Izuku slowly opened his eyes and found himself in a completely dark space, enveloped by a dense and oppressive fog that twisted around him. The atmosphere was so heavy that the air seemed to carry an indescribable energy, as if every particle was charged with a supernatural force. Beside him, Aguilar remained in a meditative posture, with a focused expression, as if he too could sense the magnitude of that strange place.
As Izuku stood up, a series of murmurs began to surround him. They didn't come from any particular direction but seemed to emerge from the environment itself, disembodied whispers that resonated with a mix of fear and curiosity.
"Is he the new bearer?"*
"Will he be able to withstand the power?"*
"The last one only obtained a part..."*
Izuku clenched his fists, drawing strength from the very nervousness that overwhelmed him. He knew the time had come to face what he had asked for, but nothing had prepared him for that unsettling welcome.
In front of him, an imposing figure emerged from the darkness. It was a man who exuded an overwhelming presence, and although he was surrounded by shadows, he seemed to attract and dominate each one of them. He was seated on a throne, like a monarch observing his subject, but there was something in his gaze that showed respect and fierce determination.
To one side of this individual, another figure began to materialize: a tall and robust warrior, covered in armor that seemed to shine spectrally. His face was serious, like someone who had fought countless battles and survived to tell the tale. Izuku felt a mix of awe and respect in his presence, as if he were facing a soldier who had transcended time itself.
Before Izuku could process the appearance of the warrior, a third, even more imposing figure materialized to the right of the throne. This silhouette emanated a golden light that pierced through the shadows and seemed to radiate with an ancient and absolute power. Beside him, a figure with sharp features and insectoid traits observed him, as if sizing Izuku up without uttering a word. Both remained completely silent, but the intensity of their gazes was enough to convey the gravity of the situation.
Izuku felt an immense pressure bearing down on him. The shadows seemed to intensify, as if they were all converging on his very essence. It was then that the man on the throne spoke, his resonant voice breaking the silence with undeniable authority.
-*A new bearer has arrived at our gates.* -His words were slow, and each one seemed to carry a ton of meaning - *Tell me, what has brought you here? What do you think you can achieve in this place?* -
Izuku swallowed, feeling each word reverberate within him. He knew he couldn't afford to doubt, not after deciding to walk this path. Raising his gaze, he responded with a firm voice:
-*I am here because I want to obtain the power necessary to protect others. I don't care what it takes. I want to be strong... as strong as possible* -.
A murmur swept through the dark environment, as if the shadows themselves were reacting to his words. The golden figure, who had remained silent until now, nodded slowly, evaluating each of Izuku's words with an inscrutable expression.
-*To be strong... for what?* -The golden figure finally broke the silence, with a voice that seemed to pierce Izuku's very essence- *Being strong is not enough. This power is not simply a weapon. It is a legacy, a path of sacrifice and pain. Are you truly prepared to bear that weight?* -.
Izuku nodded, clenching his fists with determination. For him, it wasn't just about strength. He had spent too much time without answers, too many years being the kid everyone underestimated. Now, the opportunity to change his destiny was before him, and he had no intention of turning back.
-*I know* -Izuku replied, his voice sounding stronger than he expected- *I've learned that being strong is not enough. But I've also learned that only by facing danger and sacrifices will I be able to protect those who matter to me. I am willing to pay the price* -.
The figures exchanged glances, their expressions grave and serene. It was as if they could see directly into his soul, evaluating every fiber of his being. Finally, the spectral armored warrior stepped forward, his presence emanating a sense of respect and honor.
-*This power is not granted to just anyone. Those who have possessed it before you were warriors and leaders, men and women who pushed beyond their limits to face horrors that no ordinary person could imagine. Are you sure you wish to walk the same path?* -.
Izuku nodded, his resolve unshakable. He knew those figures were more than mere observers. They were guardians, protectors of a legacy passed down from one generation to the next, always with the same rigor and brutality.
