My Hokuto Academia
AN: Just a fair bit of warning, there will be SPOILERS for both My Hero Academia [Vigilantes too], Hokuto no Ken, and Souten no Ken (and its continuation, Regenesis).
I DO NOT own Hokuto no Ken or My Hero Academia, they belong to their respective creators, Tetsuo Hara, Buronson, and Kohei Horikoshi. Support the official releases, especially of Souten no Ken. Support the official release! Mainly for emphasis!
Also, any songs that were mentioned here belong to their original creators too.
Italics = Flashback
"Italics" = Speaking in a Different Language
'Italics' = Inner Thoughts
Italics = Flashback
"BOLD" = All-Might's tone or Present Mic [excited]
Chapter Twenty-Three:
The Kasumi Residence was quiet, especially after two weeks. Izuku was sweating and aching, especially after sparring with his master. However, there was an up-side, learning a few other techniques AND refining the previous ones he learned.
Internal Energy Release!
Izuku took a small stance, then released a wave of energy. Kensei explained that move is perfect for deflecting projectiles and long-range Quirks too but takes a bit of stamina to do so.
Hokuto Vacuum Finger Bullet!
A strike into the opponent's temple, erasing their memories of an event. It's good for handling delicate situations such as making sure the enemy doesn't leak any sort of info to the public.
Hokuto Thousand Company Kick!
A group-combat technique that is mainly composed of kicks, but Izuku noticed it had some influence from Muay Thai and Kickboxing too, especially with the low kicks.
Ougi: Sobering Sharp Point!
Kensei stated this was a dangerous technique, only utilized in severe situations when a villain needed to be taken alive BUT all your options have been exhausted. It consisted of just a touch, specifically the pressure point known as 'Ryugan' which turns the enemy's body into a bunch of hypersensitive nerves. The slightest touch bringing tons of pain.
Vajra Tempest Assault!
Kensei explained this technique would start out with an opening attack: shoulder tackle or center punch into the stomach. The opponent's stunned, then unload a series of kicks and punches into the opponent's limbs, weakening them for a final attack. There are a few options, but these are the preferred types: uppercut or one-inch punch.
There's a side effect: the impacts are delayed, then they hit like a series of thunderbolts.
The green-haired clenched his fists in determination, ready to compete in the Sports Festival.
Midoriya Residence
It was the next day, Izuku was going to be escorted by Rouga to U.A.'s gates but he was getting held up by his mother.
"Listen, it won't be too bad. Besides, Carmilla and I got tickets for the U.A. Sports Festival anyway."
The journey was pretty short, considering they were focused on getting to school.
Versio Town
Versio Town was but a small town that was next door to Musutafu City, mainly composed of small stores and apartments above them. There were some parks here and there but nothing to write home about. It was also the scene of a beaten group of thugs who just harassed a shopkeeper.
The center of it? A man whose eyes experienced a lot, mainly dusting off his suit vest. He was definitely a Westerner because of his black hair that was cut recently, plus the chin-strap beard that was connected to the mustache. However, what made him stand out was his muscular frame, but his muscles were made for attack, that's for sure.
"So it seems that U.A. Sports Festival is today." said the experienced man. He simply walks away, making his way...
The Blade's Nest
The two Pro Heroes known as Bladefowl and Garm were called upon to serve as extra security.
"What's your opinion on U.A.'s first years?" asked Garm.
"Full of potential. However, there's one thing to be wary of."
"League of Villains, right?"
"Not only that but I heard of a maniac killing heroes left and right. Hosu City to be specific. But here's something special, all the victims have severe cuts. Cuts that belong to a school of Nanto Seiken."
"WHAT! Are you sure?" exclaimed Garm who was caught off guard.
"Yes, but for now. We need to be security for the Sports Festival. I rather not take chances. However, I get the feeling the others will arrive soon."
"Other Pro Heroes, sir?"
"No, the rest of the Nanto Roku Seiken."
"Oh, right. Why?"
"It's simple, Garm. According to legends, when Nanto is in disorder, Hokuto appears to restore order. However, this isn't some prelude to some great calamity. I am on friendly terms with the rest."
"Oh, that's good. But why do you think they are arriving?"
"They heard of Shichisei making a re-appearance and there's his student."
"I get it: you're curious of testing your student against HIS, right?"
Bladefowl nodded but mentioned something else.
"I wonder how my Nanto Suicho Ken can fare against his Hokuto Shinken."
Polar Star Beasts Association
A martial arts school that has a decent-sized building, mainly resembling a modern-day apartment building. It's located on Rokko Island, a man-made island located within Kobe City. Little do people know, the current head instructor is also part of the Six Sacred Fists of Nanto.
