#ebonyphd

Author: Kenyoda

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People always act like fate is a stone maze from which no man can escape. But the truth is that reality is the maze and fate is a collection of runaway bullets that ricochets off one wall into a person before bouncing off another wall and breaking another one. People can choose to bow to it and await their end or continue on to see what havoc it has wrought until their time is up. In this world full of mysterious and wonderful Quirks, the people living in it are not exempt from this truth. In fact, in this realm, those bullets can split into pieces that can have long lasting consequences.

One of the more fascinating paths is the one involving All For One and his brother.  A man was born in Japan during the most tumultuous time of Quirk manifestation. He had a powerful Quirk that could change the face of Japan or even the world for good or ill. Unfortunately, ill became his mark as he succumbed to the lure of power. The man nearly bent Japan and possibly the world under his foot, but he made a mistake. He split the bullet by forcing a Quirk onto his younger brother. From then on the two pieces raced in parallel to one another bouncing from incident to incident, person to person. The Quirks within his brother being cultivated into One For All, a Quirk that could change fate...

It was again split when the two collided with a heroine named Shimura Nana. The brother’s bullet splits, a piece ended up with the son she abandoned for what she believed was his own good and safety… the other in the hands of a young man named Yagi Toshinori. He later goes on to become All Might, one of Japan’s Greatest Heroes. Meanwhile, her son let his part turn bitter and brittle. He ends up launching it at his family, his son Tenko specifically. It would lead to an incident that would leave Shimura Tenko alone, broken, and vulnerable. 

Easy pickings for the embittered All For One. 

While the villain was poisoning his possible replacement into Shigaraki Tomura, Yagi was plowing through rankings and villains, barely able to function around the injuries he had sustained in his final clash with the villain. His bullet also split, half ending up in the hands of his bitter rival, Endeavor. When the time finally came that he had to give One For All up, he was drawn to another young Quirkless boy with an impossible dream. 

He gave the other to the boy when he passed down All For One. 

Midoriya Izuku clung to it like a lifeline. Training to wield it effectively as he could. His journey to UA would put him in the firing range of Endeavor’s pride, his son Todoroki Shouto. The boy was forced to hold the bitter piece of the projectile by his father. Midoriya, by choice, gives him a piece of his to free him from his father’s folly. The two combine in the boy bring the shards back down to 4. 

At the moment our story begins, there are 4 shards of fate that are on a collision course for one another and in the middle of them was the fate of Japan. So what will happen? After all, a handful of choices have lead to this point.

Another possible divergence point is brewing on the horizon, All For One, Shigaraki Tomura, Todoroki Shouto, and Midoriya Izuku all holding onto a piece of fate... what will they choose? 

It turns out, one decides to listen….

Shouto was panting and sweating. Bakugou was an opponent that was miles above his other opponents, including Midoriya. He was not going to be able to rely on his ice for much longer. He was already starting to flag horribly, but Bakugou was just getting more and more wound up and his explosions were getting more and more powerful. It was the worst match up possible. 

As he continued to shield himself using his ice, Shouto thought he could hear someone calling out to him over the noise. Ganbatte Todoroki-kun! It’s yours! You can do it! Shouto blinked. Midoriya. Was he right? Could he really make this fire his own and not become him? Was it right to do so? The uncertainties were singing through his veins making him shiver… or was that his ice slowly freezing him to death?  But he refocused. He was not sure about the fire or anything else but what he was sure of was that his… friend?... had given up his chance to be where he was to help Shouto.

And Shouto was going to be damned if he squandered it. 

Flames leapt from his fingertips, just as eager as they were during the match with Midoriya. He hits the pillar with it and the arena is instantly covered in smoky steam. Shouto quickly darts around the pillar. Hitting it with another burst of fire. He strained his ears to try figure out where Bakugou was. He then heard the sound of ice cracking. He turned and noticed he was directly behind Bakugou. The orange glare of Bakugou’s Quirk shining like a beacon on a lighthouse in a sea storm. Shouto slammed his foot down and then suddenly the sky darkened and the explosions stopped. As the wind blew the fog away, a smaller glacier than the one he trapped Sero in, was before him and the crowd. He cautiously worked his way around to the other side. Once again, his opponent was encased in ice unable to move. Bakugou’s heated glare was a far cry from Sero’s defeated one.  

The crowd cheered as Shouto moved to free his classmate from his prison. He resolutely ignored his gloating father’s roaring. Once Bakugou was free, he bowed and left. His normally volatile classmate, silent for once. Shouto stumbled on numb legs to the 1A waiting room and collapsed onto a vacant bench. 

He did it.

He used that bastard’s fire to win. He broke his promise again. What other promises would he break? His vow not to become mindlessly violent? His vow not to be like his father? How long before he was excusing all of that, too? It’s mine. Said a small voice. It’s mine and I can do with it what I want… Shouto shuddered. He knew what he didn’t want to do with it at least. The rest was still foggy in his head. He sighed miserably. A familiar, tinny sound echoed through the room. Shouto stood up and retrieved his phone from the locker he stashed it in. He looked at the device.

There were several texts, most of them from Fuyumi. All of them were nice and encouraging, although she did scold him about the glacier and Sero (Someone could have lost an eye, Shouto! Be careful!). Then there was a single one from Natsuo. The most Shouto knew about him was that he was going to medical school and that he openly hated their father as much as he did. They did not talk much otherwise. 

It had been a simple congratulations text. It was the most recent. He replied with a simple thanks and asked as he was busy. Shouto was not sure why he wanted to know. When he answered that he was not busy. Shouto found himself hitting the call button.

“Hello, Shouto?” Natsuo greeted. 

“Hi… I hope I didn’t disturb—”

“You didn’t! So, congratulations on your win!” 

“Yeah thanks… I guess,” 

“You don’t sound very excited.” 

“I honestly… I don’t know how to feel,” Shouto said, surprised to feel the prickle of tears in his eyes. 

“Is it about the fire…?” 

“How did you know?”

“Fuyumi has mentioned more than once that you refuse to use it.”

“Yeah… I used his— my fire to…”

“To win a school competition, Shouto. It’s not like you burned the arena down and killed people with it.” his brother’s voice a weird mix of amused and exasperated. When Natsuo put it like that, Shouto did feel a bit silly. But there was so much history tied to his Quirk that it was difficult to separate it all.

