Chapter 14: Bizarre! Gran Torino Appears
Gran Torino got up off the ground, "Whoopsy. I was carrying a nice big plate of sausages covered in ketchup when I accidentally tripped and fell down. Clumsy me."
Izuku was weirded out. Danny sensed that something was up with this old guy.
Gran Torino asked, "Now, who did you say you two are?"
Izuku answered, "I'm Izuku Midoriya from UA High School."
Gran Torino asked, "You're who now?"
Izuku repeated himself and Danny realized, "Yeah, something is up with this guy. I think he's being crafty. Maybe to test us."
Gran Torino asked Danny, "So, what's your name?"
Danny answered, "My name is Danny Fenton, also from UA High School."
Gran Torino smiled, "Nice to meet you, Daniel." Izuku was shocked that he remembered Danny's name.
Danny glared at Gran Torino, "Just Danny. I do not like being called Daniel."
Gran Torino smirked, "OK, Dan."
Danny replied, "Not Dan either. I hate that even worse."
Gran Torino then said, "I could really use some food."
"Some food?" Izuku asked.
Gran Torino then asked, "Toshnori?"
"Midoriya," Izuku said as he got out his cell phone. "I just need to make a phone call."
"Got ahead, Izuku," Danny said. "I'll keep an eye on the old man."
Izuku walked out the door and closed it behind him. Danny turned to Gran Torino, "You don't have to pull the old man trick against me. I know you're faking."
Gran Torino glared at Danny, "How did you know?"
Danny smirked, "I've learned never to judge a book by its cover. Plus, you taught All Might himself and you personally requested myself and Izuku. A senile old man can't pull that off."
Gran Torino gave a little smile, "Very clever."
Danny then asked, "Am I allowed to tell Izuku or do you want me to keep my mouth shut?"
Gran Torino smirked as he walked over to Izuku's briefcase, "Let the boy figure it out for himself." He opened the briefcase as Izuku walked back in.
Izuku started to freak out, "Hey, wait, that's my stuff!"
Gran Torino instead asked, "Why don't you fire off a One For All smash at me?" Izuku was surprised at Gran Torino's change of tone. "I want to see how far you've come in terms of handling its power. This is a pretty good costume. Now, where's that attack?" He then turned to Izuku, "Hey, what are you doing here?"
Danny had to hide his giggle as Izuku was freaking out. Izuku then said, "I'm here because I need to learn how to control One For All. I have to get so much better at it, and fast. I'm also here because I don't know if All Might has much time left. I'm sorry. But I can't waste my whole week messing around like this, sir. I hope you'll excuse me."
He turned to walk away but Danny didn't follow him. Izuku was confused but then Gran Torino said, "As I thought." He then blasted himself around the room using his Quirk: Jet. He blew past Izuku and Danny, clinging to the wall above the front door. "It's time for you to show me what you can do, ya newbie. I watched the UA Sports Festival on TV. The way you used your power was unthinkable. Reckless! He's not training you well. He may be the Symbol of Peace and the number one hero, but All Might's a total novice when it comes to teaching. I can only imagine what a blunder he is in the classroom. I can't stand to watch you use your Quirk that way, so I suppose I'll have to teach you."
He then looked over at Danny, "As for you, Ghost Boy, All Might has been very curious about you. And I saw what you did during the Sports Festival. So I wanted to see you for myself. You may not need teaching like this other boy does, but even pro heroes can learn something every day. But why did you choose to accept my offer?"
Danny answered, "I did get plenty of offers from other pros, but when All Might told me that you taught him, I wanted to meet you for myself. Plus, you aren't one of those major agencies that likes to be in the spotlight. I hate being in the spotlight. Even though I was in the Sports Festival. I just want to see how a pro works in this society and get closer to getting my Hero license."
Gran Torino said, "Interesting. Now, both of you, get your costumes on."
Izuku smirked, "I'm ready. Teach me everything."
Izuku went over to his briefcase and saw that the support crew redesigned his costume a bit. He was at first mad that they made changes without asking him, but knowing that this was mostly Hatsume's doing, he calmed down.
As he was putting his costume on, Danny transformed into Phantom, "Ready?"
Gran Torino whistled, "Impressive. That's why you didn't bring a briefcase."
Izuku finished putting his costume on, "All right. Let's get started."
"Show me a smash," Gran Torino said.
Izuku asked, "Are you sure that's a good idea? I'm kind of worried since I've never used this suit before. Plus, you know, this place is small. And, if I accidentally fired a smash at 100%, then your body wouldn't be able to handle it."
Gran Torino sighed, "Good grief, kid. Is he always such a chatterbox?"
Phantom nodded. Gran Torino then launched himself around the room, "I'm losing patience!"
Phantom made himself intangible while Gran Torino hit Izuku in the back.
Izuku groaned, "OK, that really hurt."
Gran Torino landed on the microwave, "What? You didn't realize my true strength earlier? I can't believe you're the ninth holder of this great power. All Might's hardly taught you anything. Guess all that fame doesn't translate into being a good mentor."
He went zipping around the room again, constantly hitting Izuku in the back. Izuku was trying to figure out how his Quirk worked. Danny just stayed intangible and floated in the air. Izuku finally figured out the pattern that Gran Torino was using and charged up his arm, imagining the egg in the microwave.
Gran Torino smirked, "Clever analysis, newbie."
"Smash!" Izuku yelled as he punched at Gran Torino.
But Gran Torino dodged, "Nice try. But you're a little stiff. And there's discord in your mind." He put his hand on Izuku's head and slammed him to the ground. "That's why I bested you."
Izuku groaned, "Crap, I thought for sure I was gonna land that punch."
Gran Torino said, "Listen to me. The way you used One For All in the cavalry battle and in the tournament showed that you're adjusting to the Quirk. You understand its fundamentals. But your admiration for All Might and sense of loyalty to him are shackles on you."
"Shackles?" Izuku asked. "But how?"
Gran Torino replied, "It's true that you need to get stronger, and quickly. Time waits for no man. Real villains don't care if you've reached your full potential yet. And you think One For All is more special than it really is."
He let go of Izuku, who sat up, "Then what should I do?"
Gran Torino answered, "Think about that on your own time. Meanwhile, I'll go buy us some grub. You can start cleaning this place up. But first, what happened to ghost boy?"
Suddenly he was punched and went straight into a nearby bookcase. Gran Torino chuckled, "Clever boy. Taking both sight and sound away from your opponent."
Danny turned tangible again, "Yeah, I've learned how to be quiet and sneak up on someone."
Gran Torino stood up, "But I could tell that punch wasn't at your full power. Why?"
Danny gave the old man a blank stare, "Do you want a death wish?"
Gran Torino chuckled, "OK, kid. Why don't you come with me? Other kid, start cleaning."
Gran Torino walked out of the building while Danny gave Izuku a look of pity before following Gran Torino outside. Izuku sighed, trying to figure out if being loyal to All Might really was a shackle.
