(Author note: A around 8k chapter- sorry been gone for a while. Kinda busy with life.
Do know the Timeskips are each from how long its been since the first scene.
Well, enjoy.)
----------------------------
-Months Ago
Nolan's POV:
I never planned on becoming a villain.
Not in this new world, at least, when we arrived that is.
The first time around – back when I was Omni-Man, conqueror of worlds – I had no illusions about my role.
I was the villain in countless species' stories, the monster who came from the stars and subjugated their worlds in Viltrum's name.
But that was different. That was duty. That was purpose.
This... this is theater.
The warehouse district at night smells of rust and salt from the nearby bay. I adjust my pristine white suit – a deliberate contrast to Samantha's black attire – as I step out of the car.
My mask sits comfortably against my face, the voice modulator humming softly as it activates.
"Are you ready?" I ask Samantha, my voice emerging deeper, mechanical.
She nods once, her own mask in place. In the months since we began this charade, she's grown more comfortable in her War persona. Perhaps too comfortable.
Thragg has noticed it too – the way she slips into the role with disturbing ease, the way she sometimes forgets to come back from it.
We're here to meet with the most dangerous villain in Japan's history.
All For One – the shadow puppeteer who has manipulated this country's underworld for over a century. A being who, against anyone else, might have been truly formidable.
But we are Viltrumites. And this is merely another step in my brother's- our Emperor's conquest.
It seems I've been slipping into this brother role too easily since we've arrived in this world- I must not forget to show the Emperor appropriate respect after this world's matter is concluded.
"Remember the parameters," I say quietly as we approach the warehouse entrance. "If he acts as we expect then there needs to be convincing resistance, followed by gradual submission. Make him believe his control is absolute."
"I know the plan, Uncle," Samantha replies, her voice cold through her modulator. "I've been preparing for this moment for weeks."
I study her briefly, noting the tension in her shoulders, the slight tremor in her left hand – signs of sleep deprivation she's trying to hide.
She's been pushing herself too hard, using her molecular manipulation to function without rest. It's effective but dangerous.
"Don't overextend," I warn her. "This is a long game."
Before she can respond, the warehouse door opens. A man with a mist-like body and glowing yellow eyes emerges – Kurogiri, All For One's most loyal servant.
"You're expected," he states, his formal tone at odds with our surroundings. "Please, follow me."
As we enter the warehouse, I activate the subtle recording device embedded in my mask. Every interaction with All For One will be transmitted to Thragg's secure server, analyzed for weaknesses, strategies, and potential allies.
The real work is about to begin.
The interior of the warehouse has been transformed into something resembling a throne room.
Industrial lighting casts harsh shadows across concrete floors, while expensive furniture creates a sitting area in the center.
And there he sits – All For One. In person, he's less impressive than I expected. Tall, well-dressed, distinguished, but he pales when I compare him to the Emperor.
His face is obscured by a sophisticated life-support mask, evidence of injuries sustained in his first battle with All Might years ago- apparently he's forgone illusions, having found out they don't work against us.
"War and Heisenberg," he greets us, his mechanically filtered voice carrying across the space. "Your reputation precedes you. I've been watching your operation with great interest."
I incline my head slightly – just enough deference to appear respectful without seeming weak. "The interest is mutual. Your... invitation was unexpected but welcome."
"Invitation?" All For One chuckles, the sound distorted by his respirator. "Is that what you call my systematic disruption of your supply chains? The strategic elimination of your distributors in Hosu?"
Samantha steps forward, her posture aggressive. "You cost us millions. That's not an invitation – that's a declaration of war. You betrayed our deal."
All For One's mask betrays no expression, but I sense his amusement. "And yet here you are, in my territory, unarmed and exposed. Either very brave or very foolish."
"Or very confident," I counter smoothly. "Your tactics were effective but ultimately unnecessary. If you wanted a meeting- wanted things to be discussed, a simple request would have sufficed, rather than these theatrics."
"Perhaps," All For One concedes, gesturing to the seating area. "But I find that applying pressure reveals character more effectively than polite conversation. Please, sit."
As we move to the indicated chairs, I note the positions of the Nomu guards stationed around the perimeter – six in total, each bearing multiple quirks if the intelligence Roberta gathered is accurate.
Formidable by this world's standards, but little more than annoyances to beings of our strength.
All For One leans forward slightly. "Your drug – Elevation – it's quite remarkable. Quirk enhancement without the mental deterioration or physical side effects of Trigger. My scientists have been unable to replicate it despite extensive analysis."
And there is the matter at hand- what we carefully directed so that he "betrays" our operation for this step to happen, and us to get closer into his inner circle.
"That's because the formula is incomplete without War's direct involvement," I explain, settling into the role of the pragmatic businessman. "Her quirk is integral to the final stabilization process."
"Molecular manipulation at such a precise level," All For One muses, his masked face turning toward Samantha. "Fascinating. And you, Heisenberg – your strength quirk is equally impressive. The reports from those who've witnessed you in action are... concerning."
I allow a small smile beneath my mask. "We all have our talents."
"Indeed." All For One's tone shifts, becoming more direct.
