Yaoyorozu's and Tokoyami's fight soon began while Ciana went to check on Katsuki. She checked the waiting rooms, all but one being empty. Upon knocking, she opened it to find her... friend? Associate? Classmate, she'll stick with that title. The second she entered, the otherworlder was met with a verbal blast. "I can't count on that spiky haired idiot to do one job! What the hell don't you get about privacy!?"

She actually fully expected the possible anger as she just sheepishly smiled and sweat dropped. "Relax, I didn't come to nag you… and you just told him to send me a message, you never told him to stop me…" she giggled, now stepping in the room with a smile.

He scrunched up his face as if to retort but scoffed when he had nothing, leaning back on his chair with his legs up on the table. "What do you want now?"

At least he isn't completely telling her off like the class prince… now approaching him. "Not much, I just wanted to thank you for helping me get this far Bakugo." She smiled more with her hands behind her back. "I know we're competing and all but I wanted you to know I'm thankful because I learned to finally defend myself better." She happily expresses.

"Also I'm well aware you still want to take me down and I haven't forgotten about my word about giving it my all against you if we fight, but I also want to say you were very awesome out there yourself! I mean you still come off pretty destructive but still really incredible how you showed off!" Now praising him in awe, he was scary during some of the matches but thought what he displayed so far was pretty cool.

Staring at her for a moment, his scowl remained unchanged. "...I didn't do shit," The admittance from the egotistical blonde stumped Ciana for a moment. "You're the one that kept coming back to be beaten into the ground day after day, you never once beat me, yet you keep fighting regardless of how many extras get in your way, even that bastard with the stupid hair declaring war," Katsuki glared back at her green eyes. "I beat what I know into that thick head of yours, whether or not you apply them is not my problem,"

Raising his hands behind his head, he sighed. "Now get lost, I don't need some pep talk like Deku to win,"

She pretty much fully expected him to say something blunt, but it almost sounded like he was complimenting her his own way… which she will take as she still smiled. "That may be true but I still find you to be an admirable teacher. I hope maybe we can train together again sometime if you ever still feel like it." She responds, she doesn't expect any less from him.

"By the way… there's something I really wanted to ask you for quite some time… it's kinda personal but if you trust me enough I promise I won't say a word to anyone, and maybe in exchange you can ask me something personal about myself too if you want before I take off. Is that alright if I ask…?" She was a little nervous about how he would respond…

"Whatever makes you go away faster, hurry up," He groaned, turning his head to look at her, easily past his limit with her presence.

Ciana is at least glad to have asked him before she laid it out flat, still keeping her smile but also a curious gaze toward him. "I just wanted to know… why do you hate Izuku so much?" She now suddenly asks… tilting her head in wonder of that. "I mean… I heard you both used to be friends when you were young, but now you suddenly have it out for him… did he do something to make you so angry at him from the past?"

If Todoroki's aura felt cold as ice, then Katsuki's dwarfed the sun. He put his legs down, holding his arms across the table as he stared straight ahead. Fury, resentment, and something else but Ciana wasn't able to tell under his anger. "I'll say this once, I don't care if you're Deku's best friend, his girlfriend, whatever the hell you two are," His left eye was visible between his bangs, a hatred like no other burned into his pupil. "But drop it, Finley."

Ciana was immediately taken back by his fury, quickly waving her hands in a panic. "I-I'm so sorry! I-I guess that was too personal!" She now began to look sad, looking away. "I-I wasn't asking for his sake… but I was just concerned about you… back when you wanted to take Izuku down so badly during the battle test… rather than him I was worrying about but you the most."

Her gaze now looked serious but concerned at the same time. "I mean… back then I was really worried you lost sight of yourself who you wanted to be… when we first met, I could tell how much you wanted to put me in my place. But despite how you felt, you never used your quirk on me…" Her gaze looked down as she fiddled with her hands a bit. "I'm not saying you were weak, in fact I always thought of you to be really strong. Not because of your quirk or muscles but your pride and determination."

She offered her smile again despite his fury. "I'm sorry if I ever made you think I viewed you anything low especially whenever I offered to boost you back up… but I only worried because… I think of you as my friend too even if you don't and still hate my own guts…" Ciana shyly admits with a rub to her neck. "No matter what, I think you're incredible Bakugo. Especially when you encouraged me not to shake up which helped me along the way…"

Removing his sharp gaze from her, Katsuki ran his hands through his hair before replying. "...alright, answer me this, then get lost already before I get a headache," His temper quelled a little. "What the hell is Deku to you? You've been stuck to that nerd since day one, what exactly are you looking for?" For the life of him, he didn't understand why she kept running after him.

Ciana fully expected him to yell and threaten for her to leave… but was pretty surprised about his question, well she did promise she would answer any question he asked too. Now smiling again. "I view Izuku as a very close friend ever since I first arrived here." She answers so far, arms back around her back. "Like I told you a while back, when I first came to this world… I was being chased by thugs and when I ran into him he saved me along the way…" Ciana smiled at the fond memory of that.

"I don't hang around him just because I'm grateful, but because he was really kind and there for me when I was lost and alone… he helped me restore my faith in justice…" she looks back to him, now answering one of his questions she goes to the next.

"The reason why I'm here… is because I want to live up to my mother." She basically answered that question a lot lately but it wasn't tiring to share. "My mom died when she… took a shot for someone during a bank robbery… she was an amazing person I idolized so much because she was strong and didn't let anything scare her away." Ciana smiled sadly but fondly thinking of her mother again.

"When I was little, I used to get picked on a lot and I just cried, ran and hid… but whenever my mom saw me cry… she always encouraged me to stand up for myself no matter how strong or scary the people I confronted were, since then… I learned to stand up and face my battles especially for what I believe in, I always took my mom's words to heart… This hair clip I even wear used to belong to her when she was around my age because it was a trademark to her name." Now fondly pointing to her hair clip. "She was called Chrysalis which means a hard shell that covered the caterpillar before it bloomed into a butterfly, which I know sounds cheesy but it more meant she is really tough and beautiful inside." She giggled just mentioning her name, she hasn't even told Izuku that yet.

Despite his irritated look, Katsuki listened, processing what she had to say. The first part was partially a lie, the way they acted around one another was beyond being 'close friends' but he digressed. She may not have grown up admiring the heroes of this world, hell, he bet they had no one like that in her world. And yet she believed her mother to be one for what she did. Letting out a long breath, he pinched the bridge of his nose. "Now that crap you spew out all the time makes sense... so, no matter how shitty things get, you're going to fight, that about right?"

She nodded with a determined smile, looking proud and confident of what she wanted to stand up and believe in. "Exactly, I want to be a hero that stands up for people and encourages others not to shake up no matter what situation they're in!"

Though now her smile turned a little sad. "Back when my mom got killed… no one else would step in to help as they just expected the authorities to handle everything… since then I lost my faith in the world for a while… until I came here and met all of you who helped me restore what I believed in."

"Tch, then those people weren't worth it," He scoffed. "But," Katsuki looked down at his clenched fists. "Heroes always win no matter what, so, win no matter what," It was more a warning than a compliment but the sentiment was there. "Now get lost, this whole talk's completely messed up my plan!"

Even if it was a warning, she even took his own words to heart as she still smiled and nodded towards him. "I promise I won't back down no matter what!" She responds before turning to the door. "Thanks again Katsuki, and I promise I won't mention anything about what I asked you, not even to Izuku." She looked back at him and smiled one more time before now taking off to leave him alone like he wanted.

[Transition]

Ciana arrived back to her class only to find half of them basically asleep. Kirishima and Tetsutetsu were fighting... with no real end in sight. "Okay, this has got to be the longest fight in the history of the sports festival," Sero yawned. "I swear, these guys are too similar."

As soon as she arrived back, she was surprised to see her friends looked half asleep… which wasn't like them since they were eager to watch their friends fight. "Hey what's going on? Did the fight not end yet?" She asked a bit confusingly as she now looked forward to seeing Kirishima was still facing off with the silver guy…

"Nope, it's been pretty neck and neck so far," Izuku jotted down as he closed his book with a sigh. "Not to discredit their determination but there's really not much I can analyse from this so I was thinking of following Iida's example and offering some support to Uraraka,"

Eyeing the two guys in the ring from a distance, it really stunned her how long they can go out like this… it's clear neither of them wanted to lose. "Wow… do they ever even get tired? This is pretty shocking but in a way admirable… now I know I should definitely watch out for both of them cuz they won't look easy to take down…" she sweat dropped but also giggled amusingly.

"I actually was hoping to wish them luck as well now that you mention it, I'll go with you if you plan to head that way now?" Her eyes are now back on Izuku with her smile still intact.

