Chapter Text
Nejire twirled her hair as she stared at her lunch. Not even having a cup of jasmine tea could distract her or make her feel any better. Her classes today seemed uninteresting and even Present Mic and Midnight seemed to notice by their worried glances. Ectoplasm had been their substitute homeroom teacher and everyone whispered where their teacher was. Shouta has used a personal day and stayed home with Izuku who still hadn’t emerged from his room. Nejire couldn’t tell them he was at home with his depressed son who was like her brother.
It hurt her heart not being able to help and only sit there in the apartment awkwardly listening in on Shouta trying to convince Izuku to open up. She heard him threaten to get the spare key that was buried in his work desk and even bribe him with new merch. Shouta told her he wouldn’t have actually opened Izuku’s door by force unless he was absolutely sure he was in danger. They both heard Izuku moving, or at least crying so it was clear to the two of them he was alive. They both decided to end the night leaving a glass of water by his door and come morning, it still hadn’t been touched.
“What’s wrong?” a quiet voice asked. “It’s so…unnatural to see you without a smile.”
Nejire looked up to see Amajiki sit down beside her. She tried to smile at him, but it just wouldn’t reach her eyes. While he didn’t talk much, Nejire always made sure to talk to him. He acted awkward and shy whenever she did, she could tell he appreciated her taking time to talk to him as her friend with the small smiles. And Mirio told her, but Amajiki wasn’t supposed to know that!
“It’s my brother.” she sighed.
“You have a brother?” Amajiki asked and was relieved to see a spark of excitement in her eyes.
“Oh! Yeah! Totally recent! He’s a couple years younger than me and well, he apparently met with this douchebag of a guy yesterday and he’s now really upset.” Nejire said as her moment of happiness faded. “He’s been in his room since. Sh–His Dad and I can hear him crying. We don’t know what’s wrong and he won’t say. I just don’t know what I can do to help cheer him up.”
“I don’t know much about being cheerful. Maybe ask Mirio.” Amajiki said.
“You’re plenty cheerful Amajiki!” Nejire said as she tapped him on the shoulder.
“Doubt it.” He sighed before turning and waving his friend over who finished getting his lunch and was looking for them. Meeting eyes with both Mirio broke out in a wide grin before racing over.
“What’s up Amajiki?!” Mirio said as he placed his tray next to him and sat down.
“Mirio, how do you make someone happy?” Nejire asked.
“That’s an odd question, but simple!” Mirio smiled. “Just smiling at someone can let them know that things are going to be okay!”
“Izuku won’t come out of his room though.” Nejire countered.
“Izuku?” Mirio asked. “That’s not a name I know.”
“It’s my little brother.”
"No way!" Mirio said in surprise. "I didn't know you had a little brother!"
"He's like my brother. Izuku is my…guardian's kid." Nejire said. "I totally thought I explained this to you guys."
"...No."
"Nope!"
Nejire then gave them the short version. Her family doesn't like those who use their quirks to help people so they disowned her great aunt then her. Her aunt died a couple months ago and she met the people who were her family, not blood though! She got into UA and her parents kicked her out so she went to live with them. She didn't tell them that it was Shouta who was her guardian, but explained that he's a teacher and Izuku loves anything quirk related. She loves living with them and they treat her like family. .
"I'm sorry that happened." Amajiki said.
"Yeah, if you ever wanna talk just let us know!" Mirio added. "Anyway, about your brother, I think that the best thing you can do is be there for him. Sounds like a pretty cool dude since he's always been there for you so why not return the favor! You gotta be on your A-game because the Sports Festival is just around the corner!"
Nejire smiled and nodded. She could do that. She'd go home today and talk to Izuku about anything and everything focusing on what he liked most! If she brought up watching her in the festival then it might catch his attention! Izuku said he watches it every year!
"You guys are awesome! Thanks!" Nejire said.
Shouta was at a loss. Izuku had been in his room almost 24 hours and he was about to go find that key, consequences be damned. He was about respecting his son, but this was getting to the point it might be harmful. Izuku needed to eat. Drink something. Talk through it. He needed help and Shouta hated that he couldn't do any of that. Especially not if Izuku wouldn’t come out. He’d give him until Neijre got home then they do something.
KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!
The intensity of the pounding at the door scared him, but only he would know. He wasn’t expecting anyone and surely All Might wasn’t dumb enough to come back yet. The only guess he had was Hizashi since he missed another day of school and Neijre had gone that morning. If it were Neijre, should have just come in with her key. As Shouta went over and unlocked the door it swung open and blond hair rushed by him.
"Izuku!" Katsuki yelled into the hall leading to Izuku’s room. "You've got us worried you damn nerd, so come out!"
"Bakugou, I would appreciate it if you didn't come barging into my home and start yelling." Shouta said with an irritation to his voice. Only three people could do that, and last he checked, the blond wasn't one of them. No matter how long he's known him.
"Whatever." Katsuki rolled his eyes. "Izuku’s been out the last two days. That nerd never misses school."
Shouta sighed. Count on his friends to be observant, but no wrong. He’s seen Izuku roll out of bed with a nasty head cold just so he wouldn’t miss a test that could be retaken. Why couldn't Izuku have dumber friends? Oh, right, he'd hate them.
"He hasn't been feeling well–"
"Bullshit." Katsuki interrupted, which received Shouta’s icy glare in return. "Then why hasn't he answered his phone? Or you in that matter? Did something happen again because you better not fucking lie to me. What's wrong with him?"
Shouta sighed. While he didn’t appreciate the attitude and third degree, the kid had some points. He could have answered him instead of leaving him on Read. Izuku probably turned his phone off which made sense because Shouta tried that too, also getting no response. He should have known Izuku’s friends would come knocking sooner or later.
“He usually answers us. I asked my Pops and he said that you took a personal day.” Hitoshi said. “After that we knew something had to be wrong with Izuku.”
Shouta figured Katsuki and Hitoshi would be here. They were there when all that messed up shit went down so go figure, they’d be concerned about him missing school without warning. He looked over to the taller boy who seemed to have just followed them here. Izuku admitted they were friends, but Iida was well aware how Shouta felt about him and made it a mission not to come around unless he had too.
“And you?” Shouta asked.
“I was concerned for Aizariya’s wellbeing after missing 2 consecutive days of school. So upon discussing that they were coming here after classes I thought it best to follow along to ensure he was alright.” Iida explained as he grabbed a file from his bag. “I took the liberty of collecting his homework.”
Both Katsuki and Hitoshi looked at each other before slightly rolling their eyes. Of course this nerd would think about homework.
“I’m sure he’ll appreciate it.” Shouta said, taking it from him and setting it on the table.
“So what’s wrong with him?” Katsuki asked.
Shouta sighed. Luckily he had been thinking about this for a little while in how to explain this to anyone not in their little group.
“Izuku was with me yesterday while I had court for Nejire. I had an associate with me sitting with him since I wasn’t sure he’d be allowed inside. I don’t know why a man approached Izuku, but he acted like he knew him. When I came out Izuku was in tears and wasn’t responding. As soon as we got him he went to his room and locked the door. I haven’t been able to get him to open up at all since.” Shouta lied, adjusting the truth.
“And I’m guessing you have no idea what happened?” Iida asked.
“From what I heard from the associate who was with him, he brought up some unpleasant comments reminding him of Aldera.”
“Shit.” Katsuki cursed as he looked back toward Izuku’s room.
Whatever happened during the time he wasn’t with with his Dad must have fucked with his head. He was aware Izuku had grown since Aldera, but scars never truly heal. They fade over time, but one still looks at them and remembers why they came to be. Those scars, the physical and mental ones, weren’t going to be faint for a while.
His explanation was putting it lightly, but it worked out. Shouta was never planning on telling Izuku’s friends about the other truth about his son. That Izuku’s actual birth year was about one hundred prior to theirs and he has half of the number one hero’s quirk. If he could help he was taking that to his grave. He was surprised that Hitoshi didn’t know more than he did from living with the loud mouth that was Present Mic. However, Shouta was figuring it would come out sooner or later, but today was not that day.
The living room became quiet as no one wanted to meet each other’s eyes. They were dealing with what happened in their own ways.
