#deikacity

Fate of the League of Villains in the MHA AU Post-Hideout Raid Collapse

Context and Setup

LOV Collapse: Unlike canon, where the LOV persists after the Hideout Raid Arc, in this AU, AFO is killed during the raid (a deviation from his Tartarus imprisonment, manga chapter 89), and Tomura Shigaraki is captured alongside other core members. The raid, led by All Might and heroes (inspired by August 7, 2025, 17:09), exploits the LOV’s weakened state after their failed USJ attack (lacking Overhaul’s precision, August 7, 2025, 17:09). The surviving LOV members—Dabi, Toga, Spinner, Twice, Mr. Compress, Magne, Kurogiri, and minor associates—scatter, facing pressure to align with either the Overhaul-Humarise alliance (anti-Quirk, August 7, 2025, 23:24) or the MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition (Quirk-centric, August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Faction Appeal:

Overhaul-Humarise: Offers a structured, anti-Quirk ideology (Quirk eradication, August 7, 2025, 23:24), appealing to villains disillusioned with Quirk reliance or seeking order. Their resources (HPSC backing, Trigger Bombs) and Kai Chisaki’s ruthlessness attract pragmatic defectors.

MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram: Promotes Quirk supremacy and Social Darwinism (August 8, 2025, 04:07), drawing villains who value their Quirks and seek power or wealth. The MLA’s Detnerat funding, Nine’s elite Storm Legion, and Wolfram’s mercenary Iron Syndicate offer diverse opportunities.

HPSC Influence: The document (pages 2-4) highlights the Hero Public Safety Commission’s morally dubious tactics, including Hawks’ infiltration of the LOV and Humarise’s covert HPSC ties (August 7, 2025, 23:24). This complicates defections, as Hawks’ intelligence may expose LOV members’ movements, forcing quick decisions.

Fate of Key LOV Members

Dabi (Touya Todoroki)

Motivation: Driven by hatred for hero society and his father, Endeavor (manga chapter 290), Dabi’s Fire Quirk (Blueflame) makes him incompatible with Overhaul-Humarise’s anti-Quirk agenda. His chaotic nihilism and desire to destroy heroes align with the MLA’s Quirk supremacy and Nine’s Social Darwinism (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Joins the MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition, specifically Nine’s Storm Legion. Dabi’s Blueflame synergizes with Nine’s Weather Manipulation (fire-enhanced storms) and Geten’s Cryokinesis (August 8, 2025, 04:07), making him a key asset in frontal assaults.

Role: Elite enforcer in the Storm Legion, targeting hero agencies to expose their weaknesses (e.g., Endeavor’s agency). His destructive tendencies align with Nine’s “survival of the fittest” ethos, but his personal vendetta risks clashing with Re-Destro’s structured leadership.

Impact: Dabi’s presence amplifies the MLA’s propaganda (via Curious, August 8, 2025, 04:07), framing heroes as corrupt. His knowledge of hero tactics (from his Todoroki upbringing) aids Nine’s assaults but draws Shoto Todoroki’s attention, escalating their sibling conflict (August 7, 2025, 17:09).

Himiko Toga

Motivation: Toga’s obsession with blood and mimicry (Transform Quirk) stems from her desire to express love through violence (manga chapter 226). Her Quirk reliance makes her reject Overhaul-Humarise’s eradication goal, but her chaotic nature clashes with the MLA’s discipline. Wolfram’s mercenary freedom appeals to her (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Joins Wolfram’s Iron Syndicate as a freelance operative. Her Transform Quirk allows infiltration missions, complementing Wolfram’s Metal Manipulation for heists (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Role: Stealth operative, impersonating heroes or Humarise agents to steal resources or disrupt operations. Her erratic behavior suits Wolfram’s profit-driven missions but risks unreliability, as she prioritizes her obsessions (e.g., targeting Izuku Midoriya, August 7, 2025, 17:09).

Impact: Toga’s infiltrations disrupt Overhaul-Humarise’s safehouses, but her fixation on Izuku draws UA attention, complicating Wolfram’s contracts. Her loose allegiance to the MLA (paid through Wolfram) creates tension with Nine’s ideological rigidity.

Spinner (Shuichi Iguchi)

Motivation: Inspired by Stain’s anti-hero ideology (manga chapter 220), Spinner’s loyalty to Tomura and weak Gecko Quirk make him resistant to Overhaul-Humarise’s anti-Quirk stance. His belief in a “true hero” society aligns with the MLA’s Quirk liberation and Nine’s Social Darwinism (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Joins the MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition, aligning with the MLA’s core under Re-Destro. His ideological commitment makes him a better fit for the MLA than Wolfram’s mercenaries.

Role: Propaganda operative under Curious, using his Stain-inspired rhetoric to recruit Quirk users against Overhaul-Humarise. His Gecko Quirk aids in scouting missions, climbing structures for Skeptic’s surveillance (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Impact: Spinner’s propaganda bolsters the MLA’s public image, countering Humarise’s fear campaigns (August 7, 2025, 23:24). His loyalty to Stain’s ideals creates friction with Nine’s ruthless Darwinism, potentially leading to defection if the MLA strays from Stain’s vision.

