Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“This is your last year of Highschool. You all need to seriously think about what you want to do with your life, and what colleges you’re going to apply to.” Mr. Sugimoto said, before staring at the sheets. He rolled his eyes, before tossing the stack on the desk. “Who am I kidding, all of you are applying for UA or Shiketsu, aren't you?”

Cheers erupted around the class, as the students let their excitement be known. Quirks were thrown around the classroom, as everyone activated them in excitement. All but two members of the class.

Katsuki had leaned forwards. “Tch. As if these fucking losers have any chance of making it into UA.” He mocked.

Izuku turned over his shoulder and attempted to muffle his laugh a bit. “Kacchan, that’s mean. Don't say that.” He argued, but the laughs he continued to muffle, ruined the scolding he intended to give the blond.

“Midoriya.” Mr. Sugimoto’s voice cut through the noise of the classroom, sharp and stern. “I don't think you should be laughing, young man. I’ve heard you are aiming for UA. Isn't it about time you got over your delusions?”

Izuku could hear the growling from Katsuki behind him. He had to do something before the blond blew up at the man again. “I can apply to multiple schools, Sensei. There’s no harm in trying. Worst comes to the worst, and I don't get accepted.”

Mr. Sugimoto scoffed. “Yes, I suppose you would view wasting people's time as no harm. But I’ll not have you wasting mine anymore. Sit down, and be quiet. Not another word from you.” The man glared at Izuku when the boy opened his mouth to confirm that he would, so instead he closed his mouth and nodded, as the man moved on.

True to what the man had ordered, Izuku didn't say another word for the rest of class. He could feel the blond behind him seething, but they had been through this thousands of times before. Getting angry would only make the punishment for Izuku worse, even if Katsuki was the one acting out. That was enough to keep him in line. Eventually though, the bell dismissed the class, and the students filed out. All but Katsuki and Izuku.

“I can't fucking believe that asshole. Who the fuck does he think he is?” Katsuki said, the second it was just them left.

Izuku turned around in his chair. “That’s just how people are. You gotta get better at ignoring it. It’s not gonna change just because we got into UA.”

“Yeah. I know that.” Katsuki admitted. “I’m just fucking tired of them. They act like you’re fucking useless. Like some kind of pity project I keep, rather than a regular fucking person.”

“They’re not entirely wrong. I know my chances of making it into UA are slim. Doesn't mean I won't still try.”

“Gonna be a damn shame if UA doesn't accept you. I was looking forward to going there.” Katsuki said.

Izuku glared at him lightly. “You will be. Even if I get rejected, you’re not giving up a spot at UA for me. Then I really would just be a pity project.” He said harshly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

“Yeah yeah.” The blond grumbled. For a bit, neither moved, content to sit in the peaceful silence. “You ever think that maybe they have a point?” Katsuki practically whispered. His head shod down from looking at the ceiling, to stare at Izuku with wide eyes as he tried to clarify. “I just mean you’re so fucking smart that if you went into support-”

“Katsuki.” That single word shut him up. Izuku glared at him again, this time far more real, and far more harsh. “I’m leaving.” He said, grabbing his bag.

“Shit, Zuku I didn't mean-” The blond’s hand lightly grabbed onto his shoulder, trying to stop him.

“I really don't want to hear it right now.” Izuku snapped, as he turned around. He saw the worried look on Katsuki’s face and took a deep breath. “I know you didn't mean it in a bad way. But I need some time to myself. Just go home.”

“Fuck.” Katsuki said, looking defeated. “I’m sorry.” He mumbled.

“I know. I just can't deal with this right now. Not from you.” Izuku said, turning back around, and shrugging off the boy’s hand. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

-(o)-

Izuku had decided to take the side route home. He didn't want to walk back with Katsuki right now. He knew the Blond wasn't trying to be mean with his words, but that didn't mean they didn't hurt. No one believed in his ability to be a hero. His mom wanted him to be safe, his teachers thought he was an idiot. Katsuki was the only one who thought he had a chance. And then he would say shit like that. Izuku knew it wasn't meant to be that he thought Izuku couldn't be a hero. He trusted the blond. But at the same time, this wasn't the first argument they’d had, where Katsuki had suggested Izuku go into support. It was demoralizing, knowing that even his best friend thought he might be better off doing something else.

So he took a different route, needing some time to cool off. He walked through the path, under the overpass, lost in his thoughts, when suddenly, something slimy wrapped around his ankle. Izuku whipped around, to see the form of a man made entirely of sludge, grinning horrifically down at him. He opened his mouth to scream, only for the creature to rush forwards in an instant, the sludge and muck filling his mouth, as he fought against it. “No use struggling now kid! Can't have you screaming.” He cackled. “You’ll make a perfect invisibility suit for me. So just open wide, and let go.” He said, his tone sending chills through Izuku’s body as he desperately tried to fight the man off.

It was no use though, as quickly, Izuku found himself blacking out. As his vision began to fully fade away, Izuku made out a blur of blue and yellow, as the last thing he saw.

When he woke back up, it was to immediately begin hacking out sludge from his lungs onto the concrete next to him. Izuku groaned as he stopped, slowly sitting up. “Are you okay kid?” He heard, and his vision snapped to the speaker in fear. But there, standing before him in all his glory, was The Symbol of Peace himself, All Might. “You were only out for a few seconds, but I still want to make sure you’re doing all good.” 

“A-All Mi-” Izuku was cut off from another surge of sludge being hacked up from his body as he spoke. The boy turned, and began to cough it out onto the concrete once more. Slowly, feeling like absolute shit, he wiped off his mouth, and turned to the man. “All Might?” He asked weakly, still not fully processing that the man was really here.

“It is in fact me, young man.” The hero gave him a bright smile. “Are you okay?” He asked again, concerned.

“I… yes, I think so.” Izuku said bewildered at meeting his hero for the first time. “You… you saved me.” Izuku managed, his brain slowly catching up with the sheer overload of information. “I… oh my God, you’re All Might. Like, you’re actually him!”

All Might laughed. “That is quite true, young man. I’m glad to see you’re doing well enough to fanboy.” He frowned slightly. “I am afraid I must leave though. I’ve called an ambulance, and they should be here soon to get you checked out. I have to get this villain to the police station.”

The man stood up to turn around and leave, and Izuku’s eyes widened. He hurriedly grabbed his things, stuffing them in his backpack and zipping it, before running over to All Might just as the man was about to jump. What he was about to do was so absurdly stupid, but he had to damnit. He latched onto the man’s leg just as he leapt, and quickly began to hurtle through the air alongside the hero. All Might turned to look down at him with shock and confusion. “Young man, what are you doing!?”

Izuku’s eyes were screwed shut, the sheer speed too much to handle otherwise. “I’m sorry sir, but I really need to ask you a question! It’s important!”

Izuku felt a hand move to cradle his back, and felt himself be pulled up slightly, the man holding him protectively into his side so Izuku wouldn't be hurt when they landed. “If it was important enough to risk your life, then I suppose it warrants an answer.” He said quietly.

Moments later, they landed on the roof of another building, where the man put Izuku down, who quickly took a few steps backwards. “Again, I'm sorry sir, but I have to know.” Izuku apologized. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and bowed his head. “Sir. You always say that anyone can be a hero. Do you really mean that? I’m quirkless, but being a hero has been my dream since I was a kid. No one else believes in me. I need to know if it’s possible, or if I need to quit, and be more realistic.”

All Might didn't say anything, but after a moment, Izuku felt a hand softly rest on his shoulder. “Young man. I don't simply say things for publicity. But the thing you need to understand is that I speak of potential. Anyone has the potential to be a hero. What truly matters is their drive, their determination, and their perseverance.” He sighed slightly. “Why not a police officer, or an EMT. They're arguably more heroes than most Pros.” The man suggested.

Izuku felt tears begin to form in his eyes. All Might didn't believe in him either. “I don't want to be a police officer sir. I want to be a hero. I want to save people with a smile like you, and make them feel safe simply when I step in the scene.” He said softly, knowing it wouldn't change the man’s mind, but needing to say it regardless.

“My boy, open your eyes.” All Might said softly. Slowly, Izuku opened them and looked up at his hero. “I never said you couldn't be a hero. I simply asked why you want to be one.” He said, and Izuku felt a small bit of hope begin to form within him. “It will push you, likely harder than ever before. Hero school is not for everyone, and most cannot deal with the intensity. But if you do not allow yourself to falter, if you keep that motivation, then I believe that you could be a hero.”

Izuku stared at the man, tears beginning to form in his eyes. “Thank you. Thank you so much!” The man stepped forwards wrapping his arms around Izuku, who began to cry into his shirt. The man whispered soothing words, as Izuku began to calm down, eventually pulling back. “I’m so sorry.” He said, slightly ashamed. “I probably ruined your shirt.”

All Might simply smiled. “That’s more than fine. They’ll have some at the…” He patted his pockets, confused, and his grin dropped as he looked down in shock. “Damnit!” He said, worriedly. “I am truly sorry for this young man, but I have to go back and get the villain! It seems he’s escaped! The door will be unlocked, it has to be. If not, you have a phone, right?” Izuku nodded. “Good, call for help if it isn't, but I have to stop that villain from hurting anyone else.” Quickly, the man leapt back the way they came, towards the underpass.

Izuku hoped All Might found him soon. In a much better mood, Izuku walked over to the door, and opened it, slowly walking down the steps of the building, and exiting the apartment building without anyone giving him a second glance. It took him a second to orient himself, but once he did, he began to walk home. That was when he heard the blast.

-(o)-

Izuku was sure he had recognized the blast, and reaching the scene only proved him right. Heroes had formed a perimeter around a side street. In the center of it was Izuku, being held captive by the same thing that had nearly killed Izuku earlier. Katsuki was limp in the thing's hold, the blasts having stopped, but the fires continuing to spread. The heroes on scene meanwhile, were simply standing there, not doing anything, as they panicked, waiting for someone else.

“Who’s en route!?” Death Arms shouted.

“Mount Lady, Backdraft, and Nightshade!” Slugger replied. “Kamui’s out of the fight, the heat’s too much, he’s igniting just from being in the area!”

“Damnit!” Death Arms yelled. “Nobody has a quirk that can combat this guy!”

Nobody had the right Quirk? Izuku’s mind began racing at that. What the hell did they mean? There was someone actively suffocating in front of them, and they were just going to sit there? Izuku began to shove his way through the crowd. He didn't care how rude he was being, his friend was dying over there. But the crowd was thick, and they weren't letting Izuku through easily. Izuku pushed forwards with more force. They didn't have much time. He had to get through. Katsuki was already passed out for who knows how long before Izuku got on the scene, and the heroes just continued to sit there, useless.

Eventually, he managed to squeeze past the last of the civilians, rushing past the barrier wall, to the surprise of Death Arms. “Hey Kid! What the hell are you doing!?” The hero asked, concerned. He rushed forwards, grabbing onto the back of Izuku’s backpack, nearly pulling him to a stop. Quickly, before the man got another hand on him, Izuku slipped his arms out of the straps, and continued forth. Slugger stepped in his path, but Izuku sidestepped the man, and kept going. He picked up a pebble from the floor, and threw it hard at the creature’s eyes. The sludge villain recoiled, and Izuku plunged his arms into the muck, his hands latching onto Katsuki’s arm, as he desperately tried to pull the other boy out of the villain’s hold. He wretched hard, but each pill found himself making next to no progress.

“This bastard’s mine!” The villain yelled at him, pulling back harder.

Izuku continued to struggle against the sludge villain, trying with all of his might to get Katsuki free. Suddenly, a gust of air came from behind him, And a fist slammed into the head of the villains, far above Katsuki’s head. The sludge flew backwards, freeing Katsuki, who immediately fell limply into Izuku’s arms. Izuku dragged him out of the way, paying no mind to the person who had just gotten Katsuki out. He attempted to get the sludge out of Katsuki, doing everything in his power to expel the liquid, to allow the boy to breathe. But as the flashing lights of the EMTs arrived, and still, Katsuki hadn't breathed, he knew there was little hope. The EMTs grabbed Katsuki, and they attempted to resuscitate him. But as Izuku stared in shock, the rest of the world little more than a full humming around him, he saw the figure of the boy staring back down at his body, as if imagining his soul staring down at himself.

Izuku knew then that Bakugou Katsuki was dead. 

-(o)-

It turns out All Might had been the one to try and save Bakugou. The man had been searching for the sludge villain when he heard the commotion. Death Arms had tried to scold Izuku, but All Might had verbally ripped through the man. It didn't matter to Izuku though. He sat in his room, staring down at his sheets in silence. The hallucination hadn't disappeared. The vision of Bakugou had followed him back home, back up to his room, and now leaned on the windowsill, staring out into the city. Neither had said a word. Izuku rathered he didn't.

“Damnit.” He murmured to himself. “I’m so fucking useless.” His fists balled up in his sheets, tears streaming down his face. “If I hadn't stopped All Might. The villain would have never gotten loose, and he never would have killed Katsuki.” He punched his bed frame. It didn't help the pain.

Izuku looked up, to see the vision of Katsuki looking back at him. Izuku turned back away. Why did his brain have to torment him like this? Why did it have to show him his friend, images of him standing there, as if he wasn't dead. As if Izuku hadn’t played a part in killing him.

“I’m sorry.” He murmured quietly into his sheets.

“It’s not your fault.” The quiet voice of Katsuki rang out into the room. Izuku’s eyes moved to see Katsuki staring at him “You did better than some of the heroes on the scene. Least you did something.” The boy bit out, sounding so much like himself that Izuku found it hurt even more.

“All I ever do is fuck up.” Izuku said. “I always ruin things. It’s my fault he’s dead.” He sighed loudly, his eyes red from his tears. “Maybe he was right. Maybe I can't be a hero.”

