The Sword Hero: Exia

Gravity Sword

Fluff chapter

18th September, 2221

2 weeks after Izuku's return

Izuku was training alone at the grounds, while most of the students took time off after the mid-term exam. He reasoned that he had already taken enough time off the previous year, and now he needed to catch up to his peers. As he threw shadow punches into the air and moved his arms in precise martial arts patterns, he couldn't shake the unsettling feeling from his prosthetic left arm. Though the alien sensation didn't hinder his movements, it certainly wasn't comfortable

Izuku was grateful to Celestial Being for helping him create a combat-oriented prosthetic arm. However, there was still much to be done before he could use it effectively in actual combat. Issues like sweating, skin breakdowns, neuromas, gait problems, and phantom pain were common for prosthetic users, even with everyday activities. These problems were magnified in combat scenarios, necessitating further refinement of the prosthetic

For now, Izuku had to make do with what he had. He knew that overcoming these challenges was just another step in his journey. The determination to improve and adapt drove him to keep pushing forward, shadowboxing with relentless focus, each punch and kick a testament to his unwavering resolve

"Hey, Midoriya, how are you holding up?" A voice called him. Izuku looked behind and saw Ochako 

"Ah, Uraraka. I'm doing fine" Izuku offered her a small, reassuring smile

"Is the arm okay?" Ochako asked softly, her eyes scanning his face for any signs of distress.

"I'm doing okay, Ochako. Just trying to get used to this new arm," Izuku replied, flexing his prosthetic arm

Ochako nodded, her expression softening with understanding. "Well, if you ever need someone to train with, I'm here for you," she offered, a determined gleam in her eyes

"Really? Thanks, Uraraka. I appreciate it," Izuku said gratefully, she has always been there trying to help him

With a nod of agreement, Ochako stepped onto the training ground, her posture poised and ready for action. "Alright then, let's spar. I want to see how you've been adjusting," she declared, a competitive spark igniting in her eyes

Izuku grinned, a surge of excitement coursing through him at the prospect of testing his skills against Ochako. "You're on," he replied eagerly, his determination fueling his every movement

The two paired up for a spar, excitement and anticipation filling the air. Their eyes locked as they faced each other, sending shivers down their spines. The spar began, both displaying their unique quirks with incredible skill and determination

For Ochako, a year had made a significant difference, and she hadn't wasted a moment. Unlike her past encounters with Izuku, where his superior talent and experience often left her at a disadvantage, this time she managed to even the odds. She even found herself on the offensive at times, a testament to her hard work and growth

Izuku, on the other hand, had faced numerous setbacks over the past year. His capabilities had been diminished, and his new prosthetic arm, still unfamiliar and awkward, further hampered his combat effectiveness. This forced the green-haired boy into a defensive stance more often than he would have liked

Driven by his desire to catch up to his peers and make up for lost time, Izuku refused to yield. Similarly, Ochako, brimming with confidence from her relentless training, stood her ground. The two continued their intense sparring session for several minutes, neither willing to back down 

This sparring session was more than just practice; it was a testament to their growth, resilience, and the unyielding spirit that defined them both

Ochako slammed a large piece of dirt toward Izuku, who deftly jumped back and somersaulted to safety. He stopped and waited as her attack kicked up a dust cloud that obscured his vision