The Burden of Time [Aizawa x OC]

- twelve -

I spent a good amount of time studying the book Aizawa lent me and an even greater amount of time trying to teach July its contents. Two days was not nearly enough time for me to feel confident in our test taking, but it was what we had. Whether we liked it or not, testing day came sooner than we'd have liked.

"The past two days have only taught me to choose the fluffiest answers possible." July hoisted his messenger bag higher on his shoulder as we walked toward the provisional license testing site. Because we had to leave early for our own exam half way through, July and I felt it easier to drive separately from the students. "What do you do when encountering a villain? Offer to discuss their life choices over tea before engaging." He mocked.

I could understand his stance and the mockery. We had spent the past 20 years being molded by American ideals. We were not trained to discuss or communicate; we were trained to act. If that meant a life - even an innocent one - that was a sacrifice we had to make. Whatever it took to stop the villain.

"At least you have the right idea." I sighed. It had been a long two days, but at least July had learned something about Japanese hero ethics. Their ethical principles were always focused on people first, even if that meant treating the villain like a human being. Here, we were expected to put our personal feelings aside and act with dignity and grace. Even the worst of villains deserved humane treatment according to Japanese hero ethics.

In my opinion, America could stand to learn something from Japan. But what do I know.

The students of UA had just cleared the bus and were standing on the sidewalk when July and I approached. "If you guys fail, we're going to be disappointed." July's version of a greeting had me elbowing him in the ribs. He winced at the impact.

"Say what you want, old man," Bakugo responded. "But nothing will be more embarrassing than two grown-ass-elite heroes failing an ethics course."

"Simmer down, you glorified party popper." July bit back. Bakugo's palms began to spark in response.

"If you can pass this test and get your provisional licenses, then you novice eggs will hatch into chicks. You'll be semi-pros." Aizawa began, seemingly to distract the brewing fight. His voice was as commanding and serious as ever. "I expect your best."

I tried my best to ignore the silent authority he held. I refused to acknowledge the inadvertent effects it had on me. I wiped my clammy palms on my thighs. Why was I always sweating in front of him? Breathe in one, two, three. Breathe out one, two, three.

"Alright, I can't wait to be a heroic chicken!" Denki shouted, seemingly pumped up from Aizawa's miniature speech.

Kirishima joined in on the excitement. "Let's call out the usual, guys! On my mark!" He held his hand high in the air.  "Go plus!"

Before the rest of the students could join in, a tall figure approached from behind. He was wearing a different uniform, one with a weird hat. "ULTRA!!!!!!!!!!!" He yelled from the depths of his lungs.

"You know, it's pretty rude of you to barge in on other people's huddles like that." His classmate chastised.

"What? Pardon me" The tall kid's expression was overly-shocked. "I AM SO!!!! VERY!!!! EXTREMELY!!!!! SORRY!!!!!" He bowed so deeply that his head hit off of the cement sidewalk.

Does this kid have a chill button?

"Who is this guy? I do not trust his enthusiasm." Denki pointed out. At least Denki had some sense sometimes.

I didn't miss the look of recognition on Aizawa's face. "Inasa Yoarashi."

"Do you know that guy, Mr. Aizawa?"