“I know that in my head, I guess. I am just so used to hearing about how he gave me power and…” 

“I know, kid… trust me, I know. He had a fit when mine manifested. He almost… never mind. Shouto your power is your own and your life is your own and you can do with it what you want. Ok?” 

“He won’t see it that way. He will make me train with it more…”

“Of course, you need control over it. You have a good handle on your ice, but even that can slip at times,” Natsuo cautioned. Shouto winced as he remembered the first glacier. He was right as much as Shouto hated to admit it. He did need to learn to control it, before he did hurt someone. But he did not want to learn from him… but he may need to. 

“You’re right… I just don’t know if I want to learn control from him…” Shouto sighed. “ I don’t think he knows the meaning of it.” Natsuo laughed at that. That made Shouto smile. 

“You may not have to, there are plenty of heros that have powerful abilities that require focus and control. Fire Users don’t have to train with fire users… while studying with one could probably lower your learning curve. But that is all, it’s up to you.” he said. 

“I guess I have to think about things. I just don’t know what to do or feel?” he said. “Midoriya said the same thing that its my power… that I can choose what to do with it… but it can’t be that easy.” Shouto said, a single tear making its way down his face. 

“Yeah, I know the feeling. You question if you can change things that easily. But I can say the first attempt is always the hardest. After that, it gets easier! You made a pretty big one today. Don’t beat yourself up too much! Take your time and do what you can ok?” Natsuo said, he could hear the smile in his voice.  Shouto found himself smiling, too. It had been awhile since he really spoke with any of his siblings, truly talked with them. He should probably do it more often. 

“Thanks, nii-san… It was nice talking to you.” he said awkwardly.  There was a soft chuckle from the other end. 

“You, too! When I get settled at my internship, I will send you the address! We can hang out sometime. Of course, you can always give me a call and if I don’t pick up, I will call you back as soon as I get a chance. I promise,” Natsuo said. “I love you, little brother. I am sorry I never said it as much as I should have.” Shouto was thrown but touch nonetheless by the sentiment. 

“Same. I will talk to you later then?” he asked, slightly affronted at how eager he sounded. Natsuo’s immediate confirmation made him feel happy and warm. The two said their goodbyes and Shouto hung up. He still felt conflicted, but it did not seem so heavy in his mind anymore. The sound of footsteps brought him out of his thoughts. He was tense, expecting to have to deal with his father, but the footsteps sounded far too hesitant. He relaxed completely as Midoriya Izuku opened the door. 

“Ah! I thought I might find you here.” he said softly as he shuffled into the room. Shouto winced at the state of his classmate. His arm was still in cast and he was wearing a leg brace. 

“Should you be walking?” Shouto asked, concerned. He then winced at how tactless it sounded. Midoriya laughed. 

“Probably, not,” he said sheepishly. “But Recovery Girl said I was fine as long as I didn’t over do it.” Shouto gave him a weak smile. The action still felt a little foreign on his face, but the beam he got in answer from Midoriya lit him up from the inside out. 

“Did you need something Midoriya?” he asked, wondering why he was looking for him. 

“Oh, well not really… I was just worried when you left. You did not look too happy…” he said. Shouto blinked. They were practically strangers and yet Midoriya was asking about his well being. This was definitely different.

“I am still— conflicted about some things. I am still ashamed of the way I treated Sero, and Bakugou was—” he tried to explain.

“Trapped in a glacier, too. Yeah, I could see how that would be a little awkward. But I am glad you did your best, though,” Midoriya said sincerely. Shouto nodded. “And I also wanted to apologize. I know I was being rather pushy during our fight.” The smaller boy scratched at his cheek self-consciously. Midoriya’s nervous disposition was rubbing off on Shouto as he unconsciously shuffled his feet as he stared at the ground. 

“I don’t think you should apologize… I needed to hear that. I want to apologize as well. There was no reason for me to come after you the way I did. I took a personal problem out on you and that was not fair.” Shouto said, bowing. He was adamant that he would not become his father, but today had shown him that denying part of himself while still behaving like him was not the way to go. So, it was paramount that he start by humbling himself and apologizing to the classmates that he had been unjustly rude to. 

Midoriya’s eyes grew wide and his face turned pink.

“Oh! I— you really don’t need to—” he protested. 

“No, I do. I meant what I said. I don’t want any part of the man that my father is. That means accepting who I am and the consequences of my actions. I behaved abysmally towards you and others in our class today. I owe you an apology for that.” said Shouto, slowly. It was not easy but it’s as both Midoriya and Natsuo said, it was his life and he can choose what to do with it. 

1st August 2019

A birthday tddk for @ebonyphd! Happy Birthday Wolf, I love you, thank you for always being there for me!

6. Top 5 underrated movies

1. The Hunchback of Notre Dame

2. Atlantis

3. Treasure Planet

4. The Lion King 1 1/2 (yeah, I said it, I thought it was hilarious, SUE ME)

5. Prince of Persia (again, I enjoyed it, SUE ME lol)

I’M EXCITED ABOUT THIS OHHHHH YES I AM

I’m shifting a few things around so I can make it exactly as I want it, and I hope you like it when it’s finished!

 It’s been halfkilling her to keep this from him this long. But the look of surpriseand delight on Papa’s face when Uncle Might walks into his officemakes it all worth it. It’s not all joy, of course. Papa sees thesame thing she did, remembers the same thing she did. Uncle Mightmust notice it too, because he closes the distance in about threesteps before drawing Papa into a hug. It’s the right thing to do;Papa returns it, and his breath shakes on the way in as he holdstight and doesn’t let go.

“I didn’t knowyou were coming,” he says, his voice muffled in Uncle Might’sshoulder. “I thought—I thought you’d still be recovering, or…”

“I wanted to callahead,” Uncle Might admits. “But Melissa had her heart set onsurprising you.”

“Of course shedid.” Papa pulls back, and his face is dry but his eyes are shinierthan usual. “God, Toshi… how long has it been?”

“Too long.”Uncle Might lets himself be tugged down so Papa can plant a kiss onhis forehead. “E-mailing just isn’t the same. But it’s beenquite a year, for me.”

Papa’s facealmost crumples. “I’m so sorry, Toshi…”

“You’ve nothingto be sorry for,” he says.

“It’s just,after you contacted me I had some ideas that might help you, but Inever—”

“Dave, it’sfine.”

“Is it?” Papaasks.

“Are you joking?”Her uncle’s smiles are a lot different from the ones he wears inher memories. But somehow they make her feel safe—just in adifferent way than they used to. “Hundreds saved? A great evilvanquished forever? It would’ve broken my heart to go out any otherway.”

