'Wake up.'
[Raising from your bed, your mind turns. It's very early. You woke up early for this moment. April 19, Friday, 1 AM. Only a 2-hour nap.]
'You're fine. Your Quirk was made for this. You feel completely well-rested even with little sleep.'
'New day, new opportunities.'
'Time continues even when you're asleep, don't get it twisted, the 'new' day is just a long continuous string of perceived nature. You slept 2 hours, not 8, it's barely a 'new' day.'
'Quiet. Status: Tenō has successfully enacted beginning stages of Plan Ten.'
'Plan Ten, the contingency plan for any underground network needs. Opportunities are arising, the sudden increase in your Quirk's control, added with new Artificial Quirks. Things are simply looking up, which is why Plan Ten is viable. Villain organizations are fearsome, with massive cults that accumulate egregious amounts of wealth and notoriety. Now, with Quirks that aren't so standard, infiltration is simple.
Plan Ten is this: Unite a gang, take over surrounding gangs, and then sell yourself to a higher underground organization. If you were to continue growth over your measly gangs, the force of opposing cult members would simply demolish all your efforts with assassination, espionage, and war. Things not conductive to growth. So, under the guise of another identity, Tenō, you'll sell your services for cash. Cash that can be used for exponential growth. The head target for Plan Ten's funding organization is Detnerat, the largest lifestyle support manufacturing company.
Years ago, in the library, you researched the 'Meta Liberation War' book written by Destro, Chikara Yotsubashi. A while after, the president of Detnerat came on a television screen from an advertisement. 'Interesting nose' was the first thought, but the second was recognition. That recognition sparked the analysis of the entity known as Detnerat. The president of Detnerat is Rikiya Yotsubashi. Same last name, coincidence? *No*. Somehow, the proliferation of 'Meta Liberation War' continues to be published, a radical ideology that 'might makes right' and quirks should be used freely. The second half is fine but it's the first half that's not, the Hero Public Safety Commission would erase that book instantly. But it still stands in libraries across Japan and some parts of the world. It doesn't make sense till the connection lines up.
The CEO of Detnerat frequently meets with Chitose Kizuki, the executive director of Shueisha Publishing. There have been very slight controversies that they're in a relationship, but either way, they have a connection. Shueisha Publishing not only writes articles, but they also publish books, one of those books being the 'Special Abilities Liberation Front' a republication of 'Meta Liberation War.' This ties the CEO of Detnerat to Destro, an assumed family descendent, judging by namesake.
But still, why doesn't the Safety Commission remove the books off the shelves? Because of the backlash, it's not only citizens following the Meta Liberation Ideology, but also heroes. An attempt to remove the books would spark a debate on speech and political unrest. That connects another tie, Koku Hanabata, the leader of the Hearts and Mind Party. The Hearts and Mind Party, a fairly popular free Quirk party that advocates everything from Destro's ideology. Detnerat contributed tens of millions of yen, and more in support organizations, all for the Hearts and Mind Party, under the guise of heteromorph equality.
All of this accumulates to one reason why you can establish a joint-operation with them, Detnerat is a front. The front for the Meta Liberation Army, once ruled by Destro himself. Destro led the terrorist group and advocated for his ideology for Quirk Liberation. These were not entirely peaceful protest, otherwise Destro would not have been known as an infamous villain. Swarms of terrorist attacks against the government, killing tons of civilians and dwindling vigilantes. Either way, Detnerat, whether nefarious or not, they push an agenda that they keep private, Tenō will use that information, not to blackmail, but to support. Tenō will lead an underground Meta Liberation fostering organization known as Numbers. The reason for all this is to not be squished like a bug, attract people using Shueisha Publishing, and gain capital funds for this venture.'
[With your mind buzzing, you get out of bed and take an early morning shower.]
…
[After a shower, you sit at your desk, with a container of assorted nuts. On your head is the embalmed severed hand.]
'A simple laptop is all you need. Click clack and the entire web is open.'
[Opening your laptop, you open a blank document.]
'Let's make sure that our activity is heavily guarded by immense bureaucracy. No illegal activity needed, you need to maintain a legal presence.'
[You take a deep breath.]
'I will allow this transaction to occur. Hold onto what's dear, for I will be sent to the farm. Salutations, MORTAL.'
'Put your trust into something sturdy. My man, what will be done is martyrdom. Peace Be with You.'
♻☐AUTHORITY+ESPRIT DE CORPS☐
╰┈➤☐POUVOIR INSTITUTIONNEL☐ *Image*
'Cogs in a machine. I will get you what you want. With all that is vested inside, the semantics of legalese is at your disposal. *Catch*, what I toss is your representation in the corrupted system. Wiggle, squirm, break the binds that the executives obfuscate, but don't strain a muscle, the paper and pen will act in your stead. You are henceforth unbound and at liberty.'
[In the blank document, you list the government paperwork needed to register a holding company. Then, write the conceptualized plan for Club Blue, and the Loan Sharks: Blue Waters, Black Flower Finance, and Tenka Trust. Occasionally eating some nuts.]
…
'Hic praebetur.'
'That means 'this brought forth', a legal term for presenting a document. And, you have brought forth all right, you brought the most convoluted plan available with the constraints. Congratulations.'
[Written down are a complete framing of the legal paperwork required. Three new companies and restructuring for Blue Waters.]
'To summarize easily:
No change, a front for clean money: Club Blue. A club for events and hospitality.
A new property company: Zero Property. Will take over the property of every acquired companies. Consolidates control and property management, as it will lease the property back.
A new brand company: Ten Brands. Owns all the names and branding, licensing them and then distributed to the companies.
A new advisory company: One Advisory. Allows control with given contracts. Command center for each company. Gives 'advice' to the companies for what direction and they will follow through. Contracts with every entity within the circle. Can be an opening for outside financing, signing exclusive contracts.
A restructured asset holding company: Once Blue Waters, now Eight Currents. Holds financial information. Earns money from portfolio income and returns on investment. Contains the asset information of Club Blue, Zero Property, Ten Brands, One Advisory, and future companies. Will be clean and provide legal advice. A second clean front.
Future independent finance companies: Black Flower Finance and Tenka Trust. Company that engages with financial services on its own account, filing separately. They are both entities completely separate. The taken over companies will give up all rights by force, property to Zero Property, brand to Ten Brands, direction to One Advisory, and asset information to Eight Currents.
The initial total cost of around 800,000 Yen. Takes a few days for the restructuring, more days on the new companies. To the side are pre-written contracts for advisory services, all that is needed is a signature from your victims.
Overall, all future acquisitions will be under complete control without changing ownerships, just under many separate companies. And, any heavy financial support can be legally given by advisory and finance contracts for large amounts of data management. No auditing will take you down.'
'Your name, identity, and hand will not be printed on any piece of paper. Under the shadows of bureaucracy, you pull the strings.'
'It's all legal, nothing will ever be illegal. No hidden money, no hiding transactions. You don't *need* it to be illegal.'
[Clicking send, #1 is sent a folder filled with documents organized, including instructions.]
'That took 5 hours. Your mind is utterly racked with clouds. *Hello?* can you even hear me anymore?'
'What took 5 hours was legal and proper paperwork. It took functional separation and obscured language. The boring and lengthy words will be barely understood individually, and combined, nearly incomprehensible. It's our magnum opus, though only halfway of Plan Ten.'
[Stretching, you close your laptop. It's now 7:23, homeroom begins at 8:25. You dress up in U.A. clothes and toss away an empty container.]
'The nuts were nice. A snacking food. Something to not be hungry in the morning.'
[You grab your school bag with notebooks and school utensils.]
'Put that severed hand away, you don't need it right now.'
[Taking the hand off your head, you stuff it into your school bag.]
'Talk to Nezu before class. Before, the heavy atmosphere was not appropriate.'
'Swap'
♻☐PSYCHOSIS+SCHIZOPHRENIA☐
╰┈➤☐MANIE SANS DÉLIRE☐ *Image*
☐Hey-☐
'Let'sgettherefastweneedtotalkalotwithNezu.'
☐O-okay…☐
…
'Pump it! Your hamstrings go taut and calves flex, quadriceps bulge, glutes push downstrokes, your bike spins in a frenzy, the wheels blurring as you burn through the bike lanes. Go! Go! Go! Rhythm, left, right, left, right, you pump and pump, heat blooming from the exerted muscles and friction of fabric on skin.'
'Reaching your destination, you stand on the pedals and glide at an alarming speed through campus. The breeze and momentum pushing you deeper inside to the bike parking space.'
'Wowthatwasaniceridelet'srideagainsometimeinthedfuturebutnowweneedtotalktoNezu.'
[You park your bike and arrive on campus grounds, the U.A. H-looking building stands before you.]
'The immensely tall glass-framed building ahead is always a neat sight in the mornings. A glimmering beacon that catches the sun during the day and in the night a marker of the greatest heroics school in the world.'