Danny caught up with Gran Torino, who said, "So, it seems that Toshnori was correct when he said that you seem like a seasoned pro. No hero in training your age has that much skill and control over their Quirk. You have experience out in the field, don't you?"
Danny just asked, "And what if I do?"
Gran Torino replied, "I know that vigilantism is illegal, and I know you know that as well. But you still handle yourself like an experienced pro. Even a retired pro like me can see that. So I did some digging. I found your records from the US, and nothing indicates that you got into any legal trouble with being a vigilante."
Danny shrugged, "I'm from a small town in the middle of nowhere in the Midwest. Small towns keep to themselves, and bigger cities don't really pay us any mind."
Gran Torino stopped walking, "Your files were good, a little too good. Almost picture perfect, like they were manufactured. But the files indicate they've been in the system for your whole life. Even someone with a Quirk that can manipulate computers wouldn't be that good. So something is telling me that you're hiding something about your past. And your Quirk seems different compared to other Quirks. There are only a very small handful of Quirks that give off multiple types of powers. And the All Might fanboy has one of them. The other one…well, let's just say he's bad news. So where do you fit among that?"
Danny sighed, "Look, sir, I do have experience at this hero business. Yeah you could say I was more of a vigilante. But I am not an enemy. Saving people is part of my core. I hate it that I see people in danger and I can't do anything about it because I need that stupid hero license. I'm also here trying to start a new life after a madman killed my parents and I was the one who had to stop him before he killed anyone else. Look, all you need to know is that I want to become a hero, like Izuku does. But I'm trying to do it the legal way, the right way. I could have chosen from the thousands of offers I got after the sports festival, but I accepted your offer. I wanted to see the mentor of All Might for myself. To see if you could teach me anything that might help me. Plus, I like keeping an eye on Izuku. He's definitely got a long way to go, but he has the potential to be a true hero."
Gran Torino thought for a moment, then said, "Alright, I'll accept that, for now. I know you have your secrets to keep, so do I. And maybe I can teach you something that you haven't learned yet. But also know this. What I said about All Might being a shackle for that boy, you might be one too. Let the boy learn the way he needs to without shadowing him too much."
Danny nodded, "Yes, sir."
"One last thing," Gran Torino said. "You weren't born with your Quirk, just like that boy and All Might, were you?"
Danny was shocked, but nodded, "How did you know?"
Gran Torino chuckled, "Because unlike others who are born with their Quirk, you hold yourself like All Might and that boy do. Like you were given a huge responsibility because of something that was given to you, whether by accident or design. And also something tells me that your Quirk wasn't given to you willingly. I don't know how, but I have some theories. But I'll let you keep that secret to yourself, for now. Now come, we need to buy some grub."
Over in Hosu City, Tenya was following the hero, Manuel, around, who said, "On a normal day, I'd just be waiting around for client calls to come in. Not really exciting. But things have been fairly hectic here lately."
Tenya replied, "So you're using street patrols to suppress crime."
Manuel nodded, "Yeah, exactly. Man, I can't believe Ingenium's little brother is interning at my agency. I'm sure you've had offers from pros with much bigger followings than mine."
Tenya was thinking about Stain, the hero killer who attacked his brother. He knew it might be a long shot to find him, but he was going to try. Because he could never forgive that monster for what he did.
Speaking of Stain, he was taken by Kurogiri to the hideout holding Tomura Shigaraki, with his master on audio call in the background. Stain said, "Now I get it. You must be the ones who attacked UA. And you wanna recruit me to build up your little group again."
Shigaraki nodded, "Yeah, it'll be great, you've got so much experience."
Stain asked, "And what's your mission?"
"For now?" Shigaraki replied. "I really just wanna kill All Might. I like to destroy anything that pisses me off. Like these two brats here. Game over." He held up pictures of Izuku and Danny from the sports festival.
Stain said, "I was a fool to think you could offer me anything. It turns out, you're the type of person I hate most in this world. The goals of your league are those of a child. What meaning is there to killing if you don't have real convictions?"
Kurogiri interrupted, "The Hero Killer Stain. Tomura Shigaraki only cares about wanton violence, so we brought this man in to guide him. Perhaps we made a mistake." He noticed that Stain was pulling his blades out. "Master, should I step in?"
The master said over the audio call, "Let it happen. It's possible this is the only way he'll learn anything. He needs to think about the ways he must grow. How he can mature. Only then will he reach his potential."
Back at Gran Torino's building, Izuku was staring at the microwave that got broken. "My admiration for All Might is a shackle. I understand the fundamentals, but there's discord in my mind. I believe One For All is more special than it is. Is that what's making my movement stiff? What does stiff even mean?" Ok, look at all this in a different way. What makes a movement flexible? Wait, I know! How I think about it, One For All, those big smashes are like my special moves. But I saw him use it up close. Why didn't I notice then? Now I see. Quirks are just extensions of our bodies. So then I need to start thinking of One For All as being a part of me. That's it! I get it."
What he didn't know was that Gran Torino and Danny were standing just outside the front door, listening in. Danny wanted to go in, but Gran Torino made him wait.
Danny silently chuckled, "Sounds like he's nerding out again."
Gran Torino sighed, "Well, at least he's mentally adept and forward thinking. For a kid. But I already knew that from the festival. Toshnori found a good one."
Elsewhere in Tokyo, Bakugo was interning with the hero, Best Jeanist.
The Fiber Hero sighed, "To be perfectly frank, I don't like you very much. I know full well why you chose my agency. Because I'm one of the top five most popular heroes."
Bakugo grunted, "Hey look, you're the one who made an offer for me."
Best Jeanist replied, "Yes. Recently, all my recruits have been perfect little angels, so you certainly stand out. I watched the way you fought at the sports festival. You have a good handle on your powerful Quirk, and a decent grasp of its application as well. You're an outstanding talent. I'd say you're already good enough to take on as a sidekick. However, you do have a fatal flaw. You believe you're the best, and you display that belief without regard for how it reflects on you or your image. You have a ferocious nature."
Bakugo growled, "Don't tell me you brought me here just to give me a lecture!"
He tried to step forward, but found himself tied up in fiber wires.
Best Jeanist sighed, "I have to correct people like you. It's part of my duty to society. Heroes and villains are cut from the same cloth. So your job here is to watch me. I'll show you what makes someone a hero."
Bakugo asked, "What in the hell are you doing?"
Best Jeanist answered, "Isn't it obvious? I'm educating you on becoming an exemplary pro. That includes being aware of the way you speak, your appearance, controlling your emotions, your morals. There are countless things you need to learn, but in the brief period of one week, I will stitch these things into the fabric of your being. Then, maybe you can be more like the boy who actually won the sports festival." Bakugo grunted at that last statement.
Elsewhere, both Kirishima and Tetsutetsu found themselves at the same agency of the hero, Fourth Kind. Both boys were surprised, but Fourth Kind answered for them, "We were able to put in two offers this year. Let's begin right away."
