I apologize to those who may have anticipated more detailed coverage of Izuku's training. However, including extensive training scenes would disrupt the flow of the story I wanted to write. Instead, I have chosen to focus on exploring the changes in Izuku's personality due to the training in the upcoming chapters, which I believe will be a more interesting read
Izuku could feel the world spin around him, his head swimming with a mixture of disbelief and shock. In any other circumstance, he might have passed out to the overwhelming absurdity of it all. However, the lingering adrenaline coursing through his veins from saving Bakugo kept his heart racing on top of having a stranger appear in his bedroom.
"Apprentice" Vader's words echoed through Izuku's mind, delving deep into his very core. There was an undeniable resonance in those words, a chilling certainty that left no room for interpretation. Izuku knew, with a sinking feeling in his heart, that this was not a mere offer or suggestion. It was an order, a command from the towering figure before him, and he could feel that there would be no room for negotiation or refusal.
"Why me? I... I don't even have a quirk, I think?" Izuku stammered, his voice laced with disbelief and confusion. The weight of the situation bore down on him, his mind struggling to make sense of the impossible.
"Is this some kind of twisted dream? I really had my own magic genie all my life?" he muttered under his breath, his words tinged with a mixture of hope and skepticism.
"Are you even real?" Izuku blurted out, his voice trembling with uncertainty. The intensity of Vader's glare sent a chill down his spine, causing him to falter and silence his rambling thoughts. He watches as the figure raises his hand and an assortment of his belongings begin to float in the air. He feels himself start to levitate in the air as he is propped onto his feet.
"You will face my trials, aid me in achieving my mission, and in return, I will grant you power far beyond the reach of those who doubt you" Vader declared, his voice steady and resolute. As he raised his hand before him, a sense of foreboding filled the air.
"The frustration you feel, that is the very essence of your strength," Vader continued, his words interlaced with the haunting rhythm of his mechanical breathing. The incongruity between his breaths and his speech added an eerie intensity to every word he spoke.
As Izuku stood before the towering figure of Darth Vader, his heart pounded in his chest, each beat echoing his fear and uncertainty. The sheer presence of the Sith Lord sent chills down his spine, and he couldn't help but tremble under the weight of his imposing aura. But amidst the overwhelming fear, a flicker of something unexpected stirred within him.
It was the unmistakable feeling of acceptance, a sensation that had eluded Izuku for as long as he could remember. The longing to be recognized, to be seen as special and worthy, had always gnawed at his soul. Society had deemed him an outsider, an anomaly in a world where quirks defined one's worth. He had endured countless harassment and bullying that made him question his own value. But in the presence of Vader, there was a shift, a fleeting moment when he felt acknowledged.
The realization struck Izuku like a lightning bolt. For the first time in his life, someone saw his potential. The darkness before him held a promise, a chance to prove himself.
As tears welled up in his eyes, Izuku fought to steady his trembling voice. The tears were not only an expression of his overwhelmed emotions but also a release of the pent-up frustrations and countless moments of self-doubt that had plagued him throughout his quirkless existence. It was as if a dam had burst within him, carrying away the weight of insecurities and doubts that had burdened his soul for far too long. Through the tears, he mustered the strength to ask the question that burned within him, staring directly into Vader's formidable helm.
"What do I have to do?" Izuku's voice quivered with determination woven into his words. The question hung in the air, a plea for guidance and a fervent desire to prove his worth. The tears that streamed down his face were a testament to his vulnerability, but also to his unyielding resolve. He had come face to face with the embodiment of darkness, yet in that moment, he found a sliver of hope, a chance to shape his own destiny.
—
Under the cover of darkness, Vader led his new apprentice through the deserted streets of the city. They moved swiftly, their footsteps echoing in the empty alleys as they evaded the prying eyes of the remaining inhabitants. The Sith Lord's connection to the Force guided him, seeking a place devoid of human presence.
It didn't take long for Vader to find the perfect location. Just a few miles away from Izuku's home, they arrived at a desolate beach, its once pristine shores now marred by a sea of garbage and discarded metal waste. The stench that permeated the air was enough to drive away any who ventured near.
The moon cast a dim light over the desolate landscape, illuminating the debris-strewn sands. Vader surveyed the surroundings, his presence commanding and formidable. This wasteland would serve as their training ground, where the boy would be shaped and molded into a weapon of the dark side.
