Chapter 12:Star and Stripes

Author's Note:

Hey everyone! Thanks for checking out my story! I'm really excited to dive into this unique crossover, where Itachi Uchiha finds himself reborn in the world of My Hero Academia. I'd love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to drop a review or comment. Thanks for all your support, and I hope you enjoy the story as much as I enjoy writing it!

Stay tuned for more chapters!

Itachi stood in his room, packing his bag thoughtfully. He paused for a moment, reflecting,"I'll be in America for about a year and a half... it'll be a great experience for me."A small smile played on his lips at the thought. He walked over to the mirror, dressed in a crisp white formal shirt, black pants, and polished shoes. Around his neck, he wore a simple locket, a quiet reminder of home. He straightened up, looked at his reflection, and spoke in English, "Hello, I am Itachi Yaoyorozu." He nodded to himself, satisfied."That'll do."

Grabbing his bag, he stepped out of his room and found his family waiting for him. His mother, Yana, smiled warmly as she saw him. "You look great," she said, pride evident in her eyes.

Itachi returned her smile. "Thank you, Mother."

Momo, standing beside Yana, grinned. "Yeah, Mother's right, you look amazing."

Itachi smiled again, this time softer, as he gently patted Momo's head. "Thank you."

Takashi, his father, looked at his watch. "We should get going," he said calmly. Everyone nodded in agreement, and they headed toward the car.

As they drove, the mood in the car was warm and filled with quiet excitement. After a few moments, Yana spoke up from the front seat. "When you return to Japan, you'll probably be pretty famous."

Itachi sighed lightly, his usual calm demeanor still intact. "That sounds like too much attention."

Yana chuckled softly, turning slightly to glance at him. "But I'll love it. Seeing you on the big screen, recognized as one of the best—it'll make me so proud."

Itachi looked at her, his expression softening as he smiled. "Alright then, if it makes you happy."

Momo chimed in eagerly from the back. "I'll be able to brag to all my friends. 'Look, that's my brother, Japan's future No. 1 hero!'"

Itachi shook his head slightly, amused. "You're thinking way too far ahead."

But Yana joined in on the teasing, her eyes twinkling. "She's not wrong, you know. You've already been recognized by All Might and Star and Stripe, the world's strongest woman. Youcouldbecome the No. 1 hero."

Itachi let out a quiet laugh. "If you say so."

Yana smiled knowingly. "I said it. And I'm never wrong. You know, I can see my children's futures."

Momo grinned, leaning forward. "So, what about me? Can you see my future too?"

Yana turned, her smile tender. "Of course. You'll be right there beside your brother."

Momo beamed, puffing out her chest proudly. "I knew it! I'm Mother's favorite child."

Itachi smiled at their banter, shaking his head. "Sure, sure."

Yana playfully ruffled Momo's hair. "Well, while Itachi's in America, you're my favorite child."

"Mother!" Momo gasped in mock outrage, but the whole car erupted in laughter.

Takashi, still focused on the road, smirked. "Don't worry, Momo. You're my favorite."

Momo sighed dramatically, her face lighting up with a smile. "Thank you, Father."

Itachi listened to their playful conversation, feeling the warmth of his family surround him. Yet, amidst the laughter and light-heartedness, his gaze occasionally drifted to his phone, his thoughts lingering on Kaina, waiting for her call.

As they arrived at the airport, Itachi stepped out of the car and grabbed his luggage, scanning the busy area.Where's All Might?he wondered silently. His mother, Yana, echoed his thoughts aloud, "Where's All Might?"

Suddenly, a booming voice rang out from behind them. "You were waiting for me, weren't you? No need to wait any longer, because I'm here!"

Yana and Momo both startled at the sudden sound, while Itachi sighed, thinking,Can he be normal just once?

Momo, her eyes wide with excitement, turned to face the No. 1 hero. "All Might! The number one hero!" she exclaimed.

All Might grinned down at her, offering a warm greeting. "Hello, young one!"

Momo, brimming with excitement, quickly asked, "Sir, can I make a request?"

All Might chuckled, already knowing what she was going to ask. "Ah, let me guess... a selfie?"

Momo eagerly nodded, handing over her phone. They took the photo, and Momo smiled brightly as she looked at it. "Thank you, All Might!" she beamed.

All Might nodded with his trademark wide grin. "You're welcome!"

He then turned his attention to Itachi. "So, young Yaoyorozu, are you ready? Our flight leaves in an hour, but the check-in process might take some time."

Itachi nodded and turned to his family, a soft smile tugging at his lips. "I'll take my leave now, Mother."

Yana stepped forward, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug. "Take care of yourself, okay? And don't eat too much outside food. Work hard."

Itachi smiled, gently returning her embrace. "I'm only going for a year and a half," he reassured her.

She nodded, her voice cracking slightly. "I know... but I'm still your mother. I'll miss you."

Momo stepped forward, her voice soft. "I'll miss you too, brother."

Takashi, standing beside them, gave a small nod of approval. "Take care, son."

With a final smile, Itachi turned and began walking toward the airport entrance. As he moved forward, something made him pause. His senses picked up a presence, his eyes drifting toward a nearby building. From the shadow of the structure, Kaina watched him, a sad smile on her face.

Work hard, Itachi... I'll miss you,she thought, before turning away and disappearing from view.

Itachi, sensing her, stopped in his tracks and stared at the building for a moment. All Might, noticing his hesitation, asked, "What is it, young Yaoyorozu? Something wrong?"

Itachi shook his head slightly, eyes narrowing. "No... I just felt something." He glanced back one more time but saw nothing, his mind already shifting back to the task ahead.

With a final sigh, he followed All Might into the airport, ready to face the next chapter of his journey.

Inside the bustling airport, Itachi walked alongside All Might, their presence turning a few heads as they made their way through the check-in and security processes. After All Might dropped him off at the boarding gate, he gave Itachi a firm pat on the back.

"Well, young Yaoyorozu, this is where we part ways—for now. Make the most of your time in America, alright?" All Might's eyes gleamed with encouragement.

Itachi nodded. "I will. Thank you, All Might."

With that, All Might gave him a thumbs up before turning and leaving the airport. Itachi watched him go for a moment before focusing on the journey ahead.

As he boarded the plane, the air hostess greeted him with a professional smile. "Good afternoon, sir. May I see your ticket?"

Itachi handed over his ticket, and she quickly glanced at it before her smile grew wider. "Oh, sir, you're seated in business class. Please take the stairs just ahead, and you'll find your seat there."

Itachi nodded politely. "Thank you."

He climbed the stairs, entering the business class section, and soon found his seat. To his surprise, the area was much more luxurious than he had anticipated. A spacious reclining chair sat next to a large personal screen, with a small table beside it for drinks. Next to the seat was a bell for calling the flight attendants, and even a door leading to his own private bathroom.

Itachi sweatdropped slightly.Father definitely overdid the booking…

He let out a small sigh and set his bag down, taking a moment to compose himself. He settled into his seat, the soft cushions providing more comfort than he was used to.

Moments later, the plane began to taxi down the runway. Itachi stared out the window, watching as the airport faded from view and the sky slowly opened up. The familiar sights of Japan grew smaller and smaller until they disappeared entirely.

As the plane leveled out, he closed his eyes for a moment, letting himself relax.A year and a half in America...he thought.This will be a good experience for me.

With that, he allowed himself a small smile, leaning back in his seat as the plane soared toward a new chapter in his life.

As Itachi settled into the comfortable bed, the plane was quiet except for the faint hum of the engines. He closed his eyes for a brief moment, resting in the tranquility, until a soft knock on his cabin door interrupted him.

Opening the door, he found a beautiful flight attendant standing before him, a tray of food in her hands. She had a professional demeanor, but as her eyes met Itachi's, she seemed to freeze, her gaze lingering on his face, captivated.

Itachi blinked, slightly taken aback. "Ah... excuse me?" he said softly, his voice polite yet curious.