“Hell no!” Katsuki shouted, causing Izuku to jump and stare at him. What the hell was his mind doing? “You’re just gonna quit!? I was a fucking idiot, and I kept bringing that fucking topic up, but goddamn it Zuku, you’re fucking hero material! Just because I was too worried about you doesn't mean you need to give up now that I’m gone. I was just scared for you!” He yelled.

Izuku stared at the vision of his best friend. This was a hallucination. It had to be. Katsuki was dead. Still… “Katsuki?” He asked, quietly.

Katsuki froze. “Wait… Zuku, you can hear me? You can see me?”

Izuku's face was twisted into an incredulous expression. “I’m crazy. I’m fucking crazy.” He said, laughing with an unhinged tone. “You’re dead, you died, I watched it. I’m fucking hallucinating your ghost, and I’m going crazy!” He said, beginning to hyperventilate.

“Izuku!” Katsuki said, pushing off of the windowsill and rushing towards the bed.

“Stop!” Izuku yelled, holding his hands up. He was expecting the vision to stop, or keep going. He was not expecting the feeling of heat, the flash of light, and the full pop that sounded as explosions blasted from his palms. He was thrown back into his sheet’s from the recoil, stunned and in shock of what he’s just seen.

“Izuku!? What the fuck was that?” Katsuki said, sounding scared.

“I… I…” He couldn't speak. “Katsuki? Is that really you?”

“Yes!” Katsuki said. “It’s fucking me, what the hell was that!”

Izuku pushed himself up slowly, and reached a hand out to touch Katsuki’s shoulder. He felt the boy there, the fabric of his uniform under his fingers. “I…” He stared into the eyes of the blond, who was supposed to be dead, supposed to be gone. “I think that was your quirk."

Chapter Text

It took both of them quite a while to calm down from the shock of realizing that Izuku wasn't simply hallucinating, could actually see and talk with Katsuki, and somehow had his quirk. Izuku was doing his best not to freak out more, and not to release explosions from his palms, but it was a difficult process. Suddenly realizing your best friend, who you thought was dead, isn't entirely gone, on top of attempting to juggle a volatile quirk and keep it from going off turned out to not be very easy. He probably could've told someone that before it actually happened, but it seemed like the universe really wanted him to be sure of it.

Figuring out what had happened, once they had enough time to calm down, was fairly straightforward. Katsuki had died, likely while Izuku was trying to pull him out. Izuku could now see him, and had his quirk. When all of that was put into perspective, it seemed likely that Izuku had a quirk this whole time, one that was at least partially influenced by his grandfather, on his dad’s side. Nobaru Midoriya had a death quirk, which allowed him to feel those who were near to death around him. It made the man an amazing doctor. And it was likely what was influencing Izuku’s own potential quirk, if they were even right about him having one.

“Zuku?” Katsuki said, concerned. It was probably fair, considering he hadn't said a word in a bit, simply staring off into space.

“I’m…” Izuku turned to look at Katsuki. “Sorry, I’m just trying to process this.” He said quietly. “So you’re…”

Katsuki frowned. “Yeah. That's… That's pretty clear.” Katsuki said quietly. “I uh… I don't think I’m coming back from that.” He admitted. “What a stupid fucking way to die. Right in front of a group of heroes who sat there doing nothing.” He let out a bitter chuckle. “Fucking useless pieces of shit.”

Izuku stared at him. “Oh…” He said, at a loss for any other words.

Katsuki sighed, holding Izuku’s hands, palms up, so that they wouldn't damage his bed if they accidentally went off. “Zuku, this isn't your fault.” He said quietly, in a soft tone that Izuku had only ever heard Katsuki use when it was just the two of them. “I heard you before, blaming yourself. You can't do that.” He leaned forwards, his forehead touching against Izuku’s lightly. “Listen to me Zuku. What happened, you were the most useful person there before All Might showed up. You were the only person doing a single thing. So if you want to blame someone, blame the villain for attacking me. Blame me for lighting the place on fire. Blame the heroes for sitting there, twiddling their thumbs. Blame the civilians for crowing the place up, stopping All Might from getting there.” He paused for a moment. “But don't you dare blame yourself, okay?”

Izuku stared at the boy, green eyes to red. “I didn't do anything though. If it was the reverse, if you were the one who ran in to save me, We would have been fine.” He closed his eyes, and let out a sigh. “You, and everyone else was right. I can't be a hero.”

Katsuki frowned harshly. “Why the fuck do you think I wouldve done any better? You're stronger than I am, so the only reason you think I could've done it is because of my quirk, am I wrong?” Izuku’s silence told him everything. “Zuku. In case you forgot, you have my quirk now. That's the whole fucking reason I’m holding your hands up in this awkward fucking position.”

“And in case you forgot, I’ve never used it before!” Izuku said, his anger and frustration at the situation blowing over, crackling from his palms, as Katsuki held his wrists tight. “I can't even stop myself from blowing up my fucking sheets!” He said, tears forming in his eyes. “I don't know how to use this Katsuki! I don't know what you want from me! Everyone was right! I can't do anything right! What the hell do you want from me!?” He said.

Katsuki didn't flinch away though. He didn't move, didn't pull back. Because he knew Izuku wasn't mad. That wasn't it, not really. He was just overwhelmed.

“I can't be a hero, Katsuki.” Izuku said quietly. His eyes were closed, and his face was tilted down, like he couldn't bear the shame of admitting it. “You said it yourself at school. Maybe I should do something different. I see now that you all were right. I’ll go into support, I’ll help people, but I’m not a hero, Katsuki.”

Katsuki stared at him for a long while. “Zuku, you think my quirk is so strong because you have made it so strong. Your analysis, your training, your improvements are how my quirk was so powerful. And you didn't even have it. Think of the improvements you could do now that you can feel every little detail. Think of how good you could be, now that you know if all else fails, and your support gear dies out, you will always have explosion to fall back on.”

Izuku looked up. “Katsuki I-”

Katsuki cut off the next denial. “Please. Don't make me say it Izuku.” Izuku didn't respond though, and so Katsuki sighed. “You have always said my quirk is perfect for heroics. That it could save so many lives, and defeat so many villains.” He looked at Izuku, who’s eyes had begun to wide. “Guess what. I’m dead. I can never save anyone with that so-called perfect quirk again. I can't be a hero.” He said. “Now, you are the one with the quirk. Everyone always said that being a hero was my destiny, because of the quirk I’d gotten. It’s yours now, and so is that destiny. I can't be a hero Izuku. And I know for a fact that you aren't just going to let Explosion sit there for the rest of your life, when you can use that to save people. You told me my quirk meant heroics was the only option in the cards for me once. Now it’s your quirk, and you've been passed that mantle. Hate me if you want, but you are going to be a hero Izuku.”

-(o)-

Things were tense for a little while. Katsuki’s words were harsh, which wasn't inherently different from how he normally was, but usually it wasn't directed at him. The blond seemed to recognize that Izuku needed some time though, and he left the room. Izuku wasn't dealing with this well. His best friend had just died, and before he could even have a moment to mourn him, life changing revaluations kept coming.

It was all so overwhelming, and at a point in time when he was clearly not doing so great mentally. He felt like he had failed Katsuki. Whatever the blond wanted to argue, it was hard to deny that had Izuku not jumped onto All Might, the Sludge Villain wouldn't have gotten loose. He couldn't get through a crowd of people, let alone rescue the boy from the villain. And now Katsuki was dead. It was hard to accept, especially because he had just been talking to the boy, but he had confirmed it somehow. Katsuki was dead, and somehow Izuku had his quirk.

He wanted to be angry, to be upset with the blond for trying to force Izuku to be a hero, trying to pressure him into it. Trying to use his own death as motivation. But to get angry at him, Izuku would have to ignore that the blond wasn't wrong. Until this incident, Izuku had always wanted to be a hero. He had been doubted because he didn't have the right Quirk, or any at all for that matter but now, he did have a quirk. One of the strongest ones that Izuku knew of, and one he had spent quite a lot of time studying. He couldn't deny that Katsuki was right. Even without the boy’s influence, even without his push to be a hero, Izuku was still someone who strived to be good everywhere he could. And if he had a quirk like Explosion, he would never be able to simply sit on the sidelines during a villain attack, when someone was in danger.

That didn't mean it didn't hurt. That it wasn't hard. Because Izuku wasn't lying when he said he didn't want to be a hero anymore. He had been shown how useless he was, and just because he received Explosion, it didn't mean he would suddenly become useful. He would have to work his way up from that, but he didn't know if he had the time. Regardless, Katsuki was right. He didn't really have an option. He would be a hero. 

His parents came home later that day. His mom from her office job, and his dad from the law firm he worked at. They hadn't yet heard the news. Mitsuki and Marasu were likely too distraught to tell them. Which meant it would be up to Izuku. It was made difficult, because Katsuki was still there. Evidently the boy hadn't been able to go far, but the knowledge that he wasn't gone took some of the pain away. Enough that his parents would no doubt find it odd. If they were able to think straight enough after hearing the news anyway. Izuku looked at Katsuki, before he walked out of his room. “Do you… Do you think I should tell them?”

Katsuki thought for a moment. “I think it’s up to you.” He said quietly. “They’re your parents.” He said.

“And yours?” Izuku asked.

Katsuki sighed. “No. I think that would make it hurt more. Knowing that I can only ever talk to you, only ever been seen by you.” He sighed. “I think… It’s better off being left alone.”

“I…” Izuku trailed off. There wasn't really anything he could say to that. “No then.” He decided. “I can't tell my parents and not yours.” Katsuki nodded, and Izuku pushed open the door to his room. Slowly, Izuku walked out to the table, where his parents were portioning out the takeout his dad had grabbed on his way home.

“Hello Izuku!” His dad said, simply hearing his door open up. “How’s your-” the man was cut off as he looked up, to see Izuku’s red eyes, and somber look. The man quickly gained a look of concern. He stood up, and walked over to Izuku. “Hey, Izuku, what’s going on buddy?” He asked quietly.

And God, the tone the man used almost made him start tearing up again. “I…” Izuku took a deep breath. “Katsuki.” He managed out. Despite having the boy right next to him, the knowledge that he was still dead, coupled with thinking about the events again had made him choked up again. “He’s…” Izuku tried again, unable to finish. “There was a villain attack.” Izuku said quietly 

His mom gasped, and a hand flew in front of her mouth. “Oh my God, is he alright!?” She asked, concerned.

Izuku shook his head. “No… he’s… Katsuki’s dead.” Izuku finally managed to say, to the shock, sadness, and horror of his parents.

“God…” His dad whispered, taking another step forwards, and wrapping Izuku in a massive hug. He quickly began to rub a hand on Izuku's back soothingly, as he murmured to him. “That's horrible. It’s okay to cry. You can let it out.” The man said, sounding on the verge of tears himself.

Izuku didn't have to guess why. The Bakugou’s and the Midoriya’s were as close as family, with each other’s parents being essentially an aunt and uncle. Izuku’s dad had been the one to curb Katsuki’s aggression, to make him see the value in Izuku’s brains, and after only a few months of fighting, the two had grown closer than they ever were beforehand. He had been the one to teach Katsuki to use his explosions not to hurt, but to protect. And now that boy was gone.

-(o)-

Izuku hadn't told his parents about his quirk, not yet. He didn't know how to say it. Then just wasn't the right time. So here he was, heading to school, as if nothing had changed. As if his best friend hadn't died, and his ghost was now following Izuku around. As if he didn't have to keep focus on not detonating his palms. It was hard to simply go about his day. To another student, perhaps the teachers would have been lenient. Maybe they would have understood, and cut him some slack. But not to Izuku. He would not be shown that kindness. He would have to force himself not to allow his thoughts to stray.

Thankfully, it seemed as if no one was aware of why Katsuki wasn't in school today. For all that everyone ignored, and insulted him, Katsuki kept most of them away. When they found out that Katsuki wouldn't be coming back, Izuku was sure that his treatment would only get worse.

Luckily, that day was not today. What the day did bring, however, was Izuku running into a hero. Almost literally. The boy had been walking home when someone stepped out from behind an alleyway, suddenly placing themselves in Izuku's path. His mind was wandering, so what little time he had to react wasn't enough to stop himself. He walked right into the figure, before stumbling backwards. “Oh my God, I’m so sorry! I didn't even realize!” Izuku said, quickly apologizing. It was only then that he noticed who exactly he had run into.

A massive, muscled man stood in front of him, bright blue eyes staring at him, and twin golden blond Tufts of hair sticking up like a V. The hero in question was none other than All Might. “Not to worry Young Man!” The hero chuckled. After a second his eyes seemed to widen in recognition. “Wait a minute, I was actually looking for you!” The man said. 

Izuku stared at the man, emotions swirling confusedly around his mind. Struggling to pick one, his brain defaulted to none. “In a random alleyway?”

“Ah…” All Might coughed, clearly caught off guard. “Well, no.” He admitted. “I had heard something, and wanted to make sure nothing nefarious was going on!” The man declared, quickly regaining his grin.

Izuku stared at him for another moment. “Was there anything?”

All Might didn't respond, but Izuku could see the man bewildered and embarrassed. “Ah… Also no.” He said. “It would seem it was simply a cat.” Izuku could hear the embarrassment in his tone. “But it’s better to have checked and not needed to, than to not have checked, and needed to.” The man declared. The two stared at each other for a while, neither quite knowing what to say. “Ahem.” All Might eventually broke the silence. “Actually, as I said, I was hoping to find you.”

Izuku’s brain slowly began to catch up, and he realized that perhaps he should show the hero just a little bit more respect. “Um… may I ask why exactly?” He asked, far more polite than his previous bluntness.