-*Then, you will undergo the trial* -said the figure on the throne, with a voice that seemed to resonate from the very center of the universe- *Only those who prove their worth can obtain the power. Prepare yourself, for the path will be difficult and dark* -.
With those words, the atmosphere grew even more oppressive. The shadows seemed to close in around Izuku, and he felt the air grow dense, as if the entire place was trying to crush him with its weight. But Izuku kept his gaze steady, not backing down, as his mind and body prepared for what was to come.
Suddenly, the shadows came to life, swirling around him and creating nightmarish figures that tried to strip away the security and courage he had built up. But Izuku didn't let himself be intimidated. He knew he was facing not just a physical trial, but a confrontation with his own fears and doubts.
One of the shadows lunged at him, trying to sink into his skin, but Izuku repelled it with a wave of energy. He refused to succumb to his fears, and with each shadow he defeated, he felt the power within him grow, fueled by his will.
After what seemed like an eternity, the shadows began to retreat, and the observing figures spoke again, with a note of approval in their voices.
-*You have proven your worth. But remember, the power that now resides within you can also consume those who are unable to control it. Use this gift wisely, and do not let it control you* -.
The day after his initiation, Izuku was determined to test and understand the power that now flowed within him. He still couldn't fully comprehend everything that had happened in that mysterious "realm of shadows," but he knew there was no time for doubt. Aguilar had arranged a training area specifically for him to experiment with his new abilities, and after a brief orientation, he left Izuku alone to explore the potential of the power in his own way.
Izuku took a deep breath, focusing on the memory of the shadow knight he had encountered during the ritual. He closed his eyes and tried to feel the essence that now dwelled within him, like a new sense he was just beginning to understand. As he extended his hand, a dark energy began to swirl in his palm, spinning like a contained storm.
-*Come on, I can do this* -he murmured, feeling the energy respond to his will.
He concentrated on the image of the armored knight, visualizing every detail. As if responding to a call, a figure began to form in front of him, emerging from the shadows swirling on the ground. The dark silhouette grew and solidified until the imposing knight appeared, his armor gleaming and his greatsword ready for battle.
-*So this is what it feels like?* -Izuku murmured, observing the warrior he had summoned with awe.
The knight slightly inclined his head in a gesture of respect, but said nothing. Izuku noticed that, although the knight was under his control, he maintained a presence of his own, as if he weren't just an extension of his power, but an independent being.
- *Let's see how strong you are* -Izuku said, adopting a defensive stance.
The knight nodded and raised his sword, advancing toward Izuku with heavy but steady steps. In a matter of seconds, the knight attacked, launching a vertical strike that sliced through the air. Izuku barely had time to dodge, rolling to the side as he watched the sword strike the ground with a force that shook the room.
Izuku took advantage of the opening and lunged forward, throwing a punch wrapped in shadows that hit the knight's armor. To his surprise, the punch resonated with a metallic echo, but it barely made the warrior step back. The knight quickly counterattacked, spinning and launching a horizontal slash that forced Izuku to retreat.
- *You're not holding back, huh, Igris!* -Izuku shouted, feeling the adrenaline flow through his veins.
Izuku focused on better controlling his shadows, extending them along his arms and legs. With each movement, he felt the power respond, increasing his speed and strength. He lunged at the knight again, throwing a series of shadow-enhanced punches that seemed to crackle in the dark air of the training room.
The knight blocked each strike, but Izuku noticed that the flow of the battle was beginning to tilt slightly in his favor. He started moving with more agility, using his opponent's weight to launch precise counterattacks. A couple of his punches finally broke through the knight's guard, hitting his armor with force.
The warrior, in response, took a step back and straightened, raising his sword in a gesture that seemed to be a mix of challenge and respect. Izuku knew the knight was preparing for a final attack, one that would push his skills to the limit. He felt the air grow charged with energy as the knight raised his sword and lunged at him with astonishing speed.