“Forgive me for inquiring, but I’m just trying to understand the reason behind it all. When we first met and I was being foolish, Aizariya told me what happened. Something he mentioned always interested me, but I didn’t want to intrude even more to ask. He said that they bullied him for his quirk. On our second day of school Aizariya accidently used his quirk in his panic and what I saw were flames. Am I wrong to consider that Aizariya has a fire quirk?” Iida explained.
“No shit, sherlock.” Katsuki said as he rolled his eyes. He then grunted as he then turned his glare onto Hitoshi who elbowed him.
Hitoshi understood better than anyone why Izuku wouldn’t have told anyone his quirk. It was for the same reason he didn’t. While the end thought was different, the principle didn’t change. He didn’t want people to judge him just based on his quirk. Hitoshi didn’t want people to think he was a villain and Izuku didn’t want people to think he was disgusting. However, the last time people found out about Hitoshi’s quirk, he was grateful to meet his best friend.
“No.” Shouta answered. Might as well tell the kid. He was already onto something and it was more logical to hear it from him than have him start snooping again. “Fire Breath is just one of Izuku’s quirks he’s obtained. Izuku’s quirk allows him to essentially absorb the quirks of other people if he obtains their DNA. Whether this ingesting it or somehow getting into his body.”
“Don’t you dare judge him for it or I’ll explode your ass!” Katsuki yelled as he popped his hands.
“I would think nothing of it!” Iida said defensively, quickly, and nervously. He knew the blond would have no qualms about keeping the threat.
A quirk that allowed the use of other people’s quirk. So if Aizariya were to eat Bakugou’s hair he’d get the ability to use explosions. The Fire Breath was one he obtained from someone else and while Iida wanted to ask who, he thought it best to hold off on his questioning for the sake of his curiosity. Although, Iida’s mind continued down the rabbit hole of this revelation.
“Glad to hear it.” Shouta said with a pleased look. He was waiting for the kid to grab his shovel. He almost threw out of his home before and this time his son wasn’t around to stop him. Izuku didn’t need someone he considered a friend just to make matters worse. If that were to happen, Shouta didn’t think he’d ever get Izuku to come out. After they leave, Shouta had a couple things he wanted to say to Izuku that might get him to open up. One thing Izuku held close to his heart was being a hero and he couldn’t do that from his bedroom. If that didn’t work, then he felt sorry for his desk because he was finding that key and would apologize to his son. “Don’t worry about Izuku. He’ll be alright.”
"Will we see him at school tomorrow?" Hitoshi asked.
"I'm not sure right now. Izuku needs time to sort through whatever is going through his head." Shouta answered. “If I get him to open up, I’ll have him message you.”
Katsuki snorted a little. They might be here a while. Izuku was notorious for being in his head. That's why he made him do things that Izuku would never do, while protecting him from things that could hurt him. Katsuki hated the fact the world seemed to be out to get him and there always seemed to be nothing he could do to stop it. He still remembered when Izuku saved them as kids and then not being able to do more at Aldera. Katsuki took measures to ensure Izuku would be okay as long as he was around. He trained his quirk to fight off anyone who tried shit and even had his parents sign him up for first aid classes. He can proudly say he’s CPR certified, but hopes he never has to use it.
“He better or I’m kicking his ass!” Katsuki answered, with his voice in a crescendo as he talked so Izuku could hear him.
“I know you’ll be okay Izuku and I won’t be mean like grumpy here. He just misses you.” Hitoshi called with a smirk and dodged Katsuki’s swing.
“Alright. Get out.” Shouta said. “Don’t you have to get home. I know for sure one of your parents doesn't know you're here.”
Shouta’s eyes narrowed in on Katsuki who had the audacity to not look guilty and shrug. If his mother blew up his phone about knowing the location of her son, he was going to ban him for a month. Not any longer because he’d never hear the end of it.
"If I may, can I say a few words before we depart?" Iida asked seriously as he looked Shouta dead straight in the eyes.
Shouta bit his tongue from automatically saying no thinking he was going to say something and make the situation worse. However, the kid seemed honest in his attempt to be better and at this point Shouta will try anything to have Izuku be okay. He might as well give him a chance as he’s earned it so far.
