As Itachi walked toward the high school entrance, he sighed, knowing there would be a lot of talk once he stepped inside. His thoughts drifted to Kaina, and a small smile formed on his lips. Just then, he sensed someone rushing toward him. He sighed again, already expecting what was coming.
"Aegis!" he heard a familiar voice call out.
With a swift sidestep, Itachi avoided the incoming figure—none other than Keigo Takami, who quickly stabilized himself with his wings, flashing a mischievous smirk.
"Bro!" Keigo exclaimed. "How was your internship? Anyspicebuild up?"
Itachi smiled faintly but kept walking forward, his pace steady and calm. Keigo, now curious, widened his eyes and ran to catch up.
"Wait… don't tell me… you two are together now, aren't you?" Keigo asked, his smirk widening.
Itachi sighed softly but nodded. "Yeah."
Keigo's smirk turned into a grin. "You've been with her for a month, huh? Feelings do grow… and maybe a little somethin' extra—"
Before he could finish, Itachi gave him a light punch to the chest. Keigo, however, caught Itachi's wrist, grinning even more.
"You've improved your reflexes," Itachi remarked with a small smirk of his own.
"Of course!" Keigo replied confidently. "I've been working with the Pussycats. They've been teaching me a lot about hand-to-hand combat."
"That's great," Itachi said with a nod, genuinely impressed.
Keigo, still grinning, continued, "But what about you, man? Aside from theintimacy, how was your internship?"
Itachi let out another sigh. "Nothing much. I met Endeavor."
Keigo chuckled, shaking his head. "And I bet that didn't go too well, huh?"
Itachi nodded. "He's exactly like Fuyumi said."
"Figures…" Keigo sighed as they both reached the classroom.
As soon as they entered, their classmates turned toward them. Iida, always punctual, called out, "Good morning, Yaoyorozu! Good morning, Takami!"
They both nodded in return. "Good morning," they said in unison.
The class soon gathered, sharing stories from their internships. Moe Kamiji was the first to speak up. "I was at Endeavor's Agency. He's strict, but his sidekicks are pretty awesome."
Takeyama, with a nervous sweatdrop, added, "I was with Uwabami… she used me in her ads."
Rumi grinned smugly. "I was with Shishido's Agency," she said.
Itachi, recalling the name, responded, "Ah, he has lion-based Quirks, right?"
Rumi nodded, still smirking. "Yeah, he taught me a lot."
Ryuko chimed in. "I was with the Riot Agency."
Manual added, "I was with Selkie."
Curiosity filled the room, and their classmates turned toward Itachi and Keigo.
"So, what about you two?" someone asked.
Keigo grinned widely. "I was at the Pussycats' Agency," he said, then leaned in with a smirk. "And Mandalay… isverysexy."
Itachi sighed heavily at the remark, while Rumi sneered. "You're such a perv."
The attention shifted to Itachi. "What about you?" Rumi asked.
Itachi, with a small smile, answered, "Nagant's Agency."
A collective sigh filled the room. Rumi smirked knowingly. "I figured as much."
With the conversation winding down, everyone took their seats. Keigo looked around, observing the comfortable energy in the room.
"They're getting used to it," he noted with a grin.
Itachi nodded, a rare sense of contentment washing over him. "It's great," he agreed quietly.
Aizawa entered the classroom with his usual tired expression, but there was a hint of pride in his voice as he addressed the class. "You all did great during your internships," he said, glancing over each of them. "You've gained some valuable experience on the ground."
The students nodded, a mix of satisfaction and relief washing over them. They had all grown in their own ways, and Aizawa's acknowledgment only solidified that feeling.
"But now," Aizawa continued, his tone shifting back to business, "it's time to focus on your studies." His eyes narrowed slightly, as if warning them not to let their guard down. "For the next two months, it'll be study and exams. After that, you'll move on to the second year. Is that clear?"
"Yes, Sensei!" the class chorused, though some voices were more enthusiastic than others.
Aizawa gave a curt nod, satisfied. "Good. Now, your new subject, Modern Literature, will be taught by a different instructor." He turned toward the door just as Cementoss, the hero with a concrete body, walked in.
"Hello, everyone," Cementoss greeted, his deep voice warm and calm. "I'm Cementoss, and I'll be handling your Modern Literature class."
The students nodded respectfully, though many were curious about how Cementoss would approach teaching such a subject. Itachi, sitting quietly at his desk, had a neutral expression but his eyes observed everything. He had already studied many of these subjects back in his former world, but he didn't mind revisiting them. There was always something new to learn, especially in this different world of quirks and heroes.
Aizawa folded his arms across his chest. "I'll leave you to it, then," he said before turning to exit the room. As he did, Present Mic strode in with his usual energetic flair, ready to teach English.
"Yooo, class! Let's get LOUD for some English!" Present Mic boomed, eliciting a few groans and chuckles from the students. His infectious energy filled the room, as always. Despite his loudness, his lessons were engaging, and even Itachi, who had mastered several languages in his previous life, found the class somewhat amusing.
Afterward, Midnight took over, her sultry presence commanding the room as she taught History with a dramatic flair, making even the dullest topics come alive with her unique storytelling.
Itachi watched silently, absorbing the information while simultaneously observing his classmates. Rumi sat a few seats ahead, her usual confident smirk occasionally softening as she scribbled down notes. Keigo, on the other hand, was still clearly distracted, grinning every now and then—no doubt his mind was still on Mandalay.
Next came Ectoplasm with math. His no-nonsense approach reminded Itachi of the strict teachers he once had in the Hidden Leaf. The math itself was nothing new to Itachi, but he still followed along, maintaining his usual stoic focus.
This routine of classes—English with Present Mic, History with Midnight, Math with Ectoplasm, and Modern Literature with Cementoss—became the norm for the next two months. The students studied diligently, knowing the semester exams were looming. Itachi, as usual, was a step ahead, but he didn't let it show. He preferred to blend in with the others, silently watching and supporting where needed.
Finally, the exams came and went. The tension in the air was palpable, but the class pushed through with determination. Itachi found the tests relatively easy, his disciplined mind making quick work of the material.
When the results were finally posted, there was a collective sigh of relief throughout the class. Many students exchanged glances, some congratulating one another, others groaning over subjects they'd struggled with.
Time Skip: Now in Class 2-A
Aizawa returned once more, standing before them with his usual stern expression. "Congratulations," he said, his voice steady and firm. "You've passed your exams and are now officially second-year students. Welcome to Class 2-A."
The students exchanged glances, excitement and relief clear on their faces. But before they could fully bask in the moment, Aizawa continued.
"However," he said, his tone shifting slightly, "from now onward, I will no longer be your homeroom teacher."
A few murmurs of surprise rippled through the room.
"Your new homeroom teacher will be Snipe," Aizawa announced, giving them a moment to absorb the news. "I have full confidence in his ability to guide you through this next phase of your training."
The class remained silent, many unsure how to respond to the sudden change.
Aizawa glanced over the room one last time before adding, "I wish you all the best of luck."
The room erupted into cheers, some students hugging each other, others fist-pumping the air in victory. Even Itachi felt a quiet sense of accomplishment as he glanced over at his classmates, appreciating their collective growth.
Keigo, never one to miss an opportunity, threw an arm around Itachi's shoulders, grinning widely. "Second year, man! We're getting closer to the big leagues. Think they'll let us handle even tougher missions now?"
Itachi gave a small smile, his mind already on the future. "We'll see."
Rumi's eyes lit up with excitement. "Yeah, it's gonna be so much fun now that we can finally get our hero licenses!" she said, glancing over at Itachi with a confident smirk.
