10 - Going Beyond
-Tatsuya's POV-
After being hurled into the water by Nomu's relentless assault, a sense of weightlessness enveloped me as I descended deeper into the dark abyss. Despite my unwavering resolve to continue the fight, my limbs seemed to betray me, responding sluggishly to my commands. The fervent desire to propel myself upwards, to break through the surface and inhale a desperate breath of air, surged through my being, yet my muscles remained inert, bound by an unseen force that rendered them motionless.
"I can't... move," I thought, a pang of frustration and helplessness coursing through me. My eyes squeezed shut, revealing a cascade of images: my classmates, their determined faces etched with concern and camaraderie, standing resolute in my memory. "I'm sorry, everyone... I wasn't strong enough to protect any of you..." The visions shifted, transforming into the faces of Izuku and Inko, the two people who gave me the chance to become the person I am today. "I'm not strong enough to do anything..."
My thoughts were abruptly shattered by the distant, muffled sound of a splash, an eerie echo that cut through the haze surrounding my senses. Yet, when I blinked my eyes open, I found no one in sight. Then, a peculiar sensation tugged at my jacket, and before I could process it, my body was hoisted upwards, breaking through the water's surface. Coughing and spluttering, I found myself deposited onto the ground, lying on my side, as I puked the water that had invaded my lungs in a torrent of retching.
"Are you... alright... Akiba?" a familiar voice gasped, each word punctuated by strained breaths. I turned towards the sound, my eyes meeting a pair of gloves and boots.
"Hagakure?" I breathed out, my voice still shaky as I attempted to regain control of my breathing.
"Yeah, it's me," came her response, the tremor in her tone betraying a blend of relief and concern.
"It looks like we're even. Thank you..." I managed a weak chuckle, the sound feeble against the backdrop of my lingering fatigue. With each attempt to rise to my feet, my muscles protested, protesting against the strain they had endured.
"It's what we—what do you think you're doing?!" Hagakure's sudden outburst shattered the fragile calm, her voice a sharp contrast to the relative quiet that had settled over us. Concern and disbelief mingled in her tone, reflecting the tumult of emotions that churned within her as she surveyed my battered form.
"There's... not a lot... of time!" I strained, each word punctuated by a sharp intake of breath as I felt the weight of exhaustion bearing down on me, my legs buckling beneath me and sending me crashing to the ground in a haphazard heap.
"You've done enough already! You don't have to hurt yourself anymore!" Hagakure's voice rang out, filled with anguish and concern, her hands gripping my shoulders with a reassuring firmness as she knelt beside me.
"I can still..." I agonized, my voice trembling with effort and determination despite the overwhelming odds stacked against me. With a fierce resolve burning within me, I pressed onward, mustering every ounce of strength to propel myself forward, my good hand clawing at the ground as I fought to crawl forward.
"I'm serious! Please stop, Akiba!" Hagakure's plea pierced through the chaos as she held me back.
In the haze of my exhaustion, I felt the world around me blur and distort, my senses faltering as if submerged in a sea of overwhelming fatigue. Tears welled in my eyes, tracing silent paths down my cheeks, each droplet a testament to the weight of helplessness that burdened my soul.
"I can't let them..." I murmured, my voice barely audible, the words fading into the ether as consciousness slipped from my grasp, engulfing me in the embrace of unyielding darkness.
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-3rd Person POV-
Back at the central plaza as there was a huge explosion from All Might's suplex on the Nomu. However, as the billowing smoke dispersed, a startling development unfolded: Kurogiri had entered the fray, utilizing his Quirk to manipulate the situation. The Nomu's grasp had clamped onto All Might's weak spot with a lethal force, the suplex position maintained, creating a dire and precarious situation.
"Oh, c'mon. What kind of cheap move was that?" All Might grumbled, his voice tinged with frustration as he struggled to withstand the agony.
"Everyone, keep an eye on Aizawa," Izuku ordered, his tone commanding as he assessed the situation with a cool-headed determination.
"But Deku..." Uraraka's voice choked with emotion, her words laden with concern and fear. Despite her best efforts to remain composed, tears threatened to spill from her eyes, betraying the turmoil raging within her. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on her heart as she grappled with the fear of losing not only her mentor but also her friends in the unforgiving crucible of combat.
"Are you crazy?!" Mineta exclaimed as Izuku sprinted toward All Might, his determination evident in every stride.
Just as Kurogiri attempted to intercept the broccoli boy with a warp, Bakugo emerged on the scene like a bolt of fury, his explosions lighting up the battlefield. With a deafening roar, he hurled an explosive blast toward the side of Kurogiri's face, disrupting the villain's attempt to warp Izuku away.