"Which brings me to my proposition. Your operation has potential, but it lacks vision, infrastructure, and protection from certain... heroic interventions. I've only provided limited amounts till now, but I can always give more, provide truly what is needed."
"In exchange for?" Samantha asks, her voice sharp.
"Submission, no longer a partnership- it wasn't real before anyways," All For One replies simply.
"Your production capabilities combined with my distribution network and influence. Together, we could revolutionize Japan's underworld. All you need to do is this time submit to me and tell me your secrets."
I exchange a glance with Samantha, playing out the choreography we've rehearsed. "And if we decline?" I ask.
All For One spreads his hands in a gesture of regret. "Then I'm afraid this meeting concludes less pleasantly than it began. I've invested considerable resources in understanding your operation. I know your identities, your weaknesses, your... family connections."
He pauses, letting the threat hang in the air. "Detective Thragg Grayson, for instance – your older brother, I believe? Quite the rising star in the police department. And his daughter Samantha – your niece. How tragic it would be if they discovered your... extracurricular activities."
I tense visibly – not at the threat itself, which is meaningless given our true nature, but because this is the moment our plan hinges upon.
All For One believes he's found leverage, a way to control us. We need to let him believe it's working.
"You're well-informed," I acknowledge, my voice hardening. "But threatening my family is a dangerous game."
"It's not a threat," All For One corrects smoothly. "Merely an observation of potential consequences. I much prefer willing partnerships to coerced ones."
Samantha rises suddenly, pink energy flickering around her hands. "I won't be manipulated," she snarls, the modulator giving her voice an otherworldly quality.
This is her cue – the show of resistance before the apparent breaking of her will. All For One raises a hand, and immediately I feel a strange pressure in my mind – his attempt at mental control.
"I anticipated resistance," he says calmly. "Which is why I've taken precautions. The air you've been breathing contains particles designed to make you particularly susceptible to my newest acquisition – a rather impressive mind control quirk."
Samantha staggers slightly, her energy dissipating as she clutches her head. "What... what are you..." she gasps.
I move to support her, playing my part in this elaborate deception. "What have you done to her?" I demand, injecting rage into my voice.
"Nothing permanent," All For One assures me. "Simply establishing the parameters of our relationship. You see, I've found that the best partnerships are those where all parties understand their proper roles. Me the leader, you the slaves."
I feel Samantha go limp in my arms, her body shuddering as she pretends to fight off his mental assault. She's an excellent actress – perhaps too good. The fear in her eyes seems almost genuine.
"Stop this," I growl, allowing my own body to tense as though fighting the same influence. "We can... negotiate..."
"We are negotiating," All For One replies pleasantly. "I'm simply ensuring you understand the terms."
Gradually, I allow my resistance to falter, my posture slumping as though surrendering to his control. Samantha has already gone still, her breathing steady, her eyes now vacant.
"Excellent," All For One says, satisfaction evident in his tone. "Much more civilized, don't you agree?"
I straighten slowly, adopting the slightly stiff movements of someone under mental influence. "What would you have us do... master?" I ask, the words bitter on my tongue.
All For One chuckles. "Master? No, no – we're partners, remember?"
Does he think he is funny? First he calls himself leader, and now he says partners? How is a clown like this the ruler of the underworld?
"You'll continue your operation as before, but with certain... adjustments to your clientele and formula. And of course, you'll report directly to me."
He turns to Samantha, studying her with evident interest. "War will work with my scientists to improve the Nomu production process. Her molecular manipulation could revolutionize their stability."
"And my brother?" I ask, maintaining the facade of reluctant submission.
"Will remain blissfully unaware of your true nature," All For One assures me. "As long as our partnership remains productive, of course."
I bow my head, seemingly defeated. "We understand."
"Wonderful." All For One rises from his seat, approaching us with measured steps. "I believe this is the beginning of a very fruitful relationship."
As he extends his hand to seal our "agreement," I can't help but marvel at the irony. He believes he's ensnared us in his web, never suspecting that he's actually caught in ours.
The greatest villain in Japan's history, manipulated by those he thinks he's controlling.
My brother will be pleased.
-----------------------
Three Weeks Later
"Again."
Shigaraki's voice grates against my ears as he gives the command. His lanky frame perches on a crate in the corner of the training facility, scratching absently at his neck as he watches.
I stand in the center of the room, surrounded by five Nomu – each one stronger than the last batch, thanks to Samantha's "contributions" to their development.
This is the third set I've faced today. The floor is already littered with the broken remains of the previous groups.
"Is this really necessary?" I ask, my voice modulator giving the question a mechanical edge. "I've already demonstrated my capabilities."
Shigaraki scratches more vigorously, his eyes narrowing behind the hand that covers his face. "Sensei wants to know your limits. So we keep going until we find them."
I suppress a sigh. In the weeks since our "recruitment," All For One has kept Samantha and me separated – a basic tactic to prevent conspiracy among his subordinates in case we somehow are able to resist his control enough.
She works in the labs, enhancing Nomu production and creating more "Elevation", while I've been assigned as Shigaraki's primary guard and combat trainer.
