Atlas Airship, Hercules

Mission Briefing Room

The lights dimmed as the holographic display flickered to life in the center of the room, projecting a detailed map of the Philippines. Red markers highlighted areas in the southern region of Mindanao, known for its complex security challenges. Tyler, Aiden, Issac, and Eli sat around the table, their expressions sharpening as Irons began his briefing.

They had just left Hawaii, after making sure Izuku and Inko were safe, they decided to start making moves against the HPSC. Irons wanted to ensure they had a presence in the East, moving from the Philippines up to the Pan-Asian borders to get some territory. Then they were gonna handle the Poland issue, apparently the gangs have been getting bolder, and Heros weren't doing great

Tyler and his team was picked to handle the Philippines, while Gideon handled a situation in Ukraine, they had several VIPs needing extraction. Irons sighed as he expected a war, not a one sided bitch slapping fight.

"Gentlemen, we have a new assignment," Irons said as he pulled up the holographic table,"the Philippine government has reached out to Atlas for assistance in eliminating a major terrorist threat in Mindanao. The group in question is Abu Kobra, a splinter faction of a larger network, responsible for bombings, kidnappings, and destabilizing the region."

He pointed at a cluster of red zones on the map, it showed the Basilian Islands of Mindanao with red bases. Then suddenly screens showed massive acts of terror, killings, rapes and bombings, it slowly started to go and west, it's been going faster in the last few days. Pagadian City was the last defense against the Abu Kobra group, which was lucky considering the lack of military these days

"The HPSC is already trying to gain influence here, offering their heroes as a solution," Irons said,"but I think we all know their true goal isn't security—it's control. They're promising protection in exchange for power over the region, but we're here to show the world there's a better way."

Isaac leaned forward, his elbows on his knees as he glared at the screens, his damaged cheek aching as the phantom pains were still there. He glanced at Irons, who stared at Issac, not really scared of him but he knew the shit Issac has done for Atlas, so he nodded at Issac. This was a sign for him to speak his mind, which was rare for some operators 

"So we're gonna take out the fuckers and hope the HPSC doesn't step in and whine like bitches," Issac asked,"sorry boss but it seems like a band-aid solution then fucking their control shit."

"Not quite, by resolving this crisis efficiently and ethically, we weaken the HPSC's narrative," Irons said as he smirked, his expression calculating,"the people of the Philippines will see Atlas as the true protector, not some profit-driven heroes. And securing their trust gives us a foothold closer to Japan—right in the HPSC's backyard."

Aiden tapped a few buttons on the console, bringing up additional data. He showed some pictures of Abu Kobra in villages, killing Heros, civilians and even villains, who tried to beg for their lives but were gunned down. But he showed some pictures airing in Japan, with Heros winning, people safe and taking the terrorists out

Eli frowned as he saw this, the HPSC was falsifying news to gain support from its people, making him grunt in annoyance. He hated this kinda shit, he just sighed as he grabbed his water and took a sip, then snapped his neck.

"We're not just taking out a bunch of terrorist cell assholes," Aiden said,"we're fighting the HPSC's propaganda machine. If the people see Atlas as the solution, it pushes them out of the picture, thus giving us opportunity to extend territory and influence."

"What's the intel on Abu Kobra's setup," Tyler asked,"last I heard they were a guerrilla fighting force in the Basilian Islands."

Irons tapped the display, bringing up a dossier on a grizzled man with a scar running across his face. He was also seen in other photos, with men in military uniforms, tanks and other gear that militaries don't let people have access to. Then he pulled up his name and rank, General Ibrahim Al-Kobra, and then a list of his crimes

"Their leader is Ibrahim Al-Kobra, a former lieutenant of Abu Sayyaf," Irons said,"he's operating out of Basilan Island since the end of the Second Pan-Asian War, running weapons and human trafficking operations. His network is well-armed, with support from unknown external sources, most likely the HPSC trying to manufacture a crisis they can 'solve.'"

"Do we have a clear picture of their numbers and equipment," Eli asked as he went over the data

"We've mapped their known bases and patrol routes. Aiden, you'll handle electronic warfare—disable their communications and scramble their drones. Isaac, you'll lead the ground assault. Eli, you're on support, providing barriers and medical aid as needed. Tyler, as always, you're leading the team in."

