Izuku Yagi: The Catalyst of Change

by TheUlitmate1

Izuku Yagi, neglected and pushed around, believed to be quirkless, finally gets a quirk that gives him unreal abilities. His quirk, known as Synthesist, allows him to create quirks. With this power, he chooses to prove those that doubted him wrong. Will this lead to stronger enemies or something worse. Multiple what if scenarios

19. Chapter 19: The First Internships

Here is the chapter 19 of my fanfic. I hope that everyone is doing great. I hope that you all enjoy my chapter and have a great day.

Chapter 19: The First Internships

Edgeshot led the way through the bustling agency, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings as they moved. They walked back to the room that he had walked in previously. The walls were adorned with various hero awards and framed photographs of past missions, each telling the story of a different kind of heroism. Izuku followed closely, trying to soak it all in. Gran Torino walked next to Izuku with his usual calm poise.

"Welcome to my agency, kid," Edgeshot said, his voice steady and calm. "I haven't said this, but I have a few sidekicks that aren't known to the public. The police and other agencies know them, but that is it. They like to keep themselves secret as they focus on stealth missions and the like. I like to handle bigger and more complicated missions. Sometimes they join me and other times they don't," he said, showing me some of the crime monitors.

Izuku nodded, absorbing every word. His eyes flicked over the crime monitors Edgeshot pointed to, each displaying live feeds from various parts of the city. The level of professionalism and preparation in Edgeshot's agency was nothing like anything Izuku had ever seen. He had always admired the top heroes, but being in their space made the scale of their responsibilities all too real.

"These are just the basics," Edgeshot continued, flipping a switch on the wall to reveal an array of monitors tracking ongoing missions and criminal activities. "This is where we get our intel. We have eyes on the ground, and in some cases, we have eyes above, too." He gestured toward the ceiling, where hidden cameras and motion sensors were likely tracking movement even in the darkest corners of the city.

Gran Torino, ever the quiet observer, tapped Izuku's shoulder lightly and whispered, "Edgeshot runs a tight ship, kid. He may be one of the most mysterious heroes out there, but his work speaks volumes. Pay attention."

Izuku gave Gran Torino a small nod, trying to keep his awe in check. His mind raced with thoughts. This was it, the real deal. This was what it meant to be a pro-hero.

"There is a total of 35 people in this room alone and they stay in contact with my sidekicks that I tell you about as well as me. There is an assortment of factors that lead to who will handle the crime, but we handle it swiftly."

Edgeshot continued, his voice unwavering as he addressed the room. "We don't just respond to the crimes we see. We anticipate them. We gather intel, track movements, and get ahead of the criminal activity. Our job isn't just to stop crime when it happens, but to prevent it before it even starts. This takes constant vigilance and the cooperation of every member of the team."

Edgeshot stopped in front of a large digital map of the city displayed on the wall. Small red and green dots flickered across it, marking the locations of various active cases, some under control and others still escalating. The map wasn't just for display; it was constantly updated in real-time.

"These dots represent current situations. Red means critical, green means contained. When a case pops up, we immediately make decisions on who handles it based on their skillset and location," Edgeshot explained, pointing to the flashing red dots. "For example, if we get word of a hostage situation in the north, I'm typically the first one to go, given the scope of the threat. But if we're dealing with a minor robbery, a sidekick might be sent. It's all about assessment."

Izuku was taking it all in. It was clear that Edgeshot had an extensive network, a level of coordination that made him one of the most efficient heroes. They walked past the common area of the agency, and he walked down a hallway with many doors. He opened one to show Izuku and when he looked in, it showed a bedroom. "This is where you will be staying for the next week."

"Just a basic setup," Edgeshot explained, stepping aside to let Izuku look around. "Nothing fancy, but it'll do. This is your room for the week, but you'll be spending most of your time out in the field with me or training with myself or Gran Torino."

Izuku stepped into the room, his eyes darting from one corner to the other as he took it all in. The room had a simplicity to it, but everything about it screamed efficiency. It was clear that there wasn't a single unnecessary item in the space, everything served a purpose. The bed was large enough for a good rest, and the desk was equipped with gadgets that would be useful during his stay.

"Alright. Let's get going. Time to see what you can do in person," said Edgeshot as he walked out of the room with Izuku following behind. He let him into a room down the hall and opened a door to a large white room with padding lining the walls. Edgeshot and Gran Torino stepped into the room, with Izuku following behind.

"This is a 70-foot by 70-foot room that I use to train in, and you will be training in. There are a few more rooms like this in the building, but we will use this one," Edgeshot said, popping his shoulders.

"Now," Edgeshot said stepping to the other side of the room. Gran Torino shut the door behind them and Izuku looked questioningly at the number five hero.

"Throw an attack at your highest power without destroying yourself. Don't worry about the room. It is strong enough here that it can withstand a blow from All Might. I had him test it himself. Show me what you have," he said lowering himself down.

Izuku's heart pounded as he took in Edgeshot's words. Throw an attack at my highest power? It wasn't often he was asked to show his full strength, but now, standing in front of two pro-heroes, he felt the weight of their expectations. The pressure was immense, but this was the kind of challenge he had dreamed of.

"If you are sure," he said getting into a stance as well. He started to power up Full Cowling at 55% but was cut short when he didn't see Edgeshot anymore. He then felt a chop to the neck, and he was knocked down to the ground. He looked back up to see Edgeshot was in his same spot again. "Do it again," he said calmly.

"Right. I'll do it again," Izuku muttered to himself, his hands clenched into fists as he set his focus.

This time, he didn't hesitate. He activated Full Cowling at 55% again, but with more confidence. Once more he felt a blow to his back that he wasn't expecting, and he flinched in pain. Edgeshot was attacking him before he could fully set up his Fowl Cowling. Normally, his durability would have taken care of it from activating it, but he wasn't ready, and he wasn't getting a chance to get ready.

"This is your first lesson," Edgeshot said calmly. "According to my calculations, you are taking too long to activate yourself when you are powering up. You take about 2.6 seconds to power up. Now for someone your age…that isn't bad…but in the future when you're fighting someone who has years of experience as a villain and can power up in less than 0.5 seconds. That is a problem," he said walking over to him to help him up.

Edgeshot looked him in the eye, "There is a study out there…that talks about how 42% of people can either transform or power up based on their quirks. My quirk is called Foldabody. It allows me to make myself thinner, but when I was younger it took nearly 3 seconds to make myself thin. Now, I can do it at the speed of sound. I have been practicing and training every day for this to happen. That is why you couldn't see me. The point that I am making to you is this. The first thing I want you to learn is to lower your powering-up time. It will help you in the long run. I will make sure it will be lower before you leave here. You have amazing power and speed, but you need to lower the time to power up to make yourself better," he said nodding to him.

Gran Torino watched the exchange quietly, with his hands in his pockets, a knowing smirk on his face. "It's tough love, kid. But that's how the pros do it. If you want to survive in this line of work, you can't afford to hesitate. Not even for a moment. It might not seem like a long time, but even 0.1 seconds is all the difference in the world."

Izuku took in Edgeshot's words, his mind racing. He knew that every second counted in battle but hearing it from someone like Edgeshot—the number five hero, who had honed his skill to this level—was a harsh reminder of how much he still had to learn.

"I get it," Izuku said, his voice resolute. He was determined to improve, to adapt, and to grow stronger. "I'll work on it. I won't waste any time."

Edgeshot nodded approvingly. "Good. You're showing the right attitude. I will leave you with Gran Torino as I have a mission to do really quick. Good luck," he said walking to the doors.

Izuku stood in the middle of the training room, his heart still pounding from the harsh lesson he had just received. He could feel the sting in his neck and back from where Edgeshot had struck him, but he wasn't focusing on the pain. He was focusing on the words that had been drilled into his mind. Every second counts.

Gran Torino, standing at the edge of the room with his hands still in his pockets, gave Izuku a long, scrutinizing look. "You heard him," Gran Torino said with a grin. "The big guy's not wrong. Powering up in less than 3 seconds? That's a good start, but you need to bring it down. You've got potential, but you're wasting too much time getting ready. If you want to survive, you've got to be faster."

"Yes, sir," said Izuku nodded at him.

Gran Torino gave a small chuckle, his hands still in his pockets. "Alright, kid. Let's get to work. If you're serious about this, we can start right now. No time like the present, right?" His tone was light, but there was a sharpness behind his words that made Izuku straighten his back in determination.

"Oh yeah, before I forget. You need to tell Edgeshot about what your quirk is. Not about One for All, but about Synthesist. Your father told me about it…and holy shit kid…that is likely the most powerful quirk I have ever seen. Edgeshot needs to know what it is entirely," he said, stretching out his arms.

Izuku nodded at him. "Of course, sir. I kind of figure I would have to at some point."

Gran Torino smirked, clearly pleased with Izuku's attitude. "Good. Don't worry, kid, you're not the first hero with a unique quirk to keep it under wraps. Now. Get ready," he said crouching down.

Izuku got into his fighting stance and smirked. This would be a long but fun seven days.

8 HOURS LATER

Gran Torino had finished training Izuku for the day and they were now in Edgeshot's office. Izuku had told him everything there was to know about how Synthesist can create quirks. Edgeshot leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable as he processed everything Izuku had just told him. The office was silent for a moment, the only sound being the ticking of a clock on the wall. Gran Torino stood off to the side, arms crossed, watching the interaction with an amused smirk.

Izuku sat stiffly in his chair, his hands clenched into fists on his lap. He had finally laid it all out—what Synthesist truly was, how it functioned, and what it could become.

Finally, Edgeshot exhaled through his nose, his sharp eyes locking onto Izuku's. "Yagi," he said, his voice even, yet laced with something resembling astonishment. "This is… beyond anything I expected."

Izuku swallowed but nodded. "I know it's a lot, sir. But I—"

Edgeshot raised a hand, silencing him. "It's not just a lot. It's groundbreaking." He leaned forward; his gaze serious. "I mean…this is remarkable that you have something like this. I promise to keep it under wraps. We don't need that many people to know. Thank you for telling me about the complexities of your quirk."

Edgeshot steepled his fingers, his sharp gaze still locked onto Izuku. "The sheer potential of your quirk is staggering," he said, his tone measured. "You're not just adapting to existing abilities—you're creating them. This isn't just an evolution of a quirk. This is something entirely new."

"Yes sir," he said to him.

"Well, I need to discuss some information with Gran Torino for a bit, but you can have the rest of the day off. Go eat some dinner in the café downstairs. Have it charged onto my tab. I do own the building after all," he said smiling under his mask.

