From there, Stain was taken into custody, being checked over at the hospital, under constant guard, to make sure he was able to regain consciousness, and his injuries were fully seen to. Tenya, Izuku, Shouto, and Naoki, were taken to the hospital to be checked over and treated as well as Native.

Naoki hadn't been able to stop the bleeding in his own injury, the Hero Killer's blade piercing his arm when they first fought, and had lost an immense amount of blood, so, once more, he was in worse condition than the rest of the group, even Stain. But, he was worse off this time, because of his Blood's unique and strange nature. Even while hospitalised before, Naoki had never been able to receive blood if his injuries were sustained with Blood Tempter active, and the injuries weren't self-inflicted. So, he was far from out of the woods, even when normal people would have been.

Hajime had stepped in as his caretaker, as requested, since no one else knew enough about his case.

"All we can do is what we did before, IV's, and keeping him sedated until his body recovers on its own. I know it's by no means ideal, but it's the best we can do." The insomniac doctor reported to All Might and the others present, which included Naomasa, Tenya, Shouto, Izuku, Manual, and Gran Torino. Endeavor, by All Might's request, wasn't allowed near Naoki, backed by Shouto very sternly.

At the holding cell where Stain was being detained, however, something was being discussed, Naomasa having called All Might in, the Hero Killer wanting to ask him a few questions, or, at least try to speak with the Pro.

"That boy, the one you adopted. I heard while in the hospital that he was in Intensive Care. Why isn't he recovered?" The Hero Killer asked.

"Why do you want to know? What about my son has you so concerned?" All Might asked.

"He has caught my interest. He's not a Hero in the same way you are, yet, he's not a fake like every other so-called Hero out there. He's different. He stopped his own classmates from attacking me. He used his Quirk to help everyone there, even me, yet, didn't heal his own injury. Even after restraining me, he still kept other false Heroes from attacking me. He insisted his classmates follow the law, and did so himself, while he used his Quirk on me, he didn't harm me. He was strange another way as well. Unlike every other false hero I faced, his classmates and everyone who has seen me, he showed no fear, no malice, no spite, or desire for revenge... Yet, the moment that false Hero Endeavor arrived, the boy showed fear, But, even then, his desire to protect others was still his strongest emotion, deepest desire. Now, will you answer my question?" Stain explained, repeating his earlier request.

With a deep breath and sigh, All Might answered, "Naoki's Quirk, when active, doesn't allow him to heal injuries not caused by his own doing. So, the wound he was given by you, has left him on extreme short supply of blood, and, because of his blood's nature, he cannot safely receive any blood type we have tried before, but, he can use his own to cure another, or, it's opposite effects, though, he limits this side's usage. So, for now, he is reliant on IV fluids, and sedation to force his body to recover. If we're not careful, he will easily go into shock. So, yes, he will be hospitalised for a while to come." All Might was concerned of where the Hero Killer was leading this conversation.

"I wondered... He was still bleeding when the Endeavor arrived. I have an offer, as one Blood Quirk user to another, since his ability nullified my own, the thought has lingered, that perhaps it works in reverse as well." The Hero Killer lifted his arms up, onto the table. "Take it and see. At least, I can make sure a worthy young Hero isn't killed by my hands." Stain was entirely serious, and, All Might could admit he had a point. This murderer was the only other person All Might had ever met with anything similar, even remotely, to Naoki's Blood Tempter. He stepped out, seeking advice from Naomasa, and calling Hajime to add in his input. All the doctor had to say, was, testing it's compatibility with samples they already had couldn't possibly hurt, and if it turned out successful, all the better. So, they went ahead with it.

All Might was glad he'd agreed to try. Once they had the tests completed, and, found the Hero Killer's blood didn't have the negative effects any other blood-type had, reacting the same as a perfect match would with normal people, and, Stain had no genetic or blood-bourne diseases. By that point, though, it was a question of morality, and, permission. As his legal guardian, All Might knew it would ensure Naoki's life, but, whether Naoki would want the Hero Killer's blood, was a thought on a few minds. All Might knew Naoki would be less disturbed by it that most anyone, as he saw life in itself equal. But, All Might was still worried about reactions from others.

When it came down to it, though, the choice was obvious. So, with all necessary legal measures in place, Chizome Akaguro agreed to provide a blood donation to Naoki Kirahara, to stabalise him, and, ensure he recovered. Additionally, in exchange for a favor, he also agreed to continue providing donations until he was deceased, as often as safe. His request, was to speak to Naoki. His reasoning, was to find out why Naoki feared Endeavor, while had no such emotions to the Hero Killer. That was all, and, once it was final, the procedure was done. The final stipulation was, that the procedure and donation, everything reguarding the Hero Killer's involvement in Naoki's recovery, was to remain confidential, to which, the Hero Killer agreed, surprising everyone who did know.

A few hours after the procedure, Naoki regained consciousness, the first face he awoke to bringing him to a teary smile.

"Hey... Nao..." Within seconds of those words, Dabi pulled Naoki into a tight embrace, a quick kiss on his forehead, then lips, his face showing emotions unusual on the older raven, showing just how worried he'd been.

"How..." Naoki asked, silenced by Dabi's tightening of his hold.

Izuku reached into Naoki's discarded clothing and items while the raven was being admitted to the intensive care unit, grabbing his friend's phone.

"I know this is an invasion of privacy, both Naoki's and his partner's, but... He has a right to know..." With that little mutter, the green unlocked it, long since memorising the pattern. It was obvious who was his friend's significant other, they were the most contacted, by text, though. Despite the curiosity eating at him, he refrained from snooping through the messages the two shared, only sending a message to the person labeled Blue Raven.

'Hey, I'm not sure if this is Naoki's boyfriend, but I assume it is... He's at the hospital in Hosu in critical condition. This is his friend from school. If you need assistance getting in to see him, please message me, Midoriya at-

From there, he listed his number. There wasn't a reply on Naoki's phone, but, within fifteen minutes, a message popped up on Izuku's phone from the number Blue Raven was listed with.

"Here." was all that was written.

