Chapter 12: Chapter 12 Battle of Strongest Part-1
As I strolled past the laboratory known as "All for One," I found myself confronted by an astonishing sight: hundreds, if not thousands, of Nomu, each varying in shape and size. These extraordinary beings possessed a range of quirks and physical might that could rival even the most powerful of quirk holders. In total, there were 1250 units, all eagerly awaiting the command of their master. "All for One" was profoundly impressed by the impressive work of his subordinate, who, brimming with pride, detailed the specific purpose of each Nomu.
— You now have access to a staggering 1250 Nomu units, meticulously divided into five distinct brigades, each assigned its own unique mission, — the doctor declared, his tone filled with pride, fully aware that this project had become his crowning achievement. He had been granted the remarkable opportunity to create living weapons from the corpses of deceased individuals, weapons that would serve his ambitious fantasies. There was no place for morality, humanitarianism, or rules — only cold, calculated reasoning and sharp intellect.
— I am genuinely taken aback by your remarkable creations, but could you shed some light on how this formidable army will fight alongside me? Moreover, should I be concerned about any potential malfunctions in their operation? — "All for One" would not be his true self if he did not meticulously consider every possible outcome of events where things could deviate from the intended plan.
— There will be no malfunctions, — the doctor replied with unwavering confidence. — The likelihood of the management of these Nomu falling into enemy hands is effectively zero. They are incapable of resisting your will. Allow me to elaborate on which brigade is tasked with containing the heroes, — the doctor produced a tablet, revealing a detailed display of the Nomu's numbering and their ranks relative to the top 100 heroes of Japan.
D rank comprises 375 units, each standing at a height of 140 cm and weighing 50 kg, characterized by a black exterior and striking yellow eyes. Additionally, there are 375 flying units with identical specifications but adorned in a dark blue color. Alone, they possess relatively weak firepower, but their sheer numbers compensate for this deficiency. A hundred of these Nomu are strategically designated to wear down and contain heroes ranked C and B. However, a hero from the top 20 can effortlessly wipe out such low-ranked Nomu in droves. For those who manage to advance through them with ease, other types of Nomu await.
C rank consists of 300 units, each 167 cm tall and weighing 79 kg, featuring a gray coloration, human-like eyes, and razor-sharp teeth capable of severing a human head with ease. Heroes of C rank must exert themselves to the fullest to defeat such Nomu, but their numbers are not as overwhelming as those of D rank. Nonetheless, they possess a unique ability to explode, disorienting the hero with bursts of weak acid that can inflict damage upon their skin.
B rank includes 150 Nomu, each standing at 160 cm tall and weighing 106 kg, exhibiting muscular physiques and a green hue. They possess commendable agility, speed, and endurance. These beings are designed for heroes in the top ten, who possess impressive levels of strength, speed, and experience to avoid a disastrous defeat. They have been implanted with a weak regenerative capability to ensure that the hero cannot reach the brain located at the top.
A rank comprises 50 Nomu intended for the top three heroes. They will be in close proximity to you, and all the previous shortcomings of earlier Nomu have been comprehensively addressed. These beings boast physical strength on par with the most formidable power heroes and possess regenerative abilities that can restore any limb, except for the head. Although they are slow, their power compensates for their lack of speed, with each Nomu capable of effortlessly lifting a truck weighing 20 tons.
Impressed by all the advancements in genetic engineering, "All for One" began to ponder the whereabouts of the missing 50 Nomu required for the impending battle.
— Garaki, where have you placed the additional 50 Nomu? — Garaki sighed heavily, feeling a pang of anxiety in his heart, and looked into the unwavering eyes of his master.
— Master, those 50 A rank Nomu were designated for the protection of the laboratory, should the heroes employ reserve forces to locate it, — he explained. Smiling, "All for One" patted Doctor Garaki on the shoulder. The absence of 50 units from the army did not frustrate him; on the contrary, it filled him with satisfaction, as it was one of the critical elements within the possession of the Lord of Darkness.
— Do not worry, my friend; this is merely a small detail. Even without these 50 Nomu, the heroes will find it exceedingly difficult to approach me, — with a contented chuckle, the doctor handed him the tablet displaying the characteristics and images of the Nomu.
D rank — 375 ground units and 375 flying Nomu; C rank — 300 units; B rank — 150 units; A rank — 50 units and 50 for laboratory security.
— And how do I control them? — This question had been anticipated by Garaki from the very beginning, and with a smile, he dramatically stroked his mustache.