"Sure, having all of us reassure her will probably help," Izuku stood up, and once out of sight, their hands instinctively joined on their way to Uraraka. "So, did everything go well with Kacchan? That's... not a sentence I've ever expected to say," He coughed.

A little surprised by his question, but chuckled at the way Izuku asked her. "Everything was fine, he was blunt as usual… but I just wanted to thank him for helping me and to wish him luck, nothing really much to say." She at least kept her word to Bakugo, not to mention their personal talk.

Nodding, the two walked in a comfortable silence to the waiting room Uraraka was in, hearing the muffled voices inside. Opening the door, Iida was already speaking with the brunette who looked a little stressed. "Hey, Uraraka."

"Midoriya? Ciana? Why aren't you out there watching the matches?" She asked, having not been around for a few rounds herself.

"Well, most of them ended how I expected them to, and it looks like Kirishima's fight is gonna drag out a little longer," He smiled a bit.

"I'm next... so this is it, my fight," She squeezed her wrists a little.

"It'll be okay," Iida reassured her, looking to his friends for support. "I don't think Bakugo would use the full power of his explosions on a girl, right?"

"Yeah, he would," Both Ciana and Izuku replied at once, freaking Uraraka out a little.

"And besides, everyone is trying to get the top spot in these games, even if she wasn't fighting Kacchan, I don't think anyone would hold back." There was no way around it, Uraraka was to face the guy who had a powerful quirk and tenacity to boot.

Ciana tried to offer Uraraka an encouraging smile. "I can fully understand the scary thought of fighting a rabid animal." She comments jokingly with a giggle.

"But Uraraka, you're just as capable to face him off rather than me, I see how strong and smart you are the way you use your powers, win or lose I have so much faith in you that you'll be amazing!" She praises her friend with her fists raised to try and help her be more confident.

"You've helped me a bunch so I want to return the favour," Holding up his notebook, Izuku held it out for her, firm in his seriousness. "In here, I have an idea on how your quirk can beat Kacchan, it's not much, even after mulling it over for a while, but it should help."

"Hey, well alright this is perfect!" Iida was in agreement, swinging his hands toward their friend again.

"Thank you so much for doing that," She was grateful, to Izuku for his plan, for Iida's comforting words, and Ciana's genuine encouragement. It meant so much to her to have become friends with all of them. "But no, sorry,"

"What?" The trio were stumped by her reply as Uraraka turned back to the table.

Ciana was happy Izuku worked out a strategy for Uraraka to use which had her smile at him before looking back to her gravity friend with a confident smile.

Though she was very stunned to turn down the offer, especially since she is so nervous about facing Bakugo. "Huh? Why not Uraraka?" She now asked in wonder. "If you're worried about how to get the upper hand then Izuku's notes would really help you figure that out."

"I know, and you're wonderful, Midoriya, I keep seeing that over and over again. During the cavalry battle, I told you it was good to team up with friends, but the more I think about it, the more I feel I was relying on you to get by," She admitted, pushing up to her feet again, her bubbly expression replaced with a dead serious face. "When Iida said he wanted to beat you, and Ciana splintered off to compete on her own terms, I felt embarrassed for myself," Her smile was briefly self-inflicting. She strolled past them, marching toward her uncertain battle. "So it's fine, really."

"Everyone's facing their future and giving it their best, that means we're all rivals, despite our friendships," Turning back to look them in the eye, she was shaking with fear, even her smile and thumbs up were trembling. "So, I'll see you in the finals,"

Ciana was taken back by her friend's confidence and determined to take matters in her own hands, despite not liking the idea of being rivals… Ciana found her decision very admirable and understandable.

Either way, Cianas smile returned toward her friend, especially that even when she's nervous she's standing up for herself. "No matter what Urakura, I already know and see you'll be an amazing hero! Especially how much you inspired me to be strong!"

She ends up praising her friend, Urakura being one of her top friends she's admired so much in UA she looks up to.

"I'm really glad..." Uraraka opened the door, returning Ciana's kindness. "...that we got to be friends, Finley, I mean it,"

Ciana felt really happy hearing her friend's words… which was enough to touch her heart. All this time Ciana worried she was interfering in Urakuras life… even if she was sad they probably would have ended a couple with Izuku, Ciana never had any resentment towards her and admired her actions so much…

Her smile turned more warm as she watched her step out, feeling the same way about meeting and becoming friends. "I am too… I wish you the best of luck." She replied even if she couldn't hear her anymore.

[Transition]

As the trio, now putting their faith in Uraraka, returned in time to see the end result of Kirishima's battle. Though, as expected, the outcome was a tie, so while that was left until after the final match, said finale was soon displayed on the big screen. *~While we wait for them to recover, we'll move on to the next battle!~* Mic declared.

"Do your best, you got this!" Izuku prayed, watching their friend march onto the battleground to face down Katsuki, the boy's face twisted into an irritated scowl.

~The eighth and final battle of the first round matches! He was kinda a hot shot in middle school, and just look at that determined face! From the hero course, Katsuki Bakugoooo!~ The audience roared. ~Versus, who I'm personally rooting for, also from the hero course, Ochaco Urarakaaaa!~

The flames extinguished, and both combatants were ready. With shadows darkening his face, Katsuki spoke up. "You're the chick that screws around with gravity, pink cheeks,"

"'Pink Cheeks'!?" Uraraka looked ticked now, clenching her fists.

"Well, if you're gonna give up, do it now, because I'm not going to hold anything back," This was her only warning.

In the stands, Iida swung his arms up. "Midoriya, I'm curious as to what your plan was for her to contend with Bakugo?"

"Oh, honestly, it really wasn't much of a plan, Kacchan's so strong. When it comes to close combat, he almost never has any openings, and the more he moves the more he sweats which just makes his quirk that much stronger. He's gotten really good at using his explosions to move around in the air," Clenching his notebook, Izuku could envision the plan in his head. "But if Uraraka can touch him, she can use her quirk to make him float, she can send him out of bounds, if she wants to hold the advantage, she needs to get in close,"

Ciana eyed her gravity friend from where she is while still listening to both her friends, nodding at what Izuku said. "I thought the same thing… all she has to do is touch him, but from how I sparred off with Bakugo before he won't make it easy…"

Ciana could tell how smart and aware Bakugo was whenever he faced off against anyone, it wouldn't be easy but Urakura is smart and swift herself especially the way she swooped in to save Izuku.

~Let the eighth match, Begin!~ And the battle was on with Uraraka falling into a low sprint with her hands wide.

"Wow, look at her go, that's a good start and all she needs to do is touch him one time!" But his optimism couldn't guarantee results.

"But it won't be easy, Bakugo isn't going to let her get too close to him," Iida reminded him knowingly.

Izuku shared the same thought, "Which is why he won't dodge, instead, he'll focus all his energy in attacking."

"And now you die," Katsuki huffed, raising his right hand back. Once she was within a few feet, he swung his hand wide, blasting her directly while whipping up debris in the process. The move caused 1A to wince from how little he was holding back. "You should've dropped out of the match," He warned as something shot through the smoke. "There's no way you can beat me!" Swinging down he released another blast but was stunned to find only her jacket beneath his palm.

~Woah! She threw her jacket as a decoy, what incredible quick thinking!~ Present Mic praised as Uraraka closed in behind Katsuki, she had her opening-

But his right arm swung back, unleashing a fiery blast that tore more strips off the concrete, flinging Uraraka away, she caught herself, rushing forward to advance yet again. Katsuki swept the smoke from his view, bringing his left hand across the ground. "Too slow!" The tips of his fingers turned the ground molten orange and yellow, blasting the ground and Uraraka away. Everyone gulped, unable to look away.

"I got yoooou!" She swung in from behind again, using the smoke as cover only another explosion consumed her.

Again, and again, and again. Uraraka's attempts to close the gap were met with blast after blast at point blank range, tearing up the ground and battering her body. But not once did she stop getting up, no, she charged Katsuki with the same relentless force that he applied.

"I can't watch," Jiro bit her lip, hiding her eyes.

"I always knew it, Bakugo is a sadist," Mineta shivered.

But Izuku held his gaze firm to the battle, he felt his stomach twist for his friend, but he knew she knew this would always happen, there was no other way this battle would go. If anyone could compete with Katsuki's determination, it was the brunette scraped and beaten with every oncoming blast.

Urakura really reminded Ciana of herself and her mom the way she was giving it her all, it was enough not only to wow her but become very impressed as Ciana eyed her every move against Bakugo.

Cianas expression turned serious with her hands over her heart, having so much faith in her gravity whether she wins or loses. "You got this Urakura… already you're so much more from how hard you're trying to succeed."

