On the day of the practical exam, Class 1-A assembled in their hero costumes at the Center Plaza. Aizawa stepped forward, addressing the students. "Now, we will begin the practical exam," he announced, his stern gaze sweeping across the class. "Of course, it's possible to fail this exam. If you want to go to the training camp, then don't make any stupid mistakes." As the students exchanged nervous glances, Kurmara overheard Jirou whispering to Sero, "There are so many teachers here." Kurmara silently agreed, realizing the gravity of the situation. Aizawa continued, "I expect that you all have gathered information ahead of time and have some idea of what you will be doing." Just then, Kaminari chimed in with excitement, "We're fighting robot warriors like at the entrance exam, right?" Mina couldn't contain her enthusiasm and exclaimed, "Fireworks! Curry! Test of Courage!" However, their excitement was interrupted by a small voice calling out, "Too bad!" Suddenly, Principal Nezu popped out from Aizawa's scarf. "Principal Nezu!" the students exclaimed in unison, shocked by his sudden appearance. He clarified, "From now on, we want to focus on person-to-person combat and hero work, and stress teaching that is closer to actual fighting."
Nezu climbed down from Aizawa and stood on the ground, explaining the changes to the exam format. "So... we'll have you form teams of two, one of those teams being a team of three, to fight against one teacher!" Nezu announced. Gasps filled the air as the students absorbed the unexpected twist. Uraraka voiced her disbelief, "Against... the teachers?" Aizawa confirmed Nezu's statement, adding, "In addition, the teams and who each team will be up against have already been decided." He emphasized that the teams were determined based on various factors, including fighting style, grades, and interpersonal relationships. Aizawa then revealed the teams as followed. "Todoroki and Yaoyorozu vs himself, Midoriya and Bakugou vs All Might, Tsuyu and Tokoyami vs Ectoplasm, Kirishima and Sato vs Cementos, Iida and Mashiro vs Power Loader, Mina and Kaminari vs Nezu. Hayashi, Uraraka, and Aoyama vs Thirteen, Mineta and Sero vs Midnight, Hagakure and Shoji vs Snipe, and Jirou and Koji vs Present Mic." The students exchanged glances, some nervous, others determined. The stage was set for a challenging and thrilling practical exam that would test their skills and resolve.
Principal Nezu took a moment to organize his thoughts and then announced the matches in order. "The first match will be Kirishima and Sato," he declared. "The second match is Tsuyu and Tokoyami. The third match features Iida and Mashiro. The fourth will be Todoroki and Yaoyorozu. The fifth match is Hayashi, Aoyama, and Uraraka. The sixth match will be between Mina and Kaminari. In the seventh, we have Jirou and Koji." "The eighth pairs Shoji and Hagakure. The ninth match is Mineta and Sero. And finally, in the tenth and final match, we have Midoriya and Bakugou." As the students absorbed the information, Nezu continued explaining the exam's objective. "The time limit for the exam is thirty minutes!" he announced. "Your objective is to either put these handcuffs on the teacher or have one of you escape from the stage!" Kurmara pondered Nezu's words, realizing that this exam was like combat training, putting their skills and decision-making to the test. Mina couldn't help but voice her concern. "Is it really okay to run away?" she asked, seeking clarification. Nezu nodded in response. Present Mic interjected, adding his own commentary. "But it'll be different from the combat training! You'll be up against someone waaaaaaay better than you!" he exclaimed.
Jirou, struggling to imagine the situation, commented, "I can't really imagine it." Present Mic playfully scolded her. "Dummy! Hey, girl, watch your mouth!" he retorted. Thirteen, one of the teachers, chimed in, "This time, your exam will be very similar to a real battle. Please think of us as villains." Snipe, another teacher, added, "Assuming you come across the enemy if you think you can win a fight against them, then that's fine. However—" Aizawa joined the conversation, his voice filled with authority. "In cases where there's too big a difference in your abilities, it would be smarter to run away and get help," he advised. He then turned his attention to Midoriya, Iida, and Todoroki. "I'm sure you three understand this well," he stated. Kurmara's thoughts raced as she looked at the three boys, wondering about what their teacher meant. Aizawa's words seemed to be referencing that experience, reminding them of the importance of assessing the situation and making smart decisions in the face of overwhelming odds. I wonder what happened to them during our internships.. Kurmara thought as she peeked over at the three boys. She couldn't help but wonder about what exactly happened and what was going through their minds during that period.
