In Musutafu city

Flint Marko trudged down the cracked sidewalk, his worn boots kicking up dust with every step. His green-striped shirt and brown pants, though clean, were faded, telling tales of countless days and nights spent on the move. The neighborhood around him was a picture of despair—dilapidated buildings with broken windows, graffiti marking the walls, and the streets lined with people who had long forgotten what hope felt like. A homeless man, hunched over on a weathered bench, extended a trembling hand as Flint approached.

Homeless man: Spare some change?

The man rasped, his eyes hollow but desperate. Flint paused, reaching into his pocket. The yen coins he pulled out were meager, their weight in his hand almost laughable compared to the weight of the guilt he felt. He handed them to the man, who squinted at the coins, his face twisting in disappointment.

Homeless man: Is that it?

He asked, his voice tinged with both disbelief and bitterness. Flint's eyes, a mixture of sass and bewilderment, softened as he shrugged.

Flint: It's all I got

He said, his voice carrying a quiet sadness that resonated with the man, who nodded and pocketed the coins without another word. Continuing his walk, Flint's pace slowed as he neared an old apartment building. The exterior was as run-down as the rest of the neighborhood, but it held a different kind of weight for him—a personal one. He climbed the creaking steps to the second floor, each step echoing like a heavy heartbeat, and stopped in front of a familiar door. He hesitated for a moment, then gently knocked. The door opened to reveal a woman, her blond hair disheveled, blue eyes clouded with exhaustion. She wore a robe over her pajamas, both looking like they hadn't been washed in days. Dark bags under her eyes hinted at sleepless nights, stress, and worry.

Marie: Flint...

She said, her tone flat, the warmth of a once-shared history replaced with cold familiarity. She wasn't happy to see him, but she stepped aside to let him in anyway.

Flint: Hey, Marie...

Flint responded, his voice low, almost apologetic. He stepped into the small apartment, the space cramped and cluttered with the remnants of a life that had seen better days.

Flint: I'm sorry I couldn't pick Penny up last Monday. I—

Marie: -Where were you?

Marie cut him off, her tone sharp, though it carried a trace of concern beneath the anger. Flint met her gaze, noting the skepticism in her eyes.

Flint: Working.

He said, the lie rolling off his tongue with practiced ease. He knew she didn't believe him, but he didn't have the strength to fight her disbelief. Marie's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, it seemed like she might press the issue, but then she sighed, the fight leaving her. She waved a hand dismissively.

Marie: It's late, Flint.

Flint: Please, Marie...

Flint said, his voice softening, his eyes pleading. The sadness in his eyes was palpable, like a wounded dog begging for a scrap of kindness.

Flint: Can I see Penny?

Marie hesitated, her resolve wavering under the weight of his gaze. Finally, she relented with a sigh.

Marie: Make it quick.

Flint nodded, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes, and followed her down the short hallway. As they walked, he asked.

Flint: How's she been?

Marie's shoulders slumped, and her voice grew quiet, tinged with sorrow.

Marie: Tired. She's getting weaker with less strength every day. She stays locked up in her room sleeping most the time now. The treatments... they take everything out of her. They have to keep stopping because... she keeps falling apart.

Flint clenched his jaw, fighting to keep his emotions in check. He wanted to be strong, for Penny's sake, but it was getting harder every day. When they reached Penny's room, Marie paused, her hand resting on the door handle. She looked at Flint, a silent warning in her eyes, before pushing the door open.

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

The room was everything you'd expect from a little girl's sanctuary. Bright colors, stuffed animals, and dolls were scattered around, and a small playhouse sat in the corner. But what caught Flint's attention was the record player on the nightstand, an unusual choice for a ten-year-old. It was a gift from him—a piece of the past he hoped would connect them, something they could share. What stood out the most, though, was the giant poster on the wall—The Dragoon Hero: Ryukyu. The poster showed her in both her human form and her majestic dragon form, a symbol of strength and hope.

Flint remembered when Marie had gotten that poster for Penny's ninth birthday. The hospital had arranged a special hero meet-and-greet, and Ryukyu had made an appearance. Marie had told him about that day, her voice filled with rare joy. According to Marie despite her incredibly threatening appearance from her quirk. She was one of the kindest people she had ever met. Offering Penny and all the other kids a chance to fly on her back. Even if it was very brief and she only flew low to the ground WITH safety measures to make sure nothing happend. Even offering a large charity donation to the hospital. Giving Penny's mom a short relief from medical expenses....a very...short relief.

"She was so happy, Flint. I've never seen her so full of life, even with everything she's going through. It was like... like she forgot she was sick, just for a little while."

But it was what Penny had said that stuck with him the most, a memory that haunted him every day since. It was just after he'd gotten out of jail, a time when he felt lower than he ever had. Penny, with her wide, innocent eyes, had looked up at him and said,

"I know my daddy can be just as cool. He's my hero."

That moment had broken him and lifted him all at once. It was the reason he kept going, why he kept waking up every morning busting his ass at any job he could that would let him work, why he kept away from his life of crime even when everything seemed hopeless. ...until recently. Flint stepped into the room, his heart aching as he took in the sight of his daughter, lying in bed, her small form barely making a dent in the blankets. Beside her bed, an oxygen tank stood sentinel, the soft hiss of air a constant reminder of the battle she was fighting. Penny's skin was pale, almost translucent, and her breathing was shallow, aided by the thin tube running from the tank to her nose. But when she opened her eyes and saw him, they lit up with a warmth that chased away the cold inside him.

Penny: Hey Daddy.

She whispered, her voice weak but filled with love.

Flint: Hey, sweetheart...

Flint said, forcing a smile as he sat on the edge of her bed, careful not to disturb the tubing.

Flint: How's my little girl doing?

Penny smiled, a small, tired smile, and reached out for his hand.

Penny: I'm okay, Daddy. Just... tired.

Flint squeezed her hand gently, his brave face barely holding together as he glanced at the oxygen tank, a silent testament to her fragility. As Flint squeezed Penny's hand, he felt a soft, gritty sensation beneath his fingers. His heart sank as he looked down to see sand easily scraping off her delicate skin, revealing just how fragile she truly was. Knowing it wasn't his own sand falling off with just a touch. It was hers. It wasn't just the illness that had taken its toll—her quirk went from being a gift... to a curse.

Flint knew his own quirk inside and out. His entire body was made of sand, a unique trait that allowed him to control not just the sand that composed him but also any other sand around him. He could mold his body into shapes, shift his form to adapt to any situation, and even alter the color and texture of his sand to make clothes at will. It was a powerful ability, one that had saved him more times than he could count, but it came with its own set of challenges. Maintaining his physical form required immense concentration, and losing focus even for a moment could cause his body to start disintegrating into the grains that made him up.

