A/N: I do not own My Hero Academia or Transformers.
Roaring Start!
Over the next two weeks, everyone in Class 1-A trained like crazy to prepare.
Izuku was running on the beach and doing workouts in his room.
Tenya was doing long-distance sprinting.
Tsuyu was practicing her swimming and catching with her tongue.
Ochaco, Mina, and Yuga were doing target practice.
Fumikage and Darkshaow were testing the limits of his Quirk
Koji connected with the animals in the forest while Rikido was shadowboxing.
Eijiro kept jumping off buildings to build his endurance for his hardening.
Katsuki was practicing his explosions.
Denki was pushing the limits to how much voltage he could produce without going dumb.
Kyoka was practicing using her Earphone Jacks as weapons.
Mashiro and Hanta were practicing their traversal abilities in the fake city.
Mezo and Toru were building strength in the gym.
Minoru was pretending he was awarded first place.
Momo was busy studying countless books to prepare herself for the games and working on her new costume design thanks to Optimus' suggestions.
Shoto was practicing in his family home's yard.
Optimus was working to spread the effects of his transformation further to cover more of his body. He was also building up endurance to last longer in Prime Mode.
Days passed, and before they knew it, it was time for the festival.
The day of the U.A. Sports Festival had begun, and not since All Might's time, has there been a large number of people in attendance, but instead of focusing on the third years as they often do, this time, their reason for being here was due to the first years–specifically Class 1-A.
Since the attack, the media was putting all its attention on the class of young heroes, trying to learn everything they could about them. They learned that the youngest son of Endeavor, the Number Two, was in class. Also, the three boys from the sludge incident involving All Might last year, with that one boy who told off the pros at the scene, were in the class. And that unlike previous years, this class has 21 students instead of 20 students per hero course. Finally, the press had gotten a tip that it was one of the students was the one who sent this monster that had cornered All Might packing. A student by the name of Optimus Prime. Safe to say the reporters were dying for an interview.
Security was also increased as opposed to previous years, hiring many heroes to help out, including Mt. Lady, Kami Woods, and Death Arms. Many other heroes attended, though more for a spectator role than security. They were all interested in learning about those who were destined to be the future of heroism.
In Class 1-A's waiting room, the entire class was sitting in waiting for the festival to begin. Some were excited, others nervous, and the rest appeared indifferent. They were all dressed in the standard U.A. Gym uniforms, something Mina couldn't help but complain about.
Mina: Ah, man. I was totally hoping I could wear my costume.
Mashiro: At least everyone will be in uniforms. That'll keep things fair, right?
Rikido: I wonder what they have in store for us in the first round.
Fumikage: No matter what they've prepared, we must persevere.
Mezo: Right.
Optimus entered the room, having gone out to check on something.
Optimus: Attention everyone! I have just received word that we will be entering the arena soon. Prepare yourselves as best you can!
Everyone soon began doing several exercises to calm themselves down, the anxiety of appearing in front of so many people hit them more than others.
Tenya: You went to check and see when we would be entering. Well done Prime! As expected of our Class Rep!
Optimus merely sighed. Despite the praise, Tenya still refused to call him Optimus, even though he had told him time and time again that's what he preferred.
Momo: Are you ready for this?
Optimus looked over at Momo. He nodded.
Optimus: I am. While I have never before participated in something like this, I am confident I have prepared enough to succeed. How are you?
Momo sighed and Optimus noticed the trembling of her hands.
Momo: I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous. But I also am excited. To be able to show the world what I can do.
Optimus smiled, happy to see the stress of the event hadn't taken away any of Momo's confidence. He then placed a hand on her shoulder, causing her to flinch at the sudden contact.
Optimus: I am glad to hear that Momo. But don't let it get to your head. Otherwise, you may find yourself leaving this competition sooner than expected.
Momo nodded her head in understanding.
Shoto: Midoriya.
The two reps' attention then turned to the Half-Cold, Half-Hot user as he stood in front of the greenette.
Izuku: Yeah, Todoroki, what's up?
Shoto: Objectively speaking, I'm far stronger than you.
Optimus and the others blinked. Where was he going with such a statement?
Izuku: Uhh, yeah. "Isn't that obvious?"
Shoto: However, you've got All Might in your corner, helping you out.
Both Izuku and Optimus flinched at his statement. Did he somehow figure it out?
Shoto: I'm not here to pry about what's going on between you two. But know that I will beat you.
