Chapter 28: Finishing up internships

The internships are coming to an end, as the students make their last day count to acquire the last of their mentor's tutelage.

AGAIN, I apologize for my tardiness (╥﹏╥). Life has been hitting hard and my writer's block was not on my side. I am hope you are not too mad with me. Here is the next chapter. At the end of the notes, I want to ask you guys on something and need your insights.


Chapter 28: Finishing up internships

It was well past midnight and Hosu city was draped in the distilled silence of night. At the hospital, the usual bustle had quieted to a mere murmur of occasional footsteps echoing down the empty corridors. The nurses, engrossed in their duties at the nursing station, remained oblivious to the figure gliding stealthily through the shadows.

Silent as a wraith, the intruder slipped through the labyrinthine hallways, navigating with practiced ease. Passing by room after room, they finally halted at the entrance of a particular room. With cautious precision, they turned the handle, easing the door open without a sound. Inside, a lone figure lay in peaceful slumber, oblivious to the presence that now approached.

The patient, wrapped in bandages, appeared serene despite the pain they must have endured. The soft glow from the monitors cast gentle hues across their form, illuminating the room in a subdued ambience. As the intruder drew nearer, their eyes scanned over the patient's still form, noting the tranquil expression softened, probably by the pain medication administered.

A hand, steady and deliberate, extended over the patient's body. A deep breath was drawn, the intruder focusing intently on their task. In that moment, the room that had been shrouded in darkness was suffused with a faint, ethereal glow. For ten minutes, the soft radiance enveloped the patient, its purpose obscured but unmistakable in its intent. As the glow faded back into the comforting embrace of darkness, the intruder withdrew, moving swiftly and silently to depart unnoticed. However, their departure did not go entirely unnoticed.

"W-wha…hmmm," a voice stirred from the bed, the patient roused from their medicated slumber. Whether it was the sensation of a presence or a subconscious awareness, their eyes fluttered open. In the dim light filtering through the window, they caught a glimpse of a retreating figure clad in dark clothing, disappearing into the shadows.

Momentarily perplexed, the patient hesitated, unsure if they had dreamt the encounter. Yet, feeling a newfound sense of calm and relief coursing through their body, they settled back into the pillows with a sigh. Whatever had transpired, they knew one thing for certain: tonight, they would rest peacefully.

(-)

The morning of the final day of internships had come, and everyone was saying their goodbyes to the heroes that took them in. Izuku Midoriya opened the door to the old apartment building and walked down the steps, a smile on his face as he made it to the sidewalk. "Well, it is time for me to head out now, sir." he said up to the elderly man standing there.

"I'm not gonna say it has been smooth sailing, but you are pretty good, kid." Gran Torino chuckled out. "I haven't moved so much in quite some time."

"I appreciate what you did for me, sir," Midoriya gave a bow to the gray haired pro. "I'll thank All Might for your training."

"Bah, don't need to sweat it. I am sure my old student will appreciate that I managed to get you a little bit further in your mastery," the man shrugged, before leaning in to the space of the green haired kid, "Just make sure to not get yourself in to too much trouble, or I will personally whoop your danger prone ass!" the man glared, as he scolded him.

"Um…um, I-I will try…at least," Izuku stammered, struggling to look the man in the eyes, knowing fully well that he could make such a promise.

Torino sighed, knowing fully well that the kid before him was beyond talking out of. "Anyhow , just keep doing what you're doing…" the man smirked now smirked, "…and with who you're doing it with. If you know what I am getting at."

That garnered a rising blush from the green haired kid, at the mild innuendo, "W-what are you t-talking about?!"

The man chuckled at the obliviousness of the boy. As the teen began walking away, Gran Torino called out one last time. "Hey, by the way… Who are you again?"

"What?!" Midoriya gasped at the bland look on the heroes face. "I-I'm Mid-"

Izuku's eyes widened slightly when he finally realized what he was asking, his face becoming more stern. "I'm Evergreen."

Grinning at the answer, Gran Torino turned and went back inside, not needing to say anymore to the teen. Once the doors closed, the grin on the man faltered as he would need to make a call soon.


-Genius Hero Agency-

"The incident in Hosu City this week…" Best Jeanist looked over at his multiple Sidekicks with serious eyes. "It certainly worries me. Yes, it worries me quite a bit." He continued to comb a shaking Bakugo's hair, the explosive blonde suppressing a growl at the waste of time coming here had been. "People are so easily distracted by big incidents like these. But it's now, more than ever, that Heroes need to remain calm and composed. Because chaos is often so good at drawing out the slumbering brutality in people's hearts." He finished combing Bakugo's hair into a tamed part, so very different from the ash-blonde's normal spiky hair. "As such, we'll continue our usual operations today, just as always. Let our jeans keep our bodies and minds bound upright."

