According to the school's instructions, after receiving his exam number, Kurosawa Ren entered a massive hall.
U.A. High School had clearly taken into account the sheer number of applicants for the entrance exam—the seats inside were filled almost perfectly, leaving little room to spare.
At the front of the hall stood an enormous display screen, and directly beneath it was a podium just large enough for a single person.
Once everyone had taken their seats, a figure finally stepped onto the stage.
"Future examinees, welcome to this thrilling live broadcast!"On the podium stood a middle-aged man wearing headphones, his appearance resembling that of a rock singer. He spread his arms wide with enthusiasm."Come on—everyone say hello with me!"
"…"
The hall fell completely silent.
Not a single student responded, and the atmosphere instantly became awkward.
"Tch, how boring," the man muttered, frowning as he spread his hands helplessly. Despite that, the smile at the corner of his mouth never faded.
"Alright then. Next, all examinees—I'll begin explaining the overview and rules of the practical exam. You'd better listen carefully!!"
"…"
Once again, silence dominated the room.
"This practical test is exactly as described in the exam guide. All candidates will participate in a ten-minute simulated urban combat exercise."
"During this period, you may bring any equipment you wish. After my explanation, you'll head to your assigned testing areas to prepare for this exciting practical exam."
"There will be three types of simulated enemies deployed throughout the testing zones by U.A. High School. Each type carries different point values based on its level of danger."
"Your goal is to defeat these simulated enemies using your Quirks and accumulate as many points as possible."
"And of course—attacking other examinees is strictly forbidden~"
As soon as he finished speaking, a student suddenly stood up in the audience.
"I have a question. May I ask it now?"
"Go ahead."
"The manual clearly states that there are four types of simulated enemies. If this is an error, it would be embarrassing for the number one hero academy in Japan. We candidates are here to learn from exemplary Heroes!"
After finishing his question, the boy sharply turned his head and shot an irritated look toward Izuku Midoriya, who was seated behind him.
"Also, that green, curly-haired student on the right—you've been muttering nonstop. That's extremely disrespectful in an exam setting!"
"If you're here to fool around, then please leave immediately!"
-----Clarification-----
Seeing this, the middle-aged man waved his hand, drawing everyone's attention back to himself.
"Alright, examinee number 7111—excellent question, and thank you for bringing it up."
"Yes, there is a fourth type of simulated enemy."
"However, that type is worth zero points. Its purpose is purely interference."
"Each testing zone contains a dangerous 'mechanism-type enemy' that moves unpredictably. While it's not impossible to defeat, doing so has no point value whatsoever. I strongly recommend that you use your Quirks to avoid it instead."
"That's all for the explanation."
"Before we begin, let me leave you with the school's motto. A great Hero once said: 'A true Hero is someone strong enough to overcome life's misfortune.'"
"Now then—charge forward!"
"Enjoy the trial to the fullest!"
…
"Please check the venue number printed on your cards. All examinees assigned to Venue A, follow me," one of the teachers announced as staff began organizing the students.
"My venue is…"Amid the crowd, Kurosawa Ren fumbled for a moment before finally finding his number."'A'?"
After confirming it, Ren casually adjusted his clothes and followed the teacher toward Venue A.
"Hmph. Didn't expect to see you here."Before Ren had taken more than a few steps, a sharp, rebellious voice sounded beside him."Perfect—I'll crush you underfoot today."
"…He really is a kid."Ren glanced silently at Bakugo Katsuki, then looked away without another word.
"Are you looking down on me?!"Bakugo froze, then rushed forward to block Ren's path."Do you dare compete with me?!"
"No. Not interested."
"You—!!"
"Candidates, please keep your voices down," the leading teacher said, stopping and turning around."If you have issues, settle them after the exercise."
"Tch!"Bakugo clicked his tongue and reluctantly stepped aside."Just wait—I'll surpass you in this entrance exam!"
"Why do you insist on comparing yourself with me?"Ren replied calmly, gesturing toward Izuku Midoriya."Shouldn't you be competing with him instead?"
"Hmph. A guy without a Quirk doesn't belong in hero school at all."Bakugo shot Izuku a disdainful look before turning back to Ren."We're not done. You'd better remember that."
"…"