"Get the hell outta my way, Deku!" the ash-blonde roared as he seized the metal brace on Kurogiri's neck, his movements fueled by a fierce determination. With a powerful force, he slammed the villain to the ground, a testament to his unwavering resolve to protect his comrades.
Simultaneously, an unexpected stream of ice surged forth, striking Nomu with chilling precision and encasing his right side in a frozen prison. "One of your trained thugs told me you're here because you think you can kill All Might," Todoroki's voice cut through the chaos, his tone cool and composed despite the escalating tension of the situation.
Capitalizing on the brief opening presented by the Nomu's momentary lapse in strength, All Might seized the opportunity to break free from the creature's vice-like grip. With a display of sheer determination, he wrenched himself away, his movements fueled by an unwavering resolve to turn the tide of battle.
Meanwhile, Kirishima sprang into action, launching himself forward in a bold attempt to catch Shigaraki off guard. However, the villain proved to be as elusive as ever, swiftly evading the assault with a calculated sidestep that showcased his agility and cunning.
"Damn! That was going to be cool!" Kirishima grumbled, annoyance tinging his voice as he swiftly leaped back towards Bakugo and Kurogiri.
"Guess I found your body that time, ya smoky bastard!" Bakugo declared with a creepy smile on his face as he restrained Kurogiri's movements.
"The Symbol of Peace will not be defeated by delinquents like you," Todoroki proclaimed, capturing the attention of everyone in the central plaza as their gaze turned towards Shigaraki.
"Kurogiri, how could you let this brat get the best of you? You've gotten us into a real jam here," Shigaraki said with a potent mix of frustration and disdain.
"You got careless, you dumb villain. It wasn't hard to figure you out," Bakugo taunted, his smirk dripping with contempt as he recounted his previous encounter with Kurogiri. "Only certain parts of you turn into that smoking warp gate. You used that mist as a distraction, thinking it made you safe. That's why we missed. But if you didn't have a body, you wouldn't be wearing this neck armor, right? You're not immune to well-aimed physical attacks."
Kurogiri attempted to move but halted when Bakugo ignited a small explosion on the neckpiece. "Don't move! Try anything funny, and I'll blow your ass up right now, got it?" the ash-blonde threatened, his manic expression mirroring the seriousness of his threat.
"Ooh, that doesn't sound very heroic," Kirishima commented with a small sweatdrop on the side of his head.
"They escaped uninjured and captured my two strongest men. Kids these days really are amazing; they make the League of Villains look like amateurs..." Shigaraki remarked with a tinge of begrudging admiration. "Nomu."
With a surge of immense power, Nomu erupted from the portal, shattering the ice that encased him and leaving behind his severed arm and leg. Although the dismembered limbs lay motionless on the ground, the relentless monster pressed forward, unfazed by the loss.
To the heroes' astonishment, Nomu's body initiated a remarkable process of regeneration, swiftly healing his wounds before their eyes. They watched in disbelief as his damaged muscles and torn flesh underwent a rapid transformation, gradually returning to their original state within mere seconds. The spectacle was both unsettling and awe-inspiring as the mindless creature effortlessly restored himself to peak condition.
"I thought you said his power was Shock Absorption," All Might remarked, his voice tinged with incredulity.
"I didn't say that was his only Quirk; he also has Super-Regeneration," Shigaraki clarified, his voice tinged with a sense of satisfaction as Nomu's wounds miraculously healed, erasing any trace of the recent damage. "Nomu has been modified to take you on even at 100% of your power. He's basically a highly efficient punching bag that hits back. First, we need to free our method of escape. Get him, Nomu."
Once again, Nomu obeyed without hesitation, hurtling straight toward Bakugo with relentless force. The sheer power behind his punch generated a shockwave that sent nearby students staggering backward.
"Kacchan!" Izuku's cry pierced the chaotic scene as he witnessed Kurogiri's liberation. However, upon closer inspection, Bakugo lay sprawled beside him, a fact that initially went unnoticed. "Kacchan? That's awesome; you dodged him!"
"Shut up, no, I didn't, you damn nerd," the ash-blonde calmly retorted, gritting his teeth. "That speed... I couldn't even see him coming."
"Then how'd you get over here?" Kirishima asked, his brow furrowed with curiosity.
Todoroki let out a gasp, his eyes wide with realization. "Isn't it obvious?" he asked, directing his gaze toward the collapsed wall.
As the dissipating smoke revealed the scene beyond, All Might stood before them in a defensive stance, bearing the brunt of the attack. The shattered remnants of the brick wall and the torn fabric of the hero's shirt bore testament to the sheer force of the blow.