He was a muscular man, built like a tank, blonde, and wearing track pants with a sleeveless gi with an orange phoenix on the back. He was busy teaching young teens the basics of Sanda and Shorinji Kenpo, his name? Hakuho Yoryo.
As of now, he's the current successor to Nanto Ho-oh Ken: a free-form style that focuses on all-out attack via high-level speed and power.
"Alright, gather round. We will be watching the U.A. Sports Festival." Yoryo stated in a baritone voice, "If any of you plan on attending a heroics school, remember, you're going to have work harder than normal. These students will already have a year of experience above you! Especially 1-A who just survived a villain attack."
Yoryo's students were a bit distraught about it.
"Show of hands, who's in their first year of high school?"
A few hands shot up.
"Their experience eclipses yours, especially if you transfer during your second year. However, whether or not you can make up for that gap all depends on you."
The students were uplifted by that but with a knowing glance. The TV was turned on, tuning in.
Crested Ibis Studios
A dance studio that is composed of two floors that mainly focused on ballroom dancing and ballet. However, the second floor is where interesting things happen: the head instructor training the successor his fighting style, Nanto Kokaku Ken. However, he's currently meditating on improving his ranged attacks.
The instructor had a well-defined but lithe figure, fitting his position as a dancer and instructor. He had also had crimson hair,
"Something is interesting going on. Plus the studio's closed today, there's but the matter of training my successor."
The instructor's name was Yoko Hoshacho, a former underground fighter who became a dance instructor as a new lease on life. He suddenly got a call, answering.
"Hello, Crested Ibis Studios, Hoshacho speaking."
...
"Bladefowl!? Yes, I know the U.A. Sports Festival is today, one of my students mentioned it."
...
"Oh, are you serious? HE might have a protege! Hmm... now that you mentioned it, I do have a successor in the making."
...
"Wait, that Pro Hero? That very laid back guy? Well, I won't judge too much. My successor has some quirks herself, all topped off by a monocle."
...
"Yes, a monocle. She's from Seiai Academy, an all-girls heroics academy. However, she's quite the learner."
...
"Ah, you're going to be security at the Sports Festival. The bigger question, who else is coming?"
...
"Understood."
Hoshacho hung up, then sighed with a bit of excitement. He made his way to the TV that was mounted on the wall, turning it on and watching the pre-game of the Sports Festival.
Tatooin Station
A man in paltry robes, looking more like a countryside traveler. He had blue hair, slightly medium-length, and what made him stood out were his eyes that were completely white. In addition to that, he was carrying a cane of sorts.
"Hmm... the city's an entirely different place from Tottori City, not as noisy as I last remembered."
The traveler's name was Isshin Narusagi, mainly traveling to visit an old friend of his. However, he noticed a group of thugs picking on a couple.
'Small-timers definitely, packing knives at best.'
He tapped the ground, then got an idea of how many there were: four thugs, likely in their late teens, carrying some pieces, ranging from knives to switchblades, and they're Quirk Users.
"Hey, Katto! This guy's being suspicious!" said a lanky teen. The presumed leader of the group was fairly buff, red-skinned, and a small flame above his head.
"Look, geezer. This doesn't concern you, so keep it moving!"
Isshin sighed, then made a quick motion too fast for the eyes to see. He's at the gang leader's back, sheathing something back into his cane.
"I don't know what you did, but-"
The hot-head's limbs were found with cuts! However, he only fell to the ground, cursing out the traveler for what he did and how he did it. The rest of the gang then cornered Isshin.
"You're not getting away!" said a lanky teen with sharpened teeth.
"Oh, I'm gonna have fun with you." said a built teen with sunglasses, cracking his fists.
"BRING-" said a teen with enlarged arms who was jabbed in the face with the cane-like weapon. He then felt the slashes on his arms, falling quickly after. The sharp teeth teen pulled out a switchblade while the sunglasses-wearing teen stood back.
SLASH!
The sharp teethed teen had his switchblade broken, then his arm limps down to the ground. He then got a kick in the face for his trouble.
"I see, so you have some skill. Let's see how you well you can hit me!" said the glasses-wearing teen. "The name's Kickback! You'll know why in a minute!"
Name: Kickback
Quirk: Burst-Limbs - Once retracted, the joints extend with super-speed! At its current limit, it gives the illusion of teleportation!
Isshin was in a defensive stance, waiting for the next hit.
CRACK!
Kickback's fist only hit the hilt of the cane-like weapon, surprising the thug.
"You were saying?"
Kickback growled in response, then bounced around again. He was going to hit him for sure, but he got a surprise waiting for him. It was in the form of a rising kick, then a turning roundhouse kick which sent Kickback into a wall.