Itachi nodded, his expression calm but a slight spark of anticipation visible in his eyes. "Yes, this would definitely be interesting," he said. He had already proven himself in countless battles, but the idea of being officially recognized as a hero intrigued him.
Yu, sitting nearby, chimed in. "I heard that if we perform well in the license exam, some agencies might hire us as sidekicks for up to two years."
Ryuko, always reliable and knowledgeable, nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's true. Some foreign agencies even get involved, offering internships to promising students."
Itachi considered this, nodding as he processed the information. "I've heard the same," he added quietly, always the observer.
Keigo smirked, unable to resist teasing his friend. "You know you're going to end up working for Lady Nagant even if some other agency offers you a deal," he said, nudging Itachi playfully.
Itachi couldn't help but smile slightly, something rare for him. "I will," he agreed. Lady Nagant had been more than just a mentor to him during his internship—she had left a lasting impact, and his loyalty to her was something that ran deep.
Rumi leaned back in her chair, her grin widening. "I heard she's been appointed as the No. 3 hero now."
Itachi nodded again, his pride unmistakable despite his stoic demeanor. "I know," he said softly. Internally, a warmth spread through him as he thought about Kaina—Lady Nagant.I feel so proud, he reflected silently.
Before the conversation could continue, the door to the classroom opened, and a figure strode in with a commanding presence. The students turned their heads and were greeted by the sight of a man who looked like a stereotypical Western cowboy. His face was hidden behind an old-school tan gas mask, shaped like a horse's muzzle, with triangular holes for his eyes. Silver ear-defenders were attached to the sides of the mask, while his dark, blueish dreadlocks spilled out from under a brown cowboy hat adorned with a metallic plate stamped with an "S." His gray boots had knee-high shafts, silver trims, and spurs that clicked softly as he walked.
Rumi squinted at the figure. "Who's that?" she whispered to Itachi.
Itachi observed the man for a moment before replying. "I think that's our new homeroom teacher."
The man approached the front of the class, his posture relaxed but exuding authority. He adjusted his hat slightly before speaking, his voice muffled slightly by the mask. "Alright, settle down," he said, his accent fitting his cowboy-like appearance. "Name's Snipe, and I'm your new homeroom teacher."
The class fell silent as they took in the new development. Snipe glanced around the room, nodding to himself as if confirming something. "I've heard a lot about you from Aizawa," he continued. "He tells me this class has a lot of promise. Now I'll be the judge of that."
The students exchanged curious looks as Snipe continued. "Last year, you all showed off your hero work through internships. You got a taste of what's out there. But now, it's different. This year, you're expected to become full-fledged heroes."
His words hung in the air, the weight of them settling on the students.
"In about four months, you'll face the license exam. If you fail…" Snipe paused, looking around the room to ensure he had their attention. "You'll have to repeat the year. But if you pass, opportunities will open up. Agencies from not just Japan, but from all over the world, will be watching. You might even get offers from foreign agencies."
The class collectively widened their eyes, excitement and nerves buzzing in the air. Itachi's mind shifted into focus mode. The stakes were higher now, and he could feel the energy shifting as the class realized just how serious this year would be.
Snipe tipped his hat slightly. "So, work hard. And if any of you find yourselves struggling, don't hesitate to come to the staff room for help. We're here to support you through this."
Everyone nodded, the sense of camaraderie and determination in the room growing. As Snipe turned to leave, Itachi sat quietly, his eyes narrowing in thought.He seems like a decent guy,Itachi mused, already sizing up his new teacher. There was a subtle strength in Snipe's casual demeanor, one that Itachi respected.
The new year had begun, and the journey to becoming a hero was about to intensify.
As the day came to a close, Itachi walked home, the city bathed in the soft hues of the setting sun. He pulled out his phone and sent a text to Kaina, but noticed that she hadn't replied the entire day.She must be busy,he thought with a faint smile. After all, she was now the No. 3 hero—a position that came with a lot of responsibilities. Putting his phone back in his pocket, he felt a quiet sense of pride for her.
When he reached home, he saw Yana and Momo in the backyard, training Momo's quirk. Momo had become impressively proficient with her abilities, and Itachi watched them for a moment, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Yana noticed him first, her face lighting up. "Welcome home, Itachi."
Momo turned, her face full of excitement. "Brother! Look at this!" she called out, showing off her latest creation.
Itachi walked over, inspecting her work with an approving nod. "You're doing great, Momo." He patted her head gently, feeling proud of how far she had come.
Yana beamed, placing a hand on Momo's shoulder. "She's incredibly smart, Itachi."
"Of course, she is," Yana added with a grin. "She's my daughter, after all!"
Itachi couldn't help but sweatdrop at his mother's playful boasting. "Sure," he responded, trying to hide his amusement.
Yana narrowed her eyes, catching his tone. "What do you mean by that, Itachi?" she asked, pretending to sound suspicious.
He raised his hands in mock surrender. "Nothing, mother."
"That's what I thought." Yana's gaze softened as she turned back to Momo, and the young girl giggled, clearly enjoying the playful banter.
Itachi sighed but smiled, feeling the warmth of his family around him. It was a comforting moment, one that made the weight of the hero world feel distant.
Yana clapped her hands together. "Come now, Itachi. Let's eat dinner."
He nodded and headed to his room to freshen up. Changing into comfortable black and grey tracksuit pants, he rejoined his family at the dining table. The atmosphere was light as they shared a meal together.
Midway through dinner, Momo looked at him with a knowing smirk. "Brother... how's Kaina?"
Itachi's gaze flickered to her, and he hesitated for a second before replying. "She's fine."
Momo's smirk only grew. Itachi narrowed his eyes at her. "Are you thinking about something, Momo?"
She looked back innocently. "Nothing at all."
Yana chuckled, watching the exchange with a knowing smile on her face. "Momo, don't tease your brother," she said, though her tone was gentle.
After they finished eating, Itachi pushed his chair back and stood. "I'll go to my room, mother."
Yana nodded, her voice full of care. "Make sure you rest, okay?"
Momo couldn't resist one last quip. "Don't spend too much time talking to Kaina, alright?" she teased, her smirk returning.
Itachi smiled softly, shaking his head as he made his way to his room. Once inside, he settled onto his bed, pulling out his phone again. The day had been full, but the quiet moments with his family always left him feeling grounded.
As Itachi dialed Kaina's number, he leaned back on his bed, waiting for her to pick up. When she finally answered, her voice sounded hurried, almost strained.
"Hello," he greeted softly.
"Sorry, Itachi," Kaina interrupted, her tone clipped and tense. "It's not a good time right now. I'll talk to you another time."
He could hear the weight in her voice, the urgency. Without pressing further, Itachi responded quietly, "Sure, take care."
He lowered the phone from his ear, staring at the screen for a moment before putting it down.Something's wrong,he thought, his intuition whispering that she was dealing with more than she was letting on. Yet, he knew better than to push her. Kaina was strong, but even the strongest carried unseen burdens.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the call, Kaina gripped her sniper rifle tightly, biting her lip as she stared through the scope. The villain in her sights moved slowly, unaware of the silent death waiting from afar. Her quirk,Sniper,activated as she tugged on her hair, transforming a strand into a bullet. With practiced precision, she aimed, steadying her trembling hands, and fired.
The bullet struck its mark. The villain fell, lifeless.
But as Kaina stood there, staring at the body, her eyes darkened, the weight of her actions pressing down on her soul. Her hands began to tremble, her mouth dry, and she clenched her fists tightly, trying to control the shaking.
"I don't want to do this anymore..." she whispered to herself, the words almost choked with emotion. The darkness within her grew, gnawing at the edges of her mind. The life of a hero wasn't as clear-cut as it seemed. Every shot she fired took a part of her with it, and no matter how many villains she stopped, she could feel her humanity slipping away bit by bit.