Izuku had gone down, immediately recognising the tall, lean figure, covered more than most people, in a surgical mask, sunglasses, a hoodie, ball cap, and long pants with combat-styled boots, hands tucked into the hoodie's large pocket. One of the receptionists was eying him, speaking to a doctor, so Izuku rushed over.

"Aoi, right? Follow me... I told Naoki's dad I'd let you know. He'll keep other visitors out, aside from doctors." The green went to the front desk, stopping the two who looked about to call security. "Ma'am, sir, I've invited him here to see Naoki Kirahara. All Might is allowing it, so, is he clear to visit?"

With the No. 1 Pro's name dropped, they normally would have had no reason to argue, but, the doctor did ask, "Yes, but... Sir-" To the tall male, "Why are you covered so much?"

Izuku was surprised when the taller male spoke, "Self conscious of scarring, so I cover up when I'm out." He had a deeper, rough, and monotonous sounding voice, was short spoken and direct.

"O-Oh... Well, then, what is your relationship with the patient? F-For documentation, and, I'll have to have you sign the registry."

"I've been helping Nao with his Quirk, studies, and... He's my partner, as of the day of the U. A. Sports festival. I don't carry ID, but I'll sign whatever you need."

With the short-lived shock of the statement, the doctor slid the sign-in clipboard over, watching the male sign a name, Aoi Yatagarasu.

"Uh... Is that your real-"

"Ah! Young Midoriya! I take it this is Naoki's guest you asked to visit. Please, young man, this way." All Might stepped in, just arriving on the ground floor, and seeing the doctor hesitant about the person with Izuku, and, assuming it must be Naoki's friend, and, as he had come to learn, boyfriend.

"All Might!" Izuku fawned, thankful for the rescue.

"All Might, sir, can you verify this man's identity?" The doctor asked.

"Of course!" He kneeled down, quieting his voice. "He's Naoki's boyfriend, and has been helping my son train for the Sports Festival, and, keep up his grades. He is a big help for looking after Naoki when I am doing my work."

They nodded, suddenly accepting of the covered male, who was uncomfortable, as Izuku could tell, but didn't step out of line. With that, the three headed to Naoki's room.

"I apologise, young man. Had I known they'd give you trouble, I'd have been down there before hand. I really must thank you for looking after Naoki as you have. I am grateful. While I was aware Naoki had no interest in girls, I assumed it was a general disinterest overall. I was quite surprised to find out how wrong I was. But, no judgement. He feels safe with you and trusts you, so, I have no reason to fight with him on that. He mentioned briefly that you and he have similar scarring, so, on that note, I won't ask you to make yourself uncomfortable on my account. And, I will see to it that no one comes in while you remain here, aside from doctors. Young Midoriya suggested having you around may enable Naoki to avoid nightmares while he's sedated. As I am sure you know, using Blood Tempter in particular ways can leave him in precarious situations, so, he's got a bit of recovery ahead of him. But, we're working on a possible way to help him recover better and faster, as well as safer." The long-winded Pro explained, stopping in front of the room Naoki was in. "Please, stay as long as you like. I know he'll be more at ease with you here, being forcibly sedated is and always has been, as long as I've known him, one of his greatest fears." The Pro gave a short nod, Naoki's guest doing the same, before entering the room, shutting the door behind him.

"After that, they brought in blood bags, and, now, a few hours later, you've woken up... I don't know why that even worked... I wonder who's blood it was, or how they got it to work... You know why I'm curious..." Dabi finished.

"Wow... I am really sorry for the trouble, Dabi..." Naoki apologised, looking up toward the end of his words, being met with another kiss.

"Rule 3, Nao. I'll forgive it this once. And, for the record, it wasn't anything to me. Not troublesome, knowing you were safe, and, being able to ensure it myself. I was worried sick after I'd missed three calls, and that message... Just kept getting worse... Until that broccoli messaged me. Worried more until I was able to see you. It's better now you're awake." He hugged the recovering raven again. "So, did you rest well enough?"

Naoki nodded. "It wasn't pleasant at first, but I can assume as soon as you were in here, is when it became good." Naoki replied, snuggling into Dabi's warmth.

There was a knock on the door, Dabi tensing up, but, Naoki reacting by pulling the blanket over Dabi before answering.

"C-Come in." Naoki stammered.

"Good, the machines weren't misreading. Seems we found a suitable recovery plan for Blood Tempter." Hajime spoke, tiredly, eying the obvious covering Naoki had done. "Your dad will have to explain what was done. I can, but, he said he'd rather, since its confidential. At any rate, in ten minutes, you'll be moved from this room to join your classmates. You're the only one injured other than possible damage, but, they were required to stay until you four could be spoken to about the incident. The police wanted to talk to you before the press gets anymore ridiculous theories or falsified information. You should be released soon after." Hajime explained, checking Naoki over, trying to avoid messing up his covering of the other. "Your results are normal, good. All back to par, Naoki." He finished his report on the clipboard, leaving soon after.

Dabi moved the bedding. "Good thinking, but... A little obvious."

"The point was to cover you and keep you from being seen, Dabi." Naoki teased, earning a peck on his cheek, brushing the corner of his mouth.

"I know. I'm gonna get going before I get seen or bothered by anyone. Shoot me a message when you want to meet, I'll be waiting." He stood, dressing, his mask hanging on one ear as he leaned down, giving Naoki a final goodbye kiss. "See ya, kid."

"See you soon, Dabi." Naoki smiled. "Be safe, and-"

"You'll know when I'm home." Dabi applied the mask, leaving the room.

Exactly ten minutes after Hajime had originally left, Naoki was transferred to a room where Shouto, Tenya and Izuku lingered, Shouto reading a book, and Tenya playing against Izuku, a game board between them, but Tenya's arm bandaged lightly and in a sling.

"Naoki!" Izuku bounced up first, knocking the board over.

"Ki." Shouto snapped to attention, he too was by Naoki's wheeled chair.

"Hey!" Naoki saluted, Hajime leaving him for the other three to position.

"Did you guys get to see each other?" Izuku asked.