— You need only a single word, Master! — With a wide grin, "All for One" surveyed the array of Nomu standing motionless before him. One word was sufficient for all of them to obey his command without exception.
— Kneel! — The Nomu dropped to one knee, supporting their weight with their right hand, lowering their heads as they gazed at the floor. Even the A rank Nomu bent the knee before their master, despite their imposing size.
— Excellent, ahahaha! — Roaring with laughter at the scene, he left the scientist standing next to him in a state of shock, as he felt the powerful aura emanating from his master. Stepping back several paces, he approached the table where his latest invention for this battle awaited.
— Master, allow me to present my latest invention designed specifically for your battle! — Demonstrating his enthusiasm for the scientist's creations, "All for One" focused on a small device in the doctor's hand that resembled a control panel, and his gaze fell upon a sinister mask for the face lying on the table. Its color was as dark as tar, concealing any features, and it was connected to various tubes.
— Sir, this is a teleportation device, and it is linked to you. Should your pulse drop below 70, it will immediately teleport you to this laboratory, indicating a dire need for medical assistance. — "All for One's" confidence surged, now exceeding 100%. Taking the teleporter in hand, he placed it into his new black English suit, complete with a coat that could withstand all his quirks without tearing like ordinary fabric. Curiosity piqued regarding the mask's potential.
— This mask, I believe, demands my attention, — as he approached the table, he caught sight of his reflection in the visor of the mask. White hair and white eyes radiated confidence. Glancing at his hand, he noted the blood of countless lives he had taken, yet now it seemed meaningless to feel remorse. Now, like a father to his son, he must put an end to all this for the sake of a peaceful life after years of battling heroes and villains of all kinds.
— Sir, this is not yet the final version of your helmet. This is merely a prototype, but it is functional. It can filter out poisonous gases and convert them into pure oxygen. Even if those with gas-related quirks attempt to use gas against you, they will find themselves unable to harm you. — He donned the ominous mask, combining it seamlessly with his suit. Synchronizing with the mask, it began to glow in vibrant neon purple hues.
— Why so many? It seems perfect for the upcoming battle. — The doctor attempted to dissuade him from this course, but "All for One" swiftly quelled his concerns with his response, causing the doctor to shiver.
— Enough! You have already excelled in your efforts, and I will not delay this plan any longer! — "All for One" declared, clenching his fists. He had invested considerable time into this plan, and now he had no choice but to act swiftly. Inko and Izuku were waiting for him, missing him since his departure. He yearned to once again touch the beautiful face of his beloved and embrace Izuku, who had matured since he left. The mere thought of them fueled his motivation to incinerate all his enemies in hellfire.
The doctor opted not to say anything further to his master and simply nodded in agreement. Observing the proud figure of his master and his army, he offered a faint smile before turning away, heading toward the nearest monitors.
— Kuragiri, prepare a portal for me in the forest near Mount Fuji! — Before him, a purplish mist opened up, fulfilling the master's command and sending him into the woods.
As soon as "All for One" departed, Doctor Garaki sent a specially prepared video recording to the government and the hero community as a whole, intentionally avoiding the mass media and ordinary citizens. This video was addressed specifically to All Might.
***
— All Might, if you see this recording, know that I am fully aware of your fury regarding your teacher. If you seek revenge, I invite you to Mount Fuji. Here, one of us must rise, and the other must fall. — Making a dramatic pause, he directed his gaze toward Mount Fuji, which was obscured by clouds.
— And Gran Torino, I know you have also been searching for me all these years. If you wish to take revenge for your partner, you have my invitation.
All Might and Gran Torino, who had been relentlessly searching for "All for One" throughout the years, were engulfed in a wave of rage upon witnessing his face in its entirety. Not only did he exhibit no fear, but he openly mocked them, smirking at every opportunity. Watching the recording, All Might donned his hero costume and assumed his peak form. He had grown stronger since their first encounter. He had searched exhaustively for any traces of "All for One," but found nothing, as he had systematically eradicated all information regarding himself. Gran Torino was equally consumed by anger. After years of searching, he had resolved to openly challenge him. They also found no trace of Nana Shimura, who had become a pool of blood and a meal for the Nomu.
While in the city of Mustafa, All Might glanced at the clock, which indicated that it was the deep of night — 2 AM, with only 5 hours remaining until dawn. He picked up his phone and called his long-time ally, Mirai Sasaki, better known as Night Eye.
— Hello, All Might, what has happened? — In response, he heard a rough and tense voice.