All Might nodded. “I would suspect you remember what you asked me yesterday? About being a hero?” Izuku did. He remembered well. All Might had been the first person not in his family to say that he could be a hero. He nodded, his face forming into a frown as he remembered the events that came afterwards. “Has your experience yesterday changed things? I wouldn't blame you if it did, what happened was horrible.”

Izuku thought about it. He wanted to say yes, wanted to tell the man he wouldn't be a hero anymore. But he met Katsuki’s eyes, who was leaning against a wall behind All Might, an intrigued look on his face, and he remembered the boy’s words from yesterday. “No. I’m going to be a hero.” He said, with far less enthusiasm than he normally said that statement. “He didn't know if he wanted to still. But he knew he would be one.

All Might smiled, a far more reserved one this time. “Well then, Young Man. I have a proposition for you, that may yet help you in that goal. You see, my quirk is often speculated about online. But nobody has gotten close to the real truth. My quirk stockpiles power, and the quirk, along with the stockpile, thereby the power, can be transferred to another person. And if you’re willing to accept, I want you to be the next holder.”

Izuku stared at him eyes wide, and distantly, he noticed Katsuki doing the same. Was… All Might being real there? “You can transfer your quirk?” He asked. “I mean, I know it's technically possible, it I would assume that giving me the quirk wouldn't just kill you so obviously it functions on a different set of rules. That would-” Izuku cut himself off, looking up at All Might, as he realized something. “Why me?” He asked, stunned.

All Might’s smile became a comforting, sad one. “Your actions yesterday. Though they may not have worked, you still remained the only person in that crowd of people doing a single thing. You alone, a quirkless middle schooler. And though it was for naught, that was due to the mistakes that had already been made in the scene before you got there. It was through no fault of your own. But I wish for you to have the power to take on any adversary you may face.” The man smiled. “To be able to rush in blindly, the only thoughts filling your mind being saving the civilians, and to know that you will come out on top.”

Izuku gaped at him. “You… you really mean that?” The man nodded, and Izuku could feel his hope for heroics slowly starting to return. Maybe… Maybe he hadn't fucked up as badly as he had assumed. Maybe he could make it work. That was when he glanced back at Katsuki. “Sir, I would be more than willing to, if you choose to trust it with me. But I’ve figured out that I’m not quite as quirkless as I thought I was.” Izuku’s face shifted back into a somber expression. “My quirk, it seems, works by taking the quirk of someone who dies, likely while I’m touching them, along with keeping their ghost around that I can speak and interact with.” Small pops formed in Izuku's palms, the same kind Katsuki let off sometimes. “This was Katsuki’s quirk. And I’m going to use it to be a hero. But if you’re still willing to give me yours sir, then I’ll gladly accept you as my teacher.”

Chapter Text

Of all the responses Toshinori was expecting from the boy, The answer he got was… Certainly not one of them. Toshinori was fairly certain he wasn't lying, why would he after all, but the explanation was still hard for him to wrap his mind around. Now, the concept of a quirk that could copy or even take others was nothing new to Toshinori. Nor was the concept of Cthonic quirks, allowing communication with the dead. But combined? A quirk that allowed it’s user to take the quirks of someone who died in their arms, and connect their soul, so that they have a guide? It was almost unbelievable.

But Toshinori had seen that quirk before. It was significantly weaker just now than when he had last seen it, but he had no doubt the same quirk. The one owned by the spiky haired blond he hadn't been fast enough to save. He looked up, towards the boy’s face. It wasn't happy, nor was it hopeful. In fact, it held a certain sense of melancholy to it that normally would have been out of place in a declaration like he had just said. But it was something that Toshinori understood deeply. The boy felt a sense of duty now, the passion he held before being replaced by a mission. It was the same for Toshinori after Nana’s death. In the days, and even weeks afterwards, Toshinori had lost his desire to be a hero. He felt he had failed her, that he could never become what he once sought to be. But despite not wishing to be one, he felt as if he had to instead. That though it may not be what he wanted, he now had a legacy to continue, a job to do. 

So Toshinori took a moment, timely taking in the boy's words. To truly understand what was being told of him. But I'm the end, he found it made no difference. Or rather, that it did make a difference, but only proved to further validate Toshinori’s choice. “Young man.” He spoke quietly. “I would have no one else be my successor than one who embodies a true hero as you do. Quirk or not, it is the heart that makes a hero. And you, my boy, have more than enough.”

The boy stared up at him with wide eyes, as if struggling to believe his words, before he glanced off to the side. He seemed to be hearing something from the boy he had spoken about before. After a moment though he nodded, a slightly more determined look appearing on his face. “Then yes. I’ll inherit your quirk. Whatever I need to do to get ready, whatever training or tests you need me to overcome, I’ll do it.”

Toshinori grinned. “Well then, I hope you’re up to the task! We’ll have to push you quite a bit before you can safely inherit my quirk, and we’ll need to train you with your own as well! But if you truly give it your all, I have faith that you will succeed! This is the start of your new future Young…” Toshinori felt the wind leave his sails with the final line of his speech, as he realized he had absolutely no idea what this kid’s name was. Had he really gone this long without knowing the kid’s name?

The boy blinked up at him for a moment, before his eyes widened, evidently coming to the same conclusion as Toshinori. “I’m Izuku Midoriya Sir. Sorry I never introduced myself!” The boy, newly introduced as Midoriya, bowed down in an apology.

Toshinori waved his hands. “No, that's totally on me! I should've asked earlier, I’m so sorry!” He hurriedly said. Who knew there was someone just as bad with people as him!?

-(o)-

Izuku being chosen as All Might’s successor changed quite a bit and nothing at all, at the same time. His daily routine had changed. He was going out to Dagobah beach after school, training both his strength, and Katsuki’s quirk. He would lug trash from one end of the beach to the other, and let off blasts when he had to put things down, to get rid of the sweat that continued to build up. All of this exercise on the beach was exhausting, causing him to sweat more than normal, and especially from his hands. It was good training, even if it wasn't long every day.

But just like that training was completely different from what he had done before, it was also eerily similar. Because his entire day stayed the same. Everything else felt like it always had, wake up, go to class, train at the beach, head home, do analysis, eat dinner, go to bed. The only difference between before and now was that he was no longer helping Katsuki train his quirk during those few hours after school. Now, Katsuki was helping him train his own, along with All Might. Half of his time was spent hauling trash off of the beach, while the other was spent getting a hold on his new quirk. 

Despite that fact, Izuku was struggling. He was more than capable of working his way up through the trash piles, but when it came to Explosion, he found himself nowhere near Katsuki’s abilities. Despite the suggestions and the guidance from the blond, it didn't seem to be helping all that much. He simply couldn't manage the force or the ease of use that Katsuki made seem effortless.

They had talked about it before, but something was different this time, as Izuku sat on the edge of his bed, while Katsuki was spread out in the middle of it, lying flat on his back. “I just don't know what's wrong.” Izuku said quietly, looking over at his shoulder, to the ghostly boy staring at his ceiling.

The boy in question didn't move his head, but his eyes did move to meet Izuku’s for a moment, before returning to the ceiling. “Don't be too hard on yourself, ‘s gonna take time.” He smirked slightly. “I’m fuckin amazing and it still took me almost four years to got the brakes on it as much as you have by now.” The boy was referring to Izuku’s quick mastery of stopping the quirk. The one part of it Izuku had gotten down quickly was preventing the quirk from going off when his emotions were too high, or when startled.

He had already informed his parents of his new quirk, as well as officially registering his quirk as Explosion. Izuku saw no need to register his true quirk, as Katsuki would be the only person he ever used it on. Explosion would be his quirk, and nothing else. Regardless, though it was still new, it wasn't unexpected when Izuku let off some pops to burn off the quirk fuel. But other than that, and his training, Izuku was very good at keeping his new quirk from accidentally going off with loud blasts.

Clearly, the boy had been in his head for far too long, thinking about Katsuki’s words however. The blond had sat up, grabbed Izuku by the shoulder, and yanked him down onto the bed, shocking Izuku. “Get out of your damn head nerd.” Katsuki’s teasing tone said quietly in his ear. Izuku looked to his right, at the boy. Katsuki shifted, turning over, and leaning on his arm, letting Izuku look at him easier. “You’ll do fine. We’ve still got a while till the entrance exams. I’ll whip you into shape by then, don't you worry.” The boy gave a soft smile. “Besides, my quirk and your mind? Always did say that was the best combo no?”

Izuku laughed slightly, remembering Katsuki saying those exact words before. Of course, he had meant them in the context of Katsuki having the quirk and Izuku helping him train it, but it still fit. “Yeah, that you did.” Izuku had accepted Katsuki’s situation, no matter how reluctant he was to do so, and quickly their existing dynamic had returned back to normal, and then to something else. It was to be expected, considering what had happened, but it was different nonetheless. 

Part of it was that Katsuki had gotten softer. No longer caring about anyone else, or their perception of him, considering he was dead, meaning he was free to be himself. The version of himself he was with Izuku anyways. He was less aggressive. No less vulgar or crude, and certainly not any less of a dick, but it had become less snarky, and more subtle teasing. The smirk that was always present on his face had begun to be replaced by a satisfied smile when he said them, making them feel less like banter, and more like praise or compassion hidden by a thin layer of sarcasm, as was custom with Katsuki. The connection that came from having their souls wound together, from a bond that only the two of them could share, continued to grow with each day. Over time, Izuku recognized the feelings he had originally allowed to fade away with time, returning with even more prevalence than before.

Once upon a time, Izuku had recognized he had formed a crush on his best friend. How could he not have? Katsuki was the person he was closest to, someone who, no matter what, Izuku knew would be by his side. While they had begun to grow apart at first, after Katsuki got his quirk, and Izuku didn't, Izuku’s dad had stepped in to talk to Katsuki. Izuku didn't realize it until later of course, but that conversation had changed something for Katsuki. When everyone around them, their teachers, their classmates, the random adults in their life had claimed Katsuki was amazing and Izuku was useless, Katsuki had learned otherwise. He had taken on a responsibility, to uplift Izuku, and remind him of his value, while being his shield, until he could stand on his own. It wasn't unreasonable for Izuku to get attached.

He had been afraid of taking that step though. He wasn't stupid, he knew the way that Katsuki looked at him was different from everyone else, and not simply from disliking them. He knew that there was likely something on the other end too. But he wasn't brave enough to say it, and Katsuki never did it himself. As time went on, Izuku’s feelings faded into the background, forgetting that they were there most of the time. He didn't need anything more, not when he was already so close with Katsuki. But as time went on, and Izuku continued to train, he found those emotions returning to the front, as Katsuki got rid of his gruff facade.

It was confusing, to say the least. Izuku wasn't entirely sure what to do. Because to him, Katsuki wasn't gone. The boy was still there, with him for every step of the way in the future. But Izuku also knew that to the rest of the world, Katsuki had been laid to rest. He was technically dead, but it didn't feel like it to Izuku. He pushed himself further up the bed, until his head was resting on the pillows, a soft smile on his face. “Let’s get to sleep.” He said quietly, gently patting the space next to him, as he turned off the lamp on his side table.

-(o)-

They were back to training. It was certainly working, as in the almost two months since the attack, Izuku had already gained a decent amount of muscle, and had cleared out a sizable chunk of the beach. His classmates hadn't been great to deal with, once they learned of Katsuki’s death, but at the boy’s urging, Izuku scared them off with a few pops of Explosion. It had turned the bullying words of uselessness to worried whispers of villainy, but Izuku didn't care. It kept everyone away from him. They knew the power of Katsuki’s quirk, and when combined with their beliefs that he would steal their quirks, it proved effective enough in keeping them all away.

He was still struggling with Explosion though. He was making progress, and by now he had figured out how to completely shut it off, stopping all production of quirks fuel, but he was still stuck on the opposite end. Powering up the force, learning to use it instinctually for movement and force was difficult. All Might had been helpful, giving a few pointers, but as the man’s own quirk was purely physical, he was fairly out of his league.

It was during one of these training sessions that Izuku had sat down on a bench overlooking a clear section of the beach to drink some water. He was sweating fairly heavily, the summer sun beating down on him. “I don't know what I’m doing wrong.” Izuku panted out, turning to look at Katsuki. “I’ve seen your moves enough times, I’m following them to a T. I should be able to pull them off, but it's just not working.”

Katsuki didn't say anything for a moment, thinking. “What if that’s it?” He asked quietly, staring out at the ocean.

Izuku turned to look at him, confused. “What?” He didn't know what the boy was saying.

“I mean, what if the reason it’s not working is because you’re trying to copy me?” Katsuki said, looking at Izuku from the corner of his eye, before turning to look fully at him. “You’re dad always said that quirks match the people that have them. And yeah, that goes both ways, but what if it wasn't just a metaphor?” 

Izuku blinked, somewhat understanding Katsuki’s words, but still slightly lost. “So… I can turn it off because I’m supposed to not have a quirk? That’s why it's weaker?” He asked quietly.

Katsuki lightly punched his shoulder. “No, Idiot.” He said, rolling his eyes. “Look, you’re using it like me. But it’s your quirk. I’d guess that once the twig hands over One For All that you’d probably use it just like he does too, replicating his whole style, no?” Izuku blushed slightly at being called out so easily, but he didn't deny it. “Exactly. Look, we’ve been over this. Explosion is your quirk now. Just because it was mine first doesn't mean that it’s any less your own now. Quit using it like me, use it like you.”

“But… You said it yourself. I have to be a hero in your stead.” Izuku said quietly.

Katsuki groaned, and wrapped a hand around the back of Izuku’s neck, pulling him close until their foreheads were touching. “I said to be a hero.” He said slowly, looking Izuku in the eyes. “I never said to be me. You are your own person, Izuku, and I happen to really like them, idiot. So quit trying to be someone else. Use the quirk like you want to, with all of the weird, fringe abilities you’ve thought of for it. You don't need to use just brute force like me. And the same goes for whenever you get One For All. You aren't me, and you aren't All Might. You’re Izuku Midoriya and that is all you ever need to be.”

