Chapter 35: Chapter 34 Silent Phantom 1/6
Flying over the city, Izuku felt satisfied that he had saved a person from peril. It was the first time he had used his new powers to save a life.
"You saved someone. Hmm, that was quick and without panic," noted Venom in Izuku's mind. Izuku was ready for this response, as he had always been inspired by heroes and imagined himself saving people with fearlessness in his eyes.
"I always dreamed of becoming a hero. Although it was just an unattainable dream, thanks to you, it's now possible," Izuku admitted. Venom hummed approvingly, helping him release tendrils from his hands to latch onto buildings.
Reaching the top of a building, Izuku leaped from the ledge, using his suit's power and webbed wings to glide between buildings at incredible speed. His coat flapped in the wind. Like a flying squirrel, he spread his arms and legs, soaring above the ground. Finally, spotting the roof with the indicated address, he unfurled his wings and headed for it, using tendrils to stop gracefully, scanning for the cause of the gathering. The roof was empty, but glancing down into the alley, he saw Dabi's white hair as he leaned against a wall, waiting. Without hesitation, Izuku jumped from the roof, landing with a loud thud on a trash can. He saw his future partner in heroism in a new costume that resembled old detective comics but suited the night perfectly. A black coat, pants, and a mask with white lenses were complemented by a fedora, adding an air of mystery.
"So, you came and even dressed up in a nice costume," Dabi joked, narrowing the white lenses to add intimidation.
"Thanks for the compliment, but let's get to business, Dabi," Izuku replied. He didn't like dragging out conversations with unfamiliar people.
"Here, this is for you," Dabi handed him a black box as a token of gratitude for the rescue. Izuku quickly used his tendrils to grab the box, examining it with curiosity while watching Dabi, who seemed more bored than surprised.
Opening the box, Izuku found a black touchscreen phone. Dropping the box, he scrutinized it. A regular, unremarkable phone, neither flagship nor outdated.
"A phone?" Izuku asked, noting Dabi's ever-widening grin. Finally, Dabi clapped his hands to get his attention.
"Yes, exactly. Look, this phone is encrypted, and no one can track or listen to it," Dabi explained.
"Why do I need this?" Izuku inquired, to which Dabi rolled his eyes and sighed.
"Before interrupting, let me finish," Dabi said, tapping his temple. "This phone is for our operations, so the police and other heroes can't trace our conversations. I know you value your privacy. This is for you," he added.
"Aren't you trusting me too quickly?" Izuku asked. "I accept your gift, but why should I trust you?"
Dabi laughed, holding his sides, before replying, "I need a partner for my goals, and arresting you isn't part of the plan. But if you get in my way, I'll sic the police on you."
"I appreciate your prudence, but what guarantees your trust?" Izuku asked.
Dabi extended a hand for a handshake and said seriously, "My word. If you want to know my name, it's Toya Todoroki. Your name isn't important to me, only what you can do."
"Alright, I trust you, but remember, if I suspect anything, I won't let it slide," Izuku said, shaking Dabi's hand firmly.
"Excellent. Don't worry, I don't betray those I consider my partners. If you're ready, let's patrol the streets. If you need help, call me," Dabi said.
"I'll keep that in mind. Which area should we start patrolling?" Izuku asked.
"Isn't it too early for you to walk alongside me? Remember, you operate in my shadow, and it's not advisable for you to be seen with me. You'll follow me discreetly, and how you do so doesn't concern me. Do you understand?" Dabi explained.
"Isn't it a bit early for you to partner up with me? Remember, you'll be working in my shadow, and it's best you aren't seen with me. Follow me discreetly; how you do it doesn't concern me. Do you understand?" The plan was for Izuku to assist Dabi from the shadows, covering his back, since Dabi operated without a license, and any suspicion could be detrimental. Understanding the risks, Izuku simply nodded, turning away from Dabi.
"You can start. I'll be watching you. Which area shall we begin with?"
"We'll patrol areas where heroes rarely go. There, I'll see what you're capable of. If you're ready, I'm heading out," Dabi said, turning and heading towards the exit of the alley, leaving Midoriya to ponder his words.
"This seems suspicious," Venom commented, observing Dabi's retreating figure.
"I have my doubts too, but nothing ventured, nothing gained," Izuku replied, at which Venom looked at him quizzically.
"Champagne? But you don't drink alcohol..."
