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?"