Twice (Jin Bubaigawara)

Motivation: Twice’s loyalty to the LOV and emotional dependence on camaraderie (manga chapter 229) make him desperate for a new “family” post-collapse. His Double Quirk is valuable to both factions, but Overhaul’s cold pragmatism (August 7, 2025, 17:09) repels him, while the MLA’s community and Wolfram’s pay appeal to his need for belonging.

Choice: Joins Wolfram’s Iron Syndicate, drawn by their financial incentives and loose structure (August 8, 2025, 04:07). His mental instability makes him unfit for the MLA’s disciplined ranks.

Role: Creates doubles for combat and espionage, multiplying Wolfram’s forces during raids on Humarise bases. His doubles impersonate Overhaul’s Eight Bullets, sowing confusion (August 7, 2025, 23:24).

Impact: Twice’s doubles amplify the Iron Syndicate’s effectiveness, but his emotional volatility risks mission failures, especially if he fixates on his lost LOV comrades. His presence draws Hawks’ attention (document, page 3), as his doubles could expose MLA plans.

Mr. Compress (Atsuhiro Sako)

Motivation: A showman with a flair for theatrics (manga chapter 81), Mr. Compress’s Compress Quirk is versatile for stealth and capture. He rejects Overhaul-Humarise’s anti-Quirk ideology to preserve his Quirk but is drawn to the MLA’s resources and Wolfram’s pay for his criminal exploits.

Choice: Joins Wolfram’s Iron Syndicate, valuing their mercenary freedom and MLA funding (August 8, 2025, 04:07). His theatrical nature aligns with Wolfram’s opportunistic heists.

Role: Uses Compress to steal Overhaul-Humarise resources (e.g., Quirk-Destroying Drug samples) or trap enemies in marbles for transport. Works alongside Toga for infiltration missions.

Impact: Mr. Compress’s precision enhances Wolfram’s raids, countering Overhaul’s Mimic traps (August 7, 2025, 23:24). His showmanship boosts Iron Syndicate morale but risks drawing hero attention, especially from Ochaco Uraraka, whose Zero Gravity counters his marbles (August 7, 2025, 17:09).

Magne (Kenji Hikiishi)

Motivation: Magne’s loyalty to the LOV and Magnetism Quirk (manga chapter 88) make her reject Overhaul-Humarise’s Quirk eradication. Her desire for freedom aligns with the MLA’s Quirk liberation, but her aggressive style suits Nine’s Storm Legion (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Joins the MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition, specifically Nine’s Storm Legion, drawn by their Social Darwinist ethos and combat focus.

Role: Uses Magnetism to manipulate metal in battle, synergizing with Nine’s storms and Geten’s ice to disrupt Humarise’s Trigger Bombs. She leads frontal assaults alongside Chimera and Slice (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Impact: Magne’s brute force strengthens the Storm Legion, countering Katsukame’s Vitality Stealing (August 7, 2025, 23:24). Her loyalty to the LOV’s memory creates tension with Nine’s ambition, risking conflict if she feels the MLA betrays Tomura’s legacy.

Kurogiri (Oboro Shirakumo)

Motivation: As a Nomu loyal to AFO (manga chapter 254), Kurogiri’s Warp Gate Quirk is critical for mobility. With AFO dead and Tomura captured, his programming seeks a new master. Overhaul’s control repels him, but Dark Might’s charisma and MLA resources align with his utility (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Joins the MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition, serving directly under Dark Might for his AFO-like authority (August 7, 2025, 16:53).

Role: Provides Warp Gates for rapid troop deployment, enabling Nine’s Storm Legion and Wolfram’s Iron Syndicate to strike Overhaul-Humarise bases. His loyalty ensures Dark Might’s control over operations.

Impact: Kurogiri’s mobility counters Mimic’s environmental traps (August 7, 2025, 23:24), giving the MLA a strategic edge. His Nomu nature draws All Might’s attention, suspecting AFO’s lingering influence (August 7, 2025, 17:09).

Minor LOV Associates (e.g., Mustard, Moonfish)

Motivation: Minor villains like Mustard (Gas Quirk) and Moonfish (Blade-Tooth Quirk) lack deep loyalty but rely on their Quirks for power. They reject Overhaul-Humarise to preserve their abilities, gravitating toward the MLA’s wealth or Wolfram’s pay (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Choice: Split between factions:

Mustard: Joins Wolfram’s Iron Syndicate, using Gas to disorient enemies during heists, drawn by payment.

Moonfish: Joins Nine’s Storm Legion, his feral nature fitting their aggressive assaults.

Role: Mustard supports Toga and Mr. Compress in stealth missions, while Moonfish aids Magne in frontal attacks, targeting Humarise operatives.

Impact: Their minor roles bolster both groups but risk being expendable, as Nine and Wolfram prioritize stronger members. Their presence draws hero attention, complicating MLA operations.

Dynamics and Synergies

Overhaul-Humarise Alliance:

Appeals To: No LOV members fully align due to their Quirk reliance and emotional ties to Tomura’s chaotic vision. Overhaul’s cold pragmatism (August 7, 2025, 17:09) and Humarise’s HPSC-backed extremism (August 7, 2025, 23:24) alienate the LOV’s camaraderie-driven members.

