Chapter 2 – Paths Diverge

Chapter 2 – Paths Diverge

"Okay… one more time…"

I uttered to myself to calm my mind, taking in deep breaths while I focused back to practicing.

Three years passed since my Quirk manifested, going to extensive training since then. Being granted such an amazing power, made sure to take all options into consideration. After one-hundred percent confirming that my Quirk indeed was an Osmosian power set, I started recollecting the Ben 10 franchise to the best of my ability. It may have appeared simple, but there were layers that needed to be tested out for sure.

Safe to say, after I caused a power outage to ourselves and almost the whole block, I had my answer.

As well as an extensive schooling of not never doing this in the house ever again.

After confirming it, I went wild.

Going to the doctor, I, of course, had to lie to keep all my cards hidden. If by chance I blurted out that I can take anything and everything, I'd be in major hot water, so I would rather avoid that. With how I explained it, and being well aware of what things to leave out, I essentially got off with it being stated I have a Copy Quirk. Most Quirks see major and drastic developments the older the person gets, so an accurate measurement of my ability was difficult. In my book, it was a good deal for the time being.

I'd say the first few months of training were the most difficult. If I would touch something, even by accident, I would absorb it, whether I wanted to or not. The best (as well as the worst) way of describing it was like living without taking a breath of air, countless sessions spent controlling and micromanaging my absorption so it got to a point where I could freely choose to do it.

I started with small wooden and metallic objects, realizing what amount I need to do to achieve certain levels of my body changing to that property. Due to my growing nature, I was able to achieve full body absorption after quite some time, since my body wasn't that big, plus I took it at a steady pace along the way. It was a strain on my maturing body, but it was worth it.

There were some properties that were more difficult while some were easier. I was set on going over all of them, just to get acquainted with the feel of it so I wouldn't have any issue with them. Next up on the list were tools. Kevin would easily make weapons and tools that fit his need, seemingly without a problem if I may add.

By that point, I mostly narrowed it down to imagination, determination and will, fully morphing your hand into a different structured object was tedious. Our garage was filled to the brim with car parts and keyholes that made for perfect training tools, with dad helping me create make-shift objects to advance my training.

While on that topic, dad taught me quite a bit of his field of work.

I started helping him out whenever he would tinker with the car in the garage, with him teaching me what individual part serves what purpose and the method needed to fix a given issue. With the help of my Quirk, we were able to achieve unorthodox methods of fixing numerous issues, which I found quite fun yet rather interesting. If anything, I made a decision right then and there.

I will personally build my own dream car in the future.

Dad will help out, of course. Wouldn't want to do it any other way.

I learned some other abilities I didn't take into account, Energy Absorption for higher physical feats. I theorized that my enhanced capabilities would put me at least at peak human physicality, probably a few levels of being a Super-Soldier, I could boost it further.

First off, it would be necessary to distribute all that energy throughout my body, after learning that, it would consist of micromanaging if I would want more to grant higher results. It was a pain, but I knew the importance of it, so I just kept going at it until I at least scratched the surface of it.

It didn't come without its costs though.

It may have been that I was still young and growing, but taking large quantities would result in minor fatigue that would increase over time. Naturally, I tested it so I knew my limits and how to further

Having Energy Absorption, I was eager to figure out how to properly utilize it, as well as not to cause another power outage. There were so many attacks and moves to create with it, while learning how to store it in for future use. The best way of describing the sensation was like I had a second stomach, slowly filling up until I reached my limit. After each use, I would manage to increase it ever so slightly, but it still needed a lot of practice.

I learned two important lessons while training. Firstly, consecutive and irresponsible use would cause side effects such as fatigue and muscle strain, it can be prevented but precision was necessary for that. Improving my stamina and staying in shape.

Secondly, it was way more difficult to accurately discharge it and make projectiles. Like a basic energy blast would work, it can be amped if properly attuned. An idea for organic weapons came to mind, that's one I definitely want to achieve at some point.

Naturally, I whipped up several notes that have synergies and strategies that take advantage of different properties on the fly. Depending on the situation, some limitations have to be taken into account. For now, before I encounter any powerful Quirks, I can make do with this, which is plenty enough on its own. People like Overhaul and Shigiraki were hot on my list, as having their capabilities would provide a big boost. The former of the two allows me to propel my imagination even further, enhancing either my body or deconstructing anything to reshape it as I see fit.

"You're out here again?" Dad exclaimed from behind me, his tone sounding mildly annoyed rather than surprised. "This is getting out of hand, you're out here hours on end and all you do is train your Quirk. I'm not saying its wrong to do so, but twice a day isn't healthy."

"Why are you so worried?" I asked lazily, continuing my exercise. "You know the schedule I made has specific rules to follow, I wouldn't want to break my streak just yet. Besides, are you just stressed about the files from this and last month? I told you I'll help you out if you just show them to-"

"Yukio…" Dad's voice was blunt and obviously fed up. "You can't keep doing this. This is all you do. You wake up, eat, train, take a break, do more training and then sleep, then do it all again. You've been doing this routine for months. If you keep this up, your body will burn out."

