I Want To Be A Hero!

by Batty1377

This is the story of a new Hero, Shunshu, joining Saitama and Genos on their Adventures as he joins the Hero Association alongside them and climbs his way through the ranks to become the Hero he's always dreamed of. (Major changes to the story do not begin until the end of season 1's events. Please feel free to criticize).

39. Chapter 39: Brighter Days Ahead

It had been a few days since the battle against the Monster Association and Garou. By some miracle, Metal Knight had managed to fully heal everyone's radiation poisoning, and those who'd been wounded were taken to the Hero Association hospitals to be treated. The Hero Association attempted to bring Shunshi to one of their hospitals, but, at Genos' insistence, he was instead brought to Doctor Stench by Saitama.

On his first day, Shunshi's Kie hadn't returned, and his spine hadn't shown any signs of healing. After setting up Genos in an automatic repair unit, Dr. Stench came to check on Shunshi, growing nervous when he saw no signs of his spine healing.

Doctor Stench expressed concerns and asked his grandson's friend, "Hrm... Unlike before, there are no signs yet of your body repairing itself any faster than a normal person's. If your spine won't recover, I'd be more than happy to help you out with some cybernetics, Shunshi."

Understandably nervous by such prospects, Shunshi insisted, "Um... Maybe we wait a day or two... or a week to see if I heal on my own. I'm not eager to start swapping out my body parts."

Almost seeming disappointed, Dr. Stench replied, "Oh... Very well then... In the meantime, how about I get to repairing and upgrading your armor? I've improved the materials I use with Genos since last time."

Lighting up, Shunshi replied, "Oh! Thank you, Doctor... Hey, speaking of the armor, can I ask you something?"

"Do you want me to install powered circuitry into the new suit?" Stench asked without hesitation.

"Wha- No! Why are you trying to upgrade me so much right now?" Shunshi asked, genuinely concerned.

Staring at the ceiling, Stench replied, "Oh. Just eager to work on something new, is all... But go on. What did you want to ask me?"

Feeling a bit guilty for a second, Shunshi shook it off and said, "Well... A couple of other Heroes I met wanted to know if they could use the same materials you use for Genos' body and my armor for their tools. One is even a cyborg himself and is looking for pointers on upgrades, but he'd be happy just getting to work with the same metals."

The twinkle in his eye coming to life, Stench asked, "A cyborg, you say? What's his name?"

"Er... He goes by Jet Nice Guy," Shunshi answered with hesitance for the cyborg Hero's safety. "He told me he's actually been trying to emulate Genos."

"And you trust him?" Stench asked while reining in his excitement somewhat.

Shunshi was going to answer right away but realized he should think it over for a moment. After concluding his thoughts on Jet, Shunshi answered, "I don't know the guy on a personal level, but he seems nice, and I know he's risked his life to save others numerous times."

"Hrm..." Dr. Stench muttered as he began postulating. "I suppose... I could ask Genos to speak with him and see what he thinks. Otherwise, I'm at least willing to give the man some of my old schematics."

"Cool. Fair enough... What about the other guy?" Shunshi asked.

"Oh yes. You said there were two. What's the other one's interest?"

"Well, his Hero name's Poison and he uses knives... and maybe swords going forward. He's just looking for stronger materials to use for his weapons."

Smiling with relief, Stench replied, "Oh, is that all? Sure. Bring him over when you have the chance. I'd be happy to let him use the facilities here for crafting better equipment."

Giving the doctor a smile in return, Shunshi said, "Thank you, Dr. Stench. I appreciate that."

"Of course!" The good doctor replied with grandfatherly warmth. "Now then... What should we have for dinner?"

---

At dinner that night, Shunshi, Genos, and Stench were eating a meal of sheet pan chicken and rainbow vegetables with a side of salad and calcium-rich shakes. Shunshi was bandaged up in a wheelchair in place of a regular seat, while Genos, who'd been ninety percent fixed aside from his left arm, was sat next at the corner next to him. Meanwhile, Stench was sitting across from Genos. As for Saitama, he had apparently already left to go search the ruins of the City-Z Ghosttown for any remains of his apartment.

Taking a forkful of food, Stench told Shunshi, who was already digging in himself, "I hope you like this, Shunshi. Genos pulled up this recipe online for our automatic chef because he thought it had the best ingredients for healing injuries."

Pointing his dinner knife at Shunshi, Genos snapped at him, "Be thankful for the gracious Dr. Stench's generosity, Shunshi!"

Nearly coughing up his food in shock, Shunshi swallowed desperately and said, "I am, I am! Thank you again, Dr. Stench!"

Nodding happily, Stench replied, "Of course, Shunshi. Any friend of Genos will always have a plate here."

After a few more minutes of eating and casual conversation, Genos spoke to Shunshi again, "Now that we have both finished our food, I have important news for you, Shunshi."

"Is it about the other Heroes I want to bring over here?" Shunshi asked nervously.

Shaking his head, Genos replied, "That is not it. I will address that issue at a later date. For now, I need you to know of what I learned from Sensei after he defeated the Hero Hunter."

"Um... Okay? What's up?" Shunshi asked.

Producing what looked like a dinged-up version of his own energy core with some black cloth wrapped around it, Genos set the object on the table and stated, "It has to do with this paradoxical device."

Over the next hour, the Demon Cyborg ended up talking Shunshi's ear off. Genos had somehow gotten his hands on an exact copy of his power core and learned from it what could only be called an alternate timeline. In this parallel future, Garou had killed Shunshi, Genos, and everyone else before Saitama bested him in a battle that spanned the solar system. As it turned out, the nude figure who bested Garou was actually this future version of Saitama, who learned how to time travel from the future version of Garou after defeating and reforming him. But at the same time, the future Garou was killed by this God figure for turning his back on it.

When Shunshi heard about all this, he was at first worried Genos' brain had been damaged. However, remembering the vision he had of a crumbling Garou apologizing to him and Tareo, Shunshi started having to take Genos' story with some seriousness. After Shunshi informed him of this supposed mirage, the yellow-eyed cyborg was all the more convinced of this orb's authenticity.

---

On the second day, shortly after Genos had been fully repaired, he left Stench's workshop. His new body was far sleeker than what he'd used at the Monster Association, but he still kept the claws.

As he left, the yellow-eyed cyborg told Dr. Stench and Shunshi that he was off to help Saitama in his excavation efforts and invited his junior to come assist them once he was healed.

With nothing else to do but lay in his bed, rest, and watch television Shunshi was understandably bored without Genos to talk to. Fortunately for his own sense of stimulation, Dr. Stench gifted him a new phone to replace the one that had been destroyed during his fight with Garou. As such, he was getting text messages from Lin Lin, Stinger, Genji, and Ishisu. He learned that his friends were sharing a hospital room with each other and Death Gatling. Fortunately, all three were well on their way to recovering with the Hero Association's miraculous treatments.

Meanwhile, Ishisu had been telling Shunshi that their parents wanted to speak with him again to patch things up. Still feeling awkward and guilty, but also wanting to see them again after his near-death experience, he simply responded that he'd think about it.

Later that day, in the middle of some flirtatious texts between him and Lin Lin planning out their date for after she took the Hero exam, Shunshi received a message from the Hero Association itself.

The message read that, once he was healed and ready, Monster Mask would be promoted to S-Class via a ceremony in City-A. He would also be given a new house in City-A as part of the promotion if he wanted it. To Shunshi's horror, it was revealed to him that Bang was retiring from his Hero work. With this bad news, on top of the horrific results of the war with the Monster Association, the Hero Association wanted to make a spectacle of the first Hero to be promoted to S-Class in almost two years. Additionally, per Bang's request, Monster Mask would be framed as the successor to Silver Fang with this promotion. This wouldn't give him Bang's number 3 spot, but he would be advertised to the public as the new face of Hero Martial Artists.

Once he heard that Bang had appointed him as his successor, Shunshi's inner fanboy was reignited with a passion. His personal Hero appointing him to such a position, even if it was superficial, made him want to cheer and jump for joy. Naturally, he cursed his healing spine for holding him back.

It was only after calming down that Shunshi thought to start making requests. Requests of a more personal, possibly selfish nature.

---

After getting some of his affairs in order, Shunshi thought to message Charanko about the situation on Bang's end. He would have just messaged Bang directly, but the old sensei lacked a phone.

Eventually, Charanko messaged back, "Aside from the Monster Association wearing out Bang-Sensei's body, things are pretty good here. Most of the students who left when Garou went wild have started to come back. Bang-Sensei said to ask you to wait to come back until your Hero promotion stuff is done with and things at the dojo have settled down. It should only take a week or so."

Shunshi was saddened at being barred from the dojo but understood the reasoning. Silver Fang was wounded, too old to fully recover, and didn't need too much on his plate immediately after retirement.

Still, the blue-eyed Hero sent one last message, "Alright. I understand. I'll check back in a week to see how things are doing... And tell Bang-Sensei that I want to try to teach him how to use Kie too. It might be able to help him recover if he learns it."

To his surprise, Charanko responded very quickly, "That's a great idea! Heck, I actually figured out a new Kie move where I can help other people heal faster. I'll try that with him first and ask if he's interested in learning your stuff."

The two would end up getting excited about the topic of Kie and spent the next half an hour texting about Kie and the ways that they both improved on it.

It was shortly after he and Charanko ended their conversation that some of Dr. Stench's machines started chiming out a pleasant tune. Coming in to check on Shunshi, the doctor checked the data and found that Shunshi's Kie was starting to show signs of returning, and the nerves in his spine were growing back.

