Hey Everybody! My first chapter did very well so, here I am back with another installment.
I see all the comments for the pairing and I have to say, some are more appropriate than others. I don't believe Naruto x Tsuyu would work because their personalities don't meld well. I agree with the pairing of a boisterous person like Nejire or Mirko, so I still haven't decided which way the story will go, but our Naruto needs so loving!
Anyways, thanks for reading this second chapter and reviewing. Without further adieu…
Chapter 2: A New Contender
The Sports Festival was one of the biggest showings all year for the country of Japan. With the decline of the Olympics over the years, UA began to fill the void left vacant by the once groundbreaking event.
In the Festival, thousands upon thousands of fans, Heroes, and Sidekicks come to scout the up and coming talent to intern for their agencies. Usually the eyes were on the Third Years, but for the first since the competition began, the First Year tournament was held with record breaking attendance.
News Stations from across the country filed in to get a glimpse at Class 1-A, who had recently been attacked by Villians. According to local newscasters in Mustafu, the First Years were some of the most promising prospects for future Top 10 Heroes in Shoto Todoroki and Katsuki Bakugo.
Though Mirio Togata, the Permeation Quirk Third Year, held the title for most likely to become the number one Hero, these new UA students held much power to be passed around.
Although many Top Heroes had their eyes on these students from 1-A, Students from 1-B got some recognition as well. Neito Monoma, Itsuka Kendo and Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu were among the Top Prospects from the secondary Hero Course
In the Sport Festival, the lower classes: Gen Ed and the Business Class, were looked down upon as Cannon Fodder. Sadly, only a few in the many years of the event had ever made the Finals from the lower staged classes.
This year would definitely be different. Most did not know the power Nemuri Kayama's class held and they wouldn't know that power until it was unleashed upon them.
Locker Room: 1-A
Shouta Aizawa or Eraser Head, notified his students to meet briefly with him before the Festival began.
Naruto Uzumaki was putting the other teachers on edge, and they were right in their judgement. Treading lightly around the recently placed Gen Ed boy would result in Failure from even the best of Heroes. The blonde had experience, conviction, and a mission.
Uzumaki, was a Task Master. Failure wasn't an option for him, because he didn't have the luxury of time or development. He needed to be the best and he knew others like him were out there waiting for someone like him to come along and give them Hope.
And that goal...made him a dangerous adversary for the students competing.
"Midoriya...I don't know why All Might has his sights set on you, but…I will beat you." Shoto Todoroki, the Half Hot, Half Cold Quirk user, says emotionlessly. His declaration brought upon the entire room's attention.
Izuki smiled nervously and bit back the anxiety he felt, "I'll do my bes-" The young One for All user was stopped by a hand on his shoulder.
"Enough with the useless banter." The black haired Hero turned around so that the entire class could hear him. "Everyone has their eyes on you today. These petty rivalries will not get you an internship at a Top Agency. It isn't about who beats who, it's about who shows the most promise to become a great Pro Hero. If you can't see that, then...others below you will take that outcome away from you. Now...Get Ready, you'll be announced soon." Aizawa gave a short and slow speech, and it didn't lighten the room any.
The Underground Hero was trying to give them a shot or reality, they needed it. The more he looked around the room, the more he saw the looks of apprehension on his young students' faces. It was better to get their nerves out before the events anyway.
It was time to shape up or be beaten into a bloody pulp by the Ultimate Challenge to come. It was time to show conviction or be cast aside for those that do.
Locker Room: Class 1-B
Vlad King had been trying to conjure up a speech to say, but he couldn't come up with the right words.
He believed in his students to show that they too deserve the Hero spotlight, yet they allowed an ex-Villain to compete as a publicity stunt.
The Blood Hero wholeheartedly believed in Nezu and he would still now, but at least he could give his students a small warning.
The Students were strategizing about how they were going to use the Arrogance of 1-A against them. They all knew 1-A was strong, but they wouldn't admit that to each other, knowing how they all wished to be in their position. As they were closing in on their introduction time, their Homeroom Teacher appeared, peering at them with...pity.
"Gather around everyone." The voice bellowed over the clashing of lockers and benches. "Listen. I know you see 1-A as your rivals, I too share that sentiment. But disregarding the other competition...is a fool's game." The students of 1-B looked at each other questiongly. Sekijiro-sensei had never scolded them for their dislike of 1-A before, so why now?
"There are others below you as well...they too want a shot at the top, you aren't the only ones. If you dismiss them as the media does…" Kan turned away to leave the room. It was better if they didn't question his reason for being there. "They will defeat you...and decay your chances at an internship with a Top Agency."
With that being said, the same apprehension in 1-A was being drawn to 1-B like a disease. Even Minoma faltered for a brief moment...
'Even if I told them straight up. They would still underestimate the Uzumaki boy...it's...frustrating.' The Blood Hero walked away menacingly, looking over at Aizawa leaving the 1-A Locker Room, who had the same look on his face.
They both gave a nod of respect and went their separate ways. Today would truly be a test for their students.
Introduction Ceremony
"Hellooo and Welcome to the UA Sports Festival! Yeahhh!" Hero, Present Mic, yelled over the stadiums loud speakers, getting a resounding thunderous applause and yelps.
