Chapter 28
"Vengeance is a blade that cuts both ways."
– Unknown
Kamino Ward, Japan - May 2197
Under the dim light above a small table, Shigaraki Tomura was explaining the purpose behind the League of Villains. Across from him, Logan listened, his eyes sharp and unwavering, the glass of whiskey in his hand untouched.
"The USJ was supposed to be our big statement," Shigaraki began, his voice a low hiss that seemed to mingle with the ambient noise of the bar. "Something that would shake the very foundations of Hero Society, exposing its inherent fragility. But Midoriya Izuku... his interference ruined everything. If not for him, we would've killed several students and ruined UA's reputation. Hell, we might have even had a chance to kill All Might himself too."
Logan, unshaken, offered a measured response, "A lofty goal. So, the Nomu was your trump card against All Might?" His inquiry, casual yet pointed, stemmed from a cursory investigation into the incident.
"Exactly. The Nomu was engineered to end All Might," Shigaraki confirmed, a flash of pride in his voice tempered by the bitterness of failure.
"And yet, it fell short against a student with a shield?" Logan's tone was teasing, his smile sharp. "Must've been some shield."
Shigaraki's frustration was palpable. "That shield... it's a real-life cheat code. Unbreakable," he spat, his fingers twitching with the urge to crumble, a habit restrained only by the presence of the drink in his hand.
In Logan's eyes, a glint of recognition—or perhaps curiosity—surfaced.
Shigaraki then cast a suspicious glance at Logan. "Just like those claws of yours… What's the story behind those anyway? Is that really your Quirk?"
"Hmph, long story." Brushing off the question, Logan took a sip of his whiskey. "So, your whole beef with Broccoli Head is because of the USJ, huh?"
"That's right… Of course, like I said before," Shigaraki looked thoughtful. "He piqued my interest. I'd like to see for myself if there's any merit to him…or if he's just all talk."
Logan simply nodded.
"So tell me, why are you so interested in him?" Shigaraki asked suddenly, leaning forward. "What did he do to you?"
Logan's gaze drifted, a rare moment of vulnerability flashing across his features. "It's not what he's done," he admitted, his voice a gravelly rumble. "It's what I can't remember. I've got... issues with my memory. Bits and pieces that don't fit. I think I knew him, once. But the guy I knew... he's dead."
The revelation seemed to surprise both Shigaraki and Kurogiri, their usual composures slipping for a moment. "Dead, you say? And yet, here you are, chasing his ghost. Why?"
"I need to know if he's the real deal," Logan said, a determination in his voice that brooked no argument. "If this Midoriya is the person I remember... or something else entirely."
Shigaraki's interest was clearly piqued, a malicious curiosity lighting up his eyes. "And what will you do if you find out he is your 'real' friend?"
Logan snorted, a sound that was more a dismissal than anything else. "That's not possible. The guy I knew is long gone. And if he is real…" His voice trailed off, the thought left unfinished as he downed his whiskey in a single, fluid motion. "Well, thanks for the drinks. But I should be going."
Standing, Logan signaled his intention to leave, but Shigaraki wasn't quite done. "Wait," he said, gesturing to Kurogiri, who had been a silent observer until now. "Give him our contact information. Just in case."
Logan accepted the card with a nod, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken game they were all playing. As he turned to leave, Kurogiri's voice stopped him, a note of concern in his baritone voice.
"Do you really trust him?" Kurogiri asked Shigaraki once Logan had exited the bar.
Shigaraki scoffed. "Trust? Hardly. But he claims to know Midoriya, who's supposed to be dead apparently. He could be of use."
"But what if this 'Logan' turns out to be an enemy?" Kurogiri, ever the pragmatic, gently countered.
A smirk played on the disheveled Villain's lips. "Well, like the old adage says, keep your friends close and your enemies closer."
As Logan revved his bike, the neon sign of the League's bar and secret hideout cast flickering shadows in his rearview mirror, its erratic glow a stark contrast to the darkness enveloping the streets of Kamino. With the League of Villains' contact information secured in his jacket, he couldn't shake off the cocktail of emotions brewing inside him—doubt intertwined with a steadfast resolve and the persistent feeling that he was missing a crucial piece of the puzzle.
'That kid's off his rocker,' Logan thought, the corners of his mouth twitching in a semblance of a smirk. 'But, maybe there's something to gain from his madness, and the motley crew he's assembling.'
The bike's engine thundered, slicing through the silence as he merged with the shadows, navigating the intricate maze of Kamino's streets.
Despite his determination, Logan could feel the fatigue setting in, making the prospect of continuing his journey to Musutafu for several more hours seem daunting. 'Need a place to take a breather. Hosu's not too far away, I think.' He recalled hearing that the inns and bars located in the older, derelict sections of Hosu were very affordable and less crowded. 'Let's just hope they're not any crazies in that town either.'
Kanazawa, Japan
Beneath the modern facade of the Urban Guard agency, a secured debriefing room served as the stage for a tense exchange. Captain Midoriya, still adorned in his mission gear, stood resolutely before a monitor displaying Nick Fury, the director of SHIELD, who appeared via live video-call from Washington. Natasha Romanoff and Agent Coulson were present, offering silent support from the room's periphery. The Zodiac, encapsulated within its silver briefcase, commanded attention from the table's center.
Midoriya's eyes, sharp and questioning, bore into Fury's image. "This should have been destroyed, Fury," he asserted, the weight of his conviction heavy in his voice. "How did some Anti-Quirk terrorist group even get their hands on the Zodiac?"
Fury, ever the stoic man, met Midoriya's gaze unflinchingly."That's what we're trying to figure out," he replied, his voice gravelly and calm. "SHIELD is investigating the breach as we speak."
Midoriya's agitation was evident. "It should have been completely destroyed, not locked away for some fanatic, like Baker, to steal. A lot of people could have died!"
Fury's response was pragmatic, "That's exactly why I sent the greatest soldier in history to retrieve it." His eyes narrowed slightly, "The world isn't black and white, Captain. Sometimes we have to make tough calls for the greater good."
Midoriya, undeterred, persisted. "Don't lecture me on making tough calls. The Zodiac is not something to be played around with. Keeping a sample, even for research, poses too great a risk."
Leaning back, Fury's silhouette was commanding. "The world has changed a lot since your time, Captain. We need to be prepared for anything. That includes keeping a sample of the Zodiac in case the remnants of it, or a similar virus, exist out there. If a cure is needed, we need to have the means to create it."
The room's atmosphere was heavy, laden with unspoken thoughts as Romanoff and Coulson exchanged knowing looks.