The woman snapped back to reality, her face flushing red. "Oh! I'm so sorry, sir!" she stammered, flustered. "I—uh, what would you like to order?" She quickly glanced at the menu in her hand, trying to regain her composure.

Itachi, noticing the menu on his small table, picked it up and began scanning the options. He glanced back at her, only to see her still staring at him. He cleared his throat gently. "How about a Hummus Platter?"

The woman blinked again, clearly distracted. "What did you say?"

"Hummus Platter," he repeated calmly, watching her hurriedly scribble it down on her notepad.

"And... for dessert? Drinks, perhaps?" she asked, her voice shaky but trying to maintain professionalism.

Itachi scanned the menu again. "I'll have a Strawberry Parfait for dessert." He paused briefly before adding, "And no drinks, I'm underage."

Her eyes widened in surprise, a little shock creeping into her expression. "You're underage?" she asked, almost in disbelief. "How old are you, if you don't mind me asking?"

Itachi looked at her with his usual calm demeanor. "I'm 17."

"Seventeen..." she echoed, still processing. Then, as if out of nowhere, she blurted, "I'm 23."

Itachi gave her a small nod, keeping his polite smile. "That's great."

The woman stood there for a second longer, clearly flustered, before snapping back to her work mode. "Your order will be here shortly, sir. Please let me know if you need anything else."

After she left, another flight attendant delivered his order. She placed the platter and parfait in front of him, stealing a few glances as she set everything down. Itachi noticed her subtle looks but remained composed.

"Here's your order, sir," she said, her voice a little softer as she met his gaze.

"Thank you," Itachi said politely.

The flight attendant lingered a moment, biting her lip slightly as she smiled. "If you need anything else, don't hesitate to call." She gave a slight wink, hinting at something more, but Itachi simply nodded, focused more on his food than on the subtle hints she was giving.

As she left, Itachi let out a quiet sigh.I guess this is what it means to attract attention,he thought, taking a bite of his food.At least the food's good.

After finishing his meal, Itachi reclined back in the seat, letting the weight of the long journey ahead settle in. The soft hum of the airplane engines was soothing, and the dim lighting in the cabin made the atmosphere calm and peaceful.

He laid back down, closing his eyes as the flight continued onward. America awaited, and with it, the next step in his journey.

As the plane touched down and taxied to the gate, Itachi felt a subtle shift in his mindset. He was no longer in Japan. This was the beginning of his journey in America—a place that would challenge and push him beyond his limits.

After gathering his luggage, Itachi stepped into the bustling airport terminal. He glanced around, scanning for his name, and soon enough, he spotted a man standing near the exit, holding a sign that read "Itachi Yaoyorozu." The man was dressed in a military uniform, his posture straight and professional.

That must be the one, Itachi thought to himself as he walked over.

The man eyed him with a slight nod. "So, you're Itachi Yaoyorozu," he said in clear English.

Itachi nodded in response, observing the man's military attire. The name tag read 'Lonnie Jems.'

"My name is Lonnie Jems," he continued, extending a hand. "I'm here to pick you up."

Itachi shook his hand, noticing how Jems hesitated slightly before pulling out his phone. He fumbled with the device, opening a translation app, clearly trying to make communication easier. Itachi sighed inwardly and spoke up.

"I can speak English," Itachi said calmly.

Jems looked up in surprise, slightly embarrassed as he tucked his phone away. "Right… sorry about that."

"It's fine," Itachi replied. He appreciated the gesture, even if it wasn't necessary.

"Follow me," Jems said, regaining his composure. They walked through the airport, navigating past crowds of travelers. Once outside, Itachi noticed the sleek, military-grade vehicle waiting for them. It stood out against the backdrop of everyday traffic, its dark color and imposing presence unmistakable.

Jems opened the door. "Hop in."

Itachi climbed into the car, settling into the back seat as the engine roared to life. As they pulled away from the airport, he gazed out the window, taking in the unfamiliar cityscape. The tall buildings and bustling streets reminded him of Tokyo, though the energy was different. There was an underlying intensity to the atmosphere here, as if the city itself pulsed with purpose.

America, he thought, not so different from home. Except for the sheer scale... and the presence of heroes like Star and Stripe.

The ride was quiet for a few moments, only the sound of the engine and the passing city filling the silence. Itachi turned to Jems. "How long until we arrive?"

"About half an hour," Jems replied, his eyes focused on the road ahead.

Itachi nodded, leaning back in his seat. His thoughts drifted again, this time to the reason he was here—to train under the strongest American hero, Star and Stripe, and to gain experience from All Might's connections. He knew the next year and a half would be grueling, but it was necessary for his growth as a hero.

As the military vehicle drove through the busy streets, Itachi gazed out of the window, taking in the sights of the bustling city. The tall skyscrapers, flashing billboards, and the diverse crowd of people reminded him of Tokyo, though there was an undeniable difference in the energy here. The streets seemed wider, the buildings taller, and the overall atmosphere felt foreign yet intriguing.

Jems drove in silence, occasionally glancing at Itachi through the rearview mirror. There was something about the calmness in Itachi's demeanor that made him wonder. Despite being a young man, Itachi carried himself with the composure of someone much older, seasoned by life in ways that weren't immediately apparent.

After a few minutes of silence, Jems spoke up, his voice breaking the quiet hum of the car engine. "So, you're here for some special training, huh?"

Itachi nodded slightly. "Yes. I'll be training under Star and Stripe, and working alongside All Might."

Jems raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "You must be something else to get that kind of opportunity. Star and Stripe doesn't just train anyone."

Itachi didn't respond, his eyes still scanning the buildings as they passed by. He wasn't one to boast about his abilities, nor did he feel the need to. His focus was on learning and growing, not on proving anything to anyone.

The car took a turn, heading towards the outskirts of the city, where the buildings became fewer, and the landscape opened up. The dense urban environment gave way to wide, sprawling fields and military infrastructure. Itachi could see the large fences and security checkpoints up ahead as they approached the American military base.

Jems glanced at him again. "You're a quiet one, huh? That's fine. Star and Stripe likes disciplined people."

Itachi remained composed, offering a simple nod. His mind was already focused on the training to come, and on the challenges he would face over the next year and a half. He knew this would push him in ways he had never been pushed before, and that was exactly what he wanted.

As they pulled up to the gates of the military base, Jems flashed his ID, and the guards let them through. The base itself was massive, with towering buildings, aircraft hangars, and soldiers going about their duties. The sheer scale of it was impressive, even to someone like Itachi who had seen his fair share of large, organized forces.

Jems parked the car near one of the main buildings and turned to Itachi. "This is it. You'll meet your training supervisor inside. They'll give you the rundown of what to expect."

Itachi opened the door and stepped out, his luggage in hand. He took a deep breath, feeling the crisp air fill his lungs. This was the beginning of a new chapter, one that would shape him in ways he couldn't yet foresee.

Jems stood beside him, offering a handshake. "Good luck, Itachi Yaoyorozu. I have a feeling you're going to do great things."

Itachi took his hand, his grip firm but calm. "Thank you," he said, his voice steady.

With that, Itachi turned and headed towards the entrance of the building, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the quiet. Inside, he knew, was the beginning of a journey that would test his limits, push his abilities, and define his future as a hero.

As Itachi stood in the middle of the bustling military base, his sharp eyes caught sight of soldiers moving efficiently through their routines, rows of weaponry lined up, and the imposing structures that surrounded him. Just as he was absorbing the atmosphere, a man approached him. The man had blonde hair and striking blue eyes.

In fluent English, he said, "You must be Itachi Yaoyorozu."

Itachi gave a polite nod. "Yes, that's me."

"I'm Wallace Lewis, First Sergeant of the military. Nice to meet you," the man introduced himself, extending a firm hand.

Itachi shook it, his expression calm. "It's good to meet you as well, sir."

Sergeant Lewis gave a quick nod of approval. "Great. Now, I'll show you to your quarters. You'll be staying here for the duration of your training."