"Uh - Y-Yeah... He just left. Thank you, Izumi." Naoki was stunned a bit by the green's direct question, continuing to answer with a crimson blush, making Shouto curious, and Tenya wary, but, concerned.

"Who are you two talking about?" Shouto asked, wheeling Naoki toward the empty bed.

Izuku and Naoki glanced to each other, Naoki shrugging as he answered. "My boyfriend." Naoki was bluntly honest, shocking the violet and bi-coloured again.

They didn't have much chance to react, though, the door to their room opening, "Oh, so the injured Youngin is finally awake?" Gran Torino entered, shocking Izuku, Naoki and Tenya both seeing Manual entering behind him.

"Gran Torino!" Izuku called.

"And Manual too..." Tenya entered.

"Idiot! I could yell at you for hours right now." The retired Pro called Izuku out, then looking to Naoki, "And you, I'd have words with you too."

"Y-Yeah, I'm sorry..." Izuku began, cut off by his mentor.

"But before I do-" He looked to the doorway again. "You've all got a visitor. This is Hosu's Chief of Police. Kenji Tsurugame. Izuku, Shouto and Tenya stood, Naoki bowing his head, knowing walking right then was still out of the question, and standing was just as bad.

"No, please, stay seated, lift your head. Woof." He began, startling everyone when he 'woofed' like a dog, considering his appearance. "So, you're the U.A. Students who found and brought down the Hero Killer, huh?"

"We may have helped, but the one who brought him down was Naoki." Shouto responded, patting the wheelchair.

"Stain has been dismissed from the hospital, and has been put into custody. Right now, he's awaiting charges and a trial will happen, eventually. However, based on the tests run, he was injured a great deal during your group's fight against him, yet, was healed. He gave credit for that to you, Naoki Kirahara, as well as some words of 'praise' on your behaviour as a Hero in training. I'm not sure if you've been informed yet, but, he has requested to ask you a few questions, and, as part of a deal, was permitted this by All Might, given you aren't in any danger. The Hero Killer gave his word that he'd not harm you, but, to be safe, he will be restrained, and there will be physical barriers between you, as well as police and All Might there, to step in if necessary." He paused, turning his gazes to the rest of them, having wandered to Naoki during the part concerning him. "For you three, and, to be fair, all of you, here's a lesson you should have already learned. When Quirks became the norm, the police force sought to maintain the status quo. It was decided we wouldn't use Quirks as weapons. That's when Heroes came in. They could do what we couldn't, if they were licensed, of course. It would be impossible for the police to condone the use of deadly Quirks, afterall, we're here to stop such harm from being done. The only reason Pros can use their powers now is because of the strict code of ethics the early Heroes chose to abide by. That's why it's against the law for uncertified people to use their Quirks to cause injury. Whether you were up against the Hero Killer or not, none of you had the authority to harm the Villain." Shouto's eyes widened, and narrowed at the Chief's words and implications. "That means, the three of you, and your supervisors, Endeavor, Manual, and Gran Torino, should receive harsh punishments for the gross abuse of your powers." He was cut off, interrupted by Shouto.

"Now wait a minute! If Iida had not stepped in, Native would have been murdered. And, if not for Midoriya, both of them would be dead. No one else even realised that the Hero Killer was in Hosu. Are you saying we should have just stood by and watched people die?!" He challenged the police chief, Izuku begging he calm down.

"So, its okay to break the law, so long as it goes your way?" Tsurugame countered, Shouto glaring at the implied message.

"But, sir, isn't it a Hero's job to save people?" Shouto shouted, Naoki remaining quiet, able to see where the Inu was heading.

"That is why you're not a full-fledged Pro yet. Its obvious Endeavor hasn't been teaching you near enough. I assume U.A. must have, since someone understands what a 'Hero's job' truly is. What a shame." He baited the Bi-coloured.

"You damn mutt!" He walked forward, Naoki stopping him, catching his arm.

"Shou-san! Sit down and listen! He is our elder, and superior in this matter. Respect him as you would Aizawa, or All Might!" Naoki yelled, catching the room's occupants off guard, and causing Shouto to stop, glance to Naoki, and stay put, continuing to listen.

"He's right, Todoroki, Iida, Midoriya. Of all four of you, the only one of you who didn't break the laws, and, yet, still apprehended the Hero Killer, was Naoki. He used his Quirk, but, not to cause harm, or injure the Villain. He healed injuries caused by his classmates, took care of your injuries, as well as Natives, and, yet, without causing any harm to another person with is Quirk, still managed to bring the Hero Killer down. That is a lesson for you all. If you cannot use your Quirks for anything but the harm of others, you have a long way to go before you can consider yourselves Heroes. As such, the three of you, and, in lieu, your mentors, should receive punishment. That is the official stance of the police department. But, any punishment would only be necessary if this went public, or, rather, if the three of you being involved did. As there aren't any remaining or dangerously life-threatening injuries to the Hero Killer, it would be fair to leave your involvement out of it. As for you, Naoki, thankfully, the target on your back from potential followers of Stain may be sated by the Hero Killer's verbal acknowledgement of you, and, Stain was well-known for considering All Might the only one worthy of killing him. With you being adopted by the one Stain considered worthy, and, acknowledging you, as worthy as well, it can potentially lessen the odds of you being targeted. That information was leaked by a reporter who had also caught Tomura Shigaraki and Kurogiri on the rooftop.

Though you followed the laws as far as Quirk usage, you'd likely still not be pardoned from the same punishments the other three would have if things went public. So, we could simply say Endeavor stepped in and handled it. Although minour, the burns sustained by Stain would back that up at least a little bit. However, as for all of you, Naoki, Iida, Todoroki and Midoriya, it would be as though you were last-second bystanders, we'd have to pretend you weren't involved. Though, you can all take credit and, the four of you would receive punishment, even if the general public praised you. Personally, I know where I stand. I don't want to damage any promising young careers. Not for something like this, not for this kind of mistake." Tsurugame held out a thumbs up.