'Thesunlightlooksbeautifuldoesn'tit?Let'sgetinsideandtalktoNezu.'
[With pep in your step, you jog lightly to the gates and walk inside. Taking a deep breath, you walk through the tall doors and to the stairs you walk so often up.]
'Skin tickles with a fresh cool air conditioning that rejuvenates your body's internal temperature. The slivers of sweat cooling off and evaporating.'
'Take more breaths of air, you've been hyperfixating too much.'
[Gasping for more air, you head up to the upper floors and towards Nezu's office.]
[Knock, knock. You tap on Nezu's door.]
'Wait, shouldn't you have notified a teacher? Well… whatever.'
[Muffled, "Come in." Through the door.]
'Nezu's calm voice.'
[You open the door, "Excuse me!" Although hyper, your face shows no emotion, "Good morning, Principal Nezu!" Stepping in, you close the door behind you, "Hello!"]
'It's only Nezu in this room.'
'WeneedtotalktoNezu.Phonenumber,dorms,funding,andcooking.Nezuhasmoney,right?'
'You don't necessarily need Nezu's phone number. Probably don't mention that. Also, the dorms, it's only for you, it'd be too much to ask for. For now, these are thoughts to keep held until fruition.'
["Good morning, Student Dae!" Nezu reciprocates your cheery demeanor, "Take a seat!"]
[You quickly bow and step closer, then sit in a chair in front.]
[Nezu takes a sip of tea and puts it down, "Now, what would you like to talk about today?"]
["Principal Nezu, as club president, I'd love to talk about some extracurricular club activities!"]
["My, Student Dae, I do enjoy your enthusiasm. Of course! I wouldn't be everybody's lovely principal, if I didn't listen to a club president!"]
'He understands you're in a tizzy. It's all the hubbub from your racketing.'
["Yes, everyone's lovely principal, Nezu, I'd like to discuss, the Hero Club! What a wonderful time it was last time!"]
[Nezu nods, "Fortunately, it appears that everyone enjoyed their time and actively used their Quirks. The time training and building friendships is a fantastic use of time!"]
["Agreed! Though, unfortunately, in the advent of the USJ attack, tensions will most likely be high! Brr! Spooky! Although kept within campus, the fear of more villain attacks must be creeping in their minds!"]
[Solemnly, Nezu hums, "Hmm, yes, I do fear that will be the case. What do you suggest?"]
["I'd like to spend this Hero Club to relieve some stress! Instead of focusing on Quirk practice, maybe do a fun event with the class and decompress from any worries!"]
[Nezu nods, "I like that idea, perhaps this will raise the morale. What's the event tonight?"]
'Everything Nezu says is rhetorical, he's playing the dialogue tree. Every response ends with a question.'
["The event I'm thinking about is… cooking!"]
["Mhm, that does sound nice, what's your reasoning for this?"]
["Sato is a baker, and I can cook neat meals, the class I'm sure can take this cooking event to be a distraction! Also, it's Bakugo's birthday tomorrow, and I think I can convince him to come this time, including Todoroki!"]
["Wonderful reasons, I can't deny! I assume you want me to set up a kitchen?"]
[You nod enthusiastically.]
["Approved! I'll contact a pop-up kitchen and have it up by club time."]
["Thank you very much, Principal Nezu!" You bow.]
["Haha! I'm just glad you're taking good care of your classmates." He takes a sip of tea.]
["Oh, on the topic of club activities, is there any concern for funding?"]
'Nezu is rich. U.A. is rich. No tuition, and after some research done, the Faux Villain Robot 0, from the Practical Exams, is a machine equipped with triple-axle oscillation detection, thermistor heat sensors and other high-tech search-and-destroy functions. When not used for testing, it's rented out to international organizations, which employ it as a mobile evacuation shelter during emergencies. Total cost: 240 Billion Yen, or 2.4 billion dollars. It's a key component of national defense that receives 5% of the total military budget. You destroyed one, and Deku another. The robots do accumulate with time, but the cost is still insanely high. Though they did deploy another Faux 0 when you destroyed yours.'
[Nezu rubs his chin, "While I'd like to teach students the importance of earning their own money, for now there is no need for concern. I'll fund most events! Just don't have too much fun! As long as it's educational or practical activities, then go ahead."]
["Thank you very much!" You bow again quickly.]
["Haha, no problem, Student Dae! Anything else?"]
'Maybetalkaboutaquirksoftheclassesorperhapstheinclusionoftheotherherocourse?'
["Hmm, I'd like to invite the other hero course to our activities!"]
[Nezu nods and taps the desk, "Yes… I've been thinking about this and believe it would be good for the classes to interact with each other."
["It'd create a sense of community and more healthy relationships! Also, a good sense of competition! Seeing the opposition in front of you! Exciting!"]
["Haha, not particularly opposition, but exactly!"]
[You nod in agreement.]
[Nezu smiles, "Clubs are quite the nice hub for learning, and heroes! Even Sensei Snipe oversees the marksman club," and sighing in nostalgia, "…you know, 20 years ago, Edgeshot and Best Jeanist had a club, the 'Textile Arts Association.' Haha, it was only those two in that club, but they did a great job."]
[You blankly look at Nezu, "What did they do!?"]
["For the school festival, they had an exhibit filled with outfits and accessories. Very neat! They garnered a lot of attention from clothing brands."]
["That sounds amazing! Do you think perhaps the Hero Club should do public activities? Maybe community service?"]
[Nezu nods, "Sounds good, that would prepare the students for hero work. I can set up some events, maybe even vacations-like retreats, for club activities!"]
["Great, that'd be a wonderful motivator! Keep me situated and I'll give notice to the club."]
["Will do, Student Dae."]
["With that in mind, can I invite class 1-B during their homeroom?"]
[Nezu rubs his chin, "You'll need to ask Vlad King for that… If he says yes, then perfect! I'll notify Sensei Aizawa that you may be leaving homeroom for club president responsibilities."]
'It won't be particularly difficult, just need to maneuver his bias.'
["Thank you, that will be all from me! Anything you'd like to speak to me about!"]
[Nezu thinks a bit, "Hm, not much, I'd only remind you that as the principal, I have a responsibility to ensure that my students are learning and prepared for the outside world."]
'What he means is, 'remember you're a student at U.A., and as principal, it's my goal to ensure you're successful.' Despite your vivacious behavior, he's put a lot of trust in you, so, he hopes that you respect him enough to have trust in him.'
["Of course, our lovely principal, Nezu!"]
["Hoho! Get to class, Student Dae!"]
[You stand up, "Thank you! See you later!" You salute and walk away.]
["You're always welcome!" He waves you goodbye as you close the door.]
'WeneedtocontactVladKingandtalktohisclassbutbeforelet'strytoconvinceBakugoandtheclassestojoininHeroClubthisafternoonforsomecookingfun!WaitnoweneedpermissionfirstthenwecantalktoBakugo,thengotoclass1-Bforhomeroom.'
…
[You knock on the staff room doors.]
'You can't go to the teacher's lounge, who knows where Vlad King would be. It's best to check the formal offices.'
'You hear a chair wheel scoot back and a person getting up and walking towards the door.'
[Opening the door, you see Aizawa Sensei.]
[Sighing, Aizawa looks up at you, "Sigh, what are you doing here?"]
'Aizawa always the pragmatist. Your profile of him depicts someone who hates wasting time.'
[You smile, "Ah, Aizawa Sensei, a delight to meet you. I hope you've seen the email from our lovely~ Principal Nezu. I wish to speak to Teacher Vlad King, to invite class 1-B to Hero Club tonight! Cooking, we are doing! Boost morale after y'know what."]
[Aizawa takes a deep breath, "Come in." He steps back and goes to his office chair.]
["Thank you very much, Sensei!" You walk in and check the room.]
'The teachers' desks are grouped by class year and department, and the shelves lining one wall were stuffed with files and books on education. In the first year and heroics department, where Aizawa sits, Vlad King sits opposite of him. He seems to be typing something currently.'
[Spotting Vlad King, you walk over and bow, "Teacher Vlad King!"]
[Noticing you, he breaks from his computer screen.]
'He was writing plans for training class 1-B. Training camp plans.'
[Vlad King grumbles, then looking at you, a brief moment of recognition, "Ah, you're that 1-A student at yesterday's meeting." He sighs and pays full attention to you now, "What is it?"]
[You smile, "I'd like to invite class 1-B to Hero Club."]
[He rubs his chin, jaw grumbling, "Hmm, yes, Hero Club." After a deep nose breath, "At least class 1-B will have an equal playing field. You class 1-A having special privileges, haha, class 1-B deserves some too. Sure."]
[You nod, "During homeroom, can I personally invite the class 1-B, as Club President. It is every Friday."]
["Ah, you're the Club President? Tsk, yeah, go ahead. I'll leave some time for you, just come early."]