Izuku's eyes widened slightly at the mention of the café, but he quickly masked his surprise. It wasn't unusual for heroes to have some perks to their positions, but this was different. Edgeshot owned the building? That spoke to a level of influence and wealth that Izuku hadn't fully grasped yet. Still, the offer was too generous to decline, especially after a grueling day of training.

"Thank you, sir," Izuku said with a respectful bow. "I'll head down there right away."

Edgeshot nodded, his mask barely twitching in what could be interpreted as a smile. "Don't get too comfortable, kid. This is just a break. Tomorrow we pick up where we left off. And remember, focus on lowering that powering-up time. I expect better results by the end of the week."

Izuku nodded again, his resolve hardening. "Understood."

Gran Torino, who had been silently observing the interaction with a bemused grin, tilted his head. "That's the spirit. But remember, kid, don't just eat. Rest up. You've got a long week ahead of you. I'm going to make sure you feel every second of it." His tone was light, but there was a glint of seriousness in his eyes. "Edgeshot's right. You've got power, kid, but it's the timing and control that will make all the difference. Don't let it slip away just because you're feeling a bit confident."

Izuku gave a firm nod, appreciating Gran Torino's words of wisdom. He didn't plan to get complacent. Not now. Not when he had so much left to prove.

With that, Izuku made his way out of the office, his footsteps echoing down the hallway as he descended to the café below. The building was quiet, its halls adorned with trophies and accolades of various heroes. He couldn't help but glance at a few, admiring the legacy of those who had come before him. Every inch of the place seemed to speak of years of training, sacrifice, and victories. It was a reminder of how much further he had to go before he could truly call himself a pro.

The café was warm and inviting, with a few heroes scattered around, eating and chatting. Izuku approached the counter and ordered a simple meal, still feeling the weight of the day's events on his shoulders. As he sat down at a table near the window, he tried to let his muscles relax, taking a few deep breaths. His body was sore, but it wasn't the physical exhaustion that weighed on him—it was the pressure of what he had just learned. He looked at his phone and said he had a few texts from some of his friends. It was 6:28 right now so most of them were likely done for the day.

Kyoka: Dude. My body is on fire from the workouts Death Arms is giving me. I think we ran about 10 miles today.

Momo: Hope everything is good with you! This is going to be a long week. I can tell already.

Ibara: I am most pleased with how holy this internship is going.

Shoji: I think I may have scared a few people when I went on my first patrol today

Izuku chuckled softly at his friends' messages, feeling a sense of camaraderie despite the exhaustion settling into his bones. He flexed his sore fingers before typing out a few responses.

To Kyoka:
That sounds brutal. Gran Torino's been pushing me hard too, but at least I didn't have to run 10 miles. Make sure to stretch or you'll feel even worse tomorrow.

To Momo:
Everything's going well! Just finished training and got a short break. You're right, this week is going to be tough, but we'll get through it!

To Ibara:
Glad to hear your internship is going well! Hope your mentor isn't too hard on you, though knowing you, I'm sure you're handling it gracefully.

To Shoji:
Don't worry, man. People just need time to get used to you. Once they see the kind of hero you are, they'll come around. How was patrol otherwise?

He hit send and leaned back in his chair, sipping on a glass of water as he watched the city outside. It was strange how normal everything looked from here, considering how much he had just learned about his own quirk. Synthesist wasn't just a powerful ability—it was something entirely different from anything that had come before it. That kind of responsibility weighed heavily on his mind.

A soft chime from his phone signaled a response. He started to scarf down some rice and chicken as he read his text.

Kyoka:
Ugh, stretching sucks, but I guess I have no choice. This hero training is trying to kill me.

Momo:
That's great to hear! Let's all do our best!

Ibara:
Thank you, Izuku. My mentor is indeed strict, but it is only to guide me on the righteous path.

Shoji:
Patrol was okay. Just a few startled looks and a kid who cried when he saw me… but I helped an old lady carry groceries, so that was nice.

Izuku frowned slightly at Shoji's message, wishing people wouldn't judge him by his appearance. Shoji was one of the kindest and most reliable people he knew.

To Shoji:
That kid will probably look back one day and realize he was scared of a great hero. You're doing amazing work; don't let it get to you!

As he sent the last message, Izuku sighed, rolling his shoulders to ease some of the tension. Tomorrow was going to be just as intense, if not more. But for now, he had a meal to finish and a moment of peace to enjoy.

He started to eat more food when he got a phone call. He looked at it and it was from Todoroki. He got confused and answered it.

"Hello?" he asked.

"Izuku, I need some help," he said blandly which confused Izuku.

"With what?" he asked.

"My brother is annoying me," he said making Izuku smile and then chuckle. "Which one?" he asked still chuckling. "Toya. He was training me during my internship earlier as Frostflare and now he won't stop being all up close and personal."

"Well," Izuku said, still amused, "I'm not sure how I can help with that. He is your mentor for the internship, right? So, doesn't that mean he's supposed to be working closely with you?"

Shoto sighed on the other end of the line. "Yes, but I meant it literally, Izuku. He keeps getting in my personal space. Every time I try to use my ice, he's right there, watching me like a hawk. I tried to use my fire earlier, and he practically grabbed my wrist to 'correct' my stance. It's like he's watching my every move."

Izuku bit back another laugh. He could hear the irritation in Shoto's voice, which was rare for him. "I mean, maybe he's just trying to stop you from making mistakes he has done before. Think about it. He has been a hero for a few years now and knows the ropes pretty well if he is number 39 on the hero charts. He just wants to help you. I…I…I would want to have an overbearing brother…but that's just me."

"…I get that," Shoto admitted finally. "I know he's trying. And yeah, having an older brother who actually cares about me is… nice. It's just a lot."

"Yeah… that's understandable. Just remember you have someone trying to help. That's all he wants. Not to mention he sees some stuff. How is your internship going otherwise?"

Shoto paused for a moment before responding. "It's going well, actually. I'm getting a lot of hands-on experience, which is great. It's just… yeah, the whole personal space thing is a little much. I've never had someone hover over me like this before. It's definitely different."

Izuku nodded sympathetically, his mind racing through similar experiences. He understood the frustration of being micromanaged, but he also knew that sometimes, mentors had their own ways of showing care, even if it wasn't always the most comfortable.

"Maybe try talking to him?" Izuku suggested. "Tell him you need a little more space. If he's as good a mentor as you say, he'll understand. He probably just wants to make sure you're learning all the right moves, especially with the way things are going in the world now. The pressure's different for pros, I think."

"I'll think about it," Shoto replied. There was a brief pause before he continued. "But enough about me. How's everything with you? Is Edgeshot all that he lived up to be?"

"100%. He is the whole package. I think we go on a patrol tomorrow," he said excitedly. "Yeah, my dad, Toya, and I are going on a patrol tomorrow too."

"That should be fun…" said Izuku eating a bit more food. "Ah…Toya's walking over to me. I'll let you go," said Todoroki quickly.

Izuku heard the slight rustle of movement on the other end of the phone before Shoto spoke again, his tone now lighter. "Alright, I'll talk to him. Hopefully, it'll help. Thanks again, Izuku. You're a good friend."

Izuku smiled at the sincerity in Shoto's voice. "No problem, Shoto. Take care, and good luck with your internship. And hey, try not to strangle Toya, okay?"

Shoto laughed softly, the sound almost surprising given the tension in his voice earlier. "I'll do my best."

With that, the call ended, and Izuku set his phone down, feeling a sense of calm that he hadn't realized he was missing. Helping Shoto had been a pleasant distraction from his own worries. He often found himself absorbed in his thoughts, whether it was about his training, his family, or the future of being a pro hero.

DAY TWO OF THE INTERNSHIP

Izuku walked alongside Edgeshot, his eyes scanning the streets as they moved through the bustling district. It was a busy day, people moving about, going about their normal lives, unaware of the watchful eyes of the heroes who protected them. Edgeshot, a seasoned pro with an air of quiet confidence, moved gracefully beside him. Izuku felt a mix of excitement and nervousness—this was his first real patrol as a hero intern, and he was eager to prove himself.

"Remember, Izuku," Edgeshot said, his voice low but steady. "Patrol isn't just about dealing with crimes or fighting villains. It's about observing, reading the situation, and understanding people. We're not just here to stop bad guys, we're here to be a presence. To make people feel safe. Occasionally, we will stop a crime if we see it but if that does happen you will have to stand back or keep the civilians back as you don't have your Provisional License."

"What else is there to do?" Izuku asked as some people waved to them as he looked at him. He sweat dropped as he looked at the number five hero. He forgot that he was 6 feet tall while Edgeshot was standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall. He couldn't have imagined if he was with Mirko right now. She was almost one foot smaller than he was.

"Well…there is the occasionally flash mob of people that come in for autographs," Edgeshot said waving at a few more people.

Izuku laughed nervously, feeling a little awkward as he waved back at the people who recognized Edgeshot. It was strange to see how casual Edgeshot was with the attention, especially since Izuku had always imagined that being a pro hero meant constantly being in the spotlight. He was still adjusting to the idea of his role as an intern, where his job wasn't to fight villains but to learn the ropes and support the pros. The world of pro-heroes was far more complex than he'd imagined, with moments of excitement balanced out by the quiet, routine tasks that kept everything running smoothly.

Edgeshot continued, "Sometimes, you just need to engage with people, help them with small things. It's not all about big, flashy moments. A hero's job can involve everything from answering questions to keeping an eye on suspicious activities."

"Are those reporters and few people coming to talk to us. Are those some of the people you were talking about?" he asked pointing over to them.

"Yep, that is them," he said standing beside him.

Edgeshot didn't seem bothered in the least. In fact, he straightened his posture, gave a confident nod, and put on a relaxed, approachable smile. "Here we go," he murmured, more to himself than to Izuku, before stepping forward to meet the group.

Izuku followed his lead, trying to keep his movements smooth and steady. His nervousness was palpable, but he was determined to make a good impression. As the group of reporters came closer, one of them, a woman with short, dark hair and a press badge, immediately raised her microphone.

"Edgeshot, it's always a pleasure to see you out on patrol," she said with a smile, clearly used to speaking with heroes. "How's everything going today? Anything noteworthy happening in the city?"

Edgeshot's smile widened, his calm demeanor never faltering. "Thank you for your kind words. We're just keeping an eye on things. You know, making sure everyone feels safe and secure. The city's been quiet today, which is always a good thing."