Without a word, Itachi followed closely behind, his eyes sweeping across the base as they walked. Lewis glanced back and added, "I'll warn you upfront—this training isn't going to be easy."

Itachi's gaze remained steady, his voice low and composed. "I understand."

The Sergeant looked him over, sizing him up. "These quarters won't be anything like home—don't expect comfort."

"I understand," Itachi replied, unfazed.

Lewis studied him for a moment, wondering if the young man truly grasped what was ahead. He had heard Star and Stripe speak highly of Itachi's potential, but words alone didn't prove capability. "Calm, huh?" he thought to himself. "We'll see how long that lasts."

They continued in silence until they arrived at a small, modest room tucked away in a corner of the barracks. It was sparsely furnished, with a bed, a small desk, and basic amenities. Lewis gestured to it. "This is where you'll stay. Everyone else lives here too."

Itachi gave the space a quick once-over, his expression unreadable. "Understood," he said simply, before stepping into the room and setting his bag down on the bed.

Lewis handed him a set of military fatigues. "Take these. You've got 15 minutes to get settled and changed. Then meet me outside. We've got a lot to cover."

Itachi accepted the uniform and gave a short nod. "I'll be ready."

Lewis gave him one last look before turning and leaving, his footsteps echoing down the hallway. Alone in the room, Itachi glanced around, taking in the simple surroundings. It was nothing like the luxury he was accustomed to, but that didn't bother him. He hadn't come here for comfort—he had come to push his limits.

He quickly located the shower area and stepped inside. The cold water hit his skin, washing away the travel weariness. His mind was calm, focused on the task ahead. This was just another step in his journey, one that would shape him into something stronger. He finished up, changed into the military fatigues, and examined himself in the small mirror.

The uniform hung loosely on his frame, a bit too large for his lean build, but that didn't concern him. He let out a soft sigh. "These could use some tailoring," he thought, adjusting the sleeves slightly.

Within minutes, he was ready. He stepped outside, where Lewis was already waiting.

"Good," Lewis said, giving him an appraising look. "Now, follow me."

Without hesitation, Itachi fell in line behind him, his eyes sharp and attentive. As they walked, he continued to observe the base—soldiers training, rows of armored vehicles, and stacks of weapons. Itachi's mind briefly wandered, wondering about the kind of training he'd face here, but his outward composure never faltered.

Lewis glanced at him, sensing the quiet intensity that seemed to radiate from the young man. "So far, you seem composed. Let's see how long you stay that way," Lewis thought as they continued deeper into the base, toward whatever lay ahead.

As Itachi and Lewis arrived at the training grounds, Lewis gestured ahead. "We're here," he said, his voice steady.

Itachi's eyes scanned the scene. Soldiers were running laps in disciplined lines, some with quirks that gave them animal-like features, while others appeared completely human. He noted the variety of hybrids, one with the face of a mouse, another with wings sprouting from their back. It was a strange but organized sight, showcasing the diversity of quirks within the military ranks.

At the forefront of the group stood a woman in military pants and a tight, white Seamless Body Fit tank. She exuded authority, arms folded as she oversaw the training. Her voice rang out clear and strong, "Alright, enough talk. Keep running until I say stop!"

"Yes, Ma'am!" the soldiers responded in unison, their footsteps pounding the ground as they continued.

Lewis smiled as he walked toward her. "Star," he called out.

The woman turned, and upon seeing Lewis, a grin spread across her face. "Hey, bro," she greeted casually.

Lewis gestured toward Itachi, who stood calmly by his side. "Look, your new student is here."

Star and Stripe's gaze shifted to Itachi, sizing him up with a sharp, assessing look. His slightly loose military uniform caught her attention, but she remained silent for a moment. Itachi stepped forward, bowing politely. "It's an honor to meet you, Star and Stripe. I am Itachi Yaoyorozu," he said in flawless English, his voice respectful but steady.

Star raised an eyebrow as she examined him closely, taking in his calm demeanor and lean frame. "So… you're the one All Might's interested in," she remarked, crossing her arms.

Itachi met her gaze but remained silent, standing tall and composed. Star's thoughts raced as she observed him. "He's calm, but not as muscular as I expected for someone coming into this kind of training."

She sighed and then said abruptly, "Take off your shirt."

Itachi blinked in confusion. "Excuse me?"

"Strip. Take off your shirt," Star repeated, her tone firm and leaving no room for argument.

Itachi nodded, complying without hesitation. As he removed his shirt, revealing his torso, Lewis and Star stared, taken aback by what they saw.

Beneath the loose uniform, Itachi had a lean but defined physique, with an impressive eight-pack and visible muscle definition. His body, though not bulky, clearly spoke of someone who had honed their physical capabilities to perfection.

Lewis let out a low whistle. "Well, would you look at that. Never would've guessed there was a body like that under those clothes."

Star nodded, visibly surprised. "I didn't expect that," she admitted, before turning her attention back to Itachi. "Now, come forward."

Itachi stepped forward without question.

"Push-ups," she commanded. "Do them until I say stop."

Itachi nodded. "Understood," he said, but Star wasn't satisfied.

"Louder," she demanded, her eyes hardening. "I want to hear you."

"Yes, ma'am!" Itachi responded louder, his voice more assertive.

Satisfied, Star folded her arms again and took a seat nearby, watching intently as Itachi dropped down and began doing push-ups. His form was flawless, each push-up executed with precision. She glanced at the clock, letting time pass, observing how his body moved and the way his muscles handled the strain.

Thirty minutes later, without a word from Itachi, she finally spoke. "Alright, stop."

Itachi rose to his feet, his breathing steady despite the beads of sweat that glistened on his skin. His body showed clear signs of exertion, but his resolve remained unshaken.

"Feeling tired?" Star asked, eyeing him closely.

Itachi shook his head. "No, ma'am."

Star smirked, impressed by his endurance. "Good. Now, I want you to run the entire length of the runway. Thirty minutes, non-stop, at full speed."

"Yes, ma'am," Itachi replied again, determination clear in his voice.

As soon as she gave the command, Itachi sprinted off, his feet hitting the ground with a steady rhythm as he bolted across the training field. Star watched him carefully, noting the fluidity of his movements, the discipline in his stride. Thirty minutes passed, and he completed the task without faltering.

Star leaned back, glancing over at Lewis with a smirk. "So, what do you think?"

Lewis watched Itachi, his expression more serious now. "I underestimated him," he admitted. "He's tougher than I expected."

Star nodded, crossing her arms again. "You haven't even seen his quirk yet."

Lewis raised an eyebrow. "His quirk? I thought his strength was his focus."

Star shook her head, a knowing look in her eyes. "No, his strength is impressive, but his quirk is in his eyes."

Lewis's eyes widened in realization. "That was just brute strength?"

Star nodded, her smirk widening. "Exactly. You haven't even seen the real Itachi yet."

Itachi wiped the sweat from his brow, his body still recovering from the intense training session. Star and Stripe approached him, a hint of approval in her eyes. "You did well, Itachi... or should I say Aegis," she said with a slight smile.

Itachi nodded, his tone respectful. "Thank you, Star and Stripe."

She waved her hand dismissively. "Just call me Star," she corrected, her demeanor more relaxed.

Itachi nodded again. "Okay, ma'am."

Star gave him a knowing look. "Now, take a lunch break. After that, we'll work on your quirk," she said, before turning and walking away.

As she left, Lewis stepped up to Itachi's side. "You did well," he said with a nod of approval.

"Thank you, sir," Itachi responded politely.

Lewis chuckled, shaking his head. "Cut the 'sir.' Call me Lewis."

Itachi offered a small nod. "Understood, Lewis."

"Come on, let's grab some food," Lewis said, leading the way to the canteen. Itachi followed, observing the crowd of people gathered around tables, some with distinct quirks, others appearing more ordinary. He was handed a plate, and the cook served him a portion of food.

Once they had their meals, Lewis motioned to a table where his friends were sitting. "Come join us," he said, waving Itachi over.

