will always find him.

But Eraserhead shouldn’t be here. It’s not right. It’s weird. It throws everything off. It’s not supposed to be like this.

So, Izuku decided to revisit him. To apologize for his earlier behavior. Maybe learn more about the hero. He loves heroes, especially All Might. That skeleton of a man apologized to him on his way home. He said he could become a hero. A shame when he left; Izuku disappeared. He never made it home that night.

He always wondered how All Might reacted. He wanted to give his Quirk to him. To be his successor. 

That never happened. 

Izuku’s eyes flickered upwards as he reached the metal door. He almost passed it by, being lost in thought. He needs to stop thinking so much.

He nervously inched his way closer and popped his head over the glass to see where that man was. He found the hero lying on the filthy mattress, blankly staring up at the ceiling. That’s weird. He seemed so out of it. Did Father already do something? It can’t be. It’s only been a few hours since he was last here!

Then he spotted weird bumps littering the man’s skin. Small, big, wide, thin. All shapes and sizes. They were bulging out, threatening to peel the skin away at any given moment. 

The thought sent a shiver down Izuku’s spine.

He slowly lifted his finger and tapped his knuckle on the glass. “Mr. Eraserhead?” He timidly asked, now more nervous than he was before. Something is wrong with the hero.

Eraserhead’s eyes snapped upwards, his head tilting back to look up at the boy. His pupils dilated, then he was suddenly off the cot and in front of the door in a flash. He’s so fast!

“Midoriya.” He greeted, his tired eyes boring into Izuku’s very soul. The stare is still as intimidating as when he first met him. He watched as the man lifted his hands and placed them on the glass. There was a large bump in the center of his palms. The skin was enclosing around something with a slit across the middle. Freaky.

“W-What happened to you?” Izuku asked, unable to look away from the hero’s palms. The sight was gnarly, but what made him worry was the fact that it seemed dormant. This was not the full thing. Whatever this thing was.

As if noticing his stare, Eraserhead brought his hands down to his side. “I don’t know. Ask the one who grabbed my face.” He let out a scoff, a frown tugging on the corner of his lips.

Izuku’s heart stopped. He feared the worst. Father visited the hero and did something to him, but what? Did he take his Quirk away? Then why were there bumps on his skin? That doesn’t make sense! He couldn’t have taken his Quirk away if he were altering his body.

His mind whirled with questions, his head lowering as he took a few steps back. He reached his lip with his finger to pitch it while he muttered. “I don’t understand. What does he want with you? He had never taken anyone in before like this. Unless you count me, but I’m Quirkless. He doesn’t want to harm my body, but he’s harming yours. So what is he doing?”

“Midoriya.”

“What is he planning-”

“Midoriya!”

Izuku’s head snapped up after finally registering Eraserhead’s voice. He could see the lines etched in his forehead and the narrowing in his eyes. “O-Oh. Sorry.” He muttered sheepishly as he lowered his hand.

“I’m assuming you will know more than I do.” The man fell silent for a moment, letting his words sink in before continuing. “He said he was interested in my Quirk, like you predicted. However, he mentioned he wanted to test my capability.” He gestured towards himself. Bumps on his arms, neck, and even his cheek.

The scar underneath his eye was replaced with a bump. 

“Do you still have your Quirk?” Izuku asked, his eyes lingering on the bump on the hero’s cheek before looking up at him.

“Yes.” 

Yellow eyes replaced the black as his hair floated off his shoulders and lifted into the air. The sudden intensity caused the boy to shrink back.

Yellow eyes. A sight-based Quirk. That’s what the goggles are for! It was so clever. The yellow goggles blend in with the yellow eyes, so the villain can’t tell when Erasure is activated. The only indicator is the hair floating, but if you don’t know what you’re looking for, you can easily overlook it. That’s amazing!

Izuku quickly shook his head. It’s not the time to fanboy right now.

If Eraserhead still has his Quirk, then Father had given him a Quirk. Father doesn’t have eyes, and it’s a sight-based Quirk, which means he’s testing a new Quirk on Eraserhead to see if it’s capable of Erasure. If that’s the case, then what could it be? Father has so many Quirks that there were infinite possibilities.

Sight-based…

Extra eyes?

“I think he gave you a Quirk,” he finally responded, causing the hero to deactivate his Quirk in surprise, with his hair falling over his black eyes. “I don’t know what exactly, but it’s directly related to Erasure. How does your Quirk work?”

Eraserhead watched him, determining that the kid could help him in some way. “You’re saying I was given a Quirk?” He turned his head away as one hand rubbed his stubble in thought. It was hard to tell what he was thinking due to his stoicism. He nodded slowly and glanced back at the boy. “My Quirk activates when I look at someone as long as they’re in my eyesight. The effect ends when I blink.”

A simple explanation, but it’s exactly what Izuku needed. It had to be a Quirk that allowed extra eyes to appear on the user’s body. There’s no other way since it needs an eye for the Quirk to work. 

“I’m not entirely sure, but I think you were given a Quirk that allows you to have extra eyes on your body.” 

The man went quiet with a blank stare. Deathly quiet. 

What was he thinking? It made Izuku nervous. Did he think he was lying? Will he believe him? Brush him off?

He had never spoken about his analysis to a hero before. He hoped it didn’t freak him out, but this was the first time he was glad he loved to analyze heroes when he was younger. He probably wouldn’t have come to the conclusion he has now.

“I see,” Eraserhead let out a heavy sigh. He turned his hand, his eyes drifting to his palm. “If you look closely, it does represent an eye that’s shut.” He shook his head in disbelief before jamming his hands into his pockets. Izuku didn’t blame him for not wanting to look at it longer.

“But why?” He asked. “Why would he go through all this trouble with a Quirk that adds extra eyes?”

Izuku paused. He assumed Eraserhead had seen his Father, but that might not be the case. Considering he could use Erasure, they might have blindfolded him or had another way to prevent direct eye contact.

“Uh… well…” He cleared his throat, awkwardly having to break the news. “He… doesn’t have eyes.”

The hero blinked. Blank face. 

Does he seriously not react to anything he’s told?

“I suppose that’s why then.” Eraserhead nodded in acknowledgement. This man is good at keeping his composure. 

Izuku rubbed the back of his neck nervously. He glanced at the bumps on his neck and slowly looked up. “It’s dormant right now. You don’t know how to use it, do you?”

The hero shook his head. “Unfortunately not. I’m not quite prepared to take on a second Quirk. I don’t know how to open these eyes. If they are eyes.” He paused. “Typically, you would have to treat it like another body part, but it’s like learning how to walk. It’s going to take time and effort. My skin is going to strain and irritate.” 

“Then it might be best to leave it alone for now.” The boy sighed, his head turning away. He stared at his feet and tapped his shoes together. “I’m sorry I can’t be much help.”

“You’re wrong. You’ve been very helpful, Midoriya.”

Izuku lifted his head, his eyes landing on Eraserhead’s focused gaze. His tone remained flat, but there was a hint of gratitude in it. “But-”

“If you didn’t tell me what you know and theorized, I would have been lost.” The man quickly cut him off. He lifted his hand in the air to keep him silent while he spoke. “Now I understand the situation I am in. I promise you this helps me a lot. However, it’s only critical that I need to escape this place. If he steals my Quirk, it’s game over.” 

The teenager furrowed his brows. He didn’t like that indication, but he knew exactly what the other meant by it. Father didn’t have a Quirk that could cancel other Quirks. Now, he did have a Quirk that could forcefully activate another Quirk. He might use it on Eraserhead to activate the Quirk he was given. If that happens and the experiment is a success, then Erasure will be stolen. This is bad. This is so, so bad! The heroes are surely going to lose if they’re pitted against Father.

Izuku didn’t want the heroes to lose. Father is going to get what he wants. He’s going-

“Midoriya. Are you listening?”

He took in a sharp breath and forced himself back to reality. He saw the concern look in the hero’s eyes, then he felt a stray of wetness running down his cheek. He quickly wiped it away and shook his head. “I-I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. You have nothing to apologize for.” Eraserhead’s voice softened. He pressed his forehead against the glass like he had done during their first interaction. “I understand if your hands might be tied. Let’s talk about something else, alright?”

He has such a soothing voice. A low grumble, but he was trying. Or maybe he wanted to find a way to calm the boy down.

“I’m a teacher at Yuuei.” 

Izuku blinked in surprise. “You’re a teacher?”

Out of anything the hero could have said, he declared his status as a teacher at Yuuei. All the staff at Yuuei are teachers, but Izuku has never heard of Eraserhead being a teacher there. Then again, he is an underground pro hero. He wouldn’t have known either way.

And he’s a teacher at his dream school! Eraserhead is so amazing. 

“I’m the homeroom teacher for heroics. Class A. I have a bunch of unruly students. Nineteen of them actually.” The hero continued with a hint of a fond smile. “I think you have fit in just well in my class. I can tell you’re a problem child like them.”

He… thought he could he in the hero course? In his class ? Izuku couldn’t believe it. First, his idol said he could be a hero, and now Eraserhead said he would be the perfect addition to his class. It’s like his dream was coming true, but it never happened.

He was trapped here.

“I don’t understand…” He meekly responded. He should be happy, but it didn’t matter if he couldn’t escape without the risk of being sent back here.

He didn’t want to go back to that room. He can’t!

“You analyze like a pro. You’re smart, Midoriya. Smarter than a kid your age. Besides, you don’t need a Quirk to become a hero.” The man continued to compliment Izuku as if he was trying to raise his spirits. “A Quirk is like a tool. Similar to a support item. You don’t need one if that’s what you’re worried about.”