Kaina lowered her weapon, her breath shallow and uneven.What am I becoming?The weight of being a hero, the choices she had to make, and the lives she had to take began to pile up. For a moment, she wished for the simplicity of her conversations with Itachi—a quiet moment where the weight of the world didn't feel so heavy.
But there was no time for that now. She had a duty. And duty, as always, came before her desires.
With one last glance at the fallen villain, she turned and walked away, her heart heavy with regret.
As Kaina stood over the fallen villain, a familiar voice crackled through her earpiece.
"Mission successful, Lady Nagant. You can return now."
She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the words sink in. The confirmation of her kill sent a cold shiver down her spine. With a deep sigh, she replied, "Understood," her voice flat, devoid of emotion.
Kaina slung her rifle over her shoulder, glancing one last time at the lifeless figure before her. Despite the success of the mission, a heavy weight lingered in her chest, one that never seemed to go away no matter how many times she heard those words.
"Another job done," she muttered bitterly, her breath forming small clouds in the cold night air.
As she made her way through the dark streets, the city lights flickering in the distance, her thoughts wandered back to her phone call with Itachi. His calm, steady voice had been a brief solace in the chaos. She wished she could've told him more, that she could confide in him the weariness that came with her work. But there was no time for vulnerability in her line of duty, not when the Hero Public Safety Commission (HPSC) had their eyes on her every move.
When Kaina finally arrived at the HPSC headquarters, she walked through the cold, sterile halls, the click of her boots echoing in the silence. The atmosphere inside the building was always tense—clinical, devoid of warmth, just like the missions they assigned.
A receptionist nodded at her as she approached. "Report to the Director," they said, barely making eye contact.
Kaina sighed softly and proceeded down the hallway, her steps slow and deliberate. The walls were lined with portraits of heroes, each face staring down at her with the kind of righteousness the HPSC demanded. But Kaina knew better. She had been molded into something different—something darker.
When she entered the Director's office, she was met with the cold, sharp gaze of the man behind the desk. He was dressed immaculately, his posture rigid, exuding authority with every movement.
"Lady Nagant," he said, his voice like ice. "Another mission completed flawlessly, as expected."
Kaina nodded, offering no words. She knew the script by now.
"You've done excellent work. Your efficiency continues to serve the Commission well. With Endeavor now at the top and your recent promotion to No. 3, you're in the prime of your career."
"Thank you," Kaina responded, her voice monotone, her face an emotionless mask. Inside, she felt nothing but hollow.
The Director leaned forward, clasping his hands together on the desk. "But remember, Lady Nagant, there's no room for hesitation in our line of work. We eliminate threats before they become disasters. The world needs heroes willing to do what others won't."
Eliminate threats.The words echoed in her mind, cold and mechanical. She wasn't a hero. She was a weapon, and they wielded her as such.
"Yes, sir," Kaina replied, her voice devoid of life.
"You're dismissed," the Director said, turning his attention to the paperwork on his desk, as if she had already ceased to exist in his world.
Kaina turned and left the office, the hollow feeling growing inside her with every step. As she walked out of the building and into the night once more, she couldn't help but wonder how much longer she could keep doing this—how long until she broke.
She pulled out her phone, glancing at Itachi's name in her recent contacts. For a moment, she considered calling him back. Maybe she could talk to him, tell him everything weighing on her heart. But then she shook her head and put the phone away.
Not yet.
She wasn't ready to burden him with her darkness. Not yet.
Timeskip 3 months:
For three months, Itachi continued reaching out to Kaina, his texts and calls filled with warmth and genuine concern. Every time he reached out, Kaina responded with her usual, "I'm busy... I don't have time," masking her true feelings behind a smile that no one could see. Itachi, with his sharp intuition, always sensed that something was off. But he never pressed her, always replying with, "Okay, take care," giving her space, though his heart whispered that she was hiding something.
Itachi would often think about Kaina in quiet moments, wondering what burden she was carrying that she refused to share. He understood the weight of responsibility, the loneliness of walking a difficult path, but he couldn't shake the feeling that her distance wasn't just about being "busy." His instinct told him there was more beneath the surface.
On her end, Kaina tried to keep up appearances. Despite the grueling nature of her work with the Hero Public Safety Commission (HPSC), she wore a smile whenever they spoke. She'd laugh at his jokes, tease him a little, and pretend everything was fine. But when she hung up, the mask fell away, leaving her alone with her thoughts.
One evening, after a particularly tough mission, Kaina sat alone in her dimly lit apartment. Her body was tired, but her mind was even more exhausted. As she scrolled through her phone, she saw Itachi's name at the top of her messages, along with a few missed calls. She smiled a little, remembering how persistent he could be. But that smile faded quickly as her thoughts drifted to what her life had become.
She whispered to herself, "If only he knew... What would he think of me if he knew what I was doing?"
But when Itachi called that night, she forced herself to answer, putting on her cheerful voice. "Hey, Itachi! Sorry, I've been so swamped. How are you?"
"I'm good, Kaina," he replied, his voice calm as ever, but there was a pause. "You sound tired though."
Kaina chuckled, masking her exhaustion. "Nah, just a long day, that's all. You know how it is with hero work."
"I understand," he said softly. "But you've been saying that for a while now. Are you sure everything's okay?"
She hesitated, not expecting his gentle probing. "Y-Yeah, I'm fine! You know me, always running around," she said with a laugh. She could almost picture him on the other end, his dark eyes seeing through her facade.
"It's just... you don't have to always act like everything's perfect, Kaina. I know something's on your mind. You don't have to tell me, but... just know I'm here."
Kaina's heart clenched. She hated how easily he could read her, how his words always made her feel understood, even when she didn't want to be. For a moment, she thought about telling him everything—about the HPSC, the missions, the darkness creeping into her soul. But she couldn't bring herself to do it.
Instead, she smiled through the pain, her voice bright. "You always know how to make me feel better, Itachi. I'm okay, really. Just... a little tired. But talking to you helps."
Itachi didn't push any further. "I'm glad I can help. Just remember, I'm here whenever you need to talk. You don't have to carry everything alone."
His words were a comfort she hadn't realized she needed. She laughed lightly, though the tears she held back threatened to spill over. "I know, Itachi. Thank you."
Their conversations continued, light and filled with warmth. Kaina never revealed the truth about her work, and Itachi never pried, even though he could sense the weight she carried. He understood what it was like to keep secrets, to protect the ones you care about by not burdening them with your own struggles.
As they said their goodnights, Kaina hung up and sat in the quiet of her apartment. Her heart ached, but it was a little lighter, thanks to him. She wiped her eyes and whispered, "Thank you, Itachi... I'll keep moving forward. For you."
Though the darkness of her work remained, Kaina found solace in the fact that there was someone out there who cared about her—someone who could see through her mask, even if she wasn't ready to let him in completely.
After about a month of silence, Itachi decided it was time to reach out to Kaina again. He picked up his phone and called her, determined to hear her voice and check on her. At first, the call went unanswered, but he was persistent. After a few attempts, the familiar click of the line picking up filled his ear.
"Itachi?" Kaina's voice came through, tired but still carrying that lightness he had grown accustomed to. "Sorry, I've been really busy."
"I figured," Itachi replied, his tone gentle but with a hint of concern. "I wanted to check on you. We haven't spoken in a while."
"Yeah... HPSC has me working nonstop. It's been pretty crazy these days," Kaina explained, though her voice masked the deeper strain she was feeling. "But hey, what about you? How's the hero license exam preparation going?"
Itachi smiled softly to himself. Even when she was overwhelmed, Kaina still asked about him. "It's going well. A lot of training, but I'm ready for it."
