Chapter Text
*FANFIC SERIES LINK*:
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Heroes Never Die It's Hero Time (Fanfic) - TV Tropes
“I lost to you, All Might. The struggle I put up was truly pitiful. But it is you who failed in the end.”
“Beating me put you on a course that led you closer to your students. You missed your opportunity to vanish. You lost your chance to die.”
“A teacher’s job is to help his student become independent. When a student relies on a master, and that master disappears, the student’s hatred grows, allowing him to walk the path of a true leader.
“Mine has comrades, and he’s learned how to increase their number.”
“You’ll be fine, Tomura Shigaraki. Take all this experience, loathing, and regret, and use it as you move forward.”
“Now. it’s your turn.”
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Ch.1 End of the Beginning, Beginning of the End
Police Headquarters is a quiet uninspiring building. Anyone passing by would only assume it as part of the background. Just another standard office building filled with rows of cubicles and busy work. And yet the matters that are being discussed will soon be in the foreground.
“The Nomu we captured are just as unresponsive as the last ones. They’re basically mindless animals. We haven’t gotten any new info from them.” Admits the middle-aged officer before his cabal of nine other peers as a screen behind him displays the catastrophic battle that took place just days ago at Kamino Ward. “The warehouse they were kept in was completely destroyed. We’ll continue our investigation, of course, but we don’t know how much data we can collect.”
The Police Chief, an older well-seasoned man, leans his head against his hand as he eyes the suspiciously short report. “And we haven’t gotten any worthwhile information from the bar at all?”
“We’re still looking into that, sir.”
He can’t help but let out a groan, this entire debacle has been nothing short of a miserable showing.
But apparently, his younger, more inexperienced, colleagues don’t seem too perturbed. “We apprehended all the Nomu, sure, but we let most of the perpetrators, including Shigaraki, slip through our fingers. Honestly, even though we captured their boss, I’d have to say this whole thing was a draw.”
“Don’t be stupid.” Police Chief scoffs, his rough grating voice silencing his peers almost instantly. “Our country just lost the Symbol of Peace. All Might’s weakened body has been exposed to the world. Not to mention, we all watched as he bent to an unknown villain’s demands and was taken hostage. It’s plain to anyone that the indestructible hero can be defeated now. The citizens and the villains.”
If he thought of this as an elaborate game of chess then it meant that their Queen piece got itself surrounded from all sides. It never had a chance to escape.
Another police chief, this one with a rotund and slightly baby-fat face, sees his older colleague’s logic. “It’s what we get for relying too much on one pro hero.”
The older Police chief can’t bring himself to appreciate the most basic of understandings. “People now know they can raise hell with a handful of thugs. Hate to think what that might inspire.” He doesn’t acknowledge it out loud, but it should be clear whom he’s referring to.
Thankfully, not everyone here is as clueless as he thought, as the young officer from before continues his report.
“Our initial profile of Tomura Shigaraki described him as childish and prone to tantrums, but that’s obviously changed. His plans are growing more strategic. He now appears to be focused on how he can mold our society. His thought process has evolved. Matured. And since All Might’s out of the picture, we’ve lost our biggest deterrent to criminal activity. Each time the League fails, they come back stronger. And now, Shigaraki can greatly expand his sphere of influence.”
The inexperienced chief turns in his seat. “Are you suggesting that all of this was part of the League’s plan?”
Beside him, another inexperienced pup of a chief scowls. “That does sound like quite a leap.”
Not sure what else to do with their opinions the young officer continues on dutifully. “As for the villain All For One it has been confirmed that he has been apprehended and transported to an offshore prison. A prison which’s location cannot be disclosed and that the only ones privy to its location and access to said prisoner can only be granted by high-ranking government officials. This has been implemented in order to reduce the risk of escape, preserve the safety of the public, and to ensure that no one can be manipulated by All For One.”
Now this is a surprise; even the older Police Chief is taken back. But unlike his co-workers he doesn’t display this aloud.
The inexperienced chief from before nearly jumps out of his seat at the news. “Hang on! We’ve been denied access to even performing an interrogation?! On who’s jurisdiction?!”
The young officer squirms under their heated gazes but does his best not to stumble his answer. “This order comes straight from the Hero Public Safety Commission. The President herself messaged us directly.”
With that each police chief sits back down as if admitting defeat. “The Hero Public Safety Commission… There’s their hand, overreaching again.”
Eyeing his young colleagues, the Police Chief can’t help but throw salt on these self-inflicted wounds. “Still think it’s a draw?”
The youngin’s all scowl and flinch under his gaze but they dare not retort.
When silence befalls them, the Police Chief eyes the other reports on his desk. Specifically, the one written out by a Detective of the name of Tsukauchi. It’s well detailed and leaves no room for errors or questions on how U.A. conducted its own black-ops rescue mission. Overseen by Principal Nezu himself and with the aid of some lesser known, but well specialized, heroes they were able to rescue All Might and the student, Izuku Midoriya, from All For One’s mysterious benefactor. Vilgax.
Although it seems that not even Tsukauchi or the heroes present during the rescue can say much of him other than he was greatly incapacitated and yet had somehow escaped capture due to an unforeseen collapse of the facility. And yet despite the report’s details of the events, what truly bothers him is the fact they weren’t even included in on its occurrence until after the fact. No warrants. No pre-planning or coordination with the police. Even the way the report is addressing the events of the rescue make it seem like the police were nothing but an afterthought.
“We’re insignificant…”
A silence falls, their breaths lost, as the hard truth they were all denying was finally said aloud.
“We didn’t capture the leader of the League of Villains; the heroes did. We can’t pull answers from All For One; only those above us can. All Might fought and won; but we lost our Symbol. And we didn’t rescue either him or the student; the heroes did. We’ve been too complacent and comfortable for too long.” Even with his usually dreary outlook, he feels sullener and dourer than ever. And yet this is the moment that he and every single soul in this room have to commit themselves to moving forward. “There’s only one thing I can say for certain. We must capture the League of Villains, no matter what. As the police, we have to be more proactive in apprehending villains. We are not just backup. It’s time we implement changes.”
