Edgeshot gave a small smirk, a rare expression from the usually stoic hero. "Yes. Two, actually. A black one named Kuro and a gray one named Sora. They were strays I found near my agency a few years ago. Now they think they own the place."
Izuku couldn't help but smile at the image. It was hard to picture the elite, razor-sharp hero taking care of something as small and soft as cats. "That's… actually kind of amazing. Do they like you?"
Edgeshot gave him a side glance. "They tolerate me. Most days."
Izuku chuckled, feeling a little more at ease as they walked through the quiet streets. The occasional streetlamp cast their shadows along the pavement, the city lights flickering in the distance. Despite how exhausted he was, Izuku found himself enjoying the moment—just talking with a hero outside of battle, outside of training.
After a few minutes, they arrived at a small, unassuming restaurant tucked between two larger buildings. It wasn't flashy, nor did it have a huge sign screaming for attention, but the warm glow from inside and the faint aroma of sizzling food made Izuku's stomach growl.
Edgeshot led the way inside, and they took a seat near the back. The place was cozy, with wooden tables and a menu written in neat calligraphy on the walls. A waitress walked over, and without hesitation, Edgeshot ordered for both of them something warm and filling.
Izuku leaned back in his chair, exhaling. His body still ached from the relentless training, but he had to admit, it felt nice to just sit and breathe.
"Is your girlfriend not Mirko?" asked Izuku trying to get a conversation started. Edgeshot smirked and raised a brow. "Yeah, you are right that it isn't her. What made you guess that?"
"She wouldn't seem like your type," he said sheepishly.
Edgeshot chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Mirko's a great hero, but you're right—our personalities don't exactly align. She's... let's just say she's a bit more forward than I'm used to."
Izuku nodded, taking a sip of the tea that had been placed in front of him. "I think she'd be too impatient for you," he admitted. "You're precise and tactical, and she's—"
"A force of nature," Edgeshot finished for him, amusement in his voice. "She's unstoppable in battle, and I respect that. But no, my girlfriend is someone who values patience and strategy as much as I do. We are friends though."
Edgeshot's expression softened slightly as he sipped his tea. "My girlfriend keeps me grounded," he admitted. "Reminds me that there's more to life than just hero work."
Izuku listened intently, fascinated by the idea of a top pro hero finding a balance between duty and personal life. "That's really cool," he said. "I guess it's important to have people like that. Someone to come home to."
There was silence for about thirty seconds before Izuku thought of something. Edgeshot drank a bit of tea as Izuku spoke.
"It's Ryukyu, isn't it?" he said smiling as Edgeshot went wide-eyed and started to cough slightly.
Edgeshot quickly set his tea down, coughing a little as he composed himself. Izuku watched with barely contained amusement as the usually composed ninja hero tried to regain his cool.
"That's… an interesting guess," Edgeshot finally said, his voice even, though his eyes betrayed his momentary surprise.
Izuku grinned, leaning forward slightly. "So, I'm right, aren't I?"
Edgeshot sighed, shaking his head. "I didn't say that."
"But you didn't deny it," Izuku pointed out, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Ryukyu makes sense. She's strong, calm, strategic, and, well, she does give off a pretty grounded vibe."
Edgeshot exhaled through his nose, finally relenting. "Alright, alright. Yes, it's Ryukyu. But don't go spreading that around. We prefer to keep things private."
Izuku nodded eagerly. "Of course! I won't say a word." He hesitated for a second before adding, "That's actually really cool. You two seem like you'd work well together, both in and out of hero work."
Edgeshot gave a small, knowing smile. "She keeps me from getting too lost in my work. And I make sure she takes breaks when she needs them. We balance each other out."
Izuku absorbed this, letting it sink in. It was easy to think of heroes as these untouchable figures who only existed to fight villains and save the day. But in moments like these, he was reminded that they were just people too people who had lived, loved ones, and things outside of heroism that made them who they were.
The food arrived, steaming and fragrance, and both of them dug in. The warmth of the meal settled deep into Izuku's tired muscles, and for a little while, the stress of training and the worries about Iida faded away.
"So, what about you, Izuku?" Edgeshot asked, using chopsticks with practiced ease. "Anyone special in your life?"
"No, I don't," he said grabbing a piece of beef. "I mean…I don't think so anyway. I have a few friends and girls who are friends, but I don't think I am that interesting, to be honest. I'm not saying that to be demeaning, but I'm a bit bland. I don't think girls would have me in their book of guys to date."