Izuku blinked at him, before his cheeks turned pink again, blushing from the praise. “Okay…” he said quietly. “I’ll try.”

Katsuki nodded. “Good. ‘s all I ask.”

-(o)-

“Kacchan.”

“Hmm?” 

The two boys were once again in Izuku’s room, lying down on the bed. Izuku had pushed himself during their training for the day, reaching a personal milestone by clearing out a dishwasher he had his eyes on for a while. More than that, he was steadily making progress with Explosion. While Izuku’s power hadn't grown much, he had been finding alternate uses. Izuku could create a plume of smoke quickly, and an extremely bright flash. If Bakugou's expression of the quirk was brute force, then Izuku’s was technical precision. He’d even begun testing projectiles, and had found he could aim them far easier than Katsuki ever could. But with all that training, it meant Izuku was exhausted.

What that did not explain however, was Katsuki’s current state. The blond was lying on top of Izuku, his head resting on Izuku’s chest, while he wrapped his arms around him. Izuku had lifted his arms, and his phone up when he said the boy’s name, but he simply made a hum of acknowledgement, not moving from his spot at all.

“Why are you lying down on me?” Izuku asked.

“Comfy.” The blond mumbled into Izuku’s chest, not moving an inch.

“And the hugging me?”

“Want to.” Katsuki said, slightly petulantly. “Couldn't before. Too risky for explosions.” He squeezed a little tighter for a moment. “Now I can.”

Izuku couldn't help his blush from that statement. It made sense though. It was one of the reasons Izuku had focused so much effort into stopping Explosion's production. Katsuki couldn't hold fragile things or touch people for long. While his quirk wasn't actually Nitroglycerin, the trigger was too easy to accidentally activate. The good news was that it wasn't nearly as volatile, or toxic whatsoever. In fact, Izuku could remember when they were kids, he used to lick Katsuki’s hand every now and then, because it had a sweet taste to it, and wasn't dangerous. Well, the liquid itself wasn't. The act of actually licking Katsuki’s hand risked a massive noogie from the blond, but 6 year old Izuku often found it worth it.

For a moment, neither spoke, simply laying there. Izuku had to admit, Katsuki’s weight was comforting, and after a moment, his free hand moved to place itself on Katsuki’s back. “Kacchan?”

Katsuki didn't respond for a moment. “Zu…” The boy’s words were mumbled, still facing into Izuku’s chest.

Izuku couldn't help but giggle a little, even as red burst across his face at the muffled word. “Trying a new nickname for me?”

“Sure.”

Izuku giggled again. “Well then, why don't I make a new one for you. More grown up than Kacchan.” He said quietly. Katsuki turned his head up, so he was looking Izuku in the eyes, but he didn't say anything. Izuku let go of his phone, leaving it next to him on the bed. His newly freed hand moved up to slowly comb through Katsuki’s hair, which sent a deep sigh of happiness through the boy. “Hmm…” Izuku tried to think for a moment. “How about Kat. You seem to be acting like one, with how you’re laying on me, and practically purring when I run my fingers through your hair.”

Izuku watched as a pink blush rolled across Katsuki’s cheeks. “Like it.” He mumbled quietly. Katsuki had gotten a lot more affectionate, and Izuku knew that his feelings were only growing for the blond. But that pink blush, and Katsuki’s shy demeanor were pretty clear indicators that Katsuki wasn't just embarrassed about being called a cat. If Izuku was reading his friend right, it meant they had both circled back to their previous feelings.

Izuku took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment. He was going to do something stupid. But he didn't want to risk things anymore. He’d go after what he wanted, before it was too late. “Can I do something selfish?” He asked Katsuki.

The boy gained a confused look on his face, slowly pushing himself up onto his elbows. “Yeah, what?”

Izuku didn't say a word, instead moving his hands up to hold the sides of Katsuki’s face, and Izuku leaned forwards, and pressed his lips to Katsuki’s. For a moment, Katsuki didn't move, understandably shocked. But then he shifted, pulling back slightly, and Izuku felt disappointment begin to tear it’s ugly head, reluctantly drawing back himself. Before he could truly leave though, one of Katsuki’s hands wrapped behind Izuku’s head, pulling him back in, as the blond kissed back. Izuku realizes that the movement before was Katsuki shifting his weight to one elbow.

Slowly, after the kiss, they both began to pull back, satisfied and shy grins on their faces. For a moment, they just stayed there, still almost touching. Neither knew what to say next, just reveling in what just happened. Eventually, Katsuki broke the silence. “Hey.”

Izuku laughed, and the tension broke, but the moment still lingered. “Hey yourself.”

Katsuki’s smile widened for a moment, before it shrunk slightly. “You sure about this?” He asked cautiously, clearly understanding Izuku’s intentions. “You could find someone else.”

Izuku glared at him slightly. “Who else am I going to find, idiot.” His hand, still placed on Katsuki’s cheek, rubbed it slightly with his thumb. “You’ve been here with me this whole time. It's not like I’ve got anyone else. And even if I did, I would still choose you.”

Katsuki pushed in closer, laying back down on Izuku, but up near his collarbone, rather than his chest this time. “Good. You’re mine.” He mumbled.

Chapter Text

Over time, quite a few things managed to grow. The plants, for one. Spring had already been on the cusp of ending two months after his training had started, and now, nearly halfway though, summer was coming to a close as well. Izuku’s relationship with Katsuki had also grown. They had already been comfortable with one another, but this was a different sort of comfort. There had been a gap between them, that neither were willing to cross, because they didn't want to go too far. A distance they had both kept, in order to remain as just friends. That had changed, and now, neither of them felt the need to restrain themselves out of fear.

Izuku’s skill with Explosion had also gotten better as time had gone on. He could use it for some enhanced movements and maneuvers, but his true skill came from the more secondary uses compared to Katsuki’s more power based usage. His flashes were strong now, bright enough to light up a massive stretch of the beach like daytime in the middle of the night. His smokescreen could envelop massive areas quickly, and his body was adapting quickly to be able to breathe it. He could use his quirk to create smoke, then breathe it back in while shutting off his quirk and absorbing the heat. This would give him back air, and energy to activate the quirk, and create more smoke. It wasn't a perfect cycle, but Izuku could breath in the smoke for much longer than any normal person, with no adverse affects other than slowly running out of breath.

He was getting used to Explosion. Katsuki’s words were right. It may have been his quirk at first, but now it was Izuku's. He could still honor Katsuki by using it for good, while using it the way that came naturally to him. It had also caused him to rethink his, admittedly meager, plans for when he would eventually receive One For All from All Might, and even more than that, who he wanted to be in general. The sludge villain incident had been one of the worst days of his life. He had lost the one person in his life closest to him, and while a miracle had allowed him to keep Katsuki around, the rest of the world didn't know this. Despite that though, it had been a wake up call. At the time, he had fallen into a depressive period, and even weeks after All Might’s offer, he had intended to be a hero out of a sense of duty, rather than any real desire on his part any more.

That had changed since, now over 5 months into the training. He wasn't back to the young, naive kid anymore, who thought he could get into UA with no effort. But he wasn't an emotionless soldier, simply doing what he was tasked with. The rose tinted glasses had been removed, and while it had been jarring at first, Izuku had eventually found he could still see hints of the red he had once adored. He could feel his desire to be a hero return, in a wholly different form perhaps, but return nonetheless. He had once wanted to be just like All Might. Someone who could seemingly protect everyone. And yet, Izuku had felt how devastating it was when that image had been torn down. When he realized All Might was not as capable as he was perceived, and perhaps worse, that he wouldn't be around forever. Izuku was possibly the first to realize it. That the world would not have All Might forever. One day, the man would no longer be a hero, whether through Death or Degradation. There would come a time when All Might retired.

Izuku didn't know if they were ready. All Might was a pillar, the foundation of the so-called Golden Age that hero historians had dubbed his time in the industry. But unlike every age of prosperity before it, he had pushed the bar so far upwards, that every other hero was no longer supporting it. When All Might fell, the society he had lifted up would come crashing down onto the backs of the other heroes, all of whom had different impacts and influences. None of them enough to hold society afloat on their own, and it would be nearly impossible to hold it together once it had already fallen. All Might’s existence, in solving the crime problem Japan had been suffering when he first appeared, had only created a bigger problem when the other shoe eventually dropped.

The only solution was to prepare. Splintered factions of heroes would not be enough. Endeavor would absorb a hit, but he would shatter under the weight, and eventually the problem would fall from his shoulders as well. Every hero after him was no different, each incapable of doing the job on their own, but each too far from the other to bear the weight together. So Izuku, as perhaps one of the few with the knowledge that it was coming faster than anyone assumed, would have to be the one to fix it. One hero would not be enough. But perhaps 20 might.

Katsuki had praised his notebooks, and Izuku wasn't ignorant of his skill. A professional quirk analyst he may not be, but there was little doubt in his mind that Katsuki had been one of the strongest hero hopefuls in Tokyo, and perhaps in Japan as a whole, in part because of his suggestions. So when Izuku made it to UA, and as he rose up, inheriting All Might’s power, and the legacies of two of the strongest people he knew, he would not rise alone. He would lay the foundation so that his class could follow alongside him. When the time came, he could only hope 20 would be enough to catch the catastrophe that would come crashing down into them.

-(o)-

It was an interesting experience, sitting on what was technically nothing. Izuku was curled up in Katsuki’s lap on his bed. The two were watching the new season of a heroics drama show that had come out. Had anyone looked into his room and seen him, they would assume he was floating in midair, which wasn't entirely inaccurate. Katsuki was solid to Izuku, and physical objects were solid to him, although they couldn't be moved by him. It was comfortable though.

“2 months away.” Katsuki murmured quietly.

“Hm?” Izuku hummed curiously.

“Entrance exams are only 2 months away.” Katsuki pointed out. “How you feeling about it?”

Izuku shifted, turning around, so that he was facing Katsuki. “Mostly fine. I may not have the same raw power, but I’ve gotten comfortable with Explosion. I should be able to give a good showing regardless of what the test is, though I suppose we won't know until the time comes.” He paused, tilting his head slightly, and wrapping his arms loosely around Katsuki’s neck “Why? You worried?”

Katsuki sent him a smile. “No, not really worried.” He pursed his lips. “Just… Dunno, it's different.”

Izuku knew what he meant. They were supposed to go together. They were supposed to be partners. Katsuki was still here, at least to Izuku, but Izuku was the only one who could take on the challenges to come. Katsuki could only watch. “Yeah. It is.” Izuku huffed out a weak laugh. “Guess you’ll be the one giving me tips on how to use my quirk from the sidelines now, huh?”

Katsuki rolled his eyes. “Idiot.” He said, lightly flicking Izuku’s ear. “Like you were gonna sit on the sidelines for me.” His hand moved to cup the back of Izuku’s head. “Like I would've let you.”

Izuku laughed at him. “If I recall correctly, you’re the one who wanted me to go into support!” He pointed out.

“That’s not fair and you know it. That's like saying someone could either be a revolutionary scientist, or an equally stunning Olympic athlete! Can't fault me for seeing the potential in you, nerd.”

Izuku grinned up at him. “Like you were any less of a nerd than I was Kat.” He teased, using his new nickname for Katsuki. It had yet to fail at making the blond’s cheeks go red. “We’re both smart. It’s part of why we were so sure that UA was a possibility, and you know it.”

Katsuki conceded. “Fair enough. Still a nerd.” He grinned. “My nerd though.” He said, leaning down slightly, planting a kiss on Izuku’s forehead.

-(o)-

“Young Midoriya. The time has come. In the nine months since you have begun your training I have seen just how hard you have pushed yourself and just how much effort you have put in. And today, the beach is clean.” All Might turned from the empty beach to look at Izuku. “I am so proud of you.” The man said, practically beaming down at Izuku.

He stared up at All Might with wide eyes. “Thank you Sir…” He said quietly, unsure of what else to say. Katsuki wasn't much better, simply keeping a comforting hand on Izuku’s shoulder, and saying nothing else.

“Are you ready?” The man asked. “Entrance exams are today, and this power may be too much for you to handle, at least right away. I have seen how you have trained explosions, and it is more than sufficient in my opinion. If you would rather, we can transfer the quirk tomorrow rather than today.”

Izuku took a breath. “No.” he said quietly. “I’ll do it today.” He looked down at his palms. “I've trained every day for the past nine months for this. It’s time.”

All Might grinned. “Very well then!” The man reached up, and inflated to his hero form, before plucking a hair from his iconic V. “EAT THIS!” His voice boomed with power and duty, as he held the hair out to Izuku.

-(o)-

Here it was. The next step of his journey. Izuku stood outside of the gates of UA, as students slowly tickled inside. He took a deep breath, and began to walk in. “You’re ready. You’ve got this.” Katsuki murmured to him. Izuku took a deep breath, and began to walk in.

This wasn't how he had imagined this day going a year ago. He had been sure that he was going to struggle with whatever test it would be, sure that Katsuki would be taking the test alongside him. He stared up at the building of UA in wonder, never having seen it this close before. He was nervous despite himself. This was a monumental task, one that would determine the course of the rest of his life. He couldn't afford to mess this up.

“Get out of your own head, nerd.” Katsuki reassured him lightly. “I can practically hear your brain whirring with nervousness. Stop. You’ve got your brain, and my quirk. You’ll do just fine.” He lightly shoved Izuku’s shoulder in a teasing manner. Unfortunately, that was the worst time possible, as Izuku had to take a sudden step forwards to catch himself, and his toe clipped a stone that jut out from the path. Now, with no ability to catch himself, Izuku did his best to brace for the impact with the ground.