Izuku extended his hands, summoning shadows to create a shield around him. The knight charged with his sword, and the clash between the shadow energy and the steel resonated with a thunderous sound that seemed to split the room. Izuku held his ground, pushing against the knight's force with all his will. The shadow barrier held, but barely. He felt it could give way at any moment.
With a final effort, Izuku shouted and released a wave of energy that spread from his body, dissipating the shadows and pushing the knight back. Exhausted but with a satisfied smile, he collapsed to the floor, watching as the knight bowed once more before fading into the darkness.
-*So... I can do it* -Izuku murmured, breathing heavily- *But I still have a lot to learn* -.
.
.
.
.
At the Monarch facilities in the United States, Izuku headed to the meeting room, where two familiar figures awaited him: Commander Johnson and Sergeant Forge. Both were veterans of Monarch Mercs and had worked on countless protection operations in conflict zones. Izuku had met them during his training and felt comfortable with them; he knew they were men of their word and action, with extensive field experience.
Johnson, a tall and burly man with an imposing presence, had a sharp and confident gaze. Beside him, Sergeant Forge, slightly shorter but no less intimidating, stood out for his scars and stern expression. Izuku took a seat across from them as Johnson organized some papers and maps on the table.
-*Well, Midoriya, we've reviewed your request to join our next protection operation in Africa* -Johnson began, looking at him seriously - *This won't be an easy mission. We'll be deploying to some of the most dangerous areas on the continent, where stability is fragile and the presence of hostile quirks is constant* -.
Izuku nodded, listening attentively. He knew he was taking a great risk, but he was determined to be prepared to face any challenge the world could throw at him. Johnson continued, unfolding a map of Africa on the table and pointing to several locations.
-*Our first stop will be in northern Nigeria, in the Borno area. The region has been dealing with armed militias and insurgent groups that, in recent months, have begun using quirks to terrorize communities. Our task will be to protect nearby villages and, at the same time, identify and neutralize quirk-wielding threats. The UN has specifically requested our intervention due to the lack of infrastructure to deal with individuals with special abilities* -.
-*And what will our next destination be?* -Izuku asked, interested.
-*After Nigeria, we'll move to Somalia* -Forge interjected, crossing his arms - *In Mogadishu, there's a large number of displaced people due to violence. Our mission there will be to secure refugee camps and maintain peace in the area, as there have also been reports of traffickers seeking to exploit refugees with powers. It's an unstable environment, and constant vigilance is needed* -.
Johnson nodded and pointed to the next location on the map, in the Horn of Africa.
-*Finally, we'll head to the border between Ethiopia and South Sudan. The situation there is delicate, as tensions between local communities and armed groups are high. We're expected to serve as a deterrent force, protecting Quirkless communities from potential attacks and ensuring access to humanitarian aid* -.
Izuku processed the information, aware that he was about to enter one of the harshest environments he had ever faced. Although his training had been rigorous, he knew that real field experience would be completely different. Still, the desire to grow stronger and understand the world in its entirety pushed him forward.
-*When do we leave?* -Izuku asked, determined.
Forge smiled and gave him a pat on the shoulder.
-*In three days, kid. Use the time to prepare, because this will be unlike anything you've experienced so far* -.
.
.
.
.
In the days leading up to their departure, Izuku underwent rigorous training in hand-to-hand combat and weapon handling under the supervision of Johnson and Forge. Although he already had combat experience from years of martial arts training, this time the preparation focused on specific techniques used in military settings. This training wasn't just about fighting; it was about surviving and protecting on the battlefield.
Izuku was in the Monarch training gym, a spacious area with mats, sparring equipment, and various combat elements. Johnson stood in front of him, adopting a closed combat stance.
-*Today you'll learn the basics of military hand-to-hand combat. This isn't a sports fighting ring* -Johnson warned him- *Here, the goal is to incapacitate the enemy as quickly as possible and move on. There are no rules, and there's no mercy* -.
Izuku nodded, focused. His combat stance was more open and fluid, typical of mixed martial arts, but Johnson immediately corrected him.
