-Tatsuya's POV-

My return to consciousness was gradual; the world around me was initially a blur of unfamiliar shapes and muted colors. The sharp scent of antiseptic stung my nostrils, and the distant hum of machinery echoed in my ears. Disorientation clouded my thoughts as I tried to piece together my surroundings. My shoulder throbbed with pain as awareness slowly seeped in, and I recognized the sterile atmosphere of a hospital room as my gaze shifted to the bandaged wound on my shoulder.

My thoughts were interrupted by a clicking sound as the door swung open. A doctor entered, his white coat billowing slightly with each step. The fluorescent lights above glinted off his glasses, casting a sharp glimmer in his eyes as he took notice of my conscious state.

"I see you're awake," he said, conveying professional reassurance. His gaze flickered toward the IV drip by the bedside, his gloved hands moving with practiced precision. A sense of déjà vu washed over me, the scene feeling strangely familiar, like a disjointed dream that refused to fade. "Honestly, you woke up much sooner than I thought."

"How long have I been out?" I managed to croak, curiosity mingling with the raspiness in my voice.

"Just a little over twelve hours," he replied, his pen scratching across a clipboard at the foot of the bed. His tone was measured, a blend of clinical detachment and genuine concern. "You were very lucky we could get the antivenom in time, my boy." The weight of his words settled in, the gravity of the situation sinking in as I tried to piece together the events that led me to this hospital bed.

"Antivenom..." My voice trailed off, uncertainty clawing at my consciousness like a persistent nightmare, leaving me in a state of disoriented bewilderment. "Wait, what happened at the scene? Where am I, exactly?"

"Easy there, sir," the doctor said, his voice calm and soothing as he adjusted the stethoscope around his neck. His eyes, framed by glasses, held a gentle reassurance as he continued, "You're safe now. You're in the hospital. Can you recall what happened?"

I took another deep breath to steady my racing thoughts amidst the sterile hospital scent permeating the room. The memories began to trickle back like pieces of a fragmented puzzle slowly assembling in my mind. "Mirko and I were on a mission in Nerima-Ku," I started, my words cautious as I navigated the fog of recollection. "There was a disturbing pattern of killings every few weeks, and we tracked down the suspects."

"You mentioned 'suspects,' plural. There was more than one?" The doctor's voice held an intrigued note, his curiosity piqued.

"We initially thought it was one person responsible for the killings," I explained, the memory of our mission unfolding before my eyes. My voice quivered with distress and determination as I delved into the details. "However, it turned out there were two culprits involved. I managed to subdue the one with a scorpion Quirk, while Mirko dealt with the individual possessing a snake Quirk. But she might've incapacitated him too early or not quite effectively, as he regained consciousness and made a move to attack one of the officers." A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I continued, "The next thing I remember is running towards them, and then... everything is just a chaotic blur. And I mean that quite literally."

The doctor's gaze bore into me, his eyes filled with concern. "Do you recall getting bit?" he asked, his tone gentle yet firm.

I hesitated for a moment, the memory of the nasty bite sending a shiver down my spine. "Yes," I replied after what felt like an eternity, my voice low and heavy with the weight of the experience. The sensation of fangs sinking into my flesh was still too fresh; the pain etched vividly in my mind.

The doctor offered a reassuring nod, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I see. As for what happened afterward, I don't know all the details myself, but maybe Mirko could explain it to you," he said, his voice soothingly as he turned towards the door, his footsteps almost soundless against the floor.

"Wait, she's here?" I asked, my eyes widening in slight surprise. The mere idea of Mirko being here throughout the night brought forth a mix of gratitude and curiosity.

The doctor turned back, a warm expression in his eyes. "Yes, she stayed the entire night to make sure you recovered," he said, his voice filled with a soft sincerity before finally stepping out of the room.

I slowly looked down at my hands, taking in the doctor's words and the mental recap of last night's events. While the thrill of taking action and rescuing people lingered, a simmering discontent brewed within me. The memory of being bitten and ensnared in Reji's coils nagged at my thoughts. Sure, those things happened because innocent people would've been harmed if I didn't put myself in front of them, but the lingering frustration remained unchanged. Amidst the internal turmoil, a single thought echoed: "I could've done better."

The sound of the door opening broke my train of thought.

"Well, look who decided to come back to the land of the living!" Mirko's voice cut through the room, drawing my attention to the doorway. "The nurses were starting to place bets on whether you'd set a record for the longest nap. You know, your snoring has become the stuff of legends around here." Her sly grin carried a hint of amusement as she surveyed the room, her eyes landing on me with a mischievous glint.

"Hey, Mirko." A slight, wry grin formed on my lips as I acknowledged her.

"I could chew you out for an eternity," Mirko started but spoke up again before I could apologize. "But save it for later because you've got a visitor."

We turned to the door, and there stood a tall, sturdy man with the head of a beagle. His suit hinted at his significance; he wasn't just any ordinary visitor. "This is Kenji Tsuragamae, the chief of police."

"Nice to meet you, sir," I said respectfully, moving to give him a formal greeting.

"No, please, stay seated, woof," he replied.