Author: Kenyoda

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Behind the scenes

Izuku was rushing across the parking lot, cursing his luck. He was going to be late for shooting. He was never late! And on the first day, too! In his rush he nearly bowled over another person entering the building. He tried to stop but his momentum carried him forward anyway and he ended up pinning the poor stranger against the door, glass rattling ominously. 

“I am— so sorry!” he panted as he tried to regain his bearings. He finally pulled back, allowing the person to step away from the door and shuffle away from him a bit. 

“I-it’s fine,” came an equally strained voice. Izuku winced, he had already made a bad first impression. Oh no! Still running late! He sketched out a messy bow before racing through the doors with another apology ringing over his shoulder.  He made it to set with 3 minutes to spare for make up call. 

“Hey! You made it!” greeted a voice, enthusiasm on full blast. He looked up from being hunched over to see blonde hair and wild red eyes. 

“Morning Kacchan!” he gasped as he stood up. 

“You were almost late, ya dingus!” he huffed as he swept him under his arm for a noogie. 

“Ack! Kacchan no! My hair is a rat’s nest on the best of days! Don’t make more work for them!” he groaned. Kacchan just laughed and rubbed harder. 

“That is what they are paid to do anyway!” he chortled as he let Izuku go. 

“That’s rude, Kacchan!” Izuku hissed, mortified slightly as he watched a few of those makeup and hair people glare their way in offense.

“What? It’s the truth,” he stated, confusion evident in his tone. Izuku sighed, he loved his childhood friend, but he had all the social graces of an elephant in a china shop. Bakugou Katsuki was enthusiastic and well meaning but unbearably blunt. Most people blew him off as an airhead and rude. When he was actually quite intelligent and not prone to sugar coating things. Which in Japan, could easily be considered rude. His attention was caught when two deep voices reverberated across the set.

“I am telling you Toshi this is not a good idea!” 

“Calm down, Enji! Most of the show’s main cast are children! He will get to spend time with some of his peers. At least give the boy a chance.” Izuku looked up and about expired on the spot. Yagi Toshinori and Todoroki Enji were making their way onto the set. Between the two actors there were nearly 20 different acting awards from stunt work to acting. They were his and Kacchan’s idols!

“It’s— It’s Yagi-sama and Todoroki-sama!” Izuku couldn’t help but squeal in delight. Katsuki let out a gasp beside him.

“I know that, but you know how Shouto is,” Todoroki continued. 

“Yes, I am well aware of my honorary nephew’s tendencies. This will give him a controlled environment to practice in.” Yagi soothed. Shouto? As in, Todoroki Shouto, one of the few well known student directors in Japan? Son of the man himself?

“Yes, I know I said I wanted to get him out from behind his camera but I was thinking more of a school setting Toshi! Not a mid level production with him in a semi recurring role! This is his first one and you throw him in with sharks! Not to mention you know that Aizawa Shouta is set in his ways! Ways that make little sense to the rest of us mere mortals!” the man complained. Izuku’s curiosity is piqued. Todoroki Shouto will be acting in this production, not directing?

“I tried to find him something smaller but with a similar age range. There was nothing else!” Yagi protested. “Besides he insisted!” Todoroki sighed reluctantly. 

“Where is the boy anyway?” After a moment, another person shuffled onto the set, but Izuku’s attention was drawn by the director. 

“Midoriya! Bakugou! Get to make up. Now’s not the time to gawk we all have busy schedules!” barked Aizawa Shouta. Izuku squeaked in terror and rushed off to the other area.

 After a whirlwind of makeup and hair spray, Izuku finds himself scaling the fire escape of a low income building. He leapt onto the roof with the shadow of the thief ahead of him. 

He was now Valor, a parkour crazy sidekick that was on the heels of a thief with known ties to a cartel that he and his hero mentor were tracking. This was going to be his first capture, he was so close… 

An arch of lightning lit up the night before slamming into the would be thief. Valor slides to a stop as the thief slumps to the rooftop, unconscious. 

“The reward for this one should be good,” a smooth voice purred. Out from behind a duct vent came a lithe figure. They topped Valor by a head. Their streamlined shape and deep timbre suggested that they were male. 

A bounty hunter. 

They were vigilantes that exchanged villains with prices on their heads for money, rather than turning them over to the proper authorities. This was usually bad on the heroes end if they needed information or to retrieve stolen items or people. Because the bountied person usually was never seen again. 

“I can’t let you have him,” Valor called, stoutly. “He is wanted for questioning by the Heroes Alliance!” The hunter looked over at him and Valor could feel the smirk on the man’s face. He bristled at that. Two eyes flashed at him from a window in a hard mask. It was as dark as the rest of his clothing. The end of the staff in his hands arched with electricity. 

It was just his luck that he ran into a bounty hunter with backing! Just as he finished the thought, he had to dodge an arc of electricity. Instead of retreating he rushed forward, using his momentum to knock the weapon away with one hand while punching at the bounty hunter with the other. He fell with a grunt as his weapon clacked onto concrete before rolling away. Valor pinned the hunter’s legs with his own, before slamming the hunter’s arms above their head. 

“Who are you?” Valor barked. The masked figure laughed. 

“You ask me that after you straddle me?” he teased. Valor pushed the blush and embarrassment away. 

“I-I asked you a question first,” he ground out, frustrated at the slight tremor to his voice. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” the hunter sneered. Valor snarled in anger before pinning both arms down with one hand and ripping the mask from the stranger’s face. 

He gasped. 

Skin the color of porcelain housed thin pink lips and eyes the color of smokey quartz and turquoise. A bright red birthmark covering the left side. A halo of ruby and crystal hair fell around an angelic face, the strands having slipped free of a ponytail. 

Izuku froze and his heart stuttered violently. He could not recall another one of his lines. His entire brain had decided to devote all of its remaining firepower to committing such a lovely face to memory. The porcelain skin turned into rose gold as his co star flushed under his scrutiny. 

“Who— are you?” he found himself whispering. His co star gasped and began to struggle against him. Izuku pressed his weight down automatically. They stopped moving. 

“I’m— ”

“Valor! Valor, my boy!” Ever Bright’s voice snapped Izuku from his daze. Oh my god, I zoned out in the middle of scene!

“E-ever Bright! There is a— ack!” he cried out as the hunter gave a hard buck and finally unbalanced him. He landed hard on his side. By the time he got his barings, the hunter was on the other end of the roof, preparing to jump. 