But for Penny, inheriting the same quirk had been a cruel twist of fate. Her body was unable to produce healthy cells that could hold together with the strength needed to maintain basic functions. Instead of controlling her quirk, she was at its mercy, her cells constantly breaking down into sand, or her sand trying to turn itself back into to cells would be dead. All this making her fragile, like a delicate glass sculpture that could shatter with the slightest touch. It was a condition the doctors called "quirk cancer," an aggressive and relentless disease that left her body unable to heal, unable to grow strong, and unable to live the normal life that every child deserved.

Flint fought to keep the brave smile on his face as he gently brushed the sand off her hand, careful not to let his fear show. He knew that every grain that fell was a part of her slipping away, a reminder of the relentless disease that was taking her from him. But as he looked into her eyes, still bright with love despite everything, he knew he had to be strong for her. She needed him to be her hero, even if he felt powerless against the very thing that bound them together.

Flint: I'm here now, Penny.

He repeated, his voice filled with a determination that masked the despair gnawing at him.

Flint: And I'm not going anywhere. We'll fight this together, okay? Just me you and your Mom.

Penny nodded, her small smile faltering but never fading.

Penny: Okay, Daddy...

She whispered, holding onto his hand as if he were the one thing keeping her grounded. Flint barely had time to sit down beside Penny before she asked eagerly,

Penny: How was your day, Daddy?

Her wide eyes sparkled with anticipation, desperate to hear about his day, no matter how mundane or simple it might have been. Flint couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm.

Flint: Well uhhh

He began, choosing his words carefully.

Flint: I was helping out with some rebuilding today. A couple of buildings got torn down after a villain rampaged through the area. Had to make sure the walls were solid, the roof wouldn't leak... all that boring stuff.

Penny's eyes widened with interest.

Penny: What kind of villain?! Was it a big fight?!

Flint chuckled, deciding to make light of it.

Flint: Oh, nothing too crazy. Just a Rhino that got loose downtown because someone forgot to feed him at the zoo.

Penny burst into laughter, the sound like music to Flint's ears, even as it ended in a small, delicate cough that sent a few grains of sand drifting down from her lips.

Penny: That poor Rhino! But he must be really mean to cause so much trouble.

Flint's smile faltered just for a second, guilt tightening its grip on his chest. The lie weighed heavily on him, knowing that he wasn't just rebuilding, but stealing to make ends meet. He wasn't just avoiding the life of a villain—he was dipping right back into it. His daughter, innocent and unaware, assumed his silence was because he still felt guilty about his past. Seeing the shift in his expression, Penny's smile softened.

Penny: Daddy, it's okay. You're not a villain. You're my dad. And you're still my hero.

Those words hit Flint like a punch to the gut. He leaned forward and hugged her, as gently as he could, terrified of hurting her fragile body. The pit in his stomach grew, a gnawing emptiness that ripped at his insides. He knew, deep down, that if she ever learned the truth—if she knew he had gone back to the very thing she believed he had left behind—she would be devastated. Penny, blissfully unaware of the turmoil inside him, suddenly pulled back, her eyes lighting up as she remembered something.

Penny: Oh, Daddy! I almost forgot!

She reached over to her nightstand, opening the small drawer and pulling out a necklace. The delicate chain held a tiny locket, which she opened to reveal a picture inside—one of her, smiling brightly despite her pale complexion.

Penny: I wanted to give this to you.

She said shyly, her fingers fidgeting with the chain.

Penny: I'm sorry if you don't like it. Mommy said guys don't usually like jewelry like this...

Flint knew what Marie really meant—that he wouldn't want Penny to spend her money or effort on him. But all he saw was his daughter's earnest face, her hope that this small gift would mean something to him. He reached out and took the necklace, holding it as if it were the most precious thing in the world.

Flint: Penny... I love it.

He said, his voice thick with emotion.

Flint: I'll never leave without it. I promise.

Penny's face lit up with relief and happiness as Flint leaned forward and kissed her forehead. He tucked her into bed, pulling the covers up gently.

Flint: Good night, sweetheart.

He whispered.

Penny: Good night, Daddy.

Penny replied, her eyes already growing heavy with sleep. Flint lingered for a moment longer, watching her drift off, before quietly leaving the room. He made his way back to the kitchen, the weight of the necklace heavy in his hand, not because of its size but because of what it represented—Penny's unwavering belief in him, a belief he no longer felt he deserved. Marie was still in the kitchen, standing by the sink, her arms crossed and her gaze fixed on him. He knew she had been listening, every protective instinct on high alert. Flint also knew that no matter how much he loved Penny or how much he wanted to protect her, Marie would never be able to fully trust him again. He met her gaze, the tension between them almost tangible. But there was no argument left in him, just a hollow ache where his resolve used to be. He nodded to her, a silent acknowledgment of her presence, and she nodded back, a reluctant truce between two people who had once shared everything but now shared only their love for a fragile little girl. Flint slipped the necklace over his head, letting the locket rest against his chest and under his shirt. He felt the pit in his stomach deepen, knowing that no matter how much he wanted to be the hero his daughter saw in him, he was walking a path that could only lead to disappointment, for both of them. Flint stood awkwardly in the dimly lit kitchen, the air between him and his ex-wife thick with unresolved tension. With a sigh, he reached into his back pocket and pulled out a white envelope. His hand trembled slightly as he extended it toward her. She stared at it for a long moment before taking it with a heavy hand, her expression a mixture of disdain and reluctant acceptance. She hated Flint—hated him for what he'd done to her, to their family. But no matter how deep that hatred ran, she couldn't deny that she didn't make enough to keep taking care of Penny on her own. Swallowing her pride was one thing, but swallowing her hatred for the man who had betrayed her was another.

When she found out she was pregnant with Penny, Flint had still been deep in his life of crime. She had made him promise to go clean, to start over for their sake, and for a while, he had. Up until Penny was six, they had managed. But then the money ran out. Flint, thinking he could pull off just one more job to set them up for good, had gone back to his old ways—and that decision had led to his arrest. The life they'd built crumbled, and the resentment in her heart only grew. She then finally broke the silence.

Marie: Your parole officer called today.

Her voice was flat, but there was an undercurrent of tension that Flint could feel like a knife twisting in his gut. He lowered his head, already anticipating where this was going.

Flint: Yeah?

Marie: They know you got fired....were you gonna tell me?

She continued, her eyes narrowing as she watched him. Flint quickly interjected, desperate to explain.