~Looks like she's not resting between attacks even after being exploded, the poor girl~ Mic murmured.

The back and forth went on for a while, Uraraka was utterly defenseless against Katsuki's unstoppable attacks. So much so, people started to complain. "Hey, shouldn't one of the teachers step in!?" "This is too rough..." Cementoss nor Midnight stepped in, they watched their students fight on undisturbed.

One hero got too high on his horse. "This is shameful! Listen kid, you really want to be a hero then stop acting like a bully! If you're so good then just send her out of bounds!" But again, Katsuki didn't bat an eye, swatting Uraraka away with another well aimed blast. "Stop toying with the girl and end this match!"

"Yeah, you heard the guy!" Another screamed. Soon, many in the crowd were shouting their complaints down into the ring as there was a calm in the battle, but not because Katsuki listened, but because he was watching his opponent carefully.

Ciana could tell nothing would stop Bakugo from succeeding even from words around him or if anyone stepped in to stop him. Ciana knew he was just trying to prove he's strong compared to any hero in the world… he views everyone as an equal, sometimes…

But from how long and strong Urakura was facing off against Bakugo, Ciana could tell he viewed her as not only a threat but an equal now, in a way that's a compliment on his part if he's now recognizing the gravity girl for her potential. "Bakugo may be becoming too rough on Urakura but it's obviously because he's seeing her potential…" She ends up commenting as she keeps her eyes on her classmates.

Over on 1B's side, Yuuki lifted her head. "For once, Monoma is correct, if anyone here is taking the girl down there seriously, it's Katsuki Bakugo,"

~It sounds like the crowd is booing Bakugo! And honestly, I kinda agree with what they're say - yah!~ Suddenly, it sounded like Present Mic got struck across the face. ~Hey, woah, what the crap!?~

~Who is the man that started this uproar? Are you a Pro?~ The crowd was silent at Aizawa's sharp tone. ~Because if you're being serious, you can go home and hang up your cape, I'd suggest looking into another career. Bakugo's fierceness is an acknowledgement of his opponent's strength. He knows she's deserved to have made it this far, so that's why he's doing whatever it takes to keep her at bay to come out on top~

Neither in the arena acknowledged what was said, Katsuki hardened his glare.*"We're not finished... she's still standing, she's not dead yet!"* She was planning something, he had to be ready for it.

"I think... it's about time," Uraraka rasped, and Katsuki tensed up. "Thank you, Bakugo... for keeping your eyes focused on me," She brought her fingertips within an inch of each other.

"What?"

Only a handful noticed. All too focused on the battle on the ground to not realize the counterattack in the sky. The thousands of rocks suspended high above the crowd. "Hyaaaaaah!" Releasing her trap, Uraraka ran with all the strength she had left.

~A meteor shower!?/Now you notice...~ Both commentators had differing reactions.

"Woah, she had her own plan all along!" Izuku shot out of his seat, not that he doubted her, but to think, her plan was beyond even his own.

Ciana didn't have any words how amazed she was with Urakuras strategy and quick thinking, her eyes were so wide with amazement at what she was witnessing. Uraraka is truly incredible..

"No way… I-I didn't even see that coming! She's amazing!" Ciana was even more impressed by her friend's actions as her smile glowed with amazement, Ciana felt so proud toward her friend.

This was her moment to strike, lightening herself up, she rushed through the debris as Katsuki slowly raised one hand in the other. She could reach him now, she only needed to jump one last time to-

And the sky was lit with a massive blast of thermal energy, the shockwave was so powerful that Uraraka was thrown off her feet and onto her side as every fragment of rock was obliterated or sent out of the arena. "I knew you'd have some sort of stupid plan to beat me," Through the smoke, Katsuki didn't even seem phased after the blast. "You are friends with that damn nerd after all,"

Terror filled her once determined expression. "It took him one shot..."

~Bakugo banks on a huge demonstration of power!~ Mic gawked. ~He blasted apart Uraraka's finishing move and remains untouched!~

Despite being shocked that Urarakas plan didn't pull off as she hoped… Ciana was still very impressed by how hard she fought… seeing her lose had her concern if her loss was her fault as her expression shown guilt and concern for her loss…

"Uraraka…" she said her name softly in sadness as she stared down at her fallen friend…

Katsuki let out a shaky breath, his left arm twitching. "That was close..." Despite the odds swung entirely in his favour, the brunette took a trembling stand to face him. It was enough to get a smirk back on his face, his heart beating a little faster without him noticing. "Alright then, time for us to get serious... *Uraraka!*" He ran straight for her this time as she did the same. But his smile faded in surprise when she tripped herself up, collapsing to the ground in a shivering heap. *"Is she past her limit? Taking on constant explosions dead on and she still managed to stand for a second,"* He stopped, watching her.

~Uraraka is down!~

"It's too much..." Iida murmured.

"Yeah, she's way past her limit..." Izuku had to agree, her body couldn't handle anymore.

This was at least enough to be amazed by her strength, but now seeing how worn out her friend became… Ciana immediately got up from her seat as she quickly made her way down to the field…

Ciana stood at the entrance to be sure to know if the match was over or not… knowing it would be bad to interfere if it wasn't…

"I can... do this... ngh... I can... still fight," She panted, dragging her beaten body toward Katsuki who remained still, quickly moving into a stance. "I can... I will... become a... hero..." But her vision grew blurry, and her head finally gave out.

Midnight approached, holding her hand out for Katsuki to wait, which he did, lowering his hands. ~Uraraka is KOed, Bakugo advances to the second round~

It was official, Bakugo had won as medical bots showed up to take Uraraka to Recovery Girl, he still watched as she was loaded and taken away, his face lighter than normal before he turned and walked away.

As soon as she was sure the match was over, that's when Ciana ran out to the field to aid her friend. Hoping that it's okay… as Ciana was worried how completely warn out and hurt she was…. Ciana hoped she wouldn't get scolded for wanting to come and aid her too besides the medical bots

Arriving on scene, Midnight didn't seem to mind Ciana's involvement as the ravenette took her friend's hand as she still muttered in her delirious state. "Okay, focus..." Closing her eyes, Ciana squeezed her hand as she focused her aura into Uraraka. It made her body tremble a bit from forcing it out, but slowly, her eyes opened to reveal stars briefly as the golden shimmer washed over the brunette, healing her scrapes and bruises while soothing her muscles.

"Ngh... F-finley...?" She croaked, cracking an eye open as they entered the tunnel.

Ciana smiled when she saw her friend waking back up, nodding to confirm who she was. "It's me… Uraraka you were incredible out there, best heroic performance I ever seen in a hero." She praised her friend's actions with her bright smile, still very wowed and taken back by her friend's strength and bravery.

Uraraka gave a weak smile, squeezing her hand back. "Think the feeling in my everything's gone too... man... Bakugo is really strong," She was glad that he didn't hold back, though she knew that only made her chances slim at best. "...wish I... could've kept going... he looked real happy..." Uraraka felt excited too.

She squeezed her friends hands back, very proud of her for giving it her all. "In a weird way that just shows he knows your toughness, he recognized your strength and determination to view you as his equal. Even if you lost Uraraka… our friends, the crowd and even the pro hero's were so amazed by your determination. In a way you are a winner for how much support you had around you."

She tells her friend this honestly from the heart, though the only thing she worried about was if Ciana was at fault for her loss… but wanted to be here for her and let her know she's amazing no matter what happened.

"Why do you look like that...?" Uraraka murmured as they approached Recovery Girl's office. She offered a tiny smile again. "You always... look sad at times around me... why?"

Ciana didn't expect her to tell her how she looked, causing her to be very surprised as she tried to bring her smile back towards her. "Nothing bad towards you if that's what you're worried about." It's true she didn't have any hatred for her. "I admit I actually have always been jealous of your Uraraka… nothing bad but more how strong and confident you are compared to me, I wish I was more like you… out of everyone in this school, you're the first person in UA I looked up to."

The girl's eyes opened a little more as the bots moved her into the office, but Recovery Girl let the two talk first, seeing as Uraraka wasn't in pain. "Heh... funny, 'cause I felt the same as you," She turned her head to the side a bit. "Midoriya's smart and real heroic, but you always gave everyone, even people most perceived as the enemy, encouragement, even Bakugo who I realize now is actually more kind than he appears, since he didn't hold back," Shifting her head again, the girl that never should've been here, and the one shifted from her role, met each others eyes. "I fought so hard to be just like you were for two weeks against him, I... really envy your courage too, hehe."

Ciana never expected her friend to compliment her like this, in a way she felt guilty but touched at the same time… causing Ciana to tear up a bit but still smile. "I-I only have this much courage after meeting all of you who supported me… everyone here including you gave me so much confidence to succeed in my path to be my own hero, and after watching you out there Uraraka you inspired me more to be just like you."