Shunshi was elated and relieved by this news, specifically because he wouldn't be needing cybernetics. The young man would find himself even more overjoyed when he woke up at the start of the next day to find his spine had fused itself back together while he slept. It still took a few more hours after that for the pain to completely subside and to get himself back to one hundred percent. As such, he ended up eating breakfast with Dr. Stench once again.

---

Once he was completely healthy, Shunshi thanked Dr. Stench for everything and said his goodbyes. What the young Hero wanted to do most going forward was head straight out and help his Sensei and Senpai dig through the Ghostown wreckage. However, he had business to attend to with his other friends he knew he needed to prioritize first.

Making his way to the hospital, Shunshi was dressed in civilian attire to avoid being recognized. Fortunately for this situation, it seemed as if the Monster Association's attacks had kept the coverage from Super Fight from circulating enough for Shunshi's real face to be instantly recognizable yet. Shunshi even still had to show his I.D. to get in when he arrived at the hospital.

To his disappointment yet relief, Shunshi learned from the front desk staff that Lin Lin had checked out the previous day. Stinger, Genji, and Death Gatling would still be bedridden until the afternoon, though, allowing Shunshi time to visit them at least. Shunshi also asked about Suiryu, but he had apparently already finished healing and was gone. Fortunately, Suiryu had left a note for Shunshi with the hospital staff, saying that he was looking into Hero work prospects, but he'd meet Shunshi in a week at Bang's dojo.

With no one else he needed to check up on, Shunshi thanked the staff, went upstairs, and found the room that Stinger, Genji, and Death Gatling were in. Shunshi was happy to see the Hero Association hospitals work their magic, as all three were close to full recoveries. Feeling that he owed his friends as much, Shunshi spent a good chunk of that day making conversation and answering whatever questions they had about Saitama.

Of his friends, Shunshi asked if any of them knew where Lin Lin had gone.

Sitting on the side of his bed, Stinger explained, "Oh yeah. She left here in a hurry, but she told us all excited-like about how she was on her way to take the Hero Exam today."

"I'm sure she'll get back to you once she's done," Genji replied before taking a drink of apple juice.

As for the questions answered on his end, primarily, Shunshi elaborated on his brief but meaningful history with the bald Hero and all the adventures he, Saitama, and Genos had gone on. However, the soon-to-be S-Class willfully chose to omit any information from the time travel tale Genos told him. It was when Shunshi explained that he'd be helping Saitama and Genos excavate their home the next day he got an unexpected response.

"Mind if I tag along for that? I need to get back in shape after sitting in this hospital bed for so long," Stinger asked with an eager but cocky grin.

"Yeah. I want in on that, too," Genji added dryly.

Surprised, Shunshi asked, "Wait... Seriously? I mean... I'm sure Sensei would appreciate the extra hands, but are you-?"

Up to this point, Death Gatling was grumbling, practically growling, before finally speaking up with a clear voice, "I'm... coming too. I want to see more of what this Saitama guy is really capable of."

Shunshi gave Death Gatling an unsure look for a second. This was the first time he'd seen the man outside of his Hero attire and was a bit shaken by his left arm. Or, rather, what was left of it, as it had been severed from the elbow down. Shunshi's own memories of his limb being torn from its socket weren't helping his uncertain discomfort either.

Shaking off his concerns as fast as they came, Shunshi smirked nervously and said, "Well... Okay. If you're sure you wanna come."

"Of course I am!" Death Gatling yelled. "I'm going to become strong enough to humble the S-Class! Something like this'll be a light workout."

Surprised more than he maybe should have been by the outburst, Shunshi replied, "Oh... Okay, fair enough." At the same time, Stinger just giggled at Shunshi's meek response, while Genji rolled his eyes.

---

Later that same day, arriving at the warzone remnants of City-Z, Shunshi jogged through the wreckage while his Heroic companions gave their all to keep up with his casual pace. And Death Gatling was also there.

Shunshi was dressed in a blue and white t-shirt with dark red shorts and a backpack. Genji had left his armor behind, kept his batons holstered on his waist, and was dressed in a pair of sweats and a white t-shirt. Stinger had taken a break from his black bandages, but still had his bamboo spear in one hand as he went shirtless with a pair of dirty work shorts. Death Gatling had his signature weapon tied up in a satchel over his shoulder, allowing his left arm to breathe as he ran in a white tanktop and black jogging shorts.

While they maneuvered through the ruins to where Genos and Saitama would be working, Shunshi contemplated, I wish Bang-Sensei was willing to take my calls... I get Charanko says he needs time to recover, but I could really use his advice. In the distance, as Shunshi saw the warzone he'd fought in just days prior, he finished his thoughts; Hopefully, getting some work to focus on will help me... process.

With their destination in sight, Shunshi got an excited idea. Out of a combination of wanting to show off and wanting to reunite with his Sensei and Senpai, Shunshi decided he'd rush ahead.

Readying himself for a leap, Shunshi turned to look at his confused companions and told them jovially, "We're almost there. I'm gonna go say hi. I'll see you guys when you catch up." The young Hero then jumped away, leaving behind his friends in a state of annoyed bewilderment.

As he soared through the air, Shunshi spotted Saitama and Genos in civilian garb and digging through the ruins of City-Z's Ghost Town. In order to cover the whole distance, Shunshi had to set off an explosion to propel himself further a couple of times. It was a far clumsier version of the Blast Stepping Monster Mask had used against Garou, and he was annoyed and confused as to why he couldn't pull off the technique with the same level of finesse as before.

Meanwhile, Genos punched into the ground and pulled his hand out of the Earth, producing a cracked but otherwise intact clay cup.

"Sensei! It is one of your glasses!" Genos exclaimed proudly.

Tossing a boulder away as he looked at Genos, Saitama told him, "Hey! Nice find!"

Suddenly, Genos' eyes flashed, and he set the cup down while turning to face where Shunshi and co were coming from, "I detect several figures approaching! One at incredible speeds!"

"Hm?" Glancing into the sky, Saitama noticed the two smoke clouds Shunshi made and asked, "The heck is...? Oh!"

Just as the realization hit Saitama, Shunshi collided feet-first with the ground next to Genos. Unfortunately, the force of his arrival shook the ground enough to knock over and break Saitama's already damaged cup.

Before Shunshi could give any proper greetings, Genos snapped his gaze between Shunshi and the broken cup and yelled, "You fool! You have destroyed a piece of Sensei's property, Shunshi!"

Freezing, Shunshi asked, "What...?"

"Er... Genos?" Saitama tried to intervene.

Pointing at the destroyed cup, Genos exclaimed, "Look at the atrocity you have committed! The remains of Master Saitama's cup!"

Trembling, Shunshi fell to his knees as he stared at the clay shards and exclaimed, "Oh God! What have I done?!"

"Shunshi? Dude?" Saitama asked while getting drowned out by the panic of his students.

Throwing off his backpack and opening it up, Shunshi pulled out a stack of cash, exclaiming, "I only have what I owe you for rent for now, but I swear I'll pay you everything I owe for breaking your stuff!"

Noticing the money, Saitama forcibly cut in an unusually composed tone, "That's enough!" Saitama then speedily pocketed the money Shunshi had put on the ground and stated sagely, "You don't need to worry about such a minor slip-up, Shunshi. The important thing is to learn from your mistakes. Just be more observant from now on."

Looking up at Saitama with admiration, Shunshi exclaimed with admiration, "Master...! Thank you so much! I'll take your lesson to heart."

Doing his best not to grin mischievously as he looked at his older student, Saitama thought, Hey. I can afford a whole new dining set with this wad. Thank you, man.

Having calmed down from Saitama's words, Genos looked at the distant figures of Death Gatling, Stinger, and Lightning Genji, and asked his junior, "Shunshi, while I appreciate you coming to help, I have to ask a question. Who are those three following you? Are you running from Monster Association stragglers?"

Jumping to his feet, Shunshi glanced back before explaining, "Nah. You think I'd run from something like that, Senpai? Those are just some of my friends who said they wanted to lend Saitama-Sensei a hand."

Looking at the three A-Class Heroes get closer with a bit of anxiety, Saitama remarked, "Uh... If they aren't my, er, students, then I don't think I can afford paying them all for this."

With visible pride in his stance, Shunshi countered, "No, no, Sensei. They're not looking for money. They're volunteering to get a workout in now that they're out of the hospital."

The hint of a grin coming back to his face, Saitama thought, Free labor...?!

"Eheheheh... Ahem...! Uh, I'm glad you have such... Hard-working friends, Shunshi," Saitama said as he failed to hold back a giggle and looked for proper terminology. "I guess I look forward to meeting them."

Gesturing over his shoulder with his thumb, Shunshi replied, "You've met these guys a few times, actually, Master."

"Oh... Cool... It'll be good to... see them again," Saitama said awkwardly.

Yeah... No way I'm gonna remember any of these guys. Saitama concluded internally.

A moment later, Stinger, Genji, and Death Gatling finished their run toward Saitama and his students. All three were sweating and gasping for air as Shunshi smiled at their arrival, Genos glared analytically, and Saitama gave them a mostly neutral but slightly intrigued stare.

Catching his breath, Stinger used his polearm to stand up straight, grinned, and said, "Yo, Saitama! Good to see you again!"

