Chapter 13- Aftershock and Aftermaths (And Afterthoughts)
Iida had done his best to reach the staff, even as he was hurt and exhausted from his own battle. He managed to locate the nearest teacher and inform them about the current situation going on at the USJ; to say they were horrified was an understatement. As they contacted All Might to head out to the battle, seeing that he will get there faster to at least give them time to get there. The teachers were just praying that the students were not badly hurt, they already know that Thirteen was badly hurt, they only hope that no other student was badly injured during the attack.
As they entered through the gates, they saw what they found was startling to say the least. "Oh my, this is certainly unfavorable." Though Nezu said in calm exterior, all the teachers could tell the underlying danger in his tone.
The air was a buzz; electromagnetic waves pulsed from the green energy field that surrounded a raven haired teen. The said girl seemed as if she was not there, like her mind was racing, screams fueled by emotions. As energy exuded from her being, launching out and sending shockwaves in to the earth, knocking down all those who were within shot; many were worried about this turn of events.
People who were smart enough to see the growing severity of this turn, quickly backed away from the chaos that was about to unfold. Many students on the ground level who bore witness to it, all retreated, with a severely injured teacher draped over their arms. Tomura and Kurogiri watched as their plans did not pan out well and decided to make a tactical escape before anything else would happen. Especially after Tomura was shot in the leg.
"STOP VILLAINS!" Before Tomura headed within the portal, All Might shouted from a distance, seeing them, he ordered for them to surrender.
Tomura giving one last look at the whole scene and the fact that his bio-weapon did not get a chance to fight him, but rather is laying on the ground, completely brain damaged makes his blood boil; and this time, the rage was not all on the symbol of peace. "You survived this day Symbol of Peace. But don't think these wannabe super zeroes can fight your battles for so long! I will kill you, mark my words, you will! And all who decided to play hero!" Shooting murderous glares as he stepped in to the portal that closed behind him.
All Might was too busy to fully read in to the villains words at the moment, for another situation called for his attention. His eyes landed back on to one of the Kayama's who was floating in an energy field of her own creation, letting off pulse waves in all direction.
Without thinking, All Might decided to get close enough to try and reason with her, bracing against the pulses. "Young Kayama! Whatever this is, you have to stop this and get ahold of your powers! You are out of cont-" At that moment, a sphere of energy rose and without missing a beat, blasted a powerful beam of energy that All Might tried to defend but was sent flying through the air and crashing in to the wall.
Many people gasped at the turn of events.
"Oh my, this will not do." Nezu said, directing his voice to his colleagues. "We have to keep her contained and try to find a way to reach her. Cementos?" Looking at the cement shaped man.
He nodded as he jumped to the lower levels, and placing both hands on the ground, cement pillars erupted forth from the ground and heading towards their target, as they made reinforced walls to try and contain the problem.
Looking up to his colleagues. "I have done my best to safely secure her, but her quirk is still trying to break through my walls."
Nezu only nodded. "I see."
Down the steps, the villains were making their way to try and attack the other students and hero teachers.
Present Mic seeing this, was not in the best of moods. Stepping forward, preparing his quirk, he gave a loud, "YEEEEAAAHHHHH!" That knocked them off their feats.
The students were relieved to know the teachers were here to rescue them.
Snipe shot some bullets that flew out in to another direction, hitting their marks.
Ectoplasm created more copies of himself that helped guide and protect the students at the lower level to safety.
While the teachers were busy evacuating the students, the makeshift cement dome was now broken and the pulse was getting stronger, causing a shatter to the windows and disturbance of the power. Things were getting too bleak as Midnight watched anxiously at the scene.
'What can we do? This seems so wild. We have to find a way to calm her down before she unleashes something much worse.' Midnight was busy mauling over the ideas, that she almost didn't notice that someone had jumped on to the scene.
"Who is that?"
"I don't know but they are going to get hurt!"
Then Koda spoke up, alerting the teachers. "It's Bubbles!"
At that Midnight and Nezu looked down to wonder what the girl was planning to do.
The pulses were getting strong and much more violent but it did not deter Bubbles force field in the slightest. She stood a good distance away from her sister and her emotional breakdown from the looks of it. As if on autopilot, her eyes shone a blue glow that started to ignite a blue glowing aura around her whole body. Everyone was thinking that she was also going to do the same thing as Buttercup but they couldn't be more wrong.
Suddenly, when she opened her mouth, she gave a harmonious tune that spread blue sound waves around the area. The sound waves flowed around the others energy field, encasing said field in its soothing effects. At that moment, the generated sound waves were having an effect on the raven haired sister, calming her down; that the once vibrant and robust pulses are now almost gone.
Everyone was amazed and/or shocked at what they were witnessing before them.
Buttercup, was trying to resist the tune but Bubbles wouldn't let up. "Buttercup! It's okay, we're here!" Calling out to her sister, trying to reach her. And after sometime it worked.
The chaotic pulsations ceased and Buttercup's consciousness was brought to normal.
Buttercup looked as if confused. "W-what happened?" Slowly gaining her thoughts. "No.." She said horrified.
She was then surprised by gentle arms wrapped around her. "Buttercup you fine…I am glad you're okay." Almost like a whisper, but before Buttercup could reply, she found Bubbles unconscious. Trying to shake her awake, but then realizing she was just exhausted, she calmed down and held her in her arms as tiny traces of guilt rose up in her heart. So engrossed in her thoughts was she that she did not notice Midnight speed up to them, and gave a comforting embrace of her own as she whispered comforting words. Those were the only things she heard before she too fell unconscious.
Nezu nodded in satisfaction that this mess was narrowly avoided. He turned to the remaining colleagues around and asked them to see to it that the police and ambulance are here, making sure to round up both students and remaining villains.
They nodded and left. At that, All Might came forward, looking worse for wear.
He turned his head. "Yagi. How are you feeling?" Nezu asked concerned after he saw the attack done.
"They got away." All Might grit his teeth, his fists clenching at what he perceived as his own failure.
"Now's not the time for such worries." Nezu spoke up, but he knew he wasn't just talking about the villains as. "The students' safety comes first and foremost! Secure them and subdue all of the Villains left in the USJ! Move out!"
"Sir!" The Pro Hero Teachers chorused before making their way into the Disaster Zones. Present Mic and several Ectoplasm clones surrounded Class 1-A along with Cementoss who raised a wall that would protect the students from any Villains with a long-range Quirk.
"Aizawa is in rough shape, some students are unconscious, are any of you hurt?" Present Mic questioned the students as he looked over the students and his fellow Teacher.
"All Might, you're pushing yourself too far as it is," Nezu mentioned as he stood beside the Number One Hero. "If you insist on staying, please watch over the students on their way out, I believe your presence will bring them some peace of mind."
"I never did anything sir. I believe there is no need to be worried." All Might said but still accepted to the Principal's plan.
"We could not have anticipated this incident," Nezu hummed as the sounds of battle echoed throughout the various Disaster Zones. "This kind of operation takes planning, not the common criminal type either. This has clearly been in the works for months, but your position as a Teacher here was only announced at the beginning of the year. Something doesn't add up." The chimera was already applying his hyper-intelligence to the mystery of the attack.
"In any case, from I gathered from the students, they say that some of the villains present knew the girls mostly. I find that troubling to say the least but we won't have much information for today at least till the woke up." Nezu spoke calmly, trying to think through this whole mess.
"Quite shocking." Though All Might said it, his tone held no surprise in it. "That is worrying, along with the Villain Leader's intense hatred for me. He was practically rabid with rage the moment he saw me. I know I've garnered my fair share of spiteful foes, but this seemed different. Almost like his hatred had been stewed and cultivated for years. A lifetime of anger towards me specifically, when he couldn't be more than twenty years old himself."
