Rising Tides (Izuku Midoriya x F!Reader)

Chapter 068

CHAPTER 68: Fractured Soul, Healing Hands

The next day dawns with a new sense of purpose. You find yourself standing in front of Sir Nighteye’s agency again, but today feels different. Today, you’re not here just to train or observe. Today, you’ll be out there, in the city, taking on your first real patrol as a hero in training.

Inside, Mirio is already waiting, his ever-present grin lighting up the room. Izuku arrives soon after, and together the three of you go over the patrol route, familiarizing yourselves with the area you’ll be covering.

“Ready?” Mirio asks, his enthusiasm infectious. You and Izuku nod, sharing a look of mutual excitement and determination. There’s something reassuring about knowing he’ll be by your side out there.

With that, you step out into the city, flanked by Mirio and Izuku. The streets are bustling, filled with people going about their day, many of whom look up at you with admiration. The weight of their gazes reminds you of why you’re here. You’re not just a student anymore; even in training, you’re part of something bigger.

As you walk, Mirio shares insights about hero work in the field. “It’s not all action, as you know. Sometimes, patrols are more about prevention and presence. If people see us out here, it gives them a sense of security. And if villains see us, they’re less likely to act.”

You nod, absorbing every word. There’s a new layer of responsibility here that you hadn’t fully considered until now. It’s not just about strength or fighting ability. Being a hero is about carrying the hopes and fears of others.

Izuku seems equally thoughtful, his gaze scanning the surroundings with a focus that’s inspiring. He’s taking this seriously, just as you are. You feel an unspoken bond form between the two of you—a shared understanding of the weight of the path you’re walking.

After a while, you reach a quieter part of the city. The chatter and activity of the central streets fade away, replaced by a more subdued atmosphere. The silence feels almost ominous, a reminder that beneath the city’s surface, not everything is as peaceful as it seems.

Mirio glances at you and Izuku, his expression becoming more serious. “This area has had some... disturbances lately. Small incidents, but we should stay alert.”

Just as he says this, you catch sight of a young girl in a white dress running towards you from an alleyway, her eyes wide and filled with terror. Her bandaged arms, the haunted look in her gaze—they’re unmistakable signs of someone in distress. Instinctively, you and Midoriya take a step forward, your hearts leaping in unison as you try to assess the situation.

She stumbles, her small frame shivering as she comes closer. Izuku is the first to reach out, his voice gentle but filled with concern. “Are you alright?” he asks, his hand extending towards her in comfort.

Before she can respond, a chilling voice cuts through the air.

“Eri,” it says, laced with an unsettling calm. You look up to see a tall man in a coat, his face partially obscured by his hat. The pressure he exudes is almost suffocating—a quiet threat masked beneath a veneer of control. You recognize him instantly. Overhaul.

A spike of fear lodges itself in your chest. This is not just some minor incident; you’re staring at one of the most dangerous villains currently at large.

Eri’s grip on Izuku tightens, her eyes pleading for help even as she hesitates, glancing back at the man. It’s clear that her fear of him outweighs everything else. Izuku’s gaze hardens, and you feel your own resolve solidify in response. This girl needs help, and everything in your training tells you to intervene.