Recap: Phase 2 begins, and your thrust around the city to capture Pokemon as news of hotspot areas are being shut. All while that, you have yet to find an internship! Discussing with your fellow classmates, schoolmates, and seniors, you figured that it was about time you tried to find professional help in your endeavors of finding the best Internship for you, and it has to be none other than Midoriya Izuku himself.

That night, filled with the sounds of the soft or loud snores of sleeping Pokemon and fluttering of nocturnal ones, there was the sound of light giggling emitting from the only room being used in the overly large dormitory.

It was you. Giggling to yourself like a lunatic at the crack of 1 AM.

With a wide grin spread across your features, you watch in focus at the pencil grasped between your fingers scribbling hastily on a notebook. You have busily written whatever you were writing in your book, so focused that you didn't even notice the odd glances you were getting.

"...Yes, yes...that should work..." You murmured, giggling again much to the bafflement of your Pokemon. And man, were they judging hard.

Meowth and Pikachu watched deadpanned from the corner of the room, staring at you like the madcap you were. For once the duo was amiably sitting next to each other without jeering at the other, simply basking at the weirdo that was apparently you at the moment. You laughed to yourself again, furiously writing away.

Meowth whispered almost a little too obviously with wide eyes. "...Wow, boss finally lost it."

Being the absolute heathen he is, the cat continued to gossip like the dramatic being it was. "To think Boss went coo-coo this fast after having her face plastered on every news article. The stage fright hits hard." Meowth sighs sadly, shaking his head dramatically.

Pikachu wanted to roll his eyes, but frankly, Meowth's words are becoming a little real. Meowth leaned over, still peering over your jovial self. "But in all seriousness, it's been going on for 30 minutes now. You think she accidentally hit her head or something during class?"

Pikachu could only do a tiny shrug.

As the duo continued watching you like visitors in the zoo pen, the door to your dorm pushed open. Sylveon peaked her head inside, cerulean eyes blinking curiously. She widened the door further, shutting it with her ribbons before trotting inside. She first hobbled to the judgmental Pokemon, enquiring softly with a soft mewl to not rouse your attention to probe at the fuss.

Meowth huffs in answer. "Boss has been laughing to herself for an hour now. She's gone coo-coo and I think she finds homework fun now."

Pikachu frowns, swatting Meowth. Whether you were crazy or not, he will not stand for this blatant insult toward you.

Like you would find homework fun!

First of all, if you did somehow go coo-coo, then you would be the coolest coo-coo friend he has! No matter how absurd you've gotten, Pikachu would be by your side no matter what! You're the best, Pikachu asserts.

"Pikachu, you simp." Then Meowth jeered.

And now they fight again.

Sylveon ignored the complete idiocy of her fellow Pokemon, deciding to be the bigger Pokemon and move to investigate herself on your odd joyfulness. Sylveon patiently eyed your form first, before nudging her head on your leg, as she had done many times before her evolution.

You halt another round of giggles, swirling to see her bright blue eyes filled with curiosity. "Oh, Sylveon...sorry, did I wake you?" You hummed, the calming words you uttered calming Sylveon enough to know you were sane. You grinned down at her as she wraps a ribbon around your wrists, looking for attention. "I'm busy planning on how to solve each issue. There are a lot of things to be done, so I'm listing them."

'Listing?' Sylveon probably wonders, but you'll never know quite know what goes on her little head. She raises her legs to place them on your thighs, peering at your notes.

Things I must do!

1) Discuss the Internship selection with a viable informant in heroics
2) Figure out USJ's mystery
3) Plan your outing with Inasa
4) Talk to Iida
5) ...

"Listing again? You know that failed last time." Meowth made a face, Pikachu's paws swatting his head. but you ignored him completely.

"...Hmm, so much to do." You hum. Meowth and Pikachu, done with their fights had hobbled onto your desk, also peering at the small notes with raised brows. Meowth utters again, tauntingly.

"Boss, you're such a nerd."

"No, I'm not!" This time you huffed, shooing Meowth away from discerning your notes further. "Sometimes you got to plan things that are important..."

"Yeah, you can see where your importance lies." Meowth points at plan 3, probably making a hoot at the fact that you're taking your 'hang-out' with Inasa so seriously.

Pikachu tilts his head, not familiar with the name. He squinted at the paper, as if it'll just explain who Inasa happened to be, while Sylveon was very familiar, remembering the loud-head clearly.

"Oh, you!" You grumbled but decided to move the conversation before they would discuss it any further. "At least I've got my informant, and we're meeting up tomorrow after school."

"Bush-head, huh? Can't say I'm surprised!" Meowth hums lazily, before pointing at plan 4. "And this one?"

"Iida's acting off." You answered, rubbing your temple lightly. It's no question that Iida has been a tad bit more solemn these past few days. You're hoping you could find a time to talk to him, but he's been persistent in keeping to himself. "...He's not himself."

"Huh...bout' his brother, right? I see." Meowth hums for a moment, before his eyes shifted to the last plan, pressing his mouth closed. For some reason, he could sense exactly what was supposed the be written in that tiny column. The sight of that singular list enough to make him uneasy. "...So, you're going to head there soon...?"

You hesitantly nodded, discerning what he was implying. You remembered your encounter with Kurono as if it was just a few hours ago, his words hitting you like a freight train. "...I need to make sure of things. It was about time anyway."

Sylveon and Pikachu shared looks of worry, while Meowth acted indifferently. Nonetheless, you can see the hint of unsureness within all their eyes. Your heart warmed, and without a moment to lose you swoop your Pokemon into your arms, as yelps and alarm squeaks emit as you crushed them all into a tightened hug.

"ACK, ACK- YOU'RE KILLING ME!" Meowth complains like the drama queen he is as you swing them around lightly. You giggled, squeezing them lovingly in your bear hug, ending up on the ground from your excited quip.

"Love you guys-!"

