A/N: Before you dive in, I wanted to let you know that I've added some new content to this chapter. I hope you enjoy the updates and the fresh twists they bring to the story. Happy reading, and as always, your feedback is greatly appreciated!

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-3rd Person POV-

Tatsuya felt like he had stumbled into some twisted joke, a cruel prank played by fate. First, villains had somehow managed to locate them despite Aizawa's assurances of secrecy. And now, standing before the wolf boy, was someone he had long believed to be dead.

"How are you all this evening, U.A. High School?" Iguchi's voice sliced through the tension like a blade. "We are part of the Vanguard Action Squad of the League of Villains."

"The League of Villains? What are those guys doing here?" Ojiro asked, his voice tinged with disbelief as he glanced around at the menacing figures.

"I could crush this kitty's head so easily. How about it, dears, should I?" the villain with the sunglasses threatened, his words dripping with malice as he held the pillar menacingly above Pixie-Bob's head.

"You get away from her!" Tiger's voice boomed, cutting through the tense atmosphere like a thunderclap.

With an air of nonchalance, Iguchi positioned himself between the villain and Tiger, his demeanor calm yet calculated. "Now, now. Hold on, Big Sis Mag. You too, Tiger, calm down," he admonished, his words hinting at authority. "When deciding if someone should live or die, we must be careful that we're abiding by Stain's principles."

"So, you're the ones he ended up inspiring," Iida remarked, his tone a mixture of curiosity and disbelief as he processed the revelation before him.

"At your service. That's us!" Iguchi declared flamboyantly, his voice carrying an air of grandiosity as he made a sweeping gesture through the air. His gaze then honed in on Iida, a glint of recognition sparking in his eyes. "And you, four eyes—I believe I recognize you. You're one of the self-righteous who attacked Stain in Hosu City!"

"Lemme introduce myself," he continued, his tone tinged with an ominous edge as he withdrew a massive sword composed of various blades from his back. "Call me, Spinner! I am here to make Stain's dreams a reality!"

"I don't care who you are! You're criminals!" Tiger retorted vehemently, his anger palpable. "The woman lying there is named Pixie-Bob, a pro hero who saved countless lives. She's giving her all for these young heroes, pushing them to reach their full potential. She's looking for a mate, but otherwise, she's content." Sharp claws extended from his fingertips, representing his protective instincts. "What gives you the right to cut such a happy life short!?"

"Didn't anyone tell you it's not a hero's job to be happy?!" Iguchi thundered, his voice reverberating with intensity as he charged towards Tiger.

A blur of motion zipped past them before Tiger or Mandalay could make a move. Iguchi was instantly sent stumbling backward by a powerful uppercut to his chin. The force of the blow knocked him back toward Mag, who caught him with a startled expression. Tiger, Mandalay, and the remaining students' jaws dropped in shock as they recognized the figure standing before them.

"Akiba, what are you doing?!" Mandalay's voice cut through the stunned silence, a mix of confusion and concern in her tone.

Tatsuya stood with his fist still clenched from the strike, his eyes locked onto Iguchi. "This doesn't make any sense!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with emotion. "All this time, I thought you were dead, Iguchi!" The words burst out of him, disbelief flooding his senses and drowning out Mandalay's inquiry. His mind raced as he tried to reconcile the presence of his once-thought-dead friend with the terrifying reality unfolding before them.

"Wait a minute... you know this guy, Tatsuya?" Izuku asked, his voice tinged with surprise as he glanced between Tatsuya and Iguchi.

A fleeting expression of bittersweet amusement crossed Iguchi's face as he met Tatsuya's gaze. "Let's just say fate has an odd sense of humor, Tatsuya," he replied cryptically, his tone filled with nostalgia and irony as he steadied himself and got back on his feet.

Tatsuya instinctively took a step forward, his mind racing with questions, but before he could get far or speak up, Tiger intervened. With a swift, practiced motion, he grabbed the wolf boy by the collar of his shirt and tossed him back toward the group of students, ensuring he was out of harm's way.

"Tiger! I talked to everyone. Trust Ragdoll with the safety of the other students. You and I will stay here and hold them back!" Mandalay commanded, her voice firm and authoritative. She then turned to the students, her expression softening but remaining severe. "You return to camp. Class rep, you're in charge on the way there. Don't engage anyone!"

Tatsuya hesitated, his gaze flickering between Iguchi and his classmates. The weight of his responsibilities as the class representative bore down on him, compelling him to obey Mandalay's orders and prioritize his friends' safety. Yet, the confusion and turmoil swirling within him were nearly overwhelming; the lizard villain's sudden reappearance stirred memories and questions he had long buried.

His instincts urged him to stay and confront Iguchi, to demand answers. However, the rational part of his mind knew that ensuring the safety of his classmates had to come first.

With a heavy heart and a reluctant sigh, Tatsuya finally made his decision. The lines of duty and personal longing blurred in his mind, but logic and responsibility ultimately prevailed. His shoulders slightly slumped as he accepted the necessity of the situation.

