Chapter 9: Take My Hand
The night passed by rather quickly for the halfa. Who spent it doing something he thought he would never willingly do, research.
But as the sun rose and Danny began getting ready to walk to UA for his now third day of high school in this new dimension. He felt slightly more confident in his knowledge of this hero-based society.
The main thing that he had focused on trying to understand and learn about was All Might. Japan's number one hero and one of his teachers.
And the halfa had to admit that his initial belief that the guy was simply a celebrity hero who was fairly popular. Was completely dwarfed by the full extent of the hero's popularity. As the large, smiling pro was literally called the 'Symbol of Peace', a living deterrent for evil. He was seen and treated as a hero among heroes.
And for a fairly good reason as Danny had watched many videos of the guy stopping villains and rescuing hundreds of people from disaster. Thanks to this information he now understood why his classmates were so astonished by having the guy teach them. And why they seemed so taken back by him being confrontational to the hero during the training exercise.
But even though the halfa now had a better understanding of who the guy was. Danny still didn't regret what he said during the first match yesterday or how he acted. And he still had very mixed feelings about the overly joyous man. As he had long since learned to not be fooled by a person's smile.
With that being said though. He didn't think All Might was a bad guy or some villain in disguise at the very least.
But Danny definitely knew the guy had his fair share of skeletons in the closet. With one big secret somehow being related to his classmate, Midoriya. Which was what concerned the halfa the most.
As Danny had surmised from what he had not so unintentionally overheard. Was that the hero had somehow given Midoriya a quirk and a powerful, dangerous, unstable one at that.
Of course he didn't know the specifics of the exchange. But Danny had learned the hard way that most people don't just give power away without expecting something in return.
And sadly, he thinks he knows exactly what All Might wants from the green haired boy.
For him to live up to the hero's image. Whether it be to fully take on the role of Symbol of Peace for the aging man or to simply become yet another idolized deterrent. Either way though it was clear from how the hero treated Midoriya during the training. That he expects an ungodly amount from the teen.
Which at face value seems fine. Especially when Midoriya seems to desperately want to be a hero. But from what Danny had seen, the lengths All Might allowed Midoriya to push himself. To a point past breaking, which left him with nothing but broken bones and sobs.
And then how the hero celebrated the pyrrhic victory instead of showing true concern for the broken, mangled state that the boy was forced to endure. Just didn't bode well for Midoriya's future and it honestly made Danny nauseous and not so fond of the shining pro.
Of course, Danny didn't want to jump to the conclusion that the hero forced this responsibility on the green haired boy.
Because it was clear that Midoriya was intelligent enough to not be tricked into some underhanded deal. In fact, from what little he knew of the boy. Danny guessed that Midoriya probably willingly volunteered to take the quirk. And the burden of living up to the hero's expectations. Because who wouldn't want to become the hero that's meant to save the world.
In fact, two years ago Danny probably would've taken that deal with stars in his eyes as well.
Only now did he know that no one person could truly bare the weight of the world. Because no matter how strong someone may be. Something is bound to give eventually, to crack under the pressure.
But while that thought makes him dislike All Might. Since the man had allowed Midoriya to take on that impossible challenge. It was also why Danny sorta admired the hero. Or at least made him feel sympathetic for the man.
Since All Might was currently the one being expected to bare that weight, the responsibility of protecting everyone with a smile. And from what Danny could tell the man was doing a great job at it. Or at least better than how he did in his own dimension, he thought.
So, for now Danny planned to play dumb and simply watch both his classmate and All Might closely. To hopefully ensure that Midoriya doesn't get metaphorically pushed into the deep end. Or pushed past the breaking point again. So that he could instead slowly learn to use his new quirk and grow into the role of being a hero.
And if needs be Danny was prepared to step in. Even if it meant challenging All Might's authority once again.
Although the halfa honestly wanted to also give the large constantly smiling hero support as well. To maybe relieve the guy of his burden, even just a little bit. And to show the man that he shouldn't be solely pushing the world's responsibilities onto Midoriya's shoulders.
Although currently Danny was in no position to do so. Since this world was rather strict about crime fighting without a license. But Danny would make sure to remedy that problem in no time.
And even though Danny didn't like to admit it. He wasn't exactly against breaking laws to do what he believed was right. Even if it made people despise him yet again.
Also, the idea of helping his friend and classmate and providing him the support. That he himself desperately needed and wanted when he first got his powers and even now. Made Danny feel good in a way.
Plus, he had a feeling that this conspiracy that he had learned about could be connected to why he was brought to this world. Although it could also just be a coincidence or completely unrelated, but it was currently the only thing that truly stood out to Danny. Besides what those thugs said back at the warehouse months ago.
But from what Aizawa had told him, everything about that night turned out to be a dead end. As they never caught Land Slide and everything got destroyed. But Danny suspected that his guardian could just be withholding information, but for now he decided to hold off on pressing for information from the man.
But before Danny knew it, he had almost fully completed the walk to UA. He probably would've continued paying more attention to his inner turmoil then to getting to his destination. But he was forced to snap out of his thoughts. As he both heard and saw a massive crowd in front of the school's entrance way and gate.