She found herself unable to quell her curiosity, her mind awash with questions about the events that had transpired and the thoughts that raced through their minds during that fateful incident. "That's right! Your decision-making skills are being put to the test!" All Might's resonant voice chimed in, aligning with her thoughts. His presence in the room was as commanding as ever. "But with the parameters we've set, you might be thinking that your only viable option is to flee, correct? That's why we enlisted the support course to devise these tools for us!" All Might revealed an object in his hand, a sense of purpose gleaming in his eyes. "Behold: ultra-compressed weights! These will be added, accounting for about half of our body weight," he explained as he, along with the other instructors, began attaching the weights to their wrists and ankles. All Might went a step further, fastening two to each wrist. "These weights serve to level the playing field, though they may seem somewhat antiquated. They hinder movement and deplete stamina, posing an additional challenge." Kami couldn't help but reflect that these weights might prove beneficial, as they would surely impede opponents, making them slightly slower and more manageable to engage with.
"By the way, the design for these weights underwent a selection process, ultimately embracing the creation of the talented young Hatsume," All Might concluded, a faint twinkle in his eyes. "It's a means to allow us to consider combating you, isn't it? It seems you may be underestimating us," Bakugou's retort cut through the air, his determination palpable. All Might chuckled heartily in response, his laughter a testament to his unwavering confidence. "All right, the practical exam will unfold sequentially on the designated stage for each team. Sato, Kirishima, prepare yourselves," Aizawa's voice took on a commanding tone as he directed the focus to the first pair of students. A sense of anticipation hung in the air, a tangible reminder that the trials and challenges ahead would push each of them to their limits, ultimately shaping the trajectory of their futures as heroes. "Those waiting their turn can watch the exams or think of strategies as a team. Do what you want. That's all," their teacher's directive hung in the air, a clear invitation for them to navigate the upcoming challenges as they saw fit. With that, he turned and followed the other instructors, leaving the students to their own devices. The first to break the silence was Iida, addressing Ojiro with an eager tone.
"I would be quite interested in witnessing the synergy between your Quirks," he mused aloud, his analytical mind already at work. Kurmara's senses picked up snippets of conversations among her peers, a mix of excitement and determination filling the air. Some of her classmates were discussing strategies to confront the teachers, while others were contemplating how to harmonize their Quirks for maximum impact. As she walked alongside Uraraka down the hallway, Kurmara couldn't help but share her own suggestion. "Uraraka, why don't we try to come up with a plan before it's our turn?" Her words were punctuated by a sense of anticipation, a desire to ensure they were as prepared as possible. Uraraka nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful. "Hm... Well, we're going up against Thirteen, so we should definitely factor in their Quirk," she reasoned, her gaze fixed ahead as they continued walking. With a sense of purpose, Kurmara delved into her proposal. "I have a few Quirks we could potentially pit against Thirteen," she began, watching as realization dawned on Uraraka's face. "That's right, you mentioned having more than one Quirk," Uraraka acknowledged, curiosity evident in her voice.
Kurmara nodded, a hint of self-assuredness in her demeanor. "Yeah..." Uraraka's curiosity was piqued, and she leaned in, eager to hear Kurmara's strategy. "Sorry, continue." Kurmara took a moment to gather her thoughts before elaborating. "I was thinking that perhaps my Wind and Water Quirks might be more effective in this situation. I don't think my, uh, Strength Quirk will offer us much advantage," she explained, hoping her reasoning would make sense to her companion. Uraraka's brow furrowed slightly, a touch of confusion in her eyes. "What do you mean by that? Why wouldn't your Strength Quirk be useful?" "Well, I haven't really showcased my Strength to everyone yet," Kurmara began, her explanation carrying a hint of anticipation. "Not to mention, Thirteen's Quirk might compel them to keep their distance, making my Water and Wind abilities more effective at that range." Uraraka nodded, her understanding evident. "Maybe there will be an opportunity for you to demonstrate your Strength later on. We just need to keep an eye out for the right moment," she offered, a supportive smile gracing her lips. Her words resonated with Kurmara, a sense of camaraderie and encouragement settling over them.
