The day after the finals, [Name] discovered the disappointing news that Ashido, Kaminari, Kirishima, and Seto had not passed the practical exams. The somber mood surrounding the four was palpable, making it evident to [Name] why the four felt this way.
"E-Everyone... I'm looking forward to hearing all your stories of how fun training camp was..." Ashido's voice quivered, on the verge of tears. [Name] approached her, offering comfort by gently holding her hand and rubbing her back with their thumb. Ashido managed a watery smile as she leaned on them, expressing her gratitude, "T-Thanks, [Last Name]."
"Maybe they'll end up letting you go!" Midoriya attempted to provide some comfort to the group, with Sero standing beside him. "There might be a last-minute twist or something..."
"Stop, Midoriya," Sero interrupted, placing his hand on the green-haired boy's shoulder and giving him a shaky reassuring grin. "By saying that out loud, you're just jinxing them."
"They said whoever failed the exams would have to skip training camp and live in summer school hell. We didn't pass the practicals, so we're doomed. Don't you get it, Midoriya?" Kaminari's words struck like daggers, stabbing into Midoriya's heart. "If you guys still don't get it, then you're dumber than monkeys!"
[Name] winced in sympathy for Midoriya, who cried out as Kaminari poked him in the eyes.
"Calm down, Kaminari," Sero sighed, his tone heavy with worry. "I'm not sure I'll get to go, either. Our team only passed thanks to Mineta. I got knocked out right away, and since we don't know how they're scoring stuff, I might have flunked."
Kaminari's eyes pleaded as he turned to [Name]. "Even if we don't get to go at least bring us back lots of camp souvenirs, please?!"
"Well, I still think you guys are going," [Name] chimed in, offering a hopeful shrug.
"Y-You think so?" Ashido looked at [Name] with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. [Name] nodded confidently.
"It makes sense," they explained, making a sweeping gesture. "Remember, this is a training camp. We are not going just to have fun, which would make sense to hold you guys back, our main purpose here is to develop our quirks. I'm sure Aizawa-sensei wants everyone to go because he doesn't want anyone to fall behind. He probably did it like he did on the first day."
"To push us to reach our full potential, right?" Kaminari chimed in, also sounding hopeful. [Name]'s logical explanation did resonate with them, and it seemed like something their somewhat sadistic teacher would do.
[Name] nodded with a thoughtful expression, glad that their reasoning was resonating with their friends.
"It really does make sense," Kirishima chimed in, his earlier depressive episode now lifting.
"Exactly," [Name] added. "And if I'm right, Aizawa-sensei might even make you guys take extra lessons to catch up."
"I'm all for it, as long as we get to go with you guys!" Ashido raised her arm, and the others nodded in enthusiastic agreement.
The door slammed open, and all conversations came to an abrupt halt as Aizawa-sensei walked into the room, his usual disheveled appearance intimidating even without him trying.
"I would think," he began, his voice carrying that unmistakable undertone of a threat, "you all know that once the bell rings, you should be in your seats."
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the students scrambled to their seats, their nervous energy palpable. Aizawa-sensei approached the podium, and there was a collective unease in the room as he produced a stack of papers from within his jumpsuit, a peculiar but familiar action for his students.
He continued, his words hanging heavily in the air, "Now, let's start with the results from the exams." As the students waited anxiously for the verdict, the tension in the room became nearly unbearable. "Unfortunately," he went on, "there are a few of you who did not pass your finals." A heavy silence followed his statement.
"So," he said, finally breaking the silence, "when it comes to the training camp in the woods... Everyone is going." He paused, fully aware of his students' reactions but with a manic grin on his face.
"[Last Name], you called it!" Ashido exclaimed, her face lighting up as she turned to [Name]. Their nod and sweet smile in response only made her more elated, and she returned the smile with a flushed look of gratitude.
"Thanks, Kami-sama!" Kaminari chimed in, excitement coursing through the group that had initially failed, now sharing in anticipation of going to the camp with the rest of the class.
Aizawa-sensei cleared his throat and everyone grew quiet once again. He nods, "Yeah. The good news is that no one bombed the written exam. Five failed the practical exam badly. Which is the two teams, I do not need to say who, and Sero as well. I am sure I do not have to explain why."