Shoto then turned to look straight at Optimus.
Shoto: That same goes for you too, Prime.
Optimus: "First he challenges Izuku. Then me? What is going on with him today?" May I ask why?
Shoto: It should be obvious. Since the beginning, you've proven you are the strongest in the class, despite the limitations of your Quirk, at least compared to mine. You scored first in Mr. Aizawa's test, passed the battle trials all by yourself, and managed to defeat a creature that nearly managed to kill All Might.
Optimus was about to say something but Shoto cut him off.
Shoto: Don't give me the whole humble routine. I'm sick of it by now. The fact that you downplay your accomplishments is an insult to me and everyone in this class.
Optimus looked around the class to see if that's what everyone thinks. Some shook their heads no, while others had unsure expressions on their faces, that told him more than enough.
Optimus: I am sorry. That was not my intention.
Shoto: I don't want your apology. I want you to bring your best so that I can beat you.
The whole room was filled with tension as everyone stared at the three students.
Denki: What's with all these declarations of war lately?
Eijiro got up from his seat and placed a hand on Shoto's shoulder.
Eijiro: Yeah, what's the big deal? And right before were about to get started–
Shoto shoved his hand off his shoulder and walked away.
Shoto: We're not here to make friends. Don't forget. This isn't a team effort.
Optimus took the time to look at Shoto. Something was different about him compared to when things started. He always had this aloof personality and kept to himself mostly. So where was this sudden desire to beat both him and Izuku coming from?
Izuku: Wait a sec, Todoroki. I don't know what's going through your head or why you think you need to tell me that you'll beat me and Optimus. And yeah, of course, you're better than me. You probably have way more potential than anyone else in the Hero Course. That's why you got in so easily.
Eijiro: Midoriya, you're being a little hard on yourself, and us.
Izuku: No, he's right you guys. All the other courses––they're coming for us with everything they've got. We're all gonna have to fight to stand out. And I'll be aiming for the top too.
Izuku glared at Shoto with a fierce determination, one that seemed foreign on his face to those who knew him well.
Shoto: Fine.
The tension remained in the room for a long moment before someone broke the silence.
Optimus: Very well.
Everyone turned to their class rep.
Optimus: If that is what you wish Shoto, then I will do my best to follow it. However...
He then sent a glare Shoto's way.
Optimus: If you desire me to stop holding back, I would advise you to do the same.
Shoto's eyes narrowed.
Shoto: What is that supposed to mean?
Optimus: I am not the only one who's been holding back. Since the start, you have only ever used your ice, and never your fire. You claim to want to beat me at my best, but how do you expect to do that when you refuse to fight at yours?
Shoto's eyes never looked so dark as they glared at Optimus, but the Prime didn't even flinch.
Optimus: I do not know the reason why you decided to hold back, it is none of my business. But know this, asking for everyone else to try their best, while you only use half your power, makes you a hypocrite.
Shoto gritted his teeth and was about to respond when a guard came to the room.
Guard: You're on everyone.
Optimus turned and nodded thanks to the guard. He then turned to the rest of the class ignoring Shoto's angry expression.
Optimus: It is time. Let us be off.
Present Mic: Hey! Make some noise you rapid sports fans! Get those cameras prepped media hordes! This year we're bringing you some of the hottest performances in sports festival history, guaranteed! I've only got one question before we start this show: Are you ready? Let me hear you scream as our students make their way to the main stage!
At that moment, Class 1-A made their way out of the tunnel into the stadium and were bombarded by the cheering of the crowd.
Present Mic: This first group is no strangers to the spotlight! You know them from withstanding a villain attack––the dazzling students lighting up your TVs with solid-gold skills. The Hero Course students of Class 1-A!
As they walked on the field, gazing out at the jam-packed stadium full of people, some couldn't help but feel nervous. None more so than Izuku it seems.
Izuku: Um... I didn't know there'd be so many people.
Tenya: I hope we're still able to give our best performances, even though all these eyes are watching us. I suppose it's just another aspect of being a hero we all have to get used to.
Izuku seemed even more nervous at that, but Optimus placed a hand on his shoulder to help calm him down.
Optimus: Deep breaths Izuku. Just focus on the here and now, and ignore those people in the stands.
It seemed to help as Izuku took a deep breath to calm himself down.
Eijiro: Present Mic sure did talk us up a lot. Kinda makes me nervous. How are you feeling, man?
He asked Katsuki who had a dark and exciting smirk on his face.