— Night Eye, I am en route to Mount Fuji. The day I faced my most formidable enemy is repeating itself. I cannot be certain I will return alive, but one thing I am absolutely sure of: I will stop "All for One" at the cost of my own life. — Mirai was taken aback by this revelation. He utilized his quirk of foresight and witnessed a scene that left him in utter shock.
All Might lay on the ground in a tattered costume. Nearby, Gran Torino was sprawled, his limbs broken and useless. All he could manage was a low groan of pain, watching helplessly as "All for One" savored the moment, slowly tearing All Might's arm away, relishing his suffering. All Might looked utterly shocked and, lying in a pool of his own blood, saw an approaching army of humanoid beings, ready to tear his body to shreds. From the fragmented images, he realized that All Might had not passed on the quirk "One for All" to anyone, and in the next scene, he witnessed "All for One" seizing the quirk "One for All" from All Might.
That moment was enough to send chills down his spine and instill a cold sweat across his brow. All Might remained on the line, and after his words hung in the air, he waited in silence for a response from Night Eye. Unable to withstand the thought of his idol perishing, Mirai began to scream at All Might, who had anticipated such a reaction from his old friend.
— IDIOT! DON'T GO THERE! YOU'RE WALKING INTO SURE DEATH, NOT JUST FOR YOURSELF, BUT FOR GRAN TORINO!!!! — He unleashed his feelings without restraint, forgetting all formalities. But All Might, as always, stood his ground, refusing to make any concessions or compromises. Mirai had hoped that he might listen to him this time, but he was sorely mistaken.
— No, Mirai, I won't allow him to slip through my grasp again. Our battle will conclude today. It is my duty as the Symbol of Peace, and I cannot truly be All Might if I fail to fulfill my responsibility. If this is our last conversation, know that it has been an honor to work alongside you, my old friend. — Upon hearing these words, Mirai began to shout and weep, pleading for him not to go there alone. He wished to participate in this battle as well, fighting side by side with his idol, but All Might refused him, asserting that this was his personal quest for vengeance.
— All Might, I have seen your future, and in it, you die the most horrific death imaginable, and "One for All" will fall into the hands of "All for One." I implore you, do not do this. — All Might was undeterred by this response. With a resolute smile, he spoke to Night Eye, conveying what he had long wished to express.
— The future can be altered. Even the most precise computer in existence can make errors, and so can you. No one is destined to see the future; only God knows it. — Dissatisfied with his answer, Night Eye rose from his chair. He intended to counter his statement, but All Might cut off the connection, delivering just three words.
— Farewell, my friend. — With that, he hung up and, with a surge of immense force, shattered the phone he had been holding.
— ALMIGHT! — He barely had time to utter the name when the connection was severed, leaving Night Eye in a state of complete silence. With shocked eyes, he stared at the door of his office.
— NO!!! NO!!! NO!!! NO!!! NO!!! — he shouted at the top of his lungs, tossing his glasses aside and grabbing his long fingers into his meticulously groomed green hair, ruffling it in distress. All Might was the first person to believe in him and give him hope for a future where he could become a hero despite his quirk. He would never forget that day. His contribution to the development of hero society was so profound and invaluable that he bought every kind of merchandise featuring All Might, from toys to clothing, even if they were absurdly expensive. Banging his head against the table, for the first time in his life, he felt utterly lost about what to do. With his foresight, he had always had a plan for every situation, but this time he was left with nothing but despair. Gathering his thoughts, he glanced at the phone that contained a contact for emergencies regarding All Might's reckless tendencies.
***
"All for One," standing in a secluded clearing, awaited his adversary alone, keeping his cards close to his chest. He gazed at the majestic Mount Fuji, a mountain steeped in legends and myths. He planned to celebrate his victory by throwing All Might's body from its heights, marking his triumph over the Symbol of Peace. For according to his own words, "One must rise, and the other must fall." While AFO surveyed the mountain, he was confident that All Might would arrive very soon, fully aware of his speed. He had grown significantly stronger since their first encounter and was now at the pinnacle of his powers, ready to arrive within minutes.
Lost in thought about what Izuku might be doing, he noticed two figures rapidly approaching in the sky. They could not catch him off guard, as he possessed reflexes that surpassed the sound barrier for beings like them. He chose not to dodge, instead opting to absorb their strikes with his shield, which, despite cracking, managed to withstand their assault.
As the shield shattered, he sent both of them flying to the side, keenly observing their reactions. The first, whose ever-present smile had vanished, now wore a quiet rage and a sinister grin. The second, whose focus was his trademark, now exhibited a furrowed brow and streaks of gray in his hair.
— Finally, you have arrived!
To be continued.