"Perhaps the child of someone that despises you?" Nezu mused as he could tell the barely shift in the number One Hero's tone but still tried to see all the potential angles. "Generational hatred? Maybe he was raised practically from birth to despise you and what you stand for?"
"That's even more worrisome, sir." All Might exhaled heavily before he slapped his signature smile on and headed over to the group of students being led outside. Leaving Nezu eye's to wonder on the girls being taken away by a concerned guardian. 'I sure hope the girls can shine some light on this disaster, for something tells me that a chain explosion has been set off.'
-Outside the USJ centre-
The students were gathered outside for roll call at the request of the police officer. "…12, 13, 14, 15, 16. Everyone seems to be attended for. But out of the 19 that came today, 3 girls are currently unconscious and some of you are looking a bit worse for wear." The detective announced, looking towards the students.
Many of the students were too busy in worry to stay put, after what had happened recently, they began discussing about the various battles they each had. Some were grateful that those villains were more of petty thugs and lower level threats that they could easily handle. There were certain thoughts that others had about the whole crazy situation.
Tsu hopped her way over to the detective. "Sir, what about Mr. Aizawa and Thirteen?" She asked quite worried.
He looked at her with sympathetic eyes as he spoke. "Mr. Aizawa has sustained multiple fractures on his arm, legs, and face skull but fortunately there does not seem to be any serious brain damage. However…his orbital floor has broken in to small pieces. We have no way of knowing if his eyesight will be impaired or not."
At that, many people were startled by the dire news.
"What about Thirteen?" Mine spoke up.
"Thirteen is in care at the same hospital. She sustained lacerations to the back and arm but she is going to pull through in no time. And despite All Might not fighting, he sustained some injuries but those can be easily treated at the UA medical ward at the moment." That made some sigh in relief at the news.
"Dude, what about the other students; Blossom and her sisters?" Kirishima called out impatiently.
"Yes Detective. Are Buttercup and her sisters alright? Kero." Tsu chimed in.
Koda only shook his head vigorously, but others could tell his feelings on the matter.
The Detective just sighed, putting on a reassuring smile. "No need to worry too much. I have been informed that your classmates have been taken to the hospital as well. They sustained some minor scratches and injuries but it is more the case of some sever exhaustion. Recovery Girl will be one of the doctors to observe them overnight and see what needs to be done." That seemed to pacify a handful of them.
At that, he informed his colleague to escort the students to school, so that they may be picked up by their parents, reasoning that they are not at the right state of mind to be asked questions, not right now at least.
As they were round up, a certain green haired boy was too wrapped up in his own mind to deal with the chatter of his fellow classmates, even as Uraraka and Iida were trying to get his attention and failing after sometime.
He looked down at his own hands and couldn't shake the thoughts that rang true like a bell. 'I was so useless. A Deku.' With that, he clenched them tightly all the way back to school and then home.
-Hospital Infirmary-
In the white walls of the hospital room, the trio seem to find themselves in a familiar setting they once were in, but this time, they are completely out of it.
Midnight being their guardian, accompanied the girls to the hospital. Even if Nezu didn't give her permission, she would have still insisted on going to at least make sure that they were safe. The memory of all of them so out of it, still fresh in her mind. When Iida told her and her colleagues about some sort of trouble at the USJ, she knew she had to act fast to help her students; and if she is being honest with herself, her foster kids. She has grown attached to them ever since the day she was saved by those 3 strong girls out of nowhere; and being a hero of honor, wanted to show her appreciation for an act of such bravery and selflessness in the face of danger.
As she sat down on the chair next to one of the girls' bed, the door opened to reveal Recovery walking up to Midnight.
"Easy dear, before all your excessive worrying will land you in the hospital along with these kids." She commented with a small smile.
Midnight returned the smile and nodded. "I understand what you are saying. I am just worried for them, that's all." She darted her eyes back to each individual's bed as their eyes were still closed.
"Well, you shouldn't worry too much still. These kids are tougher than we give them credit for. They survived a villain attack and are still breathing aren't they? Well not for long once I get ahold of the green one. My stars, I can only imagine that she went overboard trying to save the others." Recovery while admonishing, the tone of worry was still very much given off.
Midnight gave a small smile at the elderly ladies attempts at amusement. She can only wait and see how it will go. 'Goodnight girls. Get well soon.'
-Faculty Meeting Room-
"One student who despite his best efforts to escape sustained mortal bruises riddled around his body. Three students who seem to have physical and mental exhaustion, one being that she had to brave a small storm of electromagnetic pulse wave while trying to calm the emotional breakdown of one of her siblings who was also in a critical battle as most of the students could tell." Nezu read off the file that Recovery Girl had given him. All of the Teachers present frowned heavily, a few with their heads bowed in self-disappointment. "On top of three severely injured students, two of our Faculty were also hospitalized from this incident. Thirteen is currently out with lacerations and will take a while to make a recovery. Aizawa had both arms broken, the skin on one elbow was entirely removed, and he also suffered a facial fracture." Nezu finished reading off.
A room full of silence and self-recrimination was all that was left after the casualty report.
"This is unacceptable, as you can imagine." Nezu placed his hands together in front of his face as he looked at his Teachers. "I don't blame anyone here, or not here, for this incident. It is clear this was a plan executed after months of formulation and gathering of common thugs and low-level Villains. The simple fact that it was able to happen and cause injury to our students and teachers is what is unacceptable."
"I think we can safely say the leader that I shot wasn't the real mastermind." Snipe spoke up, his face hidden by his mask as normal. "That was a man-child through and through. I'd bet anything he couldn't have planned this by himself if he tried."
"I have to agree." Present Mic was the next to speak up. "Just from the brief interaction he had with All Might, it was clear he wasn't the type for long-term planning. It was almost as if he was an attack dog against All Might."
"That's true," Nezu nodded in agreement to Present Mic's thoughts. "All Might and I have already considered the potential of this being a case of Generational Hatred. This Shigaraki Tomura may very well have been raised to hate and despise All Might along with everything he's done and stands for."
"There's no reasoning with someone like that." Hound Dog rumbled from his spot at the large table. "That's a type of indoctrination that isn't able to be broken. This Shigaraki Villain would most likely consider losing his own life acceptable if it meant taking All Might down with him."
"That makes him even more dangerous than a normal Villain that's just trying to make a name for themselves." Present Mic exhaled heavily, pinching the bridge of his nose. "He's the type that'll happily draw in innocent civilians to get his way. Hostages, large-scale attacks, threats, we could be seeing any or all of these the next time he shows his face."
"That is true, we're already releasing both his face and name, along with the Warp Gate user Kurogiri's, to the public through the Police Departments." Nezu informed the group of Pros. "The next unsettling news is the both the other voice that was made known at the battle and preliminary results we got from the bioweapon that they had with them."
None of the Teachers missed the thin form of All Might tightly clenching a fist as he stared at the report in front of him.
"The bioweapon, Nomu as they call it, is made from the body of a Missing Person. It was heavily altered through various surgeries and procedures, including genetic modification that added the DNA of at least three other people to the body. This is how it came to possess multiple Quirks. It couldn't be called human anymore after what was done to it. It's more like a corpse that's being moved by residual memories and orders. Somewhat like a biological robot for lack of a better term." Nezu went over the information from the report.
"That's twisted," Power Loader grimaced as he looked over the papers. "What kind of monster could do this?"
