Walking into the Haven City branch of the International Superhero Commission are two young men fresh out of high school, nerves buzzing just under the surface. Today is the first day they can officially apply to become publicly recognized superheroes, and neither of them plans on wasting a second. Justin Kalego and Braxton Buzz step through the doors like they belong there, even if their hands are sweating inside their gloves.
They've known each other since they were kids. Both of them grew up in the shadow of legends, raised by parents whose names were etched into history books and broadcast on highlight reels. For Justin and Braxton, hero work was never a question of if, only when.
From the moment they could walk, they were surrounded by stories of sacrifice, courage, and impossible victories. In a world packed with mutants, magic users, and tech geniuses, the idea of living a normal life never stood a chance.
Justin walks a little ahead, posture relaxed and confident, like this is just another stage he's stepping onto. He's already grinning behind his goggles, soaking in the attention without even trying. The gold and green spandex he's wearing practically dares people to look right at him, with a green cape swaying behind him as he moves.
Braxton sticks close at his side, practically vibrating with excitement. His outfit is darker and more practical, black fabric broken up by blue boots, chunky shoulder pads, and a well-stocked utility belt. It's less flashy, but it fits him, sturdy and dependable in a way that feels very Braxton.
The lobby of the ISC headquarters stretches out in front of them, polished floors and towering emblems gleaming under bright lights. Heroes and staff move with purpose around them, some barely sparing a glance, others clearly clocking the newcomers immediately. Braxton's eyes go wide as he takes it all in, jaw hanging open just a little.
Justin gives him a sideways look and chuckles under his breath, clearly enjoying this. He doesn't slow down, heading straight for reception like he's done this a hundred times before. Today's the day they stop being just legacies and start becoming something of their own.
"Don't let the nerves get to you, Braxy boy. We've been prepping for this day since we were basically in diapers. We got this, bro," Justin says, voice easy and confident as ever.
"Nervous? Me? Never," Braxton says, and immediately gives himself away by scratching the back of his head. He lets out a laugh that's a little too loud. "Look, dude, I know we've got what it takes, but can you blame me? I mean, today's the day."
Justin slows his pace and nods, the grin on his face softening. He can't argue with that, not when they've both been waiting for this moment their whole lives. Pressure's heavy when you grow up knowing the world expects something from you.
They stop just short of the reception desk and take a breath together. Braxton exhales first, then Justin, and they bump their fists in a familiar rhythm that's seen them through worse than paperwork. Whatever happens next, they're doing it side by side.
Justin Kalego steps forward, application in hand. Son of Lady Void and Major Stratos, two names that still make veteran heroes straighten their backs. His mutation showed up early, gifting him strength, speed, durability, and flight that pushed far past normal limits. He's chosen the name Emerald Atlas, a title that fits his confidence and the weight he's ready to carry.
Braxton Buzz follows, shoulders squared even if his nerves haven't fully settled. He's the son of the Human Storm, another legend and a longtime ally of Lady Void. His power lets him transform into a towering humanoid tiger, all muscle and instinct, fierce but controlled. He's going with Tiger Eye, a name that feels honest and doesn't try to be clever.
Braxton's always been the direct one, the kind of guy who meets problems head-on and figures the rest out later. Justin balances that with charm and a smile. Together, they place their applications on the counter.
The papers slide forward, and just like that, everything changes.
After handing in their application forms, they're escorted down a long hallway and into a crowded waiting room packed with superhero hopefuls. Bright costumes, muted uniforms, and half-finished identities fill the space with nervous energy and quiet flexing. It feels less like a lobby and more like a launchpad.
One applicant immediately stands out. She's a ginger-haired woman in her twenties with massive blue wings stretching from her back, feathers twitching as she talks. She bounces from person to person, chatting nonstop and asking everyone about their powers, backgrounds, and code names with sparkling enthusiasm.
Justin answers a few of her questions easily, clearly amused by her energy. Braxton does his best to keep up, nodding along while she barely pauses for breath. There's something sharp in her eyes, though, a calculating glint that suggests she's filing everything away for later that only Justin seems to notice.
Before anyone can settle in, the room starts to empty as names are called. They're guided to the first testing area, a wide room lined with desks and screens, where the written portion will take place. Every aspiring hero has to pass both written and practical exams before earning a license, no exceptions.
Justin settles into his seat without a shred of concern. He might joke around most of the time, but when it comes to this stuff, he knows his material. Braxton isn't nearly as relaxed, already sweating through his gloves as he stares at the first question.
The room stays quiet for a full hour, broken only by typing and scribbling. When time's finally called, applicants stand and turn in their tests. Some look relieved, some confident, and some, like Braxton, look like they just survived a natural disaster.
"How'd you two boys do? You look like you're sweating up a storm, big guy. Are you doing good? Need me to fan your face?" says the blue-winged girl in a still bubbly way as she leans her arms on the backs of both Justin and Braxton, patting Braxton's spiky blonde hair.
Braxton answers honestly when she asks how he's feeling, admitting he's a complete nervous wreck. Once he starts, he doesn't really stop, rambling about the written test, the pressure, and how bad he is with paperwork. Justin hangs back while Braxton talks, watching the winged girl closely and getting a strange feeling he can't quite shake.
She's smiling and nodding, bubbly as ever, but something about it feels off. Justin's used to sincerity, and this feels a little too polished, like she's playing a role. Braxton trusts her instantly, of course, but Justin isn't buying it. Something's definitely up with this girl.
Before he can dwell on it, the group of hopefuls is escorted into a massive empty chamber. The doors seal shut behind them, and then the room shifts in an instant. Walls dissolve into light, the floor warps, and suddenly they're standing in the middle of a ruined city.
It looks terrifyingly real. Buildings are collapsed and burning, alien crafts hover in the smoke-filled sky, and mutants run wild through the streets. The sounds alone make Braxton's heart race.
An instructor's voice echoes through the chaos as bracelets are handed out to each applicant. The instructions are simple enough. Save as many civilians as possible and survive the scenario. Their actions will be monitored and graded in real time.
Then comes the kicker. The instructor explains the practical exam makes up at least seventy percent of the final grade and tells everyone to take it seriously. A moment later, he vanishes in a flicker of light, and a bell rings to signal the start.
Braxton's expression flips instantly from fear to excitement. Knowing this part matters most lights a fire in him. He might struggle with books, but this is what he was made for.
Justin grins as Braxton lets out a shout and charges forward. The two of them launch into action, immediately intercepting a giant robot firing a laser down the street. Braxton transforms mid-stride, muscles swelling as his were-tiger form slams into the machine. Justin follows up, the combined blow tearing the robot apart in a shower of sparks.
They rush deeper into the ruined city without hesitation. Above them, the winged girl takes flight and follows close behind, a small, mischievous grin creeping across her face as she watches them work.