(Author note: A 5k chapter special! As an apology for not writing 3 yesterday. Though before reading, I just wish you to understand one important thing:
Todoroki in this chapter is PROJECTING his own family issues hard. If you know about psychology, you'll understand what I mean when reading the chapter.)
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The afternoon sun cast long shadows across UA's outdoor training field as Class 1-A engaged in their combat exercises.
Todoroki stood at the periphery, his eyes fixed on Marcus Grayson.
There was something about Marcus that had been bothering him since the USJ incident.
Something in the way he moved, the precision of his attacks, the careful restraint that seemed to govern his every action.
It wasn't natural for a student whose quirk had supposedly manifested only recently.
Marcus was currently sparring with Kirishima, each blow calculated to test his opponent's hardening without causing actual damage.
His movements were fluid yet measured, like a dancer who knew exactly how much space he was allowed to occupy.
"Alright, switch partners!" Aizawa called out, his voice carrying across the field.
Marcus nodded to Kirishima before moving toward Ojiro for his next match. As he removed his training jacket, Todoroki's eyes narrowed.
Along Marcus's arms and across his exposed back were fading bruises – yellowish-purple marks that spoke of recent, intensive training.
'Those weren't there yesterday,' Todoroki thought, his mind immediately cataloging the pattern. 'Impact bruises. Consistent with high-intensity combat training.'
Something cold settled in Todoroki's stomach – a familiar discomfort he knew too well. The bruises reminded him of his own childhood training sessions with Endeavor.
Of waking up sore and bruised, pushed beyond reasonable limits day after day in his father's obsessive quest to create the perfect hero.
Marcus rolled his shoulders, seemingly unbothered by the marks on his skin. If anything, he appeared frustrated – as if the bruises should have healed faster than they had.
'His healing factor must be compromised from the USJ incident,' Todoroki reasoned, watching as Marcus began his match with Ojiro. 'But who would be training him hard enough to leave marks like that, given his strength?'
The answer came immediately, accompanied by the memory of an imposing figure filling the doorway of the recovery room. Detective Thragg Grayson. Marcus's uncle. Evelyn's father.
A man who had made even Bakugo fall silent with his mere presence.
Todoroki's jaw tightened as unwelcome memories surfaced. His own father standing over him. The relentless training. The expectations that crushed everything else in their path.
'Could it be?' he wondered, watching Marcus execute a perfect takedown against Ojiro. 'Is history repeating itself?'
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"So how long have you two been together anyway?" Kaminari asked during lunch break, gesturing between Marcus and Evelyn with his chopsticks. "You seem like you've been a couple forever."
The question drew curious looks from several classmates. Despite their openness about being cousins in a relationship, the Graysons rarely discussed personal details.
Marcus glanced at Evelyn, who gave him a subtle nod.
"Since we were sixteen," he answered (this being part of their cover story), taking a bite of his food. "Though I suppose you could say it was arranged much earlier than that."
"Arranged?" Uraraka echoed, leaning forward with interest. "Like, by your families?"
"By my father," Evelyn clarified with a small smile. "He believed we were ideally matched."
Marcus nodded, continuing with the practiced backstory they'd developed. "Uncle Thragg has always been focused on efficiency. He recognized our compatibility early on and suggested the match when our quirks finally manifested."
"Suggested?" Kaminari grinned. "That sounds pretty formal."
"He said we were genetically compatible and would likely produce powerful offspring," Marcus explained matter-of-factly, missing the way several students' expressions shifted from curiosity to discomfort.
"It made sense to us. We already understood each other well. Having been closest to each other because of us both not having quirks."
(Mark himself so used to his Uncle's views, viewing it is as so normal, having forgotten it being discomforting to others.)
An awkward silence fell over the table.
"That's... romantic?" Ashido finally offered, her usual enthusiasm notably diminished.
"It was practical," Evelyn corrected, her tone warm. "But we did develop genuine feelings for each other. My father simply... expedited the process."
Todoroki, who had been listening silently, set down his chopsticks. The conversation had confirmed suspicions that had been forming since the USJ incident.
'Genetically compatible. Powerful offspring. Arranged pairing.' The words echoed in his mind, reminiscent of how Endeavor had described his own "marriage" to Todoroki's mother.
"Midoriya," he said quietly as the conversation around them moved to other topics. "You've visited the Grayson home, haven't you?"
