Chapter 5: 5 Day One With Inari
The first morning went downhill after the 5 am alarm incident. It wasn't that bad. It was more that it was new. Having to get Inari changed, dressed, and fed while trying to figure out how to do so himself was a unique experience and one that Izuku was struggling with. Still new to diaper changing and Izuku being well himself even though he may have more experience than most if not everyone living. But it was not in taking care of kids. It was all in battle. Because if you would ask him how to kill a person he would be able to tell you about one thousand different ways. Each different way he knows gets more and more brutal. But if you ask him to take care of a baby then he would not be able to. Izuku's process took much longer than it should have as he read the pamphlet and checked his work. Inari tolerated this in the beginning. But then she started to get cold due to her state of undress. This had prompted her to cry. This flustered Izuku to think he had messed up. This of course, caused him to start the whole process over as he was unsure where he made a mistake. Inari's frustrations increased, and she knew she wanted her Mama. So, she said so, and between cries came the little voice said the word "Mama".
Izuku would instead have simultaneously taken full power attacks from All Might and Gran Torino or hell even his own father. Even though he does not know how strong his father is. Then hear that. His mind was immediately filled with Robin and her permanent absence from their lives. Izuku fought back his tears, enough to get the job done. After he wrapped Inari in a blanket and held her. The little girl began to calm down some. But she repeated her call. Izuku could have been imagining things. But after each time he heard Inari say it. He swore there was an increased tone of desperation. Verbal daggers drove through his heart with every call. He just held onto Inari and whispered any words of comfort that sprung to his mind. Inari didn't understand any of this. But felt safe in this person's arms. As that feeling permeated through her. She began to calm down. After the new family calmed down. Izuku got her dressed in one of the outfits that were brought over. The struggle was the socks and shoes. Which Inari did not like.
A breakfast of scrambled eggs, baby cereal, and milk was presented to the little girl. After what seemed to Izuku as a judgmental taste test. She deemed the offering worthy and began to eat. He noticed his daughter perked up when he presented her with bananas and sliced grapes. He sat and smiled as she would grab her little plastic utensils and bring the food to her mouth. Even though she was dropping most of it back to the plate. But the supreme look of satisfaction for what food she did manage kept on the fork.
At a promptly 7 am. He received a message from Kobayashi that he would be coming by soon. So they could go over the paperwork as they had a full day ahead of them. Izuku had time to clean up the kitchen. Before Kobayashi had arrived. As the lawyer looked around. He seemed pleased that Inari was dressed and seemingly had been fed. He waited for Izuku to sit before he set his briefcase on the coffee table. Then he opened it. He began to remove several packets.
Izuku listened attentively as the first thing Kobayashi wanted to discuss was Izuku legally recognizing Inari as his daughter and all that it involved. While this was the most lawfully dense of the paperwork. They would be going through this day. It was also the easiest—many signatures and stamps.
Next, Kobayashi offered a polite smile.
I understand the sensitive nature of what we are about to discuss. If at any point you need to take a break. Simply do so, as we are not against a hard time limit. Said Kobayashi and he waited for Izuku to nod before continuing.
With Robin's parents being incarcerated. The responsibility of her funeral falls to you. Said Kobayashi.
I understand. I would like to have the same services that were performed for my mom performed for Robin. How will this cost affect…? Asked Izuku.
Before he could continue, Kobayashi politely interrupted him.
The hero commission will cover all the expenses for the funeral. There has also been a large, sizable donation made that will more than cover all of Inari's initial expenses. Plus you also have the money that comes from the Vegapunk Industry. Said Kobayashi.
That sounds a lot like blood money. Do we need it? Asked Izuku.
Need no. But it would allow a much easier start without jeopardizing future holdings. Also, as Inari's now sole legal guardian. You can seek financial restitution for the incident on Inari's behalf. Plus you also have your inheritance. Said Kobayashi.
Will that allow me to know the heroes' names? Asked Izuku.
Hmm, not likely. We can ask, but they will deny us. What seeking restitution will do is to provide a sizable payout that we can use to help ensure Inari's future. It will also mean that should any mental trauma arise for her later. It will be fully paid for by the hero commission. Said Kobayashi.