Edgeshot studied him for a moment before taking a sip of his tea. "You sell yourself short, Izuku," he said calmly. "You may not see it, but others do. You're determined, strong-willed, and always pushing yourself to be better. That kind of dedication doesn't go unnoticed."
Izuku let out a small laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. "I appreciate that, but I don't really think anyone sees me that way. I'm just… me."
Edgeshot smirked slightly. "And yet, you've caught the attention of some very powerful people—heroes and villains alike. Trust me, that kind of presence doesn't go unnoticed outside of battle either. Besides, if you knew me at all I would be very bland myself. Yet, I got a very gorgeous woman and someone who likes me for me. So…don't think of it like that. Besides, when you won the festival the camera panned to you, and you were talking to…" Edgeshot counted on his fingers.
"I think it was like 3 or 4 girls, so like I said. Don't think of yourself like that. I mean, I've only been around you not even 3 days yet and I'd say you are a pretty interesting kid," he said smiling at him.
"I… I guess I never really thought about it like that," Izuku admitted, setting his food down. "I've always been so focused on getting stronger, training, and making sure I don't fall behind. I just assumed people saw me as a workaholic hero-in-training, not—" He flushed slightly, not wanting to finish the sentence.
Edgeshot raised an eyebrow, amused by Izuku's sudden awkwardness. "Not what? Someone worth admiring?"
Izuku scratched his cheek, chuckling nervously. "Well, yeah. I mean, I know people respect me as a classmate, maybe even as a rival in some cases, but… romantically? I don't think so. I wouldn't be worth much in terms of everything."
Edgeshot took a bite of his food, chewing thoughtfully before speaking. "You might be surprised, Izuku. Sometimes, people notice you long before you notice them. Hell, never would I have thought that I would be dating Ryukyu 5 months ago. Yet here we are. Don't sell yourself short."
Edgeshot grabbed another piece of chicken and went into his mind. "Holy hell, this kid thinks lowly of himself. He won the Sports Festival in every round, obstacle course, and cavalry battle. He got the highest score in the UA Entrance Exam history. He has an incredible quirk, and he has a lot of friends based on how often his phone goes off during our training sessions. There is something psychologically going on at play. There is no way in hell a kid like him with all this stuff should be acting like that after everything. I wonder if it was trauma or something when he was a kid. I won't press him on it. Not yet anyway. That's another thing I'll need to fix." Edgeshot looked at Izuku up and down and he could see he was one of those mixes of a shy and confident teenager. Somewhat like him when he was younger, but he had much more confidence at times in his looks or worth. It was strange.
They continued to eat in silence when Edgeshot got a text from someone. He blushed when it was from Ryukyu.
The message read. "Got off work early. Are you almost done? I am getting quite lonely." Followed by a very…spicy image.
Edgeshot exhaled through his nose, shaking his head with a small smirk as he typed back a quick response.
Edgeshot: Almost done. Having dinner with my intern. Be there soon.
A response came almost instantly.
Ryukyu: Oh, your intern? Don't keep me waiting too long, or I might have to come find you myself. A woman has her needs. And. I. Need. You. But I can wait for a bit.
Edgeshot exhaled slowly, shaking his head slightly as he pocketed his phone. Ryukyu certainly knew how to keep him on his toes. He took another sip of his tea, clearing his throat before returning his focus to the conversation. Thankfully, they were almost done.
Izuku continued to eat, unaware of the flustered response Ryukyu had just received. The young hero, still processing the conversation they had been having, found himself thinking more deeply about Edgeshot's words. He wasn't used to hearing such encouragement about his worth, particularly in the realm of relationships. It was a strange concept for him to see himself not just as a hero-in-training but as someone with more to offer outside of his quirk and ambition.
Edgeshot, noticing the thoughtful expression on Izuku's face, cleared his throat again. "I can see you're thinking about it," he said with a slight smile. "Just don't overcomplicate things. You don't have to change who you are to attract others. You're already on the right path." He paused for a second, the humor slowly fading from his voice. "I learned that the hard way when I was younger. I used to focus too much on trying to impress others, thinking that was the only way to be noticed. But the moment I stopped worrying about that and started focusing on being myself…well, things changed. And not just romantically."
Edgeshot put his card on the table and the waitress took it from him to go pay for the meal. "Just try to let things come naturally kid. Try not to let it bother you because you are pretty interesting. Don't doubt yourself. Don't try too anyway. Anyway, you're going to be fine. Keep up with your training, but don't let it consume you. And maybe—just maybe—take some time to enjoy being you. You're a good kid, Izuku. Don't forget that."
Izuku stood as well, smiling up at the hero. "Thanks, Edgeshot. I'll try my best to remember that."