"Very well," he replied, his voice tinged with resignation as he straightened up, pushing aside his inner turmoil. He turned to face his classmates, determination hardening his features as he prepared to lead them back to safety. "Let's go."

The group turned to run, their feet pounding against the forest floor as they raced to safety, but Izuku stayed behind, his face set with determination. "Go ahead without me," he said, his voice unwavering. He turned to Mandalay, urgency in his eyes. "Mandalay, I know where Kota is!"

Mandalay's expression wavered, torn between her duty to protect the students and her concern for Kota. She felt the heavy weight of indecision; without knowing Kota's precise location or having a quick means to contact him beyond her telepathic Quirk, the uncertainty gnawed at her. The safety of all the students was paramount, but the thought of Kota alone and vulnerable added a layer of distress.

"Please find him!" Mandalay urged, her voice carrying both desperation and hope. Izuku nodded firmly, determination etched into his features as he turned to run, his body surging with green lightning from Full Cowling. The raw power of his Quirk illuminated the night, leaving trails of crackling energy in his wake.

"Midoriya!" Iida exclaimed, his hand reaching out in a futile attempt to stop Izuku from running into danger.

However, Tatsuya caught Iida's wrist, his grip firm. "We can take care of ourselves while Kota can't. Let's leave him to Izuku while we get to Mr. Aizawa," the wolf boy said, his voice steady but filled with urgency.

Iida begrudgingly nodded, his shoulders slightly slumping as he accepted Tatsuya's decision. Sensing the gravity of the situation, the rest of the group began returning to camp with renewed urgency. Their footsteps pounded rhythmically against the forest floor, a testament to their shared anxiety and determination.

A short while after leaving the Pussycats' line of sight, Tatsuya's pace slowed. The shadows of the forest seemed to press in closer, and the sounds of distant battles echoed faintly in the background. He could feel the weight of responsibility bearing on him, but something gnawed at his conscience. His steps faltered, and he came to a halt.

Tatsuya turned back, his eyes scanning the darkened woods. His heart pounded as he strained to listen, trying to catch any sign that Izuku might need help. The lingering uncertainty about Iguchi's presence tugged at him, refusing to let him rest easy.

His classmates noticed his hesitation. "Akiba, what are you doing?" Ojiro whispered, his voice tense but understanding.

Tatsuya's gaze remained fixed on the direction they had come from. "I can't just leave it like this," he said, his voice low but persistent. "There are too many unanswered questions. And Iguchi..."

"Are you crazy?!" Iida interjected angrily, his voice rising in frustration as he grabbed Tatsuya's arm, desperately trying to make him see reason. "Mandalay just said not to engage anyone!"

"I know that, dammit!" Tatsuya shot back, his voice cracking with frustration and urgency. His hair briefly bristled before he took a deep breath to calm himself. The anger in his eyes softened, replaced by a determined resolve. "But I need to know more. This isn't just about following orders—it's about understanding why someone I trusted is now our enemy. I can't ignore that."

The tension between them was palpable, each of his classmates feeling the weight of his words. They knew Tatsuya well enough to recognize when his instincts were kicking in, driving him to seek the truth no matter the cost.

However, before either of them could back down, Tatsuya's ears perked up, twitching as he picked up a wild, primal aroma emanating from the darkness of the forest. There was an overpowering musk reminiscent of a predator lurking deep within the wilderness. Beneath that dominant scent, he could detect the faint, acrid odor of something resembling blood mixed with the smell of charred earth, creating a sickening blend that set his nerves on edge.

"Well, it looks like you folks are having quite a get-together," a deep male voice intoned from within the shadows, its resonance sending a shiver down Tatsuya's spine. The voice was menacing, compelling everyone else to focus on the source. "How about... you guys let me in on the mix?"

Emerging from the darkness was Zetsubō, his imposing stature casting a long shadow over the clearing. His eyes glinted savagely, reflecting the moonlight like twin orbs of ice. Clad in dark, rugged clothing that seemed to meld with the night, he exuded an aura of raw power and untamed ferocity. The scent of burnt flesh and blood seemed to cling to him, creating an invisible shroud of fear around his being.

Tatsuya's heart raced as he took in the sight of this new adversary, his mind scrambling to assess the threat. Zetsubō stopped a few paces away, surveying the group with a cruel smirk playing on his lips. "I hope you don't mind me crashing the party," he said, his voice dripping with mockery and malice.

Every instinct in Tatsuya's body screamed at him to be cautious, but he couldn't help but feel a surge of defiance rise within him. This was no ordinary villain; this was a beast in human form, and they had to be prepared for whatever came next.

"Another one...?" Mineta asked, his voice tinged with apprehension as his eyes widened, taking in the monstrous figure before them.

"What is it that you want with us, villain?" Iida demanded, stepping forward with his fists clenched. His tone was resolute, but the underlying tension was unmistakable as he tried to mask his fear with bravado.