Flint: I was I swear...They found out about my past. Didn't want to keep me after that. You know how it is—people hear 'ex-con,' and suddenly you're not worth a damn. But I'm trying, okay? I know that part of my visitation rights is that I need to have a job and to be making money to see her.

Her gaze softened slightly, but her expression remained hard. She understood how hard it was for him to keep a job with his criminal record, but her concern ran deeper than that.

Marie: Flint...

She said slowly, her voice quiet but edged with suspicion. She held the envelope he gave her full of money to her head. Asking her question.

Marie: Where did the money in this envelope come from if you just got fired last week?

Flint tried to think on his feet, but the words came out weak and unconvincing.

Flint: It's... my last paycheck-

She shook her head, already knowing the truth.

Marie: -Bullshit....You got fired on payday... Flint.... Don't lie to me...not again...

His shoulders slumped, and for a moment, he looked at the closed door to Penny's bedroom, praying that she was sound asleep and couldn't hear the argument brewing in the kitchen. His heart ached as he realized there was no point in hiding it any longer.

Marie: Are you stealing again?

She asked, her voice barely above a whisper, as if saying it out loud made it more real. Flint's silence was damning. Finally, he nodded, the weight of his actions pressing down on him like a ton of bricks.

Flint: .....Yeah

He admitted, his voice filled with sorrow and defeat. Tears welled up in her eyes as she tried to hand the envelope back to him.

Marie: I don't want it, Flint...

She said, her voice breaking.

Marie: ...I "can't"...take it.

Flint reached out, gently pushing the envelope back toward her.

Flint: You have to... For Penny! She needs it, and you know that as well as I do.

She shook her head, tears spilling over as she clutched the envelope tightly in her hands. She hated herself for even considering it, but she couldn't deny the reality they were living in. The bills were piling up, and no matter how hard she worked—two jobs and countless hours—she couldn't keep up. Penny's medical expenses were overwhelming, and the constant trips to the hospital drained her both financially and emotionally. But accepting Flint's money meant accepting that he was back to his old ways, and that was a truth she couldn't bear.

Marie: You can't go to jail again, Flint!

She whispered, trying to keep her voice steady but failing as it cracked under the weight of her emotions.

Flint: I can't lose you again. I cant... Do this on my own again!... And Penny... she can't take it if you're taken away from us again! You're her hero! I wish I knew why, or could even see a small amount of that in you myself... like I used to...

Flint's gaze dropped to the floor as his heart clenched painfully. He noticed her bare ring finger, and then, almost unconsciously, his eyes flicked to his own hand, where his wedding ring still sat. It had become a permanent fixture, a symbol of the life he had lost and the love he had squandered.

Marie: If she ever finds out you went back to being a villain... if she ever learns that you've started stealing again... it could KILL HER, Flint. Dont you get that?!

She continued, her voice filled with anguish.

Marie: Her heart...it can't take it. Physically, it ....literally can't any more...I....I can't...-

Flint was defeated. He felt like he was at his lowest point, trapped in a situation where every choice seemed to lead to more pain. But he had to keep going, had to be strong for Penny, even if it meant putting on a brave face one last time. He reached out and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, only to see her recoil, her face twisted in disgust as she turned away from him. His hand hovered in the air for a moment before dropping back to his side, the rejection cutting deeper than he expected. He questioned where he had gone wrong—how the love of his life had come to hate him so deeply. But deep down, he knew the answer. He had made promises he couldn't keep, had taken risks that had destroyed their family, and now, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't fix what he had broken.

Flint: -I'll get another loan from the bank.

Flint said quietly, trying to muster some semblance of hope.

Flint: I won't let our daughter die....I promise...

Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked out of the apartment, the door closing softly behind him. Inside, Marie slid down the wall, her back against the cold plaster as she buried her face in her hands, sobbing quietly into the empty room. She hated him, but she hated even more that she still cared. And as much as she wanted to protect their daughter, she couldn't stop the fear that one day, the truth would come crashing down on all of them, with devastating consequences.

Somewhere else in the city the next day

The small café was bathed in the warm, golden hues of the setting sun, casting long shadows across the wooden floors. The gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of cups filled the air, but in a secluded corner, Izuku Midoriya and Bakugo sat in near silence, insulated from the world around them. The table was cluttered with books, a laptop, and notes scribbled in Izuku's messy handwriting. Bakugo, leaning back in his chair, was absorbed in his textbooks, occasionally glancing at Izuku with an almost imperceptible frown. Izuku, on the other hand, was lost in his research. His eyes were glued to the laptop screen, fingers tapping rhythmically on the keys as he muttered to himself, deep in thought. His mind was a whirlwind of information, piecing together the puzzle of Oscorp and the mysterious break-ins. His brow furrowed as he discovered the details of where Rhino had been broken out. The news made him tense up slightly, but he continued to mutter, barely aware of Bakugo's presence.

Izuku: Oscorp-

Izuku whispered to himself, his voice barely audible.

Izuku: a tech company focusing on advancing technology and research... But why target them? What are they after? Why are they suddenly being targeted so much?

Bakugo, trying to get his attention, said calmly,

Bakugo: Deku.

Izuku didn't respond, too engrossed in his thoughts to even notice. He continued,

Izuku: Norman Osborn... CEO... A scientist turned businessman. He started out and made his wealth selling support weapons to the U.S. government for both heroes and soldiers. Eventually getting enough footing to make Oscorp. Rising up in the stock market and buying multiple dead tech companies expanding their network. Turning them around into successful money makers. They're one of the biggest tech company in America and there next target seems to be japan now. Recently building there new tower and buying other property for storage and research. But now... biological research? Why the shift in majors? Could they be trying to gain a foot in pharmaceuticals using genetic research? I mean a cure for diabetes or hell cancer would be huge money...

Bakugo glanced up from his book, his expression flat. Getting annoyed.

Bakugo: Deku...

Still, Izuku didn't hear him. His thoughts raced as he considered the implications.

Izuku: Could they be trying to replicate Dr. Connors' work? Connors was the world's leading expert. But even he wasn't able to figure out cross quirk/species genetic research until he got lucky with my blood reverse engineering the process. If he couldn't figure it out no one else could...

Bakugo's patience was thinning. He tried again, this time louder.

Bakugo: Deku!

Izuku continued to spiral deeper into his thoughts, questions piling up in his mind.

Izuku: Who keeps targeting Oscorp? What's their endgame? And this 'Big Man'... who is he? What's he planning? How did he break Rhino out of jail? Has he done this before? Why does he need so much equipment and technology? Is he selling it? Or is he trying to make something?

Bakugo finally snapped, his voice cutting through the air like a whip.