“Halt, vigilante!” came Ever Bright’s booming voice. The hunter turned his head back to stare Izuku down. The well timed wind blowing a few strands of ruby hair across the piercing jewel colored orbs, obscuring his face. 

“Valor, huh? How fitting!” he taunted, before leaping off. 

“And cut!” came Aizawa’s voice. “Y’all aren’t useless after all! I might need to do some revisions.” Izuku sunk to his knees at the off handed praise. 

“Well done, young Midoriya! You are carrying your role well for your first day!” Yagi said as he patted his shoulder. Izuku felt light headed. He had been complimented by Yagi Toshinori! Even after monumentally screwing up a scene because his useless bi ass was floored by a pretty boy! “You too, Shouto!” Izuku’s head snapped up. 

The young hunter had come back onto the roof and was gathering the props to hand off to the assistants. He jerked up reflexively before turning crimson. One of the assistants took the items and scurried away. Once there was nothing in his hands, the boy immediately began playing with his fingers and looking anywhere but at them. He mumbled something unintelligible to the air.  

“Shouto, I have heard you be louder than that when you are giving stage direction!” chided Todoroki Enji as he made his way over. “But I agree with Toshi! That was excellent work, son!”  

Shouto shuffled in place, a small pleased smile tugging at his lips. 

“T-thank you, but was it really ok?” he asked softly. Izuku felt the equivalent of mental whiplash. This was the same person that was borderline flirting with him mere moments ago? It was had to believe it! It seemed that not only was Todoroki Shouto a talented director, but also a pretty talented actor, too. Not to mention just plain pretty. Most anyone ever saw of him was half his face hidden by a hoodie.  

“Ah! How rude of me!” Yagi cut in suddenly. “Young Midoriya, this is Todoroki Shouto! He is like one of my nephews! He will be playing the vigilante and bounty hunter, Nexus.” Izuku nodded, unable to speak and wrestle his inner fanboy into submission at the same time. “Shouto, this is Midoriya Izuku a newcomer that is already showing promise!”  

“H-Hi! I love your work, Todoroki-kun! I hope you don’t mind the -kun. Wow, the make up artists must be really good, your hair and eyes are really striking!” he said, babbling slightly out of nerves and butterflies in his stomach. The boy blinked at him, before his eyes went wide. Once again Todoroki Shouto turned bright red. He worked his mouth but no sound escaped. Izuku decided then and there that a strategic retreat was in order. He politely excused himself and bolted for the nearest exit. Just as he passed to the outer edges of the set, he heard Yagi-san’s voice. 

“Just as well he doesn’t know that these looks are natural, eh, nephew?” This was followed a weak whine that Izuku could easily identify as one of embarrassment.

“Toshi!!!” chided Enji. 

Yep, Izuku was going to go find a hole to crawl into. 

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Author: Kenyoda

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Right Direction

Izuku was wincing as Ochako dragged him down the hallway towards Momo’s room. He usually loved his best friend’s enthusiasm but this was far more personal to Izuku and therefore he was terrified of what she would do. Then add in Mina and Tooru, too… Izuku was afraid for his mental and emotional health. He really should not have mentioned that he was thinking of acting on his crush on Shouto. 

Ochako had gotten a worrying gleam in her eye and began rapidly texting. He had protested immediately and she had waved his concern off saying that a majority of the class was well aware of his crush on Shouto; well the girls knew at least. She then gleefully told him that the others wanted to help him, ‘win his man over’. Thus Izuku ended up being dragged to Momo’s room. Instead of feeling hopeful, he was left feeling nothing but dread.  

“We’re here!” she announced gleefully as she threw the door open with a bang. 

“Ocha! My wall! Please don’t break it!” Momo cried, dismayed. 

Ochako had the grace to blush as she apologized. All the girls of Hero Class 2A were gathered on Momo’s smaller, yet still opulent bed. Ochako shut the door with more care than she opened it as she shoved him further into the room. 

“Ooooh! You are finally going to make a move Midoriya! I am so happy for you! Let’s make sure it goes well ok?” Tooru piped up, bouncing in place on Momo’s bed. 

Izuku smiled nervously. He appreciated their willingness to help, but he was pretty sure that their help was going to cause him untold embarrassment. 

Izuku sighed and let Ochako lead him to the bed. 

“So! What do we know about Todoroki-kun?” asked Mina from her spot. 

“Very little,” croaked Tsuyu. This prompted a snort from Jirou. 

“She’s not wrong, though,” Mina continued. 

Izuku frowned. As much as he hated to admit it, Izuku knew little more than the basics about Todoroki… aside from his family mess. But that was not what he was focusing on. What did Todoroki like? His friend and crush was a very private person, so private that he would become flushed if someone caught him reading a book in his off time.

He liked cold soba, but that was obvious to anyone that eats lunch with him. He also liked visiting his mom. Didn’t he mention that she had gotten strawberry milk for him one time because she remembered he liked it as a kid? Does he still like it? Shouto never really said one way or the other.

“Mido! Earth to Midoriya?!” called Tooru. Izuku jerked back to the present.

“Ah! Sorry! I got lost in my head,” he admitted.

“We know how hard it is not to daydream about your beau, but if you don’t do something soon in reality, all you will be left with are dreams,” Mina prophesied in a heavy voice. 

“That’s n-not! I was trying to answer your question… but I am coming up with little else other than what he likes to eat. Shouto is a very closed-off person. I mean we spend time together, but he doesn’t say much. He is more comfortable…”

“Listening,” Momo finished, smiling. 

Midoriya was grateful for Momo. She probably understood his dilemma better than the others since, she was also a close friend of Shouto’s much to Mineta’s dismay. 

“Ok… so you can’t spoil him per say… but maybe we can get him to notice you!” said Ochako excitedly. 

Notice me? He thought to himself. The image of intense mismatched eyes boring into Izuku’s own from within flushed cheeks burned in his mind’s eye. The very thought made Izuku turn pink. 

“I-I don’t— I mean, that doesn’t help in telling him I am interested!” he finally managed to sputter. 

“Well, I guess it is more informative for you, kero,” hummed Tsuyu after a moment. 

“Oh, I see. If Todoroki reacts to you or at least the change you make… it may give you a clue as to how to proceed. If you should proceed at all.” Momo cautioned. 