The young villain is exactly as childish and unstable as our intelligence suggested. Prone to tantrums, fixated on destruction, and pathologically obsessed with All Might.
Yet beneath the petulant exterior, I've glimpsed something else – a wounded soul seeking purpose, direction.
A potential asset, if approached correctly. One our Emperor apparently has shown interest in.
"Very well," I say, settling into a fighting stance. "Release them."
The Nomu charge simultaneously, their movements faster and more coordinated than the previous batch.
I allow the first one to reach me, catching its massive fist mid-swing. With calculated precision, I apply just enough force to shatter its arm without revealing my true strength.
The second Nomu attempts to flank me. I pivot, driving my elbow into its exposed brain with enough force to incapacitate but not kill.
The third and fourth attack together, one from above, one from below. I weave between them, redirecting their momentum to make them collide.
The fifth Nomu – clearly the most advanced – hangs back, analyzing my movements. It has multiple quirks, including what appears to be one that can be used for tactical assessment.
Interesting.
"Your Nomu are improving," I comment to Shigaraki as I dispatch the third with a strike to its spine. "Still inefficient, though."
Shigaraki's scratching intensifies. "What do you mean, inefficient? Sensei designed them himself!"
I duck under the fourth Nomu's wild swing, sweeping its legs from under it. "They rely too heavily on raw strength and regeneration,"
I explain, driving my heel into its chest cavity. "Proper combat training would make them far more effective with the same quirks- were they to have better intelligence that is."
The fifth Nomu finally moves, its attack pattern noticeably more sophisticated- still nothing though.
It feints left, then strikes right. I allow the hit to graze my shoulder, pretending the impact is greater than it is.
"See?" I say, gesturing to the fifth Nomu. "This one seems to understand strategy. It's already more effective than the others."
Shigaraki stops scratching, his attention caught. "You think training matters that much? Nomu are weapons, not students."
I finish the fifth Nomu with a counterattack, disabling it. Then I turn to face Shigaraki directly.
"Even the finest sword requires proper wielding," I tell him. "Power without technique is wasteful. Your Sensei understands this – it's why he's survived for over a century while lesser villains have fallen."
Shigaraki considers this, head tilted slightly. "You talk like you respect him."
"I respect power used efficiently," I reply, choosing my words carefully. This is an opportunity to begin planting seeds. "Though I question certain aspects of his approach."
"Like what?" Shigaraki demands, suddenly defensive.
I move to the water cooler in the corner, taking my time to formulate a response that will intrigue rather than alienate.
"His reliance on the current system," I say finally. "Heroes and villains, locked in endless conflict. It maintains a status quo that benefits neither side in the long term."
Shigaraki's eyes narrow. "We're going to destroy that system. Crush it completely."
"And replace it with what?" I ask, keeping my tone curious rather than challenging.
It is good that the "mind control" All For One used was one that simply gives us commands to follow, and does not surpress our personalities- something we knew would happen, since he needs us, and not mindless drones.
The question catches him off guard. He opens his mouth, then closes it, scratching his neck more vigorously.
"Destruction alone creates nothing," I continue, pressing my advantage. "It merely leaves a vacuum to be filled by something else – often something worse than what was destroyed."
"That's not-" Shigaraki begins, then stops. "Sensei has a plan."
"I'm sure he does," I agree smoothly. "All For One has survived this long by planning meticulously. But have you considered that his plans might be shaped by his own experiences? His own grudges?"
Shigaraki stands abruptly, his fingers spread in the telltale gesture that precedes his decay quirk. "You're his slave. You shouldn't be questioning him."
I raise my hands in a placating gesture. "Not questioning. Merely... considering alternative perspectives. Isn't that what a good strategist does?"
Before Shigaraki can respond, the door opens to reveal Kurogiri. "Shigaraki Tomura," he says formally. "All For One requests your presence."
Shigaraki hesitates, clearly torn between continuing our conversation and responding to his master's summons. Finally, he turns toward the door.
"Clean up this mess," he orders, gesturing to the disabled Nomu. "And be ready for another session tomorrow. We still haven't found your limits."
As he leaves with Kurogiri, I allow myself a small smile beneath my mask. The first seed has been planted. It will take time to grow, but patience is something Viltrumites have in abundance.
I begin gathering the Nomu remains, my thoughts turning to Samantha. I hope her assignment is proceeding as planned.
--------------------
Nearly Two Months Later
The laboratory is filled activity as Samantha – War – works alongside Doctor Ujiko, All For One's personal physician and the primary architect of the Nomu program.
Her hands move, precise, pink energy flowing around cellular samples as she manipulates their molecular structure.
I watch from the doorway, having been summoned to escort her to a rare joint meeting with All For One. It's been weeks since we've had a chance to speak privately, and I'm concerned by what I see.
She's lost weight. The dark circles under her eyes are visible even through her mask. She's pushing herself too hard, using her powers to function without proper rest.
"Fascinating," Doctor Ujiko murmurs, observing the cellular transformation through his specialized goggles. "The stability factor has increased by 87% with minimal quirk degradation. How are you maintaining the neural pathways during reconstruction?"
"Selective molecular bonding at the synapse level," Samantha explains, her voice flat and clinical. "The trick is preserving memory encoding while enhancing physical capabilities."