-*Close your body more and protect your vital points. You're not here to show off your technique; you're here to avoid getting hit* -he instructed, adjusting Izuku's arms and foot positioning.
Johnson taught him basic defensive and counterattacking moves, including how to quickly neutralize an opponent with locks, levers, and joint-targeting techniques. Izuku had to quickly adapt to the new style, where every move had to be efficient and lethal.
-*Remember, this isn't about fighting clean* -Johnson said as he attempted to attack Izuku- -.
Izuku, with his agility and strength, began to adapt quickly. Johnson increased the intensity of the attacks, launching fast and deadly combinations, but Izuku managed to keep up. At one point, Johnson threw a low strike, but Izuku reacted with a leg sweep, momentarily taking down the trainer.
Johnson got up smiling, approving Izuku's progress.
-*You've got it, Midoriya. You've improved in a short time. Now, we'll test you against multiple opponents* -.
Two more soldiers joined the session. This time, Izuku had to face simultaneous attacks from multiple directions, forcing him to quickly assess the situation and find ways to keep everyone at bay. For over an hour, Izuku was forced to anticipate movements, deflect attacks, and find opportunities to launch his own strikes. By the end, he was exhausted, but he had managed to defend himself against every opponent, and his confidence in handling multiple adversaries grew.
After a short break, Johnson and Forge took Izuku to an obstacle course to improve his endurance and agility. They explained that in many combat environments, the ability to move quickly through difficult terrain was essential.
-*You'll have to crawl, jump, and climb. This training is designed to simulate what you'll face in the field* -Forge explained, pointing to the course.
The course included walls to climb, ropes to swing on, tunnels to crawl through, and various obstacles that required long jumps. Izuku began, focusing on each obstacle. At first, he tried to rush through each challenge, but he soon realized that the key was to control his breathing and pace.
-*Do it again, and this time maintain your rhythm* -Johnson ordered as Izuku completed the first lap.
Izuku repeated the course over and over, improving his time and efficiency with each pass. During the final lap, Johnson increased the difficulty by throwing sandbags at him to simulate attacks, forcing him to move even faster and dodge in the process.
-*Remember, Izuku, this training isn't just about improving your physical condition -*Johnson said as Izuku continued- *It's about mental adaptation. You're preparing for situations where timing and decision-making can mean the difference between life and death* -.
After completing the obstacle course, Izuku was taken back to the shooting range. This time, the focus wasn't just on shooting accurately, but on doing so while constantly moving and changing positions. Forge strapped a weighted vest on him to increase the challenge and handed him a semi-automatic pistol.
-*You need to be able to move and shoot accurately. In the field, you won't always have time to stop and aim, so today you'll learn to shoot while on the move* -Forge instructed, setting up targets in different positions.
Izuku started at one corner of the range, running forward and crouching while shooting at the targets. At first, he struggled to maintain accuracy while moving, but Forge helped him adjust his posture and technique.
-*Keep your feet light and lower your center of gravity* -Forge instructed as Izuku fired- *Breathe between shots and don't rush. The key is to find your balance* -.
With each round, Izuku improved at maintaining precision while moving. Forge increased the difficulty by activating moving targets and throwing distractions to simulate the chaos of a real situation. Izuku had to learn to react quickly to these changes, making decisions in split seconds.
To finish, they did a magazine change exercise mid-course, forcing Izuku to learn how to reload while continuing to move. It was a constant challenge, but by the end of the session, Izuku had mastered the basics of combat shooting on the move.
At the end of the day, Izuku had one final special training session. Using his newly acquired shadow power, he summoned his knight, who became his opponent for a series of sparring matches. Johnson and Forge watched, impressed and somewhat intrigued by Izuku's new power.
The shadow knight, clad in black armor and wielding a sword, was an imposing figure. He moved quickly, attacking with sword combinations that forced Izuku to respond with agility. Izuku, in turn, combined his military training with his shadow abilities, using strikes and blocks he had learned from Johnson while maintaining distance when necessary.