Bakugo: DEKU!

Izuku jolted upright, his eyes wide as he looked at Bakugo, finally pulled out of his thoughts.

Izuku: K-Kacchan! I didn't—sorry, I didn't hear you...

Bakugo scowled, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes.

Bakugo: You're muttering again, nerd. When I invited you out to study it wasn't so you can talk to yourself the whole time, at least stay in the present.

Izuku blinked, realizing how deep he'd gone into his own head. He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

Izuku: I just... I'm trying to figure out what's going on with Oscorp. There's something big happening, and I can't shake the feeling that it's connected to everything we've been dealing with.

Bakugo sighed, closing his book with a snap.

Bakugo: *sigh*...You're always overthinking things, Deku. But FINE, let's hear it. What did you find out?

Izuku took a deep breath, his mind still racing, but now he was more grounded, aware of the conversation he was about to have with his friend. The night was closing in outside, but inside that small café, the stakes felt higher than ever. Izuku let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his messy green hair.

Izuku: *sigh* I haven't found much at all, Kacchan. All these break-ins at Oscorp, all these pieces, but I can't seem to connect them. When I fought Rhino, I managed to pull some information from him, but it wasn't much.

Bakugo raised an eyebrow, surprised.

Bakugo: You? Interrogating people? Didn't know you had it in you, Deku.

Izuku's face flushed as he wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead, avoiding Bakugo's gaze. His mind flashed back to the awkward encounter with Rhino, where he'd pretended to be a delirious, heat-stricken version of Rhino's mother to get him to spill the beans. It wasn't one of his proudest moments.

Izuku: I-I, uh, have my ways...

He stammered, forcing a nervous chuckle. Bakugo stared at him for a moment, then rolled his eyes.

Bakugo: Whatever, nerd. What did you find out?

Izuku composed himself, clearing his throat.

Izuku: Rhino said he was sent by someone called 'The Big Man.' Oscorp's been hit multiple times—warehouses, research facilities, data banks. They're clearly after something specific, but I can't figure out what...

He paused, thinking back to his first encounter with Norman Osborn.

Izuku: I first met Norman when I saved him from the Vulture. Back when Oscorp bought out Adrian Toomes' company. That fight... I remember how angry Toomes was, like he'd been robbed of everything.

Bakugo smirked, leaning back in his chair.

Bakugo: An old angry bird man trying to kill you, huh? Sounds like a bad cartoon.

Izuku couldn't help but smile at that, though the weight of his thoughts quickly pulled him back.

Izuku: Yeah, it was... intense. But what's bothering me is the connection between all these incidents. I just can't see how Dr. Connors fits into any of this. Sure, he's a well known scientist and a genius but I looked up every research paper, collaberation, and conference Dr. Connors had ever been too. None of them had any strong connections to Norman Osborn or Oscorp, and there's no way anyone at Oscorp could replicate his work without him. I wish I could ask him,  but he's in Tartarus now...

Bakugo cut him off, his tone serious.

Bakugo: Deku, you need to stop pushing yourself so hard. You're still just 15, and you're only one guy. This corporate murder board you're trying to piece together isn't gonna be solved by you alone. That's what the government, the police, and pro heroes are for. They've got resources, not just Google a laptop and your nerdy brain.

Izuku opened his mouth to argue but found himself hesitating. Bakugo was right—he was only 15, and no matter how smart he was or how much he could do as Spider-Man, he couldn't do everything. But still, the uneasy feeling in his gut wouldn't go away.

Izuku: I know you're right, Kacchan.

Izuku admitted, his voice soft,

Izuku: But something about all this doesn't feel like an accident. It feels like there's something bigger going on. I mean what are the chancesIgetpowersandthenthenextthingyouknowgeneticresearchsuddenlyblowsupitsliketheuniverseistellingmeitsuptometostopallofthis-

He started muttering again, deep in thought, but before he could get too far, Bakugo smacked him on the head with his math book. Izuku yelped, rubbing the sore spot as he looked at Bakugo in confusion.

Izuku: What was that for?!

Bakugo smirked, a rare glint of amusement in his eyes.

Bakugo: I'm surprised your spider-sense didn't see that coming.

Izuku sputtered, trying to explain.

Izuku: It doesn't work like that, Kacchan! I—

But Bakugo wasn't interested in hearing his excuses. He cut him off with a wave of his hand.

Bakugo: Whatever... Listen, nerd, you've got more important things to worry about—like the entrance exam for U.A. High. You can't leave that to chance. You should be studying up as much as you can before we take it.

Izuku brushed off the concern, confident in his abilities.

Izuku: I'm smart enough to pass, Kacchan. I'll be fine. I mean I built my web shooters AND made all my other spider gadgets. PLUS the cure that fixed Dr. Connors and the whole city.

Bakugo's expression hardened, his voice firm.

Bakugo: Don't be an idiot, Deku. For someone so smart, you make dumb decisions all the time. I can pass U.A. with my quirk. YOU have to pass with your brain and its literally thee TOP academic school around. Now, stop obsessing over Oscorp and pick up a math book. You're not gonna ace the exam by rambling about conspiracy theories. (And just for the record it was "MY" cure that saved the city)

Izuku grumbled but knew better than to argue when Bakugo was in this mood. Reluctantly, he reached for his math book, but as he glanced at Bakugo's work, his eyes widened.

Izuku: Kacchan, a bunch of these questions are wrong.

Bakugo's eyes narrowed, a vein visibly throbbing on his forehead.

Bakugo: WHAT?!

Izuku, realizing he'd just poked the bear, quickly tried to backpedal.

Izuku: I mean, it's just a few mistakes! N-Nothing big! We can fix them together, right?

Bakugo seethed with rage, the idea of needing help from Izuku driving him up the wall. But deep down, he knew the nerd was right. Begrudgingly, he sat down next to Izuku, muttering under his breath as they worked through the problems together, erasing all his answers and work there was no more pink of the number 2 pencil. The weight of their responsibilities temporarily set aside.

Meanwhile some where else

Flint Marko walked down the dimly lit street, his hands buried in the pockets of his hoodie. The hood cast a shadow over his face, hiding his features from any passing glances. Beneath the hoodie, his familiar green-striped shirt peeked out, a reminder of the man he used to be. But tonight, he wasn't just Flint. He was Sandman, a desperate father willing to do anything to save his daughter. As he approached the bank, Flint's mind raced with justifications.

Flint: It's just this one last time, he told himself. For Penny's sake. She won't find out. No one will. I'll get a new job, hide the extra cash with my paychecks... Nobody has to know.