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This hospital room is too clean, too quiet, and too well-spaced. It’s a bit too much for his liking especially since this is nothing more than a routine check-up, but then again considering his history and rep it’s no wonder the hospital went all out with his accommodations. It even has a TV installed so he’d have something to listen to as he waits.
Too bad there’s nothing good on.
[“Will Harangue, here, and I’d like to say what we’re all thinking and that’s we’re so relieved and thankful to hear that All Might has been safely returned to us. And we wish him a speedy recovery! But of course, not all news is good my friends, we have it on good authority that after the battle at Kamino Ward, our national treasure of a HERO sustained…life altering injuries. The kind that would impede any hero work in the future. Although it sounds like that won’t be much in the cards. Yes my friends, sad to say but only a day after his return, All Might has officially announced his retirement as a pro hero. But don’t you fret friends! As long as Will Harangue is on air I’ll be sure to provide you-”]
Naomasa Tsukauchi scowls at the TV’s blank screen before shoving the remote back onto the shelf. ‘I can’t stand that guy.’ But he keeps his dour thoughts to himself; instead he grabs a seat and slides it beside his friend and his colleague before holding the backrest to his chest.
Even as the TV goes silent, Toshinori doesn’t seem to take notice, instead he stares down at his wait where he rests only one hand… “The embers inside of me have been snuffed out. The mighty Symbol of Peace is no more.” He tries to move his left fist, a fist that no longer exists, it’s nothing but a stump of an arm just below the shoulder. “However…I won’t just sit here. There’s still something I must do.”
Gran Torino leans into his cane from the seat beside Tsukauchi. “Tomura Shigaraki. Shimura’s grandson. Yes?”
Tsukauchi knew the conversation would come here. “The only proof we have of that is what All For One said. It’s not much to go on. The two of you didn’t have any interactions with Shimura’s family, even though you were so close to her?”
Gran Torino frowns and there’s a bitter sadness to him that he doesn’t bother to hide. “No.”
“But why not?”
“It happened soon after Shimura’s husband was killed. Concerned, she put her child in foster care to shield the youngster from the hero world. She told Toshinori and me that she didn’t want us to have any contact with the kid, even if something terrible were to happen to her.”
“And in the end, your promise backfired, huh? I’m sorry to hear that.”
Toshinori grabs at his left shoulder as if to steady himself. “My master gave up her heart so that her family might know a life full of peace. I must track Shigaraki down as soon as possible. I’ll find him, and then–”
“Then what? Give him a pat on the head?” Gran Torino doesn’t mean to sound harsh, but the truth must be stated. “You’re not looking at him like a villain he is anymore. That’s dangerous. Remember that no matter his lineage, he’s still a criminal.”
Toshinori doesn’t bother arguing; he knows that his teacher is right but still…
“Tsukauchi and I will investigate Shigaraki and the League without you for now. You stay at U.A. You still have many responsibilities there. Even if you cannot be the Symbol of Peace that you once were, don’t forget that All Might is still alive.”
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“Is that what you have decided then?”
“Yes.” Toshinori confirms. He’s out of the hospital now and donning a clean dress shirt and tie in an attempt to match those flanking his sides; Vlad King and Shota Aizawa. “I may have lost my strength, but my teacher is right; I have not lost my spirit.”
“All Might.” Principal Nezu peers upward from his desk to the now retired hero with sincere understanding. “You’ve saved thousands of people’s lives over these many years though it cost you your body and strength. As a citizen, a hero, and the principal, I cannot express how grateful we all are to you. However, given everything that’s happened, there are many who do not believe you should continue as a teacher at U.A.” The little chimera glances down at his tablet and the magazine article demeaning All Might’s retirement. “Some are pointing out that our troubles began when you started working here. They’re worried the children will continue to be caught in the crossfire, and that you can’t protect them anymore. It is a delicate situation. Nevertheless, I believe I know what we need to do to ease the concerns the public has expressed. We must strengthen the faith people have in the heroes we have left. It’s true, the threat we face is still troubling. But we will protect and train with more focus and diligence than ever before. That is why we’re going to implement a plan I’ve had in mind for a while.” Leaning forward he shoves a stack of forms over towards the trio of teachers. “I’m counting on you to convince the students’ families.”
“You can leave it in my hands, sir!”
“I know. And while you three see to the families I will see to ours.”
“R-right…” As Aizawa leads him away, Toshinori peers back at the conference room; grateful that he doesn’t have to be part of what he’ll assume to be some uncomfortable proceedings.
The room’s been divided, on one half of the table sit all the pro heroes of U.A. and on the other sits their…out of town guests. Led by Young Midoriya’s father, Hisashi Midoriya, and his colleagues: the mysterious Xylene, the slippery and silly Lucy Mann, the well-seasoned Patelliday, the helpful Tetrax Shard, and the bodiless Kraab. Apparently the robots and those two little frog men were left behind in their HQ. Something about wanting to keep this meeting as intellectually sound as possible.
One half the earthlings, the other half the aliens with only Thirteen sitting directly in the middle as if their physical presence will act as a bridge between the two groups.
Knowing they’ll be briefed later, Toshinori, Vlad King, and Aizawa make their way out for what they presume will be a day full of uncomfortable conversations.
Trusting them to their task, Nezu turns to address his own. His ever kind smile never waning as he observes the awkward and uncertain gazes that are being exchanged across the room. “Oh, my, are we having lingering hesitations about our guests?”
Cementoss frowns, “More questions about U.A. than anything else.”
“Sir.” With his feet kicked up on the table, Present Mic starts with his concerns. “Just how much is going to change around here? I mean, I’m not sure English class is going to help our students if they get abducted and taken to another planet!”
“Not to say of their training.” adds Ectoplasm. “We’re going to have to reevaluate everything.”
Recovery Girl frowns with worry. “Not to mention the health of our students. If we are in fact accepting non-human lineages then I need to be made aware before someone gets hurt and I misread their biology.”