She had a point, despite how it made his heart sink. Shouto was still pretty touchy about emotions and the like. It was part of the reason he wanted to try to at least test the waters. He had been trying to say that to Ochako before she went off on her one woman crusade. 

“Stop being such a downer, Momo! We should at least try!” said Mina, enthusiasm undiminished.

“I mean as entertaining as this whole mess is going to be… there are two people’s feelings on the line here. Izuku here is taking the most risk, but Todoroki could be put in a very tough spot as well. He gets rather skittish when people push too much.” said Jirou, entering the conversation once more.  

“I didn’t know you and Shouto talked that much?” said Izuku, not jealous in the slightest. 

“We don’t. Not like you and Momo do, but anyone with eyes can see the way he shuts down when people press too hard. But usually Midoriya changes the subject before it gets to that point.” she answered, idly playing with one of her ear jacks. 

“Awww! Deku-kun protecting his love’s heart! How noble! But again, how we gonna get this plain but adorable baby noticed by the ice prince?” Ochako asked, refusing to be swayed from the idea.  “Perhaps… a wardrobe change?” Mina offered. Izuku blinked.

“We wear uniforms to school everyday, Mina,” Tsuyu points out mercilessly. 

“Oh yeah… I mean I know that! But what about in the dorms?” she elaborated.

“Ok… but what would that be exactly? Most of us have after class training and are practically in pjs by the time all is said and done,” drawled Jirou. 

The girls dissolved into more arguing and Izuku just wanted to leave. Given that he was still standing and everybody else seemed to be absorbed in planning more and more outlandish ideas, or trying to curtail some of their more enthusiastic dorm mates…. it was as good a time as any for Izuku to make a run for it.  

He eyed the door. 

As the debate grew more heated, poor Momo was left to be the unfortunate moderator, he carefully inched his way to the door. As he looked back at the arguing group, he still couldn’t help smiling. They meant well, but their overzealous and somewhat extroverted attempts were just not what he was needing. They did help him realize that much. His crush was a true introvert and the girls were trying to plan for someone closer to what might work for Kaminari or Sero. That was not a bad thing, but it would just likely confuse Shouto. 

Name brands and dress styles would mean little to Shouto and he would probably not care in the slightest. He would more than likely look Izuku up and down and then ask him if he was ok. Ideas and passions hold an introvert’s attention. Actions speak loudest to them. The social games people played mattered little. With this realization, Izuku felt like he had taken two steps forward before taking one back. But that was fine at least now he knew what direction he was going in. 

He quietly slipped out the door and made his way back to his room. He wondered briefly how long it would take before the girls realized that he was gone. As he continued on his way, he wondered what he could do to get Shouto’s attention. Because while their ideas may have been off the mark, they were not inherently wrong. He would need some way to get Shouto’s attention or at least spend more time with him one on one. Maybe with time, he would be able to find new ways to show his feelings to Shouto. 

Suddenly, he collided with someone in the hallway. 

He stumbled backwards, already apologizing. 

“Oh! Sorry, Midoriya. I was not paying attention to where I was going.” Midoriya looked to see Shouto hovering worriedly nearby. The familiar flames of embarrassment lapped at his cheeks. 

“A-Ah! It’s f-fine. Really, I was not paying attention, either. But why are you on this side?” he asked, just genuinely curious. 

“I needed a another eraser and I did not care to deal with Iida or Bakugou. I went to your room but you weren’t there. So, I came to ask Yaoyorozu.” he explained. Izuku’s heart raced. Shouto had gone looking for him first! Oh stop that! He just assumed that I might have extra! He chided his overeager imagination. 

“Oh! Yes, I have one you can borrow! Come on, I’ll grab it for you!” he said excitedly.

He continued on his way to his room, only this time accompanied by his crush. They traveled in silence, finding themselves in front of his door soon enough. Izuku opened his door and made a beeline for his desk. He began to rummage around in his desk drawer. He knew he had a whole pack of those things somewhere… yes! The package was found, he then fished one out and turned scarlet. He had bought the erasers because they were on sale… and they reminded him of Shouto. They were decently sized and in the shape of snowflakes. He kind of wanted to die, but he would help Shouto, embarrassed or not. 

“Hey Midoriya,” came Shouto’s voice. Izuku looked up and over his shoulder. Shouto was staring at the back of a book. It was an old history based novel that Izuku had just finished reading upon his father’s recommendation. They liked to trade stories and books they had read. “Was- was this any good?” Izuku stopped for a moment, he could have sworn there had been a slight tremor to his voice. 

“Oh! Yeah! It was. It is kind of like a pseudo autobiography about this samurai that got lost in the wilderness for a bit and had to survive until he could escape.” Izuku explained as he made his way over to his friend, the eraser still clutched in his hand. 

“Sounds interesting,” Shouto said, looking up at him through his bangs. His hair is getting kind of long, isn’t it? Izuku wondered, lost in admiring his beautiful friend. 

“Y-you can borrow it if you like,” he said earnestly. “I finished it.” Shouto opened the front cover and frowned slightly. 

“Oh! You found my dad’s note! We like to exchange books. It feels like we are still connected a bit.” he said sheepishly. Shouto looked at him full on this time. 

“Oh, then I won’t take it. It’s important to you,” he said starting to put the book back on the dresser. Izuku immediately pushed the book back towards him.

“No! Borrow it! I don’t mind. Then we can… talk about it. I wanna know what you think. Besides, I remember you were close to finishing your last book right?” Izuku said, frowning. He recalled that there were a few pages left unturned when he caught Shouto napping on the common room sofa a few nights ago. Shouto turned pink. 

“Um, yeah I did. I didn’t think anyone noticed. But are you sure?” he asked again. Izuku nodded firmly. 

“Oh! Here is the eraser you asked for. Sorry, if it’s a little childish. They were on sale.” he explained nervously, refusing to admit to the other reason he bought them. He held the rubber snowflake out to Shouto and his friend’s eyes lit up in amusement. He took with a smile and thanked him. 

“I am going to get back to work. I will return this as soon as I am done,” he said softly, indicating the book. 

“Oh! Ok! Take your time! And you can keep the eraser. I have several!” he said, smiling. Shouto nodded and left. 

Izuku let out a sigh and slumped on his bed. Well, that had gone better than he thought it would. Maybe when Shouto finished the book… they could go talk about it at a cafe? That-That would be nice. He found himself thinking with a flush.   