"That's great to hear!" Kaina's tone perked up, a little more lively now. "I'm sure you'll pass with flying colors. You're a natural."
"Thanks," Itachi replied. There was a short pause before he added with a chuckle, "But you know, I was thinking... once I get my license, how about I become your sidekick? You could show me the ropes."
Kaina's heart ached at his words, but she masked it with a soft laugh. "Itachi, as tempting as that sounds, I don't think I can take on a sidekick right now. The work with HPSC is keeping me more than occupied. I've barely had time to breathe lately."
There was a hint of sadness in her voice, but she quickly tried to brighten it up. "But hey, don't let that stop you from being an amazing hero on your own. You don't need me to guide you."
"I get it," Itachi said with a nod, even though she couldn't see him. "But you know I'll always be ready to stand by your side when you need me, right?"
Kaina paused on the other end, her heart warming at his words. She knew how genuine he was, and it made it even harder to keep up the wall she had built around herself. "Yeah... I know," she whispered. "Thank you, Itachi. That means a lot to me."
"Just promise me you're taking care of yourself," Itachi added, his voice a little softer now. "I know you've got a lot going on, but don't forget to take breaks. You can't carry everything alone."
Kaina smiled, even though her heart felt heavy. "I'll try. I promise."
There was a comfortable silence for a moment, both of them simply enjoying the connection, even if it was over the phone. Kaina felt a bit of the weight lift off her shoulders just by talking to him.
"All the best for your exam, Itachi," she said warmly. "I know you'll do great."
"Thanks, Kaina," Itachi replied, a slight smile in his voice. "And when I pass, maybe I'll still try to convince you to take me on as your sidekick."
Kaina laughed, the sound light but a bit bittersweet. "We'll see," she teased, though deep down, she knew things wouldn't be that simple.
"Take care," Itachi said finally.
"You too," Kaina replied softly before ending the call.
As Kaina put her phone down, she leaned back in her chair, staring at the ceiling. A small smile lingered on her lips, though her heart was still heavy. She felt conflicted—on one hand, she cherished these conversations with Itachi, but on the other, she knew her line of work with the HPSC made it hard to keep close connections. She didn't want to pull him into the dark, tangled world she had been navigating.
"I'm really proud of you, Itachi," she whispered to herself, wiping away a tear before it could fall. "But I have to keep my distance... for both of us."
But for now, she allowed herself to hold onto the warmth his words had given her, knowing that despite everything, he would always be there for her when she needed it. And that made the weight she was carrying just a little bit lighter.
Just as she began to gather herself, her phone buzzed on the desk, drawing her attention. Kaina glanced at the screen, and her heart skipped a beat. It was the HPSC president calling.
Her brow furrowed as a sense of dread washed over her. She knew this wasn't going to be a simple conversation. She picked up the phone with a steady hand, answering it with a cold, detached tone.
"Hello?"
The voice on the other end was formal, calculated, and it immediately set her on edge. They exchanged pleasantries, but it was clear the president wasn't calling for small talk. Kaina listened intently, her expression hardening as she absorbed the information.
The president spoke of threats, of plans, and of her place in the larger scheme. The implications of what they were discussing settled over her like a dark cloud, suffocating and oppressive. It became clearer with every word that her time was running out, that she was a target—an expendable asset in their eyes.
Kaina's jaw clenched, her grip tightening around the phone.They think they can control me. They think I'll just fall in line.
Her blood boiled, but she kept her voice calm, controlled. She wasn't about to let them hear her anger. "Understood," she said curtly, before ending the call without another word.
For a moment, she just sat there, the silence in the room almost deafening. But then her eyes narrowed, and a dangerous determination flared within her.
"Just wait…" she muttered under her breath, her gaze darkening. "After I get the information I need, I'll bury you myself."
Kaina stood, her resolve hardening with every second. She wasn't going to let the HPSC control her. She wasn't going to let them dictate her life or threaten her existence. And more than anything, she wasn't going to let them hurt anyone close to her—especially not Itachi.
Her eyes flickered with a dangerous light as she made her way out of the office.I'll play their game for now,she thought,but when the time comes, I'll take them down from the inside.
Time Skip 1 months:
As the fourth month began, students from Class 2-A, along with participants from Shiketsu High, Ketsubutsu Academy, and other schools, gathered at Takoba National Stadium for the Provisional Hero License Exam. The excitement was palpable in the air. Keigo, always laid-back but alert, stood next to Itachi with a mischievous glint in his eye.
"So... Itachi," Keigo began casually, leaning in with a sly grin. "How's Tatsumi-san doing these days? You know, your girlfriend?"
Itachi, as composed as ever, gave him a sideways glance, his expression barely shifting. "She's doing fine."
Keigo chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. "Just fine? Come on, you've gotta give me more than that. I know you've been spending all your free time texting her. What's the latest? Is she still keeping you in line?"
Itachi didn't miss a beat, his calm exterior unshaken. "She's busy with her work at the HPSC, like always."
"Busy, sure," Keigo grinned, nudging him playfully. "But I'm betting she's thinking about you, and you're thinking about her even more. I mean, you can't fool me, man—ever since you two started dating, you've been different. Lighter, maybe?"
Itachi smiled softly, shaking his head. "You're imagining things, Keigo."
"Oh, really?" Keigo's wings fluttered with amusement as he leaned in closer, his tone teasing. "You're telling me you haven't been counting the days until you can see her again? I'm sure you're already planning your next heroic date."
Itachi's stoic expression remained intact, but Keigo caught the slightest twitch of his lips—a small giveaway. "We'll see each other when things calm down," Itachi replied coolly. "We're both busy."
Keigo grinned wider, sensing his opening. "Right, because a couple of future top heroes can't just drop everything for romance, right? But admit it, you're totally head over heels for her. I mean, you guys are practically perfect for each other."
Itachi finally allowed himself a small smile, his eyes betraying a quiet fondness. "Maybe. But like I said, we're both focused on our own paths right now."
"Uh-huh," Keigo smirked, not buying the nonchalant act for a second. "You know, for someone who's supposed to be all business, you sure talk about her like you're planning a future together. I wouldn't be surprised if you're already thinking about matching hero costumes."
Itachi chuckled, shaking his head again. "You've got too much time on your hands."
"Maybe," Keigo grinned, stretching his wings lazily. "But come on, you've got it bad. And hey, when you two decide to make it official, I better be invited to the wedding. I'll even give a speech—something about how I always knew Itachi Yaoyorozu, the most serious guy I know, would fall for someone like Kaina."
Itachi couldn't help but laugh at Keigo's relentless teasing. "Sure, Keigo. You'll be the first on the guest list."
Keigo clapped him on the back, satisfied with the reaction. "That's all I'm asking for, man. Just don't forget—love's a battlefield too, you know. You've gotta keep up with her pace."
"I will," Itachi said with a knowing smile, his thoughts briefly drifting to Kaina. Even with their busy lives, he knew they were on this journey together. And one day, they'd stand side by side, stronger than ever.
Before Itachi could respond, Rumi, Yu, Ryuko, and a few other classmates like Ida, Moe Anan, and Masaki joined them. Yu waved energetically. "There you guys are!"
Keigo nudged Itachi with a grin, but Itachi look at them with a polite smile. Rumi smirked, eyes gleaming with excitement. "I'm pumped! This is going to be fun."
Ryuko, ever calm, teased, "Is there anything you feel other than excitement, Usagiyama-san?"
Ida adjusted his glasses, his posture serious. "I've trained hard for this moment. I'm ready to fulfill my duty."
Ryuko nodded in agreement. "Same here. I've been putting in extra work."
Keigo smirked mischievously. "Maybe I'll pull out some training moves from the Pussycats."