Both Kirishima and Tetsutetsu said, "I look forward to working with you."
Fourth Kind said, "I was impressed by the guts both of you showed at the sports festival. I like you two. However, being a hero isn't easy, and you can't rely on brute force alone. So this week, you'll learn from my experience."
Tetsutetsu beamed, "That's the chivalrous hero."
"He's so manly," Kirishima added.
Fourth Kind slammed one of his fists into the table, "Wait for me to finish speaking!"
Both boys apologized.
Fourth Kind said, "Seems like I'll have to teach you proper manners, too."
"Thank you very much, sir!" both boys shouted.
Fourth Kind said, "First, let's talk about why we're even here. Pros receive wages from the government, so we're civil servants. But, there's more to it than that. With the Quirks we offer, our responsibilities are different from regular workers. Now, regarding our actual duties."
Elsewhere, Ochaco was at the agency of Gunhead. She was in costume walking around the city with him.
Gunhead said, "Basic hero goal: control crime. Right? When a crime occurs, the police will contact us. These requests come in all at once, filtered by district. We file reports on the services we provided. Assisting with arrests, rescuing people, etc. Then a special agency looks at our work and decides how much we should be paid. You'll catch on quick, kiddo."
Ochaco didn't expect Gunhead to be so friendly.
Elsewhere, Momo and Kendo were interning at the agency of Uwabami, who was telling them, "Additionally, heroes are allowed to have side jobs. There were a lot of arguments about this when the world of pros was first being established, but the heroes ended up being so popular that the public demanded it. For example, I'm about to film a commercial. Stick around, OK?"
Kendo replied, "Uh, well, I was kind of hoping I'd see something a little more action-y."
Momo shouted, "No. This sort of attention is something you can't avoid if you're a pro. Besides, she was kind enough to offer her wisdom to an unworthy student. So I'll take every lesson she has to give."
Kendo chuckled, "You're really into this. OK then. But isn't there anything else we can do while you film the commercial, Uwabami?"
Uwabami replied, "Do you know why I chose to recruit you two? Any thoughts?"
Kendo didn't know, while Momo guessed, "It must be because you saw such heroic potential in us."
Uwabami replied, "Of course I did. But there's another reason. You're both very cute young ladies." Both Momo and Kendo were confused.
Elsewhere, Jiro was interning with Death Arms, who said, "Heroes must practice and train constantly. You can't take a break, even when you're on patrol." Jiro was having a hard time keeping up with him.
Elsewhere, Shoto had decided to suck it up and go to his father's agency. Endeavor said, "I've been waiting for you, Shoto. You're finally ready to walk the path of the mighty."
Shoto replied, "I have no intention of following any path you've created. Only I can decide my future."
Endeavor chuckled, "Is that so? You should go get ready. We're going out."
"Where to?" Shoto asked.
Endeavor replied, "It's time I show you what it means to be a hero."
Back at Gran Torino's building, it was nighttime and the old hero was fast asleep. Danny was trying to sleep but the old man was snoring away so loud that he couldn't. Izuku still had his costume on.
Izuku sighed, "The first day of training down, and all he did was test me once. No actual hero work or field training. He just passed out after coming back with food. I didn't get any hits when I searched for his name." He snuck out the front door. "A UA teacher for just one year. He's one big mystery. I need to change the way that I think about One For All. It's part of me. My classmates use their Quirks as if it's completely natural. Danny…..well he's on a totally different level. But I still think of mine as something I have to call upon. If I could use even five percent of my power like it was nothing. I'd be able to move like Kacchan or Danny. Mr. Aizawa and Kirishima said the same thing. If I can just master my Quirk, I'll be able to do so many things! But first, I need to be able to use it instantly. All right. I'll try this out. Five percent should be enough here."
He walked into an alley that was full of trash. He looked above, "One, two, three, the roof. That shouldn't be too hard, right? Imagine the egg not exploding in the microwave."
He jumped, but ended up hitting the wall. He tried again several times, using different strategies, but always ended up hitting the wall. Danny had heard this and was floating invisibly nearby, watching Izuku. Danny knew that Izuku was trying hard to master One For All, and he wanted to help, but he remembered Gran Torino's words of being a shackle. He needed to let Izuku figure this out on his own.
The next morning, Gran Torino came down to two sleepy boys. He grinned, "Good morning. What's wrong, kid? You look beat."
Izuku definitely looked like he was beat up, "Well, I was training on my own yesterday and went too far. I tried to take everything you said to me and put it into practice, but it was just no good. Obviously I still have a long way to go."
Gran Torino gave Danny a look, and Danny mouthed, "I didn't help him." Gran Torino sighed, "It's your first time trying, so it's to be expected. That's how training works. Of course, I suppose All Might can't wrap his mind around that. He was pretty much able to use One For All right off the bat, so I taught him in a different manner. Of course he had the body going for him, so there's that."
Izuku beamed, "Whoa, All Might as a student, huh? Come on, what was he like back then?"
Gran Torino answered, "It was all combat training for him."
Danny muttered, "No wonder All Might is so scared of this guy."
Gran Torino sighed, "The training was difficult, but I couldn't hold back on him. He was entrusted to me by a sworn friend who had just passed away."
"All Might's predecessor?" Izuku asked. "So can you tell me about the guy?"
Before Gran Torino could answer, the doorbell rang and a man shouted that he had a package. Izuku said, "I'll get it for you."
Gran Torino looked over at Danny, "Toshnori hasn't told him about the seventh holder yet?"
Danny shook his head, "Not that I'm aware. I don't know anything about his predecessor either."
Izuku brought the package in and opened it to find a new microwave. Izuku was puzzled, "A microwave?"
Gran Torino chuckled, "Yeah, for some reason, mine broke yesterday. So I bought a new one."
Danny chuckled at this.
Gran Torino beamed, "So what do you two think, how about we eat some of that frozen food I bought? It'll be good."
Danny said, "The only thing you bought was dessert."
Gran Torino chuckled, "What can I say? I like the finer things in life."
Gran Torino put some of the taiyaki pastries in the microwave to cook. Danny found it weird that this was considered a pastry, but realized that some American foods were probably confusing to Japanese people.
Izuku was thinking, "Using my Quirk needs to be as easy as taking a breath. Thinking about it objectively, everyone else has had 15 years to get into that kind of mindset. But not me, and time waits for no one. At this rate, in order to draw out more than five percent of my power, I'll need to put in the kind of commitment I did on the beach."
The microwave dinged and Izuku brought over the pastries. Gran Torino grinned, "Oh, yeah, look at these delicious babies. Come and get them while they're steaming."
Izuku mumbled, "My time is limited. What do I focus on?"
Gran Torino asked, "Why the long face, boy? Just focus on these pippin' hot pastries for now." He took a bite and realized that they were still frozen.
"Ouch," Danny muttered.
Izuku was shocked, "No way. I'm positive that I microwaved them like it said to."
