Like at the beginning of the journey, I once again found the landscape in the form of a city that was contemporary yet futuristic at the same time. Ordinary people, supernatural people, normality in the face of unplanned evolutionary advancement. A new chain, a higher branch to cross. The Quirks, the world... how curious they were.
If I reflected, perhaps more deeply and less carried away by the tense moment, then, seeing it from that perspective... I had thrown another large stone into the river of ripples that was slowly branching into something greater.
My very existence was a gigantic change to the landscape, laden with differences and opinions contrary to the natural order the world demanded. I had crossed that barrier a long time ago, yet sometimes, it was incredible to think about.
How much more could still be altered? And why... was I not afraid of change?
Power? Was I unconsciously falling prey to the primary stimulus of my initial mistakes?
Confidence? Was I finding security in aspects where it previously didn't exist?
Or... perhaps another factor? If I was right in my thinking, then there were no explanations to offer.
"We're here now," All Might expressed, stopping the vehicle in front of the house I was supposed to call "home."
I nodded out of inertia, simplifying all my thoughts into a simple but quick conclusion.
If I was going to throw stones and create ripples, I would do it right. Otherwise, I would cease all movement, controlling the metaphorical sea.
"Perfect, thank you very much for bringing me, sir." I thanked the man with a smile; a round trip was no small thing. He had saved me a lot of trouble by not using One For All publicly.
I wanted to shake his hand to say goodbye, however, Toshinori opened his own door, putting on just a hat before getting out. I ended up confused, extending my hand to no one in particular, like a mime performing his own show.
All Might noticed the event, lowering his gaze until he was in front of the vehicle's window. He tilted his head, expressing doubt regarding my action. When he was the one who was out of place.
"Aren't you getting out?" he questioned innocently, raising both eyebrows and pointing to the door in front of him. "I thought you were going to go back. Or do you want to go to the gym? I can take you there too."
I sighed, embarrassed and amused in equal parts. Had common sense perhaps gone on sabbatical?
"I'm going to, I appreciate the clarification," I responded sarcastically, getting out as well and extending an accusatory finger in his direction. I was the one with the doubts here. "But... what about you? What's your business? It's in your best interest to be honest."
Old ideas returned with force. I almost lost it those times I suspected All Might and the woman I called mother... man, one misplaced comment would be enough to recreate a certain special technique.
I felt One For All shift amusingly; it enjoyed the drama and the exaggerations of others.
-(And what if a User had you only to obtain certain Quirks? Favoring those powers over the natural potential you show, would you be proud to lend energy to such a person?)- I adapted the situation to the power itself, eager to grab that ball of raw power and kick it like a soccer ball.
Hearing that silenced it quickly, eh... Someone felt called out.
All Might seemed to understand the problem, laughing at the unnecessary confusion of the moment.
"Don't worry, Young Midoriya... I am here, to..." His muscular form made an appearance, bringing with it the extinct power of the former number one. "Obtain confirmation from a responsible adult and allow you to live at U.A.!"
He gave a thumbs-up, smiling as if using that state wasn't painful and unsafe. It was incredible that someone could (consciously) force their body for momentary fun.
The sense of self-preservation didn't apply to that kind of person, but even so... All Might broke records. The man never ceased to surprise in that aspect.
"...I understand." I walked to him, checking every direction and praying not to find any curious onlookers. Any information leak right now presented too many risks, an aspect I wouldn't allow myself to be careless about. "How about you stop playing around and we go inside?"
I pressed my right hand against his back, activating One For All just enough to move the heap of muscles in front of me. All Might understood my mood, returning to being that thin and fragile man. However, the smile never left his face.
"Calm down, young man, I made sure before making the joke," he responded serenely, revealing the experienced instinct that had taken him so long to refine. "You must read your surroundings, but above all... don't leave yourself exposed while doing so."
I raised an eyebrow, amazed by his way of creating lessons out of comical situations. I expected many things, truly many, and yet I ended up surprised.