"W-W-What the fuck?! How-How!"
"Your moves were fairly predictable, that is all." said the traveler.
The thug wasn't gonna take this lying down, he got back up and went on the move again!
The traveler sighed, only to take out the cane-like weapon again.
Phantom Heron Slash!
Kickback only saw the blade unsheathed for a moment, but then felt a bit weightless... before crashing into a nearby bus stop. To those with vision-enhancing Quirks, he did the following: unsheath, quick series of slashes, and re-sheath. However, the slash strokes were extremely fast.
Kickback realized something, his limbs had well-placed gashes on them! He could barely move at all. He could only sputter at this moment while the traveler made his way to the couple, apologizing for any harm.
As soon as that was done, the traveler continued walking, using the cane as support once again.
1-A Waiting Room
The entire room was a bit nervous about the Sports Festival, but some such as Mina were a bit miffed on being not permitted to wear their costumes.
"If you ask me, they want everyone on an even playing field," Sato responded, "especially since some costumes would enhance their Quirks too."
"No matter what's the first round, we must overcome it regardless." said the bird-headed teen known as Tokoyami.
Name: Fumikage Tokoyami
Quirk: Dark Shadow - A shadowy, monster-like being from within his body that he can materialize and de-materialize at any will. It can go berserk in the dead of night!
Kokotsu agreed, especially since U.A. loves to mix it up every year, so no one gets an advantage over the others.
"Class 1-A, are you ready? We are entering soon!" said Iida who barged in.
A few people like Sasukasa and Mineta were fairly nervous while others sighed, letting off some anxiety.
"Remember, there's no going back once we march out there!" said Tenya. All of 1-A was a bit nervous but were excited about it regardless. Izuku was doing last-minute stretches, then some shadow-boxing to loosen up some muscles.
"Midoriya." said a calm voice, breaking the green-haired kid's focus for a bit. He looked around and saw the bi-haired kid, Shoto Todoroki. This was a surprise, considering he was very introverted.
"Hmm?"
"If I'm looking at things objectively. We're both the strongest in this room. However, there's something that keeps bothering me, but no matter..."
"Why are you saying this now?"
"It seems All-Might and Aizawa have their eye on you."
Izuku was a bit caught off-guard by this but he needed to explain that's not the case. "Look, they're just worried because my techniques are similar to a vigilante that All-Might possibly fought in the past."
"I see, no matter, I will beat you in this tournament," Todoroki said, albeit with some force indicated by his tone.
"If so, then may the best man win, Todoroki."
"I'm not here to make friends, Midoriya. I'm still winning."
Kirishima and Ashido both attempted to ease the tension, but said the same thing: "Guys, come on! Don't sour the mood, please!"
Bakugo, on the other hand, was grinding his teeth.
Commentators Booth/U.A. Stadium
"HEYYYY! This year's high school rodeo that you all know and love, the U.A. Sports Festival is about to begin! It's time for the first years to arrive on stage! ARE YOU READY?!" Present Mic announced.
"Yamada, why did you drag me along?" Aizawa stated, still with some injuries.
"Come on, who else is gonna be my commentator? However, we have another guest with us today too!" excitedly said Present Mic.
Aizawa raised an eyebrow on who.
The door behind them opened, revealing an older man dressed in a simple tie and yellow leisure suit with combed-back hair. He sat down next to Yamada.
"Hello, everyone. My name is Hayato Antonius."
"YES, EVERYONE! We have the first founder of the kickboxing promotion of Lethal Order, Hayato Antonius. U.A.'s principal personally invited him as a guest color commentator!
Now that formalities are out of the way...
WELCOME TO THIS YEAR'S U.A. SPORTS FESTIVAL! It's where fledging heroes show off their skills, but these guys are at the forefront! Give it up for Class 1-A! THE SAME ONES WHO OVERCAME A VILLAIN ATTACK TOO!"
"Accompanied by music too," said Antonius. "An oldie from martial arts tournaments."
[Kengan Ashura OST - "King and Ashley"]
As soon as he said that, the entirety of 1-A was walking out of the entrance. Izuku, Kirishima, and Ochako were a bit nervous about the number of spectators within the stadium and that's not counting the viewers at home.
"This is all part of becoming a hero, able to perform with tons of spectators watching," Tenya stated, gazing up at the crowd. Bakugo was taking it all in, forming a grin on his face.
"Though they didn't get as much attention but still very talented! Class 1-B!"
Izuku saw Kendo leading the entirety of 1-B as they were introduced. She looked a little buffer than the last time he saw her but she waved hi to the kid as a response.
