Chapter 40 - All For One

Uraraka, Kirishima, Todoroki, Iida and Yaoyorozu all sat on the train bound for Kamino Ward. Yaoyorozu had decided to accompany them on their suicide mission. Iida had met them outside the hospital in an attempt to stop them. When he realized his efforts were futile, they had to swear to him, on their lives, that they were going to try to rescue Midoriya through non-violent means, and he had accompanied them to keep them to their word.

"The coordinates indicate Kamino Ward," Said Yaoyorozu. "We should be there in about fifteen minutes, at ten o'clock."

"Does the rest of the class know what we're doing?" Asked Uraraka.

"Yes," Said Todoroki. "They tried their best to talk us out of it."

"Asui was the most against it," Said Kirishima.

Todoroki suddenly looked uncomfortable. "Just to be sure," he said. "We're going

against everyone's wishes and being completely selfish by doing this. We can call this off if we want."

"Midoriya wouldn't think twice about coming to our rescue if it was one of us," said Kirishima.

"He was trained by Batman," Said Yaoyorozu. "We all know that from the moment we met him, he was already miles ahead of us, quirkless or no."

"But Kirishima is right," Said Uraraka. "Izuku stepped in to save me when I first met him, before his training. As long as I have known him, he has always been there for those in need, no matter what. He has done so much for us, and has saved us all in one way or another. We owe him that."

"All right then," Said Todoroki.

Yaoyorozu leaned back in her seat, sighing. A rescue without fighting, She thought to herself. It's not plausible. The others are so driven by frustration that they're blinded. She was hoping that once they saw the situation first-hand and realized how difficult the situation was, they would come to their senses and let the pros handle it.

Aizawa, Principle Nezu, and Vlad King all stood before a swarm of reporters. UA had finally agreed to hold a press conference to discuss the events of the Training Camp. Aizawa knew they were being led into the conference like lambs to slaughter, and it would be a veritable blood-bath.

"We are here to apologize," Said Aizawa. "A recent incident allowed harm to come to 26 first year heroes, and we staff were ill-prepared. We take responsibility for any trauma caused by our negligence. It is our duty to train heroes, but also our duty to protect heroes in training."

"I'll take the first question," said a reporter. "Since the beginning of the year, UA students have had four encounters with villains. This time there were students who were gravely injured, and one unaccounted for. How did you explain this to their families? And what are some of the specific steps you're taking to ensure their safety in the future?"

Aizawa had a feeling this would be the first question. The media already knew their basic position since they didn't cancel the Sports Festival. They were trying to make them look bad.

In their eyes, the heroes had become the villains.

"We will increase patrols and review security measures within the school," Said Nezu. "This includes state-of-the-art security systems, an increased security presence, and a complete overhaul of security procedures. We have already received a generous donation from the Martha Wayne Foundation for such increases to be possible. The safety of UA's students is, and always has been, our main priority. Make no mistake about it."

"You speak about keeping the children safe, Eraserhead," Said another reporter. "But according to our information, you encouraged them to fight during the training camp, putting them in grave danger. Can you explain your actions?"

"The students were already in grave danger," Said Aizawa. "I was informed by one of the attackers that the students themselves were the targets, and I concluded that because we didn't know the full scale of the attack at the time, allowing them to use their quirks would help avoid the worst possible outcome."

"Do you think 25 victims and one kidnapped child counts as a win for UA?" Said the reporter.

"I assure you that things could have gone much more poorly," Said Aizawa. "I feared every student would be tortured and killed in the end."

"Most of the victims were harmed by the gas attack," Said Nezu. "It was later determined to be the result of a poisonous quirk used by one of the villains. Because of the quick actions of two of our students, Ms. Kendo and Mr. Testutestu, injuries from that quirk were kept to a bare minimum. We are also providing psychological counseling for every student but at the moment do not see any signs of psychological trauma."

"So you have found a bright spot to this tragedy?" Said the reporter.

We are relieved that an entire class of burgeoning heroes still has a future," replied Nezu.

"Can you say the same for the abducted, Izuku Midoriya?" Said the reporter. Aizawa flinched slightly at the mention of Izuku's name. "The boy is the first quirkless student to be admitted to UA high," the reporter continued. "But despite this he has demonstrated considerable strength, intelligence, and ability, enough to earn him second place in the UA sports festival. What would be the reason they would target and abduct this student? Or perhaps it was because of his actions against the Hero Killer Stain, a known associate of the League of Villains."

"It would be foolish of us to try and speculate why he was abducted," Said Aizawa.

"Really?" Said the reporter. "Or do you think it is because he was trained by the notorious American vigilante Batman?"

"I fail to see your point," Aizawa shot back.

"Then let me enlighten you," Said the reporter. "Batman has a history of using extreme methods when apprehending criminals and villains, often times utilizing pain and torture to acheive his goals. According to our sources, this isn't the first time he has lost a student to villains, his last protege being tortured and killed by the notorious criminal and, I quote, 'Clown Prince of Crime, the Joker.' Is it a customary practice to consort with unlicensed vigilantes? Perhaps they are brainwashing him right now, attempting to sway him to the side of villainy. And considering how Batman's last student turned out, and how history seems to be repeating itself with young Izuku Midoriya, how can you say that he still has a future?"