"These are kids, and you didn't hold back?" All Might growled, his voice tinged with a mixture of anger and disbelief.
"I didn't have much choice; he was threatening my companion," Shigaraki retorted, a hint of faux justification in his tone. "Besides, these kids are no angels. That one with the wolf ears? He tried to tear me to shreds with his bare hands. What kind of 'hero' does stuff like that? You think you can get away with being as violent as you want if you say it's for the sake of others."
"What have you done to young Akiba?!" All Might yelled angrily, his voice reverberating with frustration. "Dammit!"
"Oh, he's over there," the blue-haired villain remarked casually, a nonchalant nod indicating the direction of the flood zone.
Izuku and Kirishima followed Shigaraki's gesture, their gazes sweeping toward the indicated spot. However, Izuku's eyes widened in shock as he spotted Tatsuya's battered form being dragged to the shoreline on the far side of the lake.
"But you know what, All Might? That pisses me off. Why do people get to decide that some violent acts are heroic and others are villainous? Casting judgment as to what's 'good' and what's 'evil.' Do you think you're the Symbol of Peace?" Shigaraki asked, his tone laced with a touch of indignation. "Ha, you're just another government-sponsored instrument of violence. And violence always breeds more violence. I'll make sure the world understands that once you're dead."
"You're nothing but a lunatic. Criminals like you always try and make your actions sound noble. But admit it; you're only doing this because you enjoy it. Isn't that right?" All Might retorted with a slightly accusatory tone, exposing the true motivations of the villain, who narrowed his eyes.
"We've got them outnumbered," Todoroki remarked, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.
"And Kacchan found the mist guy's weakness," Izuku added, a note of urgency creeping into his tone.
"These dudes may act really tough, but we can take 'em down now with All Might's help," Kirishima declared, his arms hardening as he assumed a fighting stance. "Let's do this."
"Don't attack!" All Might called out to the students, taking measured steps forward. "Get out of here."
"You would've been in trouble earlier if it weren't for me, remember? You need our help," Todoroki retorted icily, readying himself for another assault.
"I thank you for your assistance, but this is different," All Might said calmly, his towering figure exuding confidence as he maintained his poised stance. "It's going to be alright. Just sit back and watch a pro at work."
"But you're too hurt, and you're almost out of ti—" Izuku caught himself and got silent as All Might gave him a subtle thumbs-up.
"Nomu, Kurogiri, kill him. I'll deal with the children," Shigaraki ordered, his voice carrying a menacing edge as he directed his minions to engage in battle.
https://youtu.be/FCQj8OeRJzg
"I'm afraid that I barely have a minute left in this form. My power's declining faster than I thought it would," All Might thought, the weight of his diminishing strength palpable as he clenched his fist, a gesture of determination amidst his inner turmoil.
"Let's clear this level and go home," Shigaraki declared with a sinister resolve, his voice cutting through the tense atmosphere as he charged towards the students.
"Even so, I have to stop these villains," All Might thought, steeling himself for the impending battle, his resolve unshaken despite the fleeting nature of his remaining power.
"Heads up, we're fightin' after all!" Kirishima exclaimed, his voice brimming with determination as he and the others adopted defensive stances, ready to confront the incoming threat head-on.
"Because I am..." The power within All Might coalesced, a radiant aura enveloping his form as he summoned the last reserves of his strength, a beacon of hope and justice amidst the chaos. "... the world's Symbol of Peace and Justice!"
All Might surged forward with unwavering determination, his focus set squarely on Shigaraki, but before he could reach his target, Nomu intercepted him with startling speed. Their clash sent shockwaves reverberating throughout the plaza, hurling bystanders away from the epicenter of their collision.
"Weren't you listening? One of his powers is Shock Absorption," Shigaraki remarked coolly as he landed gracefully on his feet, his gaze fixed intently on the unfolding battle.
"Yeah, what about it?" All Might responded defiantly, his resolve unyielding as he engaged Nomu in a fierce exchange of blows. Each collision between the two titans sent shockwaves rippling outward, keeping everyone else at bay.
"He's gonna fight this guy head-on?" Izuku exclaimed incredulously, his voice tinged with disbelief as he struggled to maintain his balance amidst the chaos unfolding before him.
"Whoa, they're... so fast!" Kirishima exclaimed, his muscles tensing as he struggled to maintain his footing against the powerful shockwaves rippling through the plaza.
"I can't get near them!" Kurogiri said, his body slid back to be next to Shigaraki.