Deep analysis hidden under false nonchalance, selling the image of a confident and stupid man, when in reality... he was the opposite of the concept.
Exceptional, I would take the advice.
"What's this about becoming 'All Might'? Shouldn't you have lost that ability after... retiring?" I changed the subject, knocking on the door and waiting for Mom to receive us. I knew the facts behind the question, still, I wanted to hear them.
Toshinori wiped some remaining blood from his lip, a direct consequence of making jokes of that nature. How long did it take him to get used to that pain?
"That's the theory, however... my will, along with that of those who came before, is still present. It's the last residue, the final proof of the path that each honorable User has walked," he responded honorably, proud of his own life's journey. I considered it wonderful to see someone happy for such a thing; it was living proof of the best possible outcome.
The tranquility of someone with no regrets behind them, content with the legacy they were leaving. Anyone should aspire to that kind of ending.
"I understand." I nodded, truly amazed to hear the words I already knew, and yet, they were still fantastic.
The door was opened a few seconds later, ending the continuation of our conversation. Mom was cautious as she did so. Even with cameras to see who was on the other side, she was still distrustful after...
-(The unjust desecration of our home.)- Annoyance filled the thought. I didn't forgive what happened that time, and I never would. Those people deserved intense personal scrutiny.
However, I quickly hid the negative emotion, opting to smile so as not to worry anyone. Much less when it came to Inko.
"Hi Mom, sorry for the delay but..." I was about to throw out an excuse, something quick and believable to sidestep the day's curious exchange. Though it wasn't necessary.
She sidestepped me, looking at Toshinori with nervousness and terror. I could see she was about to bow, showing respect to the strongest man in the world.
Or he was, before his retirement.
"All... All Might!" she performed her greeting, lowering her head and back until she was at a perfect ninety-degree angle.
God... no waist should have to suffer that much.
"There's no need for such formality, Ms. Midoriya." Gallant, as expected of him, the affected party responded, smiling pitifully at the clear act he knew well. "In fact, I should be the one doing it. You have a wonderful son, after all."
I crossed my arms, not at all surprised to hear that half-truth. How do you express the ill-founded debt you feel towards your successor without actually saying it?
Well, All Might doesn't have it figured out.
"How about we just go inside? You're making a pitiful and unnecessary scene." I gave a half-smile, pushing each of them by the shoulder. Out of the corner of my eye, I scanned the surroundings; nothing new was happening, no strange gazes were cast nearby.
We quickly crossed the threshold. Mom seemed even more nervous, looking for any moment to escape my grip and get away. I understood why; she needed to attend to the current unexpected guest.
Thus, I guided only Toshinori, leaving her free to go prepare tea and other comforts.
"Please, take a seat." I pointed to the nearby chairs, hearing the white noise in the background from the turned-on television. I thought about turning it off, however, it prevented Mom from hearing private things.
I watched the man rest in the offered spot, an action that prompted me to do the same. We both ended up side by side, looking down the hallway to the kitchen where Mom was.
"So... do you think she'll accept?" he questioned, cutting the silence simply and directly. "Parents will be overprotective, which is understandable considering..."
"She will," I interrupted his doubt, sure of the answer we would soon hear. "She trusts me."
When I felt legitimate fear, when I felt I had overcome it, when... I didn't know how to continue despite having the answers literally spinning inside me, only one person knew how to face the fact without knowing the true reason.
And that was Mom, so it was stupid not to acknowledge the person in question. Besides, all trust had to be returned, something I planned to do soon.
"I understand. I'm glad to hear it." He nodded, just in time to see the aforementioned person arrive, carrying a tray of tea and cookies using telekinesis, while her other hand closed the door behind her.
I smiled. It seemed small, but the Quirk was useful even in the most mundane day-to-day things, and if it could be well-exploited... boy, what a hero you'd have on your side.
