Chapter 47: Pride of Fathers
Deku sat in his office, surrounded by papers and reports detailing the latest hero activities across Japan. As he leaned back in his chair, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in the progress of his family, especially his sons. Just then, one of his office workers knocked and entered with a beaming expression.
"Excuse me, sir! I have some exciting news!" the worker said, barely able to contain their enthusiasm.
Deku looked up, curious. "What is it?"
"It's about your sons, Toshinori and Izana. They're currently having a sparring match on one of your private islands!" the worker exclaimed, excitement radiating from their voice.
Deku's heart swelled with pride at the news. "Really? That's fantastic! They've been training so hard. I'm glad to hear they're pushing each other to improve."
The worker nodded, a smile on their face. "It sounds like they're really going all out! Apparently, they're testing their powers and abilities against each other."
Deku chuckled, leaning back in his chair with a satisfied grin. "Those two always were competitive. It's great to see them bonding like this. I hope they remember to take it easy on each other."
"From what I've heard, it seems to be a pretty intense match, but in good spirits," the worker reassured him. "The island is a perfect setting for it."
Deku nodded thoughtfully, envisioning the lush landscape of the island and the sound of waves crashing in the background as his sons fought. "I wish I could be there to watch. I've missed their training sessions. They both have so much potential."
The worker looked at Deku with admiration. "It's inspiring to see how proud you are of them, sir. You've set such a strong example as a hero and a father."
Deku smiled, grateful for the kind words. "Thank you. Being a father to them is just as important to me as being the No. 1 hero. I want to ensure they grow up to be strong, not just in power but in character."
With renewed determination, Deku leaned forward, gathering his papers. "If they're sparring, I'll send them a message to remind them about safety. I want them to learn from each other, but I also want them to know that it's okay to ask for help and to support one another."
The worker nodded, clearly impressed by Deku's thoughtfulness. "I can help you draft a message, sir."
"Let's do that. And thank you for bringing this news to me," Deku replied, his heart light as he contemplated the bond growing stronger between his sons. He knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, their family would face them together, united by love and support.
As Toshinori and Izana prepared to unleash their next devastating attacks, an unseen force abruptly halted them mid-air, leaving them both in stunned silence.
"What in…" Toshinori began, his voice trailing off as he looked around, bewildered.
"The world?" Izana finished, glancing at his brother before their gazes landed on the figure before them.
Standing with her hands on her hips and an amused smile on her face was their mother, Ochaco. Her presence radiated warmth, contrasting with the intense energy that had just surrounded the two brothers.
"You both have done enough damage for today," she said, her voice playful yet firm. "It's time to take a break and refuel. Eating is just as important as training."
Toshinori and Izana exchanged sheepish looks, a mix of surprise and guilt washing over them. They transformed back into their human forms, their earlier intensity giving way to a nervous energy as they landed softly on the ground.
"Uh, hey, Mom," Toshinori said, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "We were just… testing our limits."
"Yeah, we didn't think you'd show up," Izana added, his eyes darting between his brother and their mother. "We were just having fun."
Ochaco chuckled, shaking her head in disbelief. "Fun? It looked more like you were trying to destroy the island!" Her eyes softened as she approached them, placing a gentle hand on each of their shoulders. "I'm proud of both of you, but you can't forget to take care of yourselves. You need to eat, rest, and recover."
Toshinori nodded, his earlier bravado now replaced with a sense of humility. "You're right, Mom. I guess we got a bit carried away."
Izana added, "Yeah, I didn't mean to worry you. It's just… with everything happening, I want to get stronger."
"I understand," Ochaco said, her tone turning serious but kind. "But strength isn't just about power. It's about balance. Remember, even the strongest heroes need to recharge."
Toshinori smiled, appreciating his mother's wisdom. "Thanks, Mom. We'll make sure to take breaks. Right, Izana?"
"Right," Izana agreed, the tension in his shoulders easing as he relaxed into his mother's supportive presence. "Let's go eat!"
Ochaco led them toward a nearby picnic area she had set up, filled with an array of delicious foods. As they walked, she continued to share stories about her own training days, reminding them that every hero had to start somewhere and that family was the greatest support system.
Toshinori and Izana listened intently, grateful for their mother's guidance and the chance to bond over a meal after an intense day of training. The fight may have been thrilling, but the time spent together was what truly mattered, reinforcing the bond between the three of them as they moved forward in their journeys as heroes.
The next day, Bakugo sat in his office, his mind consumed with thoughts of his son Ken and the events that had transpired. He couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at him—where was Ken after that intense battle?
Just then, Karta, one of Ken's loyal subordinates, appeared before him in his human form. With a respectful bow, Karta spoke up.
"Greetings, my lord. The King has informed me to deliver a message to you."
Bakugo raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. "Oh? Ken did? What did that brat say, and where is he right now?"
Karta straightened, his expression serious. "He is currently at our Dragon Sanctuary, preparing our Dragon Army for potential threats. He believes it's better to have our forces always ready for war."
Bakugo's expression shifted, a mixture of pride and exasperation crossing his face. "That brat, always preparing for this, huh? So, how can I help him?"
Karta hesitated for a moment before continuing. "He mentioned that there are a few dragons who are nearly as powerful as I am but require some discipline. He believes you are the perfect person to assist in this training."
Bakugo crossed his arms, contemplating the request. "Discipline, huh? Sounds like a challenge. What kind of dragons are we talking about?"
Karta explained, "They are strong but lack focus and control over their powers. Ken thinks that with your experience and strength, you can teach them how to harness their abilities properly."
A smirk formed on Bakugo's face as he thought about the opportunity to train a new generation of warriors. "So, you want me to whip these dragons into shape? Sounds like my kind of gig."
"Indeed, my lord," Karta replied, his tone respectful. "Your reputation as a fierce warrior precedes you, and your expertise will be invaluable in their training."
Bakugo stood up, feeling a rush of determination. "Alright, then! Let's get moving. I'll show these dragons what it means to be disciplined!"
Karta nodded, a flicker of relief in his eyes. "Thank you, my lord. Ken will be pleased to know you're on board."
As they made their way toward the exit, Bakugo suddenly halted and turned to Karta with a mischievous grin on his face.
"You also owe me a rematch," he said, crossing his arms with a confident smirk.
Karta blinked in surprise, a hint of amusement crossing his features. "A rematch, my lord? I didn't think you'd bring that up."
Bakugo shrugged, his eyes glinting with competitive spirit. "Of course I would! You may have fought well last time, but I'm not one to back down from a challenge. Besides, I need to make sure you're ready for my son's army!"
Karta chuckled, his expression shifting to one of respect. "Very well. I accept your challenge. But be warned, my lord, I've been training alongside the King. You might find it more difficult this time."
"Bring it on!" Bakugo declared, clenching his fists. "I love a good fight, and it'll give me a chance to show Ken just how strong his old man really is."
Just remember, Karta," Bakugo added with a cocky grin, "when we fight, no holding back. I want to see what you can really do!"
Karta smirked in return. "I wouldn't dream of holding back, my lord. Let's make it a battle worth remembering."
With that, their spirits high, they continued their journey, ready to face whatever awaited them at the Dragon Sanctuary.