Rumi sneered, her sharp eyes narrowing. "You're such a perv, Takami."
Keigo shrugged playfully. "Why so worked up, Usagiyama? Lighten up."
Rumi fell silent, her expression unreadable, but she didn't reply. Itachi, sensing the silence, smiled and said softly. "Let's stay focused."
Just then, Yokumiru Mera, an HPSC official, stepped onto the podium. His voice echoed through the stadium. "Hello, everyone! I'm Yokumiru Mera from the Hero Public Safety Commission, and I'll be conducting the Provisional Hero License Exam today. Let me explain the rules."
He looked down at his notes. "There are about 1,000 of you here, but only 100 will pass. The exam consists of two phases. The first is a preliminary round. Each of you will receive three targets to place on your bodies in visible spots—anywhere except your feet or armpits. You'll also receive six balls. Your goal is to hit the targets of two other examinees. Once all three of your targets are lit up, you're disqualified. But if you take down two people, you'll qualify for phase two."
The gates opened, signaling the start of the first phase. As the participants rushed in, each received their six balls and targets. The atmosphere was tense as everyone geared up for the challenge ahead.
Itachi, calm as ever, moved with precision. Within minutes, his strategy unfolded effortlessly. He analyzed his surroundings, spotting weaknesses and opportunities before anyone else. Six minutes passed, and Itachi had already completed his task, hitting his targets with surgical accuracy.
Yokumiru, observing from the sidelines, widened his eyes in disbelief. "Already? He did it in just six minutes?" He quickly grabbed the microphone. "Itachi Yaoyorozu has passed the preliminary round and is advancing to phase two."
Itachi made his way to the waiting area, his face as composed as ever. He sat down, quietly observing the others, though his mind was far from at ease. Waiting for his classmate.
As Itachi sat in the waiting area, a couple of students he had eliminated earlier walked by, visibly confused. One of them muttered, "Already? When did he do that?" They had been eliminated so swiftly and efficiently, they hadn't even realized what had happened.
Keigo, who had just finished his round, smirked as he observed the scene. "This test was made for Itachi's quirk," he remarked confidently. Then, with a mischievous grin, he added, "Now, let's see how I do."
Keigo activated his quirk, sending out his feathers, each one carefully attaching itself to a ball. In a single, fluid motion, he launched them towards the targets. His precision was impeccable, and soon after, Yokumiru announced, "Keigo Takami has passed the preliminary round."
Keigo strolled over to the waiting area, spotting Itachi sitting there with anticipation. He tapped his shoulder. "Bro!"
Itachi looked up, his usual calm demeanor masking his inner thoughts. "You finished early," he said quietly.
Keigo smirked, teasingly. "Like I told you, I've learned a lot from the Pussycats."
Itachi signed but gave a small smile.
After a long wait, Rumi, Ryuko, Anan, Masaki, Ida, and Moe entered the waiting area. Rumi, with a smirk of her own, called out, "That was fun!"
Keigo leaned back, full of confidence. "I know, we're gonna rock this!" he said, to which Rumi replied with a grin, "Absolutely."
Yokumiru then stepped back onto the podium, his voice booming across the stadium. "So, 100 students have been selected!"
The announcement was quickly followed by a surprising shift. The entire battlefield, where the preliminary round had just taken place, began to crumble. Buildings collapsed, and the landscape morphed into a disaster site, shocking several of the examinees, particularly those from Class 1-A.
Yokumiru continued, "This destroyed battlefield will be your next and final stage for the Provisional Hero License Exam." He paused for effect, as the tension built. "On this disaster site, your task will be to conduct rescue maneuvers."
Gasps could be heard from some of the students as they absorbed the gravity of the new challenge.
Yokumiru explained further. "You will be saving citizens who have been placed in this disaster site. But be warned—these aren't just ordinary civilians. They're senior citizens and children who have obtained Provisional Hero Licenses themselves. They've undergone extensive training and are experts in rescue operations. They are part of the Help Us Company."
As Yokumiru finished his explanation, he announced that the senior citizens disguised as injured victims were scattered throughout the disaster site. The examinees were to carry out rescue operations, and their performance would be scored based on a point system. Those who scored above the average would pass. With that, Yokumiru gave them a ten-minute break to prepare.
Itachi narrowed his eyes, observing Yokumiru intently. He noticed that Yokumiru was glancing their way. "Keigo, look," Itachi said in a low voice. "He's watching us."
Keigo followed Itachi's gaze, a smirk forming on his face. "Yeah, I think the HPSC is interested in us." His tone was casual, almost amused.
Itachi nodded but remained focused. As soon as the gates opened, he rushed into the disaster site without hesitation. His Sharingan activated, scanning the area for any signs of people needing help. "Hyuga Clan might have an advantage here," he thought, given the nature of their byakugan.
It didn't take long for Itachi to spot a group of elderly people and children trapped under a large rock. With a display of sheer strength, he lifted the debris with ease and knelt beside them. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice calm and composed.
An elderly man clutched his arm. "My hand… it's broken."
"I'll help you," Itachi replied, moving with efficiency. He turned to a child nearby. "And you? How are you feeling?"
"My legs… they hurt," the child whimpered.
Itachi's sharp instincts told him these "victims" were incredibly skilled actors, designed to test the examinees. Nevertheless, he treated them with care. He gently lifted the child into his arms, instructing the older man, "Put your hand on my shoulder."
With both the child and the elderly man in tow, Itachi swiftly made his way to the nearest infirmary station, carefully placing them down before heading back into the fray.
As he moved through the rubble, he spotted a woman trapped beneath some debris. However, just before he could reach her, another examinee arrived. The woman refused his help, her stubbornness clear, and the frustrated examinee left in a huff, ignoring her plight.
Itachi sighed inwardly, thinking,This girl has a serious attitude problem.
He approached her calmly. "Where are you hurt?"
The woman glanced up at him, her eyes widening in surprise. Her initial annoyance faded, replaced by a sudden flush of admiration. "You're… handsome," she murmured, before wincing dramatically. "It's my leg. It hurts. Can you… carry me?"
Itachi understood her game. but he was trying to score points, for the sake of the test, he complied. He gently lifted her onto his back, but the way she clung to him tightly made him uncomfortable. He quickly carried her to the infirmary, setting her down as soon as they arrived.
"Here," he said, his voice steady, though his discomfort was evident.
Before he could leave, the woman called out, "Excuse me… what's your name?"
Itachi paused, glancing back at her. "Aegis," he replied, using his hero name, before turning to leave.
The woman blushed, whispering to herself, "Aegis…"
Just as Itachi was about to continue his rescue efforts, a loud explosion echoed across the disaster site. His eyes immediately darted to the source. Standing in the gateway, surrounded by smoke and rubble, was none other than All Might himself.
"Everyone be in Fear, because I am here!" All Might's booming voice echoed, commanding the attention of everyone in the stadium.
Itachi narrowed his eyes, his mind sharpening.So, he's the obstacle,he thought, preparing for whatever lay ahead.
The sudden appearance of All Might left the other examinees and spectators in awe. "All Might!" people whispered and gasped, as if the mere mention of his name brought both excitement and fear.
Keigo, who had just dropped off another injured child at the infirmary, appeared beside Itachi. "Is he the obstacle?" Keigo asked, his tone more serious now.
Itachi nodded, his eyes narrowing. "This might be tough," Keigo added, glancing at Itachi with a hint of unease. Itachi remained silent, focused, watching All Might closely.
Suddenly, All Might made his move, aiming a destructive strike toward the infirmary where the injured civilians were being treated. "Sorry about this, but it's part of the test!" he called out. His powerful arm swung back, ready to unleash an attack.