"Next comes 1-C through 1-E, all from General Studies! Then classes 1-F through 1-H from the Support Course! Last but not least, classes 1-I through 1-K of the Business Course!"
The rest of the classes came through, receiving cheers but not as much as the Heroics Course.
"ALL OF THE FIRST YEARS ARE HERE NOW!"
[Song Ends]
Some students weren't that enthusiastic to be here, one saying: "We're just here to make the Heroics Course look better, are we?"
A whipping sound was made, making everyone focus on the source of that whip. A woman in a very revealing outfit: black leather breastless leotard over a white bodysuit which emphasizes her assets. The males, especially Mineta took this all in. However, there was a little more detail: red gemstone-like accessories in a vertical pattern from the collar to the midriff. Also, translucent black thigh-high stockings and black knee-boots.
"Oh, crap. It's the R-Rated Hero, Midnight!" one student said.
"Where's the principal?"
"He's handling the Third-Year stage like he does every year!" responded Midnight.
A majority of male students and some female students were a bit flustered, though that could be an understatement. However, Kaminari grinned and said: "Well, that's the R-Rated Hero for you."
Tokoyami and Kokotsu both wondered if this is breaking any set rules, especially since she's at a high school.
"Are you sure this is not crossing any lines or-" said Kirishima.
"ALL LEGAL!" Mineta said with a thumbs-up.
1-A and 1-B had a collective thought: 'Somehow I knew that was your next line.'
"QUIET!" yelled the dominatrix-themed heroine as she cracked her whip. The sole crack got everyone's attention which leads to her next line: "It is time for the Student's Pledge!"
'Huh, I wonder who she'll pick.'
"The one representing the students will be... Izuku Midoriya!"
All eyes were on the green-haired kid, but a certain four in the stands were growing concerned. Kensei responding: "Well... did anyone saw this coming?"
"Nope." the bearded Sugawara said.
"Not at all."
Rouga said, "Five yen says he doesn't completely embarrass himself."
The green-haired kid was sweating now, he didn't know what to say, especially for a public speech. However, three of his classmates were pushing him to the forefront.
"Just breathe and think before you say anything.", said Kokotsu who was one of the three pushing him, the others being Kirishima and Kaminari. The kid was now next to the microphone, breathing nervously, but decided to take two deep breaths.
Midnight simply winked in response.
"I'll be honest... public speaking is not one of my fortes. However, I learned the hard way that the world isn't fair. Truth be told, my dream to become a hero looked like a pipe dream."
He took a pause, mainly to compose himself.
"A fateful day at Tattoin Station changed all that, HE helped me realize that dreams are worth fighting for. However, one teacher of mine told me this: 'Ideals don't mean a thing if you're not strong enough to defend them'. It was the wake-up call that everyone needs, especially when you're backed in a corner."
Izuku's classmates were taking this in but Kirishima understood the meaning: having BOTH strength and willpower to do overcome the obstacle in your path. It didn't matter what type of Quirk you had, something his idol Crimson Riot idealized, no, exemplified.
"Here's my way of interpreting it: I want to show the fruits of my progress but also help those struggling to be the best versions of themselves. Even till the day, I breathe my last. That's the type of hero I want to become, doing the right thing regardless of the consequences. That's why I think dreams are worth fighting for."
The audience was silent, taking all this in. However, one clapped their hands, followed by a second, then a third, and so forth. The entire audience started clapping. The speech alone was inspiring but it had weighted realism behind it. It moved the entirety of everyone, even the four in the stands.
Kensei was smirking, realizing that his pupil grew as a person.
Sugawara said: "Your pupil's words have conviction behind them." as he nodded.
Carmilla and Rouga were tearing a bit, giving thumbs-up in response to that speech.
On the grounds, some of 1-A and 1-B were tearing up a bit, realizing that it hit them like a truck. Kirishima was the most moved, followed by a silvery-haired kid and an orange-haired girl too. The other classes, but mostly General Studies were caught off-guard by the kid's speech. They expected some arrogance or looking down on the others.
"He's different definitely."
"You know, I was just going to wing it. Now? I want to give it my all!" a pompadour-style student exclaimed.
"Izuku Midoriya. It sounded you like had a terrible past but instead of letting it twist you... you became stronger in spite of it." the purple-haired student said, realizing that he misjudged some students from 1-A.
The commentators' booth was a similar story, Aizawa was grinning alongside Antonius. They had similar thoughts but Present Mic voiced it out loud for everyone to hear.
"IT'S OFFICIAL! That speech is one for the ages! EVERYONE! GIVE IT UP AGAIN FOR IZUKU MIDORIYA!"
