**Chapter 1: The Unlikely Encounter**

The sun had long since set on the bustling streets of Musutafu, casting a warm orange glow over the city. Izuku Midoriya, also known as Deku, walked home from a long day at U.A. High School, his eyes fixed on the pavement as he contemplated his next move. As the son of Hisashi Midoriya, a renowned hero, Deku had always dreamed of following in his footsteps and becoming a hero himself. But with a Quirk that was still raw and unrefined, he often found himself struggling to keep up with his peers. As he turned a corner onto his street, Deku noticed a figure leaning against the railing of the small park that stood at the center of the neighborhood. The figure was shrouded in shadows, but as Deku drew closer, he could see that it was none other than Katsuki Bakugo, his classmate and longtime rival. Bakugo, also known as Kacchan, was the epitome of confidence and aggression, with a Quick that allowed him to produce and manipulate nitroglycerin-like sweat from his hands. Deku had often found himself on the receiving end of Bakugo's brutal teasing and mocking, but despite their tumultuous relationship, Deku had to admit that he admired Bakugo's raw talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. "What are you doing here, Deku?" Bakugo asked gruffly, his eyes fixed on the ground as he pushed off from the railing. Deku shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant despite the sudden flutter in his chest. "Just heading home. What about you?" Bakugo snorted, his gaze drifting up to Deku's face. "I could ask you the same thing. You're not exactly the type to be out and about at this hour." Deku shifted uncomfortably, feeling a familiar sense of unease wash over him. "I just needed some fresh air, I guess." The two stood there in silence for a moment, the only sound being the distant chirping of crickets and the occasional bark of a dog. Deku could feel Bakugo's eyes on him, boring into his skin like a hot knife through butter. Suddenly, Bakugo spoke up, his voice low and rough. "You know, Deku, I've been thinking." Deku's heart skipped a beat as he met Bakugo's gaze, his mind racing with possibilities. "What about?" Bakugo's expression was unreadable, but Deku could sense a hint of curiosity behind his eyes. "About our next move. About how we're going to make it to the top." Deku's eyes widened, his pulse quickening with excitement. Was Bakugo actually suggesting that they team up? The thought sent a shiver down his spine, and he couldn't help but wonder what kind of possibilities lay ahead. And with that, Bakugo turned and started walking away, leaving Deku to follow him into the unknown.