"It's just a saying to describe a situation," Izuku explained, as Venom grumbled in his head.
"Your human culture is so complex, I'll have to study all the books in the world to understand it," Venom noted, while Dabi disappeared from view. Izuku ran up the wall to reach the roof. From the height of a four-story building, he watched as Dabi slowly walked down the night street until he reached the designated area.
The neighborhood was run-down: many buildings had broken windows, and some cars were without wheels or burnt out. The area was notorious for the spread of the drug "trigger," which spread like wildfire. Overall, the place left a bad impression, and both Izuku and Andy noted they wouldn't want to live there. While contemplating the area, the phone vibrated, catching their attention. Izuku answered and heard Dabi's voice with a code name:
"This is Gunpowder. There's suspicious activity involving six people. I'll need your help. Watch them from the roof." As soon as Dabi finished, he hung up, and Izuku immediately dashed across the rooftops until he spotted six people exchanging money and vials of black liquid. All were armed, necessitating quick and silent action to avoid drawing attention.
"Hey, what are you doing there?" Dabi's sudden appearance distracted one of the drug dealers, allowing Dabi to envelop himself in blue flames, melting the bullets. The other three attempted to flee with the goods, but Izuku used his symbiotic tendrils to grab and incapacitate them. Two tried to shoot Izuku, but his speed and agility allowed him to avoid the bullets. Once their ammunition was exhausted, they attempted to reload, but Izuku seized one by the face with a tendril and knocked him out with a punch. The second, realizing the futility, dropped his weapon and surrendered.
"Please, don't hit me," he begged, as the sixth yelled threats but was silenced by fear. Dabi preempted the Silent Phantom, neutralizing the sixth with his fire.
"Well, well, taking down six villains in a minute and a half is impressive, but there's room for improvement," Dabi smirked, tying up the villains and calling the police.
"And what should I improve?"
"Firstly, you should have neutralized all of them. You never know what they might do behind your back. There are two options: tie them up or knock them out," Dabi advised. Izuku rolled his eyes, deciding not to listen to the lecture.
"Alright, I'm not your trainee. Let's skip the lectures on how bad I am," he retorted.
"But remember, these mistakes could cost you your life or someone else's. That's all. Oh, and you'll need to leave; the police will arrive any minute," Dabi warned. Hearing the sirens, Izuku ran up the walls, hiding in the night.
"He's a bore, but his advice is valuable," Venom whispered in Izuku's head as he raced across the rooftops, his coat billowing in the wind. Izuku left Venom's words without comment, continuing to search for criminals. On one of the main streets, hooligans were smashing shop windows and threatening a shopkeeper with a knife. In this adverse area, few engaged in entrepreneurship, and unwilling to watch the extortion further, Izuku leapt from the roof, heading toward the ransacked store.
"Either you pay us, or you'll become a walking ATM for others," one bandit threatened, holding a knife to the young shopkeeper's throat, who trembled in fear.
"But this is my first business; I haven't sold anything today. I have no money to pay you..."
"Fine, you have no money now, but every day you'll pay us for protection," the robber declared.
Izuku entered the shop, crunching the broken glass underfoot. Passing by two robbers, he approached the leader threatening the shopkeeper. Touching his shoulder, Izuku gripped his jacket tightly, adjusting his hat and glaring through his white lenses.
"Leave him alone and walk away peacefully," Izuku demanded, waiting for the bandit's reaction. The bandit, of course, wasn't pleased with the interference.
"Hey, old man, buy what you need and get out, or I'll break every bone in your body!" The two armed robbers drew their guns on Izuku. He merely turned, meeting their gazes with disdain. Izuku released the bandit's shoulder and calmly spread his hands.
"Alright, I'll leave, but watch your hands!"
"Who are you to lecture me? Old men have no place here!" The bandit didn't expect the quick and powerful punch that broke his nose. The other accomplices opened fire, but Venom formed a shield with his tendrils, protecting Izuku from the bullets. The robbers were in shock but continued shooting until they ran out of ammo. Izuku removed the shield and used his strength to crush their guns as if with a hydraulic press. He threw them out onto the street, grabbing them by the scruff, and tied them up, then approached the main robber. Grabbing his jacket, Izuku brought his face close and glared with intimidating lenses.
"Remember, if I see you extorting money from anyone, be prepared to lose your fingers or the hand you use to threaten. Am I clear?" Izuku looked down at the robber, demonstrating his superiority. Releasing one hand, he began to break his fingers until the robber screamed in pain.