"Now, it's time."
"It's time to get this show on the road! THE FIRST ROUND OF THE SPORTS FESTIVAL WILL BEGIN!"
The entire crowd was fired up now, ready.
Midnight cracked her whip, then said: "Excellent speech. However, it's time for the first game."
A projection of a spinning wheel appeared behind her, complete with tons of images representing the events that can happen in the Sports Festival. She cracked the wheel, spinning it.
"The first event...
it landed on an image of rock pillars.
"... will be the Obstacle Race!
The whole event will be a 4km race around the stadium. It will be held on the outer circumference of the stadium. Everyone knows that U.A.'s selling point is its freedom? Here's the twist: anything is permitted as long as you can stay on the track." finished Midnight but some students noticed a sadistic grin growing on her face.
The students were grouped were into a tunnel entrance, right at the start of the track-line. All 11 classes were getting into their starting positions, but it seems there was a catch to it. What were the obstacles?
"BEGIN!" yelled Midnight as she cracked her whip, beginning the first event of the Sports Festival.
Every student was rushing towards the tunnel with the same idea: a good lead. However, a certain bicolor-haired teen was dragging behind for a reason.
"Hmm... this is a chokepoint, right?" said Antonius.
"Yes. However, this is the part we need to focus most on," said Aizawa.
[Dave Rodgers - "Deja Vu"]
The tunnel was getting difficult for anyone to pass through, some even pushing through and others jumping on others to get through the crowd. The bi-color teen then placed his hand on the ground, lowering the temperature dramatically.
Ice quickly covered the tunnel in a minute, trapping them like mice. Some of them were yelling about being unable to get out while others in vain tried moving.
"Apologies, but I need to get through." as that same teen was passing them.
"I see, very intelligent of the one known as Shoto Todoroki," Antonius said, analyzing the play-by-play.
"He's a recommendation student for a reason, " Aizawa stated, "not only a powerful Quirk but also high-level training from his father, the Number Two."
"Flame Hero: Endeavor, right?" Antonius responded.
"Correct."
The commentary was interrupted by a few explosions on the track, it was from Bakugo propelling himself towards Todoroki. However, a good ton of people was following from behind.
The faux-hawk teen known as Kokotsu scraped and clawed his way out of the ice, followed by the rose-haired girl Bodankata was punching her way through the ice blocks.
"Okay, that was too close!" yelled Mina as she slid across the ice via Acid.
"YOU'RE NOT GETTING AWAY, ICY-HOT!" screamed Bakugo as he propelled himself further. Quickly behind him were Yaoyorozu who vaulted over the ice via instantly-created staff and Iida who used his Quirk to boost over over the ice. Right at the rear, the purple-haired kid somehow had a group of participants carrying him across the ice.
"So my class made it through, no surprise there." as Todoroki observed. However, he noticed 1-B making their way through the ice too.
"THIS... "
CRACK!
"IS..."
CRACK!
"ANNOYING!"
It was Kendo who broke through the ice with her Quirk but she had help from a suited boy in a PE uniform but looked like a mecha human more. As the bi-color teen was observing, he felt something pass by him. He quickly turned around, eyes widening, and then screaming...
"What the Hell?!"
It was a green blur but it made some brief jumps here and there, almost as if it didn't want to slip.
"Midoriya?! How-H-"
"You might want to pay attention to your surroundings, Todoroki!"
Todoroki growled but looked behind him, his eyed widened! The orange-haired girl from 1-B was running fast if anything, her speed was near Midoriya's level! However, there was a spark of lightning on her fingertips too.
'Who are these two?! How are they this formidable?!'
"I'm guessing Midoriya was the first one in the tunnel, right Aizawa?" asked Present Mic.
"Correct. The moment when the race began, he raced past everyone, but one other caught up briefly. That was Itsuka Kendo, I believe." Aizawa stated.
"I see, but Midoriya has stepped onto the first part of the Obstacle Race, did he?" asked Antonius which was a segway.
A loud noise was heard, revealing a giant robot. Large and green, just like the ones from the U.A. Entrance Exam.
"Oh, right! Part One of the Obstacle Race: ROBO-INFERNO!" said Present Mic as quite a few Zero-Pointers emerged. 1-A and 1-B were a bit shocked, one of these things was a challenge but a few of them? The battle just ramped up in difficulty.
"Oh, crap! These things again!" Kaminari yelled, clearly fearing these huge robots. The other classes stared in horror, eliciting a few responses.
"The Heroes Course had to fight these things?!"
"There's no way I can pass this!"
"Oh, crap. We're going to die!"
A Zero-Pointer was making its way towards Izuku but the kid was fast enough to respond.