Vlad King swallowed. This reporter knew what he was doing. He was baiting Aizawa into saying something damning for UA high. Already he could almost see the veins pulsating in Aizawa's neck. He was getting agitated. Whatever he said next could make or break UA High. Much to his relief, Aizawa stood and bowed to the reporters politely.

"Ever since I met Izuku Midoriya, I have been amazed time and time again for his sheer, unhindered ability," Said Aizawa calmly. "Despite being thrown aside by society as a weakling, it was through his sheer determination, intelligence, strength, and most importantly, his convictions and indomitable resolve to become a hero that he was able to accomplish so much. And what's more, he is striving to become a hero the right way, attending school and becoming licensed, something that has been supported and encouraged by his so-called vigilante sponsor. So in answer to your question, yes, I do believe that he has a future as a hero."

The reporters continued to drill their questions into the UA staff, every one more scathing than the last. Aizawa could feel it: the mood was changing. People were beginning to resent Heroes. If they didn't do something about it, it would only get worse.

"Isn't it that strange," Said Shigaraki, turning off the press conference. "The heroes are becoming the bad guys. Seems like they're not dealing with this very well at all."

Shigaraki and the rest of the League of Villains, consisting of Magne, Twice, Dabi, Spinner, Toga, Mr. Compress and Kurogiri, were all watching the press conference back at their hideout in Kamino ward. They were all gathered around Midoriya, heavily chained to a large medical stretcher, a vacant expression on his face. The Master had spent hours with Midoriya and had finally finished his work on him. He then had tasked the League with the final step of his conversion: turning him against heroes.

"So much criticism," Shigaraki continued gleefully. "But everyone makes a mistake or two, right? It's not like they're supposed to be perfect. Modern-day heroes sure have it rough, don't they, Midoriya?"

"Once a hero receives payment for saving someone, they aren't a hero anymore," Said Spinner.

"A hero in this current system only cares about money and glory," Said Shigaraki. "And since society buys into those idiotic rules, anyone deemed a loser is shoved aside. You should know that more than anyone. Born quirkless, weak and pathetic, everyone wrote you off. But you showed them you were strong. You rubbed it in their arrogant faces. Now, you have a chance to make anyone who's ever doubted you pay." Shigaraki stood and walked towards the catatonic Izuku, leaning over him. "Tell me, Izuku Midoirya," he said quietly. "Who was it who doubted you? Who is your enemy?"

Izuku's eyes widened at the question, his face contorting as if in pain. "All. . . Might. . ." he whispered.

Shigaraki giggled gleefully. Their plan was set in motion. Soon, the Symbol of Peace would be dead, slain at the hands of his would-be successor, and there was nothing he could do --

There was a knock at the door.

"Hello," said a voice from the other side. "I'm here to deliver a pizza!"

Six minutes earlier.

Batman gathered outside the dive bar in Kamino Ward, surrounded by an army of police and several pro heroes, including Nightwing, Endeavor, Kamui Woods, Edgeshot, Gran Torino, and even All Might himself. Several other heroes and officers were stationed at the secondary location that was provided to them by Yaoyorozu, where the Nomu were held. Now was the time they took down the League of Villains in a pre-emptive strike.

"Midoriya is in there," Said Batman, using his cowl vision. "He's restrained and surrounded by several villains."

"We need to act fast," Said All Might. "I'll smash down the wall and then -"

"No," Said Batman. "I need to go in there alone."

"Excuse me?" Said All Might. "Batman, I know you're used to operating alone, but that's suicide!"

"If too many of us get in there at once, Midoriya might be injured," Batman replied. "I just need five minutes, and I'll signal you to move in."

"Now wait a moment, vigilante," Said Endeavor indignantly. "He may be your student, but you can't just dictate how this operation --"

"Simmer down, Todoroki," said Gran Torino. "I suggest you let the man work. He knows what he's doing." Endeavor scoffed, but said nothing.

"Five minutes?" Said All Might.

"Five minutes," Confirmed Batman. "But I need you to distract them."

"How?" Said Tsukauchi.

"Think of something," Said Batman. With that, he pulled out his grapple gun and grappled away.

The League of Villains were staring at the door in utter confusion, not a word spoken between them. Suddenly, a small orb rolled from under the door and across the floor, drawing everyone's attention.

"What the hell is that?" Said Dabi.

Realization struck Shigaraki and he rushed to destroy the orb, but it was too late. The orb exploded in a large flash, and smoke filled the room. The villains were in an uproar. Shigaraki's eyes and lungs stung from the smoke, grasping outward as he tried to steady himself.

"Kurogiri!" He shouted, coughing. "Kurogiri get us out of here!"