As they approached the table, Lewis greeted his group. "Hey, everyone, look who's here. This is Itachi Yaoyorozu, student of Star and Stripe."

The group looked up, their attention drawn to Itachi. He gave a respectful bow, acknowledging their presence.

Lewis introduced them. "This is Jasper Buckley," he said, pointing to a man with long ears. Jasper gave a friendly nod. "And this is Adam Mayes," Lewis continued, gesturing to an African-American man who grinned and said, "Nice to meet you, man."

"And that's Herman Mack," Lewis finished, pointing to a man with black hair and blue eyes. Herman gave a brief nod. "Nice to meet you, Itachi."

Itachi nodded back, his expression calm. Jasper motioned for him to sit. "Come, sit down," he said warmly.

As Itachi took his seat, Herman looked at him with curiosity. "So, Star said you've got potential. After lunch, we've got a quirk test coming up. Ready for it?"

Itachi met his gaze, his expression steady. "Yes," he responded, his voice controlled but confident.

The group exchanged glances, intrigued by his calm demeanor. Adam chuckled lightly. "Not much of a talker, huh?" he said, but his tone was friendly.

Itachi glanced at him and then shook his head slightly. "I apologize," he said softly.

Adam waved it off. "No need to apologize, man. You're new here. You'll open up eventually."

Itachi nodded, appreciating the understanding. He then quietly began eating his meal, listening as the group engaged in casual conversation around him.

After lunch, Adam stood up, stretching his arms. "Alright, time to get back out there. Let's hit the field."

As they arrived at the training grounds, Star was already there, commanding the group. "Make a ring, guys!" she shouted, and everyone immediately understood, forming a large circle in the middle of the field.

Itachi watched silently, observing the soldiers' discipline. Star turned toward him. "Itachi, step into the ring," she called out.

Itachi nodded and, without hesitation, stepped into the center of the circle. All eyes were on him now, the anticipation building in the air as they awaited the quirk test.

Star crossed her arms, her expression serious but intrigued. "Alright, Aegis, let's see what you've got."

Itachi stood in his stance, eyes focused, as the Sharingan activated. The red glow of his spinning tomoe caught the attention of the soldiers surrounding them, murmurs spreading through the crowd.

"So, that's his quirk? An eye quirk?" one whispered.

Star smirked, her confidence unwavering. "Alright, shall we start?" she asked, positioning herself.

The air between them grew tense as they stood still, waiting for the other to make the first move. Star's smirk deepened. "So, you want me to attack first?" she teased.

Itachi remained silent, his gaze steady. Without another word, Star charged at him with incredible speed. But Itachi effortlessly dodged her first attack, side-stepping her punches with ease, as if they were nothing but a breeze.

She continued her barrage, each punch faster and more precise, but none could touch him. His Sharingan predicted her movements, and he evaded them with minimal effort. "You're doing great... for now," she said, smirking. "How about I use my quirk?"

The crowd around them instinctively took several steps back, knowing what was coming. Itachi's eyes narrowed, analyzing her movements.

As she stepped back, she rushed forward again, her hand brushing the air. "Air!" she commanded, activating her quirk. Itachi's Sharingan picked up on the shift in the atmosphere, but before he could fully react, the air around him thickened, trapping him in a vacuum. His eyes widened as he struggled to breathe, covering his mouth in an attempt to hold in what little oxygen he had left.

Star's smirk widened. "Tap out, kid. You won't survive it," she taunted.

But then, her eyes widened in shock. The figure she thought was Itachi dissolved into a murder of crows, swirling in the air. Before she could process what was happening, Itachi was behind her, aiming a kick at her side. In a swift motion, she caught his leg and slammed him into the ground, pinning him down with a firm grip.

She said with a commanding voice," Itachi Yaoyorozu, If you move, your arm will break," she warned, her voice steady.

Itachi remained calm, not reacting. Then, much to her surprise, he smirked again. Before she could comprehend what was happening, crows began to emerge from his body, their black wings fluttering around her. In the next instant, he tapped her on the neck.

"It's over," he said calmly, his voice low but confident.

Star stood up, her eyes still processing what had just happened. "Excellent… You're intelligent and strong," she admitted, clearly impressed.

Itachi bowed slightly. "Thank you. I know you were holding back. If you wanted to, you could have killed me," he said, his tone as composed as ever.

Star raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? Why do you say that?"

Itachi met her gaze. "From our fight, I deduced your quirk, New Order, allows you to give commands by touching a person or object and saying its name. You could even manipulate another's quirk if you wanted to. But there are limitations."

Her interest piqued, Star crossed her arms. "Go on."

"If you target a person, you need to know their name. And from what I observed, you can only give one or two commands at a time. Any more, and it would cancel the previous ones. For example, when you trapped me in the air, that was your first command. Creating the vacuum was the second."

Star's smirk faded into an expression of clear admiration. "Quite impressive," she admitted. "I know you were holding back, too."

Itachi nodded slightly. "I didn't want to draw too much attention or cause unnecessary damage."

Star looked at Itachi with a steady gaze, her expression softening as she spoke. "If that's the case, you'll never become a hero."

Itachi's eyes locked onto hers, silently questioning her words. She continued, her voice carrying a gentle, yet firm tone. "I know attention can feel overwhelming, like it's pulling you out of your comfort zone. But remember one thing..." She paused, her tone shifting as she continued, "When you become a hero, people will look up to you."

Itachi's gaze softened as well, absorbing her words. Star's face grew more serious as she explained, "Many people will rely on you. And if you say you'll hold back just because you don't want the attention… will you do the same thing if someone's life is in danger?"

Itachi shook his head without hesitation. "No. When the time comes to go all out, I will."

Star smiled at his response. "That's what I wanted to hear." She placed her hand on her hip. "When you complete your internship, especially in Japan, you might become famous. The Hero Commission could try to contact you, or you might even get ranked."

Itachi nodded. "I understand."

She paused, her gaze contemplative as she studied him. "I've never taken on a student before," she admitted. "You're my first. When I was young, All Might saved me... he became my master, and I've always looked up to him as the symbol of peace."

Itachi listened quietly, sensing the weight of her words.

"Now, tell me," She paused, looking at Itachi more intently. "Boy, what kind of hero do you want to be?"

Itachi thought for a moment before speaking with his usual calm wisdom. "I want to be a hero that stands for peace—someone who not only stops villains but also prevents the seeds of conflict from taking root. A hero that protects without causing harm, who can see beyond the surface and understand the real causes of pain. Strength is not just for fighting, but for creating peace."

Star listened closely, her eyes slightly widening as she took in the depth of his words. "Such wisdom… in someone so young," she murmured, a smile slowly forming on her face. "Right. That's exactly the answer I was hoping for."

She extended her hand toward him, more formally this time. "Now, let me introduce myself properly. I am Cathleen Bate, known as Star and Stripe. From here on out, you will be my sidekick for the next year and a half. I will be your Master"

Itachi offered a small smile, bowing his head slightly. "I am honored, Master."

She placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch firm and reassuring. "Take some rest today. Tomorrow will be tough. First, we'll focus on military training, then on-the-ground hero work… Aegis."

Itachi nodded with a soft smile, feeling the weight of the responsibility and trust placed in him. "Yes, Master."

Itachi bowed deeply, showing respect before he headed towards his quarters. Star and Stripe nodded and said, "You can go to your quarters now." He nodded in acknowledgment and left, walking with his usual calm demeanor.

As he disappeared from view, Star turned to the remaining crowd and commanded, "Alright, everyone, back to work!" The rest of the team dispersed, returning to their respective duties. Soon after, her brothers—Lewis, Jasper, and Adam—approached her. Adam was the first to speak.

"Star…" he began, his voice tinged with curiosity. She turned toward them with a small smile. "Hey, bros."

Jasper grinned and said, "That fight was something else. He made you look a little silly, didn't he?"

Star raised an eyebrow, half-amused. "What do you mean?"