He stopped across the street as he quickly realized that these people appeared to be reporters from various news stations. He watched as multiple students including a few of his classmates were stopped and or struggled to get into the school. Due to the insistent crowd of people who seemed more like vultures than anything.
Danny was about to simply turn himself intangible and invisible in order to get into the school without any difficulty. Or without having to deal with the media circus.
But just as he was about to activate his powers, he saw a very familiar green head of hair amongst the crowd. Midoriya, one of the two people he had been continuously thinking about for the last ten or so hours.
Midoriya didn't know what to do as a microphone was shoved in his face before he could even attempt getting through the large crowd of people who stood between him and the gate. He felt his nerves rise up as multiple cameras pointed in his direction.
"Hey, you! Can you tell us what it's like to work so closely with All Might?" A very assertive female reporter asked.
Midoriya's mind felt like it was frozen as he rambled out, "Uh, um, well I.. I don't…"
"Come on kid tell us something." The lady insisted as she shoved the microphone even closer.
"I umhm.. I don't think I…"
The crowd had completely blocked off the way into the school. As they further encircled and got closer to Midoriya who could barely get a word out over the insisting crowd.
Suddenly though as Midoriya was about to try and make some excuse about having to go to the nurse. That wasn't really an excuse since he actually did need to visit the nurses before class.
He suddenly felt a hand get placed on his shoulder which made his nerves rise and he quickly turned his head.
But to his relief and slight surprise. Instead of the hand belonging to another reporter it was his new powerful and mysterious classmate and friend, Fenton. Who quickly gave him a reassuring smile before turning to look at the reporter lady.
Midoriya watched as the crowd of people and the main reporter who had been asking him questions about All Might. Froze in their encroaching, demanding pursuit of getting answers. As they watched Fenton who had seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Went from looking friendly to rather stern as he glared.
"Are you people really so desperate for information about All Might; that you're willing to prevent students from getting to school on time?" Fenton asked in a deadly serious, accusing tone.
The high energy that the reporters had. Seemed to die down as they all took in the black-haired boys accusing question.
But not everyone was deterred as the reporter lady began to move the microphone towards the blue eyed newcomer. But Danny put his hand up to stop the microphone from getting any closer. As he further furrowed his eyebrows at the woman who didn't seem to be backing down.
"We have no obligation to say anything to any of you. Besides unless your plan is to threaten us into getting information about All Might just so he has to come out here and stop you. There is nothing you will learn from any of us that All Might and UA haven't already told you."
Despite what the halfa said which luckily seemed to turn a few more reporters away. The lady still persisted.
"So, are you saying that All Might is currently in UA?" The lady loudly asked.
Danny could feel his eye twitch. He was really starting to feel bad for All Might if these were the type of people he had to deal with.
The spiteful part of the halfa wanted to further call the lady out. But after a split second of debate Danny decided that it would be best to simply get both himself and Midoriya out of here. So, he turned to look at Midoriya once again.
"Sorry, this might feel funny."
Midoriya gave Fenton a confused look. But before he could ask his classmate what he meant. He felt a strange tingly sensation quickly spread from his shoulder where Fenton had been touching to the rest of his body.
But that wasn't the only thing that caught Midoriya off guard. Because as he listened to the reporters all gasp and saw their expressions change to looks of utter confusion. He quickly understood why as he looked to where Fenton had been standing beside him. But to his shock the boy had completely disappeared. And what was even worse was that when he looked down to his own tingling body it too had vanished.
But strangely enough even though Fenton had disappeared Midoriya could still feel the weight of his hand on his shoulder. In fact, after a second the hand seemed to move from on top of his shoulder to holding his upper arm.
He didn't get a lot of time to process what was happening to him and his body though. As in a split second he was being hoisted to the sky. He watched helplessly as his invisible feet came off the ground and above the reporters who seemed just as confused.
Midoriya watched as he quickly flew through the gate of UA and after getting down the walkway and closer to the entrance of the school. He watched as he landed and felt his feet touch the ground below.
Then after a moment as he stared down. He watched his legs and feet once again appear as his body lost the tingly feeling as the grip on his arm disappeared.
Midoriya quickly looked to his side and once again saw Fenton. Who was looking at him with an amused, apologetic expression.
"What just happened?" Midoriya asked in bewilderment as he could feel his eyes on the verge of popping out from what just happened.
Danny had to restrain from laughing at the guy's expression as he answered. "Yeah, sorry about that. I thought it would be best to get out of there. So, I turned both of us invisible and flew us here. But I should've asked before, sorry."
Midoriya's frazzled look didn't lessen much but he did seem to look more excited as he wildly said. "Wait so that was your quirk? That's so cool! I didn't know you could turn invisible. Although you did say your quirk gives you the powers of a ghost. So, I guess invisibility only makes sense. Wait with invisibility plus your other powers your quirk is so versatile…"
Danny stared at the excited boy who was starting to quickly ramble about the applications of his quirk. He sorta forgot that the green haired boy hadn't seen him use his powers yesterday. Since he was passed out in the nurse's office. Which reminded Danny that the boy was still injured as he looked down to the boy's one arm that was still wrapped in bandages.