There was a loud crashing sound, followed by a scream. It was Kurogiri's voice. He opened his eyes, though it pained him to do so, and saw a large, black figure moving at blinding speed between his comrades. After a moment of confusion, his heart sank when he recognized it.

"Batman!" He shouted. "Batman is here!"

The Batman wasted no time, swiftly moving through and incapacitating the villains around him. Dabi had regained his senses and attempted to use his fire on him, but Batman deftly side-stepped him, grabbing his outstretched arm and throwing him to the ground. With a sickening twist, Dabi's arm snapped like a dry twig. His angry yell in pain was cut short as Batman stomped his boot into his neck, knocking him unconscious.

Mr. Compress attempted to use his quirk to capture the invader, but Batman was too quick, picking up a bar stool and throwing it hard into Compress's face, destroying his mask and knocking him unconscious. Toga drew her knives and began attacking Batman, who grabbed her by both hands and threw her against the wall, knocking the wind out of her before handcuffing her to one of the tables. Twice used the blades concealed in his gauntlets and attempted to attack Batman, who simply threw a small device, which attached to his chest, only for it to explode and encase him in a glue-like substance.

Magne rushed Batman and began throwing powerful punches and kicks, which Batman blocked and parried easily before Batman threw a powerful punch into her abdomen. Doubling over, Batman grabbed her by the head and swiftly kneed her in the face, knocking her out with a sickening crack. Spinner attempted to come to Magne's aid, but Batman was two steps ahead of him, throwing two bolas towards him, which wrapped around his arms, legs and torso, restricting his movements before Batman delivered a kick directly to his face, knocking him to the ground.

Shigaraki looked desperately for Kurogiri. He found him behind the bar. He had a device on his armor that was sending an electric current through his body, inhibiting his quirk. Shigaraki reached for the device to destroy it, but something grabbed him from behind. Lifting him and throwing him to the wall, Batman wrapped his large gauntleted hand around Shigaraki's throat. He reached up to use his quirk on Batman's arm, but Batman stabbed his hand with a batarang and pinned it to the wall behind him, then grabbed Shigaraki's other arm at the wrist with his free hand.

"Now, All Might!" Said Batman. The wall behind them exploded, with the large, empowered All Might breaking through. He stared at his surroundings with surprise and awe.

"Save some for the rest of us, Batman," Said All Might.

"Check Midoriya!" Said Batman, motioning in Izuku's direction.

"Right!" Said All Might. As he approached Izuku's side, the rest of the heroes piled in and surrounded the remaining villains. All Might removed the restraints on Izuku and examined him. He was catatonic, staring blankly at the ceiling before him, but was breathing steadily. He snapped his fingers, but Izuku didn't react.

"Batman, he needs to get to a hospital, now!" Shouted All Might.

"What did you do to him?" Growled Batman at Shigaraki.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Shigaraki said, sneering. Batman twisted his hand holding Shigaraki's wrist, hyper-extending it. Shigaraki yelled in pain.

"Lie to me again, and I won't just break your hand, I will remove it from the wrist," Said Batman.

"Batman!" Said Kamui woods, surprised.

"Quiet, Woods!" Said Gran Torino.

"We don't have time for this," Said All Might. "Let's get Midoriya out of --"

"All. . . Might. . ."

All Might turned back to Midoriya. He was looking right at him. "Midoriya!" He said. "Thank God! Yes, I am here, everything is going --"

Izuku lifted his hand to All Might's face, and an enormous explosion emitted from his palm, sending the Symbol of Peace flying through the open wall and into the window of another building.

"Izuku!" Shouted Batman. Izuku stood and positioned his hands behind him. Explosive blasts emitted from them again, propelling in the direction he sent All Might. He has a quirk, Batman thought, horrified. All For One gave him a quirk. He turned back to Shigaraki, who was laughing mirthlessly at Izuku's actions. Batman snapped his wrist, causing Shigaraki to yell out in pain again.

"Why is he attacking All Might?!" Shouted Batman. "What did All For One do to him?!"

"Isn't it obvious, Batman?" Said Shigaraki. "He gave him power. True power!"

"Where is All For One hiding?" Said Gran Torino.

"Just you wait," Said Shigaraki. "The game is still mine!" Out of nowhere, several large globs of black and grey goo appeared around them. Several large creatures began to emerge from them, attacking the heroes.

"Nomu!" Shouted Kamui Woods. "Where did they come from?! I thought the others were taking care of them!"

The bar was in uproar as the Nomu attacked. Outside the bar, Endeavor and the Officers were defending themselves as more Nomu began to pile out of the warp gates around them.

"Dammit, Edgeshot!" Shouted Gran Torino. "Get control of Kurogiri.

"Kurogiri is incapacitated," Shouted Edgeshot. "This isn't his doing!" The black warp gates began to form around the villains, one by one disappearing from the bar.

"Stop them!" Shouted Gran Torino. It was too late. The villains had disappeared, leaving the Nomu in their place.

