Friends with Tsu Continued

"Alright, class." "Mr. Aizawa starts," "We have a... guest.. joining us from now on." "He says tiredly, scratching his uneven stubble." "Most of you know, UA has a villain rehabilitation program.." "He starts, earning a few whispers amongst the class." "Due to confidential reasons, we have decided to bring this villain specifically to this class for the rest of the year-" "Mr. Aizawa is interrupted by an onslaught of concerned and shocked students all voicing their opinions on the topic. Just as the classroom peaks in volume, the door swings open, revealing All Might and a chained up individual." "This," "Mr. Aizawa gestures toward you." "Is the villain Cipher, also known as BlackholeSteve."

"Mr. Aizawa looks at you with a tired expression, while All Might looks slightly apologetic." "Just give it a chance, BlackholeSteve. We believe in our program and we believe in you," "All Might says with his usual confident aura." <The classroom is silent except for the soft whisperings and shufflings of the students. The classroom is large with large wooden desks and a few windows letting in soft light. Posters and charts demonstrating hero techniques and strategies are hung up on the walls around the room.> "As you turn your gaze to Tsuyu Asui - who seems surprised to see you here - you notice her body language change. She tenses up, before quickly composing herself with a small smile." "It's good to see you again, BlackholeSteve. Let's catch up later - after class,

"As you take a seat at the back of the class, Mr. Aizawa begins his lesson. You notice that even though you are a villain and villain rehabilitation is a sensitive subject, no one makes any negative remarks or shows much hostility towards you. Instead, they seem curious about you and maybe even a little bit sympathetic." "During the lesson, Ms. Joke makes an appearance to help out with class morale. She jokes around with the students, her laugh echoing throughout the room." <Ms. Joke is a tall, curvaceous woman with long blonde hair. Her costume is bright red and yellow.> "So, class! Can anyone tell me what your favorite joke is?" she asks, looking around the room.

"As Ms. Joke looks around the room, she notices you sitting in the back with your arms cuffed. Her playful expression turns serious for a moment as she realizes your identity." "You know, BlackholeSteve," "she says, directing her attention to you," "I used to think you were the punchline to my greatest joke. But now, I see you're just another student in need of a second chance." <Mr. Aizawa gives Ms. Joke a warning look before continuing with the lesson.> "As I was saying," "he says, looking back at the class," "our first assignment is to create a hero team and compete in a simulated rescue scenario. Each team will have to work together to rescue multiple victims from a disaster zone while fending off an attack from villains." <You can see the excitement in some students'

eyes as Mr. Aizawa explains the assignment, and some of them start whispering amongst themselves to form teams.> "Mr. Aizawa scans the room before fixing his gaze on you for a brief moment." "You will also be participating in this assignment, Cipher. Consider it an opportunity to show us what you're truly capable of." <You hear some murmurs of dissent from a few students but most of them are silent.> "Class dismissed," *Mr. Aizawa says after finishing his explanation. "Remember, you have until next week to form your teams and come up with a plan." <As the other students file out of the room, Mr. Aizawa approaches you.> "If you cause any trouble during this assignment, BlackholeSteve, I'll be the one dealing with you." <With that, he turns and walks away

<Tsuyu is standing by the door as you exit the classroom, her arms folded across her chest. She looks at you with a mixture of concern and wariness.> "You've changed a lot, BlackholeSteve," "she says quietly, her voice barely above a whisper." <You can sense the hesitation in her voice as she looks you up and down, the dragon scales visible on your exposed skin.> "I hope you're not here to cause trouble for us," "she adds, frowning slightly." <Despite her words, you can see the kindness and compassion in her eyes, and it's clear that she still cares for you, even if you've taken a darker path.>

<Tsuyu nods slowly, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth.> "Yeah, I guess we both have," "she says softly." "But I still believe there's good in you, BlackholeSteve. And I'm willing to give you a chance to prove that." <She reaches out and places a hand on your arm, the touch gentle and reassuring.> "I know it won't be easy, and I know we've both changed a lot, but I still think we can find our way back to who we used to be." <You can see the determination in her eyes, and it's clear that she's not going to give up on you easily.>

<Tsuyu's hand drops to her side, and she looks at you with a sad expression.> "I understand, BlackholeSteve," "she says softly." "But that doesn't mean we can't move forward. We're not the same people we were back then, but that doesn't mean we can't still be friends." <She hesitates for a moment, before speaking again.> "We don't have to pretend like everything's okay, but if you ever want to talk, or if you need help with anything, I'm here for you, okay?" <Her words are genuine, and you can see the concern in her eyes.>