"Alright, alright, I get it! Please, leave me alone!" Izuku tied him up and tossed him onto the road with the others. The shopkeeper was shocked that a hero had come to his aid where others feared to tread. He watched as the hero approached him and, in a menacing voice, asked:
"Are you okay? I'm sorry I wasn't quicker; maybe I could have prevented this," Izuku said, seeing the broken windows and ransacked store, feeling ashamed for not knowing about this place sooner. Looking at the shopkeeper, who seemed frightened, he heard words of gratitude.
"N-no problem, sir. This happens often here. I opened this shop to learn business and didn't expect such trouble," the shopkeeper awkwardly smiled and extended a hand to Izuku. Izuku noticed the badge on his white shirt, reading the name "Yahiko." The young man was unremarkable, with black hair and heterochromatic eyes that changed color with his emotions.
"I thank you for your help, and don't worry about the damage, I'll restore it."
"You say this happens often. Do you know if any local gang operates here?" Izuku asked, to which Yahiko replied with a look of confusion:
"I'm sorry, but I recently moved here and don't know the locals well," Yahiko scratched his head but decided to offer the hero something from the store.
"Sir, take anything you want; it's my thanks for your help," Izuku felt awkward due to his low self-esteem. He accepted praise with difficulty but, under Venom's influence, accepted it without issue.
"Thank you, but I need nothing from you. Your well-being is my responsibility," Izuku said, heading for the exit, but the shopkeeper stopped him.
"Sir, can I take your picture? Your costume is truly unique, and your white lenses complement it perfectly," Venom, hearing the praise for the mask he created, was flattered and said to Izuku:
"See, Izuku, my mask is universal. Even he acknowledged it, and the public likes your outfit. Everyone praises or notes how good it is," internally, Izuku blushed, though none could see it. Taking the phone, he adjusted his hat, posed for the photo, and left.
"Call the police to take them away," Yahiko immediately called the police, watching Izuku disappear over the rooftops as they arrived.
The police asked a few questions about the robbery, and the topic of the mysterious hero who had helped prevent it came up.
"Did he introduce himself? A name or anything?" the officer asked. Yahiko shook his head and looked seriously at the blue-haired, stubbled officer.
"No, he didn't introduce himself, but I have a photo if you'd like to see it," the officer nodded and saw a man in a black suit with unnatural white lenses. He took a photo of the unknown hero and, pulling a tablet from his bag, checked the list of heroes patrolling the area but found no matches. Sighing, he turned back to Yahiko and asked a few more questions:
"Have you met this hero before?"
"No, it's the first time. He's so unusual, serious, and a bit grim. He even refused a reward. He asked about local gangs, but I told him I didn't know since I recently moved here," Yahiko replied. The officer, rubbing his temple, sighed again, not finding him in the registry, and decided to inform him who had helped.
"You've encountered a vigilante. He operates without a license, and the emergence of a new vigilante isn't good," hearing this, Yahiko felt uneasy. Although the vigilante had helped, he seemed a good person at heart. After asking a few more clarifying questions, the officer left, leaving the shopkeeper and heading to his car.
"Pack them into the van and to the nearest station," he instructed, and the thieves were arrested. With new information, the officer joined his partner, who was sorting through documents.
"Hado, anything new?" Tsukauchi asked, looking at his partner, who didn't seem in the best of moods due to recent events. Hado was distinguished by his resilience and judgment, quickly rising to the rank of officer and working with Detective Tsukauchi. Taking a deep breath, Tadao recounted what had happened:
"A new vigilante has appeared," Naomasa stopped sorting documents and looked at his partner with a questioning gaze.
"The vigilante helped a guy against extortionists. We only have a photo of how he looks, but no other information," Naomasa put the documents in the trunk and began to ponder.
"A vigilante, you say?" he slowly drawled, considering. "This isn't the first case in this area. How many have there been this month?"
"Three," Hado replied dryly, placing the tablet on the dashboard. "All three times, the same pattern: he acts quickly, professionally, leaves no traces, and always avoids cameras."
"And, of course, no witnesses who could identify him," Tsukauchi smiled wryly.
"Exactly," Hado rubbed his temples, feeling the pressure.
"The guy he saved said the vigilante asked about local gangs. That's more intriguing."