Wracking his brain for a name, Saitama took note of Stinger's weapon and replied, "Yo... Spear-guy. Glad you felt like lending a hand."

Unconsciously placing his palm on the stump of his severed limb, Death Gatling grimaced and looked for a way to let out his frustration. Quickly, his gaze fell on the man who'd just left him in the dust.

Tugging on the straps holding his gatling gun, Death Gatling stated, "Whatever. I wish I could be in such a good mood." He then focused his glare on Shunshi and stated, "But Monster Mask making us look bad didn't do me any favors."

Although Shunshi flinched and glanced anxiously at his senior and Sensei, Genji wiped some sweat from his brow and interjected, "I thought we came here to work out. What are you complaining about Shunshi making us run faster for?"

Annoyed and surprised by the lower-ranked Hero giving him attitude, Death Gatling changed his glare to Genji and snapped, "What are you-?! He doesn't have to be a jerk about it!"

Recoiling as he looked genuinely remorseful, Shunshi asked, "A jerk...? I just wanted to show off a bit... I didn't mean to... I'm so sorry, guys."

Looking almost disappointed, Genji told Shunshi, "You really don't have to apologize, man."

Stepping past Shunshi as his eyes glowed pure yellow, Genos pointed to the trio of A-Class Heroes and exclaimed, "That is enough! Shunshi graced you all with the honor of working alongside Saitama-Sensei, and you have the gall to complain?!"

At once, while Death Gatling shrunk back, Stinger and Genji started, "B-but we didn't even-."

Cutting them off as heat began to radiate from his arms, Genos yelled, "Enough! I have located some of Sensei's belongings in this area! We will search a mile radius of this area, with each of us taking one-sixteenth of the area to search individually! Understood?!"

Freaked into standing at attention, Stinger and Genji exclaimed, "Right! Yes, sir!"

Frowning nervously, Death Gatling sweated and thought, Demon Cyborg is like the complete opposite of Monster Mask, personality-wise.

Smirking softly at Genos' attitude, Shunshi thought, Wow... It's nice seeing Genos stand up for me... I also can't tell if he likes my other friends or hates them.

Grabbing Shunshi by his shoulder and shaking him out of thought, Genos told him, "Shunshi, I have an important question."

"Huh? What's that, Senpai?"

Letting go of Shunshi, Genos said, "Do you think you can use the new abilities you used against the Hero Hunter the help in our excavation efforts? Naturally, you will have to use any explosive abilities carefully."

"Uuuuuh..." Surprised, Shunshi wracked his brain for a second as he tried to remember all the new moves he'd made. To his horror, though, he found his memories muddled. It was as if his understanding of his own abilities had been hampered. It was like Shunshi's mind had always been a dirty pane of glass, and Spirit Harmony had cleaned it off, only for a new coat of dirt to get caked on once it was over. It wasn't as bad as before, but his understanding of his own new techniques was still lessened.

Raising a finger, Saitama saved Shunshi's hide by remarking, "Actually, I'd prefer you guys avoid blowing anything else up. My stuff's probably real fragile now."

"Of course, Sensei!" Genos and Shunshi replied at once as they turned to face him.

Stepping back from Genos as he focused on Saitama, Shunshi turned and dashed toward his other friends, pushed them along despite their visible misgivings, and said, "Alright, everyone! Let's all get to work!"

Watching Shunshi dash away with a bit of bewilderment, Genos remarked, "I see... It seems Shunshi will handle keeping them on task, Sensei."

His expression as blank as usual, Saitama said, "Cool... Let's just get back to searching for my stuff, alright?"

"Yes, Sensei!" Genos shouted as he immediately got back to his hands and knees to sift through the rubble.

---

Over the next few hours, Caped Baldy, Demon Cyborg, Monster Mask, Death Gatling, Stinger, and Lightning Genji worked tirelessly to unearth Saitama's belongings.

Understandably, the work had been much harder for the A-Class Heroes than Saitama and his disciples. Stinger managed to make good use of his spear as leverage for any debris too big to move otherwise, and Genji did the same with his baton-staff. Shunshi had worried that Death Gatling's missing arm would impede his work, but he worked through it with the kind of expertise that only came with years of living with it.

Through their efforts, Stinger had managed to find Saitama's wok, Genji had found a pillow, and Death found another of Saitama's glasses.

Meanwhile, Shunshi tried to make use of the multiple Burn-Whips technique he used against Garou, but just as he feared it would be, it was far less effective. Instead of the array of flowing tendrils from his shoulders and back, Shunshi could only manage three Burn Whips from his shoulders. The three whips still functioned perfectly well, but they were the limit of what he could do without Spirit Harmony. At least, that's how it was for now.

By the end of the day, Shunshi had found Saitama's table and his cactus. Albeit the cactus' pot had been shattered, but the plant itself was still intact. Additionally, while Shunshi worked, he noticed a helicopter landing a few miles from him and his friends. But when he saw the Hero Association's emblem on it, Shunshi figured it was just a last bit of recon on the part of the company he worked for and ignored it.

While the other Heroes felt proud of the results of their work, as sunset started to come, Saitama shoved his hand into the Earth. Feeling the ground beneath them shaking, the A-Class Heroes were momentarily stunned with fear before they and Shunshi rushed toward its source, finding Saitama tugging on something stuck underground. Any fear they felt transitioned to awe, though, when they saw the Caped Baldy pluck the remains of the first four stories of an apartment complex as easily as a carrot.

"Ah. I found it!" Saitama remarked with a small smile as he gently set the remains of his home down.

"Well done, Master!" Genos remarked while holding a new cup.

"That... That's incredible," Genji remarked as his knees knocked.

Keeping himself standing with his spear, Stinger looked to Shunshi, who just seemed happy at Saitama's find, and added, "I... I kinda thought Saitama surviving that blast you threw at him was a fluke or something... But he really is as tough as you say, isn't he?"

Shunshi smiled at Stinger's remark, paused to gather his thoughts, and then told him, "Yeah... However strong you think Sensei is right now, assume he's even stronger than that. I've made that mistake too many times on my end."

Raising and eyebrow as his jaw dropped a bit, all Stinger could say to that was, "Uh... Okay?"

Simultaneously to all this, Death Gatling was staring at Saitama with dumbstruck eyes as a large, manic smile slowly grew on his face.

It... It's him! The Caped Baldy will be the man to tear down the S-Class hierarchy! I see it so clearly now!

Unable to contain the excitement within his thoughts, Death Gatling suddenly started laughing boisterously with bizarre glee. While this sudden laughter from the typically serious man confused Shunshi, Stinger, and Genji, it seemed to earn an irritated glare from Genos.

Marching in Death Gatling's direction, Genos froze the A-Class into subduing his laughter as his eyes glowed intensely. By all accounts, it looked like the Demon Cyborg was about to kill Death Gatling.

Despite not liking any S-Class on principle, Death Gatling recognized the gap in ability and desperately started wracking his brain for a way to survive. It wasn't until he started squeezing his hand that he remembered the glass he was holding.

Raising it up, Death exclaimed, "Hold on! I found one of Master Saitama's cups! That's worth my survival, right?!"

With a bit of concern for Death Gatling, Shunshi moved to try and intercede Genos, asking him, "Genos-Senpai? Are you alright? You aren't mad are you? He was just laughing because he was happy for Sensei. That's no reason to-."

Putting a hand on Shunshi's chest to push him out of the way, Genos exclaimed, "Shunshi, Death Gatling, move out of my way!"

He's not coming for me?! Oh, thank God! Death Gatling thought with a relieved grin as he stepped aside.

Marching just a few feet past Death Gatling to a wall of rubble, Genos tossed some of it aside, revealing what first appeared to be a black dog. It was quite large, about half the size of Saitama, had teeth that looked like they merged with its jaw, and six pure crimson eyes. Obviously, to the eyes of the Heroes looking at it, this was some sort of dog monster.

Glaring at the dog monster with concern as he readied his claws, Shunshi thought, The Hell?! Is this another one from the Monster Association?! One of them survived?! Did any more survive?!

"I will take this creature for Master to decide the fate of," Genos told the quartet of Heroes.

Without hesitation, Genos picked up the dog monster, getting no fight from the thing; in fact, it seemed it seemed quite happy based on its small wagging tail, and carried it over to Saitama. The Caped Baldy, meanwhile, had been distracted from the whole dog fiasco because he was trying to eye a good way to enter his ruined house.

To get his teacher's attention, Genos held out the dog monster and called out, "Master!

Wiping some dirt from his face with a cloth, Saitama murmured, "Hm?" Turning to see the excited dog monster in Genos' hands, Saitama smiled and said excitedly, "Whoa! What a huge dog! Hey, set him down for a sec, Genos."

Following his teacher's orders without hesitation, Genos set the dog down as it let out an excited woof. Shunshi would have been nervous over this unknown monster being let go if it hadn't been for his Sensei's presence. Meanwhile, the strength in numbers and powerhouses managed to keep Death Gatling, Stinger, and Lightning Genji calm.

Reaching down as the dog raised its head to meet his hand, Saitama scritched the monster behind its ear. Happy, the dog panted and licked Saitama's hand. Charmed in turn, Saitama picked up the large dog and held him up to the light.

Smiling at the animal, Saitama said happily, "You're a nice doggy, aren't ch'ya? Wanna come home with me?"

Relaxing at his teacher's attitude and the truly dog-like behavior of the monster, Shunshi tilted his head and remarked, "Huh... I suppose if Uchiara could regain his Humanity, then I don't see why a good pup like that couldn't do the same..."