"The same thing that they do," the villain replied with a sinister grin, jerking his chin toward where Iguchi and Magne were previously. "I'm here to cause a little chaos." His voice was a low, gravelly rumble, each word dripping with malice as if he relished the idea of the havoc he intended to wreak.

Tatsuya narrowed his eyes, his instincts screaming at him to protect his friends as he stepped in front of his classmates, his posture defensive and unwavering. "Are you? Well, I'm afraid that's too bad," he remarked, his voice steady and determined. "We can't simply let you guys get what you want."

"I'm sure. I wouldn't want it to be that effortless, anyway," Zetsubō concurred, his voice a low growl filled with malicious glee. His eyes gleamed with anticipation as he continued, "I'd much rather plunge you all into despair and destroy this place!" He spread his arms wide as if embracing the chaos he sought to unleash, the sheer force of his presence casting an oppressive shadow over the group.

"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Tatsuya retorted, his voice ringing with defiance. He dropped into a battle stance, muscles tensed and ready, his sharp eyes fixed on Zetsubō.

"Akiba, what did I just say?!" Iida whisper-shouted, his voice laced with urgency and frustration. He cast a worried glance at the hulking villain before them, clearly understanding the immense danger they were in.

"I know what you said!" Tatsuya whispered back, his voice equally tense. Now that he's found us, I don't think he'll let us go easily." His eyes darted back to Zetsubō, their predicament weighing heavily on him. He could sense the villain's feral determination, an unyielding desire to see them suffer.

"You'd be correct, puppy-dog! You were my target anyway!" Zetsubō declared with a sinister grin, flexing his clawed hand. The ray of moonlight glinted off his sharp nails, emphasizing the threat they posed.

"You're not going to be fighting just him alone!" Ojiro interjected, his voice unwavering as he stepped forward, adopting a battle stance of his own, his determination evident in his tense, coiled postures.

"What are you, crazy?!" Mineta yelled incredulously.

"No. You guys go ahead," Tatsuya countered firmly, his eyes never leaving Zetsubō. The group's surprise was palpable, their expressions a mix of shock and confusion. Tatsuya's gaze remained steely, unwavering in the face of the looming threat.

"What?" Mineta and Iida exclaimed in unison, their voices echoing the disbelief that rippled through the group.

"I know I previously said that I wanted answers about Iguchi, but your safety is what I need to prioritize," Tatsuya explained, his tone urgent yet calm. "You need to get back to camp." His voice carried the weight of responsibility, a testament to his commitment to his classmates' well-being.

"We can't just leave you here!" Ojiro argued, his voice tinged with desperation. The thought of abandoning Tatsuya in the face of such danger was unbearable, yet the wolf boy's resolve remained unshaken.

"Iida, I'm putting you in charge until I get back," Tatsuya declared, his voice brooking no argument. He ignored Ojiro's protest, his focus laser-sharp on the task at hand. "Go!" His command was authoritative, leaving no room for dissent.

The urgency in Tatsuya's voice and the gravity of the situation finally broke through the group's hesitation. Iida, though conflicted, nodded in reluctant agreement. "You heard him, guys. Let's move!" he ordered, his voice carrying the authority of his new temporary role.

As the others turned to run, casting worried glances back at Tatsuya, he felt a surge of determination. The safety of his friends was paramount, and he would do whatever it took to ensure they made it back to camp. With a deep breath, he squared his shoulders, ready to face Zetsubō.

The villain's eyes gleamed with a predatory satisfaction as he watched the scene unfold. "How noble," he sneered, his voice filled with contempt. "But nobility won't save you." He stepped forward, his massive frame casting a long shadow over Tatsuya, the anticipation of battle crackling in the air.

Tatsuya's heart pounded, but he stood his ground, drawing strength from knowing his friends were safe. "Bring it on," he muttered under his breath, his muscles tensing in readiness for the fight to come. The night air was thick with tension, and the forest around them was eerily silent, as if holding its breath for the clash that was about to ensue.

Tatsuya charged at Zetsubō with his fist reeled back, the air around his knuckles whistling from the force of his swing. But just as his attack was about to connect, the villain's hand shot up with lightning speed, effortlessly catching Tatsuya's fist. The impact of the catch sent a shockwave of surprise through Tatsuya's body, his eyes widening in disbelief.

"Is that seriously the best you could throw at me?" Zetsubō laughed, his voice echoing with a mocking sneer. The cruel amusement in his eyes bore into Tatsuya, making the wolf boy's blood boil with frustration and determination. The villain's grip tightened, and with a casual flick of his wrist, he hurled Tatsuya toward a nearby tree.

"Honestly, what did I expect from a kid with a fleeting dream," Zetsubō jeered, his words cutting deep as he hurled Tatsuya toward a nearby tree with casual disregard.

But Tatsuya refused to be defeated so easily. He twisted his body in midair with lightning reflexes, using the momentum to rebound off the tree's trunk. As he landed gracefully on the forest floor, he rolled with practiced agility, absorbing the impact with fluid grace.

