Chapter 32: Prep work and Study sessions

Someone dissed Bubbles' designs…are they asking for a FRICKING DEATH WISH?! The class is told about their upcoming exams. The positions may surprise you (Sorry Buttercup). The Class Representative and Vice are planning something. There is some tension in the water, how will this pan out for the whole exam.

Shout out to my amazing fans, especially the newest ones: Zach Gemini and Kouteikuro (Guest)! I truly appreciate your reviews; they've given me so much to think about. I hope you're still around to read this!

To those who've offered constructive criticism, thank you! I value your input, but ultimately, I'll follow my own creative vision. Feel free to continue reading if you wish. And for anyone dissing my work—if you don't enjoy it, why keep reading? You're welcome to leave if you want.

P.S. Just a heads up: don't insult Buttercup or Blossom, or you might regret it. And as for Bubbles, well, that goes without saying!


Chapter 32: Prep work and Study sessions

-U.A.-

Arriving at school, the girls walked down the halls, and despite the warm weather outside, a heavy chill hung over them, courtesy of a visibly upset Bubbles. Her scowl could rival the Grinch's, and her sisters were doing their best to avoid escalating the situation. Even though, they don't know what was wrong.

After an uncomfortable silence, Buttercup and Blossom exchanged glances, silently debating who would approach Bubbles first. After a few seconds of unspoken argument, Blossom let out a reluctant sigh and angrily whispered "Fine!" to Buttercup as she strode over to her younger sister.

Taking a deep breath, she put on a smile. "Hey, Bubbles… so, Buttercup and I," she shot a quick glare at her sister, "noticed you seemed upset since this morning. Care to share what's wrong?" She gently probed, trying not to come on too strong.

Bubbles took a breath of her own. "Yeah, sorry girls… it's just something silly. You don't need to worry," she shrugged it off with a forced smile.

"Yeaaaaah, nope. Not buying it," Buttercup said, marching over. "You only get like this when your feelings are hurt or someone's pissed you off; so spill. I want to know if I get to throw a punch soon." To emphasize her point, she cracked her knuckles.

Blossom shot a pleading glance at Bubbles, silently asking her not to get into any fights.

"No, it's not that…" Bubbles sighed. "Well, you see…"

(-)

-This Morning, On TV-

"Welcome back, everyone, to our live show," the TV host said. He was an ordinary man in his early to late thirties, with black, slightly wavy hair, wearing a white t-shirt and a blue tie. He stood in front of a large screen monitor with the channel's logo on it. The room was abuzz with murmurs and whispers from the TV crew and other workers on the set. Cameras were positioned at specific angles, focusing on the show.

"For our next topic, 'Is it really necessary for heroes to dress sexily?' let's have our special guests discuss it with us," he said, gesturing to the two Pro Heroines seated at a table. "Our first guest is an up-and-coming hero making her debut known, Mt. Lady," he announced. The woman, dressed in her new costume, basked in the short-lived applause before it was cut off. "And our next guest is a longtime Pro who is working at U.A. as a teacher. Please give it up for Midnight," he added. The woman gave a sultry smile that garnered a lot of applause, causing a certain other hero to feel envious.

"Now, folks, I asked these lovely ladies to come on the show and give their input on my question. If I may, I would like to address the question to Midnight, seeing as your clothing choices have not only shaped hero costume regulations but it seems that your new costume is, shall we say, even more striking than before," the man said with a playful, shameless air.

Mt. Lady quietly seethed, while Midnight didn't miss a beat. "Well, I can surely say that my past clothing styles have been an experiment—"

"I'll say…" Mt. Lady interrupted, but Midnight ignored her. "Yes, due to the nature of some people's quirks, the material of the hero costume needs to be altered to better accommodate it. And not just for their quirks; it also has to be suited for their job and fighting style. Sexiness is not just an aesthetic; sometimes it's necessary for us to do our job effectively. Besides, what's sexier than a hero who can do their job well?" Midnight said confidently, drawing thoughtful expressions from many.

"I think you seek attention," Mt. Lady said curtly, causing an annoyed expression to appear on Midnight.

Before anything could escalate, the host stepped in. "Yes, yes, Midnight makes an excellent point. But please tell us, where did you get the inspiration for this new costume? It almost makes me want to obey you," he said jokingly, garnering some laughs.

Midnight perked up, smiling fondly. "I cannot take the credit here. A certain student of mine helped me design the costume you see on me. And might I say, I wouldn't mind bending you to my whims," she said with a playful but suggestive smile, which seemed to fluster the man and many of the crew members.

Mt. Lady tsked. "Please tell that student, whoever they are, that they shouldn't quit their day job. I don't see anything special about this and it seems impractical," she said with a short giggle. "I don't see them having a career with Best Jeanist, much less starting their own clothing brand."

That made Midnight snap. She turned to the other woman with a glare. "I won't tolerate anyone blatantly disrespecting one of my ki-students, especially not some wannabe ditzy diva! How about you mind your own business and worry about your own slowing career!"

"Don't be mad just because I'm stating facts!" Mt. Lady retorted with her own anger. "It's my job as an actual hero to bring some common sense to certain people, including misguided 'stylists'!"

"Why, you insolent…!"

The entire show was thrown into chaos as crew members struggled to hold back the two arguing women from brawling.

(-)

"Seriously? You're mad because some lady with ego growth power dissed your design for Nemuri?" Buttercup asked incredulously.

"We're at school, Buttercup. It's Midnight here," Blossom corrected. Buttercup just rolled her eyes and walked away.

"It's not just that; she was also so rude to Midnight," Bubbles scowled. "Like seriously, I spotted that same hero at the Sports Festival and noticed how Mt. Lady was just as arrogant and dismissive of others' efforts. It really got to me. I mean, Midnight and I put a lot of thought into that costume, and it's not like Mt. Lady had the right to belittle the work on live TV." Bubbles' frustration was evident, and her fists clenched as she recounted the morning's events.

"Though it is kind of silly to worry about some lady's opinions," Blossom said, placing a comforting hand on her sister's shoulder. "But I do understand why you're upset. It's never easy to see someone you look up to or care about being put down like that."

"I get it, but I—UGH!" Bubbles' faint blue aura indicated her anger, and little bees began to form around her. Blossom sighed, exasperated, but before she could attempt to do anything, she heard Buttercup call out.