He’s so kind…

“I-I… I know…” Izuku breathed out, a weary smile on his lips. “All Might told me I could become a hero without a Quirk. I tried to save my friend when he was attacked by a villain. I wasn’t much help, and All Might ended up saving us both, but he said I had the courage. That my body moved on its own.”

“And that’s the trait you need to become a good hero.”

“You really think so?” 

“You need training. You’re quite scrawny. It’s why you couldn’t physically stop the villain. If you had the right training, you could build up your strength, endurance, and speed. You can be a formidable hero, Midoriya. With your analysis, you can identify weaknesses and strengths. Help other heroes or find a way to stop a villain.” 

Eraserhead stopped, his eyes scanning the boy to gauge his reaction. He tried to offer a smile, but it was awkward and not suited for his usual stoicism. It was strange to see a nonsensical man smiling. Maybe a little grin here and there, but a full-on smile did not look right. 

“Your smile is creepy,” Izuku murmured before gasping as he quickly went to cover his mouth with his hands. Why did he say that out loud!? That was so rude!

The man was taken aback, and his smile faded. “I’m not exactly known for the smiley type.” He shrugged, but didn’t seem to take any offense.

With cheeks burning, Izuku looked away out of embarrassment. “S-Sorry. I didn’t mean to say that.”

Eraserhead waved his hand in the air dismissively and shook his head. “No. You’re right. I have a husband who pokes fun at my smile all the time.”

Husband? Eraserhead has a husband? 

Izuku scanned the hero’s fingers, but he didn’t see a ring. Either it was taken off when he arrived here, or he never wore one in the first place. He couldn’t see a man like him having a partner. Frankly, he was quite a scary hero. In a good way, that is. 

He’s an underground pro hero, a teacher at Yuuei, and he has a husband on top of that? While he’s taking care of nineteen students? Probably more that Izuku wasn’t even aware of.

He has a life. He has a loved one who cares about him and students who depend on him. 

Who did Izuku have? His mother. He only had his mother. He never found out what happened to her, so he liked to think she was still home. Worried about him while she made dinner for one. She’s safe, right? 

He could only hope that Father didn’t touch her after he took him away.

“Oh,” Eraserhead spoke, causing Izuku to snap out of his thoughts to look at him. “You’re surprised. What? I can’t love someone?” His tone was sarcastic with a hint of a tease. If Izuku didn’t know better, he would have thought he was serious.

The boy quickly waved his hands in the air nervously. “Oh no, no! I didn’t see a ring on your finger and-”

“That’s because we keep our relationship a secret,” the man cut him off, a smirk threatening to show. “Though he doesn’t exactly do a good job of hiding it. I think our students are suspecting something.”

“Wait, he’s a teacher too?”

“Yes. English teacher, but you might know him as Present Mic.”

Present Mic!? The Voice hero? He’s in the top hundred of the hero rankings! He’s married to Eraserhead? Izuku couldn’t believe what he was hearing! They’re co-workers, share the same students, and they’re married. Present Mic also hosts a radio show every Friday night. He sometimes liked to tune in. The hero is always loud and obnoxious, but that’s his hero persona, and he’s always friendly to fans.

“H-How did you pull a man like that?” The boy’s jaw dropped in shock without realizing the type of question he asked. “Present Mic is an awesome hero with his Voice Quirk! His directional speaker allows him to pinpoint the directions he wants to project his voice to. He’s so friendly! Not the mention his hair-”

Eraserhead let out a chuckle, an amused look on his face. “Trust me. You can’t get him to cut his hair unless it’s to trim it. I tried.” He shook his head as his expression quickly reverted to a neutral one. It was the most expressive face Izuku had seen yet.

“I just- I can’t believe you’re married to Present Mic,” Izuku smiled widely, his eyes sparkling with questions. He had so much to ask! So many questions he had stored for ages that were begging to be unleashed. 

“You know,” the man tilted his head as his bangs partly obscured his eyes. “I think he would have liked you. He would be blushing to know you’re a fanboy, and I’m sure he’ll be just as happy to answer any questions you have.”

The boy paused. It’s like this hero knows exactly what he’s thinking! He’s so amazing. 

He would love to meet Present Mic, but…

Could he ever escape this place? He never saw what was behind that door up those stairs. He knew it was a way out, but it’s locked, and he can’t break the door down. It was pointless. 

Then there’s Eraserhead. He has so many people depending on him. He can’t escape. Not on his own. Father will kill him or repurpose his body in a matter of days. That’s not enough time.

The Doctor would have the key to his cell. It would probably be in his office somewhere. Maybe if he could take it and help Eraserhead escape, then he won’t have to die.

“Mr. Eraserhead,” Izuku’s eyes lifted to make eye contact with the other. “Do you really think I can be a hero?”

The hero watched him, his eyes widening slightly at the sudden question. He didn’t hesitate to nod. “Yes. I don’t see why not.”

The boy chewed the inside of his cheek as he felt his fingers tremble. He brought his hands to his chest and fiddled with his thumbs. 

All Might said he could. Eraserhead said he could.

All his life, he was told he couldn’t, and back to back, he was told he could by heroes . 

Izuku knew this hurt him. He knew he would be thrown back into that room, but it might be worth it. This hero needs help. He has people - students - depending on him. It’s not right if Izuku leaves him here to die. He doesn’t deserve it.

A familiar feeling nubbled inside him. It felt like that day with the sludge villain. He didn’t think twice when his feet started running before his mind could process what was happening. Without his interference, All Might probably would not have saved them. 

He can save Eraserhead like he saved Kacchan. 

“I know this is a silly question, but can you break down a door?”

Chapter Text

Getting this kid to trust him was a lot easier than he expected. After the boy was hyperventilating, Shouta decided to switch the topic to himself. He thought that if Midoriya knew him on a deeper level, it would establish a link between them. It worked. He didn’t want to manipulate poor thing, but it was necessary. Now that Midoriya seemed willing, it would be much easier to have him cooperate. 

But here was something in his eyes.

A spark of determination, but a hint of sadness. He knew that look anywhere. Midoriya wasn’t planning on coming with him. Rather, he was going to help Shouta and stay behind. He couldn’t let that happen. He might throw the damn kid over his shoulder to prevent him from running off again. The resignation in the boy’s eyes was troublesome. That man broke his hope of ever escaping this wretched place. 

Speaking of which, Shouta wasn’t sure what he would do if that man or the Doctor tried to stop them. They could have tight security that a button can trigger. If that happens, it might be impossible to escape. They have to be stealthy at this. Strike during the least expected time. Preferably at night when they’re asleep, but he couldn’t tell when night is. There was no sense of time in this labyrinth. 

“I-I think the Doctor has the key to the cell,” Midoriya timidly spoke, his eyes shifting down the hallway where Shouta couldn’t see. “I can try to find it. It’s most likely in his office.”

Of course, the damn key would be in the office. Neither of the two would be stupid enough to leave it out in the open. He didn’t like the fact that meant Midoriya had to sneak in and find it before getting caught. “Kid, you have to be careful. You should wait until the Doctor is asleep. You won’t be caught that way.” He advised. It was the best he could offer. He couldn’t physically stop this kid from pulling the stunt.

“We don’t have that much time, though,” the boy shook his head adamantly. “They can come back at any second. If they take you then- then you might die. Your Quirk will be stolen, and you’ll be useless to them. I have to get it now.”

Midoriya turned his head, pointing in the opposite direction of the hallway. “There’s a door that leads upstairs. It’s wood. You can break it down, right? After I find that key and unlock your cell, you have to break it down. It’s the only way you can escape. I can help you navigate to the door. This place is like a maze if you don’t know where you’re going.”

Shouta clenched his jaw. This kid is going to get caught. He knew he didn’t have much time, but it was safer when the Doctor falls asleep. No matter what he would say, Midoriya wasn’t going to listen to him.

This damn teen really is a problem child. He lied about it earlier to gain trust, but it seemed like he was actually right. This kid would definitely fit in with his class.

“Midoriya,” he let out a heavy sigh. He clenched his fingers together, easing his shoulders to prevent himself from showing too much emotion. “Keep yourself light on your feet. It might be best if you take off your shoes and keep your socks on. It’s easier to tiptoe around without a sound. The key’s most likely to be in a drawer or hanging on the wall. It’s a common habit for many people. Lastly, when you get that key, you return as quickly as your little legs can. Don’t get caught. However, that key might even be on the Doctor himself. If you can’t find it in his office, do not pursue the Doctor. Do you understand?”

It was a risk, but Shouta needed to prepare this boy. He didn’t want him to be reckless. It leads to desperation, and desperation causes mistakes. Mistakes lead to being caught. 

He barely knew the kid, but he didn’t want to know the punishments he might receive if he got caught. When he first met Midoriya, he was scared shitless to be speaking to Shouta. It was like he wasn’t sure if he was allowed to or not. If he isn’t allowed, he sure is breaking that rule. If that was the case, it only solidifies that he’s a problem child.

Midoriya nodded meekly. “I understand,” he murmured, his eyes diverting to the ground with his head bowed. Shouta knew this kid was hoping the key wasn’t on the Doctor. It would be more complicated if it were. Right now, it was not the time to worry about that. There are still plenty of options for where the key could be stored.