Katsuki: I'm not worried. Makes me wanna win this thing even more.
As they made their way to the center of the field, another class entered from one of the other tunnels.
Present Mic: They haven't been getting nearly as much screen time, but this next group is still chock full of talent! Welcome hero course Class 1-B!
The sister class made their way onto the field, sporting determined looks of their own. The other classes soon followed suit.
Present Mic: Next up, general studies classes C, D, and E! Support classes F, G, and H! And finally business classes I, J, and K! Give it up for all of U.A.'s first-year contestants!
General Student 1: I think we're only here to make the hero courses look better.
General Student 2: I can't wait for this to be over.
Hitoshi merely looked forward with a determined expression. Even if he was here to make the hero course students look better, he was still gonna use them as his stepping stones.
As the students all gathered before a podium in the center of the field, this year's umpire made their way to the stand and waved their whip.
Midnight: Now the introductory speech!
When they saw who it was, many male heroes and audience members couldn't help but blush.
Hero 1: This year's umpire for the first year is the R-rated hero, Midnight.
Hero 2: Amazing.
Hero 3: The other years don't know what they're missing.
Eijiro: Um someone should talk to Miss Midnight about what she's wearing.
Denki: Yeah. That costume should come with a warning.
Fumikage: Is that really appropriate wear for a high school game?
Minoru said nothing but gave an enthusiastic thumbs up.
Midnight: Silence everyone! For the student pledge, we have Optimus Prime!
Optimus: "Wait, what?"
Said student's eyes widened at the declaration. He was supposed to give the opening speech? No one told him about that?!
Momo: I was unaware you would be giving the speech Optimus.
Optimus: Neither did I.
Momo: Eh?
She looked as she saw her fellow rep walk up to the podium. It was then that his words sank in.
Momo: "Wait? Did no one tell him?!"
This was bad! He had to speak in front of all these people, and he didn't have a speech prepared! She looked over at him and was in awe when she found no trace of nervousness in his expression.
Momo: "Right. If anyone can do it, it's you."
Katsuki: How did Robo-Boy get the pledge?
Shoto: Prime did score the highest on the Practical Exam. So he is our Rep.
Katsuki clicked his tongue. If it wasn't for Robo-Boy, he would be the one giving the pledge. Another thing that extra robbed him of.
As Optimus approached the stage, many students watching him whispered amongst themselves.
"That's the guy who got first in the practical?"
"I thought he'd be taller?"
"Is he a foreigner? He doesn't look Japanese."
"What kind of name is Optimus Prime?"
"Man, that Prime kid sure is a looker."
Even the audience members in the stands, especially the heroes were paying attention to him.
"So that's the kid they were all talking about?"
"Yeah, the one who beat that villain that gave All Might trouble?"
"He doesn't look so tough at first glance?"
"Well, there's more to people than meets the eye."
"Wonder what his Quirk is?"
Outside the stadium, Death Arms, Kami Woods, and Mt. Lady were watching the broadcast. They all looked in surprise as they saw Optimus making his way to the stage, recognizing him from the Sludge villain incident a year ago.
Death Arms: Hey it's that kid!
Kami Woods: Oh yeah! He's the one who fought the sludge monster with those other boys.
Mt. Lady: He's also the one who tore into us after the whole thing was over.
All three of them flinched at that.
That day was a real wake-up call to them. Despite being heroes, people who risk their lives to save others, they did nothing while two kids and All Mighit saved the day. Ever since that day, the three have been constantly pushing themselves. Trying to save as many people as they could, regardless of whether or not they had the right Quirk.
They felt a great sense of shame that it took being told off by a high school kid for them to realize that.
From the League of Villains hideout in a bar, Tomura Shigaraki growled as he saw the image of Optimus Prime approach the stage on their TV.
Tomura: That brat!
He looked down at his left hand, which had three prosthetic fingers on them. They might as well not be there at all. Without all five fingers, he couldn't use his Quirk, so his left hand was Quirkless, the same as being useless.
Oh, when he got his hands on Optimus Prime.
In the commentators' box, Present Mic sat next to heavily bandaged Aizawa, who looked at Optimus with pity.
Present Mic: Man being the spokesman for the entire freshman class in front of this many people would make even me wet their pants. Good thing you told OP in advance he had to give the speech.
Aizawa: I didn't.
Present Mic froze.
Present Mic: Wait what?
Aizawa: I didn't tell him he had to give a speech. That was your job.