"Alright, big guy, do your thing," Buttercup said. Blossom turned to see her classmate Koda walking over.

As he approached, he seemed a bit flustered before going over to Bubbles, avoiding the bees and giving her a big hug. Blossom was surprised but could see her sister calming down. Bubbles sighed and blushed a bit. "Thanks, Koda," she said as she returned the hug. Koda blushed more as he was hugged.

Walking over to her sister, Blossom asked, "You know, we could have handled it ourselves, right?" with a playful raised eyebrow.

Buttercup shrugged. "Eh, I wasn't really in the mood for hugs. Come on, let's leave these two saps alone for now," she said with a smirk. Blossom followed with a giggle.


-Homeroom-

"Alright, now that you are all here, let's get right to what's important," Aizawa grumbled as he adjusted the papers in his hands. "You have one week until your final exams. Over the next few days, make sure you study what you have learned, but don't slack off on your training."

"There are two parts to the final: a written test and a practical portion. While the practical section will be the larger part of your grade, the written section can still impact your overall standing. To give you an idea of what I mean, here are the current academic standings from your midterms." Aizawa clicked the remote, and the board in front of the class changed to a large bracket displaying all the students' rankings. "I have to go to the office now for a few minutes. Good luck."

1. Blossom Kayama

2. Momo Yaoyorozu

3. Tenya Iida

4. Katsuki Bakugo

5. Izuku Midoriya

6. Shoto Todoroki

7. Tsuyu Asui

8. Kyoka Jiro

9. Bubbles Kayama

10. Mezo Shoji

11. Buttercup Kayama

12. Koji Koda

13. Ochaco Uraraka

14. Fumikage Tokoyami

15. Ejiro Kirishima

16. Toru Hagakure

17. Hanta Sero

18. Yuga Aoyama

19. Mina Ashido

20. Denki Kaminari

As soon as Aizawa left, chaos erupted.

"I BARELY TOOK NOTES THIS SEMESTER!" Kaminari and Mina exclaimed in dread. "I am so toast…Please tell me this is not happening," Kaminari said in a defeated tone, while Mina hysterically laughed.

While many were not too surprised by some of their classmates' standings, others gasped in shock at their own placements.

"Oh no…" Uraraka said with a sense of unease. 'Hmm.' She quickly thought.

"This is utterly disgraceful. As heroes in training, we are supposed to be exemplary students," Iida chiding his classmates, while chopping the air.

"Easy for you to say, Iida! Not everyone is a robot like you!" Kaminari retorted defensively.

"Ugh, this sucks," Buttercup muttered under her breath, seeing her position. Just then, Sero walked over to her with an amused smile. "What's so funny?" Buttercup asked, peeved.

"Oh, nothing. Just that I find it funny that your sisters are in the top 10 while you placed lower. I guess we know who the smart ones are among you three, huh?" Sero said with a mock grin.

Buttercup was seething on the inside, but she gave him a sugary-sweet smile and said, "Yes, you must be right…" Her eyes glowed a dangerous green. "…but unlike my sisters, I'm not afraid to put annoying jerks in their place, huh?" Sero suddenly felt a deadly aura coming from her and quickly backed off.

Just then, Izuku turned to Buttercup. "A-Are you okay, Buttercup? Don't listen to Sero. I think he was just joking… Besides, I don't t-think you're any less smart than your sisters," he said with an encouraging smile.

Buttercup felt better, though she wouldn't admit it. She had a history of being compared to her sisters, and it was annoying. She knew she was just as capable as they were, but…it sucked.

Buttercup sighed. "Thanks, Green Bean…" she shrugged. "I don't really care what Triangle Mouth has to say, anyway," she said, acting nonchalant.

He chuckled a bit. "Right…" he smiled "Well, that's great to hear…"

Meanwhile, Blossom was deep in thought about what the exam could entail when someone tapped her shoulder to get her attention. She turned to see Aoyama. "Oh, hello. Aoyama, right?" she asked shyly, not really knowing all her classmates.

Aoyama nodded and struck a dramatic pose. "Oui, mademoiselle Blossom," he said, with sparkles floating around him, where they came from, she didn't know. "I am in need of your assistance. You see, my academic standing is... how I shall put it... less than spectacular." He sighed with a touch of melodrama. "I would be eternally grateful if you could offer me some tutoring. Your brilliance in academics is quite well known, and I am confident that under your guidance, I shall be able to raise my standing and truly shine!"

Blossom blinked, taken aback by his over-the-top demeanor. She hadn't interacted much with Aoyama before, and his flashy approach was a bit surprising. "Uh, well... I'm not sure how much help I can be, but I guess I could help you out with some studying. I do know a few things about the subjects we're covering."

Aoyama's eyes lit up with genuine gratitude. "Oh, mademoiselle, you have no idea how relieved I am! Your assistance would mean the world to me. I promise to be a most dedicated student and to follow your guidance with the utmost seriousness. Together, we shall conquer these exams with flair!"

Blossom nodded, trying to get used to his theatrical style. "Alright, let's me set up a time then. I'm sure we can work something out. And, um, don't worry too much. We'll get through this."

Aoyama performed an elaborate bow, his voice filled with gratitude. "Merci, mademoiselle Blossom! Your generosity will not go unappreciated. I look forward to our study sessions and to dazzling the world with new found brilliance!"

He then left, and just as she was back to her thoughts, she felt a gentle tap on her shoulder. She turned to see Kirishima standing there, looking a bit bashful. His usual confident demeanor seemed slightly subdued.

"Hey, Blossom," Kirishima said, scratching the back of his head. "I, uh, couldn't help by overhear that you're helping Aoyama with some tutoring. I was wondering if you might be able to help me out too, with the exams and all. I mean, if you have the time and don't mind. I know I'm not exactly top of the class or anything."

Blossom's eyes softened with a smile. "O-of course, Kirishima!" she coughed, easing her surprise stutter, "I'd be happy to help. Just let me know what you need, and we can figure out a time that works for both of us."

Kirishima's eyes widened but relaxed, and his face lit up with a bright, toothy grin. "Thanks, Blossom! This is going to be a great tutoring session. I really appreciate it."