As they stood there, the crashing waves serving as a backdrop to his silent contemplation, Vader's deep, mechanical breathing echoed in the stillness.
"Tonight marks the beginning of your training," Vader declared with a commanding tone as they stood on the desolate shore. His voice resonated with a mixture of authority and underlying intensity. He gestured towards the bleak surroundings, emphasizing the significance of their chosen training grounds.
"In the coming weeks, you will face your first test," Vader continued, his words carrying an ominous weight.
Izuku's gaze flickered across the desolate beach, the scene filled with discarded debris and the constant movement of scavenging creatures. He couldn't help but shudder at the sight, a stark contrast to the hero training facilities he had envisioned. Uncertainty crept into his voice as he turned to face Vader.
"But... won't someone find us here?" Izuku asked, his concern evident in his tone as he looked up at the towering figure beside him.
Vader's response was as emotionless as ever, his voice devoid of any reassurance. "I sensed no presence here besides scum and vermin, and the force guides me" he replied flatly, causing Izuku to cast his eyes downward, noticing the critters that scurried in and out of the piles of trash surrounding them.
Fight me, and I will see where we shall begin," Vader commanded, extending his hand towards one of the colossal piles of metal scrap. Izuku's eyes widened in astonishment as he witnessed the debris levitating in the air, gradually morphing into a makeshift sword. The rough and uncomfortable weapon descended before him, offered by Vader.
"Take it, and try to strike me," Vader instructed, his voice carrying an air of challenge.
Izuku hesitated, his concern for causing harm evident in his hesitant words. "I don't want to hurt you," he stammered, but despite his reservations, he reached out and grasped the sword, feeling its unwieldy weight in his hands.
"You would be most lucky if you could," Vader retorted, his tone laced with confidence.
As Izuku watched, Vader retrieved a cylindrical metal device from his waistband. His eyes followed intently as Vader turned the dial on the device, lowering it to the lowest setting with a distinct click.
Summoning his resolve, Izuku prepared himself to engage. However, as he stood there motionless, Vader grew impatient.
"I said to strike me!" Vader's voice boomed, causing Izuku to flinch involuntarily. With menacing intent, the Sith Lord lunged forward, his lightsaber igniting as he swung down upon Izuku. The the sound of pure energy slowly melting away Izuku's blade crept through the air as Izuku's makeshift weapon met Vader's assault, their weapons locked in a test of strength.
"You are lucky that I have weakened the blade," Vader remarked, tapping rhythmically on the dial of his emitter.
Determined not to be overwhelmed, Izuku rose to his feet, mustering his courage and summoning memories of knights from his favorite movies. With a burst of energy, he charged towards Vader, attempting to replicate the movements of those heroic warriors. However, the unfamiliar weight and awkward balance of the makeshift blade hindered his efforts. His slash towards Vader's chest was swiftly blocked, leaving Izuku momentarily deflated.
"Try again!" Vader's demand echoed with unwavering authority, reverberating through the training grounds. Izuku's body tensed the exhaustion creeping through his muscles. He had come to realize that this training was not just physical, but a battle against his own doubts and limitations.
Izuku lunged forward once more, his blade meeting Vader's lightsaber in a clash of sparks and energy. He tried to anticipate Vader's movements, aiming to strike past his defense, but each attempt was met with calculated precision.
Frustration gnawed at Izuku's resolve as he found himself knocked off balance by a sudden barrage of debris hurled by Vader's commanding power. The impact sent him sprawling to the ground, the taste of defeat bitter on his tongue. But he refused to let it break him.
"Again!" Vader's voice cut through the air, commanding Izuku to rise to his feet and continue the relentless assault. Gritting his teeth, Izuku mustered all his strength, his strikes becoming more fierce and determined. He poured his frustration into each swing, hoping to find a weakness in Vader's impenetrable defense.
But as the seconds turned to minutes, and the minutes to hours, Izuku's muscles burned with exhaustion, and doubt began to creep into his mind. Yet, he refused to yield. He would not let his own limitations hold him back.
With a final burst of energy, Izuku launched himself forward, his strikes aimed at Vader's dominant hand. The air crackled with the intensity of their clash, the sound of metal sparking echoing in the darkness.
"Good, use that anger, and strike me!" Vader's voice taunted, his words stoking the fire within Izuku's heart. The young apprentice unleashed a flurry of strikes, each blow fueled by his determination to prove himself worthy.
