training camp

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The sun was barely up, casting a soft, golden glow over the UA High School campus. My classmates from Class 1-A gathered near the buses, buzzing with excitement and anticipation. I stood slightly apart from the group, my expression as stoic as ever. I glanced around, noting the enthusiasm in everyone's faces. My mind, however, was elsewhere.

The recent practical exam with Izumi Yagi had forced me to reevaluate some of my feelings. Despite the lingering resentment towards my twin sister, working together had shown me her determination and strength. It didn't erase the past, but it was a start.

As I waited, my thoughts drifted back to my adoptive grandfather, Taejin. The old man's teachings and the time we spent together shaped me into who I am today. Taejin's death left a void, but it also fueled my resolve to become stronger. I had to honor his memory by pushing forward, no matter the cost.

"Hey, Mori, you ready for this?" Tokoyami's voice broke through my thoughts. Dark Shadow hovered beside him, a constant presence.

I nodded. "Yeah, I'm ready. It's just another challenge."

Shoji, standing next to Tokoyami, gave a supportive nod. "We'll have each other's backs. That's what matters."

Jiro and Momo joined the conversation, their expressions a mix of excitement and determination. "I heard Class 1-B will be joining us," Jiro remarked. "It'll be interesting to see how we stack up against them."

Momo smiled confidently. "We've trained hard. We're ready for whatever comes our way."

I appreciated their camaraderie, even if I didn't express it openly. I valued the bonds I had formed with this group, though I kept my guard up. They didn't know about my past, and I intended to keep it that way.

As we boarded the buses, I felt a pang of unease. Vehicle sickness was one of my few weaknesses, a lingering side effect from childhood. I took a deep breath and found a seat near the window, hoping the fresh air would help.

As the bus started moving, I focused on my breathing, trying to stave off the nausea that threatened to overwhelm me. My mind drifted to the new powers I had gained from the Jade Emperor. Manipulating the fundamental forces of the universe came with a heavy toll, and I had learned that the hard way. My eyes would bleed, and I would cough up blood after using the abilities too much. It was a reminder of my limits, a caution against overreliance on such power.

I closed my eyes, trying to find a moment of peace. The memories of my time with Taejin, the girl I once knew, all swirled in my mind. I didn't know why I couldn't remember her clearly, but there was something about her that stirred a sense of familiarity.

The journey to the summer camp was long, but I remained focused. I couldn't afford to let my guard down, not even for a moment. I was determined to prove myself, to show that I was more than just a shadow of my past.

When the bus finally arrived at the camp, we disembarked, stretching our legs and taking in the surroundings. The forested area was peaceful, but I knew better than to be complacent. Challenges awaited us, and I was ready. we disembarked and were greeted by the Wild Wild Pussycats. Mandalay's enthusiastic welcome did little to stir my interest. I was here for one reason: to get stronger.

"Welcome to the summer camp, Class 1-A!" Mandalay announced. "We're going to put you through some tough training, but it's all to help you become the best heroes you can be."

Katsuki Bakugo was the first to speak, his usual aggressive tone softened by a rare moment of camaraderie. "Alright, you extras! Let's show Class 1-B what we're made of!"

Katsumi rolled her eyes but smiled at her brother's enthusiasm. "Just don't blow up the whole camp, Kacchan."

Shoto and Shiori Todoroki stood side by side, their expressions reflecting their usual calm demeanor. "This will be a good opportunity to train," Shoto said quietly.

Shiori nodded. "We need to stay focused and work together."

As we set up our tents and prepared for the training ahead, I remained slightly apart from the group, observing. I had lost some of my animosity towards Izumi after working with her, but I still kept my distance. She didn't know I was her brother, and I intended to keep it that way for now.

The summer camp had only just begun, and I was ready to face whatever lay ahead. With my friends by my side and my determination unwavering, I knew that I would continue to grow stronger. The journey was far from over, but I was prepared for every step of the way.

The first day of training began with a brutal obstacle course. I tackled each challenge methodically, my movements precise and efficient. There was no need to show off or compete with the others. My goal was self-improvement, pure and simple.

The obstacle course was designed to test both physical and quirk abilities. Izumi and Katsuki were constantly trying to outdo each other, their competitive natures driving them forward. Shoto and Shiori worked together, their combined quirks creating powerful attacks. I kept my distance, focusing on my own progress.

By evening, we were all exhausted. The students gathered around a campfire, sharing stories and laughter. I sat on the outskirts, watching the flames dance. The warmth of the fire contrasted sharply with the cold detachment I felt inside.

My thoughts drifted to my training with Taejin. Those memories were bittersweet, filled with both warmth and pain. He had taught me everything, but his death had left a void that could never be filled.

Tokoyami approached me, breaking through my reverie. "You did well today, Mori. Your precision is impressive."

I nodded slightly, acknowledging the compliment without speaking. The familiar wave of nausea hit me again, stronger this time. I clenched my fists, trying to steady myself.

Momo and Jiro joined us, curious about the quiet student who always seemed to be in his own world. "You've got some serious skills, Izuku," Momo said. "Where did you train before coming to UA?"

I glanced at her, my expression guarded. "I trained with my grandfather. He taught me everything I know."

Jiro tilted her head, intrigued. "He must have been a great teacher."

"He was," I replied, my voice barely audible. The nausea was becoming unbearable, and I knew I needed to excuse myself.

Without another word, I stood up and walked away from the campfire, heading towards the edge of the camp. The cool night air did little to alleviate my discomfort. I leaned against a tree, taking deep breaths and willing the sickness to pass.

As the stars twinkled overhead, I couldn't shake the feeling of isolation. Despite being surrounded by classmates, I felt completely alone. My journey was mine alone, and the path ahead was fraught with challenges only I could face.

For now, all I could do was endure..

Izuku The forgotten Jade emperor.Where stories live. Discover now