Chapter Text
It has been… how long now exactly? 4, 7, 11 hours now? He’s not entirely too sure. But if there is one thing Void is certain of; is that he will consider breaking the hand of that short pint scientist.
Because the damn doctor had been scraping his finger on the capsule he has been inside for God knows how long. It is not necessarily the electricity jolt activation that had awaken him, it is rather subconsciously the grating sound of contact. More specifically, skin contact. Void thinks that he might have serious internal bleeding soon, because he feels the accumulation of bulging veins around his temple and neck as his eyebrows dim with frustration. Every drag of the doctor’s fingers is increasing the old fart high likelihood of getting a fractured hand.
Tap, tap, tap.
Deciding to finally open his eyes, he sees the very face he wishes not see first thing in the morning. Garaki’s petulant hands were on the glass frame, imprints of his fingers plastered on it due to his very much unwanted disturbance. The old man was waving his hands at the submerged nomu, his wrinkled face crinkling with a smile that might very much be on the edge of creepy. As expected, Void doesn’t respond to his greeting instead opts to settle his glowing green eyes at the mad scientist’s face.
“Void-kun. Are you awake?” A very much obvious question that didn’t need any answer. “Void-Kun?” His voice sounded like it was distant due to him being in the tank, adding more layers of grating irritation of the doctor’s already gruffy voice. Void kept his contact on the doctor’s face for a while until he shifted his gaze to the control panels then back at the doctor’s; conveying a short message.
“Ah, right.” Garaki, understanding what the nomu was signaling about, reached for the release button and pressed it down. All the viscous green liquid in the tank were sucked up to a drain hole below before the glass gave way its opening, allowing the hulking figure himself to step out of it. Void cracked his stiff neck and sour body, relishing from being kept in that stasis position for a long while. “You know, it’s not really nice to ignore someone who is asking for your well being…”
Then again, Void is still not listening to him as his neck gave a popping sound of bones when he craned it sideways. The sentient nomu’s attention shifted to his new cloths on a table not too far away from him, his legs began walking towards there. Void quickly dressed up to his new makeover; a grey sleeveless tank top with black overall baggy trousers. But before he could wear his accustomed black hoodie, he realized something was wrong as he gazed at the written imprint on the grey tank top’s front: “#1 Doctor favorite”. That needed to be fixed, pronto. His sharp green eyes landed on the doctor…whose body was all of a sudden inches away from his.
“So do you like it? I customized it myself.” Garaki said with pride, very much aware of how displeased his creation was. The doctor knew that Void resented his usual antiques of trying to “bond with his creation”, but he wouldn’t stop until Void loves him back; that’s the way how it is supposed to be. So how would the nomu reciprocate his love back? Simple, Void did the best thing that he could think of, re-wearing the tank top the wrong way; inside out. Satisfied with getting the ridiculous tag on his cloth out of sight, he wore the black hoodie over the grey tank top. The doctor was displeased but he couldn’t care anymore less. Lastly, and certainly not the least in his opinion, was his metal mouthguard. Void’s large hands reached out to the mouthguard and clamped it in place over his mouth; hiding his scarred lips and most especially hiding those freckles that plagued him to no end for some reason.
“How long was I out exactly?” Void’s deep voice resonated around the facility. Garaki gave Void a sour look then huffed with sadness. All the time… “Well you have been out for approximately 18 hours to be exact.”
“Modifications?”
“I have been able to combine a quirk called sight with your analysis quirk. Now you can be able to see the quirk a person possesses as well as some relatable data of the person’s biometrical structures… or something close to that.” Void raised an eyebrow at what the doctor, who currently is flipping through his clipboard in hand, was referring about.
“Are you certain about that?”Void asked, his stoic cold voice tinged with curiosity.
“See for yourself.” Void turned to the doctor and to his surprise immediately self activated on its own, showing the quirk the scientist possessed as well as some other information he couldn’t quite place. Lights akin to heat signatures surrounded the body of the old man with varying colors, ranging from red which shows the body’s major heat source to lesser regions that give off the color blue. He could even see pinpoints of where Garaki’s quirk was surrounding his body. Then there was the dwindling activity of cells and arteries around the locomotive limbs; something that intertwines well with Garaki’s quirk and its function.
QUIRK: LIFE FORCE
• A quirk that doubles ones lifeforce in exchange for physical mobility.
The quirk status resonates well with what he is looking at.