The words echoed in his mind, a mantra of desperation and guilt. He glanced at the bank's entrance, the glass doors reflecting the man he was trying not to be.

Flint: It's for her...

He reminded himself.

Flint: ....It's all for her.

With a deep breath, Flint slipped around to the side of the building, avoiding the streetlights and security cameras. His body began to shift, grains of sand replacing flesh and bone as he melted into the shadows. He slithered up a storm drain, a stream of sand climbing the side of the building like an unseen serpent. Reaching the roof, he reformed just long enough to pry open a vent near an air unit. Then, once again, he dissolved into sand, slipping through the small opening and into the bank below.

Meanwhile across town

Izuku Midoriya walked home, his thoughts swirling with unanswered questions.

Izuku: Who is the Big Man? What does he want with Oscorp's tech? And why is Oscorp the center of attention all of a sudden with these villains?

The questions had been plaguing him all evening, nagging at the back of his mind like a persistent itch he couldn't scratch. He sighed in frustration, ruffling his hair as he muttered to himself,

Izuku: Why can't I just figure this out?

He looked around, noticing the empty streets and the silence of the night. An idea popped into his head—a quick web-swing might clear his mind.

Izuku: Maybe Bakugo was right. I'm obsessing too much over this Oscorp thing. I think it's time I clear my head....Its a nice night for a swing.

Deciding to take a break, Izuku ducked into an alleyway, making sure no one was around. He quickly discarded his casual clothes, revealing his spandex costume underneath. Putting them inside his bookbag and wearing it on his back over his costume. He strapped on his web-shooters and, with a flick of his wrist, launched himself into the air.

Izuku swung gracefully through the neighborhood, the cool night air brushing against his face through the mask as the city lights blurred around him. Each swing, each leap, helped ease the tension in his mind. But as he soared over a row of buildings, something caught his eye—a stream of dollar bills fluttering out of an air vent on a bank's roof, carried by a trail of sand. It was like watching a line of ants carrying food back to their nest. Izuku perched on a nearby rooftop, narrowing his eyes at the odd sight.

Spider-Man: Well, that's not something you see every day...I thought banks only had paper trails, not sand dunes.

Curiosity piqued, Izuku webbed over to a wall closer to the bank, keeping a low profile as he watched. The sand continued to pour out of the vent, slowly gathering and taking shape.

Izukus head: And here I thought sand dollars were just for beach vacations

Bit by bit, it molded into the form of a man, the grains of sand solidifying into Flint Marko, who stood there in his black jacket, hood still pulled up. However Izuku recognized the green stripped shirt along with his quirk. Izuku's eyes widened in recognition.

Izukus head: Wait a second. Thats...Thats SANDMAN! I remember reading about him. He was a famous bank robber villian. All the banks he stole from had large amounts of sand in them afterwards. Any heroes who tried to stop them were easily beaten by him. He disappeared for 6 years before finally getting caught by...shoot who was that hero again? God I cant believe im forgetting right now! GAH what ever. I'll look him up later. Guess he's back to cash in on his old tricks... only this time, I'm the one calling the shots. Let's see how he handles a Spider in his sandcastle.

To Izuku this seemed like another good old-fashioned bank robbery—something he could handle with ease. Flint, on the other hand, was meticulous, making sure he left no trace behind.

Flints head: Ok...I made sure the traffic cameras caught me entering my apartment. I left without them ever seeing me. I made sure to wear a disguise walking here. None of the cameras in the bank saw me. I used my sand to blurry the cameras to make sure. I left no traces of my sand in the bank and took the money from the locked registers. Nothing was ever opened. I slipped the bills through the cracks one by one. That should make it look like one of the bankers made a mistake with the cash and throw them off. If enough people come in and out of the bank. It makes forensics harder to find me out.

As he stood on the roof, breathing a sigh of relief, he believed he'd pulled it off.

Flints head: ...I did good. Now I just need to get out of here without being-

But just as he began to relax, a bright red light suddenly shone down on him, casting a glowing spider emblem on his chest. Flint's eyes shot up in alarm, and there, perched on a nearby rooftop, was Spider-Man, shining his Spider-Signal directly at him with his utility belt.

Spider-Man: Well, well, well

Spider-Man called out, his voice laced with mock seriousness.

Spider-Man: I didn't realize sand had such sticky fingers. Care to make a deposit, Mr. Sandman? Or are we gonna have to have a little chat about your bank-robbing habits?

Izukus head: YES! I FINALLY GOT TO USE THE SPIDER SIGNAL!!!

As Flint Marko sees the bright red flash of Spider-Man's logo shining down on him, panic surges through his veins. He knows if he gets caught again, it's all over. His daughter's face flashes in his mind—her smile, her laughter, her fragile heart that would shatter if she ever learned the truth. If he's caught, not only would she lose the money for her treatment, but the heartbreak could be fatal. He has to get out of here...NOW!

Flint: I gotta get outta here!

Without thinking twice, Flint turns and bolts, racing through the dark streets, staying clear of traffic cameras, and sticking to the shadows of grimy alleyways. His heart pounds in his chest as he hears Spider-Man's voice echo behind him, taunting and joking, clearly thinking he's got a chase on his hands.

Spider-Man: Hey, Sandy! What's the rush? Forgot to pay the toll or something? Maybe cash in those sand dollars?

Flint doesn't look back. He focuses on escaping, using his powers to stretch his body over buildings, smashing into the ground, and dissolving his legs into a pile of sand before reforming and sprinting away again.

Spider-Man: You really know how to grain my nerves, you know that?...get it? Oh c'mon, Sandman, don't be so gritty!

Spider-Man shoots a web net in front of him in an alleyway, but Flint simply phases through it, tossing the duffel bag of cash over the web and catching it on the other side. The whole time, Spider-Man throws sand-related quips at him, but Flint is too consumed by fear and desperation to respond.

Spider-Man: Man you're slipping through my fingers like... well, you!

Finally, Flint finds himself cornered in a dark alley. Every exit is blocked by thick webbing. Spider-Man lands in front of him, arms crossed, a confident smirk under his mask.

Spider-Man: You're really stuck between a rock and a... SAND place, huh? And it looks like you're all out of places to run, Sandy. These webs aren't as easy to slip through as last time.

Spider-Man swiftly webs the duffel bag of cash out of Flint's hands, and Flint, overwhelmed with desperation, drops to his knees.

Flint: Please... let me go. I won't steal again, I SWEAR. I only stole because I had a good reason too!

Spider-Man shakes his head, his voice stern but still naive. Even as Flint pleads, Izuku can't resist one more jab,

Spider-Man: You know, turning over a new leaf doesn't mean burying it in sand! You should've thought about that before robbing a bank. So now it's time to pay for your crimes.