"Only someone with Medical Training, decades of experience, and years of experimentation with both genetics and Quirks." Recovery Girl looked nearly apoplectic as she read over the file. The elderly Hero's hands were shaking with barely contained rage. This report hit closer to home for her considering her background in the Medical Field.
"It is as Recovery Girl has said," Nezu nodded to the angry, elderly Hero. "On that front, I and a few other Investigative Heroes are already looking into every Doctor in Japan that fits these parameters. We hope to have it narrowed down in short order."
"If none of them turn out to be the one responsible, what then?" All Might asked the hyper-intelligent chimera.
"Then we involve the International Police and Heroes from other countries." Nezu locked eyes with the Number One Hero. "If we have to make this a worldwide manhunt to see Justice be carried out, then that is what we'll do." All might looked like he was about to say something, but then stopped and nodded in agreement.
"And the unknown being that possessed the Nomu?" Midnight questioned the Principal curiously.
"Yes, well according to the students who were up close to the events. It appears that they could not tell what was happening, only that an unnerving voice spoke from the bio weapon." Giving a serious demeanour.
"Could we have reason to believe that whoever that voice maybe, he is working with Tomura Shigaraki?" Present Mic asked.
"It would be safe to assume, as Tomura did seem to have be shocked but he nevertheless knew who was it and that being said, their quirk could be dangerous if nothing else." Nezu had already a sinking feeling of who they may be, about that for later, but it will be left to PPG's to reassure his findings when they awoke. Hopefully he is mistaken…most likely not.
They all nodded, even with the still hanging lingering unease in the air. Only when Midnight piped up with an ice breaker. "Are we continuing on with the Sports Festival, sir?" Midnight questioned, hoping to ease even her own tension.
"Yes, we must show that we have not been discouraged, weakened, or made fearful by this attack. So long as the students of Class 1-A are deemed mentally fit and not suffering from any form of trauma after a visit with Hound Dog, they will be allowed to participate. If not, then we will have the Sports Festival without them." Nezu informed the staff as a whole while giving a look to the Counsellor.
"Of course, Principal." Hound Dog gave a short nod to Nezu. This was a large part of his job at U.A. after all. He was there to give support to the students and catch early signs of psychological trauma developing during their time at U.A. High. His normal meetings were usually with the second and third years; the students that had gone on to internships and seen the industry first-hand. It was always possible that one of their students would see something in the field that would shake them mentally. Hound Dog was a certified Trauma Counselor, he knew how to help and it was why he was at U.A. to begin with. He wanted to help the next generation be prepared for the reality of Hero Life.
"Moving on from that, Vlad." The homeroom Teacher of Class 1-B gave his undivided attention to Nezu. "I leave it to you to explain what happened at the USJ to your class. Please inform them to be respectful and courteous to Class 1-A when they return on Monday. Class 1-B's Rescue Training will be postponed to next week. We'll be giving the entire USJ Facility a new security system and overhauling the physical defences as well. This will not happen again."
"Yes sir, I'll be sure to inform them." Vlad gave a firm nod to Nezu. "Should I inform them that injuries were suffered, sir? I want to believe my students would understand that this was a serious incident. But teenagers can have odd perceptions of such events."
"Do what you must to impart that this isn't something to joke about. Students and Teachers were harmed and lives were at stake. I expect all students to take this matter seriously, regardless of what Course they're in." Nezu's face was completely serious, none of the usual carefree attitude that he showed the students was anywhere to be seen.
"Of course, sir." Vlad nodded as he wrote something down on the paper in front of him.
-At the Hospital-
Late in the night, Buttercup had awoken from her deep slumber. She was initially confused at her surroundings until images of what had happened before back to her and she was no longer feeling fear but anger at the new piece of information. 'Welp I guess that somewhat answers about where those Ganggreen goofs came from.' Quickly looking around, she notices that her sisters are also here and they look to be out too. She went over to them and placing her hands on them, gave some energy which their bodies accepted. "At least they are fine. Will have to wake up these babies later on. But as for now…" She trailed off as she set off for a little mission of her own.
Late in the night where everyone was either asleep or working, she took to the scene and walked around the hallways. Careful not to cause any noise or bring attention to herself. Strolling along the hallway, she made a stop beside another patients room. Inside rests a man covered in bandages from head toe, whose injuries could be understatedly described as severe.
"Here to help dearie?" She was just strolling in to enter when a familiar voice took her by surprise and she whipped around, hands glowing at the ready to blast the person.
Behind the curtain was Recovery Girl who with no fear, stared at Buttercup with a deadpan expression. "Honestly, I am glad you are back on your feet but do you mind putting that glow away before you hurt someone and I will be neck deep in more work." Stepping down from her chair, she walked off the patient on the other side of the room.
Buttercup remained at ease but was still sceptical at the situation.
"Anyway, mind telling me why you came all the way to this side of the hospital, at night?" Raising an eyebrow at the girl as she browsed through the patients documents.
"Mind explaining why you are here?" Buttercup in an attempt to avoid the question, asked her own.
To which Recovery Girl just rolled her eyes at. "I guess the school didn't hold classes on teaching the obvious, now did they?" That made Buttercup narrow her eyes, making the elderly doctor chuckle. "Anyway little lady, I was looking after you, your sisters and two of the UA teachers who found themselves in this place. So if you are here to kill this big bag of depression and sadism, I would recommend after he recovers and he is out of my hands." Obviously Recovery Girl was joking but there are some people who would take her up on the offer.
Buttercup was pretending to think it over, but shook her head with a smirk. That brought out another chuckle from the Youthful Hero.
Regaining her composure, she addressed the girl. "Now, I know you are here to heal this coffee addicted bag of gloom as well as Thirteen, but I must ask if you are strong enough to do so, whippersnapper?" Cocking her eyebrow, as she questioned her.
Buttercup just rolled her eyes and walked up to the injured party. "No sweat granny. I am more than okay to take care of this." That, although a bit snarky, was the answer she hoped for.
As Buttercup took a deep breath to centre her being. In all honesty, her powers are still a little high at the moment but she knew she had stay calm and not go all hyper again; no matter how tempting the energy felt. She made her way between the two beds and held both hands over them. She tapped in to her powers, with a glow of her eyes, she emitted a yellow-green glow from her palms and released the same colour beams that enveloped the two unconscious heroes' bodies. As she did so, she could sense the deep damage that was left on the individuals and made the effort to open up the reservoir. She had never needed to use a heightened amount of solar healing energy before but that's not to say that it was hard, but rather just tempting to lose control, especially after days back.
As the glow begun to get stronger, so was her tired spell. But before anything happened, she stopped by a cane to her arms. "OWW! Why I oughta…" But the same cane came inches to her face.
"You won't do anything of the sort as of now little missy. I may be old but my senses are sharper than ever to know that you need rest. Now, go!" She said this, all the while she was shoving the raven haired girl out the room, much to her confusion, anger and protests.
After the door was closed Recovery Girl shook her head as she turned to look at the Underground Hero.
"You could have said thank you, you know?" Recovery Girl lightly admonished the man.
"It will come up once I get back to school, as of now, she and her sisters have a lot to deal with." Aizawa spoke up from behind his bandages. "You still haven't given me the update on that by the way."
"You'll get your report after I unbandage your face and right arm." Recovery Girl huffed at the workaholic. "Honestly, maybe I should have encourage her to give you a beating instead."
"At the rate her attitude is going, that may happen." Aizawa replied while the elderly Hero started removing the bandages around his eyes and head.
