My Hero Academia Episode 38: Encounter

A man named Tomura demands that Kurogiri remove two new recruits from their hideout, describing one as rude and the other as a bratty young girl. Kurogiri asks him to reconsider, explaining that Giran brought them to become members of the League of Villains. Giran states he only cares about his commission and asks to introduce them first. He introduces a young girl as a rogue criminal wanted for several deaths. She identifies herself as Himiko Toga and expresses a desire to join the League of Villains to become like the Hero Killer: Stain.

Next, Giran introduces a man who hasn't committed flashy crimes but adheres to Stain's ideology. The man, who calls himself Dabi, admits he's uneasy about the group's motivations and questions allowing someone like Himiko to join. Tomura asks for his name, but Dabi only gives his chosen name, stating he will reveal his true name when the time is right. Dabi then says he will follow the Hero Killer's will, which annoys Tomura. Tomura complains about everyone's focus on Stain and attacks the new recruits. They retaliate, but Kurogiri uses his Quirk to stop the fight.

Kurogiri tells Tomura to calm down, explaining that the League of Villains needs new recruits, especially since Stain has put them in the spotlight. An angry Tomura storms out. Giran comments on Tomura's youth, and the recruits voice their own complaints about him. Kurogiri asks them to wait for an answer, believing that Tomura will find his own answers soon, thanks to All Might and the Hero Killer.

At U.A. High's Class 1-A homeroom, students who believe they failed the practical section of their finals worry about missing the summer training camp. Shota enters and announces that everyone will attend the training camp regardless of their exam results. He admits the teachers intentionally left a way for students to pass and that all students must go to the camp to get stronger. He calls this a "rational deception," which upsets many students who feel tricked.

After class, students review the training camp brochure, and many decide they need to buy more items for the week-long trip. Toru suggests they all go to the mall together, and the class agrees, except for Katsuki and Shoto. Later, Class 1-A meets at Kiyashi Ward Shopping Mall, where they are almost immediately recognized from the U.A. Sports Festival. They decide to separate and meet back in three hours, leaving Izuku and Ochaco behind. Ochaco suddenly becomes flustered after recalling Yuga's words from their finals and runs off. Now alone, Izuku is approached by someone he initially believes to be another fan from the Sports Festival. After a brief exchange, Izuku realizes he is face-to-face with Tomura Shigaraki.

Tomura came to the mall seeking answers about the difference between himself and Stain. He places his hand around Izuku's neck, threatening to kill him and many innocent people if Izuku resists. Tomura expresses irritation that the Hero Killer has received all the attention he desires for himself. Tomura states that Stain destroyed what he disliked, just as Tomura has, and asks Izuku what the difference is between the two villains.

Meanwhile, Ochaco reflects on her decision to run from Izuku. She convinces herself there is nothing romantic between them and decides to return and apologize. Izuku admits he doesn't agree with or understand Tomura. He explains that while he didn't agree with Stain, he understood the Hero Killer because both were inspired by All Might. He also points out that Stain never wavered in his conviction, unlike Tomura at the U.S.J. Tomura replies with a haunting smile, stating he believes he has connected his hatred for Izuku and Stain. He concludes he hates them both because of their connection to All Might and becomes excited. He tightens his grip around Izuku's neck, thanking him for opening his eyes.

Ochaco arrives and tells the unknown man to release Izuku, but Izuku yells for Ochaco to retreat. Tomura, not wanting to cause a commotion now that he has achieved his goal, pretends to be a fan and prepares to leave, but Izuku exposes his identity to Ochaco. Izuku asks Tomura about All For One's plan, but Tomura replies he doesn't know and then leaves. As he walks back to the hideout, Tomura decides that crushing All Might, in connection with Stain's ideology, will now be his conviction. Ochaco reports the incident, and the mall is temporarily closed. Heroes and police are unable to find Tomura, and Izuku is taken to the station to give a statement about the conflict.

Izuku tells Detective Tsukauchi about the incident and is then dismissed. Outside the station, All Might checks on Izuku. Izuku asks if there are times when the number one hero cannot save everyone, to which All Might replies that such times occur every day. He adds that this is why it's even more important to stand and smile, so the light of the symbol of peace remains lit in everyone's hearts. Izuku's mother arrives to take Izuku home. All Might discusses with the detective the possibility of U.A. students being targeted. They both agree that this time, they will capture All For One properly.

U.A. High's first semester concludes, and summer vacation begins. Simultaneously, All For One tells his doctor he is pleased with Tomura's development, planning to groom Tomura to replace him in the future.