**"Five Secret Guards?"**
Everyone exchanged glances, the name echoing in their minds.
"That's right," the principal confirmed with a nod. "The team formed by the five of you will be known as the *Five Secret Guards*."
The principal elaborated further. "The 'Five' represents the unity of the five of you. The word 'Secret' signifies operating in the shadows, unlike the public-facing *Big Three*. And 'Guard' represents your role in protecting both heroes and society."
All Might chimed in, his tone solemn. "Together, the name symbolizes your duty: a hidden force supporting the heroes and maintaining peace in society."
Midoriya's eyes sparkled with excitement. "What an inspiring name!"
Bakugo clenched his fists, a grin spreading across his face. "Sounds badass. I'm all in."
However, Todoroki's expression remained contemplative. "But... are we even capable of fulfilling such a role with our current strength?" he asked, his tone serious.
"Of course not!" All Might replied immediately. "That's exactly why we're training you."
As All Might finished, the principal stood up, adjusting his tie. "Actually, I could have informed you about this tomorrow when school resumed. But there's a reason I called you all here today."
Akira and the others exchanged confused glances. After a moment of silence, they collectively shook their heads.
The principal smiled knowingly. "Because the *Big Three* are free this afternoon, and they'll be sparring with you to demonstrate the gap in strength."
Before anyone could respond, the principal turned toward the door. "Come in!"
With a click, the door swung open, and three figures entered the room—two men and one woman—all clad in their hero uniforms. Their presence exuded confidence and charisma.
Standing before them were the legendary *Big Three*: Mirio Togata, Tamaki Amajiki, and Nejire Hado.
"They're the top students of U.A.'s hero course," the principal introduced. "Mirio Togata, Tamaki Amajiki, and Nejire Hado—the ones closest to being pro heroes while still in school."
Midoriya's jaw dropped. "These are the *Big Three*?" he stammered, overwhelmed.
Even Bakugo, usually brimming with confidence, seemed momentarily taken aback. "Tch, this will be interesting," he muttered.
Mirio, ever cheerful, strode up to Akira with a broad smile. "You're Kitagawa Akira, right?"
Akira blinked, momentarily confused. "Yeah, that's me. Do I know you?"
Mirio chuckled. "Not yet, but I've heard a lot about you. I hope we get along!"
Akira nodded, offering a polite smile. "Same here."
Mirio's grin widened. "I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do. Maybe we'll even work together someday!"
"Let's make it a good match," Akira replied, his tone calm yet curious.
The principal clapped his hands to gather everyone's attention. "All right, let's not waste any more time. *Big Three,* please give a brief introduction before we proceed."
Each member of the *Big Three* took turns introducing themselves. Mirio's upbeat personality, Tamaki's shy demeanor, and Nejire's inquisitive nature left a strong impression on the group.
When the introductions concluded, Mirio stepped forward. "Let's head to the training ground. We'll see just how far you've all come."
---
**Training Ground**
The group stood in the middle of the expansive training area. All Might gestured to Mirio, who stepped forward confidently.
"This will be a simple sparring session," All Might explained. "The *Big Three* will test your abilities. Think of it as a learning experience."
Mirio cracked his knuckles, his smile unwavering. "I'll go first. Let's see what you've got."
All Might nodded, signaling for the others to prepare. "You can attack Mirio at any time. He's skilled in both one-on-one and group combat."
Akira and his classmates exchanged uneasy glances. The idea of sparring with one of the *Big Three* was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.
But before the match could begin, Akira raised his hand, interrupting the moment. "Wait!"
All eyes turned to him in surprise.
"What's wrong, Akira?" All Might asked, his brows furrowed.
Akira crossed his arms, his expression deadpan. "Didn't you promise food? I haven't even had breakfast yet."
The room fell silent for a moment before the principal let out an awkward laugh. "Ah, I completely forgot!"
He reached over and handed Akira a neatly packed lunchbox. "Here, this should hold you over."
Akira took it without hesitation, opening the box and taking a bite. "All right, now I'm ready."
---
As Akira finished his impromptu meal, the group moved into position. Mirio stood in the center of the training ground, his stance relaxed yet brimming with confidence.
"You can all come at me together if you'd like," Mirio said with a grin. "Let's see what you're made of."
Akira cracked his knuckles, a small smirk playing on his lips. "This should be interesting."