"It has to be All For One!" Shouted Batman, fending off two Nomu at once. This was bad. Every second he was fighting these monsters, Midoriya was out there fighting All Might. He had to get to him, restrain him and get him help. He would not lose another student. No, it was more than that. He would not lose another son.

Not now, not ever.

Uraraka, Iida, Todoroki, Kirishima and Yaoyorozu were looking over a gate towards the large groups of heroes and police. The tracking beacon had led them to a large warehouse, where they guessed was the secondary location that Batman had mentioned to the detective when Yaoyorozu had provided them with the original tracking beacon.

"Gang Orca and Mount Lady are here?" Said Kirishima. "So is Best Jeanist and Tiger."

All the heroes and police had arrived at the location just before them. Mount lady had stomped the roof of the warehouse in and collapsed the building. The police and the rest of the heroes were able to storm in and apprehend everyone inside. To their horror, the building was filled with Nomu.

"Look!" Said Urarakai. "They found Ragdoll!" Tiger had pulled a catatonic Ragdoll out of the wreckage. She appeared to be breathing and in good condition, but was unresponsive to attempts to wake her.

"I guess there was nothing to worry about after all," Said Todoroki.

"Right," Said Iida. "We should get out of here quickly before -"

Uraraka gasped, staring at the building. Someone else was emerging from the wreckage. He was tall, wearing a black suit. His face was obscured by a black mask and large, strange neck brace that extended to his shoulders. To Uraraka, he looked more machine than man.

"I'm sorry, Tiger," Said the Man. "But Ragdoll's quirk was just too powerful. I had to take it. How could I not?"

Instinctively, Best Jeanist used his quirk on the man, binding him tightly to restrict his movements. A red electrical energy passed through the man and the bindings were broken, sending Best Jeanist and the other pros flying in the other direction. The students gasped in horror.

"Quick thinking," Said the man. "Consider me impressed." Best Jeanist rallied and attempted to attack the man, but he threw a blast towards Best Jeanist, striking him in the abdomen. Blood seeped from the wound as he collapsed in a heap. "I see," the man continued. "Your quirk comes from practice and experience. I don't need it after all. It wouldn't pair well with Tomura's disposition."

"Who is this guy?!" Said Todoroki. "What just happened?"

"He took out the pros in an instant," Said Kirishima, terrified.

"We have to run," Said Yaoyorozu.

"Wait!" Said Uraraka, pointing upward. "Look!"

They all looked to see a large figure cratering downward at an impressive speed, hitting the ground like a meteorite. A smaller figure was flying towards it, fire emitting from its outstretched hands. Uraraka gasped in shock.

"It's Deku!" She said, horrified.

"No," Said Iida. "It can't be."

"It is," said Kirishima. "And he's. . .he's using a quirk!"

"How is that possible?!" Said Yaoyorozu.

"Look at the crater!" Said Todoroki. "It's All Might!"

Sure enough, All Might was lying face down in the crater before them. He wasn't moving, and they weren't sure if he was dead or unconscious, but they shuddered to think of the possibility. Several black and grey blobs opened up around him and the villains from the Training camp all dropped out of them. They were beaten badly and some of them were unconscious. Tomura Shigaraki kneeled before the man.

"Master," said Shigaraki.

"It looks like you failed again, Tomura Shigaraki," Said the Master. "But do not let that discourage you. You'll try again. That's why I brought your associates back with you, even Young Midoriya. It's apparent that the quirk and conditioning worked perfectly.

"Did you hear that?" Said Uraraka. "They did something to Deku!"

The boy will be a great asset to you," Continued the Master. "Start over as many times as it takes. All of this is for you." He turned to face All Might, who was finally staggering to his feet. "Ah, there you are."

In an instant, All Might was upon the man. He seemed to match All Might's strength equally, blocking All Might's Detroit Smash. The sheer force of power from both combatants rocked the very ground beneath them.

"I'll have you return my student, All For One!" Shouted All Might.

"Have you come to kill me a second time, All Might?" Said All For One smugly. With immense force, the thrust forward and threw All Might back, flying into the building behind him. "You've gotten weaker, All Might."

"You're one to talk," said All Might, emerging from the building. "It's hard to ignore that fancy life-support mask you have on. I won't make the same mistake I made all those years ago. I will take Young Midoriya back and make sure you're locked up for the rest of your sad life."

"But All Might, the boy doesn't want to leave," Said All For One, placing a hand on Izuku. "Tell him, Young Midoriya. Who is your enemy?"

"All. . .Might. . ." said Izuku.

"Young Midoriya," Said All Might. "What have they done to you?"

"I've simply given him what he's always wanted," Said All For One. "His friend had such a powerful quirk, and the dead have no use for such power."

"You. . .you mean Young Bakugou?" Said All Might, horrified. "You gave him Bakugou's quirk?!"

"His quirk and then some," said All For One. "I've done a little tweaking and enhanced it's abilities. He should be strong enough to stand up to someone even as powerful as you. Go ahead, Young Hero," he added to Izuku. "Complete your mission."

