Chapter 82: Chapter 82 Bakugo's Long-Awaited Battle
Iida struggled to maintain his composure as he tried to manage the chaos brewing in Class 1-A. Between explaining the situation to the other classes and attempting to reason with Akira, the day was quickly spiraling out of his control.
However, Akira dismissed the commotion with a casual wave and left the classroom, citing an urgent matter.
His destination? The training grounds, where All Might had asked them to gather after school.
By the time Akira arrived, All Might was already waiting, his towering frame casting a long shadow across the open space.
"You're early," All Might remarked. "Where are the others? I expected them with you."
Akira shrugged. "They're on their way. Should be here soon."
"Good," All Might nodded before producing two documents and handing one each to Akira and Bakugo. "While we wait, take a look at these and ask if you have any questions."
Curious, Akira unfolded the paper. His gaze immediately landed on the bold header: **"Exchange Student Application."** His brow furrowed as he read further.
"Exchange students?" Bakugo echoed, his expression mirroring Akira's confusion.
"That's right," All Might confirmed. "The school has arranged for a select few of you to attend *Brave Academy* in Country M as exchange students."
"What?!" Bakugo exclaimed, his voice rising in disbelief.
Before Akira could respond, Midoriya and the rest of the group arrived, their expressions a mix of confusion and curiosity. All Might handed each of them a copy of the document.
"All Might, what's going on? Why are we suddenly being sent overseas?" Midoriya asked, clearly overwhelmed.
"This is so sudden," Todoroki added, scanning the paper.
"Listen up, everyone." All Might raised a hand, silencing the group. "The principal has been working tirelessly to secure this opportunity for you. Brave Academy is renowned worldwide for its ability to cultivate exceptional heroes. Their program is rigorous—more challenging than anything you've faced here at U.A.—but the rewards are immeasurable."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing.
"However, it won't be easy. The training there is like walking through fire. Only those who persevere will emerge stronger."
The group exchanged uneasy glances.
"How long will we be there?" Akira asked.
"The exchange program lasts between three months and a year. You'll return to U.A. once a month for evaluations and updates," All Might explained.
"A year?!" Bakugo muttered, his jaw tightening.
"That's enough time to transform into a completely different person," Akira mused aloud, intrigued by the possibilities.
"Exactly," All Might said. "But before you think about Brave Academy, your immediate focus should remain on the upcoming sports festival. After that, you'll have time to decide."
Everyone nodded, though their expressions remained conflicted.
"Now, let's get to today's lesson," All Might said, clapping his hands together. "We'll be testing your limits."
"Testing our limits?" Bakugo's eyes lit up with excitement, his competitive spirit igniting.
"What kind of test?" Todoroki asked, his usual calm demeanor showing a flicker of interest.
All Might smiled. "Among the five of you, Akira has proven to be the strongest, so he'll act as your sparring partner. Two of you will train with him at a time, while I'll personally oversee the other two."
"Wait, does that mean Akira gets to spar with everyone?" Midoriya asked, looking between All Might and Akira.
"Exactly," All Might confirmed. "This will give you all a chance to gauge your growth and identify areas to improve. But don't push too hard—I don't want anyone too injured to attend class tomorrow."
"I'm ready." Bakugo stepped forward without hesitation, sparks already flickering in his palms.
"Same here," Todoroki said, his expression firm.
It was clear they both had the same goal: to measure themselves against Akira.
"Looks like I'm up first," Akira said, rolling his shoulders. "Let's see what you two are capable of."
All Might nodded approvingly. "Good. Bakugo, Todoroki, you'll be with Akira. Midoriya, Tokoyami, you're with me. Let's get started."
As the groups split up, All Might turned to Akira and added, "Remember, don't go overboard. We're aiming to push limits, not break them."
Akira smirked. "I've got it under control."
"Don't hold back, Akira!" Bakugo growled, his palms crackling as the familiar scent of burnt air filled the space. "I've been waiting for this fight!"
Todoroki stepped up beside him, his left side radiating frost while his right shimmered with heat. "Let's see how far apart we really are."
Akira's smile widened as he stretched his arms. "Then don't disappoint me. Show me everything you've got."
The tension in the air thickened as the three faced off, each of them brimming with anticipation.
And so, the first spar of the day began.