Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

WARNINGS: SOULMATE AY, SOUL PARENTS, M/M, Izuku/Tsukauchi/Shouta, child abuse

Inspired by Apparition by Non binary in the wood. Highly recommend.

Izuku's POV

People warned about meeting your heroes that who they portray themselves to be is not who they really are. They warned against wishing too hard for something. It may not be what you really wanted. Both of these things were true in his case.

All men are not created equal. This was the reality he learned about society at a young age. Quirks were what made or broke you in the world.

The first incident was in Qing Qing City. An extraordinary child was born who radiated light. After that, reports to people with superpowers popped up all across the globe. No one knew what was causing these quirks. Before long, the supernatural became totally normal. Dreams a reality. The world became a superhuman society with about 80% of the population possessing some uncanny ability. The streets looks like scenes from comic books. A city swirled with chaos and confusion, a new profession dominated our collective consciousness. It was the age of heroes.

With the rise of superpowers, came an explosive increase in criminal activity. While governments were stuck trying to figure out how to reform law with quirks in mind, courageous people started performing heroic acts to keep our cities safe. Protecting us against villains who abuse their power for evil. With overwhelming public support, heroes found an official place as peacekeepers, overseen by the government. Those who perform the best will be paid the most and got all the fame and glory. Their career is dependent on their abilities to stay in the spotlight.

Until the age of five, he had wanted to join the group of prestigious heroes. All he had to do was wait for his quirk to come in. He would be just like his best friend who had an amazing quirk. Unfortunately, that was not meant to be. He had been taken to a quirk specialist who took an x-ray of his foot only to find he had two joints. That had him declared as quirkless and in the eyes of the world, he was lesser than everyone else.

Then when he turned five things began to change. For the last year, all he wanted was to have a quirk. A quirk was what he had received. What he now called Luck allowed him to steal a person's good luck through physical contact. The longer he had contact the more luck he stole. It did not require all five fingers but worked faster if he did use them.

Izuku was only able to figure this out through trial and error. An accident with a kid who had taken to beating him made him realize the consequences of not figuring it out sooner. Not that anyone would believe him if he told them that he had a quirk.

The bully held on far longer than the others using the leverage to beat him harder. When the teacher finally told them off for fight namely Izuku for provoking it the kid went to walk home. On the other hand, Izuku was being escorted to the principal's office. Again.

Just as they were about the enter the building though the fire alarms all set off at once. That caused the teacher to groan and begrudgingly send him home. The screeching of tires caught both of their attention a moment later. They could only watch in horror as a car hit the bully just moments after physical contact with Izuku.

That was the day he learned that his quirk could help him. But at the same time, it could kill anyone he had physical contact with for too long. He very quickly realized he would never have the physical contact with another person that normal people had. Not unless he wanted to risk accidentally killing them.

It made it hard when one had four soul marks on them. To have more than two was exceedingly rare. It seemed that he was born to be abnormal.

His soulmate marks were on his chest directly over his heart. On one side was a black jaguar and on the other was a black cat with red eyes and a cloth-like tape around its neck. Looking for them he knew would only bring heartbreak. With a quirk like his, there was no way they would accept him.

As for his soul parents, one was a green falcon with bright golden eyes. His mother for years had tried to claim that it was hers. He knew the truth, however. Soul marks that were animals' eye color represented the person's eye. There was no way the golden-eyed falcon could her.

The other was a blond wolf with light green eyes. That one confused Izuku more than the others. When he looked closer at the wolf there seemed to be almost thread-like objects around it. It wasnt something he had ever seen before. He knew that sometimes the marks would change if a quirk was used. Such a physical change in the other person but he was sure it had not changed in his memory.

Despite her lies, his mother wasnt a terrible person. The only time she ever hit him was if she was drunk. Other than that she most ignored his existence. Occasionally she would buy food but even that was becoming a thing he had to remind her to do. As if he didnt have enough on his plate.

Currently, Izuku was sitting in his second-year middle school class. The teacher was droning on about one thing or another. For his part, Izuku was focusing on his vigilante and analysis work. Though if he wanted to get technical with anyone who might bring it up. He was not a vigilante. A vigilante is defined as someone using their quirk to stop a crime without a license. So far he had not needed to use his quirk to catch anyone. Not that he would it would most likely end in someone's untimely demise.

Izuku's vigilante name was Watcher a fitting name considering he watched cameras and recorded crimes to hand over to the police. Last night he had stayed up until three getting an analysis prepared for one of his secretive clients.

His analyst name was Luck. It didnt correspond to any hero or vigilante so it kept his secret. Something he was grateful for as he gained popularity. Some of the heroes and police wanted him onsite to give real-time feedback on cases. There were occasions he would patrol but not in his analyst persona. If they saw how young he was they would make him stop or call him a liar. Instead, that was when Watcher would take over.

Most of the heroes he worked with he could guess who they were based on what kind of files were sent for analysis. This newer one however he couldn't get a read on. They sent him everything from underground work to asking him to analyze UA teachers. That had him being cautious but one had to be verified to use the site. The only reason Izuku was allowed on was because his analysis proved to be up to par with their requirements.

Looking through the hero reports he tried to find something a new crime to start investigating. With it being hero week criminals would pick up on their daylight crimes while heroes were busy at middle schools. He would have to be extra vigilant to try and send alerts out as early as possible.

His attention was drawn to a hero down report that came in that morning. With a frown, he clicked on it and read through the basic reports. A daylight hero in the top 100 that spent a lot of time trying to please the public rather than hunting for criminals. Izuku had been watching this particular hero for awhile.

While he didnt approve of the man's actions it was not a reason to kill him. None of his actions were illegal and he did good work when he patrolled. There were a lot of heroes who couldn't say the same.

It took some hacking but eventually, he was able to get the full report. The frown depended as he pulled out his notebook to cross-reference with the current criminals and villains loose in his city. Near the front of his notebook from the previous, he found what was he was looking for.

The victim was unable to fight back as they were killed. A large pool of blood under them supported the hero bleeding out rather than a quick death. Most likely a paralyzation quirk. That meant Stendhal was back but this time he was killing not just capturing. Great Watcher needed to go after one who was a vigilante before.

There was an annoying poke to his shoulder from behind him. It made Izuku turn slightly to glare at his only friend in this school. Kavar Karasu had an empath quirk that required physical contact. He was treated only slightly better than Izuku. It was because he had a quirk in the eyes of those around them. They had one other friend but he was too old to go to school.

Kavar made a motion to look upfront to Izuku. Amusement was clear in his blue eyes. Curiously the greenette looked up to find a familiar hero standing next to their teacher. BMI Hero Fatgum was in their school. What an unusual occurrence even for Hero Week.

Izuku leaned his cheek against his open palm watching the hero as he interacted with the other students. One by one each of the kids introduced themselves and told him their quirk. No doubt looking for praise from the gentle hero.

When the line got to Kavar the others jeered at him. Izuku gave his friend a half-smile before watching the heir closely. His reaction to Izuku and Kavar would be very telling.

Kavar stated clearly not flinching when Bakugo glared at him, "I am Kavar Karasu and my quirk is Calm. My dream is to be a rescue hero."

"That's a good goal. How does your quirk work?" Came the gentle tones of the hero.

Izuku answered before Kavar could play it off for weaker than it was, "Calm is a quirk that takes the emotions from anyone he touches. It does not require five points of contact but it is more effective that way. Downsides including heightened anxiety and depression along with any other emotions that the person may be feeling."

The hero raised an eyebrow at him and Izuku sighed. Here went nothing. If there was anyone that would be looked down on by a hero it was him. Even All Might told him, his dream was too unrealistic. It was why he worked harder at being a vigilante.

Izuku stood as he said, "I am Izuku Midoriya. My dream is to become a hero. And I am quirkless."

That had the class erupting into peels of laughter except for Kavar and Bakugo. The latter lunged for Izuku his hand gripping the greenette's collar. He could feel the heat from the other's quirk burning his skin. No sound escaped the green-haired boy he refused to give the bully the satisfaction.

Forgetting that he didnt have his gloves on Izuku grabbed the other's wrist. Right on the skin. Two things happened at once. First was Izuku felt reenergized which meant his quirk was draining Bakugo of his luck. Second Bakugo tried to use his quirk on Izuku to make small explosions right against his skin.

Unfortunately, Bakugo's lack of luck meant he was bound to mess up with his quirk. To those around them, it appeared as if his quirk misfired becoming stronger than he meant it to be. Izuku and Kavar knew the truth bad luck had come to bite the bully in the ass.

The explosion threw Bakugo across the room into the wall. Vindictive pleasure went through him. Then the cries of alarm went through the rest of the student body. Horror filled him at hearing that. He had used his quirk to harm another person. A thing that he only did to stop criminals that he couldn't normally on his rare patrol nights. Or to escape a certain Erasure hero who always popped up on his patrol nights.

Izuku watched with interest as his teacher and Fatgum helped the snarling Bakugo to his feet. When it looked like the blond was going to attack him again Fatgum tightened his grip. Well, that was different even after hearing he was quirkless the hero still stepped in to help him.

There were quiet words exchanged between hero and child. From the way that Bakugo's shoulders tensed they weren't what he wanted to hear. Good, maybe they would cause a change in him. Most likely not though. It would take more than one pro to get under the bully's skin.

Nezu's POV

Hero week the week every school year heroes all around Japan dreaded. It was a week where they would be assigned middle schools by their agencies to visit and talk to students. Not even Nezu was immune to this as he was assigned designing an essay to give the students. He by his own choice would only go to the middle schools if someone piqued his interest. It was part of a new system for heroes to check on potential personal students.

If a student was chosen they would have two years of personal training by a hero before they joined a high school. This would give them an edge above their peers. Every child wanted the chance to impress a pro. Only a few realized that powerful quirks wouldn't impress them. Control and a quick mind were what would impress the good heroes. The ones who wanted to make their society better than what it was.

Most of the reports from the first day heroes had come in. The only one they were still waiting on was Fatgum who had gone to Alderra Middle School. There wasn't much that was interesting about it. The school was on the poorer side of Musutafu. From what they could find no graduate had gone off to a reputable hero school.

Whether this was by choice or something more sinister they weren't sure yet. It was why they were sending some of their more well-known daylight heroes and Tsukauchi to investigate. Aizawa would be on standby in case something was found.

There was a knock on his office to which Nezu called out, "Come in."

Fatgum did as he was bid a fairly large stack of papers held in one hand. In the other, he seemed to single out a handful. It intrigued the rodent to see who caught the attention of the hero.

Fatgum said seriously, "You're not going to believe this."

What he thought was multiple students' essays turned out to only be one. A fierce grin appeared on his face as he began to read.

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

A feeling of dread had been hanging over him since he woke up that morning. For the life of him, he couldn't figure out why. Gathering all the information he could on Stain had taken up most of his night. Izuku didnt go to sleep until almost four am and then was awake again at six-thirty.

Most people assumed the dark bags under his eyes were from stupid childish nightmares. Well, the one's who cared enough to notice at least. Most of the ones who noticed were bullies who wanted to give him hell over it.

After being seeing Bakugo chewed out for bullying him by Fatgum the others had left him alone the rest of the day. Even on his way home, no one tried to attack him. It was a nice change of pace from what he was used to. Sadly he knew that in a few days it would be back to normal. Nothing ever changed that was good for him permanently. It was a fact of life. One he was well acquainted with.

His morning had started off normal enough. Inko, he refused to call her his mother any longer was either blackout drunk or still at work when he woke up. Like a zombie, he had made himself a bowl of cereal and coffee. In his stupor, he almost poured coffee into his cereal rather than milk like a normal person.

When he realized what he was doing he stopped and considered it. Before he put milk in instead. Maybe one day he would try coffee cereal but that day was not today.

On his way to school that morning Izuku had playbacks of Detective Tsukauchi getting statements from Stain's victims. They were all computerized so after some hacking, he was able to play them like an audiobook. If anyone asked he was listening to lectures on quirk analysis.

As he entered the school grounds he saw Bakugo waiting for him. Great, what was the other going to do now? Did he learn anything from Fatgum yesterday?

"DEKU!"

Izuku sighed. Apparently, he had not learned anything. Pretending not to hear over the interrogation tapes he tried to move past the other boy.

A leg was stuck out to try and trip him. Too bad for the bullies he was aware just not wanting to deal with them today. Instead of being tripped by the leg, he stepped over it. As he tried to continue towards their class a hand grabbed his shirt.

He barely felt the heat of it as he looked up into the glaring red eyes of Bakugo. Really was he going to do this now? What if a hero saw him?

Coldly Izuku glared back not allowing the other to intimidate him. His hands twitched within the confines of his gloves. Part of him wanted to seek out a fight just to have the spike of adrenaline. The rational part of his brain reminded him how much of a bad idea that would be. His teachers and principal would blame him and everyone would listen. After all, they know him best. Yeah right.

A voice grumbled tiredly, "Dont block the entranceway, brats."

Izuku turned to the voice having to hide a grin that threatened to break across his face. Well well well, if it wasnt his favorite sleepy hobo. The man looked absolutely exhausted. Given that he was up when Izuku on autopilot sent two criminals files over adding to his ever-increasing count it made sense.

Wait, Eraserhead was not a daylight hero. While he was ranked first as an underground hero his name would only make schools question is reliability. There was no way he would just randomly come to Alderra Middle School. What in the hell was he doing here?

Bakugo roughly shoved Izuku away from him. For his part, Izuku barely stumbled and quickly moved so that Eraser could enter the school. No use angering the hero when he would spend the day in his school with him. Maybe he would get lucky and the hero would only spend a period in their class. Izuku could but really shouldn't work on vigilante stuff while he was there.

Fate hated him. He swore to choas that they hated him. Watching a white fuzzy head pop out of the hero's capture scarf nearly gave him a heart attack. What was Nezu doing here?

The animal principal said cheerfully, "Hello students. Am I a rat, a dog, a bear? Who knows? What we do know is that I am the principal of UA, Nezu."

Izuku bowed lowly as he greeted in return stuttering slightly, "Nice to meet, Principal Nezu."

Nezu held out a paw for him to shake much to the vigilante's surprise. Izuku gave a quick tug on his glove to ensure it was in place before taking it. The movement was almost unnoticeable by all present. With the exception of the rat whose eye's sharpened. Izuku hoped that he did not offend the principal by ensuring his quirk didnt activate.

"Izuku!" Called out a voice that brought a real smile to his face.

Kavar was running through the entrance of the grounds. As late as ever he always seemed like he was in a rush. It was like they were polar opposites in everything. Everything but the misfortune that they shared. It was what brought them together.

Izuku called back shifting so that he faced his friend but his back wasnt turned to the heroes, "Kavar you're running late again! Why dont you get up earlier?"

"And why dont you sleep like a normal person?" Retorted his friend good-naturedly.

For a moment it was just them bickering back in forth as was their morning routine. A cough however drew both boys from there bickering. Both Izuku and Kavar turned to see the two heroes watching them. Nezu didnt bother to hide his amusement from them. Eraser was a little more difficult to tell but Izuku could see it in his eyes.

Izuku stuffed his hands into the pockets of his jacket as he waited to see what they would say. Kavar mimicked his stance from years of practice. While he wasnt a vigilante he did help Izuku with finding videos for analysis. He was also the only one who knew Izuku's secret.

Once upon a time Izuku and Katsuki had been like brothers. When Izuku had been declared quirkless that brotherhood was broken. Only a year later Kavar transferred to their elementary school and within a few months figured out Izuku did have a quirk. Bonded by their quirks both boys had formed a strong brotherhood. Much stronger than the one he had with Katsuki.

Nezu asked drawing his attention, "Am I to assume that you are, Izuku Midoriya?"

Izuku stiffened in response his green eyes meeting black warily. Why did this rat know his name? He hasn't done anything in particular to draw his attention. Not as Izuku at least.

Luck had every hero's attention in Japan. He had requested several times a week asking for his aid. That didnt include the attention he got as Watcher. Attention wasn't why he did what he did but it would help him if he decided to use Luck to make money. There were already offers on the table.

"I am," he answered, "Why are you asking?'

Nezu's face split into a grin while Eraser seemed to be considering him closer now. He met the dark eyes evenly waiting for an answer.

Nezu replied holding out a set of papers to him, "I was wondering if we could speak to you about the analysis you turned in to Fatgum yesterday."

A frown crossed his face as he noted the papers in question. It was just a standard analysis of the hero they had been given. According to Fatgum, their society lacked skilled analysts. The hero had been offering to sponsor anyone skilled in analysis work to build their skills. It would be similar to agencies offering internships.

Is that what this was about? He thought it was Fatgum offering to sponsor. Never would he have considered it was Nezu. If there was anyone smart enough to figure out what he was up to it was the rat.

Still, Izuku gave a false smile as he replied, "Sure, Principal Nezu."

Nodding to Kavar he followed the rat and hero through the hallways. He was led to the less-used side of the school. Part of it had been damaged in a fire last year. While stable now no one wanted to use the damaged classrooms unless absolutely necessary. Alderra didnt have a large student body so they were able to make do with the undamaged side.

Eraser seemed to choose an office at random and he followed. The feeling of unease washed over the young vigilante.

Why would they take him so far from everyone else? Had they figured out his secret? No, if they figured out he was a vigilante the police would be here too. So why was he so far away from everyone?

Once he and Nezu settled into chairs, Eraser put himself by the door. As if he was expecting Izuku to try and escape. No matter there were more way out of this room than just the door.

Turning his attention to the rat he found that he was being closely observed. The stories of Nezu's intelligence were not exaggerated. He could see the way the calculating mind was processing every movement he made.

The rat was the first to break the silence as he said, "Mr. Midoriya we were surprised by the amount of detail you put into your analysis. You see most middle school students can only write a page of analysis with the amount of information you were. A few of the more studious could maybe write two."

Maybe five pages back to back was a little overboard. Compared to what he did as the analyst Luck it was nothing. He didnt even consider how much other students would be able to come up with. An oversight he would have to be careful not to repeat if he could get out of this.

Izuku tried to deflect, "I didnt realize it was that big of a deal. You see I do hero analysis in my spare time. It is a hobby that I hope would even the playing field as I want to be a hero."

"Why would you need the playing field leveled?" Questioned Eraser, "Your intelligence is outstanding and you're physically fit. UA allows up to three support items if you fill out the proper paperwork."

Izuku couldn't help himself. He snorted at the words said by the hero. If there was one thing he had learned over the years was that being "quirkless" meant he would never be accepted. No one believed in having luck quirks. If someone claimed to have one society called them insane. Or say that they were seeking attention.

Discrimination would wear down one's soul until even the person began to believe it. This was what made Izuku so callous to the world around him. Being callous allowed him to write a better analysis. He saw everything and didnt allow his own prejudice to color his analysis.

Neither hero reacted with words but Eraser did glare at him. It almost seemed like the other would use his quirk. Izuku didnt know if he would cherish the feeling of actually being quirkless or not. If he did then he wouldn't have to fear touching others. Though it would only last a moment before his quirk would return in full force.

Izuku sighed, "You have the quirk known as Erasure and are an underground hero. I believe part of the reason you decided to go underground is because of how you were treated. Let me guess you were called a villain because you could temporarily erase others quirk. So you became a hero to prove them wrong. That's great. Others with so-called villainous quirks should do the same. But let me ask you something. What about the quirkless? There are children who are born without a quirk still coming into this world. Can they become a hero? Or should they choose less dangerous paths? To ensure their dreams are realistic."

That last word was spat out anger for the briefest of moments clouding his face. The very words that had been spoken to him not that long ago by his once idol. All Might no longer held that title. In fact, no one was his idol any longer.

Eraser considered his words for a moment before he replied, "It is true that the quirkless numbers have been on the decline. Only 20% of the world's population are born without a quirk. Most of them dont make it to adulthood. More than 75% of those who do die before the age of 30. However our world also vastly underestimates people with the sheer amount of will it takes to push through the discrimination to survive. Do I think that a quirkless person could be a hero? Under the right circumstances yes I do. They will face more challenges than anyone else but someone without a quirk can be a hero."

Izuku was stunned into silence. He fully expected to have to retort against the hero. A hero who fought mostly quirkless. This was the first time an adult had in a roundabout way told him he could be a hero. What was he supposed to say to this?

Chapter Text

Aizawa's POV

They watched the Midoriya boy walk away from them. It was obvious to anyone looking that the boy didnt know what to make of his words. They allowed the boy to go to class.

If Shouta was truthful with himself he wasnt sure why he was here. Sure he had read the analysis and it was good. What he was unsure about was why the rat had an interest in him.

Something about the rat's attention made him nervous. There was the vigilante that had been handing out information as well as the analyst. Both would catch the rat's attention but neither would fit a second-year middle school student. What was so interesting about this child?

Nezu said drawing his attention, "That child is certainly interesting. Did you notice the way he tugged on his gloves? Fatgum mentioned that he wasnt wearing some yesterday."

Shouta took note that there was something the rat wasnt saying. He questioned his eyes narrowing, "What aren't you saying, Nezu? What happened yesterday that caught your attention?"

Nezu pulled out his phone and began to type on the screen. It only took a moment for him to pull up a video. Shouta immediately recognized the two figures that the cameras were focusing on. It was the blond kid that tried to fight Midoriya as he entered the school.

The blond kid sat in front of Midoriya and was talking about how he was going to be the greatest hero. Arrogance seemed to fill every pore of that child. If Shouta had been there he would have taken the kid down a few notches. Fatgum didnt show his feelings on the kid's words in the video but they had worked together occasionally. This allowed him to know that the other didnt approve of the kid's attitude.

When it came time for Midoriya to do the same every student but two burst into laughter. This was probably the first time Shouta had ever seen Fatgum visibly angry. Then the blond boy lunged at Midoriya grabbing him by his collar.

Shouta noted that Midoriya didnt fight back in the traditional sense. Instead, he placed his hand on the other's wrist. That was when Shouta noticed something that had struck him as odd before. Gloves. The kid wasnt wearing any in the video unlike when he shook hands with Nezu.

There was only a split second of contact before something happened. The blond seemed to activate his quirk and it misfired sending the blond into the far wall. Despite himself, Shouta winced. To his surprise though Midoriya was completely unharmed. That was when Fatgum stepped in. Shouta frowned his fellow hero should have stepped in before this.

Now a question echoed within his mind. How was the kid not injured by the explosive quirk? Why had Fatgum not inferred before the blond used his quirk?

Shouta commented with a frown, "Alright I'll admit that was odd. But what does this have to do with your interest in Midoriya?"

Nezu grinned as he explained, "I believe despite the records our young friend has a touch-based quirk. One that requires a point of contact but is not limited to five fingers. This is why he checks his gloves before shaking anyone's hands."

Shouta shook his head as he denied, "Not very likely. Our clinics are very thorough in checking for the signs of a quirk. If they declared him quirkless there has to be a reason. Unless you have something that can explain why?"