"As opposed to doing what?" I asked genuinely. "Everything Elementary School threw at me was so simple, I'm close to finishing it all together, including the "advanced" programs they had with Junior High Schools."

"That's not the point I'm trying to make, son," Dad said tenderly, sidestepping so he was in my field view. "The point is that you spend all your time on your own. I don't think I've ever heard you mention how your day went in detail or if you made any friends there. I'm starting to get worried."

I was well aware I was going to have this talk at some point, yet I still felt the tediousness of it. It wasn't like I was a moody or closed-off child or anything, it's just that my particular scenario was unique. I can't simply make friends at this age, as kids with superpowers are even bigger brats and toxic at times that it makes it insufferable.

While at times, it did get somewhat lonely since I couldn't talk about topics that genuinely interest me or hobbies I can share with. It wasn't the time for that, I can't force myself otherwise. Maybe if I do encounter some of the cast that I like, I can get behind that.

"Dad… like I said, you have nothing to worry about," I turned around to look at him, taking a moment to stop with my exercise. "I'm perfectly okay, it's just that I can't easily socialize with kids my age, I'm too different from them. Not that I mind, it's simply how kids are. They can't think like I do, nor do I meet someone who has similar interests like me. When I find a real friend, I'll be sure to let you know, if you're so worried. I'm not antisocial or anything, if anything, I'm rather picky about who I wanna hang out with."

Dad rubbed his temples, releasing a sigh in defeat. "In a few minutes, I want you to go inside and eat, I think you trained enough for today. I'll go finish up the paperwork right now, we can find a movie to watch after I'm done."

With that, Dad turned around and headed back inside, I resumed doing my training. I understood his worries, what single parent wouldn't? It's a small price to pay at the time, but it will pay off. I'll probably find someone when I start school so there's no need to rush.

During my exercise, I felt an agonizing leg cramp on the one that held my full weight. Due to it happening out of nowhere, and in the middle of my training, my weight pulled me forward, headfirst crashing into the pond. By no means was it deep, so I simply floated on the surface while contemplating how unlucky my predicament was.

'This is just humiliating. Why do I feel like the universe decided to mess with me at this specific moment?' I contemplated while my body was still submerged, not so much as worried about the lack of oxygen as I managed to inhale a deep breath before I fell.

Before another thought formed in my mind, I was drastically pulled out of the pond and sat in an upright position. Taking a few deep breaths, I turned to look at my dad, giving me the most "what did I tell you" look I've ever seen, only a low growl escaping his lips.

"Alright… I'll take a break," I surrendered to his constant attempts of making me stop training. "Do you mind getting me a towel?"

---LineBreak---

"Ow… I still feel like my leg is moments away from another cramp."

I uttered somewhat bitterly while stretching my leg, doing slow motions for my muscles to ease up. In hindsight, I probably should've toned down the training these last few months, since they were drastically amped compared to the first two years. With my body experiencing more changes and getting more accustomed to my Quirk changing my body/DNA, I wanted to test my limits to their fullest.

It resulted in sleepless nights and sore muscles for a good majority of that period.

Add to the fact thin black rings around my eyes, I was close to passing as an insomniac.

While Dad's concerns grew over the years, I was still an unpredictable case. Instead of spending time with kids my age, I prioritized training and spending time alone going over what I could do. To tell the truth, I genuinely enjoyed my routine, not finding it monotone nor depressing, it was so much fun not to use. Having so much free time I wanted to use it to maximum efficiency.

Well, that wasn't the only reason.

It's not that I couldn't get along with kids my age, being difficult was a more accurate term. Re-experiencing childhood reminded me how vicious and borderline intolerable some kids can be, not all of them but still a high majority. Alongside having Quirks, they were way worse than I could've imagined. I was older mentally, sure, but I still had that child-like behavior at times since I didn't want to always act serious and feel alienated, just so Dad didn't have to worry that something's wrong with me. I couldn't find the right person to befriend that shared similar interests as me, which was a deal breaker really. I didn't want to put up an act for that, rather, for it to happen naturally.

At times, I did get a little lonely being cooped in a child's body and having to be the "smart" kid meant even trying to befriend someone made it difficult. I learned to accept it, just give it a few more years and I'll be good.

A semi-loud explosion broke me out of my thoughts.

"Huh?"

Turning my head, I noticed some smoke coming from the left, from this angle I could tell it was a park. Walking towards a short metal fence, I continued further until I bypassed all the trees that blocked my vision. When I got to a more suitable position, my curiosity scanned the area to explain the smoke. My guess was some kind of fight going on involving kids solely off of the fact it was coming from what appeared to be a playground.

To my surprise, I was correct… only they weren't any kind of random kids.

