NOVEL NEXT Chapter 10: GROWTH [ 7 ]
-[ SHINICHIRO ]-
The sprawling Hero Development Facility, newly established by All Might and the Pro Hero Association, stood as a beacon of hope. Children from the Jaku Incident roamed its halls, their laughter and chatter replacing the despair that once defined their lives.
Shinichiro and Hori stood at the facility's entrance, their eyes wide as they took in the vibrant atmosphere. The sleek design of the building contrasted sharply with the sterile white walls of the underground facility they had escaped.
"This place feels... alive," Hori said softly, her voice tinged with awe.
"It's a fresh start," Shinichiro replied, his tone resolute. "For all of us."
---
The staff welcomed them warmly, pairing each child with mentors and counselors to ease their transition. Shinichiro found himself gravitating toward a combat instructor named Rika, whose no-nonsense attitude reminded him of Takeshi.
"You've got raw power, but you need finesse," Rika said during their first session, her sharp eyes analyzing his stance. "Let's start with refining your control."
Meanwhile, Hori excelled in group exercises, her protective instincts shining as she helped the younger children overcome their fears. Her quirk, Rose Shield, became a favorite during training, providing both comfort and defense.
The pair quickly became role models, their bravery during the Jaku Incident earning them admiration among their peers.
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Despite their progress, reintegration into the outside world presented its own set of challenges. At Takeshi's insistence, Shinichiro and Hori enrolled in a local middle school.
On their first day, the stares were immediate. Whispers followed them through the halls, some curious, others wary.
"They're the kids from the Jaku Incident," a boy muttered to his friend.
"They fought those monsters, right?"
Shinichiro clenched his fists, his nerves fraying under the attention. Hori placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
"Let them talk," she whispered. "We'll prove ourselves in time."
In class, their teacher introduced them with a gentle smile. "Everyone, please welcome Shinichiro and Hori to our school. I expect you to treat them kindly."
During lunch, a golden-haired boy approached their table.
"You're Shinichiro, right?" he asked, grinning. "I'm Eijiro Kirishima. That was awesome what you did at Jaku!"
Shinichiro blinked, caught off guard by the boy's enthusiasm. "Uh, thanks."
"Mind if I sit with you?" Kirishima asked, plopping down before Shinichiro could answer.
Hori chuckled. "Looks like you've made your first friend."
---
The Togata household became a sanctuary for Shinichiro and Hori. They spent evenings sharing meals with the family, their laughter echoing through the cozy home.
"Pass the rice, Shinichiro!" Mirio called, his grin infectious.
"Here," Shinichiro said, tossing the bowl to him.
"Careful!" Mirio yelped, barely catching it. "You've got to warn me next time!"
The warmth of the family dynamic was healing for both Shinichiro and Hori. Takeshi often joined their conversations, his gruff exterior masking a deep pride in how far they'd come.
"You two are doing great," he said one evening, his voice softer than usual. "Keep it up."
---
All Might and Endeavor arrived at the Hero Development Facility one afternoon, their presence drawing excited whispers from the children.
Takeshi, standing at the entrance, greeted them with a smirk. "Didn't think I'd see you two here again so soon."
"All Might insisted," Endeavor said, his tone curt. "He wanted to check on the progress of the children."
Inside, the three heroes observed a training session where Shinichiro and Hori were sparring. Shinichiro's movements were sharper, his strikes precise, while Hori's shields flowed seamlessly with her offense.
"They've improved," All Might remarked, his tone full of admiration.
"They've got good teachers," Takeshi replied, a hint of pride in his voice.
---
During a quiet evening at the facility, Shinichiro and Hori sat together under the stars. The glow of the city lights in the distance reminded them of how far they'd come.
"Do you ever think about the kids we saved?" Hori asked, her voice soft.
"Every day," Shinichiro replied. "I wonder if they're okay, if they're happy."
Hori leaned her head against his shoulder. "They're happy because of you. You gave them a chance."
Shinichiro smiled faintly. "We gave them a chance. Together."
---
Before leaving the facility, All Might called Shinichiro into his office. The boy stood nervously, unsure of what to expect.
"All Might," he began, "you wanted to see me?"
All Might smiled warmly, placing a hand on Shinichiro's shoulder. "I just wanted to say how proud I am of you. You've come so far, and you've inspired so many. You have the heart of a true hero."
Shinichiro's eyes widened. "You really think so?"
"I know so," All Might said. "And I have no doubt that your journey is just beginning. Remember, a hero's strength isn't just in their power—it's in their compassion."
Shinichiro nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes. "I won't let you down."
"I know you won't," All Might replied, his smile unwavering.
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