#quirkfreedom

How the MLA Could Acquire Eri and Anna

Eri Acquisition: Eri, a young girl with the Rewind Quirk, was initially under the control of Overhaul (Kai Chisaki) and the Shie Hassaikai, who exploited her Quirk to create Quirk-destroying bullets. In the canon, she is rescued by Deku and other heroes during the Shie Hassaikai Arc. For the MLA to acquire Eri, several scenarios could unfold:

Interception During the Shie Hassaikai Arc: The MLA, with its vast resources and intelligence network led by Skeptic, could intercept Eri during the chaos of the Shie Hassaikai raid. If the MLA had spies within hero society (like Slidin’ Go), they might learn of the operation and deploy operatives to kidnap Eri before or after Overhaul’s defeat. The MLA’s interest would stem from her Quirk’s potential to manipulate biological states, aligning with their goal of enhancing Quirk usage and creating a society where Quirks are freely used.

Post-Rescue Kidnapping: After Eri is taken to U.A. High for protection, the MLA could target her during a moment of vulnerability, such as during the Paranormal Liberation War or another large-scale conflict. With over 100,000 members and access to advanced technology through Detnerat, the MLA could orchestrate a covert operation to abduct her, possibly using Trumpet’s Quirk to rally civilians as a distraction or Geten’s ice-based abilities to overwhelm security.

Alliance with Overhaul Remnants: If remnants of the Shie Hassaikai survive, the MLA could recruit them, leveraging their knowledge of Eri’s Quirk. Our past discussions highlighted the MLA’s ability to absorb members from defeated groups like the Shie Hassaikai or Humarise. A rogue Shie Hassaikai member could provide intel on Eri’s abilities, prompting the MLA to prioritize her capture.

Anna Acquisition: Based on our prior conversations, Anna is a secretive figure within the MLA, known only to high-ranking members like Re-Destro and Curious, and potentially linked to Dark Might, a villainous counterpart to All Might who believes in power-based respect. Her acquisition by the MLA is less about capturing her and more about activating or deploying her, as she’s already within their ranks. Possible scenarios include:

Internal Development: Anna could be a product of the MLA’s experiments, possibly created or enhanced through Detnerat’s technology to serve as a weapon against hero society. Her unstable nature, as discussed previously, suggests she might be a volatile asset, perhaps with a Quirk amplified artificially, similar to Nomu enhancements.

Recruitment from a Fallen Group: Anna could be a survivor from another villainous faction (e.g., Humarise or Nine’s Crew) with a unique Quirk that the MLA seeks to harness. Her secrecy within the MLA implies she’s a high-value asset, possibly kept hidden to protect Dark Might’s public image or to avoid attracting attention from heroes.

Connection to Dark Might: If Anna is tied to Dark Might, as speculated, the MLA might have acquired her as part of their alliance with him. Her role could involve supporting his facade as a hero-like figure while secretly advancing the MLA’s agenda of Quirk liberation through covert operations.

Roles of Eri and Anna in the MLA

Eri’s Role: Eri’s Rewind Quirk, which can rewind a person’s biological state to a previous point (e.g., healing injuries or reversing age), is a strategic asset for the MLA. Her potential roles include:

Enhancing MLA Fighters: Eri could restore injured MLA members to peak condition during battles, giving them an edge against heroes or rival factions like the League of Villains. For example, she could heal Re-Destro after his self-amputation in the canon MLA Arc or restore Geten’s stamina during prolonged fights.

Quirk Amplification Experiments: The MLA, with access to Detnerat’s technology and Skeptic’s data analysis, could experiment with Eri’s Quirk to amplify or modify other Quirks. This aligns with their goal of promoting free Quirk usage, potentially creating super-soldiers with enhanced abilities. For instance, combining Eri’s Rewind with Geten’s ice manipulation could allow him to regenerate ice constructs indefinitely.

Propaganda Tool: The MLA could use Eri as a symbol of their cause, portraying her as a victim of hero society’s restrictive laws. Curious, with her media influence through Shoowaysha Publishing, could craft a narrative that Eri’s Quirk is a gift suppressed by heroes, rallying public support for the MLA’s ideology.

Weapon Against Heroes: Eri’s ability to rewind could be weaponized to de-age heroes, rendering them powerless (e.g., reverting All Might to his pre-injury state or worse). However, her lack of control over her Quirk would require the MLA to invest in training or technological aids, possibly through Dr. Garaki’s expertise if they recruit him.