"Hey Midoriya, don't you need to go to the nurses before class?" He asked which finally made Midoriya stop in his mumbling.
"Oh! You're right, I need to go get my injuries fully healed!"
Danny watched as Midoriya quickly looked at his phone to check the time which seemed to make the boy even more panicked. As the halfa guessed they were both running out of time. But this time Danny couldn't hold back his laughter at the amusing guy.
Midoriya despite his sudden bout of nerves at having to hurry up in order to not be late for class. Looked up at his classmate who had started laughing. And after a second he too couldn't help but also smile. As the guy's strange calm and casual aura seemed to be infectious.
After a few moments though Danny pulled himself together, "We both should probably get going then. Cause I really don't want to see what Aizawa would do to us if we were late."
Midoriya rapidly agreed as he began to turn to quickly leave for the nurse's which was slightly out of the way of their classroom. "Right! I'm gonna go. You should go straight to the classroom."
Danny nodded in agreement.
"Oh also, thank you! You really saved me." Midoriya quickly added with a large smile, before finally quickly going off.
Danny stood there for a moment longer as he watched Midoriya fully walk away. He let out a sigh as he looked up at the bright blue sky. As he finally fully pushed aside his mingling feelings and protruding thoughts of the uncertain. And after a moment he finally started walking once again.
It didn't take Danny long to make it to the classroom. Where he opened the big sliding door and walked into the already full classroom.
He gave a warm smile to Kirishima who was sitting down, before walking to his seat. Of course, as he got to his desk, he couldn't help but roll his eyes as once again he was the target of Bakugo's glare.
But at this point he barely paid it any mind. Although he did give the guy a once over. As after yesterday where he saw the guy cry and yell in frustration. Danny couldn't help but be both delighted at being one of the causes of the bullies' continuous reasons to be angry at the world. And sorta curious to learn more about the guy who actually seemed more complex than the halfa originally thought.
But as he finally was about to sit down, he looked up once again to the back of the class as he felt more eyes on him. And to his slight surprise Bakugo didn't seem to be the only one glaring at him this morning. As Todoroki was also giving him a rather hard expression. And even when he met the boy's eyes the guy didn't falter.
Danny slightly scrunched up his eyebrows but after a moment he decided to also not pay the guy much attention as he finally sat down. As Danny leaned back in his chair, he did his best to block out the various gazes which were fixated on him. He had to admit though he really did have a talent for making enemies, he tiredly thought.
After a minute or so Midoriya, who was the last student, finally arrived and sat down. And only a few seconds after Aizawa tiredly came through the door and the class finally started.
"Decent work on yesterday's combat training, you guys. I saw the video feeds and went over each of your team's results." Aizawa said as he stood at the podium at the front of the class.
Danny was honestly surprised that the guy was giving praise. But he was happy to see that the continuously serious hero could be somewhat uplifting. Although he might've spoken too soon as he listened to the hero continue as he turned to slightly look at Bakugo who sat beside him.
"Bakugo, you're talented. So don't sulk like a child about your loss, okay?"
Bakugo lightly scoffed as he replied, "Yeah, whatever".
Danny once again rolled his eyes at the pompous guy.
"And Midoriya," Aizawa continued, which made the green haired boy tense and look down at his desk. "I see the only way you won the match was by messing up your arm again. Work harder. And don't give me the excuse that you don't have control over your quirk. That lines already getting old. You can't keep breaking your body while training here."
Midoriya felt his heart sink as he continued to look down at his desk. But before he could apologize to the hero the man continued.
"But your quirk will be really useful if you can get a handle on it. So, show a little urgency." Aizawa finished. Which caused Midoriya to finally look up in surprise and vaguely disguised joy at receiving encouragement from the always stern hero.
Danny thought that the guy's criticism was pretty fair and a good reality check. Even if it was slightly harsh but the halfa was at least glad to not be the one called out. But once again he couldn't have been more wrong as Aizawa's gaze turned to him. Which also made him slightly tense and straighten up as he met the guy's tired eyes.
"And lastly," Aizawa's previously monotone tone turned slightly harsher as he spoke. "Fenton, are you truly serious about being a UA student?"
Danny furrowed his eyebrows, "I am." He stated in an even tone as he ignored all the eyes that had turned to him.
"Then act like it. I've seen what you can do."
Danny scrunched up his fists which were resting on his desk as he listened.
"Your classmates are giving it their all. They are pushing themselves past their limits. Yet so far all I've seen you do is joke around." Aizawa's menacing gaze continued to harden. "You may think that you're doing us a service by holding back. But it's simply insulting. So, if you want to continue here at UA then show me what you're capable of."
The tension in the classroom was palpable as Danny stared down Aizawa. He had a multitude of things to say to the man all of which were snarky and or would sound too egotistical. Like how he was holding back not as a joke but for everyone's safety. But begrudgingly Danny knew better.
Midoriya watched in worry as his classmate and teacher had an intense staring match. He was surprised by what the hero had said. Because even though Midoriya hadn't seen yesterday's match. He had heard from Uraraka and his other classmates that it was a landslide victory for Fenton. Plus, his classmate had placed first in the entrance exam and in the physical test. So, it was hard to believe that he had been holding back at all.