Principal Nezu nods at each of their concerns; noting each of them. “All valid concerns; and I understand the confusion. So, to help us sort this out we should actually start with asking our honored guests just what steps they'll be taking next.”
Seeing that he’s expectedly waiting for an answer, Lucy goes ahead and starts. “Hey, Earth’s great! You guys are a real riot, but this place is a stop gap for me. I gotta hit the grind again and soon; with Vilgax…displaced things are gonna get real fun real soon. Haha! *Snort!* Haha!”
“A power vacuum has been created.” confirms Xylene. “Although nothing has come of it yet it will not be long till some other power tries to fill in the void. There’s going to be chaos and in that chaos perhaps answers will crop up.”
Snipe tilts his head in confusion. “Answers?”
“Yes.” she continues. “Before receiving your call for aid, I was on the trail of the Sculptor of Worlds.”
Midnight cups her chin with interest. “Sculptor of Worlds? Who is that?”
Xylene goes quiet, not because she can’t answer, but she is unsure if these humans would even understand.
Seeing as she’ll provide nothing, Thirteen goes ahead and speaks up. “Well…nobody knows.”
The pro heroes just stare at them, surely they don’t need to state how unhelpful that was.
“It’s this old legend,” interrupts Hisashi. “The Sculptor of Worlds is an omnipotent being of vast knowledge whose legendary acts have included the creation of a multitude of races, worlds, and technologies. And we suspect that this “being” is the one who created the Omnitrix.”
The heroes’ eyes go wide, some even looking up and out the large windows as if expecting a titan of a being to appear just through the clouds.
Curious, Tetrax leans forward in his seat causing it to rattle under his weight. “Any leads?”
“Nothing.” Xylene states with both disappointment and frustration. “ I only made it as far as potentiality confirming this rumor alone. It’ll be sometime before I return again with any substantial evidence.”
Principal Nezu nods in understanding. The Sculptor of Worlds…such a legendary being such as this will not be located so easily. It’ll be best to let Xylene lead the search on her own, until they find further clues.
And now with two of their guests addressed, Nezu goes ahead and turns his attention towards the least expected ally amongst them.
Seeing that all eyes are on him, Kraab raises his pincers up as if in a shrug. “At this point I’m here for the long haul.”
A chuckle slips from Tetrax’s throat. “Seriously? Did the kid turn your hide into a softshell?”
“Shut up! I didn’t go soft! I just…got a new job is all.”
“Sure.”
“If anyone’s gotten soft it’s you, Tetrax.”
“M-me?”
“Yeah, you were the best contracted bounty hunters out there and what?! A kid who struggles to keep eye contact with a female of his own species got you so bad that you’ll ride in like a-like a-I don’t know just to save him?!”
Reclining back, Tetrax eyes the cyborg almost questioningly for he has no idea what he could be implying.
But to those just seated across from him, do. “That something is what we call a hero.” admits Midnight.
But Tetrax is quick to refute it. “Don’t call me that, I’m no hero.”
Present Mic smiles, the kind of smile that seems like it knows more than he should. “Are you sure? From my understanding you risked just as much as any of us for Midoriya.”
Nodding Thirteen quickly chimes in as well. “You assisted us greatly at the U.S.J. Incident. And you’ve done your part in trying to divide Vilgax’s forces away from us to the best of your abilities!”
Principal Nezu couldn’t agree more. “And during your captivity they were unable to break you for information. All with the resolve of a hero. And any hero is more than welcomed here.”
Tetrax blinks, unsure of it all. “I don’t…have a place here."
“But you will.” From beside him the older Magister Patelliday reaches over and places a sharp clawed hand on his rocky shoulder. “I’ll see to that.”
Upon hearing the news, Hisashi sits up in his seat as a great big smile stretches across his face. “Magister, you better not be baiting us?”
“Ha ha! You can’t just toss me back after hooking me in. We’re about to receive a big helping of sardines soon and I for one am gonna make sure they’re ready for the cannery. No doubt we're gonna be sent some unseasoned guppies,” He turns back to Tetrax, “it’d be great to have someone on the team who knows how to bite.”
To say that the ex-bounty hunter is surprised would be an understatement. But with such raving reviews and perhaps a chance to start anew perhaps…“If you’d have me.”
“Ha! Welcome to the team, chum!” And the two alien warriors shake on it.
Although loving the feel-good moment, Present Mic does need to conversation to steer back to U.A. “But what about us? We still have our own guppies to look after?”
“Not much of our original plan has changed.” admits Principal Nezu. “We must continue to guide our young heroes through the times ahead. And we can start right where we left off.”
Cementoss nods in understanding and yet he has more to ask. “Alright, but what of the rest of Class A? Or even Class B? The student body? Do we plan on informing them of…everything?”
“No. Let’s keep with our official story for the time being. The situation as it is now is already delicate. Let's not strain it any further.”
“But what about those that are aware?”
“Thirteen will continue to oversee them. But I am considering the addition of more advanced tutelage but there’s only one variable I am counting on.”
Curious, Hisashi speaks up. “And what variable is that?”
“Well, to be frank-you.”
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“I dunno. Sounds pretty outta tune to me.” Kyotoku Jiro glares at the two men with his triangular eyes. His serious and uptight demeanor doesn’t match his wavy shoulder-length light-gold hair nor his maroon dress shirt.
Sitting beside him is what Toshinori and Aizawa assume will be how a future Kyoka Jiro will look; as Mika Jiro sits there with a kind smile looking like an older version of her daughter from the purple hair to the Earphone Jacks reaching out from her ears.
“I get that you guys don’t wanna keep talking about what happened, but movin’ the kids into dorms isn’t going to change the fact that my daughter was injured.”
Dressed as conservatively as he can be with a white dress shirt and tie, Aizawa holds eye contact, trying not to let his gaze wander across the room that seems to be a mix of a sound studio and a living room with all the stereos, instruments, and awards decorating the walls and furniture. “What you're saying is quite true, Mr. Jiro. However, I’d like to assure you that this is not a matter of U.A.’s pride. We’ve thought long and hard on the issue and believe this to be the best course of action.” He bows his head in respect and pleading. “I hope that you’ll give us the honor of continuing to teach Kyoka. I believe wholeheartedly that U.A. can help her grow into the best hero she can be.”