Ujiko adjusts his goggles, practically vibrating with excitement. "This could revolutionize the entire program! With these modifications, we could create Nomu that retain complete cognitive function while still maintaining perfect obedience."
I clear my throat, drawing their attention. "War. It's time."
Samantha looks up, her movements slightly sluggish as she disengages from her work. "Heisenberg. I didn't realize you were here."
"All For One has requested our presence," I explain, watching her carefully. "Are you well?"
"Perfectly functional," she replies, the phrase itself a warning sign. Samantha never spoke that way before – it's too mechanical, too detached- in a way that doesn't appear to be an act.
What is this girl doing? Does she not realise that the Emperor would be very displeased by her harming herself like this?
As she joins me at the door, I place a hand on her shoulder, squeezing gently – a silent reminder of who she really is, who we really are.
"Your work has been exemplary," Ujiko calls after her. "All For One will be pleased with our progress."
We walk in silence through the corridors of the hidden facility. Only when we're in the elevator, temporarily free from surveillance, do I speak freely.
"You're pushing too hard," I say quietly.
Samantha's posture stiffens. "I'm fine. The mission requires total commitment."
"The mission requires you at your best," I counter. "Not exhausted and dangerously close to losing yourself in the role."
The elevator doors open before she can respond, forcing us back into our characters as we approach All For One's private chambers. But I've seen enough to be concerned.
This infiltration is taking a toll on Samantha – one that might prove costly if not addressed soon.
All For One awaits us in his customary position, seated regally in a high-backed chair that resembles a throne. Kurogiri stands to his right, while Shigaraki perches on a stool to his left, scratching at his neck as usual.
"Ah, my most valuable assets," All For One greets us, his mechanical voice somehow conveying warmth. "Please, join us. We have much to discuss."
We take our positions before him, standing at attention like the obedient servants he believes us to be.
"Your contributions have exceeded my expectations," he continues. "War, your molecular manipulation has advanced our Nomu program by years. And Heisenberg, your combat expertise has proven invaluable in testing their capabilities."
"We live to serve," I reply, the irony of the statement lost on everyone but Samantha and myself.
All For One leans forward slightly. "Indeed. And now I have a new assignment for you both – one that will test the limits of your... loyalty."
He gestures, and Kurogiri activates his quirk, creating a portal through which images of a familiar figure appear – Detective Thragg Grayson, investigating a crime scene in the warehouse district.
"Your brother has become quite the problem," All For One states, his tone conversational. "His investigation into the Shie Hassaikai is getting uncomfortably close to certain operations of mine."
I tense visibly – not out of concern for Thragg, who could obliterate this entire world with enough effort, but because this is an unexpected development in our plan.
"What would you have us do?" I ask carefully.
"Nothing drastic," All For One assures me, amusement evident in his voice. "Simply... distract him. Create a situation that will divert his attention elsewhere. Perhaps a significant criminal event in another district?"
Beside me, Samantha shifts slightly. "You want us to commit a crime to distract my father?"
"Is that a problem?" All For One asks, his tone suddenly cooler. "I was under the impression that your loyalty was assured."
As he says this I feel his mental probing.
"It is," I interject quickly. "We were merely clarifying the parameters of the assignment."
All For One studies us for a long moment, his featureless mask revealing nothing of his thoughts. Finally, he nods.
"Good. Because I would hate to think that my control was... slipping."
He rises from his chair, approaching us with measured steps. "You know, it's quite ironic. The great Detective Thragg, champion of justice, has no idea that his precious daughter and younger brother are working for me."
"That his daughter is creating drugs and enhancing Nomu. That his brother is training my protégé."
He circles us slowly, like a predator savoring the moment before the kill. "I wonder how he would react if he knew? The noble detective, betrayed by his own family."
I maintain my rigid posture, playing the part of the mind-controlled servant. "He would be devastated," I agree flatly.
"Yes, I imagine so." All For One stops before Samantha, studying her through his mask. "Family betrayal is particularly painful. I know this from personal experience."
He turns back to his chair, dismissing us with a wave. "Kurogiri will provide the details of your assignment. I expect results within 48 hours."
As we turn to leave, All For One adds almost casually, "Oh, and Heisenberg? I've been meaning to ask – why that particular name? It's a reference to a pre-quirk era television show, is it not? Breaking Bad, I believe. I didn't realize anyone besides myself still had access to such... historical entertainment."
I freeze momentarily, caught off guard by the question. This wasn't in our intelligence briefing – All For One's knowledge of pre-quirk media, nor his care to mention it.
Before I can formulate a response, Samantha speaks up. "It was my idea," she says. "I've always had an interest in pre-quirk history."
"Most of it is borderline illegal these days, with how hidden and censored it is by the Hero Commission, but with my abilities, it wasn't difficult to access."
All For One turns toward her, clearly intrigued. "A fellow enthusiast? How unexpected. Perhaps we should discuss this shared interest sometime."
"I find pre-quirk entertainment to be refreshingly... honest about human nature. Not so divided in categories like 'villains' and 'heroes'" He states, his tone shifting to disdain at the word 'heroes.'