The reporters scribbled down notes, nodding enthusiastically. Izuku, standing a little behind him, felt the weight of the attention start to shift toward him. It was odd, being the intern in this situation. He was the one who was still learning, still figuring out how to be a hero, and yet here he was, part of the interview. He could already feel the weight of the questions that might come his way.

One of the reporters, a man with glasses, glanced at Izuku and then back at Edgeshot. "And this is your new intern, Izuku Yagi, right? How has the transition been for him so far? How does it feel to work with the one who won the Sports Festival in Class 1-A?"

Izuku felt a jolt of surprise at the mention of his name. His heart skipped, and he could feel his face heat up as he was suddenly thrust into the spotlight. He had never been one to seek attention, especially not from the media, and now here he was, the subject of a reporter's inquiry. He turned to Edgeshot, looking for guidance, but his mentor remained calm and composed, not showing any signs of tension.

Edgeshot glanced over at Izuku with a small, reassuring smile before addressing the reporter's question. "Izuku's been doing exceptionally well," Edgeshot said smoothly. "He's got a lot of potential, and I've seen firsthand how quickly he adapts. He's a fast learner and a dedicated worker. The transition from a student to a hero-in-training can be challenging, but he's handling it with grace."

Izuku's heart swelled with gratitude at the praise, though he was still a little uncomfortable with the attention. He shifted on his feet, nervously adjusting his uniform, and let out a quiet breath. His mind raced—how could he respond without sounding awkward? It felt strange to hear such compliments when he still felt so new to this world of heroism.

The reporter with glasses didn't seem to notice Izuku's discomfort as he pressed on. "So, Izuku Yagi. It was rumored you had thousands of requests for those who wanted you to intern with them. Why choose Edgeshot when you had the options to be with Best Jeanist or even Endeavor?"

Izuku's eyes widened in surprise, and his nerves spiked again. He hadn't expected the reporters to bring up something so personal. The thought of choosing Edgeshot over top-tier heroes like Best Jeanist or Endeavor felt like a big decision, and now it was being scrutinized in front of the public. Izuku shifted uncomfortably, glancing quickly at Edgeshot, who, as always, remained calm and composed. His mentor's serene demeanor only amplified the weight of the situation in Izuku's mind. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"Because I know that he was the best choice for me even if I could have worked with the number two or even number four hero. Something that a lot of people my age who are heroes-in-training do that is often a mistake, is to work with a hero who is the highest on the list of choices they were offered from. Something that they need to learn is to do what I did. Go with the best choice even if you are working with someone who isn't as popular. That is ok in the end. Someone may learn a lot more by working with someone who is ranked 105th on the hero charts compared to someone who is ranked number 6th. It is what makes you a better hero in the long run," he said breathing back in calmly."

The reporters exchanged glances, clearly impressed by Izuku's response. The weight of the situation hadn't fully hit him until now, but he stood his ground, trying to embody the calm and confidence that Edgeshot had shown him. His words weren't just about defending his choice; they were about sharing a lesson that he'd learned through his own journey.

Edgeshot's smile deepened as he looked at Izuku with a sense of pride. It was clear that his intern's answer had made an impact, and Izuku felt a bit more at ease. He had spoken from the heart, and even if it wasn't what the reporters had expected, it was authentic. The interviewers seemed to appreciate the sincerity, as they took notes, nodding in understanding.

The reporter with glasses nodded thoughtfully before jotting down notes. "That's a very mature perspective, Izuku. Many young heroes would have jumped at the opportunity to work with the highest-ranked pro available to them, but you've clearly given this a lot of thought."

"I have given it a lot of thought. People's minds change with time. This is just a small-time internship for right now so we may not be able to come back but you never know. It could be that I find that Mirko aligns with my goals in the future or someone like Crust. So long as people know that they should go with who they can learn the most from," said Izuku smiling into the camera.

Izuku's confidence grew as he spoke, his words flowing more naturally. The reporters, sensing his sincerity, continued to jot down notes while some exchanged impressive glances.

Edgeshot nodded approvingly, stepping in to reinforce Izuku's point. "A hero's growth isn't just about the prestige of who they train under, but about the lessons they take with them. Izuku's approach is exactly the kind of mindset that builds strong, adaptable heroes."

The woman with the dark hair smiled as she turned her attention back to Izuku. "That's a wise perspective, and it's refreshing to hear from someone so young. Would you say he is treating you well Edgeshot?"

Edgeshot let out a light chuckle, his expression remaining calm and composed. "Of course," he replied smoothly. "Izuku has been a great addition to our team, and I've made sure he's learning in an environment that challenges and supports him. A hero's journey isn't just about combat prowess; it's about strategy, adaptability, and making the right decisions under pressure. He's been handling everything remarkably well."

Izuku felt his cheeks warm again at the compliment, but he quickly straightened his posture, determined to present himself as composed. The reporters weren't just looking for a story; they were assessing him. He needed to show that he belonged here.

As the reporters wrapped up their questions, the woman with the dark hair gave them both a polite nod. "That's great to hear. Well, thank you for your time, and best of luck with the rest of your patrol."

Edgeshot gave a small bow in return. "Thank you. Stay safe out here."

Izuku followed his mentor's lead, offering the reporters a small, polite smile. But as soon as they turned to leave, his entire body tensed, and the moment the group was out of earshot, he let out a long, shaky breath.

Edgeshot glanced at him, amusement flickering in his usually composed eyes.

Izuku groaned, pressing his hands to his face as they walked. "That was so nerve-racking," he muttered, his voice muffled behind his palms. "I wasn't ready for all of that attention…"

Edgeshot chuckled, his tone light. "You handled it well."

Izuku peeked through his fingers, doubtful. "Really? Because I feel like I was one second away from stuttering my way into disaster."

Edgeshot shook his head. "Not at all. You spoke from the heart, and that's what matters. Reporters can be intimidating, but they respect honesty and confidence. You gave them both."

Izuku slowly lowered his hands, taking another deep breath as they continued down the street. "I guess… I just wasn't expecting them to bring up the whole thing, 'why didn't you pick a top hero' thing. It caught me off guard."

Edgeshot nodded in understanding, keeping his gaze forward as they walked. "That's how interviews go sometimes. Reporters will ask unexpected questions, sometimes probing deeper than you might be comfortable with. It's part of being a hero in the public eye."

Izuku sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I figured as much. It's just… I don't really like being the center of attention like that."

Edgeshot gave him a knowing look. "That's understandable. Not every hero seeks the spotlight, but whether you like it or not, your name carries weight. Winning the Sports Festival puts you in the public's eye. People are watching to see what kind of hero you'll become."

Izuku let that sink in for a moment. He had always known that his victory at the Sports Festival had painted a target on his back but hearing it from Edgeshot made it feel more real. "I don't want to let anyone down," he admitted.

Edgeshot's expression softened. "You won't. As long as you stay true to yourself and keep improving, you'll become the hero you're meant to be."

Izuku glanced at his mentor, a small but grateful smile forming on his face. "Thanks, Edgeshot."

Izuku started to walk alongside his teacher for the week and smiled. "I wonder what the others are doing for their internship?" he thought with a smile.

WITH BEST JEANIST

"You two, patrol is something that is important for all agencies," said Best Jeanist turning around to a grumpy Ichiro and a pissed-off Bakugo.

Bakugo's hair was combed over neatly, his usual wild spikes tamed into submission, much to his irritation. Ichiro's normally messy hair had also been styled similarly, making him look unrecognizable even to himself. Both boys scowled, their expressions a mix of frustration and humiliation as they walked alongside the pro hero.

"This is so stupid," Bakugo grumbled under his breath, stuffing his hands in his pockets. "What the hell does fixing our hair have to do with patrolling?"

Best Jeanist adjusted his own impeccable denim ensemble and looked at Bakugo with a calm yet authoritative gaze. "Presentation is an important part of being a hero. The public doesn't just look up to us for our strength, but also for the way we carry ourselves. A well-groomed hero inspires confidence."

Ichiro sighed, glancing at his reflection in a nearby store window. "This isn't exactly what I signed up for, but whatever. As long as we actually do some hero work today."

Best Jeanist smirked slightly. "Patience. Image management is as much a part of heroism as fighting villains. But don't worry, you'll both get your share of action soon enough when you get your licenses. For now…I will teach you."

WITH HAWKS

Tokoyami had his arms crossed under his cloak as he had an unusual companion next to him. Izuku's sister. Inori. The last person he wanted to be next to. The two were chasing after Hawks to keep up with him. Inori had offered to use her telekinesis to levitate and fly the two of them to get to him fast, which he accepted.

Right now, the two of them were eating lunch at the top of the Hawks Agency and she was sitting a bit away from him but close enough to talk. He quietly ate his sandwich as Hawks was on the phone with someone a bit away from them.

Tokoyami silently chewed his sandwich, his sharp eyes glancing at Inori every now and then. He still wasn't sure how he felt about working with her. He couldn't stand her. He was a very tolerant person, but with what she had done to his friend Izuku. He couldn't see her that way. It was like that person you didn't like from work.

"H-hey…Tokoyami…I was wondering…" she asked nervously but was cut off by him annoyingly.

"Please shut up…talk to me unless it is necessary," he said somewhat darkly eating his sandwich again.

Inori blinked at his words, her lips pressing into a thin line. She had expected him to be cold, but outright dismissive? That stung. She kind of figured this would happen but she hadn't expected to work with Tokoyami under Hawks.

"Please…" she asked.

Tokoyami exhaled sharply, setting his sandwich down. "What part of 'unless necessary' did you not understand?" he muttered, turning his head away from her.

Inori clenched her fists but took a deep breath, trying to keep her temper in check. "I just… I just wanted to talk. I know you don't like me, and I get it."

Tokoyami scoffed but said nothing.

"I'm not asking you to forgive me or anything, but at least give me a chance to prove that I'm not who you think I am."

Tokoyami turned his sharp gaze toward her. "You had a chance. You had plenty of them." His voice was low but firm. "And yet, you still hurt Izuku."

Before she could say anything else, Hawks strolled back over, stretching his arms. "Alright, kids! Back to work. Let's go exploring!"

WITH KAMUI WOODS

"How are you three liking it so far on the patrol?" asked Kamui Woods as he turned to his three interns.

Momo Yaoyorozu, Itsuka Kendo, and Juzo Honenuki all gave positive reactions.

"Pretty good so far, my man," said Honenuki, giving a thumbs-up, his usual relaxed grin in place.

"Yeah, it's quite fine so far," Momo added, waving politely to some people in the distance. Civilians seemed reassured by their presence, and a few kids even pointed excitedly at them.