A-TA!
The Zero-Pointer's arm was sent back a bit, complete with armor cracking. The kid then leaped onto the other arm, striking it too and then followed up with a signature move, one that worried a certain Pro Hero too.
Hokuto Hundred Crack Fist!
A series of punches were underneath the robot's chin, strong enough to punch a decent-sized crater into it. However, he didn't stop until reaching the core of the robot's head.
[Song Ends]
BOOM!
The robot's head exploded and fell over but the green-haired kid landed on the ground safely. There were two other Zero-Pointers in front of him but sent two ki blasts in one's head, stunning it. He decided to play the keep-away game until getting close to their heads or chest areas, utterly destroying them with either his bare hands or a ki-blast.
Todoroki simply glared, generating frost on his right hand. However, he noticed the orange-haired girl from earlier but the strangest thing? Lightning was crackling in her fingers as she struck a Zero-Pointer's tank treads, but the stranger part after that was the brief short-circuiting.
'I cannot let them outperform me, especially since my DEAR father is watching...'
The bi-colored teen just ran so he wouldn't get overtaken but froze a few Zero-Pointers on the way. However, he decided to do the following: tip one over, then tipped another one over as he got close.
"I see... he's creating obstacles and distance between him and the other competitors, very strategic." Aizawa commented while Antonius said, "If Todoroki was a professional fighter, he would be an out-fighter, especially with that Quirk of his."
The Zero-Pointers were now tipping over like a row of dominoes, cutting off any contestant from proceeding further.
"YOU THINK THIS IS ENOUGH TO STOP ME, ICY-HOT!" yelled an irate Bakugo as he busted through the fallen robots, opening up a path for others to follow. However, the orange-haired girl was running right through the hole while two others from 1-A were going over the robot.
Ashido was sliding across while melting one or two One-Pointers, then Yaoyorozu generated a cannon to punch through the fallen robots, clearing another path.
"Class 1-A doesn't spend time standing around, don't they?" commented Present Mic.
"When facing a real-life villain attack... "
Kokotsu and Bodankata were punching through several One-Pointers and Two-Pointers.
"Instead of letting it control them..."
Iida was speeding through, also kicking through a One-Pointer, and then rushing through.
"They applied and learned to drown out their hesitation. If anything, the villain attack was just a taste of the real world they'll face as Pro Heroes." finished Aizawa, 1-A followed by 1-B as they were clearing paths through the fallen Zero-Pointers.
The rest of the classes were in awe but one General Studies student shouted: "Hey, the path is open! Let's follow!"
Izuku was still running but noticed that everyone was getting through, especially 1-A who were catching up. He kept running in response but noticed there was an end to this track. As he got closer, he saw the following: a series of platforms with a decent distance between each one and on top of that? Each one connected by a tightrope.
"THE FIRST BARRIER WAS A CAKEWALK! BUT... it's just a prelude to the second barrier, THE FALL!" shouted Present Mic.
"How did they build this?" questioned Midoriya before leaping into the air, but then generated his green aura. He leaped a little higher than normal but safely landed on the platform. He then walked on the next tightrope but then leaped across to land safely on the platform, it was a simple process for him.
"Hmm, he's only using his Quirk at his minimum," commented Aizawa. "I'm seeing a whole new aspect unfolding."
"And what would that be, Aizawa?" asked Antonius.
"Midoriya's using his Quirk to enhance his jumping ability, albeit briefly. I thought it was a normal enhancer Quirk but his other physical abilities were boosted to a degree."
"I see, that is understandable. Also, I notice that Bakugo and Todoroki are catching up in their methods: one propelling himself while the other's forming an ice slide across each platform."
As they commenting, Todoroki was glaring as he was making ice slides, trying to catch up to Midoriya. However, the bi-haired kid noticed that the same orange-haired girl wasn't too far behind him. Right behind her was an explosive boy screaming his head off.
"YOU GOT ANOTHER THING COMING, DEKU! ESPECIALLY IF YOU THINK YOU'RE GONNA GET FIRST PLACE WITHOUT PUSHING YOUR HARDEST!" shouted Bakugo as he propelled himself from obstacle to obstacle. However, Shoto ignored him and the orange-haired girl as he kept going forward in an attempt to catch up to Midoriya.
"I'm getting close..." said Todoroki as he was getting closer.
Kensei spoke up, saying "Wait a minute, that's the son of Endeavor."
"Correct, that explains how he's able to get ahead of the pack and his sound judgment during the race. However, he will be at a disadvantage," responded Sugawara.
"How so?" Rouga asked.