Tatsuya stooped low to the ground, and his muscles coiled like springs as he ran at Zetsubō with renewed determination. His eyes locked onto the villain's chin, calculating the precise moment to strike. As he closed in, he launched an uppercut, putting all his strength and speed into the blow.

However, just as his fist was about to connect, an aura shimmered around Zetsubō, quickly enveloping his body in a translucent, rhino-shaped shield. Tatsuya's fist collided with the phantom horn, bouncing off with a resounding clang.

"That little punch is no match for my Rhinoceros Armor," Zetsubō sneered, his words dripping with contempt as the aura protected him effortlessly. The translucent shield shimmered around him, impenetrable and unyielding, a perfect defense against Tatsuya's assault. His eyes glinted with sadistic amusement as he savored the look of disbelief on Tatsuya's face.

"How..." Tatsuya trailed off as he jumped back to create some distance, his mind still reeling. "How do you have that Quirk?!" His voice was a mixture of confusion and accusation, the shock of seeing such a familiar ability in the hands of a villain unnerving him to the core.

A slight surprise dawned on Zetsubō's face as the aura slowly dissipated, the rhino-shaped shield fading away. "Wait... he didn't tell you? Oh wow, that's harsh, Isomoto," he muttered before letting out a sadistic laugh that echoed through the trees. The revelation seemed to amuse him greatly, the knowledge he held giving him a twisted sense of power.

"How do you know my father's name?!" Tatsuya shouted, his fury mounting as he ran toward the villain, his claws extended and ready to strike. The mystery and the sheer audacity of Zetsubō fueled his rage, pushing him to attack with renewed vigor.

Zetsubō effortlessly slapped the wolf boy away with a casual sweep of his hand, the force sending Tatsuya sprawling. "Still, not a bad try for a little mouse. You've earned a prize," he taunted, his voice laden with mockery as he ignored the wolf boy's question. His eyes glinted with a predatory delight as he watched Tatsuya struggle to recover.

"A prize?" Tatsuya raised an eyebrow, his senses on high alert for whatever cruel trick Zetsubō had in store.

"That's right... A swift death!" Zetsubō's voice turned menacing as he charged toward Tatsuya with blinding speed. His legs, cloaked in an aura that took the shape of a cheetah's powerful limbs, propelled him forward far faster than the wolf boy had anticipated. "In nature, the mighty beasts get to devour their prey as a reward for their strength, while the pathetic vermin like you only get destruction and despair."

"Taste my Bear Claw!" An ominous aura enveloped Zetsubō's clawed hand, morphing into a bear's massive paws and razor-sharp claws as he lashed out. The attack swiftly cut through the air, aimed straight at Tatsuya's chin.

Tatsuya's instincts screamed at him to move, but the speed and power of Zetsubō's strike were overwhelming. Pain flared through him as the claws dug into his chin, lifting him off his feet and sending him hurtling through the air. As his body flew over the treetops, he caught a fleeting, eagle-eye view of the forest below.

In the brief moment before gravity reclaimed him, Tatsuya's keen senses picked up on plumes of smoke and a pink gas spreading through the trees. He gritted his teeth, pushing the distractions aside to focus on his impending fall. He crashed through the canopy, branches snapping and scraping against him, slowing his descent.

"This guy... he's insanely strong," Tatsuya thought, his mind racing to formulate a new plan as he clawed at a tree trunk to catch himself. His claws dug into the bark, halting his fall. "I need to figure out a way to counter that armor and those claws, or I'm done for."

"Do you understand the situation? Do you see the overwhelming difference in our power?" Zetsubō asked tauntingly as he slowly approached the wolf boy. His every step exuded a sense of inevitable doom. "You are an insect. I shall not allow you to retain even a shred of hope!"

Tatsuya clicked his tongue in irritation, his eyes narrowing as he landed on the ground with feline grace. He wiped away the blood trickling down his chin with the back of his hand. "Come on now, don't talk like the fight's already over, dumbass. We're just getting started."

Zetsubō's sneer only grew wider, clearly entertained by Tatsuya's tenacity. "Well, well. We've got a feisty one. Delicious. Then I'll continue feeding you despair... until you choke!" His voice dripped with a sinister promise as he stormed toward Tatsuya, his legs once again cloaked in the aura of a cheetah, enabling him to move at breakneck speed.

As the villain pounced with his arm drawn back, the aura shifted, transforming into the shape of a bear's massive claws. Tatsuya twisted his body to the side, stepping back just in time to narrowly avoid Zetsubō's deadly swipe. The air crackled with the force of the missed attack, a testament to its lethal power.

Seizing the moment, Tatsuya sprang forward quickly, retaliating with a swift punch aimed at Zetsubō's chest. "I thought I noticed a split-second opening after your attack," he remarked, a self-assured grin spreading across his face.

"You're quick enough to take advantage of it," Zetsubō acknowledged, a hint of genuine admiration in his tone. "You have keen perception and adaptability; I'll give you that."