But Midoriya's nerves continued to rise as did the majority of class 1A. Who all expectantly watched their gruff teacher and Fenton. Who surprisingly was holding the man's intimidating gaze.
Finally, after the tension had truly grown. And a few of the students thought that Fenton would at least try and give a defense that he was trying his best. The boy's shoulders sagged as he let out a sigh and nodded as he finally replied, "Yes sir."
The class was taken back by the response. As it seemed that their classmate who was no doubt powerful was in fact agreeing that he had been holding back.
Bakugo could feel his anger rise as he stared at the guy beside him. And in the back of the classroom Todoroki couldn't help but furrow his eyebrows. As he thought about how the teacher's words also applied to him.
Aizawa looked at the black-haired boy who had begun to look down at his desk for a few moments longer before quietly sighing. As he too was slightly surprised by the passive and agreeable response. As he had expected the boy who he had known for over a month now to not back down.
The scarfed man knew that what he said was harsh. But he would be the last person to just let the kid continue giving the bare minimum of effort. Even if that bare minimum was beyond what he had ever seen.
Because he knew that the boy had potential. More so than Aizawa would admit, as to not give the kid a big head. But if Aizawa was going to foster the boy into a hero he needed to see what the boy could truly do. So, if that meant calling out the teen then so be it.
After the tension finally settled down. Aizawa didn't hesitate long before moving on and speaking to the class who all still seemed to be looking at the quiet boy.
"Now then let's get down to business."
Danny was glad that his classmates' attentions dissipated. As he too silently listened. But he had to admit, his excitement for the day had greatly dissipated. Thanks to his supposed guardian's reprimanding but at least his time in the spotlight seemed to be finally over.
"Our first task will decide your future." Aizawa said, which truly made the remaining wandering eyes look at him as some students began to worry. "You all need to pick a class representative."
The classroom's atmosphere instantly improved as many of the students relaxed as they were glad that it was just normal school stuff.
Danny instantly crossed off the idea of volunteering or raising his hand to be a candidate. As he didn't want whatever responsibility came with the role. So he leaned back as he silently watched. As to his surprise many of the students already were making their desire to be picked known.
"Pick me, guys! I wanna be class rep!" Kirishima loudly stated, with both his hands raised.
"I'll take it!" Kaminari said while also raising his hand.
Jiro followed shortly after as she also spoke up while raising her hand. "Yeah, you're gonna need me."
"Someone with style would be best." Aoyama glamorously stated. But was cut off by Ashido who began waving both her arms around excitedly while saying. "I'm totally the right pick"
Danny watched as almost everyone began volunteering, even Mineta the weird little purple guy. He honestly couldn't believe that so many of his classmates, especially the ones who seemed like slackers, were eagerly volunteering for the role. Even Bakugo very angrily and loudly declared that he deserved to be the rep.
Honestly as Danny listened, he was beginning to think that being a student representative at UA. Was probably different than at his old high school as it would probably be more glamorous.
But that didn't get him to change his mind as he sighed to himself. As he could feel a headache coming on from all the yelling.
Luckily though before the yelling could escalate Iida very loudly spoke up while standing. "Silence, everyone please!" Which made everyone stop and turn to look at the guy including the halfa.
"The class representative's duty is to lead others. That's not something just anyone can do. You must first have the trust of every student in the classroom. Therefore, the most logical way to fill this position is democratically. We will hold an election to choose our leader!"
Danny stared at the studious guy who was holding his hand high above his head. It was clear to the halfa and everyone else that the blue haired boy very badly wanted the position and for everyone to vote for him. Personally, Danny thought the guy was a shoe in for the position. Since the boy was the definition of rule follower. Plus, Danny knew the guy was not afraid to call people out or order them around.
"Is this really the best idea?" Kaminari asked.
"We've only known each other a few days, how do we know who we can trust?" Asui said while putting her finger to her cheek.
"Besides, everyone'll just vote for themselves." Kirishima pointed out.
Danny looked at the red head and at his other classmates. And despite himself, before he could stop himself, spoke up. "We could just make it a rule that you can't vote for yourself."
Iida looked at the halfa before nodding, "Yes that's a good idea. Alright since we are all hero course students I believe we can all be trusted to not lie and break the rules. So, if everyone is in agreement let us hold the election. If you permit us sir?" He finished while looking towards Aizawa.
"Do what you want, just decide before my nap's over." Aizawa plainly stated while zipping up his yellow sleeping bag.
Danny stared at the man cocooned on the floor, 'And I'm the one who needs to take things more seriously?' he thought. Before turning back to his classmates.
"Thank you for your trust!" Iida proudly finished.
Iida and Yaoyorozu quickly worked to pass out pieces of paper and then collected them after everyone cast their votes. The two then proceeded to very quickly go through the votes and tallied the scores on the board.
Danny mostly spaced out during the whole event after casting his own vote for Iida. But when he came to after the two students stepped aside after jotting down the last vote. He couldn't help but stare in disbelief as his mouth fell open as he looked at the board.
Or more specifically the fact that across from his name stood a whopping nine votes. Which made him first.