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Author: Kenyoda

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Behind the scenes

Izuku was rushing across the parking lot, cursing his luck. He was going to be late for shooting. He was never late! And on the first day, too! In his rush he nearly bowled over another person entering the building. He tried to stop but his momentum carried him forward anyway and he ended up pinning the poor stranger against the door, glass rattling ominously. 

“I am— so sorry!” he panted as he tried to regain his bearings. He finally pulled back, allowing the person to step away from the door and shuffle away from him a bit. 

“I-it’s fine,” came an equally strained voice. Izuku winced, he had already made a bad first impression. Oh no! Still running late! He sketched out a messy bow before racing through the doors with another apology ringing over his shoulder.  He made it to set with 3 minutes to spare for make up call. 

“Hey! You made it!” greeted a voice, enthusiasm on full blast. He looked up from being hunched over to see blonde hair and wild red eyes. 

“Morning Kacchan!” he gasped as he stood up. 

“You were almost late, ya dingus!” he huffed as he swept him under his arm for a noogie. 

“Ack! Kacchan no! My hair is a rat’s nest on the best of days! Don’t make more work for them!” he groaned. Kacchan just laughed and rubbed harder. 

“That is what they are paid to do anyway!” he chortled as he let Izuku go. 

“That’s rude, Kacchan!” Izuku hissed, mortified slightly as he watched a few of those makeup and hair people glare their way in offense.

“What? It’s the truth,” he stated, confusion evident in his tone. Izuku sighed, he loved his childhood friend, but he had all the social graces of an elephant in a china shop. Bakugou Katsuki was enthusiastic and well meaning but unbearably blunt. Most people blew him off as an airhead and rude. When he was actually quite intelligent and not prone to sugar coating things. Which in Japan, could easily be considered rude. His attention was caught when two deep voices reverberated across the set.

“I am telling you Toshi this is not a good idea!” 

“Calm down, Enji! Most of the show’s main cast are children! He will get to spend time with some of his peers. At least give the boy a chance.” Izuku looked up and about expired on the spot. Yagi Toshinori and Todoroki Enji were making their way onto the set. Between the two actors there were nearly 20 different acting awards from stunt work to acting. They were his and Kacchan’s idols!

“It’s— It’s Yagi-sama and Todoroki-sama!” Izuku couldn’t help but squeal in delight. Katsuki let out a gasp beside him.

“I know that, but you know how Shouto is,” Todoroki continued. 

“Yes, I am well aware of my honorary nephew’s tendencies. This will give him a controlled environment to practice in.” Yagi soothed. Shouto? As in, Todoroki Shouto, one of the few well known student directors in Japan? Son of the man himself?

“Yes, I know I said I wanted to get him out from behind his camera but I was thinking more of a school setting Toshi! Not a mid level production with him in a semi recurring role! This is his first one and you throw him in with sharks!” the man complained. Izuku’s curiosity is piqued. Todoroki Shouto will be acting in this production, not directing?

“I tried to find him something smaller but with a similar age range. There was nothing else!” Yagi protested. “Besides he insisted!” Todoroki sighed reluctantly. 

“Where is the boy anyway?” After a moment, another person shuffled onto the set, but Izuku’s attention was drawn by the director. 

“Midoriya! Bakugou! Get to make up. Now’s not the time to gawk we all have busy schedules!” barked Aizawa Shouta. Izuku squeaked in terror and rushed off to the other area. After a whirlwind of makeup and hair spray, Izuku finds himself scaling the fire escape of a low income building. He leapt onto the roof with the shadow of the thief ahead of him. 

He was now Valor, a parkour crazy sidekick that was on the heels of a thief with known ties to a cartel that he and his hero mentor were tracking. This was going to be his first capture, he was so close… 

An arch of lightning lit up the night before slamming into the would be thief. Valor slides to a stop. The thief slumps to the rooftop, unconscious. 

“The reward for this one should be good,” a smooth voice purred. Out from behind a duct vent came a lithe figure. They topped Valor by a head. Their streamlined shape and deep timbre suggested that they were male. 

A bounty hunter. 

They were vigilantes that exchanged villains with prices on their heads for money, rather than turning them over to the proper authorities. This was usually bad on the heroes end if they needed information or to retrieve stolen items or people. Because the bountied person usually was never seen again. 

“I can’t let you have him,” Valor called, stoutly. “He is wanted for questioning by the Heroes Alliance!” The hunter looked over at him and Valor could feel the smirk on the man’s face. He bristled at that. Two eyes flashed at him from a window in a hard mask. It was as dark as the rest of his clothing. The end of the staff in his hands arched with electricity. 

It was just his luck that he ran into a bounty hunter with backing! Just as he finished the thought, he had to dodge an arc of electricity. Instead of retreating he rushed forward, using his momentum to knock the weapon away with one hand while punching at the bounty hunter with the other. He fell with a grunt as his weapon clacked onto concrete before rolling away. Valor pinned the hunter’s legs with his own, before slamming the hunter’s arms above their head. 

“Who are you?” Valor barked. The masked figure laughed. 

“You ask me that after you straddle me?” he teased. Valor pushed the blush and embarrassment away. 

“I-I asked you a question first,” he ground out, frustrated at the slight tremor to his voice. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” the hunter sneered. Valor snarled in anger before pinning both arms down with one hand and ripping the mask from the stranger’s face. 

He gasped. 

Skin the color of porcelain housed thin pink lips and eyes the color of smokey quartz and turquoise. A bright red birthmark covering the left side. A halo of ruby and crystal hair fell around an angelic face, having slipped free of a ponytail. 

Izuku froze and his heart stuttered violently. He could not recall another one of his lines. His entire brain had decided to devote all of its remaining firepower to committing such a lovely face to memory. The porcelain skin turned into rose gold as his co star flushed under his scrutiny. 

“Who— are you?” he found himself whispering. His co star gasped and began to struggle against him. Izuku pressed his weight down automatically. They stopped moving. 

“I’m— ”

“Valor! Valor, my boy!” Ever Bright’s voice snapped Izuku from his daze. Oh my god, I zoned out in the middle of scene!

“E-ever Bright! There is a— ack!” he cried out as the hunter gave a hard buck and finally unbalanced him. He landed hard on his side. By the time he got his barings, the hunter was on the other end of the roof, preparing to jump. 

“Halt, vigilante!” came Ever Bright’s booming voice. The hunter turned his head back to stare Izuku down. 

“Valor, huh? How fitting!” he taunted, before leaping off. 