"Not appreciated!" Meowth huffs, contrasting the happy coos from the two others. Meowth could only begrudgingly stay in your hold, looking like a ragged doll forced into the arms of a toddler, as he quips. "Next time, don't giggle in the middle of the night you crazy. That lack of sleep of yours is to blame."

"Oh, hush." Petting their fur lovingly, ruffling Meowth's extra in spite, before you remembered. "Ah, by the way, you guys want to go somewhere tomorrow after school?"

Three beady eyes flitted over to your direction. Meowth being the spokesperson for the creatures, for obvious reasons, presses. "To where?"

Your smile only widened. "It's a secret."

Leaving no room for protest, you smothered them in another aching hug, squeezing the daylights out of them. Pikachu and Meowth's groans and complaints and Sylveon's happy squeals filling the room in that silent night.

『 Chapter Forty-Three 』

For one, you will most definitely be completing your list before the internship, if that's the last thing you'll do.

...well without a few minor adjustments, of course.

Seeing as time wasn't in your favor, it was with grievance that you decided to take a raincheck with your hang out with Inasa. The wind-thickhead will surely understand your sentiment, and in fact, had assured most eagerly that focusing on your internships is very much important. The boy finds your eagerness in learning of heroic very hot-blooded-his words not yours- as he blows your eardrums this very morning.

On another note, what you plan to focus all your attention on is that much needed conversation with Iida you were planning.

It was upsetting to see the usual eccentric but stick-in-the-mud class president to be so...solemn. It's easy to pretend there's nothing wrong when he acts as 'normal' as he could, but anyone who knew him for his tendency to exaggerate that he was acting off. Most of the class seemed ignorant on the matter, either that or they just wanted to give Iida the space he needed, but its easy to tell that you, Midoriya, and Uraraka could sense it. Usually by the worried glances each of you sends to Iida, or the silent leers you sent to one another. It seems you three made an unintentional pact to try to be earnest of Iida's unsteady feeling.

Then there's the matter of that mystery Pokemon that's been wrapped in your head like a tight knot. To think that you couldn't press on the situation earlier due to the sports Festival.

Nonetheless, you were ready to find time to corner Iida.

Venturing into the class, your head planning on that conversation, you were disappointed to see that Iida was nowhere to be found. Another oddity, but he seems to be coming to class later than usual. Anytime you made it to class, Iida would be right there, sitting by his desk preparedly. Waiting for another wonderful days of learning.

You decided to wait for him, eagerly waiting on your seat for the slightest sight of his rectangle glasses.

And for most, that was what you had planned. But plans always tend to get wired away as you're somehow bombarded by a ticking bomb who stands by the side of your seat.

"Hey."

You blinked out of a stupor, gazing towards the perpetrator distracting your intense gaze at the front door. Bakugo didn't take that lightly. "What are you blanking out for? You look dumb like a fish."

Irked by the comment, you swiveled your head back to your main goal, which is the door where a glasses-wearing president should be coming through any minute, earning yourself another yell. "Oi, don't ignore me!"

"Bakugo...it's strange to see you coming to my seat, come to chat?" You commented dryly, eyes still set on the door, disinterested even as the boy snarls.

"I wasn't going to, until I saw your dumb look. What, you waiting for someone?" Bakugo leers for a moment. There was an unsteady glint as he glowered. "That nerd?"

This caught your attention, finally pulling away to eye the grumbling blond, raising a brow at the comment. "No, and even if it was, it's none of your business." He scoffed, making you leer over curiously with a frown. "What even is your problem with Midoriya-kun?"

Bakugo takes a seat on Uraraka's desk, the girl has yet to arrive, sitting sideways and homily, you were almost convinced he'd hiked his feet up. He sneers, looking distasteful as always. "Nothing." He spats.

Wrinkling your nose, you wanted to probe more but decided against that. In the end, Bakugo was a very unfamiliar specimen. Honestly, perhaps a part of you could only withstand Bakugo's attitude due to your intense experience in handing apprehensive Pokemon. But to be frank, even Bakugo was a little much at times. You sigh, deciding to use those experiences to your advantage again. "Alright. Have you figured where you plan to head to next week?"

"Done. Drop it minutes after its announced." He huffs, but the change in topic changed the mood. The side of his lips curled into his wild grin. "It's gotta be the best."

You hummed, drawled and long. "The top 10 I presume."

"Not that you know."

"Does everyone here know my lack of knowledge in heroes or something?" You grumbled, drumming a finger on the desk aggravatedly. The nerve-!

"Jeanist isn't my style but scoping what's an agency of the top 3 heroes is good enough for me." He dully comments. His eyes had stared off out the window, looking a little lax. A strange sight, but not unwelcoming. When his red eyes slide over to you, you jumped involuntarily. "You?"

You blinked. "...I'm not too sure yet." Then you narrowed your eyes. "Are you sure you're Bakugo-san, I didn't think you would ever ask about me."

"WHAT THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN, HUH?!"

Ah-! There's the Bakugo you know.

Bakugo's contorted look of anger turns into his usual sneer. "Just pick one of the top heroes and get it over with."

You disagreed promptly. "No, I don't want to. Not without proper research of what I can learn through these people."

Bakugo huffs but didn't say anything more. Bakugo didn't linger any longer, already fulfilling his quota of conversations with you as he heads back to his own desk grouchily. You didn't need so much as a minute to ponder more on his odd reactions, going back to remembering your task at hand. Iida.

You had hoped that you could now focus on waiting for Iida, who still hadn't arrived, when you felt this weirdly unsettling sensation that someone was staring at you intensely. It seems like you're a little popular today, the burning stare on your skin felt hot.

It wasn't hard to notice it was Todoroki, as your instinctive response was to back away instantly. You recoiled back, voicing nervously. "Uh...hello Todoroki-san. How's your day? Nice weather, huh? Can I help you with anything?"

Your quick spats of questions only left Todoroki blinking blankly, his princely face deadpan. His quietness left you mildly confused as he stared down at something at his desk.

"..."

You twitched. 'This guy...he's like a brick -I can't understand what he's thinking...!'