Tyler flexed his cybernetic arm, his gaze locked on the map. He had read the information over and over, studying the terrain and formulating a plan to get in the area and how to get out. But he was worried for the civilian population, if they got caught up in the crossfire, that will lead to bad consequences for them and Atlas. And that's something he couldn't risk

"What's the collateral risk," Tyler asked,"Basilan's got a lot of civilian areas."

"Minimal, so remember you four," Irons spoke as his tone hardened,"we're not the HPSC. We don't destroy to make a point, we win hearts and minds of the people. The Filipino people need to see Atlas as their ally, not another invading force."

"Copy that," they all said

"Alright, we'll get it done," Tyler said

Irons stood up straight, his gaze sweeping over the team. He recruited each of them himself, each had a past they wanted to forget, each was forged in this world to be something more. He knew each of their pasts, and he wouldn't trade any of them for some Hero with a flashy Quirk and does a half ass job. He wanted soldiers, not heros

"This isn't just about Abu Kobra, it's about sending a message to the world: Atlas doesn't bow to corruption," Irons stated,"and we don't stand by while others exploit the weak. Bring them justice—and bring us closer to making real change."

With that, the hologram powered down, and the team dispersed to gear up for the mission. The stakes were high, but they knew that...and it excited them.

Hercules, Armory

The faint hum of machinery and the sharp clinks of metal filled the Atlas armory as Tyler and his team prepared for their mission. Rows of high-tech weaponry and gear lined the walls, each piece polished and ready for use. The team moved with precision, their faces set with focus and determination, this was usual when they go out, they mean business.

Tyler approached his locker, where his Bal-27 and Lynx were already cleaned and loaded. He ran his fingers along the sleek barrel of the assault rifle before grabbing it and securing it onto his chest rig. The Lynx, rested beside it, its matte finish reflecting the dim lighting as he placed it on his back. Tyler slipped on his Assault Exo-suit, feeling the familiar hum of its power core activating.

"Alright boys, load up on silencers and mute charges," he said,"also Aiden, make sure the WASP is operational."

"I swear, one time man one time," Aiden said as he grabbed his gear

Aiden was already at the workbench, inspecting his AK-12 along with the WASP. He adjusted the sights before attaching a suppressor, his movements quick and efficient. Beside it, his SAC-3 sat ready, its dual-barrel design perfect for close-quarters combat. He donned his Specialist Exo-suit, the suit's enhanced mobility and tech integration aligning perfectly with his role.

"Comms and systems are already hacked into their network," Aiden said as he tapped his gauntlet,"I'll make sure their eyes go dark before we even touch the ground, then monitor their comms."

Issac stood nearby, loading magazines for his IMR, the four-round burst rifle hummed faintly as he checked its functionality. His MP-11, a compact submachine gun, was already strapped to his thigh for quick access. Sliding into his Assault Exo-suit, Isaac rolled his shoulders, the servos whirring softly before grabbing a massive machete.

"Let me handle the close quarters," Issac said,"I want to brush up on my melee."

"...You honestly terrify me," Eli said as he backed away slowly

Eli quietly assembled his KF-5, his hands steady and methodical as he worked on it. The lightweight SMG was perfect for his supportive role, while the Atlas 45 sidearm sat holstered on his hip. His Specialist Exo-suit powered on, emitting a faint glow from its energy nodes, he made some modifications to it to fit his Quirk.

"I'll keep you all on your feet,"Eli said,"just don't expect me to babysit if you start taking unnecessary risks, I'm looking at you Aiden."

"Fuck you," Aiden said as he flipped Eli off with a smile

"You know us better than that, Eli," Tyler said as he smiled,"we're professionals here."

"Professional motherfuckers maybe," Issac said as he slides his machete on his side,"cause sounds better."

The team gathered near the deployment platform where the pod awaited them, their gear secure and weapons loaded.

"Alright, let's go over this one more time," Tyler said,"Aiden, you'll disable their comms and drones the moment we touch down. Isaac, you're clearing the main compound while Eli provides support, while I'll take out any long-range threats and coordinate the strike. Remember, this isn't just about taking down Abu Kobra, it's protecting the people down there."

"Lets go then, the longer we wait here, the more I feel like a hooker waiting for her ideal man," Aiden said as he climbed in

"Alright ;et's move out," Tyler said,"the Philippines is counting on us."