[You bow, "Thank you, apologies for the late notice."]
["Yeah, yeah," he waves you off, back to focusing on his computer.]
[As you step away, he speaks again, "Ah, I just remembered, Aizawa attends as well?"]
'You feel Aizawa's concentration break and listening in on the mention of his name.'
[You turn around, "Yes, he supervises."]
[He clears his throat, "I'd like to supervise as well, I can't let my students go alone."]
[You nod, "No problem, I'd be grateful for the extra supervision."]
["Heh, just for my students though…" After a pause, "Thanks."]
[You bow again, "No worries, thank you." You walk away.]
'As you leave the room and close the door, you hear some bickering behind the doors.'
…
[You open the 1-A classroom door.]
'Swap'
☐INLAND EMPIRE+EMPATHY+SUGGESTION☐
╰┈➤☐RAPPORT☐ *Image*
[Stepping inside, you spot a few individuals early like you.]
'Iida sits rigid, reading a textbook. Yaoyorozu is reading an encyclopedia. Shoji patiently waiting. Kirishima sits still, hiding his nervousness. Tokoyami is brooding. Ojiro, listlessly, staring at the blackboard. Todoroki looking at you. *Hold on* they're all now looking at you.'
["Hello, everyone." You smile and raise a hand.]
[Kirishima stands up, but Iida immediately drops his book and rushes up to you, "Class President Dae-Gon! How admirable, you still came to school even after facing off the nefarious villain! No, of course you came! As expected of our Class President!" He waves his hands around and bows, "Thank you for leading us!"]
'Genuine gratitude. Slightly hidden is envy, but shame and fear extinguishes it.'
[Kirishima walks over, "Yeah man! It was insanely scary, but you were there!" He lightly punches your shoulder, "Totally manly, dude!"]
[You smile and do a gentle bow, "Thank you, everyone!" You stand tall and pose, "But it was everyone's efforts we crushed those villains back!" You lightly chuckle, "Haha, I only took down one villain, you guys restrained dozens!"]
'The class can feel your words and can grasp your gratitude. Though, they hide their hidden thoughts that you're just being polite.'
[Kirishima pumps his arms, "Haha! Right! It was the first time I actually used my quirk against someone!" He then looks a little more serious, "But that villain you faced was like… final boss tier."]
[Iida raises his glasses, "Yes, from my observations, most pro-heroes would have trouble against that villain"]
'From the glance at his eyes, his glasses prescription is -0.8.'
'Mild nearsightedness.'
[You playfully rub the back of your head, "Hah, well, that's all thanks to my training." You flex your body, the school's outfit tightening to fit your form.]
[Kirishima also flexes, "Hell yeah, dude!"]
'Yaoyorozu goes back to reading her book.'
[Ojiro speaks up, "What kind of training do you do?"]
'As a practitioner of martial arts, he's curious.'
[You rub your chin in remembrance, "For the past 8 years, I've trained in the mountains." You do the motions, "Punching barrels of iron filings, hitting trees, and even meditation under a waterfall. Haha, the classics, y'know?"]
'More brutal practices were inflicted on yourself. For the sake of optimal growth, you broke many bones and tore muscles, even hunting for your own food. In those times, you were chasing a hopeless goalpost, even at the cost of Nightmares.'
[Ojiro does a nod of acknowledgment. Kirishima chuckles, "Brutal, man! Let's train sometime!"]
[You nod, "Originally, the Hero Club was going to be our hang out time, but with that filled, we can train anytime next week, this weekend I'm quite busy."]
[He nods, "On that, is the Hero Club on tonight?"]
[You nod, "Yep, today's Hero Club will be a fun activity to destress from the villain attack."]
["Oh, I'm pumped for that! What's it gonna be?"]
["Cooking, and I'm hoping to invite everyone in class plus some Class 1-B folk."]
["Ah, cooking, sweet!"]
[Iida speaks, "Inviting Class 1-B?"]
[You look over at him, "Yeah, I'd like to open Hero Club to the Hero Courses of our year. I mentioned it before, but Hero Club is a casual place to train your quirks and have fun."]
'The other Department have access to clubs, only now does the Hero Department have a club.'
[Iida puts a hand on his chin and nods, "Yes, I see, you are operating the club as a study hall of sorts. I should've thought of that…" He ponders.]
[You nod, "Yep."]
'You hear stompy steps behind you.'
["OUTTA THE WAY, FREAK!" Bakugo stands slouched behind you. Some other classmates come in through the other door.]
[Iida raises his glasses, "You shouldn't talk to the Class President like that, no less our savior during the villain attack."]
["I Don't Care Four-Eyes!" Bakugo yells. Deku pops up from behind Bakugo, frazzled and silently panicking.]
[Iida pushes up his glasses, "I don't have four eyes, maybe you should get your eyes checked." Completely serious. This panics Deku more.]
["Arrgh! I don't care! Get outta my way!" Bakugo tries to shoulder check you, but is stonewalled at your biceps, literally bouncing back a few inches. "…What the hell?" Stunned.]
'Puny mortal.'
[You turn around, "Good morning, Bakugo!"]
["Don't 'good morning' me, Asshole!"]
["K-kacchan!" Deku stammers.]
["Shut it, Deku!" Bakugo bites back.]
'Deku has an interesting expression of 'Scary how used I am to this,' the lips pursed and eyes in a light squint.'
[You raise your hands, "Well perfect timing, Bakugo! Would you like to come to today's Hero Club? I noticed you didn't come last time."]
["Fuck off! Hell no, why would I want to go to loser's club!" He stances up and raises his chin.]
["Well, in the advent of the villain attack at the USJ, I'd like to hold a special event, so everyone can cool off."]
["No." Giving you the stink eye.]
[You smirk and open your arms, "C'mon, Bakugo, I'd like to think I know you a bit, and you'd enjoy this event!"]
["You don't know shit!"]
["I do~, Bakugo."]
["Try me!"]
'Staring into the depths of this fiery soul, you peer deep inside his mind's palace. Tidbits of knowledge and habits piece into a completed puzzle. Displays are mapped, incomplete, but shows a picture that you can derive from. Habit. Personality. Behavior. You can figure some things out.'
["When you order curry from Coco Ichiban, you get level-five spiciness with crispy chicken toppings."]
'His personality probably endures spiciness even at the cost of pride. Though, he may also have a good tolerance.'
["What?"]
["In the bath, you start washing your left armpit. Your shampoo is the no-more-tears kind."]
'Right-handed, most likely washes with it first, armpits easy. And, he smells of his shampoo, showering in the morning.'
["W-wait."]
["Right before bed, you watch super-scary horror movies to help you sleep."]
'His explosive attitude would feel slight anxiety watching horror movies, a decompression that lulls them to sleep. Probably a learned habit after a few instances.'
["W-wait a sec.. How d'you know all that!?"]
["I can dig deeper, y'know?" You raise an eyebrow.]
'Masturbation habits, the callus of his hands and from the firmness of the palm.'
["No! NO! W-what the fuck! You'a stalker?" Bakugo seems wigged out.]
["Nah, it's my intelligence. Smell, sight, and deductive ability, I can see your psyche." You smile tapping on your temple, and look at him, which he shudders.]
["Creep, stalker! Keep it to yourself!" He growls.]
["Aw, c'mon, Kacchan~. We're gonna cook food at Hero Club tonight. I'll make your dish especially spicy~!"]
["Last chance! Or I'll kill you!" He opens his palms and a small explosion pops.]
["I know it's your birthday tomorrow, for an early gift, you can beat me up all you want there." Deku looks shocked.]
'Kirishima behind you lightly gasps, as well does Iida. And, slight shifting of seats can be heard behind.'
[Bakugo pauses, and his hands close. Looking deep into your eyes, "…fine. You're dead, stalker freak!"]
[You raise your hands again, "Wonderful," and you get out of his way.]
["Shut your grub hole," Bakugo walks away to his seat.]
[Deku asks, "Are you really going to let him do that?"]
[You nod, "Sure, why not?"]
[Iida waves his arms, "You could get hurt, Class President!" Looking away, "I… I could take the punishment in your stead." He dramatically looks away.]
[Kirishima laughs, "Hahaha, no way dude, you'd get blown to bits! Dae-kun can take it. He took that big villain, he can take Bakugo." He punches his palm, grinning.]
[You nod, and look at Deku, "Deku, don't worry about it, I'm tougher than you think. I took your punches remember?"]
[He thinks for a bit and nods, "Yeah, I guess so, Dae-kun." He fidgets with his fingers.]
'He wants to tell you something.'
["What's wrong Deku?"]
["…I just wanted to thank you!" Deku bows, "You taught me a lesson I won't forget!"]
[You grab Deku's shoulders and raise him up, "Deku, you have a Hero's Heart, don't forget that."]
'The Hero's Heart of obsession. An insanity that defies expectations.'
["Mhm!" Deku nods with determination.]