Midoriya looked up, surprised by the direct question. "Um, yes? A few times for study sessions."
"What's Detective Grayson like? At home, I mean."
Midoriya considered the question carefully. "Intimidating," he admitted. "But he seems to care deeply for Evelyn. He's very... formal? Everything in their house is precisely arranged. There are a lot of rules about behavior and expectations."
"I see," Todoroki replied, his expression revealing nothing.
"Why do you ask?"
Todoroki didn't answer immediately, watching as Marcus laughed at something Kirishima had said. "Just curious."
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"I believe Marcus Grayson is being abused by his uncle."
Iida and Yaoyorozu stared at Todoroki, both clearly taken aback by his blunt statement. They had gathered in an empty classroom after Todoroki had requested their help with an "urgent matter."
"That's... a serious accusation," Yaoyorozu said carefully. "What evidence do you have?"
"I've been observing him since the USJ incident," Todoroki explained, his voice calm despite the gravity of his claim.
"He has bruising consistent with excessive combat training. His relationship with his cousin was arranged by his uncle for the purpose of producing 'powerful offspring.' His behavior shows signs of someone conditioned to meet excessive expectations."
Iida adjusted his glasses, his expression troubled. "While concerning if true, these observations could have alternative explanations.
The bruising could be from legitimate training. Their relationship, while unusual by our standards, might be culturally normal for their family."
"I know what I'm seeing," Todoroki insisted, a rare intensity entering his voice. "I recognize the signs because I've... seen them. On... Old friends." Lying.
Understanding dawned on Yaoyorozu's face. "Todoroki-kun, are you certain you're not projecting your friends' experiences onto Marcus's situation?"
"I'm certain that something isn't right," he replied. "I'm asking for your help to observe and gather more information before taking action."
Iida and Yaoyorozu exchanged concerned glances.
"Very well," Iida finally agreed. "We will observe, but discreetly and without jumping to conclusions. If there is a genuine concern for a classmate's welfare, it would be irresponsible to ignore it."
"Thank you," Todoroki said, his usual stoic demeanor returning. "The Sports Festival will give us the perfect opportunity to see how Detective Grayson interacts with Marcus under pressure."
As they discussed their observation plan, Todoroki's mind was already categorizing every interaction he'd witnessed between Marcus and his imposing uncle.
The formal way Marcus addressed him. The perfect posture he maintained in Thragg's presence. The careful, measured responses to questions.
All reminiscent of his own behavior around Endeavor.
'I won't let another person suffer in silence,' Todoroki promised himself. 'Not when I can do something about it.'
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The days leading up to the UA Sports Festival transformed the campus into a hive of activity. Students trained with renewed intensity, strategies were formulated and discarded, and anticipation built with each passing hour.
For Class 1-A, still processing their encounter with real villains at the USJ, the festival represented a return to normalcy – a chance to focus on traditional hero training rather than life-or-death combat.
Todoroki watched from the sidelines as Marcus completed another training session, his movements precise and controlled.
Despite the casual setting, Marcus trained with military discipline, each repetition identical to the last.
Nearby, Evelyn practiced her molecular manipulation, creating increasingly complex structures with her pink energy.
The two occasionally exchanged glances, communicating without words in a way that spoke of years of familiarity.
"They're impressive," Yaoyorozu commented, joining Todoroki in his observation. "Their quirk control is remarkable for late bloomers."
"Too remarkable," Todoroki replied quietly. "Watch how he holds back. He's not showing his full strength, even in training."
Yaoyorozu studied Marcus more carefully. "You think he's restraining himself deliberately? Why would he do that during preparation for such an important event?"
Before Todoroki could respond, the training session ended, and students began gathering their belongings.
His attention was drawn to the entrance where several parents had arrived to observe the final day of preparation.
Among them stood Thragg and Nolan Grayson, their imposing frames making other adults seem small by comparison.
Marcus and Evelyn immediately approached them, their postures shifting subtly – backs straighter, expressions more composed.
Todoroki moved closer, ostensibly to collect his water bottle, positioning himself within earshot of their conversation.
"Your control is improving," Thragg was saying to Marcus, his deep voice carrying despite his measured tone. "But you're still showing too much."
"I understand, Uncle," Marcus replied, his usual casual demeanor replaced by something more formal. "I'll hold back further during the actual event."