"Either way, we'll need to take responsibility for being negligent as supervisors." Manual pouted slightly.

Tenya stood and walked to Manual, bowing, "I'm sorry. I should have listened, to both you and Naoki."

"Yeah!" He chopped Tenya atop the head, "You caused us a lot of trouble. Remember that, and don't do it again. Naoki, you had the forethought to realise what Iida would do, and, contacted Pro's when you did take off following Iida. But, you still ran off all the same." He walked over, giving Naoki a lighter tap on the top of his head.

In the end, that was what they agreed on, Endeavor taking the credit. Tsurugame thanked them, but, no matter how things were done, Naoki would end up shouldering the target, for being acknowledged.

That night, Tenya's results on his injuries came back. While Naoki had healed much of the damage, some of it was to a non-blood related area of his arm, and the violet, though downed, decided to let his trials and the damage they left, be a lesson.

Naoki felt guilty, but, Tenya assured him it was possible to fix with nerve transplant surgery. "Until I'm able to call myself a Hero, I'll leave my injured hand as it is."

"Iida. I feel the same way." Izuku began, clasping his fist, which, although Naoki had mended what he could, still had some minour damage, Recovery Girl finding the ligaments of his hands had shredded more than what people are capable of recovering from. "Let's get stronger, together." Izuku vowed with the violet, who nodded his agreement.

Shouto looked stunned, and disappointed. "I feel... Kind of bad..." He began, drawing all three of their gazes, confusion present in them.

"About what?" Izuku asked.

"Whenever I'm involved, someone's hand gets all messed up... Is something wrong with me? Am I cursed?" Izuku and Tenya were wide-eyed and in shock but, the four ended up laughing.

"Shou-san... It's not like you were the reason for my hands being busted, so there's no way!" Naoki added, seeing Shouto stop laughing, guilty-faced again.

"I wouldn't say I'm not involved in that, Ki." Shouto replied, leaving the room speechless again.

"What!? How!? Spill, Shou-san!" Naoki yelled, jumping up from his bed, onto Shouto's and frightening the bi-coloured into leaning back against his bed.

"I-It's a long story..." He ended. A knock at the door shutting down further conversation.

"Naoki? A visitor at the front desk left these for you just now..." A nurse popped in, a small bag, familiar as one of Dabi's, in her arms.

"Ooh! Can I open it?" Naoki asked, the nurse caught off gurad by the child-like nature, "Of course. Here."

"What's in it, Naoki?" Shouto asked.

Naoki found a pack of small ginger ale cans, container of sorbet, six regular sized cans of root beer, and, the last two items, Naoki pulled out, immediately hugging. A black and red blanket, fuzzy, and smelling of burnt herbs, and, a hoodie familiar to Izuku, having seen Aoi in it earlier that day.

"Oh! I recognise that hoodie. That's what Aoi was wearing when he came to visit you. So, these are from him, then I take it?" Izuku asked, a look mixed of confusion and shock before Naoki caught up, very visible.

"Oh, yeah... They are. He's thoughtful... They still smell like him, and he brought my favorite drink, and favorite dessert!" Naoki cheered, pulling the hoodie on, and the blanket around himself. "You guys want some dessert?" Naoki asked, the other three confused, but agreed anyway.

After having a nurse bring in an ice cream scoop, straws and four glasses, Naoki divied up the shares, looks of concern, confusion and subtle bewilderment as each held their prepared... Desserts... Once they tried it, though, the negative thoughts about the dessert were gone, and they enjoyed it, together.

"Ki... I'm sorry... Because of us, you'll be denied the credit, and that man gets it instead. That can't make you feel great..." Shouto said.

"Yeah, I've been thinking that too... I know you've mentioned you and Endeavor have some kind of issue in the past... But you gave up on the credit so we wouldn't be-" Naoki stopped so Izuku wouldn't say any more.

Izu, Shou-san... Don't worry! I'd actually rather not have to shoulder that credit... I crumble under pressure, so... The hordes of press and expectations... I don't think I'd be up for that on a good day, let alone the rest of my future... Besides, its gotta hurt Endeavor's pride at least a little!" Naoki smiled as he explained, ending with a chuckle.

"Good point." "I agree." "That makes sense." The three answered.

Naoki had felt the piece of paper in his pocket, but was waiting for a good oppourtunity to read it without others.

After checking out the next morning, he gathered his items, Time Reversing the damage on his Hero Costume, and headed out, immediately masking his presence. The news was overrun by the events from Hosu, mainly focused on the Hero Killer, which made him a little too nervous to walk around out in the open just yet.

He pulled out his phone, letting Dabi know he was out, a message, then, called Manual, as he'd been instructed, to continue his internship. Tenya wouldn't be there this time, but his last conversation with Naoki was still fresh.

"Naoki, I wanted to thank you. You were able to act like, not only a true hero, but, a responsible person, and, a true friend. I was furious, I'll admit, at first, when you defended the Hero Killer, and, knowing you'd healed him, but, now, I know why. You wanted me to have a chance to realise my mistakes, and if I wouldn't, than the effects of my actions would be on me. Also, I need to apologise. I treated you with malice during our internship, and, wrongly assumed many things about you. I will speak with my mother and family about your offer to help Tensei, but I'll leave you to talk to him and his doctors. It's probably a good idea to have you do that, since you know what you'd be able to do, and not do best. Well, I hope your continued recovery goes well. See you at school."

"Ah - Yeah! Sure. I'll probably check in with Manual first, and keep researching during my internship, but, first chance I can, I'll ask to talk to them. I am sorry, Tenya." Naoki replied.

"No need to apologise to me. Farewell, Naoki."

Tenya left shortly after getting his results and having a little time with his classmates, going home so his mom could tend to him. Izuku also left alongside Shouto, both returning to their internships.

"Shou-san... You're going back?"

"Yeah, I still wanna learn everything I can. Plus, the press thinks it was him who took down the Hero Killer, when it was actually his son involved, and-" He looked into Naoki's eyes. "Someone he despises who actually stopped and apprehended the Villain. I want to see if there is any disgrace or shame on his face."