"...Can I ask you something?"

'Oh, he speaks!' You mused but decided against saying those words. Your silence was enough to let him know you were listening. He shuffled a little to face you. "I have decided where I would like to internship."

"..." You blinked. You stare at him longer, hoping for more elaboration. "...Uh, okay?"

"I thought of this after..." He meets your gaze. "-my visit with my mother."

A wave of understanding washes you, as your guarded features loosened. Your eyes softened, voice calling out in tune. "...How'd it go?"

Todoroki's eyes lifted to meet yours, softening in tune with yours, barely nodding. "It was okay."

That information itself made you happy. It's strange to say, but you feel like you could relate to Todoroki. You're quite familiar with the hospital rooms, the smell of medicine and cleanliness, the white walls framing the room, and above all else, the sight of your own mom sitting on the bed. It's...disheartening.

It's something you wish you hadn't gotten so accustomed to.

You nodded, "That's good," You shifted more, attempting to continue the conversation. For a moment, you noticed a surprise look on the boy's feature, but you simply cleared your throat, probing further. "How is she?"

Todoroki stared for a moment, making you uneasy. But he didn't delay further. "She looks healthier than expected..." He stared at his desk, thinking carefully. "We...spoke quite a lot. It was nice."

Your smile broadened, eyes twinkling. "That's great. I hope she'll return to full health."

"Thank you."

For a moment, no words were exchanged again. You wondered if you should consider the end of the conversation, with Todoroki keeping silent, before he seems to speak out again.

"Meeting her again, allowed me to think carefully on how I want to go on as a hero." There's a certain emotion that was carried in his eyes, his voice carried his conviction. "In turn, it made me think about my power." His eyes once again landed on the fire side of his arm, flexing his fingers. "...To save my mother, to be a hero, there are things that I'll need to overcome." An emotion crossed his eyes. "I decided to intern with him."

You tilted your head, a little surprised. Even when he didn't decern further, an inkling in your stomach draws you to make a conclusion. "You're interning with your dad?"

"Ah." He answers, looking a tad miffed if you were being honest. It made you lowkey want to chuckle, but you kept it in for his sake. "If it was the me in the past, I would've never even thought of going to him. It's not that I forgive him or anything, he's just the number 2 hero. That's all."

Your eyes carefully watched him, wanting to see if there are any hidden emotions lying waste through his body language, but you saw none. "...I see. It's nice to see you moving forward." You smiled, before adding with a lighthearted shrug. "For me now, I can't say I can do the same."

Todoroki raises his gaze, running through your statement in his windows brain. A flicker of understanding appeared in his eyes. "My old man gave you an internship."

"Uh-huh. To be honest, I haven't figure out where I want to go yet." You sigh a little, smiling. "But honestly, it wouldn't be too bad going to Endeavor's office if you're there."

Todoroki as per usual didn't respond so quickly. But his next words skipped a beat in your little heart. "I would like that too."

Your eyes widened seeing the usual Todoroki stoniness, but the softness of his word left your throat dried up. You coughed hard, trying to shuffle the conversation away. "A-Anyways! Uh...I-I'm always open if you want to talk about anything Todoroki-kun." You returned to a smile. "...I hope we can go forward as friends from now on."

Todoroki smiled just a tiny bit, another swoon-worthy look that'll make Mina and Hagakure squeal, as he hums agreeably. And before you knew it, the front class slammed open with Aizawa trudging to the podium with a drawled 'morning'.

Everyone returned to their seats in haste, you shifted your position to face forward, getting ready for another round of learning. But instead on focusing on Aizawa-sensei tired drones, you find yourself staring at the familiar back belonging to a certain class president.

It looked like he arrived before you realized. Darn, you were hoping to talk to him before classes had begun but looks like he beat you to it. Sadness muddles you for a mere second, frustrated that it seemed so hard to reach your hand to him.

You could only hope you'll find time to do it later today. Your eyes locked on his square back, a promise hanging in your heart.

Even if he tried to avoid you, you'll make sure to catch him like all the Pokemon before him.

After all, you're a Pokemon trainer. This will be a piece of cake!

❧❧❧

Lunchtime

U.A's Lunch-Rush Cafeteria

12:26

It was not a piece of cake.

Frankly, A triple-layered whole cake sounds more accurate.

You sighed dejectedly into your food, earning yourself an odd glance from your companion, Shinso.

You two were once again enjoying your loving lunch together again, Shinso and you sitting adjacent to each other with a swarming chatter of students surrounding you two. Usually, you would be trying to enjoy the lunch break by happily munching on whatever meal you had gathered or chattering Shinso's ear about something cute your Pokemon did, to which he didn't mind. He thinks it's cute when you're gushing excitedly about your interests.

Not that you needed to know any of that information...

Unfortunately, your mind was still completely winded by your current troubles.

Iida was most definitely avoiding you.

It was odd, somehow it seems Iida was aware of your attempts to chat or something, but he always disappeared or was too busy fulfilling a teacher's task to even bother greeting you. Heck, none of the teachers even ask anything out of him, but he made sure to zoom over and offer to carry Cementoss-sensei's stack of paper, who looked unsure why Iida even wanted to carry the 5 stacked paper in the first place. In fact, he was nowhere to be seen now, not even with Midoriya and Uraraka, his usual lunch mates. The duo looked a little lost from where you were sitting.

Why was the list looking harder to complete than ever.

Shinso ignored your obvious grumbles, opting to continue eating for now. It's cute when you're worked up too.

Otherwise, it was another normal day for the two of you. Until...

"Shinso Hitoshi."

It's probably an understatement to say that both you and Shinso flinched in surprise mid-bite, Shinso biting into that tough tempura while you coughed the soup that went through the wrong hole. You both simultaneously whirled your attention to the teacher standing by the table, eyeing the two of you lazily. It was Aizawa.

"Oh? Aizawa-sensei...?" You called mid-cough, raising your eyes to meet the dull, ever-bored gaze of your teacher, leering down at the two of you. The rest of the students sitting close, eyed warily at the teacher, obviously just as bewildered by his appearance as you both. It's not surprising to find out Aizawa was feared by other classes, given his reputation with expulsions.