She tells her with her smile becoming wider, Ciana could tell her friends going to be a hero no matter what gets in her way.

"Now, I need to do my own check-ups dearie," Recovery Girl waved a little.

"Go on, I'll be fine, I'll be back up on my feet before you know it," Uraraka smiled but her emotions were laid bare. She was in turmoil over her loss, she needed time to process everything alone.

Ciana could understand how she felt, giving her one last smile and nod before she went. "I know you will, even if it might not mean much to me, we all see you as a winner Uraraka. I just know you're going to shine even brighter as a pro." She praised her friend one last time before taking off to leave her be, wiping some of her tears away that appeared. "Please… don't let my interference be the reason she lost…" Ciana prayed to herself as she went to go find her friends again.

Heading back down the hallway, she knew Izuku's match would be up soon so she decided to wait down the usual path for him, also to mull over everything that happened when a familiar chill ran up her spine. "Hello-hello, little Ciana, you look... absolutely terrible," From the literal wall in front of her, that toothy smile and ice blue eyes greeted her with a wave. Chaser. Then he looked around. "Hold up, this isn't the way my employer... ugh, I hate when they don't give you a meet up point, with all these souls and quirks it makes soul location harder."

Ciana was definitely surprised to see the mysterious time traveler pop back up, his mysterious appearance just had her chuckle a little. "I guess this proves you really have been watching me from every angle…" she was leaning her back against the wall as she eyed him, her gaze looking down sadly as she scratched her cheek.

"What brings you back to see me so soon? Did I by any chance cause a bad interference in the timeline…?" She nervously asked, afraid he showed up to give her a warning.

"Oh, you've been doing that since you arrived, have my lovely pending contract to thank for that," Chaser rolled his eyes. "But, if you're implying the current events were altered by you... nah, this was always the outcome," He waved his tail dismissively. "I've seen multiple of this world, much to my dismay, and the bubbly brunette didn't stand a chance against that walking freight train."

That was something she didn't expect to hear, but hearing that she didn't cause Urarakas loss brought a huge relief to her… her hand on her heart to ease that. "Oh my gosh that's a big relief to hear… Bakugo sure is a tough opponent but Uraraka still stood strong no matter what that guy threw at her."

She smiled recalling her performance again, happy she had no bad part to play…

"Always root for the underdog," His tail patted her on the head as he placed his hand on the wall she leaned against, his arm slowly sinking into its shadow. "Welp, I've got a contractor to hunt down, I'm so getting a raise for this, but, I heard your significant other is up next. I've seen his fight, oooh, it'll be fun to see how it pans out with... what is it? 'Full Cowling', catchy name for a very disjointed quirk,"

This guy really stuns her enough that he was a world traveler but basically knowing everything that's going on including the ones Cianas is close to, turning her gaze to meet him as she still had a lot of questions for him. "W-wait! Who exactly are doing business with? And what are your motives towards me and my friends?"

Ciana didn't think he was much of a threat by how friendly he seemed, but like how everyone wondered about her, Ciana wondered what his purpose he's aiming for.

"Tch-tch-tch, can't say that part-" He pulled his arm back from the shadow, pointing up with a dignified stance. "-I believe in the data protection act, sorry, like if I did business with you to screw over your enemies, they won't get a word out of me, simple. As for your friends, I have no reason to do anything, unless my contractor said otherwise but that's more of a moral division for me. Just 'cause I'm employed doesn't mean I'll just... I dunno, burn an orphanage down? If you get me?" He see-sawed with his hands, squinting a bit. "Rest assured, I'm just, very much aware, of the events that unfold in this particular realm, parallels like this exist for every realm out there so it makes sense some events I've seen on repeat like your favorite anime!"

Cianas gaze turned more curious as her head tilted in more wonder about his actions, scratching the side of her head as she had a hard time processing Chaser's actions, though Ciana agrees this world is definitely like something that would happen in an anime funny enough… "You make that very clear how much you told me, oh say! If you know the events going on in other worlds too… do you happen to know how my dads doing in my world…?"

Ever since she arrived in a new world, Ciana still worried how much her disappearance affected her father… knowing he's all alone now and still worrying.

"Hm, well, I can always pop in to check?" In saying that, he flicked what appeared to be a silver coin with a sapphire fixed into the middle of it between his fingers. Then Chaser gave her a mischievous smirk. "Question is, anything you have to offer for my services? Information, an item of sorts, stuff like that, if you have and I want it, my services are yours,"

Ciana had a feeling her question would have some sort of a cost, she didn't have much on her and wasn't sure what to offer… her hand going on her neck in awkwardness. "Well… I don't really have much on me to offer… what exactly do you want?"

Chaser crossed his arms, biting the coin in thought. "Weeeell, see, I'm flat broke in terms of... what is it again? Yen? Yeah, that, I don't carry every known currency in the multiverse with me so um..." He smiled sheepishly, his demonic tail swaying like a dog's would. "There's this stand in the festival that's selling something I've never seen before. It's these treats on long skewers made of types of rice flower in various colours, um, eh... Dango! That's it, they're dango, look really nice, and smell so good~!" He wiped some drool from his lips. "Ahem, yes, that."

"Hehe, yes! Okay-okay, I can wait 'till after the festival, gotta keep focused!" He clapped happily, clutching the coin in his outstretched hand as he sensed a soul coming. "Well then, I will see you later, keep your end and I'll provide you with the intel you requested. So, to check, want me to scout out what your father's been up to since your disappearing act, right?"

She nodded eagerly, Ciana was dreading how her dad is… but hoping he's strong enough to hang in there for a while longer. "Right, and if it's not too much trouble… I want to write a letter to him and pass it onto him… if he's a wreck then I want to let him know I'm okay."

She felt she finally had a chance to ease her dad's worries, he probably expects she was kidnapped which is kinda true… but Ciana wanted to ease his worries that she's fine and given a whole new experience where she is.

Chaser, despite his chipper demeanour, listened almost intensely to her every word before cocking his head to the left. "You got all that?" He blinked, then nodded. "Okay, so one letter delivery and a small intel scouting op, got it. Considering you wish to add a letter on top I'll hold off on the request until you write it," Tipping his cowl, he stepped into the shadow on the wall. "Toodles..." He waved, vanishing without a trace.

Cianas mood has really been brought up knowing she can finally ease her dad's worries, already Ciana is very thankful toward Chaser. Glancing at her watch… she had some time before Izuku's match, so she already took off running outside to get what he wanted. Her smile brightened happily and excitingly, already grabbing her wallet from her bag… so glad she saved up still.

Once she was outside, Ciana scouted for the sweets Chaser was craving for while looking at each booth. It wasn't too hard to find… and certainly looked pretty good, plus even the smell was sweet… Pulling out her wallet, she wasted no time buying what he wanted and placing them in a container to keep it fresh.

Once that was done Ciana made way back to her friends to watch Izuku's and Todorokis fight… grabbing her notebook in hand as she prepared to write her letter, keeping the sweets in her bag near her as Ciana planned to give them to him after his fight.

"So the match hasn't started yet?" Ciana perked up, turning her head to find Uraraka had returned but Ciana, Iida, and Tokoyami noticed how red the skin was around her eyes.

"Woah, something's happened to your eyes!? You need to go see Recovery Girl!" Iida was worried for her health but Uraraka wiped them as she sat next to Ciana.

"I already did, this is from... something else," She deflected a bit.

"Oh, of course, if I were you, I'd be frustrated too," Iida admitted, turning to face the arena.

"This is no time to wallow, use this next fight as encouragement," Tokoyami said it as it is, leaving Iida slate white.

"Will do," Uraraka nodded.

"You're so wise..." Iida whispered.

Ciana was glad and relieved seeing her gal friend back on her feet, though hoping she wasn't pushing herself. "Glad to see your up and about Uraraka, though if you still feel drained I can boost you more if you want."

She politely offered while still having her notebook in hand to write to her dad.

"Hey, thanks, but you should totally save your energy, your fight's on after this too so I want you to be at your best too," Uraraka pumped her fist to show she was okay.

At least seeing her all pumped again had Ciana see she's standing strong as she gave her a relieved smile. "Right! But don't be afraid to still ask if you really need it." Now looking forward to the field.

"Izuku is fighting off Todoroki… that guy is really rough with his quirk moves as well… I hope Izuku will be okay against him." Ciana recalled Todoroki threatened to hurt Izuku more during the match if she kept interfering in his business… she really hoped that he wasn't serious anymore especially after their talk in the end.

The torches were lit, and Ciana sat forward, seeing both her boyfriend and the boy that probably hated her walk out towards their battleground.

