Chapter 29: Truth, Dares, and Quirky Affairs

Several minutes had passed since Izuku's rather unfortunate introduction to the impromptu girls' night gathering, and the young man was still trying to convince himself that the whole ordeal wasn't nearly as embarrassing as it had felt.

Sitting at the edge of his bed with a fresh T-shirt covering his formerly exposed torso, Izuku stared at the opposite wall, where a particularly impressive poster of All Might stood as a shining example of heroic confidence.

Confidence that Izuku currently found himself lacking.

'Okay, let's think about this rationally,' he told himself, rubbing his palms against his knees. 'We're training to become professional heroes. Costume damage is practically an occupational hazard. Therefore, being seen shirtless shouldn’t be that big of a deal.'

His eyes drifted toward the closed bedroom door, beyond which he could hear the muffled chatter of eight young women enjoying themselves in his shared living room. 'But most of those girls have only known me for a day or two at most!'

Izuku groaned softly and buried his face in his hands.

It wasn't as if he was particularly ashamed of his body. After over a year of grueling physical training under All Might, accompanied by his continued efforts to master One For All, he had developed a physique that he was genuinely proud of. Even beyond the state he found himself in after he accidentally Retconned his mother into keeping him in shape. He'd simply never imagined that nearly all of his female classmates would get such an unexpected opportunity to appreciate the results.

Still, he couldn't really blame Eiko. His roommate was naturally sociable, and, from what he recalled, the girls had been discussing a get-together downstairs. Inviting everyone to their suite was exactly the kind of spontaneous, friendly gesture he would expect from her.

'It's her home too, after all,' Izuku reminded himself, leaning backward onto his mattress. 'I just wish somebody had warned me before I opened the bathroom door.'

He glanced at his phone on the nightstand, considering how best to spend the evening. Perhaps he could catch up on one of his favorite hero-analysis podcasts, or review the notes he'd collected throughout the festival. There had been a particularly fascinating discussion about adaptive costume materials that deserved another look.

Yes, that sounded perfect. A quiet evening, a little research, and maybe an early bedtime before tomorrow's classes.

Unfortunately, Izuku Midoriya's aspirations for a peaceful evening were about to encounter another obstacle.

A gentle knock sounded against his bedroom door.

“Izuku? It's me,” Ochako called softly from the other side, her voice carrying just enough to reach him. “Can I come in for a second?”

Izuku sat upright immediately, his earlier embarrassment giving way to a smile at the familiar voice. “Oh! Yeah, of course, Ochako. Come on in!”

The door opened, revealing his second girlfriend standing in the doorway with her hands clasped behind her back. Ochako offered him a bashful smile before stepping inside, carefully closing the door behind her.

“Hey,” she greeted, her cheeks faintly pink as she approached. “Sorry about earlier.”

Izuku chuckled and gestured toward the empty space beside him. “It's okay. Really. You didn't do anything wrong.”

Ochako seemed relieved by his response, though rather than sitting down immediately, her attention wandered around the room. Her eyes widened.

“Whoa,” she murmured, slowly turning in place. “Izuku, you really weren't kidding about being an All Might superfan.”

Izuku followed her gaze and felt his own face warm.

He had certainly made himself comfortable in his new room. Several All Might posters decorated the walls, including one commemorating the Symbol of Peace's American debut. A small collection of limited-edition figurines occupied a shelf above his desk, while an assortment of memorabilia, books, and collectible cards filled the remaining space. His familiar All Might alarm clock sat proudly on the nightstand, ready to greet him for his first morning of classes.

“Ahaha... Yeah,” Izuku admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “I brought most of my collection from home. Well, the stuff I could fit, anyway.”

Ochako turned toward him with an incredulous smile. “Most of it?”

“There's still a lot at Mom's place,” he confessed, laughing sheepishly. “I didn't want to make my room look too cluttered.”

Ochako giggled, wandering over to examine a small Silver Age All Might figurine displayed on his desk. “Izuku, I think we're already past that point.”

“Hey, it's organized clutter,” Izuku protested, although his grin betrayed that he wasn't particularly offended.

Ochako smiled at the figure before carefully setting it back in place. There was something strangely intimate about seeing Izuku's room for the first time. They had spent plenty of time together since they met at the entrance examination, but she had never actually visited his childhood home. This was the first opportunity she'd had to see the kind of space he made for himself when nobody else was around.

'It's so him,' Ochako thought fondly, taking in the meticulously arranged collectibles and neatly stacked notebooks. 'He really does put his whole heart into everything he loves.'

Her gaze eventually settled on Izuku again, and she crossed the room to sit beside him.

“So,” he asked, tilting his head toward her. “What's up? Everything okay out there?”

Ochako nodded, although her smile turned apologetic again. “Yeah. Actually, I wanted to explain what happened with everyone coming up here.”

Izuku chuckled knowingly. “Girls' night?”

“Pretty much,” Ochako confirmed, clasping her hands in her lap. “After you and Katsumi went upstairs, everyone was still talking about what we should do. Kirishima thought it'd be nice to host everything in your suite since there's more privacy than the downstairs lounge.”

“Sounds like her,” Izuku agreed, nodding along.

“Right?” Ochako smiled. “She got really excited about it, too. I think she just assumed you'd be fine with everyone coming over since you're always so friendly with everyone.”

She hesitated for a moment before adding, “She definitely didn't expect you to come out of the shower like that, though.”

Izuku's shoulders slumped as the memory returned.

“Yeah,” he muttered, scratching his cheek. “That makes two of us.”

Ochako giggled before nudging his shoulder with hers. “Are you okay, though? You looked pretty embarrassed.”

“I'm fine,” Izuku assured her, giving her a reassuring smile. “I was just caught off guard. I didn't expect to see eight girls in the living room when I opened the bathroom door.”

“Sorry,” Ochako repeated, her expression softening. “I could have texted you…”

“Seriously, you don't need to apologize,” he insisted, reaching over to take her hand. “It's Kirishima's suite just as much as mine. She can invite her friends over whenever she wants. I don't mind at all.”

Ochako studied him for a moment before breaking into a warm smile.

'Of course he'd say that,' she thought, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. 'Even after getting embarrassed in front of everyone, he's more worried about making sure Kirishima doesn't feel bad.'

“You really are too sweet sometimes, Deku~kun,” she murmured, leaning closer.

Izuku's cheeks warmed as he recognized the affectionate look in her eyes. He turned toward her, meeting her halfway as she closed the distance between them.

Unfortunately, their lips never quite met.

Knockknockknockknock!

“OOOOCHAKO!”

Both of them jumped, their foreheads nearly colliding as Mina's unmistakable voice rang through the door. “Did you convince him yet?! We're waiting!”

Izuku blinked at the interruption, while Ochako squeezed her eyes shut with an expression of embarrassment.

'Of course,' she thought, suppressing a groan. 'The moment we get some privacy.'

“Not yet, Ashido!” Ochako called back, raising her voice toward the door. “Give us a minute!”

“Okaaay!” Mina replied with exaggerated sweetness. “But don't get too distracted in there, lovebirds!”

Her footsteps retreated down the hallway, accompanied by a second, higher-pitched giggle that Izuku could only assume belonged to Toru.

Izuku slowly turned toward Ochako. “Convince me?”

Ochako's shoulders sagged.

“Ahaha... About that.” She rubbed her hands together nervously before looking up at him with an apologetic smile. “So, the girls were wondering if you'd like to join us tonight.”

Izuku stared at her. “Me?”

“Yep,” Ochako responded with a pop.

“For girls' night?” Izuku continued.

Ochako nodded, looking increasingly amused by his bewilderment. “Ashido, Hagakure, and Kirishima were the ones who brought it up. Kirishima felt bad about everything earlier, and she thought inviting you would help make things less awkward.”

Izuku hummed thoughtfully. That certainly sounded like his roommate.

“And Ashido and Hagakure?” he asked, already suspecting the answer.

Ochako gave him a sympathetic smile. “I think they mostly want to tease us about our relationship.”

Izuku sighed. 'Of course they do.'

He had known Mina for barely two days, yet the pink-skinned girl's fascination with his romantic life had already become one of the most predictable aspects of his university experience. And Toru, judging by her earlier reactions, seemed perfectly willing to become her partner in crime.

“Romance gremlins,” Izuku muttered, shaking his head with a helpless smile. “I'm going to be dealing with romance gremlins for the next four years, aren't I?”

Ochako burst into giggles, leaning against his shoulder. “Probably! Although you have to admit, they're pretty fun.”

“That's what makes them dangerous,” Izuku replied, giving her an exaggeratedly serious look. “They're charming enough that you don't realize you're in trouble until it's too late.”

Ochako laughed harder, covering her mouth with one hand.

“Sounds like someone else I know,” she teased, poking his chest.

Izuku blinked. “Huh?”

“Nothing!”

He studied her suspiciously for another moment before surrendering with a chuckle.

“Well, I guess there's no harm in joining for a while,” he said, glancing toward the door. “As long as everyone actually wants me there.”

Ochako's face brightened immediately. “Really?”

“Sure,” he replied. “Besides, I'd feel bad leaving Kirishima to worry that she upset me.”

Ochako rewarded him with the kiss they'd been interrupted from sharing, pressing her lips gently against his before pulling away with a happy smile. “Thank you, Izuku.”

Izuku smiled back, although a small part of him couldn't help feeling that he'd just agreed to something considerably more dangerous than he'd anticipated.

'It's just a few games with my classmates,' he reassured himself as Ochako stood and offered him her hand. 'What's the worst that could happen?'

Considering his recent experiences with that exact question, he probably should have known better.

The moment Izuku stepped back into the shared living room, he realized just how thoroughly the girls had transformed the space.

The coffee table had been cleared and a collection of snacks and drinks now occupied one end of it. The sofas had been rearranged slightly to create a more intimate gathering area, while additional chairs had been brought over from the kitchenette.

