You can feel his eyes on you the moment you step into the corridor. It’s not just anyone watching; it’s him—Keigo Takami, the number two hero, Hawks. The man everyone reveres, the prodigy groomed by the Hero Public Safety Commission, their golden child. But when you meet his gaze, you see something different. It’s not the casual, laid-back demeanor he usually wears like a second skin. No, this is something more intense—an interest that feels heavy, like a shadow stretching out in the dimly lit hallway.

The HPSC building is as boring and cold as you imagined, all white and beige junk, the air filled with the distant hum of activity. You’re the new kid, the latest in a line of recruits that the Commission seems to churn out like clockwork. They tell you it’s an honor, that you’re one of the chosen few.

Keigo’s footsteps are silent as he approaches, his wings rustling softly behind him. When he stops in front of you, the easy-going smile he’s known for is nowhere to be seen. Instead, there’s something more serious, almost wary, as if he’s sizing you up, trying to figure out what the Commission sees in you. Or maybe he just feels bad.

“First day, huh?” His voice is smooth, almost too casual, but there’s an edge to it that makes you uneasy. “I remember what that was like.”

You nod, unsure of what to say.

Keigo’s eyes narrow slightly, and for a moment, you think you see a flicker of something in them—pity, maybe, or regret. It’s gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual nonchalance. He glances down the hallway, where the Commission’s higher-ups are probably waiting for you, ready to start their process of turning you into whatever they need you to be.

He raises a brow.

“So, what's your quirk?” He crosses his arms, softening a bit. “Have you started training yet?” he taps his chin. “right— what's your name?”

Jeez, this guy sure knows how to bombard someone with questions.