But Danny wasn't the only one shocked by the outcome. Midoriya was also shaking with nerves as he looked at his own name. Which had the second most amount of votes of five. The green haired boy had wanted to be chosen but he never thought he would actually be voted for.
After a few moments of disbelief though Danny finally snapped out of his stupor. "How do I have nine votes!?" he loudly asked.
But before any answer came Bakugo angrily stood up as he also loudly spoke up. "Okay, you idiots who voted for them?" The blond asked as he was enraged that not only the freak got first. But Deku got second, all while he ended up with zero votes.
"What, did you honestly think anyone was gonna vote for you?" Sero asked which only served to further piss off the blond.
All while Bakugo yelled at the tape-based boy who simply shrugged off the guy. Danny slumped as he put his head in his hands. He could already feel the pit in his stomach grow as he tried to think of ways to get out of this.
On the other hand, Iida who had gone back to his desk shook as he spoke to himself in disarray. "Only two votes… I feared this might happen, but I can't argue with the system I chose."
Through the chaos and multiple students' dismay, Aizawa finally got up even though he hadn't truly been sleeping and tiredly spoke. "All right, the class rep is Fenton, and our deputy is Midoriya. You two come up."
Midoriya nervously moved to the front of the class. But after he took his position, paused as he looked at Fenton who had yet to get up.
The whole class looked at the boy. And after a moment Danny finally stood up and turned to face the class as he once again wildly asked. "Okay why did any of you choose me?"
The students stared at the halfa for a moment before Kirishima finally happily spoke up. "Well dude you are kinda the best fit for the position."
Danny turned to look at his friend in disbelief, "And what made you come to that conclusion?"
"Well, you did place first in the entrance exam and you're clearly very strong." Asui said while tilting her head.
"Ya, plus you're easy to talk to." Ashido bubbly added.
"Except when we're fighting you at least." Ojiro said as he slightly shook as he recalled the events of the day before.
Danny couldn't believe what he was hearing. At the start of the class, he was called out by the teacher in front of everyone. And now they were saying he was best suited for a leadership position. How does that work? He questioned.
Iida once again stood up which made Danny look at the teen. "Fenton, while I must admit I am envious of your position. I fully agree that you are superior to me and are deserving of being the class representative. For you have continuously shown all of us that you have both the fortitude and the demeanor of a true leader. I don't believe there is anyone better suited for the position."
After Iida's very profound speech which many of the students hummed in agreement to. The halfa stared at the boy who looked to be fighting back tears from his own loss. And despite himself had to admit that this situation was pretty hilarious. And that if he wasn't the one being affected, he would surely be laughing.
But since he was the one being affected all he could do was sigh in defeat. As he realized that after everything that was said and his classmates' touching sentiments. He couldn't just turn them down without either making this even more awkward. Or without seeming rude and ungrateful.
So, after a moment he turned and took a few steps to stand at the front of the class beside Midoriya who was looking at him worriedly.
"Alright then I guess I'm your representative." He finally said as he put his hand on the backside of his neck and awkwardly looked at his classmates.
"Ah yes and I'm uh your deputy… if it's not a mistake… thank you." Midoriya nervously added from beside the halfa. Who could already tell this was a mistake. But he supposed he would just have to go along with it.
Besides he was sure it wouldn't take long for his classmates to realize he wasn't rep material and would choose someone else.
After the morning classes which thankfully went by smoothly for Danny. After of course being unexpectedly put in the spotlight multiple times. But now as he relaxed in the cafeteria he finally was starting to once again feel pretty optimistic about the day.
Beside him sat Midoriya who was happily enjoying a bowl of Katsudon. While Iida sat in front of him and Uraraka in front of Midoriya. Kirishima had decided to sit by Ashido and Kaminari today somewhere else in the overcrowded cafeteria.
Danny had debated on not coming as he had already experienced the place the day before. Which always seemed to be crowded which he wasn't a huge fan of. Plus, it wasn't like he would be getting any food. But he had decided to once again tag along as he didn't really want to be alone for the hour.
So instead of eating like his classmates. He took the opportunity to relax and let his mind settle. As he listened to the consent murmur from the various students.
"Mmh this rice is delicious!" Uraraka happily stated as she ate a mouth full of fluffy white rice.
Danny didn't pay much attention as he half-heartedly listened with his eyes closed. But in between the talks of food Midoriya's worried voice spoke up. "You know, I'm kinda worried about being the deputy rep. I don't really think I'm qualified."
Danny opened his eyes to look at the fretting boy who sat beside him. He considered giving the boy some words of encouragement, but he couldn't find it in himself to do so. As he was in a similar position.
Luckily though Uraraka the friendly girl provided the much needed encouragement. "Sure, you are" she simply said while still eating.
Danny couldn't help but smile at how nice and encouraging she was to the boy.
"Yes, you both will be great." Iida added.
'But will I though?' Danny couldn't help but sarcastically think as he looked at the blue haired boy. Who still seemed somewhat sour at his loss. Which Danny really couldn't blame the guy for, especially when he thought the guy was the logical choice.
"You really think so? I mean I agree that Fenton makes sense as a rep, but me?" Midoriya said as he continued to doubt himself.
Danny looked at the boy. As he questioned where his classmates had gotten such a high opinion of him from.