I still don't like financially benefiting from Robin's death. Said Izuku.
That is understandable. But if you like, we can put the payout in a special account just for Inari to access in the future. Also, if you are still going to pursue a future in heroics. The better financial situation you can leave her in…Said Kobayahi
Izuku thought about it. No one planned to die anytime soon. But his life proved that death didn't care for your plans.
Ok, I think I can live with that. Can we do a 90-10 split? With only 10% of the payout going to my current finances. The rest to her future fund. Plus we can also put about 25% of the rest of my check that I have. After the amount that I send to the fundraisers. I will still have about 45% left at the end for me to use still. Said Izuku.
Yes, that is well within the amount you can legally claim. If you want, I can make sure to begin an investment portfolio for her along the lines of the same one I have for you. I will also send that amount of your earnings you get. Said Kobayashi.
As long as we are not invested in everything together, and the appropriate amount of risk is kept in mind. I don't have a problem with that. Said Izuku and Inari started to wage battle against her shoes again.
Then I would like to simply arrange a simple service along the lines of my mother's and have her laid to rest in my family's plot as well. How soon can we draft it up? Plus a will as well? Asked Izuku.
Kobayashi then pulled out another packet.
I had already drawn one up last night. I have Inari named as your sole beneficiary. You just need to name an executor and guardian. Said Kobayashi.
If possible Kobayashi. I would like to retain your services for that and anything else I would need an executor for. Said Izuku.
I would be honored to. Kobayashi replied with a slight bow. How about her Guardian? Asked Kobayashi.
Toshinori Yagi, Itsuka Kendo, and Melissa Sheald. But I must discuss that with Itsuka Kendo. I am sure she will say yes. But I want to double-check. But Toshinori Yagi and Melissa Sheald have already agreed. Said Izuku.
Excellent, we will just need them to sign the paperwork. Once I get all this information added. I will provide you with two copies for them to sign, and when you talk to Ms.. Kendo. We can do the same for her. Said Kobayashi.
Izuku's attention was called to Inari as she made a triumphant yell as her right shoe was now on the floor. When Izuku picked up the shoe and put it back on her foot. She pouted at him as if she was saying. "Do you know how long it took me to get that off?" After Izuku saw that he rubbed her head.
Kobayashi smiled at the little girl's reaction before looking at Izuku.
Is there anyone else you need to notify of Robin's passing? Asked Kobayashi.
Sadly No. There will likely be less than 15 people for the service. We can have the after-gathering catered since the hero commission is paying. I want the rest of Inari's and Robin's belongings and personal effects. Said Izuku.
It is already on its way. But it will be sent to your house. It should be there in a few days. Now we must go shopping for the little lady. As Mrs. Asui will be here tomorrow and wants to know our progress. I have not yet taken her to your house yet. But I will do that as soon as I can. Said Kobayashi.
Ok thank you for letting me know that. Can you let me know when you two do go. So I can go there since I am going to get a roommate. Which is going to be Melissa Sheald. Said Izuku.
Ok I will do so, Midoriya-sama. Said Kobayashi.
They left home and went shopping, discussing many things. Izuku had arranged to have his mother's room cleaned and some of the stuff placed in storage. He wanted to keep the furniture. But wanted to replace the mattress. However, since he was going to move to his house as soon as he could. He would remove everything from his room and wanted to turn that into Inari's room entirely. The apartment had a third room and it was converted into an office and spare bedroom. Izuku decided to leave it that way. So, he did not need movers or painters.
As Izuku walked around the streets with a small child and an older man. He noticed the strange looks of passersby and shop staff at the baby store. Where they purchased furniture. Despite feeling overwhelmed by the items needed and their cost. Kobayashi reassured him that the donation covered everything. They even arranged for delivery of the more oversized items. They bought clothes, toys, and children's videos at the next store. Izuku was impressed by Kobayashi's knowledge of child-rearing, and during lunch. He learned about safe foods for Inari to eat. They even visited a bookstore. Where Izuku picked up parenting and picture books.