Midoriya, however, was not convinced. "There has to be another way. We can't risk the lives of billions on the 'what ifs.' The Zodiac was created as a weapon against Quirks. Its existence threatens more than eighty percent of the world! It's a Pandora's box that should have been sealed tight and thrown in a damn incinerator!"
Fury rose from his desk, an imposing figure even through digital transmission. "And if an outbreak occurs? If another group decides to weaponize a Quirk-targeting virus? We'd be defenseless without a countermeasure. SHIELD's priority is to protect the world, by any means necessary. You of all people should understand that, Captain."
The tension in the room thickened, the divide between the two men becoming ever more apparent.
Coulson, in an attempt to mediate, stepped forward. "Captain, Director Fury's intentions are to safeguard humanity. The choices we make aren't always easy, but they're made with the well-being of the many in mind."
Midoriya's demeanor softened, albeit marginally. "I understand the need for security, but not at the expense of creating more threats. The Zodiac's very nature makes it too dangerous to exist in any form. We know what it can do… I've seen what it can do…" He shook his head, not wanting to recall those painful memories. "We can't gamble with something so catastrophic."
Romanoff, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally spoke, her voice measured and calm. "There's a balance to be struck, Captain. Director Fury's not wrong about the need for preparedness, but your concerns are valid too. Maybe there's a middle ground to be found here."
Midoriya inhaled deeply, contemplating the assembled points. "A middle ground... Maybe. But we can't afford another incident like this to happen again. The margin for error is nonexistent."
Fury, giving a slight nod, acknowledged Midoriya's point. "Agreed. We'll implement stricter security measures and greater oversight with the Zodiac."
Midoriya, seeking specificity, pressed. "Define 'stricter.'"
Fury emphasized, "The Zodiac will be contained in a singularly isolated, fortified facility, accessible and known only to a select few."
"And this facility's isolation?"
"Absolute," assured Fury.
Midoriya, his gaze lowered, was contemplative yet visibly perturbed. "I hope that's enough..."
Later, as the meeting drew to a close, Captain Midoriya lingered, his gaze fixated on the briefcase now being secured by Rumlow and a team of armed SHIELD personnel. His thoughts were turbulent, grappling with the uneasy compromise that was reached. The Zodiac's potential for destruction weighed heavily on him; especially from the personal toll it had inflicted on him.
After the debriefing and his charged exchange with Fury, Midoriya found himself in the corridor, his thoughts still swirling, when Romanoff's voice cut through his reverie. She was leaning casually against the wall, her posture relaxed yet commanding, arms folded below her chest.
"Captain," she began, her tone firm, "change into something more comfortable and meet me at the gym in 20." Her gaze held his for a moment longer before she turned, her strides confident as she disappeared down the hallway.
Midoriya, momentarily caught off guard by the sudden shift in focus, nodded despite the empty corridor. 'Wonder what this is about…'
Twenty minutes later, the training area of the base, vast and equipped with a wide array of combat gear and padded floors, had an almost meditative calm, a stark contrast to its usual bustling activity. Here, Midoriya and Romanoff stood opposite each other, poised for a sparring session.
Midoriya, dressed for mobility and comfort, wore a pair of vibrant red trainers, navy training pants, and a snug gray long-sleeve shirt that hugged his athletic frame, allowing him the freedom to move and react swiftly. Romanoff, in her signature sleek and functional black gear, consisting of a fitted tank top and pants with combat boots, exuded an air of lethal efficiency.
Despite the professional setting, Midoriya couldn't completely ignore the way her attire emphasized her athletic, voluptuous figure.
The auburn-haired spy led with a probing question as she tested the verdette super-soldier's reflexes. "There's something I've been meaning to ask you, Captain."
As he nimbly avoided her advances, Midoriya engaged, "What's on your mind?"
With each counter and parry, Romanoff inquired, "Your file mentioned you learned Russian during your training. Do you still remember any?"
Midoriya couldn't hide his surprise. "Does everyone at SHIELD read my profile?"
"Only those with Level 7 clearance. So, your Russian?" she pressed.
A playful smirk appeared on Midoriya's face as he replied in fluent Russian, "бегло." ("Fluent.")
Romanoff's smirk mirrored his, speaking in her native tongue, "Вы хотите продолжить на русском языке?" ("Do you want to continue in Russian?")
Midoriya gave a nod of agreement, then launched into a vigorous offensive, his movements swift but carefully matched by Romanoff's deft defense. Speaking in fluent Russian, he pressed, "I understand SHIELD's need for research, but the Zodiac's existence is a threat to every person with a Quirk." His efforts to land a hit were skillfully evaded by Romanoff.
The highly skilled spy, matching his intensity, offered a counterpoint. "SHIELD operates in the grey areas, Captain. We prepare for the worst-case scenarios. That's our pragmatism at work." Her voice was calm, even as she parried a kick, spinning to land a controlled strike against his shoulder.
As they continued their sparring, Midoriya's frustration became more evident with each exchange. "But doesn't keeping a sample of something so dangerous just invite more risk? I've seen firsthand what it can do," he said, catching Romanoff's arm and using her momentum to spin her away, a move she countered with graceful agility, landing softly on her feet.
Romanoff, undeterred, advanced again. "Risk is part of our job description. And sometimes, the risk of being unprepared outweighs the danger of research." She ducked under a high kick, closing in to land a soft punch on Midoriya's side. "Besides, we're not without ethics. There are protocols, security measures in place."
Midoriya, pausing to block a series of quick jabs, shook his head. "Protocols that failed to stop the Zodiac from being stolen." He flipped back, putting distance between them. "Isn't it better to destroy it completely? To ensure it can't be used against innocent people?"
Their sparring slowed momentarily as Romanoff considered his words. "In a perfect world, yes. But we have to plan for the world we live in, not the one we wish for. And in this world, threats evolve. We must be ready to counter them, by any means necessary."
Midoriya's response was swift, both in word and action. He launched a rapid series of attacks, pushing Romanoff back. "But at what cost? How many more have to be put in danger before it's considered too high a price?" His voice rose with his concern, each word punctuated by a strike that Romanoff deftly managed to evade or block.
Romanoff, now on the defensive, flipped back to create some space. "That's the balance we try to maintain. And it's not taken lightly." She watched him closely, her gaze sharp. "You're not the only one who cares about the consequences, Captain."
Their sparring resumed with renewed intensity, yet, despite their disagreement, there was an underlying respect in each carefully measured blow, a recognition of the other's skill and dedication.
Romanoff then seamlessly transitioned the topic, her words as sharp as her movements. "Aside from your globe-trotting heroics, there's a piece of gossip that seems to follow you relentlessly, Captain." She dodged a swift jab from Midoriya, her smirk evident even in the heat of their spar.