"Sure! Best Jeanist!" The group of Sidekicks, all in fact wearing jeans of some types, chorused back their agreement.

'I came to the wrong place!' Bakugo's combed hair suddenly poofed out into its normal spikes as his irritation grew. He didn't even care for jeans, but had been forced to wear them as an intern of Best Jeanist's Agency.


-Fat Gum's Agency-

Today was their final sparring session, and it was against another one of Fat Gum's sidekicks. Momo and Kirishima stood side by side in the battle room, awaiting what was to come next. Fat Gum observed from a distance, his expression calm yet attentive as he prepared to witness their progress in action.

"All right, you two," Fat Gum's voice resonated across the training ground. "Remember what we've practiced so far this week. Stay focused and support each other."

Kirishima nodded firmly, flexing his hardened fists. "We're ready for this, Momo!"

Momo adjusted her goggles, her mind racing through strategies. "Let's show her what we're made of, Kirishima!"

Fat Gum stepped forward, his gaze shifting between his interns and the newcomer. "Today, you'll face Hana Ishikawa, one of my sidekicks. Her Quirk, Molecular Resilience, allows her to manipulate her body's density at will. This makes her incredibly adaptable in combat, capable of withstanding powerful attacks and maneuvering swiftly. A seemingly perfect matchup for your final battle." The woman stood at medium height with a lithe, athletic build. Her hair was a vibrant crimson, often tied back in a practical ponytail to keep it out of her face during combat. Her hero costume was designed for flexibility and mobility, with reinforced panels that adapted to her changing density and a color scheme that reflected her vibrant personality.

Hana nodded in acknowledgment, her expression focused yet approachable. "I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do." With that, everyone assumed their fighting stances.

"Begin!" Fat Gum's command marked the start of their challenge.

Kirishima wasted no time, charging forward with his hardened arms, aiming a powerful punch at Hana. She reacted swiftly, adjusting her density to increase resilience. Kirishima's blow landed with a resounding thud, but Hana absorbed the impact with ease, her body adapting seamlessly.

Fat Gum's voice echoed across the field, analyzing their movements. "Good initial strike, Kirishima. Hana, maintain your focus."

"Nice try, kid," she knocked Kirishima back just in time. Momo swiftly threw a few canisters she had created, which exploded to produce a smoke screen, obscuring the older woman's field of vision. "Huh, very clever taking away my sight." Hana adjusted her density again, becoming lighter and quickly evading an incoming staff swing from the side.

"But not clever enough." Changing her density to become much heavier, she launched a punch towards Momo, who quickly dodged. "Kirishima, go!"

"Right!" With that, Kirishima pressed on, launching punch after punch, his attacks relentless as he aimed to overwhelm Hana's defenses. "Kirishima, keep up the pressure!" Momo shouted, her eyes darting between her creations and Hana's movements.

Hana's strategy evolved as the battle progressed. She alternated between increasing her density to match Kirishima's strength and decreasing it to enhance her speed and agility, keeping Momo and Kirishima on their toes.

Fat Gum watched attentively, his presence grounding them in the heat of battle. "Momo, adjust your tactics based on her responses. Kirishima, look for openings!"

Minutes stretched into what felt like hours as the trio engaged in intense combat. Kirishima's determination remained unwavering, fueled by Momo's tactical support. Together, they coordinated attacks and strategies, each move a testament to their growth under Fat Gum's mentorship.

Despite their coordinated efforts, Hana's resilience and adaptability began to shift the tide. With precise timing and calculated maneuvers, she exploited a momentary lapse in Kirishima's defense, delivering a decisive blow that sent him staggering back.

"GAH!" Kirishima choked out. Momo rushed to Kirishima's side, her expression a mix of concern and determination. "Are you okay?"

Hana approached them, her demeanor composed yet acknowledging. "You're strong," she remarked, her voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of respect. "But you're predictable. You need to vary your attacks more."

Fat Gum approached calmly, his voice a steady anchor amidst the intensity. "Great spar, both of you. Kirishima, your persistence is commendable. And Momo, your creativity and quirk speed have been exceptional."

Kirishima pushed himself upright, wiping sweat from his brow. "We couldn't win..."

Momo nodded, her gaze fixed on Hana with newfound respect. "But we've learned so much from this."

Hana nodded in agreement, her eyes flickering with a hint of a smile. "Every battle is a chance to grow stronger. You both have potential."