["Let's get back to our seats, class will begin soon."]
…
[In your seat.]
'Todoroki still stares. Bakugo is leaning on his chair, typing vigorously on his phone.'
'Probably: BE HOME LATE TO KILL THIS STALKER FREAK!!!'
[Ashido sits in her seat and sighs, "Whew~! That day was Mega-Scary!" She stretches, "Kinda crazy, we are back in class so soon."]
[Asui croaks, "Kero, I hope it isn't a common occurrence."]
[Ashido looks towards you, "What do you think?"]
["Hm? I think… no matter what, we'll have it handled."]
[Ashido sorta hums blankly, "Hmmm. Really?"]
[You shrug, "I mean, we have so many pro-heroes around us, surely we'll have it handled."]
'Surely (Sarcastic).'
[Kaminari from up ahead leans back and comments, "Death flag, dude."]
["Meh..." You shrug.]
…
[Aizawa comes in before the bell rings, "Morning."]
[The class responds, "Good Morning, Sensei."]
[Aizawa walks to the podium, "I have an important announcement."]
'Bated breathes throughout the class.'
["The U.A. Sports festival is drawing near."]
[Kirishima stands up and yells, "OH YEAH!"]
[Kaminari puts a hand on Kirishima's shoulder, "Hold on. Wait a minute." Seating him back down.]
[Jiro comments, "That sounds like something villains would try to infiltrate... isn't it? Will it be all right?"]
[Ojiro mentions, "What if they attack again or something?"]
[Mineta cowers, "I can't do this again! It was so scary! I nearly number 2'd my pants, number 1 too!"]
[Aizawa looking out to the class, "On the contrary: since we're going ahead with the festival, it means that the school is confident it has all its ducks in a row when it comes to its crisis control now. I hear police presence will be five times bigger than normal, for example."]
'The class takes it in.'
[Continuing, "What you should be thinking about is, what a huge chance the academy's sports festival presents for you all. And, this isn't some event that'll be brought to a halt by the likes of villains."]
[Mineta shivers, "No, if villains do appear, can we halt it please?"]
[Deku looks back to him, "Mineta... have you never seen the U.A. Sports Festival!?"]
["Of course I have! that's not it at all..."]
[Aizawa louder, "Our sports festival is one of Japan's biggest events!! In days past, the "Olympics" was the sports festivity that whipped all the nation into a froth of enthusiasm! But now, as you know, the extent and population have shrunk, and it's lost a lot of substance."]
[With a grander tone, "So what has taken the place of the Olympics in Japan is, the U.A. Sports Festival!"]
[After a pause, Yaoyorozu says to Mineta, "The country's top heroes are all sure to be watching. It's because they'll be scouting for us."]
[Mineta nods, "I know, I know… but…"]
[Kaminari smiles, "Getting scouted! I'm thinking I might follow the tactic of going sidekick for a Pro Hero's squad after graduating."]
[Jiro shuts down Kaminari, "But there are loads of people who get stuck as side-kicks forever and miss their chance to break out as solo heroes. And you seem like just that kind of dumbass, Kaminari."]
["Kch!" He clenches his chest.]
[Aizawa ignores it, "Naturally, entering the squad of a famous hero will get you higher status and more experience. Remember time is limited. If you get noticed by a pro, that gives you the standing for a brighter future than otherwise."]
[Serious, Aizawa Sensei slams the lectern, "This is the chance you'll get only once a year... for a total of three chances. If you aim to be a hero, this is an event you can't overlook!"]
'The atmosphere deepens. Serious business.'
[The bell rings, homeroom officially starts.]
[Aizawa looks at you, "Be back by English class." He points out the door.]
[You stand up and lightly salute, "Will be." Before leaving the classroom, you turn back around, "Everyone, come to Hero Club to decompress! We're cooking tonight!" You point to Sato, "I'd like to see your baking skills!" He smiles and rubs his hands.]
…
[As you walk the halls, ahead next door, is Class 1-B.]
'As you walk and stand behind the door, you gaze out the windows and into the sea. The bright blue expanse reflecting the sun's glare into your retinas.'
'Painful. Black spots flicker in and out. Look away.'
[Through the door, you hear the endings of a speech, "…and show your greatness as Class 1-B!" The class claps behind the door.]
[After a bit, the grumble of Vlad King makes notice, "Today, we have a special announcement… he should be here any minute."]
[You open the door, "I am here any minute!" Jazz hands inside, "Hello Class 1-B!"]
'They do not look entertained. Keep it casual, these folk are straight killers.'
'Some are entertained.'
[You walk and stand on the podium which Vlad King steps aside.]
'Very interesting faces around. You don't know any of these people. A metal cheese grater head, hairy guy, insectoid, vanta-black kid, and a comic text-bubble head.'
[A blonde kid leans back, "Are you from Class 1-A?"]
'Don't answer that, ignore him.'
[You smile and stretch your arms out, "Hello Class 1-B!"]
["…Don't ignore-"]
["I am the Class Representative of 1-A and Club President of Hero Club!" You do a grand bow. Some people clap their hands.]
[You raise and glance around the room, "I am also the highest scoring individual from the exams! The loud noises? Came from my bare hands!" You punch your palm.]
'Some look worried, some now more serious. Others, curious.'
[Vlad King huffs, "Get to it."]
[You chuckle, "Haha! The reason I say this is to give credit to my Club! And, I invite you Class 1-B, to join our activities!" You gesture, "Our club is very lax in its requirements and activities, you don't even need to attend, it's all optional. But, the hook is you can train your Quirks with others, especially with the other class!"]
'Now they all look interested.'
["Today, and every Friday from now on, will have Club Activities after classes. And, in the advent of a horrific spooky~ invasion, we will be having a morale boosting activity today, cooking! And, while others are cooking, we can have dialogue between our classes. There will even be a special event where a certain classmate will be trying to kill me, HAHAHA!" You're back bends back as you laugh to the ceiling.]
'Odd expressions.'
[Leaning back straight, "Oh, of course, you all can try too! Hahaha!" You bow and then quickly stone face, "Any questions?"]
[The blonde-hair raises his hand, then speaks, smirking, "Did villains really attack your class?"]
'The extent of the news stops outside the gates of U.A., inside, the commotion brought rumors.'
[You raise your hand to block your face from Vlad King, "The school said to not say anything, but it's true."]
[Vlad King just shakes his head with his arms crossed.]
[An orange-haired girl raises her hand, waiting to be called.]
["Yes, orange-haired girl!"]
["What were the villains like?"]
[Vlad King huffs and glares to the class, "Hmph, don't ask any questions not related to the club."]
["Sorry Mr. Vlad." She tilts her head, "…Then, what did you mean by kill you?"]
'Some of the class nod and look at you.'
["Ah, yes, a fiery boy in our class will be attempting to explode me to bits, but don't fret, you all will have your own chances!"]
[A girl with dark-green hair raises her hand, "Can you survive that?" A smile on her face.]
["Oh, why yes, in fact, I'm quite the durable fellow! I'm mighty as I am witty!" You smile.]
'How demeaning to act like this. The smile, the quips, it's all to show a flaw in your perfection. You're a God acting like a jester.'
[A grouchy silver haired kid grins, "Let's see how strong you really are!" He stands up.]
[Vlad King shoots a glare which makes the silver kid slump and sit back down.]
[The hairy guy raises his hand.]
["Yes?"]
["What time does the club end?"]
…
[You open the door to Class 1-A, Aizawa stands at the podium, mid-speech, "You all remember that, it could save your life."]
[You walk in and close the door behind you, and then into your seat.]
…
[English class goes by.]
["OH YEAH! Say it with me! Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent…"]
…
[Math class goes by.]
["Solve this equation, or I'll double homework."]
[After a bit, Momo raises her hand, "(x^2−7x+12)(x^2−7x+6)"]
["I expected it to be fully factored, double homework."]
…
[Modern Hero Art History goes by.]
["Hero statues have over time prioritized dynamic posture over realism, putting drama in the forefront. Here, you can see all the curves of the female hero, 'Hot Stuff'."]
[Mineta rubs his chin. Kaminari is focused, nodding along.]
…
[Midnight lashes the air with her whip, "Alright class, that's the bell. Class is over." She packs her things and leaves the room.]
…
[Modern Literature goes by.]
["The collapse of the Tokugawa bakufu cannot be attributed to a single cause, rather it was the cumulative interaction of internal administrative stagnation and external diplomatic pressures."]
[Ashido's eyes are squinting. Kaminari is dozing off. Ojiro, Jiro, and Sero struggle.]
…
[Lunch bells ring, signaling Modern Literature over.]
[Cementoss grabs his textbooks and leaves the classroom.]
[Ashido stretches and lets out a gasp of relief, "Geez, I guess we're back to normal, huh?"]
[Kirishima cracks his back on his chair, "Yeah, hard to believe we're just getting back to it."]