Midoriya, momentarily caught off balance by the shift, attempted a counterattack only to find Romanoff's deft defense a formidable challenge. "And that would be?" he inquired, his curiosity piqued amidst their dance of offense and defense.
With the grace of a seasoned fighter, Romanoff took a strategic step back, her grin widening. "Oh, just whispers about your alleged progeny scattered far and wide." Her tone was light, teasing, yet there was a sharpness to her words that hinted at the depth of their conversation.
Midoriya faltered, the suggestion catching him utterly off guard. "What?!" His momentary lapse allowed Romanoff to land a solid hit to his abdomen, quickly followed by an agile maneuver that positioned her legs around his neck in a chokehold. Despite the precarious position, Midoriya's resolve didn't waver as he managed to disentangle himself from her hold.
"Those rumors are completely baseless," he protested, his voice a mix of surprise and embarrassment. The color rose to his cheeks as he added, "The mission always came first." Though, he internally conceded that there had been one exception.
Romanoff landed with the grace of a cat, her interest evidently piqued by Midoriya's reaction. "Is that so? I would've thought a man of your stature would have stories that could eclipse even the most daring espionage tales."
Midoriya couldn't help but chuckle, the absurdity of the conversation lightening the mood. "Maybe I could write books of all the things I've seen," he admitted, "but my romantic life? That's a rather short chapter. Except..." His voice trailed off, the memory of a significant 'her' lingering on his mind.
Sensing an opening, Romanoff pressed, "Except for...?" She took advantage of his momentary distraction to launch another attack, each move designed to test his defenses and draw him out.
Regaining his focus, Midoriya parried her advances with the skill of someone who had faced far greater dangers. "That's a story for another time," he deflected, his words as adept as his physical maneuvers in avoiding the heart of Romanoff's inquiry.
The sparring continued, but Romanoff's curiosity wasn't sated. "What about UA? Coulson mentioned you've caught the eye of not one, but two girls. Is there any truth to that?" Her inquiry, laced with a mix of curiosity and camaraderie, cut through the tension as effectively as her physical strikes.
Midoriya, parrying a swift combination from Romanoff, hesitated for a moment. "I... I care for them both, deeply. But my circumstances hardly allow for... conventional relationships."
"You're not wrong…" Romanoff, sensing his discomfort, decided to shift gears. "You know, your situation reminds me of a story," she mused, skillfully deflecting a series of quick jabs. "Ever heard of 'Save the Date'?"
The question caught Midoriya off guard, a brief flicker of surprise crossing his face. Black Widow, SHIELD's seasoned spy and warrior, was a follower of Yaoyorozu's novel? "You read that?"
"I confess it's intriguing," she admitted, "how life imitates art. Or is it the other way around?"
Their sparring matched the rhythm of their dialogue—fluid, dynamic, revealing. "I wouldn't have pegged you for a fan of historical romantic fiction," Midoriya quipped, finding his footing in both the conversation and their match.
Romanoff's laughter, rare and unguarded, filled the room. "You'd be surprised. Many are fans of it."
Seizing an opening, Midoriya landed a series of strategic hits, forcing Romanoff to retreat momentarily. The physical exchange slowed, allowing both combatants a moment of respite.
Midoriya, still processing the shared moment of vulnerability, offered a smile. "Guess we all have our guilty pleasures."
Romanoff leaned against the mat wall, her gaze softening. "I must admit, Captain," she reverted to English, "your Russian is excellent."
Reverting back to English himself, he replied, "Thanks. But please, Midoriya is fine." The super-soldier offered a hand to Romanoff, a gesture of respect and camaraderie. "Thank you, Romanoff." he said, genuinely.
Grasping his hand, Romanoff rose, her smile reflecting a mix of respect and acknowledgment. "Anytime…Midoriya."
After concluding his training session with Romanoff, Midoriya found himself in the quiet solitude of the locker room. The cool water from the shower washed away not just the sweat and grime of exertion but also helped to clear his mind. Drying off and putting on a white undershirt and blue jeans, he took a seat on a bench and finally checked his phone.
The screen of Midoriya's phone was flooded with notifications from his friends' group chat. As he scrolled through the barrage of messages, he couldn't help but let out a light chuckle when he saw Uraraka's messages, tagging him and demanding to know his whereabouts, while Yaoyorozu attempted to soothe her curiosity, albeit with a clear hint of her own intrigue. Further down, a gentle smile graced his lips as he caught up on the tales of their initial experiences at their various internships.
'Glad to see they're doing well.' He then started typing out a message, tagging the group.
Izuku: "Hey guys! Sorry I missed the chat last night. Like Todoroki said, I was pretty tied up yesterday. Saving the world, 1 street at a time." Realizing the irony in his text, he continued typing. "Glad u r enjoying ur internships so far. Will text back when I can."
After sending the text, his eyes were drawn to the sparse contributions from Iida, each message brief and unusually curt, a stark contrast to his usually enthusiastic and detailed updates. A knot of concern tightened in Midoriya's stomach.
That wasn't like Iida.
Before he could delve deeper into his thoughts, the locker room door opened, and Agent Coulson stepped in. The change in atmosphere was immediate.
"Cap, there's something you need to know," Coulson initiated, his tone immediately signaling the seriousness of the matter. "Agent Williams has just relayed his observations concerning your friend's activities in Hosu."
Midoriya leaned in, a flicker of hope sparking within him for a sliver of good news. "What did he find?" he inquired, clinging to a thread of optimism.
Coulson's face, however, did not mirror Midoriya's hopeful anticipation. "Williams has been closely monitoring the situation, and he's come to the conclusion that it's highly probable your friend is on the hunt for the Hero Killer. He's noticed a certain restlessness in his behavior, a constant vigilance, particularly towards the alleys," Coulson relayed, his voice laden with concern.
A heavy sigh broke from Midoriya, his fleeting hopes extinguished. "So, it's true then… Iida's really targeting the Hero Killer," he concluded, a sense of dread settling over him. Coulson's confirming nod only served to cement his fears further.
The realization hit Midoriya hard. "He's going to get himself killed."
Coulson offered a potential solution, "We can issue an anonymous alert to his mentor's agency. That might ensure he's kept out of harm's way."
But Midoriya knew better. "That won't stop Iida. He's blinded by his emotions right now. He won't stop till he finds Stain." Facing the balding agent squarely, determination etched on his features, he declared, "I have to stop him, Coulson."
Coulson, ever the pragmatic agent, acknowledged Midoriya's resolve without surprise. "I understand your stance, Cap. But you know that SHIELD can't officially back you up on this. Someone like Stain isn't within SHIELD's jurisdiction."
Midoriya's response was immediate and resolute. "Then I'll go alone." He moved to his locker, retrieving a silver briefcase.