They made it home. Kobayashi helped him inside and even told him that he would watch Inari while he took a bath. Izuku was thankful and did precisely that. When he came out. He quickly dressed and found Inari asleep in her new playpen. While Kobayashi ended his phone call.
I believe we have made as much progress on my end as we can today. I will be in touch with Mrs Asui tomorrow. then I will be in touch with the painters and movers once Mrs Asui has looked at your house. Please begin to sort the items you wish to keep or put in storage. I will find a proper facility for your needs. If you need anything. I am always available at any time. Said Kobayashi with a bow.
Thank you, Kobayashi. I will also be in touch with you if we do anything. Said Izuku and bowed back at Kobayashi.
No thanks are needed, Izuku-sama. Said Kobayahis and then he left.
No matter how many times I have told them not to call me sama. They will still call me that. I have a feeling that they will also use sama with Inari. Thought Izuku and he went to sit down.
Izuku took advantage of the moment to decide which items he wanted to keep or sell from his mother's room. His one and a half year old daughter Inari slept peacefully. Giving him more time to sort things out. During her waking hours. Izuku cradled her and strengthened their bond. When All Might and Melissa arrived. They were seated in the living room. Browsing the requirements for obtaining a driver's license. He may have already had a motorcycle license. But he thinks it would be better if he gets a driver's license. He would also need to think of a car to get once he has his license.
He opened the door, telling All Might and Melissa that he needed to get the diaper bag ready and then he would be prepared to depart. Izuku was just enjoying the ride and talking with Melissa and All Might. No, he was talking with Toshi not All Might as they drove. All Might was the number one hero. This was one of the people that had not only changed Izuku's life. But he was also the man that was standing behind Izuku and giving him support with Melissa. Is this what it is like to have a father? He may have spent more than 120 thousand years with his own father. But his father was more like a teacher or instructor than a father.
"Meeting the Principal Nezu"
As Izuku sat in the car, he couldn't help. But admire the joy on Inari's face. She seemed entirely mesmerized by their surroundings, and he couldn't blame her. He wondered if all she could see were the changing lights or was it more. Eventually, they arrived at a private parking area and were led to a private elevator by Toshi. Once they reached their destination. They were politely greeted and shown to a luxurious office. Izuku sat in one of the leather chairs facing the large oak desk. While Inari sat in her car seat beside him. As the chair turned around. They were greeted by a white rodent-like creature.
Am I a bear, Am I a mouse. Neither am the principal of U.A Nezu. Said Nezu.
Izuku raised an eyebrow. Hearing a giggle from his side. He looked down at Inari. When he looked back. The principal was gone. He listened to the laughter again and looked to his side. He saw the principal beside him looking down at Inari. Who was giggling up a storm reaching out for the principal. Much to Izuku's surprise. The principal looked down and extended his paw. Which Inari grabbed onto and started laughing.
What an adorable child. Was all Nezu had said.
Toshi cleared his throat to get Nezu's attention.
Um, sir, you know why we are here right? I am sure that Izu… I mean, young Midoriya would like to begin this meeting. Also, as I am sure you have surmised, Young Midoriya. The principal is aware of everything regarding One for All. But nothing about you. I thought it would be best for you to do that. Said Yagi.
Yes, let us begin. Know that Yagi said that I would also like to know. Said Nezu as he freed his paw from Inari, much to the girl's dismay.
Izuku distracted the girl by slipping a rattle into her hand as Nezu leaped on the desk and sat facing them. The principal crossed his legs staring intently at Izuku. Then he looked at Melissa.
Mr. Midoriya, start at the beginning and don't leave anything out. Said Nezu.
Hmm well one part I will just give an overview of. Because it is too long to go into detail right now. Said Izuku.
Izuku took a deep breath and told his story.
That is quite the tale, Mr. Midoriya. I am sorry that one so young has experienced so much loss. Said Nezu and he turned his attention to All-Might. And what have you decided All Might? Asked Nezu.
Yesterday, Young Midoriya contacted me and Melissa and shared his strong convictions and dedication towards his newly acquired daughter. Despite a slight shift in his motivation. He remains committed to becoming a hero. I stand by my decision and have conveyed my expectations for the upcoming year. Before his entrance exam. While there may be some initial hurdles. I believe in his abilities and potential. Said Yagi.