Gran Torino shouted, "What are you, an idiot? You stuck a huge plate in there, didn't you? If you do that, there's no room for it to turn. So only one part of it gets hot. Have you never done this before?"
Izuku stuttered, "Oh, ours isn't the turning type, so, no, I guess not. I'm sorry that…..Wait. I've got it! Whoa. Gran Torino. I see now! The frozen pastry in my hand is me!"
Danny was confused. As was Gran Torino, "No it's not. Are you OK?"
Izuku replied, "Uh, I don't mean literally. I'm not really a dessert. But I get it. Up until now, I've just been summoning One For All. Only when I really need it. In the places I need it. Like flipping on some kind of switch. But if I do that, my reaction time gets slower and slower with every move. Which means I shouldn't be flipping the switch off. I just have to leave the power on the whole time. Imaging the energy that used to be focused in one place spreading throughout my entire body."
Izuku's body channeled One For All. Danny was surprised, but then he looked over and saw Gran Torino grinning. Danny whispered, "You knew?"
Gran Torino whispered back, "Didn't take him long to figure that out. Good."
Izuku continued, "I need One For All's power surging through all of me, continuously. The five percent that I can use."
Gran Torino smirked, "Visualizing a pastry in the microwave is pretty boring, kid, you sure you're OK with that?"
Izuku nodded, "All Might said that about my egg already, and it was fine with me."
Gran Torino threw his cane to the side, "So tell me, can you move in this state?"
Izuku answered, "I don't know for sure."
Gran Torino grinned, "Wanna give it a try?"
Izuku nodded, "Yes, let's do this!"
Gran Torino looked over at Danny, "How about you?"
Danny transformed into Phantom, "You don't even have to ask."
Chapter 15: Midoriya and Shigaraki, plus Fenton
Gran Torino smirked, "That's it. Keep One For All flowing throughout your entire body. If you can move around while maintaining this, then you'll be on a completely different level than you were at the sports festival. So, kid, think you can handle it? We'll begin with three minutes."
Izuku was confused, "OK, for what?"
Gran Torino stretched his legs, "That's the amount of time you have to try to hit me with a smash. Ghost Boy, start the clock."
Phantom hit a timer and turned himself intangible as Gran Torino zipped around the room. He hit Izuku in the face and kept bouncing around.
Gran Torino chuckled, "Pathetic. If you can't even hold your own against an old man, how will you protect those who're in need? Someone praised by the Symbol of Peace himself should be able to complete this challenge easily. No sweat."
Izuku was having a hard time getting One For All to flow throughout his body as Gran Torino was too fast. He then slid under a couch.
Gran Torino laughed, "Don't be stupid. I can still see you. If you're trying to buy time, it won't work." He launched himself towards the couch, but Izuku shoved the couch at him.
"Now's my chance," Izuku said. He started to charge up One For All.
Gran Torino replied, "So you were trying to keep me off of you for a minute. Now that was a good idea."
Izuku launched himself into the air, "One For All. Full Cowling!" But Gran Torino dodged.
"Almost," Gran Torino chuckled. He got behind Izuku and launched at him. "You already tried to counter like this once before. Remember, kid?"
But Izuku dodged and held onto the ceiling, then launched himself at Gran Torino. "Smash!"
But Gran Torino dodged. Then hit Izuku into the wall.
Phantom said, "Time's up."
Izuku groaned, "Man, it's hard to keep going like that. I guess I still have a lot of work to do."
Gran Torino said, "Nice work. You managed to attack me while I had my guard down thanks to your analysis. You must spend a lot of time thinking about strategy and how to fight. You've already grown since yesterday, and this was your first go at using One For All this way."
Phantom saw a small cut on Gran Torino's cheek. Gran Torino whispered, "It's been a long time since I've had to seriously dodge an attack. This kid might turn out to be a real monster." He then looked over at Phantom. "All right, your turn. I want to see if you can attack me now."
He launched himself around the room. Phantom just moved to the middle of the room and when he sensed that Gran Torino was about to attack him, he caught the old man and held him to the ground. Izuku was shocked at how fast Phantom could catch Gran Torino.
The old man chuckled, "You have great reflexes, ghost boy. And you chose to not use violence. Sometimes violence isn't always the answer."
He got up off of the floor, "All right, no time to rest. Let's keep training, kid."
Izuku replied, "Yeah, please! What's next, sir?"
Gran Torino chuckled, "Something very important. We haven't had any breakfast this morning."
Phantom chuckled at that statement. Gran Torino walked over to the pastries, but they were on the floor. He flipped out, with Izuku shouting that he'll go buy more. Phantom just laughed.
Elsewhere, Ochaco was doing fight training with Gunhead's sidekicks, and the hero himself was watching, "Don't just go through the motions. Make sure you're focusing on each individual punch. Remember, the most important thing is your basic physical strength."
"Yes, sir," Ochaco and the sidekicks answered.
With Kirishima and Tetsutetsu, they were with Fourth Kind and gave him some tea. The hero shouted, "This is lukewarm! Can't you two dense idiots even make a decent cup of tea? We wanna impress clients who visit our agency. Is this the kinda crap you would serve them, too?" He whacked both boys on the head.
Kirishima and Tetsutetsu apologized, "Sorry, Mr. Fourth Kind, sir."
Fourth Kind said, "Geez. Those powers of yours sure make it satisfying to hit you." Even though his hands throbbed in pain.
Meanwhile, Best Jeanist was talking with Bakugo, "To be a good pro, your presence must calm those in danger and give them peace of mind. You must be capable, of course, but there are other things to consider. Your physical appearance, speech, and actions must all be elegant. You must give off the aura of a hero. Do you understand?"
He was combing Bakugo's hair at the same time, smoothing out all of his spikes. Bakugo was stunned.
Best Jeanist's sidekicks said, "Another perfect style, Best Jeanist!"
Bakugo groaned internally, "Damn it! I came to the wrong agency."
Meanwhile, Momo and Kendo were standing off to the side while Uwabami was doing a photoshoot. Momo read off the schedule, "After this photoshoot, she's scheduled to be a guest on a radio show, and then she has a quick magazine interview."
Kendo said, "I feel like we're her entourage, not her interns."
Momo replied, "This is part of what it takes to be a hero. It's unavoidable given the age we live in. And I'm sure there's some important lesson we're missing here. Right? Maybe?"
Kendo sighed, "You are in such denial."
Back at UA, All Might was meeting with Detective Tsukauchi. The detective said, "I'm sorry to show up unexpectedly. Hope you don't mind."
All Might handed the detective a cup of tea, "Please, it's always a pleasure to see you, Tsukauchi. So, how's the investigation?"
Tsukauchi answered, "Well, there were a number of villains who attacked the USJ. But we're puzzled by one. The one you fought who they called Nomu."
All Might knew who he was talking about, "Ah, that strong bird guy."
Tsukauchi continued, "We went ahead and ran some tests on Nomu's DNA."
All Might asked, "And what exactly did you find?"