Pausing, Coulson then suggested an alternative, hinting at a loophole. "Wait, there might be another way. Urban Guard isn't bound by the same restrictions as SHIELD. Given the notoriety of the Hero Killer, no one would bat an eye if a nearby agency deployed additional support for his capture."
Relief and appreciation briefly crossed Midoriya's face. "Thank you, Phil."
Coulson nodded, his demeanor shifting into one of professional briskness. "I'll make the arrangements. I'll see about looking into anything we can dig up on Stain too. It might come in handy."
Nodding in appreciation, Midoriya returned his attention to the briefcase and opened it, revealing his new and unused costume inside. While part of him was eager to finally wear it, he hated the circumstances behind it. He then noted the shield hanging in the back of his locker; more specifically, its color scheme.
As Coulson made to leave, Midoriya voiced one last request, "Phil, could I ask for one more favor before you go?"
Over an hour later, Midoriya found himself in the fluorescent lit expanse of Urban Guard's state-of-the-art garage, stepping into his new costume.
It was an evolution of his original design, now sporting a fresher, lighter green, that was almost cyan. The torso area was adorned in white, highlighted with bold, vertical red stripes that nodded subtly to the American flag's colors. A newly minted utility belt, rich in brown and equipped with an array of pockets, wrapped snugly around his waist. His helmet, an advanced piece of gear designed to protect without restricting, now rested casually behind his head, resembling a futuristic hoodie.
The shield also mirrored the changes in his attire. The outermost and third circles gleamed in a pristine white, while the central band was painted in a soft, muted red. At the heart of the shield, a star outlined in red against a white background sat in a cyan circle, mirroring the primary hue of his suit, creating a striking contrast that was both visually appealing and symbolic.
Draped in a brown leather jacket over his costume, Midoriya reached for a black helmet placed thoughtfully on a nearby shelf. His gaze then shifted towards the motorbikes before him, a sleek black one and a striking red counterpart, his decision halted by a familiar voice.
"I call the red one," announced Agent Romanoff, emerging into the garage with a purposeful stride.
Midoriya turned, his confusion evident. "Romanoff?"
Romanoff took a moment to assess him, a contemplative hum escaping her. "The new uniform suits you. But between us, I prefer your SHIELD version."
Disregarding her critique, Midoriya shifted the conversation. "Why are you here?"
"I'm coming with you," she stated, her tone leaving no room for debate as she picked a red helmet from the shelf.
"But why? You don't have to do this," Midoriya protested, only to be swiftly interrupted.
"On the contrary, I do," Romanoff countered, her gaze piercing. "Given your unique situation as a foreign national on a Visa, a student of UA, and an intern under Urban Guard, your presence in Hosu City without a licensed Pro Hero could raise unnecessary questions."
Understanding the logic in her words, a question lingered in Midoriya's mind. "You're licensed?"
With a smirk that spoke volumes of her preparedness, Romanoff produced a card from her pocket. "Being a SHIELD agent comes with its perks."
Despite the reassurance, Midoriya hesitated. "I appreciate it. Really, I do. But Tenya is my responsibility. I should be the one to—"
Romanoff interrupted, her voice gentle yet unwavering. "Your loyalty is commendable, Midoriya. But attending a Hero academy, while a noble path, brings you face to face with a harsh reality you must soon confront."
Curious and slightly defensive, Midoriya asked, "And that is?"
"Something to discuss later." She pointedly said. "Regardless," her tone was firm and authoritative, "going up against a criminal as dangerous as Stain isn't a solo mission. Neither SHIELD nor Urban Guard would approve. I'm joining you. No debate." Her gaze was sharp, compelling him to accept her decision.
Midoriya studied the redheaded agent, taking in her resolute expression. Then, slowly, a resolute smirk formed on his lips, his eyes shining with a mix of gratitude and resolve. "Well then, it's good to have you on board, soldier."
Sharing a determined nod, the pair donned their helmets, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The engines of their motorcycles roared to life, filling the garage with a potent symphony of power. With the garage doors rolling open, Romanoff threw a teasing glance toward Midoriya, her smirk playful yet challenging. "Try to keep up with me, intern," she quipped, her voice a blend of jest and dare.
Midoriya, undeterred and equally spirited, matched her smirk with one of his own.
With a final rev of their engines, the duo surged forward, exiting the garage in a burst of speed. They merged onto the streets, racing against the backdrop of the early evening sun.
Hosu City, Japan
As dusk fell over Hosu City, painting the streets in shades of orange and purple, Iida accompanied Manual on a routine patrol. The quietude of the evening was punctuated only by the occasional murmur of the city and the distant sounds of life winding down. Manual, ever apologetic for the lack of action, turned to Iida with a sympathetic look. "Sorry if this isn't quite the hero experience you were hoping for," he said, his voice tinged with a mix of apology and humor.
Iida, his gaze scanning the surroundings with an intensity that belied his calm exterior, shook his head slightly. "No. It's better this way," he replied, his voice muffled by the helmet. Despite his words, his attention never wavered from the shadows that danced just beyond the reach of the streetlights.
Manual glanced back at Iida, concern creasing his brow. The rumor of an intern from his agency seeking out Stain—a tip that had come anonymously via phone—suddenly seemed all too plausible. The pieces clicked together in his mind, and he slowed his pace, turning to face Iida squarely.
"Listen, Ingenium," Manual began, his tone serious, "I've heard rumors that someone from our agency might be trying to go after Stain on their own."
Iida stopped as his eyes widened in shock. How could someone have determined his intentions? Was he being watched?!
"I need you to understand, pursuing personal grudges... it's not what Heroes do. We don't have the authority to arrest or punish people on our own. Our Quirks are regulated for a reason."
Iida remained silent, his stance rigid, even as Manual continued, "No matter how noble your intentions might be, using your Quirk for personal vendettas crosses a line. It's considered a serious crime for Heroes to act outside the law."
Though Iida's helmet obscured his face, his body language—a slight stiffening of his posture, the clenching of his fists—betrayed his inner turmoil. Manual, reading these subtle cues, softened his voice, adding, "I can sympathize with the pain Stain has caused you. And yes, I believe he's guilty and deserves justice. But revenge... it's not the answer. It won't bring peace or closure."
After a moment of tense silence, Iida bowed slightly. "Thank you, Manual-san. I'll... keep your words in mind," he said, his voice steady yet distant.
As they resumed their patrol, the conversation dwindled, leaving each to their thoughts. Manual hoped his words had reached the young hero beside him.
Iida, however, felt the embers of his hatred for Stain only grow hotter within him. 'I can't let go of this burning hatred.'He internally declared, his eyes burning with conviction. 'Stain… Before the night is over, you will die!'