Except…

It never came. Instead, Izuku continued to spin, before he felt Katsuki’s hand grab his arm, and stopped him. Izuku opened his eyes and saw he was staring at a girl who was upside down, looking at him in concern. Wait, no, actually it was him that was upside down. “I’m so sorry for using my quirk on you without permission, but I figured it would be bad luck to fall right before the exams!” The girl quickly explained.

Izuku blinked, and moved his arms, feeling himself slightly shift through the air as he did so. “Woah…” he murmured. “Localized gravity manipulation.” He waved his arms, slowly flipping himself back right side up. “That’s a really cool quirk!” Izuku said excitedly. “Are you anchoring someone to a specific point, subconsciously manipulating the gravitational pull on something, or is it a form of loose telekinesis?” Izuku asked, eyes wide in excitement. 

The girl looked bewildered. “U-um… I have no idea what half of that even means…” She admitted. “My quirk is zero gravity. It removes the gravity of something when I touch it with all five fingers. When I press my hands together it cancels, see?” She pressed her hands together, calling out as she did so. “Release.” Instantly, Izuku felt his gravity return, and he dropped the small distance he was above the ground. 

Izuku frowned at her description of her quirk for a moment, but kept his mouth shut. He recognized that pointing out someone's quirk was entirely different to what they originally assumed likely wasn't the best thing to do when first meeting them.

“Thank you for stopping me from falling.” Izuku opted to say instead. “You’re right, it would not have been very lucky. I’m Izuku Midoriya, glad I could meet you!”

The girl grinned back at him. “Ochako Uraraka!” She declared, before giggling slightly. “Glad I could help!” Then she blinked. “Oh damn, we gotta get going!” She suddenly realized, walking around Izuku, while turning to face him as she began to do so. “Good luck!” She declared, before turning around, and rushing into the building.

Izuku’s eyes widened, and he quickly followed after her, not intending on being late. “Her quirk was so cool, but so clearly mislabeled. God I hate when people tell kids blatantly false things.” Izuku muttered. “I hope she gets in. I’m gonna show her how to really use her quirk.”

Katsuki laughed. “Obsessing over her quirk already? Heh. Should've known this school was gonna be like heaven for you.”

Izuku blushed a bit. “Not my fault my classmates are gonna have cool quirks! This is a hero school after all!”

Katsuki grinned. “Oh? So sure you’ll be getting in?” Katsuki teased, before he gained a more serious tone. “Good. I’ve seen what you can do. Out of anyone here, compared to every other applicant, you have this. You’re getting in Izuku. That’s a fact.”

-(o)-

The written test had been fairly simple. It was difficult, but Izuku was confident in his information. Added to the fact that Izuku was technically allowed to have Bakugou help him, due to passive intelligence quirks being allowed in education through Japan, and he was certain he had a fairly high score. It had taken a decent amount of time, but that wasn't a problem. 

When they did eventually get to the auditorium where Present Mic began to explain the rules, Izuku had allowed his worries to slip away. He was as ready for this as he could be. There was no more he could do, so instead he would give it his all. It would be enough. He took in all of the information the hero was explaining, quietly murmuring back and forth with Katsuki, hardly the only person mumbling to themselves in the auditorium.

Eventually it was time for them to head out to the buses, which took them to their exam regions. Izuku took the time to breathe, and to get himself ready to focus. Katsuki would keep an eye out for him, allowing Izuku to focus even more on the fight. As the group gathered in front of their gate, Izuku noticed the girl from earlier, Uraraka, trying to psych herself up for the test. Izuku walked over to her quickly. “Nervous?” He asked.

She turned to look at him, a little surprised, but her eyes widened when she saw it was him. “You’re here too!” She smiled, but shyly. “Yeah… I just… I don't want to mess up.” She admitted.

Izuku nodded. “I get it. But you’re as good as you're going to get. There's no sense worrying about the what ifs. You can't change the past, prepared or not. The only thing you can do is control the here and now. So don't be afraid. Do what you can. Don't let your doubts and fears drag you down, and trust that what you have done will be enough. You’ll be able to go so much further.”

The girl blinked at him for a moment, before her smile grew. “You’re right!” She declared. Her fist pounded into her open palm. “I’m gonna destroy these robots!” The shy, reserved demeanor had changed into a fiery passion one wouldn't have expected from her. It fit well though.

Katsuki got a similar grin on his face. “Oh, I like her.” He said. “You needed a challenge. Let’s just hope she has the power to back it up.”

Izuku nodded. “Then good luck!” He said.

Moments later, Present Mic’s voice called out. “GO!” The doors to the arena began to open, and immediately Izuku’s attention snapped to attention, as he ran inside, smaller blasts from his hands granting him a boost of speed.

“You too!” Uraraka called from behind him, slowly fading.

Izuku didn't turn around though. He could hope she got in, while not distracting himself from his goals. His eyes had already locked onto a group of robots in front of him. Five of them. Two Victory class, two Imperial class, and one Venator class robot, tallying up to nine points in total. Izuku didn't hesitate. Smoke plumed from his hands, littering the street. Izuku let out a spark of light from his hands, the shadowed form of the robot’s silhouettes appearing for a brief moment. He pushed forwards, releasing a blast in front of him, successfully blowing one of the Victory class bot’s arms off. A second blast towards the hole shut it down completely. Another flash of light showed the Imperials trying to find him, sweeping their tails wide.

Izuku grinned, and he focused on his quirk. His hands began to heat up, glowing with a faint orange energy, yet they didn't detonate once. The next time one of the bot’s tails swept towards him, he caught it, and slowly began to plunge his hands into the metal, as it bent around his superheated hands. Yet another use to this quirk that Izuku had come to him far easier than Katsuki had been able to. “Behind!” Katsuki’s voice called out.

Izuku immediately turned, letting out a flash, and saw the form of the remaining Victory bot bearing down at him. Izuku ripped off the tail of the Imperial, and burst forwards with one hand, spearing the Victory bot on the impromptu weapon. It went down quickly, and Izuku ripped his trophy back out, turning towards the abandoned Imperial. His hands, still burning hot enough to bend the metal, but not melt it, began to crush it between them, making a genuine spear from the scrap metal it had once been. He charged again, the spear in one hand piercing through the missile launcher of the Imperial bot, while his other hand blasted the optics from it’s head off, the boy shutting down quickly. Two more.

Pops not of his own signaled missiles beginning to fire from the remaining Imperial, and Izuku didn't intend on getting hit by them. He blasted towards his feet, leaping upwards, and dispersing the smoke in a small area, as the missiles went flying through where he had just been. He hadn't jumped especially high, still not having the power behind his explosions to nearly fly as Katsuki could, but it was enough to boost his jump a decent amount. Izuku landed after a moment, ripping his spear from the broken missile launcher of the downed bot, and now that the smoke had cleared, turned to face the Imperial without obstruction. He wasted no time in charging it, aware that it would have to reload before it could fire again, and intent on not allowing it the time to do so.

His weapon lashed out harshly, the edge finding purchase in the joints of the scorpion’s legs, and cutting through, crippling it. A blast towards center mass blew an indent into its armor, and the perfect weak point for his spear to puncture straight through, shutting the bot down almost instantly. One left. Izuku turned to the final bot of the group, the Venator. It was large and bulky, having significantly heavier armor than either of the others. This was meant to be yet another test. The smarter students would recognize what bots they couldn't contend with, and would skip them. Victory class bot's were fast but weak. If you couldn't keep up it was better to ignore them. Imperial class had range, putting those who had to get in close at a disadvantage. Venators had bulk, making those who lacked the raw power have to waste time on them. This test was as much about skill as it was about proper decision making. 

Izuku would give it a shot, but if Explosion wasn't enough to cut through it fast enough, he’d move on. The bot rolled towards him, not slow inherently, but it certainly was when compared to the other two bots. It gave Izuku more than enough time to meet its charge, slamming his spear into one of its many optics. He dropped it, using the bot as a makeshift sheathe for the moment, so that he could use both hands. Orange energy lit up his right fist as his left palm began to rain explosions down on the center console of the bot, desperately trying to throw him off. Once his hand was hot enough to begin making heat mirages, he began to claw his way through the dented armor, literally ripping his way through the metal. With another detonation into the core, the bot shut down. A satisfied grin slipped onto his face, as he looked up, now facing the entrance, and saw many students were still just starting to begin the exam. “How long?” Izuku asked Katsuki, as he stood up, and grabbed his spear, taking off towards the nearest conflict he could hear.

“It’s only been 40 seconds!” Katsuki responded, keeping pace with Izuku. “You’ve got nine points.” The boy would be keeping track of things, so Izuku didn't have to worry about trying to keep a tally in his mind. He turned the corner, and came upon 3 Victory bots and 1 Imperial harassing another examinee, who was clearly doing her best, but lacked a physical quirk to make any headway against the metal of the robots.

“Want some help, or would you rather I leave you be?” Izuku called out. He didn't want to steal the kills, but the girl was clearly in over her head. She had long, periwinkle hair, and a fierce, calculating look on her face, but it was obvious that she was annoyed by her inability to actually inflict any damage.

The girl glanced at him. “I would certainly appreciate it!” She said, and Izuku could tell immediately she was a prim and proper type. Despite that, she was here, willing to get down and dirty, even without a physical quirk. He could respect that. 

He started forwards again. “What’s the biggest problem?”

“I can't get started! There's no debris I can use as a makeshift weapon and-” She stopped speaking for a moment, dodging a flurry of strikes from one of the Victory bots. “I can't get away in order to find one!” She finished, exasperated.

Izuku looked down at the spear in his hand and grinned. He could help her, and get some points of his own from this. A blast erupted from his hand, and he leapt over the Victory bots harassing her, instead opting to skewer the Imperial. He left the spear in the bot's visor, and cracked open its shell, shutting it down. “The spear, take that!” Izuku said.

The girl turned to him, and saw his spear left in the bot, and her eyes almost seemed to light up. “Excellent! I’ll be able to use this well!” She quickly ran over, dodging blows the entire way, and ripped the spear out of the downed bot. “Thank you and good luck!” She said, turning around to face down the Victory bots chasing her.

“You as well!” Izuku called, racing off. The rest of the test continued on in a similar manner. Izuku would find a group of bots, would wreck them, and would occasionally spot other examinees who were in over their head, offering them a helping hand. He didn't want to get points off for kill stealing, but he would rather that than leaving someone to get hurt by the bots. Slowly, his points were building. Up to 54 points, and rising, he had circled back to the main street. It was at that moment however, that the exam changed. A deep rumbling began to erupt from the center of the arena, and slowly, a massive robot began to emerge from a hole in the ground. Bearing the same silhouette as the zero pointer Executor class bot Present Mic had warned them about, Izuku immediately knew this was yet another test. Overwhelming force. Recognizing when you were outgunned, and had to retreat. Putting a point value on it would've encouraged fools to charge headfirst at it, trying to bring it down. Izuku wouldn't do that. He understood the lesson UA was trying to teach, even now during the entrance exams.

He turned around, and began to head away from the giant bot, following the flow of people, when he heard a cry. “Someone help!” Izuku’s eyes widened as he turned in the direction of the cry. He recognized the voice. It was Uraraka. He saw her leg trapped under a piece of rubble, desperately trying to reach back to the rock, but the positioning made it almost impossible. Izuku ran forwards without hesitation.

“I’m coming!” He called out, and as she looked up, he could see her palpable relief. Izuku reached her after a moment, The Executor bearing down on them. “Are you hurt anywhere else?” He asked. A broken or damaged leg was a problem, but not usually life threatening with proper care. Other injuries might be.

The girl shook her head. “No, just my leg.” She tried to reach back again, but couldn't twist her body enough to reach it. “I can't touch it to get it off.” She managed out, clearly biting back her pain.

Izuku nodded, moving forwards. The rock was heavy, extremely so, and Uraraka was so close to touching it. “I don't know if I can move this on my own.” Izuku said. “Definitely not without hurting you even more.” He pursed his lips, looking around, where he saw another girl rushing towards them, fluffy pink hair tied into two long ponytails behind her, and an eye patch over her left eye.

“What can I do to help!” She said as she got close, eyeing the Executor wearily.

“What’s your quirk?” Izuku asked quickly. He needed to know exactly how best to use her in this situation, and quirks were the easiest way to figure that out.

“Leap! It lets me jump very high or very far, and land without any damage!”

Izuku grimaced. “Can you help me try and lift this?” Her quirk didn't directly help, but maybe she was strong enough for it. As they tried though, and failed, Izuku knew they were running out of options. “Fuck.” He cursed, taking a page out of Bakugou’s book. “That’s not good.” He looked back up at the bot. “Alright, Can you help her bend to get all five fingers on the rock? It’ll be painful but stretching too far is better than getting crushed by the bot.” Izuku said 

The girl nodded. “I can, what are you going to be doing?”

Izuku stood up. “I’m going to be trying to stall this thing.” His palms began to crackle, as they heated up and energy began to build. Katsuki was in front of him by a good bit, crouched on the ground with both hands held together, ready for Izuku to step on them and boost him up. 

He could almost feel the second it happened. The second he reached his limit on power, and began to start running. The second he surpassed it. Pure unfiltered energy flooded his system, so alien, and yet so natural. It was something foreign to him, and yet it fit perfectly into place. His power boosted even further, continuing to climb higher and higher, eventually reaching Katsuki’s level. His got planted on the boy's interlocked hands, and as he was launched upwards, blasts erupted from his hands, sending him coursing up into the sky, towards the Executor Class’s faceplate. The wind ripped through him, but he had never felt more alive than in this moment. He understood now why Katsuki loved the feeling of the air. It was intoxicating.