Mina and Toru occupied one of the loveseats, sitting close together like two conspirators preparing to unleash chaos upon an unsuspecting population. Kinoko, Momo, and Tenka shared the larger sofa, with the mushroom-loving brunette looking considerably more comfortable than she had downstairs.

Tsuyu had somehow acquired a beanbag chair decorated with a cheerful lily pad pattern, which she now occupied with her legs tucked comfortably beneath her.

'Did she bring that from her room?' Izuku wondered, watching the frog girl settle even deeper into the cushion. 'Actually, that seems like exactly the kind of thing Tsuyu would own.'

Eiko sat in one of the kitchenette chairs, her muscular arms resting on her knees as she chatted with Momo. The only remaining seat was the second loveseat, toward which Ochako immediately guided him.

“Here we go,” she announced cheerfully, sitting down beside him. “One Izuku Midoriya, successfully recruited!”

Mina threw both arms into the air. “YEAH! Mission accomplished!”

Toru clapped enthusiastically beside her, her gloved hands producing a surprisingly audible series of smacks.

“Welcome to girls' night, Midoriya!” she cheered, bouncing in her seat. “You're our special guest!”

Izuku chuckled nervously as he settled beside Ochako. “Thanks for inviting me. I think.”

Mina grinned. “Oh, you're gonna love it.”

“Somehow, that doesn't reassure me,” he admitted as a small smile settled onto his face regardless.

Before Mina could offer another suspiciously enthusiastic promise, Eiko leaned forward and bowed her head.

“Hey, Midoriya,” she began, her expression genuinely apologetic. “I'm really sorry about earlier. I should've asked before bringing everyone up here.”

Izuku shook his head and waved away her concern. “It's okay, Kirishima. Ochako already explained everything.”

Eiko straightened slightly, though she still looked guilty. “Yeah, but it's your home too. I kinda got carried away because everyone was excited, and I didn't think about how you might feel.”

“I appreciate you worrying about me,” Izuku replied warmly. “But seriously, we're roommates. You should be able to have friends over. Just give me a heads-up next time, okay?”

Eiko's face brightened, and she gave him an enthusiastic thumbs-up. “You got it, bro! That's seriously manly of you!”

Tenka adjusted her glasses, looking equally contrite.

“I must also apologize, Midoriya,” she declared, sitting straighter on the sofa. “As someone who considers herself responsible for promoting proper conduct among our peers, I should have insisted upon confirming your consent before entering a shared living space!”

Izuku smiled awkwardly. “It's really okay, Iida.”

“Nevertheless!” Tenka continued, raising one hand for emphasis. “The entire situation highlights a rather concerning oversight in our accommodations!”

Mina perked up. “Oh, here we go.”

Tenka ignored her, looking between Izuku and Eiko with an expression of mounting indignation.

“Why, precisely, has U.A. assigned a young man and a young woman to the same residential suite in the first place?!” she demanded. “While I understand that we are university students and therefore responsible adults, surely the administration recognizes the potential complications of such an arrangement!”

Toru giggled, leaning toward Mina. “Scandalous.”

“Extremely scandalous,” Mina agreed, nodding with exaggerated gravity.

Tenka's cheeks immediately reddened. “That is not what I meant!”

Kinoko quietly raised her hand, apparently emboldened by having finally settled into the group.

“I-I kind of wondered about that too,” she admitted, fidgeting with the hem of her sundress. “It's a little unusual, isn't it?”

Momo nodded thoughtfully, one finger resting against her chin.

“I actually noticed the discrepancy while helping everyone check in yesterday,” she remarked. “Midoriya and Kirishima appear to be the only mixed-gender pair assigned to a suite. The other students have been grouped according to gender.”

Izuku felt a sudden chill run down his spine. 'Oh. Right. That.'

His eyes flicked toward Eiko, who seemed entirely unbothered by the conversation, aside from the suggestion that there was something inappropriate about sharing a suite with her friend.

To everyone else in the room, Eiko Kirishima had always been a girl. Izuku, however, remembered a very different history.

Before Retcon had interfered, his roommate had been Eijiro Kirishima, a cheerful and enthusiastic young man whose love of manliness had translated into a quick friendship between them. His reality-altering power had transformed him into Eiko, rewriting the world's memories to make her new identity seem perfectly natural. But apparently, the room assignments hadn't changed.

'Of course they didn't,' Izuku thought, feeling a bead of nervous sweat form near his temple. 'Retcon must've come up with some explanation for why we're still sharing a suite. Maybe the administration approved an exception? Or there was some scheduling issue? I really need to figure out what everyone thinks happened before somebody asks me!'

Fortunately, Eiko seemed perfectly comfortable answering for herself.

“Eh, I don't really see the problem,” she said with a casual shrug. “Midoriya's a great guy, and we're good friends. Besides, we've got separate bedrooms and our own personal space.”

“Exactly,” Izuku agreed a little too quickly, earning a curious glance from Momo. “It's not like we're sleeping in the same room or anything.”

Tsuyu watched the exchange with her usual calm expression, her chin resting against one hand.

“As long as you're both comfortable with it, I don't see the issue, kero,” she remarked. “You seem to get along pretty well.”

“Thank you, Tsu!” Izuku replied, perhaps a little more enthusiastically than necessary.

Tenka still looked unconvinced.

“Even so, the implications of such an arrangement should not be dismissed so casually,” she argued, adjusting her glasses again. “What if there are misunderstandings? Or situations involving a lack of appropriate attire?”

Mina and Toru slowly turned toward each other. Their grins widened.

“Oh, you mean like earlier?” Mina asked innocently.

“Exactly like earlier!” Toru added, clasping her hands together.

“That is precisely the sort of incident I am referring to!” Tenka insisted, her cheeks blazing. “It was an unfortunate violation of privacy that should never have occurred!”

Eiko groaned, sinking slightly in her chair. “Aw, come on. I already apologized!”

“It's okay, Kirishima,” Izuku repeated, laughing despite his embarrassment. “Really.”

Ochako reached over and squeezed his hand reassuringly, offering him a little smile.

“Oookay, enough talking about dorm regulations,” the pink girl declared, waving both hands. “We're supposed to be having fun!”

“Thank you!” Toru exclaimed, springing upright on the loveseat. “I thought we were never gonna get to the good stuff!”

Tenka narrowed her eyes suspiciously. “And what, precisely, do you consider the good stuff, Hagakure?”

Toru planted her gloved hands on her hips and turned to address the crowd. “Gossip! Games! Secrets! Getting to know all our new friends!”

Mina nodded enthusiastically beside her. “Exactly! We've only known each other for a couple of days, so there's tons we don't know about everyone yet. And what better way to learn than by putting people on the spot?”

“Perhaps ordinary conversation?” Momo suggested politely, though the small smile on her face suggested she was enjoying the atmosphere.

“Boooooring!” Mina quickly replied, earning a giggle from Kinoko.

Toru raised one finger dramatically. “Which is why I propose we start with a classic!”

The invisible girl's clothing shifted as she leaned forward, her excitement practically radiating through the air. “Spin the Bottle!”

Izuku blinked, Mina gasped in delight, and Tenka noticeably stiffened.

“And,” Toru continued, sounding immensely pleased with herself, “we're combining it with Truth or Dare!”

“YES!” Mina squealed, throwing herself sideways to hug her invisible companion. “Hagakure, you're a genius!”

“I know!” The invisible girl preened, or at least looked like she preened, with her chest popping out as her gloved hands landed on her seemingly wide hips.

Momo tilted her head, considering the suggestion. “I believe I've heard of that game, although I've never actually participated.”

Kinoko looked down at her hands, a nervous little smile crossing her face. “T-That sounds like it could get pretty embarrassing.”

“That's half the fun!” Mina assured her, grinning broadly.

Tsuyu blinked from her beanbag chair. “Sounds interesting, kero. I suppose we'll learn quite a bit about each other.”

Tenka pushed her glasses up the bridge of her nose, clearly preparing another lecture.

“I must insist that any dares remain within reasonable boundaries,” she declared firmly. “No dangerous activities, no violations of personal privacy, and absolutely nothing that would reflect poorly upon U.A. students!”

Mina leaned toward Toru and whispered loudly enough for everyone to hear. “So, basically, nothing fun.”

“I heard that, Ashido!”

Ochako laughed beside Izuku, thoroughly entertained by the exchange.

For Izuku, however, the announcement had caused a rather different reaction. 'Spin the Bottle? Truth or Dare? With eight girls?'

His mind raced through the possibilities, recalling the sorts of questions Mina had asked during their previous gathering. With Toru joining her as an enthusiastic accomplice, there was absolutely no telling what kinds of embarrassing situations might arise.

He glanced toward Ochako, hoping to find some reassurance in his girlfriend's expression. She smiled brightly at him, and he smiled back reflexively. And perhaps because he was a little more nervous than he cared to admit, he squeezed her hand.

Ochako squeaked, and a familiar sensation immediately followed as Izuku felt his weight disappear. His bottom lifted an inch above the loveseat, and his feet began drifting away from the carpet.

“Oops!” she exclaimed, bringing her free fingertips together. “Release!”

Izuku dropped back onto the cushion with a soft bounce.

Mina burst into laughter. “Oh my gosh! You two are already floating!”

Toru clapped excitedly. “That's so cute! Their love is weightless~!”

Ochako blushed and waved her hands apologetically. “Sorry, Izuku! I didn't mean to!”

Izuku chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck while keeping his other hand safely in his lap. “It's okay. I just wasn't expecting it.”

As the girls continued laughing and discussing the rules, Izuku sank a little deeper into the loveseat beside his girlfriend.

'Okay,' he thought, glancing between Mina's mischievous grin, Toru's excited bouncing, and Tenka's increasingly desperate attempts to establish order. 'It's just a game. We're all friends here. Surely nothing too crazy will happen.'

Ochako leaned comfortably against his shoulder, apparently delighted that he had agreed to join them.

Izuku looked down at her smiling face and found himself relaxing too, despite the growing suspicion that he had willingly walked into a trap. 'Please, let me get through tonight with at least a little dignity left.’