"So, he's looking for someone," Naomasa narrowed his eyes. "Either it's personal revenge, or he's trying to eliminate a larger threat. In any case, these actions complicate our work."
"Do you think he'll stay in the shadows for long?" Hado asked, crossing his arms.
"Hard to say. If he's a professional, he knows we'll eventually track him down. The question is, what will he accomplish before we do?" Naomasa frowned, focusing. "You said we have his photo. Show me."
Hado handed over the tablet with the image of the hero in a black suit. His face was hidden, but the white lenses on the mask gave him an almost intimidating appearance.
"He clearly doesn't want to be recognized," Hado noted. "It feels like he's not just hiding his face but wants to instill fear."
Naomasa studied the photo intently.
"If he's so meticulous about concealing his identity, he must have a reason. Either he's working against someone very dangerous, or his methods are so radical he doesn't want to share responsibility."
"And what if he's not a hero at all?" Hado proposed.
"Then he's a threat to everyone," Naomasa replied calmly, returning the tablet. "If he starts crossing the line, we'll have to stop him."
"And what now?" Hado looked at his partner with mild confusion.
"Now," Naomasa turned to the window, watching the van with detainees drive away, "we continue working. We'll check data on all similar cases, try to build a profile. In the meantime... stay alert. If he's indeed hunting gangs, new leads will soon emerge."
"Or new problems," Hado grumbled, starting the car.
"Something's brewing, and this could either illuminate a new hero or mark the rise of a villain. In any case, we must get ahead of him for public safety," Naomasa said, taking a sip from a bottle, gazing out the window.
Reddit Topic: "Who is this mysterious hero in the black suit?"
Created by user u/UrbanHeroWatcher
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u/UrbanHeroWatcher:
Alright, folks, has anyone seen this guy? He's all in black, with white lenses instead of eyes. Today, he thwarted a store robbery, and a couple of hours before that, he saved a person trapped in a burning car. I have a photo, but the quality isn't great. Who is he?
*Photo attached*
u/QuirkGuru:
That's the guy from the video where he literally vanishes into smoke after taking down three criminals in 10 seconds! I tried to find him in the hero registry — nothing. Looks like he's operating illegally.
u/GlitchHunter:
Maybe he's a new hero who hasn't registered yet? Or perhaps he's testing a suit for another organization?
u/HeroFan88:
Are you serious? This guy is definitely a vigilante. This isn't the level of a novice. I think he has some special training.
u/NocturneNeko:
By the way, he's being called "Silent Phantom." I've already seen several Twitter posts with this hashtag. People love his style, especially how he appears out of nowhere and vanishes.
u/UrbanHeroWatcher:
"Silent Phantom"? Sounds good. But it's really unsettling. He's operating without a license. If something goes wrong, who will be responsible?
u/QuirkGuru:
On the other hand, he's already prevented several robberies. Without him, these guys would have been at large much longer. Maybe he knows something we don't?
u/HeroSpotter420:
Dude, his suit looks downright cool. Did anyone notice how super quiet he is? In the video where he takes on the gang, you can't hear him at all. It's creepy, but also damn impressive.
u/MemeLord696:
"Silent Phantom"? You must be kidding. The guy is trying to be Batman, but without a billion in the bank. Although... you have to admit, he has style.
u/NightShade93:
I'm all for leaving him alone. He's not working for fame; he doesn't even post about himself on social media. If he truly helps people, what does it matter if it's legal or not?
u/UrbanHeroWatcher:
Guys, I don't want to panic, but if he's truly illegal, sooner or later, heroes or the police will start pursuing him.
u/QuirkGuru:
The question is, who will catch him first — the police or the fans? The hashtag #SilentPhantom is already trending.
u/HeroFan88:
Well, let's wait for the next piece of news about him. Hopefully, he won't disappear as suddenly as he appeared.
---
Popular Tweet:
@QuirkSpotter:
"This hero in black reminds me of ninjas from old movies. Silent, appearing from nowhere, punishing the bad guys, and disappearing. Legal or not, the guy is cool. #SilentPhantom"
Likes: 54,873 | Retweets: 22,341 | Comments: 7,982
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The dark alley plunged into tense silence, broken only by the distant sound of sirens. Izuku, clad in his black suit with white lenses, stood on the roof of an abandoned building. Below, through broken windows, he watched as armed men loaded crates of weapons into trucks.