The ones I instantly recognized were Izuku and Bakugou, the main protagonist and rival from My Hero Academia.

The yet-to-be successor for One for All was on the ground covered in dirt and clutching his arm, a horrified expression present as the spiky blonde-haired lunatic and two of his underlings walked towards him, covering backwards to put more distance between them.

Just like how the story would show repeatedly, during their youth they were the furthest thing from being friends, abuser and the abused would be a more accurate description. I always questioned their "relationship", for the lack of a better word that is. It just didn't make sense to me, and for about fifty percent of fans of the series.

'What should I do in this situation?' I thought as I observed the scene from afar. 'On one hand, I shouldn't meddle into this affair since I was a firm believer that Izuku needed to realize on his own that Bakugou wasn't really his friend and that he needed to cut him out of his life as soon as possible.'

Not only was Bakugou an insufferable, egotistical and short-tempered nut job, but he did also have traits to become a villain by just how he acted in later years. While I did find the personality entertaining, in reality, he's the perfect creation to make your blood boil by the way he behaves.

I saw somewhere where it was theorized that Izuku developed Stockholm syndrome over the years, the constant abuse and horrible way he treated Izuku made him believe this was normal, especially aside of Bakugou, the boy probably never had the ability to befriend anyone beyond kindergarten due to being Quirkless. The idea of Bakugou being his "friend" stayed present for the next decade, only until a year into U.A. did their dynamic change slightly. No matter how many years it took for them to have a stable relationship, it was completely one-sided toxicity, and time was wasted as a result.

Childhood and early teenage years' worth of abuse and unfair treatment can only stack up to a certain point before breaking entirely. I'm honestly shocked Izuku managed to survive on his own as long as he did, or the fact he withstood all the torment that came in this world. On one hand, my mind kept telling me that he has to overcome this hardship on his own, preferably a different route than how canon handled it. Was it a bit cruel for me to simply allow that? In a way, yes, but he was too stubborn for his own good, refusing to accept that aspect of reality for what it was. The sooner he did, the real changes would start on their own pace.

However.

Bakugou deserves to get his teeth kicked in, as well as to get knocked down a few pegs.

While the story gave him some moments of redemption, but for now, and for the next several years he's the epitome of a grade-A asshole. There were rare instances where his personality would be entertaining, but for the most part, he was obnoxious and close to being labeled psychopathic.

I had no respect for this prick, acting like a deranged lunatic of his own free will, way before he got his Quirk, only getting worse once it manifested. Kids like him grow up with the single thought of "being better than anyone else", and Bakugou was the worst.

Thinking about it, I couldn't really blame Izuku for being stubborn as a brick to stay around this nut job, it was illogical but he definitely didn't deserve the crap he dealt throughout his life. He had no friends and couldn't get along with other kids his age, a trend that would follow him up until he started attending U.A., but by then plenty of damage was already done.

Somehow, I was compelled to give him the opportunity he never had. For a short period, I experienced how vile and cruel this world can be, especially to a child in a world where you can be inferior if a small percentage of luck wasn't on your side. For all his faults, I sympathized with(for) Izuku, and hold a good level of respect for how he would develop in the future as a hero.

Focusing back at the three snobs, they started to approach Izuku slowly, each having a malicious grin on their faces. The poor Quirkless, superhero fanatic could only quiver as they got closer, eyes closing shut and preparing for the next round.

'…Fuck it…!'

Climbing over the fence, I placed my foot on the metal beam while leaning down, putting a little more force into it. Feeling some energy building up into my legs, I shot off like I was a springboard, my sights set on the spiky-haired blonde. I was moving at fast speed, Bakugou only spotting me in the corner of his eye before turning his head to the side, to where my fist collided with his mouth, sending him flying back until his body crashed face-first into the dirt.

"Katsuki!" The two "friends" of his cried out, rushing towards Bakugou's aid.

The way I landed it made it so my back was bent with my left arm extended, slowly fixing my posture for extra effect. Throwing a glance behind me, I was met with the wide yet teary eyes of the future One For All successor, mouth agape at my sudden appearance.

Lifting himself up, whilst pushing his "friends" away, eyes filled with rage as he set his sights on me. "Oi! Who the hell do you think you are, you bastard!?"

Turning to face him, I remained in a relaxed but authoritative stance when I acknowledged him. "I'll only say this once, back off, or next time I won't hold back." I said stoically, with a threatening tone as well.

Bakugou gritted his teeth in anger. "So what? You one of useless Deku's friends or something?"

"No, I've never seen this person before in my life." I lied, seemingly well I might add.

"Huh?!" Bakugou's eyes went wide at my claim. "Then why are you interrupting my fun!?"

"There's a simple answer to that," I had one, single response to such a moronic question. "I hate scum like you."

The explosive blonde could clench his teeth so much, instantly forming the iconic death glare. "What did you say to me, you lowlife!? I'll blow you right where you stand!"