Adam crossed his arms, shaking his head. "You were missing your target. That's the easiest way to put it."

Star chuckled. "That's because he cast illusions on me," she revealed.

The three of them looked at her in surprise. "Illusions?" Lewis echoed, clearly intrigued.

"That's a strong quirk…" he added, his tone more serious now.

Star smirked and leaned back slightly. "That's not the only thing he can do."

All three brothers exchanged glances, curiosity piqued. "There's more?" Lewis asked, his brows furrowed in thought.

She nodded. "A lot more. Several Hero Commissions are after him already. I'm actually surprised Japan's HPSC hasn't made him an offer yet."

Adam tilted his head. "Maybe they haven't seen what he can really do."

Star shook her head, her expression thoughtful. "That's not possible. He was at his best during the Sports Festival in Japan. He won—used his full power from what I've heard."

Jasper pondered for a moment before suggesting, "Maybe someone doesn't want him working there."

Star's eyes narrowed slightly, considering the idea. "That might be possible…" She then shook her head, pushing the thought aside. "Let's not dwell on it. We've got work to do."

The conversation between Star and her brothers continues. Lewis, curious, asked, "Star, you've never had a sidekick before. Why take one on now? What made you choose him?"

Star's face softened as she thought of Itachi. "He's different. The determination in his eyes… it's something I've never seen before. That boy has wisdom beyond his years. He knows when to hold back, but when the time comes, he'll give everything he's got. That's why I chose him. I see a future for him, one where he might even surpass me."

Her brothers all widened their eyes in shock. "Surpass you?" Jasper asked, disbelief evident in his voice.

Star nodded, smiling. "Yes. If he continues on this path, he could very well become stronger than me."

Her words left them speechless, but they trusted her judgment. They nodded silently, knowing that Itachi was no ordinary hero-in-training.

Meanwhile, in his quarters, Itachi sat on his bed, his phone in hand. He glanced at the screen, his expression softening as he sent a message to his mother, then another to Kaina. The weight of the day settled in, and he sighed, lying back on his bed. Staring up at the ceiling, he reflected on the events of his first day.

"It's only the beginning…" he thought, a small smile playing on his lips, his mind already preparing for the challenges ahead.

As Itachi lay on his bed, a notification lit up his phone. It was a message from Keigo.

Keigo: "Yo, Itachi. Got some news. I'm in the HPSC now."
Itachi raised an eyebrow and typed a reply.

Itachi: "I see. What's going on?"
Keigo: "This is a bit secret, but I'll send it privately. The HPSC actually offered you a position, but you left for America before they could announce it."

Itachi stared at the message for a moment, absorbing the news.

Itachi: "Oh… I wasn't aware. So what happens when I return?"

Keigo: "They'll probably declare your rank once you're back."

Itachi: "Understood."
After a pause, Itachi added, "Any news about Kaina?"

Keigo: "No, nothing yet. But I can tell you one thing—the director of the HPSC? There's something fishy about him."

Itachi narrowed his eyes, his fingers quickly tapping out a reply.

Itachi: "What do you mean?"

Keigo: "That guy has some serious issues. I'm pretty sure he's corrupt. Something doesn't feel right about how he operates."

Itachi remained silent for a few seconds, processing Keigo's words.

Itachi: "I see. Thanks for the heads-up. Be careful, though."

Keigo: "Don't worry, I'm looking into it more. I'll also try to dig up some info about Kaina for you."

Itachi: "I appreciate it, but make sure to watch your back."

Keigo: "Yeah, man. You too. Stay sharp."

Itachi put down his phone, his mind now occupied with thoughts of the HPSC and the mysterious corruption within it. His eyes darkened slightly as he considered the implications of Keigo's words. He was also concerned about Kaina's absence.

Closing his eyes, he let out a deep breath. The day had been long, and tomorrow would be even tougher. But as always, he would face it with unshaken resolve.

"I believe in Keigo..." Itachi muttered, sitting down. Later that night, after changing into a simple white t-shirt and black track pants, Itachi found himself back in his quarters. The room was filled with officers, including Lewis and his friends.

"Hey man, nice fight out there," Lewis greeted as he entered.

Itachi looked at them, giving a small nod. "Thank you."

Adam grinned. "Your illusions were pretty impressive... not that I saw them firsthand, but still."

Jasper chimed in, "Yeah, you had us all fooled."

Itachi allowed himself a small smile. "Thank you."

Lewis clapped him on the shoulder playfully. "Bro, you gotta smile more! You should be happy—you're working with Star! Not just that, you're her sidekick."

Itachi raised an eyebrow. "There must be other sidekicks besides me."

Jasper shook his head. "Nope, you're the only one."

Itachi looked at him, a little surprised. "Really?"

They all nodded, and Lewis added, "That's why, bro. You should be proud."

Itachi gave a small smile and nodded. They all sat down, chatting. At one point, Lewis asked, "So, Itachi, how old are you?"

"I'm 17," Itachi replied.

They all sighed dramatically. "Ah, not drinking age yet," Adam joked.

Itachi nodded, unbothered.

Then, with a teasing smirk, Lewis asked, "So, is there someone special back in Japan?"

Itachi glanced at him, smiling slightly. "Yes, there is."

Adam leaned in with a grin. "Ooh, lucky girl, huh?"

Itachi said nothing, simply smiling and letting out a soft sigh. "What about you guys?" he asked.

Lewis chuckled. "Well, I'm married."

Adam nodded. "Same here, and I've got a daughter."

Jasper shrugged. "I'm single... still waiting for my 'muse'."

Everyone laughed, and Lewis shook his head. "Bro, just say 'woman.' 'Muse' makes it sound weird."

Itachi nodded, amused by the banter. Jasper threw his hands up. "Alright, alright."

The group shared more laughter, and after about ten minutes, they all settled into their beds, slowly drifting off to sleep.

At 5 a.m., Itachi woke up, noticing that all the military officers were already up. He quickly showered and changed into his military outfit before stepping outside to join them. As he approached the group, he spotted Star, now dressed in her own military attire. Her presence commanded attention as she spoke firmly to the gathered soldiers.

"You all know the routine," she began, her voice clear and authoritative. "But we have a newcomer today." She glanced at Itachi before turning back to the others. "So I'll give him some advice. The rest of you, get to your workout. And don't forget to warm up—is that clear?"

"Yes, ma'am!" the soldiers responded in unison before dispersing to begin their exercises.

Now alone with Itachi, Star turned to him, her expression serious but not unkind. "For the next month, you'll be training with them," she said, gesturing toward a group of elite female soldiers. Itachi nodded in acknowledgment and bowed respectfully.

"These are the most elite female soldiers," Star continued. "You might be wondering why I'm placing you with them instead of the men."

Itachi remained silent, his sharp gaze focused on her.

She explained, "The men are already used to this level of workout. You're new, and it might take a toll on you if you jump straight into their routines. That's why you'll be working with the women for now. But don't misunderstand—this doesn't mean their exercises are any easier. In fact, they train just as hard, but with a little extra time to complete the tasks."

Her eyes sharpened as she delivered her final words. "If you surpass them, you'll move on to the men's workout. Is that clear?"

Itachi stood tall, his expression resolute. "Yes, ma'am," he replied.

"Louder."

"Yes, ma'am!" he repeated, his voice stronger.

Satisfied, Star gave a small nod and continued, "Your first workout is 'The Murph.' It's a one-mile run, followed by 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and then another one-mile run. You have 70 minutes to complete it."

Itachi's eyes flickered with determination. He glanced at the group, already preparing themselves.

"Are you ready?" Star called out to everyone.

"Yes, ma'am!" the soldiers responded again in unison.

"Then go!" Star commanded.

Itachi immediately sprinted forward with the others, his mind focused on the challenge ahead.

Itachi had completed the intense Murph workout, his body glistening with sweat as he breathed steadily. Though fatigued, his calm demeanor betrayed none of the exhaustion most would feel after such a brutal regimen. Star observed him closely from a distance, her sharp gaze assessing every movement he made.