I kindly shot out some Blackwhips, taking the cups and cookies with precision. Soon, each object was in its proper place.
"Thanks, son." She sighed in relief, an action I returned with a thumbs-up.
"No problem." I took the nearest cup, handing Toshinori the hot infusion and bringing my own closer.
We all gave silent thanks, beginning to enjoy the impromptu snack provided. As I did, I thought about the next course of action. I had decided many things on the fly, and this would have to be categorized as such.
The short period with Nezu led to different reflections, each one less pleasant than the last. I had no problem condemning the traitorous student, I observed firsthand how careful they were with my new treatment and... it was novel.
I gained a lot, quite a lot in fact. Now I knew the new limits to exploit and how to do it. So, following that model of events, I was going to correct the next move.
But first... there was Mom.
"Before anything else, I would like to thank you for allowing me into your home," All Might began the exchange, polite and cordial as would be expected when someone shows up as a guest.
"Oh please, you found this place, I should be the one thanking you." I raised an eyebrow. No, Mom, you deserve apologies, nothing more and nothing less. "You're here for something related to Izuku, right?"
Toshinori didn't answer the question, too busy with the steaming cup of tea.
"Bingo," I answered for him, earning glances from both sides. "What? You're dragging this out too much."
I sighed, stretching my loose muscles. All Might would beat around the bush with the matter, and I couldn't be more against it.
I preferred to get to the point, clear up any doubts. She would accept, All Might would say how many benefits the results would bring in the future, and everyone would be happy.
"It's really simple, Mom. U.A. wants to... no, rather, is going to implement dorms. They want to ensure the protection and care of every student under their charge." I waited a few seconds; the idea needed to be properly digested before continuing. When Inko didn't seem to doubt the concept, I continued. "...Well, guess what?... Those are just pretty words. In reality, their backs are against the wall."
I watched Toshinori almost spit out his tea, Mom open her mouth in astonishment and confusion, everyone reacting as expected. Because: one, I was denigrating the most important institution in the country. And two... no mother enjoys hearing the child they raised affirming such things.
"The press, the government. No one, and I repeat, no one, is happy with how things have been handled so far. Multiple villains attacking young and inexperienced children—please, no respectable academy can tolerate so many problems at once." I listed the points, one by one, letting out some of the resentment I felt towards the topic. I didn't loathe the institution, however, I didn't appreciate its management to date either. "It's the last thing they have, and even so... they haven't acted poorly. Do I make myself clear?"
I finished my argument. All Might wanted to refute, but he only managed poor mumblings; it was clear he wouldn't have a coherent response today. Mom, from her side, crossed both arms, resting them on the table, contemplating what she had heard with great attention.
I could see the jumble of emotions pass; simple when dealing with people who are open about their emotional side. Then, resignation crossed her gaze, revealing a personal and sad weariness that did nothing to improve my mood.
She was stressed.
-(Good job, Midoriya.)- I reproached myself internally, unhappy to see what I had sworn to avoid. I had a promise to keep, and not to just anyone. -(I owe her... No!... I had assured her!)
The thought only strengthened the determination that was slowly growing. She deserved to know the reality of the facts.
"They want... my son full-time at... their institution?" All Might coughed even harder upon hearing the tone used, now trying to get coherent responses.
Our gazes met. He was asking for a friendly hand to soften the request.
I could only nod; it was something that would happen.
"That's r-right... Ms. Midoriya, we seek to exploit all the potential that this young man here can present and..." He hesitated on the last words, looking at the skylight that adorned the second floor of the home. "...I can't do this."
He finally gave in, guilt dragging in the deep, dull blue of his eyes. He couldn't find the face with which to apologize for what he would say next.
"Your son... is too strong... and although that may seem like a wonderful thing, the reality is that... he has a lot of attention... both good... and bad." He was sincere, honest in expressing complex and difficult things. I gave him credit for that aspect. All Might was leading by example. "No matter where he goes, how many identities he thinks of creating, nor the lies he might use. Now that the world has him in the center of the hurricane... no one can take him out."