Without hesitation, Itachi, Keigo, Rumi, Yu, and Ryuko rushed into action. Yu transformed into a towering giant, and Ryuko took her dragon form, both moving in to intercept. Yu reached out, trying to block the attack, but the force behind All Might's strike was too much for her. She stumbled back, her hand trembling from the impact.
"Oops, that was stronger than I thought," All Might muttered, realizing his own strength had almost gotten out of hand.
Ryuko charged forward next, her dragon wings propelling her at high speed. "Texas Smash!" All Might roared, sending a powerful gust of wind that knocked Ryuko off course, sending her crashing into a nearby wall.
Keigo, determined, unleashed a flurry of his feathers, aiming for All Might's blind spots. All Might, with precise timing, swung his arm to deflect them, causing even more damage to the environment. The battlefield was turning into chaos, but All Might remained unfazed, his iconic smile unwavering.
Itachi, standing back for a moment, analyzed the situation.He's pushing us to our limits.He saw an opening and activated his Sharingan, casting an illusion to distort All Might's perception. In an instant, the puff of smoke around them made All Might drowsy, his eyelids growing heavy as he began to fall asleep.
His Sharingan glowed crimson as he caught something the others didn't—an anomaly in All Might's movement. His eyes widened as he noticed a puff of smoke surrounding the hero's form. Before anyone else could react, Itachi used his speed to get closer. In the midst of the smoke, Itachi saw what no one else was meant to see—All Might's frail, emaciated form.
As the smoke began to dissipate, Itachi's eyes locked with All Might's, and the realization hit him hard.This is his secret…he thought, understanding the gravity of the situation.
Suddenly, he heard a voice, distant yet clear:Protect his identity.
Itachi's mind raced, but he knew what he had to do. Without hesitation, Itachi rushed All Might outside, away from the public's view, and dispelled his illusion. As the fog lifted, All Might blinked awake, startled to find himself alone with Itachi, and dispelled his illusion. As the fog lifted, All Might blinked awake, startled to find himself alone with Itachi.
"Don't worry," Itachi said calmly. "No one noticed." His voice was low and reassuring, showing his respect for the hero's secret.
All Might, surprised but grateful, looked at him with a soft expression. "Thank you, young Yaoyorozu." His voice, though quiet, was filled with gratitude.
Itachi nodded, saying nothing more, and quickly returned to the battlefield just as the timer for the test ran out. He let out a quiet sigh, grateful to have protected All Might's secret without drawing attention to himself.
As the dust settled and the tension lifted, the announcement blared across the arena: "Time's up!" The test had come to an end, and with it, a wave of relief washed over the examinees.
As the test concluded, Yokumiru's voice echoed across the room, "The exam is over. Now, I will reveal the results." He pressed a button, and a leaderboard appeared on a large screen. Among the names displayed were: Itachi Yaoyorozu, Keigo Takami, Rumi Usagiyama, Yu Takeyama, Ryuko Tatsuma, Masaki Mizushima, Anan Kurose, Tensei Iida, Moe Kamiji, and Kaoruko Awata, along with other students.
Each one of them had passed the Provisional Hero License Exam.
Itachi looked down at his newly obtained license, his eyes narrowing as he thought to himself,Now I can finally stand beside her...A sense of quiet determination settled within him.
Keigo, standing beside him, grinned as he playfully bumped Itachi's shoulder. "Bro, you look cool in this!" He then smirked, adding, "But not as cool as me."
Itachi smiled faintly and replied, "Sure." There was a hint of amusement in his voice, but he was still focused on the task ahead.
Yu, standing nearby, raised her newly minted license high in the air. "Finally! I got it! Now I can become super famous and rich!"
Ryuko glanced at her, crossing her arms. "Is that all you're thinking about?"
Rumi, smirking confidently, added, "Now I can kick some villain ass."
Keigo, never one to miss an opportunity for a joke, teased, "You really like...assdon't you?"
Rumi shot him a glare, her eyes narrowing. "That was lame."
Keigo blinked, caught off guard. "What? Lame?You'relame!"
"What did you say?" Rumi's smirk widened, her eyes filled with mischief. "I'll kill you, bird boy."
Keigo stood his ground, grinning back. "I'll do the same, rabbit girl!"
Itachi sighed, his usual calm demeanor hiding the hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "You two really are suited for each other," he muttered, amused by their banter.
"As if!" Keigo shot back.
Rumi huffed, crossing her arms. "Yeah, who'd like this weak bird?"
Keigo grinned wider, his feathers twitching. "Says someone who eats nothing but carrots."
Rumi's face flushed, her smirk faltering as she quickly turned defensive. "What did you say?"
Keigo, sensing victory, leaned in slightly, teasing, "You like to eat carrots."
Rumi, now visibly flustered but determined, shot back, "You also like bird food!"
Keigo's eyes widened, caught off guard by her comeback. Rumi smirked triumphantly, ready to keep the battle going.
Just as Keigo was about to retort, Itachi swiftly brought his hands down, lightly smacking both of them on the head. "Enough, you two," he said with a rare smile.
"Ow!" they both exclaimed in unison, rubbing their heads.
Itachi, still smiling, shook his head. "Okay, calm down."
Keigo and Rumi exchanged grins, their earlier tension fading into a moment of shared humor. "Alright, alright," they both said, their competitive spirits settling.
All Might, who had been observing from a distance, watched Itachi with a thoughtful expression. His smile broadened slightly, impressed by the young hero's presence and leadership.He's perfect,All Might thought, a sense of certainty filling him.
A little later, All Might excused himself, heading to the washroom. After a short while, he reappeared, no longer in his thin, frail form, but as the iconic, muscular Symbol of Peace. With long, confident strides, he made his way toward Itachi.
"Young Yaoyorozu," All Might's deep voice boomed as he stood before him, casting a large shadow over the room. "I need to talk to you."
Itachi looked at All Might—or rather,Toshinori Yagi—with deep contemplation. His Sharingan flickered slightly as he processed everything he'd just heard.
"I'll meet you outside," Itachi said to Keigo before turning to follow All Might. Keigo gave him a knowing smirk. "No problem, man," he replied, before walking off with the others.
As Itachi and All Might found a secluded spot, the Number One Hero shifted into his thin, frail form. His voice was softer now, vulnerable. "You've already seen me like this," Toshinori began, his eyes showing a flicker of gratitude. "Thank you for not saying anything."
Itachi nodded, his expression unreadable as always. "Someone told me to protect your identity. So, that's what I did."
Toshinori's brows furrowed in curiosity. "Who told you that?"
"It was a voice. A female one," Itachi said, recalling the mysterious message he had received earlier. All Might's eyes widened in realization, a quiet acknowledgment in his expression.
So... you too believe he's the right one, Master,Toshinori thought to himself.
Gathering his composure, Toshinori's tone became more serious. "I know what you're talking about," he said, locking eyes with Itachi. "I have an offer to make you. But first, let me answer a question that I'm sure has been on your mind."
Itachi tilted his head slightly, observing the shift in the conversation.
"You can call me Toshinori Yagi," the former Symbol of Peace said, offering his true name. Itachi gave a respectful nod in return. "Yagi-san, is this what your quirk has done to you? No one has seen you like this in public."
Toshinori sighed, lifting his shirt to reveal the deep scar running across his torso. "This injury," he said gravely, "was from my battle with a villain known as All For One. A fight that nearly ended me a year ago." He paused, watching Itachi's expression for any signs of recognition.
"All For One..." Itachi echoed, thinking about the unfamiliar name.
"Yes, a name you may not know," Toshinori said, lowering his shirt. "That battle left me with a ruptured stomach and limited my ability to use my quirk. I can only maintain my hero form for about three hours a day now."