"Take your best shot," I shot back nonchalantly. "A few fireworks doesn't stop a fist, you know. It is wise if you simply walk away before things get… messy for you three."

"Oh, I see it now…" Bakugou's eyes narrowed. "You're Quirkless, just like useless Deku over there! Seems like I won't have to bother too much with trash like you. Whatcha say, tough guy, still feelin' lucky?" Bakugou taunted with explosions coming from his hands.

"I gave you a choice, be smart enough to make the right decision." I responded calmly, not letting his pathetic remarks get the slightest reaction out of me.

That may have done the trick as that sent him off the edge, opening his hands as miniature explosions were born. "You're going down, you filth!"

Charging in, his two lackeys followed in, all activating their Quirks.

"Kacchan, no!" A high pitched voiced screamed behind me.

'Huh, even though he's young, I didn't imagine his voice was this high pitched, or is my memory deceiving me.' I contemplated as the three ran towards me.

They were still kids, so I didn't need to think too much in terms of strategy. The one with the wings came first, ducking then hitting him in the stomach with my open palm, sending him flying in different directions until crashing into the dirt. Bakugou and the one with the extendable fingers, moving at the speed allowed me to simply jump into the air to avoid their assault, kicking them both in the head.

Hearing wings flapping behind me, I knew the chubby one was coming, to which I jumped a few meters into the air to land onto his back, sending him crashing into the dirt. While down, I hit the areas around where his wings were coming out, making the boy howl as his wings started twitching rapidly before calming down.

"Is that all you got? Can't even beat a Quirkless kid with all that big talk?" I taunted loudly, stepping off of him as I looked for the other kid. His fingers stretched out several meters while running towards me. Avoiding them, and not having anything else to latch onto, I grabbed his outstretched finger and yanked it instantly, falling down as a result. With a single jump, I closed the distance, slamming my foot down onto his hands, producing a cry of pain from his lips as the fingers retracted back to normal.

It was just hard enough for the thought of backing off to stick this time. Now, the only one left is-

Hearing several explosions going off from above, I knew beforehand where Bakugou was coming from. Leaping backwards, I evaded his attack before it even came close, but I was amazed he didn't even care for his "friend", almost being the victim of his vicious attack. Spamming his Quirk repeatedly, he once again went airborne.

"Don't insult me, you Quirkless runt!" Bakugou shouted as he flew down towards me, with the literal intent to kill.

"Don't need to," I replied casually whilst evading his attacks. "But you might want to try a little harder than that to beat me."

Doing a backwards roll, I jumped to my feet whilst dodging his explosions. The radius itself wasn't anything to scoff at, but they weren't the size like they were in canon yet, plus there wasn't much strategy in his attacks, hoping one of his consecutive attacks would land.

To his dismay, none of them didn't even come close.

Bakugou' has yet to fully utilize his Quirk to its maximum potential, and his combat prowess was subpar. No need to waste time more than I already have,

Throwing a swift kick to his knee, it stopped Bakugou's array of attacks, doing a spin kick to his chest that sent him flying backwards. Like a wild animal, he got right back up and charged at me all over again, ignoring the pain from my previous hits. Not wanting to play defensive anymore, I took advantage when one of his close-ranged explosions missed, leading with a fist to the temple.

Afterwards, I pushed him backwards as I got more hits to his head, chest and sections of his arms. Being overrun with consecutive hits, Bakugou tried defending himself with explosions that would make me call off my advances, but I was quicker, avoiding each time he attempted it. Getting another opportunity, I grabbed both his wrists, pulling him down so my knee hit his chin, sending him hurtling down like a sack of potatoes.

Unlike earlier, he stayed in the same position while clutching his chin, slowly moving his head to make eye contact with me. I didn't see any sign of the cocky and confident Bakugou I remember, but rather a wide eyed and shocked expression of a boy, who for the first time, got severely outmatched.

By someone who wasn't even using their Quirk. I already had a good idea about the thoughts going through his head, denial being the biggest one. The reason why Bakugou acted how he did in canon was because not a single kid over truly lasted in a fight, let alone coming out victorious. That fed his ego to unmeasurable heights, believing that nobody could beat him.

Slowly, his expression started to change, from shock to anger, gritting his teeth so hard the growling sounds became more audible each second. Jumping to his feet, I could tell by his demeanor that he's planning on going all out.

"That's it! I'm done playing games, I'll obliterate you where you stand!" Bakugou yelled out, clasping his hands together.

Building enough nitroglycerin-like sweat into his right hand, Bakugou charged at me with a war cry. This attack was far different from any of his prior ones, miniature explosions that grew in intensity with each one that went off, using his other hand to propel him faster.

By the time he was halfway, I got flashbacks at the larger explosions he produced when he was older.

'That's it, keep going... wait for the perfect moment and...' I thought calmly while slowly flexing my fingers, preparing to put everything into my left hand.

Within a few more seconds, the sound and destructiveness of his Quirk began to show, along with a loud yell. "Eat this!"