"Gotta say, patrolling is a bit different than I expected," Kendo commented, stretching her arms. "I figured we'd be jumping into action more, but it's been pretty peaceful."

Kamui Woods nodded as he continued walking with them. "That's the goal. A hero's presence alone is often enough to prevent crime before it even starts. The more visible we are, the less likely someone is to act out."

As they walked, Honenuki tilted his head slightly. "So, we're kinda like a moving deterrent?"

"Exactly," Kamui Woods affirmed. "Though that doesn't mean we should ever let our guard down."

WITH MT. LADY

"Listen, kid, something you need to learn about heroes is that you need to learn when to relax," said Mt. Lady, stuffing her face full of chips as she lounged on her couch.

Mineta grumbled as he continued to vacuum her floor, his tiny hands gripping the handle tightly. "And what part of this is hero training, exactly?"

"This is character development," Mt. Lady said, tossing another handful of chips into her mouth. "Every hero starts at the bottom. Think of it like… paying your dues."

Mineta rolled his eyes. "I thought I'd be out-busting villains, not playing janitor."

Mt. Lady smirked. "You think all the pros started off throwing punches? No way. You gotta build stamina, discipline, and most importantly—respect for the people who do the little jobs that keep things running." She gestured vaguely to the messy room.

Mineta sighed, dragging the vacuum across the floor while mumbling under his breath. "This is such a scam…"

Mt. Lady chuckled, kicking her feet up on the table. "You complain too much, shortstack. You should appreciate the time you have to relax. Not every moment of being a hero is about throwing hands."

She rolled over and lay on her stomach. Her butt was perked into the air and Mineta took a picture of her butt on his phone giggling slightly.

"Damn. One of the nicest asses I've ever seen," thought Mineta as he would be saving that for later.

WITH DEATH ARMS

"Come on kid, we need to train," said Death Arms as he watched Jiro trying to run up to him.

"Yes…sir," said Jiro panting as she continued to run and try to get in better shape.

WITH ENDEAVOR AND FROSTFLARE

Toya tossed Shoto a sandwich and he accepted it gratefully. Endeavor ate his sandwich with a quiet look on his face but still chuckled at the way Toya messed with Shoto.

"Alright, Shoto. We will go on your first patrol after lunch. Be ready," said Endeavor as he took another bite.

"Sounds good Dad," said Shoto as his father pulled out his phone. He called a number, and they found out who it was. "Hey, honey. How are you doing?" he asked his wife Rei in a softer voice.

"Everything's fine," Rei's voice came through the phone, warm and reassuring. "How's the training going? How are the boys?"

"They're doing well. Toya and I are showing Shoto the ropes," Endeavor replied, his voice steady but with subtle pride in his words.

"That's good. Oh, Fuyumi, Natsuo, and I are making some amazing food tonight. I was thinking a bit of a feast if you will," she said as Endeavor heard chopping which was likely a kitchen knife.

"That sounds lovely. I will get some Autumn Bellflowers on the way home. Try not to push yourself too hard," he said as he took another bite of his sandwich. (They are her favorite flowers for those who don't remember.)

"Ahhhh…you dork you don't have to get me those," she said clearly appreciating him for wanting to get her favorite flowers for her like he always does.

"What?" he asked clearly amused. "They are your favorites. I always want to make sure you are happy too. You said you always feel happy when you have them near you," he said remembering her saying that all those years ago.

Rei's soft laughter filtered through the phone. "You're such a dork, but I love it. Honestly, you don't have to keep doing this, but I won't turn down the flowers. I know how much you like spoiling me," she said affectionately, the sound of her chopping subsiding as she took a moment to smile on the other end of the line.

Endeavor chuckled, his gaze softening as he looked at his sons. "I can't help it. You've always been the one to make everything feel right at home. I just want to keep that up and make sure you are happy."

Shoto and Toya watched their father with a bit of smirk but a bit of annoyance as they wanted to get on with the patrol. Endeavor looked at his sons and sighed, knowing they wanted to go on patrol.

"Alright honey. Toya and Shoto are getting impatient. I guess I am forced to let you go," he said looking at the boys who both were tapping their feet on the ground.

Rei's voice softened on the other end of the phone. "I understand, Enji. Just make sure you all stay safe out there. And tell the boys I'm proud of them."

Endeavor smiled faintly, his eyes meeting Shoto and Toya's impatient expressions. "Will do, Rei. We'll be home later tonight, alright? Love you."

"Alright, I'll see you then. Be careful and love ya too," she said before hanging up.

Endeavor put the phone back in his pocket, the warmth of Rei's words lingering in his chest. He glanced at his two sons, who were both visibly eager to move on.

"Alright, Shoto. Let's go on your first patrol," he said walking to the door.

WITH MANUAL

Manual and Iida were walking down the street on their patrol. Manual sighed slightly as he looked at the stiff posture of his intern. He had put two and two together to know why he was likely here. He turned his head slightly to Iida as Iida looked lost in thought even with his helmet on.

"You know…I never would have thought that the brother to Ingenium would be the one interning at my agency," said Manual as Iida jumped slightly from the response.

Iida quickly turned his head toward Manual, blinking behind his helmet as his stiff expression softened for just a moment. "I... I didn't think it would be this way either," he replied quietly, his voice filled with a mix of uncertainty and pride.

"But I thought that there has to be a reason why you are here," he said, turning to him fully now and stopping in front of him. You are here for the Hero Killer…right," he said, smiling slightly despite the tense situation.

Iida's eyes widened beneath his helmet, and his posture stiffened even more. He opened his mouth to speak but hesitated, unsure how to express his feelings. His hands, which had been at his sides, clenched into fists before he relaxed them again.

"Listen…Iida. You have to realize a few things. Firstly, you don't have a hero license, not even a provisional one, so you can't do anything. Secondly, you can't go after villains…even if it is for revenge. You would be no better than the villains themselves. So, try to put those thoughts to an end," he said calmly as he turned around to keep walking.

Iida walked silently beside Manual, his thoughts swirling. He could feel the pressure in his chest, the unresolved anger and frustration that Manual's words had brought to the surface. He had always admired his brother's sense of justice and how Ingenium stood for everything good in the world. The Hero Killer had taken that from him—taken his brother's ability to continue his work as a hero and robbed so many others of their protector. He clenched his fists once more, the cold metal of his gauntlets pressing into his palms. He would pay.

3 HOUR LATER WITH IZUKU

Izuku and Edgeshot had just finished their patrol and were walking back toward the agency when they saw an explosion in the distance. Izuku and Edgeshot immediately looked up and Edgeshot put a hand on his shoulder as they started to run. It was a few blocks away but as they started to run Edgeshot spoke to Izuku.

"Remember, Deku. No getting involved. You don't have a license," he said as Izuku looked at him. "Yes sir. But there is nothing in the rules and laws saying I can't help a hero get there," he said activated Jolt.

"Hold on," Izuku said, his tone serious, as he placed an arm around Edgeshot's waist to stabilize him. He transferred the electrical energy into Edgeshot's body, feeling the familiar surge of power shoot through his own muscles.

Izuku's muscles pulsed with electricity as Jolt spread through his body, and he felt Edgeshot's body vibrate from the transfer. The crackle of energy filled the air around them, and in seconds, they were both speeding through the streets, the world around them blurring.

Edgeshot's eyes widened in surprise as time seemed to slow down. Their combined speed, enhanced by Izuku's power, had them reaching the scene in a mere five seconds.

The sudden burst of energy left a trail of wind and static behind them, and Izuku let go of his teacher as they arrived at the site of the explosion. Buildings were partially crumbled, and debris littered the area. The smoke was thick, but through the haze, Izuku could see the figure of the villain standing tall amidst the chaos.

"Stay back, Deku. Watch and learn from me," Edgeshot instructed, his voice low but commanding.

Izuku nodded, stepping back as he observed. He quickly channeled Zephyr Rush, manipulating the air around them to clear the smoke. The wind picked up, lifting the smoke into the air and dispersing it, revealing the full scope of the destruction. The villain, now visible, stood shrouded in dark energy, his massive 7-foot frame intimidating.

"Well, ain't that a bitch," the villain sneered as he removed his cloak, revealing a monstrous presence. His hand held a lighter, and in the other, something else—some sort of dark, fluid substance that Izuku couldn't quite make out.

"Villain, I suggest you stop this before it gets worse for you," Edgeshot said, his voice low as he dropped into a combat stance.

Izuku's gaze shifted quickly. He spotted a car nearby, slightly crumpled by the explosion, and saw two civilians trapped inside, shaking in fear. Without hesitation, Izuku dashed over, his heart pounding, but his mind focused. He yanked the driver's side door off its hinges with ease, asking, "Are you two okay?"

The man's eyes were wide with gratitude as he nodded frantically. "Yes! Please, help my wife!"

Izuku quickly moved to the passenger side, ripping the door off and unbuckling the woman's seatbelt. He helped her out of the car, supporting her as she stumbled to her feet. "Go, quickly! I'll make sure you're safe," Izuku said, ushering them toward the line of pros forming a barrier for the crowd.

"Thank you, Hero!" the man called out as they reached safety.

Izuku smiled, giving them a quick nod, before turning his attention back to the scene. He could see Edgeshot now circling the villain, the pro hero's movements smooth and fluid. Edgeshot was waiting for the right moment, but the villain, still grinning wickedly, remained poised.

The villain spoke again, his voice taunting. "You're all too late. This city is already mine."

Izuku's eyes locked on Edgeshot, waiting to see what would happen next. He could feel the tension in the air, thick with anticipation. But before he could react further, a shout rang out from a nearby pro hero.

"Get behind the line!" the pro shouted, motioning for civilians to get to safety as they formed a human barricade.

Izuku quickly moved to help, guiding the couple to the safety of the crowd. As they reached the barrier, one of the pros gave him a smirk and nodded toward the battle.

"Oi, intern of Edgeshot. You'd better get ready. You're about to see quite the show," the pro said, a grin tugging at the corner of his lips.

Izuku's heart skipped a beat. This was it. He had heard stories, but seeing Edgeshot in action—really seeing him—was something else entirely.

The villain, still grinning like a madman, held the lighter up, the flame flickering dangerously. "You all think you can stop me? You're already too late to save this city."

With a sudden movement, Edgeshot blurred into action. In an instant, he darted forward, his body becoming nothing more than a streak of movement as he closed the distance between them.

The villain, realizing too late that Edgeshot was upon him, tried to react, but Edgeshot was faster—so much faster. The pro hero moved with the precision of a blade, striking first with a devastatingly accurate slash aimed at the villain's throat. The villain's grin faltered for just a split second before his body jerked back in a desperate attempt to evade.