Shinso blinked a little tiredly, but the way he gazed over at the teacher gave you a sense he was a little wary too, unsure how to make of this situation.

Without a word uttered from either of you again, Aizawa simply pointed his thumb to the side, which you assumed led to the hallway as Aizawa continues dryly. "Follow me, we're going to Ground Beta."

Shinso gave another slow blink. "Uh..."

As you slowly drank your beverage, Aizawa's stern gaze flicked over at your own. "You too (Last)."

Now it was your turn to mumble. "...Huh?"

Without another word, Aizawa walked away, not waiting for either of you. For that one single second, you and Shinso gave each other stares, sending messages of questions through both of your eyes, before you both knew that you'd better hurry and follow the lethargic teacher. Shinso and you were quick to clean up the trays and put them away before you trailed after Aizawa.

As you and Shinso walked after the teacher together, you leaned over your friend, whispering. "...What's going on? Did you do something Hitoshi?"

"I didn't do anything..." Shinso answered back, giving you a look. His confusion was still there, as he furrowed his brows. "And what's to say it's my fault? He called you too."

"Yeah, but he called you first." You affirmed, leaving Shinso unable to answer. Shinso seemed to be filled with turmoil at the sudden and odd situation. After all, it's not every day that Aizawa would be calling a General Student out of the blue. He didn't think he did anything that accounted him in getting a warning. Did he offend the teacher before? They did meet initially that one time, but that was it. There shouldn't be an explicit reason for him to call Shinso. It makes you wonder... "Hmm...Maybe it has something to do with the sports Festival...?"

Your assumption earned you a questioning glance. "What? Why would he call me cause of that...?"

You pressed your lips together tightly. "...I'm...not sure..."

With questions lingering in your minds, you and Shinso hurried to the Ground Beta, trailing after the cryptic pro-hero. For most, the journey was silent, just filled with small talk between you two in the hope of making light of the situation. It wasn't long until you made it to the ground, Aizawa halting abruptly.

You both stared at his back.

He turns swiftly, surprising you a little as he fixed a deadpanned stare at Shinso. "...I bet you're wondering why you're here."

"Told you." You murmured, earning yourself a small glare. Shinso cleared his throat, trying to conjure the right words.

"...Yes." That's what Shinso utters. Your mouth twist at the expectant dry answer, as Shinso stands straight, perhaps bracing whatever the infamous expulsion-giving teacher will say.

Aizawa hums, not bothered by the small answer. "After your show in the sports Festival," You were so tempted to give Shinso another 'told you' Look, but you held back. "The school board were discussing on your entrance to the hero course."

Both your and Shinso's eyes widened at the implication. Your head swung to his, who also turned to you with a look so incredibly shocked that it stunned you just the same. Your heart beamed, excitement coursing all over your body, as if it was the cells in your body singing.

"Hitoshi...!" You whispered yelled excitedly.

"But they couldn't make a decision."

Both of your happiness was halted, drying out just as quickly as the fire was ignited. Your attention swished back to the teacher. Aizawa, as neutral as ever, comments. "No matter how you look at it, you're still lacking. You don't have an offensive attack like those students in the hero course. If your power gets overpowered just as Midoriya had done, then that's the end for you."

For a minute, the familiar flicker of self-loathing crosses Shinso's face. It was an expression you find yourself hating seeing the most when it comes to one of your first closest friends. Even so...

You clamp your mouth shut. Aizawa had given him a moment as Shinso finds solace in eyeing his shoes. It seemed forever before he finally talked. "I know." Shinso voices. "I know that better than anyone..."

There was a hint of finality in his tone, one that made you shiver uncomfortably. But you knew, you knew Shinso like the back of your hands. You have known him for almost a year now, yet it feels much longer. Somedays you realize how short those days were, yet the bond and friendship you created had grown so long that the shortness doesn't faze you. For, you knew what he would do.

"But I want to try." Shinso asserts. "No, I will become one."

A tiny smile quirks your lips. Aizawa hums, out of impress or muse, you will never quite know as he says. "That's why I'm going to train you."

Once again, he had gained attention, like a lamp to a moth. Shinso looked mildly confused, but you had an inkling of how this goes on. "If you want to get in the hero course, then you'll need to learn to fight." Aizawa dry eyes flicker to the individual in question, probing as forward as usual. "It's going to be tough. No matter how you look at it, you'll be ways behind the students in the hero course. So, if you're not going to take it seriously then you're better off quitting on being a hero."

"Harsh..." You murmured, familiar with this talk. Just the same as Midoriya, but just as that bush-haired boy, the people you've surrounded yourself with didn't give up.

Shinso determination shone through, as he nodded firmly. "I'll do it."

His eyes held conviction, and your smile widened.

Finally, Aizawa smiled. That unhinged grin that he does at time that gives you goosebumps. "That's the spirit." He continues his explanation. "Nearing the end of the school year, you'll be tested and re-revaluated. Make it worth it."

He nods seriously again, face looking gaunt preparedly.

You were quick to attack Shinso in a jab, a wide grin smothered your face. You gleamed. "I knew you'll be noticed." That jab you sent to Shinso's stomach barely did a number, mostly because you had taken it easy, but Shinso bowled forward jokingly.

"Ouch. Take it easy." He rubbed the part, before humming. His glee mirroring yours as he replied. "...Thanks for believing so."

"I always do." You affirm, a tone softer than before. His expression softened, a sort of glassy look that caused a part of your heart to twinge. Shutting your eyes jubilantly, you almost forgot Aizawa-sensei was right there before he ruined the moment.

"You'll also be joining in (Last)."

You froze. "Huh?"

"Why do you think you're here? You're joining in training." Shinso sends you a slightly surprised look, but you were far more bewildered. Aizawa seems to take joy in it. "You don't think you could rely on the Pokemon when you're on your own too, do you? Training will begin tomorrow for you."