Flint's heart sinks as he realizes Spider-Man doesn't understand. This isn't just about him; it's about his daughter's life. And the way the young hero cracks jokes while his world crumbles around him.....only fuels his anger.

Flint: Pay for my crimes?

Flint snaps, his voice trembling with rage.

Flint: You think this is a joke?! My life is falling apart, and all you can do is crack wise?!

Flint snaps, the anger he's been holding back for so long bursting forth. With a growl, he sends a stretched-out fist at Spider-Man, slamming him into the web net and yanking him back. Spider-Man dodges the next blow, ducking under Flint's fist and landing a punch to his gut, but his hand goes right through Flint's sandy body.

Spider-Man: Uh-oh...

Flint: Is that all you got, kid?

Flint snarls as he forms a massive sand fist, smashing it across on Spider-Man and sending him bouncing off the walls of the alley. With each strike, Flint rants, the pain and frustration of years of suffering pouring out.

Flint: I've paid for my crimes every day since I got put in jail AND THEN SOME! One bad break after another! AND YOU... YOU just stand there, joking like this is all a game! LIKE RUINING MY LIFE IS FUN TO YOU! I tried to go straight, but the world just won't let me!

Spider-Man is battered and bruised, lying on the ground, dazed and confused as Flint looms over him. He raises a giant sand hammer, ready to deliver the final blow

Flint: WELL WHO'S LAUGHING NOW FUNNY GUY?! HUH?!? HUH?!?!

But then he hesitates.

Flints head: What am I doing? I'm about to kill someone—kill a hero. I never went that far before...If Penny...If my little girl saw me right now...she would be horrified. Never speak to me again.

His anger dissipates as guilt and sorrow flood in. Flint drops the hammer, grabs the duffel bag of money, and turns to flee, leaving Spider-Man lying in the dirt, trying to gather the strength to stand. As Flint disappears into the night, Spider-Man slowly picks himself up, pain radiating through his body, but more confused than ever.

Izukus head: Ugh...What just happened? Why did he suddenly let me go? And why does this whole thing... feel so wrong?

As Izuku picks himself up, he pulls his mask up, exposing his mouth, and coughs out sand. The gritty sensation clings to his throat, making him wince. As he steadies himself, his eyes catch the glint of something small and metallic on the ground. Curiosity piqued, he picks it up and realizes it's a locket necklace. When he opens it, he's surprised to see the picture of a little girl inside. A sudden thought crosses his mind—could this belong to Sandman? Izuku's thoughts race as he pieces it together.

Izukus head: Wait... that rant he went on... the money wasn't for him, it was for his daughter. He's not just some villain; ...he's desperate.

Conflict wells up in Izuku's chest. Flint Marko is a criminal, but this isn't a simple case of right and wrong.

Holding onto the necklace, Izuku makes a mental note that he needs to add pockets to his suit. He starts tracking a faint trail of sand across rooftops and alleyways. The trail eventually leads him to a rooftop overlooking a nearby hospital. There, he spots Flint still clutching the duffel bag of money standing on the ledge of the roof. Izuku watches silently until he suddenly gets an idea. He shoots a quick web and swings up higher, perching himself in the shadows. He takes the spider signal off of his utility belt, he shines his Spider-Signal down on Flint. The flash of light startles Flint, and before he can react, Izuku snaps a quick selfie with them both in the frame.

Spider-Man: Say cheese!

Izuku calls out, a teasing grin behind his mask. Flint whirls around, his expression turning from shock to anger as he forms a spiked sand fist.

Flint:You think this is a joke, kid? You just can't leave me alone, can you?

Izuku raises his hands in a calming gesture.

Spider-Man: Whoa, whoa, easy there, big guy! Hold off on the supervillain stuff for a sec, alright? I just want to talk."

Flint glares at him, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Flint: Now you want to talk? You've got some nerve...Spider-Man.

Izuku sighs, lowering his hands.

Spider-Man: Yeah, I do. Look, I'm sorry if I dismissed you as just another run-of-the-mill villain. I deal with a lot of bad guys, okay? Robbing, stealing, hurting people—it's like a never-ending cycle. I guess I just assumed the worst with you.

Flint scoffs.

Flint: Yeah ive heard about you. "SpIdEr-MaN". Some vigilante, not even a real pro hero, thinking he can ruin people's lives because of his self-righteous sense of justice.

Izuku shakes his head, still keeping his distance.

Spider-Man: I'm not trying to ruin your life. But robbing a bank? That's on you, not me. That money belongs to the people who worked hard for it.

Flint: And what about me huh? What about what I work hard for?!

Flint's anger falters when Izuku pulls out the locket and shows it to him. Flint's eyes widen, and his hand instinctively touches his chest, realizing the locket isn't there.

Spider-Man: You dropped this during our... uh, fight.

Flint: You mean that fight I beat the ever living crap out of you?

Spider-Man: Yeah...that one.

Izuku tosses the locket to him. Flint catches the locket, his expression softening as he clutches it close. Despite the momentary peace, tension lingers in the air. Both men remain wary of each other. Izuku breaks the silence, his voice steady but curious.

Spider-Man: Why do you need the money for your daughter?

Flint hesitates, his eyes drifting to the hospital. In a window he sees his daughter in her own hospital room.

Flint: You ever heard of quirk cancer?

Izuku nods, his interest piqued. Remembering the last time he heard about it. Was when Dr. Connors was telling him why he was researching cross species and quirk genetics. A disease he went mad trying to cure.

Spider-Man: Yeah, I've heard of it. Nasty stuff.

Flint takes a deep breath, then begins explaining.

Flint: My quirk... it's sand. I can control it, become it. It requires me to concentrate alot so I can maintain my body. With enough practice I could even change shapes and my form.

Flint had demonstrated. Making a hammer with his fist, which turned into a small horse and then a sail boat before back into his normal hand.

Flint: Back when I was younger, I made a living robbing banks. Nobody could touch me, and I could vanish whenever I wanted. And I could certainly handle myself in a fight. As you saw.

Spider-Man: And felt...

Flint: But that all changed when I met someone... someone who made me want to be better. She was... IS...the love of my life.

Izuku listens intently as Flint continues.

Flint: We had a shotgun wedding, settled down, and promised her I'd give up the life of crime. And then... then my daughter Penny was born. Happiest day of my life. That's her right there in that hospital. 3rd floor up 2nd window to the right.

Flint had pointed where he was talking about. Izuku seeing a small frail girl sitting in a hospital bed with Iv' and boluses of fluid and medicine hanging on an IV pole. Wires hooked to her chest monitoring her heart.