Missed Opportunities: Twice and Mr. Compress could enhance Overhaul’s precision with doubles and compression, but their rejection of Quirk eradication prevents this. Kurogiri’s Warp Gate would counter Mimic’s traps, but his Nomu loyalty seeks a stronger figurehead like Dark Might.

MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram Coalition:

Ideological Fit: Dabi, Spinner, and Magne align with the MLA’s Quirk supremacy and Nine’s Social Darwinism, strengthening the Storm Legion and propaganda efforts (August 8, 2025, 04:07). Their LOV roots add emotional weight to the MLA’s cause, framing Overhaul-Humarise as oppressors.

Mercenary Fit: Toga, Twice, and Mr. Compress thrive in Wolfram’s profit-driven Iron Syndicate, their chaotic Quirks suiting heists and infiltrations. Mustard’s addition enhances their versatility, but their lack of ideological commitment risks defection.

Dark Might’s Role: His charisma unifies the LOV defectors, especially Kurogiri, whose Nomu programming sees him as AFO’s successor. His instability (August 7, 2025, 16:53) risks alienating ideological members like Spinner.

Tensions: Nine’s ambition clashes with Dabi and Magne’s personal agendas, while Wolfram’s greed frustrates Spinner’s Stain-inspired ideals. Toga and Twice’s instability may disrupt Wolfram’s missions, requiring Skeptic’s oversight (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Synergies:

Storm Legion: Dabi’s Blueflame, Magne’s Magnetism, and Moonfish’s Blade-Tooth enhance Nine’s Weather Manipulation, creating devastating assaults (e.g., fire-storms, magnetic traps). Geten’s Cryokinesis amplifies their impact (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Iron Syndicate: Toga’s Transform, Twice’s Double, and Mr. Compress’s Compress enable stealth and chaos, complementing Wolfram’s Metal Manipulation for heists. Mustard’s Gas adds crowd control (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Kurogiri’s Mobility: Warp Gates unify the coalition, allowing rapid strikes against Overhaul-Humarise, countering Mimic’s traps and Nemoto’s intel (August 7, 2025, 23:24).

Impact on the AU Narrative

Fragmented LOV Legacy:

The LOV’s collapse scatters its members, diluting Tomura’s vision of chaos but amplifying the ideological war between Overhaul-Humarise (Quirk eradication) and MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram (Quirk supremacy). The defectors’ choices reflect their personal drives, reshaping the underworld.

AFO’s death and Tomura’s capture remove the LOV’s unifying force, making the MLA coalition the dominant villainous power, though Overhaul-Humarise’s precision remains a threat.

Hero Society Response:

UA Students: Izuku Midoriya faces Dabi and Nine’s combined assaults, pushing his strategic use of One For All (August 7, 2025, 17:09). Katsuki Bakugo counters Wolfram’s metal constructs and Toga’s infiltrations with explosions, driven by Quirk pride (August 7, 2025, 17:09). Shoto Todoroki battles Dabi’s flames and Nine’s storms, escalating their sibling conflict. Ochaco Uraraka targets Toga and Mr. Compress, using Zero Gravity to disrupt their stealth (August 7, 2025, 17:09).

Pro Heroes: All Might confronts Dark Might and Kurogiri, suspecting AFO’s lingering influence (August 7, 2025, 17:09). Hawks’ infiltration (document, page 3) uncovers LOV defections, exposing MLA and Humarise ties, but his HPSC loyalty complicates his actions (August 7, 2025, 23:24).

Three-Way Conflict:

The MLA-Dark Might-Nine-Wolfram coalition, bolstered by LOV defectors, escalates their war against Overhaul-Humarise, targeting their Quirk-Destroying Drug and Trigger Bombs (August 7, 2025, 23:24). Heroes are caught in the crossfire, forced to counter both factions.

Curious’s propaganda (August 8, 2025, 04:07) uses Spinner’s Stain-inspired rhetoric to frame Overhaul-Humarise as oppressors, while Skeptic’s hacks expose HPSC’s Humarise ties, destabilizing hero society (document, page 3).

Thematic Depth:

Quirk Value: The LOV’s split reflects the AU’s core conflict: Overhaul-Humarise’s Quirk eradication vs. MLA’s Quirk supremacy, echoing prior themes (August 7, 2025, 17:09, 23:24). Dabi, Toga, and others’ Quirk reliance drives their choices, challenging hero society’s reliance on Quirks.

Loyalty vs. Pragmatism: Spinner’s ideological loyalty contrasts with Toga and Twice’s opportunism, mirroring Overhaul’s control vs. Nine’s Darwinism (August 8, 2025, 04:07).

Sacrifice and Redemption: Eri’s exploitation by Overhaul-Humarise (August 7, 2025, 23:24) parallels the LOV’s loss of purpose, with heroes like Ochaco aiming to save her, reinforcing sacrifice themes.

Narrative Shifts:

New Arcs: A “Defector War Arc” pits MLA’s Storm Legion (Dabi, Magne, Nine) against Overhaul-Humarise, with heroes intervening to rescue Eri. A “Mercenary Chaos Arc” explores Toga, Twice, and Mr. Compress’s unstable loyalty to Wolfram, risking betrayal.