"They're planning to smuggle everything across the border," came a low voice beside him. Dabi, in his usual guise, leaned against the wall. His eyes burned like the flames he controlled. "We can do this quietly. Or," he grinned, "have some fun."
"Without any noise," Izuku replied briefly, keeping his eyes on the target. "We need weapons, not ashes."
Dabi smirked but didn't argue. They worked in harmony. Izuku moved swiftly and silently, taking down mercenaries with precise blows, aided by the symbiote. Anyone who tried to raise a weapon was unconscious in a second. When one of the criminals noticed something amiss and started to shout, a wall of blue flame stopped him from the other side of the room.
"There's no escape," Dabi said, stepping forward, his voice almost lazy. "Better surrender."
The remaining criminals tried to resist, but a single burst of fire was enough to make them drop their weapons.
"See, fun," Dabi chuckled, watching his partner bind the captives.
"We've attracted enough attention," the other replied coldly, pulling out his phone. "Time to call the police."
Dabi only shrugged, watching as the warehouse filled with blue and red lights.
---
"Didn't think the day would be this eventful, especially with you," Dabi smirked, offering his fist to Izuku. Izuku bumped fists in return, to which Venom quipped:
"See, Izuku, soon all the criminals in this city will fear us," Venom felt hunger and suggested Izuku eat something.
"This patrol really stirs the appetite. Let's go home before I start losing control and tearing off heads," Venom said, to which Izuku just grimaced at the grotesque image.
"Why heads? Isn't the food I eat enough for you?" Izuku didn't understand Venom's brutality. Even when he subdued opponents, he had to restrain Venom to prevent him from biting off the criminals' heads. Venom's influence was growing stronger, and it showed in the punches which became harder and more vicious, so Izuku had to use his willpower to keep him in check. But their mental dialogue was interrupted by Dabi's cough, drawing his attention.
"That's it for today, you can go home and rest. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Goodnight," Izuku said in a cold tone, leaving Dabi's figure, who watched as Izuku leaped from roof to roof until he vanished from sight.
"And goodnight to you, Silent Phantom," Dabi chuckled, descending from the roof, using his fire to slow his fall.
---
Recent events had shown that Dabi's life as a hero was going well, but his personal life with his family, in his opinion, wasn't. He was supposed to be the older brother who protected his siblings from all sorts of troubles but failed when his sister Fuyumi ended up in the hospital due to overusing her quirk because of a mud villain. Thank goodness she was alive, saved by her own student, but he regretted not being there at the time. He felt guilty about his preoccupation with heroism. His father, the number one hero, scolded him, which was worse for Dabi than any sentence. He loved and respected his father despite being neglected when it was discovered he wasn't the ideal son he wanted. Dabi sought his father's respect and praise, for a child who looks up to his father always values the opinion of the elder he respects and loves.
Enji Todoroki was not an exemplary parent; he also made mistakes that cost his family dearly. He himself was imperfect, but when he became the number one hero, striving tirelessly to achieve his goal, the idea of an ideal heir vanished, but his fourth child, Shoto, became the perfect embodiment of his desires. Rei's and Enji's quirks combined in him. Feeling jealous of Shoto, Toya nearly attacked him, using his fire quirk, but Enji intervened to calm his first son. In Enji's eyes, Toya became unreliable when it turned out he could wield fire equal to or even surpassing his own, but without fire resistance, his flames burned him, leaving scars. One day his hair turned white, and the red tint of his father's disappeared. Enji understood his son's ambition but never gave him leeway, so he wouldn't give up and strive to be a hero. Toya thought his father didn't notice his efforts and aspirations, fell into sadness, and pondered how to impress a father who spent most of his time with Shoto, who achieved greater results than himself at his age. Consumed by jealousy towards his younger brother, he asked his sister Fuyumi how to attract their father's attention, but she had no idea, as she never aspired or trained to be a hero.
Flashback
"Brother Toya, why are you so sad? I'm worried about you," said the energetic Fuyumi, who cared for her brothers, concerned about her older brother, who had been walking around sad and crying in solitude, even though she secretly observed him.
"It's none of your business, Fuyumi, you wouldn't understand," Toya retorted, sitting on the couch with her. Toya stared at the floor, thinking about how to impress his father but paid no attention to his sister.
"Please tell me, Toya, I'm ready to listen and try to help," Fuyumi said, adjusting her glasses, surprised when Toya stood up and began speaking in a stern tone about what he wanted.