Toru was practically vibrating with excitement as she hurried toward the kitchenette, her striped tank top and shorts bobbing through the air while her invisible feet pattered against the floor. The other students watched with varying degrees of amusement as she rummaged through the cabinets before triumphantly emerging with an empty plastic bottle.

“Ta-daaa!” Toru exclaimed, holding her prize above her head. “Our instrument of destiny!”

Mina applauded enthusiastically from her loveseat. “Ooooh, nice find! I like the dramatic presentation!”

“Thank you, thank you!” Toru giggled, giving an exaggerated bow before placing the bottle horizontally in the center of the coffee table. “Now, I know most of us have probably played something like this before, but since we're all responsible adults, I figured we should establish a few ground rules.”

Tenka visibly relaxed at those words, straightening her glasses with an approving nod. “An excellent suggestion, Hagakure. Establishing clear expectations beforehand will help prevent unnecessary misunderstandings.”

“Exactly!” Toru agreed, though her enthusiastic tone suggested she had a rather different definition of "unnecessary" than Tenka's. “So, whoever spins the bottle gets to ask a question or give a dare to whoever it lands on. The person it points to gets to choose between Truth and Dare before hearing the prompt.”

Momo leaned forward with interest, folding her hands neatly in her lap. “And if someone is uncomfortable answering a particular question or performing a dare?”

“That's where the forfeit comes in!” Toru explained, raising one gloved finger. “If you don't wanna do the prompt, you can refuse, but you have to do a forfeit instead. We'll decide what that is as a group when it happens.”

Kinoko fidgeted with the hem of her sundress. “S-So we won't know what the forfeit is beforehand?”

“Nope!” Toru replied cheerfully, rocking on her heels. “That's part of the excitement!”

Izuku glanced at Ochako, who was sitting comfortably beside him on their loveseat.

'Somehow, that sounds considerably more dangerous than she realizes,' he thought, giving the bottle a wary look.

“Obviously, nothing dangerous or genuinely uncomfortable,” Ochako added, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. “We're supposed to have fun, right?”

“Precisely!” Tenka declared, raising a hand to emphasize her agreement with Ochako. “Any participant must be allowed to establish personal boundaries, and no one should be pressured into anything inappropriate.”

Mina leaned toward Toru, cupping a hand around where her friend's invisible ear presumably was. “She's gonna make us sign a contract next.”

“I heard that, Ashido!” Tenka protested, earning several giggles from the others.

Tsuyu watched the exchange from her lily pad beanbag, blinking thoughtfully. “Sounds simple enough, kero. Although I have a feeling you two are going to make things interesting.”

Mina grinned, looking thoroughly pleased with the assessment. “That's the plan, Tsu!”

With the rules established and everyone tentatively agreeing to participate, Toru clapped her hands together. “Alright! Since this was my brilliant idea, I volunteer to go first! But before, let’s do a quick round of introductions of our names and our quirks!”

What followed was a series of introductions, most of which Izuku had already known. However, the introduction of Yaoyorozu, Hagakure, and Komori into tonight’s mix raised some very interesting questions in Izuku’s mind. He knew he just had to find out what the limits of “Creation” could fathomably mean.

With the introductions out of the way, Toru crouched beside the coffee table, placed her fingers against the bottle, and gave it a vigorous spin. The plastic whirled across the polished wooden surface, its neck sweeping past Kinoko, Eiko, Tsuyu, and Izuku before gradually losing momentum. Several girls leaned forward, watching the bottle's decreasing rotations with growing anticipation.

Finally, it stopped. Pointing directly at Ochako.

“YES!” Toru cheered, throwing both arms skyward. “Oh my gosh, first try!”

Ochako blinked in surprise, her fingers tightening around Izuku's hand. “Already?!”

Mina burst into delighted laughter, slapping her knees. “Dang, Toru! You're getting straight to the good stuff!”

Izuku looked between them with growing suspicion. 'As we expected. Ochako and I are tonight’s primary targets.'

Toru leaned forward eagerly. “Alright, Ochako! Truth or Dare?”

Ochako hesitated for a moment, already anticipating the sort of questions their enthusiastic new friend might have prepared. Still, there was no sense being nervous about a harmless game, especially when she'd agreed to participate in the first place.

“Truth,” she answered, offering a brave little smile.

“Perfect!” Toru chirped, settling onto the edge of her seat. “Then I've gotta ask something I've been dying to know since I saw you two cuddling earlier. How did you and Midoriya meet?”

Ochako's apprehension immediately melted into a delighted smile. “Oh! That's actually a really nice story!”

Mina leaned forward so quickly that she nearly slipped off her cushion. “Oh, we're starting with the origin story! I love it!”

Izuku felt his cheeks begin to warm as Ochako shifted closer, intertwining their fingers more securely.

“Well, it happened during the entrance exam,” Ochako began, looking around at the curious faces surrounding them. “I'd come to U.A. hoping to get into the Hero Course, but I was honestly pretty nervous. There were so many talented applicants, and I kept worrying that I wouldn't be good enough. I'd barely gotten to know anyone when I met Izuku. He was really nice, and we ended up helping each other during the practical portion.”

Izuku smiled at the memory. “You were pretty amazing yourself, Ochako.”

“See?” Ochako giggled, giving his hand an affectionate squeeze. “He's already doing it.”

“Doing what?” Izuku asked, blinking innocently.

“Being ridiculously sweet,” Mina supplied, earning an enthusiastic nod from Toru.

Ochako continued before her boyfriend could protest further. “Things were going pretty well until that huge Zero-Point Robot showed up.”

Several expressions around the table grew more serious.

“I remember hearing about that machine,” Momo remarked, her brow furrowing thoughtfully. “My examination didn’t include such a behemoth.”

“Yeah, well, things got a little complicated,” Ochako admitted, glancing at Izuku. “And when I got caught in a dangerous spot, Izuku didn't hesitate to come help me.”

Izuku shifted uncomfortably beneath the attention. “I mean, you were in trouble. Anybody would've tried to help.”

“Maybe,” Ochako conceded, her smile growing softer. “But you were the first one who actually did.”

She turned back toward the others, her eyes bright with the memory. “He put himself in danger to make sure I was safe, and he worked alongside others like Iida to help create the opening to stop that enormous robot.”

Mina clasped her hands beneath her chin, practically swooning. “Oh my gosh. He saved you from the giant robot?”

Toru let out a dreamy squeal, leaning against Mina's shoulder. “That's like something straight out of a romance manga!”

“It was more complicated than that,” Izuku protested, laughing nervously. “Like she said, Iida was there, and Sato helped too; also, Shishida was involved, and Ochako was doing plenty herself. Really, it wasn't just me.”

“Izuku,” Ochako interrupted gently, drawing his attention back toward her. “You inspired me.”

His protest died on his lips. Ochako looked at him with an affection so genuine that he briefly forgot about the seven other girls listening to their conversation.

“I was scared, and I wasn't sure what I could accomplish,” she admitted, her thumb slowly brushing across his knuckles. “But watching you put everything you had into saving somebody else made me want to push past my own limits. You showed me what being a hero really means.”

Izuku swallowed, his cheeks turning an increasingly vivid shade of red. 'Ochako...'

“And that's why I started liking him,” she finished, smiling warmly. “He was kind, brave, and a little awkward, but he made me feel like I could become someone amazing too. I asked him for some time after the exam and… well… here we are.”

The room practically melted.

“Awwww!” Eiko exclaimed, clutching a hand over her heart. “That's so manly!”

“That's adorable!” Toru squealed, throwing herself against Mina, who was similarly overcome with romantic excitement.

Even Momo, who had been listening with her usual composed attentiveness, wore a distinctly dreamy smile.

“How wonderful,” she murmured, resting a hand against her cheek. “To inspire one another from your very first meeting... That sounds like the foundation of a truly meaningful relationship.”

Kinoko nodded shyly, her cheeks rosy. “L-Like a fairy tale, almost.”

Tsuyu studied the couple with a faint smile. “You really do suit each other, kero.”

Tenka adjusted her glasses, looking thoughtful. “While I would caution against unnecessarily endangering oneself during an examination, Midoriya's actions certainly demonstrated the selflessness expected of a hero.”

Izuku laughed weakly as the compliments continued piling up.

“Really, I just did what I thought was right,” he insisted, squeezing Ochako's hand as he gently rubbed his thumb across the back. “And she helped me just as much. I don't think I would've made it through that exam the same way without her.”

Ochako's smile brightened, and she leaned against his shoulder.

Mina pointed at him accusingly. “There he goes again! Someone stop this man from being adorable!”

“I don't think he knows how,” Toru giggled.

Izuku finally surrendered, hiding his embarrassment behind a sheepish smile as Ochako pressed a quick kiss against his cheek. For all the teasing, he couldn't bring himself to regret being the subject of their first question. Especially when Ochako looked so happy telling the story.

Once the excited chatter settled, Toru gestured toward the bottle. “Alright, Ochako! Your turn!”

Ochako leaned forward, gave the bottle a gentle spin, and watched it circle the table before coming to rest. Its neck pointed toward Tenka.

“Oh!” Ochako exclaimed, looking toward the bespectacled girl. “Iida!”

Tenka immediately straightened her posture. “Very well, Uraraka. I shall choose Truth.”

Mina grinned knowingly. “Of course you will.”

Tenka gave her a questioning glance. “Is there something objectionable about my decision?”

“Nope!” Mina replied, her grin widening. “It's just very you.”

Ochako giggled before considering what to ask. She didn't want to embarrass Tenka, particularly after the girl had spent so much time defending everyone's dignity.

After a moment, she settled on something she genuinely wanted to know. “What made you want to attend U.A. rather than another hero university?”

Tenka's expression brightened immediately.

“An excellent question, Uraraka!” she declared, placing both hands neatly upon her knees. “As some of you may know, my family has a long and distinguished history of professional heroism. The Iida name carries certain expectations, and I have always felt a responsibility to uphold those traditions.”