"Aw, shit," Sero whispers to himself. "I mean I knew it was coming. I basically did nothing."
"Don't worry. Don't worry." Kaminari cheekily smirks at the teen. Sero looked at him offended like he killed his dog.
Aizawa-sensei continued, not giving Sero a chance to respond to Kaminari. "I'll elaborate. You might have noticed that during the practical battle, the teachers ensured there was a way for you, the students, to win. If it hadn't been that way, most of you wouldn't have passed. Our objective was to assess how each of you collaborated and tackled the given task."
Ojiro chimed in with a thoughtful expression, his voice carrying a hint of skepticism, "But didn't you say the teachers wouldn't hold back?"
[Name] leaned back in their chair, resting their chin on their palm, and remarked, "I figured it was another one of your logical ruses, Sensei."
"[Last Name]'s got a point," Kirishima added with a grin, "We're are starting to come to expect that from you, Sensei."
Aizawa-sensei, still sporting a faint grin, leaned against the podium and clarified, "Exactly. It was all part of the plan. The training camp will be focused on strengthening your quirks, and those who didn't pass the finals need these lessons the most. We never had any intention of separating the class. It was just another logical deception we employed!" His explanation made some of the students chuckle nervously, realizing they had been expertly played by their teacher once again.
Iida stood up with a deep frown etched across his face. "Aizawa-sensei, this is the second time you've deceived us. Aren't you concerned that we might lose faith in you?"
Aizawa-sensei nodded solemnly, his expression serious, and the room fell silent as his words carried weight. "Iida raises a valid point. You'll soon realize that not everyone in this world speaks the truth. While it's true that I misled you in certain aspects, remember that failure is still failure. Don't grow too comfortable just yet." His words served as a reminder of the harsh realities they would face as aspiring heroes.
"Expect the unexpected," [Name] chimed in with a nonchalant shrug.
Aizawa-sensei nodded in agreement. "Exactly. In the world of pro heroes, things rarely go as planned. It's crucial to stay prepared for the unexpected. Now, for the five who didn't pass, we've arranged extra lessons. I won't sugarcoat it; they'll be some of the toughest challenges you've faced."
The five students couldn't help but feel a sinking feeling at the thought of the grueling lessons ahead.
The day continued as usual, with the students of Class 1-A slowly packing their belongings to head home.
"I'm actually looking forward to this," Ojiro remarked with a broad smile, clutching the pamphlet Present Mic had distributed to the class, listing all the necessary items.
Iida, thoroughly engrossed in the pamphlet, chimed in, "It appears we'll be at the training camp for an entire week." Midoriya, curious, peered over Iida's shoulder, his gaze narrowing as he scrutinized the list.
"I might have to get a bigger suitcase," Midoriya mumbled, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. Kaminari nodded in agreement.
"Absolutely. I don't even own a bathing suit. Looks like I need to go shopping," the blond-haired teen said, scratching his head with a frown.
"Hey, guys!" Uraraka chimed in, capturing everyone's attention. [Name] paused in their packing, looking up with interest. "Since we're off tomorrow and we've finally finished our exams, I've got a great idea. What if all of Class 1-A goes on a shopping trip?" She suggested with an infectious, beaming smile. [Name] thought she looked cute, but then again, she always did.
[Name] was momentarily distracted as their phone buzzed.
Eri's Papa:
Are you still up for taking Eri out?
She has been talking about it all week.
You:
Of course!!!!
I am so excited to see my little sister!
Eri's Papa:
Great! I will make sure she has everything.
At 10 am, right?
You:
Yup! Can't wait to see her. Tell her I love her, please!!! <3
Eri's Papa:
Sure! She really adores her big sibling! Can't wait to see you tomorrow, little listener!
They couldn't help but let out a small giggle when they saw that Present Mic had sent a picture. It was a photo of Eri, beaming with pride, holding up her drawing of vibrant flowers. Her smile was infectious, and it warmed [Name]'s heart to see her so happy and confident in her artwork.
[Name] had been diligently keeping in touch with Eri. They made it a point to visit her at least once a week and have a nightly call with her before she went to sleep. In the beginning, they worried that Aizawa and Yamada sensei might get tired of their frequent visits, but the two adults reassured them that they always had a place in their household. It made [Name] feel incredibly wanted and loved, filling a void in their life they hadn't realized existed. They had come to see Aizawa and Yamada as parental figures, though they'd never admit it to anyone.