Despite the praise, Tatsuya's punch didn't elicit the reaction he had hoped for. Zetsubō remained unfazed, his body absorbing the blow without so much as a flinch. The villain's expression remained one of cruel amusement as if he were toying with a particularly interesting prey.

"Dammit, he didn't flinch at all. Just like that Nomu," Tatsuya thought, frustration gnawing at him as he recalled the indomitable strength of the bioengineered monstrosity he had faced in the USJ.

"I can play with you a while longer...!" Zetsubō lunged at Tatsuya for a third time, his muscles coiling with the raw power of a predator. The wolf boy dove into the dense shrubbery just before the villain could swipe at him with his Bear Claw. The thick foliage and the enveloping darkness of the night became his allies, creating a confusing, rustling maze for his opponent to navigate.

"He's all over the place!" Zetsubō thought, his eyes darting around as he tried to track Tatsuya's erratic movements amidst the shifting shadows and rustling leaves. His instincts sharpened as he scanned the underbrush for any sign of the wolf boy. Suddenly, Tatsuya lunged toward him from a particular direction, emerging from the shadows with swift, silent grace.

Zetsubō reacted instantly, swiping at Tatsuya with his clawed hand. But the wolf boy was faster; he pivoted on his feet and dove back into the foliage, leaving the villain's attack to tear through the dirt and debris, billowing clouds into the night air. Tatsuya then sprang from behind, aiming a powerful punch at Zetsubō. The villain, however, batted it away with a casual but forceful arm swing.

Clicking his tongue in frustration, Tatsuya darted off, his form a blur as he ran on all fours, melding with the shadows of the forest. Zetsubō let out an amused chuckle, enjoying the chase, and quickly pursued. Despite Tatsuya's headstart and agile, quadrupedal sprint, the villain closed the distance in no time, his aura-enhanced legs propelling him forward with cheetah-like speed.

Tatsuya's only option was to dodge the relentless attacks. Each swing from Zetsubō sent plumes of dust and debris into the air, leaving craters in the ground. Spinning around a tree, Tatsuya aimed a counterattack with a powerful kick. But Zetsubō caught him by the leg effortlessly and hurled him with a flick of his wrist, sending the wolf boy flying through the air.

Twisting his body midair, Tatsuya managed to land on his feet, skidding across the rough ground until his back slammed into the tree trunk with a hard thud, knocking the wind out of him. Gasping for breath, he saw Zetsubō charging again and forced himself to move, narrowly avoiding a devastating blow.

As Tatsuya tried to create more distance, Zetsubō ripped a massive piece of a tree from the ground and hurled it at him. The wolf boy glanced back to see the big chunk of wood and the debris following it, gasping in surprise. He leaped from one spot to another, evading the flying projectiles with desperate agility.

Ducking into another line of shrubbery, Tatsuya used the cover to turn around and charge back at Zetsubō. The villain, growing increasingly annoyed, threw a large piece of debris with a growl. Tatsuya seized the opportunity, using the debris as a springboard to launch himself into the air. Raising his leg for a powerful ax kick, he aimed directly at Zetsubō.

The kick met Zetsubō's punch, his arm shrouded in the menacing aura that seemed almost tangible. The impact reverberated through the forest, sending shockwaves through the air and kicking up a massive cloud of dust that billowed around them. This was a testament to the fierce clash between the two adversaries, their raw power on full display.

"You had some hope left? Sluggish moves and glancing blows are child's play to me," Zetsubō taunted, his voice cutting through the settling dust like a blade. As the haze cleared, it revealed Tatsuya standing a few meters away, his chest heaving with labored breaths. Blood trailed down his forehead and mouth, painting a grim picture of his current state.

Zetsubō cackled at the sight, his laughter echoing eerily through the forest. However, his expression quickly shifted to one of disdain. "Looking at you disgusts me. How could someone who was the runner-up of the sports festival think they had a chance against me? You don't have so much as a sliver of hope, and do you know why?"

"One," he began mockingly, effortlessly ripping a tree from the ground beside him. "You're weak to long-distance attacks, such as throws."

With a mighty heave, the villain hurled the tree straight at Tatsuya. The wolf boy barely had time to react, leaping to the side just as the tree sped past him and crashed into another tree behind where he had stood, splintering it into pieces.

"Two," Zetsubō continued, closing the distance between them with terrifying speed. "You're physically strong but still outmatched by someone whose strength is enhanced by their Quirk." He launched a brutal onslaught of punches and slashes, each strike cutting into Tatsuya's skin and tearing his shirt to shreds. He sent Tatsuya skidding backward across the ground with a final, powerful punch.

Tatsuya struggled to maintain his footing, his feet skidding in the dirt as he absorbed the impact. "Get to the point already!" he shouted defiantly, charging at the villain head-on, his eyes blazing with determination.

"And three..." Zetsubō's declaration dripped with finality, his voice heavy with disdain as he exploited Tatsuya's unwavering resolve.