With the sun dipping below the Hosu horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Stain perched atop a water tower on a building. His gaze was intense, predatory, scanning the streets below for any sign of what he deemed false heroism. The city, unaware of the fanatic judgmental eyes above, continued its evening bustle, a perfect hunting ground for his mission.
The air shimmered with a black miasma, and Kurogiri materialized out of thin air, with Shigaraki in tow. Shigaraki, wearing a grey long-sleeved shirt and his signature hand-mask, looked around with a mix of curiosity and disdain. "Hosu City looks nicer than I expected," he remarked, his voice laced with a mocking undertone. "So, Stain, what grand plans do you have for this place?"
Without turning, Stain's voice cut through the air, sharp and resolute. "Reform," he stated simply, his eyes never leaving the cityscape. "By spilling the blood of its false heroes."
Kurogiri, ever the mediator, nodded in understanding. "A clear goal, and quite admirable."
"Ah, someone who understands," Stain responded, still facing away, a slight edge of respect in his tone for Kurogiri's acknowledgment.
Shigaraki, however, bristled at the exchange. "I get the feeling you enjoy picking on me," he growled, his voice tinged with irritation and a hint of threat.
Stain, unmoved, continued, "The term 'hero' has become meaningless in our society. Too many pursue money and fame under its guise. Until this world realizes its folly, I will continue my work." With those final words, Stain leaped from the water tower, his cape billowing behind him as he disappeared into the dusk, continuing his hunt for the unworthy.
Left on the water tower, Shigaraki scoffed. "All this high-and-mighty talk, and yet he's wasting his time on such a small stage." His voice dripped with sarcasm. "It's so noble, it makes me want to cry."
Kurogiri, however, offered a different perspective. "Stain has a point. In every city where he appears, the crime rate drops. Whether it's because Heroes become more vigilant or out of fear, he is enacting change."
This only seemed to agitate Shigaraki further. "Oh, perfect! The Heroes are working harder because of all those murders. So, our Hero Killer is also a Hero breeder!" He crossed his arms, his disdain palpable. "An alliance with him will never work. Our goals are just too different. Besides, he annoys me."
With a flick of his wrist, Shigaraki signaled Kurogiri. "Bring out the Nomus."
Obediently, Kurogiri opened a dark portal, from which four monstrous beings stepped onto the roof. The Nomus, grotesque and formidable, stood silently, awaiting orders, their presence a stark contrast to the evening's calm.
'Master said I could only use four Nomus, but they'll be more than enough to corner that bastard in…and maybe kill a few Heroes in the process.' Shigaraki's red eyes gleamed with a dangerous intent. "For humiliating me, Stain, I'll crush your honor and pride first. Only then will I kill you."
Ten Minutes Later…
The night air of Hosu was ablaze, not with the usual neon signs but with actual fires, casting an ominous glow over the concrete jungle. Manual and Iida dashed towards the chaos in the distance, their footsteps echoing against the asphalt. The air was thick with smoke and the sounds of emergency sirens in the distance, signaling the urgency of the situation.
As they maneuvered through the panicked crowd, Iida's analytical mind raced. 'This isn't right. These fires... they're too indiscriminate. Stain's methods are precise, targeted. This is too flashy for him.'
"Ingenium, stay focused. We need to get to those fires and help evacuate any civilians," Manual shouted over the commotion.
Iida nodded, his resolve unwavering, yet a part of him couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment. He had hoped to confront Stain, but this situation required his immediate attention.
However, as they rounded another corner, Iida's sharp eyes caught a fleeting shadow darting down an adjacent alleyway. It was brief, but there was something eerily familiar about the silhouette. His heart skipped a beat, the adrenaline surging through his veins.
Meanwhile, Manual continued running ahead, unaware that Iida was no longer following him.
As the evening draped Hosu City in shadows, Midoriya and Romanoff sped through the streets, the hum of their motorcycles a constant undercurrent to their mission. Midoriya's thoughts raced almost as fast as they were moving. He was hoping against hope that Manual and Iida had concluded their patrol and were safely back at the agency. The falling dusk only deepened his concern; he didn't want to be too late.
But the tranquility of the ride was shattered in an instant. A car, as if seized by an unseen giant's hand, was hurled through the air with terrifying force, crashing into an intersection ahead of them. The initial impact was catastrophic, sending several more vehicles careening into one another in a domino effect of metal and chaos.
Midoriya and Romanoff, with honed reflexes, brought their motorcycles to a screeching halt. They stopped mere meters from the ensuing pile-up, the smell of burning rubber and the cacophony of alarms and crumbling steel filling the air. Quickly dismounting their bikes and removing their helmets, the pair's instincts overridden any shock from the sudden havoc.
Deploying his suit's cyan helmet and tossing off his brown jacket, Captain Midoriya turned to Black Widow, urgency clear in his voice. "Widow, call for ambulances!" he said, ready to spring into action and assist those trapped in the mangled cars.
Black Widow nodded, reaching for her communicator to summon emergency services. But before either could move towards the victims, a new, ominous presence made itself known.
Down the street, a figure emerged, its size and demeanor commanding immediate attention. The creature stood nearly twice the height of an average person, its bulging muscles straining against its pale green skin. It wore nothing but a pair of ripped gray trousers that went up to its calves.
The creature's head drew recognition from the super-soldier. Four yellow eyes were embedded directly into an exposed, pulsating brain, giving it a grotesque, almost surreal appearance. The creature emitted an animalistic squeal, its expression vacant, mindlessly indifferent to the chaos it had caused.
"Nomu!" Captain Midoriya shouted, immediately pulling the shield off his back.
Widow's hand instinctively went to her pistols, her stance ready and alert. "Terrific. The monster from the USJ had family," she commented dryly.
Briefly glancing at the drivers still in their wrecked cars, Captain Midoriya returned his gaze to the pale-green Nomu that was now turning its attention towards them. "Widow, we need to get these people to safety!"
She nodded. "Go! I'll handle the civilians."
As Black Widow darted towards the bystanders trapped in the tangled aftermath of the collision, Captain Midoriya confronted the Nomu head-on. The monstrous being, recognizing the threat posed by the new challenger, swung its massive arm in a wide arc towards him. The Captain raised his shield and the impact was absorbed, the creature's momentum halted abruptly as if hitting an invisible barrier.
With a swift movement, Captain Midoriya pushed the creature's arm aside and launched himself upwards. He retracted his legs and then extended them with full force, landing a double kick on the Nomu's chest. The creature let out a sound of startled pain as its massive form stumbled backward to crash into the wall of a nearby building.