But as the training session drew to a close, sweat dripping down his brow, Izuku couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Despite the physical and emotional strain, he knew that this rigorous training was shaping him into something more. The challenges he faced under Vader's watchful eye were forging him stronger and more resilient.
As he caught his breath, Izuku looked up at Vader, his eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and determination. "I will become stronger" he vowed, his voice filled with unwavering resolve. "I will prove that I am worthy."
Vader's masked face remained impassive. This is not would not of been his ideal apprentice in the days of the Empire, but as it stands in this modern era, Izuku's the best he's got. Izuku is someone who could harness their anger and frustration, and mold it into a weapon.
"Your body is weak, your coordination lacking, and untrained" Vader's voice cut through the air like a razor, cold and unforgiving. His gaze bore into Izuku, assessing him with a critical eye.
"You never would get accepted to UA like this!" Vader's words struck a nerve, aiming to undermine Izuku's hopes and dreams. But instead of succumbing to despair, anger surged within him, fueling his determination.
"How did you know?" Izuku's voice quivered with a mix of shock and curiosity. He had never revealed his aspirations to him.
"I have felt it within your heart," Vader's response was as cryptic as ever, his voice holding an otherworldly weight. "It is the one thing you want most right now."
Izuku's mind raced, his dreams of attending UA High School, the prestigious institution that trained aspiring heroes, suddenly laid bare before him. He had believed those dreams to be hidden, locked away in the depths of his heart. Yet here stood Vader, peering into his very soul.
"You're wrong!" Izuku's voice erupted with raw emotion, his words filled with an unyielding determination. "I will train! I will get stronger! Strong enough to beat Bakugo and All Might! Me, Izuku!" His shouts echoed through the air, startling a flock of crows into flight. With unwavering conviction, he continued, "Strong enough to be the best hero in this whole world!"
Vader paused for a moment, his gaze fixed upon Izuku with a strong intensity. There was a glimmer of satisfaction hidden behind his stoic facade. He knew that shaping Izuku into a formidable force against the heroes would take time, patience, and careful manipulation. The seeds of doubt and discontent had been planted, and Vader was confident they would bear fruit in due course.
"Return here tomorrow," Vader's voice resonated with an air of authority, commanding Izuku's attention. "This is only the beginning. It will get far worse."
Izuku, panting heavily and trying to catch his breath, struggled to respond amidst the whirlwind of emotions swirling within him. He desperately wanted to voice his concerns, to inquire about Vader's well-being and the path that lay ahead. With great effort, he managed to call out to the disappearing figure.
"But what about you?" Izuku's voice quivered with a mix of curiosity and genuine concern. "What are you going to do? You don't really have a home or anything."
Vader's silhouette grew smaller in the distance, his presence fading into the night. Yet, his voice carried back to Izuku, infused with an air of mystery.
"I have my own missions" Vader's words hung in the air, lingering like an enigma.
—
A few months later…
No matter how often or well Izuku slept, he could never completely erase the faint dark circles that seemed etched beneath his eyes. Dismissing it as a result of a poor diet, he absentmindedly grabbed his toothbrush and began brushing his teeth, lost in his own thoughts.
Inko quietly approached the bathroom door, watching her son with a mixture of pride and curiosity. "Wow, my boy has grown so much these past few months," she remarked, a playful tone lacing her words. "Are you ever going to introduce me to this mysterious trainer of yours? If you've been changing this quickly, maybe I should consider taking some exercise lessons too."
A small smile tugged at the corners of Izuku's lips as he rinsed his mouth. "Probably not for a while, Mom," he replied, trying to keep the details concealed. "He's not really the sociable type, you know."
Concern etched Inko's face as she voiced her worries. "I hope these late-night gym sessions aren't affecting your studies at school, Izuku. You know how important your education is."
Izuku's voice reassured her, though a hint of hesitation lingered in his tone. "Don't worry, Mom. I'm still doing well in school, nothing to be concerned about." His words trailed off, a fleeting thought of Bakugo crossing his mind. Since Izuku saved Bakugo's life he seemed to have chilled out, only resorting to bickering. His friends however, still are the same as ever.
Izuku entered his room and made his way to his gym bag, utilizing his newfound telekinetic abilities to bring it effortlessly into his grasp. As he caught a whiff of the shirt, he couldn't help but gag at the unpleasant odor. Nevertheless, he reluctantly put it on, knowing that when he arrived at his training location, it would just be him and Vader. The Sith Lord had slowly started to feel like a father figure to Izuku, filling a void left by the absence of his real father for almost nine years. Despite Vader's stoicism and detachment, Izuku remained grateful for the guidance and training he received.