"Late bloomers happen, Aizawa," replied the rat, "Given the fact that he hides it. The quirk would most likely be considered a villainous quirk. As for proof, I have to ask you a question. Did you read Luck's last analysis?"

"Yes, I did."

Every hero within their group read any analysis that Luck sends. The group was made up of mostly underground heroes with a select few of daylight heroes. They knew that Luck contacted other but he kept to the group most of the time.

Nezu held out the pages he had shown Midoriya. Shouta took them curious but cautious of what caught the rat's attention. What he found was a comprehensive analysis that was almost word for word what Luck wrote. It had the exact feel of their analyst but in a condensed version as if to throw off suspicion.

Now he knew why Nezu was so interested. They all thought that Luck was a retired pro or at the very least an adult. No one even considered the idea that the analyst could be a child.

He questioned a frown crossing his face, "You think that this child is Luck? I can see the resemblance in their styles but to be so young..."

Shouta trailed off. It wasnt to say that the young couldn't be talented or have skill. It was the fact that they were considering a 12-year-old to have more skill than most adults.

Nezu had a good case for the kid having a hidden quirk that was touch-based. However, something had caught Shouta's attention. Midoriya wasnt the only one wearing gloves and avoiding physical contact. The other boy who had been at the entrance wore them too.

There was a possibility that Midoriya was truly quirkless and he wore gloves as support for his friend. That didnt explain the oddities in his behavior though. He knew that Nezu was likely right in his hypothesis. He just couldn't understand why someone would pretend to be quirkless. The stigmatism against them in this day and age was terrible. Most of the quirkless would not reach high school age much less full adulthood.

Nezu said with one of his sadistic smirks that sent a chill down his spine, "Today they supposed to have the required self-defense class. Maybe things will become clearer there."

Oh no.

Izuku's POV

Self-defense day. God how he hates this class. All Izuku wanted to do was turn around and walk right back out of the gym. If it was a normal day the teachers would have allowed him to do just that. But no, it just had to be hero week so they wanted everyone there.

In their eyes, Izuku was there to make people like Bakugo look good. The more of his fellow students he could take down the more likely he would be picked to study under a pro. At least that was their reasoning. He highly doubted anyone in their school would ever be chosen by a real pro.

As usual, they were in the gym with thin wrestling mats on the ground. The mats he knew from experiences did very little to cushion the impact. Overuse had made them next to useless.

All of the students had changed into their gyms. Izuku was in a white short-sleeved t-shirt and black sweat pants. At the insistence, he wasnt wearing his gloves. For that matter neither was Kavar and they both hated it. Their quirks required physical and it was the easy way.

Their principal walked up as all three years stood lined up by class. Cold eyes glanced over each of the students. When they came across Izuku, he sneered but didn't make a comment. There was little doubt in his mind that this was because of the heroes in attendance.

Once he was sure they were all there he began, "I welcome both of the pro heroes to the self-defense class of the day. Since we know you are so busy we will have the annual sparring match all at once. There are several mats set up so that multiple matches can go on at once."

Annual sparring matches his ass. It usually was just a free for all for those with powerful quirks. Those without or with weak quirks were pushed around and used as punching bags. This time it might actually be hand to hand. Then again the heroes might not care what happened to them.

As unfair as it sounded Izuku had very little faith in humanity. Even heroes had their imperfections. If Nezu and Eraser wanted his trust and respect they would have to earn it.

The principal continued after a moment of silence, "Students your teachers will break you up into your matches. Show these heroes the strength you possess. Good luck to all of you."

Izuku's year were moved to the north side of the gym. They were split into three groups to take that sides mats. Unfortunately, Kavar was on a different set than him. They would only meet if he made it through all of his opponents. Not that he would actually try in this. He was a vigilante, not someone who needed verification by adults who only cared about themselves.

Then their teachers began naming off pairs. His fortune was not any better in this than anything else. His first opponent just had to be Bakugo. Not only that they were the first match. He hated his luck.

He moved onto the match after shooting Kavar an exhausted look. He really didn't want to deal with this. Then again he did need a warm-up before he went patrolling. Fighting was in his blood even if he didnt do it very often. Maybe it was time to let loose a little.

Izuku did some light stretches something he never did before a spar. In their "self-defense" class he never tried instead choosing to avoid contact. Teachers never cared unless he got in the way.

The greenette could feel eyes on him as his teacher stepped up and said, "Make this a clean spar. No quirks. Pin your opponent for three seconds or knock them from the mat. Good luck. Start!"

As expected Bakugo came at him with a large right hook. Izuku grabbed the arm and wrist before using a judo throw. Bakugo hit the ground was a loud thump and Izuku let him go a second later. He had to be careful how much contact he had with the blond.

Dodging the angry pomeranian should not have been this easy. Then again he had years of experience to learn Bakugo's fighting style. Watching and waiting for his turn.

Izuku didnt have to land strikes of his own. Instead, he was maneuvering the angry blond towards the edge of the mat. All it would take was one good throw to win the match.

Bakugo lunged again and Izuku sidestepped using small touches to guide Bakugo over the edge of the mat. He used one leg to trip him and send the other boy out of bounds. Silence followed his actions as the students from all classes tried to process his actions. No one could believe that the useless one beat the number one in their year.

His teacher stuttered out, "De... Midoriya wins."

The damn bastard was going to call him Deku. Idiot. There were pro heroes here and they wouldn't just let that slide. Maybe.

Bakugo however was not going to let his loss go. There was a distinct popping sound from the other's quirk. It wasnt the full explosions that normally would be used. Just enough to make Izuku flinch and prepare for a fight.

He lunged at Izuku his with a shout, "DEKU!"

Izuku raised an arm to defend himself when suddenly the popping sound stopped. A white cloth wrapped around Bakugo pulling him away from Izuku. The vigilante turned to face Eraser whose eyes glowed red with his quirk.

Eraser said coldly to the blond, "Using your quirk against someone is two charges. One being illegal quirk usage. The second being assault with a quirk. It should be noted with either of them on your record you would be lucky to make it to a decent high school. Forget about hero school no one would let you in with those charges."

Bakugo struggled in the cloth and snarled, "What would you know about that you, shitty hobo? I'm going to be the greatest hero ever and no extras like you will get in my way. Besides, that's just shitty Deku no one cares about him. He's quirkless."

There were snickers from everyone around them. Even teachers had difficulty hiding their amusement for Bakugo and their disdain for Izuku. It wasnt Eraser who spoke up next though. It was Nezu.

"Young Bakugo Katsuki, your dream you say is to become the Number One Hero. To do so you most likely want to go to UA High School to which I am the principal of. As it stands now I would not allow someone like you into my school much less the heroics program."

"WHAT?!" Was the combined shout of most of the gym excluding Izuku and Kavar. They were surprised but not for the same reason as everyone else.

Nezu continued coldly as he moved so that everyone could see him, "This goes for every student here. The only one's who have any potential in this school to make good heroes are Midoriya and Karasu. The rest of you act like villains. And make no mistake we will be investigating this school."

Izuku and Kavar exchanged glances. They were? As Watcher, he had helped bring down quite a few schools for quirk discrimination. The lack of cameras in his own school made it next to impossible to get the necessary proof. Could they really put their faith in these heroes? Or would they be disappointed once again?

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

The day's events stayed with him even to that night when he patrolled. His mind could not stop going to the fact that two Pro Heroes thought he and Kavar could be heroes. That they didnt consider them useless because of their quirks.

It was almost too good to be real. His mind kept waiting for the shoe to drop and for the two heroes to them it had all been a joke. What he got instead was both Nezu and Eraserhead's cards. They made him swear that if he needed help he would call them.

An oath that should have been sacred but he knew he could never keep. As a vigilante he was constantly in danger or trouble. But it was nice to know that someone at least faked that they cared about what happened to a quirkless.

Thoughts of what to do about the heroes looking around his school could wait. Tonight he was on the hunt of a previous vigilante turned murderer. Stain was out there and he needed to be stopped before he killed again.

Izuku kept to the back alleys while listening to patrol radio chatter. It wasnt difficult to listen in on the heroes' comms. Only a few moments of hacking had gotten him in.

Part of him wished he could set the heroes up with emergency beacons like the one he was wearing. Despite running from them, they were on the same side. The last thing he wanted was for one of them to die because he wasnt fast enough.

Unfortunately most new heroes saw themselves as invincible. They didnt think that having a backup plan like an emergency beacon would be helpful. Izuku's own emergency beacon would send out his location to all nearby heroes and Kavar.

As he hit the rooftop of one of the far alleys on the east side he stopped to breath. It felt good to be out and about again. Once a month patrols were not nearly enough to take off the edge of his energy. He couldnt make them too often or in any consistent schedule though. Otherwise he would have heroes breathing down his neck.

This was a quiet night and it was setting him on edge. Something was going to break the peace. Something always did when he patrolled.

Izuku pulled his phone from his jacket pocket and logged into the cameras. As had been normal for the evening there wasnt much going on. No signs of the Hero Killer and very few people out and about. There were a few more heroes than normal that he would have to avoid. Best Jeanist especially. That hero wouldnt allow him any opportunity to get close or to use his quirk.

As he was about to switch cameras to north side a flicker across the screen caught his attention. It was one of the newer limelight heroes. From the files Izuku borrowed he knew that the other was here as backup. The agencies were strained for help because of the Hero Killer. Many just wanted their safer paychecks.

He caught a flicker across the screen of his phone. Stain... shit he needed get half way across the side. Izuku took off across the rooftops again and kept an eye on where the hero was going.

Izuku raced across the rooftops forgetting that there were other heroes watching for him. As he reached the hero's he heard a cry of pain that was muffled from further down. He pushed himself to go faster to stop Stain from killing anyone else.

After crossing a few rooftops he finally found them. The hero wasnt one he recognized and he was on the ground, a sword stabbing through his shoulder. Above the hero was Stain his cold eyes staring down at the other.

Izuku only took a second to activate his emergency beacon before jumping off the rooftop. Kicking the murderer in the face and knocking him away from the hero. A glance at the hero found him still breathing.

He ordered sharply, "Hero, I'll hold him him off. You need to get out of here."

Stain growled drawing his serrated knife, "You're the vigilante that has been working in Musutafu. You have the heart of a true hero. Protecting the false heroes is beneath you. Stand aside. I do not wish to fight you."

The hero behind him grunted, "I cant move. When he stabbed me he licked the blade. I havent been able to move since that."

So it was a paralysis quirk via blood ingestion. That would explain the serrated blades. Either how much blood he ingested effected how long it would last. Or it was based on type of blood.

To survive this though he would need to activate his own quirk. There were still many unknowns about his quirk though. Would the bad luck stay in effect even if he was killed? Or would the luck stolen be returned? Then again Izuku didnt know for sure and could try bluffing his way out of it.

First though he would have to draw his knife. Use it as his primary weapon until he saw an opening. Protect the hero until back up arrived. If they arrived.

Angry red eyes met his green ones as the man snarled, "You're helping false heroes. For that you shall pay with your life."

With that the killer lunged at him and Izuku hastily blocked the strike. Learning to use a knife had been through trial and error. He rarely drew it for he used stealth to sneak up on criminals. No matter what anyone said practice was not like an actual fight.

Sparks danced as their knives clashed Izuku being careful to dodge strikes he couldnt block. He needed to keep the villain here while avoiding getting stabbed at the same time. Easier said than done every time he reached out to grab at exposed skin he was nearly stabbed.

Izuku couldnt move far from his position either. If he did that would give Stain the chance to end the hero. Currently he was the only shield between a murderer and his prey.

Where were those damn heroes?! Were they ignoring an emergency distress signal? Even if they were Kavar would have sent a message into his group chat with Tsukauchi and Eraserhead.

They would come... right? Self doubt filled him even as he blocked another strike by Stain. No bad Izuku! Dont let the thoughts get to you. There are those relying on you.

Izuku tried to lunge forward and grab at the man's wrist. Instead he was hit in the head with the hilt of the killer's knife. As he went down he grabbed the man's ankle with his ungloved hand.

A second later a sword found itself in his shoulder pinning him to the ground. It was all he could do to keep from crying out in pain.

Stain said condescending, "You're a good vigilante. However getting in my way of killing a false hero is unforgivable and now you both pay the price. Maybe you will learn from this I'm your next life."

Izuku said though clenched, "That's where your wrong, Stain. You are the first person to see my quirk."

"Your quirk? How would that help you here?"

Izuku bluffed easily, "My quirk is Luck, I can steal the good luck of anyone I touch," Stain looked down as where Izuku had him by the ankle, "If you want to risk dying sure you could kill me. But how do you know your good luck will return? As long as I have physical contact with you I am draining your good luck. You move without any and you die."

Stain growled, "How do I know your not lying?"

"Do you want to take the chance of moving and dying?"

Nothing would happen until he moved. Izuku could hold on for an hour and nothing would happen. Stain wouldnt be able to regain good luck until Izuku let go. Izuku wouldnt be able to let go until the villain's quirk wore off. If Stain moved between now and then he would almost certainly die.

Izuku however caught the distinct movement in his clothes. It was a very tugging as if someone was trying to get his attention. He didn't need to look around to know who it was. Back up it seemed had arrived in the form of the Number 4 hero.

A voice ordered from behind Stain, "Hero Killer Stain, release the heroes from the blade."

Stain did take Izuku's warning to heart and did not turn to face the hero. Izuku said to the hero, "Jeanist don't move him! My quirk is activated. Get the injured hero out of here."

There was a growl from the Hero Killer but he stayed still. Izuku felt a part of him twitched. So he was coming out of the quirk. Did that mean that the hero behind him get free?

From the corner of his eye he saw Jeanist moving around out of reach of Stain. Then suddenly everything about the Hero Killer went still. It was as if he was petrified by his own quirk. Or more likely Jeanist tightened the fibers of his clothes to make it impossible for the man to move.

There were soft words to the injured hero. Izuku was getting his body back under his control. From his position he couldnt pull the sword from his shoulder.

A gentle hand touched his good shoulder and stiffly Izuku turned to face the blond hero. Light green eyes clashed against emerald green. Izuku felt like he should know that gaze from more than just videos.

Jeanist said placing a hand on the sword, "I'm going to remove the sword so we can get you to a hospital. Other heroes and an ambulance is on the way."

Izuku grit his teeth as the blade was removed. Once he was free of it he threw himself away from the hero, eyeing the other warily.

"No hospitals," he growled.

"You need treatment, argued back Jeanist and Izuku felt the threads try and tighten around him.

However they failed in what would appear to be incompatible threads versus Fiber Master. Only Izuku, Stain, and the hero he saved would know the truth. Good luck had stepped in to keep him from getting caught. No doubt also having played a role in Jeanist arriving before Stain could decide to kill him and take his chances with the quirk.

As he escaped Izuku called out, "Dont move Stain for 15 minutes. My quirk has to wear off on its own!"

With that he was gone into the night trying to make it back to Kavar's before he passed out from blood loss. It was only as an afterthought that he remembered to turn off his emergency beacon. He never made it Kavar's the blood loss making him lose his way until he passed out in an alley on the wrong side of town. The last thing he remembered was a boy with purple hair that defied gravity trying to talk to him. Then nothing.

Shinsou's POV

He barely was able to catch the boy in black clothing before he hit the ground. It took Hitoshi several seconds to process the sticky feeling on his hands. Blood. This kid was bleeding an extraordinary amount.

A hood and cowl covered his face which meant whatever he was doing wasnt legal. If Hitoshi had to guess he was probably the vigilante that he heard Uncle Shouta talking about. No one knew much about them since they mainly did work as a hacker only taking to the streets once a month.

Glancing around he realized that this wasnt the place to try and figure out how badly the boy was injured. Either he could take him home or call Uncle Shouta. It only took him a few seconds to decide against the latter idea. His uncle would try to put the vigilante in jail. Then he would never know the answer to the question he so desperately wanted to hear.

So sneaking him into the apartment where Pops was sleeping was his best chance. It wasnt like Pops would hear them. He never wore his hearing aids to bed. If he did there was no way he would be able to sneak out almost every night.

It took some effort but Hitoshi was able to maneuver the vigilante onto his back. He was surprised at how little the other weighed. With his training under his uncle he had no trouble carrying them to his apartment.

Once inside he locked the door and took the vigilante to his room. From there he briefly left him to get the medkit. Removing the jacket and cowl was easy but the undershirt had to be cut away. A pang of fear went through him at the sight.

The wound wasn't large but it wasnt a clean cut. His guess was that it was made by a serrated weapon. Hitoshi put it together a moment later. The vigilante had gone after the Hero Killer and barely survived. He knew that Stain was in town. Hell everybody who was old enough to understand knew.

Carefully he evened out the entrance and exit wounds before carefully stitching them. He didnt know if there was muscle damage but even if there was it would be beyond his skill to treat. Once the stitches were done he applied a significant amount of antibiotic ointment to the wound. Then he wrapped it with fresh bandages.

Hitoshi winced when he rolled the vigilante over. His sheets were soaked in blood. That was going to be difficult to hide from Pops.

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

Returning to conciousness was never fun. It was even less fun when he realized he was neither in his nor Kavar's bed. That he was in fact in a bed and not in the alley he remembered passing out in.

Izuku shot bolt upright letting out a pained groan when his shoulder screamed at him. Note to self. Dont pick fights with a villain who has no qualms about killing kids.

Beside him was a purple haired boy who startled at his movement. Izuku assessment of the other was lacking to say the least. He didnt look like much and if it came down to it Izuku could probably take him injured in a fight. The unknown being his quirk and who all knew he was there.

The boy held up his hands to show he meant no harm. Izuku's eyes narrowed but he didnt relax. Harm could be done in an instant best be on his guard.

The boy said after a moment, "I'm Shinsou Hitoshi, I found you in the alleyway outside my apartment."

Izuku's eyes narrowed as he questioned harshly, "So you brought home someone who was injured that you didnt know? Are you some kind of idiot? How did you know I wasnt a villain?"

Shinsou snorted, "Right in that color scheme? No you're the vigilante everyone pretends doesnt exist."

Izuku snapped angrily, "As if..."

Then it was as if he was no longer in his body. A wild grin appeared on the other's face. Damn it. He fell for the boy's quirk hook line and sinker. He should have been more careful.

Shinsou explained, "My quirk is brainwashing. You are now under my control for the time being. I have some questions that I want answered. You will answer them honestly to the best of your knowledge. How did you become a vigilante? You look the same age as me."

Izuku replied dully, "I mostly work as a hacker and analyst. Patrols only happen once a month or so."

"Why?"

Izuku said, "I've faced discrimination all my life. Everyone believes I'm quirkless but if they knew my quirk they would call it a villain's quirk. The ability to steal someone's luck through physical contact. Up to the point of killing them if they're left with only bad luck."

Izuku saw the way the other's eyes widened with surprise. Then his face grew dark with a kind of understanding that the greenette was unused to seeing. It seemed he wasnt the only one who knew the harsh realities of their world.

All men were not created equal. Those with weak or villainous quirks were treated as if that was what they were destined to become. They were considered the dregs of society not worth the time to help or protect. That was why Watcher existed. Where no one else would help he would.

Shinsou asked suddenly sounding very small, "Can someone with a villainous quirk become a hero?"

Izuku answered honestly, "They will have a bigger stigmatism to get over than anyone else. But yes with hard work anyone can be a hero."

Shinsou's eyes filled with disbelief followed quickly by tears. Even if he had been in control over himself the answer wouldnt have changed. With hard work anyone could be a hero. All they needed was a chance.

Suddenly leaned forward and flicked him in the forehead. The quirk lost its control over him and he could move again. The first thing Izuku did was test his body to ensure it worked properly.

He found that the only thing to keep note of was his shoulder. Patrols wouldnt be possible in his condition for awhile. Keeping away from Bakugo would be even more difficult. Lovely just what he needed. The only good thing that came out of the Hero Killer mess was that the hero lived.

Izuku mumbled as he stood, "An interesting quirk. I meant what I said. Prove the naysayers wrong and go to UA. Become a hero they say you cant be because of your quirk."

Shinsou's shoulder slumped as he said, "Thank you."

Izuku nodded as he asked, "I dont suppose you have an extra shirt? As much as I would like to go home I cannot walk home in just bandages."

Shinsou's face went bright red as he headed towards the nearby closet. A moment later a clean black tshirt smacked him in the face.

He grunted as he carefully slipped it over his head, "Thanks. I owe you one for helping me out last night."

Shinsou insisted blinking at him in surprise, "You could at least stay for breakfast. I'm sure Pops wont mind making us both breakfast."

Izuku denied as he grabbed his ruined jacket, "I really shouldnt. My mother is probably wondering where I am."

Or she was happy that he disappeared. It was very unlikely that she would care if he never came home. The only one who would actually worry about his disappearance was Kavar.

Shinsou snarked disbelief coloring his tone, "Because all parents allow their 12 year old to work as a vigilante. I know what neglect looks like Watcher."

Izuku waved him off and was about to head out the window when the scent of coffee caught his attention. It was stout coffee. The kind that you would put normal people in a coma.

Izuku turned back towards the door and said, "Maybe just one cup of coffee. Oh call me Izuku. I'd rather my other name didnt get out."

Shinsou said, "Nice to meet you. Just call me Shinsou."

Shinsou returned his cowl, phone, and knife to him. Then together they moved out of the room into a living room. The living room allowed them to see directly into the kitchen. There was one couch and two chairs.

On the couch was a familiar face of Eraserhead aka Aizawa Shouta. Please tell him that he wasnt in the house of the underground hero. A second glance told him that was in fact the hero passed out.

Humming came from within the kitchen. Izuku moved around the corner so that he had a better look. To find Present Mic standing there in pink pyjama pants and a cat shirt. A faint smile twitched at his lips at the sight. That was most certainly blackmail material for another day.

Discretely he took a picture using his phone before stuffing it back into his pants. The sound of them entering must have been fairly loud because tired black eyes were staring at him. Izuku had to bite back a grin as confusion filled them.

Eraser called out, "Zashi," there was a grunt in acknowledgement, "When did you get a second kid?"

Present Mic turned around as he answered confused, "I didn," he blinked at the sight if Izuku before yelling, "HE WAS NOT HERE WHEN I WENT TO BED! NO DONT DRINK SHOUTA'S COFFEE!"

Izuku completely ignored the order to not take the cup. It was too early for this bullshit. Eyeing the hero he downed the entire cup of coffee. Within seconds he was reaching to refill it.

Shinsou greeted tiredly, "Pops, Uncle Shouta, this is Izuku Midoriya he is a friend."

Eraser and Izuku eyed each other carefully. They both knew that was a lie as Izuku didnt live anywhere near here. Nor did they go to the same school.

"Nice go meet you Midoriya," said Mic after a moment, "I am Hizashi Yamada."

"Nice to meet you as well," grunted Izuku.