"And them Philippine women," Issac said as he climbed in

As the deployment pod sealed shut and the countdown began, the hum of the Exo-suits blended with the tension in the air. They were Atlas's finest, and they were ready to show the world why. Soon the pod dropped, making the four groan as they fell down to the earth, thankfully Hercules was high enough so the Abu Kobra sensors couldn't detect it

Issac groaned as he clenched his jaw, he hated this, free falling in a metal pod and anything bad can happen...which didn't help as he was claustrophobic. Eli hummed a tune from Jamaica, a soothing tone they got him through this. Aiden just messed with his gauntlets, hacking into the Al-Kobra networks and doing his job

Tyler just kept quiet as the pod soon landed, the doors busting open and they moved out, like they've practiced a hundred times. They soon took a knew around the pod, their Exo-suits humming faintly as they looked around the area. Tyler took point, his Bal-27 held steady as he scanned the treeline. The compound lay just ahead, surrounded by armed guards patrolling the perimeter.

"Aiden, status on their comms," Tyler asked

Aiden knelt beside Tyler, his Specialist Exo-suit glowing faintly as he accessed his equipment. The small drone hovering at his side emitted a soft beep, indicating he managed to get into their systems.

"Comms are dark, they won't be calling for backup," Aiden said"drones are scrambled too, they're flying blind like Biden walking up some stairs."

Tyler nodded with a chuckle, gesturing for the team to advance. Isaac moved up with his IMR, his suit's heavier frame absorbing the terrain effortlessly as he moved ahead. Eli stayed behind, his KF-5 at the ready, scanning for threats at their rear, also making sure Issac doesn't do anything stupid. Soon they reached the outer wall of the compound.

Tyler held up a fist, signaling them to stop.

"Isaac, breach the gate," Tyler  ordered them,"Aiden keep their systems down. Eli, cover us."

Isaac stepped forward, placing a charge on the reinforced gate as Eli summoned some rock armor for protection. The explosion was quick and controlled, opening a clear path into the compound, while the Mute charge kept it quiet. The guards reacted instantly, weapons raised, but the team moved like clockwork.

Tyler led the charge, his Bal-27 firing controlled bursts into the soldiers chests. Each shot found its mark, and enemy combatants dropped one by one, their weapons clattering to the ground along with their bodies. Isaac followed close behind, his IMR firing precise bursts, incapacitating multiple enemies as they scrambled for cover.

Eli put three rounds in another chest, while Aiden blasted one into a wall, killing him in an instant.  A group of guards tried to flank them from the left, but Eli's quick thinking summoned up a barrier of rocks, cutting off their approach. But one managed to get through but was killed when Issac buried his machete in the mans skull, killing him in one move

Aiden's AK-12 rattled off controlled shots, taking down enemies attempting to regroup near a guard tower. The tower itself began to hum as a mounted turret powered up, but Aiden deployed a small drone that latched onto the turret's base, shutting it down instantly.

"Turret's offline," Aiden yelled as he shot a man from the tower,"you're good to go!"

The team pushed deeper into the compound, clearing rooms and securing objectives with precision. Tyler then reached for his comms, giving them their next commands.

"Eli, cover our exit," Tyler said,"Isaac, you're with me. Aiden, keep eyes on the helipad."

The group reached the compound's command center, where intel on Ibrahim Al-Kobra was stored. Aiden quickly hacked the terminal, pulling up critical files while the others held the room. He even managed to find some notes from HPSC agents about certain Heros in the country, solidify that some in the HPSC was sell information to the terrorists.

"Got it, looks like he's heading for the helipad," Aiden said,"if your gonna do some super cool thing Ty, you need to move now."

Tyler didn't hesitate, leading the team toward the helipad. As they emerged from the building, the sound of helicopter blades filled the air. Ibrahim Al-Kobra, a tall, imposing man with a commanding presence, was already climbing into the chopper.

"Shit he's running," Issac said

"Not for long," Tyler said

He motioned for the team to hold their position, then swapped his Bal-27 for the Lynx sniper rifle. Taking cover behind a crate, Tyler activated his Exo-suit's stabilizers, steadying his aim. He locked onto Al-Kobra as the helicopter began to lift off.

The shot rang out, clean and precise, as the bullet sailed through the air and towards Al-Kobra. Before he could get on the chopper, his head exploded as the round pierced through the back of his head, killing him in an instant. The pilot, panicking, abandoned the helipad and flew away, leaving the dead general for them to collect and take to base

The team moved in quickly, securing the chopper and its crew. Tyler approached Al-Kobra, now dead, and took a picture to send to Hercules, making sure it's actually him and not a double. Soon they got confirmation and rounded up.