When the phone he was calling was answered, Naoki focused properly on the other line. "Ah-! Hello, Manual-san... This is Naoki. I was calling to let you know I was released."

"Oh? That's good to hear. It's good you want to return to your internship, but, are you sure about it? You can return home and recover, rest and recuperate. After what happened, no one would think ill of you." Manual asked.

"Yes. I am sure. All Might suggested taking the internship offer you provided, as he believed learning from you would be beneficial for me, and a unique learning experience. I agree, and I want to keep learning, I want to see this through properly. Is there any issue with me coming to your agency now?" Naoki asked.

"Not really... But, you should give your father a call. I know it was only mentioned, but, there are some things he needs to speak to you about. How about... Call him first, and once things are settled there, call me back, and we can plan a time for you to come back in during the rest of the week. Sound good?" Manual suggested.

"Yes! I can do that. Thank you, sir." Naoki hung up, immediately calling his dad.

"Naoki? Where are you? I came to pick you up from the hospital, but they told me you already left..." Toshinori asked.

"Down the street, to the left, and around the first corner... I wanted to avoid any kind of attention that may or may not be about... So I masked myself before leaving..." Naoki answered.

"Good. Stay right where you are, and I'll be there shortly. I have a few things I must discuss with you, and then we have something to attend to." Toshinori requested, Naoki hearing him leaving the hospital, the public's general reaction suggesting he was deflated.

After a few minutes, Naoki saw Toshinori round the corner, "Naoki?" He called out.

Naoki dropped Ricochet, "Here, dad." With that, he was pulled in to a tight hug.

"I'm sorry, Naoki. I couldn't be there when you and young Midoriya needed me. I couldn't protect you." He let his hands drop, pulling away. "I know this isn't ideal, but, I need you to fulfil the last part of a promise made to help you recover, to stabalise you and that allowed you to heal properly after losing so much blood. I think, the sooner we get it done, the better, so, with that, let's head out. On the way, I'll explain." Toshinori finished, now leading Naoki back, the two loading a police vehicle, under Naoki's vector, so out of sight to anyone around, since Toshinori wasn't associated with All Might's identity.

"Naoki! Good to see you up and about so soon. I'm glad. When you sent me that message, I was worried, especially with everything else going on. All Might, have you explained everything yet?" Naomasa asked, being in the vehicle as well.

"No, not yet." He turned to Naoki. "First, there's..." He had to pause, taking a deep breath before continuing. "The Nomu that attacked the USJ, and now, with Stain and the League of Villains possibly being connected... All of this adds up to a possibility, now, more an almost certainty, that All For One is still alive, and, that he is behind the League, the Nomu... I'm not sure how much you may have pieced together on your own, Naoki, but, the-" Naoki cut him off.

"I know the Nomu had multiple Quirks, remember, I did use Blood Tempter on him. When I noticed this, I already assumed he was involved. He has to be... Sorry, but, please, continue." Naoki urged the No. 1 to continue.

"Very well... Then, secondly... As I'm sure you're aware, when you're injured, or, more accurately, when you need blood, normally, we'd have no way of safely giving you a blood transfusion. But... It turned out Chizome Akaguro, or, Hero Killer: Stain, is possibly the only person who could safely donate blood to treat you. I assume it stems from both of you using Blood Quirks but I'm not sure. At any rate, he agreed to supply enough to stabalise you, and, to keep donating until his death as much as is safe, in exchange for being allowed to speak with you. You were bound to be in for a long recovery, if you didn't succumb to the bloodloss, or go into shock. So, I permitted it. While he assured he would not harm you, there will still be a number of restraints put into place to ensure your safety. For your sake, I made sure the donation was kept confidential. Other than myself, Naomasa, Hajime, Gran Torino and one other officer, the only people who know are you and Stain himself. He signed a disclosure form to keep it to himself. I ask that you not think ill of me for the choice I made. As your father, seeing you like that with no assurance you'd live through it, was painfully terrifying." He pause, seeing if Naoki had any response.

"I'd never think ill of that kind of thing. And, to be frank, it doesn't bother me... Others may be sickened or disturbed by that kind of thing, but I'm not... Even remotely like others... Chizome is still human, he's still a living being. That's it, no reason to think otherwise about it..." Naoki reassured his father of his feelings, Toshinori already aware of how Naoki would see it, but wanting confirmation of his decision being alright.

"I figured as much. Very well, then, third. What he wanted to ask, was reguarding your fear of Endeavor, yet, lack of it against him. You saw the man's fanatic and charismatic ideologies up close and personal, and with your own eyes. So, answer him honestly. I give you that permission. Lying would be too risky with a man like him. He only requested that single question, so, that's what we can and will allow. Once that's out of the way, you should go get some rest for the night, and continue your internship tomorrow. I figure it's not his real name, but I met Aoi, albeit briefly. I could tell just how worried he was, so, spend tonight there." Toshinori finished as they pulled up to their destination.

Once inside and everything was in place, everyone situated, the Hero Killer, or, Chizome Akaguro, was brought out, red eyes lit ablaze at the sight of All Might, and, the new person who'd struck his interest, as well as earned his respect, his approval.

"Chizome Akaguro, or, as better known, Hero Killer: Stain, we are here to fulfil the last part of the deal made, nothing more. You'll have what time is needed for this question of yours, so ask and be done." The officer instructed.

"Naoki... Kirahara Naoki... I want to know why the only time I saw fear in your eyes, was after that false hero Endeavor appeared. Why does someone seen as a 'Hero' strike fear into the heart of one so young, when I myself caused no such thing. I'm sure y9ou knew well who I was, that I'd killed, and would keep killing those fakes, so why, when I first came into your sights, when you first saw me, fighting your friends, and aiming to kill, was there no fear in your eyes, no hate, malice, only a burning desire to protect. This desire was not exclusive to your allies, but to your opponent, your enemy, as well." Chizome asked, eyes boring into Naoki's own, watching, studying, monitoring.