Internally Izuku wanted to give Yagi a hug. The way Toshi spoke was more like a father than a mentor. He could feel the warmth and passion in his voice.
At our university, we have faced unforeseen consequences from romantic encounters. However, this time, there is no parental or grandparental support available. The mother's parents are absent due to their villainous actions. Possibly for the rest of their lives. We have a daycare facility on campus. But it is not free. Additionally, due to this unique situation. Mr. Midoriya, some conditions must be met before I allow you to take the entrance exam. Said Nezu.
Izuku looked up at Nezu.
I understand, sir. Would you please elaborate? Asked Izuku.
Absolutely. Firstly, we will thoroughly review the report from your case worker. Mrs. Asui, who will also provide input on whether you can take the exam. Secondly, you must fulfill all the requirements outlined by All Might. Lastly, it is essential that you demonstrate financial responsibility to support your child. While pursuing your studies. I suggest seeking employment to prove your ability to juggle your training and parental duties. As this will be a practical test of your preparedness to handle the responsibilities of being a student and a father. As you may already be aware, a dorm system is in place. If you are interested, there is a potential opportunity for you to become a dorm caretaker. Which would involve meal preparation and building oversight. This would provide you with the necessary funds. Additionally, we could offer better accommodations for your unique needs. I suggest applying as soon as possible. Said Nezu.
Did you forget that I have been running Vegapunk Industry for the last few years? Asked Izuku.
An evil grin passed over the principal. That made All Might shudder.
That sounds like a great idea! Working here for a year would enable you to enroll your child in the daycare for free and receive training from All Might and help Melissa train with my supervision. However, there is a fourth condition. You must attend weekly counseling sessions with Hound Dog for your mental health and grief counseling. Depending on his evaluation. It could affect your ability to take the test or continue your employment. What are your thoughts on this proposal? Asked Nezu.
So you are just going to ignore what I just said. Said Izuku.
All Might suspected Nezu had a plan. When he was offered the caretaker position at the dorms. Which had never existed before. However, All Might needed clarification on what Nezu had in store. He couldn't advise Izuku to turn down such a great opportunity despite his doubts. As a U.A. employee, Izuku would receive additional health coverage for Inari and have the financial means to support his family. Even thought he does not think that Izuku would need it. All Might was willing to provide financial assistance. But he knew Izuku would feel uncomfortable accepting it. Furthermore, the position would offer Izuku the support he needed during his studies. Including a safe training environment and counseling. All Might placed his hand on Izuku's shoulder as the boy considered the offer.
Izuku, this offer holds tremendous potential to assist you in your current situation. I encourage you to consider it carefully on your own. Additionally, please rest assured that I am prepared to offer you and Inari any necessary financial support should you require it. I urge you not to base your decision solely on financial considerations. Said Yagi.
This is good. But it is too good. I should ask for a contract to be drawn up and have Kobayashi look it over. Thought Izuku. Izuku knew it would be best to have as many fantastic offers that would help to solve many of his problems. It was more than he could ask for. But he was getting fucking fist that they for got what business that he owned.
I agree as well. But I would like to have all this in writing. So I can have my lawyer take a look over it. Before we formally agree. But I doubt that I would need to have much financial aid. Especially since I own Vegapunk Industry. Said Izuku in an annoyed and slightly angry voice.
Nezu smiled.
I completely agree, Mr. Midoriya. I will finalize the document and send it to you tomorrow morning. Said Nezu and he hopped off the desk and shook all three of their hands. Before turning his attention to Inari. I will see you soon, bright eyes. Said Nezu and Inari let loose a torrent of giggles and babbled again.
The drive home was silent as the car's rocking motion caused Inari to drift back to sleep. Once they arrived at Izuku's apartment. Izuku carried Inari quietly to her room. He turned on the newer acquired baby monitor and returned to the living room with Toshi and Melissa.
So, what do you think? Asked Izuku to All Might.