Anna’s Role: Anna’s unstable but powerful nature makes her a wildcard. Based on our discussions, she’s a secret asset with potential ties to Dark Might. Her roles could include:

Covert Operative: Anna’s secrecy suggests she’s used for high-stakes missions, such as infiltrating hero organizations or sabotaging key targets. Her Quirk, if combat-oriented, could complement the MLA’s top brass (e.g., Re-Destro’s Stress, Geten’s ice, or Trumpet’s morale-boosting abilities).

Support for Dark Might: If Anna is linked to Dark Might, she might serve as his enforcer or protector, ensuring his facade as a societal stabilizer remains intact. Her instability could make her a liability, requiring the MLA to keep her under tight control, possibly using Skeptic’s surveillance to monitor her actions.

Technological Enhancement: Given the MLA’s access to Detnerat’s tech, Anna could be augmented with support items to stabilize or amplify her Quirk. For example, if her Quirk is volatile like Curious’s Landmine, Detnerat could develop devices to channel it effectively, making her a key asset in battles against heroes or the League of Villains.

Ideological Symbol: If Anna’s backstory involves oppression due to her Quirk, the MLA could use her as a rallying point for their cause, similar to how they leverage Destro’s manifesto. Her distress, as noted in past discussions, could be spun into a narrative of hero society’s failure to accommodate powerful Quirks.

Impact on the MLA’s Goals

The MLA’s core philosophy, as outlined in Destro’s Meta Liberation War, is that free Quirk usage is a human right, opposing government regulations that restrict Quirks to licensed heroes. Acquiring Eri and Anna would significantly advance this agenda:

Strategic Advantage:

Eri: Her Rewind Quirk could make the MLA’s army nearly invincible by healing wounds or reversing fatigue, allowing them to sustain prolonged conflicts like the Meta Liberation War. It could also counter the League of Villains’ destructive tactics, such as Shigaraki’s Decay, by restoring damaged allies or environments.

Anna: Her power, if combat-oriented, could bolster the MLA’s offensive capabilities, especially if paired with Dark Might. Her instability might require careful management, but her secrecy allows the MLA to deploy her as a surprise weapon against unsuspecting heroes.

Ideological Reinforcement:

Eri: Her history of abuse under Overhaul aligns with the MLA’s narrative of Quirks being suppressed. By “liberating” her, the MLA could claim moral superiority, arguing that hero society failed to protect her while they offer her freedom to use her Quirk.

Anna: As a hidden asset, Anna’s potential oppression or marginalization due to her Quirk could be used to highlight the flaws in hero society’s regulations, reinforcing the MLA’s call for Quirk liberation.

Alliance with Dark Might:

If Anna is tied to Dark Might, as discussed, her presence strengthens the MLA’s alliance with him. Dark Might’s belief in power-based respect aligns with the MLA’s meritocratic vision, where Quirk strength determines societal status. Eri’s Rewind could enhance Dark Might’s physical condition, making him a more formidable figurehead for the MLA’s cause.

Conflict with Other Factions:

League of Villains: The MLA’s acquisition of Eri and Anna would escalate their rivalry with the League, as seen in the canon MLA Arc. Eri’s Quirk could counter Shigaraki’s Decay, while Anna’s power might challenge key League members like Dabi or Toga. However, the League’s chaotic nature could exploit Anna’s instability, leading to internal MLA conflicts.

Humarise and Shie Hassaikai: As noted in past discussions, Overhaul and Humarise could emerge as rival threats. Eri’s prior connection to Overhaul might draw the Shie Hassaikai’s attention, leading to a three-way conflict. Humarise’s anti-Quirk ideology directly opposes the MLA, and Eri’s Rewind could be seen as a threat to their Quirk Singularity agenda.

Narrative Implications in My Hero Academia

The inclusion of Eri and Anna in the MLA’s ranks would reshape key arcs and themes in My Hero Academia:

Shift in Power Dynamics:

The MLA’s already formidable force of 100,000+ members becomes even more dangerous with Eri’s healing and Anna’s potential combat prowess. This could prolong the Meta Liberation Army Arc, forcing the League of Villains to adapt new strategies or seek alliances (e.g., with Dr. Garaki’s Nomu technology) to counter the MLA’s enhanced capabilities.