With a steadying breath, and a slow blinking of his eyes, still opening them back to meeting Chizome's, "I have very little past to base my behaviours, my actions, or my beliefs on. The oldest memory I have before this current lifetime of mine, was, I now know, involving Enji Todoroki. I knew you, your crimes, and, although only a little, yor reasonings. I knew you wouldn't have hesitated to kill them. But, above all of that, I know, with irrefutable certainty, you were also human, and, even above that, a life. So, in my... Perhaps, naivety, saw no reason to fear you. I have no instance in my memory that warranted my hating or fearing you specifically. Enji Todoroki is different." Naoki paused, standing up, and drawing the attention of everyone as he removed his uniform jacket, unzipping the shirt, and setting both down. From there, peeled away the black compression sleeve made for his weakened joints, resting it with the other discarded clothes. The officers were astounded, shocked, and, frightened. Naoki's scars had that effect, and he was not yet completely used to it.

From the frontal view, his torso bore eight seemingly separate scars. One was a puncture scar in his left shoulder, the cause of the weakness in the joint. The next, under his right pectoral, a downward-angled scar, diagonally across from a deeper, longer and larger scar, more jagged than the other. One a burn on his lower right, above his hip, directly above it, a deep laceration scarred over. To the left of the burn, stretching beneath his belt-line, and diagonally upward across his torso, lining along the lower region of his left pectoral. If one followed this one around his back, it would lead around, almost straight upward after reaching his left shoulder blade, then, crossing back over the top of his shoulder, forming the 'eighth' scar, just right of the puncture. His arms, hands and legs were scarred just as bad. But, the most distinctive was on his back, as well as the backs of his shoulders and upper arms. Aside from a differently coloured region All Might knew was from young Bakugou during their fight in Juniour High, the rest of this region was a deep red-violet, the skin there so burned it was impossible to heal, the cells incinerated, carbonized, destroyed. Naoki had managed to keep it attached to protect the underlying muscle, bone, and organs from being exposed, using metal wire to suture the destroyed flesh to the healthy. He constantly used Time Reverse to keep all of it as stable and intact as possible, since the cells were no longer alive, Time Reverse worked on it the same as it would the wire. If he came across someone who could heal it, he planned to ask, but was also trying to find out if Blood Tempter could help it eventually. Lastly, the region that made up the back of his neck, and a little ways around the sides and front seemed scarred from something entirely different, but, what, even Hajime wasn't able to identify.

"These burns, at first, I wasn't sure, who caused them. The memory I had of this event left much to question. But, along the way I've gained more memories, and, filled in a few pieces of my oldest memory. These burns... were caused by Enji Todoroki. The reason I fear him, is from these, that memory, and, a few other memories I have regained from my past." Naoki finished. He had kept eye contact with Chizome, knowing the man could glean much from a person's eyes, and, had more than likely discovered Naoki's eye's betrayal of his emotions.

The officers stepped out, asking All Might to follow, giving Naoki a chance to dress again.

"I see." Was all Chizome had to say as he was removed from the cell. Naoki had seen the marring to Chizome's own face, leaving him curious, wondering, and thinking as well. He'd noticed the distinct hatred and bloodlust Stain had had toward Enji Todoroki that he'd had significantly less of against any others.

After leaving the police station, Toshinori gave Naoki a small warning, of sorts. "Naoki, I know, better than most anyone, about Endeavor's involvement in your memories, but... The officers there, weren't... How should I put this... They've advised that all of that be kept tightly under wraps, since it would be difficult to prove, cause public uproar, draw negative attention... Among many other issues... I know it isn't ideal and-"

Naoki waved his hand, "I know all of this, dad. It's not anything worth getting upset over, and, no matter how well things are covered, buried or how much someone pays to hide something... There's always a reckoning eventually. Don't worry, it's not bothered me until now, so, I won't let it do so in the future."

They reached a more crowded area, Naoki cringing as he vanished, avoiding any possible questionings, press or attention, but, keeping his hand linked with Toshi's to not get separated and let his dad know he was still there. He knew the press had been fed a different story, but, was still anxious about all of it.

"Sorry, I should've picked a better route. Once we get to the store, it should be far calmer, so you'll be safe to head out from there. Just keep up with the rules, alright?" Toshinori whispered, feeling a response, Naoki squeezing his hand a little bit tighter.

And, so it was, when they reached the convenience store. Naoki released his vector, hugging Toshinori as he prepared to set out.

"Naoki, may I ask something? I'd like to have a way to contact Aoi, in case something happens, like your phone being destroyed again, or something like that. I know you may want to ask him first, but if I do have his contact, I will keep my contact with him to the barest minimum, only when I haven't been able to contact you, and the like..."

"I-I can ask. I'll give him your number and let him contact you if he wants or needs to... So, what are you doing after this? There's still a few hours before school would normally be out... I plan to return to my internship in the morning, so..." Naoki answered, returning his own question.

"I guess that will work for now. And, I'll need to return to my teaching and preparation for later on... You may want to give Gran Torino a call, I think he'll have some extra training he can do with you, probably you and young Midoriya together as well... And I know he wants to talk to you about... Hosu..." Toshinori responded, waving to Naoki as he made to head back to U.A.'s campus.

"I'll do that! Bye, dad!" Naoki called, already pulling out his phone, leaned against the front of the shop, the far corner, where he'd usually head behind to get to Dabi's.

"Hey, kid. Finally ready?" Naoki jumped, hearing Dabi's voice from around the corner.

He rushed around, meeting the taller raven, right into an embrace, Dabi pulling him close.

"Miss me that much, huh~" Dabi teased, smirking into the kiss he gave Naoki after pulling one side of his mask loose. "C'mon, let's go. Got a bit to talk about since last time we were alone, huh?" Dabi asked as he walked alongside Naoki, towards his apartment.

"Yeah, definitely. Were you waiting long? Or-"

"If he's fine with me having his number for emergencies, then that's what I'll do. Not quite ready to start handing out my number... Hungry, aren't we~" He answered, teasing at hearing Naoki's stomach growl.

"Yeah... Hey!" Naoki chirped, Dabi throwing Naoki up over his shoulder, both laughing from Naoki's surprised reaction.