Useful quirk…
“The quirk sight has the ability to see internal structures of an individual’s biology up to molecular levels if concentrated on deeply, and combined with your analysis quirk that helps you know the quirk of someone and its weakness you can easily be able to evaluate a person’s quirk far more easily.” Garaki explained as Void examined himself for further testing. And indeed, he could see the internal structures of himself and where his quirks were flowing in him. That was until his vision blurred and an intense migraine found its wat to his skull, forcing him to abruptly shut off the reformed quirk.
“Oh by the way it would be best not to use it for extended period of time. You might experience mental strain.” Garaki said as he saw the pained expression of the nomu. Void’s blurry gaze set on Garaki with an angry stare. “And you didn’t bother to tell me in the first place?”
Garaki shrugged off the question, “I wanted you to learn about the quirk first, then overuse repercussions set in. You should have catch up by now, you are an intelligent nomu afterall. The first of your kind…”
Void glared at the scientist. “I know that already. Stop reminding me of the obvious.”Garaki looked intently at Void’s reaction. A devious idea popped to his mind. Two can play that game. “Oh I know…” A delirious smile craned its way to his mouth.
“…Kyusei.”
The name addressed to Void made him snap in anger as he grabbed the collar of the scientist, crouching down to his eye level. “Don’t. Refer. To. Me. As. That. Name. Again” Every word punctuated with suppressed venom, his hands tightening around the collar of the lab coat he had unfavorably grown accustomed to seeing on a daily if not weekly basis. Garaki chuckled, clearly unfazed at the sudden outlash, like he had been expecting that to happen. “Why not? It’s the name I gave you before you were soon called Void by the public. A name that reflects your perfection- my Kyusei. You should take pride in it.”
Void’s expression darkened, and a low growl rumbled in his chest. “You are threading on thin ice. Doctor.”His jaw tightened under the metal mouthguard, his body shaking from the tremendous amount he had to do to ensure he didn’t just end Garaki’s life then and there.
“You resent the name? You resent what it means? But you are Kyusei. You are high above all the nomus I have created throughout the years. An accumulation of years’ worth of research spent on you, you should be honored boy. You’re the ultimate Nomu. My masterpiece.” This only made the hold on Garaki’s labcoat tighter, Void’s other massive hand shot out to his neck. It was done with such force that the clipboard clattered to the ground. Void lifted the doctor off his feet effortlessly, bringing him face to face with his glowing green eyes, now blazing with fury. “Tell me Garaki. What makes you think that I won’t snap your neck this instant. The offer is really tempting you know.”
For the first time, a flicker of unease crossed Garaki’s face, but it was quickly replaced by his usual smirk. “You seem to be forgetting your place, Kyusei” He taunted, his voice maddeningly calm despite the situation. “You are a nomu, just with your brain intact. You are master’s nomu; You are my nomu.”
Void’s grip tightened, his knuckles whitening as the rage boiled within him. He drew the hand from the collar back and curled his fingers to a fist, ready to strike. But before he could, pain exploded through his body. The metal nek brace around his neck emitted a deafening crackle as volts of electricity coursed through him. Void roared in pain as his body convulsed violently. His grip on Garaki slackened, and the doctor fell flat on his ass and stumbled back. He adjusted his coat with a smug grin as Void crumbled to his knees, the electricity forcing him into submission.
“You forget yourself, Void.” Garaki said, revealing a remote he had in his pocket now on display on his hand. The very thing responsible for the electrification. “You may be my favorite creation, but I will not tolerate rebellion. You exist because of me. Without me, you are nothing.”
Void writhed on the floor, the glow in his eyes dimming momentarily as the electricity subsided. He gritted his teeth, panting heavily as humiliation and anger swirled in his chest like a storm. He wanted to tear Garaki apart, to end the mad man who relishes in his agony during his so called modifications. Like he was some sort of weapon, a tool with no feelings. But he couldn’t, because master says so. He is a tool, a nomu with just a better upgrade. Nothing more, nothing less. Whatever master says is right. But this. This man standing in front of him, is just the apprentice of master. Hiding behind master and using that as leverage to think he can just command him like master does. He has no power, just a senile short man who master dimmed important enough to stay by his side. He is a coward because he can’t control him like master can, using cheap shots to get his way.
The door hissed open, and a new figure stepped into the room. All for one’s imposing presence filled the space, his voice smooth yet commanding. “What seems to be the issue here, Doctor?” Garaki turned to him, bowing slightly. “Just a minor outburst, my lord. It seems our Void is still struggling to fully embrace his purpose.” All for one’s gaze shifted to Void, who had managed to push himself to his knees, his head bowed low. “Is that so?” All for one inquired as his shoes stepped closer to where Void was kneeling, every step echoing like the drums of finality, making Void’s breathing slightly spike up. He could see master’s two legs at the front of him coming to a stop. Even with the obvious height difference, the shadow of master makes him feel little and small compared to the aura of authority master carries in his presence.