"I would be honored," Samantha replies smoothly.
--------------------
Nearly Three Months Later
Shigaraki's laboratory is a mess of gaming consoles, empty energy drink cans, and maps. I stand by the window, watching as he paces back and forth, muttering to himself about his latest plan to undermine the hero system.
In the months since our initial conversation, I've carefully cultivated a relationship with him – not friendship, exactly, but a kind of mentorship that he doesn't fully recognize as such.
Small suggestions here, pointed questions there. Slowly guiding his thinking without seeming to do so.
"The UA sports festival," he says, scratching at his neck. "It's perfect. All those hero students gathered in one place, broadcast live to the entire country."
"And your objective?" I ask, keeping my tone neutral.
"Chaos," he replies immediately. "Destruction. Showing everyone how fragile their precious hero society really is. Especially after that fuck up at the USJ."
I nod slowly, as though considering. "Effective for creating fear, certainly. But fear alone is a limited tool."
Shigaraki stops pacing, turning to face me. "What do you mean?"
"Fear paralyzes temporarily but creates resistance long-term," I explain. "People rally against what terrifies them. They unify. Become stronger."
"So what would you do?" he asks, and I note with satisfaction that there's genuine curiosity in his voice now, not just defensive anger.
"Consider what happens after the destruction," I say carefully. "What world are you trying to create? Not just what you're tearing down, but what you're building in its place."
Shigaraki resumes his scratching, more agitated now. "Sensei says society needs to be destroyed before it can be rebuilt."
"And he's right," I agree. "But destruction without vision just creates a vacuum. Someone else will fill it – perhaps someone worse than what came before."
I move closer, lowering my voice as though sharing a secret. "True revolution isn't just about tearing down the old system. It's about having something better ready to replace it."
"Like what?" Shigaraki demands, his scratching intensifying.
"Like a world where strength is recognized and rewarded," I suggest.
"Where people aren't constrained by artificial rules about how their powers can be used. Where someone with the will and vision to truly lead isn't held back by bureaucracy and public opinion."
Shigaraki's scratching slows as he considers this. "Someone like Sensei?"
I shrug slightly. "Perhaps. Though even All For One operates within the current system in many ways. He opposes heroes, yes, but still defines himself in relation to them. Still plays the game, just from the villain's side."
"What's the alternative?" Shigaraki asks, and I can see I've genuinely engaged his interest now.
"Imagine someone who stands above the entire hero-villain dichotomy," I suggest. "Someone who sees both as limited, outdated concepts. Someone who could reshape society not through terror or destruction, but through genuine elevation."
"Elevation?" Shigaraki repeats, the word clearly unfamiliar in this context. Only having known it as the name of the Quirk-drug.
"Raising people to their highest potential," I explain. "Creating a world where quirks aren't restricted by licenses and regulations, where true strength is recognized and respected, where society evolves beyond its current limitations."
"Where people aren't hated for what they are born with, and there aren't so many shallow people worshipped." That last part, hitting close to Tomura's own history that Roberta has found out.
I can see the idea taking root in Shigaraki's mind, his scratching completely stopped now as he heard what I said.
Then he begins to furiously scratch again, faster than ever before, till his dried skin tears, and blood pools under his nails.
Before I can tell him to be careful and stop, Kurogiri materializes in the doorway. "Shigaraki Tomura, All For One requests your presence immediately. There's been a development with the Shie Hassaikai operation."
Shigaraki stops scratching at this and slowly nods, moving toward the door. He pauses briefly, looking back at me. "We'll continue this discussion later, Heisenberg. I want to hear more about this... elevation."
-------------------
Three Months and Two Weeks Later
The warehouse feels different tonight – charged with an energy I haven't felt since our initial meeting with All For One. Something has changed. Something significant.
Samantha stands beside me, her posture rigid with tension. We've been summoned for what All For One described as a "strategic briefing," but the presence of the entire League of Villains suggests something more substantial.
All For One enters last, his masked face turning to survey the assembled villains. Beside him walks Shigaraki, scratching at his neck more vigorously than usual – a sign of extreme agitation.
"My friends," All For One begins, his mechanical voice carrying easily through the space. "The time has come for a decisive move. Our intelligence indicates that All Might has been weakening, his appearances becoming shorter, his power diminishing."
A murmur runs through the assembled villains. All Might, weakening? The concept seems almost impossible.
"We will strike at the heart of hero society," All For One continues. "The UA training camp. Young heroes in training, isolated and vulnerable. The perfect target to draw out All Might and force a confrontation."
He gestures to Shigaraki. "My protégé has developed the plan. Tomura, please explain."
Shigaraki steps forward, his scratching momentarily paused. "We'll kidnap one of the students – Bakugo Katsuki. His powerful quirk and volatile personality make him a prime candidate for recruitment."
"The primary objective is acquisition of Bakugo," All For One clarifies. "But the secondary objective is equally important – to draw All Might into a trap of my design."
He turns toward Samantha and me. "Heisenberg will lead the extraction team. War will provide technical support from here, monitoring police and hero movements."