"Not too much," Thragg cautioned. "You must place well enough to attract attention without using too much power. Balance is essential."
"Yes, sir," Marcus nodded, his expression serious. "I won't disappoint you."
Thragg's massive hand settled briefly on Marcus's shoulder. "You never have."
The exchange, brief as it was, cemented Todoroki's suspicions.
The pressure to perform, the careful calibration of expectations, the formal deference – all hallmarks of the dynamic he knew too well.
'The Sports Festival,' Todoroki decided, watching as the Grayson family departed together. 'That's when I'll confront him. When everyone is watching, including his uncle. He needs to know he's not alone.'
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The morning of the UA Sports Festival dawned bright and clear, the stadium filling with spectators eager to witness the next generation of heroes in action.
Security had been heightened following the USJ incident, with pro heroes stationed throughout the venue.
In the VIP section, Thragg and Nolan Grayson sat among pro heroes and important officials, their presence drawing curious glances from those unfamiliar with them.
"Impressive turnout," Nolan commented, surveying the packed stadium. "This world certainly loves its spectacle."
"A useful cultural trait," Thragg replied, his voice low enough that only Nolan could hear. "Public adoration makes creating your own place easier. Heroes are celebrities here, not just protectors."
Present Mic's voice boomed through the stadium, announcing the entrance of the first-year students. As Class 1-A emerged to thunderous applause, Thragg's eyes fixed on Marcus and Evelyn among their classmates.
"They've integrated well," he observed. "The USJ incident accelerated their acceptance."
Nolan nodded. "Mark and Eva are similarly positioned in Class 1-B. All four have established the connections we need."
"And Samantha?" Thragg inquired, referring to War-torn Eve.
"Progressing as expected with everything. Her approach is... effective, if somewhat intense."
Thragg's expression remained impassive, but a hint of pride entered his voice. "She takes after her father."
The preliminary events began with Midnight's flamboyant announcement. From their elevated position, Thragg and Nolan watched as the obstacle course challenge unfolded.
"The ice user," Thragg noted as Todoroki took an early lead, freezing the ground behind him. "Endeavor's son. His quirk has significant potential."
"As does Midoriya's," Nolan added, watching the green-haired student's creative use of the robot debris. "Though his control remains problematic."
Marcus and Evelyn maintained positions in the top ten throughout the race, demonstrating enough skill to be impressive without doing too much.
Their performance was precisely calibrated – fast enough to advance, but not so dominant as to raise questions in those experienced enough how university students are near their Symbol of Peace in capability,
"Perfect execution," Thragg commented as the race concluded. "They understand their roles."
As the students prepared for the cavalry battle, Nolan's attention was drawn to a commotion several rows away. Endeavor had arrived, his flame-wreathed form impossible to miss as he took his seat.
"The number two hero," Nolan observed. "His son seems determined to reject his legacy."
Thragg's gaze shifted briefly to the flame hero, then back to the field. "Family conflict. A vulnerability" One being possible to exploit if necessary remaining unspoken yet heard.
The cavalry battle proceeded.
Marcus and Evelyn had joined different teams – another calculated decision to spread their influence and observe more of their classmates' abilities.
When the dust settled and the advancing students were announced, both had qualified for the tournament bracket. As had Todoroki and Midoriya.
"The matchups will be interesting," Nolan commented as the bracket was displayed. "Marcus and Todoroki in the second round, assuming they both win their first matches."
Thragg nodded, his expression thoughtful. "A valuable test. The boy has power but lacks control over his emotions. His rejection of half his quirk is... inefficient."
"Speaking of inefficiency," Nolan said quietly, "have you noticed how Todoroki has been watching Marcus? There's something beyond competitive assessment there."
"Yes," Thragg confirmed. "He suspects something I reason. His own experiences with Endeavor have made him... sensitive to perceived similarities." Thragg being observant and logical enough to connect the dots.
"A complication?"
"Perhaps," Thragg replied, his tone unconcerned. "Or an opportunity. We shall see."
The tournament's first round proceeded largely as expected. Marcus defeated his opponent – a student from Class 1-B with a metallization quirk.
Todoroki similarly advanced using only his ice powers, freezing his opponent in place without inflicting actual harm.
His refusal to use his fire side was noted by commentators and spectators alike, particularly as Endeavor's booming voice could be heard demanding he stop holding back.