Present Mic: How is it my job?! You're his homeroom teacher!
Aizawa: I've been covered in bandages and drugged up on painkillers. So it makes sense that things would slip my mind. What's your excuse? Or are you just that lazy?
In the teacher's box, many of the teachers looked at Optimus with excitement.
Snipe: I wonder what kind of speech he prepared. Good thing you told him about this in advance Vlad.
Vlad King was the homeroom teacher of Class 1-B. A tall muscular man with white hair. He also had pointy teeth like a Vampire.
Vlad King: What do you mean? Why would I tell one of Aizawa's brats about the speech? That was Ecotoplams job.
Ectoplasms: Excuse you? I had no such responsibility! It was Power Loader's!
Power Loader, the teacher of the support course, a shot man with a large mask that looks like an excavator claw shrugged his shoulders.
Power Loader: Wasn't my job! He's a hero course student! I have my hands full managing the kids in support. Especially her. Wasn't it Cremotos that was supposed to tell him?
Crementos: No! Thirteen was supposed to do it.
Thirteen: I've been bedridden these past couple of weeks because I had my back torn open! How could I have possibly told him?!
Snipe: Then that just leaves...
One by one, every teacher turned their attention to Toshinori, who was dressed in a suit and currently sweating bullets.
Toshinori: I-It's not my fault! I saw him walk away with Principal Nezu. Surely he told him about the speech.
Nezu: Nope. I completely forgot!
The teachers all jumped as they turned to look at the chimera principal, paling at what he said, and that he did it in such a cheerful tone.
Vlad King: Principal, sir? Shouldn't you be watching the third-year games?
Nezu: I have some time before the games begin. Besides, I'm curious to see the speech Optimus Prime has in store.
Thirteen: We apologize, sir. We completely forgot to tell him.
Nezu: Oh, no worries. Like I said, I completely forgot too. But that makes me all the more curious as to what speech he can give on such short notice.
Snipe: I wouldn't expect much. At most, he might just say our school's motto and that's it.
Nezu: Hmm. I doubt that. I'm sure Prime will be able to surprise us yet.
As Midnight saw the first-year rep approach the stand, she took note of his expression. This may be her first time being the umpire in the games, but she saw many student rep's expressions from previous games. And they were all nervous to some degree. No matter how much they prepared beforehand, even when they had a speech in hand, they still trembled as they made their way to the stage.
But not Optimus. He looked calm and focused, a welcome change to the stuttering mess she was used to seeing in students. What surprised her was that with that confidence, it didn't look like he had a speech in his hand. Was he going to speak purely from memory? Many students did so before him, but they still had that nervous tick about them.
Midnight: Good luck. You can do it.
She whispered to him and he nodded in thanks as he stood up to the microphone. Once again, the heroine was impressed at how calm he was.
As Optimus looked at the countless people lining the stands before him, he took a glance at the cameras and realized that the entire world would hear his next words. Words he had no time to prepare beforehand. However, despite that fact present in his mind, it didn't intimidate him. Guess having to give speeches on the fly during times of war to an entire army was good practice for things like this.
He didn't speak right away, thinking over his words. What he said next would probably define how people would look at him and his classmates for the rest of the games if not their whole lives. He needed to find out how he could get his message across to them.
Suddenly an idea came to mind. He approached the mic, and subtly, channeled the power of the Primes to one specific point in his body. During his two weeks of training for the festival and learning more about his new power, he found that he was able to transfer one specific power to one part of his body without exhausting himself. It was still a work in progress, but he managed to channel the power into one part of his body.
His vocal cords.
(Cue Peter Cullen's Voice, Big shout out to Ace_of_Spades06 for the help in this)
Optimus: There are mysteries to the universe we were never meant to solve. But who we are, and why we are here, are not among them.
The whole crowd flinched back at his voice. How could someone so young sound so strong yet gentle at the same time? His classmates also looked in shock at him while Izuku, Shoto, Eijiro, and Katsuki's eyes widened in recognition.
Optimus: We are here today to show you all what we are capable of, and to reassure you that the future of this world is in capable hands. But ask yourselves a question: Why are you here?
The crowd was puzzled by his question as they looked at each other. What did he mean? They were here to watch the games, isn't that obvious?
Optimus: You may think that you are a simple spectator watching heroes be born and nothing more. But I believe there is more to all of you than meets the eye. More to you than just your appearance, your job, or even your Quirk or lack of one. Something is sleeping deep inside all of you. The capacity for greatness.