“Good,” Shouta let out a satisfied huff. “I know I can’t stop you, but don’t disobey my instructions. I’m a teacher and a hero. I know what I am doing. Do you trust me?” It was bold to ask this boy for his compliance, but if there wasn’t trust, then everything would fall apart.

The boy glanced up at him as if shocked to hear such a question. “What? Of course I do!” He squeaked and waved his hands in the air nervously. “I’ll make sure to do what you ask.”

This kid trusts easily, the man thought to himself as he watched Midoriya’s body language. After being trapped for over a year, and now there’s someone new who’s trapped with him, it would do that. He knows I’m not a threat or one of them. 

He truly is a smart boy. 

“Alright,” Shouta leaned himself against the glass pane, his eyes drifting towards the hallway before he was unable to see anymore. “You come straight back when you’re done. Take your time and don’t rush. You will make mistakes if you do.” His eyes hovered back onto Midoriya, who nodded in acknowledgment. 

The freckled teenager stepped away, his body turning. “Okay! I’ll try to find the key.” As he took one step forward, he paused.

The hero watched him, his eyes narrowing as he noticed the hesitation. “Is something wrong?”

Midoriya bit his bottom lip, his eyes darting between the hallway and Shouta. “I-I do have a question…” He faced his body towards the man, his hands shaking to his side. The anxiety was palpable, almost like the first time meeting. 

“What is it?”

“I… I have a friend. He really, really wants to be a hero, and his dream was to go to Yuuei,” the boy perked his head, trying to keep his chin held high. “You work there for heroics. So… I’m wondering if he got in.”

Shouta knitted his brows together as he processed the kid’s words. One of his friends might be in the hero course? Well over a hundred students participate in the entrance exams, but only forty of them can make it into the hero course. Twenty in his class and twenty in the other. The chances were low, but it’s not impossible.

“What’s his name?” He asked. If his friend did somehow make it, it would only be another leverage to get this boy to trust him. He would rather not carry this small child out that door with him kicking and protesting.

“Um… Katsuki Bakugou.”

The teacher froze, his eyes widening in surprise at the name. Katsuki Bakugou? He repeated in his head. No way.

That fiery-headed boy is friends with this timid green-head? Shouta would have never guessed it due to how angry Bakugou is. He is constantly picking fights with his classmates, and it takes Kirishima, the one who could harden his body, to be the punching bag for Bakugou. Despite that, they are genuine friends. Though Kirishima is extroverted along with the group that Bakugou typically associates himself with.

Not the mention Bakugou was the target at the camp. His damn hot-headed personality almost got him captured. He didn’t listen to Mandalay’s warning. He should have been running and hiding instead of fighting. It caused him to be sucked into a marble for Christ’s sake. If Shouta weren’t there, he would have gotten captured.

But Shouta traded places with him instead. 

The League of Villains didn’t get what they wanted, but the man who can steal and give Quirks did. The real leader behind closed doors. 

Shouta never understood why Shigaraki wanted Bakugou, but if he had to guess, it was because of the boy’s anger issue. He doubts it was because he has a friendship with Midoriya. That kid was kidnapped by that man, and it seemed like that man kept a lot of things from Shigaraki. The League of Villains probably doesn’t even know where Shouta is after they captured him. A weird coincidence that Midoriya and Bakugou were targeted, but only one was successfully kidnapped.

He won’t be sharing that information, though. He was not about to witness this kid have a heart attack.

“He’s in my class,” Shouta confirmed. “One of the top.” 

Now that Midoriya knows, this should hopefully get this kid to trust him completely. If he had to, he might have to bring up Bakugou to entice him to cooperate. At least he has that knowledge now. First, All Might, who was probably Midoriya’s favorite hero by the way he was speaking about him earlier, and now Bakugou. 

Shouta wondered if Bakugou’s lashing out had something to do with Midoriya’s disappearance. He might have always been that way, but it probably got worse when his friend suddenly vanished. For a kid his age, Shouta wouldn’t expect him to know how to cope with it. 

Now that Shouta is kidnapped, Hizashi is probably lashing out just like Bakugou. Those two really need anger management classes…

“H-He is?” Midoriya’s eyes gleamed with excitement and pure happiness. He clasped his hands together and brought them up to his chest. “He’s a hero-in-training?”

The man nodded. “He is. He’s quite the… fiery boy.”

The boy softly chuckled at the mention of Bakugou’s personality. He lifted his hand higher and rubbed underneath his eye. “That’s Kacchan for you. He’s always angry, but he’s incredibly smart and cool.” There was a fondness in his voice as he smiled. A real smile. Not the sheepish ones that Shouta was used to seeing.

Kacchan ? A strange nickname Shouta had ever heard. He never heard Bakugou being called by another name except his own. He’s the one who gives others nicknames instead. Granted, they aren’t good ones. They must have a close relationship then. Perhaps they have known each other for a few years or longer. Maybe even childhood friends. Noted.

Shouta’s expression softened slightly. A rare moment for the usual stoic teacher, but he couldn’t help it. Midoriya sounds happy. For a kid trapped down here for so long, it’s hard to come by such emotions. He thought he was on the verge of snapping, but he’s sorely mistaken.

This teen is hurting, but he refused to let it dampen his spirits. Highly speaking about heroes, thrilled that his friend is in Shouta’s class, and the willingness to help him escape. He’s dancing with the darkness on a fine line he refused to cross. 

He gave up escaping, but he didn’t give up hope. He had no hope for himself, but he had hope for others. He’s selfless. Too selfless. He’s willing to risk everything to ensure Shouta escapes, even if it means he wouldn’t be able to himself.

This kid wants to be a hero, but he forgot the most important rule of being one. You have to take care of yourself.

Dammit. 

Shouta knew he was going to have to drag his ass to safety.

“Thank you,” Midoriya continued, his eyes fluttering shut. He lowered his head before he bowed. “I’m glad you’re his teacher.”

The hero’s eyes widened as he leaned his head away from the glass. Did this child seriously bow? Normally, it wouldn’t come as a surprise, but not in this particular situation when lives are on the line. “Considering you know how hot-headed he is, he’s a problem child in my class. He tends to serve detention or extra training when he finds himself in trouble.”

Midoriya’s eyes flew open as he straightened himself. “Huh? He’s facing consequences?" He asked in utter disbelief as if Katuski Bakugou was some untouchable God that could do no wrong. 

Shouta narrowed his eyes with a slight furrow in his brow. Bakugou sure does hate it as if facing the consequences was like death coming to his door sometimes. Did no one really punish him when he did something wrong? Shaking that thought away for another time, he responded. “Only when he does something stupid.” 

The boy nodded slowly, comprehending the teacher’s words. “I see,” he then rubbed the back of his neck with a chuckle. “I can imagine the look on his face.”

His eyes drifted down the hallway. It took a second before his eyes lit up in realization. “Oh! Crap! The key!” He quickly spun his body away from Shouta. “I’ll be right back!”

“Kid wait-” Shouta tried to call for him, but he was already sprinting down the hallway. It’s just like he did last time. No point reaching him now.

With a tired sigh, he ran a hand down his face. Exhaustion settled into his shoulders as the adrenaline wore off that he didn’t know he had. At least this interaction was productive. An escape plan is active, and he learned more about Midoriya. He prayed the kid won’t get caught. That’s all he could ask for. Midoriya’s safety is his priority over escaping. Right now, he had to trust him.

Midoriya is a capable boy. He’s a lot smarter than he’s given credit for. His analysis is almost always on point, and Shouta only met him twice. He shows a lot of potential. Is that the reason why he’s kidnapped? It still wasn’t clear to the hero. The boy is Quirkless, but is he Quirkless because his Quirk was stolen by the man, or was he born Quirkless? In the end, it did not matter since they needed to escape. That’s a matter for another time.

Shouta’s eyes linger on his palm. He stretched his fingers outwards as he stared at the bump in the center. He gritted his teeth.

The eyes. Right.

Now that Midoriya was gone, he could finally focus on the Quirk he was given by that man. He had shoved it to the back of his mind until now. He has a second Quirk. One that isn’t his own and didn’t belong in his body.

Everything itches .

It felt like his body was on fire all over again. Not with pain, but rather a sensation that needed to be scratched. It must be a side effect. His body isn’t used to this new Quirk in his body. It might be trying to push it out or forcing itself to accept it. Either way, it was incredibly annoying and unbearable. Anywhere those bumps were, the area was itchy. He can’t scratch them. It’s counterproductive, and it might make it worse. If these really are eyes, then he can’t be scratching them. He needed to check, though.

Shouta lifted his fingers to his left palm. He inhaled sharply as he placed his fingers on the folds of the bump. He slowly started to peel them back, opening them until a flash of yellow appeared inside. 

Suddenly, he was staring back at… himself? His greasy hair hung limp around his hunched shoulders as tired eyes widened at his reflection. No, not reflection. It was like his vision was split in two. One half was staring down at the yellow eye embedded in the center of his palm, but the other half of his vision was staring back at him from that eye. Panicked, he wrenched his hand away, and the skin folded back over the eye.

He stumbled backwards until he hit the wall with a thud . His hand shook, unable to pull his eyes away from his hand.

That’s an eye.

It’s an actual eye, and he just stared at himself through it. He shook his head, shutting his eyes tightly to dislodge the strange feeling of when his vision was split in half. The thought made him dizzy. It felt similar to a split screen separating the top and bottom, but this wasn’t some kind of video game. That was his own vision that doubled.