~I can feeell the anticipation in the stadium! And that's because the second round's first match is gonna be a bang!~ Mic screamed with more excitement then the crowd. ~The guy who won his last match by a landslide and literally left half the audience frozen! The hero course's Shoto Todorokiii!~ Then, Izuku came into view, his expression mirroring Todoroki's. ~And this kid almost walked out of his first match up, but made a startling comeback by showing off an impressive move! Also from the hero course, Izuku Midoriyaaaa!~

Izuku felt fear well up in his chest. His brief encounter with Endeavor was nerve-wracking enough, but now, he had to face the boy who had been tormented and saw his only way out through sheer strength alone. Izuku felt sorry for Todoroki, because while their pasts weren't the same, Izuku understood the pain he felt, to feel utterly alone, relying on only yourself. It was as cold as ice.

"So here we are..." Todoroki breathed.

"And only one of us can win," He replied.

Up with the class, Iida turned to his friends. "Tokoyami, how do you think this will go?"

"It depends on whether or not Midoriya is able to get in close to him," The bird man replied.

"Yeah, that's the problem," Uraraka agreed.

"Part of it might be my fault if he goes overboard…" Ciana ended up admitting worryingly, her gaze staring down and both Izuku and Todoroki in fear of what would happen with a clear worried and concerning expression.

"Hm, why's that?" Jiro asked from behind them.

Ciana sighed, looking down in guilt. "After seeing Todoroki's last match, I ran down to try and comfort him when I noticed how much pain he was feeling… but instead of trying to help him, I caused him to hate my guts for budding in too much…" Ciana clenched her fists, fearful if he really will stay true to his threat.

"H-he might take his anger on me out on Izuku after how much I kept bothering him…" her hands raised to her heart, Todoroki couldn't be cruel enough to actually stay true to his warning… even she could tell he wasn't completely like his dad.

"Oh, uh, crap..." Jiro winced, attempting to help by patting her shoulder. "Well, I doubt he'll do that, pretty sure he already planned to take on Midoriya full on regardless,"

"While I understand why you felt the need to help Todoroki mentally, something tells me he harbors a lot of feelings to himself," Iida waved a hand down. "Perhaps he felt threatened your quirk would expose his true feelings and lashed out to safeguard himself,"

"That could be it," Uraraka concurred, patting Ciana's other shoulder. "Let's just wish Midoriya luck, even if he's against a living natural disaster," She then gulped nervously.

Ciana appreciated her friend's comfort as her smile perked back up a little. "I hope you're all right… after he tried to help me before I just wanted to be there for him like he did me… I just pray Todoroki won't cause any serious injuries to Izuku." Ciana knew his father would still be watching, hoping he will show his flame side eventually… Ciana could understand at least why he doesn't want to give him the satisfaction of using it.

~Both these heroes in training have been frontrunners at the Sports Festival, but which of these fighters will advance to the next round!?~ Mic declared.

Izuku stood in a wide stance, bolts of green lightning flowing across his body. *"One For All, Full Cowling, Five Percent!"*

Todoroki did the same, only the air grew colder around him, his breath turned to mist.

~Prepare for... Midoriya versus Todoroki! Begiiiin!~

There wasn't a second to waste as ice erupted beneath Todoroki's foot, creating a small glacier of ice to shoot toward Izuku's form as it split over the edge of the arena. Todoroki narrowed his eyes, bringing his head high expecting to spot him, only for hot air to rush from the left. He turned, creating a small ice wall only for the blue chunks to shatter, a fist slammed through and struck his forearms, slamming him against another ice wall to act as a brace. "I guess he isn't going to break his bones anymore to win, his mobility is just as fast as before!"

~Woah, Midoriya managed to avoid Todoroki's insane opening move and land the first blow!~

Without waiting for Todoroki to act Izuku broke to the left, making a large flank toward Todoroki's left side, his body following suit with a curved glacier of ice to travel behind Izuku. Bending at the knees, Izuku's feet broke apart the ice behind him, narrowly avoiding another bombardment of ice as his fist connected with Todoroki's left shoulder, shoving him across the arena while he ground his teeth, flicking his hand upward to counter. Izuku spun around, again, narrowly dodging the wave of ice under his sneakers as he slid down the ice.

~No way, he landed another good hit on Todoroki and avoided two more ice barrages!~

So far Izuku is doing amazing against Todoroki, her eyes widened and leaned forward a bit as Ciana really perked up from their own performance so far. "Wow, Izuku is really looking so cool himself out there!" Watching Izuku's cunning actions made him really attractive in her eyes, smiling a little with a pink blush on her cheeks.

"Izuku must have worked out his own strategy against Todoroki, he really doesn't surprise me how fast he works that big brain of his." She comments with a giggle, though knowing Todoroki… he's pretty observant and smart himself so even with a strategy put together he will figure something out to strike and weaken him…

"I don't have a grasp on his fighting style nor do I have enough notes on his powers given how fast he produces ice, so, during this fight, I need to wait for my openings and breakthrough with Full Cowling," Again his eyes shot wide at the next snaking torrent of ice. He didn't have time to dodge so standing firm he readied both his fists, crossing them as All Might would. The wall shadowed him and with unshaken eyes he took a step forward. "Smash!"

The cross-chop split the ice apart, again, sending Todoroki sliding a little while leaving more ice on the floor. Izuku winced at the cuts down his arms, but he was still able to continue. "I can't keep relying on big smashes to win, if I do, I'll be leaving myself open to defeat. My arms are going to get hurt from striking the ice but not as badly."

"Let's continue." Todoroki didn't look phased at all, he braced himself, swinging up with an arm to try and freeze Izuku in place, he reacted quickly, flipping backward and kicking up a large chunk of ice to strike Todoroki's forehead, causing him to scowl and create a sharp wall between them, wiping the cut across his head.

"Oh no, crap, I'm missing it!" Back with 1A, Kirishima finally returned to see the show.

"Hey, nice job making it to the second round, Kirishima," Kaminari complimented.

He smirked, "Thanks man, looks like I can take down Bakugo next,"

The blonde was not impressed, watching the match with pinprick eyes. "I'll kill you."

Seeing that both Kirishima and Bakugo were back, she was happy to see them but raised a brow at her explosive friend. "Hey! You're willing to be here to watch Izuku fight but not my own match? I'm pretty offended..." She responds playfully with her arms crossed towards Bakugo.

"If you got your ass stomped by Raccoon Eyes I'd be offended I wasted so much time on you," He scoffed.

"Aw, come on, it was an even fight!" Ashido whined, swinging her arms angrily.

Ciana actually took what he said as a compliment as it sounded like he believed she would win… which was enough to bring a bright smile on her, but also giggling at her pink friends' rant. Feeling a little bad for her…

"Hey but seriously," Kirishima now looked a little more serious, "It's crazy how you and Todoroki have moves that can blast the whole stadium, must be pretty nice," The redhead, scoffed, clearly not quite sure of his chances.

"Plus, you don't have to pause between attacks," Sero added on, more so with wounded pride over his match.

"The difference between both of them is that Todoroki can unleash a chunk of ice and Bakugo can unleash his explosive grenade fists." Ciana comments as her eyes go back to Todoroki in concern. "Todoroki also has his fire side but he refuses to use it…"

"Besides, it's not as easy as you think, morons," Katsuki stated the obvious. "If you overuse your muscles, you end up tearing them apart, if you sprint you run out of breath-" He leaned forward, staring at his strained hand. "We all have a limit on what we can produce, it's why I designed my costume the way I did so I can fire off bigger blasts than my body would allow me to," Sitting back up, he added. "Quirks are physical abilities too, they can get worn out, you can't just use them non-stop,"

"Makes sense when you put it that way," Now all eyes were on the ring as the mist cleared around the two opponents. "Wonder if that's how Midoriya thinks he can beat Todoroki,"

Listening to Bakugo's words really impressed her. He knew so much about superpowers here, he sounded as smart as Izuku how he figured that out. But what he said does make sense cuz when she overuses her powers then she gets exhausted…

Now her thoughts drifted back to Izuku, Cianas hand went to her chin in thought. "Izuku has been studying everyone's quirks very closely… he probably already had some kind of strategy worked out when Todoroki unleashed different kinds of attacks."

Back in the ring, Todoroki let out a shaky breath, not liking the continuous back and forth match. Izuku waited for openings and used his increased speed to push him toward the edge of the platform, although his arms were bruised and cut he remained as determined to win as Todoroki. "You think endurance is how you'll win, then I'll end this quickly!"