A door opens from nearby, presumably the kitchen followed by the familiar voice of his student. “Whoa. No need for you to be all formal, Mr. Aizawa.” Kyoka Jiro debates whether to laugh at her teacher’s demeanor but thinks better of it as she carries over glasses of lemonade for her teachers. “We decided what we were going to do as soon as we got the notice in the mail. I mean, you shoulda heard my old man during All Might’s fight.”
##########(Flashback)#########
“MY DAUGHTER’S TEACHER IS SO HARDCORE, MAN!!! THAT BATTLEFIELD IS A STADIUM AND HE’S ROCKIN’ IT DOWN!!!”
########(End Flashback)#######
“Yeah. I’m pretty sure he was crying.”
Kyotoku gasps in betrayal. “Kyoka, c’mon! I was tryin’ to act all strict ‘n stuff for these dudes!”
“Oh, chill, Dad.”
“Hey, cut it out you two.” Mika scolds. “Save the aggression for your music.”
Aizawa and Toshinori can only stare on as they both wander just how the rest of their visits will go and if they’ll be just as…enlightening.
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“Hey! Welcome!” Eijiro Kirishima is a beam of sunshine as he practically shoves his teachers into his home. “Gosh it’s so manly to have Eraserhead and All Might at our house!! Moms! Come say hi!!”
“Welcome!!” Greets one of Kirishima’s moms from the living room where she’s currently benching 200. “You two look skinny! Grab a dumbbell and build up those frames!!”
“And eat!” Proclaims the softer of the two moms from the kitchen window. “Protean will help keep those muscles happy and healthy!!”
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“Of course I want U.A. to take care of my little Sparkplug!!” The pro-hero Thundershock all but gushes as she latches onto her boy in a big-whole-hug that he’s obviously against. “After your retirement all heroes are gonna have to earn their keep. And I for one plan on fully committing myself to it. At least this way I know Denki is being well looked after since I can’t be there for him!”
“Mom! Please!!”
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And so it went with every stop becoming more and more enlightening and less about trying to convince the parents of anything.
The Aoyamas greeted them in spectacular fashion to their mansion. With doves and fireworks galore to the point that you’d be mistaken if you thought that a king had just arrived at their door.
The Kodas were far humbler and they actually ended up spending the most time there. Mainly because Toshinori couldn’t pull Aizawa away from the fluffy rabbits and purring cats fast enough.
At Todoroki manor they could have sworn they smelled smoke, but Fuyumi Todoroki insisted that their father was preoccupied and so she oversaw Shoto’s confirmation to continue to U.A.
The Ashidos were odd to say the least. Mina insisted on an entire dance to greet them that neither Toshinori or Aizawa knew if it was an actual TikTok dance or something of an alien traditional dance.
The Asuis seemed like a normal family at first. Greeting them casually and professionally, Mr. Asui even provided them with his business cards. But then came the hello song of riveting croaks and melodious harmonies that could only come from a family of frogs.
Surprisingly the Tokoyami residence was not some gothic castle but a well decorated and light modern suburban home. Although Nuchou Tokoyami, or rather Inspector Tezuka, did insist that the Midoriyas better not be a bad influence on her chick.
And so the day went with surprisingly little arguing, debating, or convincing to be had. In fact most families were just happy the school sent teachers to see them. It certainly is making it easier on them.
And Aizawa couldn't be more relieved as he takes his seat in the back of the cab beside Toshinori. “Y’know, I thought the parents would come down on us a lot harder. I suppose…I owe you a drink.”
Toshinori chuckles. “No thanks. I can’t drink. Besides, it’s not a contest. Plus, the next family…probably won’t be so easy.”
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“You kiddin’? Hell yeah, get this kid in a dorm room!” Mitsuki Bakugou is all warm smiles despite the fact she just whacked her own son on the back of the head.
“You hag! Hit me again and I’ll kill you!"
“Oh, hush!” She barks, looking just as furious as her boy; whacking him again. “If you hadn’t been so damn weak, you never would’ve gotten caught and caused all that trouble!!”
Her husband, Masaru Bakugou, tries in vain to settle them down with a too cautious of an approach. “C’mon, you two. Please, no fighting. We don’t wanna frighten your teachers, do we?”
He was right to be cautious as the two angry Pomeranians suddenly turn on him. “Shut it you clown!!”
“You can’t speak to your father that way-!!”
And so the yelling and shouting commences leaving Toshinori and Aizawa very off put by it all. Although out of all the homes they’ve visited this one has been the most revealing to Young Bakugou’s…personality.
Toshinori all but freezes in his seat. ‘Jeez, some family dynamic.’
Figuring they might as well get a move on, Aizawa tries to reel the conversation back. “Sooo, you’re saying you give us your consent?”
“Hm?” With her hand still lodged against her son’s head, Mitsuki calmly turns back to the pair of teachers. “Oh, the dorm? Actually, we’re grateful. Katsuki’s fearless and good at everything he tries, especially since he’s got that stupid-awesome Quirk. People were always fawning over him whether he deserved it or not.” She smiles on ignoring her son’s nasty scowls. “It’s probably why he ended up like this. That’s why I liked what you said at the press conference.”
##########(Flashback)#########
Back during the conference that Aizawa, Vlad King, and Nezu held before the raid of Kamino Ward.
There was a moment when confronted about Katsuki Bakugou’s convictions where Aizawa stood before the sharks and proclaimed himself. “As Katsuki Bakugou’s teacher I take full responsibility for not taming his violent behavior. However, his actions during the Sports Festival were born of his deep-seeded convictions. He’s trying harder than anyone in his pursuit to become the top hero. If the villains think they have a chance with him, then they are grossly mistaken. I can guarantee you that much.”