Izuku used his explosive quirk and launched himself at All Might with blinding speed. He only had a moment to block before another blast launched him through several buildings. Izuku didn't let up, following him through the wreckage, continuing the fight.

"Now that that's taken care of, it's time to get you out of here," Said All For One. He raised his hand to the unconscious Kurogiri and jagged black and red tendrils extended from his fingers, embedding themselves into Kurogiri. In a second, a large warp gate appeared behind them. "Quirk activation," Said All For One. "Comes in handy. Now, get out of here Tomura."

"But what about you?" Asked Shigaraki.

"There remains much room for you to grow," Said All For One. "But only without me will you find your way to do so."

"Master. . .," Said Shigaraki.

"Let's go, Shigaraki," Said Mr. Compress, compressing an unconscious Dabi into a small orb and pocketing him. "While our masked lead keeps All Might entertained --Agh!."

There was a large explosion. Shigaraki turned towards Compress as he hit the ground, doubled over in pain. More shots rang out as his compatriots did the same. All For One suddenly reached in front of Shigaraki's face and snatched something out of the air, opening his hand to reveal a large rubber bullet.

The engine of the Batmobile roared as it pulled into the wreckage, a large figure launching out of the cockpit. It was Batman, but instead of his traditional hero suit, he was covered head to toe in a heavy, black mechanical suit. It was made from what looked to be reinforced carbon steel, the visor for its eyes and bat insignia glowing deep and powerful red. Giant black wings extended from its back, and it was armed to the teeth with various tools and weapons.

The Hellbat.

"Batman," Said All For One. "I was hoping you would show up."

"All For One," Said Baman, his voice projecting out of the Hellbat's speakers.

"I'm very pleased that you know me," said All For One. "Brainiac speaks very highly of you. I've been looking forward to meeting you."

"Can't say I feel the same," Said Batman.

"Hmph," scoffed All For One. "You're as impertinent as your reputation precedes." He looked him up and down. "Nice suit. But do you really think you stand a chance against me in that tin can of yours?"

"It was made for something a lot stronger than you," Said Batman.

"I highly doubt that," Said All For One. "Nothing is stronger than me."

"Then prove it," Batman snarled. "Shut up and fight!"

All Might and Izuku continued their fight throughout the city. His new quirk was powerful. Extremely powerful. It was all All Might could do to defend himself against the explosions, but he couldn't fight back, or Midoriya could be injured or killed.

This was bad.

"Young Midoriya!" Said All Might. "You have to snap out of it!"

Izuku said nothing, pressing the attack. All Might had to get through to him somehow. "Think of your training!" He said. "Remember what Batman taught you! You're stronger than this!"

Izuku threw a huge explosive blast, enveloping All Might and sending him careening into the building behind him. All Might's mind was racing. Continuing to fight Midoriya would deplete his already limited time, and once he was defenseless, he would be helpless to Midoriya's attacks. Exactly what All For One wants. He had to keep trying to reach him, and he may have a way. Izuku leaped through the opening of the building, continuing his attack.

"Young Midoriya!" He said Izuku continued to advance on him. "Izuku! Deku, stop!" Izuku froze, pondering All Might. Holy shit, that worked, All Might thought. He cleared his throat and continued. "I know you hate me. You have every reason to."

"You. .are. . my enemy," Said Izuku, walking towards him, his hands sparking.

"I am not your enemy, Deku!" Said All Might, holding his hands up. "And I don't want to fight you. Your real enemy is back at that factory."

"Too. . . late . ." Said Izuku.

"It's not too late!" Said All Might. "We can fix what he's done. You have to trust me!"

"Trust . . ?" Izuku said, cocking his head.

"Please, Deku," Said All Might, daring to step closer. "Not a day goes by that I don't regret what I said to you on that rooftop. You have always had what is in you to be a hero. No, more than that. Right here, right now, you are a hero!"

"Hero?" Said Izuku.

"Yes, Young Midoriya," Said All Might. He knelt down and wrapped his arms around Izuku. "You are a hero. You always have been, even if I didn't see it. Now please, be the hero I know you are and come back to us. Please."

"All Might," Said Izuku. In his mind images flashed of when he was a child. He remembered He and Kacchan watching the news broadcasts of All Might taking down villains. He remembered how inspired he was, how hopeless he felt when he was told he didn't have a quirk, how destroyed he was back on the rooftop, the hope he felt when he met Batman that night at his house. He jumped back, grabbing his head and shouting as if in pain.

"Izuku?" Said All Might, startled. "Izuku, what's wrong?"

"His fault," Said Izuku. "This is his fault! I hate him! I hate him!!"

Without warning, Izuku leaped out of the building and flew off into the distance. "He's going after All For One," Said All Might. "He's going to get himself killed!!"

All For One continued his fight with Batman, picking him up and throwing him against the side of a building. Batman rallied, using the enhanced strength of his suit to throw heavy blows on his enemy. They were ultimately fruitless, as All For One parried and blocked them. His quirks seemed to be endless and Batman's armor was powerful, but far from indestructible.