Before his hand swung in an arc, a loud shriek could be heard before the loud boom, a large cloud of smoke engulfing the area.

As if time slowed down, Bakugou let out a victorious grin prematurely. "Not so much of a tough guy, are you-"

Bakugou stopped right in his tracks once he felt his hand was enclosed/consumed by a metallic substance that fitted his size accurately. When the smoke in front of him, Bakugou's went wide at the sight before him.

"I warned you." I said coldly, looking him dead-eyed while he couldn't comprehend that I was unscratched. Before his second to last explosion went off, he was at a such a close distance to where he couldn't see from the bursting colors of the explosions, where the metal I absorbed beforehand formed a quick expanding shield in front of me, all that training allowing me to make weapons and tools on the fly if needed.

In quick motion, I jerked my hand downward, effectively breaking his wrist.

Bakugou roared in pain, almost taking a knee if I hadn't pulled him back by the collar with my free hand. While he tried ignoring the pain, clenching his teeth to not release any sound.

Looking back at me with a face full of rage and fury, Bakugou could only release growl-like sounds as we had sort of a staring contest, his twitching eyes to my death stare. Seeing his left arm move slightly, I jolted my metallic hand once more, a louder growl escaping his lips.

"Use your other hand and I'll break that one too." I warned him, just so he would realize if he ignored it, I would do far more than break a wrist.

I didn't have any intention to drain him whole, I'm not a monster. All I wanted was just that one-tenth of his Quirk and to slow him down so he couldn't fight back.

"People like you disgust me," I said angrily, but with a low tone. "Using your Quirk on someone who doesn't, towering over them like your existence is more important than others. You claim you want to be a hero, but let me tell you something, nobody will ever acknowledge you as one, certainly not me. I ain't afraid of scum like you, I'd think twice about holding a grudge against me, because I promise you you'll end up in the same position you are now. So I'll make myself clear, if I ever catch you doing this again, I won't hold back."

Having said everything that was on my mind, I retracted the metal lock back into me, pushing him way back until he lost his balance, falling to the ground once again. His lackey's rushed to his aid, trying to assist Bakugou but in return received a shove from upon being pulled up.

"This isn't over! You hear me, you bastard!" Bakugou screamed as he was being pulled away. "You better pray that I don't ever see you again!"

Spouting various other insults while being dragged by his accomplices, he soon became barely audible before quitting all together.

'I doubt that fellow will ever change.' I let out a sigh, already mentally exhausted from dealing with the blonde. Looking down at my hand, I tried building up a small amount of sweat, causing a few low jade-colored sparks to explode at the center. Grinning, I bawled my fist in satisfaction, now obtaining a very versatile Quirk I'll have great pleasure exploring. 'As for the other one…'

Walking over to broccoli-haired youth, I kneeled down to check his state, softly asking. "Are you alright?"

That seemed to break him out of the trance he was in, rapidly shaking his head up and down. "Y-Y-Yes! I-I'm fine. It-It's just a scratch, t-thats all."

That was a blatant lie, a hand on top of the opposite forearm covering a burn mark, the sleeve having a wide hole with the edges burnt. "That doesn't look pretty, you can get an infection."

Removing my bag, I dug through until I found a water bottle and a small first aid box.

Perplexed, the green-haired fanatic spoke up. "Y-You have a first aid kit in your bag?"

"Eh, you never know when it might come in handy." I replied simply, having no reason to hide it.

Motioning with my fingers to let me help, he reluctantly extended his arm, with me removing the destroyed sleeve and tossing it away. Placing my hand under his wrist, I held it while pouring some water on the burnt area, a soft grunt escaping his lips after the liquid washed his skin.

'I can't put my finger on it, but something feels off.'

"Y-You didn't have to do that… you know…" Izuku uttered quietly while averting his eyes, most likely not used to someone other than Inko invading his personal space.

"Treating your wound, or beating those guys up?" I asked curiously while whipping the area with a cloth gently.

After a few seconds of silence, came his reply. "Both…"

"I can't stand bullies, besides, it's not in my nature to just do nothing when I see this sort of thing. I'm not that kind of person." I said calmly while gently wrapping the arm with a bandage.

"Kacchan isn't like that! He's…"

I looked up with a bored expression, waiting to see what kind of excuse I'm about to hear for Bakugou's behavior. Once I did, he turned his head to the side, unable to reply with a proper explanation.

"I seriously doubt he's your friend if he would hurt you like this," I tried to reason with him, only to get no response. "How often does he do this to you?"

Seeing the hand of the arm I was patching up become stiff, I knew I was entering a touchy subject. "I'm sorry, I won't pry any further, I was just curious."

"No! You d-don't have to apologize, it's just… " Came another pause, an attempt on finding what words to say. "Nobody has ever helped me, let alone ask about it."

With the finishing touches, I gently tightened the bandage so it wouldn't unwrap. "There, that should do it."