But he had a job to do. He reached his apex, hurtling ever closer to the optic of the gargantuan bot, and still, the energy coursed through him. He focused it, stopping the blasts, and just forcing more and more sweat into his palms. Then, just before he got too close, he pointed them towards the bot, and let it all loose. A massive detonation lit up the sky with such brightness that the shadows left were in the direct path of the afternoon sun. Instantly, The Executor Bot froze, its head crumpled inwards from force as it teetered backwards, before rocking back down and settling, dead. The blast had also sent Izuku flying backwards, and he desperately tried to prevent himself from crashing into the ground.

As he tried to slow himself, a blur of pink shot up into the air, which slowly became clear as the girl from earlier, carrying Uraraka. They intercepted his path, and as Izuku felt a sharp slap on his chest, from how fast both of them had been traveling, his gravity was also removed. Quickly, Izuku used more and more explosions to halt his descent, slowing down gradually, until he eventually came to a stop. Only a few inches over the ground, his gravity returned, and he stumbled, but turned around to look at the two girls. “Are you both okay!?” Izuku asked worriedly.

Uraraka smiled weakly at him. “Yes, Haneyama got me out of there!” It was clear she was still in a lot of pain, still being held by the other girl. Despite that though, she seemed to be in a good mood.

Izuku sighed in relief. “We should probably get you back to the entrance, that’s where medical care was stated to be.” He glanced at Uraraka in the newly dubbed Hanayama’s arms. “I have a decent amount of points, you keep going, I’ll make sure she gets back to the entrance.” Izuku said, stepping forward, before pausing for a moment. “If you’re okay with me carrying you, that is, Uraraka.”

Uraraka blinked, and her cheeks turned slightly pink, but she nodded. “Yeah, that’s okay.” Izuku sighed in relief, and after a moment, Hanayama transferred the brunette into his arms. “Good luck!” He told the pink haired girl, as she raced off to find more bots. Izuku began to walk to the entrance, doing his best not to jostle Uraraka. “Are you sure you’re okay?” He asked, looking down at her with concern.

Uraraka nodded tiredly. “It hurts alot, but UA has Recovery Girl. I’ll be fine.” She murmured.

Just as the pair were about to reach the entrance, Present Mic’s voice rang out again. “Aaaand that's time!” He shouted. “All contestants, please make your way towards the entrance! If you see someone who is injured, please help them get back as quickly as possible so that we can provide medical care! If you are lost, stay where you are, and a group of bots will come find you to escort you out after a moment!”

Izuku let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding, seeing the Villain bots remaining stop moving for a moment, before turning and leaving. They had been mostly occupied by other students, but it was nice to know there was no chance of them hurting anyone else. Izuku looked down at Uraraka, and decided to do his best to try and distract her. “How many points did you get?” He asked.

She blinked up at him. “32 I think?” She grimaced slightly. “I don't know if that’s good or not.”

Izuku nodded. “I think you’ll do well! Those bots certainly weren't easy to beat, so 32s probably a really good number.”

Uraraka blinked up at him “You say that like you were nowhere near that range.” She stared at him for a moment. “How many points did you get?”

Izuku blushed slightly, knowing she was probably on the right track. “Uh…” He glanced at Katsuki.

“54.” The blond reminded him with a massive, teasing grin.

“54…” Izuku admitted to Uraraka. He recognized that was probably a high amount, but he also had Katsuki’s quirk, and now, seemingly All Might's. Upon seeing her shocked look, he doubled down on his earlier statement. “But I’m sure that you did fine! I’ve trained my quirk a lot. Like, to a pretty massive degree.” 

Thankfully, he was saved from further floundering by Recovery Girl. He put Uraraka down where she was promptly seen to, and Izuku shook off. Before he left, he wished Uraraka luck, and hoped to see her in his class. He had little doubts that he himself would make it in, even more so when Katsuki said the next closest number he had heard anyone say aloud was 46. Not impossibly far from him, but still decently below. He should be fine. He hoped the pink haired girl, Haneyama, also got in. She was, after all, one of the few hero students who actually stopped to help rescue someone. The world needed more heroes like that.

-(o)-

Almost a week so far of no contact from All Might. Entrance exams results would be there soon, but Izuku needed something to distract him, more than just spending time with Katsuki. Something active. So Izuku decided to take a trip to Chiba, where a new branch of Pro Provisions had opened up. It was apparently the largest store so far, and had just opened recently, so Izuku was very excited to see the hero merch they had.

Unfortunately, his plans would have to be rescheduled for another day. As it would happen, Izuku’s luck with Villains had seemingly run out. This resulted in him being caught up in the middle of a Villain attack. Specifically a hostage scenario in the middle of the street. The villain in question had a quirk which allowed them to gather energy and fire it in blasts. Izuku knew this because of the massive crater in the ground. It wasn't looking like a particularly safe scenario, and Izuku was seriously debating using his quirk to take out the villain and dealing with the consequences later.

“Deactivate your quirk and surrender yourself, and we can be lenient with your sentence!” The police captain on scene called through his megaphone. “So far the only crimes you’ve committed are illegal quirk use, and property damage. We can get this sorted out, without making things worse for you.”

The Villain breathed in and out. “How do I know you’ll keep your word?” He demanded. “I’m not stupid, I know that this…” He paused, breathing heavily, his eyes flitting back and forth nervously. “There's no coming back from this!”

“There is!” The captain said. “Yes, there is going to be a mark on your record, but if you use that quirk, if you hurt someone innocent, that’s when there’s no coming back. Right now, you’ll get jail time, yes, but you will also be able to be released within a reasonable time. You’ll be able to come back and get a job, make a living and move on.” He paused for a moment, letting it sink in. “People make mistakes, and yes, sometimes those mistakes need to be paid for, but they aren't too late to come back from. It’s when you make a decision you know is wrong, that you can't come back from it. You’re here, now, speaking with us. I don't know what caused this, and trust me, I know that this didn't come out of nowhere, I can see that you don't want to hurt anyone, but what I do know is that you’re aware of what’s happening now. We can make acceptances for what’s happened so far, but if you go past that now, while you are aware of your choices, that’s it, that's over. We can still fix this.”

Izuku had seen many villain apprehensions. He had seen many hero fights. But he had never seen a situation like this, with a police captain calming a villain down without the intervention of a hero. He wasn't one of the few people in the direct line of fire, but he was still worried nonetheless. With every sentence the captain said however, he, and everyone else, began to calm down. They were getting through to him. The villain’s energy ball weakened slightly in their grasp. He was considering it.

So of course that would be when it all went to hell. The responding hero had made it to the scene, far too late, and they didn't stop to speak with the police officers, nor to check the situation. A wave of water carried them over the police blockade, charging at the villain. Izuku had seen the hero before, Waterwalker. He also knew that the man was a strong combat hero. Judging from the look on his face, he expected the Villain to move his energy blast towards him, where he could properly defend against it, rather than the clump of civilians a few meters away. It wasn't unreasonable, Izuku supposed. Instinct was to point the weapon at the most dangerous thing when suddenly threat’s appeared. Unluckily for everyone involved, the Hero’s appearance did not make the man change targets before aiming, rather, firing the energy blast directly at the crowd.

People screamed, and those on the edges moved, but it was too late. The people in the way wouldn't have enough time to move.

Someone else did though. A teenage boy, his age, just on the edge of the targeted group began to run. But rather than running to the side, or away, he instead ran directly at the incoming blast of energy, his skin seemingly shifting into stone, with his steps denting the asphalt. Izuku understood immediately what the boy was doing. His quirk granted him some kind of durability. He intended on taking the hit so that no one else would have to.

The ball of energy slammed into the boy with a brilliant flash of light and heat, just as it had the first time, when it had hit the asphalt. But now, it was meeting someone, not something. The boy cried out in pain, but stayed standing until the blast was gone. Instantly, the hero pushed his water even faster than before, his water whipping up the Villain, and trapping him, unable to use his quirk anymore. Hostages fled the scene, crossing the police barrier instantly. Izuku however, ran to the boy, Katsuki at his side. 

It was bad. Some of the worst injuries Izuku had ever seen in his life. And yet for what it had done to the asphalt, it was next to nothing. The boy blinked at him curiously, as Izuku grabbed him, staring at his injuries. “Sv’d ‘m.” The boy, with black hair, red eyes, and spiky, shark teeth mumbled. He coughed, and blood splattered over the ground. Izuku didn't need to wonder why. The boy’s chest had been caved in, the edges seared shut, but the damage was already done. He could see fragments of the boy’s ribs lying within the open cavity to his organs, could see his lungs actively moving, his diaphragm pushing and pulling air in and out, even as blood continued to fill the empty space.

Izuku’s eyes filled with tears, realizing there was nothing that could be done for the boy. He was too injured. He wouldn't live through the next minute, let alone the time it would take for any quirk that could heal this kind of damage. He nodded. “You saved them.” He confirmed for the boy. “You saved everyone.” Faintly, Izuku could recognize EMT’s moving around him. Distantly, one tried to warn him to move away, but another stopped his colleague. There was nothing they could do for the boy, and he clearly was more comfortable with Izuku here if he was responding. Izuku glanced up for just a moment, and saw one of them give him a sad nod, before he turned back to look at the boy.

“Guth.” The boy murmured, the blood in his mouth muddling his words. He coughed again, and more red stained the world. “W’s… h’ro.” The boy’s eyes seemed to sparkle for a moment, and he almost sounded like he laughed before it devolved in more coughing. “G’ss M’na… Righ…” He trailed off, blinking, as he slowly leaned back onto the ground, closing his eyes. And then his lungs stopped moving. His heart ceased pumping, because the boy had died. 

One of the EMT’s placed a hand gently on his shoulder. “You gave him comfort, kid.” They said quietly. “That was the best anyone could've done for him, and you did it better than we could've.” their other hand moved to his own, which was holding the boy’s, slowly growing colder with every second. Gently, they coaxed him to let go, and guided him back, so that they could take care of the boy’s body.

“Izuku.” Katsuki quietly whispered.

Izuku looked over at him. “Yeah?” He asked, dejectedly. It was then that Izuku noticed it. The boy, standing there, looking between Katsuki, Izuku, and his own body, shock clear on his face. “Oh…” Izuku said, his own eyes wide.

“I… what?” The boy mumbled. “But I… Died.” He said quietly.

Izuku blinked at him. “Yeah… I wish I could change it, but… Sadly I can't. You’re dead.” Izuku came to a realization then, about his quirk. Once was happenstance. Twice was the beginning of a pattern. “My quirk lets you stick around even afterwards. I should be able to touch you, and vice versa, as well as using your quirk, but you’re right… You are dead. I’m sorry I couldn't do more.”

The boy stared at him for a moment, before looking at the terrified, but alive hostages. “I… Don't be. I saved them. It’s worth it.” He murmured. He turned back to Izuku. “So… Am I just… Stuck with you now?” His eyes widened. “Not that that’s horrible, or anything it's just…” He frowned. “My family’s not gonna take this well.” He said quietly.

“Yeah that's… They probably aren't.” Izuku admitted. “And I don't know how closely you’ll have to stay to me. Katsuki had to stay way closer before, and we haven't exactly tested the limits because we were always close. If you do have to stay close though… I can try and find your family. Let you see them.”

The boy looked up at him. “You’d do that?” He asked. Izuku nodded. The boy’s eyes welled with tears, and he took a step forwards, wrapping Izuku in a hug. “Thank you.” He murmured in his ear. After a moment, Izuku hugged him back, clearly able to see the boy needed it. They stood there for a while, everyone ignoring Izuku for the most part. After a bit though, the boy stepped back. “Thank you.” He repeated that. “I… I needed that.”

Izuku nodded. “I get it.” He paused. “I meant what I said, you know. You were a hero.”

The boy’s eyes filled with tears once again. “I always wanted to be one.” He admitted. “But I was just so scared. I hadn't been able to move before, and then I saw the Sludge Villain.” Both Izuku and Katsuki froze. “I just… I didn't think I could do it anymore. I gave up.” He chuckled weakly. “To think that all I had to do was die.” He mumbled sarcastically. It was dark humor, but Izuku and Katsuki were more than familiar with it by now.

Katsuki put his hand on the boy’s shoulder, clearly understanding how hard this was for him. “You did what you could. Everyone’s afraid. You’re still more of a hero than most people I’ve seen. Besides, Izuku can use your quirk. Even if it’s not directly, you’ll still be saving people in some way.” Katsuki explained.

The boy looked up at Izuku with an almost hopeful smile. “You’re gonna be a hero?”

“If I get accepted to UA, yeah.”

“When you get accepted.” Katsuki corrected. “You’re Midoriya Izuku, and you are going to be a UA student.” 

The boy’s eyes were wide. “That's… That’s amazing.” He took a breath. “Then I’m glad you got my quirk.” The boy said. He swallowed, and stuck out his hand to Izuku. “Kirishima Eijiro. Thank you for being here.”

Chapter Text

Adjusting to a third person in their dynamic was both very difficult, and very easy. Kirishima fit in well with them. He was somewhat shy, and had a number of self confidence issues, but he was funny, and easily excited by heroes the same as them. It had also been good for Katsuki, who clearly seemed glad there was another person he could talk to.

That being said, there were also some issues. Izuku and Katsuki now had a third person constantly with them, which made their more intimate moments significantly more awkward. Kirishima was fairly understanding, but neither of them really felt comfortable asking him to just leave the room just so that they could spend some time together. It was something to get used to.

They had taken to training with Kirishima’s quirk in the days since the exam. Like Katsuki’s quirk, Izuku’s expression of it was very different from how the boy used to use it. Hardening, as Kirishima’s quirk was called, worked by simply turning Kirishima's skin and extremities into a stone-like material. It massively boosted his durability and strength, but drastically reduced his speed.

When used by Izuku, however, they had taken to calling it Condense, much more different from the original than Katsuki’s was. Condense worked as the name suggested, by actively condensing the area he used it on into something akin to Kirishima’s armor, though it made the area sink inwards a bit. The most useful part though, as they had learned while testing, was that Condense could be used to almost fold himself out of the way of attacks, or to stretch him out in one direction. 