"Woof?" I almost gave him a confused look.

"So, you're the U.A. student who brought down our criminals, huh?"

"I didn't do it alone," I said honestly, nodding toward Mirko. "She took out Reji while I took down Saito."

"But you still fought them both, yes?"

"Yes," I replied, feeling uncertain about where he was going with this conversation. More on why he came all this way to talk to me.

"Saito has some serious injuries on his head: lacerations and a slight concussion from all the damage. Right now, he's in the hospital under strict guard, woof," Tsuragamae explained.

"Here's a lesson you should have already learned. When Quirks became the norm, the police force sought to maintain the status quo. They decided we wouldn't use Quirks as weapons. That's when the heroes came in. They could do what we couldn't if they were licensed, of course, woof."

"It would be impossible for the police to condone the use of deadly Quirks. After all, we're here to stop such harm from being done," he continued. "The only reason pros can use their powers now is because of the strict code of ethics that 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 them or the Hero Killer, you didn't have the authority to harm the villain, even if your supervisor approved using your Quirk."

"That means you and Mirko should receive harsh punishments for this gross abuse of your powers."

Anger took on the rabbit heroine's features, her fierce expression mirroring the storm brewing within. Yet, she held back from responding to the last part, leaving an unusual silence between us. As I pondered this, my attention shifted, not dwelling on her unspoken words but on the sheer absurdity of the statement.

"Now, wait a minute. If I hadn't stepped in, those people would've been killed and eaten by those cannibals. No one else even realized that they were in that alleyway," I pointed out with a clear annoyance, my frustration evident as I swept the blanket off and stood up. "Are you implying that I should've just stood by and watched people die?"

Tsuragamae's response was swift, challenging my stance. "So it's okay to break the law as long as it goes your way?"

"Last time I checked, it's a hero's job to save people," I retorted, my anger rising a few more notches. "Are they supposed to forsake the people they chose to protect because of some half-baked laws!?"

"This is why you're not a full-fledged pro yet," Tsuragamae said, disappointment in his tone as he closed his eyes. "It's obvious U.A. and Mirko haven't been teaching you well enough. What a shame."

I felt my ears bolt upward, and indignation ruffled through my core. The insult thrown towards the heroes I admired was something I would not tolerate. Eccentric they might be, but they were the most badass people I've known. And even before that, Midnight was the one who helped me out of that hell seven years ago. Any insults hurled at her won't go unpunished.

"Let's get one thing straight—I don't give a damn about what you think of me or what some law dictates," I asserted in a low, ominous tone that reverberated in the room. "But anyone who disrespects my heroes won't escape unscathed."

A menacing growl rumbled from deep within my throat, resonating with an unspoken threat. I fixed a predatory glare on Tsuragamae, a gaze that bore into his soul, daring him to challenge the sanctity of the heroes I held in the highest regard.

The air in the room seemed to thicken as an aura of intensity surrounded me, an unyielding determination to defend the honor of those who had dedicated their lives to protecting others. Tsuragamae recoiled, taken aback by my tone.

"Yo, chill out, Akiba! Ease up a bit and hear the guy out," Mirko urged, attempting to pacify me. However, I responded with a low, warning snarl, signaling her to back off.

A tense stillness lingered in the room, a palpable silence that spoke volumes about the weight of the confrontation. The air seemed charged with uncertainty, as if everyone present was holding their breath, waiting to see how the situation would unfold. No one dared to make a move; each person was acutely aware of the gravity of the moment.

After a prolonged pause, Tsuragamae took a moment to compose himself, a subtle straightening of his posture that signaled his readiness to resume speaking. The air in the room felt heavy with anticipation, and the collective gaze of everyone present bore into the chief of police.

"What I've stated reflects the official position of the police department. However, any punitive measures would only be deemed necessary if this were to become public knowledge. In such a scenario, you might garner applause from citizens far and wide, but you wouldn't escape reprimand. On the flip side, we could attribute the success to Mirko. Saito's injuries would support this narrative, and we could conveniently omit your involvement, woof. Regarding the lacerations, we could spin a tale about him getting scratched by some glass in the trash," Tsuragamae clarified.

"Fortunately, there were few witnesses. This might be the last you hear about any repercussions. It would mean you remain unknown, though. You'd receive no acclaim beyond the people you directly saved. The choice is yours, but personally, I know where I stand," he continued, giving me a thumbs-up. "I don't want to derail any promising young careers over a mistake like this."

"Either way, I'll need to take responsibility for being negligent as your supervisor," Mirko said with a disappointed sigh.

"I know it's not fair. You won't enjoy any of the fame and praise you probably would've received otherwise," Tsuragamae went on as I said nothing, keeping my gaze on him. "But allow me, as the chief of police, to express my gratitude," he concluded, lowering himself into a bow. "Additionally, I apologize if my remarks have offended you in any way. Please understand that my comments toward you were not intended to insult you or the pro heroes you are associated with."

I took a moment to absorb his words, detecting their sincerity. I already knew my answer to this dilemma as I took a deep breath to compose myself. "You could've started with that," I remarked.

"You're not the first to say that today," Tsuragamae said with a chuckle.