Flint: I promised myself the moments I laid eyes on her I would never let anything hurt my little girl. But when she was five, after her quirk showed up, she was diagnosed with this... this disease.

Flint's voice cracks as he speaks, the weight of his memories dragging him down. Izuku watches as the tough exterior of the Sandman crumbles, revealing a father who's desperate and scared. Flint sits down on the edge of the building, his shoulders heavy with the burden of his story.

Flint: The doctors told us she had quirk cancer. I don't know to much about it honestly. It's such a complicated disease and even the doctors were stumped on how to help her. Her mom deals with most of that stuff....not like I would have a say anyway.

Izuku could guess with his history that he no longer had parental rights over Penny.

Flint: When she first got diagnosed. I couldnt help but curse myself...why did she have to inherit my quirk? I tried my best to help her. Teach her how to keep her body stable. It was funny actually. When I was first teaching her. She lied saying that my lessons were helping her be stable. When really it was the medicine the docs were giving her. She's nice like that. After awhile though all that money I stole ran out. We were drowning in medical debt, and I was desperate. So I did one last job. But I got caught by a hero... Eraser Head."

Izuku's eyes widen in sudden recognition.

Spider-Man: Eraser Head! That's who caught you!

Flint raises an eyebrow, annoyed by the interruption.

Flint: Can I finish my sad story about my daughter cancer and my shitty life? Or do you wanna keep fan boying over the guy who ruined my life.

Izuku clears his throat, embarrassed.

Flint: Uh, right. Sorry. Go on...

Flint shakes his head but continues.

Flint: I did my time—two years. I've been out for a year now still on parole, trying to stay clean, trying to be straight for my daughter. She looks up to me for some reason... I don't know why. But I can't let her down... I can't let her die. And... I don't know what I'm supposed to do.

Izuku is silent for a moment, the weight of Flints words settling in. He couldn't help but be reminded of his own child hood in a way. Obviously being quirk less is not as bad as having cancer. But he knows what it felt like to feel totally powerless and weak all the time growing up. He remembers though that there were always two things that seem to give him strength. All Might..... and his dad.

Izukus head: I wonder if dad ever asked himself the same thing with me? Did I do something wrong? Why is this happening to my kid? What could I do to help?

Flint is obviously nothing like his own father. Hisashi was a man of strong moral character. He stood for what he believed is right and he never crossed a line he shouldn't have. He believe in hard work, in the truth, in justice. Flint was a criminal who made a couple bad life choices and ruined his whole life....but they were both dad's who would do anything to protect there kid. And Flint was obviously someone important to his daughter just as much she was to him. Just like Izuku and his dad.

Izukus head: I've...made mistakes in my life. Not nearly as bad as a bank robbing villian. But there still things I regret that had consequences. I had a second chance though to be better. To do right by my dad...so maybe....maybe he also deserves a second chance.

Izuku takes a deep breath, trying to find the right words to say.

Spider-Man: Ok Sandman... heres the deal.

With the tension between them easing, Flint looks up, intrigued but cautious.

Spider-Man: I can't let you keep that money.

Izuku says firmly.

Spider-Man: You have to return it. That money belongs to the people.

Flint's face hardens again.

Flint: I need that money for Penny's treatment.

Spider-Man: I get that-

Izuku replies,

Spider-Man: -but if you steal it, it's not just you throwing your life away. It your daughters hero too. You go down that road she loses her hero AND her dad.

Flint's expression darkens, and he stands up, making his fist grow larger.

Flint: What if I just beat you up again and take the money anyway?

Izuku doesn't flinch. Staying in his stance even Sandman clearly put himself in a position for another fight.

Spider-Man: Remember that selfie I took before our ted talk?

He pulls out his phone and shows Flint the selfie he took of the two of them together. Despite Flint's towering size, Izuku's confidence is unwavering.

Spider-Man: I'll show this to your parole officer. And I'd tell them everything of how you robbed the bank. Where they would take the money right back AND send you back in jail.

Flint scoffs, trying to bluff.

Flint: You don't even know my name.

Izuku shrugs.

Spider-Man: You're a famous bank robber. A quick Google search and some court records, and I could find your parole officer's number in less than 30 mins. Plus, I know where your daughter goes for treatment now. I have everything I need to turn you in.

Flint's anger flares again.

Flint: So you're gonna turn me in after hearing all this?

Spider-Man: Hehe No

Izuku says with a smile in his voice.

Spider-Man: I might be a vigilante, but I still have a heart... I'm giving you a second chance to turn your life around and be the hero your daughter thinks you are. The picture is just insurance to make sure you follow through.

Flint stares at Izuku, conflicted. After a long moment, he throws the duffel bag at Izuku's feet.

Flint: Fine.... You win.

Izuku picks up the bag, encouraging Flint.

Spider-Man: I know you can do this. I belive in you. It wont be easy. But being a hero never is.

Flint scoffs hearing the vigilante call him that. However knowing he's talking about his daughter hero being himself. He then mutters an apology.

Flint: Sorry I uh...hit you so hard.

Izuku grins, taking off his boot and dumping out a small pile of sand.

Spider-Man: Don't worry about it. It's not like I haven't been thrown into a wall before. Plus now I know my suit isnt sand proof.

Flint chuckles despite himself, then thanks Izuku which proved harder then it should have been for him.

Flint: And uhhh. Thanks...for not turning me into the police or pros.

As Izuku swings away with the duffel bag, he can't resist making one last sand joke over his shoulder.

Spider-Man: Hope you can keep your head above the sand—good luck with everything!

Flint cringed hearing another sand pun.

Flint: *sigh*I take it back. I really hate that guy.

Flint watches him go, grumbling about how he hates that guy—but deep down, he's grateful. Maybe this was the universe's way of giving him another shot. As Izuku swings through the city, feeling satisfied with how things turned out, he suddenly stops on a rooftop, staring at the duffel bag. Realizing a huge key factor he forgot.

Spider-Man: Wait...how am I gonna get this money back into the bank?

He asks himself, realizing he's got a new problem to solve.

A little later in the hospital

Flint Marko walked with a renewed sense of purpose, his heart pounding with the thrill of his second chance. The hospital's fluorescent lights flickered overhead as he entered, his footsteps echoing faintly in the sterile hallway. With a visitor pass sticker stuck onto his shirt, he approached the nurse's station, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of his daughter. The nurse, Inko Midoriya, looked up with a warm, compassionate smile.

Inko: Hello sir. Are you here visiting someone?

she asked, her voice gentle and reassuring. Flint nodded, trying to steady his nerves. He was still readjusting into society even after a year out. To see people so nice and kind to him as a stranger almost felt like a warning of danger. But he knew that wasn't the case.