As for Eri, she had been making slow but steady progress. She was attending therapy sessions with a child therapist, and it was helping her overcome her traumatic past. She no longer flinched when someone raised a hand or always asked questions about everything. Eri had developed a love for apples, unicorns, and anything that sparkled with glitter. Aizawa would often find traces of glitter around the house from Eri's art projects, but he did so with a gentle smile, appreciating the newfound happiness that had entered their lives.
Eri's foster parents were still hesitant about letting her attend school due to the lingering threat of the person who had held her captive. However, [Name] had noticed a gradual change in their attitude. There seemed to be a growing openness to the idea of Eri enrolling at U.A., particularly in the daycare program established by Principal Nezu for teen parents.
This shift in perspective was largely thanks to Auntie Nemuri, who had enthusiastically claimed Eri as her niece and [Name] as her nibling[1]. Auntie Nemuri was determined to ensure that Eri received the education, friends her age, and care she deserved, and she was actively encouraging [Name] to refer to her as Auntie Midnight during school. Which is never happening.
"Are you coming with us, [Last Name]?" Midoriya asked, snapping them out of their musing. Uraraka appears next to the green-haired boy, looking at them with a hopeful expression.
[Name] offers a regretful smile to Midoriya and Uraraka. "I appreciate the invite, but I've already got something scheduled for tomorrow."
"Aww, really?" Uraraka responds with a slightly disappointed grin. "Well, we've still got some time before the training camp. Let's make plans for another day!"
Midoriya nods in agreement. "Yeah, definitely! We'll find a day that works for everyone. This is technically too soon."
[Name] appreciates their understanding and nods. "Sounds like a plan. Have fun shopping, and I'll catch up with you both soon!"
Jirou twirls her ear jack and nods. "Yeah, it is happening closer to the new semester[2]. We can plan a hangout then."
[Name] expresses relief and appreciation. "Thanks, that means a lot."
Ashido chimes in with a cheerful smile, "Absolutely! I'll keep you updated on all the plans!"
---------------------------------
Midoriya cautiously peers into the room, searching for All Might. The teacher's lounge appears to be empty, much to his relief.
"Is anyone here?" Midoriya calls softly, his eyes falling on his mentor. All Might is sitting on the couch, his gaze fixed on his teacup, which he's cradling gently.
All Might startles slightly at the sound, nearly dropping his cup. He quickly turns his attention to the green-haired young man. "Ah, Young Midoriya, please, come in," he says, waving his hand in a welcoming gesture. Midoriya takes a deep breath, bracing himself for the conversation.
Midoriya moves to a nearby seat on the opposite couch, facing All Might.
Midoriya's hands clench into fists in his lap as he struggles to find the right words to convey his thoughts.
Seeing the unease in Midoriya's expression, All Might's concern deepens. "Is something troubling you, Young Midoriya?" he inquires.
"I... I have a proposal," Midoriya stammers out. "Please, hear me out, All Might. I really need you to listen."
"You have my full attention," All Might responds, placing his teacup carefully on the coffee table and turning his focus entirely to the earnest young hero-in-training.
Midoriya nods, his breath shuddering as he tries to steady himself. "It's about your injuries, All Might. I know you've mentioned that nobody can do anything about them," he bursts out, his voice trembling with a mix of anxiety and determination. He senses All Might's attempt to interject but presses on, his determination undeterred. Why he's pursuing this idea continues to baffle the hero, but he wants to share his thoughts.
"Young Midoriya," All Might begins, his tone gently cautionary, "I've accepted my condition. I've made peace with it. I know I won't be able to enjoy all the things I used to or save as many people. Even my favorite foods are off the table." He pauses, pondering Midoriya's determination. Midoriya flinches at his latter sentence and All Might's eyes soften.
Undeterred, Midoriya continues, "But what if there's someone who possesses an extraordinary healing quirk? Someone who can restore your missing organs."
"Recovery Girl, even with her amazing quirk, can't heal something that doesn't exist anymore," All Might responds, his voice soft but final. He knows the limits of Recovery Girl's quirk, and he's reconciled himself with them. "If she can't, then no one can. She is considered the greatest healer of our century. I have checked with other medical professionals too."