I raised a confused eyebrow, but I didn't dwell on it. "We can go with that story; I don't care about fame and all that crap. And also..." I turned to Mirko, offering a bow. "I'm sorry for getting you in trouble, Mirko. I should've tried contacting you when I confirmed the suspects."

The rabbit heroine let out an exasperated sigh and threw a light punch at my good shoulder. "Yeah, yeah, you should've stuck with me. Next time, don't run off on your own like some reckless idiot, got it?"

I couldn't help but crack a wry grin at her no-nonsense attitude. "Understood, Mirko. I'll try to keep my recklessness in check next time."

---------------------------------------------------------

-3rd Person POV-

Before Tatsuya knew it, he returned to U.A. High sometime after getting discharged from the hospital as the internships concluded. He thought that healing from snake venom would take a couple of weeks, but it took several days, thanks to the products of medical science in the superhuman society.

Almost everyone in the classroom had a story to tell about their experience. The wolf boy sat on his desk, looking rather thoughtful about all that happened, but his thoughts were interrupted by the vigorous laughter of Kirishima and Sero.

"HOLY CRAP! WHAT THE HECK, BAKUGO?"

Tatsuya turned towards the source of an overwhelming amount of anger, only to cover his mouth to stifle his laughter at the unexpected sight. Standing at the door was Bakugo, his usually spiky hair neatly combed into a side part.

"Stop laughing! My hair's gotten used to this, and I can't get it back the right way," Bakugo defended, his body trembling with anger. "Did you not hear me? I'll kill you both."

"I'd like to see you try, pretty boy," Sero mocked, prompting Kirishima and Tatsuya to laugh even harder.

"WHAT'D YOU CALL ME?!" Bakugo exclaimed, and, in an instant, his hair puffed out into the familiar spikiness everyone knew, a physical embodiment of his explosive personality.

"There it goes!"

"Awesome! You actually faced real villains? I'm super jealous!" Ashido said, conversing with Jiro as the latter recounted her experience with Death Arms.

"Well, I didn't fight. All I did was help people evacuate and provide logistical support," Jiro explained, twiddling one of her earphone jacks.

"But still sounds like so much fun!"

"I spent basically the whole time training and cleaning the ship deck. But there was this one day when we caught a bunch of drug smugglers," Tsu spoke up, putting a finger to her chin in a thoughtful gesture.

"Okay, that's cool!" Ashido and Jiro said in awe.

"What about you, Ochaco? How was your week?" Tsu asked as the three turned to see the gravity girl adopting a battle stance, exuding the same determined aura as before the festival.

"I'd say that it was very enlightening," Uraraka simply replied.

"I think she found her fighting spirit," Tsu pointed out to Ashido and Jiro as Uraraka threw punches in front of her, not aiming for anyone in particular.

"Yeah, that battle hero must've been something else," Jiro added.

"After one week, she's like a totally different person," Kaminari said, observing the transformation in Uraraka's demeanor.

"Different? Don't be fooled, Kaminari," Mineta said in a knowing tone before looking away and biting his nails. "All women are demons at heart; they just hide their true personalities behind pretty faces."

"What the heck did Mt. Lady do to you?" Kaminari asked, his concern evident in his voice.

"Didn't go as you thought it would, huh, Mineta?" Tatsuya mentally laughed at the grape boy's lack of expected experience.

"Hey, Akiba!" The wolf boy turned to see Hagakure sitting at her desk. "How was your internship?"

"Well, it was interesting. Spending time with Mirko will do that to you, I suppose. I spent the time training and patrolling, though I did get to fight some villains occasionally. That is if I ever caught up with her before she defeated them," Tatsuya humbly replied, leaving out that he was hospitalized.

"Ooh, so awesome!" Hagakure said with boundless enthusiasm, her invisible face lighting up with excitement. "I trained a lot with tactical espionage, and they got me to work harder using my Quirk to my advantage. I didn't get a lot of experience on the field, but it was still so much fun!"

"I'm glad you didn't get hurt," the wolf boy said with a slight, approving grin. His eyes reflected a sense of satisfaction, pleased that Hagakure was receiving the training she needed.

"Heh, thanks," the invisible girl said before gaining a look of realization. "Oh, speaking of which... Akiba, I heard you—"

"Oh, yeah! The Hero Killer!" The duo turned to Sero, who was pointing at Izuku, Iida, and Todoroki while being held by the collar of his jacket by Bakugo.

"Glad you guys made it back alive. Seriously," Kirishima added from Bakugo's other side, also held by the collar.

"I worried about you, too," Yaoyorozu chimed in, her expression reflecting genuine worry and relief.

"You were lucky Endeavor showed up and saved you guys," Sato remarked, walking up to them.

"So cool! Just what I'd expect from the number two hero!" Hagakure exclaimed with enthusiasm.

The wolf boy couldn't help but feel a pang of disgust at the praise Endeavor received, especially after what Todoroki had shared with him. Despite the unsettling feeling, he pushed it aside.

"Yeah, that's right... He saved us," Todoroki admitted, his tone hinting at reluctance.