With that, Kirishima gave a quick, enthusiastic wave and bounded off to join his friends. Blossom was feeling a left with her thoughts and an idea brewing, turning back to see a certain student with others surrounding her.

'Hmm, I wonder…' she thought, a new idea beginning to form in her mind.

(-)

-Lunchroom-

The lunchroom was bustling with energy, and the sweet aroma of hearty, nutritious food filled the air. Some of the students from Class 1-A were at a table, discussing the upcoming exams and what they might entail.

"So, does anyone have an idea of what might be coming?" Bubbles asked curiously, sipping from a bowl of miso soup and munching on rice and veggies. Koda sat beside her, enjoying the same meal.

"All we know is that it will be a comprehensive test covering everything we've done this semester," Tsu said, taking bites of her cricket bread.

"Not much to go on, huh?" Buttercup commented, digging into her Spicy Tuna Donburi.

"Aizawa won't give us any more details about the exam than that. We'll just have to study hard," Blossom said, eating her okonomiyaki. Suddenly, she spotted someone of interest. "Oh, sorry guys, I need to speak to someone about a class project, I'm working on," she said quickly, grabbing her tray and leaving.

"Hey!" Bubbles called out after her. "What did she mean by project?" she huffed.

Buttercup shrugged. "Don't ask me. You know how she gets about these things. I just hope it doesn't lead us to a head—"

"Hey guys!" Uraraka called out as she and Izuku approached. "Sorry we're late. Mind if we join you?"

"I don't see why not," Tsu said plainly. The two seated themselves on either side of the table with their respective meals.

Uraraka seized the opportunity to speak. "So… do you guys have any idea what the practical portion might be? Because Deku and I are stumped."

"No," Tsu and Buttercup both said in unison.

"Not a clue here," Bubbles replied.

Koda merely shook his head.

"Might be something to do with combat," Izuku said, "So we can't just study but also need to train to be in great physical sha-OW!"

"Hey, watch where you're going!" Bubbles called out, glaring at the guy who had bumped into Izuku.

"Oh, I'm sorry. It was so hard not to hit that big head of yours," the guy said with a smirk and fake innocence. He had slick blonde hair, styled with a part to the right and bangs hanging over his right eye. The group immediately recognized him from the Sports Festival.

"Ugh, ah…" Izuku, rubbing his head where he'd been hit, looks behind, "…y-you're from Class 1B. Monoma, right?"

He only smirked. "I heard some of your classmates went up against the Hero Killer. Typical of Class 1-A to seek out the spotlight, even at the expense of other people's joy. Just like at the USJ incident." He leveled the group with a condescending look. Certain people glared at him.

He then glanced at Bubbles and Buttercup with a smirk. "Ah, I finally get to see two out of the three girls from the Sports Festival, who made a point of showing off their powers. Such is the spirit of Class 1-A, always thinking they're the best. I bet you think you're famous because you're good heroes, but no. It's because you cause a lot of trouble wherever you go. I wouldn't be surprised if your class has a trouble magnet." His words made the girls feel unusually guilty.

His eyes turned wild, and he smiled like a maniac. "Here's a thought: someday the rest of us will get caught in your mess and become unwitting victims too. WHAT SORT OF VILLAINS WILL CLASS 1-A BRING UPON U—"

Everyone stared in shock as Class 1-B's blonde menace collapsed to the floor after a karate chop to his neck.

"Not funny, Monoma!" Kendo, a girl with red hair, said, giving her classmate an annoyed look. "What happened to Iida was awful, but at least his brother is fine now." She then turned to the table with an apologetic smile. "I apologize for him. Understand that he has a hole where his heart should be."

'Seems like he's out,' Izuku thought, shocked by the turn of events.

"I was about to give that little prick a knuckle sandwich," Buttercup growled, her fist clenched and raised.

"Again, I am sorry for him. Also, I couldn't help overhearing, that you all are worried about what's going to happen on the final practical exam. I heard it's going to be combat against robots, similar to the entrance exams," she said, eliciting gasps from the table.

"More robots?" Bubbles asked.

"Well, that means more target practice," Buttercup said enthusiastically.

"Wait, how do you know about that?" Izuku asked, equally shocked by the information.

"Oh, a friend of mine a few grades up told me about the setup from when she did hers," Kendo chuckled nervously. "I know… cheating, huh?"

"No, I don't think so. Gathering information is probably part of the test, to assess our information-gathering and resourcefulness…" Izuku rambled on, leaving everyone sweating at his intense focus.

"Yeah, well…" Kendo looked a bit awkward but tried to walk away. "How can you be so clueless, Kendo? You just gave away our whole strategic advantage. We could have finally pulled ahead of these wannabe—" Monoma said before he was swiftly silenced by another karate chop to the head.

"The only idiot I see is you. Come on!" The group then witnessed Kendo dragging a limp Monoma away from their table.

Most people shared the same collective thought: 'That guy is weird,' as they returned to eating their food.

But the Powerpuff Girls couldn't shake a certain unease at the guy's statements. There was something overtly crazy about him, but his words left a lingering discomfort that made them wary.

(-)

-Homeroom-

"Hey everyone, may I have your attention?!" Blossom called out as she stood in front of the class. All eyes were now on her, standing beside a very enthusiastic Momo.

"Alright, everyone," Blossom continued, "as you all know, the exams are coming up, and some of you have asked Yaoyorozu and myself for extra tutoring." She gestured for Momo to take over.

Momo nodded eagerly. "Since these exams are important, the Class Representative and I will be hosting a group study session at my home during our preparations." She squealed with excitement. "I think it's going to be wonderful! We've got plenty of space in the main hall," Blossom and the other classmates blinked at the mention of the "main hall."

"I'm confident I can help anyone who might be struggling academically! Oh, and we could even have tea! Is there a type of tea you all prefer?" Momo asked, getting even more excited. "We usually drink Harrod's or Wedgwood, but I can have the butler get any kind you prefer!" She continued rambling about tea varieties.

'She's a stark contrast to Morbucks, huh?' Blossom dumbly thought, but left it at that.

"Alright! With their help, we'll definitely ace the exams and make it to the camping trip!" Kaminari exclaimed.

"Exactly!" Mina cheered.

Shoji interjected, "Just remember, we also have the practical portion of the exam to worry about. And both of you have a poor handle on your quirks."