########(End Flashback)#######
“See, that’s when I understood that the school was watching him closely. I was worried about the kid, obviously, and didn’t know what would happen. But he’s back now, safe and sound, so it worked out. I’m sure U.A. will face harsh criticism from some people. We still trust you, though, so we’ll leave him to you.” She shares a look with her husband who smiles back in kind. “Right?”
“Mh-hm!” he nods in full agreement.
And together they bow, although Mitsuki has to shove Katsuki’s head down with them. “He’s a hot-tempered brat, and we know he’s a pain, but please train him hard and make him a good hero.”
Well, Aizawa certainly didn't see this coming. Out of all the families he was so certain this one would be the most…Explosive.
There’s a tap to his side and his gaze drifts over to a grinning Toshinori who whispers gleefully. “I owe you a drink for this one.”
And shortly after that they make their leave, checking the list once again as they reach their car.
“Young Midoriya’s house is close by isn’t it?” asks Toshinori as he adjusts the bandages around his left stump.
Aizawa checks the list before answering, “It is but we don’t have to go.”
“Really?”
“According to Nezu, a different staff member will be addressing them.”
“A different staff member?”
“In any case, we have one more and she’s the furthest away.”
“Ah, yes.” Toshinori pauses before hopping into the car. “There’s much to discuss with Young Uraraka.”
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It’s gotten late, as the setting sun is any indication. It casts an array of orange hues over the calm quiet town of Endori and its surrounding woodlands. Located in the Mei Prefecture, this quiet town sits snugly at the base of its forested guardian, Lothaal Mountain.
And for Toshinori it’s a sight he shamefully hasn’t had the pleasure of seeing in a long time. Not since his days of training Young Uraraka for the U.A. Entrance Exam. Oh, how long ago that was. So much has changed. For example, for once he is not going from the train station to Lothaal Mountain but instead he makes way for a new destination, his student’s home.
Aizawa directs their driver to a stop and their car parks itself in front of a small suburban home. “We’re here.”
Stepping out, Toshinori notes that it’s a small home, nothing fancy, nothing huge, it’s only 1 story tall with a small yard and made of cheap materials. Yet it looks sturdily built from the fence to the roof. Everything uses the most cost effective materials and looks as professionally constructed as reconstruction projects Toshinori’s seen after major villain damages.
Aizawa moves to open the short wooden gate that leads into the garden when a fury brown creature leaps onto the fence. “Bark! Bark!”
Aizawa jumps but quickly composes himself before shaking his head in annoyance.
But Cosmo simply smiles back with her tongue hanging out to the side and with a tilt of her adorable little head. “Bark! Bark!”
“Haha!” Toshinori reaches over, giving the girl a nice scratch under the ears. Which is the only spot he can reach considering the dog is still wearing her spacesuit. “Well hello again little lady.”
“Bark!”
“Mr. Aizawa! All Might!” The front door of the house slams open as a frazzled Ochaco rushes out, grabbing onto Cosmo and pulling her away from the gate. “I’m so sorry about her! She’s just really excited to see you both!”
Aizawa waves it off as he steps into the garden. "It’s fine, honestly this is the tamest greeting we’ve had all day.”
“Hm?”
Cosmo hurries to the door and rushes inside earning a delightful yelp from Ochaco’s Mother who just stepped out to greet her daughter’s teachers. “Welcome to our home, please come inside.”
Aizawa bows slightly as he approaches, “Thank you for having us, ma’m.”
“Yes, thank you.” Toshinori mirrors him before extending his hand out. “It’s an honor to finally meet you…”
She takes his hand in greeting as they step inside. “Achako Uraraka.”
“A pleasure.” Toshinori can’t mistake the resemblance, Achako looks incredibly like her daughter from the chestnut hair to the rosy cheeks, just older and slightly tired, but just as cheery and kind.
Upon entering they find themselves in an open layout of a living room and a kitchen/dining room. And waiting for them inside is a handsome yet tired looking man. He looks fit, no doubt from the physical demands that construction work requires, and it looks like he hasn’t been able to shave for a few days. Perhaps a sign he has been hard at work for several days before finally returning home today. His hand is calloused and firm as he takes Toshinori’s in greeting. “Mr. All Might, it’s such an honor! A real honor, sir! Haruto Uraraka at your service.”
Toshinori can’t help but smile, the energy he gets from this family is simply beaming. “The honor’s all mine. And please, just Toshinori Yagi is fine.”
Ochaco hurries in after them. “Mr. Aizawa, All Might. Want anything to drink?”
“Do you have coffee?” asks Aizawa.
“Yeah, buuut just the cheap stuff.”
“Fantastic.” He smiles, genuinely pleased.
As the youngest Uraraka gets the coffee maker going the adults get themselves sorted with Toshinori and Aizawa both given the small couch leaving the Urarakas to bring over the chairs from their dining table just feet away with Cosmo pacing on the carpet between them all.
As they take a seat Aizawa notes that the inside is a lot like the outside; cheap, money saving, items but well built with minimal decor and a lack of quality appliances or furniture but everything is clearly well maintained and will no doubt work years beyond expected expiration. But it’s clearly a home full of warmth and love that could only produce a childlike Ochaco. “Thank you for having us. And pardon my bluntness but I’d like to get straight to the heart of the matter. But we would be honored if you’d allow us to continue with Ochaco’s edu-”
“Of course!”
“Yup! That won’t be an issue!”
Toshinori nearly falls out of his seat, “Really?!”
Even Aizawa’s taken back by the sudden responses, “Certainly you have reservations?”
Pausing the Urarakas exchange knowing looks before Haruto speaks up. “Of course we’re worried. I mean…how could we not? I mean… But then again, how could we live with ourselves if we ended her dream?”
“Our daughter’s happiness is everything to us.” admits Achako. “It’s the reason we do everything we do.” She peers over towards the kitchen where her daughter’s pouring out the coffee. “She may not be aware of it but we know she does what she does because she wants everyone to smile with her. The worst thing to us is if we take that opportunity away.”