"Eh...?" You honestly were hoping you could only rely on the Pokemon. Aizawa walked away before anything else could be countered, and you were left standing there, with Shinso giving you confused stares. "Ehhh...!"

"Well, that happened." Shinso mused, already imagining how tired his days are going to be. He rubbed the back of his neck. "...It's not so bad-,"

"No..." You voiced, dread filling you. "We're doomed, Hitoshi. Absolutely doomed."

You couldn't say anything to Shinso's bewildered look, just knowing how much it's going to bite him in the behind.

Welp, no time to think about that further. You have a list you must complete. For now, you need to finish up class and meet up with a certain hero-obsessed boy.

❧❧❧

[After School]

U.A - Unforeseen Simulation Joint [USJ]

15.06

❧

"Alright, here we go!" You shouted, cupping your hand like a microphone. You gleefully stood on the side as thundering steps and hops followed along. From your tiniest little loves to the big chunky ones. You watched in amusement as splashes came one by one, your only goal was to avoid getting wet at all costs.

Look at that! By approval of Thirteen, you were allowed to bring your Pokemon to enjoy a lovely dip in the flood zone. You can see that your water Pokemon were really enjoying the lovely dip they couldn't quite get on your mini-inflatable pool or the spray you bought-pools are truly the best. You crouched down in amusement, finding the blank looking magikarp blubbering at you.

Chinchou and Psyduck were also joyfully splashing in the wide space, blindly chilling in relaxation. It was amusing to see Greninja dive down into the water, perhaps also missing the water even if he pretended like he could care less. Pikachu and Sylveon stuck together chilling by the side while you shooed Meowth to go take a tan nap, who honestly couldn't have asked for more. But out of every Pokemon, you believe this one appreciated this chance the most.

You reached out your hands as the large Pokemon nuzzled her head into them, taking in your affection. You smiled at it. "Lapras, enjoy this soak as much as you want." Your gentle order brought the Pokemon, a turtle-like body, who craned its neck upward to swim off comfortably.

And along with that, Midoriya's awed excitement of fanboy glee filled the compound.

Midoriya was the only student in the compound along with you, jotting down in his notebook a little away from you as he observes the new Pokemon that he has yet to even see. You peered your head over to the footsteps of the teacher that made this possible, gratitude in your steps as you made your way over.

"Thirteen-sensei, thank you so much for allowing this!" You cheered as the astronaut-hero chuckled heartily, waving a hand.

"Of course. Whenever you need it, you could use the facilities as much as you desire." Thirteen adds again though, just in case. "Except during class periods, of course."

You nodded, uncaring of the rules. "Dully noted! It's nice for some of my Pokemon to get a chance to embrace in a pool...that's wide enough for them to swim freely." Both of you got a laugh at that, as splashes filled the air. Otherwise, you're grateful for this chance. With all that out of the way, you could now focus on discussing the internship.

"Anyways! Let's begin, Midoriya-kun!"

At your call, Midoriya finally pulls away from his daze. He nodded vigorously. "Mmh!"

As the two of you got to business, Thirteen leaving you two to take care of other matters, you walked to sit by the flood zone side. You both comfortably sat as you mused at the thriving Pokemon. You could see yourself bringing more of your Pokemon for a relaxing time by the water. You suppose you could always go to the beach too...if you didn't mind the attention.

"Woah, your internship offers are impressive (Last)-san..." You refocused on the task ahead, Midoriya's eyes engrossed in those ghastly pages of hero agencies. Sadly, you can't find the charm in that thick list. "There're so many well-known heroes asking you to intern with them!"

"Mmh, I feel bad since I don't know them, but I do appreciate the offers." You responded, watching as Sylveon decided she wanted to be babied. She hobbled over, taking a tentative step before squishing into your lap.

You blanched. Sylveon seems to forget that wasn't an Eevee anymore, and her weight was enough to crush you. "S-Sylveon-!" You lightly nudged her off, as bright blue eyes gave you the look. You huffed, relishing some of her weight on you. Midoriya watches in mild amusement, respectful one because Midoriya doesn't have a teasing nature in his sandpapery bones. You continued the conversation. "Though to be fair they're probably just making offers to me cause of the Pokemon."

"T-Then we should go for someone who has your improvement in mind." Midoriya nodded, brows furrowing as he scoured the list. You find yourself amused this time, knowing that Midoriya was the right person for the job. "Oh, you have some top 10 heroes-Woah, there's Endeavor's agency too..."

You flat out rejected.

"Yeah, uh, no."

"Right."

Midoriya crosses the agency understandingly, and neither of you mention it any further.

Midoriya continued his endeavors of finding the perfect agency for you, and seeing his focus, you tried to help. "Well, honestly, I was thinking on focusing on learning fighting..." You made a face soon after. "But that won't be necessary anymore...since I have a teacher for that already."

You shivered. Aizawa-sensei was never to be trusted.

"Hmm, is there anything you're particularly wishing to learn (Last)-san...?"

Learn, huh? You wondered, mindlessly brushing Sylveon's fur with your hand. What do you lack? What is it you want to improve on? What is the thing you need to become if you want to be stronger and better for the Pokemon? What is something you can learn outside of studies itself?

...

"Perhaps..." You fiddled with your fingers. "Somewhere...that will help me understand."

Midoriya blinks. "Understand what?"

"Heroes." You worded.

Silence befalls you two once again.

Many minutes passed by both of you jumping ideas around with no solution. It almost seemed like you'll just have to pick whatever seems reasonable enough.

Figuring you needed a change of pace, you rise, Sylveon moving away to give space. Without a care, you invited Midoriya with an outstretched hand. Midoriya once again stares confusedly at your hand, but even then, he didn't hesitate to reach up. "Hey, let's go in."

Midoriya looks even more confused, as you pull him to stand. You rush towards the water and for a second, Midoriya thinks you're gonna pull the both of you into the water itself. You stopped though, just short by it to call out. "Lapras, here girl!"