Again, more destructive walls of ice sailed Izuku's way, but the more he broke, the more cuts and bruises started to break through Full Cowling, but the arena was starting to become a tundra with the ice still covering the ground. With another punch to the underside of the ice, it ceased its movement, however, above, Todoroki ran up and over the shelf, slamming his fist down where Izuku was, he froze his arm, then from there sent a trail after him, eventually snagging Izuku's leg in a layer of ice.

"Crap! I've been locked!" Izuku panicked, seeing Todoroki prepare another wave of ice with his arm. Without any real back-up plan, Izuku bent forward, feeling the heat gather in his legs, a moment later he pulled back with all his might, the power behind his flip combined with the pressure of the ice sent his own hail of ice bullets toward Todoroki, causing him to gasp as chunks slammed and cut his body. There was a moment of silence between them, Todoroki coughed while looking down at his own lacerated arms, closing his fists slowly to brace the pain. Izuku stood tall again.

"That was smart, using my own ice as a projectile to stop my next attack..." Todoroki breathed, frost peppering his body while shoving ice off his chest. Izuku felt worn down but Todoroki looked almost unfazed himself. "What's the matter? Are you worn out just from defending against my attacks?" Izuku glared back but said nothing, his eyes locked to Todoroki's arm

"He's shaking... he's starting to reach his limit," Taking a few steps forward, Izuku only had one other idea, and thanks to Todoroki it might give him the edge in their battle of endurance. "I... have to keep fighting..."

"I'm sorry about this... but thanks for drawing it out..." Slowly, his gaze landed on his father, seeing the raging flames begin to flicker dangerously in the air around him. "Look at him, he's furious I'm not using his power." Todoroki turned his eyes to Izuku once more and saw him visibly grind his teeth. "Why is he getting worked up?"

His next words drowned out in Izuku's ears, having played the same line over and over in his head, how Todoroki would reject his father's power. It made his blood boil over how narrow minded the most powerful, smart, and reasonable person he knew could possibly be so blind to the reality of his own situation.

~Todoroki continues his overwhelming attacks! Could this be his finishing move!?~

Izuku stomped as an attack loomed and finally, Izuku snapped, leaping high into the air with a piercing glare sent Todoroki's way as the ice cliff passed right below his feet. "I'm not done yet!" With a powerful heel to the ice, Izuku dislodged a large amount from the wall, breaking it down and creating a powerful plume of mist to rise around them both as the ice pulled the draft down on Todoroki. "Full Cowling - Ten Percent!"

Todoroki's eyes were widened slightly, "Did his power output increase suddenly!?" He braced with his arms, trying to leer through the mist.

"You're trembling, Todoroki..." Todoroki didn't have time to react to a gut punch that sent him flying from the cloud, seeing the green bolts illuminate through the cloud, green energy tracing Izuku's pupils as he flew from the smoke, his fist colliding with a protrusion of ice between them, the shockwave blinding Todoroki while that same fist collided with his side, slamming him against the remains of his previous shelf of ice.

"It's easy to forget that Quirks are physical abilities, and that means there's a limit to the cold your body can take," Izuku saw his reaction, he had figured out his weakness. Standing firm, Izuku held onto a shard of ice in his hand, using it to numb the cuts on his palm. "I get it, usually you'd make up for the drop in temperature by using the heat from your left side, but you refuse to do that now." Todoroki scowled.

"Listen, we're all giving it our all, even those that lost pushed themselves to make it this far, to try to win, to make our dreams a reality, to become Number One!" Izuku called out, crushing the ice in his charged hand. "You think you can win with half your strength!? Look at me, Todoroki, I may be worn down but you haven't landed a real hit on me yet! So come at me with all you got!"

Ciana never saw Izuku so worked up like this except for the time he fought off Bakugo… which brought her eyes open wider in shock, he was serious of wanting Todoroki to be true to himself… like she said to him. It was amazing to see Izuku so determined and strong the way he was standing up again… Izuku just kept becoming more and more amazing.

"Izuku…'' She said his name in concern with her eyes narrowing worryingly for him but also Todoroki as well, Cianas gaze now going to the class prince… wondering how worked up he's becoming from Izuku's shout out to him…?

That had him harden his scowl, hand releasing mist. "What are you trying to do, Midoriya? You want my fire? What, did my monster of a father bribe you or something?" That was the drop of a pin, a rush of ice tracing his sprint. "Now I'm mad!"

He didn't realize it, but his movements had slowed due to the frost, Izuku saw this and now had his opening. Todoroki would go in for a close-range attack and immobilize him, however, if it had been before learning Full Cowling, it might have been risky, but Izuku had an advantage in close quarters all thanks to Ciana and All Might's training.

"In close quarters there's no way he'll be able to dodge me," With a kick, Todoroki leapt up high. Izuku pegged on, Todoroki too. "The instant I lifted my right foot! He's coming!"

"Not yet... I'm not done..." Izuku brought a solid punch to his gut, sending the boy flying over the sheet of ice he created, from there he bent his wrist, flicking a thin wall toward the vacant air, to his shocked stare Izuku spun around the wall, his left fist striking Todoroki's cheek, throwing the boy backward as a smaller wave of ice shards crossed the arena, but Izuku avoided them with ease.

Their back and forth showed no end. Todoroki moved in closer to draw in his ice waves in shorter bursts, kiting around Izuku who swung at him, smashing apart the ice with his bare hands while beating Todoroki when he could. Both showed absolutely no state of defeat. They fought harder, attacked faster, they did everything in their grasp to wither the other down.

Todoroki tried to move against his ice barrier but found himself unable to, he glared at Izuku, struggling against the cold. "Why are you trying so hard? What the hell are you trying to prove?"

"I want to live up to people's expectations, I want to be able to smile while doing something good for them, I want to be a Pro!" He snapped, glaring right back at Todoroki while he felt his body tremble from fatigue yet his heart kept pounding, throwing every ounce of adrenaline into his muscles. "I'll do whatever it takes to be a hero!"

Todoroki seemed lost in his own thoughts after that, giving Izuku enough time to land a solid gut punch, launching Todoroki away. "That's why I'll give it my all! Just like... you should be!" There was a silence in their fight, a small distance between them. "There is no way I can know what you've gone through or why you're here, your life has been so much different than mine, but right now quit screwing around!" Izuku snapped without missing a beat, seeing the look of spite mingle with surprise and confusion. "If you want to reject your father, fine, but you don't have the right to be Number One if you're not going to use your full power!"

There was a blip of hesitation in his eyes, this left him open to Izuku's next two punches. "That's why I'll win this, I'll surpass you!" His fist crashed against his chest, throwing Todoroki back farther, shattering the frost off his body as it continued to spread without restraint. It was time to end it here and now. "It's yours - Your Quirk, not his!" Shoto's eyes finally came back to life in that single instance, as the memories faded away with only a soft, warm voice to sink into his mind.

Ciana felt it. The emotion she couldn't sense buried underneath Todoroki's anger and resentment, a warm flame of emotions.

Ciana gasped as she not only heard Izukus words to Todoroki of saying the same thing she told him when she spoke to him, but the sudden emotions Todoroki was feeling… even if she couldn't feel it Ciana could see it in his eyes, Ciana stood up in her seat as she could tell what this meant…

"H-he's going to use his flame side…" This is what Todoroki dreads using for his father to see… knowing him the guy will be pleased… right now Ciana was very worried for Izuku, but she wondered if she should go confront Todorokis dad before he gets the wrong idea… knowing this will distraught Todoroki…

"You still want to be a hero, don't you honey? Just remember, to stay true to yourself," That warm hand on his head, the tenderness of her voice. It finally dug itself out of Todoroki's heart.

"I didn't realize... how much I had forgotten..." In only a short few seconds, his eyes finally stopped shaking, his body ceased its trembling as the frost melted away under his shallow breaths.

"You're not a prisoner of your lineage, it's okay to use your power, to become a hero you want to be."

~Woah! Is that a-!?~ Mic couldn't finish his sentence.

Todoroki's side of the arena became engulfed in a roaring blaze from his left side. The ice coating the arena evaporated under its fierce orange glow. The sight captivating the audience.

"Is that his fire!?" Uraraka shielded her eyes from the intensity.

"Incredible..." Iida was at a loss for words.

Ciana was very amazed at what she was seeing right now, the flames he unleashed from Todoroki's side. It was incredibly, but… glancing up at where his dad probably watching… Cianas fists clenched knowing well aware he will be pleased… suddenly Ciana got back up, her gaze turning to Ashido with her expression looking serious but also worried. "Ashido! Text me the results what happened with Izuku!"

After quickly saying that, Ciana grabbed her bag as she quickly took off. Not wanting to give Todoroki's father any satisfaction, what that monster could be thinking this meant for his son…

"You're helping your opponent...? You fool... even though you want to win this... now which one of us is screwing around?"