Hizashi asked as he laid out three plates of food, "Would you like something to eat?"

"No thank you. Just coffee please."

Shinsou growled, "No way. You need to eat something. You're too small as it is, Izuku."

Izuku sighed, "Fine just some bacon."

That was how he ended up spending up twenty extra minutes eating with two heroes and a teenager. Hizashi insisted on taking him to his own school. Eraser unsurprisingly was also dropped off at his school.

Kavar was waiting for him at the gates relief made his shoulder sag in relief. It was their agreement that when he patrolled Izuku would text Kavar when he got home. This ensured someone always knew when he was out.

Izuku greeted happily, "Kavar good morning."

"Izuku thank god. What the hell you werent answering my texts?"

Glancing at the hero who was still in earshot he murmured lowly, "Not now. I'll tell you about it later."

"Right."

Once inside the school building he had to go to the office to get one of their spare jackets. The only thing that kept someone from saying anything was the glaring hero over his shoulder.

If there was a time for him to be injured due to vigilante work hero week was it. None of their classes required them to bring in their regular supplies. All they needed to do was be there.

Today they would be spending time in homeroom. No more sparring with other students. With the stab wound in his shoulder that was probably a good thing.

Once in homeroom Izuku and Kavar pushed their desks together. Their teacher didn't care as long as they didnt make a lot of noise. Students soon began to file in after them. Most didn't even give them a second glance. If they did it was to sneer but for once there wasnt any insults thrown.

Izuku pulled his phone from his pocket after a moment and began to scroll through the news feed. Kavar asked after a moment his eyes scanning the room for threats, "So what happened last night?"

Izuku was going to answer when his blood ran cold at the headline.

Hero Killer Stain captured and escaped within the same night.

The article went on about how the hero Izuku saved had been injured in a fight with Stain. They mentioned briefly on how an emergency signal went out. That being what led to the Number 4 hero to investigate the area. No mentions of a vigilante.

Apparently Stain had escaped on his way to Tartarus. Three local heroes had been killed in the resulting fight. No one knew how he had done it without access to his quirk.

Kavar whispered harshly, "You went after Stain? Have you lost your damn mind? How did you escape from Best Jeanist?"

Izuku replied not looking away from the article, "My quirk. I stole Stain's good luck and that bought me some time. Before he could decide to take his chances with killing me Jeanist arrived. I escaped thanks to Stain's stolen luck and tried to make it to your house. I was picked up by a teenager who found me."

"Damn are they going to keep your secret?"

Izuku grinned as he said, "Yeah and that's not all. I got a ride here from Present Mic. Apparently the kid was his adopted son."

"No way!"

They talked in excited whispers about the implications. Kavar thought that Eraserhead and Mic were probably married. It was a theory he shut down immediately. Shinsou had called Eraser, Uncle and Mic, Pops. There was no way that they were married.

Their bantering continued into the realm of heroes. Izuku and Kavar sparred about the best way for them to use their quirks. It was this verbal sparring that helped them with their analysis.

Their attention was drawn to the front when the door opened. Izuku felt the breath catch in his throat at the sight of his favorite detective. What was Tsukauchi doing here? Was it give Izuku a heart attack week?

Tsukauchi's eyes glanced over all the students. When his dark eyes fell upon Izuku a faint sense of recognition flared in them. Then they went to Kavar before assessing other students.

Before he could contemplate what it meant the bell rang. Their teacher entered a moment later. Pleasantries were exchanged between detective and teacher.

Kavar whispered, "What do you think Pantsonfire is doing here?"

"I'm not sure. It might have to do with what Nezu said yesterday. Be on your guard Kavar."

"Always."

Chapter Text

Tsukauchi's POV

In the back of the classroom he could see the two boys that had caught Shouta and Nezu's attention. The green haired one was eyeing his warily while the blond seemed to accept his presence. To Naomasa's trained instincts something just felt off about them both.

They were doing well to hide it but the green haired one was clearly in pain. One shoulder was tucked in close to his body. What kind of pain tolerance did this kid have to not show it on his face? It must be close to that of what the heroes had.

He watched as the two kids were talking about something on Midoriya's phone. Curiosity filled him at what they were talking about. The only issue was that he had to stay up front for the moment. Today the heroes were going through the security tapes.

Naomasa's was playing nice with the teachers. They hoped to garner more information from the teachers. As well as gaining recorded proof in front of discrimination.

The teacher walked in a moment later as he said, "Midoriya, Karasu put the phone away and pay attention. You're being disruptive. If I see it again then you will both be sent to the principal."

"Yes sensei," sullenly replied the two boys.

Naomasa didnt say anything as much as he wanted to. They had a plan here and he had to follow it. Even if he wanted nothing more than to tell off the teacher.

The day continued like most days the teacher went over different lessons. From the corner of his eye Naomasa saw the boys return to the phone discreetly. Some of the other students had noticed it as well, particularly a violent looking blond. He kicked the greenette's chair more than once but was ignored.

The blond haired boy pulled out a notebook and pushed it over to the greenette. Naomasa watched in fascination as the kid wrote quickly in it. No doubt the notes were in short hand so that only the two of them could read it.

Naomasa chose that time to begin walking around the desks. Curiosity had gotten the best of him and he wanted to see what if he could decipher it. As he approached the two he slowed slightly so he could read it better.

Immediately he recognized the drawing to be that of the Hero Killer. As he expected the notes were in short hand but all of the drawings were the extremely detailed. It was as if the kid had come face to face with him. It was as if the kid was a professional.

Wait... the style was familiar to him. Specifically from what he had been given by Luck. Nezu told him that he suspected that Luck was somewhere in the middle school. What the rat did not say was that he was suspecting a thirteen year old? What the fuck Nezu? A little warning next time would be nice.

Wait no. What the fuck Shouta? Shouldn't his soulmate have told him? He knew the other was workikg here on request of the rat.

Naomasa wanted to run a hand down his face at the thought. He and Shouta had been lucky. They found out they were soulmates young. Not exactly lucky in how they found out but it was better than some. There were many people who went their whole lives without ever knowing their soulmate.

His mark was a black cat with red eyes on the right curled protectively. On the left was a green otter with piercing green eyes. The other itself didnt appear until he was fifteen. Something that Shouta confirmed when they talked about it later.

That's when he remembered what had drawn attention to this particular middle school. An analysis that had caught the attention of the all powerful rat god. Now he understood why he was here. It was for more than just gathering information to shut the place down. He was here to watch this child and possibly gain an ally.

Green eyes suddenly shot up glaring at him. There was fire in those eyes that he wasnt used to seeing at least not in a civilian. Those were the eyes of a hero prepared to die to protect someone. It sent shivers down his spine.

Naomasa stepped back with his hands raised defensively. The last thing he wanted was to start a fight here. If this kid really was Luck as Nezu suspected he could probably take down everyone in the building.

For now he would follow with the plan. Soon Nezu would come to take them to another room. Naomasa would be listening through the comms. If the kid's lied he would send a message to Eraser.

Izuku's POV

Tsukauchi was spending way too much time near them. It was making his vigilante sense go off. If he did not back off Izuku was sure he would do something he would regret.

Then the door opened and Nezu walked in with a terrifying grin. Alright chaos bear what do you have planned now? Realistically Izuku knew something was going down here. There were too many influential people in one area. Alderra was not a place they would simply go to on a whim.

Nudging Kavar, he sat a little straighter when the black eyes fell upon them. Izuku stared back in challenge. Let's play, Chaos Bear.

Kavar whispered noting the tension that was rising, "Izuku dont start a silent battle with the Principal of UA. We have enough enemies without adding him to the list."

Fair point but they didnt know what Nezu or the heroes wanted. Detectcoffee had seen his notebook depiction of Stain. He was never so glad that he kept his notes in code. Though he doubted it would keep the rat out of them for long.

Nezu called out, "Midoriya, Karasu both of you need to come with me. Bring your things."

The two exchanged looks before packing their things. Whispered insults were thrown their way. Some of the braver ones even thanked the hero for getting rid of them. With each word Izuku noticed how Tsukauchi's shoulder gained more and more tension.

Was the man really angry on their behalf? That was unusual if so. No one cared about the call outs directed at them. At least not before Fat Gum had come in. Now there seemed to be people wanting to help. But what did they have to gain? It just didnt make sense to him.

They followed the rat into one of the unused offices. Eraser was there leaning against a far wall. A frown marred his face appearing to be in deep thought.

As they entered his head came up to stare at him. Eyes passed right over Kavar and landed on Izuku. For a long moment they just stared. No words were exchanged.

Then there was a nudge from Kavar to send him further in. Nezu went to stand next to Eraser. Izuku folded his arms across his chest waiting to see what they wanted. Next to him Kavar seemed to radiate nervous energy. He couldnt even say anything to help his partner. Not without seeming to be suspicious.

After a moment Nezu put two folders on a desk. Both boys stepped forward to see what he had put in them. Almost immediately he recognized the analysis he had done as Luck. Then there was the papers that he had done for Fatgum. What the hell?

Nezu said bluntly, "Izuku Midoriya when I first saw the analysis from Fatgum I was surprised at how well it was done. After watching you yesterday I realize that you could do more than just analyze videos. You have more of an instinctual ability that serves you well in avoiding bullies. It took me longer than I'd like to admit to realize that you are Luck. A team effort between you and your friend."

Izuku ran a hand through his hair as he questioned, "Why did you look into me? Why do either of you care?"

Eraser answered instead of Nezu, "Because we dont abide by bullying and nurture talents. Nezu wasnt lying yesterday when he said you and Karasu were the only ones we saw with potential. If they were my students I would have expelled them the first day."

Kavar said glancing back at him with trepidation, "Yet here you are trying to scare us. We have done nothing wrong acting as Luck to help heroes."

Nezu denied, "No you see we are not trying to scare you. In fact quite the opposite. I would like to take you both under my wing. If you both agree then we will ensure that you will be accepted into the hero course as recommendation students."

"What is the catch?" Izuku questioned coldly. He didnt allow for any hope to flare within his chest. He didnt.

Nezu explained easily his beady eyes watching them, "You will make a statement about this school. Their bullying and discrimination. Everything that we can use to shut them down."

Izuku frowned, "Why would you do this? We are just two kids."

"Its because you are children," said Nezu with a smile, "If you had been adults you would be stubbornly set in your ways. Any criticism would go in one ear and out the other. We would like to help you reach your full potential. But only if you agree. We wont force you."

The two boys exchanged a silent look considering their options.

Then Izuku agreed, "We will agree to this. Under a few conditions," Nezu seemed to consider this for a moment before gesturing for him to continue, "First no one else is brought into this without both of our permission. Second you look no further into our home lives. Period end of story."

The two heroes exchanged glances. Izuku knew he was probably overstepping his bounds with his demands. Still he didnt care. If they wanted the two to cooperate then they would agree. Otherwise they wouldnt get anything from him.

Both of his conditions were to protect himself and Kavar. If the two found out what they were doing outside of being Luck it was likely they would end up in jail. Or worse.

A silent conversation passed between the two. Then Nezu agreed, "We can agree to this under one condition of our own. If we think you are in danger then we can step in."

Kavar agreed for them both, "That is fine."

Izuku then asked, "What do you need to know?"

Aizawa's POV

Hero chat:

Eraserhead: We found Luck.

Ms. Joke: Seriously the analyst? How did you find him?

Nighteye: A lucky find.

Present Mic: Wait Shou... you're at the Middle School with Nezu and Tsukauchi. You're on Hero Week Duty. How did you find Luck?

Nighteye: Hero Week? How did you get roped into that as an underground hero?

Ms. Joke: He expelled his entire class again. Nezu did that as punishment.

Nighteye: Again?

Present Mic: Again. So, Shou how did you meet Luck?

Eraserhead: Luck is a pair of teenagers.

Ms. Joke: Wait seriously?

Nighteye: When you say teenagers, how old? If you're doing Hero Week I would think they would be 14 or 15.

Eraserhead: They are both 13. Second year middle schoolers.

Overhaul: He's young. How did you find him?

Nighteye: Chisaki I thought you were on assignment for the next month.

Overhaul: Thanks to Luck's analysis it ended early. You need anything Eraser?

Shouta rubbed at his eyes tiredly. Out of all of his friends Chisaki was the most unpredictable. The man did mostly undercover work.

Eraserhead: Nothing for the moment. Nezu and the kids are working out the deal.

Ms. Joke: You've got to bring them to the next group meeting.

Nighteye: That's next week. You should invite them so that we can meet our analysts.

Eraserhead: I'll see if they are up to it. So far they have been fairly combative on just getting our help with their middle school. I do not believe they will be open to meeting everyone right now. But I will try.

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

It had taken forever for them to give their full statements. Izuku's favorite detective had been called into the room to verify the truthfulness of everything that they said. Apparently he was being used to gather what he could in the classroom. They only 1took a break when it was time for lunch.

The questions didnt just pertain to the teachers. They extended to the teachers and other members of the staff. Nezu took meticulous notes on everything that was said.

It was surprising at how quiet Eraser was being. Out of everyone Izuku expected him to have the most questions. Instead he mostly kept silent and had his attention on his phone. For his part Izuku was curious to know if it was a case that was eating up the man's attention or something more.

Tsukauchi more than once had to draw Izuku's attention away from the hero. His curiosity was always one of his biggest faults. It was afterall what got him started as a vigilante.

By the time they finished Izuku was feeling antsy. He couldnt help it. It was against his very nature to be so still. Especially if he wasnt working on his vigilante stuff.

Lunch was provided by the heroes and detective. It was the best Izuku had eaten since his mother decided he wasnt worth anything. Both he and Kavar wolfed down the food they were given.

When they were finished Tsukauchi sat back watching them. Izuku was immediately on his feet stretching. He had to hide a wince when his shoulder twinged.

Izuku rubbed his shoulder trying to alleviate the pain. It was times like this he wished he carried pain killers. In this moment though it was more dangerous to take some. There was no telling what would be said under their influence.

Tsukauchi questioned drawing his attention to the man, "Are you okay?"

Izuku grunted with a sharp look directed to the man, "I'm fine."

There was a flash of something within the man's dark eyes. He said coolly, "You're lying. Where are you jnjured?"

Izuku stepped back and Kavar loosened his muscles. This could end badly for both of them. Tsukauchi and Eraserhead were on their feet. Nezu wasnt but there was a hint if concern in his eyes.

Kavar growled, "Back off detective. Now."

The coldness of his best friend's voice sent shivers down Izuku's spine. He never heard Kavar speak to anyone like. Not even Bakugo had caused it.

Izuku didnt argue as he agreed with the order. The detective and heroes need to back off.

The adults shared concerned looks. Then Eraserhead tried to reason, "If you're injured we can help you. We can take you to UA and have Recovery Girl look at you."

"Absolutely not," denied Izuku immediately.

The boy was eyeing Eraser's capture weapon. If they were going to be caught thats how it would be done. Sure enough the hero was already reaching for it.

Both he and Kavar prepared to dodge. Already in their minds were their escape routes planned out. The biggest problem would be Eraser and that damned scarf. That and it wouldn't be difficult for the three adults to get their home address. Nothing about their agreement was written out. It was purely by word of mouth. A gentleman's agreement.

"I think that's enough for one day, detective," stated Nezu startling the four.

The two adults looked as if they wanted to argue. Izuku and Kavar were eyeing the rat in suspicion. Why was he standing up for them?

Izuku taking advantage of the situation said, "Then we will be leaving for now."

Nezu said stopping them just as they reached the door to the room, "There is a coffee shop on third Avenue not too far from here. I'll have one of UA's teachers pick you both up there at 9 tomorrow."

Both Izuku and Kavar gave curt nods before leaving. It was until they turned the corner to be out of sight from the room did they take off. First priority being to get the hell away from the school.

Once they were outside the two split up taking different ways home. Izuku's took him past where he had woken up that morning at. Just a few blocks was the boy's house that had treated his injuries. He had to admit he was curious as to why the boy, Shinsou hadn't turned him in. Maybe they would meet again under better circumstances.

Tsukauchi's POV

Two pairs of angry eyes swung to look at the rat. Nezu however was eyeing where the two had left. There was something in his beady eyes that made Naomasa pause in consideration. The rat never did anything without thinking it completely through. So there had to be a reason that he let an injured child run.

Shouta had no such reservations as he snapped, "Nezu what the fuck was that? We should have insisted on taking him to see Recovery Girl."

Nezu denied almost immediately, "No if we had continued pushing things would have ended poorly. The best case scenario being that you dragged both of the children to UA in your capture scarf. Worst case scenario they would have disappeared. If that look in Midoriya's eyes was any indication he was prepared for a fight."

Naomasa had to agree with Nezu. Midoriya looked ready to fight his way out of the school. It didnt surprise him that the kid had no faith in adults. Given how his teachers treated him it would be more surprising if he took them at face value.

Shouta sighed tiredly, "There is something about that boy, Midoriya. My gut instinct says we are missing something. Something important."

Naomasa felt the same. He knew that they were missing something. It was more than just the injury or his analysis. What were they missing?

Shouta rubbed at his chest in thought. Naomasa watched the movement his mind going to their shared mark. They had been wary of accepting each other in the beginning. Shouta especially.

Naomasa knew that Shouta had lost a friend during their internship. This made getting close much more difficult. He was afraid of losing anyone else.

Not like Naomasa was much better. He had been wary that his soulmate was a hero in the beginning. Their respective jobs were dangerous and required a high amount of professionalism. He thought if word got out then others would think he was favoring his soulmate. At the time he was trying to get his detective shield.

They continued to push each other away until a fateful mission. Naomasa and his team had been ambushed on a drug raid. He had gone down with two bullets in his abdomen in place of his partner who they had been aiming at.

Heroes arrived only a few moments later to a chaotic scene. Naomasa had been loaded into an ambulance his partner telling him off for risking his life. A life he would gladly give to protect those he cared about.

Sansa his partner even now was a fateless meaning he didnt have a soulmark. There were less fateless than the quirkless in their world. Less than 1% of the world's population were fateless.

Sansa had been pissed that someone with a soulmate would risk their life for a fateless. Naomasa had reminded Sansa that they were partners. As long as they were partners he would do everything within his power to protect Sansa. Fateless or not.

One good thing that came out of the wounds was that Shouta came around. They decided to give each other a chance when it came to being soulmates. It had taken a few years but eventually they moved in together.

There was still the question of their other soulmate. Both he and Shouta had a green otter on their chest. They didnt know who the other soulmate was. Occassionally they could feel dark thoughts and feelings.

It was through their jobs that they found out that their other soulmate was likely young. Around fifteen years younger than them. They met Nighteye who had been getting his arm treated a familiar green otter just below where the cut was. Nighteye had given them the information about when it appeared.

It was worrying that their soulmate had a soulparent that was not related to him. Were they he safe at home? Many regular parents would begin to abuse their children if they had a soul parent mark. Without a name of proof though they couldnt act though.

Nezu said turning back to face them, "We will have to wait and see for now. Having them start training at UA will help build trust between them and us. Do not push them for the moment. If we push too far too soon then they could run. With their analysis skills that could be dangerous for the hero community as a whole."

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

Yumi Edogawa: thanks for your review my friend. It would probably be an interesting match up. However I do not believe I'll have Izuku get OFA. It would be too OP for him. Friendships and relationships have to be done very carefully. Otherwise everything is at risk for them.

Chapter inspired by Apparition chapter 14.

Izuku's POV

The apartment was silent when he finally returned home. Thankfully his mother wasnt home. After dropping his bag off in his room he checked to see if they had any groceries. While it was too early to start on dinner he could lay out the things needed for it.

Unsurprisingly there was very little in the way of food. Half a gallon of milk sat in the door, a few fruits were in the drawers. A quick check of the milk told him that it was well beyond expired. He should have known that his mother wouldn't have gone shopping.

This was becoming more and more of an issue. Didnt he remind her a few days ago that they were running out of groceries? He was sure that he had. Why hadn't she bought anything?

Sighing Izuku went to where he knew the extra money was. He pulled out enough to get a week's worth of groceries. Then he left the apartment locking it up behind him.

It took an hour for him to go to the store and get his groceries then return to his apartment. When he came back there was a cop car out in front of the apartment. His mother who apparently returned from work was out front crying in front of an officer.

Izuku warily approached and Inko pointed at him. The officer turned around a man with a beard. No obvious quirk that would hinder him. Checking that his gloves were secure he continued his approach.

The officer asked gruffly giving him a once over, "Midoriya Izuku?" The boy nodded carefully, "You're being detained for suspicion of burglary. You have the right to remain silent."

Izuku was stunned into silence as the bags were taken from him. His injured shoulder was wrenched behind him, a pained gasp left him as he was placed in cuffs. Burglary his ass. His mother was just mad that he took the initiative to survive.

Once he was placed in cuffs he was put into the back of the squad car. The ride was made in absolute silence. Even if the officer tried to make small talk with him he wouldnt have any of it. It would only be used against him later.

Upon reaching the station he was dragged from the car with more force than necessary. He was 90% sure that the rough treatment was going to pull his stitches. If they hadn't already. Luck funnily enough was not on his side in this instance. He could feel a wet spot forming on his shoulder. Definitely pulled stitches.

They took his fingerprints and did everything normally done at booking. Really did they think he was some kind of master criminal? He was 13 for God's sake. Wait that's right he was a vigilante and analyst. So maybe he was slightly more than the average 13 year old.

None to gently he was put into a holding cell with several others waiting for bond and to be fully processed. Everything from his pockets had been taken from him and the cuffs removed. Luckily they couldnt go through his phone or things would get uncomfortable. A few of the others made him want to groan but he bit it back. No one could know who he was at night. Otherwise both he and Kavar's lives would be in danger.

Placing his back in one corner away from the others he pulled back his sticky shirt. A wince resounded through him as he saw the mess that lay under it. Well shit this was not good. Not good at all. If he couldnt find a way to staunch the bleeding he might bleed out.

One man, the closest to him asked eyeing Izuku carefully, "You okay kid? What's someone like you in here for anyways? You cant be more than ten or eleven."

Izuku answered absentmindedly, "Thirteen actually. And burglary."

"What did a brat like you steal?" questioned another her curiosity peaked.

Still not really paying attention he answered, "Money for food out of our emergency funds. We didnt have any groceries."

They didnt get the chance to ask him anything else as the officer returned. He questioned gruffly, "Who do you want us to call? Your mother says she wont pay bail."

For a moment he considered it before he said sharply meeting the other's eyes, "Detective Tsukauchi Naomasa."

That had everyone around him gaping. It took a moment for the officer to recover and nod sharply. He was gone a moment later leaving them alone.

The first whispered, "Hope you know what you're doing kid. Everyone on the streets knows that name. They call him Truth Man because of his quirk. I doubt he'd go easy on you just because you're a kid."

That's where they were wrong. If anyone would understand it was the detective. At least he hoped that was true. He was about to find out.