"Alright. Go back to the agency. I have some… pressing matters to attend to and you know who it is so don't ask me," Edgeshot said looking to Izuku.
Izuku nodded, trying to keep the small smile on his face despite the odd feeling in his chest. "Got it, Edgeshot. I'll head back. Thanks again for the advice."
Edgeshot waved him off, turning his attention to his phone for a moment. "No problem, kid. Just don't overthink things. You've got everything you need right in front of you—just remember to live it." His voice was warm, though it had an air of finality. Izuku nodded again, stepping away from the table.
As they exited the restaurant, the cool night air greeted him, and Izuku stretched his arms, taking in the quiet of the city. Maybe he was right. He would try his best to be better.
Edgeshot heading in the other direction pulled out his phone and called Ryukyu. She answered the phone quickly and her voice filled Edgeshot's ear.
"Hey, babe," Ryukyu's voice was playful, though there was a hint of impatience underneath. "I was starting to think you were going to make me wait forever."
Edgeshot chuckled softly, leaning against the building. "I'm almost there. Just finished up with my intern. You know how it is—can't rush a good meal."
"Uh-huh," Ryukyu responded, clearly not convinced. "Well, hurry up. I'm in the mood for some... attention. And I'm not talking about the kind you give in a fight." She added a teasing lilt to her voice, knowing it would get under his skin.
There was a knock at her door which made her surprised. She walked over, opened the door and Edgeshot was standing there leaning against the doorframe.
Ryukyu blinked in surprise, momentarily caught off guard before a smirk tugged at her lips. "Well, that was fast."
Edgeshot tilted his head slightly, his arms crossed over his chest. "You said not to keep you waiting. I take my missions seriously."
Ryukyu rolled her eyes playfully before stepping aside, allowing him in. "Mmm, that's what I like about you."
Edgeshot stepped inside, the familiar warmth of her apartment greeting him. It was a cozy but modern space, one that balanced her hero's work with her personal life. The scent of something faintly floral lingered in the air, likely from a candle burning on the counter. Ryukyu wrapped her arms around him and smirked as she leaned into him.
"You going to pay attention to me now then," she asked.
Edgeshot smirked, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. "I wouldn't be much of a hero if I ignored a distress call, now, would I?" he murmured against her ear, his voice smooth with amusement.
DAY 3 OF HERO INTERNSHIP AROUND 3 PM
Izuku stood at attention in front of Edgeshot as he stood in front of Izuku. Gran Torino stood off to the side. He and Izuku had done some more training but cut it short to make sure Izuku would have some energy for later and for what was planned for him.
"Alright, kid. This device shows how quickly you can power up. I had one of my inventors make this support item for me to see how fast I could transform but this will be for you now. Power up for me quick," he said pointing it at him.
Izuku activated Full Cowling as fast as he could, and he heard a beep from the device. Edgeshot looked at the device and looked satisfied and showed him. 2.48 seconds. Gran Torino smirked. "Nice job kid. It's been a few days, and you decrease your powering-up time by 0.12 seconds. Impressive when you think about it."
Izuku beamed at the praise, feeling a sense of accomplishment swell within him. "Thanks, Gran Torino. I've been trying to focus on my timing," he said, his voice filled with determination.
Edgeshot nodded approvingly. "Not bad, kid. But there's always room for improvement. Anyways, onto more pressing matters. We are going out on patrol. More like we are going out to fight some real villains. Now listen. Yes, you don't have a license but if they are low-level thugs and thieves. Teachers like me and Gran Torino are allowed to be there to supervise and that is a way of training that is perfectly legal. So, get yourself ready. We are going to Hosu City for your training. Crime is more likely to happen there than here."
Izuku's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Hosu City. It made him think about Iida. It made him think about the Hero Killer, Stain. He pushed to the side for right now. "Yes sir. When do we leave?"
"In about a couple hours. We want to be there when it is later for more crime," said Edgeshot.
"Hope you're ready kid. This should be fun," said Gran Torino.
Izuku took a deep breath, steadying his nerves. Hosu City. He knew the place carried a weight of danger, but he also knew this was a valuable chance to improve—both as a fighter and a hero.
Gran Torino smirked at him, seeing the determination in his eyes. "Good. You're starting to think like a pro. Now, let's go grab some food before we head out. The last thing we need is you passing out in the middle of a fight."
Edgeshot nodded. "Agreed. You'll need the energy." He gave Izuku a small but approving glance. "Meet back here in an hour. Bring only what you need."
Izuku quickly bowed. "Yes, sir!"