She paused, a fond smile appearing as she thought of her older brother. “My brother, Tensei, has been an extraordinary influence upon my life. Watching him serve the public as Ingenium showed me firsthand the importance of discipline, humility, and unwavering dedication to protecting others. I wish to become a hero worthy of standing beside him.”

“That's really sweet,” Ochako remarked, smiling at the sincerity in her classmate's voice.

“Oh wow… Family legacy is a pretty big deal,” Eiko agreed, nodding thoughtfully. “Especially when you've already got a famous hero in the family.”

Tenka inclined her head appreciatively before continuing.

“Precisely. While other institutions possess respectable Hero Courses, U.A. has an unparalleled reputation for preparing exceptional professionals. My family considered it the most suitable environment for my development.”

She adjusted her glasses, apparently remembering another detail. “Of course, there are additional expectations concerning the continuation of our heroic lineage. My parents have occasionally expressed their hopes that I might eventually find a suitable heroic suitor during my university years, but I consider that a matter for the distant future.”

For approximately two seconds, nobody said anything. Then Mina's head slowly turned toward Toru. Toru's invisible head appeared to turn toward Mina in return, judging by the movement of her shoulders. Both girls leaned forward.

“Wait,” Mina began, her voice trembling with barely restrained excitement. “A suitable what?”

Tenka blinked. “A suitor. A potential marriage partner, although I fail to see why that particular detail is relevant.”

Toru gasped dramatically. “Oh my gosh! You're here to find a husband?!”

“Absolutely not!” Tenka exclaimed, nearly launching herself off the sofa. “I specifically stated that it is a secondary consideration!”

Mina clasped her hands together, practically glowing with delight. “So your family's hoping you'll find some thoroughbred hero boyfriend with amazing Quirk genetics to keep the Iida bloodline going?”

“Mina!” Ochako cried, bursting into laughter.

Tenka's face turned scarlet. “That is a gross oversimplification of a respectable family tradition!”

Toru leaned forward conspiratorially. “Do your parents have a checklist? Like, good grades, heroic reputation, impressive Quirk, handsome face, excellent engine compatibility?”

“ENGINE COMPATIBILITY?!” Tenka sputtered, her glasses slipping down her nose. “My family's Quirk inheritance is not a vehicle-purchasing consideration!”

Eiko scratched her chin, apparently considering the matter more seriously than anyone expected.

“Actually, does your family care about physical qualifications too?” she asked, looking genuinely curious. “Like, would a guy have to be really athletic? Or able to keep up with you when you're running?”

Tenka stared at her in disbelief. “Kirishima! Not you too!”

“I'm just curious!” Eiko protested, holding up her hands with an innocent grin. “I mean, if you're gonna marry a speedster, being able to keep up sounds pretty important.”

Mina collapsed against Toru, laughing so hard that she could barely speak. “Imagine bringing a guy home and your brother makes him run a hundred-meter dash before approving the relationship!”

“Or checks his horsepower!” Toru added between giggles.

“THERE WILL BE NO SUCH EXAMINATION!” Tenka declared, throwing both hands into the air.

Even Izuku couldn't entirely suppress his laughter, although he made a valiant effort to hide it behind his free hand. 'Poor Iida. She really walked straight into that one.'

Tenka took several deep breaths, visibly struggling to restore her composure.

“My primary purpose in attending U.A. is to become an exceptional hero,” she announced with all the authority she could muster. “My studies, practical training, and personal development take precedence over any considerations of marriage or courtship! I am not here to acquire a husband!”

Tsuyu tilted her head slightly. “So, if you happened to meet someone suitable, you wouldn't necessarily object, kero?”

Tenka froze, and her face turned an even deeper shade of red. “T-That is an entirely hypothetical scenario, Asui!”

Mina dissolved into another fit of laughter, while Ochako finally took pity on their increasingly flustered classmate.

“Okay, okay!” she giggled, waving everyone down. “I think we got our answer. Thanks, Iida!”

Tenka exhaled heavily, looking as though she'd just survived an especially difficult examination.

“You are welcome, Uraraka,” she replied stiffly. “Although I sincerely hope future questions will be treated with greater maturity.”

Mina's grin suggested that was an exceedingly optimistic hope. Nevertheless, Tenka leaned forward and took her turn with the bottle, spinning it with remarkable precision. It completed several rotations before pointing toward Kinoko.

The mushroom-loving girl let out a tiny squeak and drew her hands to her chest. “M-Me?”

Tenka offered her an encouraging smile. “Indeed, Komori. Do you prefer Truth or Dare?”

Kinoko hesitated briefly before answering in a small voice. “Truth, please.”

Tenka nodded approvingly, taking a moment to consider her question. Unlike Mina or Toru, she had no particular interest in uncovering romantic secrets or manufacturing embarrassment. What she wanted was a meaningful opportunity to better understand one of her classmates.

“Very well,” she began, folding her hands neatly in her lap. “What hobbies do you have that nobody here would expect?”

Kinoko blinked, apparently relieved.

“Oh! Well, I really like growing mushrooms,” she answered, brightening slightly. “I have a little cultivation setup at home, and I've collected all kinds of fungal specimens. Some of them are really rare, too.”

Eiko chuckled from her chair. “I think we figured that one out already.”

Kinoko's smile faltered. “O-Oh.”

Tenka cleared her throat, gently redirecting the conversation. “While your interest in mycology is admirable, Komori, I believe most of us are already aware of your fascination with fungi. Is there another hobby you enjoy that might surprise us?”

Kinoko looked down at her hands. For several seconds, she seemed to debate whether to answer. Her cheeks gradually turned pink, and she nervously tucked a loose strand of brown hair behind her ear. “Well... I guess there's one thing.”

Momo leaned forward encouragingly. “You can tell us, Komori. We're all friends here.”

Kinoko swallowed before offering a shy smile. “I really like idols.”

The response surprised several of the girls.

“Idols?” Ochako repeated, smiling with interest.

Kinoko nodded, gaining a little confidence.

“Y-Yeah. I listen to lots of idol groups, and I collect merchandise whenever I can. I really like watching concerts, learning the choreography, and seeing how everyone performs together.”

Toru clasped her hands excitedly. “Oh my gosh, that's so cute! Do you have a favorite group?”

Kinoko's face brightened considerably as she began talking. “A few! I follow some underground groups too, and sometimes I watch their live performances online. They're all so amazing, especially when you see how much work goes into the singing and dancing.”

Her normally quiet voice grew noticeably more animated. “I've always thought it would be wonderful to stand on a stage like that someday. I mean, being a hero is my dream, obviously, but I've sometimes wondered if I could also become an id...”

Kinoko stopped abruptly, and her eyes widened.

“A-An idol fan club member!” she finished hastily, waving both hands. “I meant joining more fan clubs! That's all!”

Most of the girls were too excited by the unexpected revelation to notice the awkward correction.

Mina practically bounced in her seat. “Wait, that's awesome! You know choreography? We are absolutely dancing together sometime!”

“I would love to see one of those performances,” Momo added warmly, smiling at the brunette. “I've heard the level of preparation involved can be quite extraordinary.”

Eiko grinned. “Yeah! That's a pretty cool hobby, Kinoko!”

Kinoko ducked her head, looking thoroughly embarrassed but pleased by their acceptance. “T-Thanks, everyone.”

Tsuyu, however, had noticed the abrupt change in her sentence. The frog girl studied Kinoko quietly from her beanbag, one finger resting thoughtfully against her chin.

'She almost said she wanted to become an idol herself, kero,' Tsuyu realized, watching the brunette smile shyly at Mina's enthusiastic questions. 'That's a pretty big dream to keep hidden.'

Rather than draw attention to it, Tsuyu simply filed the observation away. Perhaps she'd ask Kinoko about it another time.

Kinoko, apparently eager to escape the spotlight before she revealed anything else, quickly reached for the bottle. “M-My turn, right?”

Tenka nodded. “Indeed. Thank you for sharing, Komori.”

Kinoko gave the bottle a rather timid spin, watching it wobble across the table before coming to rest. Its neck pointed directly at Izuku.

Mina gasped, and Toru practically launched herself off the loveseat. “Ooooooh!”

Izuku blinked as both girls turned toward him with matching enthusiasm.

“W-What?” he asked, laughing nervously.

Mina leaned forward with a wicked grin. “Our first chance to put Midoriya on the spot!”

Toru clasped her hands together. “Kinoko, make it good!”

Kinoko looked between the two excited girls and Izuku, who offered her a reassuring smile.

“Don't worry about them,” he said kindly. “Ask whatever you want.”

Kinoko relaxed slightly. “Okay. Um, Truth or Dare?”

“Truth,” Izuku answered, figuring that was probably the safer option.

Kinoko smiled, apparently pleased to have been given such a straightforward opportunity. “Who's your favorite hero?”

Mina's grin faltered, and Toru's shoulders sagged.

“Oh,” Mina muttered, looking mildly disappointed. “That's it?”

Izuku, meanwhile, had gone completely still as Ochako felt his hand tighten around hers.

She slowly turned toward her boyfriend. 'Oh boy.'

A familiar sparkle appeared in Izuku's green eyes.

“All Might,” he answered immediately, sitting straighter. “Definitely All Might!”

Kinoko blinked at the sudden enthusiasm. “Oh! You really like him?”

Izuku's smile widened. “Like him? He's incredible!”

Mina exchanged a look with Ochako. Ochako simply shook her head with affectionate resignation. There was no stopping him now.

“All Might isn't just the strongest hero in Japan,” Izuku began, his hands moving animatedly as he spoke. “He's someone who completely changed how the global society thinks about heroism! His strength is amazing, obviously, but what makes him special is the way he inspires people!”

He leaned forward, his excitement building with every word.

“Even when a situation looks hopeless, he never lets people see him give up. He smiles because he wants everyone around him to feel safe, and he puts himself in danger without hesitation if it means saving somebody else.”

Momo smiled softly, finding his enthusiasm unexpectedly moving.

“That certainly is an admirable quality,” she agreed.

