The city of Mustafu was waking slowly, the early morning haze clinging to the streets like a whisper. Izuku Midoriya sat cross-legged on the rooftop of a modest apartment building, the faint hum of the city below mingling with the soft rustling of the wind. Around him, a series of glowing runes shimmered softly on the concrete, etched into the ground with careful precision. He focused on the center one, his breath steady, the chill air brushing against his skin.
A gentle warmth radiated from within, his elemental magic stirring to life. With cautious concentration, Izuku lifted his hands slowly, palms upwards. The runes responded, glowing brighter as a faint green aura surrounded him, lifting him an inch above the rooftop surface. The sensation was both exhilarating and unfamiliar — levitation, a new ability he was beginning to master.
He hovered briefly, the cityscape stretching endlessly before him, the rising sun casting golden hues on the rooftops. But with the gentle current of magic came the weight of responsibility. Three months until the U.A. entrance exam. Three months to grow stronger, smarter, better.
Below, the streets of Mustafu were coming alive as people bustled about, unaware of the quiet guardians who watched over them from the shadows.
Momo Yaoyorozu tightened the straps of her combat boots, her eyes sharp and focused. She checked her small satchel one last time, making sure the smoke bombs, tasers, and first aid supplies were secure. Though her Quirk allowed her to create objects with precision and efficiency, it was her mind that she trusted most — every device carefully chosen for their vigilante missions.
She glanced at her reflection in a cracked mirror, her face calm but determined. Tonight's patrol was another chance to make a difference, to prepare herself for the upcoming recommendation exam that could change everything.
Her thoughts drifted briefly to the strange magical energy she had inadvertently channeled the other night. The glowing warmth had startled her, and despite her best efforts, she had yet to replicate it. Magic was still a mystery she was only beginning to understand, unlike her meticulously trained Quirk skills.
Still, she told herself, it was a step forward.
Later that evening, Izuku and Momo moved through the dimly lit streets, shadows blending with the night. They communicated with small gestures, their teamwork quiet but instinctual.
A sudden shout echoed from an alley nearby — a robbery in progress. Without hesitation, the two sprang into action. Momo's creations appeared at her fingertips — a smoke bomb exploded, filling the alley with thick gray clouds, disorienting the thief. Izuku, focusing his elemental magic, summoned a sharp gust of wind that knocked the assailant off balance.
Moments later, the culprit was subdued, tied with one of Momo's crafted ropes. Civilians who had gathered began murmuring, some whispering names they suspected but no one daring to reveal more. A woman stepped forward, clasping Izuku's arm briefly in gratitude, her eyes filled with quiet admiration. "Thank you… We don't know who you are, but please keep safe."
Izuku's heart fluttered — the sense of community, the unspoken bond between protectors and protected. It was a fragile trust, but a precious one.
Back at their respective homes, the two reflected on the day's events.
Izuku sat at his desk, the grimoire floating gently in front of him. His fingers traced the faint glowing symbols within, memorizing the intricate designs of runes that could ward against negative intent. He whispered softly, "If only I could perfect these spells… if only I could protect everyone."
Meanwhile, Momo tested a small spell she had pieced together from Izuku's lessons and her own knowledge. Her first deliberate attempt at channeling magical energy was hesitant — a flicker of light wavered and died. She frowned but refused to be discouraged. "Trial and error," she reminded herself, "That's the path forward."
The next morning, news buzzed with rumors and speculation. A local store owner chatted quietly with a passerby. "Since those kids started showing up, the crime rate's dropped. It's like the city's breathing easier."
A young teen fixed a small rune etched into a lamppost, careful not to be seen. The vigilante's work was becoming a shared secret.
A discreet office bathed in soft fluorescent light held two figures engaged in conversation. Mt. Lady, a pro hero, folded her arms thoughtfully. "Mustafu's safer these days, but I'm worried. All Might can't be everywhere at once anymore."
A Hero Commission official nodded gravely. "There's been unusual energy readings… not quite quirks, not quite anything we've cataloged. Could be an emerging threat — or an evolution."
That night, as Izuku reviewed his runes and Momo contemplated her next creation, a shadowed figure watched from an alley. Cloaked and silent, the stranger whispered just loud enough for Izuku to catch:
"Even order must yield to flame, eventually. Remember that when the gate opens."
Before Izuku could respond, the figure vanished, leaving a chill in the air and a knot of unease in his chest.
Later, the flickering light of a television cast shadows on Izuku's wall. A news broadcast played:
"Authorities are baffled by a series of recent prison escapes, believed linked to an unknown group operating in the shadows. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue."
Izuku's gaze hardened. The world was growing darker, more complicated — and he and Momo had much to prepare for.
"Three months," he whispered. "We're not ready yet… but we're getting there."