His most used method had been what he had started to focus his fighting style on. Holding all of his fingers forwards, in a disconnected circle, before using Condensed to make a smooth, small barrel. It would allow him to place a small projectile in it, and with Explosion, he could then fire it with an absurd amount of force. Even without a bullet, using the barrel made the actual impact of the explosion more forceful, as it was all focused towards a single point.

Kirishima had quickly slotted into their training, showing he had a decent base of combat skills to work from, a result of his previous desire to be a hero. He tended to have an issue with just allowing himself to get hit, in exchange for landing one on his opponent, but that was only a problem because Hardening was now unavailable to him.

Despite the fact that neither of them could truly fight anything, they could still spar with Izuku, and help him improve which both were happy to do. It also helped them feel more active, unable to truly touch anything but him and get a reaction from it.

“Izuku!” His mom called from the living room, startling Izuku out of where he was concentrating on his homework. The school year was almost over, but that wasn't an excuse to slack off. He was trying to be a UA student. He could not simply accept passing.

As he stood up from his desk, and began to make his way towards the living room, he mused on that mindset. Perhaps Katsuki had rubbed off on him more than he remembered. The drive to push himself to the absolute limits. To not let himself accept defeat unless there was no other possibility, and even then, to learn from it. It was something he hadn't had, prior to Katsuki’s death. But now, he couldn't imagine living without it. That desire to reach the limits.

And when, because Katsuki was right, he made it into UA, he would do his utmost to instill that desire upon his class. To push them to their limits and then break those limits, reaching heights they never thought they could. He aimed to herald in a new age of heroism, and a new symbol of strength. Mediocrity would not suffice.

He stepped out of his room, and walked down the short hallway, to see his mom in the living room, holding a letter, with his dad grinning behind her. “Your UA letter is here Izuku!” She said excitedly.

Izuku’s eyes widened. He hadn't even realized it had been long enough. Since the exam, he had been more focused on ensuring Kirishima was settling in comfortably, and continuing to train to realize how long it had been.

Izuku stepped closer to her, hesitantly grabbing the letter. Despite his belief that he had made it in, he couldn't help but be nervous regardless. Katsuki seemed to share the same result. They could think themselves the best all they wanted, but when the time came, only the letter could decide their fate. “Could I…” Izuku began hesitantly. “Could I read this in my room?” He asked.

His mom’s excited smile calmed into a comforting one. “Of course, Honey. We’ll be waiting to hear the results afterwards.” 

His dad smiled at him from his seat at the table. “I’m certain you did amazing, son. But do whatever you need to.” 

It was at times like these, Izuku was reminded of how his relationship with Katsuki had been fixed. His father had returned after his short stay in America, declining an extended contract there, in exchange for staying closer to his family. And the man was very similar to Katsuki. A hothead, who was far too passionate and competitive about the things he cared about. The only difference was that while a younger Katsuki had been immature, and rude due to his skills, his father was kind and helpful, more than willing to lend his aid and rely on others. He had taught Katsuki that lesson as well, and had been the major reason why they had made up again.

Both his dad and Katsuki had that same almost cocky confidence in Izuku's abilities, but while Katsuki was aggressive in his care and comfort, in a way that was unique to him, his dad was understanding and calm.

Izuku nodded, and turned around to his room, quickly slipping in, after letting Kirishima and Katsuki slip in behind him. They could technically choose to phase through the door or walls, but neither enjoyed doing so, as it was a particularly violent reminder of their ghostly nature.

Izuku sat down at the table, pushing aside his homework so that he had space on his desk. Slowly opening the letter, he reached on and pulled out an odd small puck looking thing. He looked at it curiously for a moment, before putting it down on the table. Almost instantly, it burst into light, a hologram appearing above it.

“I AM HERE, TALKING TO YOU THROUGH A HOLOGRAM!” All Might’s voice echoed through the roof. “Huh?” The man said to someone off screen. “Oh, alright. Sorry.” The man said, looking slightly embarrassed. “Anyways,” The man said, with a much more normal volume. “I am here to give you your exam results! Midoriya Izuku! You did very well on the written portion of the test, scoring a 97 percent. That more than qualified you for the general exams, but admittedly, that likely wasn't the part the most students would be concerned about.” The man grinned.

“He’s… Goofy…” Kirishima said. He had yet to actually see Izuku meeting with All Might, as the man had been no-contact up until now. He had been told, of course, but both Izuku and Katsuki had forgotten to mention how… Unique the man was, when he wasn't acting as a hero.

“No, what likely had your attention was the practical exam!” The man said theatrically, as the camera shifted to place All Might to the side, with a smaller screen showing clips from the exam over his shoulder. “During the exam you scored 54 points! More than enough to get you into the hero course if we were judging simply on that metric!” The man declared with a grin. “But what kind of a hero school would we be if we didn't reward prospective students for helping others?” The clips began to show him the times he helped out other examinees. “For aiding your fellow examinees, and doing so in a way that managed to avoid stealing points when possible, the committee has allotted you the maximum amount of rescue points, adding 100 to your total score! With a total of 154 points, you are officially the highest ranked Examinee since Endeavor! You have passed, Young Midoriya! Welcome to Your Hero Academia!”

The hologram clicked shut, and Izuku stared at it in shock. “There were rescue points?” He murmured.

Suddenly he was tackled by Katsuki practically barreling into him with a hug. “I knew you did it!” The boy said in that aggressively positive tone Izuku knew. “Fuckin told you there was nothing to worry about!”

Izuku couldn't help laughing, both from Katsuki's reaction and his own relief. “Good job dude!” Kirishima said, grinning wide. “I know you said you were good, but holy shit, this is more than I thought!”

Izuku nodded, and after a moment, stood up from his chair.” It was more than I thought it would be too!” He said slightly giddy. He quickly walked over to the door, pushing it open, and practically running out to his parents. “I did it! I got in!”

-(o)-

The first day of his new future. Izuku paused for a moment just inside the gates of UA, staring up at the imposing building that made up its main campus. He grinned as he felt Katsuki place a hand on his shoulder. “Fucking hell.” The blond breathed out. “We’re really here.” He murmured.

Izuku nodded. “We are.” He agreed. His wonderstruck look hardened into a determined one, ready to begin his journey. The start of a change he could only hope would save the world.

Izuku, Katsuki and Kirishima all walked in, moving through the slow trickle of students. Izuku had gotten here early, determined to get his bearings before jumping headfirst into things. As he eventually reached the building, and through the halls, Izuku began to make his way to where his acceptance email had described, to join class 1-A

The door was massive, stretching far higher up than it would wide, but it was still easily three times as large as a normal door. It made sense, Izuku supposed. The vast majority of gigantism mutations affected height far more than width. Most tended to be quite tall and lanky.

Regardless though, Izuku pushed the door open, and wasn't surprised at all to find it mostly empty. There were a few people inside before him, however. One was the girl he had given his makeshift spear to, looking fairly regal and refined, now that she wasn't in a combat scenario. Another was a blue haired boy with glasses, who seemed to be setting his things up neatly and rigidly on his desk. There was also a boy with two toned hair, one half of it white, and the other red, with a large, darkened burn scar on the left side of his face. He was sitting at his desk, seemingly staring forwards into nothing. If not for the slight movement of his eyes to Izuku, he would have thought the boy had spaced out. The final student, right next to him was a girl with black hair, tied into a large spiky ponytail. She was reading a book of some kind, and judging from the cover, it likely had something to do with chemistry.

The periwinkle haired girl looked over to him as he stepped inside and smiled at him, slowly rising from her seat. “It’s you.” She said, bowing slightly. “I would like to thank you. Without your help it is extremely likely that I would have failed the exam.” She explained.

Izuku blinked. “Oh, there’s no need to thank me.” Izuku replied. “I was just doing what I thought was right. Besides, I’m sure you would have figured something out if that was all you needed to pass.”

The girl shook her head. “The spear alone wouldn't have been enough. It was your actions that allowed me to pass, as it inspired me to aid other examinees in turn. I did not have enough villain points on my own. It was only through the rescue points I achieved, all influenced by your own aid, that I passed. So yes, it absolutely was thanks to you that I passed.”

Izuku slowly settled into a smile, seeing that she wouldn't just drop it. “Alright then. I’ll accept that I played some part in it. But really, I was just trying to help someone out. It’s why we’re all here, right?” Izuku said, the last part of his words said towards the room, albeit still mostly towards the girl.

For a moment, no one spoke, and Izuku immediately began to lose his confidence. “I…” The girl said, clearly trying to find a response, which was telling. “I suppose it is.” She eventually said. The heterochromatic boy in the back scoffed, while the other girl shrunk into herself, clearly ashamed. The blue haired boy was blinking at Izuku in astonishment.

“U-uh…” Izuku said, on the back foot now, not quite sure how to respond.

“God damn, they all are so bad with people. I haven't even heard three of them speak and I can already tell.” Kirishima whispered to Bakugou.

The blond stared at the room in disbelief. “It’s almost impressive.”

“I apologize.” The girl said. “I do want to help people. It just isn't why I chose to become a hero in particular.” She explained, before glancing around the room. “I suspect it is a similar situation for the rest in the room.” 

“O-of course!” The blue haired boy said, clearly grateful for the excuse. “I was simply caught off guard. I had not realized you would address me.” He said, sharing a similarly complex and high class way of speaking, that would have seemed superior if it had not been clear that was simply the way they spoke.

“Regardless.” The girl spoke up. “Allow me to introduce myself. Intelli Saiko, it is a pleasure to properly meet you.” 

Izuku smiled. “It’s nice to meet you as well, I’m Midoriya Izuku.” He greeted in kind. “I’m glad to hear that I could help.”

Slowly, more and more students began to trickle in, and judging from Intelli’s look, she was at least slightly intimidated, withdrawing from the conversation shortly afterwards. Seemingly, she preferred sitting quietly at her desk, rather than risk starting a conversation with one of the other class members.

Izuku turned around, to make his way to his own seat, when he saw a girl with pink hair that he recognized from the exam. She wore a dark purple beanie, large round glasses, and a white medical eye patch, akin to the kind Izuku usually saw worn by Chuuni’s in anime. Something about both her actions during the exam though, and her general demeanor told him that it was likely more genuine. Her eye widened when she saw him, and she smiled. “It’s you!” She said. “Man, I'm glad you made it in. It was basically because of you that I could even get the rescue points to pass in the first place!”

Izuku grinned, her excited energy a little infectious. “Me too! I mean, I’m not entirely sure I wouldn't have gone splat, had you not helped that other girl to use her quirk on me. Thank you for that, Hane…” The rest of her name escaped him, unfortunately.

Thankfully, she didn't seem to take offense. “Haneyama Kazuho. Nice to meet you!”

Izuku nodded, and responded in kind. “Izuku Midoriya, you as well.” More and more students had begun to trickle in, and as Izuku glanced at the newest entrance to the class, he was pleasantly surprised to find Uraraka entering the room.

She scanned it for a moment, before her face broke out into an excited grin, and she dashed over. “Midoriya! Haneyama! You two made it in as well!” She said, weaving through the desks as fast as possible. “This is so cool! I’m so glad you guys did well enough! I-”

“If you’re here to socialize, you can leave now.” A tired, deadpan voice echoed through the class, slowly causing all chatter to grind to a halt. “Seven seconds for you all to silence.” The voice spoke again, and slowly, they all watched as a man dressed in loose fitting grey clothing with a long scarf and long, disheveled black hair walked into the class room. “Not enough. We’ll work on it.” No one moved, staring at him with shock and confusion. “All of you, put on these uniforms, go to the changing rooms, and meet me out on the fields. Do not dawdle, or fool around. I expect you to be there within fifteen minutes.” 

The man placed a stack of uniforms on the desk, and walked out without a moment's hesitation. For a moment no one spoke up. “Uh…” Kirishima said quietly. “I feel like you all should get moving. He did not seem like the kind of teacher you want to mess with.”

Izuku nodded, and looked towards Uraraka and Haneyama. “We should get going. We can talk later, I don't want to upset that guy, especially if he’s our teacher.” Izuku said, slipping his way towards the desk, where he grabbed his uniform. They had been given a map of the main building in their acceptance email, and Izuku had done his best to memorize it, so he was fairly certain he could find the locker rooms. Before he left the room, he turned back towards the class, to see that very few people had followed his example. “I think you guys should start moving, like he said, we’re on a time limit, and personally, I don't think any of us want to see what would happen if we miss it.” He said to the room as a whole.

It seemed his words sparked some initiative in them, as almost immediately afterwards, people began moving. He nodded to himself, and turned back to make his way to the locker rooms. It didn't take long for him to reach them, and he changed quickly, putting on the UA Gym uniform. If not for the seriousness the man had practically forced upon him, Izuku would have been gushing about them, but for the time being, he had bigger things to worry about.

When he walked out onto the field, and made his way over to where he found their teacher waiting, the man gave him an appraising nod. “Good.” He said quietly, before sitting in silence as the rest of the class trickled in. Once everyone had arrived, he spoke up. “13 minutes for the last of you to make it here. The first one made it here in four. You’ll have to be faster than that. We don't have time to waste here.” He swept his gaze across them all, causing even Izuku to tense. “I am Aizawa Shota, and I will be your Homeroom teacher. Unlike the rest of the classes in your year we will not be going to the welcoming ceremony. Instead, you are going to be taking a Quirk Apprehension Test.” He paused, before his gaze turned towards Izuku. “Midoriya. How far was your softball throw in Highschool?”

Izuku blinked. “Uh… 56 meters, I think?” He said, unsure. He hadn't really paid attention during them, more focused on his training.