The duo continued down the corridor until they reached the Monitor Room, their steps carrying a quiet sense of purpose. Upon entering, their attention was drawn to a familiar figure. "Oh?" Uraraka's voice held curiosity as she addressed Midoriya, who was also present in the room. "You're watching too, Deku?" she inquired, a mix of surprise and camaraderie in her tone. Midoriya nodded, his expression earnest. "Yeah, we don't often get chances to observe other students and the teachers in combat. It's a valuable learning experience," he explained. "Plus, even if I wanted to discuss strategies..." His words trailed off, but the understanding that passed between them was unspoken. Kurmara and Uraraka exchanged knowing glances, their shared experiences with Aoyama making his approach difficult at times. "I see," Uraraka acknowledged, a slightly nervous laugh escaping her. "For me... it often feels like there's little point in trying to strike up a conversation." Kurmara chimed in with a light giggle, affirming their unspoken sentiment. "And that's why we're here now," she added, redirecting the conversation. "We thought it would be useful to observe everyone's fights for reference." Their focus returned to the screens, the anticipation in the room palpable.
Before long, one of the screens lit up, and a robotic voice announced, "Team Sato and Kirishima, practical exam. Ready, go!" As the excitement in the room escalated, Kurmara's attention was riveted to the unfolding battle, a sense of purpose filling her as she prepared to absorb every bit of knowledge and strategy she could from the ongoing exams. The three teens focused their attention on the screens, their eyes tracking every move Kirishima and Sato made as they sprinted together, determination etched into their expressions. Their advance was abruptly halted as colossal cement walls materialized, a testament to Cementoss's formidable Quirk. "You can do it, Kirishima, Sato!" Uraraka's spirited cheer resonated in the room, her voice a beacon of support as they continued to observe the unfolding challenge. The two boys put their Quirks to work, relentlessly hammering away at the cement barriers.
"They won't secure a victory if they persist like this," Midoriya's observation sliced through the air, prompting the two girls to turn their attention toward him. Uraraka's brows furrowed as she listened intently. "Kirishima and Sato have incredible Quirks, but there must be limits to their usage," she concluded. Kurmara's gaze returned to the screen, her thoughts aligning with Midoriya's analysis. "On the other hand, I doubt Mr. Cementoss faces the same constraints. With each passing moment, Kirishima and Sato find themselves at a disadvantage." Uraraka's concern was palpable as she uttered a disheartened response. "No way..." Midoriya continued, his insights unwrapping the true essence of the practical exam. "The design of this exam deliberately pairs students against teachers who possess a clear advantage. The key to success lies in how they navigate and overcome their inherent weaknesses." Recovery Girl's presence made itself known, her words carrying weight as she affirmed Midoriya's assessment. The three teens turned their attention to her, eager to glean any wisdom she could offer. "Before your own turns arrive, take the time to contemplate how well your Quirks align with your designated teacher," Recovery Girl's counsel held a sense of urgency, a reminder of the strategic thinking required to emerge victorious.
Kurmara's mind buzzed with considerations, the implications of her Quirk's compatibility and limitations taking center stage. The impending challenge had her pondering which Quirks she would need to harness, in comparison to the ones she and Uraraka had discussed earlier.
The room was charged with anticipation as the buzzer reverberated through the air, the robotic voice punctuating the moment once again. "Team Kirishima and Sato have to retire, both members losing consciousness," the somber announcement cast a shadow over the room. Kurmara released a small sigh of defeat, the weight of the moment hanging heavy. "Oh dear, and it's only the first match. It seems I already have some work ahead of me," Recovery Girl's voice echoed with a mixture of resignation and responsibility as she made her exit. Despite the setback, the trio, Kurmara, Uraraka, and Aoyama, remained in the room, their determination unshaken. They watched intently as the subsequent matches unfolded, each one offering new insights and lessons. Finally, the time came for their match against Thirteen, a sense of anticipation tingling in the air. The trio embarked on the challenge with gusto, showcasing their skills in the initial stages. However, the tables turned when Thirteen harnessed their enigmatic Quirk, leaving Kurmara, Aoyama, and Uraraka grappling for stability, clutching onto a rail to evade Thirteen's grasp. "We were so close!" Uraraka's exclamation held a mix of frustration and disappointment, their near-victory slipping through their fingers.