With a wave to his mom, Izuku stepped out of the door and onto the street, his strides filled with a newfound grace and purpose. Each step propelled him forward, his training enhancing his speed and agility. As he navigated the busy sidewalks, his focus remained unyielding, his determination radiating from his every movement.
As he reached the horizon, the familiar sight of the beach came into view. However unlike a few months prior, underneath the sea of junk they have made changes. Underneath its unassuming appearance a deep pit arena stands, constructed from scrap and debris, carefully shaped and manipulated with the power of the Force. It stood hidden from prying eyes, tucked away from curious onlookers who could stumble upon their secret training ground.
The maze-like structures created from twisted metal and shattered remnants formed a challenging course, a playground where Izuku honed his skills and tested his limits. The environment itself was shifted by Izuku's use of the force, shifting and morphing to provide new obstacles and challenges. It was a testament to the power and control he was gaining under Vader's tutelage.
As Izuku stepped into the pit, the echoes of his footsteps mixed with the distant crash of metal. It had become the familiar prelude to their intense training sessions, a constant reminder of the challenges that awaited him within these makeshift walls.
Under Vader's watchful gaze, Izuku had learned to embrace a new approach to combat. No longer did he rely solely on head-on attacks, instead finding solace in the art of stealth and surprise. With calculated movements and precise strikes, he sought to outmaneuver his formidable mentor.
However, it didn't take long for Izuku to realize that Vader was no ordinary opponent. Despite his efforts to remain hidden, it seemed as though Vader possessed an uncanny ability to detect his every move. Whether it was through the Force or his own heightened senses, the Sith Lord always seemed to be one step ahead.
As Izuku moved silently through the maze of twisted metal and debris, his heart raced with anticipation. Every corner turned, every shadow embraced, was an opportunity to catch Vader off guard. But time and time again, his efforts were thwarted, his presence betrayed by an unseen force.
With each passing session, Izuku grew stronger, more resilient. The dance between stealth and detection became a relentless cycle, an endless pursuit of mastery. And though he had yet to overcome Vader's unrivaled perception, he knew that every failed attempt brought him one step closer to the breakthrough he sought.
With only a wall separating him from Vader, Izuku summoned his inner strength and focused his energy. He channeled the Force, unleashing a powerful push that shattered the makeshift barrier and sent it crashing to the ground. As the debris rained down, Izuku swiftly slid underneath, aiming to swipe at Vader's legs and bring him down.
But Vader was no stranger to such tactics. With a swift and calculated countermove, he exerted his own power, flinging Izuku against another nearby wall. The impact jolted through Izuku's body, causing him to momentarily lose his breath. Yet, he remained resolute and determined, his face a mask of silent resolve.
Knowing that he couldn't afford to stay down, Izuku reacted quickly. He shot up a gust of sand, obscuring Vader's vision and creating a temporary cover. Utilizing the diversion, Izuku swiftly moved, blending into the chaos of swirling particles. His footsteps became as silent as a whisper as he maneuvered through the shifting landscape.
Hidden behind the veil of sand, Izuku strategized his next move. The sand began to settle, revealing only an empty space where Izuku had once stood.
Silently, he moved closer, closing the distance between him and his mentor. The anticipation hung heavy in the air as Izuku prepared himself for the final act of this intricate dance. He readied himself to emerge from the shadows and deliver a strike that would test Vader's defenses.
With a powerful kick off the wall, Izuku propelled himself into the air, defying gravity for a fleeting moment. Calling upon the Force, he channeled his energy, summoning a surge of raw power. It crackled and surged around him, building in intensity as he prepared to unleash it upon Vader.
Izuku unleashed a torrent of energy, directing it towards Vader with the hope of toppling him. The burst of energy surged downward, aiming to overwhelm and disorient his formidable opponent. The force of the attack created a shockwave that reverberated through the pit, sending debris flying in all directions.
But Vader was not one to be easily toppled. He stood firm, bracing himself against the onslaught, his imposing presence unwavering. As the energy crashed around him, he harnessed his own power, using the Force to shield himself from the full impact of the attack. The sheer force of will and control demonstrated by Vader was a testament to his mastery.