Heroes like Deku, Endeavor, and Hawks would face greater challenges. Hawks’ undercover mission could uncover Anna’s existence, complicating his role as a double agent. Deku’s personal connection to Eri would make her capture a driving force in his narrative, pushing him to confront the MLA directly.

Moral Ambiguity:

The MLA’s use of Eri, a child, raises ethical questions about their methods, despite their “righteous” cause. Their willingness to exploit her Quirk mirrors Overhaul’s actions, blurring the line between their ideology and villainy. This aligns with our past discussions about the MLA functioning as a cult-like organization, as noted by Mr. Compress.

Anna’s instability could lead to internal conflicts within the MLA, especially if her actions contradict their public image of liberation. Her distress might humanize her, creating sympathy among readers and challenging the heroes’ black-and-white view of villains.

Thematic Exploration:

Quirk Liberation vs. Control: Eri’s Rewind and Anna’s powerful Quirk highlight the MLA’s argument that Quirks are integral to identity and should be freely used. However, their exploitation of these characters undermines their rhetoric, reinforcing the series’ theme that freedom without responsibility leads to chaos.

Redemption and Agency: Eri’s trauma and Anna’s instability could lead to arcs where they resist the MLA’s control, seeking redemption or autonomy. Deku’s influence, as seen with Eri in canon, could inspire them to defect, challenging the MLA’s ideology from within.

Alternate Arcs:

Meta Liberation Army Arc: Instead of merging with the League to form the Paranormal Liberation Front, the MLA’s possession of Eri and Anna might embolden them to remain independent, leading to a prolonged war against both the League and heroes. Re-Destro could use Eri to restore his legs, avoiding his canon surrender to Shigaraki.

Paranormal Liberation War: With Eri and Anna, the MLA’s strength in the war increases, potentially overwhelming heroes. Anna’s link to Dark Might could introduce a new antagonist faction, complicating the conflict. Eri’s capture could lead to a rescue mission led by Deku, Mirio, and Aizawa, emphasizing themes of hope and protection.

Post-Series Implications: If the MLA survives the series’ end, as speculated in our discussions, Eri and Anna could influence a new wave of villainy. Eri’s Quirk might be used to revive fallen MLA members, while Anna’s power could inspire a splinter group, perpetuating the Quirk liberation ideology in the eight-year time skip.

Potential Challenges and Counteractions

Eri’s Lack of Control:

Eri’s Rewind Quirk is unstable and requires training, as seen in canon with Aizawa’s guidance. The MLA would need experts like Dr. Garaki or technological aids to harness it safely. Overuse could backfire, potentially de-aging MLA members to infancy or causing unintended side effects.

Anna’s Instability:

Anna’s volatile nature, as discussed, makes her a double-edged sword. If her Quirk is unpredictable, she could harm allies or expose the MLA’s plans. Skeptic’s surveillance and Re-Destro’s leadership would be crucial to managing her, but internal dissent (e.g., from Curious or Trumpet) could arise if she becomes a liability.

Hero Response:

Heroes like Deku, who has a personal stake in Eri, would prioritize her rescue, potentially uniting U.A. students and Pro Heroes against the MLA. Hawks’ intelligence-gathering could reveal Anna’s existence, prompting a targeted operation to neutralize her before she fully integrates into the MLA’s plans.

Aizawa’s Erasure Quirk could counter both Eri and Anna, neutralizing their abilities during a confrontation. This would force the MLA to rely on physical numbers and other Quirks, like Geten’s or Trumpet’s, to maintain their advantage.

League of Villains Counterattack:

The League, led by Shigaraki, would view the MLA’s acquisition of Eri and Anna as a direct threat. Shigaraki’s Decay could counter Eri’s healing by destroying entire areas, while Dabi or Toga might exploit Anna’s instability to sow chaos within the MLA, as seen in their canon tactics.

Conclusion

Analysis of Chitose Kizuki (Curious): Past, MLA Recruitment, and Heteromorphic Status

Curious's Past and Early Career

Journalistic Background

Chitose Kizuki began her career in journalism during her early days in the industry, where she developed her core philosophy of never backing down from a good story. This foundational period shaped her aggressive investigative approach and her belief that face-to-face interviews were superior to rumor-based reporting.