"You're such a workaholic, Eraser. And just be grateful that student of yours deemed it fit, or even bothered to help your situation. You might not be considerate of her and her sisters being heroes but by all that is plus ultra, they have hearts of gold." Recovery Girl shook her head. "Seeing that you're nearly healed, I didn't want to overexert herself, we'll work on your left arm over the next few days. Nezu will catch you up to speed in his office once I'm done."
"That's fine." Aizawa agreed as he sat up so that his right arm could be freed from the, now unnecessary, bandages. But he gave some thought about the what the elderly doctor said, quite harshly.
The next morning was a better time. As all the girls woke-up, seemingly better than before, the doctors were called in to review them and then Midnight came in like a hurricane accompanied by Nezu and brought all girls in to a big, bone crushing hug that would have landed them in to the hospital again.
"Oh girls, I am so happy you are awake and fine. How are you feeling?" Midnight asked.
There was a silence that hang in the air until Nezu spoke up.
"I see you are all worried about that particular voice. Do you care to explain?" It took a few moments but they talked.
They all told them about how the Ganggreen gang were surprisingly there and it was a shock to deal with after years have passed. It is revealed that they disappeared some time ago and the girls had thought that they left Townsville and disbanded but that was foolish thinking. Buttercup piped up by revealing that when she heard HIM's voice, she was frightened by the prospects of HIM being here, hoping it was not true; losing her cool and almost hurting so many people. She looked so guilt ridden by it all that her sisters couldn't help but comfort her.
"It's okay Buttercup. We all felt caught off guard by that surprise attack. We can never truly predict what HIM plans to do." With that, Blossom pulled Buttercup for a side hug, patting her back.
"I am just glad that Bubs was able to calm me down." She turned her head to face her sister, who was sitting on the bed. "You're hardcore Bubs. Thanks for speaking some senses in to me." Bubbles just sent a small smile back.
Though she looked down. "Well I had to help, you're my sister and I didn't want to feel helpless."
The two adults as well as the sisters were confused at that statement.
Midnight came closer to her, sitting beside her. "Sweetie, you were not useless. Some of the students said that you acted confidently in your battle, as well as helped Iida escape and get us. You wonderfully." She said all that while bringing her close in for a hug that really brightened her mood.
Blossom saw this and thought she was wrong because it washer who felt useless at that time, but she didn't need to drag that out now. "But right now, we just have to dust ourselves off and be prepared for whatever HIM has in store for all of us. Right now, we can say that the Ganggreen gang might be working for HIM and that can also mean he might be working with the mist man and hands for face. But it doesn't seem like HIM could come up with this whole scene." She said outloud to herself, pondering the situation.
That was Nezu piped up. "I agree with you Blossom. But such things are better saved for a later conversations. I believe the answers will reveal themselves soon enough but for now, we just have to be prepared for it." He gave a smile to all of them as theyagreed.
The girls were free to go after a day and they were so happy to hear that.
-The Next School Day-
For some time now media outlets were on fire with the Breaking News that there had been a Villain attack on the USJ. Shigaraki Tomura and Kurogiri both had their names and faces plastered over nearly every screen in the country. The League of Villains was now a known group and Heroes all over the country, but especially around the Musutafu area, were on the lookout for any suspicious activity among low-level Villains.
While the country reacted to the news, several of said students were trying to go about their school days as if remotely normal. They were all informed to attend mandatory counselling sensations held by Hound Dog. They were told to do a psych evaluation if they are to participate in any upcoming school activities.
That also included the girls, no matter how much they argued. They headed back to school after a good recovery which just included rest. They were nervous, mostly Buttercup, although she did very well not to show it. The fact that she went overboard might make them fear her and her sisters more; great way to make friends, huh? When they soon entered the classroom, not even 5 minutes passed did some of the classmates stood up to greet them and see how they were doing.
"Hey it's Blossom, Buttercup and Bubbles!"
Tsu and Izuku came forward to see them. "Hello Buttercup. I hope you are doing much better. Kero." Tsu asked with her normal expression. "I wanted to say thank you for saving us back there. We were worried for you but we couldn't find a way to visit."
That caught Buttercup off guard but recovered to give a small smirk. "It's fine Tsu. My sisters and are good…Thanks."
"No problem. Kero." Tsu said. Izuku was a just nodding along but didn't say much else, which Buttercup noticed but said nothing.
With Koda surprising most people, walking over to give Bubbles a hug, which she returned whole heartily. "Thanks Koda, I missed you too." Giving the shy friendly giant a reassuring smile.
Blossom was shocked to see Kirishima before her. "Hey dudes! How you feeling? You sort of gave us a scare back there." Kirishima may have phrased it to seem like he was asking the three of them but not from where his standing. Standing across from Blossom, directing a toothy grin at her.
Blossom smiled at him. "I remembered you carried me all the way back to the others, thanks. And thanks for helping me back there. I appreciate it."
Kirishima was taken aback at her works but brought back his toothy grin. "It's no sweat. I still consider you my partner, even if we weren't on the same team. Besides it was the right thing to do." Saying that, made Blossom that much more glad.
So, when it was time for class to start, the girls sat in their desks up front, perky and eager.
"Take your seats, homeroom is about to start." Aizawa stated as he opened the door and entered the classroom. The teens quickly got to their seats and noticed that their teacher didn't look bad at all for having been so severely injured the last time they'd seen him. Having only his left arm splinted and in a sling was a far cry from what any of them expected, barring Izuku. Most of them had been wondering who'd take over for Aizawa while he recovered.
"Um…sir, you look look."
"Omg…your face is not that bandaged?"
"That's great!"
The girls more so Blossom and Bubble, looked around, confused at the confusion before realizing something. They were told about the damages that the two teachers sustained in battle and from the sounds ofit, it should have been worse but this…is nothing.
Aizawa quieted the murmurs with a simple raise of his hand. That's when Iida took his chance.
"Mr. Aizawa, I'd like to congratulate you on your quick recovery." Iida raised his hand as he spoke from his seat.
"Thank you." Aizawa nodded slightly as he stood behind the podium. "You can thank Kayama for my mostly recovered state. Her and Recovery Girl both used their Quirks to treat me. Thank you, Ms Buttercup."
That caught not only Buttercup but as well some of her classmates off guard, but still took the compliment. "You're welcome, sir." She gave a flick of her hands as if saying it was no big deal, but he knew how big of a deal it was. All in due time.
"As much as I know you guys would LOVE to ask about my face," Aizawa sighed, clearly over it even before he started talking, "That will be none of your concern. My injuries are irrelevant, and there are more imperative topics to go over. Understood?"
The class was quiet before saying in unison, "Understood."
"Good. Now, to the important matter. I would like to tell you that UA's annual sports festival is coming up very soon."
At this, the class went into an excited uproar.
"Walt… SPORTS FESTIVAL?!"
"No WAY!"
"It's here? RIGHT NOW?!"
Once again, though, the girls were completely perplexed.
"Sports festival? What the hell is that?" Buttercup asked, clueless.
"Is this some sort of school activity?" Bubbles sighed.
Soon, the clamour quieted down, allowing Aizawa to explain.
"For those of you who do not know what that is, the UA Sports Festival is an annual event held by U.A. High School, where students from all grades and courses have the opportunity to showcase their abilities in different competitions. All students at UA are eligible to participate, as it is a great way to be scouted by Pro Hero Agencies looking for interns."
Bubbles tilted her head. "Hero Agencies?"
But Blossom looked ecstatic. "Hero Agencies! I know those! Those are companies that Pro Heroes run!"
"Huh?!" Buttercup asked, completely bemused, "I thought that Pro Heroes were… Heroes! Not business entrepreneurs!"