Shouta slid down the wall into a sitting position. He turned his palm downwards while placing his arms on his knees. He leaned his head back, a sigh escaping his lips. His whole body needed an itch; he just saw himself through his palm, and the kid was right about the Quirk being eyes. 

The exhaustion was heavy, anchoring him down to the floor. He needed a nap. He needed to sleep so badly. A shame his sleeping bag was left at the camp within the staff cabin. It was probably transferred back to Yuuei by now. Maybe Hizashi has it. Maybe he’s keeping it in their apartment. Their bedroom. 

He wanted to wrap his arms around that loud, obnoxious blonde. Spoon him from behind, or maybe cuddle against his chest. He’s not much for physical affection, but he craved it more than anything right now. 

He will either die here in the next couple of days or escape with that kid. That kid is coming with him, that’s for sure. Hizashi won’t mind if they add an addition to their household. Matter in fact, he’d be thrilled and crazy over the green-haired fanboy. 

But first… he needed to take a nap. He hadn’t felt this exhausted before, unless he had to stay up extra late for exams while also having to patrol later that night. That man sucked all his energy out of his body. He was well rested beforehand due to how much he slept compared to how he normally did, but this was different. His body can’t handle this Quirk.

Yeah, a nap sounds good.

Chapter Text

Izuku trotted down the endless corridor, twisting and turning into the same hallway again and again. Finally, he stopped at a door. A nice, dark oak wood door, with the handle a fine silver. Dr. Garaki’s office.

He has been here multiple times. He mainly came to watch the Doctor, whether he was working or engaging in a brief conversation with him. This is where he learned that the Doctor is very passionate about the Nomu’s. Creating new ones, priding himself with Kurogiri’s creation, and always petting that little creature Johnny, always praising it for whatever reason. 

He didn’t like snooping in the Doctor’s belongings, but he had a few times. It was mostly medical stuff he didn’t understand, and he won’t even try to understand. It was boring unless he wanted to learn about the Nomu’s. Then this was the go-to place to be. 

How was he going to steal this key? He had no idea where it could be. He never searched inside the Doctor’s desk before. What if he needed a key to unlock a drawer? Hopefully, it’s not on the Doctor himself like Eraserhead had mentioned.

He wanted to help Eraserhead. No, he needed to. That hero had students to teach and take care of, and a husband to go back to. He’s Kacchan’s teacher. Kacchan made it into the hero course and got into Eraserhead’s class! 

Izuku barely knew Eraserhead, but he did know he was a stern and logical teacher. He’s caring in his own way, despite being a little intimidating. What amazed the boy was the fact that Eraserhead can erase Kacchan’s Quirk. He could imagine the look on the blonde’s face. That man is not someone you can dance around with. He’s sharp. Too sharp. Kacchan stands no chance against him. 

It was weird.

Kacchan never got punished. Yet Eraserhead says he’s facing consequences in his classroom. It must be a reality check for him. He wished he could see it in real time. It’s deserved. Kacchan needs a teacher like him. He knew he would be a great hero with the teacher’s help.

Now Eraserhead was here. Locked in a cell and waiting for his death. Not punishing Kacchan, teaching his students, rescuing civilians, taking down villains, or spending time with his husband. He’s here .

The thought unsettled Izuku. This was not supposed to happen. 

He stared at the door and sucked in a deep breath. He lifted his fingers and gently knocked on the door, hoping the Doctor was not in his office right now. The best-case scenario he is tending to a Nomu, and he won’t be back for a while.

So he waited.

Then the door opened. Oh crap! He’s here!

The Doctor stared down at the boy, his eyes obscured through his goggles. “Ah. Midoriya. Hello.” He greeted him with a casual tone as his mustache twitched.

Izuku straightened his body, a smile straining his lips. “Uh, hi.” He wasn’t prepared! He didn’t have an excuse to be here. It completely slipped his mind in hopes the Doctor wasn’t in his office at the moment. Maybe he won’t ask?

“Do you need something?”

He could feel his soul leaving his body. He choked on his words as he quickly tried responding. “A-Ah. Sorry. I was bored. I didn’t know what else to do.”

The Doctor only nodded before widening the door. He turned on his heels and headed deeper into his office. Izuku knew it was because Father told the Doctor to be nice and accommodating to him. The Doctor couldn’t exactly refuse, or else Izuku could run to Father and tattle tale. As much as he dislikes him, he did have the upper hand. 

With a sigh of relief, he pushed the door open and stepped inside. The office was exactly how he remembered it last time. The desk was messy, papers everywhere, while the walls were stripped clean, other than a few medical photos of what he can assume are Nomu’s. The filing cabinets rested against the wall, a few of them opened with papers shoved inside. On the back wall was a large window leading to the section of the laboratory where those tubes were. 

Izuku felt a shiver down his spine as his eyes scanned the rows of capsules lined up with figures in some, while others were empty. He quickly tore his eyes away and plopped down on the chair across from the Doctor’s desk. He watched as the man picked up a few scattered papers off his desk and read them. 

His gaze then lingered on the wall, noticing there were new diagrams. One of them appeared to be the shape of a man with arrows pointing to different areas and scribbles next to it. Bold letters were written on the top, catching his eye.

Shouta Aizawa
Alias: Eraserhead
Age: 30

His heart stopped. Eraserhead? Rather, Aizawa, now. The arrows detailed his physical attributes. Praising his agility, speed, endurance, and strength. How his muscle memories are valuable and can be utilized. There was a small note regarding his eyes that they can get dry easily and cause strain if using Erasure too much. 

Understanding and theorizing his Quirk was one thing, but talking about his physical strength is another. Why would they care about his body when they only want his Quirk? Even temporarily giving him a second Quirk wouldn’t matter if Father was going to take it again. 

Izuku’s mind raced as he tried to figure it out. Maybe his theory is correct? The Doctor might want to use Aizawa’s body for a Nomu. It would make sense why there are specific notes regarding his muscle memories and his feats. Are they planning on killing him and then bringing him back as a Nomu? How important is this man to them?

With a clear of his throat, he pointed towards the diagram. “Um… Is that about the man in the cell?” He asked, wanting to prod for more information. This is really bad if they were going to use him for more than his Quirk. He has less time finding that key.

“Hm?” The Doctor perked his head, his eyes landing on the diagram before shifting his focus to the papers. “Yes. It is. His Quirk is useful, but so is his body. It would be a shame if it were gone to waste.”

Izuku slowly nodded, taking in the information with a keen eye. So they are planning to use his body to turn him into a Nomu. He sometimes hated being right.

“Oh. What are you planning to do with him?” He tilted his head. It wasn’t suspicious or out of character for him to ask such things. He always been curious and asked the Doctor a bunch of questions regarding the progress of creating a Nomu. He knew a thing or two about this stuff. How long it typically takes, what DNA would be best suited, and the overall process. He couldn’t let them kill Aizawa, or else it’s too late for him. He needs to escape today.

He knew the Doctor would be willing to share. Every time Izuku is interested, he wastes no time rambling about what he plans to do. Other than Father, he has no one to talk to about it, so even a boy could have him spilling.

That’s going to be his downfall.

“His Quirk, Erasure, allows him to nullify an individual’s Quirk until he blinks. However, it is not a physical-based Quirk, so he’s essentially fighting Quirkless with the help of his support items. Primarily, his scarf. His speed, agility, and stealth are what I am interested in. The way he can hide in the shadows and blend into his environment is exactly what I need for a Nomu. Nomu’s are typically mindless and sometimes brain-dead. You have seen Kurogiri and his conscience. I can use what I learned from him for Eraserhead.” The Doctor rambled, his fingers interlocking with a pen and tapping it against the desk. He set the papers down as he spoke. “He will be my most proud experiment if it goes well.”

Izuku’s vision tunneled, his eyes staring dead ahead while his mind raced to catch up. If Aizawa is turned into a Nomu, then the heroes will have to fight their own. They won’t know it’s him unless Father returns the Quirk. They won’t know he died to only be created as a monstrous freak. How would Present Mic react to this? His students? Peers? It will send the media into a frenzy if word gets out that a Nomu is created from a hero’s body.

“Oh.” It was all he managed to choke out. He wasn’t sure how to react or respond to this. He knew how a Nomu is created, but this felt different. He knew Aizawa. Sort of. He spoke to him twice. He had an interaction, and that’s a different level of pain. He felt bad for the others who died and were turned into a Nomu, but now a new life is on the line.

His eyes started to wander, locking on the walls for any indication of a key hung up somewhere. It was only diagrams or nothing at all. No key. Then it either had to be inside the desk or on the Doctor. 

“I am getting quite ahead of myself,” the Doctor continued with an amused him in his voice. “For a project like this, it can take months. It is best to start now so when it’s ready, it can be unleashed sooner than later.” 

Izuku bit the inside of his cheek, his fingers curling together against his thighs. His eyes snapped onto the Doctor and drifted downwards towards his belt. He tilted his head slightly, searching for a keyring that could be tucked in his pocket. It was hard to tell with that stupid lab coat. Instead, he listened for any rattling, but he heard none. It was most likely stored inside his desk. 

But how was he going to get the Doctor out of here? Without his keys? He can’t fake an emergency, or else he’ll grab his keys on the way out. 

“I guess that’s true,” he softly spoke as he looked around the room for an idea. His eyes drifted out the window, internally cringing while he searched. The things inside the capsules are locked tight, so he can’t use them as a distraction. Any wandering Nomu’s are most likely in a cage of sorts. Other than Kurogiri, are there any Nomu’s that the Doctor could check up on?