Flint: Yes, my name is Flint Marko. Im here to see Penny Marco. I'm her father. I think her mother is also here. She can come get me if she needs to-

Flint knew he would get in trouble with his ex-wife if he was left alone with Penny. Afraid Flint might try to take her. So he always made sure to he invited in and not take the chance of breaking her trust with hospital visits. Inko's eyes softened as she spoke about Penny.

Inko: Oh your pennys dad? She's wonderful—one of my favorite patients. I'm sure she'll be thrilled to see you. She never stops talking about you.

Flint thanked her, a mixture of gratitude and relief flooding over him. Thankful of the kind nurses that take care of his daughter happy they seem like nice people. Once again. He doesn't know what he did to deserve some a daughter who looked to him with such admiration and love. And he wasn't gonna waste it. As he made his way to Penny's room, he couldn't help but reflect on his recent close call.

Flint: ...Stupid.

he muttered under his breath.

Flint: Almost ruined everything again.

When he finally reached the room, a sense of peace washed over him as he saw his daughter sleeping soundly. But that tranquility was shattered by an ominous voice that echoed through the room, sending a shiver down Flint's spine.

Shigaraki: Hello...Sandman.

The voice drawled, dripping with malevolence. Flint turned abruptly, his heart racing, only to find Shigaraki standing there, a malevolent grin stretching across his face. Seeing him standing in the corner of the hospital room. Holding his ex-wife by the back of her neck with one hand. A single finger left off her throat. Teasingly moving back and forth. Waiting to just grasp her throat fully. Shigaraki voice was cold and deliberate, each word coated with a menacing edge. It was a deep, unsettling tone, carrying an almost mocking lilt that suggested he was thoroughly enjoying Flint's fear.

Shigaraki: Don't even think about it!

Shigaraki continued, his voice smooth and dripping with contempt.

Shigaraki: I'm not playing games. One move of my pinky, and she's a goner.

Flint's fists clenched, turning into massive, sand-encrusted weapons. He swung them forward, but his attack was abruptly stopped by a swirling black mist that seemed to materialize from nowhere. The mist enveloped his hands, pulling them back as if they were being dragged into a void. Shigaraki's voice remained unphased, carrying a cold warning.

Shigaraki: I already warned you once. I wont warn you twice. You're too slow. Don't try anything. I wont just stop at your brats mama. I'll kill your daughter too.

Flint froze, his fear magnified by the sight of Shigaraki's fingers hovering dangerously close to his wife's neck. She looked terrified, her eyes wide with panic as she was held by the back of her neck. Flint's gaze darted back to his daughter, still asleep, her innocence a stark contrast to the menace looming over them.

Flint: ...What do you want?

Flint's voice trembled with a mix of desperation and defiance. Shigaraki's eyes gleamed with cruel amusement.

Shigaraki: I've been watching you for a while, Flint Marko. I was looking to recruit you. You see, you control sand and dust, and I have the ability to turn things into sand and dust. It's a perfect match. You would be a great addition to our party.

Flint's expression hardened, his anger flaring despite the danger.

Flint: Threatening my family is one hell of a stupid way to recruit me.

Shigaraki's voice took on a mocking tone.

Shigaraki: It wasn't my first move. I actually felt a kinship with you. I was just gonna offer you a bigger score after you robbed that bank. Give some fake sympathetic bull krap about how its a father duty to protect there daughter no matter the cost yada yada that kind thing. But then....I saw you give the money back....To Spider-Man of all people!

Flint saw the shift in his ex-wife's expression, from heartbreak at his criminal actions to relief when she learned he'd returned the money. The mixed emotions were palpable. Shigaraki's voice, filled with disdain, cut through the room.

Shigaraki: I heard your whole sob story with the web head. How you wanna be your daughters "hero". PFT dont make me laugh....
....It might make my finger slip.

Shigaraki teased at the love of his lifes throat. Flint clutching his fist in anger.

Shigaraki: Do you REALLY think giving the money back YOU stole suddenly changes anything? Changes your shitty failed marriage? Changes your absoluetly broke econmic standing? Changes your daughter being sick?!

Flint's voice was firm despite his fear.

Flint: I knew it wouldn't fix everything....But I wanted to make my daughter proud.

Shigaraki's voice dropped to a low, contemptuous murmur.

Shigaraki: Well guess what. Now you went and just pissed me off. It would have been one thing if you pussied out of robbing that bank. But after totally defeating Spider-Man and having the chance to KILL HIM. You decide to not only let him go but let him make you believe that you could be anything more than a villian.

Flint's eyes widened in horror as Shigaraki waved the mother of his child around like a puppet, his voice laced with mockery and threat.

Shigaraki: The only reason I havent killed your little family. Is becuase in that little show down you had with Spider-Man. You showed me that so far you were the ONLY ONE to actually have luck in killing Spider-Man. Making our organization have use for you. So heres the "New Deal"-

He had said mockingly. Making fun of his deal with Spider-Man to let him go.

Shigaraki: -I can kill your family any time I want. That dark purple portal you got blocked by. My associates quirk allows him to warp anywhere at any time he wants. You can hide in America, run to Europe, hell move to freaking Antartica or the Saharra dessert. I will find you. And easily kill them with not just my quirk. But a hundred different other villains and psychotic killers. And I can send any of them or multiple of them after your family. Basically ...I...Own...YOU.

Flint stared at the ground. His life once again crumbling around. Except instead of his own life not in the balance. Its his families as well.

Shigaraki: But as much of a pyoctic killer I am. I am not an un-just man...unless I wanna be....If you play nice. Do what I tell you to. And follow orders like a good dog. I'll keep paying for your daughters treatment. Hand deliver the money to your baby mama and everything. If you refuse or try to run well....your smart enough not to...aren't you?

With a heavy heart, Flint accepted the terms. Nodding his head and speaking with a broken voice.

Flint: Fine....I accept your terms.

Shigaraki then threw his wife at Flint. He moved to catch his wife as she fell to her knees, his shirt quickly muffling her cries to keep the sound from waking Penny. Shigaraki's voice dripped with satisfaction as he made his exit. Walking into the purple misted portal.

Shigaraki: I'll be in touch......

However he stops looking back. Giving one last farewell of words. Seeing Flint look up while holding the mother of there child.

Shigaraki: .....Should have just kept the money.

As Shigaraki disappeared into the shadows, Flint's thoughts raced, filled with fear and uncertainty. The sense of dread was palpable, the weight of his decisions pressing heavily upon him as he clutched his wife and watched Shigaraki vanish.