“And cut!” came Aizawa’s voice. “Y’all aren’t useless after all! I might need to do some revisions.” Izuku sunk to his knees at the off handed praise. 

“Well done, young Midoriya! You are carrying your role well for your first day!” Yagi said as he patted his shoulder. Izuku felt light headed. He had been complimented by Yagi Toshinori! Even after monumentally screwing up a scene because his useless bi ass was floored by a pretty boy! “You too, Shouto!” Izuku’s head snapped up. 

The young hunter had come back onto the roof and was gathering the props to hand off to the assistants. He jerked up reflexively before turning crimson. One of the assistants took the items and scurried away. Once there was nothing in his hands, the boy immediately began playing with his fingers and looking anywhere but at them. He mumbled something unintelligible to the air.  

“Shouto, I have heard you be louder than that when you are giving stage direction!” chided Todoroki Enji as he made his way over. “But I agree with Toshi! That was excellent work, son!”  

Shouto shuffled in place, a small pleased smile tugging at his lips. 

“T-thank you, but was it really ok?” he asked softly. Izuku felt the equivalent of mental whiplash. This was the same person that was borderline flirting with him mere moments ago? It was had to believe it! It seemed that not only was Todoroki Shouto a talented director, but also a pretty talented actor, too. Not to mention just plain pretty. Most anyone ever saw of him was half his face hidden by a hoodie.  

“Ah! How rude of me!” Yagi cut in suddenly. “Young Midoriya, this is Todoroki Shouto! He is like one of my nephews! He will be playing the bounty hunter, Nexus.” Izuku nodded, unable to speak and wrestle his inner fanboy into submission at the same time. “Shouto, this is Midoriya Izuku a newcomer that is already showing promise!”  

“H-Hi! I love your work, Todoroki-kun! I hope you don’t mind the -kun. Wow, the make up artists must be really good, your hair and eyes are really striking!” he said, babbling slightly out of nerves and butterflies in his stomach. The boy blinked at him, before his eyes went wide. Once again Todoroki Shouto turned bright red. He worked his mouth but no sound escaped. Izuku decided then and there that a strategic retreat was in order. He politely excused himself and bolted for the nearest exit. Just as he passed to the outer edges of the set, he heard Yagi-san’s voice. 

“Just as well he doesn’t know that these looks are natural, eh, nephew?” 

“Toshi!!!” chided Enji. 

Yep, Izuku was going to go find a hole to crawl into.  

Author: Kenyoda

Admin’s Note: Another oneshot of @ebonyphd​‘s Internet Friends AU! You can read the rest of the series over here!

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Unexpected Friends

Shouto had known that this was a bad idea from the moment Natsuo had suggested it. But he was too shy to actually ask Midoriya out on his own, so he leaped at the rather neat solution that his brother had offered at the time. His current partner - a guy this time - had been dying to meet Shouto. Natsuo claimed that Tenko was also a high nerd and that he and Shouto would get along like a house on fire. 

Shouto was unconvinced. 

The last partner his brother had was a snobby ableist that had also been “dying” to meet Shouto. They had spent the whole date “lamenting” over Shouto’s “misfortune.” They had no idea he could read lips. He had spent the whole time fuming: he was deaf, not dying. They were also super rude to Natsuo. He was quite glad when Natsuo dumped them. 

Natsuo had suggested that Shouto and Izuku tag along on his date with his boyfriend to see a movie. That way, if things went well, Shouto could ask him on a real date. Shouto had reluctantly agreed, pretty much because he had no idea what to do otherwise. So here he was now, waiting for Izuku and this ‘Tenko’ to show up. When Tenko made an appearance with a blonde girl that looked like she walked out of a vampire manga, all of Shouto’s alarm bells rang at once. 

He, presumably, was dressed in black from literally head to toe. If he did not know any better, Shouto would swear the open jacket they were wearing was from Empire Souls, specifically from Company XIII, one of the main antagonists of the game. Under that there was a black t-shirt with red lettering that said,

                                The Number of FXXXs I give today: 

                                                            0

houto internally snorted at that. This was Natsuo’s boyfriend, huh? This was completely different than his usual dates. They were usually somewhat intelligent, sociable, but ultimately shallow. This guy screamed anti-social. As the two approached, Natsuo grinned. The hood of the jacket was thrown back, revealing white hair and red eyes. A devious smirk was etched into his face, but his eyes softened when they landed on his brother. 

“Hey Nats!” greeted the blonde as they came to stand before them. Tenko just gave a halfhearted wave and mumbled something. Natsuo did not seem to be offended - in fact he smiled wider.

“Hey Tenko! Glad to see you made it! How did the competition go?” Natsuo asked as he stepped forward and hugged the shorter man. Shouto blinked in surprise when he hugged him back.

“Good,” was the only thing Shouto could make out from the angle. Suddenly, there was a tap on his shoulder. He turned to find a bright Izuku bouncing next to him. Shouto couldn’t help the grin that stretched across his face. He hugged his friend tightly, Izuku doing the same. It had been nearly 2 years since the two had become friends. They were both in high school, Shouto attending a school for the deaf and blind and Izuku one closer to his home. But they met often at each other’s homes, and they spoke all the time on Unplug. Izuku beamed at him again. Shouto’s heart jolted in response. He had also been pathetically crushing on him for the last year.  

Shouto had tried on numerous occasions to tell his friend, but he always lost his nerve at the last minute. What could he offer Izuku? He couldn’t hear him - sure, Izuku never minded that he had to sign when they were together, but he could not expect him to want to do that forever, right? Izuku was clearly popular among his peers, and becoming more popular since his friends encouraged him to start the HeroTube channel to supplement his forum ramblings. He had seen personally that his friend was pleasant and attractive, especially after he bulked up to do a Valor cosplay. Izuku discovered that he loved working out and that Uraraka did too, so they continued. Sometimes Shouto would join them on runs. 

Shouto had little to offer in return, so the thought of admitting his crush was a little daunting. Both his siblings had been insisting that he at least attempt to talk to Izuku about it but Shouto refused. He didn’t want to lose the easy friendship he had with the other boy. Izuku was currently rambling to him about some post he found regarding a potential TV serialization for Altered Reality Academia. Izuku’s facial expression turned curious and then he told Shouto that his brother was trying to get his attention.