"We'll keep getting stronger," Kirishima declared, his resolve unshaken.

Momo looked to Fat Gum, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you for guiding us through this, Fat Gum."

Fat Gum smiled warmly, a sense of pride radiating from him. "You're both on the right path. Keep pushing yourselves, and you'll achieve greatness."

After exchanging nods with Hana and bidding farewell to Fat Gum, Momo and Kirishima left the training ground, their bodies weary but spirits high. As they walked towards the exit, Kirishima clapped Momo on the shoulder with a grin. "We did pretty good out there, huh?"

Momo smiled back, nodding in agreement. "Indeed, I do believe we worked hard there. And no doubt that our efforts will show when we get back to school," her enthusiasm was palpable.


-Hosu Hospital, Visitors Lounge-

Blossom and Buttercup sat side by side in the quiet visitors' lounge of Hosu Hospital, the sterile scent of disinfectant lingering faintly in the air. The area was empty, which was good as they needed some privacy. They huddled around Blossom's smartphone, the screen displaying a video call with Bubbles. The hospital lounge, though sparsely decorated with minimalistic furniture, provided a serene atmosphere for their conversation.

"I still can't believe that you fought HIM by yourself!" Bubbles exclaimed, fear and worry in her voice.

"Like I said before, you hogged all the fun, fearless leader," Buttercup said with a pout. Blossom responded with a groan and eye roll.

A couple of days had passed since the Stain/HIM incident, and the girls were still uneasy. Blossom had been instructed by the authorities not to mention this to the general public, but she felt it was too significant to keep from her sisters.

"I wouldn't call that experience 'fun,' now would I?" she said, casting a glare at her middle sister. Buttercup just shrugged.

Blossom sighed, "Bubbles, it was... intense," she began, her voice reflecting the weight of recent events. "Honestly, I did not expect HIM to show up, much less control an innocent person's—"

"Innocent my ass! Doesn't the name 'Hero Killer Stain' mean anything to you, red? I don't think he got that name from anything innocent," Buttercup interjected firmly.

"I know, Buttercup. But let's not forget what I told you guys about what happened after HIM left Stain alone," Blossom said.

"I thought you said you kicked HIM out of the guy's body," Bubbles asked, confused by her words.

Blossom shook her head, "No, Bubbles. I basically weakened the guy's body from the damage I and our classmates inflicted. You know HIM; it would take a lot more firepower or an embarrassing defeat before he concedes a fight," she explained.

"I could have handled the situation better if I wasn't so surprised. The way it played out, I was glad I was exhausted before I could have really let loose," Blossom sighed, concerned about what might come next.

"Don't worry, Blossom. At least you managed to handle the situation by yourself," Bubbles said, her words comforting.

"Yeah, yeah, you kicked his ass. Now what were you going to say about 'Mr. Innocent'?" Buttercup interjected.

"Oh yes. It was strange. After the battle, I was out like a light, but I woke up to HIM's energy in the air. When I came to, it was as if the guy had gone mad… like he had lost his mind. And there's a certain memory I can't recall, which worries me," Blossom's tone was somber.

"Seems like Stain made a deal with the literal devil," Buttercup joked, trying to ease her own worry.

"Guys… I have a bad feeling that HIM might try something like this again," Bubbles added fearfully.

"You and I both, Bubs. Didn't the freak say he never pulls the same trick twice, or some junk?" Buttercup said.

"But that's the thing. We don't even know what he is planning next or if HIM, Stain, and that Shigaraki from the USJ are working together. It seems like a recipe for trouble, for both us and this world," Blossom said, the atmosphere in the room growing cold and tense.

"I say we find his red ass and—"

"And what? Need I remind you, Buttercup, that in this world, we are not the only superheroes, and it is bigger and more complicated with all these laws and rules? We can't even locate HIM, since he could have changed his appearance and he is tricky. Not going to reveal himself, unless he wants to," Blossom said.

"I wonder why he won't just fight us. Why is he stalling?" Bubbles asked curiously.

"I don't know, but I guess we will just have to wait and see what comes next," Blossom calmly said.

There was a silent understanding before Bubbles spoke up, "Sorry, guys, I will have to go. Gang Orca has me on patrol and then I will need to hurry and get a train back by Sunday, before school. I will hopefully see Koda on the way back," Bubbles said apologetically.

Blossom and Buttercup glanced at each other before they turned their attention back to the phone, "It's okay, Bubbles. We'll see each other tomorrow when you get off the train station," Blossom reassured her.