Blossom rolled her eyes. "Not THOSE kinds of companies. In this world, Hero Agencies are owned by Heroes and run by hires called Sidekicks. They don't sell anything, they're just a group of Heroes available to call on! They specialize in one of, or all, three saving categories: rescue, evacuation, and battle. Whenever a job needs a Hero, police will contact Agencies in that area, so that a Hero can come and help. It's how the business works!"
Buttercup and Bubbles stared at their sister, dumbfounded.
"We REALLY need to get you off the computer…" Buttercup sighed.
After that, they focused back on Aizawa's talk with the class. And, Iida had just raised his hand with a question, which he almost always does.
"Yes, Iida?" Aizawa asked.
"I just wanted to know, sir!" Iida replied, doing his stiff hand motions, "Isn't it too soon for a sports festival? The USJ attack had just happened, and with the sports festival in the coming weeks, it seems like a lot! Couldn't we reschedule?"
"I mean, couldn't they attack again when even more people are packed into one place?" Sero asked and a few students looked questioningly towards Aizawa.
At that, the class murmured, with a few others voicing their worries. Iida had a smart point. It DID seem like too much, especially since the sports festival sounded huge.
"I do acknowledge all of your concern, truly." Aizawa answered, "But, to answer your questions, the administration thinks this is a good way to show that the threat has been handled. That our school is safer than ever." Aizawa spoke calmly, in the tone of a professional reading off the decision of their higher-ups. "We're also increasing security compared to past years. This event is a huge opportunity for all students at U.A. it's not something we can cancel because of a Villain attack."
"It's true that getting scouted and joining a famous Hero Agency can get you more experience and even popularity." Aizawa admitted to the class of teens. "That's why this Festival matters. If you want to go Pro one day, this event can open up doors for you. You get one chance a year, three chances in a lifetime. No aspiring Hero can afford to miss this Festival. Which means you can't slack off in your lessons or training. Am I clear?"
"Yes sir!" The class chorused.
The class looked a mixture of excited and nervous, as a new tone of anticipation hung heavy in the air. The girls especially looked nervous. For the thought of the attention was sending mixed thoughts in their heads.
Chapter 14- Pressure 'n' Training
Aizawa continued. "Now, as you have been informed. You must all attend a therapy session with Hound Dog. This will be mandatory to assess your wellbeing, if you are to attend the festival; If you refuse to go to your meeting this afternoon, you'll be barred from the Festival. If you lie, and Hound Dog will know if you do, you'll also be banned from the Festival." Not everyone was keen on the idea, while some groaned to themselves; some were a bit more colourful in their delivery.
"That's bullshit! Why am I lumped up with these sissies, when I was unfairly taken out from that trip!" Bakugo barked as he shot to his feet. The class was initially shocked to have the walking fire cracker back so early, well some were, others were obviously happy for him while others groaned. His parents pulled some strings and made a big fuss about their son was seriously injured during a class lesson and he was the true "victim" in the end. (Imagine that, I wonder where exactly he had gotten that attitude from (－‸ლ)).
"Sit down Bakugo. You may have gotten yourself back in to this class early, but I won't tolerate your nonsense while I am giving announcements." Aizawa's hair rose as his eyes glowed a bright red. His glare would make any thug or low-level Villain obey. Bakugo tried to withstand the look through sheer stubbornness, but he also knew Aizawa could simply deny him the ability to compete in the Festival. With a huff Bakugo sat down stiffly in his chair with a scowl on his face.
"Sorry, sir." Bakugo apologized grudgingly with a small bow from his seated position. Aizawa gave him another moment of his glare before deactivating his Quirk and nodding to the ash-blonde.
After some back and forth with Aizawa and the class discussing about the Sports Festival and moving on to lessons, the class broke for lunch and everyone was talking about the whole thing with different levels of emotions.
"I am SO pumped right now!" Kirishima's excitement was palpable.
"We do great out there and we're on our way to becoming heroes." Sero remarked, walking over to his classmates.
"We get so few chances; we have to make the most of this." Tokoyami coolly said.
"Yahoo! I am so pumped for the prospects of showing my stuff Mina!" Hagakure excitedly said, bouncing on her toes.
"Yeah girl, it will be the perfect time to show the pro heroes what we're made of." Mina matching her energy.
Most people were taken out of their momentary high to see a disturbing side to Uraraka showing, as she spoke to her group.
"Deku! Iida! Let's do our best in this sports festival!" Saying that with a look of someone on the edge.
She turned to her entire classmates and gave the same declaration of war…
"EVERYONE, I'M GONNA DO MY BEST!" Some took the determination as great while others were uncomfortable to say the least. Izuku being on the middle, just sweat dropped at his friends…enthusiastic behaviour. At the corner, the girls could say the same about her behaviour, plus other more appropriate words.
"Wow…she's acting crazier than Buttercup when she plays a sport." Bubbles turning her head back to face her sisters, as she made that remark.
Buttercup rolled her eyes at that. "Whatever Bubs. Her energy is something I can get behind her on for once." Saying that with a shrug.
Blossom was busy contemplating about something, till Bubbles pulled her out of her thoughts. "Blossom, are you okay? You're awfully quiet at the moment." See her sisters concern, she came at ease.
"Oh it's nothing Bubbles. It's just that, this Sports Festival is a big deal and it will be a time to showcase our powers and be seen by everyone, not just pros by people." She said with a serious expression.
Buttercup only gave her a cocked eyebrow. "Yeah red, that's the whole point of this games. To drive our rivals in to the dust and show them how awesome we are." She said, oblivious to her sister's point.
Blossom groaned at her reply. "No Butter-Brawns. I am saying that we will watched by everyone, including HIM." Whispering the last part, but that made her sisters go quiet, which left her to continue. "We also needed to be careful to not overdo it, and draw unnecessary attention to ourselves. After the USJ events, some of our classmates are not particularly very open with us.
"Like most of them were ever in the first place." Bubbles sighed at the true words.
"Whatever." Buttercup groaned, but saw the severity to her older sister's concern; she just doesn't like it. "Let's go and grab lunch already." As they left to leave the class room, a certain green haired boy was staring while thinking too hard at one of them.
"Deku!" That brought the green haired boy back to earth.
"Oh yeah, sorry…what?" He asked confused.
"Um, we were just about to head out for lunch. Aren't you coming?" Raising an eyebrow at the boy, Iida inquired from the door way.
"Oh, right coming!" Walking quickly to catch up to his friends.
As the trio were walking and talking. They stopped around a corner, Izuku and Iida found out about Uraraka's reasons for being a hero, and although could be sighted as superficial and greedy; they saw it as another honourable reason for being a hero. Izuku was in deep admiration for her grounded reasons until a booming laugh echoed around the halls.
"Young Midoriya is here!" They turn find All Might popping out from around the corner.
"Whoa All Might…what brings you here?" Izuku asked, bewildered.
"Lunch…want to join me?" All Might inquired while raising a small lunch box.
The next thing they knew, they were in All Might's office having tea and a conversation.
"You're saying that your limit is 50 minutes?" Izuku asked as he took the tea offered to him by his mentor.
"Yeah. That's how long I can use my powers now. I overdid it too many times but I didn't realize that it caught up to this." He took his tea as well but for a split second was in thought. 'I didn't do anything rigorous, I didn't even fight in the USJ battle, but it still something changed after it. Strange.' He returned his attention back to the boy in front of him. "Anyways, I can barely even look like All Might for an hour and a half." He said in a serious tone.
Izuku looked guilt ridden, before he could say anything, All Might beat him to it. "Do not waste the need to apologize, Young Midoriya. I knew what this would entail, so it's fine." Saying that to reassure the boy. He then went down to business. "But that's beside the point. I brought you here to talk to you about the Sports Festival and what it entails. The problem is that even after all this time; you still can't regulate One For All, can you?"