"I want to be a hero my father will be proud of, but knowing Shoto has the perfect quirk my father wanted, I became unnecessary to him. I'm working tirelessly to get him to notice my efforts, but all I see in my father's eyes is indifference. I've mastered many techniques, but none have impressed him. Why would he need me if he has Shoto, who was born his ideal child, and I'm not?" Toya was furious, with each word, his internal flame burned stronger. It angered him that the father he considered a symbol of strength loved Shoto more, fueling his anger and intensifying his flame.
Fuyumi was horrified to see her older brother seething with rage. For the first time, she couldn't speak to him, lacking words to help. The older brother, once calm and energetic, was becoming a powder keg ready to explode at any moment.
"I... I... I don't know how to help you, Toya," Fuyumi lowered her gaze, but Toya felt guilty for making someone listen who didn't understand.
"Sorry, Fuyumi, if I burdened you. You see, I want to be strong so my father will be proud of me and love me just as much as Shoto," Fuyumi understood her brother's words, that their father treated the younger child better than the others, but she could do nothing about it.
"Maybe if father considers Shoto a better hero than you, maybe you should give up wanting to be a hero?" Toya grew angry and glared at Fuyumi, who was frightened by the stern look of her older brother.
"You don't understand, Fuyumi, don't meddle in things you don't know about. The truth is, I'm the hero here, not you, not Toya, not Shoto," Fuyumi, realizing her guilt, wanted to hug her older brother, but he just pushed her away, heading towards the exit.
Fuyumi couldn't help him; she told him directly to give up on the dream of being a hero. Natsuo never supported his dream, just shrugged it off, saying it didn't concern him when Toya nearly poured out his soul, saying he wanted to surpass his father, but he just ignored him. Mother Rei Todoroki, though loving, couldn't help him realize himself to impress his father. Toya suffered day after day, neglecting himself, with everyone turning away except his father. He always imagined his father watching him, even when he wasn't at home. Consumed by anger over his imperfection and weakness, he pushed himself without sparing to become the ideal son his father could be proud of. His bones creaked, reason told him to stop and rest, but he rose again and again, despite the joint pain. Anger positively influenced his quirk, and one day, when Enji was home, enraged with fury, he used his blue flames, burning the training ground designated for him. Entering the training room, Toya saw his father watching him with fear, as the heat of his flame was stronger than his own, the fire resistance couldn't withstand the temperature, and finally, he heard the words he'd long dreamed of.
"Well done, son," the words echoed in his head. He finally felt needed by his father. Tears of happiness filled his eyes, and the dream he sought through his efforts was achieved through hard work. In his father's eyes, there was pride for his firstborn. Enji always believed in him but continued to build himself as an unattainable fortress so he wouldn't give up. But what he hadn't expected was his father's attention towards him. He saw how his older son distanced himself when he, Shoto, and Toya were in the same room. Realizing his mistake towards his son, that day he wanted to apologize, but seeing his son's triumph, under the influence of pride and achievement, decided to tell him the cherished words.
"I'm proud of you, Toya," the words spoken many years ago became a mantra for Toya, even though he and Shoto are rivals on who is ready to replace their father, but he no longer felt the previous anger towards him. Though he loved to joke about not loving them, the words concealed a care they felt, but he was troubled that Fuyumi ended up in the hospital, and he couldn't protect her. Remembering the past, he didn't notice how he returned to the hospital to visit Fuyumi.
The light in the hospital room was soft and subdued. Fuyumi lay on the white sheet, her face pale but calm. After two days of unconsciousness, she finally came to. Beside her was an IV, monotonously dripping, and monitors recording her stable but weak condition.
When she opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was her family. Rei sat beside the bed, holding her hand. Her eyes were red from tears, but there was great joy in them. On the other side stood Natsuo, slightly hunched, holding back excitement. Behind him, a little further away, stood Shoto and Toya, who silently watched their sister. Finally, in the doorway appeared Endeavor, majestic as always, but with an expression of tension on his face.
"Fuyumi!" Rei whispered, squeezing her hand.
"Mom," Fuyumi said with difficulty, her voice weak but warm. She tried to smile. "It's okay, I'm okay..."
Rei couldn't hold back tears and, leaning in, gently hugged her daughter.
"You scared us," she said quietly, not letting go. "But it's all over, the main thing is you're alive."