"The Year's First Year Sports Festival is the largest in the history of UA! Show the students your enthusiasm!" The stadium shook the tunnels the students stood under.
The butterflies in the students' stomachs fluttered in response. Though if you looked closely, barely contained excitement riddled through all the nerves.
"Now without further adieu...LET'S INTRODUCE THE CLASSES!" The mohawk Hero yelled, gaining a tick of annoyance from his long time friend, Eraser Head.
Todoroki, Bakugo and Midoirya, walked in front of Class 1-A holding their heads high, pure looks of determination (and surprising stoicism from Bakugo) shown clearly. Some of their classmates behind them waved at the crowd and cheered along with them. "Here's the fan favorites, CLASS 1-A! Being led by number 1 student, Katsuki Bakugo and number two and three students, Shoto Todoroki and Momo Yaoyorozu!" All camera crewmen pointed their cameras at the incoming Hero Students, flashing and recording with deafening acknowledgement from the crowd.
"Ohhhhh and here's CLASS 1-B! The second Hero Course has some serious talent just like their 1-A counterparts. They are being led by the top student Neito Monoma and the two runner ups, Itsuka Kendo and Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu! Yeaahh!" The boisterous applause continued without pause, leaving some of the class to soak in the praise.
Class 1-C stood shaking in their boots, seeing the Hero Course students. Most knew they were only there for the others' entertainment, but for two, this moment was the only opportunity they needed.
Naruto and Shinso nodded at each other, though the former dropping back into the middle of the pack to lessen attention on himself.
"Roof Roof! Now introducing, 18+ Hero Midnight's Class 1-C Underdogssss! These hounds are griping at a chance for the top, led by top student Shinso Hitoshi and runner ups, (Random Girl) and (Random Boy)!" Some of the crowd began to bark like dogs, much to the embarrassment of the students. Kayama-sensei probably set them up with that nickname.
The other classes filled the stadium up soon after with applause, but not as much as the first three classes. It seemed as if Class 1-C got the most positive feedback, because...who doesn't like an Underdog?
Midnight stood on stage with her extremely seductive outfit, cracking around her whip, drawing blushes from most of the men in the crowd. "Annnd, here's the first proctor, Midnight! Take em away!" Present Mic yelled in excitement, drawing more astonishment from the overfilling crowd.
"Alright kiddos, Katsuki Bakugo was chosen for the Introduction speech for all students! Come on up young man!" The seemingly furious boy drew murmurs from inside the student crowd.
"Really? Him? He doesn't represent us, much less a Hero!"
"He's the guy that said he would beat us all!"
"Well he did get number one in the Exam."
"You know he says 'Die!' when he fights?"
"Mr. No Personality given a spot for someone who is supposed to inspire the crowd? How low can we get?"
"No way! That guy was in my Exam, he's psychotic! He was cackling like a madman the whole time!"
"Aww man! Midnight's boobs are so amazing! That
would be my speech!"
Bakugo made the students go silent as he grabbed the mic, "I vow...to be number one." The light blonde haired Explosive Quirk user, left with his hands in his pockets, looking in total concentration.
Numerous shouts of outrage and boos littered the students and crowd. 'Kacchan really isn't a motivational speaker…' The One for All user sighed in his head. 'I've never seen him quiet like this though...it's kind of...threatening.'
Hitoshi looked over at the person next to him who had been quietly studying the competition, "Such arrogance, I expected nothing less." The Brainwashing Quirk user said lowly in a gravely montone.
"Yes that is true. But, Katsuki Bakugo is smart and strong too, his personality hides the fact that he's a tactician. Although, it is easy to get in his head, and throwing him into a fit of rage is quite easy." The masked blonde said expresionessly.
"Hitoshi," Said boy turned his head to the crowd once more, "Stay out of the crowd's eyesight. Underestimation will be key for us both. Our strategy is to build up their hope, make them feel secure in their abilities and judgement...and then…" The Uzumaki turned a gleaming eye on his companion, "Crush their hope right at their highest peak, and remind them that this is not a game for some of us." Shinso nodded with a smirk, Naruto really knew how to get his engines turning.
The Uzumaki was smart, tactical, and efficient. If he was being honest...Shinso was afraid of what was churning inside his head. He wasn't a Gen Ed or Hero Course level opponent, no, he could feel it in his blood, the blonde had experience and a lot of it. There was some bigger plot at UA that involved the mysterious blonde who undoubtedly had a dangerous mind and Quirk.
He was glad to have a comrade like him...because if he was the Hero Course students...Shinso would be petrified to have someone like him watching his every move.
"Alright! Now it's time for the Selection Spin!" Nemuri announced, as a screen displayed behind her. It quickly spun and, for some, they couldn't see the choices of the First event.
Finally it stopped. Obstacle Course.
Naruto stoically blinked. A race with a Quirk like his?
How convenient.
All of the students crowded around the starting post, where three bulbs lit green. The deathly quiet and nerves spread in the tightly confounded space, making many sweat and breath heavily.
"Ready…GO!" Present Mic blurted out through his mic as the students darted out the tunnel, with Todoroki freezing most of the group off the start.
"TEME! I'll kill you!" Katsuki yelled, bursting the ice. His explosions carried him in flight as he propelled angrily after him.