But it was no use. Edgeshot's speed was unmatched. He shifted his position mid-air, changing direction with a fluidity that left the villain no chance to counter. A second strike came, this time cutting across the villain's chest, leaving a deep gash. The dark energy around the villain flared in a violent reaction, but Edgeshot was already on him, continuing his relentless assault.

The villain roared in pain and fury, but Edgeshot's strikes didn't stop. With each calculated movement, he wore the villain down, swiftly closing the gap between his defenses and the fatal blow.

Izuku stood on the sidelines, watching in awe as Edgeshot took control of the situation. He could barely keep up with the hero's movements, but one thing was clear—the pro was in complete command. The villain was already faltering, his once-intimidating posture crumbling under Edgeshot's unyielding assault.

"Deku, remember," Edgeshot called out, his voice still calm despite the chaos. "It's all about reading the fight. Patience, precision, and speed."

The final blow came as Edgeshot launched himself forward one last time, his form a blur as he pierced the villain's side with a blade of sheer velocity. The villain collapsed, his dark energy dissipating like smoke in the wind.

Izuku's breath caught in his chest as the battle ended, watching in awe as Edgeshot stood over the defeated villain, his figure like a shadow in the smoke. The pro hero turned, giving Izuku a nod.

"You learned something today, I hope," Edgeshot said his tone calm.

Izuku stood frozen, his heart racing as he watched Edgeshot defeat the villain with astonishing speed and precision. The once-intimidating figure now lay crumpled on the ground, his dark energy gone, completely still. The fight had ended so quickly, Izuku could barely process it.

Edgeshot stood over the villain, his posture calm, as if the battle had been a mere warm-up. The villain's monstrous form was now just a lifeless heap on the ground. Izuku couldn't help but stare in awe.

"That... was incredible," Izuku muttered under his breath.

Edgeshot, hearing him, turned slightly, his sharp eyes glinting behind his mask. "You're starting to understand," he said, his voice calm but firm. "It's not about overpowering your opponent. It's about understanding them. Knowing when to strike, when to wait. Every move, every breath, is part of the fight. Patience, precision, speed."

Izuku nodded, trying to absorb it all. It wasn't just about strength; it was about strategy, about control.

"Thank you," Izuku said, his voice sincere. "I've learned more in these few minutes than I ever thought possible."

Edgeshot didn't immediately respond. Instead, he checked the villain's pulse, confirming that he was out cold. Satisfied, he glanced back at Izuku. "Good. Keep your focus. Head back to the agency. I will handle it from here. Good job on staying out of it. Start the training I gave you."

"Yes sir," he said turning around.

Izuku's heart was still racing as he made his way back to the agency, his mind racing with the lessons he had just learned. Edgeshot's words echoed in his ears—patience, precision, speed. Izuku had always known that being a hero was more than just about fighting strength but seeing Edgeshot in action had solidified that understanding. It was about control, about reading the flow of battle and knowing exactly when to act.

As he walked, Izuku couldn't help but replay the fight in his mind, every movement Edgeshot had made, the fluidity with which he had closed in on the villain and delivered those strikes. It was almost as if time had slowed for Edgeshot, his body moving with a perfect rhythm that was beyond the reach of most other heroes, including himself.

He reached the agency and went up to the training room to where his training was. As Izuku entered the room, he took a deep breath, trying to center himself. He would lower his timing to impress his mentor. He would do it for himself and for those that he would save in the future.

6 HOURS LATER

"Ouchy," said Izuku as he limped back to the room. Gran Torino gave him a beating. No wonder why his dad was afraid of him even if it was a little bit much for him today. He would be better by the time it was the morning. He changed out of his costume into a gray sweatshirt and black pants and lay on his bed for a second sighing. He pulled out his phone and looked at the texts that he sent Iida. Nothing. Nothing at all. He was worried about him, and he wished he would talk to him.

He heard a knock on the door and Edgeshot walked in with…normal clothes. What the hell? Izuku never thought he would see him without his mask much less in civilian clothes. He forgot that every hero was just a normal person as the next…minus the hero part.

"Alright, kid. Got dressed in semi-decent clothes. We are going out," he said.

Izuku blinked in surprise, his mind struggling to process the sight of Edgeshot standing before him without his usual heroic attire and mask. He looked like a completely different person—no longer the shadowy, mysterious figure he had admired from afar. Now, he was just another man, dressed in casual clothes. But there was still an aura of quiet confidence about him, something that made Izuku stand straighter despite the lingering aches from his earlier training session with Gran Torino.

"Wait, we're going out?" Izuku asked, his voice was a little hoarse from the intensity of the day's events.

Edgeshot nodded, his expression unreadable but his eyes glinting with purpose. "Yes, we're going to grab some food, kid. You've been pushing yourself hard. You need to take a break. Get some rest and some proper nourishment. Heroes can't work on an empty stomach."

Izuku hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. It felt strange—seeing a pro hero like Edgeshot, someone he'd always viewed as untouchable, acting so… normal. But there was no denying that he was exhausted, and the idea of spending time away from the rigorous training was tempting. Plus, his stomach was already reminding him that he hadn't eaten much today.

"Alright," Izuku said, nodding in agreement. "Let me just… uh, change into something more comfortable."

Edgeshot gave him a small smile, almost as if he were amused by Izuku's hesitance. "No need to overthink it. Just come as you are. We're not in some fancy restaurant; this is about getting some food and relaxing for a bit. You need to loosen up, Yagi."

Izuku stood up, stretching out his sore muscles as he agreed. He couldn't deny that he was still mentally buzzing from everything he had learned today—from Edgeshot's display of skill to his own personal growth in understanding the deeper aspects of combat. But all of that could wait. He needed to recharge.

They left the training room together and made their way outside. Izuku followed Edgeshot through the streets, a little disoriented by the sudden change in pace. The bustling city of Musutafu was alive with activity as usual, but Izuku felt oddly detached from it all, his thoughts still clouded by the training session and his concern for Iida.

As they walked, Izuku glanced at Edgeshot, trying to figure out what to say. "So… uh, what do you usually do when you're not out saving the day?"

Edgeshot turned to him, his eyes looking him up and down. "I live and try to live a balanced life. I have a girlfriend. Yes, she is a hero and no I won't say her name. But I like to read, train, garden, and I take care of some of cats."

Izuku blinked in surprise. "Wait… you have cats?"

Edgeshot gave a small smirk, a rare expression from the usually stoic hero. "Yes. Two, actually. A black one named Kuro and a gray one named Sora. They were strays I found near my agency a few years ago. Now they think they own the place."

Izuku couldn't help but smile at the image. It was hard to picture the elite, razor-sharp hero taking care of something as small and soft as cats. "That's… actually kind of amazing. Do they like you?"

Edgeshot gave him a side glance. "They tolerate me. Most days."

Izuku chuckled, feeling a little more at ease as they walked through the quiet streets. The occasional streetlamp cast their shadows along the pavement, the city lights flickering in the distance. Despite how exhausted he was, Izuku found himself enjoying the moment—just talking with a hero outside of battle, outside of training.

After a few minutes, they arrived at a small, unassuming restaurant tucked between two larger buildings. It wasn't flashy, nor did it have a huge sign screaming for attention, but the warm glow from inside and the faint aroma of sizzling food made Izuku's stomach growl.

Edgeshot led the way inside, and they took a seat near the back. The place was cozy, with wooden tables and a menu written in neat calligraphy on the walls. A waitress walked over, and without hesitation, Edgeshot ordered for both of them something warm and filling.

Izuku leaned back in his chair, exhaling. His body still ached from the relentless training, but he had to admit, it felt nice to just sit and breathe.

"Is your girlfriend not Mirko?" asked Izuku trying to get a conversation started. Edgeshot smirked and raised a brow. "Yeah, you are right that it isn't her. What made you guess that?"

"She wouldn't seem like your type," he said sheepishly.

Edgeshot chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Mirko's a great hero, but you're right—our personalities don't exactly align. She's... let's just say she's a bit more forward than I'm used to."

Izuku nodded, taking a sip of the tea that had been placed in front of him. "I think she'd be too impatient for you," he admitted. "You're precise and tactical, and she's—"

"A force of nature," Edgeshot finished for him, amusement in his voice. "She's unstoppable in battle, and I respect that. But no, my girlfriend is someone who values patience and strategy as much as I do. We are friends though."

Edgeshot's expression softened slightly as he sipped his tea. "My girlfriend keeps me grounded," he admitted. "Reminds me that there's more to life than just hero work."

Izuku listened intently, fascinated by the idea of a top pro hero finding a balance between duty and personal life. "That's really cool," he said. "I guess it's important to have people like that. Someone to come home to."

There was silence for about thirty seconds before Izuku thought of something. Edgeshot drank a bit of tea as Izuku spoke.

"It's Ryukyu, isn't it?" he said smiling as Edgeshot went wide-eyed and started to cough slightly.

Edgeshot quickly set his tea down, coughing a little as he composed himself. Izuku watched with barely contained amusement as the usually composed ninja hero tried to regain his cool.

"That's… an interesting guess," Edgeshot finally said, his voice even, though his eyes betrayed his momentary surprise.

Izuku grinned, leaning forward slightly. "So, I'm right, aren't I?"

Edgeshot sighed, shaking his head. "I didn't say that."

"But you didn't deny it," Izuku pointed out, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Ryukyu makes sense. She's strong, calm, strategic, and, well, she does give off a pretty grounded vibe."

Edgeshot exhaled through his nose, finally relenting. "Alright, alright. Yes, it's Ryukyu. But don't go spreading that around. We prefer to keep things private."

Izuku nodded eagerly. "Of course! I won't say a word." He hesitated for a second before adding, "That's actually really cool. You two seem like you'd work well together, both in and out of hero work."

Edgeshot gave a small, knowing smile. "She keeps me from getting too lost in my work. And I make sure she takes breaks when she needs them. We balance each other out."

Izuku absorbed this, letting it sink in. It was easy to think of heroes as these untouchable figures who only existed to fight villains and save the day. But in moments like these, he was reminded that they were just people too people who had lived, loved ones, and things outside of heroism that made them who they were.

The food arrived, steaming and fragrance, and both of them dug in. The warmth of the meal settled deep into Izuku's tired muscles, and for a little while, the stress of training and the worries about Iida faded away.

"So, what about you, Izuku?" Edgeshot asked, using chopsticks with practiced ease. "Anyone special in your life?"