[Ashido nods, and gets up, "That's what I'm sayin'."]
["Kero, what else is supposed to happen?"]
["Hmm, I guess nothing?"]
[You get up, "Well, security has already been increased, and the police are now more active, so I'd say besides training us harder, nothing else can help."]
[They nod.]
[Kirishima pumps his arms, excited, "I'm thrilled! The tensions are flying sky high! If we put in the effort and stand out to a pro, it'll be a giant leap forward!"]
[Sato punches his palm, "It was worth coming to U.A.!"]
[Tokoyami nods, "We will only receive a few chances. We cannot afford to miss this."]
[Hagakure walks over, "Whatcha getting for lunch?"]
[Ashido ponders, "I was thinking, something sweet."]
[Kirishima gets up, "I'm thinking, meat!"]
[Asui also gets up, "I'm having my bento." Carrying a homemade bento box.]
[Tokoyami still sitting, arms crossed, "Something that brings me sustenance."]
[Shoji walks over, and a mouth grows, "That's any food." He looks to the group, "I'd like something warm."]
[Tokoyami, arms still crossed, "That's any food heated up."]
[Ashido looks to you, "Curry?"]
[You nod, "Curry."]
[Aoyama spins and poses, "Anything as beautiful as moi~☆."]
[You look over to the invisible girl, "Hagakure, what are you hungry for?"]
[Her clothing twists, "Hm, maybe something also sweet? I'll get what Ashido-kun gets."]
[Ashido puffs her chest, "Hoho, good choice."]
[Yaoyorozu walks over, "What are we talking about?"]
[Ashido answers, "What food are you getting?"]
["Um. Something balanced. Salmon and rice?"]
'Todoroki still hasn't gotten up from his seat. He's just looking at you.'
'When seating in lunch, you all sit together, but the class usually congregates into groups:
Group 1: Deku, Iida, Uraraka.
Group 2: Sato, Sero, Kaminari, Jiro, Mineta, Ojiro.
Group 3: Dae, Ashido, Kirishima, Asui, Tokoyami, Yaoyorozu, Hagakure, Shoji, Aoyama.
Solo: Bakugo, Todoroki.
Though still, you all sit in the same row of tables.'
[You look over to Todoroki, catching his eye as he looks away. You ask, "What about you Todoroki, what do you want to eat for Lunch?"]
[Everyone in the group looks over to Todoroki.]
[Todoroki pauses, and then looks over to the group, "Soba."]
[Ashido brightens up, "Ah, I want soba too!"]
[Hagakure hops, "I thought you wanted something sweet!"]
["I changed my mind, I want something cold!"]
[Hagakure sulks.]
[You speak, "Well, let's get going."]
[To the other side of the class, you hear Uraraka, "Guys!! I'm!! Gonna!! Go for it !" Punching the air.]
[Ashido cheers, "Wow! Yeah! Go for it!" She punches the air.]
[Midoriya and Iida also punch the air, Midoriya, "Y-yeah! Go for it!"]
[The entire class raises their fists, "Go for it!"]
'Except for Bakugo and Todoroki. Bakugo already left.'
[Ashido looks back to the group, "Talk about a shift. Uraraka's being, kinda, not Uraraka."]
[You smile, "I guess it's the nerves for the upcoming Sport Festival."]
[She nods, "I'm kinda nervous too!"]
…
[The group heads out the classroom, including Todoroki, and into the hallways. Down the steps, you guys walk nearby Midoriya, Iida, and Uraraka.]
[As you have some conversations on the anxiety of the festival, All Might in a suit appears.]
["Young Midoriya is here! Would you care to... eat your rice with me?"]
["Ah," Deku looks to Iida and Uraraka who nod, "I'd love to." Deku walks to All Might.]
[All Might scans and spots you, "Ah! Young Hero Dae! Your bag from the Entrance Exams are in the Development Studio!" He thumb points to a hallway, where you see a metal door. The thumb point turns into a thumbs up, "Good Luck!" He dashes with Deku following.]
[You look over to the group, "I'll be a little late, I gotta grab my stuff."]
[They nod.]
…
[You walk over to the metal door of the Development Studio. People have dispersed from the halls, as most are heading to the lower floors for the lunchroom.]
'Beyond the door, you hear something buzzing and small crackling pops.'
[You knock on the metal.]
[…]
[After a bit, there is no response, but you can hear some movement behind the door.]
'Sounds of tinkering. A tightening of bolts, the sauntering of iron. Definitely, an allomancer is behind those doors.'
[You knock again to no avail.]
'This department is open, the knocking is just customary politeness.'
[You open the door.]
'Past the hazard door is bright, inside is a compact room lined with mounted tools, screens, and components. Red drawers of hand tools, screws, and measuring apparatuses. Monitors and machines are on a desk, where data outlines suits and test studies. Littered are scraps of bolts and bits. And to the side, unconcerned, is a girl.'
[Inside the fairly big workshop studio, you spot a pink haired girl, focusing on a metal boot.]
'A short girl, with dense pink dreadlocks. She wears a thick, grey tank top, and baggy pants with a utility belt. She's hunched over, with steampunk goggles on that have two metal protrusions, each having a bulb that looks like a hydraulic accumulator. Currently fixated on a metal boot, she's just staring at it.'
[You walk inside, "Hello?"]
[With a swivel, her entire body turns its axis and faces you, "Hm?" Taking a look at you, she straightens up, "What are you doing here?"]
[Glancing around the room, you spot a bag with your tungsten balls in it, "I'm here for my bag. The tungsten balls." You point at it.]
'Those were 2 million yen, or around 15,000 dollars. Quite expensive, but you've used them quite often.'
'Something sparks. Like aerosolized gasoline fumes, suddenly it explodes, ruptures into energy.'
[She perks up, "Oh! Those are yours!" She drops the tools she was holding and quickly steps over to the counter, "I couldn't even pick up the bag!" Unzipping the bag, "And this cross fiber hatched laminated material! It's ugly, but functional!" Picking up a ball, with some ease, "These have been picked from across Battle Center B!" Turning the ball around, you see some slight stress and chipped curves, "I don't know what could've happened to damage these things!" Dropping the ball back into the bag, "But, all 20, are here."]
[You walk over and zip the bag up, "Thanks, I guess the impact did more damage than the throw."]
'Through aluminum robots and into the concrete jungle, slight imperfections are reasonable.'
'Something's happening, the girl is approaching, react!'
[Suddenly, the girl gets close and tries to touch your chest, but you step backwards.]
'Hyperfixation. Her mind is narrowly tracked onto your chest.'
'There, you notice her eyes, like a sniper's scope, green-yellow with a crosshair.'
[You look at her, "What are you doing?"]
["C'mon, let me touch you!" She leaps forward haphazardly.]
'She'll fall if you dodge.'
'Don't care, just catch her. Don't give her the satisfaction.'
[You sidestep and catch her shirt as she falls forward, "Why?"]
[She wobbles and flails, "Let me touch!"]
[You pull her back and step away, "No."]
[She wiggles her fingers and primes herself to leap like a cat, "Grr!"]
'You hear heavy footsteps from behind the entrance doors.'
[Suddenly, the metal door opens, a shorter-than-the-girl shirtless man with a large excavator-like helmet, he has large gloves with a cup of noodles.]
[He steps in like normal, but hesitates as he sees the situation, "What? Hatsume! What are you… Doing!"]
["Fufufufu, my perfect test subject has just arrived! Now…" She ready's her stance, predator instincts locked on you, "…Just stay still!" She leaps, arms extended, but you dodge and pick her up before she falls.]
'Warning: That was part of her plan.'
[In a dupe, "Fufufu!" She spins as you still hold her, and grabs your arm, "You're mine!"]
[As her hand reaches forward, the shirtless man tries to hit the girl off, so she lets go, dashing back, "No hitting!"]
'For a split moment, you saw her crosshair eyes focus and track the gloved hand's trajectory.'
[You walk away from the female predator known as, Hatsume. And hide behind the shirtless man, you presume is Power Loader, a Hero that works in U.A.]
'The 5'1" Hero is only known to you by the listing of teachers in the U.A. Exclusive Map App. Some staff members are listed in points on the map, Power Loader is one of them.'
[Power Loader raises his fist grouchy, "I went to get food, and you do this! A few minutes!" He sets his cup noodles down on the counter near your bag.]
[Hatsume raises a finger, "As Sun Tzu once said, Opportunities multiply as they are seized."]
[Power Loader sighs, "And what possible opportunities could be seized?"]
[She points at you, "He's a perfect specimen for my babies!"]
[He looks at you, grumbling, "Grr… he is tall…" He speaks out loud, "No touching without permission! Rules are rules!"]
[She sulks a bit, "Hmm..." Then sparkling, "Unfortunate!" She turns around and walks back to her work desk and continues her staring at the boot.]