He lowered his gaze, overwhelmed by a strong moral and ethical sense. I decided it was my turn to intervene. Toshinori had done a lot; now I had to return the favor.
So, inhaling, I expressed my own thoughts.
"Mom... you saw it. I'm a careless madman who ended up on television, fighting against who might be the most dangerous person in the world. And I won't lie to you... it was terrifying." I extended my hand, holding hers firmly. I felt it was selfish, very selfish, to put her in a position where her ability to act didn't have much room. "But... it's the choice I made. Because I want to fight, because you taught me to fight, you gave me values and... I want to teach them to the world."
She understood. She always did. Otherwise, she would accept even while denying every word. It was... cruel and brave, in so many different parts that it deserved to be considered unfair. To reject what you desire, just to see the other advance to where they long to be...
It was selfish, God... very selfish.
"Izuku... he... he'll be fine, right? U.A. can provide everything he needs, right?" she questioned, almost whispering. The question revealed how unconvinced she was.
I lowered my gaze a bit. I really couldn't explain to her how far from reality that promise was. The path I planned to take offered other risks, much greater ones, and of course, far from the said institution.
All Might was quick to recover, showing a sensitive but appreciative vigor. He seemed empathetic witnessing the development of the conversation.
"Of course, you won't find another place better equipped to exploit the enormous potential of this young man." He gave light pats on my shoulder, transmitting pride with actions and not words. I found his goodwill gratifying; he genuinely believed I could do it. "Your son has a great chance of being the strongest, even at such a young age."
I scoffed upon hearing it. Great chance? If it was about brute force, then I agreed. However, there are many other aspects at play at the same time; it would be arrogant to affirm a fact of such magnitude while ignoring them.
"No..." We both watched, surprised, upon hearing her say that. "He is superior to everyone."
She smiled, showing a level of competitiveness I had never imagined, and then... it was impossible not to copy her gesture.
Heh, talk about boosting self-esteem without even trying.
All Might applauded, abandoning any recent stupor. Pure joy overflowed from the man whose strength had soon disappeared. He had risen from his chair, resting each arm forcefully on the table.
And... man... he wasn't going to do it...? Right?
"Given the circumstances, I can only say..." Steam began to surround his body, inflating his muscles to allow the flow of a power that should have been exhausted.
I lowered my gaze even more. Yes, he was going to do it...
"Thank you very much!" The hero's figure appeared inside the home, as powerful as expected and then some. It looked like a mirage, portraying the magnificence of who was once... the Number One.
He knelt until his head touched the floor, bowing before what was a greater force. I wanted to hit the man, first for forcing his body in such a way, and then because of the embarrassing act he was performing.
-(We get the point already.)- I started walking towards him, trying to get him to abandon the unnecessary act. However, I heard Mom laugh, covering the action with a hand over her mouth. She was clearly failing at that.
But... it made me allow the comical situation to continue.
"That's not necessary, All Might. Knowing my son will be happy is more than enough," she responded with kindness, urging the retired hero to get up. Toshinori quickly obeyed the order, returning to his thin state. A thin line of blood had to be wiped away due to the act.
Seriously, could he not kill himself? Or was I asking too much?
"He will be, that's a promise," he responded solemnly, exuding confidence so naturally it seemed acted.
Perhaps it was? He's been in the business for years; it wouldn't be a surprise for him to possess such manipulation over people.
"Alright, alright. Very nice and all, but that's enough drama for today." I destroyed the atmosphere on purpose; I needed to talk to Mom privately, and All Might wasn't making the task any easier. "How about I walk you outside? So you don't get robbed."
I jokingly pushed the hero, hurrying his clumsy pace towards the exit and cutting off any proper farewell. He wanted to object, however, a quick look made him understand that there was something more to discuss.
Nodding, he allowed the improvised escort, this time walking on his own down the home's hallway.