The large Pokemon floats towards you, and Midoriya jitters makes an appearance the 2nd time today. You smiled up at Lapras, before rising onto its back naturally. Midoriya awes, as you gesture to him to get on.

You don't think you have ever actually done this with another, but it was entirely entertaining to see the wary, unsteady steps Midoriya took. One step for man! It felt as such with Midoriya's eyes glowed with unbridled excitement.

You somehow felt glad that it was Midoriya here. A close friend that you share a secret with- well rather by you finding out by prying it out after putting the puzzles together-even knowing the consequences. It's only fair that you showed him a piece of your world too.

As you sat at ease on the sturdy shell of Lapras, Midoriya couldn't help but simply stand like a clueless fawn. Rolling your eyes, you pulled him down to finally sit his behind down, the boy only growing more frantic by this.

Lapras was as calm as ever, peering behind for a moment before languidly shifting his gaze forward to float across the pool. Midoriya's eyes shimmered. "This is amazing...!"

"You're far to easy to please, Midoriya." You hum. Midoriya doesn't seem bothered by the comment.

"I wouldn't say that...It's just incredible to know that there's a whole other world that you've been experiencing..." He speaks softly, in turn making you soften. You smile lightly at the look of amazement constantly crossing his features. It reminded you of your first time.

Your first time experiencing this world filled with powerful creatures.

"Well...I hope to share a lot..."

Midoriya gleams. "I'll learn a lot!"

You laugh. "Learn-? You sure are a fanboy deep down huh?"

He blushes in embarrassment. "A-Ah! Well..."

As you giggled away, Midoriya can't help but watch your happiness in glee. His heart continues to pound so loud that it's all he can hear. He hopes that days like this will continue forever.

"Quack!"

He turns his gaze away, flinching from the intense blank-looking duck(?) Pokemon staring at him beadily, even judgingly. Psyduck eyed him even as he waddles through the water away.

"This is nice, huh?" Your voice brings him back to earth. He notices you laying down comfortably, your hand petting Lapras neck in a soothing motion. "Sometimes I want to lay here all day, and just let Lapras take me to wherever she wants to go."

"It is nice..." He speaks. "I can see why you say that..."

"Lapras here is a gentle soul, I'm sure she could take me anywhere without even waking me." You mused, Lapras huffs a little at you, making you laugh. "Are you telling me not to sleep? I won't." You spoke softly again. "Lapras doesn't have an evolution, but they grow to be this size. On average, they weigh about 220 kg. (485.0 lbs)."

Midoriya listens attentively, before he surprisingly pokes fun. "You sure know a lot...You seem to be a little of a fangirl too."

"Oh? Making fun of me too? You've changed Midoriya-kun." You teased lightheartedly. He acts out embarrassedly, still not used to the jibing. "But you're right. I'm a total nerd about Pokemon, but a total novice when it comes to heroes." You peeked over at him, eyes sparkling. "Looks like we complete each other."

Midoriya's face got hot, quick.

You didn't pay too close attention to how reacted, shifting the tone of the conversation. You sighed, watching Lapras again. "You know, the Lapras are close to extinction. Well, most Pokemon are at least a few decades ago, but it was made especially prominent with Lapras. I've only seen 3...I've at least pulled 50 Magikarp on sea."

Midoriya eyed the Pokemon sadly. "...I didn't know that it was that serious."

"Mmh, it really is." You replied. "That's why it's actually good news that Pokemon are integrating into society, our world. Maybe in a few years, they'll be so normal that no one would even remember a world without them. So...to help that become accomplish, I need to become a good hero-to protect them."

Midoriya's eyes stared fixated at you. So that's what moves you.

You sighed again. "That's why I'm thinking so hard about this thing...Bakugo told me I should just pick one of the top 10, but how can I do that when I don't even know how to be a hero in the first place..." Then you groaned.

"You don't need to think hard about that when your already one..."

You raised your head questionably. "What did you say?"

"Ah Nothing!" Midoriya waves his hands, before something lights up in his eyes. "But I think after hearing from you, I can help you choose your internship!"

You smiled. "Oh ya? That's good..." You looked away briefly, before commenting again. "Actually, there's a specific city that I have in mind..."

As you discussed further, a reasonable conclusion arose from your conversation. It looked good, and from what Midoriya and what you searched up, it seems a chance for you grow as a hero. It was about time you finished up anyway, but before going back to shore, you couldn't help but bring up.

"...You know Midoriya-kun, the way you tie your tie has always bothered me a little." You huff after sighing, looking at the horrible tie he does.

"W-Wha-? Ah-I'm sorry. I'm not very good at it..." Midoriya apologizes. You frowned a little guiltily at the act, quickly adding.

"...I-It's not a bad thing, it's kind of cute too!" You fretted, trying to brush away your unnecessary tease. Maybe he just never had anyone teach him? You could only scratch your head, a rising decision entering your head. The thought left you momentarily nervous, but you felt empowered to do so. "S-Should I fix it from now on? If you're not too bothered by it or you don't mind, I can do it for your every morning."

"E-Every morning-!" He squeaked, almost aghast as his face completely reddened. He's really starting to look like a freshly picked strawberry with his flustered face and freckles as he refuses to meet your eye, making you feel a little embarrassed too. Noticing his quietness as he slammed his hands against his red face, you were about to let him know that he can refuse when he spoke softly.

"I'd like that..." His face was still covered by his hands, the red glow on his face still ever so prominent. He nodded down his head vigorously. "I'd like that very much-!"

"..." You watched as Midoriya stiffly refuse eye contact, and it was at that moment you could only do one thing.

You giggled.

With Psyduck who was floating on its back, comical eyes attached to the ceiling dome. It was suddenly when it got attack by a splash of water on its face. Psyduck flails, squawking in aghast. Chinchou floats out of worry, but Psyduck was outraged by the mysterious Pokemon that splashed him.

The duo was only brought out of their own thoughts when they heard a bubbled laughter- bubbles bubbling between them. They blink at each other, gazes falling under the water.