I have a feeling that Nezu may have some ulterior motive. However, the offer in the city is unbeatable. It has the potential to resolve many issues. Let your lawyer review everything. We can skip physical training for a few weeks. Said Yagi and raising his hand to prevent Izuku from objecting. Izuku, settling down with Inari is crucial. There's also the funeral to attend. Skipping training won't harm the plan. It's essential to set everything up accurately. I want you to succeed. Said Yagi and he stood up. Then he gave Izuku a reassuring pat on the shoulder, and left. But Melissa had stayed.
Izuku and Melissa sat there in silence for a moment. Before slipping off into dreamland.
Melissa had awakened a few hours later and she saw that Izuku was still asleep. She decided to get a blanket to cover Izuku with it. Then she went to check up on Inari. After she did that she fell asleep once again.
"Flash Back"
Izuku sat down on the couch next to Robin, handing her the popcorn as he got comfortable. A soft smile was on his lips as she snuggled beside him.
What is this movie? Asked Izuku.
An absolute classic. Trust me, darling, you will love it. Said Robin and she hit play on the remote.
The Princess Bride? Asked Izuku.
S and watch. Said Robin.
…
I never knew that about Sicilians. Whispered Izuku.
Now you do. It may save your life one day, future hero. Said Robin.
Plus we could play nurse and patient. Or we could play doctor and patient. Robin whispered in Izuku's right ear. After she had whispered that in Izuku's ear his face went bright red and he looked like a strawberry. Plus his brain had stopped working for a little bit.
…
R.U.S.'s? Asked Izuku.
I don't believe in them. Said Robin.
…
I am not a witch. I'm your future wife. Said Robin and she stole the last bit of the popcorn.
Have fun storming the castle. Izuku yelled at the screen and Robin started to laugh.
…
Now tell me that movie wasn't great. I dare you. Said Robin and she sat up.
For being as old as it is. I really enjoyed it. It is so quotable. Said Izuku and he sat up as well.
Will you grab me another soda while you're up, Izu? Asked Robin.
Izuku looked over his shoulder at her.
As you wish my lady. Is there anything else you would like, my lady? Asked Izuku and bowed towards her.
Hmm, how about a child as well my good sir? Asked Robin in a joking tone. After she said that, Izuku started to choke on the air and his face started to turn red. When Izuku was choking on the air, Robin started to laugh like a mad woman.
"Flashback End"
The sound of Inari crying erupted from the monitor stirring Izuku awake. He wiped the dampness from his eyes, cheeks, and hurried down the hall.
It's ok, princess. Daddy is here. So you can stop crying. I will deal with whatever you are sad about. Said Izuku and picked up Inari.
The last thing that you said when we watched "Princess Bride" has come true. But you are not here to join me in taking care of Inari. Thought Izuku and had a tear that went down the right side of his face.
"With Ms. Asui"
It was yet another exhausting day for her at the child safety system. She had to deal with paperwork and work long hours. After finishing her work. She still had to enter her notes for the day's visit. When she returned home. She realized her husband had not yet to arrive. They both worked in the same department, and she knew he was investigating some severe neglect cases at an orphanage. Such cases tend to get complicated quickly and the system is often overwhelmed by them.
The attacks by villains have left many children without a safe place to go. Parents often abandon children with unwanted quirks. By dropping them off and disappearing. Despite her best efforts. There are too many cases and insufficient resources to help them. Her job is challenging and can be very demoralizing. With victories being rare. However, she remains hopeful that the most recent case she has started to work on will succeed. Despite the initial promise. She knows that appearances can be deceiving. Taking a deep breath. She steps out of the car. Ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead. Plus she still has to go do another check up on the house that Izuku had. But she has not had the time to do so yet. However she should have an opening before her first wellness check on Izuku and Inari. She hoped that she had done the check up before then. So she could let Izuku know what he needed to change or fix at the house.
Upon opening the door. A chorus of "Mom," "Mommy," and "Mother" greeted her as her two youngest children ran up and embraced her. This heartwarming moment was the highlight of her day and brought a sense of peace. Satsuki and Samidare are her youngest children, and were excitedly sharing stories about their day and that they had visited the park. They also were talking over each other. Beru attentively listened to their accounts and asked them essential questions before instructing them to wash up for dinner. She then proceeded to the kitchen. Where her eldest child was cooking dinner.