Tatsuya keenly observed Todoroki, Izuku, and Iida, detecting lingering traces of cortisol in their scents. Such a chemical marker would typically indicate recent stress. Despite that, considering the three's resilience and strength, the wolf boy didn't think the event from a few days ago would still be a source of ongoing distress. He gave Izuku a knowing look, hinting they would need to discuss it later.

"Everyone's been saying that the Hero Killer was somehow connected to the League of Villains," Ojiro pointed out, glancing nervously at Shoji. "Can you imagine how frightening it would've been if that creep had been there when they attacked the USJ?"

Tatsuya couldn't shake the unsettling thought. The outcome could have been catastrophic if the Hero Killer shared similar motives with the League of Villains. The mere contemplation of alternate scenarios sent a chill down his spine, and he was reluctant to delve deeper into the imagination of events taking a darker turn.

"Yeah, he's scary, but did you see him in that weird video," Kaminari interjected, eager to join the conversation.

"I didn't know there was a video of him," Ojiro admitted.

"Stain's a pretty evil villain, but, like, super tenacious. He's almost kinda cool, don't you guys think—" Kaminari was abruptly cut off by a resounding smack to the back of his head. "OW!"

"Read the room, Kaminari," Tatsuya sighed, casting a disapproving glance at Kaminari.

"Uh— Oh! Dude!"

"No, it's okay. You're fine," Iida reassured, glancing at his left arm. "It is true that he's quite a tenacious villain. I understand why people might think he was cool. However, rather than contributing to the betterment of the world, his convictions drove him to commit cold-blooded murder. Regardless of his motivations, such actions cannot be justified."

"To keep anyone from suffering like me, I promise..." Iida struck an Iida-like pose. "I will strive to be the perfect hero."

Iida launched into a tangent about everyone taking their seats promptly before the class began, stressing the need to be excellent models. Usually, Tatsuya would find Iida's strict adherence to rules and his fervent preaching about heroism irritating, but this time, he decided to let the turbo-legged boy have his moment. Tatsuya was relieved that Iida seemed to be back to his senses.

A casual vibe permeated the air as Tatsuya and Hagakure settled into their seats. Tatsuya glanced at Hagakure as he wanted to bring the conversation back to before Sero interrupted them. "Oh, yeah. What were you going to say, Hagakure?" The classroom buzzed with activity around them, the daily hustle and bustle of hero academia seemingly oblivious to the nuanced exchange unfolding in their midst.

Hagakure met Tatsuya's gaze, her eyes reflecting a subtle concern. "I... heard about what happened at Nerima-Ku. You always seem to get into trouble wherever you go." Her words carried a mix of curiosity and worry, acknowledging the challenges that seemed to shadow Tatsuya's every step.

Tatsuya, caught off guard by the directness, rubbed the back of his neck with a nervous smile. "Maybe trouble likes to find me anywhere I go...?" he mused, punctuating his words with a nervous chuckle.

Despite his attempt at lightening the mood, the concern in Hagakure's demeanor persisted, evident even in her scent as she gave him a subtle pout. Tatsuya picked up on it, causing his ears to droop a little. "I'll... try to be more careful," he sincerely offered, acknowledging the impact of his actions on those around him.

"You promise?" Hagakure asked, her tone carrying a hint of vulnerability.

Tatsuya's ears went all the way down, reflecting his internal conflict. "I don't make promises I can't keep, but I'll try," he admitted, offering a realistic acknowledgment of his own limitations.

The invisible girl's initial concern softened as a small smile played on her lips. "Thank you," she said, a simple yet profound expression of gratitude that lingered between them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later, Class 1-A was transported to an industrial site; each student donned their hero costume—except for Iida, who sported his P.E. uniform due to his costume being destroyed during his internship.

"I am here!" All Might proclaimed his signature phrase, signaling the commencement of the day's lesson. "Welcome back! I hope you're prepared to dive back into our lessons, as today marks the beginning of Hero Basic Training. Now, pay close attention to what awaits you. We're about to embark on a little race. Apply all the lessons and skills you've acquired during your internships to this crucial rescue training."

"If it's rescue training, then shouldn't we be at the USJ instead?" Iida asked, his hand raised high for attention.

"Ah, that facility specializes in disasters. As I mentioned earlier, this is a race. So, brace yourselves," All Might elucidated. "You are about to step into Field Gamma! Inside is an area full of factories that form an intricate labyrinth, so good luck finding your way around. You'll be divided into groups of five, with each member starting from a different location on the outskirts of the model city. Once I send out a distress signal, your task is to rescue me. Whoever finds me first wins!"

"But try to keep property damage to a bare minimum, please," he added, casting a slow, accusing finger at Bakugo.

"Why are you pointing at me?" the ash-blonde retorted in an annoyed tone, looking away.

After drawing lots to determine the order, the first group, comprising Sero, Ashido, Iida, Ojiro, and Izuku, assumed their starting positions. The rest of the class gathered to watch the race unfold on a large screen set up in a separate area, anticipation buzzing through the air.

"Iida hasn't completely recovered yet, right? He should sit this one out," Kaminari expressed with a hint of concern, eyes fixed on the turbo-legged student.