Loud squawking caught your attention. Your eyes had ventured off to where your duck was, who was loudly trying to garner your attention. Chinchou also cooed a little, eyeing you from where it floated beside said duck.

It wasn't long until you asked Lapras to float to where the concerned duo was. You picked the flailing Psyduck, raising him to stop his splashing. "What's wrong you two?"

They made obvious gestured to whatever was below. Midoriya grew concerned. "Is everything okay?"

"Hmm..." You hummed. Without a sense of hesitation, you handed Pysduck to Midoriya's surprise hands. The boy took it without thinking, having a strange staring contest with the wide-eye creature, while you tried to investigate the duo's worry. Finally, you saw it.

Your eyes glimmered. Its rounded head and cute eyes gazing back at you.

"I found you, you myth."

.

.

.

With a final decision, you meandered your way to the teacher's office after giving Midoriya a goodbye and thanks. Your Pokemon were content, and you couldn't ask for anything better. Not only that, but you figured out a mystery that's been holding you captive for days. You were quick to send quick words to your boss, smiling at solving a mystery.

It seems like things are finally working out. One by one, all the things you need to do are slowly concluding well. Now just to finish the rest.

You quickly found Aizawa-sensei's desk in the quiet room; the teachers were having a meeting last you heard so it was empty.

Plopping your paper, you felt a sense of fulfillment wash over you, as you hoped that you would get the experience you were so looking for. Perhaps a new kind of fire can alight under you.

Strangely, you notice one of the papers was a little untucked and moved to correctly slip it into the pile. You paused, eyes lingering on the paper before you could do so, rubbing your thumb on the name.

Name: Iida Tenya

Class: 1-A

Desired Internship Agency

First Choice: Hosu City, Tokyo: Normal Hero Manual Agency

Second Choice: -

Third Choice: -

Hosu City...

here's no mistaking it. Your eyes narrowed down at his singular choice, knowing exactly what Iida was planning to do.

He plans to find the Hero Killer.

.

.

.

It was strangely lucky that you caught up to him, rather, you were surprised he was still in school ground from the get-go. He looked ready to head home, hand clutched onto his bag strap as he walked to the exit. You called out instantly upon recognizing him.

"Iida-kun!" Iida stopped short, mildly surprised at the call as he meets your gaze. You walk fast-paced to meet him, a frown playing on your face. You stopped short before Iida, who gives you an inquiring look.

"(Last)-san. I didn't know you were still on the school grounds. I was finishing class cleaning duties." Iida answers dutifully as ever, seemingly normal as usual. Yet, the subtle way he didn't do his erratic hand movement, and the smaller and quaint smile he has was enough to show you he isn't. Your frown deepened.

"...I know."

Iida stiffens, knowing exactly what you were implying.

"...You're going to find the Hero Killer." You worded, not hiding any corners but the truth. Iida shifts his head away, not meeting your gaze as his eyes shadowed over, turmoil swishing in his eyes. Your brows furrowed, as you pressed your lips together agitatedly. "Iida...you know that's a bad idea."

He stays silent. But you pressed on. "The likeliness of you meeting him is low, and if you really do end up meeting him, what are you going to do?"

He instantly meets your gaze, face strained with emotion. "...I..." He finally voices, eyeing the ground again. "I will avenge my brother."

Your frown softened, knowing that the situation with his brother was hard on him. Nonetheless, you continued. "...I don't know what you mean by that exactly, but I have a guess. Iida, you know what will happen if you try to fight him, right? It's dangerous, you could be killed."

"I won't."

"You could-!" You assert with worry. "I been hearing about the hero killer, he's...not someone that can be taken so lightly. 17 pro heroes have met their demise fighting against him..."

Iida didn't respond.

"Not only that," You gave him a look. "You're still a hero in training. We can't just go out and find villains without any permission. You will get in trouble."

Iida clenched his fist. "I know...but I still have to try."

Iida was being especially stubborn, but no matter what, you can't just let this slide without saying anything to try to stop him. Your eyes tracked the way he seems to stand taunt as if standing to show his absolute need to find the villain that injured his brother. You sent him a wary look.

"Iida...please think this through. I know you know that this is not a good idea. You can talk to me...or Midoriya or Uraraka. We'll listen to you if there's anything troubling you." You voice softly, taking this chance to listen to you, and not go through with his reckless plan. You tried to step closer.

Iida's eyes shone a little as if he was taking in your words for a moment. But that light quickly dimmed and shadowed, and you knew his mind was made up. He frowned deeply, his eyes staring at you through his rectangular glasses. He finales. "...Thank you for your concern (Last)...but I'm fine."

He turns away, ending your conversation when you courageous input. "Even so, I don't think your brother would agree with this plan either..."

"DON'T." In a burst of emotion, he abruptly shouts. It startles you, but you held your stand. He turns to meet your gaze once more, and you were met with the anger and frustration that has been coursing through him surfacing. He huffs, "Don't say that. I WILL avenge him, I have to! Whether you agree or not."

Finally, he walks away, as you called out to him once more to try to stop. "Iida-kun!"

A bitter feeling swells in your chest, hurt and worry gnawing your heart. But the emotion that took hold of you was anger. Anger at Iida's impulsiveness. Nonetheless, you shake your head, deciding it was time for you to head home too. You already said your piece, now you can only hope for the best.

Your shoulders slump a little, feeling overwhelmed with all these harsh feelings that you could only bite your lip. You hope wherever the Hero Killer may be, he wouldn't end up coming across Iida. Nonetheless, you have other duties to attend to, and with a heavy heart, you moved along with only worry weighing down.

❧❧❧

[Three more days until Internships begin]

Somewhere, Tokyo.

Before the internship started, you decided to keep your word with a particular person.

Making your way through the familiar road, passing through the stoplight that lasted for a minute, you find yourself reminiscing about a time when this was the norm. You walked passed the store that sells some really great yakitori, before making your way into a clean alleyway entrance to where the houses were located.