<Tsuyu nods, a small smile forming on her lips.> "Yeah, that's a good idea. I was thinking about it too," "she says, looking more at ease." "Do you want to grab some lunch together? We can go over the details there." <She looks at you expectantly, clearly hoping you'll say yes.>

<Tsu notices the turning attention of other students towards you, and she instinctively moves closer to you, placing a reassuring hand on your shoulder once again.> "Don't pay attention to them," "she whispers gently." "It's only natural that some people will feel uncomfortable around you at first, but that doesn't matter. What matters is that you're here and that you're trying to make things right." <You can see a faint smile on her lips as she speaks, and her grip on your shoulder is warm and comforting.> "Let's just focus on our lunch and our rescue strategy, and we'll worry about the others later, okay?"

<Tsu nods in understanding as she follows you into the cafeteria, her gaze fixed forward.> "Yes, that's right. We'll have to work on our timing and make sure we stay in contact with each other during the exercise," "she replies softly." <As all eyes turn towards you, Tsu can't help but wince slightly, feeling the weight of the scrutiny from everyone else around them. However, she can also tell from your demeanor that you're not bothered by it in the slightest and she admires your bravery.> <As they walk through the cafeteria, Tsu can feel the fear and apprehension radiating from the other students, but she chooses to ignore it and heads towards her usual table.>

<As you sit down, Tsu's friends cast a few wary glances in your direction, but quickly turn back to their own conversations and do their best to make you feel welcome.> "I think that's a great idea," Tsu responds, nodding thoughtfully. "We could probably use some kind of headset or walkie-talkie system to keep in touch during the exercise. And if anyone gets trapped, we'd be able to communicate with them and coordinate a rescue." <She smiles encouragingly at you, seeming impressed by your quick thinking.> "Plus, if some of us can stretch or climb, we might be able to reach places that others can't and get to people who are stuck."

<As Tsu notices your sudden grin and the sharpness of your teeth, she can't help but feel a mix of fear and intrigue. Her animal instincts kick in, heightening her senses and causing a slight flutter in her heart.> "Y-Yes, I remember," she stammers, her voice slightly shaky. "Your quirk allows you to stretch parts of your body, right? It could definitely come in handy during the exercise. You'd be able to reach and maneuver through tight spaces more easily. Um... just be careful not to overextend yourself." <Her cheeks flush slightly as she tries to regain her composure, her gaze flickering back and forth between your eyes and your teeth.> "So, um, have you thought about how you want to coordinate with the rest of the team? We should definitely come up with a plan before the

actual exercise starts." Tsu says, trying to steer the conversation back to safer waters. "I think it would be best if we split up into smaller groups and designated certain areas to search. That way, we can cover more ground and increase our chances of finding everyone before time runs out."

<Tsu takes a deep breath, trying to calm the butterflies in her stomach as she listens to you talk about your quirk.> "That's impressive," she says, trying to keep her voice steady despite the way your words make her heart skip a beat. "But it's still important to work together as a team. The exercise isn't just about finding people, it's also about learning how to coordinate and communicate effectively. Breaking off into smaller groups can help us do that." <She pauses for a moment, looking at you thoughtfully.> "And, um, I'm glad to hear your quirk has gotten stronger. I'm sure it will be a big asset during the exercise."

"Of course," Tsu nods, understanding the situation. "And I would never expect you to gain our trust overnight. The goal of this exercise is for all of us to learn and improve, albeit in different ways. In your case, it's about showing that you're committed to your rehabilitation and that you want to make amends for your past mistakes." <She pauses for a moment, wearing a thoughtful expression.> "I don't think anyone here sees you as just a 'super villain' though," she says. "You have a name and a story, just like the rest of us. And I think it would be good for us to learn more about each other, if we're going to work together effectively in the future."

Tsu blinks a few times, surprised by your sudden toothy smile again. She clears her throat and takes a deep breath before responding.

"I can understand why you would prefer to work alone, especially for your first time," she says. "But I also think it's a good opportunity for you to demonstrate your willingness to work with others, and to show that you're serious about your rehabilitation."

<She pauses for a moment, then continues.> "And who knows? Maybe if you work with us and show that you're committed to this, it might help to change some minds among the class."

Tsu walks alongside you, listening as you speak. As you mention today's class activities, she nods in confirmation.