"He said your Quirk was only shock absorption, not nullification. That means there's a limit to what you can take, right?" All Might reasoned, his voice resolute as he continued to exchange blows with Nomu. "So, you were made to fight me, big guy. If you can really withstand me firing at 100% of my power, then I'll have to go beyond that and FORCE YOU TO SURRENDER!" His declaration echoed across the battlefield, his determination driving him to push the monstrous opponent back with all his might.
As the battle intensified, All Might unleashed a relentless barrage of attacks, each strike delivered with a speed and ferocity that seemed to defy the laws of physics. With every punch, he surged forward, his movements a blur of motion as he aimed to overwhelm the Nomu's formidable defenses. The air crackled with the force of his blows, each one punctuated by a resounding impact that echoed across the battlefield.
The Nomu, caught off guard by the sheer intensity of All Might's assault, struggled to keep pace. Its body strained against the relentless onslaught, but the hero's relentless determination proved too much to withstand. Despite the Nomu's supposed resilience, cracks began to form in its defenses, each strike chipping away at its seemingly impenetrable offenses.
With each successive blow, All Might's attacks grew fiercer, fueled by an unyielding resolve to overcome his adversary. The air hummed with the raw power of his strikes, each one a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Symbol of Peace. And then, with a final, thunderous punch, he delivered a blow that sent the Nomu hurtling backward, the force of the impact uprooting trees and sending debris scattering in all directions.
"A real hero..." All Might began, his voice resolute as he met Nomu mid-air, "... will always find a way for justice to be served!" He jumped after Nomu and threw him straight into the ground.
"Now for a lesson," All Might declared upon landing, his eyes blazing with righteous fury as Nomu rebounded from the impact. "You may have heard these words before, but I'll teach you what they really mean." With a surge of power, he charged up for one final strike.
"Go beyond! PLUS ULTRA!!" His roar echoed across the battlefield as he unleashed a devastating blow, the sheer force of his punch propelling Nomu through the air with unparalleled speed. The monstrous figure hurtled skyward, crashing through the dome above them, shattering it into countless fragments as it soared beyond the clouds, disappearing from sight in a spectacular display of power and determination.
(A/N: end OST)
With Nomu's expulsion from the battlefield, the League of Villains faced an undeniable truth: their most formidable asset had been vanquished, leaving their fate hanging in the balance. The resounding defeat of their trump card marked a pivotal moment in the confrontation, signaling a turning point in the conflict. As the dust settled and the echoes of battle faded, the heroes stood firm, their resolve unwavering in the face of adversity. The League of Villains, now stripped of their greatest weapon, found themselves on the precipice of defeat, their hopes dwindling with each passing moment.
"Time's up. Gotta end this fast," All Might thought, wisps of steam emanating from his straining physique as he pivoted his focus towards Shigaraki and Kurogiri. "You've been bested, villains. Surrender; we all want to get this over with quickly."
"What's going on here? He's just as strong as he's always been. Don't tell me I was lied to," Shigaraki hissed, agitation etched into his features, his fingers anxiously tracing his neck in a nervous tic.
"What's wrong, not attacking me?" All Might goaded with a smirk. "Didn't you say you were going to clear this level earlier? Well, come and get me, if you dare," he continued, causing Shigaraki to reluctantly back away, a flicker of fear in his eyes.
"Man, this is... intense," Bakugo remarked, his voice a testament to the palpable intensity of the moment.
"As I expected, there's no reason for us to fight now. He'll handle this," Todoroki said conclusively, his tone carrying a note of finality as he assessed the situation, deeming the battle all but resolved.
Kirishima turned toward Izuku. "Come on, Midoriya, we should regroup with the other guys. The last thing we wanna do is get taken hostage or get in his way."
Izuku was numb to Kirishima's words. Since he was All Might's successor in power and title, he was the only one who understood the gravity of the current situation. All Might's power prevented him from fulfilling his duties as a hero for more than three hours. Plus, his fight with Nomu weakened him to the point of losing his muscly form no matter what.
"I can't keep this up much longer. I just have to stall until they get here," All Might thought, forcing a smile on his face. "What, are you scared?"
"If only Nomu was here... he'd rush you right now, pound you to the ground without giving it a second thought," Shigaraki griped, his frustration mingling with a hint of panic as he vigorously scratched his neck.
"Tomura Shigaraki! Please, do not fret. Look at him; he has definitely weakened. Nomu's attacks were successful," Kurogiri interjected, seeking to quell his partner-in-crime's anxiety as he observed All Might's diminished state. "He's on his own. The children appear to be frozen in fear, and our underlings are recovering. We likely still have a few minutes before their reinforcements arrive. If you and I work together, we can kill All Might!"