“Void, explain yourself.” All for one said, his tone calm yet laced with shimmering mix of menace and frozen disappointment. Void’s hulking body tensed, his body automatically forcing itself to look smaller as he bowed lower, his forehead nearly touching the ground. “I apologize, master…” He said, his voice straining from the uneasy feel he is getting from master’s penetrating stare on his bent back (Even if he doesn’t have an eye for that: lol). “…It won’t happen again. I was acting out of foolishness master.”
“See that it doesn’t happen again.” His voice cold and authoritative. “You are my weapon, Void. My sword in the dark. Any sign of rebellion is a sign of failure, and you know very well I do not tolerate failure.” Void’s glowing eyes remained fixed on the floor as his master’s words pierced through him. “Yes master.”, he whispered.
Silence was all that remained for a while. Void didn’t dare lift his head up. Does master see his answer not convincing? Or had he said something wrong? Thoughts raced through his mind as master hadn’t moved from his front. That was when All for one crouched down and placed a hand on Void’s hair and ruffled it a bit, the nomu involuntarily flinching; thinking master wanted to punish him. The reaction from Void only made All for one chuckle. “Ah Void, I’m not angry at you. Not anymore. You can raise your head now.” Void hesitantly raised his bowed head, slouching his back so as not to dwarf his master who was kneeling slightly above his face level, a soft smile was on his face. Like a father looking down at his son, or in this case; a master tenderly looking at his creation. “You might have setbacks at times, but-”
All for one’s arms reached out to wrap around Void’s massive back, giving him a hug. Void stiffened a bit but was calmed by the warm hand that held his head in the hug, his master comforting him reassuringly. “-You are also my greatest creation. You have exceeded every expectation I had, my dear Void. I love what you’ve become. I love the weapon you are.” All for one voice laced with sickening affection.
Void’s eyes widened slightly at the praise. Despite everything-the pain, the anger and humiliation he got from Garaki’s assault-he couldn’t help the faint spark of something that stirred within him. Satisfaction and happiness. A twisted sense of pride, his conditioned heart clung to those words like a lifeline, as if they somehow validated his existence. “Master…” His cold stoned heart clung to the praise his master gave to him. His master’s word was final. His master’s word is always true. His master was everything to him. All for one stood again, turning his back to Void as he spoke. “Don’t let this mistake weigh on you. You performed your mission flawless. That hero you eliminated had been a thorn to society for far too long. You’ve proven yourself time and time again Void. You are truly remarkable.”
Void’s hands which had been trembling moments ago, stilled. The anger and humiliation began to fade, replaced by a cold hollow pride. “Thank you master.” He said, his voice quiet but steady. Garaki watched the scene with a knowing smile, his gnarled hands folding behind his back. The rebellion that surged inside Void a moment ago had been extinguished easily with a few carefully chosen words by his Lord.
As much as Void hated the name Garaki had given him, as much as he despised being reminded of what he was, the control All for one held over him was absolute. That alone showing just how manipulative All for one can be. Using a telepathy quirk, All for one called for Kurogiri to open a warp gate. The reply instantaneous as a purple spiral swirled in front of the three occupants in Garaki’s lab.
“I believe that should be your exit. Take some rest Void. You have earned it.” All for one said. Void rose slowly to his feet, the pain from the earlier shock still coursing through him but ignored it. His glowing eyes were cold, devoid of the fury they held minutes earlier. He bowed deeply to All for one. “I will not fail you again.”
All for one smiled, satisfaction well hidden in his voice. “I know you won’t, Void. You are perfection itself.” Void bowed his head one more time as he headed for the warp gate, but not before secretly giving Garaki a side glare, something Garaki himself didn’t miss. The nomu’s hulking figure disappeared as the gate closed, transporting back to the bar hideout.
Doctor Garaki looked up at his Lord, a small sense of uncertainty cross his face. “I hate to disagree with you my Lord, but Kyusei hasn’t reach the near perfect state you claimed for him to be.” All for one’s hollow eyes settled on Garaki, “True. That’s why his next test will ensure for him to become that.” The overlord of evil turned around to leave the vicinity, going deep into the lab where the nomus were being kept in their containers, Garaki following suite to catch up to where his lord was going.