Scratching his head, Stinger looked between Shunshi and the dog held in the strongest Hero's arms and remarked, "Erm... Uh. I guess that makes... But I prefer just killing every monster I see. War King and now this dog are complicating things more than I like."

Putting a playful elbow into Stinger's side, Genji told him, "Don't blame Shunshi and his teacher if having to think hurts your head, Stinger."

Taking a second for realization to hit him, Stinger exploded with annoyance as he shoved Genjii off him and shouted, "Wha-? Hey! Shut it!"

While Genji chuckled at Stinger's reaction, Death grinned at the Caped Baldy and remarked, "If a man like Master Saitama is handling it, I'm sure that monster won't hurt anyone anymore."

Nodding enthusiastically at Gatling's words, Shunshi exclaimed, "Exactly! You're totally right, Fuun!"

Stiffening, Death Gatling snapped to look at Shunshi and asked, "What?! How... How do you know my real name?"

Looking guilty, Shunshi recoiled and explained, "Uh... I was a big fan of yours and read your profile and interviews over the years... Sorry, I thought we were familiar enough by now."

With a contemplative look, Fuun responded, "Well... You've been upfront with me about your real name, so I suppose it's fine for now. Just don't make a habit of using it in public."

Nodding, Shunshi told him, "You got it, Death Gatling!"

Looking confused, Stinger remarked, "Um... You know, you've never used my real name, and we're actually friends."

Surprised, Shunshi replied, "I mean, I do know it... But I thought you said in interviews you didn't like your real name. I can use it if you really want, Pa-."

Shoving his hand over Shunshi's mouth, Stinger shouted, "No! You're right! Stinger's fine!"

While Shunshi conversed with his friends, the dog licked Saitama's face, amusing him more.

With a weird kind of jealousy, Genos said, "I did not know you liked dogs, Sensei."

Lifting the dog up higher like a father holding a son, Saitama remarked, "I had a run-in recently. It helped me realize that dogs really are man's best friend."

Glaring subtly at the dog, Genos remarked, "Well, they are cute... But I hope you are certain, Master. I know that feeding dogs requires a lot more money than most people realize."

Before the conversation could continue, Genos got an alert on his wristwatch and Shunshi on his phone. Glancing at their devices, Saitama's disciples saw alerts from the Hero Association.

"Master, I have business at headquarters," Genos said as he lowered his arm.

Stuffing his phone in his pocket, Shunshi said, "Looks like they want me, Stinger, Genji, and Fuun there too, Sensei... We can have 'em wait if you need help carrying your stuff... And the dog."

Setting the dog down as he gave him one more pet, Saitama told everyone, "Nah. I'll be okay. You guys go make sure you don't all get fired."

Nodding, Shunshi said, "Thank you, Sensei. And good luck." Turning to look at his companions, Shunshi asked them, "You guys good to head out?"

Giving his back a quick stretch, Genji answered, "Yeah. I guess if we're done here."

"If the big wigs are calling us, I don't think we have a choice," Stinger remarked grumpily.

Giving Shunshi a stinkeye, Fuun asked him, "Why didn't they just message all of us if they want us? They don't think we're important?"

Frowning with guilt, Shunshi quickly pulled his phone back out, showed Death Gatling the message, and explained, "Sorry, man. They said they knew you guys were with me and thought it was easier to send one message... It's not my fault."

Averting his eyes at Shunshi's last remark, Death Gatling said, "Well... Okay, fair enough. I'll save it for the higher-ups."

Walking up to Shunshi, Genos asked him, "Will you be accompanying me, or will you take your time to escort these three?"

"Escort?!" Death Gatling asked angrily.

Giving the A-Class a dismissive look, Genos told him, "Shunshi may consider you a friend, but do you really need me to point out how much stronger he is than you?"

Grimacing, Death Gatling grumbled, "I... Ugh. No. Whatever... Just go with him, Monster Mask. We need the exercise."

"Well... Okay, yeah, I'll just go with Genos," Shunshi said, clearly trying to avoid any awkward air while also giving Genos a disapproving glance. "But, hey... Stinger, Lightning Genji, Death Gatling. You guys aren't weak. You're all some of the strongest people in the world... Genos and I are just really strong at this point."

With the smallest hint of guilt born from Shunshi's glance, Genos took a small breath, pointed to Death Gatling's severed arm, and told him, "On the topic of improvement, before we leave. If Shunshi trusts you enough to allow you to aid Saitama-Sensei, then I would be willing to request cybernetics for you from the brilliant Dr. Stench. Consider this offer to be an honor, Death Gatling."

Utterly shocked, not just Fuun but his acquaintances, Death Gatling flinched at this sudden offer. He was unable to respond but was desperately trying.

As his throat leaked out gasps of air, Death Gatling thought, Cybernetics...? I never really considered something like that... What would that even look like for me?

While Fuun tried to imagine a metal arm capable of turning into a gatling gun, Genos quickly grew impatient and stated, "When you think of an answer, tell Shunshi to tell me when you next meet. Shunshi, let us go."

The Demon Cyborg then took off with a powerful leap, with Monster Mask jumping after him while yelling, "Hey! Wait for me, Senpai!"

As the two young men soared through the air, with Shunshi using his clumsier Blast Stepping to catch up with Genos, Shunshi said, "Hey, Genos-Senpai! Since you seem eager to work with other cyborgs, you haven't forgotten about Jet Nice Guy, have you?"

Coasting on his jets as he raised an eyebrow and his hair flowed in the wind, Genos thought for a moment before answering, "Ah, yes. I still remember that one. I will look into this man's past to make a decision on his trustworthiness in due time. However, on the topic of exchanging favors, there is something I want from you in return."

Pleasantly surprised by how amicable Genos was to his request, Shunshi Set off another blast to keep himself going and asked, "Really?! Sure! Shoot, Senpai."

His eyes going completely yellow again, Genos made a statement that nearly knocked Shunshi out of the air, "At your nearest availability, I want us to have our first real sparing match."

---

It was the morning of the next day. Shunshi had agreed to Genos' demands but first had to address whatever orders the Hero Association had for him. As it turned out, they had called Shusnhi to City-A for two reasons. Firstly, as an S-Class Hero, they were offering him his own home in the city. And not just a basic apartment like the A-Class Heroes were getting, but a two-story house in the middle of a quant neighborhood.

For the time being, feeling as if it would be rude to refuse, Shunshi accepted the home.

The second thing the Hero Association wanted from Monster Mask was for him to get ready to attend his promotion ceremony being held at a resort owned by Sweet Mask in the city. Additionally, he learned that all the members of the Support Team would be asked to show up for their promotions as well. The reason being just to add more pomp and circumstance to the event.

In the meantime, Shunshi worked to get his affairs in order for the day.

Pacing about the living room of his new house, Shunshi was dressed in civilian garb as he was doing his best to pass the anxious seconds. He considered turning on the television, but his mind was racing way too much to pay attention to whatever would be on.

On the larger of the two couches in the room, a tuxedo was laid out delicately. On the floor beside it, his armor rested atop his backpack. Overall, even fully furnished, the room was still spacious enough to move around with ease.

I wish I could just go fight Garou or another monster again. That would be less stressful... But today is too important... I wish Silver Fang would let me come talk to him, but he needs his private time to recover... Urg.

Once Shunshi was done complaining to himself, he heard his new home's doorbell go off.

As if the doorbell was a trigger, Shunshi dashed for the door like a spring-loaded device. Opening the door without a thought but with a nervous smile, Shunshi was a bit taken off guard when he was met not by his expected guests but by his girlfriend.

On Lin Lin's shoulder, she carried a large duffel bag. She seemed as anxious as Shunshi as she stared at her boyfriend, not to mention a bit shocked by his immediate answering of the door.

She wasn't dressed in her usual red dress/gi attire. She still had her bell accessories, though. Instead, Lin Lin wore a white turtleneck sweater that had exposed shoulders, a black buckled belt around her waistline, jean short-shorts, and black high-heel boots with thigh-high socks of the same color.

Doing his best to shift his nervous smile to something more appropriate, Shunshi straightened himself out and said, "Oh...! Hello, Lin Lin. I was expecting to see you until later today."

Smirking playfully, Lin Lin asked, "What? You disappointed?"

His stance relaxing, Shunshi replied, "Huh? Naw. I just have some other company on the way... Hopefully, that is."

"Really...? Who's that?" Lin Lin asked with a hint of concern.

Scratching the back of his head, Shunshi answered, "Oh... Well, I invited my Dad, Mom, and sister to come by to say hi and see the new house before the ceremony starts... I hope they'll get here in the next couple hours... And I hope they like this place."

Her attitude immediately changing to excitement, Lin Lin asked eagerly, "Your family?! It's okay if I stick around to meet them, right?!"

Shunshi seemed hesitant at first; this was meant to be his reunion and make-up with his family, after all. "Uh... I don't know. This is..."

Before he could finish, Shunshi's hands were suddenly clasped by Lin Lin's, who pouted to him and pleaded, "Pleeease? I really wanna meet them. I've only ever seen your sister, and we were fighting for our lives then."

Thinking it over and not at all swayed by his girlfriend's cute routine, Shunshi realized his folks might be in a better mood if they got to meet his lover and responded, "Welllll... I guess they'd probably like to meet you too, Lin."