'This one doesn't have a shock absorption ability.' He noted. Rearing back, he threw the shield at its exposed brain. However, before the shield could connect, the Nomu reacted with surprising agility. A tongue-like web, swift and precise, sprang forth, deflecting the shield with an unsettling ease. 'The other one never did that. Do they have different abilities?'
Locking its four amber eyes on Captain Midoriya, it unleashed a barrage of tendrils towards him. Quick on his feet, the Captain leapt backward, narrowly dodging the assault. With a graceful movement, he reached into his utility belt, drawing a set of throwing knives. He launched them with precision; the blades cut through the air, most burying themselves into the creature's grotesque form, and one notably slashing across the Nomu's face. The creature let out a piercing screech in response.
Captain Midoriya narrowed his eyes. 'It's not regenerating either. This is definitely a different type.'
Meanwhile, Black Widow efficiently juggled her responsibilities, her focus split between calling in emergency responders and liberating civilians trapped within their vehicles. Armed with a compact, high-tech plasma cutter, she expertly sliced through the twisted metal of jammed doors and crushed roofs, creating escape routes for the beleaguered drivers. The individuals she managed to extricate so far bore the marks of the ordeal—bruises, lacerations, and in some cases, broken bones—but were, fortunately, still ambulatory.
After assisting another driver to safety, Widow raised her voice, her command in Japanese carrying a foreign accent but clear in its urgency, "Please evacuate from this area!"
Widow's focus shifted to the remainder of the wreckage, cautiously approached and prepared herself for what she might find. The car was a mangled heap of steel, its form twisted beyond recognition by the force of the impact. Peering into the shattered windows, her sharp gaze scanned the interior and the sight that met her emerald eyes was a grim one.
The occupants, two individuals lay motionless in their seats covered in blood; it was clear they hadn't survived the collision.
With a deep breath, she straightened, her expression hardening; her experience in the field having steeled her for moments like this.
"Someone, please help!" Her attention was then immediately drawn by a new cry for help, a woman's voice, edged with panic, emanating from an overturned car.
Without hesitation, Widow moved towards the source of the plea, her plasma cutter ready. She quickly assessed the situation—the car was flipped on its side, the driver's side door pinned against the ground, trapping the occupant inside.
"Stay calm. I've got you," Widow reassured the trapped woman, her tone steady despite the surrounding tumult. She ordered, "Please close your eyes." Positioning the cutter, she began to work on the car's roof, the hot blue light of the plasma blade slicing through metal like butter. Within moments, an opening was created, large enough for the woman to crawl through.
Extending her hand, Widow helped the shaken but relatively unharmed bystander out of her precarious trap. "Move away from the street, and keep clear of the area," she instructed, pointing the woman towards the other fleeing bystanders.
The four-eyed Nomu momentarily shifted its focus from Captain Midoriya to the innocent bystanders trying to flee the scene. Its programming, designed for destruction, activated with a sinister intent as it charged towards them, its tongue-web extending with lethal precision.
'No!' Captain Midoriya caught the movement from the corner of his eye. Time seemed to slow as he witnessed the terror etched on the faces of a nearby couple in the creature's path.
Acting on instinct, he activated the magnetic retrieval system built into his gear, summoning his shield back across the street and into his hand with a swift motion. Without a moment's hesitation, he hurled it at the Nomu.
The shield, spinning with deadly accuracy, closed the distance in mere seconds. Just as the Nomu's tendrils were about to ensnare the couple, the disk cut through the tongue at its root, severing the attack. The mass of tendrils fell to the ground, lifeless and inert, stopping inches away from the terrified bystanders.
BAM! BAM!
Two gunshots rang out, echoing through the streets. Black Widow, positioned behind some wreckage, had taken her shot and each bullet found its mark with unerring precision. The Nomu collapsed lifelessly to the street with blood pouring out of its mouth and its scrambled brain. Two bullets, two headshots, and the Nomu's threat was neutralized permanently.
Widow glanced over to the couple, who looked between her and the dead Nomu with shock. "Go! Evacuate with everyone else!"
The couple nodded and scrambled back to their feet, joining the fleeing crowd.
Captain Midoriya approached Black Widow, catching his returning shield with a practiced ease. Shaking off the Nomu's blood from the metal surface,his voice was tinged with concern for the civilians caught in the chaos. "The drivers?" he inquired, concerned.
Widow responded with precision, her gaze not leaving the perimeter as she assessed the aftermath. "Two fatalities. Seven injured that have already evacuated with the crowd," she reported, her tone steady yet underscored with a sense of urgency.
Captain Midoriya's expression darkened with sorrow for the two lives lost; however, he quickly steeled himself, knowing there was more at stake and more to be done.
The sounds of a distant explosion a few blocks away gained their attention. It had come from the direction the crowd was fleeing from. He quickly shifted back to the crowd, still scattering in panic. Captain Midoriya and Black Widow nodded at each other and sprinted down the street, determination etched on their faces. He led the charge with her keeping pace just a few steps behind him.
During their sprint, their communicator earpieces started beeping as Coulson called in. "Captain, Widow," His voice was crisp, urgent. "We just received confirmation that four separate fires have broken out in the corners of District 4. Reports are that they're three creatures bearing resemblance to the League of Villain's Nomu."
Without breaking stride, Widow responded, "Make that two now, Coulson. We finished taking out one."
Coulson quickly updated them. "Then the remaining two should be just ahead of your location. Local heroes are already engaged, but they appear to be struggling to keep the situation under control."
Captain Midoriya pressed for more details. "Coulson, can you identify the Quirks of these other Nomu?"
"Reports are still coming in, but we know one can fly while the other is exhibiting super-strength and high resilience," Coulson briefed.
Captain Midoriya's brow furrowed at the news. "Copy that. Keep us posted," He concluded.
"That Nomu was taken down with a simple headshot. Surely you tried going for the head against the USJ Nomu, didn't you?" Widow questioned.
"Yes, but it still regenerated; its whole upper half needed to be destroyed." He replied back, his brows furrowing. "These Nomu are engineered differently though."
Before the conversation could continue, cries for help suddenly rang out. "Please! Someone help us!"
More chimed in. "We can't get out! We're stuck!"
The Captain and Widow stopped and looked for the source of the cries, seeing many people trapped in a bus jammed between crashed vehicles. With no hesitation, the pair shifted their focus on the trapped civilians.
Meanwhile, in a modest hotel lobby on the fringes of Hosu City, Logan was wrapping up his checkout at the reception desk. The journey across the Pacific, followed by a lengthy drive from Nagoya, had left the rugged man more fatigued than he had realized, resulting in an unplanned day-long slumber.