Ochaco arrives with the coffee and having heard the last sentence she smiles lovely at her mother.
“It’s not our way to count out those that others say are defective.” admits Haruto. “Working in construction; people in the industry swear you need the latest gear, tools, and know-how that’ll make the job easier and cheaper… But honest hard work from good people can do just as good of a job if not better than any cheap fix. As long as we’ve known U.A. and the heroes it produces we know none of you do things the cheap way. U.A. didn’t become the institution it is today without hard-honest work, and we respect that. That’s why we can forgive any stumbles.” He looks to All Might and glances down at his missing arm. “You’ve already shown us just how far you’ll go for any student. No matter how bloody and beaten up you get… So, of course, we’ll leave her education to your hands.”
And together the Urarakas, including Cosmo, bow their heads in thanks and respect.
This is not the first time this has happened today, and maybe that fact alone hits Toshinori the hardest. His tired heart can’t put into words the emotions coursing through him; is it pride? Gratefulness? Relief? Grief? He’s not sure but he is sure of one thing: their students are truly amazing. No family has rejected them; none have held anything against them and it’s all because of their children. Their beautiful, wonderful children. These children…these young heroes are truly resilient and so brave that they enthusiastically wish to return to heroism. So, much so that their families can’t help but to support their wishes with all their hearts. Toshinori couldn’t be more grateful to have been assigned to this task; it’s truly been a revealing day.
Aizawa lets out a long-held sigh. And why shouldn’t he? With this he can confidently say that his entire class is staying intact. And he’s grateful for that.
Not much is discussed after that, just the adults enjoying their bitter yet sweetly warm coffee. After a little while Ochaco calls Cosmo as she goes for her leash before stating that they were gonna go for a walk up the mountain. Her parents don’t raise any objections but as she leaves she locks eyes with Toshinori who quickly gets the message.
Meanwhile, as Aizawa finishes his coffee, Mrs. Uraraka leans over at a whisper. “I actually do have one concern. Essentially, we’re about to have a bunch of teenagers living unsupervised under one roof. Not implying anyone would do anything! But you know…”
“Don’t worry, ma’am, it’s well in hand.”
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It’s dark out now, and without a cloud in the sky the stars are out in full force on this quiet summer night. He needs the peace and quiet after a day like today, and so did Aizawa considering he didn’t put up an argument when Toshinori said that he’d take the train home later.
The fresh air is also doing him a lot of good with the cool mountain air filling his lungs and crickets singing their songs between the soft rustling of the trees. It's all such a peaceful atmosphere. And with the stars out in such force there’s no need for a light to guide his way up the mountain path. After all, he used to come up here all the time back when he was training Young Uraraka for the U.A. Entrance Exam so he knows it well. ‘Feels so long ago now.’
He’s thankful for his memory, although it has been sometime since he’s trekked this path, muscle memory leads him swiftly to the summit where one of the brightest stars he’s ever seen is waiting for him. “Young Uraraka!”
Seated on the bench she helped to craft, that overlooks the town of Endori below, is Ochaco with Cosmo at her side.
Shooting up to her feet Ochaco breaks into a wide grin. “Sure took you long enough!”
Toshinori takes off into a sprint to which Ochaco holds her hands up at the ready. “All Might!” ”
“Texas… SHAME!!!” And with a thwack of his hand, he karate chops the poor girl right on the head!!
“Ooowww!!” Ochaco drops to the ground, clutching her head with a whimper. “Whhhyyy?!”
“You made a promise!” He fumes with anger which will not be quelled by her or Cosmo’s puppy dog eyes. “but as it turns out you kids can’t keep your word. Ugh, if you kids had gotten hurt it would have all been in vain!”
Yeah, she knows. Kamino Ward, they were never supposed to be there. Iida and so many of her classmates warned her as much. Guess in all the chaos of everything, punishment for that little rebellion kinda went under the radar till now.
“You’ve got some bad influences.”
She can agree on that. He is one of them after all.
“Young Uraraka. Listen. I’m officially retired as a pro.”
She knew that but…it’s still quite the shock to hear it from him directly.
“It’s clear that my body isn’t going to allow me to fight another battle. The last sparks of One For All have left my body.” Suddenly his entire body, minus the arm, buffs up like a balloon into his muscular form. He shadow boxes the air before shrinking in a puff of smoke and a vomit of blood.
“Eeek!!”
“*Cough.* And my muscle form won’t last for any significant amount of time. I can’t protect you when you put yourself in danger now. And you and your friends are always rushing in to try to help, no matter what I tell you. Yes back there, you managed to…”
She flinches expecting another thwack to the head but instead she’s given a warm embrace.
“Rescue your friends and me not once but twice, All without substantial injuries to yourself and your friends. I’m so proud of you.”
“All Might…”
“From here on out, I will devote myself to training you. You’re stuck with me, so let’s keep working hard together.”
“O-Okay!” She tears up more out of relief than anything else. “I honestly thought you’d be angrier. Considering everything we’ve-I’ve held from you…”
“Young Uraraka, I can’t hold that against you. Not after the reason was proven right. Look at me I’ve worn myself down to the bone all for the sake of being the Symbol of Peace.” Pulling away he peers back up at the ocean of stars. “It’s amazing to think that the Symbol of Peace’s light was able to reach even further than I first imagined. But right now I need to focus my attention on the stars here at home.” Taking a shaky breath, the once former Symbol of Peace stands before his pupil and proclaims, “As you know my path to where I am now was filled with blood. But that is why, to keep you and the rest of your class from going down the same path, I want to stand by you and walk together with you. I will protect you and raise you up, even if I have to give my life to do so!!”
“All Might…” Ochaco should feel honored. She should feel reassured. She should be in tears at the scale of his words. But instead, she only feels…concern. “But…how do you expect any of us to smile if you did?”
Toshinori is left stupefied, but she continues.
“How do you expect anyone to be able to smile if that’s the case? I know…I know I wouldn’t be able to and neither would anyone else! We’d be devastated! We’d…we’d be lost. And not just me, but Bakugou, Todoroki, Mina, Everyone! Even Deku…”
She has his full attention; he even shifts uncomfortably when Deku was mentioned as if he’s not as confident of her assumption as she is.
