Jason hated the media.
It had only been a day since the USJ attack, and already his name was being whispered everywhere—from school corridors to hero news outlets.
"Anonymous U.A. Student Defeats Villain Weapon!"
"Was It a Quirk… or Something More?"
"Nomu-Slayer: Who is Jason Lax?"
His face wasn't shown—U.A. had protected that much—but his name had slipped. Rumors were spreading like wildfire.
He scowled at his phone before stuffing it into his pocket. Great. Exactly what he didn't want.
---
Class 1-A, Homeroom
Aizawa looked as tired as ever, but even he couldn't ignore the energy buzzing in the classroom.
"Classes resume today. Hero studies will be adjusted. You all did well surviving… but don't get cocky."
His gaze lingered on Jason for a second too long.
Jason leaned back in his seat like he didn't notice—but Momo noticed everything.
She kept sneaking glances at him, watching how still he was. Less talk. Less teasing.
Something was bothering him.
---
Hallways – Between Classes
"You seriously took down the Nomu?" Kaminari asked, wide-eyed.
Jason barely glanced at him. "Guess so."
"Man, that's insane! You're like… a secret weapon or something."
Jason just gave him a lazy grin. "Don't get used to it."
---
Later That Day – Cafeteria
Jason sat with Momo in the far corner, trying to stay away from the buzz. But the looks still came. People whispering. Teachers watching. Students speculating.
Momo finally broke the silence.
"…You hate this, don't you?"
Jason didn't look at her. "What gave it away?"
"You're quieter. Avoiding everyone. And you haven't teased me in hours."
He smirked faintly. "I'll fix that."
But his voice lacked its usual spark.
"I'm serious," she said. "You did something incredible. You should be proud."
Jason glanced at her. "That thing… it wasn't human. It was built to destroy us. And someone out there sent it."
Momo looked down, voice soft. "You think they'll come after you next?"
He didn't answer.
---
That Night – Dorm Rooftop
Jason sat under the stars, hood up, eyes locked on the moon.
He tapped his fingers, activating a flicker of his Infinite Form. His skin rippled briefly—barely noticeable. He was still recovering.
He didn't like this attention.
Because now, he was a target.
---
Elsewhere – Villain Hideout
"Jason Lax…" Shigaraki muttered, dragging a finger along a monitor.
The footage of the Nomu's defeat paused, rewound, played again.
"That power… it wasn't in the files."
Kurogiri bowed slightly. "Shall we prepare another test?"
Shigaraki grinned. "No. Let's make him come to us."