Hello there Tsuyu. How was your day at school? Asked Ms. Asui.
Her daughter turned and placed her finger near her mouth.
Kero. It was good. But Kyoka had stabbed a boy in the ears today again. Said Tsuyu.
Why did she do that this time? There must have been a reason she did that. Said Ms. Asui.
Hmm well she said he was making a rude comment under his breath. You know, the usual. But school was good. I need to study for my math test after dinner. Oh, are you working on Saturday? Asked Tsuyu.
Yes, I have a home visit in the morning. But I think it will and should be brief. Why? Asked Ms. Asui.
I wanted to go to Kyoka's house. So we could study History and English. Said Tsuyu.
Sounds great! I'll call you once I'm on my way home and you can leave at that time. Then I will take care of Satsuki and Samidare. Said Ms. Asui.
Kero. Thanks Mom. Kero. Here is your dinner. Said Tsuyu.
Oh, you made Spaghetti? Asked Ms. Asui.
Yes, the sauce was on sale today. Said Tsuyu.
Thank you, Tsuyu. Hey Tsuyu? Asked Ms. Asui.
Yes, what is it Mom? Asked Tsuyu.
Is there a boy that you like at school? Asked Ms. Asui.
Kero? Asked Tsuyu and tilted her head sideways, thinking. Hmm no, not really. There are a couple that I think are cute. But that's all. Why are you asking Mom? Asked Tsuyu.
Well, if you do. I want you to promise that if you ever do get a boyfriend. Make sure that you are safe. I don't want you to have any tadpoles just yet. Said Ms Asui.
Tsuyu was perplexed. Although she knew that it could happen. But at some point in the future she knew it would happen. However she had recently started to begin taking birth control to regulate her cycle for U.A.. As it was recommended to do in the information packet that was given to any U.A hopeful students. Additionally, she had not encountered any boy that sparked her interest. However, upon further reflection. She concluded that the situation might be linked to a specific case.
Does this have something to do with your case? Kero? Asked Tsuyu.
Yes, this boy is about your age. His girlfriend got pregnant from a night of passion. Before she moved and never told him. I had to deliver his daughter and watch him receive the news that the mother was dead. Watching the emotional rollercoaster he had to endure was difficult. Today was the first follow-up. He seemed committed to meeting my goals and listened attentively when I talked. I hope he makes it. Said Ms. Asui.
What about the mom's parents or his own parents? Asked Tsuyu.
The mothers are unavailable. And the father's mother is dead. But the father's dad is mia. So we are just going to assume that he is dead as well. Said Ms. Asui.
Oh, that's sad. Kero. How do you think he is going to do? Asked Tsuyu.
I think he has good potential. But we will just have to see. Many cases like this start good. But then it all crashes down as the difficulty of the situation becomes overwhelming. Like you, he aspires to attend U.A.'s hero course. I received word from the school that part of his potential enrollment will hinder my report. So he will have me and about two or three other people that his enrollment will hinder on as well. Said Ms. Asui.
He wants to go to U.A. with a kid? Is that even possible? Asked Tsuyu.
They have some systems in place. It's a university, Tsuyu. So nights of passion might happen. That is why I want you to be prepared. In case you meet a special someone. I am going to miss you, my baby. Said Ms. Asui.
Mother, I will miss you as well. I can file for an exemption to avoid living in the dorms. This way, I can still take care of Satsuki and Samidare. While fulfilling my responsibilities to my siblings. Said Tsuyu.
Her daughter's offer deeply moved Beru. She got up from her seat and walked towards her. She embraced her tightly.
No, Tsuyu. You've already sacrificed so much. It would be best if you didn't give up on anything else. Besides, it seems like your dad will be get that promotion. So he won't have to work late nights anymore. I want you to enjoy your college life to its fullest. Just promise me you'll call and come home now and then. Said Beru.
I will, Mom. I love you. Said Tsuyu.
I love you too. Said Beru.