With that, he hurried off to prepare himself. He wasn't just excited, he was focused. He had been given an opportunity, and he wouldn't let it slip through his fingers.
THE LEAGUE OF VILLAINS
Meanwhile, the news of the recent attack in Hosu drew the attention of the League of Villains. They approached Stain on the roof of a nearby building, seeking to recruit him for their cause. Tomura Shigaraki, ever ambitious, wasted no time in making his offer.
"Join us, Stain," Tomura's voice was full of determination as he tried to lure the Hero Killer into their fold. "Together, we can bring down the system that glorifies false heroes."
Stain, however, was not swayed by empty promises. He narrowed his eyes, his voice cold as he asked, "What is your motivation, Tomura? What drives you?"
Tomura's answer, though filled with hate for society, was unconvincing to Stain. The Hero Killer was deeply disappointed by Tomura's shallow reasoning and made it clear. He paralyzed Kurogiri with a quick move before sinking his blade into Tomura's flesh, pinning him to the ground.
"You're weak," Stain growled. "You lack conviction. You speak of destruction, yet you lack the strength to see it through."
An enraged Tomura, fueled by his hatred, forced Stain back, destroying his knife in the process. As they clashed, Tomura's rage poured out, explaining that he desired to destroy society because it praised All Might.
Stain, his sharp mind recognizing a kindred desire in Tomura's words, softened slightly. "We are alike," he murmured, intrigued. "Both seeking to destroy the present. But you're still too weak."
The fight calmed as Stain explained his purpose—to spill blood to reform the system. He leaped from the roof and disappeared into the city; his mission was still clear in his mind. Tomura mocked him, but Kurogiri defended the Hero Killer's actions, claiming that Stain had positively affected the cities he had targeted.
Frustrated, Tomura turned to Kurogiri with cold eyes. "Release the Nomu."
WITH IZUKU
Edgeshot, Gran Torino, and Izuku sat in the train, the rhythmic clatter of the tracks filling the quiet moments between them. Izuku's gaze flicked down to his phone once again, hoping for a response from Iida—but still, there was nothing. A sinking feeling settled in his chest. He wished he had been there for him more, but at the same time, he knew he had already done a lot. Even so, something about Iida's silence didn't sit right with him.
He was about to put his phone away when, outside the window, a flash of orange lit up the dark cityscape. Gasps rippled through the passengers as an explosion tore through a building in the heart of Hosu. Flames licked at the sky, casting ominous shadows against the skyline.
Then…chaos.
Before anyone could react, a monstrous Nomu crashed through the side of the train, its grotesque form hulking over the terrified passengers. In its massive claw, a bloodied Pro-Hero dangled limply, unconscious or worse. Screams erupted throughout the cabin as the train screeched to an abrupt halt, the sudden jolt nearly throwing Izuku off balance.
"Stay back!" shouted Gran Torino and Edgeshot in unison, their battle instincts kicking in instantly.
Gran Torino rocketed forward, a blur of motion as he struck the Nomu's arm, forcing it to release the injured hero. The Pro collapsed onto the train floor with a groan, blood dripping onto the cold metal surface.
The Nomu let out a guttural screech and turned its grotesque, stitched-together face toward Gran Torino. Its muscles bulged as it swung its arm at inhuman speed, aiming to crush the old hero. But Gran Torino was faster. He kicked off the train walls, bouncing from side to side, dodging every swipe as if predicting the creature's every move.
Meanwhile, Edgeshot wasted no time. He turned into a thin razor of himself, weaving through the train seats and striking the Nomu's tendons, aiming to cripple it before it could do more harm. The attack barely slowed the creature down—it was resilient, its flesh regenerating almost instantly.
Izuku, frozen for only a moment, clenched his fists. "Move damnit. Quit being a pussy." He thought.
"No stay back, Deku!" said Edgeshot as he pierced the beast once more.
Gran Torino ricocheted off the walls of the train with incredible speed, striking the Nomu over and over, forcing it backward. Then, with a powerful tackle, he launched the creature straight out of the train, sending them both crashing through the side of a nearby building with Edgeshot chasing after it.
Izuku was getting memories of him fighting the Nomu back at the USJ. "I need to move! Be better!" he thought standing up and jumping out of the hole in the side of the train. He looked around and he couldn't see the two of them. Damnit. He activated Jolt and started to run around.
WITH THE HERO KILLER
Stain stood over the paralyzed Pro-Hero, Native, his bloodied blade gleaming under the flickering streetlights of Hosu. Explosions crackled in the distance, sending embers into the night sky. The chaos in the city was growing, but it was unfocused, wild. It was nothing like his own work.