Johnny! 

With sparkling eyes, he turned to look at the Doctor. “But don’t forget to care for the other Nomu’s! Like Johnny. I don’t see him in your office right now. Is that little… creature lost?” He strained a smile, one hand gesturing around them.

The Doctor’s eyes flickered onto the boy before he turned to glance around his office. “Ah. Johnny should be-” He paused. “Ah, wait. I have not fed it yet.” 

“Oh!” Izuku gasped. “Maybe you should do that? I don’t want to disturb you any further, of course! I’m getting quite tired anyway. I should head to bed.” He waved his hand dismissively before faking a yawn. 

The man curtly nodded. He walked across the office to the door leading out to the purple capsule room. He opened it before glancing back at Izuku as if remembering something. “Best be going, boy. Master and I are going to be very busy tomorrow, so stay in your room. We do not want to be disturbed. Understood?” 

Yeah, like taking Aizawa’s Quirk. Izuku thought bitterly to himself. He widened his smile while standing up from the chair. “Okay.”

The Doctor stepped out of the office and shut the door behind him. Izuku watched as the man appeared from the other side of the window, trotting towards the other side of the capsule room. Once he left his sight, Izuku immediately circled the desk. He didn’t have much time. He needed to find that key now. He knelt, his fingers grabbing ahold of the knob of a drawer and pulling it open. 

Papers, office supplies, and a bunch of junk. 

Junk. Junk. Junk.

He kept searching, pulling drawers open to find nothing. He half-hazardly put everything back before shutting the drawer. He huffed as he opened the last drawer.

He expected more papers and office supplies, but instead, it was a ring of keys. It wasn’t the Doctor’s main set since it’s much bigger with more keys. This set had fewer, but it must be the important one of the two. He knew the Doctor worked for a hospital, so this key ring set is for here.

Izuku quickly grabbed it and lifted it. He slammed the drawer shut and tucked the keys into his pocket. He had no idea which one would open the cell door. There were maybe over a dozen keys to try. This was going to take a while if he couldn’t get it open within the first few tries.

Now time to get out of here before the Doctor returns.

Glancing around, he swiftly reached the office door. He swung it open, stepped outside, and carefully shut it behind him. With a gleeful smile, he turned to walk down the hallway and-

He slammed directly into something. “Oof-”

He stumbled backwards, one foot shifting behind him to keep balance. He snapped his eyes upwards, and he froze. Father stared down at him, one hand clenching the pole connected to the respirator. He didn’t budge, remaining perfectly still as a statue. His head tilted while examining the boy closely. Izuku’s whole body shut down, his muscles telling him to cower and obey. Don’t flee. Don’t fight. Bow your head and listen. His head unconsciously lowered, and his eyes fixated on his red sneakers.

“Izuku,” the man greeted with a calm tone. “What are you doing here? Were you visiting the Doctor per usual?” There was a hint of curiosity. Amusement. 

Izuku felt like he was being studied and dissected bit by bit underneath his gaze. His stomach churned, his fingers nervously flexing against his palms. Every instinct told him to stay put. Do as he’s told. As much as he wanted to flee, he couldn’t risk any suspicion. He can’t be sent back to that room yet. Not until he helps Aizawa.

“Yes,” he quietly responded, a squeak leaving his throat. “If you’re looking for him, he’s feeding one of the Nomu’s.” He shifted his head slightly, pointing it towards the door to the Doctor’s office. 

Father didn’t move. He continued to bore into Izuku’s soul. “You seem awfully nervous. I am aware you are quite the skittish boy, Izuku, but is something troubling you?”

It was like he knew. Izuku didn’t know how he knew something was up. He could never tell if it was a Quirk he had stolen or if he was simply good at reading people. Whatever the case was, he needed to calm down. Father will know if he is lying.

“It’s just… that man…” He started, a tremble in his lip. He didn’t have to speak the full truth, but he could potentially spin it a different direction where he could get away with part of the truth. “I have never seen someone else down here before. I know he’s a hero, Eraserhead, so I don’t understand why he’s here. The Doctor mentioned wanting to use him for a Nomu, but then why isn’t he dead already?”

“Ah, Eraserhead,” the man hummed in acknowledgment. “Yes. He is very important for the future. His Quirk is versatile. I have been wanting to get my hands on him for a long, long time. Now that I do, he will be created into something better. Fret not, Izuku, you do not have to worry about him. It is only temporary while I test something out.”

The boy tensed as he felt a hand gripping his right shoulder. His breath hitched, his eyes briefly widening, but he kept his eyes down and his head lowered. Don’t move. Don’t speak out of turn.

“Now,” Father continued, sounding eerily closer. “You shouldn’t be speaking to him. He’ll fill your head with heroic nonsense. Your mind is too precious for that.” His grip tightened for a fraction of a second before he let him off, his hand dropping to his side.

“I understand,” Izuku whispered in return with a nod. If only Father knew he was going directly back to that cell once he was given the chance. 

Don’t find out. Don’t find out.

“Good,” with a satisfied response, Father stepped past Izuku. His footsteps echoed, and a door creaked open. “Izuku, do not disappoint me. I understand you are a curious boy. Run along. I have matters to discuss with the Doctor now.”

The door slammed shut.

Izuku let out a sigh of relief, his eyes swirling and his mind fuzzy. That was close. Too close. He was nearly caught. By Father no less.

With shaky feet, he forced himself to continue moving forward down the hallway. At least he knows that Father and the Doctor are going to be together for some time. Now that they're in one place, it can hopefully make the escape faster. 

What he did not want happening was Father realizing something was amiss and going to check up on him.

If this can take less than twenty minutes, it would be golden for Aizawa. He will be free, and Izuku has saved him. The boy knew he most likely wouldn’t escape with him. He could, but he’ll only be dragged back and hauled into that room. It would be worth it. Anything for the hero. Father can’t get his hands on Erasure, or else everyone is in trouble. 

So he took the keyring out of his pocket, glancing down at the keys and silently counting how many. Twelve… thirteen… fourteen…

Fourteen keys. Fourteen chances. Please, please be the right set. One of these has been for the cell. If none of these worked, then they were back to square one. It might be too risky to return, especially with Father and the Doctor together.

This is their only chance at escaping.

Chapter Text

Trotting down the hallway, Izuku slid to a stop as he reached the cell door. He fiddled with the keys in his hand as he peered his head over the window. He spotted the man slumped against the wall, one leg kicked up and the other resting on the ground. His arms remained limp by his side, and his chest slowly rose.

Is he… asleep?

He blinked in surprise, but this wasn’t the time to think about that. He knocked on the window. “Eraserhead?” He called out while intently watching the hero, who didn’t budge. He knawed the inside of his cheek nervously as he pounded harder on the window. “Hey! Eraserhead!”

He had the keys, but now Aizawa seemed to be taking a nap! He did look exhausted when he went to fetch the keys. He glanced down at the key ring and selected one of the keys. He slid it into the lock, but it didn’t fit. He proceeded to move on to the next key and tried again. Didn’t fit. He grabbed the third key.

“Hold on, Eraserhead. I think one of these can work,” he said as he tried it, but it didn't fit. He huffed while taking the fourth key. He had ten more chances, so he had plenty of time. This one didn’t work. Onto the next.

Occasionally, he glanced up to look at Aizawa. He’s not waking up, and that was worrying him. How is he not waking up to all these noises? Izuku knew he should be quiet, but he couldn’t help it. He was eager to get him out of here, and it was concerning him that something could possibly go wrong. Maybe he’s just a deep sleeper? Yeah, maybe he’s a deep sleeper, is all…

He turned the fifth key, and nothing. He huffed, moving onto the sixth key. No. Seventh key? No. Eighth? Na-da.

“Ugh,” he scrunched his nose as he shoved the ninth key into he slot. He turned it and clicked ! He froze, his eyes widening with excitement. “Yes!” He bounced on his heels. He grabbed the handle, twisted it, and started to pull the door open. He struggled for a moment while dragging the heavy door out of the way. “Oof-”

He stood in the doorway, his eyes landing on the hero. He quickly sped over to him and landed on his knees in an instinct. “Eraserhead! I opened the door!” He reached his hand out and shook the man’s shoulder. 

Up close, he saw the exhaustion etched onto his face. The way his eyes were closed too tightly, the furrow in his brow, and the frown tugging his lip. It didn’t seem like he was having a pleasant dream, but he wasn’t waking up either. “Eraserhead?” He slowly stopped shaking, realizing that it wasn’t working. 

Izuku grabbed onto Aizawa’s arm and lifted it. He pushed his sleeve back and checked over the bumps on his skin. It didn’t change, he thinks. At least, it didn’t seem like it did. He lowered the arm carefully. Maybe his body used too much energy regarding this Quirk, and it was forcefully keeping him under to recover. That’s bad. They need to escape now!

“Eraserhead, please .” The boy begged, his fingers clenching onto the man’s shoulder to shake him around again. “You need to wake up now! We don’t have long before they come to check on you or the Doctor realizes his keys are gone!” 

“I had already checked.”

Izuku froze, his body locking down to the familiar voice. That wasn’t the Doctors.

He kept his head lowered, his eyes drawn to the ground as his body screamed to shut down and listen. 

“Izuku,” the footsteps approached closer, entering the cell with them. “I must say that I am very disappointed in you. I expected you might try something like this due to your fondness for heroes. Quite a shame. I told you many times that heroes are a waste of time and their way of thinking is merely surface-level.”