It wasn't long until you stopped, your shoes planted on the ground as you raised your head to look at the looming wooden gates, blocking your entrée to the building within. Your face soured for a minute, as you fixed yourself nervously.

You straighten yourself, inhaling a deep breath before you push yourself to press the doorbell, where the intercom would be through. It was only through the sound of the gate creaking open just a margin, did you only find out they heard.

A man holding a broomstick peek out, and heavy frowns line his face making him look more aging than you think he was, as he nasally grumbled out, not even looking at you properly. "Who is it? We got no appointment!" He garbed the wear of a more traditional look, a slightly dirtied kimono, as it seems he's been cleaning the area for quite some time. Yes...you remember him. He huffed, sounding intimidating, but you weren't taken.

"I don't have an appointment. I came here to see the head."

"Huh? You brat-! Who do you think you're calling so casually-!" The man was baffled by the lack of respect seemingly in your tone and your lack of care. But as he turned to squint properly at you, that's when his eyes widened and the insults, he was about to hurl were clogged in his throat.

"To think I would have to ask for an appointment..." You mused, eyes seemingly uncaring as the man stepped back, mouth opening a few times like a gaping fish looking for water, as you smiled narrowly. "I remember you, it's been a while hasn't it?"

"Y-Y-You're B-Boss's..." He looked to almost fell out of the surprise he had, as you stood apathetically. It seems that he's finally realizing what's happening, as he scatters off like a goose, attempting to call out. "I-I-I'll inform capo, right away-!"

"Not necessary." You voiced, entering in without a word. The man froze, as you smiled down at him, eyes shut jubilantly. The man shook, eyes completely pinned at you as you ordered. "Instead, take me to where my father is." You narrowed your eyes further. "Now."

.

.

.

.

.

"C-Capo!"

A door slammed open, the door banging to the wall at the action as a masked man entered in a rush. Wearing a silverfish plague mask, the subordinate hurried into the darkened, cold room. It was small, but in the dimmed room he could make out the machines placed in every corner. All tubes connected to them were centered around a chair. A chair in which was being blocked from the two figures.

The overhead light shone on the chair, bright to a point where it was almost hurtful. It only truly rained above a singular spot, shadowing the Capo and his assistant. The assistant in the white coat, fully covered from head to toe, turned his mask to the intruder.

The leader in question sighed, a muffled sort of sound to his deep and calm voice. His back was still before the frantic man, as he dropped the scalpel onto the tray next to the chair, a clattering noise followed as he pulled the latex gloves off his hands to sanitize himself.

"What?"

His only response was to indicate his discontent with the interruption.

The white clocked, plague-masked Kurono Hari, this man's familiar, stood by his side. The intruder could feel the narrowed pointed look Kurono was giving. "Who told you that you could enter?"

But the subordinate did not care, or rather, he couldn't as he panicked, stopping from getting too close, knowing he shouldn't. He wouldn't dare. The Capo fixed himself a new pair of gloves, rubbing his wrist into the texture. The subordinate shook, answering quickly.

"The Boss-!" The two men within the room had their attention caught. Kurono faced fully towards the subordinate, waiting to hear more as the Capo had stopped his fidget. "The boss's youngest daughter! She's here!"

Kurono's eyes widened a margin, not that anyone could have seen it as he turned over towards the Capo himself, whose yellow gleaming eyes seemed to spark as he peered at the frightened subordinate. The black mask he wore covered the sight of the bottom of his face.

"Oh?"

But the fear he gives could not be obstructed.

And behind where Chisaki Kai stood, sitting in the dirtied medical chair was a little girl. With wide, trembling, red eyes, she peaked at the commotion with frightened interest. The tiny horn she had was hidden beneath the curtain of her ashy white hair, sparking like the flicker of candlelight.

❧❧❧
UHHHHH

So...Hi? It's been a while...more than a while. In fact, it's been a year...I have no words. BASICALLY, I won't sweat you with the details, but life's been a bit busy and rough, and I was also hit with a terrible thing called procrastination. AND insecurities. But mostly just been busy with my own stuff. I'm genuinely sorry for leaving you guys hanging like that.

I'm trying my hardest to get back to the groove of writing again, because its fun! Its fun to write a story, and its fun to have you all enjoy it with me! So far I have a few drafts ahead, but there all still incomplete, and I'm slowly trying to finish them up and show them to you, because I genuinely do want to finish this at some point.

Though I must admit, this chapter was honestly hard! I didn't like it! Even when I finished it for a long while now (It's been sitting in my laptops for months I'm sorry-) Because there was just so much happening in it! I rewrote it so many times until I felt satisfied to release it now. I hope you enjoy it enough, even this cliffhanger is terrible XD literally cruel.

Interesting fact for all of you! In one of my earliest drafts, before I published this book, Eri was supposed to show in chapter 0. I had 2 ideas when brainstorming for a bnha book, and that was a crossover with Pokemon, or making a reader related to eri. Wasn't sure how either would've went, but I decided ultimately to mix those 2 ideas, and this came out.

But hey, as much as I'm excited to just get to the point and talk more about Chisaki and Eri already, we'll have plenty of time to do that next chapter. For now, angst for Iida, my poor underrated boy. I thought about it a lot, but I felt like Iida did need a good harsh talking during this moment. Though the reader isn't particularly outspoken, I would say I made her...tough on her ideals. So I hope their conversation was okay! Todoroki and Reader had a sweet conversation, I'm honestly starting to love their interactions. I think their weird enemies to friends is going smoothly.

Shinso and Midoriya always gets more interactions, and I feel like I'm lowkey bias. It's super easy to make their interaction tbh, I think that's why. I want to focus more on other love interest on the future soon! There's someone who's going to get their moment to shine soon!

It gets repetitive of myself, but I as I said, apologies for the disappearance. The last year I honestly hit a bit of slump in life, things change and it was hard to find myself. I just hope that you guys enjoy this chapter. Hope you all have wonderful days or evenings! I'll try not to leave you guys hanging as long as this one has. Till then!