The rest were left to glide uneasily against the slick ice path Shoto created. Most of 1-A already found ways to counter, knowing Todoroki's Quirk best.
(Canon Race)
"Todoroki and Bakugo are battling to keep up with Midroiya who is rapidly approaching the finish line! It's coming down to the wire, LET THEM HEAR YOU FOLKS!" The crowd boomed in unison, encouraging students to give their all in the final push.
Cameras from all angles pointed towards the dark tunnel, waiting in thick silence for the first of the pack to finish.
"...and the winner of the Obstacle Course...Izuku Midoriya from Class 1-A!" The One for All user teared up as people chanted his name. It truly was one of the best feelings in the world and this was the first time he ever got to experience such praise.
Todoroki and Bakugo followed behind in second and third, leaving both disappointed in losing to the smaller teenager. Though the latter raged more violently.
(Canon Order of Finish)
"Owwy! My tummy! I...I can make it!" Aoyama, the Naval Laser Quirk user, gripped his stomach but continued to jog along, following closely behind the others.
As he got into the darkness of the tunnel and viewed the finish line, a sense of glee came over him. He persevered, albeit barely, but persevered nonetheless.
Suddenly that heavenly sense...grew dangerous and foreboding. He wanted to react but he couldn't, it was like a Flash of lightning, unexpected and untraceable.
Naruto Flashed behind the charismatic boy, delivered a chop to the neck, while laying him to the side. It was unfortunate for the 1-A student, but his mission was more important than his positioning.
"I'm sorry Aoyama-san, you were in my way…" Just as fast as the moment came, it was gone in barely a second. Such Godlike speed and awareness was only attainable by one person...and the Laser user never even had a chance.
Naruto jogged down the tunnel, patting himself with dust and dirt. He wanted to make it seem like he really struggled, but in reality, he watched the others like an Apex Predator from the dark.
"...and the final contestant...Naruto Uzumaki! Coming in the last position! Get a good look everyone, these are your contenders for the next round! Yeaah!" The hollering began again, but for some...seeing that name, made them pale.
Izuku was baking in the glory of the public eye, lost in his own world. He was honestly tuning out Present Mic in order to strategize for the next round. But...he heard that name All Might had warned him about...and…
The guy looked pretty beat up. Maybe his Quirk was better for other things, but did All Might get the name wrong. Of anything the Shinso Hitoshi guy gave him more anxiety. He never even saw the Purple Haired guy's Quirk.
He peered over at Ochako who had placed 15th and it seemed she shared the same mentality as him. At least he wasn't alone in that line of thinking.
'Naruto Uzumaki didn't seem like much of a threat.'
Shinso saw the disregarding looks of the other students. 'These fools…Stage 1...completed without a misstep.' He sent Naruto a knowing smirk and a small nod, which he received back. 'He's scary good at manipulating others to do what he wants, and they don't even suspect it.'
Pro Hero Lounge
Power Loader watched, shaking his head lightly. The other students had no clue who that boy was, and he was just toying with them. "They're walking right into his hand, it's incredibly smart." The large tech hero grumbled praisingly.
"The hell are you talking about? Who's hand?" Gigantification Quirk user, Mt. Lady questioned while wrapping her hair around her finger.
The underbite Hero sighed audibly, drawing more attention from the room after his comment. "Naruto Uzumaki. The boy is scaringly stoic and brilliant. The others see him as a non-threat, when in reality, he's the most dangerous Contender of all." The large man said with his arms crossed, not noticing the looks of disbelief others were sending his way.
This time Kamui Woods spoke before Yu, "Power Loader, do not see the boy, looks like he got hit by every landmine on the course." His comment got laughs out of most people in the room, yet one still wasn't laughing.
"His Quirk wouldn't allow that. You see, Naruto wasn't a UA student till last week, before that time he...was a Villain…" Now the entire room drew their attention to the Support Course teacher. The room was eerily quiet, before shouts from Yu or Mt. Lady interrupted the uncomfortability.
"You're kidding right? Why the hell is an ex-Villian in a Hero Academy?! Do the administrators not know of this?!" Heated questions from the horned woman sounded throughout the room.
Power Loader now put on the spot, sighed once more, "Look. He wasn't a bad person, just desperate. He's an Orphan, was dropped from the Japan's Government Program, he had nothing and no one. Eraser Head found him and extended the invitation to him. He's not a bad person, just misunderstood and I'm rooting for him, because he has already proven himself to me." The tech Hero said convincingly, drawing many to loom away in shame after assuming the worst. Falling for stereotypical titles was unbecoming of their line of work.
Kamui Woods took a sip of water under his mask, "I see. Yet, what does this have to do with his lackadaisical performance from the first round?" The Wood Quirk user, asked as he was intrigued with such a person.
"The boy is Extremely Intelligent and Strong. Eraser Head was the one that found him, but I didn't say he caught him. He fought Eraser Head to a standstill, maybe more in Uzumaki's favour, without even using his Quirk. I was waiting to see when he popped up during the Obstacle Course, but he never did. There's two conclusions you can draw from this: 1. He was with the Pack in the average category, so the camera dismissed his presence. Or 2. He was observing the other's Quirks out of sight while the others competed and soaked all the information he could get. You see, Naruto has experience and versatility, which some of the Heroes in training lack." He paused to see the looks of astonishment and understanding. It seemed like Naruto was already getting support from others before he even began his career.