Thirteen's determined voice cut through the tension as they closed in on the trio. "Oh no, I won't let you slip away," their words carrying a resolute edge. Kurmara's mind raced, the urgency of their situation crystallizing. At this rate, we'll be caught and lose. This isn't looking good, she thought, her gaze fixed on Thirteen. Turning to Aoyama, Kurmara shared her thoughts aloud, her voice marked by determination. "We need to take action." Aoyama's declaration piqued her interest, and she observed as he shifted his attention to Uraraka. "Hey," he began, his tone unwavering. "Hold on! I understand the situation, but right now I'm-" Interrupting Uraraka, Aoyama's words were pointed and insightful. "You were considering what Izuku Midoriya would do in this scenario, weren't you?" The abrupt question caught Kurmara off guard, and she watched as Uraraka's expression wavered, torn between surprise and acknowledgment. "Do you... like him?" Aoyama's inquiry held a directness that sliced through the moment. The unexpected question from Aoyama left Kurmara taken aback. She couldn't believe he was asking her that in such a critical moment. Her thoughts raced with disbelief as she watched the scene unfold before her.
Uraraka's face flushed a deep shade of red, and in a sudden and rather clumsy move, she released her grip on the railing and inadvertently launched herself towards Thirteen. Kurmara's heart raced as she shouted her friend's name, a mix of concern and surprise in her voice. Thirteen quickly ceased using their Quirk, preventing Uraraka from being pulled in, and the resourceful girl managed to counter their approach. Rapid footsteps echoed as both Kurmara and Aoyama closed in on Uraraka and Thirteen. Working together, they skillfully restrained Thirteen, ensuring the teacher wouldn't pose a threat. Uraraka expertly handcuffed Thirteen, and a sense of accomplishment settled over them as the buzzer sounded, signaling their success. "Thank goodness," Kurmara breathed a sigh of relief, a weight lifted from her shoulders. She exchanged a glance of pride with her classmates as they helped Thirteen to their feet. Standing side by side, they listened attentively as Thirteen addressed them, but Kurmara's thoughts began to drift to her other classmates who were still in the midst of their own challenges. As their attention shifted, the trio made their way to where their fellow students had gathered after completing their practical exams.
Kurmara and Uraraka parted ways with Aoyama, their destination being a temporary recovery station that Recovery Girl had set up. "I can't help but wonder who went next," Kurmara mused aloud as they strolled down the corridors, their footsteps echoing. Uraraka offered her own speculation, her voice thoughtful. "I think it might have been Mina and Denki," she suggested, the anticipation of what would come next lingering in the air as they continued their journey. "How do you think they did?" Kurmara's curiosity broke the silence as they continued their walk. Uraraka's concern was evident in her response. "I hope they managed to pass. It's essential, especially considering some of the challenges that lie ahead. If they don't make it, they might be at a disadvantage compared to us." Kurmara nodded in agreement as they approached the door. Their anticipation grew as the door opened, revealing a screen that displayed the unfortunate news that Mina and Kaminari had not passed. "What? Mina's team didn't make it?" Uraraka's disbelief colored her words, a mix of surprise and disappointment in her voice. As they ventured further into the room, they joined Midoriya, Tsuyu, Iida, and Yaoyorozu, their fellow classmates who had completed their own exams.
"Yes, unfortunately. The principal's strategy proved to be too well-executed," Momo confirmed, her expression reflecting a tinge of sympathy for their fallen comrades. "Really? That's really unfortunate," Uraraka sighed, a sense of empathy lacing her voice. Before they could dwell on the disappointment, Iida directed his attention toward them, offering warm congratulations. "Uraraka, Hayashi, congratulations on passing!" The girls exchanged smiles, gratitude evident in their expressions. "Thank you." Uraraka chimed in with equal appreciation. "Yeah, thanks! And congratulations to you all too," she added, their camaraderie evident in the shared joy of their achievements. The teenagers remained fixated on the ongoing matches, their cheers and shared thoughts blending seamlessly in the charged atmosphere. With each battle that unfolded before them, they were drawn deeper into the ebb and flow of the competition. As the day progressed and the intensity of the matches remained unyielding, their enthusiasm continued to flourish. The shared moments of tension, elation, and wonder etched memories that would further intertwine their paths, solidifying their status as allies and friends beyond the classroom's confines.