"From seeing his Quirk in action, he's more of a long-range type. Izuku can compensate for that difference with his speed and the techniques he was taught." Sugawara responded, answering Rouga's query.
"However?"
"I just wonder if my granddaughter and Izuku will be able to hold back in the next events, wait, what are they anyway?"
"Oh, that's simple. The UA Sports Festival always had a series of different events but there's one constant: combat tourney at the end. The question of them holding back is more of how can they minimize the injuries inflicted on competitors." Carmilla answered, dumping a bit of info.
"AND NOW! THE FINAL STRETCH OF THE RACE! LANDMINES!
Not just any normal ones... they're the flashy and loud type!"
"Wait, is that even safe?" asked Antonius.
"Oh, yes, they are! However, they're hidden in a way that will require you to use your sight and reflexes. Especially if you land on one by complete accident!"
As Present Mic finished his talk, Izuku was trying to dodge by jumping from place to place, avoiding the landmines. However, he thought of an idea, something that can exploit the pack trailing behind him.
The green-haired kid threw a small ki orb to his left, then one to his right. Todoroki then realized what he was doing, then tried shouting.
BOOM!
A decent-sized explosion occurred, blocking the vision of the other contestants and if one can focus their hearing: an ash-blonde boy was cursing his head off in frustration.
"If you think that's stopping me, you got another thing coming, Deku!"
However, the damage was done. It was a decent-sized mist of smoke that stopped the contestants for a brief few moments, making them question what exactly happened. The last few seconds made a huge difference, Midoriya was able to get further ahead while Todoroki could barely see through the smoke. The bi-colored boy then made an ice slide in a last-ditch attempt to catch up but it was too late.
The green-haired boy was the first into the tunnel and out.
"And the first event of the U.A. Sports Festival comes to a close! Especially with the first one, Izuku Midoriya! Following that is Shoto Todoroki, then Itsuka Kendo, and one by one, the rest are coming afterward!"
"I see Midoriya becoming a respectable Pro Hero and a fighter if he so chooses."
"I have heard from my students that Midoriya is also training to be a professional fighter too."
"Wait, really?!" said an excited Antonius. "Who's training him, that's my question!"
"He has three teachers, one of them being Rouga Fuyushiki."
"The Hellhound from the Underground!? Oh boy, he's going to rock AND devastate the competition. Granted if he holds back."
"Holds back?"
"The Hellhound's infamous for crippling his opponents, especially a certain kickboxer who was out of prison. I think his ring name was Wendigo."
Present Mic and Eraserhead were quieted by this, the latter realizing that Rouga might have potentially crippled him for life if he didn't have Midoriya to teach. In a way, he owed the problem child.
"Well, Aizawa. It seems Midoriya has more to him than you think."
"Oh, that reminds me. A certain someone told me something special is happening at the end of the Sports Festival. However, I'm not spoiling anything." said a cheeky Antonius.
"As we'll see, the top 42 contestants will be passing to the second round. Let the results show!"
1. Izuku Midoriya
2. Shoto Todoroki
3. Itsuka Kendo
4. Katsuki Bakugo
5. Tenya Iida
6. Momo Yaoyorozu
7. Setsuna Tokage
8. Reiko Yanagi
9. Sunako Yorucho
10. Neito Monoma
11. Mina Ashido
12. Hitoshi Shinso
13. Hanta Sero
14. Mashirao Ojiro
15. Nirengeki Shoda
16. Hiryu Rin
17. Jurota Shishida
18. Fumikage Tokoyami
19. Eijiro Kirishima
20. Denki Kaminari
21. Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu
22. Minoru Mineta
23. Sen Kaibara
24. Kyoka Jiro
25. Kasui Kokotsu
26. Joanna Archer
27. Rikido Sato
28. Tsuyu Asui
29. Kosei Tsuburaba
30. Hiryu Rin
31. Mezo Shoji
32. Yui Kodai
33. Bella Sasukasa
34. Kuri Suisei
35. Ochako Uraraka
36. Tyrone Kishijuu
37. Nobiko Soki
38. Shihai Kuroiro
39. Pony Tsunotori
40. Togaru Kamikiri
41. Mei Hatsume
42. Yuga Aoyama
As the results were shown, Izuku was very happy with the results though Bakugo was screaming his head off for falling behind further. Kendo approached Midoriya, saying "I'm gonna be honest, trailing behind you on 2nd place was my main goal."
"Yeah, you did not hold back at all."
"That small ki-blast, though? I did not see that coming, hell, it stunned me for two seconds."
However, a whip cracked, silencing everyone. Midnight then spun the wheel, determining the next round of the Sports Festival.
"The next game will be...
THE CAVALRY BATTLE!"