It took half an hour for the detective to arrive. Exhaustion was clear on his features. When he saw Izuku the man's face became stormy.

He turned to the officer and questioned anger clear in his voice, "Why is he in holding?"

The officer's face paled as he tried to explain it off. With each word that was spoken Tsukauchi grew more and more angry. Izuku could barely hear them as he swayed. His eyes became unfocused from the blood loss.

Tsukauchi said to Izuku, "Izuku come on. You're coming with me."

"Yesssss ssssir," slurred Izuku as he unsteadily stood.

At first Tsukauchi went back to beratting the officer then his hand back to Izuku so fast that it made his head spin. Dark eyes looked him over trying to discern what was wrong.

The voice of the first criminal who talked to him said his voice alarmed, "Detective! He's hurt."

Izuku tried to protest as gentle hands grabbed at him, "I'm fi..."

He didnt get to finish as the world went black and he collapsed.

Tsukauchi's POV

Swearing violently underneath his breath as he caught Izuku, he laid the boy down. Gently he pushed away Midoriya's jacket he found the white dress shirt was drenched in blood. He immediately pushed away the shirt and found a serious wound.

To the young officer he shouted, "Call an ambulance! Someone get me the medkit!"

Other officers who had heard him berating the officer and came to see what the problem was. They immediately jumped to follow his order. Naomasa pulled off the kid's jacket and unbuttoned the shirt. He only removed on side of

It looked as if the wound had been stitched up by a steady hand on both sides. That at least told him that Midoriya hadnt tried to do it himself. A small comfort all things considering. The wound had an entrance an exit. It was long and deep but not very wide. Something about it felt as if it should be familiar but he couldnt quite place why.

Naomasa wasnt given much time to think on it as an officer returned with the medkit. Right away Naomasa focused his attention on stopping the bleeding. While it wasnt stopped it had slowed by the time the ambulance arrived.

While the paramedics were loading Midoriya, he ordered the officers, "I want Inko Midoriya brought in for questioning. She is not to leave until I have spoken with her. Do you understand me?"

"Yes sir," replied the men fear in their eyes. They would not dare disobey him. Then he got in the ambulance with the paramedics. A swift message was sent to Nezu and Aizawa. Maybe together they could find out what in the hell was going on.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

Yumi Edogawa: thanks for your review my friend. The officer was most definitely in the wrong. But the problem is also society. To them Izuku is quirkless making him less than human.

Aizawa's POV

He was just finishing up the paperwork for Nezu when he got a phone. Naomasa's number flashed and a sense of dread formed in the pit of his stomach. The detective very rarely called him at such a time. He understood that his job at UA was just as important as patrols.

It didn't help that they had just seen each other a few hours ago. Dealing with everything that needed to be done for Izuku and Kavar to joining them. What could have gone wrong in such a short time.

Realistically he knew that anything could go wrong in a very short amount of time. Believing otherwise was naive and wouldn't help him.

Answering the call he asked aware of the others around him, "Tsukauchi what can I do for you?"

"Shouta I need you to get to Musutafu General Hospital as soon as you can."

Shouta was on his feet within seconds already heading for the door, "Are you injured? How severe?"

Naomasa replied darkly, "I'm not the one who's hurt. Little more than half an hour ago I got a call from one of my officers saying that a suspect of burglary was asking for me," that was odd agreed Shouta, "Izuku Midoriya was in holding."

What the fuck? Why was the kid doing in police holding? Especially since he was suspected of burglary.

Naomasa something indiscernable and then there was movement across the line. After a moment he continued, "When I retrieved him from holding he collapsed into a heap. He was bleeding from torn stitches. Unknown reasons."

Shouta sucked in a surprised breath. That would explain why Naoamsa took him to the nearest hospital. What it did not explain was how he ended injured. Or who stitched him up.

There were garbled words from someone once again. Then Naomasa said, "Get here as soon as you can, Shouta."

"I'm on my way."

Tsukauchi's POV

All he could do was watch as Izuku was taken back into one rooms. As he wasn't a parent, soulparent, or soulmate, Naomasa wasn't allowed inside. The doctors wouldn't budge even when he explained the parent was suspected of abuse. The only thing he could promise was check for possible matches to soulparent marks.

Soulmarks were unique to individual. Most hospitals have a registry known marks. If they thought there was a possible match they would contact them. This was only done in cases of abuse or if someone was in danger of dying.

Tsukauchi could only watch and wait. He would not return to the station until Shouta arrived or Izuku was awake. Leaving him alone in an unfamiliar place was not an option. The boy had shown a significant amount of trust in him when he asked for Naomasa. It was a trust he was not willing to break.

Waiting was all he could do. Naomasa hated waiting. Within half an hour the doors opened revealing Best Jeanist followed by several sidekicks. The two men exchanged a glance and Naomasa understood.

Standing he greeted, "Best Jeanist its been a long time since we last worked together."

Turning his head to the side Best Jeanist replied, "That it has, Detective. I was contacted by the hospital saying that there is a possibility I have an injured possibly abused soul child here."

Naomasa's eyes widened with surprise then he said, "I'm sorry to inform you the reports of his injuries are true. It appeared to be a stab wound to the shoulder."

Best Jeanist questioned with a frown, "Why was he with you to begin with?"

Naomasa didn't hesitate, "One of my officers called me about a suspect in a burglary. When I arrived I found Izuku in holding."

"Why was he a suspect in a burglary?"

"His mother accused him of stealing. I don't have the full story. Yet," the last word was growled in determination. He would find out.

"Why would a child ask for you specifically?"

Naomasa bit his lip lightly as he replied, "I am was part of the team to search out Luck."

Jeanist blinked in surprise, "The analyst? But what does that," surprise turned to recognition, "Midoriya is Luck."

There was an all new kind of respect in the hero's eyes now. Any further words were stopped by the exam rooms opening. A young doctor in his early thirties walked out. There was a stiffness to his posture that both men noted.

The doctor asked looking not at the detective but at the hero, "Do you wish to see him and confirm the mark is yours? If not there is another who is willingly to come check but he will be some time."

Jeanist straightened minutely as he said, "I'll confirm first."

The doctor seemed to assess the hero before nodding. Together they walked into the room, leaving Naomasa in the waiting room. Curiosity was peaked but it was rude to question it. As much as he wanted to know about the soulmarks he couldn't ask.

Per customs they wouldn't search for soulmate marks either. Not unless the soulparents didn't want them. For obvious reason they didn't want someone underage getting custody.

Soulparents were almost always given custody in disputes. Chosen by Fate they were to protect the children. Though there were times when a child had no soulparents. Like those without soulmarks they were looked down upon but to a lesser degree.

Naomasa's hand touched his shoulder in thought. Green otter and black cat. One he had found the other he had not. Would they ever find their third?

The exam room door opened again and a pale looking Jeanist exited. Worry filled Naomasa as he questioned, "Is he not?"

Jeanist said his light green eyes shadowed by an unknown emotion, "It's him. I'm the boy's soulparent."

Naomasa questioned his voice carefully level, "Will you not take him?"

Was this because Izuku was quirkless? Surely the Number 4 Hero wasn't a quirkist. Not after all of the discrimination he face in school and as he tried to rise to the top.

Naomasa knew that many had looked down on Jeanist. They didn't believe he could be a hero with his quirk. He could be wrong however. People did change over time.

Jeanist said sounding affronted by the question, "Of course I will. The question is would he take me. I recognize that other mark and the hospital has already contacted him. Why would he want me over an analytical hero?"

Naomasa opened his mouth then closed it again with a click. Nothing he could say would ease the hurt either would feel. Almost every adult wanted the honor of having a soul child. It meant that there would someone who would look to them for guidance. Or that they would have the child they always wanted.

The doctor said interrupting their thoughts, "You can stay in the room with him. It's up to you Best Jeanist if you allow the detective in the room. I'll start the reports for abuse and neglect for you and have them waiting for you, Detective, when he discharges."

"Thank you, Doctor Ashi," once the doctor was gone Naomsa returned his attention to Jeanist, "I'm returning to the station. Eraserhead should be by soon. Would you care to fill him in while I interrogate the mother?"

Jeanist shook his head as he said, "Not at all. Good luck."

With that Naoamsa was gone. His dark eyes only hesitating for a moment on the door as he left. Every part of him screamed not to leave despite having a job to do. The thought of finding out the truth of why Izuku was in the hospital kept his feet moving.

When he returned to the station all of the officers avoided his eyes. They could feel his anger and kept clear of him. Tsuragamae was in his office and they only exchanged a nod. He knew there was no stopping Naomasa in this. So he didn't even try.

Naomasa went straight for the interrogation room. Pushing open the door he was surprised and annoyed to find the arresting officer chatting up Inko Midoriya. Anger boiled within his gut.

He snapped, "Officer Kien leave," the man simply blinked at him in surprise, "That is not a suggestion. Leave now."

With a slight yelp the officer did as he was told. Naomasa resolved to find a way to put him on parking detail for as long as possible. Then he turned to Inko Midoriya. The woman looked a lot like her son with her green curls and eyes. Her hands were folded on the table in front of her as she watched him.

Naomasa said with a cold look, "Mrs. Midoriya, I am Detectives Tsukauchi Naomasa leading detective of the Musutafu Police Department. By law I am required to tell you that quirk is Lie Detector. It is always active and will tell me if you lie. So save us both the trouble and tell me the truth."

Inko pursed her lips in disapproval before her face lightened and she greeted in an overly chipper tone, "Nice to meet you, Detective. I'm not sure why I'm here. I just wanted to scare Izuku a little so he wouldn't steal from me again."

Truth. Lie.

So she didn't know why she was there and she didn't want to just scare Izuku. From what he already knew she refused to pay bail. Really why would she call to report a burglary on her own son? It just didn't make sense to him.

Sitting in front of her Naomasa continued on with a blank face, "I just have a few questions for you. First is do you know how Izuku got the stab wound to his shoulder? Or who did his stitches?"

Real shock and mortification crossed her face as she cried, "Izuku was stabbed?! When how? You don't think I would do such a thing do you? Never. I would never stab my son."

Truth.

Well that answered that. She had nothing to do with the stab wound at least. Now to get to the questions that would most likely bring out lies. Everyone tried to get past his quirk after all.

"Why did you have your son, at 13 years old arrested for burglary?"

The woman's face twisted into a sneer for half a second before her false smile returned and she said, "He stole fifty dollars from me. He should have known better and had to be punished."

Truth.

"So you had him arrested? Isn't that a little extreme?"

She sneered again, "Maybe but he's quirkless. As such he needs to know the world will be harsher on him for it. I'm just preparing my son for what the world will do."

Truth.

And wasn't that a scary thought. She believed that what she was doing was for the best.

Naomasa questioned his dark eyes boring into hers, "Have you ever struck, or used your quirk against Izuku?"

"Never," she denied immediately.

Lie.

And there it was he had caught her in a lie. She claimed that she never struck or used her quirk against him. So which was it? Or was it both.

He said gruffly, "Mrs. Midoriya I will remind you once again my quirk is Lie Detector. What you said was a lie. Now tell me the truth. Have you ever struck, or used your quirk against Izuku?"

Surprise flashed across her face followed swiftly by anger. Then she snarled, "I don't have to answer that detective."

That was as good as her admitting it for Naomasa. Still it wasn't enough to arrest her.

He pressed, "Did you know if I had come when I did he would have died? He was bleeding out in the holding cell because of you."

There wasn't even the barest flicker of remorse in her face. She said her voice low and hateful, "Good maybe if the little bastard died I could get on with my life. Do you know what it's like to have everyone look at you in pity? Or loathing because you have a quirkless brat? All my friends left me! I have to work doubles to even get regular salary. All because of HIM!"

Truth.

It was little wonder that Izuku met their kindness with wary eyes and a cold heart. He thought they would turn against him just like everyone else.

Did he even know what it was like to be a kid? Or to have someone care about him? The more he learned the more he realized the answer was probably not.

Then to his surprise the woman continued without prompting, "To make matters worse the little bastard has not one but two soulmates and soulparents. How could a quirkless little bastard have two when I am Fateless. IT ISNT FAIR!"

So it wasn't just that Izuku was quirkless. She envied him because he had four marks in total while she was a Fateless. Even in terms of quirkelss versus fateless she would be seen as the lesser. Though not by much.

If she wasn't such a horrible person to her son he might have understood her. Sansa was Fateless just as she was. But unlike her Sansa didn't take it out on others. Instead he tried desperately to protect those he considered family.

Naomasa stood as he said, "I would have understood your situation. If you had not hurt a child in order to feel better about yourself. My partner here in the department is Fateless. Once he nearly died for me because he thought I had more of a right to live than him. Our society failed you and you failed your son."

He walked around the side of the table and hauled her to her feet. As he placed her in handcuffs he said, "Inko Midoriya you're under arrest for child abuse, child neglect, and child endangerment. You have the right to remain silent. Any you say can and will be used against you in the court of law."

There were still many questions left in unanswered but for now he was content with her arrest. Other things could wait until Izuku regained consciousness.

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

The smell of antiseptic was the first thing he noticed when he came to. It took him a long moment to remember why he would be smelling antiseptic. That stupid cop had pulled his stitches and then threw him in holding with a bunch of criminals. He probably owed Tsukauchi his life now that he thought about it. The detective's quick response had most likely saved him from bleeding out.

Opening his eye he was blinded for half a second by the lights. With his good arm he rubbed at his eyes to clear them. Once they were adjusted he found that he was in a single occupant room. Unusual most hospitals regardless of who brought him in wouldn't have cared. They would take one look at his file and dismiss him.

Pushing himself up onto his elbows and ignoring the pain he glanced around. Only to freeze when he saw a sleeping figure next to him. What in the hell was Best Jeanist doing here?

The denim clad hero was dozing in the chair next to him. Had they figured out he was a vigilante? Was that why a hero was guarding him?

No that didn't make sense. No matter how exhausted the hero was he wouldn't allow himself to be caught off guard around a threat. So then why was the hero here?

Izuku wouldn't get answers laying around. So he pushed himself up fully into a sitting position. Pulling down the hospital gown he found his shoulder bandaged and clean. That at least meant the hospital either didn't see his quirkless status, true or not, or the heroes were keeping them from trying anything.

Izuku highly doubted it was the latter. Doctors would always true something. That's how it always had been for him. In their eyes quirkless would always be less than everyone else. So many refused to even see him and other like him.

As Izuku to the side of his bed the machines he was hooked up to started beeping wildly. Obviously not liking the actions he was taking. The noise in turn woke up the sleeping hero.

Jeanist jolted awake his eyes immediately scanning the room for a threat. Then they landed on the greenette and something in them softened. That he was not used to.

Jeanist asked softly as if he was trying not to startle him, "Do you know where you are? Are you in any pain?"

"Why do you care?"

Jeanist blinked at him for a moment before he said, "Beyond the fact that I'm the Number 4 Hero? We there is a couple..."

Jeanist didn't get to finish as the door was flung opened and in stormed a green haired man with yellow highlights. Golden eyes barely hidden behind his glasses searched the room.

Well shit. Maybe they did know he was a vigilante. Why else would Sir Nighteye and Best Jeanist be in same hospital room? Especially given that said room was that of a Second Year Middle School student.

A moment later Tsukauchi came through the door. His dark eyes glaring at the green haired hero. When they saw that Izuku was awake though they softened. Why were these adults acting like they cared? No one cared about someone like him. That was how it always had been.

Tsukauchi said a smile twitching at his lips, "You're awake. It's good to see that," then to the man, "Nighteye, you should know better to run through a hospital."

Nighteye however did not take his eyes off of izuku. The two just stared at each other. Not knowing how to proceed.

Tsukauchi sighed after a moment, "I guess now that Nighteye and Best Jeanist are here we can proceed," Izuku shot the man a questioning look prompting him to continue, "Midoriya your mother is currently in custody after the events of yesterday. You've been asleep for several hours and it is currently 7 in the morning. I just arrived to relieve Eraserhead from his watch."

Izuku blinked at him before he said quietly, "Thank you, Detective. What about the two Pro Heroes in my room? I wouldn't have thought they would be on watch. Will I be going into the Foster System?"

There was not a chance in hell. He would rather take his chance out on the streets than end up in the system. If he ended up in the system they would have him dead by the end of the year.

Tsukauchi shook his head as he said, "Not unless we can't work out something here. You see, Midoriya, the first people that are contacted in abuse cases like this are soulparents. Soulmarks were unique to individual. Most hospitals have a registry known marks. If they thought there was a possible match they would contact them."

Confusion followed the detective's explanation. What was he going with this? Wait... though of his marks. They would fit both men. Did that mean?

He looked back up at the heroes searching for confirmation. Jeanist was the first to speak, "I have already confirmed that it is my mark. Nighteye still needs to confirm his."

Carefully Izuku showed the sharp eyed hero his arm. The one where the green falcon lay. When it was revealed the man sucked in a sharp breath his eyes widening.

Then the man pulled back the sleeve of his suit revealing a green otter. That was definitely his mark. Something inside him instinctually confirmed it.

Jeanist sighed and mumbled something under his breath before he did the same. He stood and moved so that they had a good look at the man's side. Just like Nighteye's arm there was a green otter on his side just below the ribs. The exact same place as his blond colored wolf mark.

Without looking either man in the eye he confirmed to Tsukauchi, "They are my soulparents."

Tsukauchi nodded and said, "At least that's one thing out of the way. However there is still the question on which will receive at least temporary custody. Full custody to be considered later on."

The two heroes considered each other for a moment before Jeanist suggested, "Why not let Midoriya spend time with both of us? As it stands now we both have equal rights to his custody. However he is old enough to decide for himself. Does a week with both of sound amni amicable to you both?"

"Yes, sir."

Nighteye replied speaking for the first time since he entered, "It is for me. I have two major operations planned for the next week however."

Jeanist nodded as he said, "Then Midoriya you can come stay with me for for the week."

Izuku's mouth went dry as he nodded uncertainly. Staying with heroes just might put a damper on his vigilante nights. As long as he kept his laptop away from them he would be able to continue that way. It just wasn't quite the same as hitting the streets. Kavar would probably be ecstatic about it though. His brother in all but blood always worried about him when he patrolled. His fight with Stain would only make it worse. Stain wasn't one to leave unfinished business after all. Maybe it would be good to lay low for a little while.

Before he could finish that train of thought someone bent down so that they were eye level with him. Blinking it took a few seconds to realize that Jeanist had moved closer. Light and dark green eyes clashed against each other.

Izuku was reminded of just last night when they had come across each other in the field. Both were assessing the other. Izuku trying to decide if this was a terrible mistake. Best Jeanist looking for something but Izuku didn't know what.

Tsukauchi said breaking the spell, "I'll get the paperwork started and inform the doctors. You should be able to leave by lunch. Tomorrow I'll arrange for us to get some of your stuff. Don't worry about your lessons with Nezu. They are postponed until you get settled in."

Izuku said, "Thank you detective."

Tsukauchi headed for the door with Nighteye close behind. However to Izuku's surprise Nighteye hesitated at the door. He seemed to debate with himself before turning around.

He said sincerely, "I do look forward to getting to know you, Midoriya. It's just an incredibly busy week for me. I hope you understand."

Izuku did understand. Better than anyone in fact about the busyness of the life they chose. It was more difficult for heroes to take breaks than any other profession. They were always needed and without them villains would get it in their heads to make trouble.

Of all the lifestyles he chose this was the most difficult. He wouldn't have it any other way. All he ever wanted to do was help people and that's exactly what he would do.

So he plastered on a smile and said, "Of course, Sir."

Chapter Text

Izuku's POV

It took four hours of being poked and prodded by doctors before he was allowed to leave. They changed his bandages and put strange scented ointment on his wound. As much as it annoyed him to allow them to do so he had to. Best Jeanist was watching him with sharp green eyes. He didn't leave even once while they doctors checked him over.

It was surprising that they even brought him breakfast. Though when Jeanist wasn't looking he caught the nurse sneering at him. That was normal for the young vigilante. They thought he was quirkless and as such they thought he was lesser. It made him want to show his qurik but to do so would put lives in danger. So he bit his tongue and kept a close eye on what exactly she touched. He wouldn't put it past her to poison him.

Jeanist however saw his reluctance to eat and without prompting took a bite of each of the food he was brought. There wasn't a visible reaction from his nurse. So he took the risk and ate the food mostly at the prompting of his stomach.

Tsukauchi came in a quarter after ten. In his hands was Izuku's school bag and Izuku's eyes lit up at the sight. Without any hesitation the detective handed it over to him.

The first thing he did was check to see if his computer was in it. To his relief his laptop was packed in and so was his hero analysis books. There werecasoo a few changes of clothes. Hugging the bag close to his chest he gave Tsukauchi a soft thankful smile.

Tsukauchi rubbed the back of his neck as he said, "I'm sorry that I can't let you get the rest of your things yet. Until your mother goes to trial and a judge allows it."

Izuku whispered softly, "Thank you detective. Even this small amount is enough for me."

"You're welcome, kid," replied Tsukauchi, "Let me know if there is anything I can do."

"Okay."

Finally at a little after 11 he was discharged from the hospital. Jeanist then led him down to a waiting car. Everything about Jeanist radiated calm and despite his suspicious nature he felt himself calming as well. Jeanist opened the passenger door and held it open for him. Carefully he got in and buckled the seat belt.

Then Jeanist got in on the driver's side and started the car. After a few moments the hero said looking a little embarrassed, "I'm glad I finally got to meet you, Midoriya. I have been hoping to meet my soulchild for years. It's part of the reason why I take so many young interns. I kept hoping one of them might be you."

Izuku felt his jaw drop in surprise. Jeanist had been looking for him? Not knowing what kind of quirk he had? Or what kind of person he was? What if he was a villain in the making?

Jeanist continued after a moment of silence, "You can call me, Tsunagu or Hakamata if my given name is too uncomfortable for you. Do feel pressured to extend the same courtesy to me. I want you to be as comfortable as possible."

Tsunagu Hakamata that was an interesting name. There were a few Hakamatas around Musutafu. It made him wonder if they were related. Or if it was just a coincidence.

After a moment he said with a sidelong glance, "You can call me, Izuku. Calling me Midoriya reminds me of school."

Tsunagu gave him a glance as he replied, "Of course I will. If I say or do anything that makes you uncomfortable let me know. What happened at your school?"

That had Izuku's jaw clenching shut. He said too much. Now Hakamata would think he was weak. Izuku should have kept his mouth shut and said nothing.

Still he answered after a moment, "They were quirk discriminators. It was thanks to Tsukauchi and Eraser that it is being shut down now. I don't have a middle school to go to anymore."

A darkness crossed the Number 4 hero that almost made him flinch away. This caused the hero's gaze to soften significantly. Instead of saying anything else he turned his full attention back to the road.