“Another combat test? But he had completed that months ago. Now all he does is training against the other nomus, and none of them can put a scratch on him.” The doctor said as they walked side by side, carefully avoiding wires or anything that could trip them as they passed through hordes of capsules holding variety of nomus. Reaching further down the lab, they entered another section that had nomus that looked unique; each one with a dark blue coloring, exposed brain and some red scars on their body; their capsules even showing it as the viscous liquid preserving the submerged nomus were purple instead of the usual green or greyish color. They were dubbed as High end Nomus by Doctor Garaki himself as these said beings had more quirks than all nomus in the low, middle and high tier. Although their sentience was more than all nomus classified before, it falls short drastically in comparison to Void’s own. Making Void all the more unique and an enigma even if he wasn’t in the high end nomu tier as his own quirks unfortunately fell short to a regular high end nomus’, hence he is still lacking in become the ultimate perfect nomu.
Ironic how he is dubbed the ultimate creation but still fell short on the necessary amount of quirks like the high ends.
“What about these high ends. Is one ready for testing already?” Garaki shook his head, “I’m afraid none are ready for the testing stage yet. And hood is nowhere near completion. There are still some quirks I desire to add to the nomu.”
All for one’s face turned to curiosity. “Oh, and what would that be?” Garaki lit up with delight as he told All for one the quirks he wished to acquire. All for one’s face was in surprise despite his composure. “You still wish to acquire Erasure?” Garaki nodded his head in affirmation. “The deceased body’s quirk that formed Kurogiri is okay…but I’ve always preferred the Erasure quirk more.”
“Remember doctor, Eraser head is no longer a child that you can easily find a way to kill. It was luck that he was out for his hero internship during that day, he is a full grown man with experience at his side. Capturing him won’t be easy.” Garaki knew fully well what All for one was implying, but he couldn’t give up on the possibility that he could still acquire erasure. He must get his hands on it as soon as possible. But there is always the next best thing if he can’t have what he desire.
“I know my lord, so that’s why I can settle for the other one.” All for one was impressed by the doctor’s tactical mind. True Erasure is extremely powerful as it can easily negate quirks, the other one however…made erasure look like child’s play. “I’m impressed you have thought that far doctor. But how will you acquire the two pro heroes’ quirk. The other one will be much more difficult to get than Erasure you know.”
“I know my Lord. But that’s a risk I am willing to take.” The two villains kept discussing as they headed to the end of the large facility room holding the high ends. Another room awaited at the end. All for one turned the knob and entered the dark room, the only thing illuminating the place was the small led lights and monitors that were stationed there. Garaki followed closely behind, looking ahead at what All for one had his sight on.
“By the way doctor, how has this one been doing. It has been almost 5 years since I last saw this nomu in making.” Garaki knew what all for one was talking about as he looked on at the large capsule in the center of the cramped room; the only capsule here in fact. Inside was a nomu, a tall hulking nomu that even surpassed the size of Void. Its brain is exposed like the others, and its skin was dark blue like the high ends they had passed before. But there was something about this one that carried power, a terrifying amount to boot. The nomu was suspended in the container pod with purple liquid that has been preserving it for a long time, its body hunched and cradling; like an unborn child in a mother’s womb. It had several red scars crisscrossing its body most especially the arms and had a unique beak shaped mouth that had a creepy permanent grin plastered to the far end of its beak jaws. Its eyes are milky white and lacked pupils since it was in stasis, near dead state. Bubbles fizzled from under the tank around the viscous liquid.
“It should be ready in a few days’ time. Why do you ask?” Garaki inquired.
A gleeful smile found its way to All for one’s face. “Good. This would be Void’s final combat test.” The short scientist eyes nearly bulged out from his skull. “My lord you can’t be serious. This nomu has been modified and specifically designed to take All might at 100%! If Void goes on a sparring match with him, it would kill him instantly! Besides, this nomu is the one that is meant to defeat All might first before Void even came to the picture!” All for one only laughed in reply to the anxious doctor. “You seem to lack faith in the very creation your hand love probing on all the time. Have you forgotten that even if it was under a year Void had been made, he still took a whole 2 decades worth of nomu research. Thereby even surpassing this one that is only half a decade.”