Destruction without purpose is meaningless.
Stain was ready to finish his work when the sound of heavy footsteps interrupted him. He turned just as a blue blur shot into the alleyway.
Tenya Iida.
The boy skidded to a halt, his engines hissing with built-up heat. His entire body trembled with rage, his breaths heavy and uneven.
Stain's gaze flicked over him. The clenched fists. The wild, unfocused eyes. The way his chest heaved with emotion.
"You're driven by vengeance," Stain said, almost disappointed. "That makes you unworthy."
Tenya's fists tightened. He ignored the words, his anger boiling over.
"I am Ingenium now," he proclaimed, his voice filled with fury. "And I will stop you in my brother's place!"
Stain barely reacted. He took a slow step forward, his bloody katana gleaming under the streetlights. "Pathetic."
And then, without another word, he lunged. His blade slashed toward Tenya's throat with deadly precision.
Tenya dodged and roared, "This is for Tensei!" He ignited his engines and shot forward, his leg swinging in a powerful kick.
But Stain was faster. With a fluid motion, he leapt over the attack, twisting midair. His boot—spiked and deadly—slammed into Tenya's shoulder, sending him staggering backward. Before Tenya could react, Stain drove him into the ground, stomping his head with brutal force.
"You and your brother are weak," Stain said coldly. "Neither of you deserve to be called heroes."
Pain flared through Tenya's body as Stain's sword drove into his shoulder. His vision blurred, but his rage burned hot.
"Ingenium… can't be a hero anymore," Tenya ground out. "That's why… I'll kill you myself!"
WITH IZUKU
Izuku's legs pushed forward as he sprinted through the war-torn streets of Hosu. The night air was filled with sirens, screams, and the distant roar of Nomu. His green lightning crackled around him, each burst of power propelling him forward.
His mind was racing.
Gran Torino... Edgeshot… Where are they?! They will likely be mad I left the train.
As he rounded a corner, he spotted a group of civilians taking cover behind an overturned car. Manual, Iida's mentor, was among them, his face contorted with frustration.
"Iida went off alone," Manual was saying to a nearby hero, desperation in his voice. "I tried to stop him, but he wouldn't listen—he just ran!"
Izuku's heart clenched.
No. No, no, no.
Everything clicked into place in an instant.
Iida hadn't just been grieving. He had been planning this.
Izuku gritted his teeth. "For someone as smart as me. I sure am an idiot for not figuring this out sooner."
Izuku activated Jolt to full power, incasing his body with a bright green crackling glow. Izuku didn't hesitate, he turned sharply and blasted forward; his mind locked onto one terrifying thought.
He went after Stain.
The memory of Iida's expression at lunch surfaced—his forced smile, the way his hands clenched under the table, the anger behind his eyes. Izuku should have seen it. Should have stopped him.
Now, all he could do was pray he wasn't too late.
WITH THE STAIN AND IIDA
Stain pulled his blade from Tenya's shoulder and licked it, his Quirk activating instantly. Tenya's body locked up, paralyzed. He could only watch, helpless, as Stain raised his weapon.
"This is what happens to fake heroes," Stain murmured, preparing for the killing blow.
A sudden shockwave exploded through the alley.
Before Stain could react, a green blur slammed into him with a devastating punch. The Hero Killer was sent skidding backward, his boots scraping against the stone.
Tenya's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Izuku?!"
Izuku stood in front of him, fists clenched, green electricity crackling across his body. His gaze was sharp, unwavering.
"Iida, I'm here," Izuku said, his voice steady. "I'll save you."
Stain straightened, his tongue flicking over his lips as he studied the newcomer. His fingers flexed around his blade.
"Interesting. Tell me boy. I have seen you on the news on multiple occasions. The Sludge Villain incident. The USJ incident. The Sports Festival. You are strong and yet you chose to hold back against a man who has killed many. Why?"
Izuku's breath was steady, but his mind was racing. Stain was right—he had seen Izuku before. He had made a name for himself through raw determination, but here, now, it wasn't about recognition. It was about saving a friend.
"I'm not like you," Izuku said, his fists sparking with green lightning. "I don't fight to kill. I fight to save people! Like I'll save these two!" he declared pointing to Native and Iida. He activated Jolt and in the blink of an eye, he grabbed Native and Iida and put them further away from the fight. He stared down Stain as Stain started to chuckle.
