_7 year later_
In the Moriyama Household
Haruto sat at the table in the morning, newspaper in hand. His brows furrowed as he let out a sigh."The world is getting more dangerous… and now Takeshi is about to leave for the U.A. entrance exam. I can't help but worry."
Aiko glanced at her husband with concern. "You know it has always been Takeshi's dream to become a hero. If we try to stop him now, he might stay—but a knot will remain in his heart forever. You can't take away our child dream, Haruto."
Haruto knew she was right. Still, he had never once let his son live alone, let alone in a sprawling city where villains ran rampant. He had no doubts Takeshi would pass the exam, but as a father, he couldn't shake his unease.
Just then, Takeshi barged into the room after finishing his morning routine."Good morning, Mom! Dad! What are you talking about?"
Both parents looked at him for a moment, taking in the sight of the young man he had become. Standing tall at 175 cm, Takeshi had grown into a fine figure—broad shoulders, lean muscles built like a runner, his once-unkempt hair now neatly arranged. His sharp jawline and confident aura showed how much he had matured.
Aiko quickly stood and handed him a glass of milk. "Here, drink this before school."
Takeshi sat down, accepting the glass with a smile. As he drank, he noticed his father's troubled face."Father, what's worrying you this much?"
Before Aiko could speak, Haruto cut in. "Son… I'm worried about you living alone in a big city. Danger lurks everywhere in big cities. Just months ago, the Sludge Villain incident happened—All Might himself had to step in. A boy your age was nearly killed. I can't help but imagine if it were you."
Hearing his father's words, Takeshi was reminded that the canon story was about to begin. But more than that, he could see the worry in Haruto's eyes. He straightened himself and replied with resolve.
"Dad, there will always be danger in this world. But I can't run away from it. I don't want to be a hero just because I have power… I want to be a hero because I want to protect people."
Haruto's lips curved into a proud smile. "I won't stop you, Takeshi. A father's job is to worry, that's all. But remember, it isn't me you should worry about most—it's your mother. She hides her fears behind a strong face, but she's the one who cares the deepest. So call her often. Ease her heart."
Aiko turned away, pretending to busy herself with the dishes. "Don't listen to your father's nonsense. I do care… but this is your path to walk, Takeshi. Just promise me one thing—walk it without regret."
Takeshi nodded, feeling the weight of his parents' love. "I understand, Mom. I'll be leaving for school now." takeshi said while walking out of the door.
_
Takeshi rode his bicycle he had received on his 13th birthday. His friends were already waiting outside the gates. He waved to his friends while parking his bicycle.
"Hey Haru, Eri! Is the graduation ceremony about to start? Where's Kaito?" Takeshi asked, looking around.
"You don't need to look down around—I'm up here!" Kaito's voice rang out as he descended gracefully on a platform created by his quirk. His landing was flawless, drawing admiration.
"You've improved a lot, Kaito," Takeshi said with a grin.
"Not as much as you, Takeshi," Kaito replied, joining the group. Together, they headed to the gymnasium for the ceremony.
_
As expected, Takeshi once again placed first in both academics and quirk assessment test. In their final homeroom consultation, their teacher, Mr. Satoshi, addressed them.
"You four are among the most outstanding students this school has ever seen. You all have great future ahead of you, Takeshi you will be aiming for U.A. that is expected—but Emi, Haru, you both chose the Tokyo Rescue & Safety Academy. And Kaito, with your ability, why Shiketsu High?"
The room was quiet until Emi spoke softly. "Teacher, my quirk isn't suited for battle. But it can save people in emergencies. That's why I chose T.R.S."
Haru followed. "I feel the same. My quirk is better for rescue than direct combat."
Kaito crossed his arms, replying confidently. "Shiketsu High has the right environment to develop my quirk. That's why I chose it."
Mr. Satoshi gave them a warm smile. "Very well. You've made your choices, and I respect them. Whatever paths you take, I'm proud of all of you," teacher said with a warm smile. "Okay you all should be heading out and tell the other students to come." after hearing his words all of them walk out. "We will meet at the train station." said emi with her enthusiastic smile.
_
That evening, the friends gathered at the station, their bags packed. Takeshi lifted his luggage and boarded the train bound for Tokyo. His seat was by the window, giving him a clear view of the platform.
Outside, Haruto and Aiko stood together, waving. Haruto wore a proud but firm expression, while Aiko's lips trembled as though holding back tears.
As the train whistle blew and the train began to move, Takeshi pressed his hand against the glass. His parents' silhouettes blurred as the train picked up speed. For a moment, everything was silent—just the sound of wheels turning against the tracks.
Aiko whispered under her breath, too soft for him to hear, "Be safe, son…"
Haruto placed a steadying hand on her shoulder. "He'll be fine. He's not a boy anymore. He's on his way to becoming a hero."
Inside the train, Takeshi clenched his fist, vowing never repeat the mistake like in his previous life. This is the beginning of his new journey.
_End of Chapter
