Prodigies - My Hero Academia

Don't Wear Cargo Shorts to the Mall

Every media platform is buzzing about Japan's finalists in this year's Sports Festival. The first years specifically receive a lot of attention for their jaw-dropping performances. Never has a fresh batch of hero students been so bold in the public eye. Class 1-A's professional training only started a little over a month ago and the spotlight is already on course to follow their every move. Agencies are fighting for a chance to have someone from that group of twenty on their team. Not only for bragging rights, but a taste of supplemental popularity as well. 

Since the weekend schedule is clear, the girls of Class 1-A propose a day of fun before internships begin. An activity to bring the classmates closer together outside of school related activities. The final verdict most could agree on was a visit to the Kiyashi Ward Shopping Mall. A safe space near campus with diverse stores and spectacular food court. With so many options available, everyone can find something to feed their interest or at least waste time. However, getting to the location was up to the individual. Whether it be public transport, carpool, or driving in alone didn't matter as long as they were on time. The Vice President made that very clear.  

That Saturday afternoon, the students trickle in groups to meet near the mall entrance. Warm weather, ample space, moderate crowd, it's a great day to refresh and wander away from hero-related responsibilities. 

Well, there is one exception. 

"Like usual, Kacchan keeps his word. Too bad the public reaction couldn't have been more.. positive." Midoriya mutters to himself, swiping through articles that capitalize on his friend's victory. 

All the news can talk about is Bakugo. His face is plastered on hundreds of YouTube thumbnails, even some new memes are surfacing to mainstream media. He's a trending reaction image on Twitter and Instagram. Even so, his reputation is blundering. That insensitive claim in the beginning really snowballed into the public criticizing every little thing. They call him ungrateful, questioning his scowl at the cameras when accepting the first place medal. Not to mention the public's vile reaction to his actions during the fight against Uraraka. 

How could you expect someone so violent to be a hero?!

If he becomes a hero, anyone can.

Someone needs to knock him down a few pegs!

So, this is what it's like when the world is watching you. 

"I'll be right back." Todoroki informs, breaking the silence.

Midoriya jumps and halts, eyes peeling away from his phone screen. "Sure thing."

Once his classmate is out of sight, his attention immediately shifts back to the device. Standing in place, Midoriya waits patiently for Todoroki to return. With a white shirt, cargo shorts, and backpack, he visually blends into the crowd. In this moment the student realizes that for the first time in his life he feels comfortable in a public space. Not once has he felt the urge to look over his shoulder in fear of harassment. No one is looking his way out of pity or judgement. Never did Midoriya think that obtaining a quirk would give him a newfound sense of confidence and security. A small smile stretches his lips. 

"Midoriya, let's go!" Ashido calls out to her classmate, gesturing he come join her and Fukuda.

"Huh?"

Out of his periphery stands a hooded figure. Long, pale fingers nearly wrapping the student's neck before being spotted. Gray, matted hair hangs over his eyes. Ashido squints in an attempt to identify who is under the hood, noting his appearance is scraggly, yet familiar. Perhaps he's ill or just a creep. Either way, it's vital that her classmate step away as soon as possible. Shoving his hand into his pocket, the figure remains silent and takes a single step back. If he stands there much longer, Midoriya may detect his presence. Turning to leave, he briefly glares at Ashido. Fukuda simultaneously peers over her friend's shoulder and meets his frustrated gaze. Gripping the drink holder to her chest, she shrieks in terror and alerts all those in close proximity. Several pairs of eyes dart to the scene. The figure's plan backfired. All attention is on them.