"Oh I did once! When I landed that hit on the Nomu at the USJ Attack, there was no backlash or pain from the quirk." Izuku said as he recalled the events that happened a few days back. He also couldn't help but remember a certain classmate of his, risking her life and being just…amazing.
All Might was a little surprised by the unexpected progress, however little it may be. "Oh…you did tell me about that. Pardon me." He stood up from his sit and went towards the window.
"Anyway, that may be progress but it is still not enough. Frankly, I don't have much time left as the Symbol of Peace." Looking seriously out to the horizon, while a saddened Izuku whispers a "No way", under his voice. "And some of those with built-up villainous intent are starting to realize; someone needs to step up and keep the Peace soon." That made Izuku stand up at that declaration.
All Might whips himself around to face Izuku, seriousness in his tone as he spoke. "I gave you my power for one reason! Because you will be the hero that succeeds me and takes my place as the symbol of peace." Izuku doesn't know why, but those words do not sit well with him. "Do you still want to become a hero? Do you still feel as strongly as you once did long back?" Izuku pushes whatever feelings he had at the moment aside and focus on this question, he knew the answer to. "Yes!" Not an ounce of lack of determination.
All Might looks him straight in the eye. "Very well. The time has come for you to show that." The feelings rise again, causing Izuku to give a low gasp. "This Sports Festival is something pro heroes-, no, the entire country will be watching closely." The boy goes wide eyed. "I want you to think of this as your debut! You are the fledgling Symbol of Peace! The Next All Might! Izuku Midoriya, I want you to present yourself in front of the whole world and go, I Am Here!" That left the boy to feel like a mountain of weight was placed on top of his shoulders.
"What! You seriously healed Aizawa and Thirteen?!" Bubbles exclaimed. Which was promptly followed by a smack over the head by Buttercup sitting next to her.
"Sheesh Bubbles, how about you just paint a sign over my head, for the world to know." Buttercup muttered angrily as her younger sister gave a quick "ow, sorry" and covered her mouth.
"Honestly Bubbles." She sighed. "Anyway Buttercup, while I am glad you took the initiative to help someone out, it was still risky to put yourself in danger like that." Blossom addressed her sister while eating her rice.
Buttercup rolled her eyes. "Honestly, captain worry wart, it was no problem. Besides, It was only Recovery Girl there who was awake, while the others were passed out. Not like any danger there." She shrugged as she happily ate her katsudon. Blossom didn't buy that one bit but chose to let it slide, hoping for a calmer end of school day…She was sadly wrong.
And it didn't help matters when the bell rang and class let out for the end of the day. Because as soon as the door opened, the doorway was nearly flooded with students from other classes.
"Why the heck are you all here?!" Uraraka exclaimed as stood by the door, shocked at the scene.
"EEK! There's so many people!" Bubbles squeaked, making Blossom and Buttercup jump at that.
"Do you students have some sort of business with our class? Explain your motives." Iida said that with a raised chop.
Much like Blossom and Buttercup, the class was equally shocked and spooked. But, the other students didn't seem to care, still swarming the door and staring at them.
"What are they doing…?" Blossom asked, mostly to herself.
Surprisingly, out of all of the people, Bakugo answered.
"Isn't it obvious idiots?!" He snapped, glaring at the nearby students. "They came here to scope out the competition. And who better to check out than the famous class who fought Villains?"
If Blossom was planning on saying anything about that, Bakugou clearly didn't care to listen as he pushed to the front of the Class 1-A crowd, and shouted at the students gathered around.
"IF NONE OF YOU BACK AWAY RIGHT NOW, I WILL MAKE SURE YOU GET AN EXPLOSION IN YOUR FACE!" He screamed at them, which made some of Class 1A panic at Bakugo's rude remark.
This, shockingly, did nothing to scare the students away. If anything, they seemed to be growing bolder, as looks of scepticism and dubiousness crossed most people's faces. Which was weird considering that a simple scowl from Bakugou would send them running, let alone a whole yelling threat.
"So… this is the famed Class 1-A?" One student asked, raising an eyebrow before chuckling, "I have to say… I'm a bit underwhelmed."
Bakugo growled. "Know your place, LOSER. Be as underwhelmed as you want, but remember that I'M the one with better skills!"
"Are you?!" Another student remarked, only the remark sounded more like mockery. "Well, pardon us for thinking that any of us LOWLIVES could compare? But wait… you weren't anywhere near the attack, were you? So you can't claim any better "skills" as your Class 1-A posers, can you?" That warranted a lot of snickers and murmurs from the crowd. It made Bakugou seethe more in anger.
"Any ways, the teachers announced that anyone that's does well in the Sports Festival can be transferred to the Hero Department if they prove so. And, unfortunately for you, with the 'better skills', the opposite can happen to you!"
The guy stepped forward, prompting some other students to move out of the way so that he faced the entirety of Class 1-A. He had purple hair, eye bags that told others he barely sleeps and an unamused expression. "So, Class 1-A… that glorious fame you have isn't here to stay. Consider my warnings as a declaration… of WAR!"
Class 1-A looked clearly shocked at this, and so did the girls.
"Um… war's a very strong word, buddy. Sure you want to use it?" Buttercup mumbled.
"I guess we're not the only ones taking this seriously…" Kirishima mused.
But the crowd wasn't done yet, as another boy who with weird markings around his eyes, sharp teeth and grey hair, stepped up too, his eyes flashing with barely contained anger.
"I'm Tetsutetsu, from Class 1-B next door to you! And I came to tell you all that don't you DARE take these warnings lightly! We've seen how you act, and we've seen your arrogance. I can only pray that you all don't EMBARRASS us and tarnish UA's image!"
The class was shocked at the clear hate given off by classes that they barely knew.
They weren't done though, when another student, young woman of an average build with dark hair. She has ear-length bangs are arched slightly up before they come down, which is styled into a set of low, curved pigtails. She has thin, stern-looking eyes with notable lower eyelashes, and usually wears a sullen expression. She saw the shy lug and scoffed, walking over to him.
"Like seriously, WHAT were the teachers thinking when they placed this scaredy cat in 1-A hero course?! I mean, if this is what counts as heroes, then there must be something wrong with the system here!" Many people were shocked at the blatant rude comments that the girl said to Koda, who was brought to shakes and lowered his head is embarrassment; something a certain blonde heroine did not find very nice.
"What was that?!" Bubbles walked over to the scene with a fire in her step, as she stood before the individual. "What did you say to my friend?!" She spoke in a cold voice.
"Hear THAT, everyone?! The big giant has a little girl protecting him!" The same student laughed at the girl.
This made people laugh even harder. Bubbles slowly glared with a slight scowl.
"Look here princess", that made Bubbles sisters almost went all Powerpuff on her ass, "You and your sisters might feel pretty big or lucky to face a villain attack but one take down does not make you all better than us. Your little stunt months back does not count too, for you must have just been looking for the lime-light like all you 1-A hero wannabes here. We're all here to win, not make friends, so how about you just step down."
After hearing the infuriating speech, Buttercup was ready to whoop her ass till tomorrow and Blossom was barely holding her anger. The rest of Class 1-A were clearly taken aback by such venom and wanted to say something, but Bubbles beat them to the punch.