Tsukauchi replied, "First: we're not asking you to help us with this case. Technically, this is a leak. I just felt like I owed it to you to let you know. It could lead us to the one in charge. After several attempts at interrogation, we realized that Nomu can't speak. He shows no reaction to anything. It's as though he literally can't think for himself. No matter what's going on around him."
All Might said, "But when Fenton possessed him, he spoke through the Nomu."
Tsukauchi sighed, "I don't know how the kid was able to get the Nomu to speak, but the facts are the facts."
He slid a picture over to All Might, "As for Nomu's identity, we discovered that he used to be a low level thug with a record of assault and extortion."
All Might asked, "Why do you think this'll lead us to the mastermind of the League?"
Tsukauchi answered, "Here's where it gets interesting. Our reports show that he's been altered drastically. When we analyzed his genetic makeup, we discovered four different people's DNA."
All Might said, "Someone combined people's DNA to make this guy. So is he even human anymore?"
Tsukauchi answered, "The transformation is a result of drugs and other unknown methods. To oversimplify a bit, he's been modified so that his body is able to hold multiple Quirks at once. His brain's apparent lack of processing power probably comes from the burden that causes. Especially since we have our suspicions about him since he was last reported MIA or even dead."
All Might asked, "So what you're saying is, he was somehow brought back to life?"
"We don't know," Tsukauchi said. "But we're more concerned about his DNA. He shouldn't have more than one power. Even if new DNA's introduced, that shouldn't give a person multiple powers. Not unless it's completely integrated into someone's body. Not all Quirks work like One For All. But maybe there's someone out there with the power to pass different Quirks on to other people."
All Might gasped, "It can't be!"
Tsukauchi sighed, "Given the evidence, I think it's a reasonable conclusion. It's why I came. I had to let you know immediately."
All Might clenched his fists, "No. It's not possible. Don't tell me he's back again."
Over at the League's hideout, Stain had attacked both Shigaraki and Kurogiri, both men bleeding onto the floor. Stain stood over Shigaraki, "So you want me to be a part of your crumbling little league. But you won't accomplish anything if you don't have conviction and desire. Without those, you'll always be an aimless weakling. Achieving nothing. That's how you got here."
Shigaraki replied, "Hey, now. You're being a little rough, aren't you? Kurogiri, take this guy back."
But Kurogiri only said, "I'm sorry. I can't move. It must be the Hero Killer's Quirk at work."
Stain continued, "The word "hero" has lost all meaning in this society. The world is overrun with fakes and criminals like you who chase petty dreams. They must all be purged."
He moved his sword closer to Shigaraki's neck, but Shigaraki grabbed it, "What do you think you're doing? If you touch this palm, I'll kill you." Stain's sword started to decay. "You sure talk a lot, Hero Killer. Conviction? Maybe I don't have anything as loaded as that. If I had to choose a desire, though, yeah, it'd be killing All Might. If this world wants to worship trash like him, I'll destroy their beloved Symbol of Peace, and then crush them while they're in shock." Stain's sword completely decayed and Shigaraki tried to get to Stain, but the Hero Killer jumped away.
Shigaraki stood up, "The last of my injuries was finally about to finish healing, and now this. You should learn not to play with knives. We don't have a healer in our party, you know."
Stain said, "I see your nature. It seems our goals fundamentally oppose each other. However, this wasn't in vain. We agree that we need to destroy the present."
Shigaraki sighed, "I'm over this. Leave, drop dead. I'm the kind of person you hate most, right?"
Stain chuckled, "I was testing your motives. People always show their true colors when on the verge of death. It's abnormal, but there is desire, a warped sprout of conviction, inside of you. How will it bloom in the end, I wonder. Maybe I'll let you grow. If you don't turn out well, I'll take care of you later."
Shigaraki growled, "You think you could get rid of me?"
Kurogiri started to move, "I'm free."
Shigaraki turned Kurogiri, "Kurogiri. Someone as crazy as this would be nothing but a problem for the League of Villains."
Kurogiri replied, "Please reconsider. This man will be a great asset if he joins us. I'd say this was a success."
Stain scoffed, "My business here is done. Now, you will return me to Hosu. There are still several false heroes I must attend to."
Back in Hosu, Tenya was sitting at a table in Manuel's agency thinking to himself. Manuel was sitting across from him, "Well, the nice thing about having the whole city on alert is that no villains will dare come out." He walked away.
"Oh, yeah, sure," Tenya mumbled. He went back to his thoughts, "Hero Killer Stain. It was obvious once I looked at your crimes. In the seven places that you've appeared so far, you've always injured at least four pro heroes. Maybe there's a reason for that, or maybe I'm just reading into things, but it looks like a pattern. And Tensei was the only person you've attacked in Hosu. That means it's very likely that you'll appear in this city again. Good. I'll dispose of you with my own hands."
Back with Gran Torino, he was jetting all around the room while Izuku was dodging. Phantom just floated next to the microwave, as Gran Torino didn't want to damage it again. Izuku tried to attack, but Gran Torino gave him a boot to the face.
Gran Torino sighed, "We should switch up the training. If you get too used to fighting against my distinct tactics, you might develop some weird habits."
Izuku replied, "What habits? I'm just trying to keep up with you right now! Please, let me fight more!"
Gran Torino shook his head, "Nope, we're done here. Change into your costume, boy. And ghost boy, I know you're already in yours. We're moving onto Phase 2."
Izuku got changed and he, Phantom, and Gran Torino exited the building. Gran Torino smirked, "Hope you two are ready. We're going out to fight some villains."
Izuku was shocked, "Huh? What, just like that?"
Gran Torino replied, "If you only fight against me, you'll be in trouble when you come across someone who's the complete opposite. The key is to let you get experience with different types of villains and situations. This is an internship, after all. You really shouldn't be surprised by this."
Izuku sighed, "I get what you're saying, and I totally agree. But I still think I need more time to prepare myself."
Phantom said, "Izuku, in a real fight, most of the time you don't have time to prepare. Sometimes it's fight or flight."
"Exactly," Gran Torino agreed. "Plus, from what I've heard, both of you have already been in combat with some real villains. Boy, you'll be just fine. We aren't going after anyone that big. Also, ghost boy, I want to see how you are in a real fight."
Phantom chuckled, "Figures."
Gran Torino hailed a taxi and the three got in it. He continued, "And it won't do us any good hanging around here. Because of the small population of this area, the crime rate is pretty low. That's why there are so many hero agencies in urban areas, there's a lot more crime there. The higher the population density, the more trouble you'll find. Now, in Shibuya, we'll have plenty of small fights to break up, I guarantee."
Izuku was shocked, "Wait, you mean we're going to Shibuya in Tokyo? I'm not sure my hero costume is hip enough."
Phantom chuckled, "Dude, you don't have to worry about your costume. It looks fine."
Gran Torino added, "That costume of yours tells everyone you're a hero. You should be happy to get to display it in such a bright spotlight."