As the energy dissipated, Izuku landed gracefully on the ground, his gaze fixed on Vader. He could feel the fatigue creeping into his muscles, blasting energy out seems to fatigue him rapidly. Despite the exhaustion, a fire burned within Izuku's eyes. He knew that every training session, every moment of perseverance, brought him closer to his goal.
Today's training was focused on honing his emitting powers, an area where he still had much to learn and develop. The absence of the blades allowed him to focus on the control and finesse of his energy manipulation, an essential skill for the upcoming entrance exam. The weeks leading up to the exam were crucial, and Izuku was determined to make every moment count.
—
As Izuku's sleep-laden eyes adjusted to the morning light, he couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement coursing through his veins. Today was the day he had been eagerly anticipating – the day of the UA entrance exam. Rubbing the remnants of sleep from his eyes, he listened to his mother's voice echoing through the house, filled with both pride and worry.
"Izuku! Izuku! It's your day! You ready for UA? I ironed your clothes and everything," Inko exclaimed, her voice brimming with anticipation. Izuku couldn't help but smile at his mother's enthusiasm.
With a yawn and a stretch, Izuku stumbled to his feet, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination wash over him. He glanced down at his pajama pants, not wanting to change into his freshly ironed clothes yet. Inko's gaze fell upon him, and her eyes widened as she took in the scars that adorned his body.
"Please be more careful, Izu. Your body shouldn't be looking like that so young," Inko said, her voice filled with concern as she tightly clutched the laundry basket. The sight of her worry tugged at Izuku's heart, and he reassured her with a gentle smile.
"I know you're worried, Mom, but I wanted to make sure I was ready for today, and now I really think I am," Izuku replied, his voice filled with satisfaction. He understood his mother's concern, but he couldn't let it overshadow his own resolve to pursue his dreams.
As Inko's worried expression softened, she nodded, her eyes glistening with a mix of pride and motherly love. "You've worked so hard for this, Izuku. I believe in you. Go out there and show them what you're made of."
Taking a deep breath, Izuku changed into his freshly ironed clothes. He glanced at himself in the mirror, a reflection of the transformation he had undergone over the past months. Scars and all, he stood tall, ready to embark on this next step of his life.
As the aroma of freshly cooked Katsudon wafted through the air, Izuku's stomach growled. Inko had gone above and beyond to prepare his favorite meal, ensuring that he had the best start to this momentous day. Izuku couldn't help but smile gratefully at his mother as he settled down at the table to enjoy the hearty breakfast she had lovingly prepared.
With each satisfying bite, the flavors soothed him. Inko had spared no expense, using the finest ingredients she could find to create this culinary masterpiece. The tender pork cutlets, perfectly cooked rice, and savory egg topping came together in a symphony of flavors, providing Izuku with the energy he needed to face the challenges that awaited him at UA High School.
"Mmm, this is amazing, Mom," Izuku exclaimed between mouthfuls, his words muffled by the delicious food. He couldn't help but feel a pang of bittersweet nostalgia as he savored each bite. This was a breakfast that held so many memories of his childhood, and now it was a reminder of how far he had come and the new chapter he was about to embark upon.
After savoring the last morsel, Izuku rose from the table and headed towards the door. As he slipped on his shoes, he carefully placed his earbuds in his ears, ready to immerse himself in the motivational beats of his favorite hero-themed playlist.
With his stomach satisfied and his mind focused, Izuku began his morning commute to UA High School. The familiar streets greeted him as he walked with purpose, the bustling city coming to life around him.
—
With each step closer to UA High School, the weight of the imposing walls seemed to grow heavier, as if carrying the legacy of the heroes who had come before him. The campus stood tall and proud, its architectural brilliance a testament to the noble ideals it represented. Izuku couldn't help but feel awe as he approached the entrance, his heart pounding in his chest.
As he took in the sight of the campus, he couldn't help but notice the bustling activity around him. Students clad in their distinctive UA uniforms hurried to and fro, their determination evident in their strides. They were the chosen few, the ones deemed worthy of this prestigious institution. Izuku felt a deep sense of responsibility settles upon his shoulders, a realization that he was about to join the ranks of those who had the power to make a difference.
Amidst the flurry of activity, Izuku's gaze shifted to the statues that adorned the grounds of UA High School. These larger-than-life figures were more than mere decorations; they were reminders of the heroes who had dedicated their lives to protect and serve. Even if they weren't as ideal as Izuku would like.