“We don’t need you dying for our sake, All Might. We need to know that you’ll always be there behind us. Not gone. So please, please! Please live properly to protect not just me but for all of us. If you can promise me that, then that’ll be enough…”
With tears in his sunken eyes, Toshinori musters all his resolve with a determined, “I promise.”
Ochaco couldn’t be happier. And after getting their emotions reigned in they both take a seat and take a moment to look out towards the sky.
“Everything’s gotten so much bigger than I could have imagined. “ Admits the retired pro hero. “So much to be done and so much I don’t know…”
Ochaco winces at the guilt, “It’s…I’m sorry about that.”
“It’s not your fault; it wasn’t your call.”
“Still…” She then lights up as an idea strikes. “But that doesn’t matter now!”
“Pardon?”
“From here on out! There’ll be no more secrets between us!”
“Is that right?” He smiles. “Well, there’s a lot I need to be caught up on if you have the time?”
She chuckles as Cosmo gets settled in beside her. “I guess it started with an alien device…”
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“And that’s why Vilgax was after me! He wanted the Omnitrix for himself to conquer the galaxy but thanks to U.A. and the Plumbers he’s gone now! And well,” Izuku sits back down beside his mom, knowing there’s not much else to the story other than what’ll be discussed from this point on.
And here he and his parents have been since Hisashi came back from U.A. that morning. Feeling that he owed her a lot of overdue truths and with the question of going back to U.A. in the air, Izuku has spent almost the entire day recounting the last year or so of his life. Starting with the day he found the Omnitrix to now. Of course, some details were…edited to soften the blows like the full reason Henzu Uuichi turned villain.
Which according to Inko was a shame and a real tragedy. She knew he was a troubled boy but always thought he was kind deep down and just needed a nice home…
“Oh, my.” That said, it's still a lot for sweet ol’ Inko to take in. Yes she already found out about all the aliens, and the Omnitrix, and the secrets but to hear about just how much Izuku’s gotten into it’s just…wow.
“This-this is a lot…” It might be too much, so much so that she needed to take a seat a long time ago where she’s now trembling with her hands fidgeting on the table as she desperately tries to keep herself composed.
“It is a lot.” admits Hisashi, seated across the table, he's been as compliant as possible answering any and all questions Inko had for him. “But the takeaway is that our boy has what it takes be an amazing hero and Plumber. Which is why Izuku needs to continue his education at U.A.” He eyes the letter on the table, the one sent by U.A. detailing the plans for the students to move to dormitories and to continue their academia.
Although as Izuku’s father he can sign off on his continued education. But considering, well, everything he’s put his family through, especially his wife, he thought it best that they have her blessing. Which brings them to this moment.
“I…and I won’t allow it.”
Izuku nearly falls out of his seat in shock, “Wait, what! But I thought that you-”
“I have given it thought! A lot of thought!” Inko’s voice is firm yet shaky, filled with pain yet protective determination. “Izuku, Hisashi, what you both do is amazing. But it terrifies me every time I hear the villains attack the school and now I have to worry about monsters coming from the sky to take you away from me!”
Neither know what to say; allowing her a chance to vent everything.
“Izuku you admired heroes and All Might for so long even though you never developed a Quirk as a kid. And then, miraculously, one suddenly appears.” She eyes that alien watch skeptically finding the slim metallic design like a chain on her boy. “But ever since you enrolled at U.A. you, my child, just keep getting hurt.” She saw the Sports Festival; she saw Kamino Ward, and she saw the heroes after returning from space. “I watched All Might on TV, and I saw what that villain did to him. And then for this Vilgax to appear and prove that he’s even worse.” She fails to choke back a sob. “Hisashi, you are a hero, I’m not sure you can really understand what I, a normal civilian, is feeling. But I was so terrified… And if he follows your path, his future will be filled with blood. So…I’m sorry.” She thinks back to her little boy’s childhood: the games they played together while he ran around the house in his All Might onesies. His pleading to rewatch that same video over and over. The excitement of watching a new hero’s debut. The flood of memories are so warm, so full of light, and feel so delicate at this moment. “He’s my son…” And then there was the day his dream all but shattered by the doctor’s callous report…he’s Quirkless. “Forgive me, Izuku…Back when you were Quirkless you were always so happy just watching the heroes do their jobs. Maybe it was better that way. I don’t know.”
Izuku, panicked, is quick to deny it. “That’s not true!”
“Honey, I told you I’d support you, but that I wouldn’t stop worrying. Do you remember that?”
He does. It’s the promise she made to him when she gifted him his first hero suit.
“And I know all you want is to keep going to U.A. and to be a Plumber, but… I can’t take it anymore-!” She’s unable to contain it as tears and choking sobs rush out. “I-...I’m sorry…!”
Izuku’s stunned, he can’t help but feel betrayed but…he shouldn’t have been surprised. He shouldn’t be. He’s been ignoring his mother’s feelings for so long. Willingly keeping her in the dark for over a year now. This was long overdue…
Reigning in her failing nerves, she continues, locking eyes with her husband who’s been silent and listening this entire time. “I’ll speak frankly, Hisashi. As Izuku’s mother and as your wife, I don’t have the nerves I’d need to entrust my son to U.A. or the Plumbers. Not with everything that’s happened. It doesn’t matter what wonderful heroes there are at U.A. When the villains attack the classes were canceled and yet the children were still attacked and almost killed by the aliens and monsters out there. I won’t put my son in danger. My son that I raised. My son that I love. It’s my duty as his mother to keep him safe.”