Fuyumi nodded slightly, looking around the room.
"You're all here..." she whispered, her gaze stopping on her brothers. "Thank you..."
Shoto stepped closer, trying to find words but remained silent. His tense face expressed a mix of relief and guilt, as if he blamed himself for her condition.
But before anyone could speak, Endeavor's voice cut through the silence:
"Toya."
Everyone froze. Toya flinched and slowly raised his eyes to his father, whose face expressed icy displeasure.
"Where were you that day?" Endeavor asked, his voice sharp and stern. "Why didn't you protect your sister?"
His father's words were like a slap. Toya lowered his head, feeling heat spreading through his body.
"I..." he began, but his voice faltered.
Endeavor stepped forward, his tall figure looming over his son.
"You could have been there! You could have prevented this! But instead, you were busy... with what? Your antics? Toya, you should have been stronger!"
Fuyumi tried to say something, but Rei gently stopped her, shaking her head.
Toya clenched his fists, his shoulders slumping. He couldn't argue. Every word from his father struck his conscience.
"I'm... guilty," he said quietly, not lifting his gaze. "I should have been there."
His voice was hollow but sincere. He felt shame and pain for once again disappointing.
Endeavor looked at his son with cold severity, then abruptly turned away.
"We all need to think about our responsibilities," he said, not looking at anyone.
A heavy silence hung in the room. Toya looked at his sister lying in bed and felt guilt growing in his chest. He swore to himself he would never again let his weakness endanger his family.
Fuyumi, noticing her brother's torment, quietly said:
"Toya... it's not your fault. I know you would have done everything to help."
Her words were quiet but sincere. She looked him in the eyes, trying to show she forgave him.
Fuyumi lay on the bed, leaning against the pillows. The atmosphere in the room gradually became less tense, and now the brothers and sister were peacefully chatting, discussing the events of recent days.
"You know, I still can't believe what that guy did," Natsuo began, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Who would have thought he'd rush into the heart of danger for you?"
"It was very brave," Shoto added, nodding slightly. "But also extremely risky."
"Brave?" Toya smirked, sitting on the windowsill. "He just wanted to make an impression! Who risks their life without a reason?"
Fuyumi sighed wearily, trying to remain calm.
"He did what he thought was right," she said quietly. "None of you should judge his actions so easily."
Toya tilted his head, his gaze becoming sly.
"Or... maybe he just fell in love?" he said with a smirk.
Fuyumi blushed, hearing this, but quickly tried to regain composure.
"What nonsense are you talking about?" she quickly replied, giving him a stern look. "He's just my student in middle school."
"Oh, of course," Toya continued, squinting demonstratively. "A hero rescuing his teacher, like in some romantic movie. Quite a coincidence, right?"
"Enough!" Fuyumi threw a pillow at him, which he deftly caught, smirking.
Natsuo chuckled, and Shoto only sighed.
"You just don't understand, Toya," she added, more seriously this time. "This boy has been through a lot. He had to fight not only prejudice but also his past."
"What do you mean?" Shoto asked, frowning slightly.
Fuyumi paused for a moment, considering whether to speak. But deciding, she began to tell.
"Izuku isn't just a student with a dream to become a hero. From childhood, his life was incredibly challenging. Born without a quirk in a world where that's considered abnormal. He was teased, humiliated, deemed useless. But despite that, he continued to believe he could change himself and prove everyone wrong."
Silence filled the room. Even Toya stopped smirking, listening intently to his sister.
"He wants to be a hero not for money or fame," Fuyumi continued. "But because he always had an incredible resolve to help others, no matter what. He puts others above himself. Even if it means risking his life."
She looked at them, her gaze warm.
"So if any of you decide to mock his actions, remember what he's been through. He's not just my student. He's an example of what a true hero should be."
Toya looked away, trying to hide his embarrassment.
"Alright, alright," he muttered. "But still, Fuyumi, you protect him too much."
"And you talk too much," she retorted sharply, but there was a hint of a smile in her voice.
Natsuo and Shoto exchanged glances, seeing how the tension in the room gradually subsided.
"Well, if that's the case," Natsuo added, standing up. "We should thank him personally. If it weren't for him, you wouldn't be sitting here with us."
"You're right," Fuyumi agreed, looking out the window. "And I definitely will."