Pre-MLA Professional Life

As Executive Director of Shoowaysha Publishing (a parody of Shueisha, the real-world publisher of Weekly Shonen Jump), Curious held significant influence over public media distribution. This position provided her with:

Extensive resources for information gathering

Access to intelligence networks without government suspicion

The ability to shape public opinion through published content

A legitimate cover for her later terrorist activities

Joining the Meta Liberation Army

The Recruitment Process

The document reveals that Curious met Rikiya Yotsubashi (Re-Destro) at some point and subsequently joined the Meta Liberation Army. The specific circumstances of their initial meeting aren't detailed, but their relationship appears to have developed through shared ideological alignment.

Rikiya's Influence on Her Methodology

A crucial moment in Curious's development occurred during a meeting with Rikiya, where he critiqued her journalistic approach:

He read one of her articles and told her that writing based on rumors wouldn't interest readers

He advised her to conduct direct interviews with subjects

He emphasized that "an article to guide public opinion must contain human heart"

This guidance fundamentally transformed her approach, leading to her obsessive interview style that she later employed even during deadly combat situations.

Integration into MLA Leadership

Curious became one of the top commanders of the Meta Liberation Army, which consisted of over 100,000 members. Her role combined her journalistic expertise with military leadership, making her valuable for both propaganda operations and tactical command.

Heteromorphic Characteristics Analysis

Physical Appearance

Curious possessed several distinctive physical traits that set her apart from typical human appearance:

Pale blue skin - A clear heteromorphic trait

Black sclera with green irises - Unusual eye coloration

Lilac hair - While unusual, this could be natural or cosmetic

Comparison to Other MLA Leaders

The document explicitly states that "Chitose was the only woman amongst the Meta Liberation Army executives," but more significantly for this analysis, her physical characteristics suggest she was the only heteromorph among the leadership.

Theoretical Reasons for Her Unique Status

1. Representation and Legitimacy

Having a heteromorph in leadership positions could serve several strategic purposes:

Inclusive optics: Demonstrates that the MLA welcomes all types of Quirk users, not just those with "normal" appearances

Broadening appeal: Attracts heteromorphic individuals who might feel marginalized by mainstream society

Living propaganda: Her presence reinforces the MLA's message about Quirk liberation and acceptance

2. Personal Experience with Discrimination

Heteromorphs in the My Hero Academia universe often face discrimination due to their appearance. Curious's blue skin and unusual eyes would have made her stand out in society, potentially creating:

Personal understanding of societal rejection based on Quirk-related appearance

Motivation to join a movement promoting Quirk liberation

Authentic connection to the MLA's anti-discrimination message

3. Professional Advantages

Her heteromorphic appearance might have actually benefited her journalistic career:

Memorable presence: Her distinctive look would make her recognizable and potentially more effective at networking

Disarming effect: Her unusual appearance might make interview subjects underestimate her or feel more comfortable opening up

Authority through difference: Her success despite her appearance could have enhanced her credibility within heteromorphic communities

4. Strategic Value to the MLA

The MLA would have recognized several strategic benefits in recruiting a heteromorphic leader:

Diverse skill set: Her journalism background provided unique capabilities for propaganda and intelligence gathering

Community connections: Access to heteromorphic networks and communities

Symbolic importance: Her presence demonstrates the MLA's commitment to true equality among Quirk users

The Significance of Her Death

Impact on MLA Representation

Curious being "the only executive of the MLA to have been killed in battle" carries additional weight when considering her status as potentially the only heteromorphic leader. Her death represents:

Loss of heteromorphic representation in leadership

Elimination of a unique perspective within the organization

Reduction in the MLA's ability to appeal to diverse Quirk communities

Symbolic Implications

Her death during the battle with Himiko Toga symbolically represents the vulnerability of those who are "different" in society, even when they achieve positions of power and influence.

Conclusion

Chitose Kizuki's journey from journalist to MLA executive represents a complex intersection of personal ambition, ideological alignment, and potentially, lived experience as a heteromorph in a discriminatory society. Her unique position as the only heteromorphic leader (based on her physical characteristics) suggests that the MLA strategically valued diversity in their leadership, both for practical and symbolic reasons. Her recruitment by Rikiya appears to have been based on mutual respect and shared vision, with her journalistic skills proving invaluable to the organization's propaganda efforts.

Within the Meta Liberation Army (MLA), the "Moderates" sector represents a more nuanced and strategically-minded faction. While they share the core MLA belief in Quirk liberation, they often prioritize propaganda, public manipulation, and systemic subversion over outright destruction or brute force. They aim to achieve their goals by swaying public opinion, exploiting loopholes, and discrediting hero society through seemingly legitimate means, making them a more insidious and politically dangerous threat.