Smiling chipperly at Shunshi, Lin Lin told him, "Thanks, sweety!" She then pulled him down for a peck on the lips and finished, "I've got something to show you, too, before they get here." Lin Lin then rushed past Shunshi into the house, making her way to the living room.

Putting his fingers to his lips with a smirk, Shunshi closed the door behind him and followed his girlfriend.

As Shunshi entered the room after her, Lin Lin went and closed the curtains on the windows.

"So I- Oh! Fancy," Lin Lin remarked as she noticed the tuxedo on one of the couches.

"Yeah. The Hero Association had that made for me for the ceremony today. But they said I could wear that or my Hero armor, so I'm trying to decide what to do. Regardless, they want me to keep my helmet off for the event even if I wear my armor."

Grinning to him, Lin Lin set her duffle bag down and said, "Well, as long as they can see your handsome face, you'll look good either way. Speaking of what we should wear, I bought a few costumes, and I want your opinion on what my Hero outfit should be..." Opening the bag, Lin Lin took out what looked like a cheaper and more feminine version of the armor Shunshi would wear.

"Lin, is that-?"

Before Shunshi could finish his question, his tongue stopped working, and his eyes bulged as Lin Lin quickly stripped to her underwear. She was doing her best to seem confident and nonchalant as she exposed herself, but Lin Lin's beat-red face was betraying her.

Noticing Shunshi ogling her, Lin Lin picked up the helmet of the armor and remarked with false bravado, "Wha-what? I s-saw y-you in your underwear a-already. I-I need to get ch-changed anyways to show you m-my H-Hero outfits."

Being reminded of his awkward semi-nudity at Super Fight and the fact that this woman was someone he was dating, Shunshi recomposed himself as much as he could with the thought, We... Lin's my girlfriend... This is totally normal for a couple... I think... Just roll with it.

Taking a breath and adverting his gaze from his lover's chest, some of Shunshi's blush faded as he said, "Oh... Okay. Yeah, that's fine... Why don't you show me the outfit, Lin...? Do you need help putting it on?"

A bit flustered by how easily Shunshi recomposed himself, Lin Lin almost pouted, but, with how embarrassed she felt, she figured it was for the best to get on with things. The female fighter also almost considered taking Monster Mask up on his offer of helping her get changed, but her better judgment decided it was best not to take things further with the risk of his family showing up.

"Thanks, but I can handle it," Lin Lin said, almost sounding as disappointed as Shunshi looked.

Quickly, Lin Lin got changed into the armor. Even moreso than when it was in individual pieces, the armor indeed looked like a version of Shunshi's suit that was fitted for her. This one lacked a cloak, however.

With a playful flex of her arms, Lin Lin exclaimed to Shunshi, "Ta-da! Monster Masket! If I'm gonna start using Kie and Fist of The Impenetrable Fire Spirit eventually, I should probably start outfitting myself the same way you do."

Giving the armor a quick once over, Shunshi remarked, "That's... Flattering. But maybe-."

Ignoring the latter of what Shunshi was saying, Lin Lin took advantage of this spacious room and started showing off her martial arts while in the armor. However, when she tried to do a spinning kick, she felt her leg stall halfway through, making her fall on herself. Embarrassed, Lin Lin tried to sit up straight but felt all her limbs stopping short on her.

Recognizing that she needed help, Shunshi gave Lin Lin a hand in righting herself, while telling her, "I was trying to warn you about this... Sorry."

Pulling the helmet off herself, Lin Lin exclaimed in frustration, "What the Hell!? You move around like normal in your armor all the time! What just happened?!"

Helping Lin Lin to her feet, Shunshi explained, "Well, I made my own armor, and it wasn't easy. It took me a year to design a suit that'd cover me without restricting my movements. I could try to make something like that for you too... but it'd take me a few months."

Biting her lip in annoyance, Lin Lin replied, "Just help me get out of this thing. I have two more Hero costumes to try... Can't believe I wasted my money on this thing."

Immediately working to get the arms of the suit off her, Shunshi remarked, "Erm... If that ate up your bank account, I got my money from Super Fight recently... It's a couple's job to support each other, right?"

Cheering up at Shunshi's words as she slid off the boots, Lin Lin replied, "It was just two hundred thousand yen... You don't need to worry."

Giving Lin Lin an annoyed raised brow, Shunshi sighed slightly and thought, I'll convince her on that later... Let's focus on what's important for now.

After watching Lin Lin take off the last of her low-quality armor, Shunshi was surprised by the outfit she pulled out next. This time Lin Lin had a red spandex suit and a helmet with a chime-bell design, both of which looked straight out of a Super-Sentai.

Pulling on the Sentai suit with a lot more ease than the armor, Lin Lin struck a dramatic pose and asked, "What do you think? I tried to make it look like a Super-Sentai I saw when I was a kid."

Brightening at her words, Shunshi exclaimed, "Super-Sentai Orchestra! I loved those guys when I was a kid!"

"Oh, right! That was their name. I totally forgot. I can't believe you still... remember... Uh... Ugh! Gasp!"

Jolting with concern, Shunshi took a step toward Lin Lin and asked, "Lin? You alright?"

Desperately scratching for the latches on the back of her helmet, Lin Lin wheezed, "No... Air!"

His eyes widening, Shunshi flipped over Lin Lin and helped her with the latches, managing to get the helmet off just in time. Throwing the helmet to the floor as she gasped for breath, Lin Lin growled and glared daggers at the headwear before kicking it into the next room with a shout.

As the helmet crashed into something, Lin Lin shouted, "Dammit! Those idiots forgot to put air holes in the helmet! Aggh!"

Giving the crash a concerned side glance before focusing on his girlfriend, Shunshi wanted to ask who she was getting to make these low-quality suits but thought better and tried to come up with something else to distract her frustration. Looking at the duffle bag, Shunshi saw some red and purple fabric sticking out of it.

"Hey, Lin... Didn't you have one more costume you wanted to show me?"

Shifting her glare to the bag she brought with her, Lin Lin's expression changed to hesitant disappointment.

Pouting, Lin Lin said, "Well... Yeah... But I wasn't sure about this one. It's the... the least hero-like. Ya'know?"

Sort of getting Lin Lin's point, Shunshi came up with a quick response, "Well... I mean, in Hero Association, there really aren't that many normal, er, conventional-looking Heroes. All that really matters is that it's you. Come on, I wanna see it."

Looking at the floor for a moment with the slightest blush, Lin Lin took a moment to think before she said, "I... Okay, fine... I hope you like it."

Changing out of the spandex and into the last outfit, Lin Lin was now wearing what looked somewhat like her usual gi/dress. However, the white trimming of the outfit was changed to a shade of purple, her white pants were switched to reddish-purple leggings that went up to her thighs, and there was a small cleavage window for her breasts. Lin Lin was blushing a bit as she intentionally pushed her chest out, yet she still seemed more comfortable and natural in this outfit than in the last two.

Looking Shunshi in the eyes as he appreciated this uniform, Lin Lin asked him, "So...? What do you think?"

Clearing his throat as he re-focused, Shunshi said, "You... You're beautiful...! I mean, well, yes, that, but it really fits you, too."

Folding her hands behind her waist, Lin Lin smiled as she walked closer to Shunshi and said, "You really think so...? I guess I should've just gone with this one to start with, huh?"

Noticing the inviting look in Lin Lin's eyes, Shunshi instinctively went to approach her. However, they were both struck with disappointment when the doorbell went off again.

Looking in the front door's direction, Shunshi exclaimed, "Oh...! Crap! That might be my family! I gotta go check!"

As Shunshi hurried out of the room, Lin Lin looked around and felt a sudden sense of panic when she saw all her discarded clothing on the floor and thought, Shit! I can't just leave all this on the ground...! And I can't wear this to meet Shunshi's family!

At once, Lin Lin got to work getting changed back into the clothes she showed up in while hastily packing up all the outfits back into her duffle bag.

While Lin Lin went as fast as she could to get her clothing situation sorted, Shunshi answered his front door. To his simultaneous relief and stress, when Shunshi opened his front door, he actually was greeted by his sister, father, and mother. They were all dressed in equally casual clothing as Shunshi. His sister had a radiant smile, his mother was smiling softly, and his father looked both guilty and frustrated.

Rushing forward to hug her brother, Ishisu exclaimed, "Shunshi! I'm so proud of you!"

Reflexively hugging her back, Shunshi smiled in bewilderment and asked, "Hey, Ishisu...! What are you proud about exactly?"

Pulling back, Ishisu explained, "I saw you on the news! You, Metal Bat, and the Angel-looking guy were fighting that big bug monster! You helped bring down the Monster Association! You helped save the world!"

With an air of humility, Shunshi replied, "I don't know if I'd go that... far... huh..." Thinking more about it, his sister had a point. Even if Saitama could have ultimately handled it all on his own, that didn't mean Shunshi and the other Heroes hadn't pulled their own weight. And with Saitama distracted by dealing with Evil Natural Ocean, Sage Centipede likely would have killed a lot of people.

However, knowing about what Garou did in the alternate timeline thanks to Genos, Shunshi wasn't sure if he should be taking credit for anything. Regardless, this wasn't something to debate during a family reunion.

Smiling awkwardly, Shunshi finished, "I... Yeah, that was a pretty intense battle. Thanks for the compliment."

Walking up and taking her son's hand, Hanja told him, "Sweetheart, you can be proud of yourself for accomplishing so much. That's alright."

Surprised by his mother's immediate warmth toward him, Shunshi replied, "I... Thank you, Mom... Look, I need to say, I'm-."