Izuku realized something, "Hold on. Are we gonna be taking the bullet train toward Shinjuku?"
Gran Torino nodded. Phantom realized why Izuku asked that, as they will pass Hosu City while on the train, and Phantom knows that Izuku is thinking about Tenya.
Meanwhile, Tenya was patrolling with Manuel again, who said, "We'll patrol Kyoto today, too. Sorry this is so monotonous."
Tenya shook his head, "No. It's better this way."
Manuel then said, "Hey, this is kinda hard to ask, but you're after the Hero Killer, aren't you?"
Tenya was shocked, "How did you…."
Manuel chuckled, "I couldn't think of any other reason why you'd come to my agency. Don't get me wrong, I'm really glad you did, but you shouldn't be pursuing personal grudges. We heroes don't have the authority to arrest people or punish them. The only reason we're allowed to use our Quirks is because of the regulations put on them. That's why, no matter how noble the reason may be, a hero must not use their Quirk for themselves. If a pro used their power for their own selfish desires, it would be a very serious crime. I'm not saying that the Hero Killer isn't incredibly guilty or anything! You just seem like the earnest type, you know? I'd hate for you to focus on one goal and ignore everything else."
Tenya bowed to Manuel, "Thank you. I appreciate it."
Manuel replied, "Oh, it's fine, as long as you get what I'm saying. So, we good?"
Tenya clenched his fists, "No. What am I supposed to do with this burning hatred if I can't act?"
Elsewhere in the city, Stain was on a rooftop looking around. A portal opened behind him and Shigaraki walked out, "Hosu City looks nicer than I expected. So, what are you gonna do?"
Stain grinned, "I will reform it. In order to do so, blood must spill."
Kurogiri appeared next to Shigaraki, "You have a clear goal. Your dedication is admirable."
Stain sighed, "Ah, finally, someone who understands."
Shigaraki said, "I get the feeling you enjoy picking on me."
Stain stood tall and held his arms out wide, "Hero is a title for those who've accomplished great deeds! This city is full of false champions. All they care about is money and fame. Until this world realizes its mistakes, I will continue my work." He jumped off the roof.
Shigaraki sighed, "He talks all high and mighty and stuff, but he's wasting his time focusing on such a small stage. He's so noble I could cry."
Kurogiri said, "You shouldn't spurn his methods. The reality is, in all the cities where Stain has appeared, the crime rates have fallen. Perhaps because heroes are more conscientious, or perhaps out of fear. Regardless, he does bring change."
Shigaraki growled, "Oh, isn't that just wonderful. Heroes are working harder thanks to all those murders. I guess you could say our Hero Killer is also a Hero Breeder. This is getting boring. It won't work. We just can't agree on a basic level. And he annoys me. Kurogiri, bring out the Nomus."
Kurogiri opened a portal as Shigaraki said, "You think you can get away with stabbing me? When I get tired of you, I'll kill you. Whenever I feel like it. Just like that, Stain. But let's make it more interesting. How about I crush your honor and your pride first? What do you say, big bad Hero Killer?" Three Nomu exited the portal, ready to fight.
On the train, Izuku said to Gran Torino, "So, uh, this train isn't gonna get there until pretty late. Are you sure that's OK?"
Gran Torino smiled, "That's why I picked it. There'll be more skirmishes then, so it'll be much more fun!"
Izuku sighed, "Maybe we just have different ideas about what fun is."
Phantom chuckled, "Hey, it worked for Batman."
Izuku pulled out his phone and Gran Torino said, "You kids these days. You're constantly buried in your cell phones."
Izuku was checking his messages to see if Tenya messaged him back, but he didn't.
The train entered Hosu City. Suddenly Phantom's ghost sense went off. Izuku noticed, "Danny, what's wrong?"
"If you're seeing my breath," Phantom said. "Then something is wrong in this city."
Suddenly everyone on the train heard an explosion coming from the city. Phantom's ghost sense got more crazy as he quickly turned intangible and pulled two people away from the window just as a pro hero came flying in. A Nomu landed next to him and held him down.
"Nomu!" Izuku shouted.
Gran Torino said, "I want you to stay back, you hear me? Where's Phantom?"
"Here," Phantom made himself visible and put the two people he saved. He then glared at the Nomu, "Hey, four eyes! Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" He charged at the Nomu and shoved him off the train towards the city below.
Gran Torino growled, "I'm going after him. Kid, stay here and make sure everyone here is safe." He jumped off the train to catch up with Phantom.
Izuku looked out towards the city, "No way. What the heck is going on down there?"
Down in the city, the other two Nomu were the ones who caused the explosion. Shigaraki was laughing nearby. "Now this is a good game."
Elsewhere, Manuel was getting reports, "What did you say? Villains appeared? Don't worry, I can head there right now." He turned to Tenya, "Stay with me. We're running."
Manuel started to run and Tenya ran after him, "It couldn't be. This is different. That murderer wouldn't be so flashy." As he ran by an alley, he noticed something, and realized Stain was there. He then ran right into the alley.
Stain was there, holding a pro hero, Native, up against the wall, "That idiot's making a move. And he's so noisy. I'll have to dispose of him later. At the moment, I have important work to finish here."
Native mumbled, "My body….I can't move….You bastard….I'll kill you!"
Stain scoffed, "If you call yourself a hero, you should choose your last words with care."
Suddenly he sensed something coming towards him, it was Tenya. But Stain blocked him, knocking Tenya to the floor, his mask falling next to him.
Stain said, "A child wearing a suit. Who are you? Run, run away from here. This is not a place for children."
Tenya stood up, "You're carrying blades all over your body and you're wearing a blood red scarf. You must be the Hero Killer Stain! It's you, right? I've been looking for you, but I didn't think I'd find you so soon."
Stain held a sword in front of Tenya's face, "Your eyes are searing with vengeance. Be careful what you say next. If need be, even someone your age can be my target."
Tenya clenched his fists, "Are you saying that I'm not even a threat to you? You listen to me, criminal. I am the brother of an incredible hero who you attacked. He's the best older brother that anyone could hope for. I have come to stop you because he can't anymore. You're going to remember my name for as long as you live. I am Ingenium, and I will defeat you. That I promise!"
Stain scoffed, "Then, so be it. Die."
Chapter 16: Hero Killer: Stain Vs UA Students
Back on the train, the conductor came and reassured everyone that the villain was gone. Izuku told him, "Keep everyone calm. I'm going after him!" He jumped off the train and ran towards the city. "No time for detours or stairs. Gotta put my training to the test. One For All, Full Cowling!" He jumped off and landed on a rooftop, uninjured. He then kept running.
Meanwhile, Phantom landed with the Nomu in the city below. People ran in terror at seeing the Nomu. The Nomu stood up and tried to go after the citizens, but Phantom grabbed the Nomu by the leg, "Where are you going? We're not done!"
Suddenly Gran Torino slammed into the Nomu. "I haven't fought this earnestly in years. Picked a fine time to patrol. Ghost Boy, you should have waited for me."