I nod, accepting the assignment without comment. This aligns perfectly with our own plans – having All For One and All Might battle, till the Emperor intercedes and destroys him.
"Questions?" All For One asks, his tone making it clear he expects none.
The villains remain silent, each processing their role in the coming operation. All except Shigaraki, who continues scratching his neck, his eyes fixed on me with an intensity I haven't seen before.
"Dismissed," All For One declares. "Prepare yourselves. We move in three days."
As the villains disperse, Shigaraki approaches me. "A word, Heisenberg?"
I follow him to a quiet corner, away from the others. He's agitated, scratching intensifying as he struggles to articulate something.
"Our conversation," he begins haltingly. "About elevation. About someone who could stand above heroes and villains."
"What about it?" I ask carefully.
"I've been thinking," he continues, his voice low. "About what comes after. After All Might falls. After hero society crumbles."
He stops scratching suddenly, looking directly at me. "Sensei wants to destroy the old world. But you're maybe... Maybe right – something has to replace it. Someone has to lead."
"And who do you think that should be?" I ask, already knowing his answer.
"Sensei, of course," Shigaraki replies automatically. Then, more hesitantly, "But... the way you described it. This elevation. It doesn't sound like what Sensei plans."
I remain silent, letting him work through it himself.
"Sensei hates All Might," Shigaraki continues, scratching resuming. "Everything he does is about that hatred. About revenge for past injuries. But that's not... that's not building something new, is it?"
"Hatred is a powerful motivator," I acknowledge. "But a limited foundation for creating a better world."
Shigaraki's scratching intensifies to the point where he's drawing blood again. "I don't... I can't... I don't know if I want something new-"
"You don't need to resolve this now," I tell him gently. "Watch. Observe. See how events unfold. Then decide where your true path lies."
He nods jerkily, clearly struggling with the ideas I have planted in him. "The operation. Three days."
"Three days," I confirm. "And then everything changes."
He's not proving as successful as Izuku Midoriya that my son has been trying to get at our side. He's still too... hesitant to think beyond anything but destruction.
I wonder will he join us...
Or will I have to kill him.
------------------------
The Night of the Operation
Chaos.
The warehouse district has become a battlefield. All Might and All For One clash in the distance, their combat sending shockwaves through the air that we can feel even here, inside the League's emergency rendezvous point.
Kurogiri's portal deposited us here after the extraction went sideways. Bakugo was rescued by his classmates,
All Might arrived earlier than anticipated, and All For One had to intervene personally to extract Shigaraki and the others.
Now we wait in tense silence – Shigaraki, Kurogiri, Toga, Twice, Spinner, Magne, Compress, and myself. Only Samantha is missing, still at the main facility monitoring police movements.
Shigaraki paces furiously, scratching his neck raw as live footage of the battle plays on a small television.
All Might, revealed in his true form – emaciated, weakened – still fights against All For One with desperate determination.
"See, Sensei told you all! He lied to everyone," Shigaraki snarls, gesturing at the screen. "The Symbol of Peace is a fraud! A skeletal fake!"
"Does that matter?" I ask quietly. "He's still fighting. Still trying to protect people."
Shigaraki rounds on me, eyes wild with conflicting emotions. "Of course it matters! Everything he represents is a lie!"
"Is it?" I counter. "Or is the lie just that one man can bear the burden of being society's pillar alone? That true peace can come from a symbol rather than a system?"
Before Shigaraki can respond, the television shows something that silences everyone in the room. All For One has All Might at his mercy, preparing to deliver a killing blow.
And then... a new figure appears between them. A massive man in a partially destroyed suit, his voice carrying clearly through the broadcast:
"Worry not. For now, I am here."
"That's..." Kurogiri begins, disbelief evident in his voice.
"Detective Thragg Grayson... My brother." I confirm, allowing appropriate shock to enter my tone.
We- well they - watch in stunned silence as my brother – the Emperor of Viltrum – confronts All For One. The battle that follows is not exactly brief but decisive.
All For One unleashes his full power, combining multiple quirks into devastating attacks, attacking mentally as well as he uses Samantha as a hostage- as expected.
Thragg then, with speed that the cameras can't track, ends the fight with a single, devastating punch.
All For One is defeated. The Symbol of Evil has fallen to a previously fairly unknown detective.
Shigaraki stands frozen before the television, his hands fallen limp at his sides. "Sensei..." he whispers, his voice cracking with genuine grief and shock.
Kurogiri moves immediately, creating a portal. "We must retreat to the secondary facility. Now. Before heroes arrive."
Shigaraki doesn't move, his eyes fixed on the screen where his master had fallen. Then, slowly, his gaze shifts to me. Something dark flashes across his features as understanding dawns.
"War," he hisses, his voice dripping with venom. "She broke free. She betrayed Sensei. She-"
"Shigaraki Tomura," Kurogiri interrupts urgently, "we have no time. The heroes will be here any moment."
But Shigaraki isn't listening. His eyes, bloodshot and wild, remain locked on me. "And you," he continues, his voice rising in pitch as his scratching intensifies to a frenzy. "Are you still under control? Or are you a traitor too?"
I can see the pieces falling into place in his fractured mind – the conversations about elevation, the subtle questioning of All For One's methods, the timing of Thragg's intervention.