Izuku's energy rejuvenated at the sight of fire and ice meshing together in a display of wondrous light and force, but Todoroki was no longer frowning, his eyes were bright and his toothy grin had Izuku finally speak out with more confidence. "Ciana would probably scold me too, but... she wanted to save her friend, and so do I, no matter how bad it is for me!" He closed his fists, forgoing reason as his adrenaline kicked One For All up higher than ten percent, causing every muscle to strain badly.

Todoroki sighed at that, how he pushed her away when she only saw what he denied himself to feel for so many years. Maybe he was the idiot here. Finally, a genuine smile crossed his lips. "I see... then let's give it our all... because I too... want to be a hero!"

Off to their left, Endeavor bellowed out loudly, "Yes, Shoto! Have you finally accepted your purpose!? That's it, very good! This is the dawn of a new era for us! With my blood in your veins you'll surpass me! You will live up to the reason I created you!"

Ciana dashed up knowing where Endeavor would be watching closely… making it to the entrance where he stood down the steps… Ciana overheard what he said and gritted her teeth at this man. "Don't get your hopes up!" She suddenly calls him out again from above… Her expression showed seriousness, anger and no fear.

"He may have finally unleashed his powers but that doesn't mean he accepted your path to be like you! Todoroki is his own hero!" Ciana now once again tells off his father with a shout out…

"Hmph, you honestly have a lot of nerve brat, this is the living proof that I've taught him for years!" Endeavor was enjoying this as the two were nearly eye to eye, glowering hatefully at one another when a shadow emerged between them, pushing them back anxiously.

"You really pick the worst times to mess with events!" Chaser squeaked, grabbing Ciana by the shoulders. "As hilarious as it would be to watch you two have a personal spat, I want to keep my contractor alive so brace yourself!" He had seen this fight a few times, all of them ended as he expected them to.

Ciana definitely planned to tell his father off more but seeing Chaser show back up took her back in surprise and confusion. "Huh? What are you talking about…?"

But neither Izuku nor Todoroki could hear them, both were far too fixated on their own fight to care, they had nothing to weigh them down. "Amazing...!" Izuku awed at the spectacle of fire and ice that continuously grew around Todoroki.

"Why are you smiling?" Todoroki was no longer smiling and instead stared back at Izuku fiercely, causing him to lose his grin. "With those injuries... in this hopeless situation... you must be crazy. Don't blame me for what happens next."

The wind pressure built around Izuku while Todoroki's body became nearly engulfed by his ice and fire. In a split second, the largest array of ice columns sprouted from his foot, leaving hardly any room to avoid the towering wall of ice that sailed Izuku's way. "I only have one shot!" Izuku pushed himself high above the ice, sliding down the length of the collapsing structure while avoiding the cracks and holes that appeared, the ice suddenly beginning to evaporate in a surge of heat. "I need to get in close!"

Todoroki raised his left hand, palm completely orange while a nova of fire turned the ice to vapor, the air beginning to react to the sudden cooling and rising temperature. "I see now, Midoriya, Finley... thank you." His hand finally unleashed the built-up embers, despite the concrete wall coming between the indomitable forces of wind, fire, and ice.

The contact that collided between the concrete was tremendous, the air erupting into a large dome of orange light, followed by a sharp flash of blue and green, the second after a hail of debris and wind obliterated the arena, nearly blasting the crowd away alongside the rubble as a great roar exploded in the sky, quaking the earth below.

Her gaze went back to the field to see the sudden explosion…. Which wasn't what she expected at all as her eyes shot up wide in so much shock, feeling the wind and the heat blow past her.

Ciana stood where she is stunned at the moment what just happened… an explosion like that was dangerous enough to have killed anyone, just realizing that… her body began to shake. "Izuku… Todoroki…" feeling dread from the very idea, Cianas eyes began to water in fear of what she just witnessed, her eyes shutting tightly as she shouted out… "IZUKU! TODOROKI!"

When the dust settled again, the arena was utterly pulverized by the blast. Present Mic was blown back on his chair, still managing to commentate. ~What happened just now? What the heck is up with your students?~

Eraser Head hardly looked phased, ~The air around the ring had been furrowly cooled down then rapidly expanded when heated up~

~Wait, that's what caused the explosion!? How hot did that fire get!? Geez, I can't see a thing, is the match still going on or what!?~

The air cleared, revealing the fallout of the blast. Izuku was standing... his back to the furthest wall of the arena, his jacket and shirt were torn to pieces, leaving much of his skin exposed, his arms battered but unbroken. His left trouser leg was clearly burnt off up to the thigh as the charred edges were still tucked into his shoe. The last sparks of One For All fizzled out, and he collapsed on his side. In the ring, Todoroki's jacket had been torched across the left side, unable to withstand the heat he produced, but he stood firmly inside the ring.

~There! Midoriya is... out of bounds! Todoroki wins! He advances to the third round!~ Midnight declared, and the silent crowd burst into triumphant cheers.

Despite seeing how he didn't look incinerated, which was a bit of a relief, right now Ciana did not care about his loss as she was terrified for his well-being again… after Ciana witnessed Izuku slamming against the wall, she dashed back downstairs with fearful tears in her eyes. The match was over so it didn't matter what she did…

Arriving back down as quickly as she could thanks to her quirk… Ciana dashed out the entrance of the field as she darted her head to try and see Izuku, soon spotting him laying on his side… her tears spilled out more as she ran to his side. "Izuku!" She slid her knees against the ground to immediately be by his side, trying to carefully lift him up as she shook him a little. Tears spilling out and dripping onto his chest. "Keep it together! P-please tell me you're still alive!"

"He is, kid's more durable than you give him credit for," Chaser arrived from her own shadow, kneeling next to her as she held him tightly, tears welled up in her eyes. Scratching his cheek with his tail Chaser sighed.

"Hrm... well, I'm not above charity, but you get this once," He held up his finger, then, brought it down against Izuku's bare chest, causing a small, emerald ember to be plucked from his chest. Chaser then wrapped it with a ring of light, several strange symbols within the brackets before he placed the flame back into Izuku's chest, causing his worst gashes to close up almost instantly, his breathing softer now. "Ta-da~ Soul Weaver - a little trick of mine to patch up the worst wounds you can imagine, not that there was much to fix but like I said, one time offer, next I charge you,"

Ciana was so fearful what she is seeing and thought Izuku might of died… but noticing Chaser came back and very surprised the way he was healing Izuku… her smile rose back but still had tears dripping out of her eyes as she held him close against her chest, her head lowering as she began to shake. "Izuku… t-thank goodness…"

Ciana took a moment to embrace him quietly before lifting her gaze back to the world traveler, her smile rose more thankfully towards him. "T-thank you so much… I-I can't tell you how much this means to me…" she closed her eyes and still smiled, but opened them back up as her smile turned worried again. "Chaser… when you warned me about messing with events, did I somehow cause Todoroki to injure Izuku further like this…?"

Clearly distracted, he blinked and turned back. "Huh? Pfft, nah, actually, you helping him control the you-know-what-quirk actually did better. He still survived the blast, most people in this world are crazy durable, but he totally pulverized his arms fighting Todoroki, so hey, silver lining!" Looking around, he gulped. "Welp, I've definitely exposed myself, gotta go!" And like that, he vanished without a trace into the shadows.

Ciana watched as the guy quickly dashed off, smiling more thankfully toward his direction even with the tears still coming out of her eyes. Now gazing back down to Izuku worryingly, as she still embraced him. Ciana focused on trying to return his strength to him with her palms glowing and giving off another warm sensation to him. "Izuku, please… o-open your eyes…"

"...if I do... you won't punch me... right?" He whispered, though his voice was strained as he was both exhausted and sore all over, feeling like he was hit with a heatwave and blizzard all at once.

Ciana gasped when she heard his voice, filled with so much relief as she ended up chuckling and smiling again… her sad smile came back but her tears kept coming. "N-no promises, e-especially that you got to be so reckless again…" she ended up replying as she hugged him tighter, trying to emit more energy boost into him. "W-why did you have to scare me like that again?! I-I thought… I-I thought…" already her voice was cracking up from how scared she was from witnessing such an intense explosion.

"It may not... be obvious but... I bumped up... my quirk higher... so I could handle... the blast, still... really hurts," He wheezed at her hug as the medical bots arrived, allowing Izuku to flop onto the stretcher. "Yep... hurts all over..."

Ciana could tell how much pain he was feeling, it was a lot like back when Izuku fought with Bakugo. Ciana was just thankful he's still alive as she held his hand quickly. "Y-you're gonna be officially dead after I'm through with you…" she playfully retorted back with a sad chuckle, Ciana couldn't stop her tears from spilling out even when she tried to keep her smile.