Slowly rubbing the wound, I could faintly see his face turn red as Izuku looked away. "T-Thank you for s-saving me…"

"Think nothing of it," I chirped as I flopped down onto my butt, crossing my legs as well. "If you don't mind me asking, what happened this time?"

"Kacchan was bullying a kid because his Quirk wasn't as impressive as his," Izuku began explaining. "When he started using his Quirk on him, I intervened. I couldn't stand the sight of it any longer."

"If I remember correctly, he said you were Quirkless, no?" I asked genuinely, receiving a low hum as an answer. "Even though you knew what he was capable of, you still stood up to him. Without a Quirk no less. Why?"

That caught the All Might fanatic off guard. "Huh? W-What do you mean why? What kind of person who wants to be a hero uses their Quirk to harm others? To use such a wonderful gift on someone who doesn't? I can't stand to see that kind of behaviour, e-even if I'm outmatched, doing nothing is even worse than not helping someone when they truly need it."

"Spoken like a real hero, huh?" I teased the hero fanatic, causing a noticeable blush to form in just mere seconds. "Sorry, couldn't resist."

"Um… c-can I ask you a question, if you d-don't mind?" Izuku stuttered while twirling his fingers.

"Of course!" I replied cheerfully. "What do you wanna know?"

"W-Well, it's regarding your Quirk," The stuttering wasn't as present when starting this particular topic. "I noticed you didn't use it against Kaachan and his friends, only when he got too close before he could react. I couldn't see it too clearly, but I noticed it acted almost instantaneously. Coupled with the fact that you waited so long to even use it, the likelihood of having precise control over it wouldn't be too big of a stretch. It appeared like an iron shield but it was too fluid and almost looked organic by its movements. Is your Quirk Iron Manipulation perhaps? Or is it some kind of sub-variant?"

Ironically, I could feel a sweat drop forming with my sort of embarrassed smile at the eager question. I had a feeling this would be the topic of interest, and since it was the first time I got to discuss my Quirk with someone that could understand, I was kind of hoping for it if we're being honest.

"Hmm, an interesting question." I hummed while thinking how or should I answer it, ultimately deciding to do it anyway. Of all people, the next One for All successor seemed like the perfect person to share my secret. "I can tell you, but you have to promise me to keep it a secret, sounds fair?"

I asked lowly while playfully leaning in, putting more emphasis on the notion. Perplexed but still alright with the request, Izuku furiously bobbed his head up and down. Taking some nearby sand into my palm, I ignored the awful sensation that coursed through my body, making my hand turn into a light brown color that seemed like I had a layer of sand around it. Extending it out and asking for it to be slapped away, it causes him to release a yelp at the sight of it "breaking", the inner structure of it regenerating with the same brown tone, before returning to normal.

"My Quirk is a bit simple, but quite layered if you ask me," I said, demonstrating with my finger extended, acting as a sprinkler that released sand dust. "I have the ability to absorb universally any property at my disposal. I should mention this beforehand, I can only take one-tenth of what I absorb, and it can vanish within a certain time frame. However, I'm able to retain some abilities permanently, but let's just say it's a hassle but worth the effort. In this example, I can freely manipulate sand and use it how I see fit, that's if I understand the mechanics of it, as simply absorbing is nothing if you don't know how to use it."

"I see," the All Might fan pondered with a thoughtful expression. "Only one-tenth, it's sort of a restriction but I feel like that's on purpose, maybe to not overwhelm the user with such a massive amount of energy. Possibly several side effects depending on what's taken? Just like you pointed out, with such a versatile Quirk that can universally be used in any situation, having control of such an ability is crucial. Many Pro Heroes have disadvantages, whether it be terrain or depending on the situation, adaptability is their most useful skill. Plus, if some are stored from before, essentially able to prepare in advance if its usage can be applied. Maybe if used in conjunction with other abilities for maximum usage? Or-"

"You sure know a bit of everything, do you?" I asked teasingly how long the low muttering lasted, prompting for a loud smack from a hand to the mouth to put it to a stop.

"I-I'm sorry, I tend to annoy people when I do that…" Izuku uttered in embarrassment.

"No, no, I didn't find it annoying," I waved it off. "That was an in-depth analysis of my Quirk, in such a short amount of time too, as well in its functionality and versatility. I'm impressed, not even a Pro Hero could make such an observation with barely any info to work with."

A light shade of red started to spread across Izuku's embarrassed expression. "I-I just find the concept of Quirks too interesting, it's sort of my hobby, heh."

"But you're right, the one-tenth absorption limit is a restriction, but more positive than anything," I began explaining. "Since my body acts as a sort of vessel, overwhelming it with too much of a property can be all kinds of risky. This way, if I pick up something's wrong, I can stop the process mid-way and release what I took. I can fuel it with other energies once I deem them acceptable. There's a lotta details I left out for the sake of keeping it simple, but I think you get the overall gist of it."