"Yeah. Yeah, you're right... This is it... We have no choice; we have to do it now. I mean, the big end boss is right here," Shigaraki acknowledged grimly, his gaze fixed on All Might with unwavering determination.
Bakugo, Kirishima, and Todoroki noticed the minions stirring, and they assumed defensive positions. "I think All Might can hold his own against those two main guys," Kirishima stated, his voice determined as he hardened his arms, preparing for combat. "Let's make sure these dudes don't hurt anybody else."
"Will you be joining us?" Todoroki asked Izuku, but his question was ignored as the broccoli boy remained lost in thought, his mind consumed by All Might's predicament.
"I'm the only one who knows what's happening. There's no way he can move faster than the mist guy now. He has to have gone past his limit already; there's no real question about that. If these villains toy with him... he's done," Izuku thought, his fist clenching with a blend of concern and resolve.
Growing impatient, Shigaraki charged towards All Might with Kurogiri behind him. "Consider this revenge for what you did to Nomu!"
All Might stood resolute, struggling to maintain his muscular form. However, before Shigaraki could close the distance, Izuku suddenly appeared, poised to intercept him, his intent clear as he prepared to strike at Kurogiri's vulnerable point. With determination etched on his face, the broccoli boy propelled himself forward, utilizing the power of his Quirk to enhance his leap. "Get away from All Might!" he shouted, his arm poised to deliver a blow.
"I won't fall for that again!" Kurogiri proclaimed, conjuring a swirling portal before Izuku, through which Shigaraki's hand ominously extended.
Izuku felt a sense of dread as he found himself suspended, his movements restrained within the ethereal grasp of Kurogiri's Quirk. Helpless and immobilized, he could do naught but watch in horror as Shigaraki's hand loomed ever closer, its ominous presence threatening to bring about untold calamity upon the hapless green-haired hero. The echoes of Shigaraki's sinister laughter reverberated through the air, casting a chilling shadow over the dire predicament of our valiant broccoli boy...
Just as Shigaraki's hand was mere inches away from making contact with Izuku's face, a sudden gunshot reverberated through the USJ, shattering the tense atmosphere. The bullet's impact struck with precision, causing Shigaraki's hand to recoil violently, blood spraying in its wake. With a collective sigh of relief, Izuku found himself spared from imminent danger, his feet landing solidly on the ground, granting him a reprieve and the opportunity to face another day.
"I've fulfilled my duty, and I've brought reinforcements!" Iida's voice rang out, echoing across the battleground as he stood firmly beside the formidable assembly of heroes he had rallied to their aid.
A group of villains started running up the stairs to fight back, but Present Mic unleashed a powerful soundwave to repel them. As the villains reeled in pain from the noise, Ectoplasm spat out a couple of clones to catch the villains by surprise. With the villains momentarily stunned, the assembled heroes sprang into action, dividing their efforts to neutralize the remaining threats.
"Aw, man. The pros are here. It's game over for real. Let's go home and try this when we can—" Shigaraki's words were abruptly cut off as Snipe's precise shots found their mark, piercing his other arm and legs.
The searing pain rendered him immobile, his body contorting in agony upon the unforgiving ground. Without hesitation, Kurogiri swiftly encased his fallen leader within a protective shroud, shielding Shigaraki from the barrage of incoming fire. In a frantic attempt to evade capture, Kurogiri sought to warp himself and Shigaraki to safety, only to be met with a swift counter from Thirteen. The hero unleashed her Quirk, drawing in the villain's mist with a determined effort to ensnare them. Sero valiantly held Thirteen aloft, creating a tense clash of powers amidst the chaotic scene.
"I may have failed to kill you this time, but your days are numbered. Symbol of Peace, I am going to kill you!" Shigaraki hissed, his voice dripping with venom before vanishing entirely from sight.
In the aftermath of the harrowing ordeal, All Might's resilient presence stood as a testament to the heroes' resolve, much to the chagrin of the defeated villains. With Shigaraki's sudden disappearance, a semblance of tranquility began to settle over the once tumultuous grounds of the USJ, as the faculty diligently tended to the injured students, ushering in a semblance of order amid the chaos.
Despite the anguish of his injuries, Izuku summoned the last vestiges of his strength, pushing through the pain to raise his upper body from the ground. "I couldn't do it. I wasn't able to help you or Tatsuya..." he muttered, his voice trembling with frustration and self-blame as he addressed All Might, his clenched fist bearing witness to his inner turmoil.
"That's absolutely not true," All Might countered, his voice resolute as the dissipating smoke unveiled his unique transformation – one half of his body remained muscular while the other half returned to its true state. "You bought me a few vital seconds. If not for that, I'd be dead now. Young Midoriya, you've saved me once again."