By this point, Optimus had the eyes of the entire world focused on him and him alone.
Optimus: Over the years I have walked, there have been many lessons learned, many at a cost. One such thing I have learned is that strength is determined NOT by might, but only if you are strong enough to be gentle to those in need of it. I look to my classmates, to this crowd, to this world, and I see it as our duty to all to protect and preserve the good but to also SAVE those in darkness from the abyss that dragged them there. However, that duty is not ours alone. It is a responsibility that belongs to every one of us. As you watch us students this day, ask yourselves, "Can I become a hero?" My answer to this question, to every one of you, is yes. We can be heroes in our own lives, every one of us. Quirk or no Quirk. If we only have the courage to try. I am Optimus Prime, and this message to all those listening. Watch us, and you too may find the courage to Go Beyond yourselves. Plus Ultra.
(His voice returns to normal)
The entire stadium was enveloped in silence. No one spoke a single word, no one even breathed. Even the students were silent, all of them with wide eyes and mouths agape. Even Katsuki's jaw dropped. Seeing the reaction of his classmates and the audience, Optimus began to grow concerned.
Optimus: "Did I say something wrong?"
And not a second later, the entire stadium filled with deafening cheers. Nobody knew what came over them but they all felt a sense of empowerment from his words, one unlike they had ever felt before. The last time anyone ever felt something remotely similar to this was during All Might's debut.
Present Mic seemed to snap out of his state of awe and managed to speak with a huge smile.
Present Mic: WOW! I didn't know where all that came from, or that our top scorer had such a beautiful set of pipes on him, but man, even I'm fired up more than ever!
Aizawa looked down at Optimus in quiet awe. If he wasn't covered by bandages, you would be able to see his mouth be dropped open. Never before had he heard such an inspirational speech from a mere student. He could feel it in the air and throughout the stadium. Whether it was intentional or not, Optimus' words lit a fire in the hearts of everyone listening. This kid was only 15 years old and he already had a charisma that could rival All Might.
That only made him more suspicious though.
While he had no doubts about Optimus' noble intentions, something was seriously off about this kid since day one. He didn't buy the story the Principal gave them. Too many holes. And of course, there was the USJ, where he out of every other student acted exactly how a Pro should. Even better. There was something different about Optimus Prime. And he was even now more determined to find out what.
Optimus turned to Midnight and bowed his head.
Optimus: I'll be returning to my classmates now, Ms. Midnight.
He then turned and walked back to the crowd of students, leaving the flushed teacher/heroine behind. When she heard him speak in that deep voice, her heart couldn't help but flutter.
Midnight: "If only he was 10 years older. Or better yet, I was a student again."
The student body all looked at Optimus in awe as he made his way back to his class, many of them parting like Moses and the Red Sea. Everyone seemed to look at him in a whole new light. A lot of the females had blushes on their faces as they stared at him, some nearly fainted when they first heard his voice.
Eijiro had tears streaming down his face.
Eijiro: That speech was too manly! I can't take it! How can this guy keep getting even more manly?!
Even Tetsutetsu from Class 1-B was crying.
Tetsutetsu: Why did such a manly guy have to be in 1-A?! He should've gone to 1-B!
In the teacher's lounge, every teacher was looking in awe while Nezu had a smug grin on his mouse-like face.
Snipe: Okay. That was impressive.
Vlad King: Impressive?! That kid just gave what could have been the most inspirational speech in all of U.A.'s history! And he did it all without preparing anything in advance! Why does Aizawa always get the good ones?!
He grumbled the last part to himself.
Thirteen: I'm with Vlad. That was something else. Did you know something like this would happen Principal Nezu?
The chimera just placed a paw to his chin and hummed to himself.
Nezu: I'll keep that a secret for now. Well, I best get back to the third year. Enjoy the games.
He gave a malicious laugh as he left the booth.
Power Loader: Once again, I'm reminded how much that guy scares me.
Ectoplasm: You and me both.
All Might said nothing as stared at the Prime. A look of awe on his skeleton face.
Inside the League of Villains' bar, Tomura was shaking in fear.
Optimus (Flashback): Leave. Now.
That voice. It still managed to send terror through his whole body. But despite the fear he felt, he couldn't help but feel something churning inside him at the kid's words. A long-forgotten dream began to bubble to the surface.
