The next morning, Izuku arrived at the classroom early. It was still empty. It was only seven.
I wonder how everyone's doing. Aside from me wasting a couple of days, they've probably all gained something from their work studies… taking down villains, building experience, earning recognition.
He sat down at his desk and pulled out the notebook he had prepared the day before.
"Today, I need to choose a few techniques to use as opening moves…"
He flipped through the pages, reviewing his options.
"For sword styles… there's ceremonial sword, light sword, medium sword, and heavy sword. Ceremonial and light swords focus on precision and thrusting. Medium is balanced between offense and defense. Heavy emphasizes power and defense. For ranged attacks, I have Arrow One through Five, Arrow Volley, Arrow Roar, and the finisher Arrow Execution. My hand-to-hand and kicking techniques are also solid for both offense and defense…"
He paused, thinking it through.
"For openers, long-range should use Arrow Volley to push enemies back. In close combat, ceremonial and light sword techniques can control movement and create openings."
He nodded to himself.
"Mid-fight should focus on sustained offense. Finish by locking them down. If they resist… end it quickly."
Closing the notebook, he looked up and noticed Iida already seated at his desk. Over the past few days, something about him had felt off.
"Hey, Iida," Izuku said, patting his shoulder. "Did you finish yesterday's homework? Mind if I copy it?"
Iida flinched.
"Kaminari, I've told you many times—homework should be done independently— Midoriya? Are you joking?"
Izuku smiled lightly. "Sorry. You've seemed a bit tense lately, so I thought I'd lighten the mood."
"…I appreciate the concern," Iida said, straightening. "But my stance on homework remains unchanged."
"I know, I know. You can relax."
Izuku gave his shoulder a reassuring pat.
"By the way, how's your work study going?"
"It's been valuable," Iida replied. "I've learned a great deal from my senior."
"Sounds nice," Izuku said, resting his chin in his hand. "Everyone else seems to be having proper internships. Mine feels a bit… off."
"How so? You were selected by an agency, weren't you?"
"I was, but all I've been doing is training. Nonstop. It's getting a little dull."
Iida adjusted his glasses. "That's hardly a bad thing. Some of us are out on patrol every day, facing villains. I wouldn't mind more time training."
"That doesn't sound like something a class rep should say," Izuku replied.
—
At ten o'clock, after finishing their two classes, the students of Class 1-A set off once again for their work studies, full of energy.
On the bus, Izuku sighed, glancing to either side.
"We're not even getting off at the same stop. Do you really both need to sit next to me?"
"I can sit wherever I want, idiot," Bakugo shot back.
"I want to sit with you," Todoroki said simply.
Izuku shifted slightly in his seat.
Being stuck between them is… a bit much.
"Um… excuse me. Are you Midoriya Izuku?"
A girl in a middle school uniform with twin ponytails stepped up to them, holding a notebook.
"That's me," Izuku said, looking up in surprise. "Do you need something?"
"I'm a big fan! Could I have your autograph?"
She held out the notebook and pen eagerly.
"…Huh?"