"No, I don't," he said grabbing a piece of beef. "I mean…I don't think so anyway. I have a few friends and girls who are friends, but I don't think I am that interesting, to be honest. I'm not saying that to be demeaning, but I'm a bit bland. I don't think girls would have me in their book of guys to date."

Edgeshot studied him for a moment before taking a sip of his tea. "You sell yourself short, Izuku," he said calmly. "You may not see it, but others do. You're determined, strong-willed, and always pushing yourself to be better. That kind of dedication doesn't go unnoticed."

Izuku let out a small laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. "I appreciate that, but I don't really think anyone sees me that way. I'm just… me."

Edgeshot smirked slightly. "And yet, you've caught the attention of some very powerful people—heroes and villains alike. Trust me, that kind of presence doesn't go unnoticed outside of battle either. Besides, if you knew me at all I would be very bland myself. Yet, I got a very gorgeous woman and someone who likes me for me. So…don't think of it like that. Besides, when you won the festival the camera panned to you, and you were talking to…" Edgeshot counted on his fingers.

"I think it was like 3 or 4 girls, so like I said. Don't think of yourself like that. I mean, I've only been around you not even 3 days yet and I'd say you are a pretty interesting kid," he said smiling at him.

"I… I guess I never really thought about it like that," Izuku admitted, setting his food down. "I've always been so focused on getting stronger, training, and making sure I don't fall behind. I just assumed people saw me as a workaholic hero-in-training, not—" He flushed slightly, not wanting to finish the sentence.

Edgeshot raised an eyebrow, amused by Izuku's sudden awkwardness. "Not what? Someone worth admiring?"

Izuku scratched his cheek, chuckling nervously. "Well, yeah. I mean, I know people respect me as a classmate, maybe even as a rival in some cases, but… romantically? I don't think so. I wouldn't be worth much in terms of everything."

Edgeshot took a bite of his food, chewing thoughtfully before speaking. "You might be surprised, Izuku. Sometimes, people notice you long before you notice them. Hell, never would I have thought that I would be dating Ryukyu 5 months ago. Yet here we are. Don't sell yourself short."

Edgeshot grabbed another piece of chicken and went into his mind. "Holy hell, this kid thinks lowly of himself. He won the Sports Festival in every round, obstacle course, and cavalry battle. He got the highest score in the UA Entrance Exam history. He has an incredible quirk, and he has a lot of friends based on how often his phone goes off during our training sessions. There is something psychologically going on at play. There is no way in hell a kid like him with all this stuff should be acting like that after everything. I wonder if it was trauma or something when he was a kid. I won't press him on it. Not yet anyway. That's another thing I'll need to fix." Edgeshot looked at Izuku up and down and he could see he was one of those mixes of a shy and confident teenager. Somewhat like him when he was younger, but he had much more confidence at times in his looks or worth. It was strange.

They continued to eat in silence when Edgeshot got a text from someone. He blushed when it was from Ryukyu.

The message read. "Got off work early. Are you almost done? I am getting quite lonely." Followed by a very…spicy image.

Edgeshot exhaled through his nose, shaking his head with a small smirk as he typed back a quick response.

Edgeshot: Almost done. Having dinner with my intern. Be there soon.

A response came almost instantly.

Ryukyu: Oh, your intern? Don't keep me waiting too long, or I might have to come find you myself. A woman has her needs. And. I. Need. You. But I can wait for a bit.

Edgeshot exhaled slowly, shaking his head slightly as he pocketed his phone. Ryukyu certainly knew how to keep him on his toes. He took another sip of his tea, clearing his throat before returning his focus to the conversation. Thankfully, they were almost done.

Izuku continued to eat, unaware of the flustered response Ryukyu had just received. The young hero, still processing the conversation they had been having, found himself thinking more deeply about Edgeshot's words. He wasn't used to hearing such encouragement about his worth, particularly in the realm of relationships. It was a strange concept for him to see himself not just as a hero-in-training but as someone with more to offer outside of his quirk and ambition.

Edgeshot, noticing the thoughtful expression on Izuku's face, cleared his throat again. "I can see you're thinking about it," he said with a slight smile. "Just don't overcomplicate things. You don't have to change who you are to attract others. You're already on the right path." He paused for a second, the humor slowly fading from his voice. "I learned that the hard way when I was younger. I used to focus too much on trying to impress others, thinking that was the only way to be noticed. But the moment I stopped worrying about that and started focusing on being myself…well, things changed. And not just romantically."

Edgeshot put his card on the table and the waitress took it from him to go pay for the meal. "Just try to let things come naturally kid. Try not to let it bother you because you are pretty interesting. Don't doubt yourself. Don't try too anyway. Anyway, you're going to be fine. Keep up with your training, but don't let it consume you. And maybe—just maybe—take some time to enjoy being you. You're a good kid, Izuku. Don't forget that."

Izuku stood as well, smiling up at the hero. "Thanks, Edgeshot. I'll try my best to remember that."

"Alright. Go back to the agency. I have some… pressing matters to attend to and you know who it is so don't ask me," Edgeshot said looking to Izuku.

Izuku nodded, trying to keep the small smile on his face despite the odd feeling in his chest. "Got it, Edgeshot. I'll head back. Thanks again for the advice."

Edgeshot waved him off, turning his attention to his phone for a moment. "No problem, kid. Just don't overthink things. You've got everything you need right in front of you—just remember to live it." His voice was warm, though it had an air of finality. Izuku nodded again, stepping away from the table.

As they exited the restaurant, the cool night air greeted him, and Izuku stretched his arms, taking in the quiet of the city. Maybe he was right. He would try his best to be better.

Edgeshot heading in the other direction pulled out his phone and called Ryukyu. She answered the phone quickly and her voice filled Edgeshot's ear.

"Hey, babe," Ryukyu's voice was playful, though there was a hint of impatience underneath. "I was starting to think you were going to make me wait forever."

Edgeshot chuckled softly, leaning against the building. "I'm almost there. Just finished up with my intern. You know how it is—can't rush a good meal."

"Uh-huh," Ryukyu responded, clearly not convinced. "Well, hurry up. I'm in the mood for some... attention. And I'm not talking about the kind you give in a fight." She added a teasing lilt to her voice, knowing it would get under his skin.

There was a knock at her door which made her surprised. She walked over, opened the door and Edgeshot was standing there leaning against the doorframe.

Ryukyu blinked in surprise, momentarily caught off guard before a smirk tugged at her lips. "Well, that was fast."

Edgeshot tilted his head slightly, his arms crossed over his chest. "You said not to keep you waiting. I take my missions seriously."

Ryukyu rolled her eyes playfully before stepping aside, allowing him in. "Mmm, that's what I like about you."

Edgeshot stepped inside, the familiar warmth of her apartment greeting him. It was a cozy but modern space, one that balanced her hero's work with her personal life. The scent of something faintly floral lingered in the air, likely from a candle burning on the counter. Ryukyu wrapped her arms around him and smirked as she leaned into him.

"You going to pay attention to me now then," she asked.

Edgeshot smirked, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. "I wouldn't be much of a hero if I ignored a distress call, now, would I?" he murmured against her ear, his voice smooth with amusement.

DAY 3 OF HERO INTERNSHIP AROUND 3 PM

Izuku stood at attention in front of Edgeshot as he stood in front of Izuku. Gran Torino stood off to the side. He and Izuku had done some more training but cut it short to make sure Izuku would have some energy for later and for what was planned for him.

"Alright, kid. This device shows how quickly you can power up. I had one of my inventors make this support item for me to see how fast I could transform but this will be for you now. Power up for me quick," he said pointing it at him.

Izuku activated Full Cowling as fast as he could, and he heard a beep from the device. Edgeshot looked at the device and looked satisfied and showed him. 2.48 seconds. Gran Torino smirked. "Nice job kid. It's been a few days, and you decrease your powering-up time by 0.12 seconds. Impressive when you think about it."

Izuku beamed at the praise, feeling a sense of accomplishment swell within him. "Thanks, Gran Torino. I've been trying to focus on my timing," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Edgeshot nodded approvingly. "Not bad, kid. But there's always room for improvement. Anyways, onto more pressing matters. We are going out on patrol. More like we are going out to fight some real villains. Now listen. Yes, you don't have a license but if they are low-level thugs and thieves. Teachers like me and Gran Torino are allowed to be there to supervise and that is a way of training that is perfectly legal. So, get yourself ready. We are going to Hosu City for your training. Crime is more likely to happen there than here."

Izuku's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Hosu City. It made him think about Iida. It made him think about the Hero Killer, Stain. He pushed to the side for right now. "Yes sir. When do we leave?"

"In about a couple hours. We want to be there when it is later for more crime," said Edgeshot.

"Hope you're ready kid. This should be fun," said Gran Torino.

Izuku took a deep breath, steadying his nerves. Hosu City. He knew the place carried a weight of danger, but he also knew this was a valuable chance to improve—both as a fighter and a hero.

Gran Torino smirked at him, seeing the determination in his eyes. "Good. You're starting to think like a pro. Now, let's go grab some food before we head out. The last thing we need is you passing out in the middle of a fight."

Edgeshot nodded. "Agreed. You'll need the energy." He gave Izuku a small but approving glance. "Meet back here in an hour. Bring only what you need."

Izuku quickly bowed. "Yes, sir!"

With that, he hurried off to prepare himself. He wasn't just excited, he was focused. He had been given an opportunity, and he wouldn't let it slip through his fingers.

THE LEAGUE OF VILLAINS

Meanwhile, the news of the recent attack in Hosu drew the attention of the League of Villains. They approached Stain on the roof of a nearby building, seeking to recruit him for their cause. Tomura Shigaraki, ever ambitious, wasted no time in making his offer.

"Join us, Stain," Tomura's voice was full of determination as he tried to lure the Hero Killer into their fold. "Together, we can bring down the system that glorifies false heroes."

Stain, however, was not swayed by empty promises. He narrowed his eyes, his voice cold as he asked, "What is your motivation, Tomura? What drives you?"

Tomura's answer, though filled with hate for society, was unconvincing to Stain. The Hero Killer was deeply disappointed by Tomura's shallow reasoning and made it clear. He paralyzed Kurogiri with a quick move before sinking his blade into Tomura's flesh, pinning him to the ground.

"You're weak," Stain growled. "You lack conviction. You speak of destruction, yet you lack the strength to see it through."

An enraged Tomura, fueled by his hatred, forced Stain back, destroying his knife in the process. As they clashed, Tomura's rage poured out, explaining that he desired to destroy society because it praised All Might.