"Please, since the exams involve robots, I can go all out with my quirk," Kaminari said, dismissing Shoji's concerns. Mina agreed with him.

Bakugou tch'd in frustration. "You two are idiots. It doesn't matter if it's robots or humans. You need to control your quirks."

"Hey, who are you calling an idiot—"

"YOU NEED TO CONTROL YOUR QUIRKS, IDIOTS!" Bakugou shouted, causing an uneasy silence to fall over the room.

'Why doesn't he control his anger instead?' Blossom glancing at Bakugou.

Bakugou then turned his gaze to Izuku and the girls, making the atmosphere tense. "Hey, Deku!" he barked. "Don't think you can hide behind those Powerpuff sissies of yours during the exam! You can copy me all you want, but in the end, you're just a fake," pointing a finger at him, "Be prepared; new rankings will be posted, and I will rise above you and prove that I'm the best." He shot a menacing glare at the Powerpuff Girls before storming out of the room.

"Eish, what's that guy's problem?" Jirou asked, her tone clearly annoyed.

"I'd guess he's just fired up. It might be stress from the upcoming exams," Kirishima said, trying to defend Bakugou.

"We're all stressed, that doesn't mean he can act like that," Blossom said, crossing her arms and looking a bit irritated by the defence.

Merely rolling her eyes, Buttercup turned her attention to the green-haired boy. "You alright? The guy's just blowing hot air, that's all," she said, trying to lighten the mood.

Izuku shook his head. "N-no, no, Kacchan is kind of right. I need to bring my A-game this time. I did copy some of his moves when racing with you, but I'll show him that I've improved," he said with a determined smile.

Buttercup rolled her eyes. "Uh, I wouldn't say boom boom baby is right," she shrugged, a bit annoyed but trying to stay upbeat. "Anyway, mind if we find some time to study together? I am already studying with Blossom, but she can get a little… intense at times, when it comes to studying. And since you've got some brains in that noggin of yours, you could help me out. Plus, it could be a chance for us to train like we did at the beach for the practical portion," she said, cracking her knuckles with a playful grin. "I say, win-win."

Izuku hesitated. "Oh, uh, well you see-"

"Deku and I will be studying together… with Iida, too," Uraraka said, bouncing over. "Since my position isn't so great, I already asked him, and Iida, to do a group study session," she finished with a bright smile aimed at the two.

"Y-yeah, ah, sorry, Buttercup… but if you want, you could come over to practice with us. Y-you're strong and would really help us," Izuku shyly offered.

Buttercup noticed a slight strain in Uraraka's expression at the mention but decided to let it go. "Nah, man. I guess this was already planned, and I think I'll just train with my sisters as it is," she shrugged it off, though she felt a bit bad inside.

Uraraka seemed pleased. "Oh well, it's okay. Maybe next time," she said, trying to sound regretful.

"Oh y-yeah… that's fine then," Izuku said, standing up and leaving with Uraraka walking beside him, smiling with joy.

Buttercup was left alone, deep in thought, when Bubbles walked over and leaned on her shoulder.

"You okay, Buttercup?" she asked, concern in her voice.

"Huh? Oh yeah, Bubbles. Just zoning out. Ugh, these exams are a pain," she groaned. "Anyway, let's go. I think tomorrow will be a long one with those two as our tutors," she said with a playful smirk as she stood up.

Bubbles smiled softly, just hoping her sister was okay.


-Yaoyorozu Estate-

"Are we sure that this is the place?" Buttercup asked, a bit surprised.

The next afternoon, the group of students stood outside of the massive iron fence that surrounded the Yaoyorozu residence. Some of the class, including Mina, Sero, Aoyama, Kaminari, Toru, Koda, Bubbles and Buttercup, showed up for the group study session. The fence to their residence stretched out for an entire block, honestly, if they didn't know this was Momo's home, they would have assumed this was some sort of government facility.

Kaminari swallowed as he stared in shock, "Holy cow, I knew her parents had money, but…" Kaminari rubbed his head sheepishly

"Damn, this girl is loaded!" Mina whistled out.

"It feels like I am under dressed before I even see her home," Jirou grunted out as she looked down to her basic shirt, shorts and leggings.

Bubbles leaned in to Buttercup's ear, "Do you think we're under dressed as well?" Bubbles was wearing a yellow t-shirt with a grey knee-length skirt, while Buttercup was wearing a white t-shirt under a pair of olive-green Overall shorts; both girls wore sneakers.

Buttercup rolled her eyes, "We're not here for a tea party, Bubs," saying that, she reached up and pushed the intercom-

"Hey everyone! I'm so happy you made it!"Momo's happy voice rang through the speaker. "Come on in! They will guide you to the hall!"

Jiro's eyes widened in amazement as the gate suddenly opened, looking over to everyone else. "They?"

Almost on cue, several butlers came into view, signaling the students to come inside. Sero forced out a chuckle to hide his embarrassment. "Okay, this is insane."

"Okaaay…maybe we are under dressed," Buttercup muttered under her breath.

(-)

As the students stepped through the grand iron gate and onto the marble pathway leading up to the mansion, they were greeted by the sheer opulence of the Yaoyorozu residence. Buttercup, Bubbles, and the others entered the foyer, where they were met with a stunning display of elegance.

The foyer was a vast, open space with high ceilings adorned with intricate moldings and delicate gold accents. A magnificent crystal chandelier hung from above, its multiple tiers glistening with a thousand points of light, casting a warm, inviting glow throughout the room. The marble floor, polished to a reflective shine, was covered with ornate rugs that added a splash of color and pattern to the otherwise pristine white and gold décor.

Large, elegant columns lined the room, their bases adorned with intricate carvings, adding a touch of classic sophistication. The walls were decorated with tasteful, framed art pieces and family portraits, contributing to the atmosphere of refined luxury. Plush, cream-colored sofas and armchairs were arranged in inviting clusters around the room, each piece of furniture meticulously designed for both comfort and style.

Mina's eyes widened as she took in the grandeur. "This place is huge! And it's just the foyer?!"

"It's like a palace. I can't believe we're in the same world as this place," Jirou added.

Sero, trying to shake off the nervousness, added, "Yeah, this foyer alone is probably bigger than my entire house. Definitely didn't expect this."