Eri’s Centrality: Remains a linchpin, with her Rewind Quirk fueling Overhaul-Humarise’s drug (August 7, 2025, 23:24). Her rescue could collapse their operation, forcing MLA reliance on Nine and Wolfram.

HPSC Exposure: Hawks’ espionage (document, page 3) risks exposing both factions, potentially uniting heroes against the underworld war.

Challenges and Future Conflicts

Internal Strains:

MLA Tensions: Dabi and Magne’s LOV loyalties clash with Nine’s ambition and Re-Destro’s authority (August 8, 2025, 04:07). Spinner’s Stain ideals may lead to defection if the MLA compromises.

Wolfram’s Instability: Toga, Twice, and Mr. Compress’s chaotic tendencies risk disrupting Wolfram’s missions, especially if better offers arise (e.g., from minor yakuza factions, August 7, 2025, 23:24).

Dark Might’s Volatility: His unstable power and narcissism (August 7, 2025, 16:53) may alienate Kurogiri or provoke Nine, fracturing the coalition.

Overhaul-Humarise Threat: Their Quirk-Destroying Drug and Trigger Bombs (August 7, 2025, 23:24) counter the MLA’s Quirk-centric forces, with Chisaki’s precision and Nemoto’s intel outmatching Wolfram’s raids. Eri’s exploitation ensures their production, requiring a targeted hero strike.

Hero Counterattacks: UA’s war training (document, page 2) prepares students to face Nine’s storms, Wolfram’s constructs, and LOV defectors. Hawks’ infiltration (document, page 3) may expose both factions, prompting a unified hero response.

Public Backlash: Curious’s propaganda risks overexposure if Skeptic’s hacks reveal LOV defections, mirroring HPSC’s corruption cover-up (document, page 3). Public fear of Quirks (fueled by Humarise) could undermine the MLA’s Quirk supremacy.

Conclusion

1. The Power of "Meta-Language"

One of Re-Destro’s most brilliant moves was rebranding. He didn't use the word "Quirk"—a term that implies a weird accident or a biological quirk of fate. He insisted on "Meta-Abilities."

The Logic: By calling them Meta-Abilities, he framed them as a natural human right and a part of one’s identity, rather than something that needs to be "regulated" or "suppressed" by the government.

The Result: This intellectual framing allowed him to recruit doctors, lawyers, and politicians who felt "stifled" by hero laws, making the MLA feel like a sophisticated civil rights movement rather than a gang of criminals.

3. The "Cell" Structure

Managing 100,000 people is a logistical nightmare. Re-Destro didn't manage them all personally; he used a highly decentralized cell structure. * Sleeper Agents: Most MLA members lived normal lives. They were your neighbors, your mailmen, or your local shop owners.

Radicalization: He used his ancestor Destro’s autobiography as a "Bible." By the time a recruit was brought into the fold, they weren't just followers; they were zealots willing to die for the cause. This level of loyalty is incredibly hard to break, even under interrogation.

The "Billionaire" Paradox: Re-Destro’s greatest skill was making himself indispensable to the very society he wanted to overthrow. By providing the technology heroes used, he became a "load-bearing pillar" of the economy. If the government took him down, they risked a financial collapse.

4. Why He Ultimately Failed

Despite his skill, Re-Destro suffered from "The Specialist’s Trap." He was so good at organizing a revolution that he forgot how to handle a force of nature. He prepared for a war against the government (logic, laws, and tactics), but he wasn't prepared for Tomura Shigaraki—a man who didn't want to change the world, but simply delete it.

Analyzing Rikiya Yotsubashi (Re-Destro) requires looking at him through two lenses: the CEO of a multi-billion dollar corporation and the Grand Commander of a revolutionary cult.

Before Shigaraki turned Deika City into a pile of dust, Re-Destro was arguably one of the most effective—yet fundamentally flawed—leaders in the My Hero Academia universe.

The Case for "Good" Leadership

Re-Destro wasn't just a guy with a scary Quirk; he was a master of logistics and soft power.

Organizational Genius: He managed to keep a militia of over 100,000 members completely secret from the Hero Public Safety Commission for years. That requires incredible vetting, discipline, and structural integrity.

Resource Management: By using his company, Detnerat, he solved the "villain" problem of gear. He didn't just give his followers a cause; he gave them high-tech support items, health insurance, and careers.

Visionary Oratory: He was a charismatic "man of the people." He successfully rebranded his father’s (Destro) failed radicalism into a modern, polished philosophy that appealed to everyone from politicians to common workers.

The Case for "Bad" Leadership

While he was great at building the machine, he was terrible at steering it when things got messy.

Dogmatic Blindness: Re-Destro was so obsessed with his lineage and the "purity" of Meta-Abilities that he severely underestimated the League of Villains. He viewed Shigaraki as a "petty thug" rather than a force of nature, a mistake that cost him his legs and his army.

Emotional Volatility: His Quirk, Stress, is a double-edged sword. A leader whose power increases with frustration is prone to making erratic, high-pressure decisions. He cried over the "beauty" of his subordinates' deaths, showing a level of fanaticism that borders on instability.