Izuku shifted his eyes, noticing the shoes stopped a few feet away from them. “I-I’m sorry, Father.” He managed to choke out, his shoulders tensing as his fingers nervously clenched against his palms.

“You’re not sorry. You’re only sorry because you were caught.” 

His lips quivered as he felt tears straining the corners of his eyes. He was caught. He was caught before he was able to help the hero escape. Aizawa was still knocked unconscious, and now he’s going to be dragged to that room . This time, he doubts he could apologize and leave anytime soon. 

“Come now. Get up.”

He wanted to stay by Aizawa’s side, but his body obeyed, and he slowly stood up. He kept his head lowered as he watched the hero remain slumped. Going against Father was like a death wish. Although he won’t die, he certainly will feel like he has.

His eyes briefly widened as the man’s head tilted downwards a bit. Is he waking up?

“Eraser-”

“Izuku. Enough,” father commanded as he took another step closer. “Let’s go.”

Izuku's teeth clenched. If he leaves now, that door is going to slam shut, and Aizawa will be killed. He can’t let that happen. Maybe… just maybe-

“No.” He ripped his head away to peer up at Father. 

The larger man stared at him in return, his head cocking to the side from surprise. “No?” He curiously asked, a smile plastered on his face. 

The sight of him smiling sent a shiver down Izuku’s spine. He took a step back, his eyes narrowing. He pressed his back against the wall, ensuring he was as far away as he could from Father. “I said no.” He nervously murmured, all confidence dwindling from him. 

“Hm. Well then. It seems like you are in your rebellious phase.” Father approached until he stopped right in front of Aizawa. He slowly knelt until he was eye level with the other. He lifted his hand outwards with his fingers extended. “I will not be asking again, Izuku. Come with me now, or else I’ll be giving this hero a surprise."

The boy watched the elder’s hand hover in front of the hero’s face. What is he doing? Is he going to take his Quirk? Give him another? He can’t kill him just yet, so that’s out of the question. If he puts more strain on Aizawa’s body, he won’t be in any condition to escape. The whole plan would be ruined. If it wasn’t ruined already.

Izuku’s breath hitched, his nails shakily carving into his palms. He didn’t want to leave. Not when Aizawa needed him. He had to buy more time. His eyes trailed onto he door, noticing the key was stuck inside the lock and the ring hanging limply from the handle. That’s it! He can flee with the keys. The Doctor needs them, and Father would be forced to chase after him. It’s too important for a boy to be running away with them. As long as he can get him away from Aizawa, then he can force a wild goose chase. 

With a determined furrow in his brows, he pushed himself off the wall and stepped towards Father. “O-Okay. Fine,” his shoulders slouched, and he tapped his shoe against the other nervously. “Please, just- just don’t hurt him.” He pleaded, his voice cracking in worry.

The faceless man stared at Izuku, that cruel, satisfied smile never once leaving his horrid lips. He lifted himself off the ground, one hand grabbing the pole of the respirator. That’s when the boy noticed Father didn’t feel threatened at all. He’s still walking around with that machine. If he were serious, he wouldn’t be carrying it. 

That’s going to change.

The freckled teenager carefully made his way over to the door, shuffling his feet along the way. The impulsion to stay was certainly a one-way ticket back to that room. If he was going back, he might as well make it hard for Father and the Doctor. He turned his head over his shoulder, watching as the elder started to follow behind him.

“Izuku,” the deep voice rumbled. “We will be having a long talk about your disobedience and how that can be fixed. Now, let the hero rest. He is in no condition to be moving anytime soon. I would like him to be in a conscious state the next time I visit.” 

As Izuku stepped out of the cell, he held his tongue. He kept his head lowered and his fingers twitching by his side. He stepped to the left, ensuring Father had also left the cell. His eyes flickered onto Aizawa. The man remained slumped against the wall, his chest slowly rising. His greasy bangs partly obscured his closed eyes.

Heart aching, the boy glanced at Father once more before turning his attention to the keys. It’s now or never. He quickly reached out, grabbing hold of the key ring and yanking it out of the lock. He immediately fled, darting down the hallway before he could see how his Father would react. “I’m not going back!” He yelled, hopefully attracting the other to follow.

Please. Please. This has to work, he thought with a twinge of hope. Come on. Chase after me.

He sprinted faster, his shoes clamping against the ground and his footsteps echoing through the hallway. He hesitantly glanced behind him and spotted Father standing there with a frown on his face. Oh shit . He’s pissed.

His face turned white as a ghost. He rounded the corner, slightly stumbling over his feet as he kept running. The keys jingled by his side, his fingers curling around the ring tightly. 

All he needed to do was buy some time for Aizawa to wake up. 

His eyes locked onto a door. That will be a good place to hide. He slid into a stop, his free hand grabbing the doorknob and pulling it open. Father might think he kept running, then he can return to the hero just as quickly.

He stepped inside the room and gently shut the door behind him. The moment it clicked, everything went black. Dammit. Where was he? It was too risky the flip the lights on, or else Father could see it emitting from the crack of the door. Instead, he kept quiet and stilled his movements to keep himself perfectly still. He shut his eyes, squeezing them tightly as he heard a pair of heavy footsteps approaching the hallway.

No rush. A steady and calm pace. It was like they had all the time in the world. Did he not find this more than an inconvenience? 

“Izuku,” the chilling voice rattled the hallway. “If you decide to keep running, then I fear it might be best if you stay in your room until the foreseeable future. Hand me the keys, and I am sure we can find a middle ground.” 

A lie. Father wasn’t going to lessen the punishment for Izuku. He might only have known his Father for a little over a year, but he knew this man was filled with deceit. His main skill was emotional manipulation. Most of the time, he didn’t need to lay his finger on anything to get what he wanted. His mere presence was a force to be reckoned with.  He didn’t want to stay in that stupid room for the rest of his life. Cut from all socialization and humanity. He’d be kept like some damn pet that needs to be fed and watered. He can’t let it happen. Not until he saves Aizawa. He promised himself he would help him. If he can’t do that, then what is he? All his life, he wanted to become a hero. He failed to save Kacchan, but then he was praised and apologized to by All Might himself. If he fails now, Aizawa will die. His Quirk will be taken and used for evil. He can’t be a hero if he can’t save someone. He needs him. He can’t let him down.

The footsteps passed the door, and Izuku let out a breath of relief. He gripped the hem of his shirt with one hand and nervously pulled on it while he recomposed himself. He couldn’t believe he disobeyed Father like that, but it was too late to go back now. All he can do is keep moving forward.

After another few seconds of waiting, he finally opened the door. He poked his head out, ensuring the coast was clear before he stepped out into the hallway. He shut it behind him and quietly made his way back to the cell.

As he turned the corner, he halted in place. He spotted a hint of purple and a large, bulky figure standing in front of the cell. Hardly any clothes besides shorts to cover its lower area. Its movements are jerky, yet patient. Of course, it wouldn’t be easy. Why wouldn’t Father post a Nomu as a guard? He let out a frustrated groan. If he were caught by that thing, he’s done. 

His eyes trailed onto the door. It’s shut. A frown tugged on the corner of his lip before realizing it wasn’t locked . He has the keys! Right! How can you lock it without the keys? But how will Aizawa know it’s unlocked? He’ll assume he’s trapped inside with no way out. He won’t even try the door. Maybe that’s what Father is exactly counting on. This is bad. This is so bad. 

He needed to get that stupid door open, even if it was just cracked. With the Nomu guarding the cell, that would be deemed impossible! What is he going to do? He can’t wait around, or else Father and the Doctor will find him.

Izuku’s eyes flickered down the hallway, memorizing each route to get back to the cell. He needed to lure the Nomu. Have it chase him one way, and he can circle back to the cell like he did with Father. However, Father walked. This Nomu will sprint. Maybe he could hide in that room again. That could work…

With a grin, he turned on his heels and quietly made his way down the hallway. He stopped at the room he originally hid in and opened the door halfway. He carefully set it up so he could slip inside and shut the door easily. He glanced inside the room, his eyes landing on the various mops, brooms, swiffers, and other cleaning supplies neatly stacked on shelves. Oh. A janitor is closest. That made a lot of sense. At least it didn’t lead elsewhere. Not like he wanted to imagine finding himself in the wrong room.

He took a deep breath, his mind racing with possibilities of how it could go wrong. If plan A didn’t work, then he wasn’t sure what else he could do. He’ll be caught, so this has to work. 

He quickly trotted through the hallway and slowed his steps. He poked his head around the corner, his brows furrowing in concentration. It was now or never. Father or the Doctor will be returning. 

He stepped out, positioning himself in the middle of the fork. “Hey!” He shouted to grab the Nomu’s attention, his fingers trembling nervously by his side.

The Nomu jerked its head, its yellow eyes locking onto the boy’s. Its jaw hung limply, and a deafening screech left its throat. He flinched, his hands brought up to his ears to muffle the noise. He took a step back and immediately booked it down the hall. He didn’t need to look back to see if it was following him.

Thump. Thump.

Hairs stood on the back of his neck as he slid into the closet. He grabbed the handle and quickly swung it shut. He placed a hand over his mouth, his body quivering and his breathing ragged. He straightened his shoulders, trying to still his movements to be as quiet as he could.

The thwack and the slap on the ground passed by in an instant. He let out a shaky breath and pressed his forehead against the door. He listened intently, the thumping fading into the background until he couldn’t hear it anymore. Yes! It worked like a charm. 