Everyone was caught off-guard by this but Midnight explained the game like this: teams of four but they require one rider and at least one horse. Each student is given a point value and a team's value depending on where their members finished in preliminaries.
"That's the entirety of the Cavalry Battle! However, there's a twist to it..." said Midnight, forming a smirk. "Midoriya, you believed that your point value would be 210, right?"
The green-haired kid nodded, expecting another surprise.
"You see, the point value for 1st place? Ten. Million. Points."
A few seconds passed, the info finally imprinting on Midoriya's mind, and then responded in horror.
"H-How is that fair?! At all!?"
In a whole roundabout, nearly every first-year turned towards Midoriya.
"So... no matter what place you're in... " said Mineta.
"Once getting the ten million points..." said a Gen Ed student.
"You're on top." said Bakugo, grinning.
"The Cavalry Battle is a battle for survival of the fittest! Those at the bottom can still rise up to the top, plus this is what PLUS ULTRA means! Those at the top will suffer more, therefore pushing them to overcome these obstacles!"
Izuku was nervous but took a deep breath, then said to himself: "So, this is how my master felt. Surrounded by both sides."
"The game will be structured like this: 15 minutes, each team's total depends on each member's points from the previous round, and they're represented by a head-band with the value on it. Teams are allowed to grab the others' headbands until the timer runs out.
However, the stolen head-bands need to be worn from the neck up! The more you steal, the harder it is to manage! All in all, the higher you score, you make yourself a bigger target!"
Every first-year took this info in, prompting Iida to say "42 people here, so it will form about 10 to 12 teams on the field."
"Well, what are you waiting for?! Start building your teams now!" yelled Midnight with a crack from her whip.
Izuku was now pondering on whom he could add to his team but a single thought was stonewalling him.
'Oh, crap. Ten million points. No one wants to have a gigantic bullseye on their back. Crap, crap, crap, crap!'
AN: Hakuho Yoryo is the descendant of Souther. The given name is composed of the characters for 'amber' and 'phoenix' while the surname has the meanings of 'sunlight' and 'feather'. In addition, his name in Chinese is Baifang Yangyu.
Yoko Hoshacho is the descendant of Juda [or Yuda as it's written], the name of composing of the characters for 'carmine', 'radiant', and 'bird'. In addition, a bit of inspiration from Keizaburo Sawada of Kengan Ashura.
Isshin Narusagi is the descendant to Shu, the name comprising of the characters for 'one mind', 'sound', and 'heron'. A bit of Zatoichi came into this character too.
Kickback - basically inspired by a villain within a live-action fan-film called UA Los Angeles.
Oh, by the way, my readers. I recently got a new job a week ago, so a good chunk of my time was at work. By the way guys, HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Glossary:
Vajra Tempest Assault - A technique that starts out with an opening attack: shoulder tackle or center punch into the stomach. The opponent's stunned, then unload a series of kicks, elbows, and punches into the opponent's limbs, weakening them for a final attack. There are a few options, but these are the preferred types: uppercut or one-inch punch. Its original Japanese name is Kongo Areshu [the characters for 'Vajra', 'Tempest', and 'assault']. Fun fact: Vajra also means Thunderbolt when translated from Sanskrit.
Internal Energy Release - A defensive technique in which the user stops projectiles being thrown towards one's body, especially with the use of touki. Its original name in the Japanese is called Hakkei no Ho. It's also called Method of Internal Energy Release in the anime subs too.
Hokuto Vacuum Finger Bullet - A technique that strikes the opponent's temple, erasing their memories of an event. Its original name in Japanese is Hokuto Kyoumu Shidan. At times, it's called Nothingness Attack [yes, I'm serious].
Hokuto Thousand Company Kick - The group-combat technique that is mainly composed of kicks. However, it does have influence from Muay Thai and Kickboxing, especially in the low kicks. Its original name in Japanese is Hokuto Senren Kyaku.
Ougi: Sobering Sharp Point - A secret technique in which the user strikes the enemy's pressure point known as Ryugan. As a result, the opponent feels as though he's/she's covered in bare nerves. The slightest touch will cause tons of pain. Its original name is called Seiei Ko, though it's sometimes called 'Awakening Sharp Point' or 'Sobering Sharp Hole'.
Phanom Heron Slash - A Iaido-style attack, mainly attacking the enemy's limbs at such a high speed, the strokes seem invisible. By the time the user re-sheathes his/her blade. The cuts are made obvious. Its closest Japanese translation is called Yurogiri.
Ryugan - A pressure point that turns the body's feelings into that of bare nerves, the slightest touch will causes tons of pain.
Stay tuned for the next chapter!