Batman pressed a button on his gauntlet, and the rail gun from the Batmobile sprang to life, firing on All For One. He was thrown backward into the rubble. Uraraka and her friends watched in horror as All For One reemerged, his suit a little damaged but otherwise still walking. The tendrils shot out from his extended fingers again, embedding them in Batman's armor. With a great heave, he threw Batman into the building adjacent to him.

"There's no way he's going to beat him," Said Kirishima.

"We have to get out of here," said Iida.

"But what about Deku?" Said Uraraka.

"He's not here anymore!" Said Iida. "He flew off with All Might!"

"No, look!" Said Todoroki, pointing to the sky.

Flying at breakneck speeds, Izuku came barreling down from the sky towards All For One, using both his hands to unleash a massive explosion directly on him. All For One emerged from the wreckage, his mask damaged and revealing a charred face with no eyes underneath.

"How are we going to get him away?!" Said Kirishima. "This is crazy!" As if on queue, the Batmobile roared to life and sped over towards the students, stopping in front of the gate where they were hiding.

"I know you're here to rescue Midoriya," said a projected voice from the car. It was Batman, controlling it remotely. "Get in the car. Now."

Izuku didn't let up the attack,throwing blast after blast at All For One, getting closer to his target with each one. "This is your fault!" He shouted. "You did this to me!"

"I gave you a gift, you ungrateful whelp!" Said All For One, grabbing Izuku by the throat and placing his other hand over his eyes. "And I can take it away just as easily. It's clear that I was wrong about you. You'll never be anything but a quirkless weak--"

He let go of Izuku as something large came flying into his peripheral vision, knocking him away from Izuku. Batman was back, pinning All For One against the wall of the wrecked building, hammering him in his exposed face with heavy blows.

"You-won't-touch-him-again!" He said between blows. All For One caught Batman's fist in his hand and kicked him away. Batman landed next to Midoriya, correcting himself.

"Batman?!" Izuku said. "You're here!" His suit was heavily damaged, and his face was exposed slightly from the broken mask.

"You need to get out of here, Midoriya," Said Batman. "Your friends are waiting for you."

"What?!" Said Izuku. "Where?!"

Off in the distance, he heard the roar of the Batmobile's engines. The car was driving towards the wreckage. Picking up speed, it made its way towards a billboard propped up by an up-ended car. Using it as a makeshift ramp, the car flew through the air over them. Leaning out of the cockpit of the car, Izuku saw Uraraka, extending her outstretched hand towards him. Izuku realized that she was using her quirk to make the Batmobile light enough to float.

"Now, Midoriya!" Shouted Batman. "GO!"

"You're not going anywhere!" Shouted Shigaraki, running towards Izuku.

It was as if the world began to slow down for Izuku, despite the chaos around him. With a split second reaction time, he used his new explosive quirk to propel him towards the car, grabbing onto Uraraka's hand, several more hands sprouted from the cockpit. The hands of his friends, pulling him into the car.

The Batmobile landed and drove off into the distance.

"Well," said All For One, as the students drove away. "That's that." He turned back to Batman. "Your suit is far too damaged. As much as it pains me, I will have to kill you. Still, it was rather foolish of you to think that you could defeat me."

"I wasn't trying to," Said Batman.

"What?" Said All For One. Suddenly, a yellow and blue flash flew towards All For One. All Might landed a solid punch on his enemy, causing him to fly backward.

"Now that Young Midoriya is gone, I don't have to hold back anymore," Said All Might. "Thanks for warming him up for me, bats."

"Master, no!" Shigaraki began to run towards his fallen master when another yellow blur knocked him backwards. It was Gran Torino.

"You're slow, old man," Said All Might.

"You're just too fast," Gran Torino shot back.

All For One emerged from the wreckage once again. His mask and suit was badly damaged. "It appears we're outnumbered," He said. "Time for you to go, Tomura." He extended the tendrils in his hand again, this time activating Magne's magnetism quirk, causing the unconscious villains to be magnetically propelled into Kurogiri's warp gate.

"No master!" Shouted Shigaraki, fighting against the magnetism. "Your body is too damaged! NO!" Unable to hold back the force of the magnetism, he was propelled backward into the warp gate, and disappeared.

All Might and All For One continued to trade blows. As the explosive battle raged around them, several heroes and emergency service workers were attempting to evacuate the area before more civilians got hurt.

"You can't win, All For One," Said All Might.

"I only came to rescue Tomura," Said All For One. "But killing you is an added bonus. In the past, your fists crushed one after another of my comrades. Many were forced into hiding, underground. While you were extolled as the Symbol of Peace. What a grand view you must have had from atop our sacrifices."

"You shut up!" Said All Might. "Always toying with people, probing their weaknesses. You steal, break, manipulate and discard them, just like you did to Midoriya! You scoff at innocent people who are just trying to lead happy lives. It cannot continue! I won't let it!"