Phantom grinned, "You know that I can keep up. Plus, I've helped take down a monster like this before. Now, bring it on, ugly!"
The Nomu tried to attack Phantom and Gran Torino, but they dodged. Then the Nomu went after citizens again. Gran Torino charged at the Nomu, but Phantom held him back just as the Nomu caught on fire.
They turned to see Endeavor walking towards them, "I was looking for the elusive Hero Killer, but this thing will have to do. Thanks, old timer. I'm afraid I don't know you, but I can handle this from here on out." He saw Phantom, "Wait, you're the one who beat Shoto at the sports festival. Fenton, I believe."
Phantom chuckled, "I go by Phantom while in hero mode. Now, I will take you up on your offer to finish this guy, fruit loop. There's more trouble in this city. Gran Torino, I'm heading to where that explosion took place." He then flew off as fast as he could.
Endeavor growled, "That little punk. No matter. Time to be a hero."
Izuku made his way towards the center of the city. Suddenly a bus exploded in front of him. A giant Nomu threw one of the pro heroes towards Izuku's feet. Another Nomu was flying with a person in its feet. Izuku looked around and saw Manuel trying to put out the fire. He also heard the hero say, "Why'd you run off by yourself? Where the hell are you, Tenya?"
Izuku was shocked. Tenya was missing. The other pro heroes were trying to tell Izuku to evacuate, but Izuku was realizing who Tenya went after instead.
Just as the giant Nomu was about to attack, Phantom flew in and held both of the Nomu's fists. All the other pro heroes were confused at the sight of Phantom. Phantom grinned, "I figured there would be more of you. Take this, big guy!" He punched the Nomu as hard as he could, blowing the Nomu away towards a building."
Izuku shouted at Phantom, "Danny! Iida is missing! I think I know where he ran off to!"
Phantom turned to Izuku, "Then go find him. Text me your location when you do."
Izuku ran off as the Nomu got back up and charged at Phantom, who put up a ghost shield to protect himself and the other pro heroes around him. "Izuku, stay safe. You need to stay strong. I can't be around to protect you all the time. You need to learn to be your own hero."
Up on a roof nearby, Shigaraki was looking at all the madness the Nomu were creating, "The Nomu make such great play things."
Kurogiri asked, "Are you not going to participate in this fight?"
Shigaraki answered, "Don't be stupid. I'm still injured. That's why I brought those pets with us." He had asked his master for more Nomu because he wanted to destroy Stain as he didn't like him. But his master only gave him three, even though six were ready as his master wanted him to learn a lesson. Shigaraki laughed, "Once this night is over, the world would have forgotten you ever existed, Hero Killer."
Back in the alley with Stain and Tenya, Tenya charged at the Hero Killer, but Stain dodged, "Ingenium. So you're brothers. I let him live so he could spread the good word. Word of me." He kicked Tenya in the shoulder and used his foot to hold the student down. "You're a weakling. Just like he was." He then put his sword through Tenya's other shoulder. "You aren't heroes. You have no right to be called that. Both of you are nothing but fakes."
"Shut up, villain," Tenya grunted. "You damaged his spine and paralyzed him from the waist down. He's never gonna be able to work as a pro hero again. My brother was incredible. A caring person who saved many lives. Someone people looked up to. You had no right to take that all away from him! He is my hero. My older brother inspired my dream that one day I could be a pro, too! I won't forgive you. I'll kill you!"
Stain pointed to the pro hero laying nearby, Native, "Shouldn't you be worried about saving that guy? So busy with your grudge that you forgot about him. You plan on using your Quirk only for yourself. You're completely blinded by a selfish desire for revenge. You're about as far away from being a hero as I can imagine. And that's why you die tonight."
He pulled out his sword and licked the blood that was on it. Suddenly, Tenya couldn't move a muscle. Stain held his sword above Tenya's head, "Goodbye, child. May your death bring about a better world."
Suddenly Izuku came charging in shouting, "Smash!" and hit Stain right in the face, knocking him away from Tenya.
Tenya looked up, "Midoriya? How?"
Izuku replied, "Don't you worry, Iida. I'm gonna save you."
Stain collected himself, "It's him. One of the boys from the pictures Shigaraki showed me."
Tenya mumbled, "You found him too? But how? I thought you were interning with Fenton."
Izuku answered, "I saw it on TV. They had some stats about the Hero Killer. Most of his victims were found where there weren't many people. So in order to find you, I needed to search far away from the panic. In the back alleys of Hosu City. Let's go. Back towards the street. Danny is out there fighting some Nomu. We have to get help from the pros."
Tenya groaned, "I can't move my body. It must be his Quirk. Since he cut me, I've been paralyzed."
Izuku nodded, "That's the kind of Quirk people on TV said the Hero Killer might have. So cutting somehow activates his powers, huh?" He noticed Native lying nearby.
Tenya groaned, "Midoriya, please! Don't get involved. This doesn't have anything to do with you!"
Izuku asked, "Iida, what are you saying?"
Stain said, "You showed up to save your friend's life. You even made a big entrance. But I have a duty to kill him and this so-called pro. When your friend chose to fight me, it guaranteed that the weaker of us would be culled. So what will you do?"
Izuku secretly got out his phone and sent his location to Danny and one other person. He knew he had to stall for time.
Tenya mumbled, "Listen to me! Stand down. Run away! I told you, this has nothing to do with you."
Izuku replied, "If you really believe that, then why are you trying to become a hero in the first place? There are plenty of things I'd like to say, but they'll have to wait. All Might was right, though. Meddling when you don't need to is the essence of being a hero!"
He charged in and dodged Stain's sword attack. He jumped over him and charged a Detroit Smash at 5%, hitting the villain in the face. Tenya was shocked, as Izuku was moving around like Bakugo.
But then suddenly Izuku couldn't move as Stain had managed to make a tiny cut on Izuku's arm. Izuku realized it wasn't the cut that activated Stain's Quirk, it was the blood.
Stain stood up, "You're not powerful enough. It's not that you predicted my movements. You just left my field of vision, and maneuvered so that you'd be able to get in a clean shot. But I saw through your plan. There are countless false heroes around here who are all talk, but I think you're worthy of staying alive. You're different from these two." He walked over and held his sword above Tenya, ready to strike.
But then, a fire blast headed straight for Stain, making the villain jump out of the way. "Someone else to get in my way. Today's been full of distractions."
It was Shoto, "Midoriya. You need to give me more details in times like this. I was almost too late to stop this guy."
"You, too, Todoroki?" Tenya was shocked.
Izuku asked, "How'd you get here? Hold on, you're using your left side? So you took Danny's words to heart?"
"How'd I get here?" Shoto replied. "Good question. Your message took me a while to figure out. Next time, try to send more than just your specific location. But you're not really one to send cryptic messages without a reason, are you? So I figured you were in trouble and asking for help. Everything's OK. The pro heroes will be here any minute!"