"Makes sense," Izuku commented with a thoughtful expression. "I guess that means if you're capable of micro-managing your Quirk to such a degree, you'd be

"Eh, it depends, really," I answered whilst rotating my hand to emphasize my point. "It mostly boils down to time management, you know? Not prioritizing a specific field but spreading it out for more versatile and complex use. Still, having a few techniques more refined than the rest never hurts. I don't like using my Quirk unless necessary, would rather rely on my fighting skills."

"Really?" Izuku tilted his head. "Even with a Quirk like that, you would rather not use it? Aren't you worried that it might put you in harm's way if you underestimate your opponent?"

"Oh, I ain't worried about that!" I playfully waved it off.

"How come?"

"Well, for starters, I was Quirkless for about a year so I already saw how kids, and people in general, behave. Being fed up with it, I planned out methods and ideas to get by since being without a Quirk, even if considered weak, can mean a disadvantage. Turns out, all you need is to do is use your head a little. You can outwit anyone if you know the right tricks, and a bit of confidence to back it up."

"You… planned on becoming a hero… without a Quirk?" Izuku asked, almost at shock while uttering that sentence.

"Yeah, why not?" I replied like it wasn't anything significant. "Society tells me I can't, does it stop me from trying? It would be insanely difficult, not to mention even more dangerous without an ability. But I decided my goal the moment I could think properly, and when I saw the world around me, Quirk or not. I was going to pursue my goal to the end."

My statement came across difficult to digest, not like it wasn't warranted. Not a single person tried challenging the status quo, rather giving up before even trying. With how harsh this world was, sitting around and waiting to get chewed out isn't much of an option.

What was my intention by doing all of this? Since I've encountered him this early on, planting a few seeds of motivation would do more good than wait for canon to do its thing. Now the question remains, did my message come across like I intended?

Izuku's posture tensed afterwards, eyes scanning the ground with a thoughtful expression, silence filling the air once more. "C-Can I ask you a question, but can you answer it honestly?" Izuku spoked lowly, almost inaudible if we weren't so close.

The request prompted me to raise an eyebrow, causing the stuttering mess to wave his hands frantically. "I-I know we d-don't know each other, and w-we've just met, but you're the only person I feel like would answer me honestly. If-If it's not too much of a bother."

"Sure! Ask away." I agreed, waiting for the question I was sure on his mind.

Ten seconds of silence passed, soft sounds of the gentle breeze echoing around us. "Can… can I become a hero, even though I don't have a Quirk…?"

I easily noticed the desperation by the tone alone, sounding more like a request for validation on something that never might be possible. "In order for me to answer that, you have to answer a question for me," I said while standing up, my eyes looking up to the fading sunset. "What kind of hero do you want to be?"

The sudden question came as a surprise, not entirely sure how to respond. "What do you mean? There are different kinds?"

"There are only two I care about," I began explaining. "One kind prioritizes the fame that comes along with being a hero, if you can even call 'em after that point. People with amazing Quirks use them to gain likeness and make a living out of it, considering the real duties a person of their status to feel like a necessity, not because they are willing to do the right thing. If it earns them publicity and to make money, they don't care otherwise. Personally, I have no respect for those people. Not saying they can't make a living using their Quirks, but it taints the reputation of being a hero."

I paused monetarily to allow some breathing room. "The others are rather simple, they don't need a reason or reward to do what they do, that feeling in their stomach telling them to do the right thing because it's their moral obligation. This kind of profession requires people who are willing to stand until the very end, risking their lives, if it means to save just one person, they will accept their fate with open arms. I know that last part is a bit dark, but that's the reality of it, one that I've come to terms with. So, tell me, what kind of hero do you want to be?" I asked sincerely.

After the sudden revelation of how divided the hero community is, I didn't receive an answer right away. "Ever since I was little, I aspired to be like my idol, All Might, to save people with a fearless smile. When the doctor told me I was Quirkless… I was devastated. It was a reality check, one I didn't want to accept. I hoped my doctor mixed up my results, and that I was a late bloomer, but that wasn't the case. For years, I was told to give up my dream and let it die out… I couldn't. Even though I accepted reality for it is, I didn't want to let go. I don't even know where to start but...do… do you think that's possible…?"

Silence filled the air afterwards, hearing the answer I was waiting for. "My instincts would say the idea of that is absurd," I answered, instantly seeing the effect of how harsh my opinion sounded. However, I wasn't finished. "But not impossible."

That caused a quick one-eighty, a face now filled with confusion before it could be overrun with sadness.

"In this day and age, it's believed that Quirkless people are unable to become heroes solely because they aren't born equally. While, true, I'll let you in on a little secret," I kneeled once more until we were eye level. "That's a human's best kind of motivation, to challenge the impossible. If you could believe it, humanity has survived for centuries without them, because we humans were able to adapt whatever the world threw at us. Just because people with Quirks can easily become heroes, those without one can as well, they will just have to double their efforts. Its way easier to say it's impossible, nobody ever tried proving society wrong in the first place. With the right amount of effort, and a little bit of patience and dedication, anyone can become an admired and well-respected hero."