Itachi's gaze didn't waver, but there was an undercurrent of concern beneath his calm demeanor.
"I was waiting for the right moment," Toshinori continued, "but after watching you during the exam, I think you might be the one. The one who can carry this burden."
Itachi raised an eyebrow, still unsure of what Toshinori was leading up to. "The one... for what?"
Toshinori's face became solemn, his eyes sharp with resolve. "What I'm about to tell you, young Yaoyorozu, is something you must not share with anyone."
Itachi nodded, sensing the gravity of the situation.
"My quirk is called One For All," Toshinori revealed. "It is a quirk that grants immense strength, but it is not like other quirks. It can be passed from one person to another. I am the eighth user of this quirk... and I want you to be the ninth."
Itachi's eyes widened in shock. The weight of Toshinori's words hung in the air. "You mean... you want to give me your quirk?"
Toshinori nodded, his face filled with sincerity. "Yes. This quirk was passed down to me by my predecessor, and now it's time for me to pass it on. I want you to be the next Symbol of Peace."
The revelation hit Itachi hard. His mind raced, trying to piece everything together.The voice I heard... the female voice… could it be connected to these past users of One For All?His eyes flickered in recognition as the pieces started to come together.
"So... the voice I heard," Itachi began, his voice steady, "was from one of the past users?"
Toshinori nodded with a knowing smile. "Yes. It seems the other One For All users have already chosen you."
The weight of the decision loomed over Itachi as he took a moment to process everything. He had come into this world with his quirk, his Sharingan, and his past burdens. Now, he was being offered something greater—something that could help him change the course of this world.
Toshinori's gaze was unwavering as he asked, "What do you think, Young Yaoyorozu? Will you accept this responsibility?"
Itachi looked at Toshinori, his expression calm yet thoughtful. "I am honored by your request," he said quietly, his voice carrying the weight of respect. He paused for a moment before continuing, "But... I'm sorry. I can't accept it."
Toshinori's eyes widened in surprise. "Why not?" he asked, the confusion evident in his tone.
Itachi met his gaze steadily. "I want to become a hero on my own merit and through my own strength, not by borrowing a quirk from someone else."
For a moment, Toshinori stood in silence, processing Itachi's words. Then, a smile slowly formed on his face, filled with both admiration and understanding. "Deep down... I think I knew you would say that," Toshinori admitted, a trace of pride in his voice.
Itachi nodded, his face still solemn. "I'm sorry, Yagi-san."
Toshinori shook his head gently. "There's no need to apologize," he said kindly. "In fact, I respect your decision." His smile grew a little warmer, as if relieved that he had chosen the right person to entrust with such a difficult choice.
"But," Toshinori continued after a moment, his tone becoming more serious, "there's another offer I'd like to present. It's not just from me, though. There's someone else who's interested."
Itachi's eyes narrowed slightly, curious. "Who?"
"In America," Toshinori began, "there's a hero named Star and Stripe."
Itachi's eyes widened this time, recognizing the name immediately. "She's the World's Number One Hero," he said, almost in disbelief.
Toshinori nodded. "Yes, she is. And she specifically requested to have you as her intern. When the list of requests was sent out, you didn't choose her, but she hasn't forgotten about you."
Itachi was momentarily taken aback.The World's Number One Hero wants me for an internship?He took a breath, his mind working through the implications. After a long pause, he finally said, "I... I need some time to think."
Toshinori smiled, nodding in understanding. "Of course," he said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small piece of paper. "Here's my number. If you decide you're interested, give me a call."
Itachi took the paper, glancing at it briefly before slipping it into his pocket. "Thank you, Yagi-san," he said, his tone respectful.
Toshinori smiled once more, his old, tired eyes twinkling with warmth. "You have a bright future ahead of you, Young man. Whatever decision you make, I believe in you."
With that, Toshinori turned and walked away, leaving Itachi standing in the quiet hallway, deep in thought. He stared down at the piece of paper for a moment, then tucked it away, his mind already weighing the next steps in his journey.
Itachi stood before his family, the warmth of their home contrasting with the steady excitement brewing inside him. As he entered, Yana, Momo, and his father, Takashi, were waiting eagerly.
"Did you get your hero license?" Yana asked, her eyes wide with anticipation.
Itachi smiled, a soft and proud look on his face, and pulled out his newly minted hero license. Yana's face lit up instantly, and without missing a beat, she wrapped him in a tight hug. "My baby is a hero now!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with pride and joy.
Momo, standing beside her, beamed with excitement. "My brother is a hero now!" she echoed, her eyes shining with admiration as she looked up at him.
Takashi, standing calmly at the back with his arms crossed, gave a proud nod. "You did great, son," he said in his usual steady voice.
Itachi smiled at his father, then gently patted Momo's head. "You'll be a hero in no time, Momo," he said softly, and her grin widened, full of determination.
Once the excitement settled, Itachi cleared his throat, feeling the weight of the news he was about to share. "Actually, there's more." His family's attention was on him again. "I've been given an incredible opportunity… All Might offered me an internship in America, with Star and Stripe."
Yana gasped, her hands flying to her mouth in disbelief. "America? With Star and Stripe?" She could hardly contain her excitement.
Takashi's usually composed expression softened with pride. "That's an honor, son. You've earned it."
Momo bounced in place, unable to hold back her excitement. "That's amazing, brother! You're going to be working with the strongest hero!"
Itachi chuckled at his little sister's enthusiasm, but his thoughts were interrupted when his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen—Kaina. His heart skipped a beat, but this time, it wasn't with dread. Excusing himself, he stepped aside to take the call.
"Hello, Kaina," Itachi greeted, his voice warm, yet curious.
Kaina's voice came through, soft and steady. "Hey, Itachi... I heard you passed your exam. Congratulations."
"Thank you," Itachi replied with a smile, "but that's not the only news. I wanted to tell you—I've been offered an internship... with Star and Stripe in America. All Might himself recommended me."
There was a pause on the other end, and though Kaina's tone remained cheerful, Itachi could sense a flicker of something hidden beneath it. "That's... that's really great, Itachi," she replied, though her voice trembled ever so slightly. "You deserve it."
Itachi's brow furrowed slightly. "Kaina... I was hoping we could work alongside each other. I wanted to be by your side, you know?"
There was another small pause, and though she laughed lightly, there was a weight behind her words. "You've always been so thoughtful, Itachi. But don't worry about me... You should focus on yourself. This is your moment."
Her words were kind, but something about them felt off to him. He couldn't shake the sense that she was hiding something. Still, he didn't press her. Instead, he softened his tone. "Kaina, I won't be gone forever. We'll have our chance to work together. I promise."
Kaina smiled through the phone, though Itachi could hear a faint trace of sadness she was trying to hide. "I know, Itachi. I'll be cheering for you from here."
"Thanks," he replied, his voice filled with gratitude. "I'll check in when I can, alright?"
"Yeah," Kaina whispered. "I'd like that."
With a final exchange of goodbyes, the call ended. Itachi stood for a moment, staring at his phone, the weight of the conversation lingering. But this time, there was hope—hope for the future, for the dreams they both had yet to fulfill.
He returned to his family, who were still buzzing with excitement, and as Momo asked him endless questions about America, Itachi couldn't help but smile. His journey was just beginning.
Yana, who had been observing from a distance, approached with a gentle smile. "Itachi, what's that look on your face for?" she asked playfully, her motherly instinct kicking in as she moved closer.
Momo, never one to miss a beat, exchanged a mischievous glance with Takashi. "Brother, is that Kaina on the phone?" she asked with a teasing grin.
Itachi's stoic demeanor faltered, and he couldn't help but chuckle. "It wasn't like that," he said, shaking his head lightly.