“And his career is full of incredible moments!” Izuku continued, already halfway out of his seat. “Like his first major rescue operation after returning from America, or the time he stopped that runaway tanker before it reached the residential district!”

He rose to his feet, planting his fists against his hips in an unmistakable imitation of the Symbol of Peace.

“Remember when he told those reporters that everything would be fine because he was there?” Izuku asked, his voice dropping into a dramatic impression of his favorite hero. “The way he stood there, smiling after saving all those people? That was inspiring!”

Eiko burst into laughter, though her grin was thoroughly approving. “Dude, you've even got the pose down!”

Izuku barely seemed to hear her.

“And that's not even getting into his fighting style!” he continued, shifting into another exaggerated stance. “His Detroit Smash is iconic, but the way he adapts his techniques depending on the situation is seriously underrated. There's so much precision behind those punches, and his ability to control the surrounding shock waves is...”

“Midoriya,” Mina interrupted, giggling as she watched him enthusiastically demonstrate the motions, “you're such a fanboy!”

Izuku paused mid-pose. His cheeks turned slightly pink, but the embarrassment barely slowed him down.

“W-Well, yeah,” he admitted with a proud smile. “He's my favorite hero. I've been following his career for as long as I can remember.”

Ochako watched him fondly, recalling the stories he'd told her about his childhood admiration for All Might.

'He's so happy talking about him,' she thought, resting her cheek against her hand. 'It's adorable.'

Kinoko looked delighted rather than overwhelmed.

“That's really nice,” she said softly. “You must've learned a lot from watching him.”

Izuku nodded enthusiastically. “More than you know.”

The words carried a private significance that nobody else in the room could quite understand. For a brief moment, Izuku thought about the enormous responsibility Toshinori had entrusted to him, the many months of training they'd shared, and the power now resting within his own body.

Then he caught Mina mimicking his earlier heroic pose from the opposite loveseat.

“Oh, mighty All Might fanboy!” she declared dramatically, puffing out her chest. “Please bless us with your wisdom!”

Toru dissolved into giggles, while Izuku finally sat back down beside Ochako, laughing sheepishly. “Okay, okay. I get it.”

“Never apologize for loving something that much,” Eiko told him, flashing an enthusiastic thumbs-up. “That's manly as hell!”

Izuku grinned at her. “Thanks, Kirishima.”

With his turn concluded, he leaned forward and reached for the bottle. “Alright. Let's see who I get.”

He gave it a spin, watching the bottle rotate several times before gradually coming to rest. Directly toward Toru.

The invisible girl immediately sat up straight. “Ooh! Me!”

Mina grinned, elbowing her companion. “Careful, Toru. It's the All Might superfan's turn to interrogate you.”

Toru laughed and leaned forward eagerly. “Truth!”

Izuku blinked in surprise. “You already decided?”

“Yep!” Toru replied, clasping her hands together. “I'm curious what you're gonna ask!”

Izuku's expression turned thoughtful. He'd actually been wondering about something since meeting Toru downstairs. Something that, to his analytical mind, was considerably more fascinating than any embarrassing secret he could possibly uncover.

“Okay,” he began, leaning forward with genuine curiosity. “Can you actually see yourself?”

Toru giggled. “Nope! Totally invisible!”

Izuku's eyes widened. 'Interesting.'

“Really? So your invisibility affects your own visual perception of your body too?” he asked, his posture becoming increasingly animated. “Can you deactivate it voluntarily, or is it a permanent mutation?”

“Permanent!” Toru answered brightly. “I've always been like this.”

Izuku leaned forward another inch. “Since birth?”

“Uh-huh!” She nodded.

“So your Quirk is heteromorphic,” he murmured, already beginning to organize the information in his head. “That raises some really interesting questions about how your body interacts with light.”

Toru tilted her invisible head. “Like what?”

Izuku's eyes practically sparkled.

“Well, for starters, if your entire body is completely invisible, how do your retinas receive enough light for you to see? Normally, an invisible object would have to transmit or redirect light without absorbing enough to be detected, but human vision depends on photoreceptors absorbing incoming photons.”

Momo's interest immediately sharpened.

“Oh, that's a fascinating point,” she remarked, sitting forward. “Her visual system must operate according to a rather unusual mechanism.”

“Exactly!” Izuku agreed enthusiastically. “And that's before considering whether her body refracts electromagnetic radiation, or if her invisibility relies on some form of active light manipulation.”

Toru sat still, clearly lost. “Uh... Maybe?”

“Have you ever been tested with infrared cameras?” Izuku asked, leaning closer. “Or ultraviolet imaging? What about X-rays? Does your Quirk affect every wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, or only the visible spectrum?”

Toru's shoulders slowly drew upward.

“Well, I know regular cameras can't see me,” she replied, sounding increasingly uncertain. “And I think the doctors used some special equipment when I was little, but...”

“Do you have any family members with similar Quirks?” Izuku continued. “And have you ever experimented with intentionally refracting light? If your body can manipulate the path of photons, there might be applications beyond invisibility, like localized flashes or even...”

Mina watched the exchange with growing amusement.

“Oh my gosh,” she whispered to Ochako. “He really is interrogating her.”

Ochako smiled helplessly. “That's Izuku.”

Toru, meanwhile, had become acutely aware that Izuku's bright green eyes were fixed on the empty space where her face should have been. The boy was genuinely interested in her. Not just the novelty of talking to an invisible girl, either. He wanted to know everything about her Quirk, how it worked, and what she might be capable of doing with it. That was actually kind of flattering. Though the eye contact that he seemed to be making threw her off quite a bit.

'Wait, he's really paying that much attention to me?' Toru wondered, feeling an unfamiliar warmth creep into her cheeks.

Unfortunately, the questions kept coming.

“And if your invisibility is hereditary, there could be a really interesting relationship between the biological structures responsible for the Quirk and...”

“Izuku.”

Izuku stopped as Ochako gently tugged his sleeve. “Hm?”

His girlfriend gave him an affectionate but pointed smile. “We're playing Truth or Dare. Not conducting a full Quirk examination.”

Izuku blinked at the increasingly bewildered invisible girl sitting across from him. Then he looked at everyone else, several of whom were struggling not to laugh. His face turned crimson.

“O-Oh! Right! Sorry, Hagakure!” he exclaimed, bowing his head apologetically. “I got carried away. Your Quirk is just really fascinating, and I started thinking about all the possible implications, and...”

Toru waved one gloved hand in front of herself, as though physically fanning away her embarrassment.

“It's okay!” she assured him with a nervous giggle. “I just wasn't expecting a whole science lesson!”

Mina leaned against her shoulder, grinning mischievously. “Look on the bright side, Toru. You've officially caught Midori's attention.”

“Mina!” Toru squeaked, suddenly sounding far more flustered than before.

Izuku rubbed the back of his neck, wondering how an entirely innocent question about Quirk mechanics had somehow become another opportunity for romantic teasing. 'I really need to learn when to stop talking.'

Toru recovered enough to reach toward the bottle.

“Okay! My turn again!” she declared, putting on a cheerful voice. “And this time, we're getting back to the important stuff!”

She spun the bottle with considerably more enthusiasm than necessary. It whirled across the table, slowing past Tenka and Momo before finally settling on Eiko.

The redheaded tomboy grinned. “Oh, sweet! My turn!”

Toru clasped her hands together. “Truth or Dare?”

Eiko didn't even hesitate. “Dare!”

Mina's head snapped toward Toru. Toru's invisible head appeared to turn toward Mina. A moment of silent communication passed between them. Then Mina leaned close and whispered something into the space beside Toru's shoulder.

Toru burst into delighted giggles. “Oh my gosh, yes!”

Eiko narrowed her eyes suspiciously, though her grin remained firmly in place. “Alright, what's the challenge?”

Toru straightened proudly. “Eiko Kirishima! I dare you to show off the results of your training by showing us those abs!”

Eiko blinked, then grinned so broadly that it was practically contagious. “That's it? Hell yeah!”

She hopped out of her chair and strode into the open space beside the coffee table, planting her feet shoulder-width apart.

“Behold!” Eiko declared, grabbing the hem of her tank top. “The results of years of hard work!”

With an enthusiastic flourish, she lifted her shirt high enough to reveal her abdomen. Several girls gasped appreciatively.

Eiko's midsection was impressively sculpted, the muscles of her stomach clearly defined beneath her skin. Her physique reflected the sort of dedicated physical conditioning that came from years of martial arts, weight training, and an almost obsessive commitment to becoming stronger. Granted, that wasn’t the only thing that caught Izuku’s eye. He hadn’t exactly forgotten how… “blessed” his tomboy roommate was in the chest department. A stray recollection of when she herself stepped out of the shower the previous day graced his mind.

“Whoa!” Ochako exclaimed, leaning forward in admiration. “Eiko, you're ripped!”

“Those are some serious abs,” Mina agreed, her grin broadening. “Girl, you know you've been putting in work!”

Momo nodded approvingly, her expression genuinely impressed.

“The level of muscular development is remarkable,” she observed. “You must maintain a very disciplined training regimen.”

Eiko practically glowed with pride.

“You bet!” she replied, giving her stomach a playful pat. “Gotta stay in shape if I wanna be the toughest hero around!”

Tenka adjusted her glasses, looking at Eiko with sincere admiration.

“Your dedication to physical conditioning is commendable, Kirishima,” she declared. “Such development requires consistent effort, proper nutrition, and considerable self-discipline.”

Eiko's expression softened into something almost bashful. “Aw, thanks, Iida!”

The compliment seemed to mean considerably more to her than the others. Coming from someone as disciplined and hardworking as Tenka, it felt like genuine recognition of everything she'd accomplished.

'Heck yeah,' Eiko thought, standing a little straighter. 'Don’t mind hearing a bit of praise every once in a while!'

Unfortunately, Mina was not about to let the moment remain entirely wholesome.

“Seriously, Eiko,” the pink girl remarked, leaning back with a wicked grin. “You could probably use that stomach as a washboard! Yummy!”

Toru burst into laughter.