Kaminari, mouth agape, echoed the sentiment, "Wow, she's definitely loaded. This is like something out of a movie."

"Ah, the elegance of this place is truly unparalleled," Aoyama said with a satisfied smile. "I'm so glad I decided to dress appropriately. It seems my outfit is quite in harmony with this magnificent setting," he was wearing a smart navy-blue blazer over a white shirt and dark jeans. His look was finished with sleek loafers and a stylish watch.

Bubbles and Buttercup exchanged glances, their previous unease about their casual attire now fully realized. Buttercup whispered, "Yeah, maybe we should have dressed up a bit more."

As the students marveled at their surroundings, Momo Yaoyorozu gracefully descended the grand staircase that overlooked the foyer. She was dressed in a stylish yet understated outfit: a beautiful red blouse paired with tailored skirt. Her warm, welcoming smile contrasted with the formality of the setting.

"Hello everyone!" Momo greeted cheerfully. "I'm so glad you could make it. Please, follow me to the main hall where we'll have our study session."

The group was taken to the "main hall," a room that exuded both sophistication and comfort. At its center was a grand mahogany table with intricate carvings and a polished surface, surrounded by high-backed chairs upholstered in plush fabric. Tall windows with luxurious curtains let in soft natural light, while the walls featured gold-framed art and paneling, adding to the refined ambiance. A bookshelf filled with an impressive collection of books lined one side of the room, contributing a scholarly touch.

Blossom was busy at work, her telekinesis effortlessly lifting and arranging books, boards, and study materials with precision. She wore a simple pink and white t-shirt with rose prints, fitted jeans, and red sneakers, her hair styled into a neat bun, bow added in. She was absorbed in her notes, muttering to herself, when Momo's voice called out.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable. Blossom has prepared everything for us."

Blossom glanced up, initially embarrassed but quickly replaced by a warm welcome as she greeted her sisters and classmates. "Hi, guys. I'm glad you're here. I hope you find everything okay."

Momo approached Blossom and noted her readiness. "Blossom, it looks like we're all set to start," Momo then took a further look around and wondered, "Oh, where's Kirishima?"

Mina rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "Oh, Kirishima wanted to come, but Bakugou decided he could handle tutoring him better himself."

Kaminari nodded, "He said something about beating the lesson into Kirishima, more effectively than 'those two twin ponytails.'"

Blossom's face tightened slightly, but she maintained her composure. "I see."

Momo could still see that, her own disappointment was evident, but she quickly masked it with a smile. "Well, it seems we'll have to make do without him. I'll be back shortly with some refreshments for everyone. Please, make yourselves at home while Blossom hands out the study papers."

With that, Momo left the room, and Blossom began distributing the papers, her earlier discomfort masked by her professional demeanor. As Momo gracefully exited the main hall, Blossom took her place at the head of the grand mahogany table, her demeanor shifting to a more serious tone. She cleared her throat, catching the attention of the students who were busily shuffling through their study papers.

"Alright, everyone," Blossom began, her voice calm but authoritative. "Today's study session will be divided into segments based on the subjects you find most challenging. Momo and I will be here to help clarify any problems and provide guidance."

The students nodded in agreement, their attention focused on Blossom as she continued.

"We'll start with mathematics, then move on to English, and finish with hero laws and ethics. If you encounter any specific difficulties, please let me know so we can address them directly," Blossom explained, her tone professional.

Mina, always quick with a quip, couldn't resist. "Wow, Blossom. You're like a female Young Aizawa. Are you going to make us do extra homework if we don't behave?" she chuckled.

Kaminari snickered and added, "Yeah, and if we don't pass, will you give us a stern lecture about the importance of studying?"

The room erupted in laughter, with Sero chuckling along with his friends. Koda, Jirou and Aoyama remained silent, though they were uncomfortable with their classmates attempt at "Jokes." Bubbles glanced at Buttercup, who subtly shook her head. "Let them stew in their own trouble," Buttercup murmured to Bubbles, who nodded in understanding.

The laughter suddenly died down when the atmosphere in the room abruptly shifted. The temperature seemed to drop, and an eerie silence fell over the group. Kaminari, Mina, and Sero found themselves frozen at the shift in mood, their eyes widening in shock as they stared at Blossom.

Her hair, previously neatly tied in a bun, now floated around her head, moving as though caught in a strong wind. Her eyes glowed a menacing pink, and the study materials around her began to levitate, enveloped in a soft pink aura. The books and papers spun in the air, creating a mesmerizing yet unnerving spectacle.

"Quite funny…" Blossom's voice, though sweet, carried an underlying edge that sent shivers down everyone's spines. "…but I trust that we all understand the importance of respecting our classmates and the time we have for studying. Is that clear?" Her tone left no room for argument.

Everyone, save for Bubbles and Buttercup, rapidly nodded their agreement, their faces a mixture of fear and compliance. The trio, still wide-eyed, stammered in unison, "Yes, ma'am!"

Before the tension could escalate further, the door to the main hall opened, and Momo entered with a cart laden with an assortment of pastries and tea. She was blissfully unaware of the earlier shift in atmosphere. "I'm back, everyone!" Momo greeted with usual cheerful smile. "I've brought some treats to keep you refreshed. I hope I didn't take long and everything is going well?"

The students, now regaining their composure, quickly adjusted their expressions to ones of pleasant neutrality. The floating books were as they initially were, settled back onto the table, and Blossom's hair was back to being neatly retied into her bun, her bow perfectly in place.

Blossom smiled warmly at Momo. "Everything is fine, Momo. We were just going over the lesson plan." She looked over her classmates. "Right guys?" they all nodded in agreement.

Momo's smile widened. "Great! I'm glad to hear that. If you need anything else, just let me know."

With that, Momo set up the cart with a variety of delectable pastries, including delicate éclairs, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, rich chocolate éclairs, and colorful macaroons. She poured the tea into elegant cups, and the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the room.

As Momo took her place beside Blossom to assist with the teaching, Jirou leaned toward Bubbles and Buttercup, her tone relaxed but laced with admiration. "Your sister is pretty scary when she needs to be. I didn't expect that." Bubbles and Buttercup exchanged glances, their expressions revealing a shared understanding. They turned back to Jirou and replied in unison, "You have no idea…"

Jirou's eyes widened slightly, but she didn't press further, opting to return to her notes. The study session continued smoothly, with the students, now fully focused, diving into their work with renewed dedication. Momo and Blossom worked seamlessly together, guiding the group through their difficulties and ensuring that everyone was making progress.