"Oh, really?" Yana teased, raising an eyebrow. "Then why were you smiling when you saw her name pop up?"
Momo nodded in agreement, her grin growing wider. "Yeah! Come on, brother, we know you're head over heels for her."
Itachi leaned back in his chair, trying to suppress a smile but failing. "You two are relentless."
"Can you blame us?" Momo said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "We've never seen you this happy before. Kaina must be really special."
"She is," Itachi admitted, his smile softening. But there was that flicker of concern again, lingering in his chest. Why did she seem so distant on the call?
Yana noticed the brief change in his expression but chose to keep the conversation light. "Well, I hope you told her about your big news. You're going to America, after all!"
Itachi nodded. "I did. She said she's really happy for me."
"Of course, she is!" Momo said, bouncing on her feet. "Who wouldn't be? You're going to train with Star and Stripe! That's incredible."
Itachi smiled, feeling the excitement from his family lift some of the weight off his shoulders. "Yeah... it's an amazing opportunity. But I'll be back before you know it."
"You better be," Yana said playfully, crossing her arms. "We can't have you running off and forgetting about us."
"Never," Itachi replied with a grin.
Momo folded her arms, a teasing glint in her eyes. "And I bet Kaina will be counting the days until you come back too. You guys are practically inseparable."
Itachi chuckled again but said nothing, his mind briefly returning to that moment on the phone. Why did she sound so off? he wondered again. Maybe she's just tired. Or worried...
Before he could dwell on it further, Yana gently nudged him. "Don't worry too much, Itachi. If she seemed a little off, she's probably just missing you already. You two will have plenty of time together once you're back."
Momo nodded in agreement. "Exactly! And who knows? Maybe next time you two will be working side by side as heroes."
Itachi's smile returned fully at that thought. "Yeah... that's the plan."
Takashi, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally spoke. "You've got a lot ahead of you, son. But remember, we're always here for you."
Itachi gave a grateful nod. "Thanks. I'll make the most of this internship, and I'll be back before you know it. And Kaina... well, I'll figure out what's bothering her when the time comes."
Yana placed a hand on his shoulder, her expression warm and full of love. "You've grown so much, Itachi. We're all so proud of you."
Momo grinned and added, "Just don't forget to call Kaina while you're in America. I'm sure she'll miss you like crazy."
Itachi couldn't help but smile at his sister's teasing. "I won't forget."
With that, the atmosphere in the room lightened even more, and Itachi felt reassured. Whatever was bothering Kaina, they'd face it together. For now, he had an incredible opportunity ahead, and his family—and Kaina—would be there waiting for him when he returned.
The night had settled in, casting a cool, quiet stillness over the city. Kaina sat on the edge of her bed, her hands resting in her lap, gripping her phone tightly. The ache in her chest was familiar now, a constant reminder of what she had done, but this time, she focused on the reason behind her decision.
Staring out of the window, her mind replayed the conversation with Itachi—the pain in his voice, the confusion—but she knew, deep down, this was the only way. It wasn't what she wanted, but it was what needed to be done.
Her fingers traced the edges of her phone as she took a deep breath, willing the tears that threatened to fall to stay away. This wasn't the time for tears. She had made her choice, and she needed to stay strong. For his sake.
It's better this way, she thought, her gaze hardening with determination. He doesn't belong in this world of chaos. If he stays by my side, he could get caught in something far worse than heartbreak.
Kaina stood up, her back straightening as she moved toward the window, the cool air brushing against her skin. She could feel the danger lurking at the edges of her life, the constant threat that surrounded her every day. It was her burden to bear, not his. He had a bright future ahead—one filled with promise, hope, and the potential to become a great hero. That future didn't need to be weighed down by the darkness she carried.
He needs to leave, she told herself firmly, her heart clenching but her resolve unshaken. He needs to focus on becoming the hero he's meant to be. And I can't stand in the way of that.
As she gazed out at the quiet city below, a sense of calm began to settle over her. It wasn't the calm of relief, but of resolve. She had made her decision, and though it hurt, she knew it was right. She couldn't let Itachi be dragged into her world—the risks, the danger, the enemies that lurked in the shadows. It was better that he stay away, for his own safety.
Her fists clenched at her sides, the weight of her decision sinking in fully. I have to do this alone. If I can keep him safe by pushing him away, then that's what I'll do. She squared her shoulders, forcing the emotion out of her voice. He'll be safer without me.
Kaina's thoughts drifted to Itachi's future—his hero license, his internship with Star and Stripe in America. He'll be far away from all this. He'll thrive, she thought, a small, bittersweet smile tugging at her lips. And that's how it should be.
Pride swelled in her chest as she imagined him succeeding, growing stronger, and making a name for himself. She could picture him standing tall as the hero she knew he was destined to become. He'll be better off without me holding him back.
The pain still lingered, but it was overshadowed by the fierce determination to keep him safe. She had made the right choice. She had to face this storm alone, and it was better this way.
"It's better this way," she whispered to herself, her voice steady and calm. "He won't get caught up in my mess. He won't get hurt because of me."
With one last look out the window, Kaina turned away, her heart heavy but her resolve firm. She had a path to walk—a dangerous, lonely path—but she would walk it alone if it meant Itachi would be safe. It was the only way to protect him, even if it meant keeping him at a distance.
"I have to do this," she whispered, clenching her fists. "I have to keep him away... for his sake."
The night continued on, quiet and still, as Kaina steeled herself for the challenges ahead. She had chosen this path, and she would face whatever came her way, knowing that by doing so, she was keeping Itachi safe from harm.
Itachi slipped his hand into his pocket, feeling the small piece of paper with All Might's number crumple softly between his fingers. He pulled it out, staring at the numbers written on it. His mind buzzed with excitement as he thought of the opportunity awaiting him.
This is it, he thought, his heart racing with anticipation. All the hard work, all the training—it had led him to this moment. He dialed the number, feeling a surge of energy. After a few rings, All Might's familiar voice answered.
"Hello, who is this?"
"It's Itachi Yaoyorozu," Itachi said, his voice steady, but brimming with confidence.
There was a brief pause on the other end before All Might responded enthusiastically. "Ah, Young Yaoyorozu! I'm glad to hear from you. Does this mean you've made your decision?"
"Yes," Itachi replied firmly, his resolve shining through. "I've told my parents, and they've given me their full support. I'm ready for the internship with Star and Stripe."
All Might's voice brightened. "Excellent! You've made a wise choice, young Yaoyorozu. This will be an incredible learning experience for you, and I have no doubt you'll make the most of it."
Itachi's lips curled into a determined smile. "Thank you, Yagi-san. I'm ready to give it everything I have."
"That's the spirit!" All Might said with his usual enthusiasm. "We'll make the arrangements, and soon, you'll be on your way to America. Star and Stripe is eager to work with a promising hero like you."
The call ended shortly after, and Itachi lowered the phone, his heart filled with a sense of purpose. He took a deep breath, gazing up at the sky, the night air cool against his skin. There was a fire in his chest—a fire that refused to be dimmed. The path ahead was filled with challenges, but that only made him more determined to overcome them.
I'm ready, he thought. I'll train harder than ever, and I'll become the hero I've always dreamed of being.
As he stood there, his thoughts briefly drifted to Kaina. Though she wasn't by his side right now, he felt a quiet sense of peace knowing that their paths would cross again one day. I'll keep growing, keep moving forward. And when the time comes, I'll stand alongside her.
Itachi clenched his fists, his resolve strengthening. The future was bright, and he was ready to meet it head-on. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he was prepared to face them with unwavering determination.
For now, his focus was clear—his journey as a hero was just beginning. But deep down, he knew that when the time was right, he and Kaina would stand side by side once more, stronger than ever.