They rode in silence towards the rich side of town. This wasn't a side of town he usually strayed to. Many heroes patrolled it at all hours so it didn't need a vigilante. He kept eyes on their cameras but when he patrolled he stayed on the poorer side.

It was close to downtown that they turned down a street and into a parking lot. There was an apartment building just a little further down the road. He assumed that was where Hakamata was living.

Once they stopped Izuku unbuckled and got out. Tsunagu said as he did the same, "The apartment I live in requires a security card to get in. This is because several heroes and high ranking officials live in this building. Later today once you're settled in I'll take you down to get yours and a key for you."

Shyly he said, "Thank you."

The hero hummed but didn't say anything else as they headed towards the building. As expected Hakamata swiped his keyboard and held the door open for him. There was a security guard behind the desk nearest to the elevators. He raised a hand in greeting before peering at Izuku.

The guard questioned amicably, "Who is this, Mr. Hakamata? A new intern? Don't they usually sleep in your office?"

Hakamata's hand fell protectively onto his shoulder. It was laying on top of his shirt rather than on skin. Otherwisr he would have shrugged off the hand. If he didn't them it would risk injuring or even killing Hakamata because of his quirk.

Hakamata said in slight admonishment, "He is not my intern as he is too young. Not that it is any concern of your as he is with me."

The guard swallowed before he apologized, "Pardon me, Mr. Hakamata I meant no disrespect. It's just unusual for you to bring a child in with you."

"It's okay," relaxed the hero after a moment, "Keep this to yourself as we are not ready to go public yet. This is Izuku Midoriya who is currently under my protective custody. I will need a keycard and set of keys made for him."

"Of course, sir! I'll have it them made up right away! Would you rather pick them up later? Or would you like me to bring them up?"

Hakamata said after a moments consideration, "We will pick it up at a later time. Thank you."

Then they moved to the elevators and went up to the sixth floor. There were only four apartments on the floor. It seemed they were larger than most apartments.

The second on left was Hakamata's apartment. The living room alone was big enough to fit most of the apartment he and his mother shared. Hakamata showed his to a room down the hall. It appeared to be a guest bedroom. The room was the size of his mother's master bedroom.

Hakamata said after a moment, "This is one of two guest rooms that I have. It's not much right now but later we can go to the stores and get you things to personalize it. The bathroom is just down the hall and my room is right across from yours if you need me."

There was a bed, a desk much nicer than the one in his old room, and a lamp on the desk. While bare it was still more freely given than anything he had before. It made him swallow back the tightness in his throat.

There were a few tries before he said sincerely, "Thank you."

A hand descended down onto his curls as Hakamata said, "Of course kid. You should have all the kindness the world can give. Let me know if I can help you with anything. Anything at all."

After a kind pat the man was gone. Kindness huh? Did he deserve it?

Chapter Text

Naomasa returned to his apartment that he shared with Shouta. It wasn't often that they were both in the apartment. Their work kept them apart more often than not. Especially when they had a vigilante or villain loose.

Today would be a rare time they were both in the apartment. Naomasa had seen Midoriya's soul parent marks. As well as the soul child mark that was on the two heroes. A green otter. The very same green that he and Shouta carried.

Every part of him screamed to tell the boy but he couldn't. To add finding his soulmates on top of everything else would be too much. So he decided to go talk to Shouta. Together they could decide how to broach this subject with Izuku.

As he expected Shouta had not made it to their bed. Instead he was in the ugly yellow sleeping bag that Yamada had given him as a joke. Every time Naomasa saw it, he wanted to strangle the cockatoo. It was an eyesore and threatened to give him a headache.

Nudging Shouta he took off his jacket, tie and unbuttoned the top three buttons of his shirt. The collar had been digging at his neck since that morning. It had felt as if it was strangling him as it always did after a particularly hard day or case.

Shouta sat up his bloodshot eyes glaring at Naomasa. Both men were exhausted after dealing with Inko Midoriya and her abusive attitude. Not to mention finding Izuku's soul parents. Things had been hectic and they hadn't got much rest.

Gruffly the hero questioned, "What the hell Nao? I was trying to catch up on the sleep we both have been missing."

Naomasa returned the look evenly as he waited for Shouta to give him, his full attention. A loud exhausted sigh was given but Shouta maneuvered himself on the couch. Dark eyes clashed against each other.

Once he was sure Shouta was paying attention he declared, "I found our third soulmate," exhaustion was quickly replaced by excitement, "Hold on. You won't like how I found him."

Shouta questioned with a dark frown, "Was they at the hospital? The police station?"

Naomasa raised an eyebrow at the other. It was not often that Shouta was flustered. Or when he was flustered he hid it well. The only time it really came out was when his soulmates were in danger.

He said not bring able to meet Shouta's eyes for this, "We already knew him. And yes he was in fact in the hospital. He's been helping us with cases our own soulmate."

There were a few blinks of confusion followed by a pensive look. It finally turned to horror when he came to the correct realization. Only one person fit all the criteria.

"Midoriya?"

"Midoriya."

Shouta stood swearing violently under his breath. Naomasa watched in understanding as the other paced around their apartment. He could understand the agitation. They knew that their third would be younger than them. They even knew how much younger but this was not what they expected.

A child who had been abused and neglected by his mother. Someone with a brilliant mind that helps the police as an analyst. Knowing what they did about Izuku did not ease their worry about him. They wanted to tell him but at the same time they didn't want to overwhelm him.

Shouta questioned, "What are we going to do?"

Naomasa replied after a moment, "I think we should wait and see how he does with Tsunagu and Mirai. We need to give him time to settle down and come to terms with everything that has happened."

Shouta sighed, "That makes sense. Even if I want to tell him now."

A small smile crossed his face as he said, "I know, Shou. But we will be able to tell him when things calm down. We just have to be a little more patient."

...

Dinner had been a quiet affair. Tsunagu was lost in his own thoughts and Izuku had brought one of his hero notebooks with him. The analysis he was working on was for Edgeshot. The Hero had contacted him through his analyst email explaining that he had heard of him from Ms. Joke.

All of his notebooks were in code to the point only he and Kavar could read it. He was sure that if Nezu wanted to the rat could break the code but to date there was no indication that he tried. Still he would rather that no one was able to read it unless he wanted them to.

Tsunagu asked when Izuku got caught up in it, "What are you working on?"

Without pausing in his scribbling he said, "An analysis of Edgeshot. Apparently Ms. Joke referred me to him after that disastrous raid last month."

Izuku missed the way Tsunagu's eyebrow raised in surprise. There weren't many who knew of the failed raid. Or that Edgeshot had been injured severely by it. For a teenagers to know it was certainly odd.

The hero asked after a few moments of silence, "Do you have a Hero Net account? They aren't usually given out to civilians unless a hero vouches for them."

Izuku flipped to the next page to sketch out possible support items, "I didn't at first. When I was proven to be a good analyst several heroes I had helped before got Luck the account. Though what I was using was encrypted that only someone Nezu level smart could get through. I had it tested to be sure."

That's when he paused realizing what he had said. Luck had never worked with Best Jeanist. There was a good chance the Number 4 Hero didn't even know who he was. Especially given he worked mostly with the police and underground heroes. There were only a few exceptions.

Nervously he glanced up at the man. Tsunagu smiled softly as he said, "It's okay Izuku. I already knew of your time as the analyst Luck. Tsukauchi told me when I arrived at the hospital."

"Oh okay," replied Izuku still feeling nervous.

Would the hero decide that he shouldn't do this anymore? It was his way into UA at this point. Unless he used his quirk that officially didn't exist.

Tsunagu soothed, "It's a good skill to have. Most heroes don't have that level of analysis."

Izuku gave him a cautious but hopeful look. Did he mean it? Only time would tell.

Then suddenly Tsunagu ordered, "Eat, Izuku you can finish after you've had more of eat."

And so he did. After eating as much as he could which wasn't much he returned to his room. There he continued his analysis till it was up to his typical standard. After double checking his work then he sent it off to Edgeshot.

Glancing at the time on his phone he winced. It was just after 2 in the morning. Part of him was surprised that Tsunagu hadn't come in to tell him to go to sleep. Few adults would allow children to stay up so late.

Before he could consider the oddity any further there was a ping from one of his chats. Pulling it up he found a familiar detective and hero checking in on Watcher.

Night Annoyances

Pantsonfire: Clover where have you been? No one has seen or heard from you since the Stain incident.

Awwww detective you do care.

Clover: Sorry detective have been allowing injuries to heal.

Sleepyhobo: You were injured?

Clover: ApplebottomJeans didn't tell you? I was stabbed by Stain's serrated blade. Hurt like hell but no permanent damage done.

Pantsonfire: Who the fuck is Apple... DO YOU MEAN BEST JEANIST?

Sleepyhobo: Really Tsukauchi I don't know why you're surprised at this point. Watcher has acted like this since the beginning. He probably has a nickname for everyone whether he works with them or not.

Clover: This is true.

Wait for it.

Pantsonfire: WAIT YOU WERE STABBED? Damn it Watcher can you not stay out of trouble?!

There it was.

Clover: You guys really don't keep up do you? I promise you I'm fine but I will not be fighting Stain again anytime soon.

In fact if he could avoid it he wouldn't fight Stain again at all. It was only the surprise of the about Izuku's quirk that kept him alive. The same trick would not work twice.

As long as Stain stayed out of his city they wouldn't have a problem. The moment he tried to kill in Musutafu however Watcher would be after him again. Even at the risk of his own life.

Sleepyhobo: You're giving us grey hair every time you do something like this. Are you sure you don't want to tell us who you are?

Clover: Not a chance.

Clover is now offline.

Pantsonfire: Well at least we know he's alive.

Sleepyhobo: If he wasn't we would have found a body. I'm heading back to my patrol.

Sleepyhobo is now offline.

Pantsonfire is now offline.

Chapter Text

The next day came too early for Izuku's liking. Tsunagu knocked on his door just after six in the morning. Izuku who only went to bed at five in the morning groaned loudly in response. The last thing he wanted was to get out of his bed. It was too early to be awake.

Tsunagu called through the door, "Izuku get up so you can eat. I've taken off work so I can take you out today. We're going to the store so that you can decorate your room."

Izuku let out something intelligible before putting his pillow over his head. There was the muffled sound of chuckling before the man walked away. His head pounded from lack of sleep.

After about five minutes of laying there he finally pushed himself up. Quietly he changed into clean clothes before entering the bathroom. Only a few moments passed before he was found at the kitchen table. There was a faint concerned light in the hero's eyes. No doubt he saw the dark bags under his eyes.

Instead of giving false reassurances Izuku dug into the food. The food warmed him and the coffee pot was a blessing. From the corner of his eye he could see the way Tsunagu opened his mouth to argue. Then his eyes trailed back over to the bags under his eyes and he mouth closed.

Breakfast was a quiet affair. Tsunagu didn't eat much and spent most of his time sipping on coffee while eyeing Izuku. When he was finished eating Izuku tried to clean his dishes. Only to be stopped by a hand on his arm.

Tsunagu said, "Don't. I'll take care of it."

"I can clean my dishes," argued the greenette, "You cooked I should be the one to clean."

Tsunagu reached out to him and Izuku flinched away. He paused then withdrew his hand. Physical contact had to be avoided no matter the cost. His quirk was too dangerous otherwise. It was times like this he wished his quirk was based on five points of contact. Then it would be easier to save others.

Then the hero took the dishes from him and began to clean them. With a sigh Izuku went back to the table as he pulled out his phone. Nothing was going on as far as he could tell. It was quiet. Too quiet for his liking given what happened before.

That was when he decided to check some of the older forums. When he first debuted as a vigilante a few forums and groups had begun to follow his work. Most went silent after a few weeks. Most thought he would be caught after a short time. Every now and then the forums and groups would come back alive but it wouldn't last. However to his surprise it was not only alive but thriving.

Vigilante Watch:

Purpleinsomniac: Has anyone heard anything new on Watcher? There were rumors that he was injured but nothing more has been said.

Crimisonrocks: Police gave a statement I think. They said he interfered in the Stain investigation. According to the release he was injured. No one knows where.

Unknown user: With any luck he will be caught. Vigilantes aren't needed.

Purpleinsomniac: Fuck you anon. Vigilantes do more in Musutafu than most heroes. Watcher doesn't care what quirk you have or if you don't have one. How many heroes can you say would are the same?

Unknown user: As if. A person with a villainous quirk is a villain.

Izuku growled low in his throat. It was people like that, that made him want to commit murder. There was no such thing as a villainous quirk. Only villainous actions.

Zero: Don't make me block you anon.

Unknown user: You don't have the balls.

Zero has blocked Unknown user.

Purpleinsomniac: You didn't have to do that.

Zero: He was pissing me off. This is my group and I don't allow quirk discrimination. Ever.

Purpleinsomniac: Thank you. Anyone else?

Crimisonrocks: My cousin said that there was a lot blood in the alley. While they haven't found a body there isn't any reports of him showing up in the hospitals. That's good. Right?

Zero: Not necessarily. They could have been too injured to make it to the hospital. They could have died after changing out of their gear. There are too many possibilities.

Izuku left the chat without saying anything in it.

"Izuku are you ready to go?"

So caught up in his reading he did not hear the man approach. It took all of his control not to jump in surprise. Instead he just looked up at Tsunagu. Tsunagu was wearing a pair of blue jeans and sneakers. A grey t-shirt covered his chest and over it was dark blue jacket. Covering his face was a bandana.

Izuku replied as he regained his composure, "Yes I'm ready when you are."

A soft smile crossed the hero's face as he nodded. They headed down out of the apartment and into the elevator. Once in the lobby Tsunagu left him to get the car. The security guard brought him a key card and keys for the building.

The man had returned to his desk before Tsunagu returned. His guardian gave a nod of approval when he saw the keys and card. Then he was led to the car and they made their way to the shopping decision in silence.

Their first stop was a clothing store. Izuku grabbed basic t-shirts, jeans, and hoodies. None of them were overly expensive or would make him stand out. However Tsunagu noticed his favored colors and picked out a few more expensive shirts and pants.

Off to one side of the store however was a small selection of Hero Merchandise. There was an Ingenium hoodie that caught his eye. It was the edition that had only been out a few weeks. One look at the price however had him moving away. It was too expensive for him to even consider it. He had just met Tsunagu better not push it.

Izuku didn't see the way that Tsunagu added the hoodie to the pile. When they went to check out he felt his phone buzz. A quick glance showed it was Tsukauchi sending Watcher a file. A deep frown crossed his face. What the hell?

He gave a pitiful excuse so that he could look it over without risking someone looking over his shoulder. Worry filled the light green eyes but Tsunagu allowed him to go wait in the corner. Alone in the corner he opened the file.

Trigger Drug Bust. Well fuck him that was never a good sign. Skimming through the file he couldn't help but read through it more thoroughly after only the third paragraph.

It wasn't good. It wasn't good at all. An enormous shipment of Triggee was coming into the country. Tsukauchi was fairly sure it would be coming in, in two weeks. Where was the question. So they asked for his help.

Of course Izuku responsed with an affirmative. He would help. It was part of his job to aid the police.

"Izuku?"

"I'm fine," he replied, "Just another job. I'll probably be busy with it for a couple of days."

Tsunagu raised an eyebrow but said nothing else. Izuku shoved his phone back into his pocket. No need to explain any further. Tsunagu was Best Jeanist the Number 4 Hero on the charts. One did not get that far being stupid. If he learned what Izuku was working on it would not take him long to put two and two together.

Their next stop was a furniture store where Tsunagu would get him new sheets and pillows. It wasn't really necessary in Izuku's mind but the hero wouldn't hear of it. According to him it was because the sheets and pillows were suited for guests. Not for someone who was going to stay permanently in his house.

Izuku groaned and decided to stay near the entrance. Once again he pulled out his phone intent on learning more about the newest case. That was until he saw a group of familiar teenagers.

Shit! It was Bakugo and his cronies entered the area. Several of the buildings were connected and more often than not it was easier to go through one store to get to another. In this case it was easier for teenagers to go through the furniture store to get to one of the hero merchandise stores.

Glancing around Izuku tried to find a place to hide. Unlike if Tsukauchi was around there was no one who would take his side to an attack. Most stores were manned by quirkist assholes. A nearby bed frame caught his attention. It was made out of wood and it seemed that the panel could come off. Without thinking if he could even fit Izuku lunged for it.

...

After finding the softest sheets and a few good pillows he paid for them. It was only when he heard the voices of teenagers that he realized Izuku wasn't close by. One of the teenagers was an ash blond haired boy. His hair stuck up in all directions that made him want to wince. They all looked to be about Izuku age.

Tsunagu turned around and stretched his quirk out. No sign of Izuku anywhere and his quirk wasn't any use to him. The fabric of everything in shop made it difficult to sense anyone.

One of the workers questioned, "Are you alright sir?"

Tsunagu shook his head as he questioned, "I can't find my ward. He has dark green hair and emerald eyes."

Now the worker's eyes were searching the open store. Together they searched the store but there was no sign of the child. Every moment that passed brought more fear. Horrible possibilities were running through his mind. Where was he? Did someone take him?

They must have searched the store at least four times when suddenly Tsunagu saw the greenette standing by the door. Relief flooded him but there was something off about Izuku's stance. It wasn't that he was open before but this was even more closed off. A wall seemed to have been built up in an instant between them.

The store clerk questioned, "Is that him?"

"Yes," he answered shortly already heading over to the young boy.

As he approached Izuku glanced at him the wall not dropping even for a moment. He simply asked, "Are we ready to go?"

Tsunagu said with a small smile, one that wasn't returned, "Yes. Do you want to go to the hero merch store next? Or do you want to get something to eat?"

"Food please."

The rest of the day went quickly but quietly. They got food at a nearby restaurant. From there they went to a bookstore where Izuku got more than a dozen books. The hero merch store was there last stop.

He was not oblivious to the alertness of the child. Something was causing Izuku distress and it made him wonder if it had to do with his disappearance. To give him comfort or to show that he was willing to protect the boy he stayed close by. Izuku didn't get much, just a few small figurines that didn't cost a lot. As much as he wanted to Tsunagu couldn't get more without it being obvious.

Before they reahed the cashier however he found a keychain. It was an Eraserhead keychain. One that had been made as a joke thanks to Present Mic. Izuku didn't hesitate to grab it then glanced back at Tsunagu. Gently the hero smiled and he nodded.

Chapter Text

...

As they finished their shopping Izuku felt eyes upon him. Instinctively he knew that they were not friendly. A glance around him did not show Izuku who was watching but they were still there. Staying close to Tsunagu he kept his head on a swivel. Watching every person who came near them. Mistrust was clear in his gaze when anyone gave them so much as a glance.

Tsunagu was watching him a small frown on his face. He seemed to notice Izuku's odd behavior. The boy was grateful that he allowed it without any sharp words. Part of him half expected a sharp word or two about it. That Tsunagu would say it was all in his head.

They had almost reached the exit when a familiar unwelcome shout resounded behind them, "DEKU!"

Izuku didn't have to turn to see who yelled to know who was calling him. That shout could have only come from one person. A particularly hot headed pomeranian that should really learn to keep his mouth shut. Or at the very least learn to use his eyes before he opened his mouth. It should be obvious even if Tsunagu was in his civilian clothes who the man was.

Still he slowed and turned to face the loud mouth. From the corner of his eye he caught the look of confusion on the hero's face as he did the same. Bakugo was running down the halls shoving past people his red eyes promising a painful death.

Tsunagu questioned with a grimace, "Is he talking to you, Izuku? Why did he call you, Deku? That means useless doesn't it."

Izuku nodded but he didn't get the chance to answer as Bakugo was on them a second later. A sweet smelling hand grabbed the collar of Izuku's shirt. A fierce snarl that would have made anyone at Alderra Middle School cower was on his face. Izuku did not say or do anything noting the curious crowd that was beginning to crowd. Tsunagu looked very much like he wanted to haul Bakugo off of him.

Only a slight nearly imperceptible shake of Izuku's head stopped him. This was going to happen eventually better for it to happen now. At least with the witnesses around them he couldn't be accused of lying or starting the confrontation. Bakugo's cronies had caught up by this point and were watching somewhat nervously. They didn't want to get into trouble but neither did they want to seem weak.

Bakugo sneered as he noticed the crowd, "Let's go for a walk, Deku."

Izuku shoved Bakugo back careful so that he only touched clothes and no skin as he said defiance making his eyes practically glow, "No. I will not go anywhere with someone who pretends they are meant to be a hero but acts like a bully."

"What did you say to me you little shit?!"

Izuku quipped back, "Are deaf as well as a quirkist bully?"

Around them people sucked in surprised breaths. It wasn't proper to call someone quirkist in public. Not unless they had done something right then. Too bad he didn't care about proper.

"Deku," shouted the pomeranian, "I'll kill you!"

Bakugo raised his free hand a shower of sparks. It was going to come down on his shoulder. Only to be stopped by a tugging on his clothes. Jeanist looked positively murderous as he looked down at Bakugo.

Wild red eyes tore towards Tsunagu his teeth bared like a mad dog. They took in the hero not exactly sure of who the man was.

Bakugo snarled, "Who are you to stop me? This is none of your business."

Izuku said not looking at the bully, "He is one of my soulparents. I have met both of my soulparents recently not that it's any of your business."

"What does that have to do with anything?"

Tsunagu had enough of Bakugo's attitude and gripped the boy's collar and pulled him off of Izuku. He said cold as ice, "Enough of that young man. Already you can be charged with public quirk use. If you continue on you will be well on your way to assault."

"Who the fuck are you?!"

Honestly he thought Bakugo was smarter than this. If he looked at the man and thought about it he would realize that this was Best Jeanist. Though maybe he wasn't as oblivious as Izuku thought. Bakugo's eyes flashed with recognition a moment later.

Bakugo said his red eyes narrowing in suspicion, "Best Jeanist. How the fuck is someone like you, Deku's soulparent? Don't you know he is quirkless?"

Murmurs of disdain could be heard all throughout the hall now. Most of the crowd were now glaring hatefully at Izuku. Just the word quirkless was enough to bring out this reaction. Always had been. Always would be.

Tsunagu put a stop to it immediately, "Quirkless are not useless as many people believe. I have seen this young man, my soul child before I knew, give out professional level analysis. There are those with analysis quirks that would struggle put out."

Izuku felt heat dush to his face. No matter how many he put put out he would never get used to the compliments.

"You mean his fucking stalker notebooks?" Bakugo questioned incredulously, "Those things are creepy as fuck and aren't worth anything. Everyone says so!"

Tsunagu denied coldly, "Unfortunately for you that's where you are wrong. They are far from worthless though dangerous in the wrong hands, he has been using them to help heroes. I personally know several who were saved because of him pointing out their weakness. If you want to be a hero maybe you should rethink your choices. Doing things like this will make you the next Endeavour. Bullies are not welcome in the world heroes. If you try to attack my soulchild or anyone else for that matter I will ensure you are blacklisted from every reputable hero school in the country. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal clear," sullenly replied the pomeranian.