"By ignoring him as a fluke, last spot entrance, he has no one targeting him because he is seen as not strong enough. These students want competition and to prove themselves by beating the best. By Uzumaki solidifying himself as a non-threat, he takes the cameras off him and directs them on the Top Students. Therefore, giving him free-reign to operate in the dark...like a Villain. But that's the thing…he operates like a Villain, but in reality he just uses everything in his arsenal to his advantage, to complete his Mission. The boy is calculating, cold-blooded, and Eraser Head said he never does anything without a reason. The others are deliberately underestimating him, and the boy is baiting them into a trap they set themselves. Damn if I was a Top Hero, then he would be my first choice for an internship bar-none. A true once in a lifetime 'Tactical Task Master', yes, that name fits him well." The group looked at the masked blonde through the screen in a new light.
Naruto Uzumaki even played them, Pro Heroes, for fools, and they wouldn't have even noticed if it wasn't for their fellow Hero.
Naruto Uzumaki was someone to look out for.
Sidekicks and Heroes alike were beginning to call their superiors to warn them of this prospect. Someone like him was a diamond in the rough, truly and utterly fantastic potential.
Top 10 Hero Booth
"Hah! Seriously, was that kid running through the Minefield blindfolded!" Bunny Hero, Mirko, laughed, slapping her thighs, grinning like a loon.
All the other Top 10 Heroes, besides Endeavor, turned to her like she was truly ignorant. Being Top 10 meant you had to be extremely observant of your surroundings, although she was fairly new to the Top 10, coming in at 5th Ranked.
Ryuko Tatsuma, or Dragon Hero: Ryukyu, looked unimpressed at her, "Such an excellent tactic and you don't see it. Might need to work on your brain power more than your muscles." The blonde haired woman giggled at the furious look on Mirko's face. Ryukyu was ranked 9th in the Hero Ranking.
"What did you say?! What tactic?! He was playing HopScotch on the mines!" The others laughed at her, it truly did look like that. But they weren't in the Top 10 for no reason.
Shield Hero: Crust, laughed and gripped her shoulder, "No worries you'll understand soon." The 6th ranked Hero said confidently.
As the Bunny Hero pouted in her own world, the 3rd ranked Hero, Hawks, texted his secretary. 'Hey Ami. Put Naruto Uzumaki down on my potentials for an Internship.' The Winged Hero grinned seeing the lazy look on the boy's face as they began to explain what the second round would entail. It was like he found a long-lost brother, no way he'd pass up that chance.
'Sir? Are you sure?' His secretary responded confusingly.
'Yeah. I'm sure you'll see why soon.' He put his phone back into his pocket and kicked up his legs on the seat in front of him. 'Let's see what you have in store, Uzumaki.'
Best Jeanist, the 4th Ranked Hero, did the same as Hawks. Disciplined Heroes in training, who attuned to succeeding rather than boasting, drew his attention clearly.
All Might gripped his seat in frustration. He warned Young Midoriya, he of all of them should know not to
underestimate someone. He could see the same look on his successor's face as the rest of them, pure denial of Uzumaki's ability.
"Young Uzumaki is an anomaly, I'm sure Endeavor has already staked his claim! As a teacher at UA, I already knew he was going to be a troublesome opponent for the others, hopefully they will uncover his master plan soon!" The Large Man states in his buff form, getting nods of agreement and the same look of confusion on Mirko's face.
With Aizawa
'I've taught my students better than this…But, I'm proud as well...well done gaki.' He thought before getting slapped on his back.
"Don't sleep on the Job, Eraser Head, they are starting to pick their teams!" The mohawk Hero exclaimed to the annoyed Underground Hero.
On The Field
The second event ended up being a Cavalry Battle, students were allowed to pick up to three other students as teammates.
Each student was assigned a headband with the certain number of points they earned as a result of the Obstacle Course.
This left Deku feeling outed, because the First Place
position held a numerical value of 10,000,000 Points.
Students combined to complement each other's Quirks, while others struggled to find teams.
"Hmm, going by yourself Naruto?" Shinso asked the masked blonde, knowing he could if he wanted.
Naruto nodded, "Yes. I assume you have a strategy in mind, Hitoshi?" The taller teenager said quietly, making sure none heard him.
"Yeah. I'll see you in the Final Round. I'd say Good Luck, but we both know that you don't need it." Shinso walked away to find victims of his Quirk.
He would definitely be avoiding the Blonde at all costs, though he would never admit that to him.
Naruto already knew his targets. But he would wait, observe, then pounce when the time was getting closer to a close. It was evident that Midoriya would be the high-profile target, and everyone would be watching him.
He wanted to keep his Quirk unknown to the others. Even if they did know it, they probably wouldn't be able to combat it anyway.