Having heard enough, she grabbed on the girls collar and lifted her up a few inches off the floor. "Alright, BITCH! Listen here and listen well!" Bubbles eyes shone a glowing blue that further scared the now terrified girl. "I don't care that rolled off the wrong side of the bed this morning. But I don't like when jerks make fun of my sisters or friends. If you really want to show us what you got, then bring it at the Sports Festival and let us show you what this wannabe hero class can really when we crush your dreams of winning the competition."
With that, Bubbles finally let go, leaving the girl momentarily frozen in fear. Her glare and glowing blue eyes turned back to a bright smile and normal non-glowing eyes; although if you looked closely, a small smirk would have been noticed. She took Koda's hand and left the classroom, leaving everyone in class 1-A impressed or slightly weary. Buttercup and Blossom quickly follow suit, not before Blossom addressed the still present crowd.
"As Class 1-A representative, I advise you all to leave our class this instant, before I inform the teachers about this declaration of war, you all made." She said calmly but her icy tone, flowing hair and growing cold glare said anything but calm. The girl from before returned to her previous state of anger, and turning on her heels to quickly walk away. This prompted some of the crowd to disperse with reproachful glares at the class.
"I never knew that Bubbles girl could give as well as she can get." Mina said rather surprised.
"Yeah, it made me kind nervous to be around her." Hagakure said, shaking.
"Man that was so manly of her to stick for Koda and her sisters!" Kirishima exclaimed, releasing a single tear from his eye at the sheer "manliness".
"Not surprising. She did also stand up for our class. Kero." Tsu said in her normal fashion.
"But seriously, now we have a bigger target on our backs for that! Those guys are gunning for us now!" Kaminari exclaimed in fear.
"What are you losers whining about?!" Bakugo snapped at his class. "They already decided to target our class the moment they came over here. I for one am NOT going to let those extras get even an inch. The only thing that is important is that I beat them." With that, he left.
Everyone was crossed between being inspired by Bakugo's words or mad at the attitude that led to this.. Most people took the former…shockingly.
Uraraka paused for a while and nodded at that. "He's right! We saw that they were gunning for us, this just makes it easier to see it clearly. So I am with Bakugo on not giving them an inch of doing so!" She declared to her classmates, who all cheered in agreement.
Izuku was in thought. He had an idea; a good one, still left up in the air. But he knew that they would be the right people to help. So he set off to ask.
Buttercup turned to her sister, pride in her eyes. "BUBBLES, THAT WAS FU-FREAKING AWESOME, WHAT YOU DID THERE!" When they were far enough from the crowd, the girls and Koda to a moment to sit down after the whole unnecessary drama.
Bubbles was just silently listening to the whole thing while holding Koda's hand, who needed much comforting, started to relax. But they all could clearly see the held back tears that Bubbles was trying to prevent from falling.
Blossom noticed this right away. "Bubbles…what's wrong?" Approaching the topic with care.
She shook her head. "I-Its nothing girls." But they knew it wasn't nothing.
Buttercup didn't buy it for a second. "Alright sister, OUT with it! Spill!" As tactless as Buttercup's form of persuasion was, it was still effective in getting the information out of her.
Bubbles sighed. "Well…it's just that the whole thing was so nuts. I mean, yeah we are competing to be heroes but the way the other classes were acting, as if we chose to have those villains attack us that day." That got a touch of anger out of her. "It makes me mad and sad that people can be so self-absorbed in their own pursuits that it clouds their thinking about somebody else. I didn't like how she made us out to be. And yes I know it is not true but after all we have been through, it sucks." At that, a few tears fell down her cheeks; Koda wordlessly pulled her in for a side hug while it happened.
Blossom and Buttercup were a little floored by this whole scene, maybe counselling was not a bad idea by the school after all.
Blossom cleared her throat, and sat down next to her sad sister to address her. "Bubbles, I get it, I'm sorry. I didn't realize how much this has all been on you. I want to first off say, as Buttercup said "That was "freaking awesome, what you did there", not just for us or Koda but for yourself." She sent a tender smile that was reciprocated. "I am proud of what you did just now…and I will be even more proud when we show them you meant every word when we head to the Sports Festival and win." There was shimmer of mischief in the red haired girls eyes that no-one missed.
The Bubbles whipped her head at that. "Really Blossom?!"
"Yeah red." Buttercup crossed her arms as she cocked her eyebrow. "Weren't you the one who was against showing off to the world, on the count of the villains and…HIM?" They didn't really mind Koda hearing this, it was pretty vague and the big lug was not one to pry in to other people's business; to the girl's knowledge at least.
She took another breath and addressed them at once. "I know what I said Buttercup and although I still believe we should not go…overboard. I do say, we shouldn't allow the possibility of what if's to stop us from showing the world that The Powerpuff Girls are not some "hero wannabes", but are true heroes. Right Girls!" She looked at them with that same determined look they all knew and loved.
Wiping away the tears, she gave her sisters a determined face. "Yeah!"
"OH HELL YEAH!" Fist pumping in the air. "We are so going to whoop some a-"
"Izuku." Blossom blurted out of nowhere and Buttercup thought she was making a ridiculous way to stop her words; till she heard footsteps stop right behind her.
Izuku was standing behind them with an embarrassed smile, looking to want to talk. They were briefly silent by this action till Blossom addressed it. "Hey Izuku. What brings you here?" She gave a polite smile to ease his discomfort.
It did, before he went on to talk. "Oh uh…sorry to intrude on your conversation. I just wanted to apologize to you guys on what that girl said over there and see if you were okay." He awkwardly said, trying his best not to strain eye contact.
The girls just looked at each other before Bubbles happily spoke up. "Izuku silly. You don't have to apologize for what that girl said."
Blossom nodded. "Yeah Izuku. It's not like you said those things in the first place. Besides she was insulting everyone, not just us."
"Exactly green bean. Those punks don't know a lick of what their talking about when they showed their faces." It was clear to Izuku that she was still pretty angry about the whole trash talking. Not just her but the others, even Koda looked to be showing a slight scowl; as he still gave the blonde girl a side hug.
"Anyway, is that all you gotta say?" Yup, there's that Buttercup charm that they all had to put up with.
Izuku felt nervous at that but still held firm to his objective.
Izuku abruptly bowed before them as he made his request. "As you know, the Sports Festival is around the corner and I know that we will all be training, vying for the top and so, I ask for your help, all of you if possible, to train with me. I want to improve and do my level best in the competition. I want to show what Class 1-A is made of too." He concluded his speech, leaving the only people in the whole hall to be stunned silence.
The girls didn't know what to think, shocked, flattered or a little nervous at what he said.
Bump
Bubbles and Blossom were too preoccupied in their own thoughts to catch Buttercup punch the unsuspecting boy in the arm, before glaring at him, while he winced in pain.
"Buttercup!" They said in unison, with Koda sweat dropping at the situation.
Izuku was rubbing his arm in pain, opening his right eye to see what's up.
Buttercup gave a little scowl before she talked. "Okay mister. First off, why you did you basically ignore me, much less my sisters after the USJ attack? Like seriously Midoriya, I get you couldn't visit but the least you could have done was ask about us when we came back, but all you did was create distance dude. Not cool." The girls were starting to catch on this whole little skit and yanking Koda with them; leaving them to their devices.
Izuku was initially wide-eyed stunned at that but quickly became a bit ashamed. Buttercup glanced at this but still crossed her arms at her chest. "Well?"
Izuku didn't have the best excuse but still spoke. "I am sorry Buttercup. I know I didn't say anything to you or your sisters."
"You got that right bub."
Izuku retained his composure. "It's just that I was a bit disappointed in myself after the whole attack." He said solemnly, looking at the girl.
That seemed to tone down the scowl on her face as she gestured for him to explain.