With surgical precision, he targeted the vulnerable point inside Tatsuya's elbow, the sickening crack of bone reverberating through the air. Tatsuya grimaced in agony as pain shot through his arm, his muscles protesting against the relentless assault.

With a swift motion, Zetsubō seized Tatsuya's wrist, effortlessly overpowering him and cementing his dominance in the fray. "You don't know when to give up. You think if you hang on long enough, you're bound to find some way of turning the fight in your favor."

Zetsubō hoisted Tatsuya into the air, his body becoming weightless for a moment before hurtling toward a nearby tree. The impact was brutal, knocking the breath from Tatsuya's lungs as he crumpled to the forest floor, gasping for air amidst a haze of pain and confusion. Each labored breath felt like fire in his chest as he struggled to regain his bearings, his senses reeling from the ferocity of the onslaught.

"So you persist in your reckless attacks against foes you can't defeat and leave yourself open to mortal wounds," Zetsubō taunted, his voice a cruel echo in Tatsuya's throbbing head. "It makes me sick to see that this is the limit of my brother's spawn!"

The wolf boy's breath caught in his throat, his entire body freezing at Zetsubō's words. Everything around him seemed to blur as the villain's cruel declaration echoed in his mind. "Brother's spawn...?"

The revelation struck him like a physical blow, more jarring than any punch or kick he had endured. His parents had never mentioned any extended family, and now he was confronted with a truth that unraveled everything he thought he knew.

Tatsuya had been training hard all his life to fight strong opponents, not to be afraid of pain, and to push past his limits, but nothing had prepared him for this. Zetsubō's words had peeled back a layer of his existence he hadn't fully understood until now, leaving him vulnerable and exposed. The implications were staggering, and for a moment, all he could do was lay there, rooted in place by the weight of this new reality.

Another telepathic message from Mandalay cut through the chaos, but Tatsuya barely registered it. The shock of Zetsubō's revelation held him captive, his thoughts spiraling in a tumult of disbelief and dawning horror. The world around him faded, leaving only the chilling echo of Zetsubō's words reverberating in his mind. This fight was no longer just about survival; it was about confronting a dark truth of his lineage.

The air crackled with tension as Tatsuya's thoughts swirled in a tempest of confusion and apprehension. Every fiber of his being screamed for him to flee, to deny the truth that now loomed before him like a specter of dread. But he knew deep down that running was not an option.

Mandalay's voice once more pierced through the fog of his thoughts, clear and commanding. "I repeat, you may fight these villains! Use your training," she said, her tone carrying an urgency that jolted Tatsuya back to the present.

Her words jolted him into action, banishing the paralysis that had gripped him moments before. A surge of adrenaline coursed through Tatsuya's veins, propelling him forward with newfound resolve. He knew that confronting the truth of both his lineage and Iguchi was only the beginning; the real test awaited him on the battlefield. Here, he would either overcome the threat or be consumed by the shadows that lurked within.

"Listen, we discovered one of the villains' targets," Mandalay's voice echoed in the wolf boy's head again. "He's a student named Kacchan."

Tatsuya's eyes widened in shock at the news. This night was full of surprises, each more startling than the last. First, the sudden attack by villains, then the revelation that someone he considered a friend was still alive, the discovery that one of the villains was an uncle he had never known about, and now, learning that Bakugo was a specific target. The layers of complexity and danger seemed to multiply with each passing moment, leaving him reeling but resolute.

Sure, the wolf boy had an intense animosity toward Bakugo for obvious reasons. Bakugo's brash, aggressive nature and tendency to look down on others had never sat well with Tatsuya. Their clashes were frequent, each encounter a fierce battle of wills and abilities. Yet, despite their ongoing rivalry, even he didn't want the Pomeranian to get into danger.

The thought of Bakugo, with all his bravado, being targeted by these villains added a new layer of urgency to the situation. Tatsuya's protective instincts kicked in, overriding any lingering resentment. It was one thing to spar with Bakugo under controlled circumstances, but it was another to imagine him being ambushed by malicious foes with lethal intent.

"Kacchan, you should try to avoid combat and stick to a group. I hope you can hear me!" Mandalay urged, her concern for the ash-blonde's safety palpable.

The wolf boy's heart pounded in his chest as he processed the gravity of the situation. Bakugo avoiding combat? The idea seemed almost impossible amidst the chaos, but he understood its wisdom.

Despite how much he wanted to find the ash-blonde and "help" him, even if the latter didn't like it, one thing was clear: Tatsuya could not afford to let fear dictate his actions. The stakes had never been higher, and the path ahead was fraught with peril, but the wolf boy knew he had to face it head-on for the sake of his friends and the legacy he had carried for nine years.

"I don't know what happened between you and my father, but it doesn't apply to me," Tatsuya declared, his voice tinged with defiance as he pushed himself onto one knee.

Every muscle in his body screamed in protest, but a fire burned within him, a fierce determination that refused to be extinguished. He could feel the heat of it coursing through his veins, propelling him to keep going despite the odds stacked against him. "Besides, no one ever protected anybody by giving up. So, I won't be embracing any despair today!"