His body is perfectly conditioned, she thought, her lips curling into a small smile. That gives him an undeniable advantage... I can tell he's been doing this kind of training since he was a small child. He knows his limits, especially in terms of physical strength, which is why he's focused on honing it.

Watching him work was fascinating for her. Unlike most recruits, Itachi moved with purpose and precision, each exercise methodical, as if he had calculated every step before taking it. He's smart, disciplined... working with him is going to be interesting.

Itachi wiped his brow, clearing the sweat from his face. He looked at the other soldiers, many of whom were also catching their breath. His muscles were strained, but he was far from spent.

"Simple enough," Itachi thought, glancing at the group. But the full-body nature of the workout adds a strain that can't be ignored. Endurance is key.

He sighed quietly, his focus unwavering.

Star approached him, noticing the determination still burning in his eyes. "You did well," she said, her smirk returning. "But we're not done yet. There's one more challenge."

Itachi, still catching his breath, turned to her, waiting for the next instruction.

"Are you tired already?" she teased, her tone light but challenging.

Itachi cleaned his face with the back of his hand and shook his head. "No, I'm not tired."

Star's smirk widened. Impressive. "Good. Then let's move on. The others have already finished, and now it's time for the Ruck March."

She gestured toward a pile of weighted rucksacks. "See that?" she said. "The rucks weigh between 70 to 90 kilograms. Your task is to carry one on your back and run two miles. This will test your endurance and stamina, so be prepared."

Itachi's gaze followed where she pointed, and he nodded, understanding the difficulty ahead. "Yes, ma'am."

Without hesitation, he bent down and lifted one of the heavy rucks. The weight settled against his back, and while it was manageable, he knew that running two miles with it would be no easy task. Carrying this will challenge my strength, but running will push my endurance to the limit.

As he straightened up, he felt the pressure of the ruck against his shoulders, but his posture remained steady. Around him, the other soldiers were picking up their own rucks, preparing for the march.

"Let's go!" Star commanded, her voice firm.

As Itachi continued running with the heavy ruck strapped to his back, the strain in his muscles became more apparent. Each step felt heavier than the last, the weight pressing down relentlessly. His breathing remained steady, but he could feel his body pushing closer to its limits. However, he didn't slow down. His pace remained strong, his determination unshakable.

The women soldiers running alongside him glanced at him occasionally. They had all heard about this newcomer, the quiet one with impressive skills, but now that they were seeing him in action, they couldn't help but be impressed. His endurance, his focus, his calm under pressure—it was unlike anything they had expected.

"How does he keep going?" one of them wondered, her own muscles burning from the effort.

Star, watching from a distance, kept her eyes on Itachi. A smirk played on her lips as she observed his pace and posture. He's holding up well, she thought. The strain's obvious, but he's not slowing down. Impressive...

She chuckled quietly to herself. He just needs to eat more. That's all. With the right diet, he'll bulk up fast... and he might just become as muscular as me. The thought amused her.

As they neared the end of the run, Star could already picture the future. Today's patrol is going to be interesting, she mused, her smirk widening. With Itachi, it's going to be a lot more fun than I thought.

After running the two miles with the heavy ruck, Itachi felt his chest heaving as he set the weight aside, his breathing ragged. He wiped the sweat from his brow, feeling the burn in his muscles. "Yes... military training is hard," he muttered, still catching his breath.

Star, standing nearby, nodded in agreement. "I know. It pushes everyone to their limits. But you're holding up well." She glanced at him briefly before adding, "Take a ten-minute cooldown, then freshen up. We'll move on after."

Itachi nodded, his hair damp with sweat. He noticed the quiet whispers of the female soldiers around him. Some murmured in tired tones, commenting on his appearance.

"He looks good," one of them said.

"Yeah," another agreed, "but remember, girls—he's only 17."

There was a collective sigh as the group began their cooldown stretches. Itachi, overhearing them, merely sighed to himself, focused on maintaining his composure. "I'll take my leave," he said softly.

Star nodded, glancing at the time. "Be ready to head out by eight. Is that clear?"

"Yes, ma'am," Itachi replied with a nod. He walked back to his quarters, letting out a deep huff as he collapsed on the bed for a moment, his body still buzzing from the workout. After a moment of rest, he made his way to the shower, feeling the hot water wash away the exhaustion.

When he emerged, refreshed, he began changing into his hero outfit, a simple yet efficient design that allowed for easy movement. As he was in the middle of dressing, the door suddenly swung open. Jasper barged in without knocking.

"Itachi, hurry up!" Jasper exclaimed, barely noticing the intrusion. "Star's waiting."

Itachi nodded as he finished getting ready. His outfit, sleek and practical, caught Jasper's attention. "Is that your hero outfit?" Jasper asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes," Itachi replied calmly. "I know what you're going to say. I like these clothes. They're easy to move in."

Jasper shrugged, unimpressed but accepting. "Whatever you say. Just come on, man."

After getting dressed, Itachi stepped out and met Star. She was in her hero costume—a high-collared, skin-tight bodysuit adorned with shoulder pads, boots, and gauntlets. The upper torso was decorated with bold stripes, her gauntlets and collar studded with metal stars. A long, striped cape resembling the U.S. flag completed her look. She glanced at Itachi with a smirk, clearly satisfied with his readiness.

"Are you ready?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of challenge.

Itachi nodded, his expression stoic as ever. "Yes, I'm ready."

As Star began walking toward the plane, Itachi followed closely behind, glancing at the sleek aircraft. She looked back at him, her voice steady but urgent. "We have a request in San Diego, California," she said.

Itachi nodded and boarded the plane alongside her, settling into his seat. As they took off, the hum of the engines filled the cabin. After a few minutes of silence, he asked, "How long will it take to get there?"

Star leaned back, casually checking her watch. "Around ten hours. Normally, a flight like this would take twenty, but this one's much faster."

Itachi nodded again, appreciating the efficiency. "What exactly are we dealing with?"

Star's expression turned serious. "There's a villain causing chaos, and worse, killing innocent people. His name is Venombane. His quirk is called Toxic Surge."

Itachi's eyes narrowed. "By the sound of it, I assume he can create poisonous gases and venom?"

"Exactly," Star confirmed with a smirk. "He's polluting the air, and it's killing people."

"This is bad," Itachi remarked, his voice dropping into a more serious tone.

Star nodded grimly. "That's why we're headed there." She handed him a mask. "Here, wear this. It'll help you breathe in case we encounter any toxins."

He took the mask and examined it before slipping it into his bag. "Got it."

Star continued, "Recently, the toxins have lessened, but Venombane is still at large. We think..."

Itachi cut in, "He might be planning something big."

"Exactly," Star agreed, her gaze sharpening. "We can't let our guard down."

As they settled into the long flight, Itachi's phone buzzed, and when he glanced at it, a small smile crept onto his face. It was a message from Kaina. He quickly replied, his fingers moving with an unexpected softness. Star, noticing his expression, chuckled lightly.

"You can smile like that, huh?" she teased.

Itachi, suddenly aware of her eyes on him, put his phone down and said, "It's nothing."

Star gave him a playful nudge. "Come on, who is she?"

After a brief pause, Itachi responded, "My girlfriend."

Star raised an eyebrow, a grin spreading across her face. "Oh, really? Is she a hero too?"

"Yes," Itachi confirmed. "She's the No. 3 hero."

Star's eyes widened slightly. "Hero love, huh? That's cute." She leaned back, a teasing smile still on her lips. "No. 3, huh? Impressive."

Itachi smiled softly, but didn't say more. The rest of the flight passed in relative quiet until they landed in San Diego. As they stepped out of the plane, a flood of camera flashes greeted them. Reporters and media swarmed the runway, all eager for a shot of Star and her new sidekick.

Itachi sighed, feeling the weight of the attention. "This is why I don't like crowds," he muttered.

Star laughed, nudging him again. "You'll get used to it. Comes with the job."