As Marcus prepared for his match against Todoroki, Evelyn found him in the waiting room.
"He's been watching you," she said without preamble. "Todoroki. Since the USJ incident."
Marcus nodded, adjusting his uniform. "I've noticed. He seems... concerned about something."
"Uncle Nolan thinks he's suspicious." About our cover was unsaid.
"That doesn't make sense," Marcus replied, frowning slightly. "Why would he be suspicious of anything?"
Evelyn shrugged. "Just be careful. He's perceptive, and he has his own agenda regarding his father."
"I'll handle it," Marcus assured her. "This match is important for establishing our position here. I won't compromise our 'future heroic career.'" code for their mission.
As the time for their match approached, Marcus made his way to the tunnel leading to the arena. The roar of the crowd grew louder with each step.
Across the stadium, Todoroki was making his own preparations, his mind focused on the coming confrontation.
This wasn't just about advancing in the tournament – it was about reaching out to someone he believed was trapped in a situation disturbingly similar to his own.
They emerged onto the field simultaneously, the crowd's cheers washing over them as they took their positions.
Present Mic's enthusiastic introduction barely registered as they locked eyes across the concrete platform.
"BEGIN!" Midnight announced with a crack of her whip.
Instead of immediately attacking, Todoroki took a single step forward and spoke, his voice carrying clearly despite the stadium's ambient noise.
"I need to speak with you about your uncle."
Marcus blinked, genuinely confused by the unexpected opening. "What?"
Todoroki launched his first ice attack, a relatively restrained wave that Marcus easily dodged. "I've seen the signs," Todoroki continued, sending another ice formation toward his opponent. "The bruises. The way you talk about him. The arranged relationship."
Marcus weaved through the ice attacks, his mind racing to understand what Todoroki was implying. "I don't know what you're talking about," he replied, closing distance to deliver a strike that Todoroki barely blocked with an ice shield.
"You don't have to pretend," Todoroki insisted, his attacks growing more aggressive as his emotional state intensified.
"I know what it's like. To be someone's project. Someone's creation. To not be your own person, but made an extension of another's. Forcing their will upon you."
Understanding began to dawn on Marcus as he deflected another ice barrage. 'He thinks Uncle Thragg is abusing me,' he realized with a mixture of surprise and amusement.
"You've got it all wrong," Marcus said, testing Todoroki with a series of strikes designed to assess his defensive capabilities.
"I see the bruises," Todoroki countered, creating an ice wall between them that Marcus shattered with a precise blow. "I recognize the signs. He's using you, just like my father used me."
"What are you talking about?" Marcus asked, genuinely curious now about what had led Todoroki to this conclusion.
"The arranged relationship with your cousin. The brutal training. The expectations." Todoroki's voice grew more intense as he unleashed his largest ice attack yet. "You don't have to endure it alone."
The sincerity in Todoroki's voice gave Marcus pause. This wasn't just competition or strategy – Todoroki genuinely believed he was trying to help. The misunderstanding was almost comical, but the concern behind it was real.
'This could be useful,' Marcus thought, deciding to hear Todoroki out rather than immediately correcting him. Understanding the source of his concern might provide valuable insight – and potentially leverage.
"Let's talk about this," Marcus suggested, deliberately slowing his attacks to extend the conversation. "Why do you think my uncle is... what, abusing me?"
"I've lived it," Todoroki replied, his attacks becoming more erratic as emotions surfaced. "My father created me for one purpose – to surpass All Might. Nothing else mattered. Not my childhood, not my mother's sanity, nothing but his ambition."
As they continued to fight – a dance of ice and power – Todoroki revealed more of his story. The "perfect marriage" arranged for quirk breeding.
The brutal training that began at age five. His mother's breakdown and the scar that marked his face.
Marcus listened, genuinely surprised by the depth of Todoroki's trauma.
This was valuable information – not just about Todoroki himself, but about Endeavor, the number two hero whose public image apparently masked significant private failings.
Though of course, Marcus did feel pity and sorrow towards Todoroki's situation.
As the match progressed, Marcus recognized that it needed to conclude. He had heard enough, and dragging out the fight further would risk revealing too much of his own abilities.
With a series of precisely calculated movements, he maneuvered Todoroki toward the boundary.
A final strike – powerful enough to be decisive but not enough to cause serious injury – sent Todoroki sliding out of bounds.