"I plan to tell her the truth," I commented with great seriousness, opening the door loudly to hide the whisper. Toshinori didn't grasp the depth of the comment at first, but when he did, a dangerous doubt spread across his face.
I expected no less; he, better than anyone, would understand the gravity of the moment about to happen, and against all odds... he wouldn't offer proper guidance.
"Do you understand the seriousness of the matter?" I responded with certainty; of course, I did. "Do you feel it's the right thing to do?"
How could I not?
"I do." He understood, sighing at the difficulty of the moment. He surely expected many things from the day, but not this.
That... was my fault. I always put the man in complex and stressful situations.
"Then go and do it. After all, only you control who deserves to know." He offered a fist to bump, extending the remaining confidence I needed. "Each User has their own path; it's right for you to discover what yours will be."
I accepted the gesture, grateful and renewed. I was ready to change things even more.
The man smiled, a final look of confidence and resolution shining in his prominent blue eyes. I responded with the same intensity. Frenetic green rays flashed, like a prelude, the anteroom to the greatness of the event. Many metaphors, many resemblances...
I walked to the entrance of the home, closing it behind me and heading towards where the only person in the house was.
Nerves struck the body, annoying and impractical waves whose only purpose was to ruin the correct outcome of things. I hated it. They almost reminded me of that fateful battle in Kamino, bringing the bitter taste of others' pain.
Screams, tears, blood, and dust. All coming together to form the most horrendous image where I was both a witness and an accomplice. I did many things, said so many others, but that day I made sure of something, perhaps inconsequential, perhaps ephemeral. However, important on a personal level.
I cemented the position of the greatest in my name.
I considered myself worthy of the ascent.
And so, the details were polished little by little, writing clauses where before there was emptiness, giving shape to the incompetent act of immaturity, complementing common sense with experience.
Forming the man who will proceed as a hero.
But both parts sinned in the same way, both parts were not complete, both parts...
They ascended, carelessly leaving behind the roots that held up the stem, protecting their integrity first, providing security as a second, and silently watching over as a third.
"Mom," I called, noticing the television was on. A culinary channel was repeating normally, showing various complex and unappetizing desserts.
She muted it, leaving the sofa where she was resting to kill time. A ball of yarn fell to her side; she was about to start knitting.
"Do you need something, son? Is All Might still outside? Maybe I forgot to sign important papers..." I cut off the trip she was planning to the exit, taking her by the shoulders to sit her down again where she was.
I squared my shoulders, breathing deeply to evaluate what words to use and how I should begin. However, almost like a classic epiphany, the simple but powerful ending of a certain film shone through.
And once more...
I am the Ninth User of One For All.
Author's Note:
Hey!
So... the interlude before the dorms is finally over. Yes! Big things are coming... and that takes time to write.
But anyway, when a whole chapter is dedicated to just one scenario, it's because it's very important. I reinforce Toshinori as a character, I give value to Inko, and I reaffirm the protagonist's values. That way, nothing is forgotten.
And yes, now another person will know about One For All. The most important one, by the way. I don't think it's fair that Shoto Todoroki knows about the power and not Inko; it's very inconsiderate. Like everyone else, she runs many risks.
Besides, the character was going to stagnate otherwise. This was the most practical way to give her room to develop in the future, allowing for new interactions and everything I know how to do when I play with these concepts.
Just trust me; strangely enough, I know what I'm doing here. It's one of the few things I'm good at.
Anyway, after watching Across The Spider-Verse, I'm fully motivated to write Spider-Man, and since this work has reached 60 parts, I can easily dedicate time to my other work: "The Half That Survives."
Yes, 60 parts already, isn't that incredible? This story has come so far.
Because, after seeing Miles Morales schooling half the world and screwing with the canon like only he knows how, along with Miguel O'hara acting with all the logic in the world to protect those canons, I can't not write Spidey.
Anyway, take care. See you.