Moderates Sector: The Architects of Public Perception

Core Motivation: To achieve Meta Liberation through intellectual and psychological warfare, propaganda, and strategic infiltration rather than overt violence. They seek to dismantle hero society by eroding public trust and demonstrating its hypocrisy, believing that true change comes from within the system or through widespread ideological shift. They are pragmatic and often prioritize long-term influence over immediate gratification.

Leadership: Trumpet, whose political background and Quirk make him ideal for influencing public opinion and organizing the more "respectable" face of the movement.

Key Figures and Their Roles:

Trumpet (The Charismatic Politician):

Role: The undisputed leader and public face of this sector. As a "Corrupt Politician" and leader of the "Hearts and Mind Party," his "Incite" Quirk is perfectly suited for boosting morale and subtly manipulating public sentiment. He excels at delivering "Rousing Speech" to rally supporters and project an image of legitimacy.

Why they join: Trumpet's ability to "strengthen others by simply talking to them" (provided they trust him) makes him a natural leader for a faction focused on influence. He represents the idea that liberation can be achieved through political and social means, rather than just raw power. His "Only Sane Man" demeanor among the MLA's top brass suggests a preference for calculated moves over impulsive destruction.

Curious (The Media Manipulator):

Role: The driving force behind the sector's information warfare and propaganda. As the "executive director of Shoowaysha Publishing," she uses her media empire to spread Destro's ideology and control narratives.

Why she joins: Her obsession with "Getting the Big Scoop" and her role as a "Propaganda Machine" align perfectly with the Moderates' goals. She aims to "turn Toga into a martyr that was shunned and repressed by the hero society," demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of public manipulation, even if her "Landmine" Quirk is overtly destructive. She's willing to use extreme methods for ideological impact.

Skeptic (The Digital Architect):

Role: The technological backbone of the sector, responsible for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and digital propaganda. He can "restore data and trace phone calls," making him invaluable for tracking enemies and controlling information flow.

Why he joins: His "Evil Genius" intellect and "Anthropomorph" Quirk (for creating puppets) are used for strategic subversion rather than direct combat. He's a "Scarily Competent Tracker" and "Mission Control," enabling the Moderates to operate covertly and exploit digital vulnerabilities. His "Manipulative Editing" skills are crucial for shaping public perception.

Slidin' Go (The Infiltrator/Public Figure):

Role: A seemingly "chipper pro hero" who is secretly an MLA member. His public persona and "Super-Speed" (sliding Quirk) make him an ideal infiltrator and a benign public face for the movement.

Why he joins: He allows the Moderates to operate "Devil in Plain Sight," gathering intelligence and subtly influencing events from within the hero system. His "Affably Evil" nature makes him less suspicious to the general public and other heroes.

Sanctum (The Traditionalist Adviser):

Role: As the "longest-serving member of the Liberation Army," he would represent the more traditional, ideological purists within the Moderate faction. He's less about direct combat and more about maintaining the core tenets of Destro's philosophy.

Why he joins: His role as an "Evil Chancellor" suggests a focus on internal politics and ensuring the "regiment loyal" to the MLA's original goals, aligning with the Moderates' desire for an ideologically sound, yet strategically patient, approach.

Teruo Hazukashi (The Disaffected Everyman):

Role: Represents the broader base of disillusioned citizens who are drawn to the MLA's message of liberation, but might not be inclined towards violence. He's a "disgruntled office worker inspired by Destro's autobiography."

Why he joins: His "Blessed with Suck" Quirk ("Shame") and his "Butt-Monkey" past highlight the societal pressures and discrimination that drive ordinary people to seek change. He embodies the "Well-Intentioned Extremist" who believes in the cause but might be more easily swayed by a charismatic leader like Trumpet.

Characteristics of the Moderates Sector:

Information and Psychological Warfare: Their primary weapons are propaganda, media manipulation, and the strategic dissemination of information to erode public trust in heroes and governmental institutions.

Subversion and Infiltration: They aim to dismantle the system from within by placing agents in influential positions (like Slidin' Go) or by exploiting societal weaknesses and public sentiment.