At the End of the Fifteen Minutes the Teams were created and placed in position on the Qualifying board:
1st. Team Midroiya: Izuku (10M), Ochako (150), Tokoyami (180), Hatsume (10)
2nd. Team Tetsutetsu: Tetsutetsu (165), Honenuki (190), Awase (155), Shiozaki (195)
3rd. Team Bakugo: Bakugo (200), Kirishima (170), Ashido (120), Sero (175)
4th. Team Todoroki: Todoroki (205), Iida (185), Yaoyoruzu (130), Kaminari (95)
5th. Team Mineta: Mineta (125), Shoji (145), Asui (150)
6th. Team Hagakure: Hagakure (25), Jiro (110), Sato (140), Koda (115)
7th. Team Monoma: Monoma (35), Tsubaraba (100), Kaibara (105), Kuroiro (65)
8th. Team Shinso: Shinso (80), Shoda (50), Ojiro (160)
9th. Team Kendo: Kendo (75), Yanaga (85), Tokage (20), Komori (45)
10th. Team Kodai: Kodai (60), Bondo (90), Fukidashi (15)
11th. Team Rin: Rin (55), Shishida (70)
12th. Team Tsunotori: Tsunotori (30), Kamakiri (40)
13th. Team Uzumaki: Uzumaki (5)
"Wow...poor kid...everyone probably didn't want him on their team because he was last and beaten pretty badly." The crowd started conversing, seeing the boy isolated from his peers.
Though the Heroes watching, knew better. He was going to get by with his own strength, and carrying others there would be unfair and unwise for the strategy they thought he was implementing.
All the Teams lined up with their riders, ready to attack their strategically planned targets. Though for more than half...that meant Team Midoriya.
Present Mic came over the stadium wide speakers, "The Cavalry Battle of the Second Round, begins in 3...2...1...GOOO!" Chaos erupted right off the bat, teams digging in and battling for supremacy .
Though for one masked blonde, He merely disappeared in the Chaos, when all eyes were on the action. He would be watching waiting for his approach.
While the others ran themselves ragged fighting for attrition, he would be stalking for those letting their guard down. In the real world, lack of understanding in your surroundings got you killed...this would be another lesson for the Hero Students.
In the Pro Hero Lounge
"What?! Where did Uzumaki go? Why isn't he going for the other headbands?!" Yu looked disappointed. Power Loader was hyping him up for nothing.
As the tech Hero looked around the room, many other shared the same face of disappointment. If only they knew...that just went to show that he could already outwit Pros.
"Quiet down...he's observing...waiting to ambush those who lower their guard. All he needs is a split second." Power Loader not looking the least concerned.
The others wanted to muscle their way through,but he would do it with his brain. He didn't need first and Naruto knew that, so he would probably take out the lower teams to continue staying off the radar.
"So...what's his Quirk then? You speak as if it is very strong." Kamui Woods added his thoughts, seemingly speaking for those around him.
Power Loader smirked slyly, "That's because it is...but I won't spoil it. You'll have to discover it for yourself."
The room stayed silent, all trying to decipher what Quirk Uzumaki utilized. Invisibility? Ground Merging? Shape Shifter?
No one knew yet…
Top 10 Heroes
"Magnificent...The Uzumaki boy has truly captured my attention. The Stage Irony is too great not to acknowledge. The Hero Students have truly no idea they are letting a Wolf into the Sheep's den." Best Jeanist praised, clearly impressed.
Keigo or Hawks, continued to stay silent, 'His strategy reflects a seasoned Veteran. To citizens, Class 1-A and B are stealing the show, but to those of us who know what we are looking for, Uzumaki is showcasing skills superior to those his age.' For now he would sit back and relax, letting it play out on its own, even though he would bet all his money on Uzumaki into the Third Round.
"What! You old croons, he's running away, that's not very Hero-like to me!" The Bunny Hero crossed her arms angrily.
Ryukyu chuckled, "Just wait and see…I for one will definitely be giving an opportunity for an internship to Uzumaki."
"I still don't understand his Quirk...I wish I had a registry on me!" Shield Hero: Crust cursed squirming in his seat.
All Might continued to watch his student. He knew Uzumaki would not go after Young Midoriya, but he was certain Uzumaki would pass. "I know his Quirk, but it is better to discover from the source. Plus it is not my story to tell, HAHA!"
For all the Heroes, they just hoped his Quirk was as powerful as his mind.
With Aizawa
"Team Bakugo gets their headband back from Team Monoma! Putting them in 2nd Place!" The screen shuffled the Team names as the round continued and grew closer to a close.
"1:30 Remaining!" Present Mic said, distributing extreme tension across the arena.
Naruto looked down upon the lower teams with smaller numbered headbands. He was aiming for 3rd or 4th Place, though he could place higher if he wanted too.
He flashed 200m NW, snagging 70 Points from team Tsunotori.
The two Class 1-B students stood unbelievingly at the headband disappearing from their rider's neck. They were trying to stay with as many points as they could! How could this have happened, no one was even near them!
"Oh Team Tsunotori lost their headband!" Present Mic saw it's vacancy, but not the perpetrator...What the Hell was going on?
'It's him...no doubt about it. And no one is even paying attention because they're too focused on Midoriya and Todoroki fighting!' Aizawa's eyebrows raised curiously as to what the gaki would do next.
In the short timeframe, Naruto grinned and flashed again to Team Rin. Having no knowledge of his intrusion, the headband slipped perfectly off Rin's forehead.
With another Flash, he planned his next move.
"Team Rin lost their headband as well, who has it?!" The crowd was going wild with the build-up, trying to figure out who was thieving headbands so quickly.