"You…are…worthy…. just like All Might!" he declared pulling out both of his swords. Stain was about to charge forward but Izuku held up three fingers to him. "Three seconds. This is all the time I need to stop you. I could do it shorter but I'm not looking for overkill here," he said pushing Jolt to full power.
Stain's eyes narrowed. "Three seconds?" He scoffed, gripping his blades tighter. "Arrogant."
Izuku didn't respond. Instead, his emerald lightning surged around him, illuminating the dark alley with an electric glow. His muscles coiled, his focus sharpened. He wasn't bluffing—he had analyzed Stain's movements, his attack patterns. Three seconds was all he needed.
Stain lunged forward.
One.
Izuku disappeared in a burst of green lightning, reappearing beside Stain before he could react. He twisted his body mid-air and delivered a crushing kick to Stain's ribs.
The Hero Killer grunted as he was launched sideways, crashing against the brick wall with enough force to crack the stone.
But he recovered fast. Stain flipped off the wall, landing on his feet, his sharp gaze already tracking Izuku.
Two.
Izuku was faster.
He reappeared behind Stain, already mid-punch. His fist slammed into Stain's back with a thunderous impact, sending another shockwave through the alley. Stain coughed, barely managing to roll away before Izuku could follow up.
His reflexes were incredible, but Izuku had already accounted for that.
Three.
Izuku blurred forward, appearing in front of Stain just as the villain steadied himself. He cocked his arm back, lightning spiraling around his fist, the sheer energy distorting the air.
"Florida… SMASH!"
The punch connected cleanly with Stain's jaw, lifting him clean off the ground. The force sent the Hero Killer rocketing skyward, crashing into a wall with a deafening BOOM. Dust and debris rained down as Izuku exhaled, his lightning dimming.
Three seconds. Just as he promised.
He jumped and pulled Stain out of the wall and dropped down pulling out some resistance tape to tie him up.
As Izuku secured the resistance tape around Stain's arms and legs, he kept his senses sharp. The Hero Killer was dangerous, even when restrained.
Stain groaned, his head lolling forward before he lifted his gaze to meet Izuku's. His crimson eyes burned with something unreadable—not rage, not defiance, but something almost resembling respect. He let out a low chuckle. "Heh… Three seconds. You weren't lying. You weren't an arrogant brat…you were a confident brat."
Izuku tightened the restraints. "I told you—I wasn't looking for overkill." He glanced at Iida and Native, making sure they were still conscious. Iida looked shaken but aware, his fists clenched at his sides. Native was still weak but breathing steadily.
He plopped Stain down and rushed over to the two injured people. He places a hand on Native and a faint green glow appears around his body from Cell Surge as he looks Iida over with his other hand. He noticed the two of them were paralyzed still and he turned to Iida.
Iida's breathing was ragged, and his body was still locked in place by Stain's Quirk. His eyes flickered with emotion, frustration, and guilt. He had come here seeking vengeance, but instead, it was Izuku who had saved him. Again.
"Iida," Izuku pressed, concern evident in his voice. "Are you okay?"
Iida clenched his jaw. He wanted to move, to stand, to fight—to do anything but lie there, helpless. But his body refused. "I… I failed," he muttered bitterly. "I let my anger control me. I put myself in danger, and worse… I endangered others." His fists, though paralyzed, trembled slightly at his sides. "I don't deserve to be saved."
Izuku's expression softened, but his voice remained firm. "That's not true." He rested a reassuring hand on Iida's shoulder as that familiar green glow appeared around Iida's body. "Wanting to protect someone you love isn't wrong, Iida. But throwing your life away for revenge? That's not what a hero does. You got to remember that we don't have the authority to do this stuff…not yet anyway."
That was when it hit Izuku. "Oh, dear god. I just took out the Hero Killer without a hero license. Edgeshot and Gran Torino are going to be pissed," he said worrying slightly.
Iida's eyes widened slightly at Izuku's realization, but his face remained solemn. "That… that's what you're worried about?" he asked, his voice still strained from the paralysis. "You just took down the Hero Killer in three seconds, and you're thinking about getting in trouble?"
Izuku chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his head. "Well, yeah. I mean, it's not like they'll throw me in jail or anything, but Gran Torino's probably going to lecture me until my ears fall off." He sighed, shaking his head. "Still… it had to be done."
Stain let out a raspy breath from his spot on the ground, his body still bound by the resistance tape. "Hmph," he scoffed, his bloodied lips curling into a smirk. "You may be reckless, but you understand power and responsibility." His sharp eyes flickered toward Iida. "Unlike him."