"Heisenberg is compromised," Shigaraki declares, backing away from me. "Leave him behind. He'll just lead them to us."
"We cannot be certain," Kurogiri counters, his mist expanding as he prepares to transport the group. "And we cannot afford to lose any more assets."
"HE'S NOT AN ASSET!" Shigaraki screams, spittle flying from his lips. "HE'S A TRAITOR! THEY BOTH ARE!"
The other League members exchange nervous glances, clearly uncertain which leader to follow in this moment of crisis.
Toga giggles nervously, her hand drifting to the knife at her belt. Twice begins arguing with himself about what to do.
I make my decision in an instant. Moving with speed – fast by human standards but nowhere near my true capabilities – I position myself within Kurogiri's expanding portal.
"I remain loyal to the cause," I state, my voice modulator giving the words a mechanical certainty. "But we must evacuate now. Questions can wait until we're safe."
Kurogiri's yellow eyes narrow slightly, but he nods. "Everyone, through the portal. Now."
Shigaraki hesitates, his fingers spread in preparation to use his decay quirk. "I don't trust him," he snarls, but the other League members are already moving past him into the portal.
"Shigaraki Tomura," Kurogiri says firmly, "we have no choice. The heroes will be here in minutes."
With a final, hateful glare in my direction, Shigaraki steps into the portal. I follow, the last to enter as the swirling darkness envelops us all.
We emerge in what appears to be an underground bunker – concrete walls, fluorescent lighting, minimal furniture. The secondary hideout, prepared for exactly this scenario.
The moment the portal closes behind us, Shigaraki rounds on me, his hand reaching for my throat. "TRAITOR!" he screams, his fingers making contact with my suit.
I don't move as the fabric begins to decay under his touch. The others back away, forming a loose circle around us, watching the confrontation with a mixture of fear and fascination.
"Shigaraki Tomura," Kurogiri begins, "we should not fight amongst ourselves at this critical-"
"SHUT UP!" Shigaraki roars, his eyes never leaving mine. "Don't you see? This was all planned! War breaking free, the detective appearing exactly when Sensei was about to win - it's all connected!"
I remain motionless as his decay continues to eat through my suit, stopping just short of my skin.
The time for pretense is over. The watch on my wrist – a special device created by Roberta – begins to glow faintly, indicating that the moment has arrived.
"You're right," I say calmly, reaching up to remove my mask. The voice modulator deactivates, revealing my natural tone. "It was all planned. From the very beginning."
The admission sends a shock wave through the assembled villains. Toga gasps dramatically. Twice begins a tirade of contradictory statements.
Spinner and Magne exchange alarmed glances, while Mr. Compress takes a defensive stance.
Shigaraki's eyes widen, his scratching becoming frantic. "I knew it! I KNEW IT!"
"What you don't know," I continue, my voice steady, "is why. You don't understand the true purpose behind everything that's happened."
I take a step forward, and to my satisfaction, Shigaraki takes a corresponding step back. "Your master is dead. The hero system is crumbling. A new power is rising – one that stands above both heroes and villains. One that will elevate this world beyond its current limitations."
"My brother – Thragg – is not merely a detective. He is the Emperor of Viltrum, ruler of an empire that spans galaxies. We are not from your world, Shigaraki. We come from beyond, with a vision greater than anything you or All For One could imagine."
The revelation hangs in the air, met with stunned silence. Even Shigaraki stops scratching momentarily, trying to process what he's hearing.
"You're insane," he finally whispers.
"No," I reply calmly. "I'm offering you a choice – the same choice I've been preparing you for through our conversations. Join us. Become part of something truly revolutionary. Help us elevate this world rather than simply destroying it."
I extend my hand toward him – a gesture of invitation rather than threat. "All For One sought to tear down society out of hatred and bitterness. My brother seeks to rebuild it, to transform it into something greater. Which path will you choose, Tomura Shigaraki?"
For a moment – just a moment – I see hesitation in his eyes. The seed I planted has taken root, but not deeply enough. Not strongly enough to overcome his devotion to All For One.
"You killed Sensei," he growls, his fingers spreading wide. "You betrayed us all!"
He lunges forward, both hands reaching for my face. I don't move, allowing his fingers to make contact with my skin.
Nothing happens.
Shigaraki's eyes widen in confusion as his decay quirk fails to activate against me- not having noticed that it did so earlier as well against my skin. "What-how-"
"When you first tested your quirk on me months ago, it worked because I allowed it to," I explain. "I controlled my body at the molecular level to simulate decay. But now, there's no need for such pretense."
I glance down at the watch on my wrist, which now glows a bright red. "The conditions have been met," I state, more to myself than to Shigaraki. "You've made your choice."
Before anyone can react, my hand shoots out, grasping Shigaraki's neck. With a single, motion, I snap it – the sound echoing through the bunker like a gunshot.
His body crumples to the floor, eyes still wide with shock and rage. The remaining League members freeze, terror evident in their postures as they witness the casual ease with which I've eliminated their leader.
I turn to face them, releasing my control over my presence for the first time since arriving in this world.