"But how?! We aren't near anybody!" Shishida looked around frighteningly. His partner grew pale, seeing how their chances decreased once more.
Hitoshi, was the only really acknowledging Present Mic. He knew who it was…yet he couldn't see Uzumaki anywhere! He just hoped he wasn't collateral damage for Uzumaki's brigade.
Seeing Team Kodai taking a breather in the masked blonde's peripheral. He flashed 45m E towards their position.
It was easy pickings like before. All within 15 seconds, and he now had 4 Headbands.
"Let's keep goin-" Yui reached her hand up to touch the headband only to find it gone. Her eyes widened in panic, leaving her teammates to look up at her in horror.
"Wow! Team Kodai lost their Headband as well! Who's the Headband Bandit?! Yeahh!" The stadium was shaking with thunderous excitement.
Pro Hero Lounge
"What the hell is going on?!" Mt. Lady fell back in her seat, trying to follow something invisible to the naked eye.
Power Loader had never seen the extent of his Quirk before...it was amazing, "Even knowing his Quirk, it's still so impressive!"
"The Uzumaki boy?" Kamui asked, although he was sure of the answer.
The large tech Hero nodded and continued to stare at the screen as the crowd grew louder and louder with each second closing into the Finale.
Such a Powerful Quirk, and yet they were still in the dark.
Back in the Arena
Naruto blurred off to the side, watching the Chaos ensue. Seeing other Teams drop like flies scared the others into actually defending themselves instead of attacking other Squads.
It was of no consequence to him though, one last decently numbered Headband. Even if they protected themselves, he would be gone before they could react.
It seems his prediction for his last choice was correct. He loved the sensation of predicting his opponents actions. He was prepared for this outcome and they all played right to where he wanted them.
Team Monoma stood guarded like the others around them. One of the other higher teams was snatching Headbands consecutively and fiercely, but no evidence of battle or confrontation.
Monoma would never say it, but...someone here was powerful and they didn't know who or where they were coming from.
"What the hell is going on?! They're not even saying who has the Headbands?" Tsuburaba yelled. They still had a Headband and enough to sneak into last place in the event.
They all shared his mindset, they couldn't afford to lose.
"5 SECONDS LEFT!" The silence was heavy on the field, everyone looking in all directions and using their senses to pick up approaching foes.
"Stay on Guard…" Monoma whispered, feeling the others nod underneath him.
"4!" Fans began to chant the countdown.
"3!" The teams were sweating heavily, throats and mouths dry.
"2!" The Flash made his move.
"1!" A miniscule amount of dust was kicked up, but no evidence was left in his wake…
"Time's up! Let's see the Finalists!" Midnight hollered out to the teams.
Present Mic took over for Nemuri as the Names and Numbers came through, "Team Todoroki, 1st Place!" Applauds and praise rained down from the seats, showering the four.
The Blonde Copy Quirk user looked down at his hands with no Headband present in them. 'This is not possible.' His eyes shook in terror.
"Team Bakugo, 2nd Place!" The cheers continued, but Bakugo was less than pleased with finishing anything but 1st.
"Monoma what's wrong?" Sen Keibara asked their team leader. But upon noticing the reason for his unfathomable look, his own stature froze.
"Team Shinso, 3rd Place!" Midnight smiled at one of her students getting through to the third round.
His teammates looked around, gripping their hands. Ojiro was visibly sweating, with a look of total loss in his eyes.
"The Headband...but how?" Monoma's other teammates looked around for the culprit and found one with their number on it.
Their faces grew even more terrified, seeing it on the neck of Naruto Uzumaki, the only person without a team.
"This is just coming in now! How unbelievable it is folks! Fourth Place, The Singular Squad, Team Uzumaki!" Present Mic bellowed, followed by the unbelieving shouts of the crowd.
"No way!"
"I didn't even see him!"
"Holy shit! He fooled the Hero Course students!"
"I just lost all my betting money!"
"Hot!"
A wave of chants started to build, seeing the lazy underdog pull off what everyone doubted he had a chance at. "Uzu-ma-ki, Uzu-ma-ki, Uzu-ma-ki!"
"Can you hear that, Japan! The stadium is erupting for Class 1-C's Underdog Naruto Uzumaki! A truly captivating performance and we didn't even see him! Yeahh!" Present Mic exclaimed throughout the entire stadium.
"And finally in 5th and Last Qualifying Spots, Team Midoriya!" All Might sighed in relief at that announcement, his student had barely scraped by.
Keigo whistled in amazement, "Damn. I have to get on a call with my secretary!" He wrestled his phone out of his pocket.
The other Heroes followed along besides All Might and Mirko. Though the latter still had no clue what the hell was going on.
The remaining students zoned in on the lone Uzumaki, lazily standing with his hands in his pockets. No visible sweating or marks of struggle...
It was like he didn't even try!
With Team Todoroki
They all looked guardingly at the masked blonde. They didn't even see him fight...or anything! He was gliding by without the Cameras on him, and everything was to his advantage now.
Even this late in the competition, Naruto Uzumaki was an unknown Quirk user, with unknown capabilities. He was stoic and impossible to read, so what would they do from here if they had to fight him?
"I don't understand...he took out most of the lower teams and we were too focused on Midoriya." Momo said slowly and in discomfort.
"Whey…" Kaminari walked around with his thumbs up.