Iida stiffened at the remark, his guilt growing heavier. Stain's words, despite his villainous nature, struck a deep chord. He had come to Hosu to bring vengeance upon Stain, yet he had failed, not just in defeating him, but in staying true to what it meant to be a hero.
Izuku narrowed his eyes. "That's enough," he said firmly. "Iida's more of a hero than you'll ever be. He just lost his way for a second." He turned to his friend, his expression softer. "But that doesn't mean you can't find it again, Iida."
The engines in Iida's legs twitched as he slowly regained control of his body. The paralysis was wearing off, thanks to Stain's Quirk timer expiring and the residual effects of Izuku's Cell Surge ability. He exhaled sharply, his fingers finally curling into fists.
"Izuku… Thank you," Iida muttered, his voice quiet but filled with sincerity. "Thank you for healing me and thank you for…getting me out of that dark place."
Before Izuku could respond, a deep rumbling filled the air. The distant sound of explosions rocked the night, followed by the blaring sirens of approaching heroes and emergency responders. The battle in Hosu was still raging, with Nomu attacking across the city.
Izuku turned his gaze toward the distant destruction. "We need to get Native and Stain to safety," he said, helping Native sit up. "Gran Torino and the other heroes should be here any second now."
"I thought you healed him?" asked Iida standing up now. Izuku nodded. "I did. But healing doesn't mean I can wake them up from passing out or being knocked out." He said grabbing Native over his shoulder and Stain on his other shoulder.
Iida nodded in understanding, though he still marveled at Izuku's ability. Even after everything, Izuku was still standing, still carrying the weight of others on his shoulders. Literally.
They started to jog towards the end of the road and once they got their Native spoke. "Thank you, boys, and sorry I wasn't able to help."
Izuku patted his sigh as he looked at the other end of the street. "It's ok. Don't worry about it."
Stain started to chuckle as he looked at Native. "You and that engine boy are nowhere near this kid's level. You are not worthy. He is worthy. I already know your name already Izuku Yagi. But, what of your hero's name."
Izuku stopped at the street with Iida. "The name is Deku and what do you even mean worthy? I am just trying to do my job of saving everyone and making sure they feel safe."
Stain's chuckle, still raspy and low, carried in the distance as Izuku glanced back. His crimson eyes were locked onto them, his voice dripping with a twisted sense of satisfaction.
"That is what I mean…Deku," Stain said tasting the name in his mouth. "You don't give a damn about money, fame, fortune…you care about the people that need an idol…a hero…and someone to make them feel safe. You are one of the few who are worthy and are true heroes. That is a good thing."
They reached the intersection ahead, where the other heroes were assembling. Gran Torino, Edgeshot, Endeavor, Manual, Frostflare, and Shoto were all there trying to get a handle on things. Izuku could see Frostflare was freezing the buildings to stop the fires inside of them. That was when Izuku's blood ran cold.
"Deku!" called out Gran Torino. He started to aggressively walk towards him as Edgeshot did the same and both looked pissed.
"Wait. I can explain," he said standing Native up and setting Stain to the side.
Gran Torino's glare intensified as he stopped in front of Izuku, his hands on his hips. "Explain? Explain?! You took down the Hero Killer without any backup and a license! You know better than that, young man."
Edgeshot, his face, a mask of disapproval, crossed his arms. "What were you thinking, rushing in like that? We could've handled this."
Iida stepped in between the two heroes and bowed instantly. "Please do not be mad at Deku sirs. He is the reason I am alive, and I am the reason why he had to step in. It is my fault," he said starting to tear up.
Shoto jogged up to the group, his brow furrowed as he observed the tense scene. "What's going on here?" he asked his voice calm but edged with concern. His eyes shifted between Gran Torino, Edgeshot, Iida, and Izuku, sensing the friction in the air.
Gran Torino ignored Shoto as he glared between the two heroes in training. "Ah to hell with this for right now. We have bigger fish to fry," said Gran Torino looking away from Izuku before sending a kick at his face.
"But that was still reckless brat!" he said with Izuku rubbing his face slightly pouting. "Yes sir."
Iida looked up at Izuku, guilt clouding his expression as he wiped away his tears. "I… I shouldn't have let my anger take control like that. I came here to take down Stain, to avenge my brother. But I didn't think. I almost lost myself."
Izuku gave him a soft smile, clapping his hand on his shoulder. "Iida, you didn't fail. You were just lost for a moment. But you're back now. You're still a hero."
Iida wiped his face, taking in Izuku's words. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice trembling. "I was afraid of failing, of letting everyone down. But… you helped me. You pulled me out of it."