"Todoroki Shoto has been eliminated!" Midnight announced. "Marcus Grayson advances to the semifinals!"
The crowd erupted in cheers, but Marcus's attention remained fixed on Todoroki, who was slowly getting to his feet. There was more to discuss, but this wasn't the place for it.
"Meet me in the waiting room," Marcus said quietly as he helped Todoroki up. "We need to finish this conversation."
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"My father engineered my birth," Todoroki explained, sitting across from Marcus in the empty waiting room.
"He married my mother solely for her quirk, to create a child that combined their powers. When I was born with exactly what he wanted, my siblings became irrelevant. My training began before I could even understand what was happening."
Marcus listened with genuine interest. The parallels to Viltrumite breeding programs were striking, though Endeavor's methods seemed particularly crude and inefficient.
"I rejected his power," Todoroki continued, gesturing to the left side of his body. "I refuse to be his tool. And when I saw the signs in your situation – the arranged relationship with Evelyn, the talk of 'genetic compatibility' and 'producing powerful offspring,' the bruises from training – I couldn't stay silent."
Marcus considered his response carefully. This misunderstanding presented both a challenge and an opportunity.
Correcting Todoroki's perception was necessary, but the information about Endeavor's abuse could be valuable to his Emperor's larger mission.
"I appreciate your concern," Marcus began, choosing his words deliberately. "But I think you've misunderstood my family situation."
He proceeded to explain the carefully crafted cover story: how his relationship with Evelyn had developed naturally despite his uncle's suggestion.
How Thragg's training was intense but consensual, designed to help them master their late-blooming quirks (another fabrication that served their purpose).
How the bruises were from a specialized training regimen he had requested himself (technically true, though not in the way Todoroki would interpret it).
"Your situation sounds like actual abuse," Marcus concluded, injecting genuine sympathy into his voice. "What your father did – arranging a quirk marriage, isolating your mother, beginning your training at such a young age – that's not normal or acceptable. It's wrong. He's wrong for that."
Todoroki seemed uncertain, his mismatched eyes studying Marcus's face for any sign of deception. "You're certain? The way you talk about your uncle, the formality, the expectations..."
"Military family," Marcus explained with a casual shrug. "We respect hierarchy and clear communication. It might seem strange from the outside, but it works for us."
After a moment, Todoroki nodded slowly. "Perhaps I was too quick to assume. My own experiences... colored my perception."
"Understandably," Marcus assured him, sensing an opportunity to deepen the connection. "What your father did was wrong, Todoroki. Have you ever considered taking action about it? Legally, I mean?"
Todoroki's expression closed off slightly. "He's the number two hero. Who would believe me?"
"My uncle would," Marcus replied without hesitation. "He's a detective with the Special Investigations Division. If what you've told me is true, it's criminal abuse, hero status notwithstanding."
Hope and wariness warred in Todoroki's expression. "Why would he help me?"
"Because it's the right thing to do," Marcus said simply, playing the role of earnest hero student perfectly - while also actually believing that. "And because no child should suffer what you described."
As they parted ways, Todoroki to watch the remaining matches and Marcus to prepare for his semifinal bout, Marcus couldn't help but appreciate the irony of the situation.
Todoroki had approached him out of genuine concern, believing him to be a victim of circumstances similar to his own.
Instead, he had potentially given the Graysons the perfect opportunity to undermine one of this world's top heroes while positioning themselves as saviors to his family.
'Uncle Thragg will find this interesting,' Marcus thought as he headed toward the area where his family was watching. 'Very interesting indeed.'
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"An unexpected development," Thragg commented that evening as the family gathered in their living room. Marcus had just finished relating his conversation with Todoroki, including all the details about Endeavor's abuse.
"The boy genuinely believed you were being mistreated," Nolan observed, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Because of our training regimen."
"The irony is considerable," Thragg agreed. "He sought to save you from a situation that doesn't exist, and in doing so, revealed a vulnerability we can exploit."
Evelyn, seated beside Marcus on the couch, leaned forward slightly. "Endeavor is the number two hero. Discrediting him would significantly impact public trust in the hero system."
"Precisely," Thragg nodded. "And positioning ourselves as protectors of his children aligns perfectly with our infiltration strategy."
Amanda, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "Those poor kids. From what Marcus described, they've been through hell."