As he was settling his bill, the calm of the moment abruptly fractured. The television, perched on the wall, blared with an urgent update that snatched the attention of everyone present. "Breaking news! Fires have erupted across Hosu City," the anchor announced, shifting the broadcast to Haruka Miyagi, a young brunette reporter, who was hovering over the city in a helicopter. "We're surveying the situation over Hosu's District 4," she reported, her voice laden with concern as the camera panned over the smoke and flames engulfing buildings below.
The lobby's atmosphere tightened with anxiety as the images of destruction unfolded on the screen. The reality of the disaster, so close to their doorstep, spurred hushed whispers of worry and disbelief among the onlookers.
"It remains uncertain whether these are accidents or the work of Villains," Miyagi continued. Suddenly, her report took a dramatic turn, "Look down there! The street just up ahead!" The camera zoomed in, revealing two figures amid the chaos. "We have visual confirmation of two Heroes on the scene," she narrated.
The footage showed a woman in a dark suit rescuing citizens, while another figure was locked in confrontation with what seemed to be a Villain.
Logan's focus sharpened as he recognized the figure in the colorful suit. 'It's him!' he thought, a surge of resolve coursing through him.
Miyagi's report was cut by a sudden, violent development. The Villain charged for the crowd, its tongue grotesquely expanding out to multiple tendrils. Then, a colorful disk was thrown that severed the appendage from the Villain's mouth while precise headshots stopped it in its tracks.
There was a short moment of silence as the Villain laid motionless in the street, blood pouring from its head.
"The Villain is down…" Miyagi's voice faltered, mirroring the shock that reverberated through the hotel lobby. "Those two Heroes took down that Villain just before it could attack those people."
The receptionist's voice broke the stunned silence, "My word… What is going on out there?" But Logan was no longer among the audience.
Outside, the evening air was charged with the echoes of sirens and unrest. Approaching his motorcycle, Logan reached into his duffel bag, retrieving something he had hoped he wouldn't have to don. "Guess I'll be putting this on after all," he commented to himself, a hint of resignation laced with determination in his voice.
In another part of Hosu, Endeavor and his youngest son Shoto, or Thermodyn, as well as several Sidekicks sprinted down the shadowed street towards the fiery destruction transpiring ahead. Endeavor, his flames illuminating the darkened streets, led the way with a determined stride.
"Keep up, Theromdyn," Endeavor commanded. "I'll show you what it truly means to be a Hero!"
Shoto, though silent, acknowledged his father's expertise in the realm of heroism. Despite the complexities of their relationship, he couldn't deny Endeavor's prowess in the field.
Unbeknownst to them, their presence had attracted attention. From the shadows of the buildings above, a set of glowing red eyes monitored their progress with predatory interest. Two large, razor-sharp canines protruding from its upper jaw were stained with burnt flesh. By its feet was the bloodied corpse of a Sidekick it had killed earlier in the mayhem. Two puncture wounds went directly through the corpse's neck…and smoke wafting off to emit a vile odor.
The creature, hidden in the darkness, growled lowly, an animalistic sound that was drowned out by the distant sounds of destruction. In a sudden burst of movement, the creature set its sights on new, stronger prey.
In the midst of the chaos, with smoke billowing into the sky and flames painting the night with an orange glow, Captain Midoriya and Black Widow shone as beacons of hope. They found themselves at the scene of a trapped bus, its exits blocked by abandoned wrecked vehicles. Together, they sprang into action, utilizing Widow's plasma cutter and Midoriya's shield to carve safe passages through the bus's walls, allowing them to extricate those trapped inside.
"Stay calm, we're here to help you," Captain Midoriya's voice boomed with authority, offering solace to the anxious passengers still on board.
Widow, with practiced efficiency, guided an adult woman to safety. "Please head south with the others if you're able," she instructed firmly. "For those who can't travel far, the subway station across the street will offer shelter."
As they continued their rescue, Midoriya's thoughts briefly wandered to the larger crisis at hand. 'Why unleash Nomus in a quiet district of Hosu?' he pondered, the question lingering in his mind.
The next to be helped were a boy and girl, donning matching school uniforms. Their similar appearances marking them as possibly siblings. "T-thank you, sir," the girl stammered, her voice tinged with fear.
"Are you both okay? Any injuries?" Midoriya inquired, his concern palpable.
"We're okay, sir... Just scared," the boy managed to say, with the girl nodding in agreement beside him. The Captain's face softened, a gentle smile breaking through to comfort the young pair. "You're incredibly brave," he assured them.
"Widow," he called out as she made her way towards them, "that was the last of the passengers."
Acknowledging her nod, he turned back to the children. "Let's get you to safety," he said, gesturing towards the subway across the street. "You'll be safe there until we can sort this out."
With hesitant nods, the siblings followed them across the street, their trust placed in these heroes who had emerged from the chaos to help.
Suddenly, the relative calm was shattered by distant explosions, the sound reverberating down the block. Captain Midoriya's gaze hardened, the reality of the situation crystallizing in his mind. 'This is war. But it's not the wars that bleed, burn, and die. It's the people.' His eyes briefly met those of the frightened children beside him. 'A boy… A girl…A child. Taking a bus across town on a school night… Caught in the crossfire of some lunatics game.'
As they reached the subway entrance, Widow took charge of leading the children down to safety. "I'll take them down. Keep watch until I return," she told the super-soldier, who nodded in agreement, his vigilance unwavering as she disappeared with the kids into the subway.
Alone, his gaze returned to the chaos unfolding in the distance, his mind racing. 'What are All For One and Tomura trying to accomplish with this attack? It can't be on just a whim.' Contemplating further, he recalled Coulson's earlier report of the fires at District 4's corners. With those fires, Heroes and emergency services would be essentially surrounding the area… Almost as if it were meant to contain someone.
The realization hit him hard. 'The Hero Killer! This could all be a diversion, a tactic to isolate or trap.'
Without warning, his helmet's built-in communicator buzzed. "Agent Williams to Captain Midoriya! Do you copy?"
'Williams? Wait, he was the one doing surveillance on Iida…' A small knot began to form in his stomach at the implications behind this call.
"This is Captain Midoriya, go ahead Williams."
"Captain, I had eyes on Tenya Iida and Manual through the city's surveillance. They were responding to the fires just blocks from your position," Williams reported, his voice laced with concern. "But Iida broke off from Manual five minutes ago. He took a sharp turn down an alley on Echo Street."
The Captain's heart sank; the pieces fell into place, confirming his darkest suspicions. "Williams, give me the fastest route there!"
As Williams relayed the directions, the super-soldier's determination solidified into action, already breaking into a sprint. He tapped his helmet, activating the communicator. "Widow, Iida's gone after the Hero Killer. I'm heading to an alley on Echo Street now," he said, his voice taut with urgency.