Just as the tension between Izuku and the heroes reached its peak, a sudden, deep rumble filled the air. A flying, injured Nomu suddenly appeared, soaring toward them with unnatural speed. It gripped Izuku with terrifying strength, its monstrous form clawing at him as it ascended into the night sky.
Izuku was gripped tightly but he activated Jolt and sent streams of electricity from his hands at the creature. But nothing happened.
"Are you telling me this thing is immune to my electricity? I can't activate Full Cowling at this thing either otherwise it will cause widespread property damage," he said as he was getting further away from the group.
"Izuku!" Iida shouted, but it was too late. The Nomu was already too far away, and Gran Torino, furious, shot forward to chase it. But the beast was swift, its speed and agility making it impossible for him to follow.
Izuku's heart raced as he struggled against the Nomu's grip. The creature's blood dripped from its eye injury, splattering across the face of a nearby hero. She recoiled, wiping it off in disgust, only to freeze in place as she felt the eerie chill of paralysis begin to settle in.
Stain, watching from a distance, smiled darkly. His crimson eyes flicked from the girl to the Nomu, recognizing an opportunity. With a swift motion, he licked the blood off the hero's face. The paralysis hit the Nomu instantly, its body seizing in midair as it lost control of its flight.
Izuku's eyes widened as the Nomu began to descend. Without missing a beat, Stain, who had freed himself from his restraints, revealed a hidden knife from his belt. He moved with deadly precision, throwing the knife into the creature's side, killing it before it could crash fully to the ground.
Izuku, stunned, barely managed to land on his feet as the Nomu's body plummeted. The weight of it falling to the earth sent a tremor through the ground.
As the Nomu's massive body crashed to the ground, sending shockwaves through the earth, Izuku struggled to steady himself, his breath ragged. He glanced around, his thoughts racing, when he suddenly felt a hand clamp down on his shoulder—Stain had pinned him, his grip ironclad, holding him down as his eyes burned with fervor.
"You think you are a hero?" Stain's voice was low and venomous, his words slithering through the tension-filled air. "Because you are."
Edgeshot and Gran Torino stared at their student as Endeavor was getting ready to charge in. "No wait Endeavor! Deku is still there."
Stain stood tall, his presence overpowering, as he faced them all. His mask, once a symbol of anonymity, now fell to the ground, revealing his full, scary face. His eyes burned with unbridled fury as he stood, defiant, against the gathered heroes. The bloodlust in his stance was palpable, and despite their superior numbers, a chill ran down everyone's spine.
"I'm here to cleanse society," Stain's voice rose, fueled by impassioned fury. "To rid it of the false heroes who plague this world! I do this for a higher cause. For the ones who truly deserve to be called heroes!"
Izuku's breath caught as Stain's gaze shifted, his eyes locking onto him.
"Like this boy right here," Stain said, pointing his knife at Izuku with conviction. "He isn't the plague. He's a cure. He is a true future hero!"
Izuku's mind reeled as Stain's words struck him like a hammer. It was clear now—Stain believed in him. But the very thought made Izuku uneasy, as he knew just how dangerous this man was. His ideals, twisted as they were, had devastating power over them.
"However. there's only one man worthy of that title." His gaze turned hard, locking onto everyone else with disdain. "All Might. The only true hero in this wretched society."
His words sent a shudder through everyone. Even Endeavor faltered, his fiery expression faltering for a brief moment as Stain's conviction weighed on him. The words cut deeper than any blade.
"You are all fools, caught in your own lies," Stain spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "Try and stop me. Come at me. I welcome the challenge."
For a long, tense moment, no one moved, frozen by the overwhelming force of Stain's words and presence. But then, with a sudden, violent cough, Stain's body went rigid. He staggered forward, blood spilling from his mouth, his breath ragged as the pain from his broken ribs finally took its toll.
"I am cleansing this world, one hero at a time," Stain growled, his voice low and threatening.
The tension in the air reached a boiling point, the energy crackling with uncertainty, until finally, Stain's body gave out from the internal injuries he had sustained earlier. His breath grew ragged, his movements slowing as the reality of his broken ribs punctured his lungs. The sight of him coughing up blood and crumpling to the ground was the last act of defiance he could muster.
And with that, he fell unconscious, defeated not by the heroes around him, but by his own body's failure to hold up against the damage he had inflicted upon it.
Gran Torino let out a long breath, his posture relaxing slightly. "It's over…" he murmured, but the aftermath of Stain's words would linger long after this battle was done. The impact of the Hero Killer's philosophy would haunt them all, echoing in their minds as they took the next steps toward reclaiming a society marred by his actions.