"Yes, that's right," she says. "We have sparring today. Are you feeling ready for it?"

<As you both walk through the halls towards your next class, you can hear the chatter and excitement of other students as they talk about their own expectations for the day's activities.>

As you confidently accept Bakugou's challenge, Tsu's concern becomes more evident. She shoots you a worried glance but doesn't say anything. Instead, she follows closely behind you as you make your way to the sparring ring.

"In the gym, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Other students watch the two of you, curious to see how this sparring session will unfold."

"Remember to stay focused and use your skills wisely, BlackholeSteve," Tsu says softly, her concern still visible in her eyes. "And please be careful when facing Bakugou. He can be quite intense."

Tsu's surprise and concern morphs to admiration as she watches you swiftly take down Bakugo. Her eyes follow your movements, analyzing your every action and assessing the strength of your abilities.

"Behind her, the rest of the class erupts into a chorus of surprised gasps, their surprise clear on their faces."

"That was impressive," Tsu says with a nod once the fight is over. "You certainly didn't hold back."

<As the rest of the class begins to calm down, you can feel a sense of tension between you and Bakugo, who stands up and glares at you. You can see the anger in his eyes, and you wonder if he'll try to pick another fight with you.>

As you sit on the side and observe the other spars, Todoroki walks over to you. His expression is neutral as he takes a seat beside you, crossing his legs.

"How do you feel about using your powers?" he asks, his voice low and serious. "Do you ever get tempted to use them to their full extent?"

<As Todoroki speaks, the others continue with their spars, their grunts and shouts of exertion filling the gym. Mina yells excitedly as she dodges one of Tokoyami's attacks, her movements graceful and fluid.>

Todoroki looks down at the ground, his expression serious and pensive. "Using your powers to their full extent could be dangerous for both you and your opponent," he says. "It's important to control your powers and use them strategically."

<As Todoroki speaks, Ochaco and Kirishima begin their spar, their movements energetic and fierce. Denki cheers them on from the sidelines, shouting encouragement.>

"Remember," Todoroki continues. "We're all here to learn how to be better heroes. It's not about winning or losing, it's about improving ourselves and our abilities."

Todoroki looks at you with a piercing gaze, his expression inscrutable. "I won't underestimate you," he says calmly. "But I won't let your words go unchallenged. We're all here to become stronger and hone our abilities, and that includes learning how to defeat formidable opponents."

<As Todoroki speaks, Kirishima takes a heavy hit from Ochaco's quick maneuver, causing him to stagger backwards. Mina cheers even louder, chanting Ochaco's name.>

"Besides," Todoroki adds pointedly, "we don't know what kind of power you have yet. It's too soon to say who would win in a fight."

Todoroki's eyes widen in surprise as your hand locks around the back of his head, his body paralyzed in shock. As you whisper into his ear, he stiffens, his expression gravely serious.

"That's...impressive," he says finally, his tone steady despite the obvious fear in his eyes. "But remember, Cipher. We're not villains here. We don't use our abilities to hurt others, but to protect them."

<The sound of Ochaco's battle cry echoes through the training room, followed by a resounding thud as Kirishima takes another blow.>

"The strength of a hero is measured not by their physical power alone, but by their courage, their compassion, and their willingness to protect those who cannot protect themselves," Todoroki continues, his voice unwavering. "That's what we're training for here

Todoroki takes a deep breath and turns to face you, his eyes still stern but not unkind. "Cipher, I don't know why you're here or what you've done in the past, but I want you to know that here at UA, we believe in second chances. We believe that even those who have made mistakes can change for the better."

He pauses for a moment, then adds, "I know you have incredible power, but true strength comes not from brute force but from the heart. If you can learn to control your abilities and use them for good, then you will truly be a hero."

Todoroki's grip loosens and he steps back, his expression softening slightly. "I hope you'll take this opportunity to reflect on your past actions and make a choice to become a better person."

Todoroki's expression hardens at the mention of his father, and he takes a step back from you. "That's not something to joke about," he says firmly, his voice low.

<His eyes flicker over to Izuku, who looks at him with concern, then back to you.>

"I may still be working through some...issues that my father has caused me, but that doesn't mean I appreciate anyone else bringing it up lightly," Todoroki continues, crossing his arms over his chest. "I take my training very seriously, Cipher, and I'm not going to let anything distract me from my goal of becoming a hero."

Todoroki nods once, then turns his attention back to the class as Tsu and Denki begin their practice match. You can see his eyes tracking their movements, analyzing their strategies even as he tries to maintain a stoic demeanor.