"Man, everyone in this group has really good mobility," Kirishima observed, gesturing toward the screen as the competitors prepared for the challenge. The dynamics and strengths of the group members were evident, setting the stage for an intriguing race.

"Huh. I'd say Midoriya is at a heavy disadvantage against those four," Yaoyorozu observed, her keen eyes assessing the situation on the screen.

"That's what I think," Jiro agreed, sitting beside the vice rep. "He may have found a way to move around quickly, but he always gets badly injured whenever he uses his powers."

"I wouldn't count him out yet. He has a good chance," Tatsuya countered, his posture relaxed as he leaned against a nearby fence. Despite the apparent challenges, the wolf boy's confidence in Izuku's abilities remained unshaken.

"I noticed you always defend Midoriya," Jiro remarked, turning to face Tatsuya. "How can you be so sure he won't do something unexpected?"

"When you know him as well as I do, you'd learn not to doubt him. He has found a way to get out of a situation, or at least attempt, countless times," Tatsuya replied, his eyes fixed on the monitor with mild intrigue. As the broccoli boy's adoptive brother, he had witnessed Izuku's resilience and determination, anticipating how his training paid off.

Tatsuya found himself once again ensnared by the elusive familiarity that seemed to envelop Jiro, a sensation that whispered of half-forgotten memories and unexplored connections. Despite his efforts to rationalize the feeling, it lingered like a phantom, teasing the fringes of his consciousness with its enigmatic presence. As he observed the unfolding events on the monitor, a sense of unease gnawed at him, urging him to unravel the mystery surrounding Jiro and the elusive fragments of his past.

In the midst of Kirishima and Kaminari's lively banter, Jiro felt a peculiar sensation tugging at the recesses of her mind, a whisper of recognition that sent a shiver down her spine. She glanced sidelong at Tatsuya, whose furrowed brow mirrored her own internal turmoil.

There was an unspoken understanding between them, a silent acknowledgment of the inexplicable connection that seemed to bind their fates. As the conversation around them faded into background noise, Jiro couldn't help but wonder if Tatsuya, too, felt the tug of familiarity pulling them together, like two pieces of a puzzle yearning to be reunited.

"Oh yeah? Hmmm.... I got odds on Ojiro," Kaminari replied, adding a touch of playful banter to the ongoing speculation among the spectators.

"I choose Ashido 'cause she's got a super athletic body," Mineta said, earning a disapproving stink eye from Tatsuya.

"I know Deku will be last," Bakugo proclaimed.

"So, his fight against Todoroki at the sports festival never happened, huh?" Tatsuya retorted, injecting a hint of sarcasm into the conversation.

"HAH?!" Bakugo shot back with an angered look.

"Even if he's still recovering, I think Iida's got this one," Uraraka voiced her opinion, gaining a nod of agreement from Tsu.

"Is everyone ready? BEGIN!" All Might's booming voice marked the commencement of the competition, accompanied by the press of a button on a remote in his hand.

As the signal went off, a surge of energy propelled everyone into action. Sero showcased his agility, swiftly swinging around the maze of pipes using his tape like a grappling hook. He took the lead, with Ashido, Ojiro, and Iida hot on his heels, creating a dynamic trail through the intricate landscape.

"Look at him go! In a maze like this, it makes sense to be above everything else!" Kirishima exclaimed, captivated by the acrobatic display as the screen focused on Sero, who confidently secured the lead.

"So that means Sero has the advantage because he can take to the sky," Shoji commented, his duplicated mouth conveying an analytical perspective on the unfolding race.

"So you say..." Tatsuya challenged with a slight smirk, his eyes gleaming with anticipation as a sudden flash of green light streaked past Sero.

To everyone's surprise, minus Tatsuya's, Izuku demonstrated his improved athleticism, seamlessly navigating the terrain. With agile leaps from structure to structure, he effortlessly left Sero trailing behind, showcasing the unexpected prowess he had developed during his internship.

"Whoa, Midoriya?! Since when can he do that?"

"The way he's propelling himself through the air..." Todoroki observed, detecting a distinctive similarity in Izuku's movements.

"Crazy. Those jumps—!" Uraraka marveled, recognizing the uncanny resemblance as well. "He looks just like..."

"Those are Bakugo's/my moves!" Tatsuya and Bakugo simultaneously completed the thought, sharing a moment of realization.

"While I spent my time getting groomed at that useless internship, he— Dammit!" Bakugo gritted his teeth in frustration, perturbed by the broccoli boy's improvement of his Quirk.

However, Izuku's brief slip on unstable footing proved costly, allowing Sero to capitalize and secure the victory in the race.

"I guess that still needs more work..." Tatsuya deadpanned, observing with a mix of amusement and critique.

"You were saying something?" Jiro teasingly asked the wolf boy, giving him a smug look.

"I never said he'd win, just that he'll surprise you. And judging by the look on your face earlier, I'd say he did," Tatsuya fired back, raising an eyebrow and offering a sly smirk.

The first group left to meet the others at the spectator area, and the next one, consisting of Tatsuya, Tsu, Bakugo, Aoyama, and Yaoyorozu, took their places.