As Star and Itachi stepped off the plane, the flashing cameras and murmur of reporters quickly turned into a barrage of questions. One particularly eager reporter rushed forward, mic in hand, asking, "Star! Star! Can you tell us about your new sidekick, Aegis?"

Star glanced at Itachi with a smirk before facing the media. "Aegis is exceptional. He's strong, disciplined, and tactical. He may be new to the scene, but I have full confidence in him. You'll see for yourselves soon enough."

The media buzzed with excitement, scribbling down notes and snapping more pictures. Another reporter stepped forward, this time addressing Itachi. "Aegis, what's it like working with a top-ranked hero like Star?"

Itachi, his expression calm, simply responded, "It's an honor. She is strong, and I've learned a lot in a short time."

The questions continued to pile up, the media intrigued by the stoic and composed demeanor of the mysterious sidekick. "Aegis, what's your strategy for taking down Venombane? Do you feel prepared for such a dangerous villain?" another asked.

Itachi met the question with the same steady calm. "Our goal is to stop Venombane and protect the people. I'm prepared, but I can't do it alone. That's why we work as a team."

The media began to get more persistent, crowding closer with their mics and cameras. "Aegis, can you tell us about your quirk? How do you plan to handle the toxic gases?"

Without missing a beat, Itachi responded, "We're here to capture the villain. Our focus is on completing that task."

His concise, straightforward answer caused the reporters to pause. Star let out a small laugh, stepping forward with a wave of her hand. "Alright, folks, that's enough for now. We've got work to do. Excuse us."

With that, she led the way through the crowd, her cape fluttering in the breeze as they moved toward their destination. The reporters were left buzzing with curiosity, their questions lingering in the air as Star and Itachi made their exit.

As they walked away from the media frenzy, Star glanced over at Itachi, still smirking. "You're pretty good at handling the press. Direct and no-nonsense. I like it."

Itachi simply nodded, his mind already focused on the mission ahead.

As Star finished her phone call, she turned to Itachi. "We've got Venombane's last known location—[xx] Road. Let's move."

Itachi nodded silently, following her as they exited the airport. Without hesitation, they broke into a run, weaving through the city streets. Their speed was unmatched, closing the distance quickly. They finally arrived at an old, abandoned building, its windows cracked and the walls covered in graffiti. The air felt stale, and there was an eerie silence hanging in the air.

Itachi scanned the area, eyes narrowing as he sensed something off. "I think he's inside," he whispered.

Star nodded, her movements calculated and quiet as she approached the door. Slowly, they entered, their footsteps almost soundless. Inside, the room was mostly empty—except for rows of discarded water bottles scattered across the floor.

Star bent down, picking up one of the bottles. "Why so many empty bottles?" she wondered aloud. "Did he drink all this?"

Itachi's eyes swept across the room, his mind piecing the situation together. "Maybe... he uses water to create venom. It could be the source of his power."

Star looked at the bottles again, considering Itachi's theory. "You might be right," she agreed.

Suddenly, static crackled through her earpiece. "Venombane spotted in the main city! He's throwing venom at civilians!"

Star's eyes widened. "Let's go!"

They sprinted towards the main city, urgency propelling them forward. As they arrived, they saw the villain—a man with a bulky metal barrel strapped to his back, spewing venomous clouds into the air.

Star narrowed her eyes. "You were right. That barrel is probably filled with water he's converting into venom."

Venombane's eyes widened in terror as he saw Star and Itachi approaching. He knew who Star was—her reputation as the strongest woman was well known. Panic set in as he flailed, desperately throwing venomous clouds in their direction. But Star, with her incredible agility, dodged every attack effortlessly, closing the distance between them with ease.

As she reached him, she extended her hand and commanded, "Touch air!" In an instant, an invisible wall of compressed air formed around Venombane, trapping him inside. The thick air barrier sealed him off, preventing any more venom from escaping.

Itachi moved swiftly through the crowd, his sharp eyes taking in the damage and the injured civilians scattered around the area. Some were collapsed on the ground, their skin corroded and burned from the villain's toxic attacks. Without hesitation, he rushed to the closest victim—a man with deep corrosive burns covering his arms and chest. The pain in the man's eyes was unbearable to witness, but Itachi remained focused. Quickly lifting him, he glanced around and spotted the nearest hospital. With speed and precision, he transported the man to safety, repeating this for five more victims, despite the growing weight of the situation.

After delivering the last of the injured to the hospital, Itachi sighed, feeling the weight of his exhaustion. Just as he was about to catch his breath, his gaze fell upon a child lying motionless in the street. The boy's mother knelt beside him, desperately shaking his small body with trembling hands, tears streaming down her face.

"Please, help him!" she cried out, her voice breaking with desperation. Itachi's eyes widened slightly as he rushed over. The sight of her corroded legs only fueled his urgency.

Kneeling down, Itachi quickly checked the boy's pulse, only to find none. A chill ran through him, but his expression remained calm. He immediately began chest compressions, his movements firm and controlled.

The mother sobbed beside him, helpless, clutching her own damaged legs while watching in fear. Itachi's focus never wavered. Each compression was measured and determined, but the boy remained unresponsive. Just then, Star arrived and saw the scene unfold. Her eyes widened in surprise when she realized what Itachi was doing.

"Itachi!" she called out, understanding the gravity of the situation. She wasted no time, lifting both the boy and the mother with ease as she rushed them to the hospital. Itachi didn't stop the chest compressions, even while moving the child onto a stretcher. His resolve was unwavering.

Minutes passed, feeling like hours, until suddenly, the child gasped for air. Itachi paused as the boy's small chest began to rise and fall. He exhaled, finally allowing himself to relax, as the room filled with the sound of relieved sobbing.

The boy's mother, overwhelmed with emotion, collapsed beside her son. She saw the rise and fall of his chest beneath the oxygen mask, and her tears fell harder. "Thank you," she sobbed, her words nearly inaudible as she turned to Itachi. Without warning, she wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug, crying into his chest. "Thank you for saving my child."

Itachi, caught off guard, stiffened at the unexpected embrace. He blinked, unsure how to react, before awkwardly placing a hand on her shoulder. "There's no need to thank me," he said softly, his voice steady.

The mother finally released him, her tears still flowing as she moved to her son's side. The boy's breathing had stabilized, and a faint color had returned to his cheeks.

Standing beside him, Star smiled warmly. "It feels good, doesn't it? Helping people like this… seeing them happy."

Itachi nodded, though his expression remained stoic. Inside, he felt a flicker of warmth, but it was a feeling he hadn't fully grasped yet.

As they turned to leave, the mother called out once more. "Excuse me," she said, her voice softer now but still filled with gratitude. Both Itachi and Star turned to face her.

She looked directly at Itachi, her tear-filled eyes full of appreciation. "What's your name?"

Itachi gave a small smile. "I'm Aegis."

The woman's lips trembled as she smiled through her tears. "Thank you again, Aegis… for saving my child."

Itachi gave her a brief nod, and with that, he and Star left the hospital, the weight of his deeds silently accompanying him.

With the situation under control, Star called in the authorities. As the police arrived, Itachi stepped forward. With a brief but focused glance, he put Venombane into a deep sleep, ensuring he wouldn't resist as the officers cuffed him and took him away.

"Mission complete," Star said with a satisfied grin, watching the police van drive off. She turned to Itachi, giving him a nod of approval. "Not bad for your first mission, Aegis."

Itachi simply nodded in return, the faintest trace of a smile crossing his lips. "This is just the beginning."

After the mission was complete, Itachi turned to Star. "So, we have to leave now?" he asked, his voice calm as usual.

Star shook her head with a smirk. "Not right now. We're staying here for the night. We'll leave tomorrow."

Itachi nodded, understanding the need to rest after the long journey and the mission. As they walked towards their hotel, Star checked her phone. "Looks like the hotel's already booked," she mentioned, leading the way inside.