“That-that is true.” The brow of the scientist was beading with sweat. He still isn’t sure this was a good idea. “But still, Nomu-027 has been modelled to take on All might. Void’s current strength is just slightly above a high tiered nomu’s. The gap is incredulously wide my lord.” All for one’s gaze was still settled on the nomu in statis, his smile never leaving his face. “You are underestimating Void too much; he has one thing that every nomu lack: The brain of a human. His intelligence from his previous body Izuku Midoriya makes him all the more dangerous, hyper smart…and cunning. He quickly adapts to any situation even in pressure, and thanks to removing that disgusting inferiority complex from him last year, his knowledge is far more efficient than ever. Why do you think I gave him that analysis quirk all those months ago, because it suits him.”
“From what I have conducted, Void’s quirks are 5 including one of them that is recently upgraded.” Garaki counted with his hand. “Could it counter Nomu-027 quirks: Strength rivaling All might at 100%, superspeed, and most especially Super regeneration and shock absorption?”
All for one shrugged the scientist concerns. “A nasty combination of quirks true. But Void is very adaptive and will find a way to win for sure. And besides, if he is able to defeat this nomu; then I believe an upgrade of new quirks should be due by then.”
“My lord, but what if the quirk overloads the quirk integration node in Void’s brain. We could risk our very first sentient nomu-” The icy stare All for one gave Garaki made the scientist cower in fear, stopping his questioning midway.
“Then ensure that the modifications are stable and don’t short circuit the nodes. We can’t have my ultimate creation faltering when the time comes. Isn’t that right doctor.” Garaki, ever the loyal lapdog of all for one, nodded his head in agreement. “Ye-Yes my Lord. I’ll make necessary adjustments where needed.”
“Good. Time is of the essence, because UA will be resuming with its newly batched students in 2 weeks. And my eyes in the school is among them.”
_______________________
Bakugo stared at the setting sun as he was basked in the tranquil light coming from it. His feet were steeped in the soft tingling sands of the beach that were being washed ashore. Honestly, what was he even doing here again? The ash blonde reached into his pocket to get his phone. 6:23 pm; that’s what the time said. A tic mark appeared on Bakugo’s forehead. It was getting late, he had been here for over 3 hours and he still hasn’t shown up.
What the hell is keeping that old man long?! Well, he really can’t blame him at this point. He must be busy with the tuition job he had taken up. If anyone ever told him that the number one hero will become a teacher soon, he might likely call the person crazy. Heck, he didn’t even believe when he had told him himself, that was until he saw it himself.
A week prior;
Oi Brat! You’ve got a letter! Mitsuki Bakugo, Katsuki’s mum called out to him from the front door. Currently, said teen was lifting a dumbbell with his right arm… the very arm that he has been warned not to use for any excessive strain work for a while. Making him remember what he was told a few days ago;
He doesn’t remember much after beating the zero pointer, but he remembered waking up in a hospital bed and to his surprise Ochaco who was sitting on a chair beside his bed. Apparently, she wasn’t the only one there; four eyes and Shinsou were waiting for him to wake up. The first thing he was greeted with was the profuse crying of roundface who was glad he was okay, thanking him profusely for saving her. He would have made a reply if not for the near bone crushing hug Ochaco was giving him and something soft squishing his face...her chest. His face turned cherry red from the direct contact of her freaking boobs on his damn face! Is she doing this on purpose?!
Luckily for him he didn’t have to dwell on that as four eyes and Shinsou were asking for his wellbeing. The doors opened and it was revealed to be the UA school nurse; recovery girl. The old lady had explained what had transpired the last few hours; and proceeded to reprimand Bakugo of the risky move he pulled off in the exam. Also, she had cautioned him that his overexertion of his quirk had resulted in his right arm being slightly charred, a vertical scar visible on the shoulder as it exposed some skin. Recovery girl said that his arm might take a while to be fully functional and recommended he should rest it for a week plus.
Back to the present, Bakugo frowned at the red scar on his right arm. He knows his old hag would probably scream her head off if she saw him doing this but he had to. Because he had to get stronger.
It looks rough sure, but it was worth it. He had saved people and he felt good about it. Besides, the hug Ochaco gave him wasn’t all that bad…it felt nice. Bakugo immediately slapped his face to clear his thought. Was he still thinking about the fucking boobs?!
“Bakugo Katsuki!!!” Oh, his mother was still calling for him. Dropping the weight on the floor, he walked out of his room and went downstairs. As expected, his mother wasn’t too happy about his delay. On her hand was a letter with a red stamp, and on that same stamp was the UA academy logo. Bakugo’s eyes widened a fraction, could it be…
“The exam letter is here. Results are out.” Mitsuki said as she gave her son the letter. Bakugo’s hands were shaking, why? Because he isn’t certain if he had passed or not. He took the letter but his mother noticed the slight worry on her son, making her sharp eyes soften.