Zetsubō's eyes narrowed, a cruel smile playing at the corners of his mouth. He seemed almost amused by Tatsuya's resilience as if the boy's defiance was a mere inconvenience rather than a genuine threat.

"So, there's still a scrap of defiance left in you, is there?" he taunted, his voice dripping with condescension. He observed the determined glint in Tatsuya's eyes, recognizing the resolve that burned within. "Very well. Let's see how you'll feel after I tear your little legs off. Really, a mouse that can't run has no reason to live, anyway."

Tatsuya gritted his teeth, feeling the weight of Zetsubō's words bearing down on him. He knew he couldn't afford to show any weakness, not now. Drawing on every ounce of strength he had left, he pushed himself to his feet, swaying slightly but standing tall. The pain was intense, a constant throbbing that threatened to overwhelm him, but he forced it to the back of his mind. He couldn't let it distract him.

The forest around them seemed to hold its breath, the air heavy with tension. Tatsuya's senses were heightened even further than before, and every sound and movement was amplified in his mind. He could hear the rustle of leaves, the distant cries of his classmates fighting their own battles, and Zetsubō's steady, menacing breaths. This was a fight he couldn't afford to lose.

At the faint sound of the wolf boy's claws extending, Zetsubō moved with lightning speed. His eyes narrowed, and his arm was raised in an instant, poised to deliver a devastating blow. The villain's hand swiped down with lethal precision, a blur of motion aimed directly at Tatsuya. But the wolf boy's instincts kicked in. He sidestepped just in time, feeling the rush of air as Zetsubō's attack missed him by mere inches.

Capitalizing on the moment, Tatsuya delivered a swift jab to Zetsubō's cheek. The impact was solid, a sharp sting that cut through the villain's arrogance. Zetsubō's eyes widened in surprise, the first sign of vulnerability breaking through his mask of cruelty. The wolf boy didn't waste a moment, ducking past Zetsubō's outstretched hand—everything in his movements was fluid and calculated. In one swift, sure stroke, his claws lashed against Zetsubō's side; a thin line of blood dribbled down the villain's side as he grunted in response to the pain.

Zetsubō staggered slightly, the unexpected blow momentarily throwing him off balance. Tatsuya could sense the anger radiating from the villain; his scent tinged with a silent promise of retribution. The wolf boy paid no heed to the threat, instead focusing on the advantage he had gained as he darted behind Zetsubō.

Zetsubō recovered quickly, pivoting around with a snarl, his arm swinging in a powerful arc to deliver a brutal backhand. The force behind the attack was immense, a testament to the villain's strength and rage. However, Tatsuya's reflexes were quicker. In a seamless motion, he jumped over Zetsubō's outstretched arm, the rush of air from the swing grazing him as he moved. He grabbed hold of the villain's arm and used it to leverage himself, his muscles coiling with the effort.

With his body suspended in midair, Tatsuya executed a flawless sweeping kick, his leg slicing through the air with lethal precision, similar to Ashido's kick from the sports festival. In that suspended moment, the wolf boy's muscles tensed with controlled power as his leg completed its arc. He felt the satisfying impact resonate through his body as his foot connected squarely with Zetsubō's temple.

The villain staggered under the force of the blow, his balance wavering momentarily. Tatsuya landed gracefully on the forest floor, his senses heightened, and his adrenaline surged. The thrill of the successful strike surged through him, a surge of energy that bolstered his determination.

Zetsubō recovered swiftly, his face contorted with rage and surprise. His hand shot up to his temple, where the wolf boy's strike had landed, and a trickle of blood hinted at the damage inflicted. The villain's eyes burned with renewed fury as he fixed his gaze on Tatsuya, a deadly fire igniting within them. The intensity of Zetsubō's glare was like a palpable force, an unspoken promise of retribution that hung heavy in the air.

"You have a lot of resolve for a mouse, and that's what will kill you!" Zetsubō snarled, his lips curling into a sinister smirk. The orange-brown aura shimmered around his arms and legs, pulsating as if it were a living extension of his wrath.

The villain lunged at Tatsuya with a speed that seemed to defy the very fabric of reality, his movements a blur of malevolent intent. The air seemed to ripple and warp around Zetsubō, creating an almost supernatural distortion that made it difficult for Tatsuya to track his approach. The wolf boy's eyes widened slightly in shock, his heightened senses barely able to keep up with the villain's rapid advance. His surprise quickly transformed into a steely determination as he attempted to jump away.

However, a vice-like grip clamped around Tatsuya's ankle before he could fully execute the maneuver. The pressure was sudden and excruciating, sending a jolt of pain up his leg. His breath caught in his throat as he felt his body being violently yanked into the air, the world around him becoming a blur of motion. The force of the movement momentarily disoriented him, leaving him dizzy and struggling to comprehend what was happening.