With that Tsunagu released him and pushed Izuku forward out of the building. Anger and frustration radiated off of the man in a way he hadn't thought was possible. In the small amount of time he had known the hero he had never seen his mask drop like that. He wasn't sure what to make of it.

Once they were safely in his car the hero asked, "How long?"

"Excuse me?"

Tsunagu looked at him a fire burning in his eyes, "How long have things been like that?"

Izuku answered honestly, "Since I was diagnosed. It wasn't that bad until a few years ago."

Tsunagu said his hands tightening on the wheel, "That's not okay Izuku. I hope you understand that."

Izuku didn't answer. Instead he simply shrugged and looked out the window. There was nothing to be said about it.

Chapter Text

Vigilante Watch

Crimisonrocks: Still no sign of Watcher. Please tell me someone else more information.

Purpleinsomniac: My uncle says he's been quiet for the week since his fight with Stain.

Zero: Interesting. I haven't heard anything either.

Crimisonrocks: Man I was hoping someone would know. We don't really get information on his information-sharing activities.

Zero: If we did that would be dangerous for the police and heroes he sends information to. Remember the information more often than not is time-sensitive. The chance is too high that someone could give up the information thus making it a trap.

Crimisonrocks: You're right Zero. Doesn't mean I have to like it.

...

The week passed quickly. Izuku spent a lot of time with Tsungu or in his room. Tsunagu had taken him out to eat on two occasions at a local cafe. The cafe was a cat cafe and he immediately fell in love with it. He loved cats and always wanted one but his mother barely fed him at all. There was no way he would bring an animal into his situation.

A point of stress during that week had been the Trigger Drug Bust. It was a large bust and one that could have used Watcher being there. Izuku had been very tempted to go in person. His wounds from Stain had been healed at the hospital. There wasn't even any lingering stiffness.

What stayed his hand was Tsunagu. The man was an early riser and could very well come to wake him up only to find him gone. Some drug busts could last well into the next day. It depended on how soon they went inside. A lot of a bust was simply a stakeout.

While he worked on his analysis he agonized over the decision. To go and take part even if it was from the shadows. Or stay and watch from afar. There were strong pros and cons against each decision.

In the end, he decided on a compromise. He sent off his analysis of the situation and the quirks he was given. He also attached a Trojan that would allow him to continue to monitor the situation as it progressed. When it was time to attack he would go and help. Leaving them to handle the bust on their own was not an option.

There were a few times during the week he had gone with Tsunagu to his agency. The interns and sidekicks had immediately taken a liking to him. Often one would bring him hot chocolate or a snack when he was working on his analysis on the couch.

Once a day he used the training room to practice his forms. It hadn't been surprising when he was joined on the second day by one of Tsunagu's sidekicks. He offered to spar with Izuku who refused for the time being. He wasn't sure if Tsunagu would be able to recognize his fighting style. 0

With the end of his week with Tsunagu came anxiety. He had grown comfortable with his life with his guardian. Tsunagu hadn't been overly intrusive into his privacy. He had allowed Izuku to work on his analysis work and unbeknownst to him the vigilante work he did.

For his vigilante work, Izuku was building up several large files rather than sending one at a time. He wanted to give an excuse as to why he hadn't been around much. He would still be cautious as he was moving in with Nighteye.

Izuku stimmed by running his thumb along with his fingertips. It was something he had used to ground himself for years.

Tsunagu glanced at him before saying soothingly, "You will be fine, Izuku. Mirai will treat you well while you stay with him."

Izuku said unsurely, "He doesn't really seem like someone who wants a child. What if he is just doing this out of obligation?"

To his surprise, Tsunagu snorted, "Mirai out of all the heroes I know has wanted a child more than anyone else. He... no I think he should tell you that himself."

That had Izuku glancing curiously at Tsunagu. Sadness had crept into the man's face and he wondered what happened. Still, he did not push. He knew all about keeping secrets.

The meeting spot was at Tsunagu's agency. Izuku had a bag slung over his shoulder that held his laptop and notebooks. Nighteye would have everything else he needed.

A semifamiliar man walked into the agency drawing Izuku out of his thoughts. Nighteye was out of his usual attire and instead was wearing a button-down shirt and black pants. He smiled softly at Izuku before extending a hand to Tsunagu.

Nighteye greeted, "I see you are well, Hakamata. Izuku did you have a good week?"

"Yes sir," he replied.

Nighteye replied immediately, "None of that now. Call me, Mirai."

Izuku searched the man's face for a moment looking for a trap. He found none. Instead, there was open honesty being expressed. It had Izuku nodding in acceptance.

He replied breaking the ice, "You can call me Izuku."

A small smile formed across his face as he asked, "Are you ready to go? We will be heading to my apartment."

Izuku nodded but then hesitated. It didn't feel right to simply leave without saying anything to Tsunagu. He turned to look at his soul parent considering for a moment. The blond turned his head to the side in curiosity. Nighteye simply watched silently waiting to see what he would do.

"I'll see you in a week?" He asked trying not to sound too hopeful.

Tsunagu's face softened as he said, "Of course Izuku."

Slowly telegraphing his movements he reached out and ruffled Izuku's hair. Against his will, Izuku leaned into the touch nearly letting out a whine when the hand left.

Tsunagu said with a smile, "I'll see you in a week kiddo. Be good for Mirai and don't let him stay in his office all day."

"I won't," promised the green-haired boy, "And you better not either. I heard your sidekicks talk about how overworked you tend to make yourself."

Tsunagu snorted before he turned to leave only to stumble and fall. Izuku felt horror as he realized the man wasn't wearing gloves. He had direct contact and in turn, Izuku had stolen some of his luck. Izuku turned so that he could watch Tsunagu leave. Relief flooded him when he realized it wasn't enough to kill him. He would have to be more careful. Touches had to come when they were wearing gloves. If at all.

It was the sad truth that he should simply avoid being touched. Period end of story. There was too much of a chance of him hurting or even killing someone.

As if sensing his horror Ni... Mirai said, "Is there something wrong, Izuku?"

"N... no," he stumbled over his words, "Everything is fine."

A look was given that told him that Mirai didn't believe him. Still, he didn't push the issue. At least not this time. He had the feeling it would come.

Chapter Text

...

The apartment was in a quiet area of Tokyo. Quiet would be both good and bad for him. It would mean he'd have to be careful about sneaking out. There was a chance someone sees him slip out for vigilante work. The last thing he needed was for one of his new guardians to become suspicious.

Like with Tsunagu he was given a keyboard and a key to the apartment. Mirai showed him through the three-bedroom apartment. It was somewhat surprising to find Mirai's room decorated with All Might collector items. If it had been years prior he might have geeked out over it. If it had been before All Might told him there was no such thing as a luck quirk and he shouldn't make up a fake quirk. Quirkless could not be a hero in the man's eyes.

Just the thought of that day made him want to destroy the items. All Might had been his childhood hero. Now he hated the man with a passion.

There was a guest bedroom that didn't seem to have regular use. The room for Izuku however already had a bed and even some hero merchandise. He was surprised to find it was mostly of underground heroes that he had shown interest in. There were even clothes in his size in the closet.

When he glanced questioning at the hero, Mirai said unsurely, "I asked Tsunagu and had it delivered. If you don't like anything or it doesn't fit let me know."

Shyly Izuku whispered, "Thank you."

Mirai reached out for a moment before he seemed to think better of it. Disappointment filled him even though he knew of the consequences. He wanted to have kind touches more than anything. But it was unlikely he would get them. Not unless he was on quirk suppressants. He would not risk the lives of his guardians.

Then he said, "Tomorrow we will go to my agency. Everyone is looking forward to meeting you."

"I'm looking forward to meeting them too," he responded.

A small smile was given to Izuku and he was left to get settled. Once he was sure his guardian wasn't going to come back in he pulled out his phone.

Greenbean: At Nighteye's place. It's a nice enough apartment.

Calmbeforethestorm: That's good. Things have been quiet here. The forums have gone up in arms about your disappearance.

Greenbean: Me?

Calmbeforethestorm: Watcher. There is worry about how you haven't been seen since.

Greenbean: I'm surprised there are so many who care. Anything I should be worried about?

Calmbeforethestorm: Nothing as of yet but I will keep an eye on them. If it's important I'll message you.

Greenbean: Keep in touch. I'll hit the streets this week once I'm sure of Nighteye's habits.

Calmbeforethestorm: Kk.

With that Izuku placed his phone on his desk before unpacking his bag. The first to come out was his laptop. It was plugged in and set next to his phone.

That night was an easy night. Mirai was a good cook and made them a meal that would be easy on his stomach. A week of regular food had done him a lot of good but it would be a long time before he could eat full meals again.

Mirai had asked him simple questions about his hobbies and favorite activities. Izuku of course mentioned his favorite books and his analysis work. That caused his guardian to question him in about different heroes.

Their talks went long into the evening. It started in the kitchen and ended in the living room. Only after Mirai noted it was after midnight did he usher the youth to bed. Of course, Izuku did not go straight to bed. Instead, he lay out on his bed with his laptop in front of him.

The analysis he had been working on where saved. It would have been easy to pick up where he left on them but something was drawing him to the hacking programs. He brought it up and began to scan through the cameras using a facial recognition program he created.

From there he opened the hidden encrypted program that he used for his files that he sent to Tsukauchi as Watcher. Only he and Kavar knew the exact steps that had to be done to bring it up. If anyone else tried they wouldn't be able to get it. Well maybe with the exception of Nezu who he was sure could give enough time.

Names began to be thrown out from the first program. Upon seeing the names he swore colorfully under his breath. S-Rank criminals that he could have sworn were in jail. Had there been a breakout that he hadn't heard about?

Immediately he set his computer to follow them. Then he set it to record as he hacked into the police records. Quirks and their official records. He knew that not all records were true, he was proof, but it would be a start.

Four hours later found him finishing up his file to Tsukauchi and Eraserhead. He had everything from their quirks to locations. In a different section were the heroes he recommended for a raid. Given the high level of the villains, it would be smart to take only the best heroes.

A yawn escaped him as he sent the finished file. Four-thirty. He probably should go to sleep. It was going to be obvious that he had not slept. Izuku closed his laptop and plugged it in.

He was just stretching out on his bed to actually sleep when his phone buzzed. A soft curse escapee him and he knew it would be the other two. Pulling his phone out he checked the chat.

Night Annoyances

Pantsonfire: It's good to see that you're back, Watcher. But it's 4:30 in the fucking morning.

Clover: Your point?

Needssleep: You aren't usually around this late. What's got you up?

Clover: S-Rank villains. That file I sent you has everything you need to know. It also has recommendations for which heroes to pull together for a raid.

Pantsonfire: This... we owe you a debt, Watcher.

Clover: You owe me nothing. I do what must be done to protect my city. Stay safe.

Chapter Text

...

A yawn escaped Izuku as he sat in Mirai's office. He stayed up too late last night and he was struggling to stay awake. More than once his soulparent had looked up to give him a long disapproving look. He must have realized that Izuku had been up most of the night. It was obvious that he did not approve of Izuku's choice. Still, he kept his opinions to himself even as Izuku opened his laptop.

It only took a few moments to hack into the cameras and start his program. Then he focused on another analyst program. Tsukauchi had requested his help on a drug bust. Specifically, he asked for Luck's help.

He had been told that they wanted to have him on call. He would be given a secure line and video access to their exact locations. A part of him was excited to be a part of it. Another part was nervous as he didn't like having lives in his hands. There were times were he had lives in his hands. But never so directly and not when he was known.

Izuku wasn't sure if he wanted to do it but knew if he didn't they would go in without help. That in itself could be deadly. If someone died when he could have saved them he would never forgive himself.

"Please stop with the tapping, Izuku," came Mirai's voice suddenly.

Izuku nearly dropped his laptop as it startled him into half-standing. Owlishly he blinked at his smirking soulparent. He gave the man a dark glare before returning to his laptop. Softly Mirai laughed turning back to his own work.

A soft ping sounded and Izuku went to pull up what caught his program. He was sipping at his coffee when it pulled up showing a familiar. Izuku choked in surprise the coffee going down the wrong pipe. Mirai gave him a sharp look but Izuku ignored him.

Furiously he typed on his keyboard bringing up several windows. Each held the man on the first window. He hesitated for less than a second before pulling up his vigilante chat with Tsukauchi and Eraserhead. There was no missing the way that Mirai's focus was completely on him. He could not focus on that now. He had to warn Tsukauchi and all of Musutafu.

Night annoyances:

Clover: @Pantsonfire @Needssleep. GET UP! GET UP RIGHT NOW!

He waited with bated breath for a handful of seconds. It was killing him to wait for the other two to get up. Mirai gave him an uncertain look but didn't say anything.

Pantsonfire: What the hell, Watcher?

Needssleep: You had better have a good explanation.

Clover: Shut up both of you. Listen to me. You need to get several teams formed to take on an S-Rank villain. Quake is loose in Musutafu.

Pause. A breath. Then...

Pantsonfire: WHAT?!

Izuku sent a video of the S-Rank villain who had yet to start his destruction. Given the direction, he was headed in and his M.O. it wouldn't be long. Quake had always been one to cause as much destruction as possible. He didn't care who he killed. Nine heroes had died trying to bring him in alone.

With some difficulty, Izuku hacked into the registry of Musutafu's heroes and surrounding cities. Those who could get there quickly. He started sending off messages to heroes who matched well against Quake. Videos of the villain were sent as proof that he was not lying.

A few heroes asked who he was but others declared they would head to Musutafu immediately. The one who questioned him fell into line a moment later. They too would head to Musutafu. He turned his attention back to his chat.

Needssleep: I've grabbed Cementos. We are on our way. Watcher keep us updated on where he is.

Pantsonfire: I have called the All Might, Best Jeanist, and Hawks. It will take Jeanist some time to get there but Hawks and All Might should be on scene soon.

Needssleep: See you there.

Clover: Be careful.

Izuku wished he could join them on the streets. Regardless if it was mid-morning his place was helping. On the keyboard, his hands tightened into fists. What could he do as he was now? He couldn't just leave them.

Looking up from his screen he found that Mirai had stood. Concern flashed in his golden eyes as he noticed how pale Izuku was. He opened his mouth to ask what was wrong only for the phone to ring. Mirai stood frozen for a moment before answering it.

"Nighteye," he listened for a long moment and Izuku saw the way he stiffened, "You are sure? How did you come by this information? No, I'm not being unreasonable."

Again he paused and his eyes searched over Izuku again. There was a cool assessing look in those eyes. Izuku met them evenly not showing any fear or uncertainty.

Finally, Mirai said, "We are on our way. Try to keep him contained the best you can until All Might gets there. Have Endeavour on standby in case it gets too far out of hand."

Izuku felt sick. Out of all the heroes they could have on standby. Did it have to be Endeavour of all people? He had to keep the disgust off his face no matter what he felt internally. Mirai was watching him too close for comfort.

Mirai ended the call and said to Izuku, "I have to go. They are calling all heroes they can in for this fight. Stay here."

"What's happening?" He asked in character for his normal self.

His soulparent simply shook his head not willing to explain. "Stay here," he reiterated.

Where did the man think he was going to go? They were in Tokyo and it wasn't like he could drive. Unless he used his quirk that they did not know about there was little chance he could make it in time to be of any real use.

Still, he said, "Okay."

Mirai examined him a moment longer before nodding and heading for the door. Yes, he would stay here but if it came to it, he never said for how long.

From what he overheard it was mostly going to be limelight heroes heading out. That was all well and good under most circumstances but this wasn't most circumstances. They needed to use all of their resources. Limelight, underground, under... his hands froze over the keyboard. That was it. They needed some of the specialized heroes from the underground. He knew just the one to contact. Now where was that damn card?

Chapter Text

...

After much searching he found the card he was looking for. It was crumpled and torn in a few places but still legible to the young vigilante. Chisaki Kai also known as the Pro Hero Overhaul though only a handful of people knew about this. He was an Underground Hero who specialized in undercover work.

Flipping on his voice changer that was built into the phone he called the number. And waited. Two rings went and nerves ate at him.

Before the third had finished a rough voice came over the line, "Who is this? How did you get this number?"

Izuku replied as he returned to his laptop, "Overhaul, this is Watcher. You gave a card to one of mutual contacts to get to me. It said just in case of an emergency."

There was a pause and a thoughtful silence before he replied cautiously, "I did but that was over a year ago. Why are you contact me now, Watcher?"

Izuku pulled up the current location of the fighting. Several heroes were on scene but it was not looking good for them. They needed help and Izuku as much as he wanted to couldn't risk going out there. Not yet at least.

He answered as he saw Tsukauchi arrive on scene, "Musutafu is currently under attack by a S-Rank Villain. All hands are needed to help the city."

Overhaul sucked in a surprised breath before the line went silent. Izuku assumed he was confirming the information that he gave. Normally he would applaud a hero for using their head. This was not one of the times he could do that however. There was very little time for such things.

After a moment the man asked, "Why are you contacting me for this? I have no doubt they will be contacting the Top 10s for their help. I doubt they will need me for this."

Izuku growled, "Listen to me, Overhaul. This is Quake we are talking about. The last time he was out it took nine hero teams to bring him down."

"Don't lecture me about the villain's strength, Watcher," snarled Overhaul, "Especially when I don't see you on any of the cameras."

"And what do you expect me to do?" He snarled in returned, "If you can't remember I am a vigilante not a hero. If I go out there I will be arrested."

"That's never stopped you before."

Izuku gripped the phone tighter in one hand and reached his other to touch the scar where Stain had stabbed him, "I wasn't nearly killed by Stain before. The only reason I survived was because of the help of someone who found me in an alley."

Short of killing Quake. He couldn't say that though. He couldn't let them find out how dangerous his quirk was. If it got out there would be a capture or kill order put out on him. Rare but it does happen.

"Stain," breathed the hero, "How did you survive?"

"My quirk," he said shortly, "Are you or not?"

Worry filled him as he watched the heroes currently on scene struggle. It was not going in their favor. If help didn't arrive soon they would certainly die.

"I'm on my way," he concedes finally, "But you and I are due for a conversation."

Izuku snorted, "Get in line Overhaul. If you want to speak to me you will have to find me first."

Then without another word he hung up. From there it was a nerve wracking several hours. He and Kavar coordinated the hero teams in order to keep casualties to a minimum. Not that it worked. As soon as the word villain was written they all did their own thing. Only the Undergrounders had any semblance of coordination. Honestly Izuku was sure he'd have an easier time getting two years to listen.

Because of this five heroes, all under the age of 25 were killed in action. Two more heroes in the top 50 also were killed. It tore at Izuku that even at his best and in communication with them they still died. Kavar was just as torn up about it. They had sought to protect the heroes but because only a few listened lives were lost.

The loss of heroes didn't account to the nearly 150 civilians that were killed. These were just the ones that the police were able to confirm at the time. Izuku had little doubt there would be more added to the list in the days to come. The damage to his city was immense and rubble was everywhere. It would take weeks if not months to repair all the damage.

When he had seen the body count Izuku threw his notebook across the room in frustration. He should have gone out there. Regardless of the consequences he should have been on scene helping. He was a coward.

Chapter Text

...

Mirai tiredly dropped into his chair in his office. It had been a long day and he had a feeling that it would only get worse. His head was pounding from the use of his quirk and attempted overuse. Despite knowing it was impossible he had tried and now was suffering for it.

Awata said as she entered with Juzo right behind her, "Mirai you should rest. The reports can wait until tomorrow."

Mirai shook his head and instantly regretted as white hot pain flared. A part of him wanted to reach for his headache relievers in his desk. Not that they would work on quirk use pains unfortunately.

Instead he chose to say, "I can't just leave this. We need to get everything written out while it's still fresh. I also need to check on Izuku. Where is he?"

Awata waved him off, "I sent him to one of the overnight rooms. He looked awful and figured he could use some sleep."

Mirai frowned, "What do you mean he looked awful? He was fine when we left."

"Could have been worry about you, Mirai," replied Juzo, "You haven't had much time to bond to the child. It would make sense that he might have been worried about your health from a hero stand point."

Awata shook her head as she said, "I don't think so. When I went to show him where the overnight rooms were he was staring blankly at his computer. The screen had locked before I got there but whatever he had seen it hurt him."

"Could he as Luck been working with one of the fallen heroes?" Questioned Juzo with a wince.

Mirai thought about it. In all likelihood Izuku probably had been. He vaguely remembered being suspicious of his soul child's actions when he was leaving. In the chaos of the day he had forgotten about what happened.

Izuku had frantically been typing at his computer before Mirai got the call. In the short time he had known the child he realized how calm and collected he was. It took a lot to shake that calmness.

Flashes of fear and anxiety had passed over the child's face he remembered. There were even flashes of self loathing that Mirai couldn't understand. He was only allowed to see a brief amount of the emotions as he had been called to action soon after. When the call came Izuku had met his assessing gaze coolly without the previous emotions. A child should not be able to compartmentalize their emotions like that.

He thought back to the abuse Izuku suffered. That could explain some of it but not all of it. But it didn't explain everything. He felt as if he was missing something important.

Juzo questioned, "Do we know how everyone was able to be organized so quickly? Despite all the destruction Quake made it should have been worse."

Awata added, "You're right. Quake hadn't even started his rampage when we were called up. I heard from some of the Undergrounders that they had someone coordinating in their comms. You don't think?"

Juzo denied, "It wasn't Izuku acting as Luck. I spoke to a few that said the same. There were at least two people coordinating."

"Izuku has that friend though. What's his name? K... Something."

"Kavar," murmured Mirai his golden eyes distant as he thought things over.

Something was tickling at the back of his mind. It should be his instincts screamed yet he was missing it. What was it?

Awata asked drawing him back to the conversation, "Did you know Overhaul was there?"

"Overhaul? Isn't he an Underground Hero? Isn't he in your group chat Mirai"

"Undercover speciality," mused Mirai and then it clicked, "Chisaki wouldn't have come out for just anyone. He certainly wouldn't have gotten involved in such a large scale attack. Not with his identity on the line."

"What are you saying Mirai?"

"I think I need to have a conversation with Chisaki."

...

With a bag slung over his shoulder Izuku snuck down the halls. He had timed the pacing of Centipeder so that he should have enough time to make it to the entrance. For whatever reason Mirai's sidekick was out roaming the halls. It could be nervous energy. It could be that he was ensuring Izuku didn't run away. No matter which Izuku knew he couldn't stay cooped up tonight. Kavar felt the same and they had agreed to meet in at the other's house.

Silently he slipped into the stairwell and down several flights of stairs. Halfway down he paused and listened closely. No alarms or running footsteps behind him. It seemed he was in the clear.