"Hey, some people in this group have good mobility, too," Kirishima said, eyeing the lineup with interest.

"Akiba's fast, but I think Bakugo's got the edge on this one," Kaminari said.

"My vote's on Yaoyorozu!" Mineta chimed in, supporting the creation user, likely for the same reasons as his claim for Ashido.

"Kacchan and Tatsuya have some incredible mobility," Izuku observed, taking a journal from God-knows-where. "It's hard to say who's gonna win."

"Where were you keeping that?" Uraraka asked, slightly baffled by the sudden appearance of Izuku's journal.

The air crackled with energy at the blaring of the signal as everyone explosively burst into action. Bakugo propelled forward with a thunderous explosion, leaving behind a trail of smoke and determination. Tsu showcased her amphibian agility, gracefully leaping and hopping from surface to surface. Aoyama turned around and activated his navel laser, propelling himself forward with a beam of radiant light. The dazzling display resembled his previous movements in the Quirk assessment test. Yaoyorozu created a jetpack into existence, its thrusters humming as she soared gracefully over the intricate maze of pipes, demonstrating creativity and strategic thinking.

Amid this broad display, Tatsuya ran on all fours with a primal grace. His claws extended and retracted with each stride, allowing him to maintain traction on the uneven ground. The combination of speed and agility made him a blur as he weaved through the labyrinthine structure, leaving onlookers in awe of his feral prowess.

Bakugo, fueled by explosive determination, continued to charge forward with unrestrained power. His explosions created bursts of speed, propelling him through the maze as if he were a living projectile. The air crackled with the intensity of his Quirk, leaving a trail of sparks and echoes in his wake.

Meanwhile, Yaoyorozu's jetpack soared through the air, carrying her gracefully over the obstacles with precision. The thrusters hummed harmoniously with her focused determination, displaying elegance and ingenuity.

As they raced neck-in-neck, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Bakugo, Tatsuya, and Yaoyorozu approached the final stretch of the labyrinth, each competitor pushing themselves to the limit. Tatsuya's primal instincts, Bakugo's explosive power, and Yaoyorozu's calculated flight converged in a thrilling climax.

In a burst of explosive speed, Bakugo surged forward, narrowly edging out Yaoyorozu and Tatsuya. The final moments of the race were a symphony of power, strategy, and instinct, concluding with Bakugo reaching All Might first.

"And it's over! Thanks, hero! And congratulations!" All Might said, draping a vibrant sash across Bakugo's shoulders, a tangible representation of victory that spoke louder than words.

Bakugo, reveling in his triumph, couldn't resist a taunt directed at the wolf-boy who had given him a run for his money. "Take that, damn mutt!" he bellowed, his shit-eating grin amplifying the audacity of his victory.

Tatsuya rolled his eyes and turned to Yaoyorozu, offering a handshake. "That was a close race, Yaoyorozu. That was certainly a creative idea," he remarked, appreciating the strategic brilliance displayed.

Yaoyorozu chuckled in response to the wolf boy's comment, enjoying the wordplay. "Thanks, Akiba. You did well, too," she said as she returned the handshake, acknowledging both the compliment and the subtle humor.

"Nice job, guys, ribbit," Tsu said.

Meanwhile, Aoyama found himself lying down, nursing a stomach ache—a consequence of pushing his Quirk beyond its limits during the intense competition.

All Might, ever the mentor, took a moment to address the group. "Young Bakugo may have come in first, but compared to the start of the year, you all showed some incredible improvements," he commended. "Keep working and preparing for your upcoming final exams!"

The pro hero ushered the group off the field. However, he detained Tatsuya, indicating that there was more to discuss. "That was impressive," he acknowledged, turning to give the wolf-boy a subtle thumbs-up. "Find me after class with Young Midoriya; we need to talk."

Intrigued, Tatsuya raised an eyebrow at the unexpected directive but nodded in acknowledgment. "Got it."

As the group dispersed, the wolf boy made his way to catch up with his classmates, contemplating the impending conversation with All Might.

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With the training session concluded, the students gradually dispersed, their footsteps resonating against the backdrop of the now-silent arena. The air crackled with a palpable blend of exhaustion and exhilaration, an energy that accompanied them like a second skin as they returned to the locker rooms.

In the dimly lit confines of the changing area, the students shed their hero personas along with their costumes. The atmosphere was charged with a unique intensity, a collective consciousness of the challenges they had just overcome.

"That was some tough training, right?" Sato asked, prompting his classmates to share their thoughts on the training session.

"It's the first class in a while that had me glistening," Aoyama remarked, using a section of his cape to wipe away the sweat that adorned the side of his face.

"Man, I've really gotta work on my mobility," Kirishima admitted, placing one of his shoulder pads in his locker.

"You could also compensate by improving other skills," Tokoyami suggested, focused on tying his tie with precision.

"Still wish I could use my Quirk for speed. I'm jealous of guys like you and Sero," Kaminiari confessed, his gaze fixed on those with a speed-oriented advantage.

"Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses," Tatsuya remarked, his costume draped casually over his arm, except for an undershirt that covered his torso as he emerged from a bathroom stall. "If you keep comparing yourself with others, you will end up overlooking your own strengths. Think about what other things you can do with your Quirk and try doing them." His words, seasoned with experience, resonated with the broader theme of self-discovery and individual growth inherent in hero training.

Amidst the reflective atmosphere, Mineta's exuberant voice cut through, introducing a contrasting note of excitement. "Hey guys, you won't believe what I just found! The jackpot!" he exclaimed, beckoning for their attention. A mischievous grin played on his face as he pointed to a poster with a loose edge on the wall next to him. "Someone shawshanked a hole in this wall! A previous generation has given us a gift!" he declared, a perverse blush coloring his features and steam puffing out of his nose. "You know what's next door, right? This looks into the girl's locker room!"

"If you value your life, Mineta, don't do it," Tatsuya warned, his voice tinged with a dark edge that cut through the air. He cast a piercing glare at the perverted midget, his eyes reflecting a mixture of disapproval and disdain.

"Don't even think about it!" Iida exclaimed, standing next to Tatsuya, waving a hand emphatically in Mineta's direction. "Peeping on them like that would be criminal!"

"Then you'll have to throw me in solitary confinement 'cause you can't stop me!" Mineta defiantly exclaimed, seizing the poster from the wall with fervor. The room's atmosphere became charged with a volatile mix of rebellion and apprehension as his intention to invade the privacy of his female classmates hung in the air. "I wanna see Yaoyorozu's curves, Ashido's slender waist, Hagakure's floating under—ACK!"

Before Mineta could finish his lecherous declaration, Tatsuya delivered a hard kick with precision and found its mark on the side of Mineta's head, abruptly cutting off the perverse tangent. The force of the blow was so powerful that it propelled the perverted student not only across the locker room but also through the thin barrier of lockers, creating a chaotic symphony of crashing metal.

"Geez!" Kaminari and Kirishima recoiled in shock and fright at the unexpected force unleashed in the blow.

"Y-you didn't have to hit him that hard, Tatsuya," Izuku spoke up, his concern evident as he surveyed the aftermath of Mineta's collision with the lockers.

Tatsuya emitted a low growl as his unwavering gaze remained fixed on Mineta, a silent but pronounced expression of disapproval across his features. Without uttering another word, he changed into his uniform and left, leaving a stoic silence lingering in the air. The remaining students exchanged subdued murmurs, grappling with the impact of ethical boundaries and the intensity of the response.

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The bell rang, declaring that school was over for the day. The sun dipped toward the horizon, casting long shadows as its fading rays painted the afternoon sky with warm hues. The subtle coolness of the approaching evening hinted at the promise of a serene and pleasant night ahead as Tatsuya and Izuku went to All Might's office to see what he wanted to talk to them about.

"It's us, All Might!" Izuku called out, rapping on the door, with Tatsuya standing by his side.

The door slid open, revealing All Might in his true form, seated on the couch, hands loosely clasped in front of him. The boys exchanged a knowing glance, noting the stoic expression worn by their mentor. Tatsuya, however, couldn't help but shrug with a hint of uncertainty as they took seats across from their revered teacher.

"You both went through a lot recently," All Might acknowledged, a subtle nod to the trials and tribulations they had encountered during their internships. "I'm sorry I wasn't around to help you out."

"Oh, no. You don't need to apologize for that," Izuku quickly reassured, his earnest expression reflecting a genuine understanding.

"Besides, you can't exactly be in two places at once," Tatsuya added, agreeing with the broccoli boy.

"I didn't doubt that you couldn't handle yourself, Young Akiba," All Might affirmed, his voice carrying a tone of reassurance that acknowledged Tatsuya's capability.

"Um, you mentioned One For All earlier," Izuku continued, seamlessly shifting the conversation to another avenue. Tatsuya raised an eyebrow, the mention of the Quirk catching him off guard. The air in the room took on a subtle tension, the topic unfolding like a delicate revelation.

"I heard that the Hero Killer swallowed your blood in the attack," All Might interjected, his words cutting through the room. The weight of the statement settled, leaving a pregnant pause as the implications reverberated.

"Oh, yeah... His Quirk made him able to paralyze someone after tasting their blood," Izuku explained, shedding light on the grim encounter with the Hero Killer. "Is that what this is about?"

"Do either of you remember how I gave my power when I gave my power to Young Midoriya?" All Might asked. "What I said that day?"

"Eat this," Izuku responded, slipping into his best All Might impersonation, and Tatsuya couldn't help but snort as the vivid scene played in his mind like a recalled scene from a movie.

"No, not that part," All Might interjected sternly, redirecting the conversation to the crux of the matter. "I said the key was in my DNA. That's why you had to swallow the hair."

Tatsuya's eyes widened, realization dawning as the implications of All Might's words sank in, unraveling the mystery that had loomed since the mention of One For All.

"Don't tell us the Hero Killer has One For All now!" The wolf boy's words carried a note of panic, the mere thought triggering a sense of urgency.

"No, he doesn't," All Might immediately reassured, promptly dispelling their worries with the weight of his authority. "I just thought you might've been worried about that, Young Midoriya, but... I see it didn't cross your mind."