Mina clasped her hands dramatically beneath her chin. “And whoever gets to date you someday is gonna be one lucky person. Imagine having a girlfriend with abs like those!”

Eiko's entire face turned the same shade as her hair.

“W-Whoa, Mina!” she sputtered, hastily lowering her shirt.

Izuku chuckled alongside the others, though he couldn't help feeling rather proud of his roommate. He'd seen firsthand just how hard Eiko worked, and her enthusiasm for self-improvement was one of the things he admired most about her.

“She's seriously impressive,” he agreed, smiling warmly. “Kirishima puts a ton of effort into her training.”

Eiko looked toward him as her blush deepened.

“Th-Thanks, bro,” she replied, scratching her cheek. “That means a lot.”

Mina noticed the exchange immediately. Her grin sharpened, although she mercifully decided to save whatever comment she was considering for later.

For now, Eiko returned to the table and grabbed the bottle. “Alright! My turn!”

She spun it with enthusiasm, watching as it completed several lively rotations before pointing toward Mina.

The pink girl's golden eyes lit up. “Oh, this is gonna be good!”

Eiko grinned. “Truth or Dare?”

Mina folded her arms beneath her chest, practically daring the tomboy to challenge her. “Dare me. I dare you.”

Eiko laughed. “Alright, you asked for it!”

She considered her options for a moment before snapping her fingers. “I dare you to show everyone how flexible you are!”

Mina's expression turned positively radiant.

“Oh, honey,” she purred, rising from her seat with exaggerated confidence. “You have no idea what you've just unleashed.”

Mina sauntered into the center of the room, rolling her shoulders and stretching her arms above her head. “Alright, everybody! Prepare to witness the fabulous flexibility of Mina Ashido!”

She began with a series of warm-up stretches, bending forward until her palms rested flat against the floor without the slightest strain. From there, she shifted smoothly into a standing split, lifting one leg until it extended almost perfectly vertically beside her head.

“Whoa!” Eiko exclaimed, watching with genuine surprise. “Okay, that's actually crazy! I didn’t know you could bend that far?”

“Years of dance and gymnastics, Eiko babe!” Mina replied proudly, maintaining the pose with effortless balance.

She lowered her leg, stretched once more, and settled onto the floor. What followed was a demonstration of flexibility that left several of the others staring in amazement. Mina folded her body into a Dwi Pada Sirsasana pose, carefully bringing both legs behind her head while maintaining a broad, self-satisfied grin.

Momo leaned forward with interest.

“My goodness,” she murmured. “That requires extraordinary hip mobility.”

“Indeed!” Tenka agreed, looking thoroughly impressed. “Such a range of motion would be extremely valuable in close-quarters combat and evasive maneuvers.”

Eiko nodded, still staring. “Okay, I definitely underestimated you.”

Mina giggled before smoothly releasing the pose and transitioning into one final position.

She placed her hands against the floor, lifted her hips, and stretched into an exaggerated Jack-o pose, deliberately angling herself to ensure her audience got the full effect of her flexibility. The shift from athletic demonstration to unmistakably provocative posing was not lost on everyone.

Izuku abruptly discovered that the ceiling of his suite contained a surprisingly interesting pattern of tiny imperfections.

'Wow. Those ceiling panels really are well maintained,' he thought desperately, refusing to lower his gaze. 'I wonder if Cementoss had anything to do with the construction...'

Mina glanced over her shoulder, noticed his reaction, and giggled. “Awww, Midoriya! You're missing the best part!”

“I-I'm watching!” Izuku protested automatically, before realizing how that sounded. “I mean, I'm not! I mean...”

Mina laughed harder.

Tenka, apparently oblivious to the more suggestive intentions behind the pose, nodded approvingly. “Excellent spinal flexibility, Ashido! Your balance and control are quite impressive!”

Momo smiled in agreement. “Truly remarkable. I imagine your training has given you a significant advantage in maneuverability.”

Mina beamed. “Thank you, thank you! I do try!”

Eiko stared at her for another moment before finally shaking her head.

'Unbelievable,' she thought, suppressing a laugh. 'I dared her to show off, and somehow she turned it into an excuse to tease everyone.'

Still, she couldn't deny the display had been impressive.

Mina pushed herself upright in one fluid motion, brushing imaginary dust from her shorts.

“And that, ladies and gentleman,” she declared grandly, “is why I'm the most fabulous dancer in Class 1-A!”

Toru clapped enthusiastically. “Encore!”

“Maybe later,” Mina giggled, returning to the coffee table. “I've got more important things to do.”

Her golden eyes gleamed as she reached for the bottle. She gave it a vigorous spin. The plastic whirled around the table, slowing gradually until its neck pointed toward Izuku.

Mina froze, then her grin widened into something positively dangerous. “Oh. My. Gosh.”

Izuku slowly closed his eyes. 'Of course.'

Mina practically squealed with delight. “Mi~do~ri~!”

He opened one eye. “Yes, Mina?”

The pink girl clasped her hands together, leaning forward with puppy dog eyes. “Please, please, please pick Dare!”

Ochako immediately frowned. “Mina, don't pressure him!”

Tenka nodded firmly. “Indeed! Midoriya has every right to select whichever option he prefers!”

Mina pouted. “Aww, come on! I promise it'll be fun!”

Izuku looked between the pink girl's eager expression and his classmates' amused faces. He had a rather strong suspicion that whatever Mina had planned would be embarrassing. Then again, this was supposed to be a friendly gathering, and he'd agreed to participate.

Besides, she'd probably keep asking until he gave in anyway.

Izuku sighed, a helpless smile tugging at his lips. “Alright. Dare.”

Mina threw both fists into the air. “YES!”

Toru applauded enthusiastically beside her.

Ochako shook her head, smiling despite herself. 'He's too nice for his own good.'

Mina leaned forward, grinning like she'd just won the lottery. “Okay, Midori. I dare you to compare your abs with Eiko's!”

Izuku blinked. Eiko blinked. Both of them turned bright red.

“W-WHAT?!” Izuku exclaimed, sitting bolt upright.

Mina spread her hands innocently. “What? It's a perfectly fair dare! We just saw Eiko's, so now we gotta see yours together!”

Toru nodded enthusiastically. “Exactly! For scientific comparison!”

Momo tilted her head thoughtfully. “Well, comparing different approaches to physical conditioning could be educational...”

Tenka nodded along, apparently satisfied with that reasoning. “Provided Midoriya is comfortable participating, I see no inherent objection to such a demonstration.”

Izuku stared at her. 'Iida, please don't encourage them!'

Ochako looked toward her boyfriend, her cheeks faintly pink. “You don't have to if you don't want to, Izuku.”

Izuku hesitated.

He'd just walked out of the shower without a shirt in front of everyone less than half an hour ago. At this point, refusing to show his stomach seemed almost comically pointless. Besides, he was genuinely proud of how much he'd improved physically.

He sighed. “Okay, fine. But just for a second.”

Mina squealed as Eiko shifted forward eagerly, her embarrassment already giving way to curiosity.

Izuku stood beside the coffee table, grasped the hem of his T-shirt, and lifted it enough to reveal his abdomen.

The reaction was immediate.

“Oh, wow,” Momo murmured, her eyes widening slightly.

“Holy crap,” Mina breathed, looking thoroughly impressed.

Years of intense physical training had transformed Izuku's once-slender frame into that of a powerful young athlete. His abdomen was sharply defined, the muscles of his core clearly visible beneath his skin. Combined with his broad shoulders and developed arms, the results of his work were unmistakable.

Eiko stared and stared. And continued staring.

'Holy hell,' she thought, her eyes traveling across the sculpted muscles. 'I knew the guy was strong, but that's seriously manly...'

A tiny bead of drool escaped the corner of her mouth. It took her several seconds to notice.

“W-Whoa!” she exclaimed, hastily wiping her chin with the back of her hand. “Dude! Those are some incredible abs!”

Izuku's cheeks turned red. “Th-Thanks, Kirishima.”

Tenka studied his physique with sincere appreciation.

“Your conditioning is equally impressive, Midoriya,” she remarked. “I can see that you have devoted considerable effort to strengthening your core musculature.”

Izuku smiled sheepishly. “Thanks, Iida. I've been working really hard.”

Ochako watched him with a fond expression, recalling the months of training he'd occasionally mentioned to her.

'He really has worked so hard,' she thought, feeling proud of him.

Mina, however, was already busy imagining something entirely different. She clasped both hands beneath her chin and sighed dramatically. “Man, being sandwiched between Eiko's abs and Midoriya's abs sounds like heaven.”

Eiko made a strangled noise. “M-MINA!”

Toru collapsed against her friend, laughing hysterically.

Mina grinned without the slightest hint of shame. “What? I'm appreciating the view!”

Izuku hastily lowered his shirt, his face burning. Eiko covered her own cheeks with both hands, though she couldn't quite stop herself from glancing at her roommate again.

“Seriously, though,” she muttered, smiling despite her embarrassment. “That's one manly physique, bro.”

Izuku chuckled weakly. “Thanks.”

As he returned to his seat beside Ochako, he couldn't help shaking his head. 'I really did become the fan service for girls' night, didn't I?'

Then he glanced around at his smiling classmates and felt a reluctant grin tug at his own lips. 'Well... I guess it could be worse.'

At least everyone seemed to be having fun. And if he was being completely truthful, the compliments hadn't exactly felt bad.

Izuku settled back onto the loveseat, tugging his shirt into place while Ochako leaned against him with an affectionate smile. His cheeks were still warm from the attention, although the laughter surrounding him helped ease the embarrassment. If nothing else, he'd learned that Mina Ashido possessed a remarkable talent for turning the most innocent activities into opportunities for mischief.

“Alright, alright,” he chuckled, leaning toward the coffee table. “I think I've provided enough entertainment for one turn.”

Mina grinned at him from the opposite loveseat. “Aww, don't be shy, Midori! You're a natural!”

“That's exactly what worries me,” Izuku replied, earning another round of laughter as he reached for the bottle.