"Your sympathy is noted," Thragg replied, his tone softening slightly as it always did when addressing his wife. "And useful in this context. They will respond better to genuine concern."
Roberta was already working at her tablet, her fingers moving with inhuman speed. "I'm accessing medical records now.
If the abuse is as described, there should be documentation – hospital visits, school reports, witness statements that were suppressed due to Endeavor's status."
"Good," Thragg approved. "Compile everything. My position with the police gives us the perfect cover for an official investigation."
"What about the children?" Nolan asked. "If we move against Endeavor, they'll need somewhere to go."
"We'll offer to take them in," Thragg decided. "Temporary guardianship while the legal process unfolds. It's the 'heroic' thing to do."
The calculated nature of the plan was clear to everyone present, yet there was also a genuine element to it.
The abuse Todoroki had described was real, and stopping it served both their cover and their own views of right and wrong.
"The Todoroki children possess valuable quirks," Thragg continued, his mind already several steps ahead. "Particularly Shoto, with his perfect balance of fire and ice. Their genetic material would be a significant addition to our collection for the Viltrumite breeding program."
"Should I begin preparations for that aspect?" Roberta inquired, already making notes on her tablet.
"Not immediately," Thragg decided. "First, we establish trust. The genetic acquisition can come later, once they're fully integrated into our household. It has to be natural after all. Our ways are not barbaric unlike the flaming fools'."
Mark and Eva, who had been quiet throughout the discussion, exchanged glances. This was the aspect of Thragg's plans that still occasionally gave them pause – the clinical approach to genetic collection for Viltrumite propagation.
"We'll need to prepare the guest rooms," Amanda noted practically. "And probably buy some additional supplies. How many children are there?"
"Four," Roberta supplied without looking up from her tablet. "Touya, presumed deceased in an accident. Fuyumi, female, age 26, ice quirk. Natsuo, male, age 23, ice quirk. And Shoto, male, age 19, half-cold half-hot quirk."
"I'll handle the arrangements," Amanda decided. "We should make them feel welcome, regardless of the strategic aspects."
Thragg nodded his approval.
"How quickly can we move on this?" Nolan asked, turning to Thragg.
"I'll begin the official investigation tomorrow," Thragg replied. "With Roberta's evidence and my position, we should have enough for an arrest within days."
"And the media fallout?" Evelyn questioned. "The number two hero being arrested for child abuse will create significant public reaction."
"Which serves our purposes perfectly," Thragg pointed out. "Public trust in the hero system will be damaged. Questions will arise about the character evaluation process for heroes. The system's flaws will be exposed for all to see."
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Three days later, police vehicles surrounded the Todoroki estate in the early evening. Neighbors emerged from their homes, watching in stunned disbelief as Detective Thragg Grayson led a team of officers toward the main entrance.
Inside, Endeavor had just returned from his agency, still in his hero costume as he reviewed reports in his office.
The doorbell's chime was followed by a maid's hesitant voice informing him that the police were requesting entry.
"What nonsense is this?" he growled, rising from his desk with flames flickering higher around his face. "Send them away. I have work to do."
"I'm afraid we have a warrant, Endeavor," came a deep voice from the doorway.
Thragg stood there, his massive frame filling the entrance, police badge held calmly before him. Behind him, several officers waited with expressions that mixed fear and determination.
"What is the meaning of this?" Endeavor demanded, his initial shock quickly replaced by indignation. "Do you have any idea who I am?"
"Enji Todoroki," Thragg replied evenly. "Also known as the Flame Hero: Endeavor. Currently ranked number two among professional heroes. And under arrest for child abuse, domestic violence, and quirk marriage violations."
Endeavor's flames intensified. "This is absurd! Who dares make such accusations?"
"Medical records. School reports. Witness statements. Security footage from your own home." Thragg's voice remained calm, but his eyes held Endeavor's with unwavering intensity. "The evidence is substantial and compelling."
"I am the number two hero! Whatever disciplinary methods I've used with my family are my business!"
"Child abuse is everyone's business," Thragg countered, stepping forward. Despite Endeavor's flames, he showed no sign of discomfort or fear. "You will come with us now, or additional charges of resisting arrest will be added."
For a tense moment, it seemed Endeavor might actually fight. His flames surged higher, his massive frame tensing as he glared at the detective who dared to challenge him in his own home.