[Power Loader sighs, and looks up at you, "Sorry for her behavior, she's quite self-centered. But, in the future, you'll be coming to her for your equipment." He then grabs his cup noodles, and notices your bag, "Is this your bag?"]
[You nod.]
["Damn. Slurrp." He eats some noodles, "You *are* a good test subject. Slurrp."]
'Act concerned, that's what a normal person would do.'
["…Thanks." Visible concern over your facial features.]
["Kehkehkeh, don't fret, kid. Just means you're sturdy." He gestures to the bag, "Take it, and come by anytime you want to entertain her. She means well."]
'You should, it would help you understand more of modern technology.'
[You walk over.]
[Lifting it with one arm, you ease the straps onto your shoulders, the bag dipping from the weight.]
[A hesitation in the slurping of noodles, "…damn."]
["Thanks, I'll come by sometime." You bow, wave, and leave.]
'For your classmates future gear, you'll put some recommendations.'
'As you close the door, you hear Power Loader yell at Hatsume to eat some food.'
…
[You pack your bag into your Hero Locker 9.]
'With your hero costume. Kinda strange, wearing tights and all, but it's culture, in Rome do as the Romans do.'
…
[You arrive in the lunchroom and see Hero, Lunch Rush still serving some latecomers.]
'Not bad, took only a few minutes.'
[You get in line.]
…
[You find 1-A's usual seating area and see Todoroki included within the group. In the middle of the seating area is an empty seat, for you.]
'How thoughtful, in the future, save their lives. One time redeemable.'
["Hey! Dae-kun, over here!" Ashido waves you over, patting the seat.]
[You walk over with a tray carrying: beef curry with rice, side plate of radish kimchi, and pickled jalapeños.]
'Your go-to meal, curry, and everything else to complement it.'
[Placing your tray, you sit down.]
["Yo, bro! We were talking 'bout your detective skills." Kirishima cheerfully exclaims, on his tray a mound of beef on rice.]
[You smile, "Is that so?"]
["Yes, Dae-Chan, we judged you could pursue a detective career." Asui says, with a bento box in front of her.]
[Sero comments, "Totally, man. The way you read Bakugo was crazy!" He has miso soup with seaweed and tofu.]
[Tokoyami focuses on his food, "Your perception is extraordinary… like a novel investigator."]
'A novel investigator? Like Batboy? He's a hero with extraordinary investigative skills. You think Tokoyami may know of such character, regarding his association with darkness.'
[You look his way, "Like Batboy, the American movie?"]
'A few show signs of recognition.'
["Geh!" Tokoyami coughs. "Yes… Batboy," The name sounding fond. He glances over, "You know of him?"]
'A tinge of wonder and excitement. A regression through nostalgia.'
[You nod, "Yep. I've watched a lot of movies, including American movies."]
[Yaoyorozu speaks, "I do notice your adept at speaking English. Particularly American English."]
[Ashido raises her hand, questioning, "Um, who's Batboy?"]
[Kirishima answers, "A popular American movie from way back then. Batboy! The kid superhero who controls bats! Kinda cool how he was more of a dark hero, y'know. You've never seen that flick?"]
[Ashido shakes her head, including the rest of the girls.]
[Iida pushes his glasses up, "I'm woefully ignorant when it comes to most entertainment."]
[Kirishima continues, "Well, it's bit of a classic. After the death of his parents, a young orphan decided to take revenge against the killer!"]
[Some ooh and others aah.]
["And, attending the funeral, in grief, the boy runs into the woods and suddenly falls into a cave! And, in that cave, was complete darkness except for the dim light above!"]
[More tense hums.]
["Falling inside, he disturbed the creatures inside, causing hundreds of bats to swarm around him and strike fear into his heart!"]
[Silence among the listeners.]
["Feeling that fear, he internalized it and felt the killer should feel the same!"]
[Tense.]
["And at that moment, the boy awakened his quirk! To control the bats!"]
[Everyone at the table nods, thinking and absorbing the story.]
[Ashido nodding, "That def, is an interesting story!"]
[Asui questions, "Kero, how does this relate to detective skills?"]
[Tokoyami utters, "That boy, forever shrouded in darkness, honed his skills tracking down the killer. And… after, the killer betrayed by his own gang, dying his Batboy's arms, realized it wasn't Batboy who killed him, but the boy."]
[Mineta exclaims, "Wow, that's dramatic."]
[Kirishima looks at Mineta, "But it's such a good story!"]
[Shoji's mouth grows out, "I'd like to watch this someday."]
[Ashido nods, "I'd tots watch that movie!"]
[You tilt your head slightly, "We could do a movie night sometime in the future. Maybe after Exams? Or the Sports Festival"]
[Kaminari perks up, "Oh, definitely the sports festival!"]
'He doesn't want to think about the exams.'
[Iida denies, "After the Sports Festival is the internships. We should focus on important things!"]
[Kaminari deflates.]
[Ashido nods, "I think after this semester's exams, a movie sounds cool! I want popcorn and snacks!"]
[Asui responds, "Kero, it's still quite a time away from the exams."]
[Ashido looks at Asui, "And, I'd want popcorn and snacks by then!"]
[Asui blankly looks at her and nods slowly.]
[Mineta looks at you, "Can you read me, like you did with… uh, Bakugo."]
[Ashido perks up, "Ooh! Read me too!"]
[Kirishima x's his hands, "No way, bro! Can't let you peek. Bro code."]
[You nod, "I can take a look at those who want it."]
[Everyone at the table looks interested.]
'Especially Todoroki. He's been silently watching you the entire time.'
[Looking at Mineta, "You like reading novels."]
'His eyes look worn. Could be from watching porn but is more likely to be an 18+ literature connoisseur. He seems like the type, or at least was the type.'
[Mineta eyebrows raise, and nods, "Heh, you know your stuff." He wipes below his nose, "I dabble on the forums~, heh."]
'Some people at the table understand the connotations, other don't and just think Mineta reads 'fantasy' novels.'
[The table looks a little disgusted by his words but shakes it off.]
["And… you." Looking at Ashido, "Hasn't fallen in love yet. And, wants to one day."]
'Her personality and actions have shown no indication of being once in a relationship, nor affection with attraction.'
[She smiles, "Mhm, you're too good! What's a girlie have to do nowadays, sigh."]
'A sincere bit of embarrassment, but also unconcerned.'
[You lean back, "Anyone else?" You scoop a bite of curry into your mouth.]
[Uraraka pipes up, "…How about me?"]
[You lean forward and look at her, "You'd like being a fixer-upper. Finding a cute fault and then working with it."]
'She seems like the, 'I can fix them' type of person. Caring, and a little too trusting, but has a pretty good sensor for genuine bad people.'
[Uraraka tilts her head in confusion, after a second of thinking she covers her face, "/// Awa!"]
[Iida nods, "Nothing to be embarrassed about! Admirable to follow in the footsteps of the family business."]
'Iida doesn't understand the implications and instead relates to his and her own family's businesses.'
[Ashido and Jiro glance at each other, snickering.]
'Only those two understand what you meant.'
[Tokoyami leans forward, "I'm interested in what you can gleam from me."]
[You look over, "You like apples."]
'He's a bird-heteromorph and has a tendency to eat red things, especially apples on occasion.'
[He instantly nods, "Correct."]
[Yaoyorozu raises her hand, "Now, I'm interested, what can you determine from me?"]
[You look at her, "Your mother is a bit disorganized."]
'Some look at you with doubt.'
'A prim and proper girl. You first met Yaoyorozu in a fine dining place, and had determined her a daddy's girl, but the love for her mother is still in there, a more relaxed love. To be in such a scenario, and focused on being proper, you'd estimate Yaoyorozu's parents aren't a complete dynamic of intelligence and formality, a mix should be there. A discussion happened that day, the father mentioning your French, and the mother making him accept Yaoyorozu greeting you. The mother, a special character that formed Yaoyorozu to who she is now. The need to fix things, the knee jerk reaction to correct mistakes, the anxiety and futility of helping clumsy behaviors, this all accumulates to the character of her upbringing, particularly her mother. Yaoyorozu probably spends most of her time with her mother and less with her father, which is why she cares so much about his opinion.'
[Yaoyorozu's eyes widen, "…Y-yes." Her stunned expression turns into curiosity, "How did you know?"]
[Kaminari surprised, "Really? He got that right?"]
[She nods, "Yes… She can be a bit… scatterbrained."]
[An acceptance of understanding befalls the table.]
[She still looks at you, "Again, how did you figure that out?" Curious.]
[You tilt your head a bit and then center it, "I notice your reactions to clumsy actions, you always show a discomfort on your face and squeeze your palms." You rub your chin, "And, I attributed that to your mother rather than your father since, the first time we met at that restaurant, you mentioned that your father sent you rather than your mother." You smile, "He seemed like a very perceptive person, and not the result of your reactions." Yaoyorozu looks surprised again.]
[Kirishima excited, "That's awesome man! What the heck!? That's next level detective-ing!"]