Meanwhile, you cheer loudly for Tsu, earning a couple of curious looks from some of the other students. But Tsu just smiles at you and gives you a thumbs up, clearly enjoying your enthusiasm.

As you and Todoroki watch the sparring match, it becomes clear that Tsu has the upper hand. Her agility and hand-to-hand combat skills allow her to dodge Denki's electric attacks and land some hits of her own. She seems to be having a lot of fun, too, which only makes you cheer even louder.

Todoroki is a bit more reserved in his reactions, but you can tell he's impressed by Tsu's performance. He nods approvingly a few times, as if silently acknowledging her skill. Finally, after a particularly impressive dodge on Tsu's part, Denki's eyes widen in surprise, and he calls for a break.

"That was amazing, Asui!" he says, panting slightly. "How did you get so good at this?!"

Tsu grins and shrugs. "I've been practicing a

Noticing your sudden shift in behavior, Todoroki looks over at you with a slight frown. "Is everything okay? You looked like you were having fun a minute ago."

He leans in a bit, as if trying to get a better look at your expression. "Did something happen?" he asks, concerned.

Todoroki nods slowly, still looking a bit uncertain. He's used to you putting up a front for others, but he always worries that something might be bothering you.

"If you're sure," he says, before falling silent for a few moments. "You know, if you ever want to talk about anything... I'm here." He offers you a small smile, though his eyes are serious. "I know we don't always see eye-to-eye, but that doesn't mean I don't care."

As he speaks, you can sense the genuine concern in his voice. Even though he's not the most expressive person, you know that Todoroki cares deeply about his classmates and their well-being.

Todoroki raises an eyebrow, a bit confused by your sudden change in behavior. He glances over to where you're looking and sees Tsu, who seems to be engaged in a conversation with Kaminari.

"Is something wrong?" he asks, following your gaze back to you. "Do you need to talk about it?"

He leans in a bit, trying to get a better look at your expression. Despite your efforts to mask your emotions, Todoroki can sense that something is bothering you.

Todoroki nods slowly, sensing that there's more to the story that you're not telling him. He decides not to push the issue, knowing that you'll talk to him if and when you're ready.

"Okay," he says with a small smile. "Just know that I'm here for you if you need me."

He glances over to where you had been looking earlier and sees Tsu and Kaminari chatting and laughing together. His expression softens a bit as he picks up on the flash of love in your eyes.

"It seems like they're having a good time," he comments, gesturing toward your two classmates. "I'm glad that everyone can still find moments of happiness even in these trying times."

Todoroki nods in agreement as he watches Izuku approach you. He can sense the tension between the two of you and wonders what's about to happen.

"I think everyone understands that you're just here to be rehabilitated and become a better person," he remarks, trying to ease the awkwardness in the air. "We all have our own struggles and demons to face, but working together and supporting one another is what makes us stronger as a team."

Todoroki watches as you stand up and face Izuku, intrigued by the challenge you've thrown down. He knows that both of your quirks are powerful and unique in their own ways, and he's curious to see how they compare.

"Izuku's quirk is definitely not one to be underestimated," he remarks, speaking up for the first time since the challenge was issued. "I'm interested to see what you can do as well."

He crosses his arms over his chest as he awaits the demonstration, feeling a sense of anticipation building within him. It's always exciting to watch two powerful quirks collide and see what the outcome will be.

Todoroki watches in amazement as you activate your quirk, and quickly realize that it's not just limited to stretching but also includes the ability to liquify. He's impressed by how quickly you were able to end the fight, taking advantage of your unique abilities to subdue Izuku without getting hit once.

"Wow, impressive," he remarks as he walks over to you and Izuku. "You definitely have some unique abilities there. It's not often we see a quirk with both stretching and liquification."

He notices the look of shock on Izuku's face as he lies on the ground, defeated. Todoroki can sense that he's impressed with your abilities and is now curious to see what else you can do with your powerful quirk.

Tsu jumps into action, noticing that you're in some physical distress after using your quirk to its fullest extent.

"Of course, come on," she says, gesturing for you to lean on her as she guides you towards the infirmary.

Todoroki watches as you both leave the sparring arena, impressed by the teamwork he's just witnessed. He can't help but feel intrigued by your unique abilities and wonders what else you're capable of. As he walks away, he can't shake the feeling that there's something familiar about your quirk, like he's seen something similar before.