Deep inside, she smiled. Despite Toya's jokes, she truly was grateful to Izuku — not only for saving her but for reminding her that true heroism lies not only in strength but in a kind heart.
"But I think the public won't agree with you," Fuyumi looked at Shoto with a puzzled expression.
Shoto just sighed, drawing everyone's attention, and he decided to show them the report.
The conversation among the Todoroki siblings gradually faded as Shoto, who had been silent until then, suddenly spoke:
"I think you should see this." His voice was calm, but there was tension in it.
He took out his phone and opened a news report. The screen lit up, showing a recording made several days ago. It was the moment when Izuku, all dirty, stood before a crowd of spectators, among whom was also All Might.
The video began with footage of Izuku saving Fuyumi, constantly falling and rising to save her from the mud villain. His school uniform was all dirty and stained, his face covered in wounds, but his eyes burned with unwavering determination. However, instead of applause, there were jeers in the background.
"Is this a joke?" a voice from the crowd asked. "Some dirty kid trying to play hero!"
The camera turned to All Might, who stood nearby. His expression was cold, and he said loudly:
"Heroism is not just an impulse. It's responsibility and dignity. And what I see before me is not a hero, but a reckless boy putting everyone around at risk."
These words made the air in the room seem to freeze.
Fuyumi turned pale, her breathing became irregular.
"How could he..." she whispered, her voice trembling with anger and pain.
Toya frowned, clenching his fists.
"All Might?" he said irritably. "This guy saved you, risking his life, and they say that to him?"
Shoto turned on the comments under the video. They were filled with hate and mockery:
"This kid is just pathetic. No quirk and no chance of becoming a hero."
"He should have just stood aside. He can't do anything anyway."
"Even All Might understands that he won't amount to anything."
Natsuo took the phone from Shoto and began reading the comments aloud, his voice growing increasingly tense.
"This is disgusting," he said, returning the phone to his brother. "People who've never risked themselves dare to judge someone who truly tried to help."
Fuyumi seemed on the verge of tears. Her hands trembled, and her eyes were full of tears.
"He didn't deserve this," she whispered. "He saved me... None of them were even there!"
Toya abruptly stood up from the windowsill, clenching his fists.
"That's why I hate this society," he said loudly, his voice full of rage. "It always tramples on those who truly try to make a difference."
Shoto looked at his sister and then back at the screen.
"Izuku showed himself as a hero," he said quietly. "But they judged him for not fitting their ideals."
Fuyumi covered her face with her hands, trying to calm down.
"I should have..." she began, but didn't finish.
"You're not to blame," Natsuo said firmly, placing a hand on her shoulder. "The only thing you can do is support him when he needs it."
Toya, sighing heavily, approached the window and looked out.
"This guy deserves more than this crap," he said quietly. "If I were stronger, maybe this wouldn't have happened."
Fuyumi looked at her brothers, her face showing determination.
"I'll talk to him," she said firmly. "He needs to know that not everyone in this world is blind."
Shoto and Natsuo exchanged glances and nodded. Even Toya managed a slight smile, despite the anger boiling inside.
"Good," he said, stepping away from the window. "But, Fuyumi... tell him he's not alone. Even if the people around him are idiots, there are those who understand he's a true hero."
"I think this won't go unnoticed," Natsuo said, drawing everyone's attention, including Enji's.
You know who Re-Destro is, and I think things will only get worse for the boy. Once the report on him comes out, it's only a matter of time. If I were you, I'd invite him for a thank-you dinner," Natsuo suggested, looking at his family. Hearing this, Toya was taken aback.
"People still listen to that sharp-nosed fool?" Toya sneered, to which Fuyumi looked at him sadly.
"Toya, calm down. I think I'll support him, especially knowing he has no one," Rei said, looking at Fuyumi with surprise, though she suspected what Fuyumi meant, refusing to believe it until her daughter confirmed it.
"What are you talking about?"
"He has no one—no father, no mother, no friends. He's completely alone. When we met, I followed him to the cemetery where he was mourning his mother that day," Rei looked at Fuyumi and simply sighed.
"Poor boy, it's not easy for him after everything that's happened," Rei worried about the savior of her only daughter, knowing that without him, her daughter would have died at the hands of the villain.
"Invite him to dinner. Even though he is quirkless, his actions deserve respect," said the head of the Todoroki family in an authoritative tone. Though he could be arrogant at times, he respected those who engaged in heroism not for glory.