Chapter 133 - All Smile

To ordinary people, a new week is just another cycle. But for comic enthusiasts, it's a day of exhilarating new releases.

"New issue of Juvenile Jump, buy it!"

"New Soulmate comics, buy it!"

"New volumes of Slash and Crimson Eye, buy them!"

"This week's Black Bullet is out too—buy!"

With Shinigami and Naruto now serialized separately, the frenzy of fans was palpable.

Comic shops and streets were alive with juvenile excitement. The media took notice, highlighting the high quality of comics and the popularity of hero Saitama, which continued to attract new customers.

Rachel, a new comic fan, had been swept into this world ever since Saitama, the bald hero, rescued her from monstrous villains. She became an avid fan of My Hero Academia.

Why?

Rachel had a secret identity as a mutant. She discovered her powers on the night she was saved. Her abilities included telepathy, illusions, and mental manipulation. Fearful of rejection, Rachel had kept her powers hidden, worried that her parents might abandon her if they were discovered.

The lively streets were no match for Rachel's excitement as she made her way home with a bag full of comics. Her mother was home alone, while her father was out working. Seeing her daughter's joy, her mother couldn't help but smile.

Rachel eagerly placed the comics on the table. Among them were Ghoul, where Jinmu's character had evolved into a formidable fighter, and the latest issues of Shinigami and Naruto. Rachel was thrilled to see Byakuya Kuchiki and Abarai Renji in Shinigami and to delve into the Country of Poland story arc in Naruto.

One Piece brought humor with its depiction of the swordsman Zoro, while Fairy Tail introduced new characters like Elisa. The new FATE comic, replacing Terminator in Zhiyin Manke, was intriguing. The cover featured a brave blonde girl in the Holy Grail War.

Xu Mo had earned the title of a genius comic artist, with fans marveling at his inventive settings. His stories were rich with depth, making every comic start with a promise of profound meaning.

In Fate/stay night, the story followed Shirou Emiya, a high school student with a dramatic past. He witnessed mysterious battles and was soon caught up in the Holy Grail War. The narrative took a turn when Shirou's hand glowed with power, and a blonde girl, Saber, appeared, declaring, "I ask you, are you my Master?"

Rachel was intrigued by the setup. After finishing, she opened Wo Ying, her favorite comic, and found herself deeply engrossed in its compelling plot.

The following morning, the Hero Academy's graduation ceremony was about to start, and Rachel was determined to attend despite her parents' concerns. The recent defeat of the mutant registration bill on TV only strengthened her resolve.

That night, in a genomics lab under the Osborn Group, Max, an ordinary grid-line worker, was dealing with a power outage. Unaware of the significance of the energy supply he worked with, Max climbed to fix the circuit. However, a high-voltage surge caused a fatal accident, transforming him into something entirely different.

Meanwhile, at Villa No. 2 in Manhattan Suburb, a burly man with striking golden bangs was lounging in a red, white, and blue uniform. He watched the TV news, which brought a frown to his face.

"Kaneki, I'm heading out for a while."

"Is the world about to see a new hero?"

"Of course."

With a confident grin, the man stepped out, ready to face whatever challenges awaited.