Widow's response was immediate, her tone sharp with concern. "Wait, Captain, let's regroup and—"
He cut her off. "No time. I have to go now!"
Terminating the call, his determination surged as he raced forward, the urgency of the moment narrowing his world to the mission before him. Memories, vivid and relentless, then surged through his mind.
"It's not gonna hold…"
"We'll find another way. Just hang on!"
"I'm sorry… but the world needs Captain America…"
"NO! Don't–"
"Keep going Plus Ultra, Cap… Thank you for everything… And good luck…"
"No! Please… don't!"
Each word was a blade, cutting deep, as Midoriya's grip on his shield's straps grew white-knuckled under his red gloves.
'It was only five minutes ago that Iida ran off… So maybe… Maybe it's not too late.' The city became a blur as he surged down the street, propelled by a mix of hope and desperation. 'Let it not be…' Recalling Williams' directions, he veered sharply into Echo Street, its shadows deep and unwelcoming, a terrain ripe for the Hero Killer. 'Tonight, it matters that you're here… It's going to make a difference! There's still hope!'
In a dimly lit alley, the air was thick with tension. Native, a Pro Hero known throughout Hosu City, found himself pinned against the cold, unforgiving wall by Stain. Blood seeped from a wound on his left shoulder, the pain a sharp contrast to the numbness spreading through his body—a paralysis that left him helplessly staring into the crimson, fanatical eyes of his captor.
"'Come off your high horse. Pros work harder and sacrifice more than you'll ever have to.'" Stain's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing through the shadows. "That's what you said, RealNativeHero," he replied coldly.
Native's confusion was palpable; he couldn't recall when he might have said those words, unaware that Stain was referencing a social media post weeks prior.
Stain continued, his voice a mirror to his contempt. "One glance at your social media profile and it's clear all you care about is endorsement deals and rising in the ranks."
The distant sound of explosions momentarily distracted Stain, his attention drawn to the fires ravaging blocks away. He knew instantly that Shigaraki was the cause. "That fool is so noisy. I'll dispose of him later, but right now...I have work to complete here," he muttered, his focus returning to Native.
Native, despite the fear and paralysis, managed a threat through muffled words. "You bastard…I'll kill you!"
The Hero Killer's response was chilling. "You should choose your last words more carefully."
As Stain raised his sword for the final blow, he noticed out of the corner of his eye a blur of white and silver racing towards him. With reflexes honed by countless hours of training, Stain pivoted and unleashed a swift slash of his sword, propelling the assailant through the air with formidable force.
The figure that crashed against the alley's far side was none other than Iida.
Stain observed the young man with a calculating gaze, a flicker of recognition passing through his eyes. "You look familiar…" he remarked, curiosity lacing his tone.
Gritting his teeth against the pain, Iida forced himself up, his resolve unwavering. "You're right to recognize me," he shot back, his voice a tempest of grief and anger. "I'm the brother of a Hero you viciously attacked. I've come to stop you in his stead!"
"You will remember my name!" Rising to his full height, Iida faced Stain squarely, the intensity of his emotions palpable in the air between them. "I am Iida Tenya, the new Ingenium! And I swear on my brother's legacy, I will bring you down!"
Stain absorbed Iida's declaration, his face a mask of contemplation and indifference. "So Ingenium's brother wants to throw his life away on petty revenge," he finally said, his tone flat yet ominous. "So be it."
With engines ablaze, Iida surged forward, fueled by raw emotion. "FOR TENSEI!" He lashed out with a full-powered roundhouse kick with intent to kill.
Yet, to Stain, such movements were predictable as he easily somersaulted forward to dodge the kick. With metal-spiked boot tips, he retaliated with a kick into Iida's right shoulder, the armor yielding under the force, sending Iida crashing down in agony.
From the ground, Iida glared up at Stain, fury coursing through him. Stain did stop as he thrust his blade into Iida's left shoulder, drawing blood and an agonizing yell. "I spared your brother to spread my message. Yet, you've learned nothing. You're as weak as he was."
"Shut up!" Iida's voice broke, a blend of mourning and wrath. "You paralyzed him and robbed him of his career... He saved so many lives. He was my inspiration, MY hero. You had no right to take that away from him! I'll kill you!" His vow of vengeance filled the alley.
Stain, unphased by Iida's fervor, gestured over to Native sitting against the wall. "What about him?"
Iida's eyes widened, shocked. 'What?! W-was he there this whole time?'
"You completely overlooked him in your blind quest," Stain accused, his words cutting deep. "Your so-called heroism is tainted by selfishness. You're no different than any run-of-the-mill Villain."
Stain paused to lift the sword dripping with Iida's blood up to his mouth. "And that's why you'll die tonight," with a chilling motion, he licked the blood.
Iida's body seized, sudden paralysis creeping in. 'Why can't I move?' Panic set in as Stain raised his sword for the killing blow.
"Goodbye, boy. May your death bring about a better world."
"No...Not like this..." Iida's mind raced, his resolve flickering in the face of impending death. Haunting memories of his older brother's words echoed in his mind, "Knowing that you look up to me makes me better. I have to make sure I make you proud."
"Say whatever you want about me, you're still nothing but a murderer!" Iida spat out defiantly.
Poised to deliver the final blow, Stain's eyes caught sight of an unexpected flash of motion.
In a moment that seemed suspended in time, Stain's blade met an unyielding force, not just halted but shattered by the impact with a star-and-stripped shield. It then struck Stain squarely in the chest, the force of the blow sending him reeling backward.
Stain, caught off guard, stumbled but quickly regained his footing. A sharp pain confirmed a few ribs had broken under the shield's impact. Gritting his teeth, he looked up to identify his unexpected assailant.
Standing protectively in front of Iida was none other than Captain Midoriya, his posture resolute as he caught the shield on its rebound. "Just in time..." he murmured, a note of relief in his voice.
"M-Midoriya?" Iida's voice was a mix of shock and disbelief, hardly able to comprehend what was happening.
Recognition flickered in Stain's gaze, murmuring, "UA's Freshman All-Star."
Standing firm, Captain Midoriya gripped his shield, his resolve clear in his posture. "It's okay you two," acknowledging both Iida and Native. "No one else dies tonight."
Stain scrutinized the hero before him, noting the intense resolve that Midoriya's expression bore, particularly the fierce glow within his emerald eyes—a look reminiscent of the determination he'd admired in his life's two greatest idols.
In that moment, Stain contemplated, his pain from the broken ribs momentarily forgotten. 'Could he be an exception?'
From his place against the wall, Native, pain etching his features, managed to voice a feeble warning. "Don't...try it. Just run...he's a monster."
But Captain Midoriya's gaze only intensified, meeting Stain's lethal intent head-on. "So am I."