"But Tatsuya—" Izuku began, his voice laden with concern.
"Would be proud of you for what you've done. As am I," All Might interjected, his tone gentle yet resolute.
"Thank you... All Might," Izuku whimpered with a tearful smile gracing his face, his voice filled with relief and gratitude. "I'm just... so glad that you're okay!"
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"If all the pro teachers are gathered here, it must mean the rest of the school's safe," Todoroki observed, a hand casually resting on the back of his neck. "The villains attacked this facility, but not the rest of the campus."
"Midoriya, hey!" Kirishima shouted, rushing over to his fallen friend. "Are you okay?"
"Ah, Kirishima. I'm glad to see that he's looking out for his friend. Oh crap, wait! If he comes over here, he's going to learn my secret; not good!" All Might thought in a panic as he was entirely in his proper form.
"Kirishima, wait—" Izuku began to protest, attempting to keep his friend at bay, but before he could, a sturdy cement wall rose in front of Kirishima, erected by the pro hero Cementoss.
Cementoss appeared as a humanoid block of cement with seemingly closed, black eyes and gray hair tied into a short ponytail. His body exhibited an evenly blocky shape all around. His hero costume comprised a sleeveless brown suit adorned with yellow stripes, paired with shorts and an elongated collar. Additionally, he wore gray shoes with yellow soles.
"For your safety, please stay back, young man," Cementoss instructed Kirishima, his voice firm yet reassuring. "Join your classmates at the front gate. Leave the injured to us; we'll take care of them."
"Oh, gotcha. I'm on it!" Kirishima ran towards Todoroki and Bakugo to get them to the entrance, much to Izuku and All Might's relief.
"Thanks for that. You saved my butt, Cementoss," All Might expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the hero's timely intervention.
Cementoss nodded in acknowledgment, a genuine smile crossing his blocky features. "My pleasure; I'm actually a big fan of yours," he admitted openly, his admiration for All Might evident. "We should sneak you out of here and get you both to the nurse's office. That could've been much worse."
"I had to act recklessly, or else I'd be dead now," All Might explained, wiping some blood off his cheek. "Just goes to show how strong those villains were."
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A shimmering portal materialized within the desolate confines of an abandoned bar, its ethereal glow casting eerie shadows on the cracked walls and dusty floor. From the depths emerged the disheveled form of Shigaraki. His body bore the unmistakable marks of a fierce battle, his tattered clothes clinging to him, stained with blood and dirt. With a pained grimace etched upon his face, he surveyed his surroundings, a mix of determination and malice burning in his eyes.
"Ow... Shot in both arms and legs, all those underlings were wiped out; even Nomu was beaten... We failed. Those kids were so strong, and the Symbol of Peace wasn't weakened at all. You were wrong, Master. So wrong!" Shigaraki lamented, his voice echoing in the dimly lit room as he addressed a monitor that displayed only the words "Sound Only."
"No, I wasn't. We just weren't prepared as we should've been," the voice on the other end responded, its tone steady and composed, emanating from the unseen figure behind the screen.
"I agree. We underestimated them. Thankfully, we failed under that cheap 'League of Villains' name and not our own," another voice chimed in, its owner unseen but sharing in the sense of relief that permeated the conversation. "And what about the creature the Master and I created? Where is Nomu?"
"Yes, why is he not with you?" the first voice inquired, the concern palpable even through the audio connection.
"He was blown away..." Kurogiri replied dryly, his voice carrying a hint of frustration. "It was All Might's doing. Without coordinates to his precise location, I couldn't use my warp to bring him with us. We didn't have any time to search for him."
"This is a travesty! And after all we did to make him as powerful as All Might," the second voice ranted, its tone filled with disappointment and vexation.
"Well, I suppose it can't be helped, unfortunately," the first voice, belonging to Shigaraki's master, remarked with resignation.
"Power... That reminds me. There were two kids that got in the way... The first one fought me and even held Nomu back for some time. He had wolf-like features but fought like a beast," Shigaraki recounted, his voice tinged with a mixture of reminiscence and disdain. "The other kid tried to protect All Might. He was just as fast as him."
"If they hadn't gotten in our way, we might have killed the Symbol of Peace," he seethed, his fingers digging into the wooden floor as he struggled to control his anger. "Those brats!"
"Naturally, you're upset, but this was not a futile mission; we learned many things. Gather the villainous elite and take all the time you need. I must remain hidden in the shadows, which is why I need you to be my face, your own symbol," Shigaraki's master said, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "Next time, Tomura Shigaraki, you will show the world that it should be afraid of you."