Once they'd reached his apartment, entered, and Dabi finally set Naoki down. "I think you've finally gained some muscle mass, Nao." He pecked Naoki's nose as the smaller raven removed his uniform jacket, his zippered shirt the only one left on, as he'd not redressed in the under-shirt.

Dabi caught glimpse of Naoki's burn scars peeking out, the backs and sides of his arms exposing the edges of them. He reached out, gently brushing his own marred hand over the burns with a solemn and guilt-ladened look on his face, sorrow in his turquoise eyes, even when they eventually met Naoki's.

With his free hand, Dabi stroked Naoki's left cheek. "Silver... That's relieving to see again after all these years. That stormy-skied grey in the shadows, a silvery mist in the lighter areas..." He finished with a soft kiss to Naoki's forehead, pulling Naoki's chin up to meet their lips.

When they pulled after a few seconds, Naoki spoke quietly, as gently as Dabi had just before. "I've never seen that colour... So, I'm not sure what it means..."

"Your soft green is calm, relaxed, or distractedly thinking. The dark green is exhaustion, over-exertion or sorrow. The ice blue is concern, protectiveness... Or determination. The lavender is stressed, fear, worry... And, this colour, the silver, stormy grey... Is happiness, affection... Or, that kind of love most only find once. I thought for certain I'd never seen this colour again... Our once in a lifetime was given a second chance." He pulled the shorter directly to him, Naoki's head against the oversized white shirt. "Want to order in? There's a place nearby that's not too bad." Dabi asked, sitting in his usual spot on the floor, in front of the coffee table, leaned against the wall.

"Hmmm... Under one condition." Naoki paused to await Dabi's response.

The blue raven arched an eyebrow. "And what is that, Nao?"

Naoki took his seat next to Dabi, smirking as he replied. "My treat~" Naoki snuck a quick peck on the corner of Dabi's mouth, all but telling him it wasn't up for discussion.

Dabi looked downward to his left, the slightest of blushes as he agreed, obviously reluctantly.

They ordered, and when the knock sounded at the door, Naoki both jumped from his place rested against Dbi's shoulder, but, hesitated to open it.

"Dabi... I'm a little nervous... With the news and everything... I'm going to be recognised, no doubt..." Naoki's left eye showing just that, the soft lavender showing already, in just those few seconds.

"Together, then. Whoever it is shouldn't start anything if I'm right there. Most people take a look at these scars and get away as quickly as they can." Dabi walked over, reaching around and opening the door from behind Naoki.

"Hello. The total is-" The deliverer paused. "N-Naoki! Hey, man! Long time since I've seen you!" When the white-haired delivery boy saw Naoki's confusion, he remembered Naoki's lack of memories. "Oh, I'm sorry! It was mentioned you've lost almost all your memories..." He paused, shuffling the package to one hand, offering the other out, noticing the person who'd opened the door had vanished from sight almost right away. "I'm Natsuo, Shouto's older brother. We knew you when we were all younger, it's been a long time, but it was good to see you after so long! You even were adopted by All Might. And got into U.A. Plus your ranking at the sports festival. Shouto's... Really opened up since then... He went and visited mom and he's... Different, better. And all that stuff with the Hero Killer... You've changed a lot, in some ways, but in others, you're still the same kid we all knew... Oh - Sorry again. Here, the total is 2250 I hope you enjoy!" Natsuo finished, proffering the package as Naoki swapped it for the due charge.

"T-Thanks, Natsuo-san. I'm sorry if I... I'm still drawing a big blank... But you seem... Familiar... Keep the change." Naoki finished as Natsuo went to hand him the change back.

"You're fine! No need to be sorry, I completely understand. I'm just working here a few hours a week, but I'm studying in the medical field. Never thought I'd get the chance to see you again in person, so this is a nice surprise. This can't be where you and All Might live, though, is it?" Natsuo asked.

"Ah- Uh... No... I'm here with m-my b... Boyfriend... I'm due to return to my internship in the morning, so my dad let me stay here for tonight." Naoki answered, rubbing his neck, now holding the package with his non-dominant right hand.

"Oh! That-That's..." He paused, looking a little sorrowful, his eyes downcast and smile faded. "That's good... I'm glad you found someone. Sorry about everything... I'm sure you've been told, or heard, but... Nii-san..." He was cut off, Dabi peeking around the corner, having disappeared almost right after the door had been opened, now wearing his glasses and mask.

"Nao, it's getting late. Still need to finish eating and get your things ready for tomorrow." Dabi interrupted.

"Ah! Right. Sorry, Natsuo-san, we'll have to cut this short for today. It was good to see you again, even if I don't remember it just yet. Be safe on your way back." Naoki ended the conversation, the white-haired Todoroki heading off, taking one last look back at Naoki, and his concealed companion.

"So good... That was really good, Dabi... I've got enough leftover for a second, possibly third meal and it was so cheap for that much food..." Naoki sighed, flopping back down from putting his food in the fridge. Now, he was leaning on Dabi, head resting on the taller raven's shoulder.

Dabi pulled Naoki's head down, resting the red raven's head in his lap, Naoki now showing his drowsiness. "Yeah, it was. We can do it again eventually. You tired, Nao?"

Naoki nodded with an audible, tired confirmation hummed out, followed by a yawn.

"Then off we go." Dabi made to pull Naoki into his arms to carry him to the bedroom, but Naoki tried to speak out, causing Dabi to chuckle at his slurred words. The most coherent sounded akin to 'shower'. "Want a shower?" Dabi smirked, eyes narrowing as he fully scooped Naoki up. "Fine. Grab your clothes and get going. You know the drill." He let Naoki on his own feet in the bedroom.

Naoki quickly grabbed his clothes, then headed for the shower.

After no more than a minute of the red raven being in the water, Dabi's head shot up from the pillow, hearing a yelp, followed by the sound of something crashing to the floor.

"Nao!" Dabi rushed in, shoving the curtain out of the way, seeing Naoki on the stone floor of the bathroom, gingerly holding his ankle, blood visibly pooling from several jagged slices, even as the water ran.

