Mha: Sand Sand Fruit

Bakugo didn't hesitate once his plan took shape. Launching himself into the air, he aimed a full-force attack at the massive green-skinned robot.

The red light on the robot's head began to flash ominously, and a mechanical voice echoed:

"Target locked. Launching attack."

A golden beam shot toward Bakugo with alarming speed. His instincts kicked in, and he used an explosion to alter his trajectory mid-air, narrowly dodging the attack.

The beam struck the ground, triggering a massive explosion that sent debris and shockwaves in all directions. The force of the blast hurled Bakugo into the air and knocked several candidates nearby off their feet.

The ground trembled violently, drawing murmurs of confusion and fear from the examinees.

"What's going on?" Akira muttered as he raised a hand to shield himself from the gust of wind and dust. His sharp eyes followed the source of the disturbance, but he didn't move from his rooftop perch.

Meanwhile, Bakugo dragged himself out of the rubble, his face twisted in frustration. Before he could fully recover, another beam of golden light shot toward him.

"Damn it!" Bakugo cursed, dodging just in time as another explosion rocked the field. He scowled, his mind racing.

*Is this robot really just here to disrupt us? It's actively trying to kill me!*

His fiery eyes darted around, searching for Akira. "Where the hell is that idiot?" he muttered. "Did he chicken out and hide somewhere?"

As if in response, the ground began to rumble again. From the smoke and debris, the green-skinned robot emerged, its mechanical voice cold and unrelenting.

"Target reacquired. Launching attack."

A beam of light shot through the thick smoke, forcing Bakugo to leap away once again. Gritting his teeth, he could only think, *This isn't a test. It's a death sentence.*

---

**In the observation room**

"Something's wrong with Exercise Venue A!" All Might's voice cut through the murmurs of the gathered heroes. "How is that imaginary enemy so powerful?"

The room erupted into concerned chatter as they replayed the footage.

"That light wave could obliterate weaker candidates!" a hero exclaimed.

"It's not just powerful," another added. "This robot wasn't supposed to be part of the test. It was scrapped for being too dangerous."

Principal Nezu's small frame stiffened as he stepped forward. "How did it end up here? This isn't just a programming error."

The heroes exchanged uneasy glances, unable to provide an answer.

"We need to act," All Might said firmly. "If this continues, we'll have serious injuries—or worse."

One of the heroes hesitated. "Shouldn't we wait? Intervening might damage U.A.'s reputation. We need to see if the students can handle it."

All Might's gaze darkened. "This isn't about reputation. It's about their safety."

Nezu's voice was calm but commanding. "We'll take action as a last resort. However, isn't Akira in this venue? He might have the capability to deal with this."

All Might frowned. "Akira isn't my apprentice—not officially. But even if he was, I don't know if he'd bother."

---

**Back at the training ground**

The loudspeakers crackled to life, and Present Mic's voice rang out.

"Congratulations, Candidate No. 7059! You have been selected for a special task. Eliminate the zero-point mechanism to pass the test immediately. Time is limited—proceed quickly!"

Akira blinked in surprise. "Candidate 7059… that's me, isn't it?" he murmured.

Sitting cross-legged on the roof, he tapped his chin thoughtfully. *Eliminate the zero-pointer? Pass instantly?*

He smirked. "That would've been tempting if they'd said it earlier. But now? My score's already solid. I don't need to risk anything to pass."

Akira leaned back, fully intending to wait out the remaining time.

---

**Back in the observation room**

The heroes watched Akira's screen, their frustration mounting.

"He's not moving," one of them muttered.

All Might chuckled softly. "That's Akira. If he doesn't see a clear benefit, he won't act. Efficiency over effort."

Nezu's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Fascinating. However, this test isn't just about scores—it's about heroism. We need to motivate him."

---

**Back at the training ground**

Akira stretched lazily, his sand swirling faintly at his feet. The loudspeakers crackled again.

"If the zero-point mechanism is not defeated within five minutes, all candidates in Exercise Venue A will be required to retake the exam."

Akira froze mid-stretch. His sharp eyes narrowed. "A retake?" he muttered. "That's worse than dealing with the robot now."

With a resigned sigh, he stood up, brushing off his pants. His voice was calm, but his gaze burned with determination.

"Fine. Let's finish this before it gets more annoying."

Sand began swirling around him, lifting him effortlessly into the air as he locked eyes on the rampaging robot.

"This better be quick."