Still he was fast and light on his feet as he exited on the ground floor. The lobby appeared to be empty but his instincts were screaming at him. Wait they said. Something isn't right here. It was a good thing he had long since learned to listen to instincts no matter what his eyes said.

After a moment a man came out of the darkness and headed for the elevators. It took Izuku a moment to recognize the man as Chisaki Kai the Pro Hero Overhaul. He was younger looking than the young vigilante expected. If Izuku had to guess he was in his mid to late twenties.

He almost flinched away from the door when the man suddenly looked around with bright eyes. If he didn't know any better Izuku would have thought the man could sense him. That shouldn't be possible. He was hidden and no one knew that he was trying to sneak out.

Several moments passed with Overhaul watching where Izuku hid. The youth felt sweat forming on his brow. He dared not wipe it away as it may give away that there was in fact someone there. When Overhaul finally moved away he let out the breath he was holding.

Only when the elevator closed and was headed up Izuku slipped out of the stairwell and then out into the streets. He had to meet up with Kavar before Mirai or the other heroes realized he was gone.

Chapter Text

...

Carefully he pulled himself through Kavar's bedroom window. It was on the second story of a stone building. There were plenty of handholds and footholds for him to scamper up. The carpet cushioned his fall before he popped up to his feet. This wasn't the first time Izuku had snuck in nor did he think it would be the last.

Kavar turned from where he was sitting in front of his computer. On the screen were news articles about the attack from Quake's attack. His breath caught in his chest at the sight of the news articles. They were talking about the hero deaths just as he had seen earlier. No one was talking about him, as Watcher thankfully.

"I'm glad you were able to get out okay," whispered Kavar, "No one saw you?"

Izuku went to sit on the bed and replied, "No. It was a close thing though. For some reason Overhaul decided to visit Nighteye's agency. I want to avoid that man if at all possible."

Kavar's eyes narrowed as he asked, "What happened? You didn't have a problem with Overhaul before."

Izuku thought for a moment. He wasn't sure if he wanted to tell his best friend what happened. Kavar was his friend and he didn't deserve the burden. The burden that weighed heavily on his shoulders.

As if reading his thoughts Kavar asked again, "What's wrong? What aren't you telling me?"

Izuku sighed and put hands against the bed behind him. He leaned back so that half of his weight was taken on them. How to explain? Should he even try to explain? Keeping it from Kavar wasn't in either of their best interests.

Finally he looked at his friend and asked, "Do you ever wonder if what we are doing is right? Do you ever wonder if we are doing more harm than good?"

Kavar gave a full body flinch.

"What are you talking about, Izuku?" Questioned Kavar his voice cracking with emotion, "Of course what we are doing is right. More people would have died without us working as vigilantes."

"Really? What about those who died tonight? I should have been out there. Instead I stayed in Nighteye's office. I was a coward."

The last part of it was bit out. He hated that he didn't go out. That he didn't face down Quake like he had with Stain. How many lives could have been saved if he went out? How many heroes would continue their work?

Kavar stood suddenly, his blue eyes shining with his anger. He practically shouted, "What about those you've saved?! Watcher isn't a hero who cares about income or quirk. Watcher saves everyone who needs him. Isn't that what you told me when you decided to be a vigilante?"

Izuku's jaw hung open. Kavar had rarely been so passionate about anything. Thanks to his quirk Kavar was normally calm and dispassionate. Why was this causing such turmoil in his friend? He honestly thought Kavar would agree with him not to argue with him.

Kavar continued not hindered by Izuku's lack of answer, "You can't give up Izuku! South Side would not survive without you. Without us!"

Dryly Izuku muttered, "They survived without us before. Besides it's only once a month patrols. What good can that really do?"

Kavar's jaw worked with his anger. Suddenly in a burst of movement Kavar slammed his hand into the wall. His hand went straight through the wall. Izuku jumped to his feet instinct causing him to be ready for a fight. Below them in the bedroom on the first floor there was movement. They could hear one of the parents moving about and grumbling due to the noise. Neither boy noticed however as they stared at each other. Green and blue eyes clashed neither willing to back down.

There was a knock on the door and a male voice called through, "Kavar? Is everything okay?"

Kavar gritted out, "It's fine, Dad. Izuku came to visit."

There was a pause from the other side of the door before Mr. Karasu asked, "Will Izuku be staying for the night?"

Kavar glanced at Izuku the anger still simmering in his eyes.

Izuku answered keeping his voice level, "No sir. I'll be heading home soon."

There was another pause before Mr. Karasu said, "Okay boys. Try not to stay up too late."

With that there were retreating footsteps and the two waited several moments till they faced each other again. Silence reigned between them. Izuku felt cold. This was his best friend. They had known each other for years. There had been arguments between them. The most recent had been his decision to go after Stain. Kavar hadn't wanted him to go after Stain. While it was understandable he knew what had to be done.

That was a reminder. There were things that had to be done. Heroes refused to patrol the South Side. It was seen as the rank side of the city. Few if any outside of those who lived there cared. He understood where his friend was coming from.

All of the tension released from his muscles and he collapsed back onto the bed. Kavar sighed and moved across the room. They didn't say anything as they stayed like that. His friend was just standing there looking at him with exhaustion in his eyes. Izuku laid out on his back looking at the ceiling wondering what he should do now.

...

Mirai rubbed at his face. It was a long day and it was going to be an even longer night. Overhaul was here. What he said bothered the older hero. The vigilante Watcher someone who looked after Musutafu had tried to organize the heroes. He even went so far as to contact an Undercover Hero.

No one knew who the vigilante was. Few had even seen them. Even Mirai had considered them to be nothing more than an urban legend. Until the night that Stain and Watcher faced off. Best Jeanist a well respected hero had not only seen but talked to Watcher. A report which he now had brought up on his computer.

File name: Vigilante of South Side

Alias: Watcher

Real Name: Unknown

Age:16-25

Quirk: Luck: Can steal the good luck of anyone he touches. Unverified. Comes from Stain and a hero as witness but as said by the vigilante.

Description: 5 feet 3 inches. Lean in muscle. Dark curly hair just seen below hood green eyes. Hoodie and cargo pants are preferred clothes with cloth face covering.

Weapons: Knives

There was a list of cases sorted from earliest known cases to newest. Most of the man or boy's early work was on a computer. Files, encrypted and untraceable sent to police. The level of accuracy was extraordinary and made people want to believe it was a retired pro. Unfortunately there was no proof to this theory and was disproven when he started doing work on the actual streets.

So little was known about this vigilante. Mirai had his doubts about the authenticity of his quirk. Never before had there been such a quirk. He doubted such a thing could exist. Instead he thought it was just a way to keep Jeanist from chasing him.

There was a knock on his office door and before he could say anything Awata entered. She was pale. Mirai stood his brow furrowing with confusion. Overhaul gave her a raised eyebrow but didn't say anything.

She declared before he could ask what was wrong, "Izuku is gone."

Chapter Text

...

Mirai stared at the overnight room that Izuku was supposed to be in. Fear and uncertainty filled him. Did Izuku run away because of him? Was this his fault?

There wasn't anything out of the ordinary about the room. Izuku's bag though was gone. Which meant he either didn't expect to come back or he expected back to be back before his absence was noticed.

Awata stated as she closed the desk, "He left his phone here but his computer is gone. Where could he have gone?"

Mirai considered what he knew of Izuku. It wasn't much as they had only met a few days before. What he did know of Izuku was that he was a skilled analyst. He along with a friend regularly worked with heroes and the police. He wouldn't have left his phone behind if he didn't plan on coming back. So that at least was something. Wait.

"What do you know of the other members of Luck?" He questioned, "The friend that he works with?"

She thought about it for a moment before she answered, "Kavar Karasu is the friend's name if I remember correctly. Izuku spoke of him once when I asked what he was working on."

Kavar Karasu. That sounded right but he felt as if there was more to it. Why would Izuku feel the need to leave and go to his friend?

Everything about the day had been full of questions and mysteries. Mirai had noticed how stiff Izuku was before the call had gone out about Quake. The fear and uncertainty in his eyes was clear. He had furiously typed on his computer much like a commander would.

"Any luck on finding him?" Came the questioning voice of Chisaki.

"No," commented Mirai frowning deeply at the room, "One would think that I've taken care of an intern for the last two years and I'd be prepared for Izuku. But...

Chisaki laughed, "No amount of interns prepare you for having your own soulchild stay with you. They will meet and exceed any expectations you expect. They will also cause you more headaches than any villains you came across."

Mirai stared at the man trying to comprehend his words. Then he remembered and said, "That's right. You have a little girl don't you? Eri, if I remember correctly."

Chisaki sobered up for a moment and he answered, "That's right. Eri is my soulchild and I adopted her a year ago."

There was something about that, that he wasn't saying. Just like he wasn't was too. It wasn't his place to tell of Izuku's past and the abuse of his mother. Juzo appeared in the doorway with his phone in his hand.

"Mirai," he called out, "I found Izuku. He is in Musutafu with Kavar Karasu."

"Facial recognition program?" He questioned.

Juzo looked away in embarrassment as he replied, "Actually I didn't get a hit on mine but I sent one to Tsunagu's agency with a message explaining the situation."

Oh that wasn't good. Tsunagu would not be happy about him losing Izuku. He had the feeling that he was going to get an earful. Still they had a location on Izuku so that meant he could pick up his wayward child.

Then he ordered, "Send me the address. I'll go get Izuku from his friend's house."

...

Tiredly Kavar rubbed at his eyes. Izuku watched him with a knowing expression. He was feeling the same bone deep exhaustion that Izuku was.

"So that's what happened," Kavar whispered, "Izuku we can't just give on vigilante activities. If we did then those that count on us would fall. Even if we only go out once a month there are people who count on our online activities."

Izuku's shoulders slumped as he said, "Your right about that. I just don't want more people to get hurt because they don't listen to us."

"I know what you mean, Izuku," sighed Kavar his blue eyes shining with unshed tears, "They needed help but they ignored our advice given that we were just vigilantes in their eyes. If it had been coming from Tsukauchi or Eraserhead they probably would have listened. Coming straight from us. It was seen as useless advice. There is no use in focusing on this however."

Izuku rubbed a hand down his face. It was exhausting to talk about this. Kavar was right through. What was done was done. They couldn't change the past. All they could do was keep moving forward. Something must have shifted in the way he was sitting for Kavar's eyes brightened.

He declared, "There's my best friend back. That look in your eyes was the same one that you wore when you declared you would be a vigilante. I thought you had lost your damn mind at first. Even when you explained it I didn't think it would work. But we have worked hard for our place in this world."

Their place in the world huh? He wasn't sure what exactly his place in this world was. Was it as a hero? Or was it as a vigilante?

There was the sound of tires on asphalt outside. Someone was outside. Danger? In an instant both Izuku and Kavar were on their feet and rushing to the window. On the street in front of the Karasu house was a car. Was that... Was that Mirai's car?

"Izuku," questioned Kavar with a slightly exasperated look, "Isn't that Sir Nighteye's car? What is he doing here?"

"Uhhhhh," Izuku tried rubbing at his cheek nervously, "Sorry I may have left his agency without saying anything to him. But how the fuck did he find me?"

Izuku felt a sense of dread overtake him when the driver's side door to the car opened. Mirai still in his suit stepped out and looked at the house with a critical eye. He didn't understand why Mirai had come looking for him? It wasn't like he was known for running away. Wouldn't it make more sense for him to wait for Izuku to return and yell at him then?

Suddenly Mirai looked up at them with sharp golden eyes. He flinched back at the unknown in those eyes. Maybe he would be better off running and coming back when Mirai was calmer.

"Not a chance," said Kavar carefully grabbing his shoulders so that no skin made contact, "Time to face the music. Let's go see Sir Nighteye then."

"Wait..." Izuku tried, "No Kavar. He's angry. At least give him time to calm down."

"I think not."

He was shoved towards the door only stopping to grab his pack and then down the stairs. They went down the stairs where Kavar's dad was waiting. There was a flash of amusement in his blue eyes.

Kensai Karasu was the man's name. He was 40 years old and a psychiatrist who specialized in helping those who suffered from PTSD. Standing at just under six feet tall he had brown hair and blue eyes that were darker than Kavar's. His quirk was an area effective calming quirk that could be turned off and on at Kensai's discretion.

Kensai asked, "Did you not tell your soulparents where you were going? Izuku, you are always welcome in my house but please don't have heroes breaking down my door looking for you."

"My apologies, Mr. Karasu," apologized Izuku with a bow, "I needed to talk to Kavar and it wasn't a conversation that could be had over the phone."

"Just warn someone next time, Izuku," he replied waving off the apology.

Just in time for a knock to sound on the door causing them to jump. Time to face the music then. Izuku swallowed nervously unsure if he was truly ready to see his guardian again. Kavar handed him the bag with a grin and a nod towards the door. Apparently he wasn't getting out of this one.

Izuku opened the door and found Mirai standing there. His golden eyes showed an emotion that Izuku couldn't identify.

"Sorry, Mirai," he apologized sincerely, "I didn't expect you to find out I was gone. I just needed another perspective."

The look sharpened and there was a spike of fear in his gut. His foot slipped back ready to run in case he was attacked. Mirai dropped into a crouch before him and grabbed him by his shoulder. A stunned Izuku was pulled into a tight hug.

"Don't do that to me again, Izuku," the man whispered his voice tight with pain, "I was so worried about you. Next time if you decide to head off on your own tell someone. For my sake Izuku."

Cautiously Izuku wrapped his arms back around Mirai. He whispered into the man's chest, "I'm sorry, Mirai."

Chapter Text

...

Vigilante Watch:

Purpleinsomniac: Did you guys see where Watcher was said to be helping the heroes yesterday?

Crimisonrocks: Wait Watcher was on scene? Wouldn't the heroes arrest him since he is a vigilante?

Zero: He wasn't on scene. He hacked the communications to communicate with the heroes. If he had been onsite I'm positive there would have been less casualties. 

Unknown: Are you serious, Zero? If anything more heroes would have died if they had listened to Watcher. The little freak probably got those heroes killer! 

Purpleinsomniac: Okay who the fuck let the troll back in? The mods kicked him out last time. 

Unknown: You will never get rid of me!

Zero kicks Unknown from Vigilante Watch

Zero: There I have banned him. 

Purpleinsomniac: Good. Thank you Zero.

Zero: Anytime. Watcher is a good man despite what he's doing is illegal. 

Crimisonrocks: Sounds like you approve and don't approve. 

Zero: No comment. 

Purpleinsomniac: You're an odd one, Zero. 

Zero: Pot meet kettle. 

...

The following morning found Izuku sipping coffee in Mirai's office. The bitter taste was slowly waking him up as he read through the forums. Neither of them had gone home the previous night. There was too much work for Mirai to do and he didn't want Izuku to disappear again. Izuku didn't blame his soulparent he can and would disappear if it became necessary. The idea came up between him and Kavar and where he would go. Dagobah beach was the closest option from the house he shared with his mother. 

A knock on the office door caused both vigilante and hero look up. Izuku felt the blood drain from his face when Chisaki entered. Why was this guy back? 

Chisaki glanced at Izuku coolly and said to Mirai, "I see you found your kid. Do you have your report? The Undergrounders want to get together and discuss the," he glanced at Izuku, "Vigilante situation."

A shiver ran down his spine. Did he know? No that was impossible. Izuku covered his tracks the only person who would be able to track him was Nezu. There was a reason he avoided the rat the last thing he wanted was that kind of attention. 

Mirai stood from behind his desk and picked up a folder. He gave Izuku a look and ordered, "Don't leave my office. I'll be right back."

"I won't," promised Izuku. 

There was a long look from the man. He had the sudden childish urge to stick his tongue out at his soulparent. Barely he was able to stop himself from doing so and Mirai left the room. Once it was safe to do so he checked the city's cameras and his programs.

A few low level villains and criminals appeared and he added them to notes. He would make real notes when he was sure Mirai wouldn't re-enter and look over his shoulder. A check was given of the forums and news. What he found surprised him. 

News sources were up in arms about him. Only recently aware of Watcher's existence they were now wanting to know more. They wanted to know about the vigilante who went after Stain and tried to help the heroes against Kage. They were discussing the possibilities of his quirk and why he wasn't in hero school. 

That made Izuku snort. No one would ever guess that Watcher was just a teenager. The only person who knew besides Kavar was that boy Shinsou. He wondered if they would ever meet again. Unlikely unless Shinsou went to UA. Then again his soulparent was Present Mic. 

The vigilante watch forums were interesting. Apparently he inspired a few older vigilantes to come out of retirement. Noise had returned which was interesting. Izuku had met him a handful of times but always at a distance. He had looked after Musutafu and Hosu off and on for years. His activities had died down to next to nothing a year before Watcher appeared on scene.

Crawler also made an appearance. Which was strange Izuku could have sworn Crawler went straight years ago. Tsukauchi was going to throw a fit over this. The two had a history and hearing that an old Musutafu vigilante was back would certainly annoy the man. 

The door suddenly opened startling Izuku and causing him to jump in his chair. This made his coffee spill down his front. He swore violently and tried to clean up the coffee. Regret filled him about the loss of caffeine. 

A familiar blond came in and Izuku yelped, "Tsunagu!"

Tsunagu blinked at him and smiled, "Good morning to you too, Izuku. Did I startle you? My apologies."

Izuku waved him off as he said, "It's fine. I wasn't expecting you to walk in. What are you doing here, sir?"

Tsunagu gave him a look as he answered, "You disappeared last night. I was alerted in case you showed up at my place."

Heat rushed up his face in shame. Worrying both of his soulparents was not been his intention. Izuku had every intention of returning before his guardian knew he was gone. What he didn't expect was someone checking on him at night. No one did that after the declaration of his quirklessness. 

"I'm sorry," muttered Izuku, "I didn't expect anyone to realize I was gone. I expected to be back before morning. No one... No one has checked on me at night for a long time."

There was a wince from Tsunagu. He understood what Izuku was implying but not saying. A flash of guilt passed through his light green eyes. An echo of which filled Izuku. He didn't mean to make his soulparent feel guilty of not being there for him. It happened. It was his life. Izuku long ago had accepted his fate and now he was learning to readjust. Readjust and trust his new guardians. 

Tsunagu cocked his head to the side and said, "There is more to it," Izuku looked away unable to meet Tsunagu's gaze, "You're not going to answer me are you? It's fine for now. You have secrets and I understand that. Maybe one day you will trust us to tell them. Until then as long as it doesn't put you in danger we can wait."

Slowly Izuku nodded. While he couldn't always keep that promise he could do his best. Besides it was only once a month that he went out. 

Chapter Text

It was somewhat surprising to Izuku that Tsunagu stayed at the office with Izuku. He was sure that the man had much more important things to be doing. Or at least more important things than acting as a babysitter for a fifteen year old.

Mirai briefly returned to grab some files from the top of his desk. A quick grateful look was given to Tsunagu before he retreated back to his meeting about the vigilante. Aka Izuku and Kavar.

After half an hour of awkward silence Izuku pulled out one of his notebooks on quirks. It was one of the older ones and he wasn't sure how accurate the information was. But it was something to keep him occupied while they waited for Mirai.

"Interesting," murmured Tsunagu, "That's the notebook that has my quirk in it?"

Izuku jumped as he hadn't heard Tsunagu move to his side. The notebook fell out of his hands and onto the floor. It opened to the page on the hero's quirk.

"Are these similar to what you do as, Luck?" Questioned Tsunagu as he looked down at the book.

Izuku swallowed and answered, "Yes. I take what information is given and organize it into the most logical way. The quirk analysis is a hobby that I picked up when I was younger. This is an older notebook so I'm going over the information in it. It's not as detailed as my more recent ones."

"Interesting," murmured Tsunagu, "You seem quite dedicated to it. I have seen your work before but I haven't had the chance to look into it myself."

Izuku's chest swelled in pride. Best Jeanist thought his work was interesting. That meant something. He couldn't stop the smile from spreading across his face.

"Thank you," he managed after a moment.

The rest of the time they sat quietly. Izuku continued to work on his notebook making adjustments as needed. Tsunagu occasionally asked a question but otherwise he was quiet. It was the most peaceful time he'd had in a while.

For lunch Tsunagu went out to get food for them. It was from Italian sandwich from a shop down the road and it was delicious. They didn't eat in the room instead going to one of the break rooms. Several of the sidekicks had come in and greeted him before getting their food.

Bubblegirl ruffled his hair when she saw him and he tried to swat away her hand. The last thing he needed was her activating his quirk. Short contact wouldn't kill her but he didn't want to risk her getting hurt.

When they returned to the room it was to a very irate Mirai. It seemed the meeting had not gone the way he had wanted. He had a deep frown on his face and his brows were furrowed.

Tsunagu questioned with a tilt of his head, "I assume the meeting did not go as you wanted?"

"Overhaul was a stubborn mule. I doubt he'll ever listen to Luck," muttered Mirai, "Though I am concerned. Watchers actions were unlike anything we have seen. The coordination was unprecedented."

Tsunagu snorted as he replied, "I'm not surprised. Watcher is a highly skilled hacker. The assumption is it's due to his quirk."

It was interesting to be in a meeting about one of his personas. He wondered how they would react if they ever learned he was Watcher as well as Luck.

"Do you know anything else about Watcher's quirk? I've tried to have my own people look into it but it's too vague to really narrow down. If we had more information I would be able to have a better search."

"I'll see what I can find," promised Tsunagu, "As I'm sure you are aware we are not close. My only interaction was the night of Stain's arrest and prompt escape. Watcher is an enigma. If there is a weakness, I doubt he'd ever let it slip."

Izuku almost forgot about that. It was the same night he met Shinsou Hitoshi. That had been interesting and he hoped they would meet again.

"He has a weakness. He can't go a certain distance from his base. We know it's South Side but we haven't figured out where."

Izuku tensed at Mirai's words. He hadn't expected them to figure out that much. He had been careful.

"That would explain some of the attacks," agreed Tsunagu, "And why Watcher is able to cover that section so well. No one else will."

Tsunagu glanced at him, concern crossed his green eyes. A silent question if he was alright. He didn't understand how this hero could have figured out so much. How had he gotten that close?

"How are you able to know so much?" Questioned Mirai.

"Watcher isn't the first vigilante I've come across. Most of my interns are ones I've rescued."

That was interesting. Izuku didn't know that Tsunagu rescued vigilantes. Rescuing vigilantes was a reformation project that kept the vigilante out of jail and allowed them the opportunity to gain a hero license. It wasn't something that was widely advertised but it did happen.

"I didn't know heroes still did that," admitted Mirai.

"I do not make a big deal of it," replied Tsunagu, "I find it important for my interns to know that no matter what they are not alone. They are not the first. And they will not be the last."

"Do you know much of Watcher quirk? They are highly elusive."

"Only what I've already told you."

That was the end of that. It was good that Tsunagu hadn't shared his weakness. Izuku would need to make contact with the heroes later. Show them, they weren't the only ones that could do some ground work. Their names and agencies would be enough.