Hisashi, wisely, keeps quiet. That one word, my, speaks volumes of her feelings. ‘She was the only constant in Izuku’s entire life. She’s sacrificed far more than he’ll ever know. For all intents and purposes, she’s done the hardest parts while I come in after he’s already developed into a young adult. It’s not fair to ask her for more…’
Izuku, however, can't sit there and let his dream slip away without at least a decent argument. “It’s not like that, Mom!” he all but shouts while shooting up from his seat. “It’s my own fault that I keep getting hurt!” He was the one that got them caught by the League, it was him who went after Stain without backup, it was him that insisted on fighting in the U.S.J. and so much more. And he was always bailed out by his friends and heroes! “The teachers warned me over and over again, but I didn’t listen.”
“So, you’re saying you didn’t learn? Don’t you think that means the school’s responsible?”
Izuku…doesn’t know how to respond. He just stands there looking at his mother in utter disbelief.
“Izuku, sit down…” Hisashi whispers, grateful that he does as he’s told without argument.
“I might be acting like an overprotective parent,” Inko continues. “But I’m at peace with that. And while I don’t want to steal my son’s dream away from him, he can always go to a different school. There are lots of other hero courses out there besides the one at U.A.”
In a moment of panic, Izuku shoots up from the table and dashes out of the dining room and towards his room with a loud slam of the door.
“Izuku!” Inko springs out of her seat and moves to follow him.
Which is more than her husband who doesn’t reach for him. ‘I’m sorry Izuku. But please don’t blame your mother. This is on me. If I was here. If I was here to actually share with her burdens. Then maybe just maybe this…things would have been different. I’m sorry, I know how much U.A. means to you-’
Izuku bursts back into the room, looking, not frustrated nor deterred, but resolute. “Mom, it doesn't have to be U.A.!” In his hand he holds several pages of damaged and soiled papers which he quickly unfolds for them to see. “Here. Look at this. You too, Dad. I got a letter. My friend got it to me. And it's from the boy I saved at the training camp. Kota, someone who hated heroes and Quirks, wrote to thank me for saving him.”
He turns the letter back so he can read it again, despite how wrinkled it became during his rescue and despite the odd smell emanating from it, and the darkened smudges this letter has quickly become one of his most cherished items. Because it’s proof that he saved someone. It’s proof that for one night, for one moment, he was the hero he always dreamed of becoming.
“I know I’m hopeless and make you worry all the time. But still. When I read this note, even if it was just for a moment, it made me feel like a real hero.” His tears land on the letter, marking it up even more. “I was so happy. I know who I’m meant to be, and that’s what I’ll train for! At U.A., or not, I swear it!”
His parents, his family, are stunned by his proclamation. Inko is left standing there speechless while Hisashi can feel the embers in his spirit stirring.
‘Izuku…’ Hisashi shoots up in his seat, causing it to fall over. ‘You are not just an aspiring hero, you are a wonderful son, a diligent student, and a loyal friend to everyone you meet. You are on your own path toward greatness. Inko, you’ve done absolutely amazing, no you’ve gone beyond amazing when raising such a fine young man. I failed to be here. So this is all because of you.’
He stands before his family and with great courage he gets on his knees and bows before his wife and child, pressing his head to the floor with such fierce resolve that he won’t care if he bleeds. “I won’t ask for your forgiveness. It’s too late for that. Even if I said I failed you both, that itself is a lie because that implies that I tried. The truth is I never even tried to be a father, to be a husband, to be the person you both can rely on and trust. Inko, my sweet sweet Inko, you are stronger than me. You’ve sacrificed far more than either Izuku or I can ever hope to understand. You are the hero of this family. You raised Izuku and worked through all the struggles it entailed. And here I am, interjecting myself back into your lives like I’ve earned it. But I haven't. Inko…you raised a wonderful young man and I know it was…is a struggle. So, I ask-beg you here and now to share that struggle with me, no! I want you to put the full brunt on my shoulders. It’s far past the time that I pulled my weight in this family. And in doing so I promise that I will be the father and husband you both deserve!!”
“D-Dad…”
“But please understand…” Hisashi continues. “That the heroes of U.A. and the Plumbers know that things can’t continue as they’ve been. We’re committed to ensuring the safety of the students from here on out. It’s the top priority. Don’t look to what we are now, to towards the future. Inko, let Izuku become the hero he was always meant to be. And I will be sure to be there right behind him, not only supporting him but protecting him. And I will be there to make sure he doesn’t take my path; the path of secrets, lies, and broken promises. I will make sure that he becomes a better hero, a better man, than I am! I PROMISE!!!”
Silence follows Hisashi’s vow.
And Inko, dear Inko, is shaken so much that she collapses to her knees, which frightens her son. But she cannot hear him asking if she’s okay instead she is paradoxically calm as if everything has finally become clear for her “I don’t blame you or U,.A. I just want Izuku to be happy…”
Tears leak from Izuku; as the truth of her decision cuts deep.
“But I refuse to let you put this entire burden on your shoulders. Because a family…shares their burdens.”
For the first time, Hisashi looks up; his red gaze meeting her emerald eyes.
“No more secrets. No more lies. No more disappearing for years on end. To be a family, for Izuku to be the best he can be, he needs both his parents behind him. If you can promise me that we can be a family that can share our worries together then…then I will allow Izuku to return to U.A.”
Tears well up in their child’s eyes, “M-Mom…”
As Hisashi presses his head to the ground and gives a firm, “I promise.”
“Izuku.” His mother addresses him with a calm yet serious serenity. “If you’re going back to this school then you have to be so careful.”
“Of course! I won’t make you worry.”
“Hisashi.” Inko gently caresses the sides of his face; pulling him away from the floor. “Please. Take good care of our boy.”
“I will.” He all but sobs in promise. “No more secrets. No more deceptions. This is a whole new chapter for us. For all of us. Everything will change. Together, you and I, will take good care of him at U.A.”
Izuku is in tears; this night has been nothing short of a rollercoaster of despair to brimming hope. He’s going to return to U.A. He’s going back to his friends. To his teachers. To his Hero Academia! And with his family who will be taking care of him even at U.A.!! … Wait? “Hang on, it’s a dorm system. So, I think you guys will need permission to visit.”
Hisashi blinks in realization. “Oh, right. I forgot to tell you both but um, it’s not just you going back to U.A.”
“…Huh?”