[Asui nods, "I'm very impressed Dae-Chan."]
[A common excitement fills the table, such a deduction found in only movies is present before their eyes.]
[Asui then puts a finger on her chin, "But wait, Dae and Yaoyorozu-Chan first met at a restaurant?"]
[Ashido perks up, "OoH? Hohoho~! Oooh~!" She excitedly looks at you and her.]
[Kaminari sucks in his breath, "…damn, you got there before me." He looks towards Mineta, who is staring at you.]
[Mineta squints at you, and mutters, "…betrayer… tell me your secrets…"]
[Yaoyorozu tilts her head, "Hm?" In confusion.]
[You smile, explaining yourself, "I was dining at a restaurant after the exams, and coincidentally met Yaoyorozu there."]
[Mineta retorts, "Coincidentally? And met her father! You guys passed so many bases! Y-you! Probably already… Grr!" He stares daggers at you, tears nearly dropping. Whispering, "…tell me…"]
[Yaoyorozu nods, "It was just a coincidence. I was there with my parents to celebrate my exams as well. By then, I had already gotten my acceptance letter."]
[The commotion slowly dies down and simmers back to normal.]
[And, after a bit, after your done eating, Todoroki says something.]
["Dae-Gon. Can you… do me?"]
'Feign your surprise. It was obvious that he wanted something from the beginning.'
[You look at Todoroki, surprised, "Sure!"]
[Everyone else also looks surprised, the quiet classmate actually spoke. And, to get observed from a top detective, it would definitely be interesting.]
[Sero excited, "Oh, this is gonna be interesting!"]
'Bated breaths. Interested focus. What's Dae gonna say? They think.'
["You liked milk."]
'Liked. Key suffix, -ed.'
'You gleamed a lot into Todoroki when you first met him on the Quirk Assessment track. Although your mind was ill, some fragments of information still clung on. A faint memory of Todoroki was drinking a carton of milk by Mrs. Cow. Till trauma beat it out of his memory.'
[His face is kept blank, in comprehending your words bit by bit, confusion and digging begin, till a spark of recognition. His eyes brighten, a sheen of water reflects the lights above, "…I think …so." He looks down.]
[Sero disappointed, "That's it?"]
[Kaminari stretches his back, "I was totally expecting something bigger."]
[Todoroki looks at Kaminari, "No… he's right, I… liked milk."]
'He can't pinpoint it, but, long ago, when he was a very young boy, he liked milk. A memory vaguely associated with his mother. A shame washes over him, a cloudy window into something very personal, the glass opaque, beyond, a fond memory, faded.'
[Kaminari expression shows confusion, "…O-okay."]
…
[Lunch bells ring, lunch is over. You and all your classmates are already inside the classroom.]
'You notice Deku's demeanor is more serious.'
'All Might probably had a stern talk to him about the upcoming Sports Festival.'
…
[Heroics goes by.]
["The origin of Heroism comes from the United States, in Rhode Island. It is also when Vigilantism became a serious crime. The most important thing you must learn is: If you use your Quirk against the law, you are deemed a Villain."
…
[Teacher Snipe leaves as the bell rings again.]
…
["I wonder what today's class will be!"]
["I'm always hyped!"]
[After a few moments, the door swings open.]
[A boisterous voice calls, All Might, "I AM HERE… As your GYM INSTRUCTOR!" Still wearing his signature costume, he bursts into the room, "HAHAHA! Today, fledglings, you will be training your bodies!" His glance looks over to Deku.]
[Kaminari slumps, and some of the class inwardly groan, but Kirishima quickly stands up, "Oh YEAH! Let's do this!"]
["HAHAHA! I like that enthusiasm, Young Kirishima!" He looks to the class, "Everyone, get changed in the locker rooms and head to the Gym Gamma!" He walks off and away.]
[A collective sense of foreboding.]
…
[In the boys locker room, you change into the blue and white U.A. Uniform.]
…
[Arriving to Gym Gamma, you all collect inside.]
'The building where you do Hero Club inside is now filled to the brim with exercise equipment and machines. To the wall, you see the rows of weights increasing to larger and heavier degrees till reaching the entirety of the length. On racks or poles, dumbbells, plates, and kettlebells. The beginning is 3-pounds, the end to 500-pounds. Though, most of the equipment seems normal, the 'metal' is dark and looks expensive.'
[Looking around, you spot to the side a long rack of weights.]
'One 500-pound dumbbell is missing.'
'If you go beyond your Physical prowess, you could curl those dumbbells, skull-crusher them, make a dent in the floor.'
'And, make a dent in your head. Don't overextend when not needed.'
'Sections of the floor have thick black mats, the density of the flooring looks odd, and the darkness sparkles with something in the material.
[Perking your ears, you hear some pop music playing.]
'American pop music.'
[Kirishima exclaims in shock, "Holy motherlode, I've never seen… something so manly!"]
'Everyone is also surprised, even Bakugo and Todoroki. It's also interesting to you, the number of machines are manyfold the entire class.'
[Sero grins, "The entire school could go here and barely be crowded!"]
[Mineta mockingly pinches his nose, "It'd smell like major B.O. in here." Under his breath, "But girl B.O. too… *tsk*, the sacrifice."]
[While the class is awestruck, All Might laughs and walks over, "Everyone! Welcome to All Might's Authentic American Gym!" In one hand, he curls a 500-pound dumbbell, "Impressed? In America, the gyms were three times as big!" Curling the dumbbell, the contours of the brachii and radialis muscle expertly show definition.]
'All anyone can do is just gawk and dry laugh at the absurdity.'
'All Might is the peak of strength, the pinnacle of power. The absolute paragon of humanity.'
'Stop the drooling. You'll, in time, be strong enough to contend.'
[All Might continues talking as he watches the stares, "Ahem! One of the most important factors to a Hero's success is…" He points to Ashido.]
["...Uh, I dunno, Quirk?"]
[He points to Uraraka.]
["Ah, oh, um, control?"]
[He points to Yaoyorozu.]
["Hm, knowledge? Understanding your Quirk?"]
[He points to Aoyama.]
["To shine bright like moi~☆."]
[He points to Bakugo.]
["To trample on others!"]
[He points to Tokoyami.]
["To bring out your fullest potential, hidden deep within one's soul."]
[He points to Kirishima.]
["Being manly! Strong, and powerful!"]
[He points to Deku.]
["Uh… um… to protect others?"]
[He then points to the sky, "Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! No! Yes! Yes! Yes!" He then does a right-hand lateral-raise with the dumbbell holding it to side, "You all understand what is makes a successful Hero, and you are all correct!" He then raises his left hand, pointing up, "But!" He pauses, "It's the sweat! The tears! The blood!" He drops the dumbbell onto a black mat, and it slams and has a small pop, but no vibration can be felt from the impact, just the massive air displacement, "The effort to do the things that make you successful!"]
'The class nods, understanding what All Might is implying.'
[He smiles super tightly, and points to the gym equipment behind him, "Sprouts! Go and train! Push and go Plus Ultra! I will be there to guide you!"]
[The class cheers.]
["Oh, and before class ends, you all will hit the showers! Sweat will pour from your bodies! Drenched! HAHAHAHA!"]
'Not typical in a High School. But the nature of U.A. is not typical.'
[The class slows their cheers.]
["Wait! I forgot, and no using your Quirks! We are training our bodies!"]
'The impending doom has arrived.'
…
[As the class goes into their sections, you head to some weight plates.]
'You maintain a peak form that fluctuates. More or less, you balance your state.'
'The muscles wrapped around your skeletal frame yearns for pain. Strain yourself and feel that pressure.'
[Picking up two custom 500-pound weights, you walk over to a mat on the floor.]
'Warm up. Heat the furnace.'
[In a planking position, you lay the weights onto your back and keep form.]
'Immediately you feel the intense pressure of the world on your back and rushing to your core. The weights feel like its merging with your flesh and pulls your down to a black hole in the core of the Earth.'
'Thoughts will make time slow, stop counting, and just *endure*. You are Atlas, carry the world, the shoulders of a God does not waver.'
[Sweat beads through skin and cools the engine.]
'As long as you don't push beyond too far, you'll mitigate any nightmares.'
'Don't go Overdrive, a state of accumulating power through self-destruction and not a Quirk, essentially using your Quirk with the Quirk Factors without the Systems.'
["Hey Dae, saw what you were doing, mind if I follow along?" Kirishima doesn't expect a response and planks next to you with his own weights, a 60-pound weight.]
'Pressure builds into your entire being, the heat bottles into a searing block. It stings, not painful, but like twine being stretched taught and spun in helixes.'
'That twine is your determination, and the stronger it is, the stronger you are and will be. *Continue*.'
[Your muscles lock further and start to glisten, a sheen of sweat dripping. Tears start to fall from your eyes.]