The full weight of bloodlust fills the room like a physical force, pressing down on them, making it difficult to breathe, to think, to move.
"Shigaraki Tomura has refused the Emperor's offer," I announce, my voice carrying authority that no modulator can copy. "Now I extend the same choice to each of you. Submit to Viltrum, to your Emperor, or join your former leader in death."
The pressure of my presence intensifies, driving them to their knees one by one. Kurogiri, Toga, Twice, Spinner, Magne, Compress – all bow before me, not out of choice but instinct, their bodies recognizing a predator against which resistance is futile.
"We... submit," Kurogiri manages, his mist-like form trembling visibly. "To the Emperor."
The others nod frantically, unable to speak under the weight of my bloodlust. They clearly still understand nothing of what is happening and are acting in the interest of continuing to live- having been shown already how powerful I am.
But that will suffice for now.
I look down at Shigaraki's lifeless body, feeling a twinge of regret. He could have been useful. He could have been elevated. But his hatred consumed him, just as it had consumed his master.
The Emperor's words echo in my mind: "Some cannot be saved. Some can only be replaced."
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Present Day
I knock softly on the door to my brother's chamber, waiting for permission to enter.
"Come," Thragg's deep voice commands from within.
I step inside to find him standing before a full-length mirror, Amanda and Roberta working in tandem to adjust his formal attire.
The Battle Beast coat has been meticulously cleaned and draped across his massive shoulders, the white fur gleaming under the room's lighting.
"The preparations are complete," I report, standing at attention. "The world's media has assembled as requested. All major networks are broadcasting live."
Amanda steps back, admiring her work on Thragg's tie. "There," she says with satisfaction. "Perfect."
"Statistically speaking, this particular knot provides the optimal balance of aesthetic appeal and structural integrity," Roberta adds, making one final adjustment to the coat's positioning.
Thragg studies his reflection with imperial detachment. The formal suit beneath the Battle Beast coat is impeccably tailored, designed to convey both authority and civilization. A conqueror, yes, but an enlightened one.
"The children?" he inquires.
"Waiting in the main hall," I reply. "All dressed accordingly."
Amanda moves to stand beside her husband, her hand resting lightly on his arm. "Are you certain about this timing? Once we reveal ourselves, there's no going back."
"The timing is optimal," Thragg states with absolute certainty. "All For One is defeated. All Might is diminished. The hero system stands revealed as fundamentally flawed. The public craves new leadership – leadership that provides genuine security rather than symbolic reassurance."
He turns from the mirror, his gaze sweeping across the three of us. "Today, we end the charade. Today, we declare our true purpose."
We move through the halls of the residence in formation – Thragg leading, Amanda and Roberta flanking him, myself following slightly behind.
The children await us in the main hall, each dressed in formal attire that subtly incorporates Viltrumite design elements.
Samantha stands tallest among them, fully recovered from her self-inflicted wound, her posture perfect as she greets her father with a slight bow.
Beside her, Marcus and Evelyn maintain similar formality, while Mark and Eva appear slightly less comfortable in their ceremonial clothing.
"The time has come," Thragg announces, his voice carrying effortless authority. "Today, we reveal ourselves to this world. Not as conquerors, but as elevators. Not as destroyers, but as builders."
He surveys the assembled family – his family – with something that might almost be pride. "This world will be the first of many. The foundation of our multiverse empire."
Without further ceremony, he moves toward the balcony doors. They swing open automatically, revealing the Tokyo skyline spread before us, bathed in the golden light of late afternoon- us being in the original home rather than the secure one.
Thragg steps onto the balcony, ignoring the prepared podium and microphones. Such human conventions are beneath the Emperor of Viltrum.
Instead, he simply rises into the air, hovering twenty feet above the ground, visible to the gathered press below and the countless cameras trained on him- Roberta having anonymously revealed through certain channels that we would be home today.
I follow, taking my position to his right and slightly behind.
Marcus, Evelyn, and Samantha rise next, forming a perfect triangle beneath their fathers. Mark and Eva join them, completing the formation.
Amanda steps onto the balcony, immediately enveloped in a sphere of pink energy as Roberta lifts her into position beside her.
The assembled media gasps collectively, cameras flashing in a frenzy as they capture the sight – nine figures floating above the ground, a family of gods revealing themselves to the world below.
Thragg raises his hands, and a hush falls over the crowd. When he speaks, his voice carries effortlessly to every ear, requiring no amplification.
"People of Earth," he begins, "I am Thragg, Emperor of Viltrum."
The world holds its breath, unaware that everything is about to change forever.
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(Author note: And so it begins! The next chapter will probably be a 10k one showcasing the world's reaction.
Also, I honestly don't remember if these timeskips actually fit or not, been a bit since I wrote the earlier chapters conveying the time skips. Well, hope it is.
Also, the watch was something Thragg designed with Roberta's help, to record things, and almost like an AI keep in mind if the condition is met that Shigaraki has been given a chance to join- that being part of Thragg's ability mission, though he hasn't told anyone that.
It went red, meaning Shigaraki is allowed to be killed, since he now has truly refused and the condition is met.
I'll hopefully see you all later,
Bye!)