As the fight progressed, Izuku noticed that he could better anticipate his summon's movements, adapting to his fighting style and finding ways to evade his attacks. At one point, Izuku dodged a thrust and launched a counterattack, momentarily knocking down the shadow knight.
-*You've got skill, Midoriya. But you need to learn to use it in sync with your other abilities* -Johnson told him as he watched.
Izuku, breathing heavily, nodded and looked at the shadow knight, who stood up ready to continue. Each encounter with his summon allowed him to explore the depths of his new power, discovering how to summon different weapons and abilities to adapt to combat.
After the final sparring match, Johnson and Forge called him for a final evaluation. Izuku was exhausted but satisfied. He had challenged himself like never before and felt he had taken another step toward becoming the hero he wanted to be.
-*Good work today, Midoriya. You're one step closer to being ready for what awaits you in Africa. But this is just the beginning. The real challenge is how you'll apply what you've learned in the field* -Forge told him, patting his shoulder.
.
.
.
.
The morning of departure arrived with an air of solemnity and anticipation. Izuku, equipped with his combat uniform and necessary gear, joined the rest of the Monarch Mercs personnel in the boarding area. Beside him, Commanders Johnson and Forge went over the final mission details. The bustle of soldiers and officers preparing equipment mixed with the sound of the military plane's engines, ready to take them to their destination.
Johnson approached Izuku and gave him a pat on the shoulder -*Ready for your first real mission, Midoriya?* -he asked, looking at him with a mix of pride and seriousness.
Izuku nodded, his face reflecting concentration. -*Yes, Commander. I'm ready* -.
-*Remember what you've learned these past days* -Forge added, adjusting his tactical vest- *This isn't training. Every decision you make out there can save lives or put them at risk. Trust your team and stay alert* -.
Izuku nodded again, grateful for the advice. Although his nerves were present, he felt a renewed confidence in his abilities. He knew the mission in Africa wouldn't be easy. They would be protecting communities without special abilities, surrounded by hostile groups and facing constant threats. He had studied every detail they had given him about the operation, and he understood the importance of maintaining peace and protecting those who couldn't defend themselves.
The other soldiers began to line up to board the plane. Johnson and Forge took their positions at the front, leading the column. The Monarch Mercs personnel, composed of soldiers and officers from different parts of the world, were ready for the mission. Some looked at him with curiosity, aware that, although young, Izuku had proven himself capable during training. Though they didn't know him well, they knew that if he was there, he had earned his place.
Once inside the plane, the Commanders explained more details of the mission. Izuku sat near them, listening attentively.
-*Our first destination will be a region in East Africa* -Johnson explained, unfolding a digital map- *Here, the people have been under constant threat from various armed groups. Our job is to protect and evacuate those in danger, as well as ensure that humanitarian resources reach those in need* -.
-*We'll be in contact with the UN and other local forces* -Forge continued- *We're not going alone, but we need to be prepared for anything. The conditions are unpredictable, and there are rumors that some of these groups are armed with advanced technology. There may be more than meets the eye* -.
Izuku listened carefully, absorbing every detail. Although he already knew the risks, hearing the Commanders' direct description made him more aware of what he was about to face. The plane took off shortly after, and once in the air, Izuku took a few moments to reflect. He had trained hard, faced trials and challenges, but he knew nothing would fully prepare him for what he was about to experience.
He turned to the window, watching the landscape change below. Doubts and fears tried to creep into his mind, but he reminded himself why he had made this decision. He had committed to being a hero who protected everyone, and this was an opportunity to prove it.
-*You're not alone* -Forge told him, noticing Izuku's gaze- *You've got us, and we're here to support you. When you land, remember that we're a team, and we all have the same goal* -.
Izuku nodded, feeling the support of his comrades. He knew that, no matter what happened, they were in this together. In a matter of hours, they would be in unfamiliar territory, facing real dangers, but they would do so as a unit.