'You know death would feel better, a quick fall onto the pavement would nearly be instant; A house fire would take minutes; Bleeding out perhaps more. The agony that screams in your central and peripheral nervous system causes tears to leak from your eyes, a natural function that symbolizes your nerve endings haven't died.'
'Those tears are what All Might mentioned. The effort to be successful, the strength to take control of your circumstances. *Endure*'
[Your head feels hot, the feelings of your legs cannot be felt through the pressure on your back, the searing heat blinds you. A tint of pink envelopes your skin.]
'Stop thinking. *Continue*.'
[Your teeth are clenched, a bite force that could tear into metal. The taste of iron mix into your saliva. And the breathing through your nose sharpen and cut up into your brain, a cold metallic smell.]
'*ENDURE*'
[Kirishima next to you nearly collapses but reforms his position, also gritting his teeth and focusing.]
'*ENDURE*'
[The mat below you sweats from your body heat.]
'*ENDURE*'
[Kirishima grunts and continues.]
'*ENDURE*'
[Your hair drips.]
'*ENDURE*'
[Kirishima buckles.]
'*ENDURE*'
[You maintain your composure. With a deep internal breath, you calmly lower and tip the weights over to the side.]
'Time's up, 2 minutes.'
[The weights thud and topple over onto the mat.]
[Kirishima gasps and also tips his weights over, also flipping onto the floor.]
[You stand back up, and slick back your hair.]
[Kirishima's hair, which is usually spiky droops low, and he also copies, pushing his hair back.]
[He smiles, exhausted, "I… never tried… using weights before." He stretches his back, "I usually do 5-minute planks… but this changes everything."]
[You smile, breathing through your nose, "If you can do more than 2-minute planks, try adding progressive weights over time." You also stretch, tilting your upper body side to side, "This is more for strength, than just endurance. Just make sure your form is perfect." Your body cools rapidly, the sweat evaporating quickly.]
["Definitely man, I think it's time to step up my personal training." He takes a deep breath.]
'His mind is turning its gears. Now that he's becoming a Hero, he should be training more.'
["Let's take a small break, 5 minutes, and then use these weights for some push-ups."]
[Kirishima exhaling a puff, "Pah, hell yeah!"]
…
[While waiting, you talk with Kirishima, "How do you usually work out, Kirishima?"]
[He tilts his head up, "Hm, I usually practice on my punching bag, lift some weights, and jog around." He smiles bright, "I like moving around outside, feels like I push myself harder when I'm out."]
[You nod.]
["How about you, Dae?"]
[You respond, "I don't usually work out casually, my Quirk maintains it, as long as I use it often enough." You lightly kick your weights, "But, to get here, I worked out quite often enough to reach it. So, my base strength is my own."]
[Kirishima's eyebrows raise, "So you can lift 500 pounds, casual?"]
["Casual, but I can't deny my body is augmented."]
["Sick, dude."]
'A semblance of envy, not of sin but of awe. Kirishima once mentioned some doubt in his own Quirk, but things will work out for him.'
'I think he likes your presence.'
…
[You take a glance around the gym.]
'Hagakure's invisible body is enacting pull ups, surrounded by a group of girls. A group of boys are being taught by All Might, learning to deadlift. Bakugo is side-curling 90-pound dumbbells. Todoroki is running on a treadmill, with weights on his chest and back. Deku is curling 40-pound dumbbells.'
[You look to Kirishima, "Let's begin our push-ups."]
[He nods.]
…
[500 pounds on your back, you pump down leaning forward, you press beyond your planted palms.]
'You deserve this. This punishment, take it, and deal with it.'
'The pressure causes the striations of your muscles to show.'
[Up, you tighten your core and push back up, against the weight.]
'1.'
'Gravity isn't the force you fight; your body isn't the force you fight, it's the fucking 500 pounds on your back is assaulting you.'
[Slowly, you rep back down.]
'Don't take the lowering stance as a break, it's just another method of technique, take it slow and methodical.'
[A calm breath, the air fills your lungs as you go up.]
'2.'
'That air feels like a balloon about to pop.'
[A slow exhale, you go down.]
'Focus, but stop processing the singular, focus on the whole.'
[You push up. Kirishima exhales a sharp breath.]
'3.'
…
'5.'
'Focus. Focus. Focus.'
…
'10.'
'Calm. Calm. Calm.'
…
'15.'
[Sweat on your head drips and puddles. Your palms redden into bright pink and white from pressure.]
'16.'
[A creak in your bones sound audible. A stream of sweat off your temples.]
'17.'
[Eyes closed shut, the clenched teeth bite down with ferocity.]
'18.'
[A blistering heat tries to charm your arms to be lethargic. You will not yield.]
'19.'
[A rush of neurotransmitters engorge your mind, it tells you to give up, to fail.]
[A slightly shaky arm bends down, your steaming body lowering near the floor. Your head faces the floor, dripping more fluids.]
'PUSH. PUSH. PUSH. LAST ONE. GO. GO. GO!'
[A sudden wave of anger overwhelms you, a growl comes out your clenched teeth.]
'GO!'
[You push up, and stance in the neutral position.]
'20.'
'AGAIN! ONE MORE.'
[You take a sharp breath, "One more."]
["…One …more?" Kirishima grunts.]
["ONE MORE!" You grit, and you pump down and back up.]
'21.'
'AGAIN!'
["ONE MORE!" You force your body down and then back up.]
'22.'
[Kirishima struggles and does one last one and drops.]
'TILL FAILURE!'
["TILL COLLAPSE!" Tensing every fiber, you continue.]
'23.'
[And one more.]
'24.'
[And… one last one.]
'25.'
[Last one, finishing strong.]
'26.'
'ONE FUCKING MORE! COLLAPSE!'
["GRR!" A primal grunt, you feel the universe pressing you down, but you push back up.]
'27.'
'COLLAPSE!'
["GAH!" A pained groan, the weight digs into your flesh, but you push back up.]
'28.'
'COLLAPSE!'
["…" Silent, you push back up.]
'29.'
[Lowering, you feel a blockade above you, physically you cannot go back up.]
'PUSH THE WORLD DOWN!'
[Bulging your muscles, eyes now open, teeth gritting, you tense one last time and raise up, against the pain, you silently scream pushing the world below you down, and you raise up.]
'30.'
'Till. Failure.'
[You lower back down and buckle your arms as you are mid-going up, an actual barrier is above you.]
'Kill.'
[Pushing harder than before, you feel the fire in your body exude outwards and meld with the surrounding air.]
'Die.'
[You shake, wobble, and pour sweat.]
'KILL YOURSELF!'
[With one last push, every fiber of your being uses their own attempts to ascend.]
'Failure reached.'
[You collapse down and push the weight off of you.]
'Pulsing, you feel a bit fuzzy. Like your skin is made of Velcro.'
'It's the blood flowing through your veins.'
[You lay on your own puddle of sweat.]
["You good man?" Kirishima stands next to your fallen body.]
'Yeah, your good.'
["Yeah, I'm good." You push off the floor and back up onto your feet.]
'Your recovery time is fine, just need a simple break and your back to it.'
["I gotta keep this uniform, there's no stains." Kirishima raises his arms and sees no sweat stains.]
'Hydrophobic, and a different polymer than standard uniforms. Not too unique, but more expensive than normal.'
["Yeah, these are nice." You stretch your back and sway, keeping your spine tall.]
…
[After a bit of time, Kirishima exhales, "That was brutal man. You went beyond, beyond, y'know?"]
'A string woven into the tapestry of Kirishima, witness to pure determination. Something stirs within. The sea of his soul ponders his own will. Fear and hesitation, but with new awareness.'
[You chuckle, "Plus Ultra, right?"]
[Kirishima chuckles, "Plus Ultra, man."]
["Nah, I needed to go till failure, it's the only way I'll actually improve my physique."]
["Oh man, I always heard that, but it's so hard to control yourself." He stretches his back.]
[You nod, "It's a nice time saver rather than controlled sets."]
'All Might is coming over.'
[You look towards Kirishima, "Well, let's take a longer break, and see what All Might has for us."]
[His eyes wander around, "All Might?"]
["YES, ALL MIGHT IS HERE!" All Might appears behind Kirishima.]
[Kirishima jolts, "Woah!"]
[All Might leans towards you, "Young Hero Dae, I saw your grit and thought of a Wonderful IDEA!" He flexes and double points at you, "Why don't you showcase the class some sweat? Display your HEROIC Spirit!"]
'He, much like Aizawa, wishes for the best for his students even at the harshest of costs. Interestingly, All Might shows more willingness to pressure his students than Aizawa. The gleam in his eyes, they show focus.'
'It is within his bones. Aizawa may have faced cruel and miserable situations, but All Might has seen more horrors of humanity's making. Mountains of corpses. All Might is more akin to a soldier, the PTSD sharpening and still not yet finishing its blade. The world still needs All Might.'
[You look at All Might and nod, "Okay."]
…