"Kind of hard for that to be the big worry when you're battling against the Hero Killer, of all people," Tatsuya interjected, breaking the tension with a wry smile. He breathed a sigh of relief, the weight of the revelation settling in as he turned to Izuku. "I figured you three might've stopped him instead of Endeavor."

"What; you... you figured it out???" Izuku's eyes widened in surprise at the revelation, his expression betraying a mix of awe, curiosity, and concern.

"It wasn't hard to tell, really," Tatsuya remarked with a casual shrug, downplaying the intuition that had guided his understanding.

"Moving on..." All Might interjected, steering the conversation back to its focal point. "One For All can only be given to another person if the bearer intends to pass it along. It's not something that can just be taken by force. However, it can be transferred by force. The Quirk you now have, Young Midoriya, is unique, and you both should know its origin." All Might's words held an air of solemnity, emphasizing the uniqueness of One For All and the responsibility that came with wielding such power.

"Hold on. I get that the One For All's origin is important, but why am I here?" Tatsuya interjected, a quizzical expression etched on his face as he pointed to himself before gesturing toward Izuku. "Surely, anything you know about the Quirk could be only meant for the one that inherited it, right?" The questions hung in the air, a subtle undercurrent of curiosity that sought to understand his role in the unfolding narrative.

"I'm telling you this because you have greatly contributed to Young Midoriya's progress with One For All. So you're going to want to hear this, too," All Might responded, his words carrying a sense of inclusion.

All Might began to unravel the origins of One For All, a story woven into the fabric of a bygone era when Quirks were still emerging. The person bearing the Quirk, All For One, who also went by that name, could steal and transfer powers from one person to another. The villain used that power to spread his influence across the country, gaining followers and manipulating them into serving his purposes.

A chilling side effect emerged—people unable to bear the burden of the stolen Quirks became mindless living dolls, echoes of humanity trapped in a silent existence akin to the Nomu. Meanwhile, other Quirks evolved as they were passed on; some combined with different power sets.

All For One's narrative took a poignant turn as the mention of a younger brother surfaced. Small and sickly, yet possessing a strong sense of justice, the brother resisted All For One's malevolence. However, in a sinister twist, the villain transferred a Quirk to him. This Quirk, designed to stockpile power, unexpectedly combined with the brother's latent ability, resulting in the birth of One For All.

"I always found it ironic that justice so often spawns from evil," All Might reflected, concluding his story to a shocked duo of Izuku and Tatsuya.

The room absorbed the weight of history, the echoes of the past resonating with the present. The atmosphere became a tapestry of contemplation, woven with threads of irony and destiny.

"Wait, hold on!" Izuku's exclamation cut through the lingering silence. His voice carried a mixture of confusion and urgency. "I understand how One For All came about now, but this bad guy must be long dead by this point. So why are you bringing him up?"

"I think the answer is obvious, Izuku," Tatsuya interjected, redirecting the focus with a stern gaze, his eyes fixed on his knees. "He must have a Quirk that stops aging, am I right?"

"You'd be correct, Young Akiba," All Might affirmed, acknowledging Tatsuya's astuteness. "The Symbol of Evil seemed pretty much immortal. With the state of the world at the time and the huge difference in their combat abilities, the younger brother decided to entrust this new Quirk to future generations. Even though he couldn't defeat All For One, he hoped OFA would continue to grow in power until it was strong enough to stop his older brother. Eventually, it was my turn, and I managed to defeat him! At least... that's what I thought. He survived and is now back in action as the brain behind the League of Villains."

All Might rose from his seat, his silhouette framed by the window as he gazed out. "So, now you know. The entire purpose of One For All is to defeat All For One. As its holder, Young Midoriya may one day have to fight against this great evil yourself because I have failed."

Izuku glanced away, his gaze drawn into contemplation, the weight of the newfound knowledge settling on his shoulders. Beside him, Tatsuya observed with concern, his ears drooping in response to the gravity of the situation. The room held a tangible tension as they grappled with the implications.

"I know you didn't expect this, but—"

"I'll do my best!" Izuku interjected, determination ringing in his voice like a resolute melody. The interruption cut through the air, an assertion of will that echoed within the room. All Might pivoted, fixing his gaze on the broccoli-haired boy as he rose from his seat. "I'll do whatever you ask of me, no matter what it might take! As long as you and Tatsuya are with me, I can do anything! I know both of you'll have my back!"

"Bet your ass I will," Tatsuya asserted, his face full of confidence as he playfully elbowed Izuku's arm. "As if I'm letting you fight that bastard alone."

All Might's countenance bore a solemnity, a fleeting melancholy in his eyes that suggested depths of unspoken sentiments beneath his iconic heroism. "Thank you," he conveyed, the words carrying a weight that transcended their surface, lingering in the air like a silent echo.

Yet, even as the boys departed, Tatsuya couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. The wolf boy strongly felt that All Might was hiding something and wanted to find out what.

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A/N: The locker room scene was what I enjoyed writing the most in this chapter, largely for Tatsuya to kick his ass, lol. What's your favorite funny moment in MHA?

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!