Stain, his sharp mind recognizing a kindred desire in Tomura's words, softened slightly. "We are alike," he murmured, intrigued. "Both seeking to destroy the present. But you're still too weak."

The fight calmed as Stain explained his purpose—to spill blood to reform the system. He leaped from the roof and disappeared into the city; his mission was still clear in his mind. Tomura mocked him, but Kurogiri defended the Hero Killer's actions, claiming that Stain had positively affected the cities he had targeted.

Frustrated, Tomura turned to Kurogiri with cold eyes. "Release the Nomu."

WITH IZUKU

Edgeshot, Gran Torino, and Izuku sat in the train, the rhythmic clatter of the tracks filling the quiet moments between them. Izuku's gaze flicked down to his phone once again, hoping for a response from Iida—but still, there was nothing. A sinking feeling settled in his chest. He wished he had been there for him more, but at the same time, he knew he had already done a lot. Even so, something about Iida's silence didn't sit right with him.

He was about to put his phone away when, outside the window, a flash of orange lit up the dark cityscape. Gasps rippled through the passengers as an explosion tore through a building in the heart of Hosu. Flames licked at the sky, casting ominous shadows against the skyline.

Then…chaos.

Before anyone could react, a monstrous Nomu crashed through the side of the train, its grotesque form hulking over the terrified passengers. In its massive claw, a bloodied Pro-Hero dangled limply, unconscious or worse. Screams erupted throughout the cabin as the train screeched to an abrupt halt, the sudden jolt nearly throwing Izuku off balance.

"Stay back!" shouted Gran Torino and Edgeshot in unison, their battle instincts kicking in instantly.

Gran Torino rocketed forward, a blur of motion as he struck the Nomu's arm, forcing it to release the injured hero. The Pro collapsed onto the train floor with a groan, blood dripping onto the cold metal surface.

The Nomu let out a guttural screech and turned its grotesque, stitched-together face toward Gran Torino. Its muscles bulged as it swung its arm at inhuman speed, aiming to crush the old hero. But Gran Torino was faster. He kicked off the train walls, bouncing from side to side, dodging every swipe as if predicting the creature's every move.

Meanwhile, Edgeshot wasted no time. He turned into a thin razor of himself, weaving through the train seats and striking the Nomu's tendons, aiming to cripple it before it could do more harm. The attack barely slowed the creature down—it was resilient, its flesh regenerating almost instantly.

Izuku, frozen for only a moment, clenched his fists. "Move damnit. Quit being a pussy." He thought.

"No stay back, Deku!" said Edgeshot as he pierced the beast once more.

Gran Torino ricocheted off the walls of the train with incredible speed, striking the Nomu over and over, forcing it backward. Then, with a powerful tackle, he launched the creature straight out of the train, sending them both crashing through the side of a nearby building with Edgeshot chasing after it.

Izuku was getting memories of him fighting the Nomu back at the USJ. "I need to move! Be better!" he thought standing up and jumping out of the hole in the side of the train. He looked around and he couldn't see the two of them. Damnit. He activated Jolt and started to run around.

WITH THE HERO KILLER

Stain stood over the paralyzed Pro-Hero, Native, his bloodied blade gleaming under the flickering streetlights of Hosu. Explosions crackled in the distance, sending embers into the night sky. The chaos in the city was growing, but it was unfocused, wild. It was nothing like his own work.

Destruction without purpose is meaningless.

Stain was ready to finish his work when the sound of heavy footsteps interrupted him. He turned just as a blue blur shot into the alleyway.

Tenya Iida.

The boy skidded to a halt, his engines hissing with built-up heat. His entire body trembled with rage, his breaths heavy and uneven.

Stain's gaze flicked over him. The clenched fists. The wild, unfocused eyes. The way his chest heaved with emotion.

"You're driven by vengeance," Stain said, almost disappointed. "That makes you unworthy."

Tenya's fists tightened. He ignored the words, his anger boiling over.

"I am Ingenium now," he proclaimed, his voice filled with fury. "And I will stop you in my brother's place!"

Stain barely reacted. He took a slow step forward, his bloody katana gleaming under the streetlights. "Pathetic."

And then, without another word, he lunged. His blade slashed toward Tenya's throat with deadly precision.

Tenya dodged and roared, "This is for Tensei!" He ignited his engines and shot forward, his leg swinging in a powerful kick.

But Stain was faster. With a fluid motion, he leapt over the attack, twisting midair. His boot—spiked and deadly—slammed into Tenya's shoulder, sending him staggering backward. Before Tenya could react, Stain drove him into the ground, stomping his head with brutal force.

"You and your brother are weak," Stain said coldly. "Neither of you deserve to be called heroes."

Pain flared through Tenya's body as Stain's sword drove into his shoulder. His vision blurred, but his rage burned hot.

"Ingenium… can't be a hero anymore," Tenya ground out. "That's why… I'll kill you myself!"

WITH IZUKU

Izuku's legs pushed forward as he sprinted through the war-torn streets of Hosu. The night air was filled with sirens, screams, and the distant roar of Nomu. His green lightning crackled around him, each burst of power propelling him forward.

His mind was racing.

Gran Torino... Edgeshot… Where are they?! They will likely be mad I left the train.

As he rounded a corner, he spotted a group of civilians taking cover behind an overturned car. Manual, Iida's mentor, was among them, his face contorted with frustration.

"Iida went off alone," Manual was saying to a nearby hero, desperation in his voice. "I tried to stop him, but he wouldn't listen—he just ran!"

Izuku's heart clenched.

No. No, no, no.

Everything clicked into place in an instant.

Iida hadn't just been grieving. He had been planning this.

Izuku gritted his teeth. "For someone as smart as me. I sure am an idiot for not figuring this out sooner."

Izuku activated Jolt to full power, incasing his body with a bright green crackling glow. Izuku didn't hesitate, he turned sharply and blasted forward; his mind locked onto one terrifying thought.

He went after Stain.

The memory of Iida's expression at lunch surfaced—his forced smile, the way his hands clenched under the table, the anger behind his eyes. Izuku should have seen it. Should have stopped him.

Now, all he could do was pray he wasn't too late.

WITH THE STAIN AND IIDA

Stain pulled his blade from Tenya's shoulder and licked it, his Quirk activating instantly. Tenya's body locked up, paralyzed. He could only watch, helpless, as Stain raised his weapon.

"This is what happens to fake heroes," Stain murmured, preparing for the killing blow.

A sudden shockwave exploded through the alley.

Before Stain could react, a green blur slammed into him with a devastating punch. The Hero Killer was sent skidding backward, his boots scraping against the stone.

Tenya's eyes widened in disbelief.

"Izuku?!"

Izuku stood in front of him, fists clenched, green electricity crackling across his body. His gaze was sharp, unwavering.

"Iida, I'm here," Izuku said, his voice steady. "I'll save you."

Stain straightened, his tongue flicking over his lips as he studied the newcomer. His fingers flexed around his blade.

"Interesting. Tell me boy. I have seen you on the news on multiple occasions. The Sludge Villain incident. The USJ incident. The Sports Festival. You are strong and yet you chose to hold back against a man who has killed many. Why?"

Izuku's breath was steady, but his mind was racing. Stain was right—he had seen Izuku before. He had made a name for himself through raw determination, but here, now, it wasn't about recognition. It was about saving a friend.

"I'm not like you," Izuku said, his fists sparking with green lightning. "I don't fight to kill. I fight to save people! Like I'll save these two!" he declared pointing to Native and Iida. He activated Jolt and in the blink of an eye, he grabbed Native and Iida and put them further away from the fight. He stared down Stain as Stain started to chuckle.

"You…are…worthy…. just like All Might!" he declared pulling out both of his swords. Stain was about to charge forward but Izuku held up three fingers to him. "Three seconds. This is all the time I need to stop you. I could do it shorter but I'm not looking for overkill here," he said pushing Jolt to full power.

Stain's eyes narrowed. "Three seconds?" He scoffed, gripping his blades tighter. "Arrogant."

Izuku didn't respond. Instead, his emerald lightning surged around him, illuminating the dark alley with an electric glow. His muscles coiled, his focus sharpened. He wasn't bluffing—he had analyzed Stain's movements, his attack patterns. Three seconds was all he needed.

Stain lunged forward.

One.

Izuku disappeared in a burst of green lightning, reappearing beside Stain before he could react. He twisted his body mid-air and delivered a crushing kick to Stain's ribs.

The Hero Killer grunted as he was launched sideways, crashing against the brick wall with enough force to crack the stone.

But he recovered fast. Stain flipped off the wall, landing on his feet, his sharp gaze already tracking Izuku.

Two.

Izuku was faster.

He reappeared behind Stain, already mid-punch. His fist slammed into Stain's back with a thunderous impact, sending another shockwave through the alley. Stain coughed, barely managing to roll away before Izuku could follow up.

His reflexes were incredible, but Izuku had already accounted for that.

Three.

Izuku blurred forward, appearing in front of Stain just as the villain steadied himself. He cocked his arm back, lightning spiraling around his fist, the sheer energy distorting the air.

"Florida… SMASH!"

The punch connected cleanly with Stain's jaw, lifting him clean off the ground. The force sent the Hero Killer rocketing skyward, crashing into a wall with a deafening BOOM. Dust and debris rained down as Izuku exhaled, his lightning dimming.

Three seconds. Just as he promised.

He jumped and pulled Stain out of the wall and dropped down pulling out some resistance tape to tie him up.

As Izuku secured the resistance tape around Stain's arms and legs, he kept his senses sharp. The Hero Killer was dangerous, even when restrained.

Stain groaned, his head lolling forward before he lifted his gaze to meet Izuku's. His crimson eyes burned with something unreadable—not rage, not defiance, but something almost resembling respect. He let out a low chuckle. "Heh… Three seconds. You weren't lying. You weren't an arrogant brat…you were a confident brat."

Izuku tightened the restraints. "I told you—I wasn't looking for overkill." He glanced at Iida and Native, making sure they were still conscious. Iida looked shaken but aware, his fists clenched at his sides. Native was still weak but breathing steadily.

He plopped Stain down and rushed over to the two injured people. He places a hand on Native and a faint green glow appears around his body from Cell Surge as he looks Iida over with his other hand. He noticed the two of them were paralyzed still and he turned to Iida.

Iida's breathing was ragged, and his body was still locked in place by Stain's Quirk. His eyes flickered with emotion, frustration, and guilt. He had come here seeking vengeance, but instead, it was Izuku who had saved him. Again.

"Iida," Izuku pressed, concern evident in his voice. "Are you okay?"