Shoto was getting closer to discovering how Uzumaki rode under the radar. "He came in last deliberately. Everyone including myself wrote him off as unworthy of our attention. He played us all for fools." The Half Hot, Half Cold Quirk user, grit his teeth slightly.
"But why? What does he have to gain doing all that?" Iida asked more to himself than his teammates.
Momo looked at the blonde boy who was talking quietly with the other boy who qualified from 1-C. "I think I get it...He was studying our Quirks, our strengths and weaknesses, we…got played like pieces in Shogi. We were doing what he wanted the entire time and now he can capitalize on our mistakes in the Finals." She looked down nervously at her shoes, just as she was gaining some confidence in her abilities, someone like him had totally destroyed that belief in herself.
Shoto stood quietly, looking over at his Father who was talking on the phone and pointing at the student who took the crowd by storm. At least the fool's attention wasn't on him. 'Midoriya made me use my left half...Tsk.'
"Let's go." The Half and Half Hero Student motioned for his teammates to follow.
They nodded reluctantly and left, but not before sending one more glance at the Gen Ed Uzumaki who looked on lazily. It was like he didn't see anyone else as a threat.
They never felt so inferior since they've been at UA, and to a Gen Ed student no less.
"Whey…" Kaminari Kaminari'd.
With Team Bakugo
"How did the damn extra make it this far?!" Bakugo boiled in rage with his eyes glowing red.
His teammates idly stepped away from him, he was destined to explode…
Kirishima, the Hardening Quirk user, knew Bakugo reacted more out of disbelief than anger. He was getting better at picking up on his classmates' mood swings. "That guy really stole the show. He didn't even come in first, but just because he was by himself, it's now making him a fan favorite."
Mina Ashido, the Acid Quirk user, agreed, "Am I the only one who's kind of afraid of him. I mean look at the Teams he took from. They look terrified…"
Team Tsunotori, Rin, Kodai and Monoma were all talking quietly, but none more passionately than Monoma's squad.
Sero, the Tape Quirk user, spoke questiongly, "Maybe we should ask them about what happened."
Kirishima and Mina followed him over there, leaving Bakugo to brood and pound the ground.
"Hey Monoma right...uh I'm sorry you guys didn't advance. I hope there are no hard feelings between us, but we just wanted to ask." The Class 1-B group sharpened and turned to one of the teams who stole headbands from them. "Uzumaki took your headbands, but nobody knows what happened, so do you guys have any clue?" Sero asked.
Monoma hated Class 1-A, it was downright factual, but even if he did tell them, it wouldn't change anything. "We don't know either." The Copy Quirk user looked directly at the three, the cocky smirk gone from his face.
"What? But you fought him right?" The red haired Hardening Quirk user's eyebrows shot to his forehead.
Monoma grit his teeth. "He took our Headband, and even with four of us watching different directions...we still lost it. It was like we never had it in the first place."
The three members of Team Bakugo stood frozen in disbelief. 'Just how strong is this guy? They didn't even know they were attacked! Monoma was no pushover and even they didn't stand a chance against him…' Kirishima thought.
With Team Midoriya
Izuku was panicking. He completely ignored All Might's request! He underestimated someone...he was always the one being underestimated that he never thought it could happen to him.
He paid the price for such ignorance and now it left him and his teammates at a disadvantage for the next round. 'Stupid!Stupid!Stupid!Stupid!Stup-'
"Deku-kun...don't blame yourself. We just got outsmarted, okay?" Ochako grabbed his hands to calm him down.
Tokoyami was confused, did they know something he didn't? "Midoriya. What's going on?" The Sentient Shadow Quirk user, asked lowly.
The One for All successor turned to the bird-faced teenager, "Before the Sports Festival, we were warned to watch out for Naruto Uzumaki. Seeing him come in all beaten up after the Obstacle Race, I thought that it was just a fluke. I know what it is like to be underestimated, yet I did the same thing. Now he knows all of our Quirks and abilities, but we know none of his! I'm sorry!" Deku cried with tears in his eyes.
Mei Hatsume, the Support Course girl, ignored the conversation and continued operating on her 'babies'.
Tokoyami expected more from Midoriya if he was being honest with himself, but he also fell for the ploy. So there was really no blame to be placed but on themselves.
They were Hero Students, and they needed to use this as a lesson, and it was better now then out in the Real World. "Well...now we know. Regretting your decision will only postpone the inevitable. Hopefully none of us get him as an opponent for the third round. Only then, will we be able to see his abilities firsthand." The Shadow Quirk user sagely lectured.
Deku and Ochako comically shook their fist in a unified motion, "Right!" In response, Tokoyami just sweatdropped.
Pro Hero Lounge
"Do you think Naruto-kun would go on a date with me? I hate seeing him near that old lady." Mt. Lady pinched her chin in thought, not noticing the looks of dismay scrounging around the room.
On the screen, Midnight, Naruto and Shinso conversed. Both boys stared boringly in her direction.
The Men couldn't understand how they kept it together in front of her, they were hormonal teenagers and yet they didn't stare at her...assets.
Back in the Arena
Nemuri congratulated them briefly, trying not to take up much time so that she wasn't accused of throwing the competition for her students.