"Yes, your courage and quick thinking under stress will help make you a worthy leader. That goes for you to Fenton. Not to mention your guy's strength. You both are plenty fit for the positions. At least those are the reasons I voted for you, Midoriya. And why so many voted for you, Fenton." Iida calmly stated.
Danny watched the interaction and finally decided to also add something despite his own sulking. "Midoriya,"
The green haired boy looked to his side at his previously quiet classmate and friend.
"Iida and Uraraka are right. You're going to do great."
Midoriya couldn't help but smile slightly at his friend's sentiment although he still had doubts.
Danny was going to leave it at that. But he could tell that the boy was still questioning, which was honestly fair. But he decided to add a joke as he very lightly nudged the boy's arm with his elbow. "Besides, if I 'm somehow qualified then you definitely are. So don't sweat it."
After a moment Midoriya happily nodded as his confidence grew more.
The calm silence between the four returned for a few moments. While Danny further relaxed back into his seat. Before Midoriya once again spoke up while looking at the blue haired boy. "Thank you, you guys. I feel way more confident. But you know I honestly thought you would get the role of deputy rep."
"You do look the part, Iida. Cause of the glasses." Uraraka joyfully added between bites.
Danny raised an eyebrow at the girl's reasoning.
"Wanting a job and being suited to it are quite different things. Observing the Iida family's hero agency taught me that much."
The guy's calm reasoning was interesting to Danny as he thought the guy would be more distraught over his loss being brought up.
The other two though focused on another aspect of the guy's speech. As they both asked at the same time "Agency?"
"Hold on, what does your family do?" Midoriya questioned.
Danny watched as Iida seemed to be slightly apprehensive about answering as he momentarily tripped over his own words. "Uh oh, it's nothing."
"You know, I've been wondering something about you." Uraraka said while she slightly leaned into the boy's space. "Admit it, you're filthy rich!" she finished while looking excited.
Danny blinked at the situation and at the boy who seemed to be taken back by the sudden interrogation. But he had to admit now even he was wondering about the righteous guy's background.
After a moment of pause and slight stuttering Iida responded. "I was afraid people would treat me differently if they knew about my family."
It seemed like the boy would stop there but due to the intense stares from Midoriya, Uraraka, and even Danny now he reluctantly continued with a sigh. "You see, the Iida's have been pro heroes for generations. It runs in our blood."
'Literally' Danny jokingly thought to himself.
"That's awesome!" Uraraka said.
"Are the three of you familiar with the Turbo hero, Ingenium?"
Danny watched as the two eagerly shook their heads. And after a split second he followed suit as he lightly nodded even though he didn't know who Ingenium was.
But luckily his bluff was easily looked over as Midoriya started eagerly talking. "I know all about him! He's a super popular pro with 65 sidekicks working alongside him at his Tokyo agency!" The green haired boy's excitement from talking about heroes slightly changed as a realization suddenly dawned on him. "Wait… don't tell me"
But the boy was cut off as Iida proudly answered the unspoken question. "Yup, he's my elder brother!"
"Oh my gosh! Your family's famous!" Uraraka said.
"I can't believe it"
Danny smiled at the two who were between fanboying and freaking out and at Iida who was widely smiling as he talked about his brother. He had to admit that even though the information he was just told wasn't all that revolutionary to him. He couldn't stop himself from smiling at the lighthearted conversation. Or the warm fuzzy feeling that grew in his chest. Honestly, he felt like he had gone back in time. Before he got his powers. Before things had gotten complicated, it reminded Danny of Sam and Tucker. Of goofing off and being a teenager amongst friends.
But before he continued with his idle thoughts and trip down memory lane, he quickly pushed aside his reminiscing. As he continued to listen with a light smile on his face.
"Ingenium is an unmatched commander who honors the hero code. As the second oldest Iida son, I strive to be just like him." Iida proudly said as he too reminisced about his elder brother who he idolized. "However, I think it might be a bit soon for me to be in a real leadership role."
Danny was blown away by the guy's maturity. It took a lot to realize and admit to one's own shortcomings. But it was because of that, that Danny thought Iida was even better suited to be a representative. 'Perhaps I could give him my position as rep' he proceeded to think.
But suddenly as the four hero course students sat smiling an alarm suddenly blared.
"Warning. Level Three security breach. All students please evacuate the building. In an orderly fashion…" An announcement said and proceeded to repeat the instructions over the continuous alarm.
Danny who had been just moments ago relaxing instantly went on high alert. As he quickly stood up and looked around at the crowd of students who were all in a state of shock.
Iida turned to one of the students who was sitting by him and asked, "What's a 'Level Three security breach'?"
"It means someone's managed to get past the school's barriers! This hasn't happened in my three years here. We have to get going!" With that the boy got up and started to run towards the exit along with many other students who had snapped out of their initial shock.
Danny watched as all the students rushed past him towards the singular exit. The chaos was growing by the second as he listened to the yelling from the frightened student body.
Before he knew it, he felt himself get pushed a few times as kids urgently ran past him towards the exit which had quickly become overcrowded. He needed to do something, he thought as he clenched his jaw and turned himself intangible to prevent any more people from knocking into him or being swept away by the crowd.