Suddenly, Otkan approached and placed a hand on his son's shoulder, telling him, "Hold on, son... That can wait until we've all settled down some. Why don't we all head inside your nice new home?"

Perking up at his father's words, Shunshi raised his hand somewhat and exclaimed, "Oh, yeah. Let's do that. But, uh... I've got another guest over who wants to meet you guys."

---

A few minutes later, Shunshi was bringing out a tray of five cups of green tea to his living room for himself, his family, and his girl. Lin Lin, impressively, had changed back to her initial outfit and just managed to fix her hair when the family walked in.

Ishisu was sitting beside Lin Lin while his parents were on the other couch; it seeming almost like Ishisu was acting as a smiling barrier between the two parties. And as Shunshi handed out drinks, he contemplated on how glad he was for his sister's intervention.

---

After Shunshi had introduced his girlfriend, his parents were both elated.

"She's a beautiful young woman, son! You've at least gotten engaged to her, right?" Otkan asked after introducing himself.

"What?! We-," Shunshi began, only to be cut off by his mother speaking to the equally flustered Lin Lin.

"Do you have any idea how many children you want yet, dear?"

Utterly floored as her mind desperately tried to think of the possible futures she'd yet to consider, Lin Lin stammered, "Wha? Well, I, uh..."

Putting an arm around Shunshi, Otkan told him, "Regardless, I'm proud of you son. You found a lovely woman to settle down with."

At once, Shunsi felt the conflict of joy in getting his father's pride yet embarrassed frustration from the overbearing assumptions.

Gathering his willpower, Shunshi exclaimed, "Wait, hold on, guys!" Taking a second to make sure he had his parents' attention, Shunshi went on, "Lin Lin and I just started dating about a month ago! We haven't gotten serious enough yet to consider settling down."

Invigorated by her boyfriend's words, Lin Lin shook off a bit of her new blush and stated, "Ye-Yeah! That's right! We're in love, but it's way too irresponsible to talk about marriage and kids already!"

Shunshi's parents looked visibly disappointed to hear this news, perhaps enough to insist on their stance. Fortunately, Ishisu was quick to step in, hug Lin Lin, and lift her off the ground with a joyous grin.

"Ah, who cares about any of that right now?! Lin Lin, I'm just happy I get to meet you properly!" Setting the surprised but amused martial artists down, Ishisu exclaimed, "You know what I mean? Trying to get to know someone when giant killer monsters attack isn't the easiest."

Chuckling at Ishisu's attitude, Lin Lin replied, "Yeah, I get what you're saying. We were all a bit distracted at the time."

Keeping her hand on Lin Lin's shoulder, Ishisu told Shunshi, "Hey, baby bro, how about you grab some tea for everyone...? Er, if you have any, I mean."

Thinking a moment as he looked at the ceiling, Shunshi replied, "Iiiii'mmm not sure... Let me check."

---

As everyone sipped their drinks, Shunshi sat on the other side of Lin Lin and made several attempts to speak but kept getting the words stuck in his mouth.

Looking at Shunshi with concern as he struggled to speak with his family, she decided to act on the real reason she'd insisted on staying. Reaching over, Lin Lin took Shunshi's hand into her own, startling him, and locked eyes with him.

I don't really know how you're feeling, but I know you didn't want to talk about your parents before...Come on, Shunshi. You're one of the strongest guys in the world. You can do this.

Lin Lin could only think her words of support, feeling it inappropriate to try and voice her stance on the subject. However, the look in her eyes must have been all Shunshi needed, with him recomposing with Lin Lin's thoughts, as if he were reading them like a psychic.

Slamming his tea down, Shunshi gripped Lin Lin's hand and set the cup down. He then looked at his parents, who were staring at him and Lin Lin's affections with joy, and told them, "Mom, Dad... I'm sorry about how I acted. You guys supported me for years, and you just wanted to make sure I stayed safe, but I bit your heads off over the whole thing."

Shunshi had expected upset responses from his parents and prepared himself thusly. As such, the young Hero was more than a bit surprised when he saw his mother smiling while his father looked at him with immense pride.

Before Shunshi could try and figure out if this was better or worse, Otkan told him, "Son... We appreciate the apology, we really do, but you never needed to give it."

Adding to her husband's sentiment, before Shunshi could respond, Hanja said, "Yes. We know you've felt bad, but you're a grown man now, and we were trying to control you too much, even if we are your parents."

Utterly shocked, Shunshi glanced at Lin Lin and Ishisu. His girlfriend was about as surprised as he was, while his sister seemed gleefully satisfied watching this exchange.

Clearing his throat, Shunshi tried to debate his parents' stance of forgiveness, "But... But you guys were right to be worried! I just keep getting myself maimed!"

With a bit of pain in her voice, Hanja said, "Yes. We're not happy about that, dear, but... Well, it's your job. It's the job you've been trying to get for years and the one we've been supporting you toward. Your father and I both understand that these dangers are part of it all."

Gripping his pantlegs, Otkan added, "Exactly... And look at what you've done in the short time since our argument. You won Super Fight and even helped to defeat the Monster Association and you took down the Hero Hunter like you said you would, and it was alongside the Blast."

Confused by his father's last statement, not fully processing that Blast was included in that statement, Shunshi asked, "Wait... You guys know about that?"

"Of course!" Ishisu cut in. "The Hero Association has been advertising how their newest S-Class was the one to help Blast take down the Hero Hunter by weakening him. Not to mention all the other monsters you helped bring down during all that chaos!"

Utterly puzzled, Shunshi thought, No one told me this part... They're crediting me and Blast for Garou's defeat... I mean, I guess I would have beaten him if it hadn't been for that last-second radiation power-up... But I didn't even see Blast anywhere after he went to confront Garou... Shit! Is Blast dead?! I need to tell the higher-ups about this!

As Shunshi's expression went from guilt to panic, somewhat confusing his loved ones, he immediately got to his feet. But just as he was about to thank his parents and excuse himself, Shunshi's momentum was killed by the sudden ringing of a phone call coming from his pocket.

Taking his cell phone out of his pocket, Shunshi looked at the caller's I.D. with annoyance but relaxed a bit when he saw it was from the Hero Association.

Answering the call, Shunshi said, "This is Monster Mask. Hello?"

Shunshi was then met with a youthful voice, "Hello, Monster Mask, sir. This is Unten-Sha. I'm the driver for the limo the Hero Association sent for you. I'll be at your house to pick up you and your family in a couple minutes. Once you're ready, I'll be outside your front door to meet you."

"Oh... Thank you. I'll be ready when you get here, Unten-Sha," Shunshi responded with surprised relaxation.

Putting his phone away, Shunshi thought, Okay... This is good! I can talk to whoever's running the event about Blast... Until then, it's family time.

Addressing all the puzzled people in the room, Shunshi told them, "The limousine will be here in a minute... Thanks for putting my mind at ease, Mom and Dad."

"Wow. Is that why you jumped up? Can you see the future now, too?" Ishisu asked half-jokingly.

Not sure he wanted to bring up the possible tragedy of Blast's death in front of his family until he had confirmation, Shunshi defaulted to an irrelevant truth, "Uh, well, I actually need to get changed."

As Shunshi grabbed the backpack with his armor in it and rushed out of the room, Lin Lin exclaimed, "Oh, shoot! I need to change too!"

Once Lin Lin grabbed her duffle bag and left the room behind Shunshi, Hanja remarked pleasantly, "Aw. They're even in sync with each other."

---

About an hour and a half later, the limo carrying Monster Mask, his family, and Lin Lin arrived at the five-star hotel the Hero Association had rented out for the mass promotion ceremony of the Support Team. Pulling up to a red carpet with fences and security keeping out the masses of Hero fans, Unten-Sha got out, ran to the passenger door, and opened it to let out those he'd escorted.

Stepping out first, Ishisu was wearing a black dress with white lining, making sure to pose for any potential cameras as she walked out. Next, Otkan stepped out while giving his wife a hand, the two walking arm and arm with each other. Otkan had put on a tuxedo of his own, while Hanja wore a classical bright beige dress. The last two to step out were Monster Mask and Lin Lin, with Lin Lin wearing her new dress/gi as Shunshi wore his repaired and upgraded armor with his hood down and helmet off.

The armor had gone from its brighter silver-gray to a shimmering black that almost blended into his cloak. Under his left arm, Monster Mask held his draconic helmet, while on his right, Lin Lin held on lovingly.

While Shunshi's family had received some default cheers and photos that anyone who walked down a red carpet would get, the reaction Monster Mask got was on a whole other level. The amount of applause would have been defeating if he weren't used to explosions going off in his ears, and the camera flashes would have been blinding if he weren't used to having fire in his eyes.

Lin Lin, however, only had a bit over a week to get used to Ki, as compared to Shunshi's years. So, she needed to cling to him to counter the disorientation.

With the amount of applause he was getting, Shunshi couldn't help but feel flattered by it all. He'd only seen Sweet Mask and the S-Class Heroes receive better receptions than this. He wanted to give waves to everyone calling out to him but would have felt silly waving his helmet around. As such, he hoped the appreciative smile he was giving would be enough.

As he walked behind his family up to the hotel, Shunshi actually recognized some of the people in the crowd. A number of them had been among the crowd he met at the market the day he first fought Garou. At this point, it was a strangely melancholic memory for Monster Mask, but he was happy to recognize them regardless.