He slowly opened the door and stepped out, carefully closing it behind him. He needed to hurry. There wasn’t much time left!

He darted down the hall, rounded the corner, and abruptly stopped at the cell. He panted, his hands coming down to his knees and his head lowering from exhaustion. He didn’t run much, and yet he was out of breath. When’s the last time he even exercised? He shook his head, dispelling the thought. Now is not the time to think about it.

He straightened his posture, his chin lifting to glance at the door. He then poked his head over the window, his eyes brightening to find the hero still in the same position. He didn’t know if that was a good thing or not, but he needed to wake him up. He grabbed the handle and used all his strength to swing the door open. “Oof-!” He huffed, stumbling forward and catching himself against the doorway.

Despite all the adrenaline coursing through his veins, he was out of breath. He can’t rest now. Aizawa needs him, and he needs to wake him up. 

He stepped forward with a smile plastered on his face. “Eraserhead-”

“Got you!”

A pair of arms wrapped around Izuku’s torso and pulled him back from the cell. He gasped, his eyes flying open in shock. He squirmed, but his arms were pinned down to his sides. “No! Get off!” He yelped, his feet kicking wildly. He tilted his head back, his eyes meeting the Doctor’s goggles. “N-No!”

He squealed as the Doctor roughly shoved him away from the cell and into the wall. The back of his head slammed against the concrete. He let out a sharp hiss of pain, his hands instinctively reaching to grab his head. Before he could, the Doctor’s hand reached out and roughly grabbed the green-haired teenager by his wrist. “You cause enough trouble, boy .”

Izuku stumbled forward as he was yanked by the Doctor. “Stop! Let go of me!” He yelped, forcefully pulling his arm away. The older man twisted the boy’s wrist in the opposite direction, and he let out another pained gasp. “Gah!” 

The Doctor wasn’t supposed to hurt him. Did Father say he could because he attempted to free Aizawa? No! He can’t be caught! He was so close! He needed-

“Eraserhead!” He glanced behind his shoulder, watching as the door slowly grew further and further away. It was wide open. It’s open . 

Please wake up. Please wake up! He sharply inhaled, his lip quivering. 

“AIZAWA!”

Chapter Text

His fingers ran across the feline’s orange fur, tracing its spine as its back arched and its tail flickered. He gently wrapped his fingers underneath its belly and hoisted it up into the air. The kitten let out a surprise meow as Shouta cradled it against his chest. “Strange. This is the second time I found a kitten here,” he grunted from amusement. His eyes flickered around his surroundings, taking in the bleak alleyway. A lone dumpster pressed against the wall next to a back door leading into the building.

This alley is a dead end, so it was hard to understand where a second dirty stray was here. He briefly wondered if the owner or the employees were feeding cats that wandered to their doorsteps, or if there was a mother nearby. However, the first time he searched for any other kittens from the litters, he found nothing. It’s only been a week, so perhaps they are a part of the same litter.

Keeping the kitten protectively to his chest, his footsteps clattered against the ground as he approached the dumpster. He knelt to the ground with his free hand on the asphalt. He glanced under the rusty waste bin, his eyes scanning the darkness. He didn’t notice anything important other than a rat skittering across the ground. No holes in the wall. No secret area.

It can’t be a coincidence that a second kitten was found here. Both are orange and nearly the same age. They can’t be more than a month in a half old, so where are they coming from? It’s a dead end. They can’t be that far.

With a frustrated huff, he picked himself up. He leaned back to ponder. He highly doubts they could be in the dumpster. It’s frequently used and dumped out every week. Unless it wasn’t used. He examined the dumpster, one finger scratching behind the kitten’s ear absentmindedly. Then he noticed a gap where the corner was supposed to be. 

He immediately grabbed the lid and pushed it upwards, letting it fly against the outside of the wall. He peered his head into the abyss and spotted a pair of green eyes staring back at him. He squinted to adjust to the darkness before he managed to make out pointed ears and a tail lashing around.

“Found you,” he huffed in amusement. He checked this exact spot last week, and he didn’t find the littermates or their mother inside. It seems like mother was absent then, but she’s here now. A hiss emitted from the enclosed space as the feline curled around three more orange and white kittens against her stomach. 

Feral mother and feisty babies. If they weren’t here last week, then he wondered where they were before. Either the trash covered them, or they had recently moved here instead.

Shouta lifted the kitten he was holding and gently set it into the dumpster. He stroked its head before lifting his hand away, while the mother immediately sat up to sniff the small creature. Once satisfied, she hauled the kitten with the others.

Five kittens in total. One kitten was rescued last week, and now there are four left with their mother. His mind raced with ways to capture them without making it too stressful. He had already established some trust by bringing back one of her babies. Perhaps he could feed them until she’s comfortable around him. Maybe then he can lead them into a carrier without much of a hassle. This mother is feral, so this won’t be an easy task to do alone unless he wants to get a bunch of shots from the doctor. 

Instead, he slipped his hand into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He turned it on and pressed the first number on his speed dial. He held it up against his right ear, his eyes never leaving the mother and her babies.

Ring… Ring…

The ringing abruptly stopped as a voice groggily responded. “Hnn… Sho? Why are you-” There was a pause, a few shuffles like sheets shifting around. “It’s four am! Why are you not home yet? Are you hurt-”

“No,” Shouta interrupted before his partner could assume the worst. “Can you grab two cat carriers and a few cans of wet food?”

“Huh? Don’t tell me you found another cat.”

“A mother and four kittens to be precise. I think it’s the kitten’s mother I found last week. It was awfully too young to be by itself, and I found another orange kitten around its age at the same place. It’s the mother and her four kittens with her. We have her fifth child.”

“Wha- You found Sir Pumpkin’s family!?”

“Sir Pumpkin? Are you seriously sticking to that name?” Shouta shook his head in disbelief. Leave it up to Hizashi to make up dumb names, but now is not the time to be discussing that matter. “Never mind. Can you please grab the carriers and cat food? I’ll send you my location.”

With a dramatic sigh on the other line, Shouta heard the man’s footsteps across the wooden floors. “Alright. Give me twenty minutes-” A yawn followed. “I can’t believe this is the second time this week you woke up to fetch cats. My hair can’t stand itself, you know!”

A smirk tugged on the corner of Shouta’s lip as he let out a dry chuckle. “Don’t you normally get up at five to do your hair? Waking up an extra hour isn’t going to ruin you.”

“Yeah. Yeah. Just send me the coords,” Hizashi grumbled with a feigned irritation. “Love you.”

With that, the line cut off before Shouta could echo the words back. His smile briefly widened before his expression returned to its neutral state. He swiftly flew his fingers across the screen and sent his location to his husband. He proceeded to slip his phone into his pocket.

He glanced into the dumpster, ensuring the mother and her babies were okay. With a contented sigh, he leaned against the wall beside the waste bin. He crossed his arms firmly against his chest and closed his eyes. 

He wasn’t entirely too sure what to do with this family of cats. Of course, he’d do the normal routine. Give them baths, ensure they eat and drink, then take them out to the vet as soon as possible. Due to how young these kittens are, it might be best to foster them temporarily before sending them off to a shelter or adoption center. He and Hizashi originally planned it with the orange kitten, but now, apparently, its family is joining the household as well.

“Eraserhead!”

Shouta’s eyes immediately shot open at his hero name. “Hm?” He turned his head, expecting Hizashi, but that voice sounded too young. Hizashi can’t come this fast either. He pushed himself off the wall and glanced towards the entrance of the alley. That’s weird. No one is there.

He lifted his head and scanned the rooftops, but he didn’t catch anything suspicious. This is a dead end. Where did that voice come from? How did they know he was here? 

“Hello?” He called out while slowly drifting through the alley. He lifted his hand and his fingers curled around his scarf, but his fingers grasped at nothing. “Huh?” He lowered his eyes to realize it’s gone. Where did his scarf go? He was just wearing it.

He quickly peered around the alley- alley? That’s not-

Where is he?

The world darkened around him with multiple yellow eyes peering back at him from the shadows. He clenched his teeth, his fingers flexing into fists as his shoulders tensed. “What the hell?” He cursed under his breath, the eyes boring into his very existence. His feet hovered in the darkness, and his jumpsuit fluttered in the non-existent wind.

“AIZAWA!”

_

Shouta snapped his eyes open, a sharp choke escaping his lips. He subconsciously lifted his hand to his face, hovering his fingers mere inches from his mouth. He blinked once and tried to regain his bearings. 

Wasn’t he just- a cat - no. Hizashi? That’s not right. 

His eyes trailed across the room, briefly fixating on the dirty mattress on the ground. He slowly dragged his hand down his face and came to the realization that it was a dream. Of course, it was a damn dream. He wasn’t home. Hell, he didn’t know where he was.

Letting out a short groan, he forced himself to sit up straighter. Although he wanted to curl back up and return to his blissless dream of rescuing that kitten family, he couldn’t afford to waste any time like he already had. You have to be kidding me. Did I seriously fall asleep? He mentally chided himself for his carelessness. 

He still needed- what did he need to do? Where’s the kid? Something about a key - no, breaking down the door?

He shook his head to clear his thoughts. Everything felt so fuzzy that he barely remembered the conversation he had with Midoriya. The plan was…

“Get off me! Get off!”

Shouta’s gaze sharpened, his eyes snapping towards the direction of the voice. Midoriya. He hauled himself off the ground in an instant, his fingers subconsciously reaching his neck to realize his scarf was still gone. He grumbled in irritation as his feet automatically pulled him towards the open door. Wait- Open?