He closed his eyes for a second as he tried to get his bearings. The noise was making it hard to focus. But he needed to remain calm, he told himself as he opened his eyes once he finished prioritizing.
Despite his desire to go find the threat he knew that he couldn't just leave the students, especially his classmates. So instead, he turned to where his friends had previously been. But to his frustration Midoriya, Uraraka, and Iida had vanished. Most likely swept away, he reasoned.
He didn't hesitate long before he pushed off the ground and into the air above the crowd. From up above he watched, trying to find his friends or his other classmates. But it was all just a blur. "Damn it" he said out loud to himself. As he turned to where the crowded exit was and quickly flew towards it, scanning the mosh pit below as he went.
People were trampling each other. The entire room and hallway leading out of the building had become a frenzy of scared, confused, panicked kids.
Luckily as he went, he managed to pick out a very familiar voice amongst the constant yelling. He looked in the direction and was relieved to see Iida. Although the boy was not looking so good as he was pressed up against the glass of a window. He looked like he was seconds away from being smushed.
Iida could barely think as he let out a pained yelp as he felt multiple bodies squeeze against him and trap him in place. It was to the point that his glasses were halfway knocked off his face as his cheek pressed up against the window.
'Who in the world could've trespassed onto campus grounds?' he questioned as he looked out the window he was against. But to his surprise instead of seeing a villain he saw a swarm of reporters. The same ones who had stopped him this morning. Along with the reporters he saw Mr. Aizawa and other faculty members talking to them. Preventing them from further trespassing.
'So, it's the press!' His mind screamed. Now that he knew that it was a false alarm, he needed to do something. He needed to stop this mob, but he could barely even move let alone give an announcement that everyone would hear.
But suddenly as he felt his knuckles go white from squeezing them in frustration, he felt hands grab onto the back of his uniform. Before he knew what was happening, he was hoisted up above the crowd. He started to freak out once again and quickly looked up. But to his surprise the one who had grabbed him was none other than Fenton.
"Iida are you okay?!" Danny loudly said over the roar of the crowd below as he looked down at the boy who he was currently holding by the back of his blazer.
"Ah yes I'm fine but we have to do something!" Iida responded after a moment of his brain registering the odd position he was in.
Danny nodded, he agreed something had to be done. But what? How could he get the crowd to stop? Especially now that he had Iida in tow.
"This was a false alarm; there's no real villain. I looked outside and it's just the press!" Iida continued as he too rapidly went over plans in his head of what he could do. Although now that he was up in the air, he got an idea as he looked towards the exit sign that hung over the way out.
Danny was relieved to hear that this was just a false alarm and that there wasn't an actual villain to also worry about. The only problem now was getting everybody else to realize that and clam down.
"Fenton, can you fly me to the exit sign?!"
The halfa looked down at the boy and raised an eyebrow at the unexpected request. But as he looked at the guy's determined face he quickly nodded.
Danny quickly flew over and allowed Iida to step and balance on the sign that slightly protruded from the wall. Although it was an odd position the boy had to go in to stay put as he almost took on a running man pose. In better circumstances Danny would have found it funny but for now he floated slightly away as he watched to see what the guy would do.
Midoriya was at a loss for what to do as he was continuously pushed and shoved. But amidst the chaos that he was stuck in. He watched in shock as he realized that Iida had somehow ended up on top of the doorways sign. But it didn't take long to figure out how his classmate had managed to get up there when he realized that Fenton was also there. Floating just off to the side of the awkwardly posed boy.
But he couldn't take in the strange sight long as he both heard and saw Iida turn his head and began to confidently yell.
"Listen up, everything is okay!"
Danny watched in slight relief as a large majority of the crowd turned and finally stopped in their pursuit to flee to listen.
"It's just the media outside. There's absolutely nothing to worry about. Everything's fine! We're UA students. We need to remain calm and prove that we're the best of the best." Iida finished.
Midoriya felt a wave of awe and relief as he continued to look at Iida who had managed to calm the mob. But sadly, he might have spoken too soon as he felt more people knock into his back which almost made him fall. He turned and clenched his jaw as he saw that one person was being bumped into after the other.
Iida furrowed his brow as he watched the mass of people suffer from a domino effect as it was clear that even though his announcement had been loud. People in the very far back still did not know that they were safe. He needed to be louder, but the noise was once again surmounting as the people below yelled in pain as they were pushed and jostled.
Danny could feel a serious headache coming on as he watched. But through his renewed frustration he decided he had had enough of being a spectator.
Iida was about to yell again to hopefully further spread the information and to hopefully prevent further injuries from ensuing. But before he could his eyes widened as he watched a very familiar glowing green energy quickly spread across the crowd all the way into the way back.
He turned his head slightly and felt his breath stutter as he saw Fenton with his hand outstretched to the crowd below glowing the same green. A green that also now matched his eye color. He turned back as he realized the boy was managing to hold every student in place. Which luckily stopped the domino effect and quieted the surprised crowd.
Danny could feel the strain from using his telekinesis so widely on multiple previously moving targets. But he simply furrowed his brows as he fought through the now blaring headache from the excessive power usage while in his human form. And instead focused on the task at hand as he channeled more ecto-energy into his larynx.