“Hey, I know you’ll do great. So don’t worry about it.” Bakugo looked at his mother, he didn’t say much but understands she was encouraging him. Walking back to his room, he kept looking at the red stamp on the letter. He just hopes his mother is right.
Bakugo closed the door to his room and set the letter down on the table beside his bed. He doesn’t know how long he had been staring at the letter, until he took even breaths to calm his nerve. His hands reached for the seal to open. “Let’s get this over with” he muttered to himself, not knowing his mom had craned his door open to watch her son silently. Just as soon as he opened the letter a device fell off it. The blonde teen raised his eyebrow; where was the freaking letter? It turned out the letter was the letter itself as a hologram of All might in a yellow tuxedo suit popped out.
“I AM HERE…DISPLAYED AS A HOLOGRAM!” All might said with a booming voice, his iconic smile displayed on screen. Bakugo stepped back in surprise.
“Hah?! All might?!” He knew the hologram is a recorded one but he was surprised to see the number one pro hero talking. What was he doing in UA?! This has to be a joke right?...
“There’s been quite some catching up to do. But you might be wondering: Why am I here? Well, to put it simply, I am in town to be a teacher in UA.” Bakugo’s eyes widened in surprise. So he really wasn’t joking afterall.
“Congratulations on partaking in the entrance exam young Bakugo. You have shown diligence and courage in taking such a hard exam.” All might explained. “But unfortunately, despite excelling in the writing part, you scored pretty low in the practical. And as you know that is the most important part of the exams was the mock battle which truly evaluates how one could do in a potential hero situation. And scoring low in that part means you have failed the UA’s exam.” Bakugo looked down in something akin to shame and resolution. He knows that he scored low, lower than most students infact on the practical. The writing aspect can only go that far, but still… it felt so depressing.
Bakugo’s hands balled to a fist, gritting his teeth in frustration. Goddamit…that means he would have to apply somewhere else or worse; attend a normal non hero high school. So much about his dreams to entering UA. Mitsuki who was still hiding was worried at the defeated look her son was donning.
“BUT-!”
“-A hero is defined as someone who puts one’s life on the line to save people. Before I elaborate on that, take a look at this video.” All might clicked a button and a tv beside him came to life. On the screen it showed a girl with brown hair and a boy with purple hair. They were standing in front of the pro hero present mic. Bakugo recognized the two teens immediately.
‘Um, Mr Present mic. I was wondering if it is possible that I could share my points with someone.” Ochaco said. “His name is Bakugo, and he has red eyes and ash blonde hair that is spiky.” Ochaco explained as she tried to describe how he looked like. Present mic tilted his head. “Is there a reason you want to give out your points to this Bakugo by any chance.”
“Well, it’s just that, I wanted to thank him for what he did for me. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be here in one piece.”
“I would also like to share my points as well…actually those are his points. I’m to blame for Bakugo’s low point score. Had I not used my quirk on him, he would have scored higher.” Shinsou said as he rubbed his neck in guilt.
The Voice hero just ruffled their heads, giving a placating smile. “Don’t worry about it little lads. UA knows how to handle this situation. You can count on us.” The video paused as All might turned back to the front.
“So what am I trying to say. If a hero is meant to have the quality of self-sacrificing; then UA will be having lip service for not counting your other actions. Because UA didn’t only focus on villain points!” All might said, on the TV showed his ranking for the exam result; FIRST PLACE?! HOW?!
“Rescue points are also given out in the exams. Teachers also voted on your rescue grading point, and I myself included. Bakugo Katsuki; rescue points: 105!!!” Bakugo’s eyes widened in disbelieve. “Combined with your attack points: 119 points!”
All might hand reached out like an invitation gesture. “Not only had your actions saves a person, but it had saved many others, moving a lot of teachers at your efforts. CONGRATULATIONS YOUNG BAKUGO! YOU SCORED FIRST PLACE IN THE ENTIRE UA EXAM! Come, to your hero academy.” The hologram ended; Bakugo’s room was gravely silent. He couldn’t believe it, he couldn’t fucking believe it!!! He scored first place! Tears brimmed his eyes from the swelling feeling of relief and joy in his heart. Bakugo tried to forcefully glare away the tears, but they still kept on coming. Bakugo reached his left arm to clean away the tears, gritting his teeth at the emotions he was leaking out. His body was ragged with hiccups of silent crying, a cry of happiness. Drops of tears fell on his short as he kept on crying.