"Mission complete, let's get the hell out of here," Tyler said as they walked off the helipad

"So now what, I was hoping to get to a bar," Aiden said

"I was hoping for some pussy," Issac said as Eli sighed

"Must you always be vulgar," Eli said

"You cuss to asshole, or what you scared of get laid."

"Hey fuck you, at least I treat a woman right and not just a piece to fuck."

"They're at it again," Tyler said as he sighed as Aiden just smirked

With their objective doing, the team signaled for extraction, making them wait for a while. As the transport approached, Tyler glanced back at the compound, the once-chaotic site now silent and under Atlas control.

"What next," Aiden asked

"No idea, but I can tell we're gonna be busy the next few weeks," Tyler said as he sat down

Soon the Warbird took off, with the team waiting for their next mission.

Manila, Presidential Palace

The grand conference room in the Presidential Palace was filled with Philippine officials, military leaders, and key advisers. At the center of the long, polished table sat Johnathan Irons, his presence commanding respect. Beside him was a holographic tablet projecting key data points from the successful mission on Basilan Island.

The President of the Philippines, a dignified woman with a calm yet firm demeanor, leaned forward, addressing Irons. She had tanned skin, short black hair with some grey showing, blue eyes and wore a grey pan suit.

"Mr. Irons, your team's success on Basilan Island has not gone unnoticed," President Elena Navarro,"the people are grateful for Atlas's intervention, and our intelligence confirms the elimination of a significant threat. However, this proposal for a permanent base on Basilan raises certain concerns."

Irons clasped his hands together, his gaze steady and unyielding.

"Madam President, the establishment of an Atlas base on Basilan isn't just about logistics, it's about ensuring stability," Irons explained,"our presence will deter future threats, strengthen your military's capabilities, and, most importantly, provide the people with a sense of security that no one else can offer."

The Defense Secretary, seated beside the President, spoke up.

"We appreciate your assistance," the Defense Secretary ,"but allowing a foreign organization to establish a permanent base on our soil could be seen as compromising our sovereignty."

"I understand your position," Irons said as he nodded, acknowledging the concern,"and let me assure you, Atlas has no intention of undermining your sovereignty. This base would operate under a joint agreement, with Filipino oversight at every level. Atlas provides the technology, training, and resources. Your military remains in control of all operations within your borders."

Elena leaned back, considering his words, they would get more resources for relief efforts from the Al-Kobra attacks. Plus it'll be extra security for them, and she could request Atlas to train militias or proper military forces. Though there was one problem, an annoying one she wished she could duct tape and throw into the ocean with an anchor attached to it

"And what of the HPSC," Elena asked,"they've been vocal about offering their own support to our country."

Irons's jaw tightened, but his voice remained measured.

"With all due respect, Madam President, the HPSC offers you a leash, not support," he stated simply,"they use heroes as a means to gain influence, prioritizing their agenda over the well-being of your people. Atlas has no such agenda, ee focus on results, not control."

A moment of silence passed as the room absorbed his words. The President exchanged a glance with her advisers before speaking again.

"If we were to agree," Elena stressing the word hard,"what guarantees do we have that Atlas will respect our autonomy and not act in its own interest?"

Irons leaned forward, his tone firm but sincere.

"The guarantee lies in our actions, look at Basilan," Irons said,"my team operated with precision, minimized collateral damage, and worked alongside your forces once they returned to handle clean up. That's how Atlas operates: partnership, not domination."

The Defense Secretary still looked skeptical but stayed silent as the President weighed the proposal. Finally, she nodded.

"Very well Mr. Irons," she said,"we will allow Atlas to establish a base on Basilan Island under the conditions you've outlined: full transparency, joint operations, and strict adherence to our sovereignty."

Irons extended his hand with a confident smile.

"You have my word, Madam President," Irons said,"this is the start of a stronger, safer Philippines."

They shook hands, the room filled with the low murmur of approval and agreement. As the meeting adjourned, Irons turned to his aide, who had been standing quietly nearby.

"Prepare the initial deployment," Irons said,"Basilan will be operational within the month. And keep an eye on the HPSC, I want to know their next move before they make it."

The aide nodded and quickly left to carry out the orders. Irons lingered for a moment, gazing out the window at the sprawling city of Manila below.

"One step closer," he whispered

With that, he turned and walked out of the conference room, the weight of Atlas's growing influence settling on his shoulders. He smiled as he will make sure Izuku can live in a better world, where he can smile