"Everyone, everything is okay!" The effect was very effective as his voice came out booming if not slightly echoey but that was simply an unavoidable by-product.
After a moment Danny decided to relinquish his hold on the crowd as he dropped his telekinesis and his outstretched hand to the side. And as he scanned the now free crowd who were all still staring at him. Which he really wasn't a big fan of but what could he expect after forcefully using his powers on everyone. Although the result was worth it as everyone had finally gotten the memo that they didn't have to freak out.
Iida couldn't believe what he had just seen. Although after a moment he supposed he shouldn't expect anything less from the student representative, he thought.
"All right, need help getting down?" Danny asked Iida who had yet to say anything since his big speech. Luckily the crowd had finally started to neatly file out of the hallway and cafeteria. As the streak of chaos was luckily finally over as he could even hear police sirens finally arrive to probably escort the media off the campus.
It took Iida a moment before he answered the sudden question as he had honestly forgotten his odd position after the remarkable and stressful events of the past few minutes. "Oh, ah yes please. Thank you."
With that Danny made easy work of grabbing ahold of the boy and lowering him to the ground where he too landed.
From there the rest of the day was a blur for the halfa. As he still helped follow the rest of the evacuation procedures. Until they were told to go back to class for the remainder of the day. And besides from the occasional stares he got from the various students. And a second reprimanding about using his quirk on others which he apologized for even though he thought his actions were justified. The day's events finally went back to normal, he even managed to have his headache go down.
So now as he sat in his last class period he promptly stood up as he was once again forced to go stand at the front of the class. As he was told he needed to direct the class alongside Midoriya into figuring out who the other class officers would be. He really just wanted to stay seated, but he reluctantly relented without complaint.
"Alright so I guess we need to figure out the other class officers" He awkwardly said. But before he could continue Midoriya who nervously stood beside him unexpectedly spoke up.
"Uhm ah actually if it's alright I was hoping to say something before we start."
Danny raised an eyebrow slightly before smiling and nodded at the boy to encourage him to do whatever it was, he wanted to do.
Once he got permission Midoriya who was nervously looking down spoke. "So, I've thought a lot about this. And I think that Tenya Iida should be our deputy class rep!"
Iida who had been studiously listening couldn't help but lightly gasp at the unexpected declaration.
But after a moment Midoriya continued as his voice evened out and he looked up to the class in order to further convey what he was saying. "He was able to capture everyone's attention and helped to get us in line earlier. So, I believe that he should be the one helping to lead our class from now on." Midoriya finished while widely smiling at the blue haired boy who was clearly taken back by the praise.
"Wait but I wasn't even the one who actually calmed everyone down in the end." Iida said while looking down at his desk.
"What do you mean you totally were." Danny happily spoke up which caused Iida to look back up and make eye contact with him. "Without you I wouldn't have done anything. You're the one who inspired me to act."
Iida couldn't believe what he was hearing. But before he could even think about further dismissing the idea of him getting Midoriya's position others spoke up.
"Ya, you know what if Midoriya and Fenton vouch for him, I'm good. Plus, he was a big help. He totally manned up and took charge." Kirishima said. Many students hummed in agreement and also began complementing and sharing their approval of the decision.
Danny smiled to himself as he watched Midoriya nod at Iida who had looked at him for reassurance. He was happy to see Iida getting the recognition he deserved. Although he did also feel like smacking himself at not also taking the opportunity to give his own position to Iida. But he supposed he was also happy with this outcome.
But the friendly atmosphere that Danny was watching came to a screeching halt as Aizawa who had been once again resting in his sleeping bag sat up and glared at him and Midoriya. "This is a waste of time. I don't care who the deputy rep is, just hurry up."
Midoriya got frazzled by the man while Danny just sighed to himself as he looked at the grumpy old caterpillar of a hero.
"If Midoriya and Fenton are nominating me for this job then I humbly accept." Iida who had been basking in his classmates' words finally said while proudly standing up.
"I pledge to carry out the duties of deputy class rep to the best of my abilities!" He finally finished as his voice got louder and he even shot his fist up to the sky.
If Danny didn't know better, he would say the guy was even holding back tears. But he kept that observation to himself and simply leaned back against the board. As he continued to peacefully watch his classmates. As that same warm fuzzy feeling once again returned.
The remainder of the class went by smoothly. As Danny was delighted to see Iida instantly take to his new role and helped to greatly speed up the duties of a rep. And before he knew it the final bell rang, and he was able to pack up and after saying his goodbyes he promptly took his leave.
On his way out of the school he watched the sunset and the orange sky as he thought of the hectic day and unexpected events that occured. Though as he neared the gate he came to a sudden halt as he stared down at what was once the metal entrance way for the elite academy. But now it was but a pile of rubble that had been swept up, off to the side and taped off.
"Reporters did this?" he couldn't help but say to himself in disbelief. As he unconsciously clenched his fists, and that previous feeling of ease vanished. And was replaced by a sinking feeling, one that he had grown all too familiar with.
He could tell something big was happening, something bad. The only problem was that he had no idea what that something could even be. He just hoped that no matter whatever or whoever it was that he would be enough.