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Back at the USJ, the students and the injured underwent thorough medical evaluations before being evacuated from the premises. The entrance bustled with activity as a fleet of at least ten buses awaited to transport the captured underlings, accompanied by a convoy of nine police cars to ensure their secure transfer. Amidst the organized chaos, a diligent police detective meticulously tallied the students, ensuring none were left behind.
"...16, 17, 18. Everyone appears to be unharmed, except for the two boys," the detective reported, concluding his count of the class.
"Ojiro." Hagakure laid her hand on his shoulder to get his attention. "I heard you were a really good fighter. I had no idea you were so strong!"
"Akiba and I split up after the villains showed up. I survived using hit-and-run tactics, and he saved my butt once again," Ojiro recounted with a somber tone. "So, where did you end up fighting, Hagakure?"
"The landslide zone!" she replied, gesturing towards Todoroki. "You wouldn't believe how strong Todoroki was. He's amazing!"
"You don't say. Well, I'm just glad you didn't get hurt," Ojiro remarked, his voice tinged with genuine concern.
Unbeknownst to Hagakure and Ojiro, Todoroki quietly mulled over their conversation, his thoughts troubled. "I didn't even know she was there. I could've frozen her," he pondered, the weight of his realization sinking in.
Meanwhile, amidst the bustling aftermath of the battle, Aoyama struck a dramatic pose, seeking attention from Kirishima, Kaminari, and Tokoyami. "Aren't you wondering about moi? Where was my sparkling light?" he asked theatrically, only to be met with indifference as the trio remained engrossed in their own discussion.
"Interesting. The people you fought were also low-level thugs," Tokoyami noted, his voice carrying a tone of contemplation.
"Yeah, they messed with the wrong kids, huh?" Kirishima remarked with a confident grin, his fist meeting his open palm with a resolute smack.
With an air of theatrical flair, Aoyama struck yet another dramatic pose, seeking acknowledgment from Shoji, Sero, and Sato. "Did you miss me?" he inquired, his tone dripping with playful melodrama, only to be met with indifference once more.
"So All Might put that hole in the dome after all; I figured," Sero remarked, his tone tinged with a hint of admiration for the hero's power.
"That took some hardcore power," Sato commented, his voice filled with awe at the display of power witnessed.
"Yeah, it was crazy," Shoji agreed, his tone reflective as he processed the magnitude of the event.
"Where do you think I was?" Aoyama inquired, his hand gently alighting on Tsu's shoulder, seeking her attention amidst the post-battle chatter.
"Um, where?" Tsu asked.
"It's a secret," Aoyama replied with a flourish, striking yet another of his trademark dramatic poses, adding to the enigmatic allure of his statement.
The detective's authoritative voice cut through the conversation, drawing the students' focus. "Let's go ahead and get these students back to the main campus," he declared, his words commanding attention. "They've been through a lot, so we don't need to question them immediately."
Concerned for their teacher, Tsu hopped over to the detective. "Detective, what about Mr. Aizawa?" she inquired, her voice laced with worry for their absent instructor.
"'The bones in his arms are splintered, and he's got facial fracturing. Fortunately, there doesn't seem to be any serious brain damage, but his orbital floor has been almost completely destroyed. We don't know if his eyesight will be impaired once he's healed.' That is what he said," the detective relayed the information while holding up a phone.
Tsu's response was a somber "Ribbit," mirrored by the concerned expressions of most of the class as they absorbed the severity of their teacher's injuries.
"Sir, what about Thirteen?" Ashido asked with great concern.
"There's no need to worry there. Despite some pretty bad lacerations to the back, Thirteen is gonna pull through, good as new," the detective assured, prompting a collective sigh of relief from the class. "All Might is also without any serious injuries. He's in the nurse's office right now. Recovery Girl's power should be all the treatment he needs."
"What about Deku?!" Uraraka exclaimed with worry.
"How are Midoriya and Akiba?" Iida asked, his demeanor reflecting a mixture of apprehension and hope.
"Midori- ah, Recovery Girl is taking care of him, too. He's fine," the detective reassured, his words providing a measure of relief to the anxious group.
"Thank goodness," Uraraka breathed a sigh of relief, her tension visibly easing.
"And Akiba...?" Kirishima trailed off hesitantly, already fearing what the detective would say.
Once radiant and full of confidence, the detective's smile abruptly dissolved into a somber frown, casting a shadow over his features. The sudden transformation did not go unnoticed, causing a ripple of unease to sweep through the area. An atmosphere of trepidation settled upon them as they anxiously contemplated the implications of that subtle shift in the detective's demeanor, fearing the worst for their class representative.