“I did it D-deku…I r-really did it.” Bakugo said, his voice disheveled from his silent cries. He didn’t when his mother had entered his room, or when her arms enveloped him to a hug. But he still kept on crying, ignoring that his mother was there. This was where it begins for him, he would amend his mistakes and prove to be a true hero. Not one who only looks out for himself.
Bakugo cleared his mind from the memory lane as his eyes were still set on the sun. Looking behind him, he saw the heavy dump of garbage at the back. The one that had taken 10 months for him to clean up. This was Takoba Municipal Beach Park; the place he was currently at and the place he had set for his training ground over the past 10 months. It had taken a lot of effort but in the end he was able to clean the years’ worth of heaping trash, all accumulated over time from people and washed up items from the sea. This was supposed to a lone training exercise for himself, but a certain someone had taken it upon himself to also help his training regime and train him. Speaking of said person…
“Young Bakugo!” A lanky tall man who was running his direction called out to him from afar. He had blonde hair and two long bags on each side of his face, he was wearing baggy clothing that looked so out of place for him. His body looked skinny and frail looking as he got to better view. But if anyone knew better, looks can be deceiving. Bakugo knew that one for sure.
“Took you long enough old man. You said I should be here by 3:00 pm, and you came 3 hours late.” Bakugo said in annoyance, his voice however was lacking its usual bite.
The man finally reached his side, panting from exertion ad his running. “Forgive me young man. I was busy with schedule. School work can be hectic you know…”
“Sure. If you mind counting this as well” Bakugo said as he pulled out his phone. There on the screen was the daily hero news; and what was stated under it was the recent activity done today. ‘The symbol of peace in action: All might resolves 5 crimes in 3 hours!’ That was what is written as the headline.
The now revealed individual who goes by Toshinori Yagi; best known publicly as All might; released a nervous chuckle. “I couldn’t help it.” Bakugo could only snort at the weak excuse the symbol of peace could come up with. “Tsk, off course you couldn’t. You are a hero afterall.”
“Yeah…” The two individuals stared at the evening sky as they stood a few paces side by side from each other, not saying a word for a while. It was Yagi that broke the silence. “By the way Bakugo, good job in passing the exam.” Bakugo looked down his wet feet, refusing to look into the eyes of the experienced pro hero. Even though it was clearly stated that he had passed the exam, he still felt like he doesn’t deserve it not in the slightest. His inner demons are very much making sure of that. All might could see the sunken expression of Bakugo and gave the young teen an encouraging squeeze on his shoulder.
“You are still thinking of young Midoriya?” Yagi asked softly.
“…”
“Hey-”
“Deku was meant to have one for all. To be your successor, right?” Yagi was silent at the statement for a while. “Yes…”
“Then why do you bother to train me? I’m not worth your time. Despite me refusing to inherit one for all, why do you still bother to watch me after all this time. I-I’m just a liability to you All might.” Bakugo said, his hands balled into fists by his side.
Yagi knew the kid was hurting again. It is true, the young man has refused to take the mantle of being his successor; the next user of one for all; saying he wants to earn his power with his own strength. He respects the boy’s determination. But that doesn’t mean it is right to downgrade himself.
“I don’t see you as a liability, young Bakugo. The training I am giving you sure is out of context from my initial objective. But that doesn’t change the fact that a hero is also one that is meant to help aspiring ones grow. And that’s you Bakugo.” The ash blonde finally raised his head to look at him. “Irrespective of your rough past and relationship with Young Midoriya, it shouldn’t define who you are. It is what you decide to do now that defines you not the past. You have a fire that is roaring inside you, a flame that is thirsting with the heart of a true hero. And as your mentor, I want to see it grow to be a fine hero, even if you don’t want to be my successor.”
Bakugo turned his head back to the sandy floor. “Thanks…All might.” And once again, it was quiet among the both of them.
Yagi suddenly turned to his buff form. “Sooo, are you up for some few laps around the beach?” All might asked. He got no response, making All might raise his eyebrow in concern. “Young Bakugo?-”
Bakugo tensed. He shoved his hands into his pockets, looking away. This was it—the moment he’d been dreading. He had to ask.
"...There’s something I need from you." Bakugo said, his voice clearly tense like he wasn’t ready for what he was about to say. All might tilted his head in curiosity, “Oh? What is it?” Bakugo clenched his fists as his face began growing red. Why was this so fucking hard? This looked a lot more difficult than he had thought in his head. It wasn’t like he was asking for a favor or anything sentimental. It was just a simple request, for crying out loud.