"Knock yourself out." Shouta said.
Iida nodded as he cautiously stepped toward Izuku’s door. He could feel three sets of eyes on his back. He would never forget his past transgressions and upon learning the truth he could understand Aizariya a bit more. Tensei said a hero isn't just about saving people or beating up villains, but understanding those who are hurting and saving them from whatever demons may lurk. Whether this may be from themselves or what dangers they find themselves in.
He softly knocked.
"Aizariya, it's Tenya Iida. As you said, we’re friends, and as your friend I was concerned when you missed class the past 2 days. I now understand why and you have my sincerest apologies for the ordeal you've been subjected to. No one deserves that treatment and certainly not because of their quirk. I now know the true nature of your quirk and I must say it's rather impressive and fascinating! I would love to talk about it with you if you wish, but I will respect your decisions if you prefer not! I think it is perfect for your chosen career path! You have many ways to be able to save someone and the genuine desire to do so is admirable. You also have the upper hand on any villain fight as they don’t know what quirk you’ll use or have to begin with. Your quirk is anything but useless! People trust you to use their quirks for a good cause and I cannot think of a nobler cause than becoming a hero! While I'm not sure how mutation quirks work I would be honored if you had my quirk and see the good you do with it. However, I would not want to put you in harm's way if mutations would cause damage to your body. I think you will be an excellent hero with your quirk and I do hope to be able to see it in the future. Oh! I also bring the favorable news that we received a perfect score on our English project! Your understanding of the language was crucial to our success and I do hope you’ll want to partner in the future! I look forward to seeing you in class upon your return! Be well, Aizariya."
Iida turned around and saw Katsuki and Hitoshi nod to him. There was nothing more they could do for Izuku. It was all up to him. While Shouta would have a hand in this, Izuku was the one who was going to have to get up and take those steps himself. They could sit around all day waiting, but that would only pressure Izuku making him feel even more cornered. Instead they took their leave as they thanked Shouta for allowing them in and telling them the truth.
“Hey Glasses.” Katsuki said as they stepped outside.
“Yes Bakugou?” Iida asked. Had he said something wrong? He didn’t think so considering the other boy didn’t blow up in the apartment. Perhaps he was being considerate of his surroundings–
“Thanks.”
Iida smiled as he nodded.
Shouta rubbed his face as he shut the door behind them, locking it. At least that ended better than he thought. He was glad Izuku had friends that cared so much to come over and check on him. While he was still a little miffed at Iida, he could admit the kid was slowly digging himself out of the hole he dug. The kid truly was making up for his mistakes and Shouta didn't sense any deception. What he knew of the kid, that word wasn't in his personality vocabulary. Maybe one day he’ll call the kid his son’s friend. The speech was touching, but he didn't think it would help–
"D‐dad?"
Shouta instantly turned around to see Izuku standing at his doorway wrapped in a blanket. One of many Megrami had made him. This one was mainly black with stripes of yellow, white, and red. His heart broke seeing his son. His eyes were puffy and bloodshot. His hair was in tangles that Shouta knew were going to be a literal pain to get out. He just wanted to hug him. Shouta stepped forward to do so and to his surprise, Izuku recoiled. He didn’t want him to touch him?
"Izuku?" Shouta questioned worriedly as he reached out. That was so out of character for him. Izuku was always the more physically affectionate of the two of them. Whenever he was like this he just wanted to sit with his Dad. "What's wrong kiddo?"
"You said you always love me, right?' Izuku asked as he looked up at him, still in a teary voice as tears that Shouta wasn't sure he had left to cry fell. He hadn’t seen sobs like this since that day at the hospital.
"That will never change Izuku. No matter what." Shouta reassured him.
Did that asshole tell Izuku he didn't love him because of his quirk? He knew he was probably back where he came from, but Shouta wasn't afraid to buy a ticket just to punch the guy in the face and he might have Japan’s Number One Hero backing him up. He was sure the entire world loved that man and he could get away with it. He read about how adopted kids had these concerns and Shouta always made sure Izuku knew that he loved him. He would make that bastard pay for every making his son doubt that he loved–
"Even if I did something wrong and acted like a villain?"
Oh Izuku…