The "Deika City" Blunder: Using an entire city of his own "innocent" followers as bait for the League was a massive gamble. He treated his people like disposable assets in a grand performance, which is the hallmark of a tyrant, not a sustainable leader.

The Verdict

Was he a good leader? In peacetime, yes. He was a brilliant administrator who created a sense of belonging for the marginalized. In wartime, no. He lacked the tactical flexibility to handle "wild cards" like Shigaraki and ultimately surrendered his entire life's work the moment he realized he wasn't the "chosen one."

My Hero Academia AU: Meta Liberation Army as Primary Antagonists

Core Premise Changes

The World Setup

No All For One/One For All Legacy: The ancient villain/hero cycle doesn't exist, removing the predetermined "Deku vs Shigaraki" endgame

Systemic Oppression Focus: Instead of individual villains, the story centers on institutional discrimination against Quirk users

Corporate Villainy: The main threat comes from within society's power structures rather than external chaos

Deku's Journey Transformation

Quirkless Perspective: Deku's initial quirklessness becomes more meaningful - he experiences both sides of Quirk discrimination

Ideological Awakening: Rather than inheriting power, Deku must grapple with the MLA's arguments about Quirk freedom

Hero Society Critique: Deku questions whether the current hero system truly serves everyone

Arc Restructuring

Early Arcs (USJ → Sports Festival)

USJ Incident:

MLA operatives infiltrate as "concerned parents" questioning UA's safety protocols

No Nomu - instead, they use liberated civilians with powerful Quirks

The attack appears more like a "civil rights demonstration gone wrong"

Seeds doubt about whether heroes are truly protecting people or controlling them

Sports Festival:

MLA uses the event to broadcast propaganda about Quirk restrictions

Students like Shinso become poster children for "Quirk discrimination"

Public opinion starts shifting as viewers see "villainous" Quirks being stigmatized

Deku's victory speech becomes about accepting all Quirks, not just "heroic" ones

Stain Arc Replacement: "The Liberator Arc"

New Antagonist: A charismatic MLA lieutenant who targets "fake heroes"

Exposes heroes who suppress their full Quirk potential due to regulations

Kills heroes who enforce discriminatory Quirk laws

Unlike Stain's ideology about "true heroes," focuses on Quirk liberation

Iida's brother was targeted for shutting down underground Quirk training facilities

Forest Training Camp → "Liberation Summer"

MLA establishes "Quirk Liberation Camps" for teenagers

Kidnaps students not to recruit them as villains, but to show them "true freedom"

Bakugo's powerful, destructive Quirk makes him a prime target for recruitment

The rescue mission becomes morally complex when some students don't want to be "rescued"

Provisional License → "License to Suppress"

The licensing exam reveals its true purpose: categorizing and limiting Quirks

Students discover heroes are ranked not just by effectiveness but by "social acceptability" of their Quirks

MLA reveals they've infiltrated the Hero Public Safety Commission

Some students begin questioning if they want licenses that restrict their true potential

Major Story Arcs

Corporate Infiltration Arc

Setup: Students discover Detnerat products are everywhere in hero society

Revelation: Support gear is designed to limit and monitor Quirk usage

Climax: Raid on Detnerat headquarters reveals the full scope of MLA infiltration

Stakes: Heroes realize their own equipment has been sabotaging them

Hearts and Mind Political Arc

Trumpet's Rise: The Hearts and Mind Party gains political power

Legislation: New laws that appear to help Quirk users but actually enable MLA control

Student Involvement: UA students must navigate becoming political activists

Moral Complexity: Some MLA policies genuinely help marginalized Quirk users

The Publishing War Arc

Information Warfare: Curious's media empire shapes public opinion

Heroes vs Media: Heroes struggle against propaganda and "fake news"

Deku's Choice: Must decide whether to use media to fight back or find another way

Social Media: Students deal with online harassment and manipulation

Deika City Revelation Arc

Discovery: Heroes learn entire cities are under MLA control

Infiltration: Covert mission reveals the true extent of MLA influence

Civil War Setup: Society begins choosing sides openly

Family Conflicts: Students' families are divided on MLA ideology

Character Development Changes

Izuku Midoriya

Power Source: Develops his Quirk through understanding rather than inheritance

Moral Complexity: Must argue against villains who make valid points about society

Leadership Role: Becomes a voice for reform rather than just stopping bad guys

Character Arc: From outcast to bridge-builder between heroes and liberated society

Katsuki Bakugo

Recruitment Target: His explosive Quirk and aggressive nature make him prime MLA material

Internal Conflict: Struggles with whether current hero society truly lets him be his best self

Character Growth: Learns to use his power responsibly without suppressing his nature

Relationship with Deku: Their rivalry becomes philosophical as well as personal

Shoto Todoroki

Family Relevance: Endeavor's abuse represents everything MLA fights against

Personal Stakes: His family's story becomes a public symbol in the liberation debate

Character Journey: Must decide if heroism requires suffering or if liberation offers a better path

Quirk Acceptance: Learns to embrace both sides of his power without trauma

Class 1-A Dynamics

Divided Loyalties: Students genuinely split on whether MLA has valid points

Quirk Exploration: Characters push their abilities beyond "safe" limits

Social Justice: Students become activists as well as heroes

Moral Debates: Classroom discussions become philosophical battlegrounds

Climactic Structure

The Liberation War Arc

Three-Way Conflict:

Traditional Heroes: Want to maintain current system with reforms

Meta Liberation Army: Want complete Quirk freedom, regardless of consequences

Student Coalition: Seek middle ground with genuine reform

Major Battles:

Skeptic vs Information Heroes: Cyber warfare for control of public narrative

Re-Destro vs Symbol of Peace: Philosophical debate backed by overwhelming power

Geten vs Todoroki: Ice vs Ice/Fire representing old vs new approaches to Quirk identity

Curious vs Media Heroes: The power of narrative in modern society

Final Resolution

Not Victory, but Evolution:

Society restructures around genuine Quirk acceptance

Hero system reformed to serve liberation rather than control

New laws balance individual freedom with public safety

Students graduate into a world they helped create

Thematic Depth

Core Themes

Systemic Change vs Individual Action: Can heroes really fix broken systems?

Freedom vs Safety: How much liberty should society sacrifice for security?

Representation vs Assimilation: Should "different" people change to fit in or should society change?

Privilege and Power: Who benefits from current systems and who suffers?

Real-World Parallels

Civil Rights Movements: The struggle for acceptance and equality

Corporate Influence: How businesses shape society and politics

Media Manipulation: The power of controlling information and narrative

Generational Change: Young people challenging established systems

Why This Works Better

Moral Complexity

Villains have legitimate grievances that can't be punched away

Heroes must change society, not just protect the status quo

Students face genuine ideological choices, not just good vs evil

Character Agency

Deku chooses his path rather than inheriting destiny

All students must decide what kind of heroes they want to be

Supporting characters get meaningful roles in societal change

Societal Stakes

The entire structure of hero society is at stake

Victory requires building something new, not just defeating enemies

Long-term consequences matter more than immediate battles

Realistic Resolution

Problems are solved through systemic change, not just defeating a final boss

Society evolves rather than returning to a previous state

Heroes grow into leaders and reformers, not just fighters

An Alternate Universe: The Meta Liberation Army as MHA's Main Antagonists

In an alternate My Hero Academia (MHA) universe where the Meta Liberation Army (MLA) stands as the primary antagonist, the core conflict would shift from individual villainy and societal decay to a widespread ideological war over Quirk regulation and freedom. Here's how they would operate and how story arcs might unfold:

How the MLA Would Function as the Main Big Bads

The Meta Liberation Army, founded by Destro and refounded by his descendant Re-Destro, operates on the philosophy that the free use of Quirks (which they call "Meta Abilities") is a basic human right, emphasizing liberation over regulation. As the main antagonists, their operations would be far more insidious and widespread than a typical villain organization, leveraging their unique structure and goals:

Public and Covert Influence: Unlike AFO's shadowy network or the League's destructive public appearances, the MLA's top brass are successful entrepreneurs with immense resources and wealth, holding positions in major companies and political parties. This allows them to exert influence and spread their ideology from within society's legitimate structures, making them harder to detect and dismantle. For example, Curious's publishing company would actively reprint Destro's autobiography, "Meta Liberation War," to spread their message, and Re-Destro's Detnerat Company would develop and leak support items to the black market for data.

Ideological Warfare: Their primary weapon would be their ideology. They aim to dismantle Quirk regulation by convincing the populace that heroes and the government are suppressing their fundamental rights. This would manifest in public demonstrations, political lobbying (through figures like Trumpet), and even acts of "liberation" that free Quirks from perceived constraints, often causing chaos.

Vast Membership: With over 116,000 "warriors" who have undergone training to strengthen their powers, the MLA possesses overwhelming numbers. These members are zealously dedicated to their cause, willing to make sacrifices for liberation. This would allow for large-scale, coordinated attacks that overwhelm hero forces through sheer volume.

Calculated, Not Chaotic, Destruction: While capable of terrorism, their destruction would be a means to an end – to "destroy the status quo". They would prioritize strategic targets that symbolize Quirk regulation or hero society, rather than indiscriminate chaos. Their willingness to use psychological warfare, as seen in their manipulation of Twice's trauma, indicates a strategic approach to conflict.

"Your Terrorists Are Our Freedom Fighters": The narrative would constantly challenge the perception of "villainy," as the MLA views themselves as freedom fighters, while most of society sees them as terrorists. This moral ambiguity would be a central theme.

How Arcs Would Work in this AU

The story arcs would revolve around the heroes gradually uncovering the MLA's pervasive influence and confronting their ideology, not just their power.

Early Arcs: Unveiling the Hidden Threat

Initial Signs of Discontent: Small, seemingly isolated incidents of Quirk users pushing legal boundaries or expressing anti-regulation sentiments. These could be dismissed as minor crimes or fringe groups initially.

The Whispers of "Meta Abilities": Heroes might encounter citizens or lower-level villains who refer to Quirks as "Meta Abilities", a subtle hint to the MLA's presence and their historical roots.

Rising Public Unrest: The MLA, through its hidden channels (e.g., publishing houses, political rallies), would subtly stoke public resentment against Quirk laws, leading to peaceful protests that gradually escalate into disruptive acts.