A few minutes of walking later, Shunshi and his family entered the hotel. The main lobby was beautifully decadent and had dozens of wealthy-looking people mingling. Before they could all go any further, though, they were met by two Hero Association workers, a man and a woman.

Addressing Monster Mask and Lin Lin, the male worker said, "Hello, Heroes! You two are the last ones to arrive. If you'll come with me, I'll take you both to the waiting room with the other Heroes."

Gesturing to the lobby, the woman addressed Shunshi's family and stated pleasantly, "In the meantime, you can all feel free to wait in the lobby. Horderves and drinks are being served, and there are plenty of people eager to meet with the family of the newest S-Class Hero."

"Oh, this sounds like it'll be fun, honey," Hanja said as she pulled Otkan toward the lobby.

"Keep yourself looking presentable, son!" Otkan yelled back as he went to have fun alongside his wife.

Adjusting her hair, Ishisu took a few steps toward the lobby, giggled, and said, "Hmhm! This looks like a good time." She then switched to a mutter and finished, "I Just wish I could have brought Genos here with me. We would have looked great together, I bet."

As Monster Mask's family left, the male worker gestured toward a hall leaving the room and asked, "Shall I show you two the way?"

Glancing between his family and this man, Shunshi replied, "If my family's having a good time, sure. Thanks."

Stepping ahead of Shunshi, Lin Lin told him encouragingly, "Come on. It looks boring here, anyways. I bet it'll be more fun to hang with the other Heroes."

Smirking, Shunshi replied, "Right." And walked off with his girlfriend and the worker.

As Monster Mask and Lin Lin left, a couple of small figures in the lobby, Waganma and his new best friend and plus-one guest Tareo, pointed at them with familiarized excitement.

---

Entering the waiting room for the Heroes awaiting promotion, Monster Mask and Lin Lin were greeted by an unexpected figure. Throughout the sizeable room, finely carpeted and decorated, with tables full of snacks and drinks, the numerous Heroes from the Support Team were talking and eating. However, as if he'd been preserved to wait for them specifically, Sweet Mask, dressed in a fine white suit, was standing like a statue with a cocky smile a few feet from the door.

Getting out of the way, the worker gave a quick bow and said, "I'll just excuse myself, then."

As the worker dashed away, Sweet Mask focused on Monster Mask, his eyes clearly not even acknowledging Lin Lin's presence.

Relaxing his stance to a cool but casual form, Sweet Mask said, "Well, well, welcome, welcome, to the Hero Association's newest S-Class, Monster Mask."

While Shunshi narrowed his eyes at Sweet Mask, a few other Heroes in the room turned their heads at Sweet Mask's announcement, with the few real friends Shunshi had among the group seeming happy to see him, but not willing to get in the middle of whatever was to come.

Sighing slightly, Shunshi shuttered at the memory of how he groveled before this man just a few months ago but still managed to get out, "Hello, Sweet Mask. I guess I should have expected you at an event like this."

Nodding, Sweet Mask replied, "Of course. I'm the face of the Hero Association, after all. I'll be hosting tonight's events as you all get your promotions."

Shunshi noticed a few veins of anger pop on Sweet Mask's face as he spoke but thought better of bringing attention to it.

Instead, Monster Mask began spinning his helmet on his fist and remarked, "Considering the last conversation we had, I'm surprised you're willing to be anywhere near me... That's very big of you."

Quivering with anger at the phantom feeling of his throat being punched in, Sweet Mask took a breath and replied, "Oh, that's water under the bridge. In fact, it helped me know for certain how ready you are to stand amongst the S-Class. Speaking of promotions... Well, it seems he's failed to show up for today's events, but I was hoping to speak with that bald teacher of yours."

Stopping his helmet, Shunshi glared visibly and asked, "You got a problem with me putting in a good word for Saitama-Sensei?"

Reaching into his coat pocket, Sweet Mask smiled brightly and replied, "Oh no, not at all! When the committee was discussing your recommendation, I supported idea. In fact, I think he deserves a bit more than that." Pulling out a business card, Sweet Mask handed it to a surprised Shunshi and said, "Have your boss call me later. I've never seen a Hero as amazing as him, and I hope to help him climb to the top of the ranks."

Taking the card, Shunshi was completely surprised and asked reflexively, "Is... Is this a trap?"

Smiling fully now, Sweet Mask replied with defensive kindness, "Nothing of the sort! I know you and the Demon Cyborg are telling the truth about his capabilities. He just needs a little P.R. support to get him the recognition he deserves and needs to stand at the top of the world of Heroes."

Staring at Sweet Mask analytically for a moment, Shunshi slowly put the card into a small storage compartment Dr. Stench added to his armor and said, "If you're really telling the truth... then thank you... Oh. Actually, I need to talk to you or one of the other higher-ups after this whole show is over. It's a crucial topic for the Hero Association."

Putting a hand to his chest, Sweet Mask responded, "Really...? Hmm. I'll see what I can do. Now, if you and your date will excuse me, I need to go rehearse my lines."

As Sweet Mask walked around him and Lin Lin, Monster Mask thought, If he's being sincere... Well, I'm giving Blizzard a second chance. I guess I can do the same for Sweet Mask... I still don't get how he's still alive, though... He must have the same kind of regeneration as Zombie Man.

After Sweet Mask was gone, Lin Lin growled out, "Wait. Your date?! Doesn't he know who I am...?! I mean, I am your date, but I'm also a pro Hero and a martial arts celebrity!"

Patting Lin Lin on her back, Shunshi told her, "Ignore him. He's a jerk who only thinks Heroes of A-Class and higher are worth anything. But he doesn't really know anything outside of making himself look good."

Folding her arms, Lin Lin exclaimed, "Humph! Pompous prick... So, wait. What do you need to talk to our bosses about?"

Warping his arm around Lin Lin's shoulder, Shunshi told her, "Forget it for now. I just wanna enjoy this whole thing. Come on, let's go grab some food. I haven't even had breakfast today."

Blushing a bit at Shunshi's bit of assertiveness, Lin Lin replied chipperly, "Yeah. I could eat."

After waiting for the two to grab some snacks, Shunshi's friends and a hoard of the other Heroes went up to Monster Mask to speak with him.

"Wow! I can't believe you stood up to Sweet Mask like that, Shunshi!" Stinger exclaimed.

"Why shouldn't he? He outranks him, starting today," Needle Star remarked bluntly.

Shrugging as he held his plate and drink, his helmet on a table, Monster Mask answered confidently, "Well, I stopped being scared or respectful of the guy after I kicked his ass while my spine was broken in half."

Shunshi's remark earned him some chuckles from a few of his co-workers, with Gearsper remarking in a friendly tone, "Oh, yeah. You were really flying off the handle at everyone by the end there that day."

Taking a sip of fruit punch, Monster Mask responded with an amused smirk, "Well... We all nearly died that day. Heck, it was two or three times for me. My mania was running a little high by the end of it all."

"Still not sure I agree with how you handled the Hero Hunter, but it really wasn't up to me," Strange Binding Shell remarked with a passive tone.

Making his way through the crowd with some effort, Poison was next to step up, asking, "Hey, Monster Mask... I hope it's not too much trouble, but are you still willing to offer up the metal from your suit for knives? I actually managed to break my last one when that cat freak attacked us... I mean, you don't have to help me out right away or anything. Go ahead and eat your food and have fun talking with everyone first!"

Smiling at Poison, Shunshi said, "Oh yeah! Thanks for reminding me of that. The scientist who makes this stuff said he'd be willing to let me swing by his lab with you so you can use the facilities to make your new gear."

His jaw dropping at that news, Poison replied with ecstatic hesitance, "Se-seriously?!"

"Yeah, it's no problem. He's got the stuff in abundance," Shunshi remarked, causing a twitch of the ear from every other Hero present who wielded metal weapons. Shunshi then called out, "Hey, by the way, Jet Nice Guy! Genos-Senpai said he's willing to meet with you to discuss helping you upgrade."

Extending his neck to stand above the crowd, Jet Nice Guy responded ecstatically, "Are you kidding? That rocks! Thank you!"

"Of course! If Genos-Senpai doesn't come to see you in a day or two, just swing by my place, and I'll take you to meet with him," Shunshi replied.

Pumping his fists into the air, Jet cried out, "Yes! Thanks again! You're the best, Monster Mask!"

Raising his gatling arm into the air, Death Gatling called out, "Hey, Monster Mask! Tell your cyborg sub-boss I want that cyborg arm he offered!" He then turned to speak to a semi-surprised Jet Nice Guy, "Let's work out a place to meet up with the Demon Cyborg to keep things simple."

Running up to hug Stinger and Needle Star from behind, Captain Mizuki held her buff arms on them as she asked Shunshi and Lin Lin, "Coaches Monster Mask and Lin Lin!? Are we still going to meet up sometime later for muscle and Kie training?!"

While Needle Star tried to pull himself free and Stinger had a dumbstruck smile on his face, Lin Lin was the one to answer proudly, "Of course we are! In fact, we should exchange numbers to find a good training area."

Nudging his girlfriend, Shunshi added with an urgent tone, "Actually, I was gonna talk to everyone about that. I have important news."

---

About an hour later, in the hotel's ballroom, Sweet Mask was standing at the microphone on stage as an ornate curtain with the Hero Association insignia on it was down behind him, and television crews had three cameras trained on him. Throughout the room, dining tables for the various privileged attendees of the event were spaced out. Hero Association benefactors, celebrities, the relatives of the Heroes, other potential rich donners, and whoever else could afford the 500,000 yen needed to buy a ticket to this event.