He gave it a spin, watching the bottle rotate across the table until it gradually slowed and pointed toward Momo.

The dark-haired girl immediately brightened.

“Oh! How exciting,” she remarked, straightening her posture and folding her hands neatly in her lap. “I was beginning to wonder when I might have an opportunity to participate.”

Izuku smiled at her enthusiasm. “Alright, Yaoyorozu. Truth or Dare?”

Momo considered the options for a moment before giving him a polite smile. “I believe I'll choose Truth.”

“Okay!” Izuku replied, already looking thoughtful.

He had a number of questions he could ask Momo. They'd spoken briefly during orientation, and he'd been impressed by her composure, intelligence, and obvious dedication to becoming a hero. There were probably plenty of interesting things to learn about her personal life.

But there was one particular subject he'd been itching to ask about ever since their first conversation. 'Her Quirk. Creation. If her description was accurate, the possibilities were practically endless!'

Izuku leaned forward, his green eyes sparkling. “Is it true that you can create any non-organic material?”

Mina slowly closed her eyes, and Toru leaned backward against the loveseat.

“Oh, here we go again,” Mina muttered, although she sounded more amused than disappointed.

Momo, however, looked delighted.

“Ah! My Quirk!” she exclaimed, sitting forward with genuine enthusiasm. “Yes, although I should clarify that the restriction is technically against producing living organisms rather than organic materials themselves. Creation allows me to synthesize nonliving objects from my body's lipids, provided I understand their molecular composition.”

Izuku's expression brightened further. “So you can reproduce complex materials as long as you understand their underlying structure?”

“Precisely!” Momo answered, visibly pleased to have someone taking such an interest. “However, the process requires considerable knowledge and concentration. I must understand not only the material's composition but also the structure of the object I wish to create.”

She gestured toward herself.

“Furthermore, because my Quirk consumes my body's lipids, there are practical limitations concerning the quantity and complexity of what I can produce. Larger objects require more resources, and intricate mechanisms demand more extensive preparation.”

Izuku nodded rapidly, committing every word to memory. 'Incredible! Matter synthesis through biological lipid conversion! If she has sufficient energy reserves and understands the required structure, she could theoretically manufacture an enormous variety of support equipment on demand!'

“That's amazing!” he exclaimed, barely containing his excitement. “So you could potentially create anything from basic rescue tools to sophisticated electronic components, provided you understand how they're constructed?”

Momo smiled proudly. “Indeed! Although complicated devices require a great deal more study. In fact, I've spent years familiarizing myself with various materials and mechanical principles to improve the versatility of my Quirk.”

“Wow,” Eiko murmured, looking impressed. “That's seriously useful.”

Tsuyu nodded thoughtfully from her beanbag. “Especially in emergencies, kero. You could make supplies that aren't readily available.”

“Exactly!” Izuku agreed, turning toward the frog girl. “Imagine being able to produce medical equipment, emergency shelters, or specialized rescue tools right when they're needed!”

Momo's cheeks warmed slightly at his enthusiasm.

“Thank you, Midoriya,” she replied with a pleased smile. “Those are precisely the sorts of applications I hope to develop further during our studies.”

She paused, then brightened. “Actually, perhaps a demonstration would be helpful.”

Izuku nearly jumped out of his seat. “Really?!”

Momo giggled at his reaction before carefully rolling back one sleeve to expose more of her forearm. “Certainly. Allow me to show you something I've practiced since childhood.”

She held her arm above the coffee table, concentrating for several seconds. A small object gradually emerged from her exposed skin, its shape taking form until she carefully lifted it free.

It was a beautifully decorated Russian nesting doll. The little wooden figure featured delicate painted details, its surface polished to a gentle shine. Momo placed it on the table with a satisfied smile before opening it to reveal a smaller doll nestled inside.

And inside that one, another. Then another. Soon, several increasingly tiny dolls stood neatly arranged across the tabletop.

“Oh, wow!” Ochako exclaimed, leaning closer to admire them. “They're so pretty!”

Toru clasped her hands together. “That's adorable! You made all of those just now?!”

Momo nodded, looking pleased. “My grandfather encouraged me to practice creating nesting dolls when I was younger,” she explained, carefully displaying the smallest figure. “He believed they were excellent exercises in precision, material composition, and attention to detail.”

Izuku picked up one of the dolls after receiving her permission, examining its craftsmanship with open fascination.

“The detailing is incredible,” he murmured. “Even the smallest one has perfectly aligned painted features. And the way they fit together... You must have an amazing understanding of dimensional tolerances.”

Momo's cheeks grew pink. “Th-Thank you,” she replied, smiling shyly. “I've practiced making them for quite some time.”

Izuku looked up at her, already forming another question. “Actually, does the creation process become more difficult as the objects get smaller, or is complexity the bigger factor? And can you create multiple separate objects simultaneously, or...”

“NOPE!” Toru practically launched herself across the loveseat, pointing an invisible finger directly at him. “Midoriya! We are not turning Truth or Dare into another Quirk lecture!”

Izuku stopped mid-sentence as Mina burst into laughter. “Oh my gosh, Toru! I was waiting to see how long you'd let him go!”

Ochako giggled, resting her head against Izuku's shoulder. “Izuku, you're doing it again.”

Izuku glanced around the room, then down at the collection of nesting dolls. His face turned pink.

“A-Ahaha... Sorry,” he admitted sheepishly. “I got a little carried away.”

Momo, however, looked almost disappointed that their discussion had been interrupted.

“Oh, I don't mind,” she assured him, smiling warmly. “It's rather refreshing to speak with someone who takes such a genuine interest in the technical aspects of Quirks.”

Izuku brightened. “Really?”

“Certainly,” Momo replied. “I'd be happy to discuss Creation with you in greater detail another time.”

“That would be amazing!” Izuku exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear.

Toru groaned dramatically. “Oh no. They're multiplying.”

Tsuyu gave a quiet ribbit of amusement. “Looks like Midoriya found another Quirk enthusiast, kero.”

Mina leaned toward Toru with a mischievous smile. “Careful. At this rate, he'll have every girl in the class joining his nerd club.”

Izuku chuckled nervously while Momo simply laughed at the harmless teasing.

After carefully returning the nesting dolls to their original arrangement, Momo reached for the bottle. “Well, I suppose it is my turn now.”

She gave the bottle a graceful spin, watching it rotate several times before gradually slowing. The bottle stopped. Pointing directly at Izuku. Again.

Mina threw her arms into the air. “SERIOUSLY?!”

Toru burst into laughter. “Oh my gosh! He's getting all the attention tonight!”

Izuku blinked at the bottle, then looked toward Momo with a sheepish smile. “I guess it's my turn again.”

Momo looked equally surprised, although she quickly recovered her composure.

“Indeed,” she replied, folding her hands neatly. “Truth or Dare, Midoriya?”

Izuku considered the question.

Momo had been perfectly kind and reasonable during his previous turn, and he doubted she'd ask anything particularly embarrassing.

'At least I'm in safe hands this time,' he thought, smiling reassuringly at himself. “Truth.”

Momo nodded thoughtfully. For several moments, she seemed to consider what she might ask. Her gaze briefly drifted toward Ochako, who remained nestled comfortably against Izuku's side, their hands resting together between them.

Then Momo looked back at him. “Actually, there is something I've been rather curious about.”

Izuku smiled. “Sure. Go ahead.”

Momo adjusted her posture, her cheeks faintly pink as she formulated her question. “How exactly does your harem work?”

Mina's face split into an enormous grin. “Ooooooh! Not bad, YaoMomo”

Momo looked momentarily startled by the reaction. “Did I say something strange?”

“Nope!” Mina replied, practically bouncing in her seat. “Not strange at all! Please continue!”

Momo nodded, apparently reassured. “Well, relationships involving multiple partners are hardly unusual in our society,” she explained, looking toward Izuku and Ochako. “However, I've never personally known someone participating in one. I understand that you're romantically involved with both Uraraka and Bakugo, correct?”

Izuku nodded, his cheeks warming. “Y-Yeah. That's right.”

Momo paused before continuing. “And both young women are aware of the arrangement?”

Ochako giggled. “Of course we are, Momo.”

Momo smiled apologetically. “Forgive me. I simply wish to understand how such relationships function in practice.”

She leaned forward with genuine curiosity. “How do you manage communication between your partners? Do you establish specific boundaries concerning romantic activities? And how do you ensure that neither feels neglected or unfairly treated?”

Izuku stared at her for a moment. 'Wow. She's actually taking this seriously.'

He relaxed slightly, appreciating that Momo seemed more interested in understanding their relationship than uncovering embarrassing secrets.

“Well,” he began thoughtfully, “I guess the biggest thing is communication.”

Ochako nodded beside him. “Definitely.”

Izuku smiled at her before continuing.

“Kacchan and Ochako are both really important to me, but they're different people with different personalities and needs. So I try to make sure neither of them feels like they're competing for my attention.”

Momo listened attentively. “So you approach each relationship individually?”

“Yeah,” Izuku replied, nodding. “We spend time together as a group, but I also try to make time for each of them separately. And if something bothers one of us, we talk about it instead of letting it turn into a bigger problem.”

Ochako smiled warmly.

“That's pretty much it,” she agreed. “Katsumi and I talked about things early on, and we agreed that being honest with each other was important. We both love Izuku, and neither of us wants the other to feel left out.”

Izuku's cheeks turned pink at her casual declaration of love.

Momo's expression softened.

“How lovely,” she murmured as her analytical curiosity returned. “And how do you handle jealousy?”

Izuku considered that question more carefully.

“Well, I think it's normal to feel jealous sometimes,” he admitted. “I don't want either of them to feel guilty for having those feelings. We just try to be open about it and figure out what's causing them.”

Ochako nodded. “Yeah. Katsumi can be pretty possessive sometimes, but she's also really thoughtful when it matters. And I know Izuku cares about both of us.”

She squeezed his hand affectionately. “So I trust them.”

Momo smiled at the exchange, looking genuinely touched. “That sounds like a remarkably mature arrangement.”