All Might grabbed All For One by the arm and delivered a powerful Detroit Smash into this face, sending him cratering into the ground below. Gran Torino looked at him in Shock. Half of All Might's body was reduced to his depowered form. Toshinori, He thought. You've reached your limit!

Down in the crater below All Might's fist, All For One began to laugh. "You seem rather upset, All Might," He said, grabbing All Might's fist and prying him off him. "I've heard the words you've spoken before, from your Master, Nana Shimura." All Might gasped at the mention of his master's name. All For One seized his chance and kicked All Might off him.

"My master was a true hero," said All Might, collecting himself. "Keep her out of it!"

"The way she died was so pathetic," Said All For One. "As the creator of One For All, it was shameful for me to see her inherit such power. Shall I tell you all about how she met her end?"

"SHUT UP!"

"Toshinori, calm down!" Shouted Gran Torino. "He's trying to distract you, just like last time! Don't let him get under your skin. It's time to do-or-die, and go past your limits!"

Uraraka, Izuku, Todoroki, Iida, Kirishima, and Yaoyorozu continued to sit in the Batmobile as it drove off. It hadn't stopped since they left Kamino Ward.

"Where is this thing taking us?" Said Todoroki.

"Back to the Warehouse," Said Izuku.

"What's the Warehouse?" Said Uraraka.

"It's Batman's base of operations in Japan," Said Izuku. "Where he. . .trained me." Izuku suddenly felt dizzy. The adrenaline from the event was wearing off, and he was starting to feel what he assumed were the after-affects of what All For One did to him.

"Are you all right, Midoriya?" Said Todoroki.

"I'm fine," Izuku lied. "We're here."

The false wall leading to the Warehouse in the Wayne building opened up, and the Batmobile drove through. Finally stopping, the cockpit opened up and they all piled out, Izuku's classmates looking around them in awe.

"Look at this place!" Said Kirishima. "This is so cool!"

"Izuku!"

Izuku turned to see Alfred running towards him, Barbara wheeling along in tow. Alfred threw his arms around Izuku in a tight embrace, a display of affection Izuku was unfamiliar with when it came to the butler. "Forgive me, Master Midoriya," Said Alfred, breaking away. "You had us so worried."

"We're glad you're safe," Said Barbara. She looked over to the others standing behind him. "You're friends?"

"Yes," Izuku said. "They saved me." Realization suddenly dawned on him. "Batman and All Might! They're fighting All For One!"

"We know," Said Barbara, wheeling over to the conference table. She pulled up the holographic feed of the live newscast of the fight.

"That's All Might?" Said Yaoyorozu, shocked.

"He looks like he's in rough shape," Said Todoroki.

"We have to help them!" Said Izuku.

"You'll do no such thing!" Said Alfred sharply. "It's bad enough that you're not at a hospital right now. Your presence there would only make things worse."

"He's right, Izuku," Said Barbara.

"But we have to do something!" Said Izuku. "Where are the other heroes?!"

"They're busy fighting the remaining Nomu," Said Barbara.

"I'm sorry, Izuku," Said Alfred. "But the only thing we can do right now is trust in Master Yagi to finish what he started."

Izuku stared fearfully at the newsfeed. All Might and Bruce were beaten badly, and All For One's power seemed to be endless. His hope was fading with each passing second.

All Might, thought Izuku. You have to win. You have to survive. Please.

"You know, All Might," Said All For One. "As much as you hate me, I think I probably loathe you more."

All MIght coughed, wiping blood from his mouth. He was losing power fast. Soon he would be helpless before his enemy. He had to end this fast. But All For One's quirks and fighting tactics were completely changed from the last time he faced him. He couldn't attack him head-on. He would have to adjust his strategy, use his wits.

"I killed your master, sure," Continued All For One. "But you took away so much from me: everything I tried to build. That is why I want you to suffer until your last breath, and die broken and disgraced, for all the world to see!"

All For One shot another powerful blast at All Might, enveloping All Might and sending Batman and Gran Torino flying. As the dust around them settled, All Might was still standing, but his arms and torso had been reduced to its sickly depowered form, blood dripping from his brow.

"Let the world see you for how weak you really are, All Might," Said All For One. "Hollow cheeks and sunken eyes. To think that you are their greatest hero. Now your adoring public knows your true form. Try not to be ashamed."

"Even as my body rots and grows frail," said All Might. "Even as you expose my weakened state, in my heart I remain the Symbol of Peace. And nothing you can say will take that away from me."

"Is that so?" Said All For One. "Well, there might be something else you would be interested to know that will take the spring out of your step. My apprentice, Tomura Shigaraki. He's Nana Shimura's grandson."

All Might gasped in shock. "That can't be!"

"It is," Said All For One. "I kept wondering what would destroy your golden heart, and then I found Tomura. I groomed him to hate you, and watched as you smiled so proudly as you tried to destroy your Master's descendant."

"You're lying!"