The man nodded, and held up a softball, tossing it to him. “Step into this circle, and throw it as far as you can. Don't worry about using your quirk, or keeping standard form. We aren't following the rules here. We’re testing your limits. Enginuity is part of it.”

Izuku blinked, looking down at the ball. How could he get this as far as possible? Obviously Explosion would be a big help, but there was more he could do, no? It was big, but it could still fit fairly comfortably in his palm. Condense could form a barrel, but it wouldn't be particularly long, limiting the benefits. Could he lengthen it? His right hand held the ball, hand held downwards, palm facing forwards. His left arm extended past his wrist and the ball, his fingers stretched outwards. Condense used his right hand to form a small stretch of the bottom of the barrel, while his left made up the other 3/4ths of it, his arm stretching out and rounding too. It wasn't particularly long, only about a foot and a half, but it was leagues better than his fingers could have made with only a single hand.

He lifted it up, changing condense just slightly, to create spiraled groves in the barrel, and making the inner surface smooth. He aimed down range, felt himself pulling on Explosion to pump Nitroglycerin into the back of the ball. He recalled when One For All pushed it even further and drew on that too. This was to be a test, and a showcase, and Izuku would not back down. He was going to be an example, so that when the time came, those in the class could look to him for inspiration. He aimed upwards, at approximately a thirty degree angle, and when he was ready, he called out to the class. “Cover your ears.” He gave them a moment to comply, before he detonated his Nitro.

The explosion fired in the barrel, searing hot heat and explosive gas firing the softball at supersonic speeds, comparable to a bullet. It disappeared from sight almost immediately, as a gout of fire and smoke followed it out of the human barrel. It was gone before anyone could even process it had even been fired. No one spoke for a moment, just staring in awe. Then Aizawa held up his hand, showing a tracker for the ball. “1563.5 meters.” The man said, giving Izuku a nod, the corners of his mouth ticked up into a smile. He had obviously impressed the man, which could only be a good thing at the moment.

“That was so cool!” A pink girl, with small horns, as well as black and gold eyes exclaimed. “This is gonna be so fun!” She declared.

Instantly, they could all tell that was the wrong thing to say. “Fun?” Aizawa said, his voice almost chilling in tone. “You think this is going to be fun? This is training for heroics, where people's lives are going to be on the line. Fun,” He practically spat the word out. “Is not going to be one of the features.” He said. His face grew a sadistic smile. “New rule. The person who scores last in this Quirk Apprehension test is expelled.”

“That’s not fair!” Uraraka said before she could stop herself, clapping her hands over her mouth, eyes wide in shock.

“Do you think villain attacks are fair? Natural disasters? Global Crises?” He asked rhetorically. “No. They aren't. You are here to be heroes. Show me what you have.” He said, and everyone in the class fell silent. “We’ll begin with the fifty meter dash.”

The man walked over to the all track, prompting the class to join him. Izuku glanced around, and could clearly see a number of students looking worried. It was likely their physical skills wouldn't help them. A hologram with the order appeared, and slowly, Aizawa guided students into position. His eyes landed on Uraraka, Haneyama and Intelli. All three seemed nervous but determined, forming plans, so he moved on. Someone else got his attention. A girl with violet hair, and long appendages twisting nervously hanging from the bottom of her ears. She was wringing her hands, her quirk likely useless for this test.

Izuku took a breath, and drew on as much confidence as he could, before walking over. “Hey.” He greeted, doing his best to sound casual. “You doing okay?” He asked.

The girl’s head snapped to him, her eyes blotting back and forth between the test and him. “Fuck no.” She admitted after a moment. “Man, I'm so screwed. My quirk is useless for these.” She said, biting her lip.

Izuku nodded, taking it in. “What is it, if you don't mind me asking? I’d assume something to do with those extensions from your ears?”

The girl nodded, turning her attention to him fully. “It’s called Earphone Jack. They’re basically aux cords at the end of the tendril. They can extend and retract, and are fully prehensile, but they’re fairly weak. The most use I get from them comes from dramatically increasing the amount I can hear, especially if I stab them into a wall or a floor. They can also make sounds, and I can control it really accurately, but like I said, pretty useless for all of these.”

Izuku shook his head. “I wouldn't be so sure.” He objected, taking a moment to check the track. Only a few people had gone, and Izuku had time before he would need to worry about being called. Hopefully the girl did too. “If you can create sound then you have something. Certain sounds can trigger an adrenaline response. It’s not much, but it’ll certainly help you more than the people who don't have anything else.” He paused, making sure she was taking it in. “A sudden loud noise, right in your ear, combined with a dissonant frequency below 20 hertz should manage to trigger it.” 

The girl looked at his hands, no doubt remembering the explosions from before. “I can manage the dissonant frequency…” she said, having calmed down, a path before her. “But…” He could fill in the blanks. She might need his help for the sudden noise.

“Shouji Mezou and Jirou Kyouka.” Aizawa called, and the girl startled, before walking up to the track.

“Excuse me, Mr. Aizawa.” Izuku said, stepping forwards. “Are we allowed to use our quirks to help other students before they take the actual test?”

Aizawa raised an eyebrow, staring at him for a moment, no doubt trying to think of what Izuku intended to do. “So long as your quirk does not remain active during the process, and they do not have any new items, you may.”

Izuku nodded, and stepped forwards, to the girl, Jirou. “Start the frequency.” He said, cutting off whatever she was going to say. “You needed my help for the noise?” He asked.

“Ye-” He cut off the confirmation with a loud blast, and watched as her eyes went wide, and she flinched. It needed to be a surprise to work well. He quickly stepped away, and nodded to Aizawa, who had been about to step in, but upon seeing Jirou get into position instantly, stopped. Instead, he began the race. Both students took off running, and instantly, he could tell that his suggestion had merit, because she had blown past the massive classmate next to her. It wasn't to a superhuman degree, but as the scores popped up on the scoreboard, the girl gained a wide grin.

6.45 seconds. The fastest so far from someone without a mobility quirk, and beating Shouji’s time by nearly a full second. “Jirou.” Aizawa said, causing her eyes to widen, and turn to him with a slight bit of fear. “Was Midoriya’s act requested and done with the intention of helping?” He asked.

Jirou blinked, clearly not expecting that question. “Yes. He had suggested I could use my quirk to trigger an adrenaline response, and increase my physical capabilities temporarily, but I needed a sudden loud noise, in combination with it.”

The man stared for a moment, scrutinizing the two of them, before he relaxed and nodded. “Good work. Both of you.” He said simply, before calling on the next students.

As the man turned his attention away from them, and the next students readied themselves, Izuku watched as the rest of the class turned to stare at him.

“That was awesome dude!” Kirishima exclaimed, causing Izuku to feel a grin slip onto his face.

“It was really impressive.” Katsuki agreed. “I mean, I've heard your analysis enough times to start coming up with my own, and yet that wasn't something I had thought of.”

It was a shame they were in the middle of class, as Izuku couldn't properly respond to them. Regardless, he also had a number of classmates looking at him in awe, seeing that not only had he somehow managed to get the approval of Mr. Aizawa, but was dominant with his quirk, and was willing to help out.

It was what Izuku wanted. Hopefully, during the next test, someone else would come up to him. If not, he would go up to someone who seemed to be struggling, and do his best to help them. He wasn't going to be competing for last place, so he saw no drawback from helping some of his fellow classmates.

“That was so cool!” Uraraka gushed, as she walked over to him. “Man I never would have thought about that!” She said.

“Me either.” Haneyama agreed. “And I-” she cut herself off. “Nevermind.”

Izuku wanted to speak up, but both him and Haneyama were called on for the test. He began charging his hands with nitroglycerin, as he looked at Haneyama and grinned. “Good luck!” He said, trying to ease whatever had just happened with her.

The girl gave him a grin, slowly becoming more determined, before the whistle went off, and both of them were off. Haneyama’s quirk could seemingly be used at an angle, as she leapt forwards, almost parallel to the ground. Izuku had used Condense to create barrels, focusing more of the energy from his explosions directly backwards and boosting him forwards. Both finished quickly, with Haneyama getting a time of 3.68 seconds, and himself getting a time of 4.21, easily the second and third best times so far.

There were only two left, and once they finished, the class moved on. Each event Izuku sought out the person who looked the most nervous, and did his best to help them. By the fourth test, he had people coming up to him instead, asking for suggestions.

He had helped Kaminari get the highest score on the grip strength text by lighting up the display. Tokoyami had managed to clear the Sandpit, with Dark Shadow’s help, at his suggestion. Shouji, Asui, and Sero had all benefited during the Ball throw. Hagakure had gotten help during the seated toe touch and the sit ups, and Ashido had gotten help during the distance run. 

When they all gathered, afterwards, Aizawa glanced at them all, and revealed the rankings. Izuku had reached the top of the board, the combination of Condense and Explosion barely beating out Yaoyorozu, the spiky haired girl from earlier. At the bottom of the leaderboard, however, was Mineta. For all that he had some good results, his shorter stature held him back enough in others to place him in last.

Before their teacher could say anything, Izuku spoke up again. “Excuse me, sir?” He asked, cutting off whatever the man was about to say. He nodded, and aizuku continued. “Before you expel Mineta, could I say something that might change your decision? If it does not, then I will respect your decision, but I believe I should at least make an attempt sir.”

Aizawa eyed him curiously, but nodded. “Go ahead. Tell me why I shouldn't expel him.”

Izuku took a deep breath, relieved that his teacher had given him a chance. “Mineta has promise, sir. His quirk is extremely useful for capturing and detaining villains without the risk of harming civilians. He showed effort when attempting the tests, never simply giving up, even when it was made clear his short stature would hinder him. He had smart attempts during his successes, and it shows potential for improvement in the future.” He paused. “Just because someone is the worst of a group, does not mean they are worthless, or lack potential. This is a school sir, and you are here to teach us to make up for our flaws, and how to improve ourselves. We aren't supposed to come into the school knowing everything, but we are supposed to come into the school being willing to learn it. Can you truly tell me that Mineta has not done so? Has not proven he is willing to keep trying, even if nothing seems to be changing? No one in this class has shown they have no potential sir.” 

For a moment, no one spoke. Everyone stared at Izuku and Mineta, fearing what Aizawa would say. He had already proven himself willing to bend the rules, but this might have been too far.

“I understand the need to keep your word, sir.” Izuku continued. “But there is a difference between that, and being needlessly cruel, just because you stated you would.” He finished.

“You would speak up for a classmate you barely know, potentially putting yourself in the light of sights?” Aizawa asked rather than addressing his words.

Izuku nodded. “Heroes have to work with, and trust heroes they have never spoken to before all the time in the real world sir.” He paused, thinking. “We are classmates. I haven't known any of the people here, but I believe that it is our duty as prospective heroes to help uplift and improve everyone in our class. To push each other to further heights than would be possible on our own. And that starts with speaking up for Mineta.”

Aizawa grinned, a wide, eerie one, but Izuku knew the man was thrilled with his words. “Excellent.” He said simply. “Let this be a lesson to all of you. That attitude? That is what you should have. I am going to do my best to whip you all onto the greatest heroes you can be. Part of that will be in pushing you to constantly improve. Every day you are in my class, I will ask you to look to the you of yesterday, and to improve upon it, and look to the you of tomorrow, and strive to become as good as you can be.” He paused, turning towards Mineta. “And that includes you. Midoriya’s speech convinced me. But I expect you to prove him right.”

Mineta’s eyes were wide, but he bowed deeply. “Yes sir!” He declared a certain sense of determination in his tone that certainly hadn't been there before. When he stood up, he turned towards Izuku. “Thank you so much. I promise, I’ll live up to your words! I won't make you regret speaking up for me!”

Izuku smiled. “Just do your best. That’s all you need to do.”

-(o)-

“So, how many did you expel this year, Shouta?” Hizashi asked, his usually goofy grin on his face. They were all gathered in the teacher’s lounge, after classes, talking about first day introductions, and their guesses for how the year was going to go.

“No, wait, wait!” Nemuri said, leaning over, and slamming a two thousand yen note on the table. “Two thousand says it was more than four!”

Sekijirou laughed, and shook his head. “Nah, Shouta looked practically happy when he walked in! I think it was only one!”

“Ooh, Ooh!” Hizashi chimed in. “Three for me!”

Kunio let out a chuckle. “Fools, all of ya.” he drawled in that southern accent that helped keep his persona as Snipe alive. “It was two. Dead even.”

“Anyone else want in on this?” Nemuri asked to the room. The other teachers were walking, but it seemed like no one else wanted to put any money down. “Alright, Shouta! Tell us!" She said, practically bouncing in her seat.

Shouta eyes the pile of money on the table. “And if you were all wrong, would I get the money?” He asked, intentionally phrasing it, to make it seem like it was wrong.

“Yeah, yeah.” Nemuri waved him off. “Sure, whatever. Who won?”

Aizawa got a shit eating grin on his face, and reached a hand out to the notes, sliding them over to him. “Me.” He said.

“Wait, but we had all the options!” Nemuri complained. “I had four or over! Even if you expelled them all that would be a win for me!” She complained, trying to drag the money back.

“And if I didn't expel anyone?” Everyone in the room froze, staring at him to make sure he wasn't lying. In his 9 years of being on staff, Aizawa had never gone a full day without expelling at least one student.

“You’re fucking with us.” Hizashi eventually managed. “That’s… No.”

Aizawa took the money back from Nemuri’s now frozen grip. “Not a single one.” He huffed out a laugh. “To quote one of my students: They’re here to learn how to make up for their mistakes. They weren't supposed to come in with that knowledge. Just the drive to get it done once we taught them.” His grin widened, remembering Midoriya. Already he was shaping up to be one of Aizawa’s favorite students. “All of them had potential. He was right.” He let out another huff of laughter, glancing at the twig of a man, watching him, seemingly aware of who said it. “You sure know how to pick em, eh Yagi?”