Finally finding his voice, Bakugo reached into his pocket and pulled out something All might hadn’t seen for a long while… An All might autograph pamphlet back in his early golden age. And Bakugo hand was outstretched to his face even if he can’t reach him. "Don’t make me say it twice, old man! Just... gimme your damn autograph!"
All Might blinked, surprised by the request. Then, his expression softened into a warm smile. "Ah, so that’s what this is about. I must say, I didn’t expect this from you, young Bakugo." He said with a kind voice.
Bakugo, already embarrassed by his inner child’s mind request, glared in defense to keep face for his pride. "What’s that supposed to mean?! You think I’m some kind of fanboy like Deku or something?!" He quickly froze at the name, his anger faltering for a moment before he regained his composure. "I just thought... I dunno. It’d be cool to have it. Not like it matters or anything."
All Might studied Bakugo closely, noting the mix of emotions playing across his face. He wasn’t just asking for an autograph—this was about more than that. It was about connection, acknowledgment, and perhaps even respect. "I’d be honored to give you my autograph, young Bakugo. May I have the pamphlet?" Bakugo held it out, his hand trembling slightly. "Here. Just make it quick, alright?"
All Might took the notebook, his smile never wavering. He reached into his coat pocket for a pen, then paused. "You know, young Bakugo, an autograph isn’t just about the signature. It’s about what it represents. Are you sure you’re ready to carry what this means?"
"What are you even talking about? It’s just a stupid signature!" Bakugo yelled as he frowned impatiently. All might shook his head but still kept his smile. "No, it’s a symbol—a bond between us. By signing this, I’m acknowledging your growth, your potential, and the hero you’re striving to become. Do you understand?"
Bakugo stared at him, his mouth opening and closing like he wanted to argue, but no words came out. For once, he couldn’t come up with a retort. He clenched his fists and looked down, muttering under his breath. "...Yeah, whatever. Just sign it already."
All Might chuckled softly and carefully wrote his signature in bold, flowing letters: "To Young Bakugo: Keep striving for greatness. - All Might." When he handed the pamphlet back, Bakugo stared at the signature for a long moment. His face was unreadable, but his grip on the autograph tightened.
"...Thanks." Bakugo said quietly, a tinge of awe and happiness found in his gruff voice.
All might nodded in acknowledgement "You’re welcome. And Bakugo, remember this: You don’t have to walk this path alone. You have your future classmates, your mother, and even me to lean on if you ever need it."
Bakugo’s head snapped up, his fiery gaze locking onto All Might. "Don’t get the wrong idea, old man. I don’t need anyone’s help! I’m gonna be the number one hero on my own!"
Aaand he’s back. All might thought with a sweatdrop, wasn’t he sentimental a few minutes ago? "Of course you are. But even the greatest heroes need a little support sometimes."
Bakugo scowled, but there was no real heat behind it. He stuffed the autograph into his pocket with surprising gentleness, fearing that any rough movement might ripple the paper in half. With that being set aside, All might cleared his throat and asked the explosive quirk user if he was ready to start their usual training. Bakugo looked back at the pro hero, a determined look set on his face. “You bet I am damn ready. You?” Bakugo said as he cracked his knuckles and neck, to which All might just responded with a chuckle. “A hero never backs down from a challenge, young Bakugo.”
“Save that for the running.”
All might burst into a fit of loud laughter. “HAHAHA! Now that’s the spirit! Alright then, in that case…” A gust of wind blew as All might blitzed to the front, already reaching a far distance with his speed. “I AM BEGINNING WITH A HEADSTART FIRST!!! BETTER KEEP UP YOUNG BAKUGO!!!” Bakugo’s eyes twitched at the sudden jumpstart All might had given himself. His hands began to ignite with explosives, sparks crackling in the evening air.
“Oh, so that’s how it’s going to be, number one. Then allow me to reciprocate in the same manner!” Bakugo couldn’t help the competitive grin he had on his face as he set off into the air with his quirk’s firepower. He was slowly gaining ground to meet up with All might until they were neck to neck. “If you’re gonna play dirty, then allow me to level the playing field old man!” With that said, Bakugo released a small wave of explosion to propel himself further. All might was now behind him.
“I’LL TAKE THAT AS A CHALLENGE, SHONEN!” Pumping more power to his legs, All might ran faster to catch up with his leading student. For now they can both forget about their responsibilities and their burden, and focus on the present as they trained for the remaining few hours.