His eyes slightly widened, his adrenaline kicking into high gear as he pushed himself into the hallway. The kid. Damnit, he got caught! He collided into the wall across the hall with a grunt. He quickly shoved himself off, his mind spinning and his body swaying. He glanced down the corridor, his eyes landing on the small green-haired boy. Then he caught an older bald man with a grey mustache, clenching on Midoriya’s wrist and yanking him forward. His arm was painfully bent, forcing him to twist his body to keep himself upright while being dragged by the man. His other hand pressed itself against the other’s face in an attempt to dislodge his grip.

“Midoriya!” Shouta barked. He took a step forward and nearly tripped over himself in the process. He picked up his speed, his feet echoing after him. 

The man, whom he assumed was the Doctor based on the lab coat, snapped his head upwards in surprise. His jaw clenched, his stance stiffening like a deer caught in headlights. “You’re awake?”

As Shouta approached, he noticed the glint in the kid’s eyes. His fist curled before he swung hard into the Doctor’s face when he was distracted. The man stumbled backward with a groan of pain, and his grip faltered. With the opportunity in hand, the hero watched as the boy wrenched his arm away. 

Midoriya spun around, stumbling towards the teacher. “Eraserhead! Eraserhead! You’re awake!”

“Get behind me!” The hero ordered. He reached his hand out and managed to grab the boy by his shirt collar, dragging him behind. He slid one foot back, his eyes hovering on the Doctor with tension settling in his shoulders. 

This is just the Doctor. Fortunately, that other man isn’t here yet. Judging the Doctor’s appearance, Shouta mentally deduced that he isn’t fit for fighting. He’s too old and too frail. Normally, with these kinds of people, they would flee. Damnit. If only he had his capture weapon. It would have been convenient to wrap him up and find the exit. Take him into custody. However, his priority is Midoriya’s safety. He at least knew what the Doctor looked like. He’ll circle back when he escapes with the kid first. 

He watched as the elder held his nose in pain, his feet shuffling backward. He turned his head, glancing down at the boy. He quickly scanned for any injuries, but didn’t find any serious injuries other than the bruising around his wrist. “Are you ok?” He gruffly asked.

Midoriya nodded. He lightly gripped his wrist and rubbed it carefully. “I’m fine. It doesn’t hurt that much.”

Safety first. We’ll worry about that later, the teacher mentally noted. As long as the kid can run, they need to get out of here now. 

“Good. Show me where the door is-”

“W-Watch out!” The teenager cut him off with his eyes widening.

The hero quickly turned his body, one arm instinctively lifting upwards to shield himself from any potential harm. Instead, he saw the Doctor charging at him with a syringe in his hand. A light blue liquid swished inside the capsule. Unknown substance. His arm extended, and preparing himself to strike Shouta with the needle.

Jaw clenching, Shouta swiftly ducked downwards while swiping his leg under the other man’s. The syringe clattered from his hand and rolled a few feet away. He hooked his arm around the Doctor’s torso, and they both collapsed onto the ground. He straddled his hips, his hands gripping the Doctor’s wrists and pinning him down.

His vision blurred, and the exhaustion weighed down on him. His focus wavered, but his grip tightened to ensure the Doctor couldn’t escape his grasp. “Seriously?” He growled, glaring down at the other one. His eyes shimmered a faint yellow, and his hair stood idly in the air. If this bastard has a Quirk, he can’t use it now. He had no idea if he had used it before, but now he can’t try. Completely helpless and vulnerable. 

He was hoping he would flee instead of trying to pull a cheap trick like that. He needed to get out of here with the kid. If they stay any longer, who knows what will show up next? That man who grabbed his face earlier? A Nomu? They didn’t have time for this.

“I’m not going to deal with you right now,” He let out an annoyed huff as irritation crept through his veins. He’ll find him when it's all over. He won’t be getting away that easily.

“A-Aha, it worked-” The Doctor managed to sputter out with amusement in his tone. His eyes lit up with an intensity that sent a shiver down the hero’s spine.

“What worked?” Shouta gauged, his mind racing on the possibilities of what this man was referring to. He didn’t inject him with the syringe or anything. Was he potentially distracting him from something? Or until someone arrives? No. That’s not right. His words were picked deliberately. 

“Master was right. Both are compatible together. He will be so pleased-”

“Enough!” Shouta tightened his grip around the other’s wrists, his nails clawing into the skin, but the Doctor hardly reacted. He was too happy.

Then he spotted a blur of green as the boy started to head their direction. “Midoriya, stop!” He quickly intervened, not once breaking eye contact with the Doctor. “Don’t come any closer.”

What the hell is this kid thinking? 

Midoriya fumbled over his words, his hands shifting against his chest and his fingers nervously gripping his shirt as he tried to speak. “E-Eraserhead your-” 

“Midoriya! I said stand back.” 

“You’re staring at me.”

Shouta froze. The concern looks in Midoriya’s eyes and the maniac in the Doctor’s. That’s not right. The kid is behind him. That’s impossible- That’s-

Doubled. Tripled. Multiple. Too many perspectives. Too many angles. The flashes of the room, the shadow dancing along the walls, the figures staring at him in awe and horror. Amplified by fifty times. Blink once. Dark in one spot, then it brightens again. His Quirk is still activated. He can’t turn it off! Why can’t he turn it off!?

The disorientation caused him to release the Doctor. He shoved himself onto the ground while raising his arms. His gaze locked onto the yellow eyes scattering his skin. Different shapes and sizes. Some stared off in various directions, and some stared directly back at themselves. The weariness was evident underneath his eyes, and his hair was disheveled despite floating in the air. 

A few of the eyes from the back were locked onto Midoriya, tracking each subtle moment and shift in his body. The boy’s lips twitched into a nervous frown as if deciding to continue approaching or stay put. While the eyes from the front retained their attention on the Doctor, who marveled over the possibilities of what this could entail next. 

“This is… fantastic,” the elder slowly sat up, ogling the hero with fascination glittering in his eyes. His fingers trailed across the ground, and his body leaned to the side. “Imagine the boosts and improvements Master can do with Erasure. He has been itching for your Quirk for so long now. It’s compatible. This can lead to groundbreaking research!”

“Shut up!” Shouta snapped, but his mind whirled with confusion and daze. It was hard to focus- on what? The kid? The doctor? His surroundings? What is he looking at?

There’s too much happening. Too much to see. These stupid eyes. Close. They need to close. They have to close.

With trembling hands, he squeezed an eyelid shut on his wrist. As he pulled his fingers away, the lid peeled open, and the eye continued to stare in return intently. 

It’s too much. It can’t close. Not on its own. All these angles felt like he was watching through security footage, but he had to pick and choose where. Random spots darkened only for a moment, like they were blinking. Yet his eyes glared a haunting yellow. It shouldn’t strain, but the tightness around these eyes was overwhelming. Too much. 

Too much. Too much. TOO MUCH. TOO MUCH!

His chest constricted with a painful intake. He tightly gripped his arm, his nail latching onto his dry skin and pressing it through layers. It was no use as blood started to trickle instead. 

It. Just. Won’t. Close.

“Eraserhead!” A choked cry shouted from behind. “Stop it! You’re hurting yourself!”

He shook his head, forcefully releasing his fingers from his eyes that scattered his arms. He can’t- Not with the kid there.

Not now. He had to focus. Focus?

On- Huh?

In the corner of his eye - eyes - he noticed pale fingers curling around the discarded syringe. The needle glistened in the light.

Shouta quickly shot his hand out and snatched the Doctor’s wrist. “Don’t you ever think about-” He took a sharp inhale, prying the syringe from him and raising it into the air. He didn’t know what was in that thing, but he couldn’t afford to find out.

Fucking bastard. Bastard. Bastard. BASTARD.

Shouta slammed the needle downwards, the tip piercing through the elder’s right eye. The Doctor let out a blood-curdling scream that filled the entire laboratory, the immense pain rippling through his throat. A scream filled with everything all at once. He dug the syringe deeper, and the blood gushed out like a waterfall. Streams of crimson tears flowed in various directions, dripping onto the cement and splashing the once-white coat. 

The hero proceeded to twist his wrists, and the syringe churned with a sickening crunch. His hands shook and his shoulder tensed, his grip threatening to crack the glass cage. His breath shuddered as the needle delved further into the soaked eye. 

“AIZAWA! STOP!”

Shouta jerked his head upwards, but he didn’t need to turn it to watch the boy’s terrified expression. His hands covered his mouth, and his green curls shadowed the top half of his eyes, but he could see the utter horror lingering in the depths. 

A flicker of awareness brought Shouta back to reality. His attention shifted to the Doctor, his breath catching in his throat. He shakily released the syringe with his fingers trembling. He pushed himself backward, and in an instant, his vision tunneled on the bloodied and screaming Doctor in front of him. 

What did he do?

Why the hell did he do that?

His mind buzzed with confusion and disbelief. The shireks are ingrained in his mind, his eyes lingering at the needle’s impact. He didn’t recall taking that- He didn’t - No, he did. 

He- He-

The Doctor curled in together, his hand slowly raising to the syringe. He pathetically grasped it and slowly started to extract the needle. Shouta nearly wanted to puke as the blood strand connected to the silver and squenched when the other man managed to rip it out. 

The teacher tore his head away, his arms resting on the ground as he hunched over in disgust. “Ahnn…” His vision blurred, and all he could hear was the sound of his heavy breathing.