A few days later, on the large training field at the edge of the village, the three stood apart from each other. In front of them—calm, composed, and cold—stood an adult man: Hiroshi Yamato.
He didn't look like an ordinary jōnin. His silver hair was tied halfway back, a dark-gray light jacket wrapped around his frame, and his pale teal eyes radiated a stillness that made the surrounding chakra feel almost silent. He was "The Counter Sage"—a sensor and anti-element ninja, a trainer renowned for being harsh and mysterious.
Bakugo immediately tried to assert himself, voice full of challenge:
"Don't think I'm gonna bow to you, sensei! I—"
But before he could finish, Hiroshi's hand moved forward. The air vibrated faintly; the chakra in his palm felt like a subtle magnet pulling energy.
Instantly, Bakugo's explosive chakra—usually wild, roaring, and ready to detonate—went silent. The vast, uncontrolled force he normally unleashed was restrained, as if it had vanished without a trace.
Everything froze. Even the wind seemed to hold its breath.
Hiroshi's gaze met Bakugo's, cold and unyielding:
"Your chakra volume is too loud. Lower it first, before you blow up your teammate."
For Bakugo, it was like a slap to the face. He was used to exploding—literally. But now, someone could stop him. With a single gesture.
At that moment, Hana and Ren's perspectives shifted.
Ren's eyes glimmered with respect.
Hana's body trembled slightly—not from fear, but from realizing they were under the observation of someone truly formidable.
Hiroshi studied each of them in turn:
To Bakugo, he saw destructive talent, wild energy, and high potential—if it could be controlled.
To Hana, he saw precision, discipline, focus, and refined chakra control.
To Ren, he saw adaptability, broad chakra mastery, and mental stability.
After a brief silence, Hiroshi spoke:
"You… don't match. That is why you will be a team."
The statement was simple—but it echoed like a slowly swung sword, forcing a new reality upon them.
Bakugo clenched his fists, teeth grinding. Hana turned her head slightly—her lips curved in a thin smile, yet her eyes remained icy. Ren drew a slow breath, his eyes flashing with undying determination.
All three understood: this wasn't ordinary training. This was a test—the first of many they would face together.