Calculated Risk-Taking: Unlike the more impulsive sectors, the Moderates would engage in "carefully planned assaults" and "strategic patience," prioritizing long-term ideological shifts over immediate, high-casualty battles.

Public Image Consciousness: They are highly aware of public perception and strive to maintain an image of legitimacy, even while engaging in morally ambiguous or illegal activities. They would frame their actions as necessary for "true freedom" and "justice."

Intellectual and Political Focus: This sector would be rich with thinkers, strategists, and manipulators, emphasizing intelligence gathering, political maneuvering, and the power of ideas.

Exploitation of Grievances: They would actively seek out and amplify the grievances of the populace, particularly those related to Quirk suppression, discrimination, and perceived hero corruption, to build a broad base of support.

Genuine Answer: Could Re-Destro Have Been the Series’ Big Bad if Tomura and the League Never Rose to Power?

Yes. Re-Destro (Rikiya Yotsubashi) and the Meta Liberation Army had every ingredient necessary to serve as the final ideological and military antagonist of My Hero Academia if Tomura Shigaraki and the League of Villains had never coalesced into a credible threat. Here is why the story could have pivoted that way almost seamlessly.

1. Scale and Resources

The MLA in its modern form commanded tens of thousands of highly trained, ideologically driven warriors across Japan (the manga states over 116,000 members before the merger).

They possessed near-limitless funding via Detnerat (a legitimate mega-corporation), advanced support gear, and political lobbying networks.

By comparison, the League at its pre-merger peak was roughly a dozen named members and a handful of Nomu.

Without Tomura, the MLA would have remained the single largest organized anti-government force in the country.

2. Clear, Diametrically Opposed Ideology

Re-Destro’s “Quirk Liberation” philosophy is the perfect mirror to hero society’s regulation and suppression of Quirks:

Hero society: “Use your power only with a license, only for sanctioned purposes.”

MLA: “Every Quirk is a human right; free use without restriction is the natural state.”

This is a far more coherent, marketable, and seductive worldview than Tomura’s original “I just want to destroy everything” nihilism. It could have radicalized civilians, lower-ranked heroes, and even students the same way real-world extremist ideologies do.

3. A Sympathetic, Charismatic Leader

Re-Destro himself is not a cackling madman. He is articulate, physically imposing, burdened by generational trauma (the murder of his ancestor Destro), and genuinely believes he is fighting for freedom. He is the rare villain who can give a speech that makes the audience uncomfortable because parts of it almost sound reasonable—something Tomura never managed until All For One fully hijacked him.

4. Built-In Escalation Path

The story already showed how the MLA planned to operate:

Phase 1: Quietly radicalize and recruit

Phase 2: Provoke incidents to destabilize hero society (Deika City was the test run)

Phase 3: Full-scale civil war once critical mass is reached

Remove Tomura, and the Revival Celebration never happens. The MLA simply continues growing in the shadows until they are ready to launch a coordinated nationwide uprising. The Paranormal Liberation War arc could have been re-imagined as the “Meta Liberation War” with almost no structural changes—only the flag would be different.

5. Personal Stakes for the Protagonists

Several existing character conflicts map perfectly onto an MLA-only endgame:

Best Jeanist and Hawks already infiltrated the League; they could have infiltrated the MLA instead.

The Todoroki family drama (Dabi) loses its villain anchor, but Endeavor’s obsession with being the perfect regulated hero would clash violently with Re-Destro’s liberation rhetoric.

Students like Bakugou, Tokoyami, or even Midoriya (whose Quirk hoard breaks every regulation) could be tempted or targeted by liberation propaganda.

6. Why It Didn’t Happen (Canon Reason)

The League existed, and Tomura/All For One represented raw apocalyptic destruction—an external, unifying threat that forced hero society to confront its rot only after near-total collapse. Re-Destro’s vision was ultimately absorbed rather than defeated because the story needed a single final boss with world-ending power. The MLA became the army, Tomura became the head, and All For One became the brain.

Conclusion

Within the Meta Liberation Army (MLA), the "Social Darwinists" sector represents the most ruthless and meritocratic faction. Their philosophy is stark: Quirk strength is the ultimate determinant of an individual's worth and place in society. They believe that the current hero society, with its laws and regulations, coddles the weak and stifles the true potential of the powerful. Their vision is a world where only the strong survive and thrive, and those with "inferior" Quirks are naturally culled or relegated to the lowest strata.