Shouto turned to see Natsuo and Tenko standing in front of them, Tenko looking a bit curious. Natsuo formally introduced everyone. The vampire girl’s name was Toga Himiko. Then he was introduced to Shimura Tenko. He and his brother apparently met at the hospital where Natsuo was currently doing a hands on internship. Shouto, through Izuku’s helpful translations, asked the teen whether he had ended up there due to the vampire girl and Tenko laughed heartily. Natsuo scowled. 

“No. I did not. I am apparently more of a vampire than she claims to be… I am actually allergic to the sun,” he said, surprisingly in sign language. When Shouto must have given him a surprised look, he explained that his sister was Hard of Hearing. Shouto found that it felt a little less weird now. That is, until Toga said that he looked good enough to eat; then he was momentarily afraid for his life. A sneak glance at his friend’s pale face said that Izuku felt the same. Tenko rolled his eyes and assured them that she had already “fed” and that they were safe. 

Shouto was still dubious.    

“So what are we seeing again?” Natsuo asked his boyfriend, signing for Shouto.

“Sako-chan is debuting his movie at this festival, neh neh— Ten-chan?” Toga said, her lips and curls moving rapidly. Natsuo stumbled translating a bit but Shouto got the idea. Ah, another friend is debuting a movie, huh? Interesting. Apparently, it was part of an independent film festival. It was called  DartMan: The Dark Midlife Crisis. It was supposed to be a parody of edgy superhero films.   

As the group made their way towards the building, he and Izuku caught up on their week. Shouto told Izuku about his thoughts on becoming a social worker or a lawyer. His friend thought that was an amazing idea and had no doubt that he could pull it off. When Izuku said that, Shouto couldn’t help the flush that washed over his face. He wanted to tell Izuku how much his support meant to him, but he couldn’t begin to form the words. His hands were shaking too bad. So he settled for a probably broken but vocal ‘thank you.’ Izuku beamed back. He then surprised Shouto by saying he was still thinking about what he wanted to do. This was unusual as Izuku had talked about being a comic artist for the longest time. 

Izuku had always talked about his want to be the next Yagi Toshinori. His writing was excellent and his art was amazing. Shouto was sure he was a shoo-in for the art school he wanted to go to. It was part of a larger university. What had changed? He had entertained the notion of them going to that very same university together. He had thought that maybe mentioning it would not be a bad way to approach the crush problem. Start simple. After all, most people would probably run the other direction if someone suddenly blurted out that they would ‘dream of kissing them and never leaving their side ever again’ out of nowhere. But Izuku’s change in direction had thrown him.  

“Why did you change?” he asked as they stood in line. Izuku looked thoughtful for a moment. 

“Well, partially because of my mom and partially because I tried commissions for a while. Sure, it was nice getting the money and I did not mind drawing for people, but suddenly what I loved doing became a chore. I— I don’t want to lose what I love doing for money. So, I have been thinking lately that I should do my art for myself on my own time and find something else to do…” Izuku said, his face clearly saying he was not sure about it. “I still want to go to UA, though. They have good connections,” said the boy with a shrug. 

“That doesn’t sound like you, though,” Shouto pointed out immediately. Izuku cringed. Shouto pounced on that, nerves be damned. His friend needed help and Shouto was going to give it. “What is really bothering you? Someone leave nasty messages about your work again?” Shouto asked. Izuku resolutely shook his head, even as he moved forward in line. “Then what is it?” 

“My mom was talking with one of the neighbors and they said some things about how I was wasting my potential and that I was such a ‘smart boy’ and that mom was a bad parent for letting me waste my time,” he finally admitted, shoulders slumping. Shouto inwardly seethed. How dare they make Izuku feel bad about what makes him happy?!

“That’s bullshit! You are smart! That is what makes you so good at what you do! You would not be half the analyst you are if you weren’t! Sure, being a comic maker is not the first thing that people would think of for you, but that doesn't mean it's not what you are destined to do. Tell them to go pack sand,” Shouto argued. Izuku laughed, out of shock more than likely. 

“Thanks Shouto, I just… I worry that I am not cut out for it… if I am not living up to my potential,” he said, forlorn. Shouto took the distraction to buy their tickets for the movie before Izuku could even protest. He then beckoned his friend to come along. Izuku pouted, saying it was not fair. Shouto just grinned.

“Don’t worry about it, you can pay next time,” he said with a grin, before turning scarlet. Way to be a pretentious ass! he berated himself. He was no better when he caught Izuku sporting a similar shade on his cheeks.  Shouto decided to find another distraction. His eyes landed on his brother and Tenko walking together.

It was strange. 

He had never seen Natsuo so relaxed around a date before. Most of the time, he was overdressed and drawn as tense as a bow string. Now though he was in a simple polo and a pair of jeans. He was walking with his arm around Tenko’s shoulder as they talked. They quietly laughed at some inside joke as Toga flitted around them all bouncing curls and energy. 

He wondered if he and Izuku could ever be close like they were, so secure in their relationship. His eyes cut to Izuku and the boy seemed lost in his own head. But that was Izuku, forever dreaming. A soft smile pulled at his lips. Izuku’s eyes suddenly bugged and he turned red. Shouto was confused at first until he felt Izuku squeeze his hand. Then he felt his face heat. 

When had he taken Izuku’s hand?!

But his friend only smiled bashfully as he stared at the floor. He did not let go of his hand. Shouto’s heart kicked in his chest. It was a lovely feeling. Maybe he had a chance after all? Shouto held his hand a little tighter. They settled into line for snacks and Shouto felt eyes on him. He looked up to see Tenko eyeing him as his brother talked with Toga about something. The ethereal looking teen gave him a kind, teasing smile. 

‘Nice job,’ he mouthed before eyeing their joined hands then looking at him again. Shouto blushed again, but felt grateful all the same. Tenko had definitely been a nice surprise. The boy was strange and had equally strange friends but so far he had been nice. Far nicer than most people he had met since he had finally started escaping the house. Shouto smiled back and mouthed, 

‘Nice jacket. Empire Souls?’ 

Tenko nodded before mouthing, ‘made it myself.’ 

Shouto gaped. Okay… maybe Natsuo was right. He was going to have to speak to his boyfriend more… maybe if he plucked up the courage… he could go on a real double date with them in future. That could be fun. He felt a tap on his shoulder. 

‘What are you smiling about?’ Izuku mouthed. 

‘The jacket is Empire Souls inspired. He made it,’ he mouthed. Izuku’s eyes lit up. He immediately started drilling Tenko for details. Shouto laughed, but he was keenly aware that despite his enthusiasm, Izuku still hadn’t let go of his hand.

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