The atmosphere, once tense, had shifted back to a productive and collaborative environment, with the students working diligently and making the most of the opportunity to study in such a refined setting.

(-)

As the study session wrapped up, the group of students began to gather their things and prepare to leave. Jirou was the first to approach Momo and Blossom, her expression one of genuine appreciation.

"Thanks for everything, Yaoyorozu and Blossom," Jirou said with a warm smile. "This was really helpful. I didn't expect to learn so much in one session."

Momo returned the smile, nodded in agreement. "You're welcome, Jirou. I'm glad you found it helpful."

Jirou gave a final nod and headed towards the door, followed by the rest of the students, who exchanged their own thank-yous and goodbyes. As the last of them departed, the atmosphere in the main hall began to settle into a more relaxed state.

With the students gone, Momo turned to begin tidying up, but Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup were already at work. They started clearing the table and putting away the study materials, their movements efficient and coordinated.

Momo stared at them in surprise, "Oh, uh, what are you guys doing?"

"Tidying up," they said in unison.

Momo was a bit bewildered, "W-well that's nice and all, but…"

"Yaoyorozu, you don't need to worry about this," Blossom said, her tone firm yet gentle. "We're happy to help. It was a pleasure having everyone here."

Momo tried to protest. "Oh, you really don't have to. I'm sure you've had a long day already."

Bubbles shook her head with a reassuring smile. "It's the least we can do after such a generous offer. We're grateful for the hospitality."

Buttercup added, "It's only fair that we pitch in, we did eat your sweet treats."

Momo looked at the three girls, overwhelmed by their kindness. "I don't know what to say. This is... so unexpected."

Bubbles glanced at Momo with a warm, knowing smile. "That's what friends are for."

Momo's eyes widened slightly, and a blush crept onto her cheeks. The warmth of Bubbles' words touched her deeply. She looked at each of them, her heart swelling with newfound gratitude. "Friends... I'd like that. Please, do call me Momo from now on."

The three girls exchanged glances and nodded. "Sure thing, Momo," they said in unison.

With the cleaning and organizing nearly finished, Momo took a moment to reflect. She felt a sense of contentment she hadn't experienced in a long time. The warmth of friendship was new and comforting, and it made the task of tidying up feel lighter. As they finished up, Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup gathered their things and prepared to leave. Momo watched them with a smile, feeling a genuine connection with her classmates.

"Thank you again, everyone," Momo said. "I really appreciate all of your help."

"You're welcome, Momo," Blossom replied with a smile. "It was great, see you for the next session."

The three girls made their way to the door, exchanging final goodbyes and waves with Momo. As the door closed behind them, Momo stood alone in the now-quiet main hall, feeling a profound sense of happiness. She took a deep breath, looking around at the now-neat room, and embraced the comforting thought that she had made real friends.


-U.A.-

The week had flown by, and the day of the Finals had arrived. For U.A. High's Heroics Course, the stress was palpable. The written exam was behind them, and now the focus shifted to the practical test. The air was thick with nerves as students busily prepared themselves for the day ahead.

In the classroom, the atmosphere was tense. The steady scratching of pencils was the only sound as students worked through their final minutes of the written exam.

"That's time, pencils down," Aizawa announced, his voice carrying an unmistakable note of irritation. "If you're still writing, stop now or you'll be disqualified."

Students quickly set aside their pencils and started passing their tests forward. Aizawa, collected the papers with a brisk efficiency that spoke of his impatience.

"You have one hour to get ready for your Practical Exam," Aizawa said, his tone barely masking his annoyance. "Get into your costumes and make sure you're at the designated area on time. If you're late, you'll barred from the exam."

"Yes, sir!" Class 1-A responded in unison.

With a curt nod, Aizawa left the room, his usual stoicism now edged with clear grumpiness.

"Hey, did anyone notice Aizawa seemed even grumpier than usual today? Ribbit." Tsu asked,a finger on her cheek, looking puzzled at what had happened.

"Yeah, he was definitely in a grumpier mood than normal," Buttercup agreed, but doesn't pay too much attention it. "But that's just how the guy is most times. I wouldn't worry about it."

"True, he's always shown to be very passive," Tokoyami stated, shrugging.

"Well, I'm just glad the written part is over!" Mina cried out in relief and joy. Then turned her head to Yaoyorozu and Blossom, "I think I did okay! Thank you guys so much!"

"Yeah, I didn't leave anything blank, at least!" Kaminari gave Momo and Blossom a thumbs up and a smile, clearly relieved.

"Great to hear that," Blossom said, happy for her classmates.

"I'm also glad to hear that!" Momo beamed, her excitement radiating. "It was a lot to cover, but you all did great."

"Still, that was quite a lot to take in at once," Sero said, rubbing the back of his head, looking tired.

"Yeah, I think I might've messed up on question twelve," Shoji admitted, thinking back on his answer.

"The short answer one?" Jirou asked, recalling her own response. "That one was based on your perspective, so there might not be a wrong answer."

"I'm sure the teachers have specific expectations," Toru pointed out. "They probably want a certain type of answer."

"Exactly," Bubbles agreed. "I felt alright on most of my short answers, but I struggled with some of the laws and regulations."

"Indeed, Mademoiselle," Aoyama said, looking exhausted. "There were so many specific examples… I'm not sure if I referenced the correct regulations."

"Guys, you're making me nervous now!" Kaminari fretted, second-guessing his answers.

"We should start getting ready," Tsuyu reminded everyone, glancing at the clock.

"Let's give it our best shot!" Mina encouraged, raising her fist in the air. "We can do this!"

"Yeah!" most of the class cheered back as they began to file out.

As the students gathered their things, Kirishima approached Blossom, looking apologetic. "Hey, Blossom, I'm really sorry I haven't been to the study sessions."

Blossom's smile faltered slightly, but she quickly masked it. "It's fine, Kirishima. You seem to have managed just well without."

Kirishima didn't buy it, his concern was evident. "Are you sure? You don't seem okay."

Before Blossom could respond, Bakugou's voice cut in sharply from the hallway. "SHITTY HAIR, QUIT WASTING TIME AND GET YOUR ASS MOVING!"

