Can We Be Heroes?

Chapter 22• A Father's Worry.

Yagi Toshinori sat across from Nezu, the small principal of UA High, in the cozy confines of Nezu’s office. The room was lined with bookshelves, the scent of tea wafting through the air as Nezu poured himself another cup.

"Now, Yagi," Nezu began, his high-pitched voice laced with its usual cheerfulness. "As we discussed, your transition into teaching will be critical for the development of our next generation of heroes. We need to ensure that you’re well-prepared, especially given your... unique circumstances."

"Of course," Yagi replied, nodding absently. His usual booming energy was replaced by a quieter demeanor, his mind clearly elsewhere.

Nezu’s sharp, beady eyes didn’t miss the faraway look in Yagi’s face. The tiny rodent-like principal paused, setting down his teacup and tilting his head curiously. "Yagi? Is something troubling you?"

Yagi blinked, startled out of his thoughts. "Ah, no, Principal Nezu. I’m fine, just a little distracted."

Nezu hummed, unconvinced. He clasped his tiny paws together, his inquisitive nature getting the better of him. "Distracted, you say? Interesting. You’re not usually one to lose focus, especially during such an important discussion. Could it be that something—or someone—is weighing on your mind?"

Yagi hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line. He knew better than to try and hide anything from Nezu. The principal was far too perceptive, his sharp mind always a few steps ahead.

"It’s nothing important," Yagi said finally, though his tone betrayed his unease.

Nezu’s eyes gleamed with curiosity as he leaned forward, his small frame perched on the edge of his seat. "Oh, I doubt that. Please, Yagi, share your thoughts. After all, how can we mold young minds if we’re not honest about what’s troubling our own?"

Yagi sighed, running a hand through his blonde hair. "It’s… about my son," he admitted reluctantly.

Nezu’s ears perked up. "Ah, yes. Monoma Neito, correct? A rather spirited young man, if I recall."

Yagi nodded, his expression softening. "He hasn’t called in weeks. Not that I expect him to—I know things between us are… strained."

"Strained?" Nezu repeated, his voice gentle but probing.

Yagi’s shoulders slumped slightly, a rare show of vulnerability. "We’ve been distant for years, ever since… well, ever since my wife... his mother passed. Monoma blames me for a lot of things, and honestly, I can’t say he’s wrong. I’ve made mistakes, prioritized my career as All Might over being a good husband or father. And now..."

His voice trailed off, hands clenching slightly as he stared at the table. "Now it feels like I’ve lost him entirely."

Nezu sipped his tea thoughtfully, his sharp mind piecing together the emotions behind Yagi’s words. "It sounds to me like you’re trying to bridge a very wide gap. A daunting task, to be sure, but not impossible."

Yagi offered a small, weary smile. "I appreciate the optimism, Nezu, but I don’t even know where to start. Monoma’s so angry with me. I don’t even know if he wants me in his life anymore."

Nezu tapped his tiny paw against his chin, his eyes sparkling with an idea.  “Have you ever thought of enrolling Monoma at UA? He’s exceptionally talented no doubt. I could arrange for him to join through recommendations if that’s something you’d prefer.”

Yagi frowned, his expression darkening at the suggestion. “Monoma wants nothing to do with heroes,” he said quietly.

“Oh? That’sunfortunate. But it’s also… intriguing. What led him to feel that way? Does he hate heroes?”