She licked her lips in Naruto's direction, making him tilt his head in confusion. 'I'm not that easy Troublesome Woman.' He sighed in his head.
Midnight pouted a little at still not being able to fluster the teenage boy...
"I'm very proud of you boys. I know I'm supposed to be neutral, but you both blew away the expectations of the crowd. Remember...it's not over yet, you can still shoot for the top! Good Luck!" She slapped her whip into her other hand, swinging her hips as she walked away.
Both boys struggled with her seductiveness, but ultimately kept their gazes forward and UP.
Hitoshi turned to face Naruto, "Seems everything played right into our hands...Hopefully this part will as well." The Brainwashing Quirk user, stated boringly, but with a hint of excitement and pride.
The blonde really did like Hitoshi, he never had a friend before, so maybe he deserved to hear at least a small truth about himself. Was that how friends were supposed to act? "Hitoshi. There's something you need to know about me before the final round."
Shinso looked quizzically at him before motioning him to continue. "Before I came to UA...I was a Villain."
"...What?" Shinso asked, truly surprised and a tad frightened. He unconsciously took a warning step back.
"I'll tell you all in good time. But the teachers are aware of it, so don't worry. I just thought you should know a little about Naruto Uzumaki." He smiled slightly under his mask, waiting for a response.
Shinso sighed heavily, as if he was holding his breath. "I should've known. You're like a seasoned Veteran amongst amateurs, Well I guess you prepared for what comes next, huh?" Hitoshi did not expect any of that.
Naruto smiled shortly, his half-lidded eyes closing into U-Shapes, "I have accustomed myself to all the remaining Quirk users. I will provide intel on your opponent once they are released. All the eyes are on me now, just as I expected…" His tone stayed even and lackadaisical, unsurprisingly to Hitoshi.
"So...even if I have you as an opponent?" The purple haired teenager questioned shortly.
The Uzumaki met his eye, "Even if I told you, it wouldn't change a thing. I hope you do not get me as an opponent, because I'd like to see you go far." The blonde admitted shamelessly.
"Oh? What makes you so sure of your victory?" Shinso said more out of playful banter than seriousness.
The masked blonde chuckled amusedly, "You don't think I haven't analyzed your Quirk by now?"
Hitoshi sighed and looked away, catching someone's eye briefly. The girl shuffled off quickly, as if she had just been caught red-handed. "Fair enough...For all it's worth, I hope you go far too…" Shinso extended his fist.
The blonde, Teleportation Quirk user, met the fist head on and grinned slightly, "If you would excuse me...I believe I have to approach a troublesome eavesdropper."
The Brainwashing Quirk user looked at him with a quirked eyebrow. 'How could he have known someone was watching him with his back turned…Whatever.' He sent a dull wave at his retreating classmate.
With Team Todoroki
Momo tasked herself with finding out what the Uzumaki was up to. Creating Encroachment listening devices, she was able to pick their conversation from a far.
Listening in, she couldn't believe how casual they talked about their 'plan'. Naruto Uzumaki had 'intel' on them all?! How was that possible in such a short time?
But the worst of all...he was a Villain.
Flashback A Couple Minutes Before
*Static* "Hitoshi, there's something you need to know about me."
*Static* "...a Villian."
Her eyes shot wide, panic throbbing in her heart. How could this be? How did a Villain get into UA?!
Fixing the throttle on the static cleanser, she lowered her head to accustom the ignition.
As she raised her head, the gloomy eyes of Hitoshi Shinso narrowed in on her.
Flashback End
Unexpectedly, she had been caught in the act and ran for her team to tell them what she witnessed. They could then go to their teacher or some Hero close-by...Oh God...what if he told Uzumaki?
'If he finds out, he might kill me!' She panicked and scrambled towards Todoroki and Iida watching Kaminari walk around retardedly.
"Iida-san, Todoroki-san, help!" Both heads shot in her direction. Seeing the look of abject terror on her face and the tears in her eyes alarmed them something was very wrong.
"Yaoyoruzu-san! What's wrong?!" Iida gripped her shoulders as she looked like she was about to faint. Shoto held her around the waist with one arm to support her weight.
With tears welling in her eyes, she sobbed out, "I was trying to get some sort of hint on Uzumaki's Quirk so I built encroachment devices. He told the other 1-C student that he was a...a...a." She stuttered at the end trying to formulate the right words.
Shoto held her firmly, "Calm down Yaoyoruzu-san...you can tell us it's alright." She loosened up into his shoulder.
"...He said he was a Villain and that he has intel on everyone's Quirk...but I don't understand how none of the teachers suspect him!" Tears streamed down her unblemished skin steadily.
Todoroki and Iida looked at each other in shock. 'A Villain here….now?' Shoto was about to speak, before an eerily lazy voice broke the constant sobbing.
"Oh...so this is where you ran off to? I knew someone was watching me…" Todoroki and Iida put Momo behind them protectively.
As they looked around them, no Hero or person was in sight. The corridor was dark and scampy, meant only for transition of On Field devices. It was the worst position they could be in for Quirk Users who thrived in open spaces.
Realizing they were entirely alone, their lives would be on the line right now. No All Might...No Aizawa-sensei...No Heroes...just a Villain and Hero Students…
End
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No Tsuyu and No Fembenders or Yaoi
Ja Ne