They reached the hotel and checked in, both receiving separate rooms. Once inside, Itachi let out a quiet sigh, sitting down for a moment. The room was peaceful, and after the intensity of the day, he welcomed the calm. After a night he went asleep.

The next morning, Itachi woke up early, freshened up, and changed into his hero outfit. As he opened the door to his room, he saw Star standing just outside, her hand raised, about to knock.

"Ready?" she asked, with a smirk.

Itachi nodded. "Yes."

"Good. We're heading to Texas now," she informed him, her eyes scanning him briefly as if already making mental notes.

Itachi nodded again, and as they stepped out of the hotel, the familiar swarm of media was already waiting. Cameras flashed, reporters shouted questions, but they both ignored the noise. The hotel management approached them quickly, bowing slightly. "We've arranged a vehicle for you."

Star nodded in appreciation. "Thank you. Let's get going." She turned to Itachi, who merely nodded as they both hurried into the car. As they pulled away from the crowd, Itachi exhaled, glancing out of the window.

"So, more training?" he asked, his tone calm but with a hint of fatigue from the constant movement.

Star chuckled, leaning back in her seat. "Oh, you bet. But, from now on, I'm also going to set up your diet."

Itachi blinked, turning to her with a puzzled expression. "My diet?"

"Yup. You've got to bulk up a bit. Look more muscular," she said with a grin, as if the idea was already set in stone.

Itachi sighed inwardly, already predicting the conversation. "I appreciate the concern, but I don't need to be muscular."

Star gave him a questioning look. "Why not?"

He kept his gaze forward, his voice steady. "The more muscle you build, the less flexibility you have. I rely on speed and agility as much as strength." He paused briefly before continuing. "Even if you give me a strict diet plan, my body doesn't bulk up that way."

Star frowned slightly, intrigued. "What makes you say that?"

"My mother tried to get me to gain muscle mass when I was younger, but it never happened," Itachi explained, his tone casual but firm. "It's just how my body works."

Star smirked, raising an eyebrow. "So, you're challenging me?"

Itachi shook his head, his expression calm. "No. I'm simply stating a fact. I don't want to be bulky."

She let out a small sigh, leaning back into her seat. "Fine, fine. If that's what you want." Her voice carried a note of playful frustration, but she respected his decision.

Itachi glanced out of the window again, his mind already shifting back to the mission ahead. Though he appreciated Star's care, he had always known his limits and what his body needed to perform at its best.

As they continued toward the airport, the conversation faded into a comfortable silence, both of them focused on the tasks that lay ahead.

After they reached the airport and boarded the plane, Star glanced at Itachi as they settled into their seats. "You know," she said, breaking the silence, "you need to talk more. You're always so quiet."

Itachi sighed softly, leaning back into his seat. "People tell me that a lot."

She grinned teasingly. "Like a nerd."

Itachi heard the word and couldn't help but remember Erika, a small, sad smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Maybe I am," he replied softly, his mind briefly drifting to memories of her. As he looked at Star, her blonde hair and green eyes reminded him a little of Erika, causing a flicker of nostalgia.

Noticing his change in demeanor, Star raised an eyebrow. "You seem like you've got something on your mind. If you want to talk about it, you can. It's just the two of us on this flight."

Itachi sighed again but managed a faint smile. "It's nothing much."

"How about telling me about your quirk, then?" she asked, her tone more serious now, curiosity piquing her expression.

Itachi glanced at her and, after a moment of hesitation, decided to explain. "If that's what you want… My quirk is called the Sharingan. It has four stages." He paused before continuing. "The first three stages are one tomoe, two tomoe, and three tomoe. These allow me to see things in slow motion, predict movements, see quirk coils, and even perform minimal illusions or copy movements."

Star's eyes widened in surprise. "That much, just in the early stages?"

He nodded. She then asked, "What about the final stage?"

There was a brief hesitation. She noticed it and leaned in slightly. "Like I said, it's just us here. You can tell me."

After a moment, Itachi activated his Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan. His eyes shifted, the complex pattern of his Mangekyō appearing, catching Star's attention.

"The pattern changed… it's more intricate," she observed, staring at his eyes with newfound awe.

Itachi nodded. "This is the Mangekyō Sharingan."

She processed the information for a moment before recalling something. "So, that red skeleton you summoned during the sports festival… that was from this?"

"Yes," Itachi confirmed. "It also significantly improves the power of my illusions."

Star nodded thoughtfully. Then, narrowing her eyes, she studied him closely. "There's more, isn't there?" she asked, her voice soft but piercing, as if she already knew the answer.

Itachi hesitated again but eventually nodded. "There's another ability," he admitted quietly. "It's called Amaterasu."

"Sun god?" she translated, intrigued.

"Yes. It's a black flame… flames from hell, as hot as the sun itself. They burn anything they touch until it's completely consumed."

Star's eyes widened again. "That's… intense."

"That's why I avoid using it," Itachi said, his voice tinged with caution. "It's too dangerous."

She nodded slowly, understanding the weight of such a power. "I can see why you'd want to hold back. I appreciate you telling me. That's quite a quirk you've got."

Star listened intently, her curiosity piqued as she processed Itachi's words. "If I touched your Amaterasu…"

Itachi interrupted with a calm but grave tone. "No… if you touch it, not even ashes remain. It spreads incredibly fast, in the blink of an eye."

She exhaled softly, understanding the seriousness. "That's a very strong quirk," she mused, her expression thoughtful. After a pause, she asked another question, her curiosity still unsatisfied. "One more thing… how does this stage unlock? Is it tied to age? I presume that as you grow, a new stage unlocks."

Itachi looked at her, and his expression shifted to one of sadness, the weight of the truth evident. "No," he replied softly.

She frowned slightly, sensing the shift in his mood. "Then how?"

He took a breath before continuing, his voice carrying a deeper emotional note. "These eyes unlock through… emotional growth under extreme conditions."

Star's eyes narrowed with concern, seeing the sadness that flickered in Itachi's gaze. He continued, his tone quieter now, tinged with the melancholy of his past. "The Mangekyō Sharingan… it evolves through experiencing the trauma of loss."

She looked at him more closely now, her heart heavy as she saw the pain in his eyes. "Who… who did you lose?" she asked softly, almost afraid to hear the answer.

Itachi hesitated for a moment, his voice steady but filled with sorrow. "Her name was Erika… she was my caretaker. More like a sister to me. She died… a villain shot her."

Star widened her eyes in shock, realizing the depth of the tragedy he carried. "I'm… I'm so sorry for your loss," she whispered, her voice sincere.

Itachi smiled faintly, though the sadness lingered in his eyes. "No need," he said, his gaze softening as he looked down at the locket around his neck. "That's where my motivation comes from… to keep moving forward."

He gently touched the locket, his fingers tracing its surface, and a small, bittersweet smile formed on his face. Star watched him quietly, feeling a deep sense of respect for him. She offered a gentle smile in return, understanding the silent strength behind his calm demeanor.

"She must've been special," Star finally said.

"She was," Itachi replied, his voice soft but full of warmth.

As they arrived at the military base, Itachi and Star stepped out of the vehicle. The heavy steel gates opened, revealing the organized bustle of the base, with soldiers moving swiftly and equipment stationed all around. Star stretched slightly, rubbing the back of her neck.

"We've just completed a ten-hour journey," she said, sounding both impressed and exhausted. "Next day's training is going to be interesting."

Itachi glanced at her, his usual calm demeanor in place. "What's the plan for tomorrow?" he asked, always focused on the mission ahead.

Star turned to him with a smirk. "How about we take a look at that red skeleton of yours? I've been dying to see it up close since the sports festival."

Itachi raised a brow. "Are you sure?" he questioned. His tone was cautious, but there was a subtle hint of challenge beneath it.

Star grinned confidently, her hands on her hips. "Bet I am. I want to see what makes you so special."

He nodded slightly, though there was still a glimmer of concern in his eyes. "Alright then… tomorrow."

Star softened her expression and patted him on the back. "For now, take some rest. You've earned it."