Izuku was silent for a moment, focusing on a single spot on the ground. "Do you really think a Quirkless person become someone like All Might…" Another moment of silence passed, slowly raising his head to look me right in the eyes. "…Even someone like me…?"

"I know so," I said reassuringly. "You'd be surprised by all the methods of going up against someone with a Quirk. Just because you don't have one, it doesn't mean your opponent is unbeatable, only that you're at a disadvantage. In fact, for the past two centuries or so, humanity has looked down on Quirkless people because they were "inferior", but having a Quirk doesn't make someone a hero, it acts like a pass solely due to having an ability. To tell you the truth, due to being a late bloomer, I had a year or so to think about alternative methods in case I had to resort to that. I actually spend a lot of time alone training and improving my Quirk, we can meet up sometime and I'd be glad to tell you more, we can train together too, so not all of my research goes to waste. If you'd like, that is. Can surely use the company with someone who understands me." I offered politely, receiving a stumbling mess as a response.

"No- I mean yes! I mean, I-I'd like that v-very much!" Right after, the familiar constant flush of muttered words before I could stop it. "I-I really don't w-want to bother you a-anymore than I already have. Y-You did more than e-enough by saving me from K-Kaachan. It-it be asking t-too much from s-someone you just met, b-besides-"

My finger brushed through the broccoli-like hair to lightly poke him in the forehead, feeling it was the only way to put an end to all that blabbering. "Oi, I said it's fine, no need to overthink it. Okay?"

Another wave of bright red spread across the face hit with a stutter for a response. "O-Okay…!"

"Speaking of which, I haven't told you my name," I extended my hand with a soft smile. "Toshiaki Yukio,"

"M-Midoriya Izuka!"

Came the high-pitched reply as my hand was shooked rapidly.

At that specific moment, once the name came out, my mind stopped working. Instantly, my eyes scanned the person in front of me, several pieces clicking together when I inspected several different areas. I didn't think too much of it at first, but now...

.

.

.

'Wait… what?!'

---LineBreak---

"Why…?"

The same thought appeared again and again in Izuka's mind ever since the black and white-haired boy flew out of nowhere and acted as a shield for her against Kaachan and his friends.

As she watched the boy engage in a fight against her childhood friend/tormentor, there was stark contrast to how the two fought. While Kaachan was hot-headed and used brute force to seize victory, the dual-colored-haired boy moved with grace and precision, evading each approaching strike like he could see them coming from a mile away.

It's only when she saw him use his Quirk that the question in her mind only grew more demanding for an answer.

Before that, Izuka believed he was the same as her, as he only showed off his Quirk once in a three against one scenario. Able to stand his ground so long without using his Quirk, if anything, Izuka would wager he wouldn't even need it, only using it to catch Kaachan by surprise.

Somewhat risky, but effective.

Never in her whole life has this kind of instance happened before her eyes. Izuka was adamant of pursuing her hero dream regardless of being Quirkless that the constant clashes against stronger opponents, and quite frankly, people with Quirks, never made her second guess of jumping in head first to prevent any kind of conflict from arising. It always ended the same way, bruises all over her body and new lies formed to keep her mother from worrying every other day. Not once did she find herself on the receiving end of someone aiding her, as by the time they would learn she was Quirkless, the same scene would repeat again and again.

Every time she would ask the question that strained her heart, it was always the same answer she didn't want to hear.

Yet, this stranger, who knew she was Quirkless, told her that her dream was within reach.

It wasn't the words he used, it was the way he said them that made his statements sound believable to her. It felt like the boy understood her struggle, and didn't look at her with pity, but rather with empathy. The boy was even willing to give her more of his insight on becoming a hero. More importantly, he was willing to be her friend.

Yet, the fear of falling to achieve her dream only tripled. Regardless of her knowledge of heroes, if there was a level to measure her "skills" in a real encounter, she was below level zero, a brutal but honest truth. Whenever Izuka would find herself on the opposite end of a bully, or Bakugou most of the time, her mind would go blank, like a deer caught in headlights.

Worst of all, she feared that she would only be a burden towards her savior if she agreed. The idea of accomplishing nothing but wasting his time and feeling like a nuisance only made herself doubt even more. The last thing she wanted was to leave a bad impression, especially to her first, real friend.

With so many thoughts surging through her head, Izuka mentally slapped herself to dismiss them for the time being. If she wanted to become a hero, there was a long road ahead of her with many obstacles and challenges to overcome. Whatever that might look like, she was eternally grateful to the boy in front of her, more than he could ever know .The question that plagued her mind before, all the doubt and insecurity that followed, now had a small spark.

Of hope.

It wasn't much, but it was enough for her to make a single promise, one she planned on fulfilling.

'I won't disappoint you, Yukio-san!'