"He was rushed to the hospital along with your teachers. From what I was told, his left arm and four ribs were broken, while the rest of his body had multiple fractures. Those alone would be easy to treat, but he also had internal bleeding around his abdomen. So, his condition is delicate at the moment," the detective explained, his words laden with a weight that hung heavily in the air, eliciting a collective sense of devastation from the students.
"No..." Hagakure's voice wavered, barely above a whisper, tears pooling in her eyes as she covered her quivering lips with a trembling hand. Beside her, Ojiro's clenched jaw betrayed his inner turmoil, his frustration palpable as he struggled to process the grim reality.
"He's going to be okay, right?" Tsu's voice trembled with uncertainty, a thread of hope woven into her words as she sought reassurance in the face of adversity.
"He's going to be fine," the detective assured them, a gentle smile gracing his lips once again, a comforting presence amid their worries. Gradually, the class began to relax, a collective sigh of relief escaping as the weight of anxiety lifted from their shoulders, buoyed by the promise of their friend's recovery. "Now, let's get you back to class."
"Okay..." the students murmured in response, their voices devoid of emotion, each clinging to a glimmer of hope until they could hear the confirmation of their friend's well-being.
"Sansa," the detective addressed an officer with the distinctive head of a cat, pivoting his attention towards him. "I still have some matters to attend to in the nurse's office. I'll entrust this to you, alright?"
"Yes, sir!" the officer affirmed crisply, ready to carry out his instructions.
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After what seemed like an eternity, the remaining students returned to the bustling main campus. Concern etched across their faces, Hagakure and Uraraka exchanged worried glances, each consumed by thoughts of their injured friends. The weight of unease settled upon them as they navigated the familiar surroundings, their footsteps heavy with apprehension.
Meanwhile, within the confines of the nurse's office, Izuku and All Might sought solace in the presence of Recovery Girl. The air in the room was thick with a mix of anxiety and anticipation, a tension that seemed to hang heavily around them.
"Well, I guess I won't scold you for him being back here since it wasn't your fault," Recovery Girl sighed, standing beside All Might's bed with a sympathetic expression.
"I can't be sure yet, but I think I shortened my time limit again with that fight," All Might confessed solemnly. "I hope I can at least still hold the form for an hour."
"I'm so sorry," Izuku apologized, his voice heavy with remorse.
"Well, no use worrying," All Might remarked, shifting his position to sit up in the bed, his expression stoic despite the discomfort. "These things happen."
As the room descended into silence, the door slid open, revealing the detective from earlier. "Pardon the interruption," he announced as he entered. "It's been a while, All Might."
"What the hell?" All Might exclaimed, his surprise evident as he spat a bit of blood. "I didn't know that you were investigating."
"Whoa, All Might!" Izuku exclaimed, quickly sitting up with a touch of panic in his voice. "It's okay he's seeing you like this?"
"Oh, yeah, it's fine. This guy's all right," All Might reassured, offering a comforting smile. "Naomasa Tsukauchi, my best friend on the police force. He's legit; I trust him."
"That's quite an introduction," the detective, now known as Tsukauchi, commented as he walked up to All Might. "Sorry to cut to the chase, but we could really use some information you might have—"
"Hold on! Before all that, tell me all the students are okay. And Eraser Head, Thirteen, and Young Akiba," All Might urgently interjected, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice.
"Not counting Akiba and this boy, the only student injuries were scrapes, and both teachers are in stable condition right now. However, Akiba's situation is more delicate," Tsukauchi explained.
"I see..." All Might responded, a tinge of disappointment and shame evident in his tone as he reflected on his poor student's condition.
"Tatsuya..." Izuku thought, his gaze falling to his balled fists as concern weighed heavily on his mind.
"If you heroes hadn't risked your lives, the students would never have made it. You three saved that entire class of kids today," Tsukauchi acknowledged, his words carrying a weight of gratitude and admiration for their heroic efforts.
"You're not seeing the whole picture, Tsukauchi," All Might interjected, his voice carrying a sense of urgency as he grabbed his friend's attention. "Those students also risked their lives; they fought as hard as us. I don't think there's ever been a group of first-years who experienced a real fight like this so early in their training. They not only survived but also learned what it means to be a pro. Those villains made a mistake attacking them. This class is strong; they're filled with courage and drive. Mark my words; they will become great heroes."
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A/N: I hope you beautiful readers enjoyed the chapter! Feel free to leave ideas, comments, feedback, etc., in the comments. Any constructive comments are welcome and greatly appreciated. Leave a vote as well while you're at it.
Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you in the next chapter.
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