Social Darwinists Sector: The Apex Predators' Creed

Core Motivation: A fervent belief in the "law of the jungle," where natural selection dictates societal hierarchy. They advocate for the unrestricted use of Quirks, not for general "liberation," but specifically to allow the most powerful individuals to rise to the top, crushing any perceived weakness or inefficiency. They see "moralizing" and "equality" as hindrances to true progress and strength.

Leadership: Geten, whose personal philosophy and dedication to training his Quirk perfectly embody this sector's ideals.

Key Figures and Their Roles:

Geten (The Embodiment of Strength):

Role: The undisputed leader and primary ideologue of this sector. He is the living proof of their philosophy, having "deliberately dropped out of school to focus entirely on training his Meta Ability to its absolute limits." He is the "Brute" of the MLA's top brass, valuing raw power above all else.

Why they join: Geten's "Ice Ply" Quirk, which he has honed to an incredible degree, makes him a formidable combatant. His belief that "one's rank in society will be directly tied to the strength of one's Meta Ability" resonates with those who feel their power is undervalued or constrained. He represents the ideal of self-mastery through Quirk development.

Dabi (The Destructive Purist):

Role: A powerful and ruthless co-commander, Dabi's primary motivation is the destruction of hero society, particularly Endeavor. His methods align perfectly with social Darwinism, as he uses his devastating "Blueflame" Quirk to eliminate those he deems unworthy or corrupt.

Why he joins: While his personal vendetta is strong, Dabi's inherent disregard for life and his belief in "might makes right" makes him a natural fit. He sees the chaos and destruction as a necessary cleansing, allowing only the truly strong to remain. He would likely view his own self-destructive tendencies as a testament to his raw power, even if it burns him out.

The Gas Adviser (Dabi's #2 Adviser - The Philosophical Enforcer):

Role: An explicit proponent and enforcer of social Darwinist ideals. He articulates the sector's philosophy, justifying their brutal actions through the "law of the jungle." He is a "Hero Killer," demonstrating that the "strong" will prevail over the "moralizing" heroes.

Why he joins: His "Unnamed Gas Quirk" and his role in killing Midnight show his willingness to act on these beliefs. He embodies the cold, logical application of social Darwinism in combat, dismissing those who fall as simply "weak."

Re-Destro (The Theoretical Proponent / Ultimate Test):

Role: While Re-Destro is the Grand Commander of the MLA and later a Lieutenant of the PLF, his personal philosophy, driven by his "Stress" Quirk, has strong social Darwinist undertones. He believes in "elevating one's ability" and sees immense power as a form of "true freedom."

Why he joins (or influences): He would be a key intellectual figure, providing the philosophical framework for the sector. His respect for Shigaraki's destructive power, seeing it as the "incarnation of freedom," demonstrates his underlying belief that ultimate strength is the ultimate form of liberation. He would push for challenges and conflicts that allow the "strongest" Quirks to emerge victorious.

Any Powerful, Unrestrained Villains:

Role: Individuals who have always relied on their overwhelming Quirks to dominate others, feeling constrained by laws.

Why they join: They would be drawn to a group that explicitly champions their lifestyle. They are less interested in grand ideologies and more in the practical application of their power without consequence. This could include characters like Muscular (though he'd likely be more aligned with AFO Loyalists due to his pure sadism, he fits the "might makes right" mentality) or other unnamed villains who simply want to use their Quirks to their fullest, destructive extent.

Characteristics of the Social Darwinists Sector:

Emphasis on Combat and Training: This sector would prioritize rigorous Quirk training and direct confrontation. They would constantly seek out opportunities to test their strength against heroes and other villains, believing that conflict hones their abilities and proves their superiority.

Disdain for Weakness: They would show little to no mercy towards those they deem weak, whether they are heroes, civilians, or even fellow villains who cannot keep up. This includes a dismissal of "weak" Quirks or those who rely on support items rather than raw power.

Ruthless Efficiency: Their methods would be brutal and direct, aiming to overwhelm and eliminate opposition without unnecessary complications. They would likely be less interested in propaganda or community building, focusing instead on demonstrating their power through decisive victories.

Internal Competition: While united by their core philosophy, there might be internal rivalries and power struggles within this sector, as members constantly seek to prove their own strength and rise in the hierarchy.

Limited Empathy: Their focus on strength and survival would leave little room for empathy or compassion, viewing such emotions as liabilities in the "law of the jungle."

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