Too busy looking around Izuku stumbled over some uneven bricks on the pathway, his heart sinking in anticipation of the impact, he was startled to find himself suspended in mid-air. His eyes widened in surprise as he looked to his side and saw a brunette girl with chin-length hair, a warm smile gracing her face.
"I stopped you with my quirk, sorry I didn't ask you first" the girl asked cheerfully, her voice filled with genuine kindness.
Izuku blinked in disbelief, momentarily speechless. Slowly, he nodded, a grateful smile forming on his lips. "Uhh uhhh, thank you," he stammered, finding himself back on his feet after the girl clapped her hands.
His legs are still slightly wobbly from the stumble. "I figured you wouldn't mind me catching you but I won't always be there to catch you" she teases him.
Izuku's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he brushed off his uniform, trying to regain some semblance of composure. "Thank you again. I guess I got lost in my thoughts and didn't notice the ground" he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of self-deprecation.
The girl giggled softly, her laughter like a melody that brought warmth to Izuku's heart. "It happens to the best of us. I'm Ochaco Uraraka, by the way," she introduced herself, extending her hand towards Izuku.
"Izuku Midoriya," he replied, shaking her hand.
"Well, got to go," Ochaco said with a cheerful smile, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "But I'll see you inside later, Izuku."
Izuku nodded, feeling a sense of connection with Ochaco despite their brief encounter. "Yeah, see you later," he replied.
As Ochaco walked away, Izuku watched her figure disappear into the crowd of students heading towards the entrance of UA High School.
—
Izuku stood in the vast auditorium, surrounded by the buzz of anticipation and the booming voice of Present Mic as he welcomed everyone and prepared them for the upcoming practical exam.
"Are you ready!" Present Mic exclaimed, his voice amplified with enthusiasm.
The crowd responded with an eerie silence, but Izuku couldn't help but smile as he recognized Present Mic as the same guy who hosted the radio show he used to listen to on his way to school and training. It felt surreal to see him in person, igniting the excitement within Izuku even further.
"You guys will be conducting mock battles, my friends, and we've got seven different battlefields, okay?" Present Mic announced, his voice resonating through the auditorium.
Izuku glanced down at his card and saw that his assigned battlefield was Battle Center B. Looking around, he spotted Bakugo sitting a couple of rows down from him. He overheard the person sitting next to Bakugo whispering about how cool it was that they were both in Battle Center A. A hint of frustration flickered across Izuku's face as he yearned to show Bakugo just how much he had grown and to prove himself. However, he realized that his true opportunity to impress Bakugo lay in the scoreboards once the exams are over.
"There will be 1 Point, 2 Point, and 3 Point faux villains in each battlefield. They give points based on their level of difficulty, so choose wisely, my friends. Your goal in this trial is to score as many points by shredding your opponents with your quirks like a guitar solo," Present Mic declared, his words resonating with the crowd, eliciting impressed grunts and thoughtful murmurs.
"But watch out, keep it heroic! Attacking other examinees is a huge no-no," Present Mic emphasized once again, ensuring everyone understood the rules of the exam.
"Excuse me, sir, but I have a question," the blue-haired teen spoke up in a formal tone, adjusting his glasses.
"Hit me!" Present Mic responded, inviting the inquiry.
"In the printout, you listed four types of enemies. It would be shameful for UA to make such a mistake as we are exemplary students and deserve to be treated as such," the boy expressed, causing unease among the crowd.
"Ah, quite perceptive, aren't you?" Present Mic acknowledged the boy's astuteness. "That's another villain type that is worth 0 points. There will be one in every battle center. It's more of a hurdle to avoid than anything you should focus on. Not that they can't be beaten, but there's no point in doing so."
"Thank you very much. Please continue," the blue-haired teen responded, his formal demeanor intact.
Hearing about the 0 Pointer caused a buzz of speculation and whispers among the crowd, but it wasn't enough to distract Izuku from his focus.
"That's all from me today! Line up and head out the door to the right. Good luck!" Present Mic's voice boomed through the auditorium, attempting to inject a final surge of energy and excitement into the participants.
As Izuku joined the line, he couldn't contain the wide, ear-to-ear smile that etched itself onto his face. This was his moment, his chance to prove himself. The weight of the upcoming exam didn't deter him; it fueled his resolve and added more fuel to the fire within him. This was his time to shine, and he was determined to make it perfect.