"Come now, you know it's the truth," said All For One, cackling evilly. "Strange, where is your smile now, All Might?"

Horrible thoughts rushed through All Might's head. His master's grandson being raised and groomed by her sworn enemy, the very man that killed her, turning him into a villain. My god, he thought. What would she say if she knew how we turned out!

All For One suddenly flinched as several objects collided with him, exploding on impact. All Might turned to see Batman at his side. His suit was damaged and he was injured.

"Bruce," Said All Might. "How could this have happened?"

"Forget about that All Might," Said Batman. "Listen to someone who has failed to protect someone they care about before. You are the Symbol of Peace. Only you can restore the hope these people have in you. Only you can finish this!"

Another large blast of energy came out of the smoke that enveloped All For One, blasting Batman away. He hit the damaged wall behind them before being buried in rubble.

"Batman, no!" Shouted All Might.

"He is in the way," said All For One. "It's time to end this, All Might.

"You bastard," Said All Might. Concentrating his power into his right arm, it regained his muscular shape. He remembered the words of his Master, Nana Shimura, spoken to him years ago as a young student.

Toshinori, when you think you can't go on anymore, look inside. Remember why it is you clench your fist. Remember where you came from. Keeping your origin in mind will help you push past your limit.

Gran Torino struggled as he moved the rubble that had buried Batman. His armor was terribly damaged, with several pieces broken and missing. He was wounded badly, blood seeping from several open wounds that were exposed from the broken armor. Despite all of this, when the rubble was removed, Batman staggered to his feet.

"Thank god," Said Gran Torino. "I was afraid you were dead."

"I don't die easily," Said Batman.

"And good thing too," Gran Torino replied. "Things are looking grim. Toshinori is almost out of power. His body just won't hold up anymore. I don't know if he can win."

"He has to," said Batman.

"How do you mean?"

"None of the other heroes can inspire hope like All Might," Said Batman. "No matter what he looks like, he is still the Number One Hero, the Symbol of Peace in this country, and everyone here is praying for his victory. He's the pillar of support that everyone relies on. A pillar that must not be broken. And he knows it. And that's why he's going to win."

"Interesting," Said All For One, hovering over All Might. "You should have been out of power long ago, but you still continue to cling to that small bit of hope inside you." All For One began to rise off the ground, floating in midair. "You probably only have a few punches left in you."

"I am the Symbol of Peace," All Might said. "I want to make a world where everyone smiles and lives together happily. I still have much to fight for, which is why I will defeat you."

"Lets stop dwelling on Heroism and start focusing on reality," said All For One. "Springlike limbs. Kinetic booster times four. Strength enhancer times three. Multiplier. Hypertrophy. Rivets. Air walk. Spearlike bones." As he said these things, his right arm seemed to start growing, ripping the sleeve of his suit as it expanded. As it grew, several large spikes and objects seemed to sprout and grow from within it, forming into an enormous, grotesque monstrosity, barely resembling its former self.

"Everything up to now was simply to wear you down," Said All For One. "I knew it would take much more than that to kill you. In order to put you down for good, I'll punch you with the ultimate combination of quirks I have stored within me right now. This will end you!"

All For One rushed towards his foe, throwing his attack with a force to rock the foundations of the Earth. All Might returned the blow with one in kind, connecting fist-to-fist with All For One. The immense shock of two unstoppable forces colliding caused a massive shockwave, with debris and wreckage flying all around them as they continued their struggle.

"It's clear that despite your weakening power, you still haven't passed on One For All," Said All For One. "It's also clear that you wanted Izuku Midoriya to be your next successor. But he refused you, because you refused him first. And what's more, you couldn't prevent him from being taken right out from under your nose. It seems you'll die tonight full of regrets, as a hero and a teacher."

All Might's knees began to buckle under the sheer power of his enemy's might. "You're right," he said. "I failed to see the hero he could become when we first met, as my master saw in me. I failed him as a teacher and a mentor." Blood sprayed from his arm as he pushed back against his foe. "Which is why I have to make it up to him!" With a heavy heave, All Might pushed forward, throwing All For One off balance.

"I will make it up to him!" Shouted All Might. "I will be here for him just as my master was for me, until he becomes the hero I know he can be!"

Golden sparks accumulated around his left arm as he transferred his power, throwing a powerful hook into All For One's face, smashing the rest of his life-support brace. All Might continued to advance on his enemy, seeing a small trace of surprise stretched across All For One's featureless face.

"United States of. . ." All Might pulled the last of his power back into his right arm. With the force of several generations of wielders of One For All, delivered the final blow to his enemy.

"SMASH!!"

The area exploded around them, causing massive shockwaves and an eruption of debris and wreckage. Batman and Gran Tornito hit the dirt, shielding themselves from the aftershock. The world held its breath as the dust cleared, revealing the skeletal form of All Might standing over the broken and beaten All For One. With his last ounce of strength, he raised his fist into the air in triumph.

Young Midoriya, All Might thought. I am here for you now, and I will never fail you again.