What everyone in the alley didn't know was that there was a shadowy figure watching them from the roof above. The figure narrowed its green eyes then jumped away towards where the main fight was happening.
Meanwhile, Phantom was still fighting off the giant Nomu even though the pro heroes were trying to tell him to back away. "Can't you guys see I'm trying to help you. This guy is tougher than you realize." He fired some ecto blasts at the flying Nomu, who dodged. The giant Nomu came in for a punch, and Phantom was ready for it, but then something invisible grabbed Phantom and hauled him away from the fight. The pros were confused as were the Nomu.
Phantom was put down near an alley and he looked around, "OK, who's there?" The shadowy figure made himself visible, revealing himself to be Wulf, who howled.
Phantom was shocked, "Wulf? What are you doing here? In this world of all places?"
Wulf answered, "Horloĝmekanismo sendis min. Por diri al vi, ke viaj novaj amikoj havas problemojn. Hero Killer." (Clockwork sent me. To tell you that your new friends are in trouble. Hero Killer.)
Phantom's eyes widened. He pulled out his phone and saw that Izuku sent his location. "Great. Tenya did go after his brother's attacker. And Izuku found him too. But it also looks like Izuku sent this to Shoto too. Todoroki's good, but this Hero Killer is no joke. But those pro heroes need help fighting those Nomu."
Wulf continued, "Fajristo kaj maljunulo venas por helpi. Ili ne estas tiel fortaj kiel unu de antaŭe. Vi devas savi viajn amikojn." (Fire man and old guy are coming. Those things are not as strong as the one you fought before. You need to save your friends.)
Phantom sighed, "But Izuku needs to learn how to defend himself without me shackling him. He needs to learn how to be his own hero. That's what Gran Torino told me."
Wulf put his arm on Phantom's shoulder, "Tio povas esti vera, tamen li ankoraŭ lernas. Montru al li kiel ĝi estas farita. Kvankam li kaj la varma malvarma knabo sufiĉe bone tenas sin." (That may be true, but he is still learning. Show him how it's done. Although he and the hot cold boy are holding on quite well.)
Phantom chuckled, "That's good to hear. Thank you, Wulf."
Wulf smirked, "Vi estas bonvena amiko." (You're welcome, friend.) Phantom flew off towards the alley where his friends were fighting Stain. Wulf opened a portal back to the ghost zone. "Baldaŭ venos la tempo por ke vi prenu vian ĝustan lokon." (The time will soon come for you to take your rightful place.) He jumped through the portal as it disappeared.
Back in the alley, Shoto activated his ice to create a hill that slid Izuku, Tenya, and Native away from Stain. The Hero Killer had a worried look on his face, like he knew something that the others didn't.
Shoto said, "You're just like what they said you were. But you won't be taking any more lives, Hero Killer."
Izuku shouted, "Todoroki! You can't let that guy get your blood! I think he controls his enemies' actions by swallowing it. That's how he got us!"
Shoto realized, "He ingests blood to keep people from moving. That explains the blades. All I've gotta do is keep my distance."
Suddenly Stain threw a knife at Shoto, who barely dodged, but got lightly skinned by the knife. Stain charged in, "Ya have good friends, Ingenium. Or you did!"
Shoto created an ice wall to stop Stain from attacking him, causing the villain's sword to fly into the air. Stain tried to lick Shoto's cheek, but the student used fire to make the villain jump away.
"He's strong!' Shoto said. He sent more ice at Stain, who jumped away.
Tenya groaned, "Just stop it. Why are you doing this? His fight is with me. I inherited my brother's name. I'm the one that should stop him. The Hero Killer is mine!"
Shoto replied, "You're Ingenium now? Strange. The Ingenium I knew before never had that look on his face. You've got a dark side. Guess my family isn't the only one." He continued to hold off Stain.
Izuku grunted, "Careful, Todoroki." He then realized that he could move his hand.
Stain cut through Shoto's ice, "Ya blocked your own field of vision against an opponent who's faster than you. Rookie mistake."
Shoto let up his left side, "Come get me then."
Stain threw blades at Shoto's arm, hitting him. "You're good, kid. Unlike him."
He tried to aim at Native, but suddenly Izuku charged in and grabbed Stain by the collar and swept him along the wall, "I'm not sure why, but I'm able to move now!"
Shoto realized, "So he has a time limit."
"No," Native said from the ground. "That kid should have been the last to be freed. I still can't move a muscle."
Stain knocked Izuku off on him, but then Shoto sent ice towards stain, who jumped away.
Izuku said, "He swallows a person's blood to freeze them, but I was the one freed first. I've got three different guesses why. His Quirk could be less effective the more people he uses it on. The amount ingested could play into how long it works. Or there could even be a difference based on a person's blood type."
Native mumbled, "If it's the last one, my blood type is B."
"I'm type A," Tenya added.
Stain grinned, "So you figured it out. Bravo. Very impressive."
Izuku continued, "It doesn't really help us that much to know how his Quirk works, though."
Shoto replied, "I thought we could hurry and carry these two out of here, but it's no good. He's too fast. He can dodge ice and fire. I'd have to leave myself unguarded. Our best option is to hold until the pros arrive and avoid close combat. Or at least until he shows up. I'm guessing you sent a message to him too."
Izuku said, "No, you know you've already lost way too much blood. I'll distract him while you support me from behind. And yeah, I did send a message to him, but he may be still dealing with those Nomu. So just follow my lead. Sound like a plan?"
Shoto replied, "You want us to take a pretty big risk. OK. We can protect them."
Stain said, "Two against one, huh? This fight won't be easy."
Shoto readied for another fight. He knew the look of vengeance in Tenya's eyes. He had the feeling even since he saw him off at the train station. He used to have vengeance too, but Fenton and Midoriya showed him otherwise. He remembered the visit he recently made to his mother, who he told about his life with his father and who he has become. His mother cried and apologized, and also forgave him. She told Shoto to move forward and hold nothing back, as doing so would be her salvation. Speaking to her what made him decide to go to his father's agency to intern. He hasn't forgiven his father, but he still wants to learn what it takes to be the number 2 hero. His dad is still a scumbag, a fruit loop as Fenton called him, and it was people like Fenton and Midoriya that showed him that he could be better.
Izuku kept charging at Stain, but Stain changed up his fighting style and got Izuku in the leg.
Tenya cried, "You have to run. I can't watch this."
Shoto shot out fire to get Stain away from Izuku, "You wanna make your brother proud? Then stand up and be Ingenium! Become the hero he wanted you to be!"
Stain licked his sword, paralyzing Izuku, then went after Shoto. Suddenly an ecto blast hit Stain, sending him flying towards the other end of the alley. Shoto looked behind him, "Took you long enough."
"Aww, you did miss me, Shoto," Phantom said as he floated down and landed next to Shoto. "Sorry I'm late. But it looks like you guys are holding your own." He then glared at Stain with glowing green eyes, "Hello, Hero Killer Stain. Time to finish this."