He dangled helplessly, suspended above the forest floor, as Zetsubō's iron grip tightened around his ankle, cutting off any chance of escape. His muscles strained against the hold, but it was like trying to break free from a steel trap—impossible and utterly futile.

The villain lifted Tatsuya higher so their eyes met, a malicious gleam in Zetsubō's gaze. The smirk that curled across the villain's lips was one of pure taunt, a cruel expression that conveyed his satisfaction with Tatsuya's predicament. It was as if he was reveling in the wolf boy's helplessness, savoring the moment of dominance.

The fear and frustration that churned within Tatsuya's heart were nearly overwhelming, but he refused to let them consume him entirely. He could feel the malice radiating from Zetsubō, a dark energy that threatened to suffocate him.

Without warning, Zetsubō flung Tatsuya into the air with a mighty swing. The sudden motion sent him soaring over the treetops, the forest below becoming a patchwork of green and brown as he flew through the air. The wind rushed past him, tearing at his clothes and hair, as he tumbled head over heels. Time seemed to stretch, each second an eternity as he hurtled through the canopy, crashing through the tree line with a series of bone-jarring impacts.

Panic clawed at his mind, but amidst the chaos, a spark of determination flared to life. Tatsuya curled himself into a ball, bracing for impact. As he approached the ground, he adjusted his position and tucked his body tighter, preparing for the roll.

He hit the ground with a thud, his body rolling forward in a controlled motion. The momentum carried him several feet, but he managed to absorb most of the impact through the roll, finally stopping in a crouched position. Though his body ached from the rough landing, he quickly got back on his feet, ready to face Zetsubō once more.

"Akiba?!" a feminine voice exclaimed in disbelief from behind the wolf boy, cutting through the tense atmosphere like a knife.

Tatsuya's eyes widened in shock as he turned around to see Kendo standing there, her expression a blend of relief and concern. Her orange hair, usually neat and orderly, was slightly disheveled, framing her face in a chaotic halo. Her eyes were wide with worry, a stark contrast to the determined set of her jaw. Behind her, a villain who appeared to be around their age lay sprawled on the ground, unconscious, his limbs splayed out in an ungraceful heap.

"Damn, man! What happened to you???" Tetsutetsu called out, his voice rough but filled with genuine concern. He lay beyond the defeated foe, his upper body propped up by his elbows. He appeared battered but unbroken, his determination evident in the way he held himself despite the obvious strain.

"Crap! If they're here, then that means...!" Tatsuya trailed off mid-thought, his ears flattening against his head and his tail drooping in dread. The realization struck him hard—the risk of his coursemates being near him was too great. "You guys have to get moving right now! It's not safe here!" he urged, desperation lacing his voice as he glanced around, his eyes filled with fear for their safety.

"Of course, it's not safe here, idiot. We're in the middle of a villain attack," Tetsutetsu retorted, his tone filled with irritation as he slowly got up. He winced slightly, his movements stiff from the earlier confrontation. Despite his casual words, there was a layer of seriousness in his eyes, a recognition of the danger they all faced.

"No! You don't understand, it's—" Tatsuya's words were abruptly cut off as a powerful, oppressive presence suddenly emanated from behind him. The air grew heavy, and a chill ran down his spine. He barely had time to register the threat before a brutal punch connected with the side of his head, the impact sending him hurtling through the air.

He crashed into Kendo with a force that knocked the wind out of them, sending them sprawling to the ground. Pain exploded in his skull, his vision blurring as he struggled to regain his bearings. Kendo lay beneath him, her expression a mix of shock and concern as she tried to push herself up.

"Kendo! Akiba—" Tetsutetsu's exclamation was abruptly cut off as a punch struck him in the head with brutal force. The impact sent him flying, his body colliding with Kendo and Tatsuya, adding to the pile of tangled bodies.

Zetsubō's mocking laughter reverberated through the dense forest, cutting through the tense silence like a jagged blade. Tatsuya gritted his teeth, pushing Tetsutetsu aside with urgency before swiftly rising to his feet, a mixture of anger and determination flashing in his eyes. Kendo scrambled up beside him, her usually composed demeanor shaken by the intensity of the situation.

"Now are you beginning to understand?" Zetsubō's voice dripped with contempt, his tone slicing through the tense air like a razor as he stood before Tatsuya and his coursemates. His cold and calculating eyes locked onto the trio with a cruel certainty. "Weak animals will be devoured. Their lot in life is to despair."

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A/N: For this chapter, I made the decision to stick with the third-person narrative. Integrating both first and third-person perspectives proved challenging, so I opted for a different approach this time around.

Once again, the plot thickens with the reveal of Zetsubō. Tatsuya is faced with a daunting challenge—how will he navigate this confrontation, especially with the unexpected appearance of Iguchi and the revelation of Zetsubō's connection to him? I'm eager to hear your thoughts and speculation on how Tatsuya will proceed. Share your insights in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this chapter or the story overall, don't forget to leave a vote—it truly makes a difference.

Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you in the next chapter.