First Major Confrontation: A major incident occurs where a large group of "liberated" citizens (MLA warriors) overwhelm local law enforcement and even some pro heroes, showcasing the MLA's numbers and zeal. This could be a takeover of a public square or a government building. The heroes, including Class 1-A, would be deployed, struggling against the sheer scale of the conflict.

Introduction of Key MLA Figures: Following this initial clash, the public faces of the MLA's leaders like Re-Destro, Trumpet, Curious, and Skeptic would emerge. Their dual identities as respected societal figures would create a public relations nightmare for the heroes.

Mid-Game Arcs: Ideological Clashes and Infiltration

Debate and Public Opinion: Heroes would find themselves fighting not just villains, but also public opinion. Citizens swayed by the MLA's rhetoric would question the heroes' actions, making their job harder.

Infiltration Attempts: Heroes, possibly including Hawks (if he's still a double agent, but for the MLA), would attempt to infiltrate the MLA's corporate and political networks to expose their true nature and disrupt their operations. This would involve detective work and espionage rather than direct combat initially.

Hero Society Under Strain: The constant pressure from the MLA's ideological attacks and large-scale "liberation" events would stretch hero resources thin, leading to questions about the effectiveness of the current hero system.

Students' Role: Class 1-A would be increasingly involved in managing the public unrest, protecting citizens, and confronting smaller cells of MLA operatives. They might face ethical dilemmas where they have to subdue citizens who genuinely believe they are fighting for freedom.

Re-Destro's Master Plan: Re-Destro would unveil a grand plan to completely dismantle Quirk regulation, perhaps through a massive coordinated uprising across multiple cities, forcing the government to concede or face total collapse.

Climax Arc: The Meta Liberation War

All-Out Conflict: This would be the equivalent of the canonical "Paranormal Liberation War," but instead of a combined force of villains, it's solely the MLA, perhaps even larger and more organized due to their corporate backing and singular focus.

Strategic Battles: Key battles would take place in major cities or at critical infrastructure, with the MLA attempting to overwhelm heroes with numbers and specialized Quirks.

De-radicalization Efforts: A crucial element would be hero attempts to "de-radicalize" MLA members during combat, appealing to their underlying humanity rather than just defeating them, similar to Shoji's influence on the Heteromorphs in the canon.

Re-Destro's Defeat and the Aftermath: The heroes would ultimately confront Re-Destro, exposing the hypocrisy of his "freedom" (as he himself was groomed for leadership and willing to sacrifice his followers). His defeat wouldn't necessarily end the movement entirely, but it would shatter its leadership and expose its flaws.

Meta Liberation Army with All MacGuffins: Analysis

Overview

In this speculative scenario, the Meta Liberation Army (MLA), led by Re-Destro (Rikiya Yotsubashi), successfully secures all critical “MacGuffins”: complete control over their 116,516 trained warriors, unlimited funding and technological resources through Detnerat Company, unchallenged authority over Deika City as a liberated stronghold, and the ability to spread Destro’s ideology globally without interference from the World Heroes Association, Pro Heroes, or rival factions like the League of Villains. This empowers the MLA to pursue their goal of dismantling Quirk-restricting laws and establishing a society where Quirk strength determines status. The following analysis explores how these resources enhance the MLA’s power, alter their strategies, impact the My Hero Academia narrative, and affect their internal dynamics, focusing on Re-Destro and key lieutenants Curious, Trumpet, Skeptic, and Geten.

Enhanced Capabilities

Re-Destro (Rikiya Yotsubashi)

Quirk: Stress

Base Ability: Converts accumulated stress into increased size and strength, amplified by the Claustro armor to devastating effect. His Quirk’s limit was previously overwhelmed by Tomura Shigaraki’s Decay.

With MacGuffins: Unlimited funding allows Re-Destro to develop advanced Claustro variants, increasing his Stress output to 150% or higher, enabling city-level destruction. Control over Deika City provides a safe training ground to hone his Quirk, while the full loyalty of 116,516 warriors fuels his stress through fanatical devotion, amplifying his power. Unhindered ideology spread ensures global recruitment, reducing personal stress by aligning the world with his vision.

New Potential: Re-Destro can unleash “Stress Bombs” across entire regions, demolishing hero bases. His Claustro armor, upgraded with Detnerat tech, could integrate automated Quirk-enhancing systems, allowing sustained transformations without physical strain.

Strategic Impact: Re-Destro becomes a global warlord, using his enhanced Quirk and vast army to challenge hero societies worldwide. His public persona as Detnerat’s CEO masks his actions, allowing covert operations to destabilize governments.

Key MLA Members

Curious (Chitose Kizuki):

Enhanced Role: Her Landmine Quirk, which turns touched objects or people into bombs, is amplified with Detnerat’s explosive support gear (e.g., upgraded Curious Flatteners). Unlimited resources allow her to mass-produce propaganda via Showaysha Publishing, converting millions to the MLA’s cause.

Narrative Impact: Curious’ propaganda turns public opinion against hero regulations, while her explosive attacks cripple hero response teams, making her a psychological and physical threat.

Trumpet (Koku Hanabata):

Enhanced Role: His Incite Quirk, which boosts allies’ physical and mental abilities through his voice, is amplified by advanced Sevens Loud helmets, affecting thousands simultaneously. Deika City’s infrastructure allows him to broadcast globally, rallying distant warriors.