"Yeah, then you can tell us more about how you totally decked one of these stupid villains. Give our best to the friendly giant," Buttercup said.

Bubbles smiled at that, "Aww, thanks guys. I will see you tomorrow when I arrive. Miss you, bye," they all gave a round of waves and 'goodbyes' before the connection cut. Putting the phone away, Blossom rested her tired self.

Buttercup quirked her eyebrow at the scene, "Still reeling from the punishment the Ninja guy gave you?"

Blossom groaned, sliding a hand through her hair. "He said he wasn't unhappy with me saving my classmates, but he still gave me the task of cleaning the dojos from top to bottom. Without using my powers," she sighed. "Honestly, having three of them was a pain."

Buttercup tried miserably not to look amused. "Ha, ha, yeah, it's very funny," Blossom sarcastically said. There was a moment of silence before Blossom broke it, "Buttercup…?"

"What's up, Red?"

"Do you… have any idea what HIM could be planning?"

"Heck if I know what that bastard is thinking," Buttercup said, crossing her arms. "What I do know is that he must be very dumb to go against us. We're the Powerpuff Girls, and we'll find that clown-faced, tutu-wearing creep and whoop his—"

"Okay, okay. I get it, Buttercup," Blossom let out a good laugh, feeling better after her sister's somewhat of a pep-talk. Buttercup glanced at her and showed a small smile at Blossom's less stressed demeanor. But before she could relax...

Suddenly, Recovery Girl's voice echoed through the lounge, startling the two girls. "There you are, Buttercup! I've been looking all over for you. We're not done, missy. After that little run you did last time, I'm not finished giving you your punishment!"

Buttercup groaned, clearly not wanting to deal with more consequences. She looked over at Blossom, silently pleading for help. Blossom, however, stared back at Buttercup with a wicked grin, mouthing out the words, "Good luck," much to Buttercup's annoyance.

As Buttercup was dragged away by Recovery Girl, complaining all the while, Blossom returned to taking a well-deserved break. A certain thought flashed through her mind, 'Karma is good.'


-U.A. Faculty Lounge-

"Then there's this League of Villains." Gran Torino didn't bother responding to his old student's words. "The media is already making connections, whether they're true or not, so this League is going to go from a gang of upstarts that attacked U.A. and got beaten, to an organization with something to say." He cleared his throat quietly. "In other words, they're the perfect magnet. The evil of individual thugs isn't worth much, but when it's all united under a single will…it'll become a hundred times more dangerous."

"I know…" Toshinori admitted as his free hand tightened into a fist.

"If this situation was what they were gunning for from the start, then their head honcho isn't a slouch." Gran Torino's eyes narrowed as he continued. "Steadily removing their obstacles, manipulating the whole situation from the shadows, making sure everything goes according to their plan. That way of doing things…" He took a deep breath. "Shimura was my friend, your predecessor as the holder of One for All. And the man that killed her, the one that tore that hole in your gut…I think we both know that All for One is behind this."

"Yes…" Toshinori admitted with a grimace, feeling an ache from his injury. "To think he somehow survived after those wounds…I didn't want to believe it."

"That kid that you've chosen." Gran Torino spoke softer this time. "You need to make sure that you sit down and tell them everything. About you, about One for All, and especially about All for One."

"I know…" Toshinori accepted that with a heavy sigh. Even though such deep breaths or exhalations irritated his damaged respiratory system.

"One more thing, Toshinori…when I faced Stain, there was something else strange about him…" there was a greater air of unease and Toshinori could sense it, "I did say that he had an energy that was filled with so much hate and danger but there was also something else in him, in his eyes. It was like chaos and madness," with that, the call ended and many thoughts were circling the number one hero's mind.

"Chaos? What does he mean and does it really involve…him?"


Author's Notes:

Okay, I just gave myself chills from writing/reading this. I know this chapter is shorter than the others, but I just wanted to post for you guys, AND MYSELF. I have had another horrible writer's block and it was not fun.

Anyway, hope you like the chapter. Also, the HIM the girls talk about is different from All Might's own him.

Also, the thing I wanted to ask you guys is about the Examination arc coming up next. Where the students have to verse the teachers. I am not too much of fan but I really want to write it, but:

I feel like I want to change it to instead of teachers, the students fight second year students or sidekicks. I just feel like it was not fair, but I also understand that they were testing them as future heroes. My other problem is the PPG's, trying to find a teacher mash-up for them is not going to be fair, seeing as the girls could stamp them but I don't want them to show off too much of their powers. Does anyone have any ideas for the Examination arc? I would like to know, please.