...

"I'm not surprised," snorted Chisaki as they looked at the communication with Watcher.

It was a threat without actually making a threat. He put in their real names, agencies, and preferred patrol routes. There was no mistaking what he was saying. Two could play at their games. Back off.

"You're not?" Blinked Awata.

Chisaki shook his head and said, "If Watcher is as intelligent as they say. It wouldn't take long to figure out who we are. He wouldn't make it easy on us."

"That makes sense," agreed Juzo, "Watcher is not one to take chances."

Still this was going too far.

Chapter Text

...

Izuku stared at the ceiling above him. He couldn't sleep and he wasn't sure why. Something was tickling at the back of his mind. It had been since the attack by Quake. What was it?

"Can't sleep?" Asked a familiar voice from the doorway of his room.

Izuku glanced over at where Best Jeanist was leaning against the doorway. It was strange seeing him dressed so casually. A simple pair of jeans and a white shirt. He looked like a normal person.

"Did I wake you?" Asked Izuku as he sat up.

"No. I couldn't sleep either," answered Best Jeanist, "I've never had to deal with an insomniac before. This will be a new experience."

"You don't have to keep me," murmured the teen as he turned away.

"None of that now," gently chastised Jeanist, "Of course we are going to keep you. You are our soulchild."

"You don't even know me," countered the youth.

"We may not know each other very well. But we have time to learn. Isn't that what a family is about?"

Izuku looked at the older man for several moments. He wanted to believe him. That it was okay. Could he risk it though?

"How can I know you're not just going to toss me aside when you're bored? That's what the foster system did."

Jeanist's eyes were sad as he came to sit next to him.

"Izuku, you have been hurt by many. But not all will abandon you. You have a family here with me, Mirai, and Juzo."

"You say that now," muttered the boy darkly.

"And I'll continue saying it until you believe me," insisted Jeanist and slowly he reached out a hand.

Izuku unable to stop himself flinched away from it and the hand paused. Guilt filled him for that. They were trying and he knew that. They just didn't understand. If there was prolonged contact they would die. He could not and would not risk a touch killing one of his soulparents. That would break something inside him that could never be fixed.

After a moment the hand pulled away. He let out the breath he was holding and closed his eyes. A part of him wanted them to reach out again. Another part of him wanted to be left alone. It was a confusing mixture of emotions and feelings.

"Do you want me to stay?" Asked Jeanist softly and it made his heart clench.

Izuku was silent and after several long minutes he answered, "If you want. I'm not going to be sleeping tonight."

...

Despite Izuku's declaration that he wasn't going to sleep that night he ended up dozing around three am. Tsunagu fondly smiled down at the sleeping child.

It took some gentle and careful maneuvering to pull the blankets out and cover him. The boy stirred once as the blanket was draped over his body but then settled. Carefully he reached out a hand and ran a hand through the curls. They were soft and the young teen leaned into the touch.

He had a feeling that they would have a long and difficult road ahead of them. But Tsunagu and the others were willing to go down that road.

In the morning, Tsukauchi and Eraserhead were going to tell Izuku about the soulmate marks. He wasn't sure how that was going to go. Izuku was still so careful about how he acted around Mirai and him. Trust was slow coming and the child still had many secrets. He hoped that would change.

Gently he carded his fingers through the curls. Izuku sighed contently in his sleep and curled up closer to the hand. Warmth bloomed in his chest at the sight.

This was his son. He wasn't going to leave him. No matter what.

...

Naomasa fidgeted nervously in his chair. He and Shouta were waiting on Tsunagu and Mirai to arrive with Izuku. This was something that needed to be told before it came out accidentally. They had already informed a select few trusted allies.

A small part of him had hoped they could avoid telling the kid for a bit longer. That hope was dashed by the attack on Musutafu by Quake. He wasn't the first villain to attack the city nor would he be the last. However it was the first time that it had been on this level. It was the first time that so many heroes were killed in action.

They were painfully reminded that tomorrow was never a given in their line of work. If they didn't say something now there was a chance that they might not get the chance to. That was something neither wanted to happen.

Izuku was a good kid. Naomasa didn't want him to learn his soulmates died because of a mistake. If they could avoid that they would. Mirai and Tsunagu agreed with the sentiment.

Shouta sat next to him watching the clock on the wall. He was nervous as well. Despite what most would think he had a soft spot for children. When it came to the ones who were his students he had a soft spot a mile wide.

The door opened revealing Sir Nighteye and Best Jeanist. Izuku followed in behind them, his green eyes darted around the room and took everything in. His face was blank and expressionless.

Izuku sat down at the table with his soulparent on one side and Shouta on the other. His shoulders were stiff and the look he gave Naomasa was suspicious. It was a stark contrast from the smiling and relaxed kid from a few days ago.

"Why are we here?" He asked his tone hard and suspicious.

Shouta frowned at the boy and answered, "Because there is something we need to tell you. We would have done so earlier but we wanted to give you the chance to settle in first."

Green eyes jumped between the two adults across from him. Then to the windows and and door as if considering his chance at running. Naomasa wondered what the kid was thinking. Did he consider the window as an option or would he use the door?

"Okay," finally murmured the teen, "What is it?"

"It's about your soulmates."

The reaction was instantaneous. He flinched and his hands tightened on his knees. The teen was terrified and unsure of what to expect. Naomasa hated that his kid would feel like that.

"Is there something wrong with them? Are they..."

He trailed off and Naomasa couldn't take the pain in his eyes. The idea that his soulmates were dead and he hadn't known. It would be an unbearable weight.

"No, they are fine," answered Tsukauchi, "I can assure you that. We wanted to wait to tell you about them until you settled in."

"Oh," whispered the kid, "Then what is it?"

Shouta rubbed the back of his neck as he explained, "We are your soulmates, Midoriya. Naomasa and I."

"Soulmates? Both of you are my soulmates?"

Both nodded. Naomasa watched as the child's brow furrowed in thought. Then his eyes widened and he looked between them.

"But..."

"It's not impossible. Rare yes. But not unheard of," Shouta cut in.

Izuku blinked slowly and whispered, "Oh."

"I know this is a lot to take in, kiddo. And we understand that. If you need some time, we will give you that. Nothing will happen until you're older and ready but we would like to get to know you."

Naomasa wanted to reach out and comfort the kid. It was a natural instinct but the knowledge of how he had been treated kept him from doing so. Mirai and Tsunagu both indicated Izuku didn't react well to being touched.

"Are you..."

The question was quiet and almost timid. Something Naomasa never associated with the teen.

"Yes. We're not upset and we will wait for you."

Slowly Izuku nodded. Naomasa's chest hurt when he saw tears fill his eyes. There was something deeper here and he wished the kid would tell him, but he also respected the privacy the kid demanded. So for now he wouldn't comment.

Chapter Text

...

Izuku felt numb. It wasn't a foreign sensation. But it had been a while since he had last felt like this. The revelation that not only did he have soulmates, but that his soulmates were Shouta and Tsukauchi. That they wanted him. Maybe.

It didn't help the turmoil of his emotions. On one hand, it was a dream come true. His childhood wish had been to meet his soulmates and have a large happy family. The other side was fear. How would they treat him when they learned about his quirk?

There was no if, they would learn about his quirk. It was a matter of when. It wasn't something that could be hidden. The fact his guardians and heroes didn't already knew was a miracle.

The adults shared a worried look.

Tsukauchi said softly, "It's a lot, kiddo. Take your time."

He was right. It was a lot and the implications. What it meant for the future and their relationships. He wasn't even sure he wanted a relationship.

His quirk would forever make him a danger to them. It would be better to push them away and reject the bond. That way he couldn't accidentally kill his soulmates.

Izuku couldn't speak and he shook his head. Words failed him and no amount of pushing would move his tongue.

"Maybe this is too soon," admitted Jeanist, "You've had a difficult time recently. Give yourself time and the news will sink in. Then you can decide if you want to explore the soulbond or not. Whatever you choose will be respected."

Tsukauchi and Shouta looked surprised but not displeased. Their acceptance was humbling and he didn't understand it. Why did these adults care about him?

If they knew about his quirk. They would see him as the monster that he was. That was an undeniable truth. He was a freak.

"Kid?" Questioned Aizawa, "We aren't asking you to form the bond now. Just to give us the chance to get to know you."

He should refuse. Should turn away the offer. Push them away. Protect them from his curse.

Izuku didn't have the words to express his fears. Or the ability to do so. He was broken and a freak.

"Izuku," called Mirai gently, "I know this is a shock. You're safe here. Whatever choice you make will be accepted."

Safe. Here he was safe. The word was almost foreign. Still Tsunagu and Mirai had yet to lie to him. They weren't cruel or malicious.

He could trust. Right?

"Do you want me?" Questioned the boy unable to stop the doubt.

"Yes," assured Shouta, "We don't care about your quirk or lack thereof. Only you, Midoriya."

What would they do if they realized he killed when it first came in? If they learned his real quirk. The terror gripped his heart and lungs. It was difficult to breathe.

"Can I have time?" Asked the teenager quietly, "This is a lot to take in."

"Of course," agreed Jeanist, "Take as much time as you need. Just remember, we're here for you."

"Thank you."

...

Shouta watched the teen leave the room. He wasn't surprised at the reaction. Learning that he had not just one, but two soulmates was a big deal. Given Naomasa's profession and the fact he was working Izuku's case against his mother. It wasn't a stretch that the teen was afraid of his feelings being taken advantage of.

That had not been his intention. Telling him about the marks now rather than later had been a decision he and Naomasa made. One they had argued and deliberated over.

Seeing fear made Shouta pause though. It was as if he was expecting the worst from them. The look had been reminiscent of a feral animal backed into a corner. Ready to bite and scratch.

"I should go talk to him," sighed Mirai as he stood.

Jeanist grabbed his wrist and said, "I wouldn't advise it."

"But..."

"He needs space. Everything has been too much for him," admitted Tsunagu, "It's only been a couple of weeks since we took over his guardianship. We don't exactly have his trust right now either."

All four men knew that Izuku was hiding something. No one wanted to push him but it was obvious. Whatever he was hiding they were sure Kavar was in on whatever it was.

"Shouldn't someone keep an eye on him?" Suggested Shouta.

"Normally I would agree," started Tsunagu, "However I believe this is different. This is a huge life changing event for the boy. He doesn't know where to turn. Who can he trust with his secrets and who is going to try and manipulate him? It's a hard pill to swallow and I am not looking forward to when he decides to open up. Whatever is haunting him will not be a pretty tale."

A wince crossed Mirai's face and Shouta couldn't blame him.

"We've waited so long though. I was hoping..." said Naomasa suddenly.

"That he would be excited? Not scared," finished Jeanist, "Yes, I did too. Right now all we can do is give him time and space. My plan is to get him in therapy. I know someone."

"A psychologist?" Checked Shouta.

"Yes, one who specializes in traumatized children and post traumatic stress. I think it's the best course of action. For everyone involved."

"Have you talked to Izuku about it yet?" Questioned Shouta sharply.

He knew better than anyone forcing therapy on someone wouldn't work. A person has to want to be there. Otherwise the healing can't begin.

"Not yet," admitted Jeanist, "I planned to over dinner tomorrow. After his doctor appointment."

"Doctor appointment?" Repeated Tsukauchi, "Where are you taking him?"

"Just his physical. His primary hasn't seen him in a while. They will have updated medical files for him. I was going to request copies."

An hour passed before Izuku returned. His hands were clenched tightly at his sides.

"Are you okay?" Asked Shouta concerned.

"No. But I'm better than earlier. Can... can you give me your numbers?"

Surprise flickered through him but Shouta didn't let it show.

"Sure," he agreed cautiously.

They pulled out their phones and traded phone numbers. The teen's hands were shaking as he did so.

"Thanks," murmured the teen.

"Anytime," replied Tsukauchi, "You can text or call whenever. Even if it's three in the morning."

"Really?" He sounded incredulous and didn't that hurt.

Shouta instinctively reached out a hand going to ruffle the kid's hair. The effect was instant. Izuku flinched heavily away from him and his leg was caught on the side of the coffee table. Naomasa reached out catching the kid's arm just as the sleeve came up.

Izuku shrieked as if burned, "Don't touch me! Please!"

Then the kid yanked his arm free. Contact only lasted a handful of seconds. Shouta blinked at the panicked kid. The look was haunted.

Naomasa raised his hands in a sign of surrender. He shared a look with Shouta and the thought entered both of their minds. Touch adversion?

"Hey, kid, easy," soothed the underground hero, "Calm down. You're alright."

The greenette seemed to shrink into himself and he muttered, "Please, don't. Don't. Don't."

"Don't what?" Asked Jeanist.

"Touch me," whined the child.

"Okay," replied Jeanist, "We won't touch you. I'm going to call my doctor. See if they have an opening."

Izuku's gaze flickered up to him then to his phone. Shhh it's okay."

Slowly the tension drained out of the boy and his breathing began to slow. Shouta had never seen him this freaked. Not even after his encounter with Quake.

"Good," encouraged Jeanist, "In and out. You're safe here."

Izuku closed his eyes and leaned back against the chair. The panic attack had been an intense one. It left him exhausted.

"You're safe, Izu. No one is going to hurt you."

A whimper escaped the teen as he opened his eyes. There were wet with unshed tears.

"What's wrong?" Murmured the hero, "What caused the reaction?"

"Touching," answered the kid and his voice broke, "Contact is dangerous. No one can touch me. Ever."

That was ominous. But they couldn't argue with his wishes so they agreed.

Chapter Text

...

Mirai was worried about Izuku. After the meeting with Tsukauchi and Aizawa, he had locked himself in his room and refused to come out again. At first the man was willing to let him have some space. Now it was concerning him. Izuku needed to eat. Also it was a bit worrying to have the kid shut down like that. He was afraid to talk about the outburst or what he'd meant by it contact was dangerous. There was a knock on his door and Mirai looked up from his paperwork to see Tsunagu standing in the doorway of his office.

"How is Izuku?" He asked curiously.

"Unwilling to leave his room," sighed the younger man, "He's refusing to speak to me or answer his phone. Any advice?"

"Let me go talk to him," said Tsunagu with a sigh.

"Thank you," he sighed in relief.

It wasn't that he didn't want to handle the situation. Far from it. But the teen would not listen to him and he was getting nowhere. Perhaps a different face would help the situation. Maybe not but it wouldn't hurt to try.

...

Izuku ran a hand down his face as put his phone down. Mirai was calling him again. He wasn't sure what to say to the man. How did you explain to your soulparent that simply touching someone could kill them? That you had already killed someone without meaning to? Would they believe him or would they think the worst of him? Not to mention it would be the final clue they would need to put together that he was the vigilante Watcher.

There was a knock at the door and Izuku winced. He didn't answer and the door slowly opened. Tsunagu stepped through and gave him a concered look. The blond was dressed in his casual clothes, no suit or hero gear on him. Izuku barely blinked at him before looking away. He just clutched his pillow tighter. What did his guardian want?

"Can I come in?" He asked gently, "We should probably have a chat."

"Is that a question or a demand?" Countered Izuku sullenly.

"I'm not demanding anything, Izuku," chided Tsunagu lightly, "However we do need to discuss last night."

Izuku squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head. That earned him a sigh from Tsunagu and the sound of him walking across the room. Then the mattress dipped as a new weight settled on the edge. Still, Izuku remained silent, unwilling to meet the other's gaze. He sensed the man reaching for him and moved away before he could touch Izuku. There was a pause and the hand was lowered.

"Do you not trust us, Izuku?" Questioned the man without any heat or judgement.

There was pain in the question though. Something that made the boy cringe and curl further in on himself. Guilt ate at him. He didn't mean to hurt them. But he couldn't tell them the truth either. Not until he was sure they weren't going to send him to jail.

"Or is it something else?" asked Tsunagu with more understanding than he expected, "How about I take a guess?"

Again there was no response. Though this time Izuku turned to look at his guardian. It earned him a soft look and a small smile. As if Tsunagu was pleased that he finally got the teen's attention. Or maybe that his charge was no longer hiding behind his pillow. Either way, the man was patient. More so that many others would have been.

Tsunagu leaned back and continued, "You are not used to physical affection. Anytime someone has tried to initiate it you've had a bad reaction. You aren't even aware of it, are you? And now, you are trying to distance yourself from the idea of a relationship in general. You also don't trust anyone easily though you try to hide it so not to hurt us. Am I on the right track, Izuku?"

For a long moment, the teenager was silent. Processing. Then slowly he nodded. It was true, every word of it. But how did Tsunagu know that? Had he been watching him that closely? Was he really that obvious to read?

"It's okay," reassured his soulparent, "We are not mad or upset. We understand that you are wary and have a hard time trusting us. I think I have worked out at least part of the issue. By your official records, you don't have a quirk but that's not true. Your quirk is a touch based one and a rather strong one at that. One that could potentially harm or kill someone if not monitored. The reason why you are afraid to touch or be touched is because of that fear. Am I wrong, Izuku?"

A sharp intake of breath was the only sound the teen made. Instinct had him lunging away from Tsunagu. Almost falling off the bed in his haste to get away from the older male. His words echoed in the back of Izuku's mind. Those green eyes were wide and fearful. Betrayal and a sense of violation filled him and he bolted. Running from the apartment and ignoring Tsunagu's calls.

...

The slamming of the front door startled Mirai. He frowned. What was going on? Looking up from his laptop he noticed a grim looking Tsunagu. Instantly his frown deepened. This was not what he had hoped would happen. He had wanted the kid to open up not to have an anxiety attack and run away.

"What happened, Tsunagu?" He demanded.

"I have figured out the problem," explained the man, "Or at least part of it."

"That doesn't explain why you are here and Izuku is not," pointed out Mirai, "Or why he just ran out the door. What happened?"

"Up until this point we'd been under the assumption that his records were correct," stated Tsunagu like it was the most obvious thing in the world, Mirai just blinked at him, "We assumed that Izuku was quirkless because of his records. The more I thought about it though, the more that didn't make any sense."

It took Mirai several long seconds to put it together. He was a fucking idiot!

Chapter Text

...

Izuku panted heavily as he sat on the side of the roof of the building. He hadn't stopped running until his chest burned. Then he climbed up to the rooftops where he'd be safer. Where no one could find him. At least not easily. His phone vibrated in his pocket. A quick glance showed it was from Best Jeanist. He didn't answer. Instead, he slid down sit on the rooftop.

A shuddering breath escaped him. He was terrified of his guardians and the repercussions. What would they do now that they knew? Hell what would Tsukauchi do? It was illegal to lie about one's quirks? Hell it was a bigger offense than being a vigilante. So much was going on. Izuku's head was spinning. First, there was the meeting of his soulmates, then his revelation of his quirk. He couldn't do this.

Suddenly the air around him changed and his head snapped up. Red eyes met purple and his heart sank. Aizawa was staring him down. And judging from the expression he wasn't happy. Had his guardian told him everything or just what he suspected?

"Hey kid," greeted the hero giving him a small smile, "You good?"

"No," whispered the teen, "No, I'm not."

Aizawa reached a hand forward. To comfort him or pull him into a hug, Izuku wasn't sure. But he flinched violently away from the attempted touch. He hesitated then he went over to the opposite wall and slid down. He was close enough to provide comfort but also giving the space he needed. Izuku was thankful to the hero for that. He wasn't sure what he would do without that little bit of compassion from the underground hero.

"You wanna talk about it?" Asked the pro.

"Not particularly," refused Izuku immediately and Aizawa didn't seem offended.

"I'm not gonna to push you," promised the man, "But if you want to talk, you can. I haven't talked to your guardians but I did see you run out of Nighteye's house."

He was quiet. Unsure of how to process the knowledge. So, the pros didn't know. That was something at least. Made him feel a little better, a little less trapped. Still, it wasn't a lot. Eventually, the cat would come out of the bag and his life would be flipped on its head again. He was so tired of everything changing. 

"Kid," started the hero, "Whatever is wrong, whatever is bothering you. We can fix it. You're not alone anymore."

That sounded nice. It would be easy to believe the words coming from the older male. However, Izuku wasn't that naive. People always lied. Even if they didn't mean to. Good intentions didn't stop the fact that things would get worse before they would ever improve. He should probably go to Kavar's house. Things were generally better after speaking to his best friend.

...

Shouta watched the kid close himself off sighed. Whatever had the kid upset had to be bad. The problem was figuring out how to help him when he didn't want to talk. He didn't want to spook the kid further than what either Tsunagu or Mirai had done that caused him to run out of the house. He was going to have a chat about that with the pair. They needed to communicate and work together for the sake of the kid. 

"Kid," called the hero and those haunted green eyes turned to him, "Are you hungry?"

"Yes," answered the boy his tone was cautious, like he was expecting a trap.

"There's a cafe a couple of blocks away," offered Shouta, "How does lunch sound? My treat."

There was no response. Just an intense stare that reminded him of Nezu when the other couldn't figure something out. Finally the teen seemed to reach a decision and slowly stood. Shouta gave him an approving smile. It was progress. So he turned to lead the kid towards the cafe and giving the kid his back as a show of trust. He was rewarded by the soft sound of the teenager following him. For a while nothing was said. Neither wanting to break the delicate peace that had been established.

As they entered the cafe and found a table. Izuku made sure he was facing the door and could see everyone who came in. Something that didn't surprise Shouta. He was used to the behavior of traumatized people. Shouta, himself was reluctant to put his back to the door but if it made the kid feel better he'd suck it up. 

"Here," spoke the hero as he pushed the menu in front of him, "Order anything you'd like, kid. Don't worry about the cost, I can afford it."

"You don't have to..." started Izuku only to trail off.

"Of course I don't," agreed Shouta with a teasing smile, "But I want to. Just get whatever you want."

Slowly the teen nodded and turned to look at the menu. After a few moments, their server arrived and they both ordered. Then they were alone again. This time the tension wasn't quite as tense. Shouta kept his body language relaxed and unassuming. The kid mirrored his body language almost instinctively. 

"When was the last time you ate something, Problem Child?" Asked the pro quietly.

"After the meeting," admitted Izuku and Shouta winced. 

"You haven't eaten since then?" He asked a little incredulously, "Kid that was nearly two days ago. No wonder your stomach is growling."

The kid's stomach chose that moment to growl again. Earning a blush from the teen. There was no arguing from the younger. Shouta's phone chose that moment to buzz and he checked it. 

Nao: Izuku is missing. Tsunagu said something that spooked him. 

Shouta: I'm with him. 

Nao: What?!

Shouta: We're having a late lunch. Don't worry, the problem child is fine. 

When he looked up he found Izuku eyeing him warily. There was no doubt in his mind that the kid was suspicious of him. So he showed him the message. Which got him a blink and then nodded to himself. Seemingly reassured that the man was telling the truth. Their food was brought and neither spoke. Though it was a comfortable silence.