Kirishima gave a small, soft sigh and waved to Blossom. "See you out there," he said quietly.

Blossom nodded at Kirishima, giving a small, understanding smile. "See you."

When he left, Bubbles and Buttercup approached Blossom as the rest of the class started moving out.

"Hey, Blossom," Bubbles began, concern in her voice. "You okay?"

"I'm fine," Blossom said, trying to sound reassuring. "Just reeling a bit from the exam, that's all."

Buttercup narrowed her eyes slightly, sensing Blossom wasn't entirely truthful, but she didn't press the issue. "Alright, Red. Come on, slowpokes, those robots won't destroy themselves," she said with a grin, starting to head out. Bubbles and Blossom exchanged a glance, knowing Buttercup was right, but also sensing that Blossom needed space. The three girls headed out together, with Buttercup leading the way and the others following behind.

(-)

-Practical Exam Site-

"Let's begin your practical exam." Aizawa spoke in his typical flat tone.

With their homeroom teacher were eight other teachers: Hound Dog, Midnight, Ectoplasm, Power Loader, Snipe, Thirteen, Cementoss and Present Mic.

Opposite of the teachers, Class 1-A stood in their costumes, ready to go. Bubbles couldn't help but notice Momo's costume change.

Momo's new costume was a striking blend of functionality and design. It featured a top that provided both support and versatility, a form-fitting, sports-bra-like design that covered her breasts and neck, secured by a zipper. This zipper allowed for adjustable skin exposure, should she need to quickly access more of her body's surface area for creating larger items. The back of the top was left mostly exposed, maximizing the surface area for her creation capabilities.

Her new shorts extended to just above mid-thigh, offering more coverage than her previous leotard. They were integrated with a utility belt for carrying essential supplies into the field. This design left her stomach fully visible from just below the top to her hips, providing ample surface for crafting larger constructs.

"Amazing costume, Momo, I like this one better," Bubbles whispered to her friend with a thumbs up.

Momo smiled, "Thanks you, Bubbles. I also like this one better too. Fat Gum gave me the idea," she whispered back, feeling appreciative of her old mentor advice. Then an interrupting cough was given off, and everyone focused forward.

"Knowing you guys, you probably asked around and now think you have a vague idea of how this is going to go," Aizawa grumbled, his irritation barely concealed.

"We're gonna fight some big old robots!" Kaminari cheered, throwing his head back. "Oh yeah!"

"Fireworks! S'mores! Here we come!" Mina listed off one thing after another that she wanted to do at the training camp, all while pumping her fist in excitement.

"Not quite!" Principal Nezu said, as walked passed the other teachers, his smile still present on his face, even when Aizawa seemed to be casting a subtle glare at him. "Various circumstances have demanded a revision to the exam format!"

Mina and Kaminari went stock still in shock at hearing that the practical had been changed completely.

"What?!" the class gasped out in unison.

"A revision…?" Blossom blinked at the announcement.

"Yes," Nezu nodded. "From now on, we'll focus on battles against flesh-and-blood opponents. Given recent developments, such as the Hero Killer incident, it's crucial that our training simulates real-world scenarios as closely as possible." He clenched his paws, and for a moment, an almost oppressive aura seemed to emanate from the chimera-like principal.

"To that end, the upcoming test will have a new focus," Nezu continued, his tone shifting to a more serious note. "We'll be evaluating not only your combat skills but also your teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and rescue techniques." The students exchanged puzzled glances.

"You will be pairing up to face off against one of the teachers present here today!" Nezu added, the intensity of his previous demeanor melting away as he resumed his light-hearted tone. He chuckled as if the announcement was nothing out of the ordinary. But some, had a sinking feeling that this wasn't going to be funny

"Against…a teacher…?" Ochako looked uncertain of their chances, looking over the assembled Pro Heroes.

"Your pairings and assigned teacher have already been decided." Aizawa grumbled at his statement.

Nezu continued, "Your battle moves, your grades, your friendships or lack thereof, all of these factors and more were considered, so without further ado…Bakugou and Kayama Blossom, you two will be against me," he calmly stated.

"What?!" Blossom exclaimed in shock.

"NO WAY IN HELL!" Bakugou loudly protested.

Nezu just grinned at the two, before Aizawa quickly took over. "Midoriya, you're with Kayama Buttercup." Aizawa stated and watched the two teens turn to look at each other. Both seemed to be delighted at the prospects of fighting alongside one another, until Aizawa continued. "And your opponent…"

"WILL BE ME!" All Might landed off to the side of the other teachers with his signature grin. Buttercup and Izuku looked up at the man with wide eyes. "You'll have to work together to win, so come at me you two!"

"Each of you will be facing your teachers in zones picked out specifically to challenge you even further. They will each vary according to what they want to test you on, though your ultimate goal is to either bring down your opponent by attaching a pair of capture cuffs onto them, or one of you is able to reach the escape gate. If you fail to do that within the time limit, you will fail."

"Is it really okay to run away?" Mina questioned with her hand raised.

"Of course." Nezu nodded to the pink girl with a smile. "In fact, I might go as far as to say it would be thecorrectoption in many cases."

"This isnothinglike your previous battle training!" Present Mic declared crossing his arms in front of him. "Because this time your opponent is on a whole other level!"

"Better, really? Doesn't like it from where I see," Kyoka mentioned with a deadpan stare.

"I thought you were just the announcer," Bubbles said offhandedly.

"Watch your mouth, girls! Show some respect!" Present Mic shot back with a grumble.

"This test is meant to simulate true situations you would find yourselves in real life, whether they are battle or other forms, so please, think of us as actual Villains!" Thirteen nodded to the students.

"If you do engage in battle," Snipe adjusted his cowboy hat. "And manage to fight and win, that's fine."

"Grrr…But keep in mind, we will not be showing much…mercy," Hound Dog growled, glaring at his two opponents with a predatory smile through his muzzle.

"However, if you find yourself overwhelmed by your opponent's power, then fleeing and calling for help might be your wisest option," Aizawa subtly glanced at four specific students. A reminder of their decision to go after the Hero Killer. But it caused Blossom to stiffen at the reminder.

"It's either fight to win, or run to win." Izuku simplified the point of the test.