Izuku chuckled sheepishly. “We're still figuring things out. It's not like we have everything perfectly planned.”

“Speaking of planning,” Momo continued, her interest deepening, “how do you coordinate dates and private time? Do you maintain a shared calendar, or do you arrange things more informally?”

“Mostly informally,” Ochako giggled as she explained. “Although we've already had a few conversations about making sure we both get some one-on-one time.”

Momo nodded thoughtfully, apparently mentally cataloging the information. “I see. And are there established expectations concerning overnight visits? I imagine scheduling could become rather complicated if everyone's academic responsibilities differ.”

Mina's grin had reached positively dangerous proportions while Toru clasped both hands over where her mouth presumably was.

“Oh my gosh,” Mina whispered, leaning toward her invisible friend. “She's interviewing them.”

Toru nodded enthusiastically. “Like she's applying for a position!”

Momo turned toward them, blinking. “Pardon?”

Mina leaned forward with a wicked smile. “Nothing, Momo. Just wondering if you're taking notes because you're thinking about joining Midoriya's harem yourself.”

Momo's face turned crimson. “W-WHAT?!”

Toru burst into laughter. “You're asking about schedules, boundaries, overnight arrangements... That's practically an application form!”

“That is not what I am doing!” Momo protested, sitting bolt upright. “I am merely attempting to understand the practical considerations involved in maintaining a healthy multi-partner relationship!”

Mina nodded with exaggerated seriousness. “Uh-huh. Very practical.”

Toru clasped her hands together dreamily. “Maybe she wants to know whether there's an opening.”

“M-Miss Hagakure!” Momo exclaimed, looking thoroughly scandalized. “Please refrain from making such assumptions!”

Ochako dissolved into giggles, leaning against Izuku's shoulder.

Izuku, meanwhile, looked like he wanted to disappear into the loveseat. 'How did we go from communication and relationship boundaries to Momo applying to date me?!'

Tsuyu watched Momo's increasingly flustered attempts to defend herself with a faintly amused expression.

“It's a reasonable thing to be curious about, kero,” she remarked calmly. “Although Mina and Toru do seem pretty interested in making it embarrassing.”

“Thank you, Asui!” Momo replied, visibly relieved to have someone support her.

Mina simply grinned. “We're just having fun!”

Tenka adjusted her glasses, looking equally flustered by the direction of the conversation. “While Yaoyorozu's questions were entirely reasonable, I must agree that speculating about someone's romantic intentions without cause is inappropriate!”

Mina leaned toward her. “Don't worry, Tenka. We haven't forgotten about your hero husband search.”

“THAT IS NOT WHY I AM HERE!” The blue-haired woman insisted.

The room erupted into laughter again.

Izuku finally relaxed, smiling at the ridiculous exchange. For all the teasing, he appreciated Momo's curiosity. It wasn't often that someone asked about his relationships with such genuine interest in the emotional responsibilities involved. And judging by Ochako's pleased expression, she felt much the same way.

Once everyone settled down, Izuku reached for the bottle again.

“Alright,” he chuckled. “Let's see who gets interrogated next.”

He spun the bottle, watching it rotate across the table and finally stop with its neck pointing toward Tsuyu.

The frog girl blinked. “Kero. My turn.”

Before Izuku could even open his mouth, Toru threw both hands into the air. “Let me guess! You're gonna ask something about her Quirk!”

Izuku looked toward her. Then he smiled brightly. “Yup!”

Several girls burst into laughter.

Mina shook her head in disbelief. “At least he's consistent!”

Tsuyu gave an amused little ribbit before shifting comfortably in her beanbag. “Dare, please.”

Izuku's expression brightened immediately. “Oh! Perfect!”

He leaned forward eagerly. “Could you demonstrate your Quirk, please?”

Mina groaned dramatically. “Oh my gosh, Midoriya!”

Toru threw herself backward against the loveseat. “He's hopeless!”

Izuku laughed sheepishly. “What? I've been curious about Tsu’s Quirk since this morning! There are so many practical applications for Frog, especially in rescue operations.”

Tsuyu tilted her head thoughtfully. “I suppose that's true, kero.”

She rose from her beanbag chair, stretching her arms above her head before glancing around the room. “Let's see. I probably shouldn't make too much of a mess in here.”

Eiko grinned from her chair. “Show us what you've got, Tsu!”

Tsuyu gave a small nod. “Okay.”

With surprisingly little preparation, she bent her knees and launched herself from beside the coffee table. Her leap carried her effortlessly across the room. Several girls gasped as Tsuyu landed feetfirst against an empty section of wall, her hands touching the surface a moment later. Instead of falling, she remained perfectly attached.

“Oh, wow!” Ochako exclaimed, staring up at her classmate. “That's amazing! She’s like a ninja!”

Tsuyu turned her head toward them, her expression as calm as ever.

“Wall adhesion,” she explained, adjusting her position without the slightest difficulty. “I can stick to most surfaces with my hands and feet, kero.”

Izuku was already leaning forward, completely captivated.

“Incredible!” he exclaimed. “The adhesive properties must be remarkably strong to support your full body weight at that angle. Can you control the adhesion independently for each limb?”

Tsuyu nodded. “Pretty much. It makes climbing and maneuvering around obstacles much easier.”

As she shifted position, the short athletic shorts she wore emphasized the strength and flexibility of her lower body and highlighted just how much the girl was packing beneath them.

Mina leaned toward Toru. “Are we sure this wasn’t an elaborate ploy for Midori to check out that bakery?”

“Oh my gosh, Mina!” Toru giggled.

Izuku barely seemed to hear them. 'Her mobility is amazing! Vertical surfaces, irregular terrain, confined rescue environments... She could reach places most heroes would need specialized equipment to access!'

Tsuyu pushed away from the wall and landed gracefully on the floor. “There's also this.”

She turned toward her abandoned beanbag chair and opened her mouth. Her tongue shot forward with startling speed. The long, flexible appendage wrapped securely around the middle of the beanbag, tightening just enough to grip it. Then Tsuyu lifted it. The entire beanbag chair rose several feet into the air, dangling from her tongue as though it weighed almost nothing.

“Whoa!” Eiko exclaimed, leaning forward with wide eyes. “That's some serious tongue strength!”

Momo looked equally impressed.

“The muscular control required must be extraordinary,” she observed. “And the precision is remarkable.”

Kinoko clasped her hands together. “It's like having an extra arm,” she murmured, smiling shyly.

Tsuyu gave a small ribbit before carefully lowering the beanbag back into place and retracting her tongue.

Izuku looked positively delighted.

“That would be incredibly useful in rescue situations!” he exclaimed. “You could retrieve objects from dangerous locations, catch someone who's falling, or reach trapped civilians without putting yourself directly in harm's way!”

Tsuyu's expression softened slightly. “That's the idea, kero.”

Izuku smiled warmly at her. “Seriously, Tsu. Your Quirk has so much potential. I bet you'll become an amazing rescue hero.”

For a moment, Tsuyu simply looked at him. Her usual calm expression remained mostly intact, but a faint pink tint crept across her cheeks.

'He really gets excited about everybody's Quirks,' she thought, watching the way his eyes sparkled with admiration. 'And he always seems to find something good to say about them.'

She gave a satisfied little ribbit before settling back into her lily pad beanbag. “Thanks, Midoriya. That means a lot.”

Izuku smiled. “Of course!”

Mina glanced between the two of them with a knowing grin. “Aww, look at that. Our resident Quirk nerd made Tsu blush!”

Tsuyu blinked slowly. “Did I?”

Toru giggled. “Just a little!”

Izuku's own face warmed. “W-Well, I was just complimenting her Quirk!”

“Sure you were,” Mina teased, clearly delighted by the opportunity. “And not that spectacular frog booty of hers.”

“D-definitely wasn’t considering that!” Izuku tried to counter, though now that he thought about it. ‘She must need incredible leg strength… that explains how… sizable they are…’

Just as Tsuyu reached for the bottle to begin her turn, a soft electronic chime sounded from the kitchenette.

Momo looked up. “Oh! That would be the tea.”

She rose gracefully from the sofa, smoothing her skirt before gesturing toward the kitchen counter. “I prepared some water earlier in case anyone wanted refreshments. Perhaps we should take a short break?”

“That sounds wonderful,” Tenka replied, visibly grateful for a reprieve from the increasingly unpredictable game.

Kinoko smiled shyly. “I'd like some tea, please.”

“Me too!” Ochako added, stretching her arms above her head.

Mina leaned backward against the loveseat with an exaggerated sigh. “Aww, already? We were just getting to the good stuff!”

Toru giggled beside her. “Don't worry, Mina. We've got all night!”

Izuku glanced at the bottle resting in the center of the table, then around at the cheerful faces of his classmates.

Despite his initial reservations, he had to admit that the game had been surprisingly fun. He'd learned more about Tenka's family, discovered Kinoko's unexpected interest in idols, witnessed the impressive capabilities of several classmates, and even enjoyed a surprisingly thoughtful discussion about his romantic relationships.

Of course, he'd also been subjected to more teasing and embarrassment than he cared to consider.

'Well, I guess this isn't so bad after all,' he thought, smiling as Ochako snuggled back against him. 'And everyone's getting along. That's what matters.'

Across the table, Mina was whispering something to Toru again.

Both girls began giggling.

Izuku's smile faltered slightly. 'Although... I guess there’s a lot of game left.'

---

AN: Howdy Howdy! I hope ya'll are having a happy Halloween! Girls' Night has already begun with plenty of shenanigans. Let me know who your favorite has been so far! So I actually have the entire Girls Night already written out, and was planning on releasing it in one chapter, but then it would be like 25k words or something crazy. So instead, I have it split up and will be posting the second half next week! As such, next time things may get a bit spicier for some of our lovely cast.

As always, thank you all for reading, and be sure to check us out on my Discord for behind-the-scenes looks at all my writing. Lastly, a special thanks to Zephyr0F8 and Benthom for beta-ing this chapter!