He looked and saw the small plastic covering for the drain had been broken through.

"Nao, can you stand?" He knelt down, unconcerned with getting wet, holding his hand to reach for Naoki, but, hesitation making him pull it back, waiting for Naoki's response.

"I-I'm not sure... I twisted it when I fell, and although I don't feel it, didn't feel it... I don't want to risk falling again." Naoki answered, knowing activating Blood Tempter to heal it wasn't a great idea with the shower water, plastic debris in the wounds, and who-knew what else alongside that.

"Here. C-Can I?" Dabi asked, his head averted as he spoke, Naoki eying him after hearing his stutter. Dabi had his hand held out, but not as close as he normally did when helping Naoki up.

Nodding and placing his palm in Dabi's, the taller raven helped him stand. "Help me get the soap out of my hair?" Naoki asked, unsure of Dabi's abnormal reactions.

"Yeah." Dabi answered, Naoki swearing he caught the red flush of his boyfriend's cheeks, even amongst the burns, the pale skin was tinted red.

After they were finished, Dabi shut off the water, scooping Naoki up, able to balance him in an arm barely long enough to grab the towel from the toilet seat and set Naoki down. Then he wrapped it around Naoki, quickly exiting the bathroom. However, with the effort Dabi had to put into keeping Naoki up, his theories about Dabi were also inching ever closer toward becoming truth as Naoki could see.

Naoki cocked his head at that, and Dabi's rushing from the bathroom, but was less confused when the turquoise-eyed raven returned with the first-aide kit he kept in his bedroom. "Here, we should get that cleaned so you can heal it." He pulled out distilled water, flushing the debris from the wound, followed by witch hazel to help stop the bleeding and clean it. After using clean gauze to dry it and make sure it was cleaned out and no longer bleeding, he looked up to Naoki, meeting the red and silver eyes, his gaze never travelling elsewhere.

Naoki nodded, feeling the heat in his cheeks, with Dabi's light gray shirt thoroughly drenched and clinging to the taller raven, showing Dabi's form and figure better than Naoki had seen previously, and also showing just how much more of his body was scarred through the translucent fabric, well, his torso and abdomen, at least...

Naoki activated Blood Tempter, healing the wounds, and driving himself further toward exhaustion. Once he was done, Dabi stood, handing Naoki his clothing and leaving the room, stripping his own shirt off as he left, giving Naoki a small glimpse of the burn's extent on his back, leaving Naoki gulping in worry and a flurry of other emotions, guilt being one he could feel tightening his chest as he dressed and left the bathroom.

Dabi was already resting on the mattress, turned to face the wall, his left arm supporting his head, his right draped at the forearm over his waist, the back of his elbow almost to his mid-back.

With that position, in combination with his building theories, and multiplying concerns, topped with the growing worry and guilt, Naoki was hesitant to join the older male, biting his lip, and standing where he was, as if seeking approval or waiting for Dabi's okay. It was the first time Dabi had rested like that, so it made Naoki incredibly unsure of how to respond or react.

When a few minutes had passed after the bathroom light had went out, and the door had been shut, and Naoki still hadn't come over, Dabi turned to check, his thoughts spot on, seeing Naoki nervously hesitating to come within five feet of the bed.

He's more nervous than embarrassed, that's obvious now... Which is why he's hesitant, in combination with how I was resting, I imagine... I wish I hadn't gotten that flustered and acted so off... It's probably weighing on him a lot, how differently I reacted... Fuck...

"Nao? Come on. Lie down. I know you're exhausted, so come get some rest. I'll... I'll answer any questions you may have about that... How I... My..." He trailed off, Naoki slowly climbing in, still walking on eggshells, nervous even more now. Great... Just making this worse the more I talk... Dabi thought again.

Once settled, Naoki still kept his distance, even though he was shivering by then. Dabi smiled sadly, scooting closer, while also pulling the tense red raven toward him, Naoki's head in his shoulder, with Dabi's arms around him protectively.

"Do you want me to try and explain first, and have you ask afterward?" Dabi asked ending with a soft kiss to Naoki's head, his hair still damp. Naoki responded with a small, stiff nod.

Nodding once himself, Dabi continued. "I was frustrated, for one... This place is supposed to be safe for you, somewhere you won't be and can't get hurt, and I can keep you protected, yet you were hurt nonetheless... Secondly, though..." He sighed a little, feeling Naoki tense. "I was flustered. Not only did I rush in there and intrude on every single sense of privacy, even tearing the curtain out of the way... But, I hesitated... I froze... My mind went blank and I hesitated to step in and help you up, or get you out of the shower... I... I wasn't sure if I'd upset or angered you, or scared you... Even against my better judgement and how much I know you... Or if you'd reject my help... I guess, it, well, this part, is from the difference in our age-groups in part... But, I froze when I saw all of the scars... There are so many more than back then, and that was enough shock value, but... Seeing all of the burns for the first time in so long... That just..." He paused, taking a breath to calm himself again before continuing. "I was drowning in so many emotions I don't feel outside of you, and it overwhelmed me like nothing else... But, I also wasn't sure I'd be able to control myself... I wanted two things right then, the first was more pressing... To pull you close and never let anyone hurt you like that again... The second was the unbreakable desire to find that bastard right then and there, and kill him. Make him pay for everything he did to you... For those burns, the other scars he caused, and everything else... I couldn't give into just one... So I had to distance myself until I could calm down... I'm-" Dabi was cut off, Naoki's arms wrapping tightly around Dabi's waist, snuggling his head closer as he finished what Dabi was meaning to say. "I'm sorry..."

Dabi sighed at Naoki's words. "You shouldn't be the one apologising, Nao... Let's... Get some sleep..." He finished, sensing Naoki was almost to the point where he could doze off, and knowing the smaller raven needed it, not having slept since the last time they saw one another... Aside from the short-term comatose-like state he'd been in at the hospital, which, if Dabi knew anything, was riddled with the same nightmares Naoki normally struggled with.