Iida clenched his jaw. He wanted to move, to stand, to fight—to do anything but lie there, helpless. But his body refused. "I… I failed," he muttered bitterly. "I let my anger control me. I put myself in danger, and worse… I endangered others." His fists, though paralyzed, trembled slightly at his sides. "I don't deserve to be saved."

Izuku's expression softened, but his voice remained firm. "That's not true." He rested a reassuring hand on Iida's shoulder as that familiar green glow appeared around Iida's body. "Wanting to protect someone you love isn't wrong, Iida. But throwing your life away for revenge? That's not what a hero does. You got to remember that we don't have the authority to do this stuff…not yet anyway."

That was when it hit Izuku. "Oh, dear god. I just took out the Hero Killer without a hero license. Edgeshot and Gran Torino are going to be pissed," he said worrying slightly.

Iida's eyes widened slightly at Izuku's realization, but his face remained solemn. "That… that's what you're worried about?" he asked, his voice still strained from the paralysis. "You just took down the Hero Killer in three seconds, and you're thinking about getting in trouble?"

Izuku chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his head. "Well, yeah. I mean, it's not like they'll throw me in jail or anything, but Gran Torino's probably going to lecture me until my ears fall off." He sighed, shaking his head. "Still… it had to be done."

Stain let out a raspy breath from his spot on the ground, his body still bound by the resistance tape. "Hmph," he scoffed, his bloodied lips curling into a smirk. "You may be reckless, but you understand power and responsibility." His sharp eyes flickered toward Iida. "Unlike him."

Iida stiffened at the remark, his guilt growing heavier. Stain's words, despite his villainous nature, struck a deep chord. He had come to Hosu to bring vengeance upon Stain, yet he had failed, not just in defeating him, but in staying true to what it meant to be a hero.

Izuku narrowed his eyes. "That's enough," he said firmly. "Iida's more of a hero than you'll ever be. He just lost his way for a second." He turned to his friend, his expression softer. "But that doesn't mean you can't find it again, Iida."

The engines in Iida's legs twitched as he slowly regained control of his body. The paralysis was wearing off, thanks to Stain's Quirk timer expiring and the residual effects of Izuku's Cell Surge ability. He exhaled sharply, his fingers finally curling into fists.

"Izuku… Thank you," Iida muttered, his voice quiet but filled with sincerity. "Thank you for healing me and thank you for…getting me out of that dark place."

Before Izuku could respond, a deep rumbling filled the air. The distant sound of explosions rocked the night, followed by the blaring sirens of approaching heroes and emergency responders. The battle in Hosu was still raging, with Nomu attacking across the city.

Izuku turned his gaze toward the distant destruction. "We need to get Native and Stain to safety," he said, helping Native sit up. "Gran Torino and the other heroes should be here any second now."

"I thought you healed him?" asked Iida standing up now. Izuku nodded. "I did. But healing doesn't mean I can wake them up from passing out or being knocked out." He said grabbing Native over his shoulder and Stain on his other shoulder.

Iida nodded in understanding, though he still marveled at Izuku's ability. Even after everything, Izuku was still standing, still carrying the weight of others on his shoulders. Literally.

They started to jog towards the end of the road and once they got their Native spoke. "Thank you, boys, and sorry I wasn't able to help."

Izuku patted his sigh as he looked at the other end of the street. "It's ok. Don't worry about it."

Stain started to chuckle as he looked at Native. "You and that engine boy are nowhere near this kid's level. You are not worthy. He is worthy. I already know your name already Izuku Yagi. But, what of your hero's name."

Izuku stopped at the street with Iida. "The name is Deku and what do you even mean worthy? I am just trying to do my job of saving everyone and making sure they feel safe."

Stain's chuckle, still raspy and low, carried in the distance as Izuku glanced back. His crimson eyes were locked onto them, his voice dripping with a twisted sense of satisfaction.

"That is what I mean…Deku," Stain said tasting the name in his mouth. "You don't give a damn about money, fame, fortune…you care about the people that need an idol…a hero…and someone to make them feel safe. You are one of the few who are worthy and are true heroes. That is a good thing."

They reached the intersection ahead, where the other heroes were assembling. Gran Torino, Edgeshot, Endeavor, Manual, Frostflare, and Shoto were all there trying to get a handle on things. Izuku could see Frostflare was freezing the buildings to stop the fires inside of them. That was when Izuku's blood ran cold.

"Deku!" called out Gran Torino. He started to aggressively walk towards him as Edgeshot did the same and both looked pissed.

"Wait. I can explain," he said standing Native up and setting Stain to the side.

Gran Torino's glare intensified as he stopped in front of Izuku, his hands on his hips. "Explain? Explain?! You took down the Hero Killer without any backup and a license! You know better than that, young man."

Edgeshot, his face, a mask of disapproval, crossed his arms. "What were you thinking, rushing in like that? We could've handled this."

Iida stepped in between the two heroes and bowed instantly. "Please do not be mad at Deku sirs. He is the reason I am alive, and I am the reason why he had to step in. It is my fault," he said starting to tear up.

Shoto jogged up to the group, his brow furrowed as he observed the tense scene. "What's going on here?" he asked his voice calm but edged with concern. His eyes shifted between Gran Torino, Edgeshot, Iida, and Izuku, sensing the friction in the air.

Gran Torino ignored Shoto as he glared between the two heroes in training. "Ah to hell with this for right now. We have bigger fish to fry," said Gran Torino looking away from Izuku before sending a kick at his face.

"But that was still reckless brat!" he said with Izuku rubbing his face slightly pouting. "Yes sir."

Iida looked up at Izuku, guilt clouding his expression as he wiped away his tears. "I… I shouldn't have let my anger take control like that. I came here to take down Stain, to avenge my brother. But I didn't think. I almost lost myself."

Izuku gave him a soft smile, clapping his hand on his shoulder. "Iida, you didn't fail. You were just lost for a moment. But you're back now. You're still a hero."

Iida wiped his face, taking in Izuku's words. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice trembling. "I was afraid of failing, of letting everyone down. But… you helped me. You pulled me out of it."

Just as the tension between Izuku and the heroes reached its peak, a sudden, deep rumble filled the air. A flying, injured Nomu suddenly appeared, soaring toward them with unnatural speed. It gripped Izuku with terrifying strength, its monstrous form clawing at him as it ascended into the night sky.

Izuku was gripped tightly but he activated Jolt and sent streams of electricity from his hands at the creature. But nothing happened.

"Are you telling me this thing is immune to my electricity? I can't activate Full Cowling at this thing either otherwise it will cause widespread property damage," he said as he was getting further away from the group.

"Izuku!" Iida shouted, but it was too late. The Nomu was already too far away, and Gran Torino, furious, shot forward to chase it. But the beast was swift, its speed and agility making it impossible for him to follow.

Izuku's heart raced as he struggled against the Nomu's grip. The creature's blood dripped from its eye injury, splattering across the face of a nearby hero. She recoiled, wiping it off in disgust, only to freeze in place as she felt the eerie chill of paralysis begin to settle in.

Stain, watching from a distance, smiled darkly. His crimson eyes flicked from the girl to the Nomu, recognizing an opportunity. With a swift motion, he licked the blood off the hero's face. The paralysis hit the Nomu instantly, its body seizing in midair as it lost control of its flight.

Izuku's eyes widened as the Nomu began to descend. Without missing a beat, Stain, who had freed himself from his restraints, revealed a hidden knife from his belt. He moved with deadly precision, throwing the knife into the creature's side, killing it before it could crash fully to the ground.

Izuku, stunned, barely managed to land on his feet as the Nomu's body plummeted. The weight of it falling to the earth sent a tremor through the ground.

As the Nomu's massive body crashed to the ground, sending shockwaves through the earth, Izuku struggled to steady himself, his breath ragged. He glanced around, his thoughts racing, when he suddenly felt a hand clamp down on his shoulder—Stain had pinned him, his grip ironclad, holding him down as his eyes burned with fervor.

"You think you are a hero?" Stain's voice was low and venomous, his words slithering through the tension-filled air. "Because you are."

Edgeshot and Gran Torino stared at their student as Endeavor was getting ready to charge in. "No wait Endeavor! Deku is still there."

Stain stood tall, his presence overpowering, as he faced them all. His mask, once a symbol of anonymity, now fell to the ground, revealing his full, scary face. His eyes burned with unbridled fury as he stood, defiant, against the gathered heroes. The bloodlust in his stance was palpable, and despite their superior numbers, a chill ran down everyone's spine.

"I'm here to cleanse society," Stain's voice rose, fueled by impassioned fury. "To rid it of the false heroes who plague this world! I do this for a higher cause. For the ones who truly deserve to be called heroes!"

Izuku's breath caught as Stain's gaze shifted, his eyes locking onto him.

"Like this boy right here," Stain said, pointing his knife at Izuku with conviction. "He isn't the plague. He's a cure. He is a true future hero!"

Izuku's mind reeled as Stain's words struck him like a hammer. It was clear now—Stain believed in him. But the very thought made Izuku uneasy, as he knew just how dangerous this man was. His ideals, twisted as they were, had devastating power over them.

"However. there's only one man worthy of that title." His gaze turned hard, locking onto everyone else with disdain. "All Might. The only true hero in this wretched society."

His words sent a shudder through everyone. Even Endeavor faltered, his fiery expression faltering for a brief moment as Stain's conviction weighed on him. The words cut deeper than any blade.

"You are all fools, caught in your own lies," Stain spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "Try and stop me. Come at me. I welcome the challenge."

For a long, tense moment, no one moved, frozen by the overwhelming force of Stain's words and presence. But then, with a sudden, violent cough, Stain's body went rigid. He staggered forward, blood spilling from his mouth, his breath ragged as the pain from his broken ribs finally took its toll.

"I am cleansing this world, one hero at a time," Stain growled, his voice low and threatening.

The tension in the air reached a boiling point, the energy crackling with uncertainty, until finally, Stain's body gave out from the internal injuries he had sustained earlier. His breath grew ragged, his movements slowing as the reality of his broken ribs punctured his lungs. The sight of him coughing up blood and crumpling to the ground was the last act of defiance he could muster.

And with that, he fell unconscious, defeated not by the heroes around him, but by his own body's failure to hold up against the damage he had inflicted upon it.

Gran Torino let out a long breath, his posture relaxing slightly. "It's over…" he murmured, but the aftermath of Stain's words would linger long after this battle was done. The impact of the Hero Killer's philosophy would haunt them all, echoing in their minds as they took the next steps toward reclaiming a society marred by his actions.