"I felt so useless back there. Like seriously, when the chips were down and Tsu, and I were almost…hurt badly. I had a chance to save everyone but I couldn't, maybe because I was too afraid or my current powers wouldn't at that moment be enough, I don't know. And when you came to save us, you were so brave and strong, like you weren't even scared but then you lost it and-" He did not get a chance to finish, when a hand was placed over his mouth; stopping his word vomit.
Buttercup looked at the boy in front of her and sighed. "Geez Izuku. Take a breath once in a while okay? Are you sure your ability to talk a hundred words a minute, isn't your actual quirk?" She teased. He looked quite embarrassed, but before he could unnecessarily apologize, Buttercup continued.
"Look green bean, its fine, and you shouldn't stay in pity town for so long; it's not really becoming of a hero, now is it?" She gave a small smile, but quickly made a neutral face. "Now, about the training, sure you can train with us. Means more practice for me and a step forward to whoop those pricks a-"
"B-BUTERCUP!" Izuku alarmed.
She just rolled her eyes but nevertheless continued. "Whatever. You meet us at our place these coming weeks and we will start training up until the day comes, got it?" She didn't make it seem like he had a choice. Gesturing for his phone, in order to place in her number.
Izuku rapidly nodded as he bowed once again. "Yeah! Thanks again Buttercup." Taking back his phone, he quickly left. "See Ya then!" Like that, he was gone.
Buttercup just closed her eyes to get a breather but her sisters had other plans.
"OH MY STARS! BUTTERCUP!" Bubbles bounced in, nearly tackling her older sister off her feet, much to her annoyance.
She had a ticked expression. "Don't start with me Bubbles. Not now." She turned to her starry eyed sister, who was in a better mood; albeit annoying. She wouldn't say it out loud, but was happy that she was in a better mood.
Blossom walked up to them with her own unamused expression. "And when, pray tell, were you going to discuss this with us?" A quizzical look aimed at her sister, who didn't look the slightest bit phased. "Just now, when you 3 ditched me…wait! Where's the big friendly giant?" She asked, surprisingly intrigued.
Bubbles answered. "Oh he left already when you scared him with your vibes." That was not surprising to her in the slightest.
"Seriously Buttercup." Blossom face palmed at this.
"Oh lighten up Bloss. Besides, as long as we don't really let loose with the training or our powers as you said, it will all be good." Blossom was still not budging on her face. "And it will be a great chance to help out a fellow hero as well. Besides, you two can geek out on hero info anyway." At that, Bubbles giggled, much to her sister's annoyance, but it subsided.
She just rolled her eyes but conceited. "Fine. But let's tell Midnight about our incoming guest, alright?" To which they all agreed, walking along the halls.
Therapy Sessions with Hound Dog
It was later in the afternoon and just about time for the students to head on to the mandatory counselling session. It was a simple procedure. Each student would come in one at a time to Hound Dog's office, to seat down and he would ask certain questions that would lead him to the root of the person's psyche. The session started when Hound Dog angrily called the first student in.
Mina Ashido: Class 1-A
Hound Dog: "Good afternoon Ms Ashido. Take a seat and we can begin the session." Calmly gesturing to the chair across from him.
Mina: She nervously and quietly moves to the seat offered and sat down.
Hound Dog: "Now, before we move on to what we are here for today. I want to let you know that whatever is said here will not be recalled back to Nezu. Only my assessment of if you are eligible to compete in the Sports Festival or not. But if I feel there are more complex situations I uncover, then I will give further notes. My Quirk: Dog, gives me the attributes and abilities of a dog, such as a heightened sense of smell. Do you understand?"
Mina: "Yes sir…" Keeping eye contact.
Hound Dog: Nodding, he begins to speak. "In your own words, could you describe the event for me?
Ochaco Uraraka: Class 1-A
/
Ochaco: "The whole experience was less than fun…Thirteen was badly hurt and villains were pouring in by the minute. The scene was like a horror movie come to life. I thought we were done for."
Hound Dog: He just nodded. "I see, well it is okay to feel like that in those tough situations. But exactly how often do you think about it and why?"
Tenya Iida: Class 1-A
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Iida: "Sometimes I wonder how I could have done better. Maybe if I was just fast enough to get around those villains, I could have called for help sooner." He said, with a guilt ridden face.
Hound Dog: "But what could you have done alone? From the reports, it was implied that you found a way out only with the help of your classmates. I understand wanting to do everything yourself, but if you can't see all the angles, isn't better to lean on other's eyes to help?"
Iida: "…"
Hound Dog: "Have your friendships suffred?"
Eijiro Kirishima: Class 1-A
/
Kirishima: "Not at all sir. It was a very scary thing but I got through it by remembering the friends I have."
Hound Dog: He nodded. "That is very good thinking. Some of your classmates told me about how you came from your battle carrying one of the unconscious classmate on your back. That was very heroic of you."
Kirishima: He smiled modestly. "It was nothing. I saw that she was in danger and had to act fast. That's what a hero is all about right?"
Hound Dog: "Right. That is very true Eijiro. But in doing so, a hero is often risking their own lives in turn. Can you honestly say you can do this profession for the rest of your life, knowing what happened today could happen again?"
Izuku Midoriya: Class 1-A
/
Izuku: "It's true that being a hero is not all glamour and fame…but I wouldn't change a thing if it meant I can save those in need. People who feel powerless to do anything. So yes I would."
Hound Dog: He nodded. "I see. By those who seem powerless, yes it the whole thing about being a hero, but you seem to feel stronger towards that term. Could you have ever felt like that during the event?"
Bubbles Kayama: Class 1-A
/
Bubbles: She looked down. "I did feel somewhat useless. I wanted save my classmates and sisters, but it felt like I came short."
Hound Dog: "I understand wanting to be stronger, in order to protect the ones you love. I heard from the students that when members of your class, your sisters were taken away and the injury to Thirteen happened. You fought the mist guy by yourself. Is that true?"
Bubbles: "Yes sir. I was so angry about it and I just wanted him to bring back my sister's"
Hound Dog: "I understand. Was this a time you felt so much emotions that it caused your powers to flare up?"
Buttercup Kayama: Class 1-A
/
Buttercup: "I lost control because I had to save them. Those stupid villains annoyed me to no end."
Hound Dog: "Quite the temper you have. Has that ever caused friction with others and if so, was the event a further push to it?"
Buttercup: She stared at him but sighed. "I can say that childhood was not the best moments for me. But I only lost control because I was…scared." She bitterly admitted it.
Hound Dog: "I understand Ms Kayama, and fear is a normal response to something that brings us anxiety or makes us uncomfortable. Sometimes when one is anxious, they tend to feel like they lost the little control they have. Did that happen or has it previously happened before?"
Blossom Kayama: Class 1-A (Class Representative)
Blossom: "…"
Hound Dog: "Ms Blossom, I understand that talking to a counsellor is ideal, but if you do not answer these questions, you will be barred from the Festival. Do you really want that?" He said with a stern but compassionate tone that seem to get to her.
Blossom: "Sir, what do you want me to say, huh? That I basically let my class, not to mention my sisters down, when I got ambushed by some sneak attack, leaving me unconscious and unable to help. I lost all the control and couldn't even help and fight villains that threaten to hurt the people I love. You know how it makes me feel? USELESS!" Eyes filled with sense of self-hate and wanting to be perfect. It then left.
Hound Dog: He nodded, but gave her a sympathetic look. "I understand where you are coming from. But I can imagine what you all experienced to make you feel this way."
Blossom: She wiped away the traitorous that threaten to fall and looked up at him with a deep sigh. "Trust me, you wouldn't understand."