But something in Thragg's unwavering gaze – some instinctual recognition of a predator far more dangerous than himself – gave him pause.
This was no ordinary detective. The way he stood, unmoved by the heat and pressure of Endeavor's quirk, suggested something beyond normal people.
Slowly, the flames around Endeavor diminished.
"This is a mistake," he growled, though with less conviction than before. "My lawyer will have this dismissed by morning."
"Perhaps," Thragg acknowledged, producing specialized quirk-suppressing handcuffs. "But tonight, you will be processed like any other suspect in a criminal investigation."
As the officers moved forward to secure him, Endeavor noticed movement in the hallway.
Fuyumi stood there, her eyes wide with disbelief, Natsuo behind her with an expression that mixed shock and something that looked disturbingly like satisfaction.
And behind them both, partially hidden in the shadows, stood Shoto. His eyes met his father's for a brief moment, revealing nothing of his thoughts.
"Your children will need temporary accommodation while this matter is resolved," Thragg continued as the officers secured Endeavor's wrists. "My brother has offered to provide guardianship until the courts determine appropriate arrangements."
"Absurd!" Endeavor snapped, his attention jerking back to Thragg. "They will remain in their home!"
"That decision is not yours to make," Thragg replied calmly.
"As a detective specializing in domestic cases (something Thragg made sure of since this was a long time planned, Todoroki simply gave the best time for acting), I have the authority to remove potential victims from an unsafe environment."
As Endeavor was led away, still protesting his innocence and threatening legal consequences, Nolan Grayson emerged from one of the police vehicles.
He approached the remaining Todoroki children with a carefully calibrated expression of concern and reassurance.
"This must be overwhelming," he said gently, particularly addressing Fuyumi who appeared the most distressed. "I understand you may not want to leave your home, but we can offer you a safe place to stay while this situation is resolved."
"Why would you help us?" Natsuo asked suspiciously. "You don't even know us."
"My son Marcus is friends with your brother," Nolan explained. "When he shared his concerns with my brother, we felt compelled to help. No child should endure what you've experienced."
Fuyumi looked torn, her eyes darting between her brothers and the imposing but seemingly kind man before her. "I... I don't know. This is all happening so fast."
"You don't have to decide immediately," Nolan assured her. "But you shouldn't stay here tonight. The media will descend once news breaks, and you deserve privacy during this difficult time."
Shoto, who had remained silent throughout the exchange, finally spoke. "We should go with him," he said quietly. "At least for now."
His siblings turned to him in surprise.
"Are you sure, Shoto?" Fuyumi asked.
"Marcus told me about his family," Shoto replied. "I trust his judgment."
The decision made, the Todoroki siblings gathered essential belongings while reporters began to arrive outside the estate gates.
Police officers kept them at bay as Nolan escorted the three young people to a waiting vehicle with tinted windows.
As they drove away from the only home they'd ever known, Shoto gazed out the window, his expression unreadable.
Part of him felt a profound relief at his father's arrest – justice long delayed finally being served. Yet another part felt uncertainty about what would come next.
The Grayson family had seemed genuine in their concern and offer of help. Marcus had been understanding during their conversation, showing none of the pity or horror that Shoto had feared when sharing his story.
Perhaps this unexpected turn of events would lead to something better. A chance to heal, to reconnect with his siblings without their father and his actions getting in the way.
-----------------------
Later that night, after the Todoroki siblings had been settled into guest rooms in the Grayson home, Thragg and Nolan stood on the balcony overlooking the city lights.
"The arrest is already dominating news coverage," Nolan noted, checking his phone. "Public reaction is exactly as you predicted – shock, outrage, questions about the hero commission's vetting process."
"Humans are predictable in their moral outrage," Thragg replied. "Particularly when their idols fall. This will accelerate the erosion of faith in their hero system."
"The Todoroki children seem... damaged," Nolan observed, a hint of genuine concern in his voice. "Especially the girl. She blames herself for not protecting her brothers more effectively."
"Their psychological trauma makes them more susceptible to manipulation," Thragg noted clinically, though beneath that almost imperceptible there was a bit of worry too.
"They will form attachments quickly to those who show them kindness after years of abuse."
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(Author note: Hello everyone! I hope you all liked the chapter!
Do tell me how you found it.
Was it logical in your eyes? I personally think yeah, it was.
Well, I hope to see you all later,
Bye!)