"Then I pray... I'll not recover... too quickly..." He chuckled only to wince, his muscles clenched. "Okay... h-hurts to laugh too... got it,"

[Transition]

In Recovery Girl's temp office, Izuku was fully awake again, arms bandaged up to the shoulders as he sighed, leaning back into his bed. He lost, though the flashy end was a little better than just being shoved out of bounds, it still left him feeling bitter. He failed to do as All Might asked of him, even with the events before, Izuku really didn't see any points he stood out the most. He probably wouldn't be scouted much at the end now.

"While I'm glad you didn't destroy your body this time, I can't say I'm not disappointed in both of you," Recovery Girl's stare went from Izuku to All Might who stood there silently. "You lit a fire under this child, and nearly pushed him too hard, look what he's done to make you proud. I don't like it one bit, you're going too far, you hear?"

"I know," All Might cut in, "I should've realized the pressure I put on you both, I only wanted you to succeed, to show the world what I've seen, I hadn't realized how much of me you took after," All Might lowered his head a bit. "I'm sorry, Young Midoriya. And you too, Young Finley, for putting you through this again,"

Ciana was by his side through the healing process which was no surprise, her sad gaze turning to both Izuku and All Might. Ciana agreed it was too reckless but the nurse was being too hard on them… her concerned expression going to All Might. "Mr Yagi this wasn't your fault… sure you expected a lot out of Izuku but he acted what he did from his own heart." Ciana placed her hand on Izukus shoulder with a little smile.

"I met someone who expects worse from their pupil from how hard he pushed him…" Cianas eyes narrowed, referring to Endeavor. "Hero's always do reckless acts to succeed… you shouldn't keep doing it often but your hearts are in the right places."

"But you are not heroes yet, dearie," Recovery Girl pointed with her cane. "While that is an admirable statement, that is no excuse for a student or hero in training to abandon all preservation of themselves, regardless of morality," She shook her head a bit. "I have seen too many do what this young man has done today to consider this healthy."

Suddenly, the door burst open with several voices calling out to Izuku, startling All Might enough to spit blood between his teeth. "...scared the crap out of me," The pro exhaled.

"You okay? - Oh, it's nice to meet you, sir," Uraraka greeted as All Might gave a nervous wave.

"Uh, yeah," He gulped, thankful none actually knew he looked like this.

Ciana was pretty startled herself how they bursted in, she could tell how worried they were for their friend too. It was nice to see Izuku surrounded by so much support. "D-don't worry everyone he's okay! The nurse really works wonders after all." She praised the lady, still having a comforting hand on Izuku. Mostly to keep restoring his stamina…

"Hey guys, shouldn't you be watching the matches?" Izuku asked in a quiet tone.

"The stage was far too damaged, their taking a quick break to repair it now," Iida explained, gesturing with his hands.

"That match was the scariest thing I've ever seen in my life, Midoriya," Mineta shakily pointed. "Who's gonna want a side-kick that hurts himself?" Then Tsu's tongue jabbed him in the ear sharply.

"Now you're just rubbing salt in his wounds, probably not a good time," Tsu commented, retracting her tongue.

"Hey, I'm just speaking the truth!" Then a jack stabbed his other ear.

"Translation, shut it, perv," Jiro sighed, crossing her arms. "You holding up alright, Mop Top?"

"I feel... better, thanks," Izuku closed his eyes for a moment. "She really does come up with those on the fly, huh?"

Hearing the match was pausing for a while, that exactly perked her up surprisingly, looking away for a moment. Ciana recalled how hard everyone was working here to succeed and going through great lengths to achieve it… This gave her an idea, with her friends' attention currently being on Izuku. Ciana approached their mentor with her notebook in hand, tugging at his sleeve to have his attention. "Mr Yagi… is it alright I quickly talk to you privately outside for a moment?" She suddenly asks the top hero with a shy smile.

"Hm, sure - we'll be right back," All Might motioned to Recovery Girl to keep the other students here a little longer while they talked. Once outside, shutting the door, All Might crossed his arms to look at his other student. "So, what is it you want to talk about?"

When they stepped out, Ciana had her notebook clutched to her chest. Eyeing her mentor with a shy smile for a moment before looking down kinda anxiously. "I… I was wondering if I could ask you a favor." She responds so far, freeing one had to scratch her cheek.

"I noticed many students including my friends are giving it their all with their own goals, some going to a blunt length to achieve them… since the match is being paused at the moment, I was wondering if I could do something to represent the festival and the school to shed some light for everyone here…" now her gaze looking back up, fiddling with her notebook in a shy manner.

This request came as a surprise to the pro, "Is that so? Well, depending on what it is I'm certain Midnight wouldn't have any problems with it, what did you have in mind?" He was happy to hear his otherworlder student was eager to be a part of the festivities so if possible he'd help where he could.

Ciana gulped very shyly about what she was about to suggest… opening her notebook to a specific page, Ciana held it up to reveal a song lyric. "I have a song I believe will be perfect enough to light everyone's hopes and dreams. I… I was thinking about singing it out on the field…" Ciana blushed very pink from her bold idea, especially how nervous she used to get singing in front of crowds.

"All I ask is if I can be lent a piano when I make the entrance to perform this song." Ciana kept her mom's songs written to be sure she doesn't forget them… the song was written very comfortingly and beautifully.

All Might took her notebook, reading over the lyrics, and while his musical knowledge was limited in terms of how to perform, it was clearly not amateur. Slowly, his smile grew larger, his bright blue eyes wide with pride. "Young Finley..." Holding her book out for her, he nodded. "If you truly wish to do this, then I see no reason not to agree. Talk about going Plus Ultra today," Patting her shoulder, he directed her to the door. "Now, let's see to Young Midoriya first and foremost, then we'll go speak with Present Mic and Midnight about your idea, I'm certain they'd be glad to help."

Ciana really perked up happily hearing that her mentor actually likes this idea and that will help her to pursue it, despite how nervous she is of the idea Ciana was happy to be given a chance to do something for everyone who is struggling. Her smile brightened and nodded. "O-of course! T-thank you so much Mr Yagi! I promise I won't disappoint!"

She replied happily and excitingly with a big grin on her face as she held her notebook back against her chest.

When All Might opened the door again, those that came to see Izuku were now being ushered out by Recovery Girl as a cluster while the pair squeezed back inside. "You lot are much too noisy! I know you're worried but he needs his rest, now go on, get out of here!" She waved her arms, pushing the group out the door. Finally cutting off their questions and shutting the door for them to be at peace.

Izuku was glad to have so many worry about him, but he hung his head a bit as All Might and Ciana had returned. "...I'm sorry, I still couldn't do what you asked of me... if I had shut up, not said anything, I might've been able to beat him," He clenched his teeth at his own frustrations. "But I..."

All Might turned to his student, "You got Todoroki to realize something very important about himself,"

"I guess so... in his first match, he looked so sad, and after what Ciana told me I wanted to know why, I should've been focused. But I made a bigger mistake though, whenever we were fighting, I was just so... so frustrated," He bit his cheek, squeezing his eyes shut. He could see a small slither of him in Todoroki, like he had to yell what Izuku had wanted to say to himself. "I couldn't see the bigger picture, or what it would take to win, I'm sorry..."

Taking all this in, All Might looked to the greenette evenly. "It's true the match didn't go the way we wanted it to, and realizing where you went wrong won't change that, but listen, meddling where you don't technically have to is the essence of being a hero, something you've already proven to be true when you saved this one right here," All Might nudged Ciana's arm.

Cianas smiled warmly toward the pro as she felt thankful to his words, her gaze now going back to Izuku as she approached him by taking his hands. "Izuku… I admit I would have done the same thing if I was out fighting Todoroki…" she offered her own compassionate smile.

"I admire a lot how you got him to stay true to himself, his dad's probably giving him a hard time by now but despite the bold action… I believe it was enough to save him from his fathers words." Ciana could still see Izukus heroic potential and was happy he was also there for Todoroki.

Stomaching his feelings, Izuku nodded slowly, "I hope so... he looked happy for a moment,"

"I have no doubts both your actions have helped him find a better path," All Might reassured, patting Ciana's back. "Now, rest up, Young Midoriya, I'll be back shortly but first, we've got something to see to,"

"What?" Izuku raised a brow, still a little emotional but curious.

Ciana might know what he's referring to as her smile became bright with her arms behind her back in a cute manner. "You'll find out…" Ciana wanted to leave it as a surprise to Izuku, what she's about to do she hoped would lift not only Izuku's spirits but all the people around here she's trying to help.