"In a way, yes! Your decision-making is being tested!" All Might declared to the class. "But, given the rules and circumstances, you might think that running is your only option." He gestured dramatically, his smile unwavering. "That's why we're allowing each teacher to implement their own handicap to better accommodate you all! Each of us will have a unique challenge designed to level the playing field and test your skills!"

He adjusted his stance, clearly excited. "For instance, I'll be adding extra weight to my movements to slow myself down. It's a method that forces me to think strategically and allows you to gain the upper hand!" He strapped on a couple of weights, showcasing his determination. "Okay, let's see how this goes... I didn't realize they'd be quite this heavy!"

The students exchanged glances, feeling the stakes rise as they prepared to face their teachers in a whole new way.

"Also, the exam will be done simultaneously and will be recorded. Now, each student pair, and their assigned teacher, will board one of these buses." Nezu pointed to the ten buses in the parking lot in front of the meeting site. "And head to your designated areas. When the alarm sounds, that will be the signal to start the tests!"

The students were quick to follow their assigned teachers onto the appropriate bus. The vehicles pulled out of the parking lot one by one and headed to various training sites throughout the campus. Some of the students chatted with their partners, hoping to use the travel time to get a plan together to pass the test.

Blossom pulled her sisters back, "Guys, I wish you all the best," she leveled them a serious look, "Let's do our best, but remember…let's not get overboard," she didn't say it accusingly, but in a reminder sort of way.

"Thanks, Blossom. I wish you guys, all the best, too," Bubbles replied.

Buttercup folded her arms, "Don't worry, red, we got this, pack," she smiled confidently. And they broke off and left to their assigned buses.

On one of the buses, carried the students, Momo and Todoroki and their opponent Aizawa. While both students were sitting at the back, thinking about how their practicals will go, Aizawa was deep in thought about a previous meeting he had.

*Flashback*

"So, we agree that robots might not be the optimal way of testing the little listeners, huh?" Present Mic inquired, his voice lively amidst the gathered teachers of the hero course. They were convening to discuss practical exams for their students, especially given the recent surge in villain activity.

"Grrr, it is so," Hound Dog growled, nodding in agreement. The other teachers followed suit, a chorus of reluctant consensus.

"Very well, then we must decide on the matchups between teachers and students," Nezu chimed in cheerfully.

Aizawa shifted in his seat, pulling out a neatly organized paper. "I've taken the liberty of outlining the final matchups I believe to be the most rational," he said, glancing at All Might. "Coincidentally, you will be facing Midoriya and Bakugou." All Might flinched at the mention of their names. "Their rivalry has escalated to a concerning level; you need to help them put aside their differences and focus."

Before All Might could respond, Nezu interjected. "I would like to disagree."

All eyes turned to the principal, who wore a small, enigmatic smile. "Why do you say that?" Aizawa asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Don't misunderstand, Shoto. I don't intend to step on anyone's toes, but I believe we need to reconsider the student teams and matchups. I can elaborate later, in private-"

"You may say whatever you wish. I'd like to hear your reasoning," Aizawa replied, his tone cool but edged with annoyance.

"I insist we discuss this later." Nezu maintained his smile, though there was an underlying challenge in his voice, daring Aizawa to push back.

After a prolonged moment of silence, Aizawa relented with a grunt. "Yes…sir."

(-)

Later, Aizawa found himself alone with Nezu, the atmosphere charged with unspoken tension.

"Why did you challenge my ruling?" Aizawa demanded, calm but firm.

Nezu took a leisurely sip of tea before responding. "I do not agree with the matchups I saw."

Aizawa's brow furrowed. "And why is that?"

"I've been closely monitoring Bakugou since the training exercise explosion. He has some concerning issues we must address."

Aizawa frowned, trying to dismiss the thought. "Yes, he made a reckless mistake and faced the consequences. But what does that have to do with this?"

Nezu continued, his tone steady. "You mentioned Bakugou and Midoriya's rivalry. While I would have agreed with you before, it's not exactly rivalry at play here; clearly not on both sides. The matchups I've devised will better challenge Bakugou to my satisfaction."

Aizawa grunted, unconvinced. "Would you care to explain your affiliation with those students?" the question may seem vague, but it was clear what the man meant and Nezu knew too.

Still, Nezu feigned ignorance, taking another sip of tea. "My reasons are simple. I believe the pairings were not adequately assessed. I merely sought to enlighten the situation." He placed the cup down. "And as the principal, it is my responsibility to ensure that all my students are properly assessed." His enigmatic smile present. "I hope you come to understand soon. That's all I will say on the matter. Any further questions?"

Aizawa knew that pressing further would yield the same elusive answers. "No, sir, no other concerns," he replied shortly, leaving the room with a lingering suspicion.

*End Flashback*

Back on the bus, Aizawa's brow furrowed as he contemplated Nezu's words. Why had the principal been so insistent on changing the matchups? There was more to the situation than met the eye, and Aizawa couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss.


Author's Notes:

Hello again, everyone!

First, I want to thank you all for the wonderful reviews and for reading, favoriting, and following this fanfiction of mine. It truly means a lot!

I'd like to give a shout-out to the slight design alterations I made to Midnight's costume in Chapter #23. -Cries softly- No one seemed to notice or comment on it, but hey, I'll celebrate my own creativity!

Also, Bubbles has that energy projection ability from the Powerpuff Girls reboot, but with some added flair and versatility. I know some of you mentioned I didn't give her much to do, and you're right! I was saving her abilities for some dramatic moments.

Now, a little shipping drama is brewing! Uraraka is making moves, and Bakugou isn't too pleased about her hanging out with what he calls a "Powerpuff sissy." Trust me, the next chapter won't be so tame!

I have a soft spot for Momo, and I decided to give her three awesome friends. She also senses something off about Kirishima, especially since they worked together during their internship.

I wanted the study session to be fun, but note to self: never annoy Blossom when she's in teacher mode—yikes!

Lastly, I love describing foods (especially baked goods) and clothes. It's just too fun to resist!

Aizawa is finally getting curious about some of his students. Will he uncover their secrets, or will he underestimate them and let it all slide? Who knows, but stay tuned!

That's all for now! As always, please read and review. I hope you enjoy this chapter, and I'll see you all later! Bye!