"But what if it's a U.A. student?" Midoriya countered with a voice trembling in anxious anticipation. He had to get this out, had to make All Might understand. He can't lose the only person he thinks of as a father. Not like his sperm donor is what he calls dad. The teacher in front of him is all he needs to fill in that spot.
All Might's frown deepened as he shook his head. "Young Midoriya, if there was such a student with a miraculous healing quirk, I believe Nezu or Recovery Girl would have informed me. A quirk capable of healing as you inferring is incredibly rare, and such an individual would likely have been an apprentice under Recovery Girl."
Midoriya swallowed hard, looking earnestly into All Might's eyes. "No, I mean [Last Name]."
"Young [Last Name]?" All Might raised an eyebrow, intrigued and somewhat surprised. He admits their quirk is something they have never seen before. He knows that they are going to compete for the number one hero in Japan with a quirk like that. He hopes that Midoriya will see them as a rival to push himself even further.
Midoriya nodded fervently and continued to explain. "Their quirk allows them to transform into characters from anime, TV shows, books, and more. The possibilities are practically limitless, which means they might possess a card with healing abilities that surpass even Recovery Girl's!"
All Might shook his head. "That's a big 'if.' From what I saw, they seem to have more cards that are focused on offensive abilities. We can't be certain if they possess a healing card."
"No! They definitely do!" Midoriya leaned forward, eyes shining with conviction. "We discussed it during the final exam, right before we passed the gate. They told me that one of their cards, Zatanna, has the power to heal and even replace organs, as long as they have the energy, medical knowledge, the ability to imagine it, and concentration."
All Might was left dumbfounded. This was the first time he'd heard about this aspect of [Name]'s quirk, and he couldn't help but wonder if Nezu had been informed. Part of him suspected that the principal had some inkling, but perhaps hadn't shared it with him to prevent him from getting his hopes up.
"But we'd have to explain everything," All Might stressed. "And we can't ask them for such a favor. First, they don't have a license to use their quirk, and second, it might arouse their curiosity. They're very intelligent and could read between the lines."
Midoriya shook his head. "We don't have to disclose the details about One for All. Just tell them that you were severely injured in a major villain battle and express the hope that they could potentially heal you, allowing you to extend your time using your quirk. Nothing more needs to be said."
All Might pondered over his tea, lost in contemplation. A glimmer of hope sparked within him at the idea. He acknowledged the enormity of the request he was considering, yet the possibility of prolonging his time as All Might, passing on the mantle to Midoriya when the time was right, held undeniable appeal. His gaze shifted to Midoriya, sensing the earnest hope shining in his eyes. The decision was made. With a resigned sigh, he spoke, "I'll consult Principal Nezu and Recovery Girl. If they consent, and only if they consent, I'll consider approaching [Last Name]."
Midoriya couldn't conceal his elation at the response.
All Might raise a stern finger, "If this does happen, it will be after they obtain their provisional hero license, understood?"
"Yes, All Might!" Midoriya replied, a wide grin lighting up his face.
--------------
[1]: I searched it up and the internet/Reddit (link: https://www.reddit.com/r/NonBinary/comments/r8264z/are_there_any_gender_neutral_terms_for_niecenephew/) said that one of the options is nibling and is used to refer to nieces/nephews who are non-binary so yes :). I hope you guys didn't think I missed Eri!
[2]: I did research and people on Reddit agree that after the finals exam arc. The students were given 3 weeks off and the finals happened at the end of July (link: https://www.reddit.com/r/BokuNoHeroAcademia/comments/7266e0/an_unofficial_timeline_of_bnha/). This is going to come into play. My ass is going to cry. Kudos to anyone who can guess what I plan to do with this (here is a hint: it appeared in theaters. Different hint from quotev cuz I can't attach links ). More plot is going to be dropped too :)
I might update the previous chapters because one, my old writing style is cringy, two I want to flush out the chapters more as I feel like I am springing up the plot that wasn't hinted at or outright stated before, and three add more scenes with the cast. Once I do I will write it in a future note but I won't force you guys to reread it. It might be confusing if I reference it in a new chapter, but shrugs.
The next chapter is an outing with Eri <3 (and mayhaps someone else :3C). She deserves everything. I don't make the rules. Until next time~