At the table of Monster Mask's family, Ishisu was keeping her eyes on Sweet Mask as the college-age son of Happy Phones Productions was sitting beside her and trying to swoon the beautiful sister of the new S-Class Hero. Meanwhile, Otkan and Hanja were speaking with a wise-looking man in a business suit.

Handing Otkan his business card, the wisened man told him with an intelligent smile, "So, if your boy is interested in his pay being at least tripled and better resources at his disposal, have him give us a call."

Taking the card, Otkan replied eagerly, "Of course! I'm sure Monster Mask will be interested in what you have to offer."

"Well... I'm sure he'll listen to you, but I don't know if our son is the kind of man to jump ship just because of a shiny yen," Hanja added hesitantly.

Nodding, the man responded calmly, "I can appreciate such loyalty. But I hope he'll understand how much more good he could do in our new organization."

"I'm sure he will! Helping people is our son's number one priority!" Otkan answered eagerly.

While Hanja murmured with uncertainty and the various parties in the room continued to rub elbows, Sweet Mask cleared his throat into the microphone after he was given the go-ahead to start the show.

Gaining everyone's attention, Sweet Mask gestured grandly to the audience while proclaiming, "Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you all for attending today's award ceremony honoring the brave Heroes of the Hero Association. Tonight, we will celebrate their accomplishments and cap things off with the promotion of our newest S-Class and a special announcement for the Hero Association's new plan to ensure a catastrophe like the Monster Association never happens again."

With a fluid snap of his fingers, Sweet Mask closed his eyes with confidence as the curtain behind him rose. Once the curtain was up, it revealed a large curving podium-like stand that had the Heroes of the Support Team standing on it. At the lowest ends of the podium, the C-Class Heroes stood, with the B-Class Heroes on the semi-risen section further in, the A-Class closer to the center, and Monster Mask towering above them in the middle.

Once the Heroes could be seen, they were met with a wave of applause by their wealthy audience.

Turning his personal mic off, Jet Nice Guy whispered to Needle Star, "Wow. I still can't believe we're getting this kind of fanfare."

"Eh, without the S-Class, I doubt there'd be any kind of celebration for us," Needle Star replied while also making sure the small microphone on his shirt was turned off.

Opening his eyes, Sweet Mask held one hand toward the Heroes and the other toward the audience, stating, "First but not worst, we have the brave and capable C-Class Heroes."

Pointing to Poison as a spotlight fell on Him, Sweet Mask said, "Poison, until today, stood as 300th in C-Class, but with his superhuman knife skills and toxins capable of felling vicious monsters, has proven his worth to rise to rank 100 in C-Class!"

Pulling out his spare knives, Poison did his best to strike a cool-looking stance as he flourished his blades and smiled at the audience. In turn, he received a fair amount of clapping.

The next spotlight fell on Gearsper as he put two fingers to the forehead of his helmet, and Sweet Mask stated, "Gearsper was once the 133rd C-Class Hero! Now, proving the true worth of his psychic might against the monsters who threatened our dear cities, has been made Rank 50 in C-Class!"

As Gearsper did his best to look cool, he got about the same reaction from the audience as Poison.

Food Battler Futoshi was the next to be enveloped by the light, waving casually as Sweet Mask sang his praises, "Moving with speed and agility that his size would normally suggest impossible, the Food Battler Futoshi has jumped from the 66th of C-Class to the vied 10th place position!"

The stage light came upon Strange Binding Shell next, with him producing a rope from his shirt as he stared sternly at the audience.

"As the 3rd Ranked C-Class Hero, Strange Binding Shell's abilities have been ready to move on for some time now. Finally, after dropping many of the Monster Association's freaks, this wonderful Hero has moved on to B-Class, holding the rank of 102," Sweet Mask pontificated.

The next half hour went on like this, with Sweet Mask taking more time with each Hero the higher ranked they were. Captain Mizuki went from B-Class 61 to 71. Needle Star went from B-Class 60 to 51. Jet Nice guy went from rank 50 to 42 in B-Class. Double Hole went from B-Class 29 to 22. Lin Lin got the largest promotion after taking her official test and getting credit from the Monster Association raid, going from C-Class rank 342 to B-Class rank 5. As for the A-Class Heroes, Feather went from 35 to 31. Narcissistoic went from 30 to 26. Crescent Eyebrtoll went from 26 to 22. Green went from 25 to 21. One Shotter went from 23 to 19. Lightning Genji was promoted from rank 18 to 14. Twin Tails' promotion put her up from 12 to 8. Stinger went from 9 to 7. And the second to last of the A-Class promotions had Death Gatling going up from 8 to 6.

The final A-Class promotion was accompanied by a screen descending from the ceiling and displaying a blurry, low-quality image of Saitama.

Pointing at the display while the audience watched it with confusion, Sweet Mask exclaimed, "Our second to last promotion could not join us tonight, but he is easily our most impressive promotion yet! Before tonight, Saitama, or the Caped Baldy, was only ranked as number 7 in B-Class! However, after proving his incredible power at the battle with the Monster Association, being revealed as the personal trainer of two S-Class Heroes, the training partner of the all-mighty King, as well as being vouched for by myself, Monster Mask, the Demon Cyborg, and Child Emperor, the Caped Baldy has been made the new A-Class Rank 2! One day soon, this beautiful Hero may even become the new face of the Hero Association itself! Let's hear it for him, folks!"

It took the audience off guard when Sweet Mask presented such a plane-looking man with such respect and fervor, but the pop star Hero's charming voice and persuasive persona won them over as he spoke. By the time Sweet Mask had finished and called for applause, he was given exactly what he asked for, even if the crowd didn't fully grasp who or what they were cheering for.

At the same time, even if it annoyed him to hear Saitama's undignified Hero name used so readily, Shunshi was still nearly overcome with joy at his Sensei receiving the kind of praise he deserved, even if indirect. In fact, it took the young man all his mental fortitude not to begin crying with cheer, and he was certain he would have failed to keep his composure if Saitama had actually been there.

Once the cheering for Saitama was done, Sweet Mask turned to address Monster Mask, exclaiming, "Finally, our new young Hero, Monster Mask! Ever since joining our ranks as an A-Class hero, Monster Mask has worked every day defeating monsters and criminals in the name of justice and keeping the citizens of our great cities safe! He has fought alongside the S-Class on numerous occasions, was trained by Silver Fang himself, helped to push back the alien invaders, dozens of Demon and Dragon Level Threats, and has most recently helped in the downfall of the Monster Association and the vile Hero Hunter! His promotion to stand amongst the ranks of the S-Class is far overdue in the eyes of all he's stood alongside! So, please, join me in congratulating the Rank 17 S-Class Hero, the successor of Silver Fang, Monster Mask!"

With a thunder of applause that was joined in by the other Heroes on stage, Shunshi at once felt proud yet, for some reason, empty. Admittedly, the twinge of annoyance he caught of Sweet Mask improved his mood slightly, but Shunshi was flooded with all the memories he'd had so far of the Heroes in the Hero Association letting him down. There were still plenty he respected and admired amongst the ranks, but still so many others who made him sick to be around. And all this fanfare and pageantry may have been fun for a moment, but he was starting to wonder if it was at all what he wanted.

Looking at the audience of the wealthy and appulent, Shunshi felt guilty that he hadn't invited the fans of his cheering for him outside to attend as his guests.

He did his best to smile and wave, but Shunshi was thinking, What even is all this? I should be out training or looking for monsters to take down! Why does any of this even matter to being a Hero?!

However, as Shunshi looked at the crowd, he noticed something that shook his mind slightly. Tareo and Waganma sat beside each other with the three other boys who had left Tareo behind in the shed, all five cheering for him. Seeing the two young boys, people he'd actually helped amongst this crowd, calmed Monster Mask's heart considerably. And it was thanks to this relaxed mental state that Shunshi was able to remember something vital he'd been told, albeit indirectly, by his Sensei.

You must first fight your way through the professional Hero industry. Aim to break into the top ten of the S-Class Heroes. That will be your goal for the time being!

Even if this had been a goal set for Genos, Shunshi had almost forgotten that he swore to himself and Saitama that he'd strive for the same thing.

Suddenly, his smile filling with genuine confidence, Shunshi turned his waving hand into a raised fist as he told the audience, "Thank you all! Everything I do, I do to become a better Hero capable of serving my people!"

His smile and improved tone invigorating the crowd, Shunshi watched them all ecstatically while thinking, I'm on my way, Saitama-Sensei! I can say with pride that I've taken the first real step in my training under you!

Turning back to address the audience once the cheering had died down, Sweet Mask had one final announcement, "Finally, as for the Hero Association's plans to deal with greater threats going forward. Monster Mask will begin a program within the Hero Association to begin training any other Heroes who are willing and able to learn how to harness the same powers that he pocesses in our eternal battle against evil! With his help, the average abilities of Heroes within the Hero Association will rise dramatically, and even our most basic Heroes will be able to face down the most dangerous of foes!"

With Sweet Mask reminding him of the plan he'd proposed to the higher-ups, Shunshi thought awkwardly, Oh, right... That's important too.

---

Fun Author notes here: The name I made up for Death Gatling, Fuun, is the Japanese word for bad luck. Additionally, Stinger's real name that he cut off, again made up by me, is Panda.