Wings of Awakening

Part 8

The students shuffled back into the hall, energy buzzing around them, as Present Mic took the stage again, ready to explain the practical exam. He grinned, microphone in hand, looking every bit the Pro Hero that Izuku had admired for years.

"WELCOME BACK, FUTURE HEROES!" he boomed. "For this next part, you're going to be testing your skills against some opponents! You'll be going up against robots! Each one is worth a different amount of points, depending on how tough it is!"

He held up three fingers. "There are three main types: the 1-pointer, the 2-pointer, and the 3-pointer! Each one's got different strengths, so watch out and strategize well!"

Before he could finish, a tall, muscular boy with glasses stood up, raising his hand high in a sharp, determined manner. Without waiting to be called on, he interjected, "Excuse me, sir! The handout mentions a fourth type of robot, yet you haven't explained it. If this is an oversight, it is unbecoming of a school with such high standards as U.A.! We, as examinees, deserve complete information!"

The hall went silent, with a few students casting surprised glances at the bold student.

Present Mic blinked, a bit surprised by the interruption, but quickly chuckled. "Ah, right! You've got a keen eye there!" he said, clearly amused. "The fourth type is called the Zero Pointer. Now, listen closely! This one's a big obstacle—literally. It's worth zero points, so if you see it, don't waste your time trying to take it down. It's only there to get in your way, so avoid it if you can!"

The students murmured amongst themselves, a mixture of curiosity and nervousness filling the room. Izuku thought carefully about the Zero Pointer. It's just an obstacle, but... they wouldn't put it there without a reason.

Present Mic clapped his hands. "Alright, heroes-in-the-making, now you know what you're up against! Get ready, give it your best, and show us what you're made of!"

They gathered outside the large metal gates, which blocked off the mock city that would serve as their battleground. Izuku felt his heart hammering with a mix of excitement and nerves. This was it—the start of his path toward becoming a hero. He flexed his wings subtly, ensuring they were ready.

The moment the gates opened, Izuku didn't hesitate. He spread his wings wide, launching himself into the air and soaring over the streets below. The rush of wind against his face heightened his focus as he began scanning the city for targets, eager to make the most of his abilities.

Present Mic's voice boomed over the loudspeaker, breaking the other students' momentary shock: "What are you all waiting for? GO! There are no countdowns in real battles!"

Izuku grinned to himself, glad he'd trusted his instincts to take the lead.