Narrative Impact: Trumpet’s speeches inspire mass uprisings, turning civilians into MLA soldiers, overwhelming heroes like Endeavor with sheer numbers.

Skeptic (Tomoyasu Chikazoku):

Enhanced Role: His Anthropomorph Quirk, creating controllable puppets, is scaled up with Detnerat’s tech, producing armies of gorilla-like drones. Unlimited IT resources enable global surveillance and hacking, exposing hero movements and civilian shelters.

Narrative Impact: Skeptic’s surveillance and puppet armies neutralize hero strategies, while his hacking disrupts global communications, isolating hero agencies.

Geten:

Enhanced Role: His Ice Ply Quirk, manipulating existing ice, is enhanced by Detnerat’s environmental control tech, allowing him to freeze entire cities by manipulating water sources. Deika’s training grounds maximize his combat prowess, making him a heavy hitter.

Narrative Impact: Geten’s ice constructs devastate hero strongholds, forcing heroes like Todoroki to counter him in prolonged battles, draining U.A.’s resources.

Slidin’ Go (Tatsuyuki Tokoname):

Enhanced Role: His unknown Sliding Quirk is augmented with Detnerat’s mobility gear, making him a rapid-response infiltrator. His hero status allows covert operations within hero ranks, feeding intelligence to the MLA.

Narrative Impact: Slidin’ Go’s espionage undermines hero trust, enabling MLA ambushes on key figures like Hawks.

Strategic Shifts

Global Quirk Liberation: With 116,516 warriors and Deika City as a model, the MLA launches worldwide uprisings, targeting hero academies and government regulators. Trigger Bombs (acquired via black-market connections) amplify weaker Quirks, arming their army against heroes.

Corporate Domination: Detnerat’s unlimited funds produce Quirk-enhancing gear, sold covertly to civilians to spark rebellions. Curious’ publishing empire spreads Destro’s manifesto, radicalizing Quirk users globally.

Deika City Fortress: Deika becomes an impregnable base, with Geten’s ice barriers and Skeptic’s surveillance drones repelling hero raids. The city’s 90% MLA-aligned population trains new recruits, creating a self-sustaining war machine.

Psychological Warfare: Trumpet’s Incite broadcasts and Curious’ propaganda erode public faith in heroes, framing them as oppressors. Skeptic’s hacks leak hero scandals, further destabilizing society.

Villain Alliances: The MLA absorbs remnants of groups like Humarise or the Creature Rejection Clan, using their ideologies to bolster recruitment. Rival factions like the League of Villains are either coerced into joining or eliminated via Trigger-enhanced warriors.

Narrative Impact

Hero Society Fracture: The MLA’s global uprisings overwhelm the Hero Public Safety Commission, with heroes like All Might and Endeavor unable to counter millions of radicalized Quirk users. U.A. becomes a prime target, forcing students like Izuku to fight guerrilla-style.

Izuku’s Challenge: Izuku’s One For All faces Re-Destro’s enhanced Stress Quirk, requiring strategic teamwork with Todoroki and Bakugo to counter Geten and Trumpet’s forces. His leadership inspires a resistance, but the MLA’s numbers test his endurance.

Global Anarchy: Governments collapse as Quirk users, armed with Detnerat gear, defy regulations. The MLA’s vision of a Quirk-based hierarchy takes root, with Geten’s Social Darwinist ideology shaping new societal norms.

Moral Dilemmas: Heroes face ethical conflicts over using lethal force against MLA warriors, many of whom are manipulated civilians. The MLA’s propaganda paints heroes as tyrants, complicating public support.

Villain Power Vacuum: With the League of Villains sidelined, the MLA fills the void, clashing with remnants of Overhaul’s Shie Hassaikai or Humarise. This creates a multi-faction war, with heroes caught in the crossfire.

Internal Dynamics

Re-Destro’s Leadership: Unlimited resources and Deika’s loyalty alleviate Re-Destro’s stress, enhancing his Quirk and confidence. However, his dogmatic adherence to Destro’s legacy risks alienating pragmatic members like Skeptic, who prioritize efficiency.

Lieutenant Roles: Curious drives propaganda, Trumpet rallies warriors, Skeptic manages tech and surveillance, and Geten leads combat operations. Slidin’ Go’s espionage ensures internal security, but his lower rank breeds resentment.

Potential Fractures: Geten’s Social Darwinism clashes with Trumpet’s populist rhetoric, potentially splitting the MLA’s vision. Skeptic’s obsession with avoiding failure could lead to reckless actions, like overextending surveillance, risking exposure. Curious’ aggressive tactics (e.g., sacrificing subordinates) may erode loyalty among rank-and-file warriors.

Warrior Zeal: The 116,516 warriors, trained in Deika, are fanatically loyal, but their willingness to die for the cause (e.g., allowing Curious’ Landmine Quirk) creates tension with leaders who survive battles. This could spark rebellion if losses mount.

Ideological Strain: The MLA’s hypocrisy—preaching Quirk freedom while ignoring civilian rights—may fracture their unity if exposed by defectors like Slidin’ Go, who could leak secrets to heroes.

Conclusion