? (Flashback): Let's be heroes Te–
He squashed the memory as quickly as it appeared. No! He wouldn't let this brat get to him!
But despite his thoughts, he couldn't help the feelings from back then begin to resurface.
As Optimus approached his classmates, he saw the look of awe on their faces, and all the girls were blushing as they stared at him. He merely raised an eyebrow.
Optimus: Is something the matter?
Denki: What was that?
Optimus: I just gave my speech. Unfortunately, I wasn't given noticed it in advance so I had to speak from the heart.
Tenya: Are you telling me that you managed to give such an inspiring speech just from the top of your head with no level of preparation whatsoever?!
Optimus: Uhh, yes?
Tenya looked shocked before he soon straightened his posture.
Tenya: Truly you are incredible Prime!
Mina: Who cares about that?! What was with your voice?!
Optimus: What's wrong with my voice?
Hanta: How were you able to go from your regular voice to... that?!
Optimus: I focused my power primarily on my vocal cords. I did so because I thought doing so would help my message reach the student body along with the audience.
Mezo: Well you certainly succeeded.
Toru: Seriously, I've never heard anything like that. It was like a voice from the heavens.
If one could see her face, she would be blushing like crazy.
Kyoka: Yeah, it was pretty nice. No lie Prime.
She complimented with a dust of pink on her cheeks. Having sensitive hearing due to her Quirk, Kyoka heard countless voices of others throughout her life and remembered them all. But nothing sounded so majestic and empowering as Optimus' voice during that speech.
Tsuyu: Yeah. I felt so calm after hearing it. Ribbit.
Ochaco: Yeah, awesome job on the speech Optimus! You killed it!
Momo was silent as she looked at Optimus in awe, a red tint on her face. She knew he would do fine with the surprised speech, but his words blew her expectations out of the water. And his voice. Just thinking back to it caused her heart to race.
Izuku, Shoto, Katsuki, and Eijiro were the ones who were the least stunned by the tone change. Because they heard it before during the USJ when Optimus sent the Nomu flying. But it still hit them just as hard now as it did then. It was a voice that couldn't help but command respect and authority, one they couldn't help but listen to and be enchanted by. Even Katsuki had to admire the voice.
Mina: Hey, any chance you could sound like that from now on?!
Optimus: I'm afraid I cannot. Doing so requires a lot of focus on one part of my body. Plus, even if it is small, it does consume my power, so I wouldn't want to waste it on something so trivial as my voice.
All the girls slumped in depression that they wouldn't be able to hear his angelic voice from now on. Minoru looked like he was ready to tear Optimus apart.
Minoru: "Not only does he have good looks and an awesome Quirk, but now he has a deep voice that can make girls' hearts melt?! Seriously Prime! Leave some for the rest of us!"
Midnight: Without further ado, it's time for us to get started! This is where you begin to feel the pain! The first fateful game of the festival! What could it be?
She flocked her wrist as a holographic screen appeared behind her and a cylinder rolled through numerous choices until it stopped landing on the first game of the Sports Festival: Obstacle Race.
The student body gulped
Izuku: So it's gonna be an obstacle course.
Midnight: All 11 classes will participate in this treacherous contest. The track is 4 kilometers around the outside of the stadium. I don't want to restrain anyone, at least in this game. As long as you don't leave the course, you are free to do whatever your hearts desire! Now then, take your place, contestants.
The students all then gathered at the gate leading outside, many preparing themselves as the three green lights began flashing.
As he stood among the students, Optimus noticed something peculiar about this setup.
Optimus: "I see. Well played U.A."
Soon, the last green light burnt out.
Midnight: BEGIN!
Immediately all the students charged into the doorway.
Present Mic: And we're off to a racing start! How 'bout some color commentary, Mummy Man?
Aizawa: How did you talk me into this?
Present Mic: What should we be paying attention to in the early stages of the race?
Aizawa: The doorway.
Indeed, the doorway was where the most action was happening, as many students had found themselves stuck. The sudden rush to get through as fast as they could caused a massive blockage in the doorway. No one got out and people were constantly getting squished. One student had other ideas.
Optimus, seeing the hidden obstacle before them, reacted accordingly. Transforming his legs, he jumped into the air and spread his legs out wide so that his feet were keeping him suspended in the air. He then caused the wheels on his feet to move, sending him racing down the doorway above the students.
Student 15E: Hey! That's cheating!
Optimus ignored them and continued to drive above the students, but he soon noticed his breath began to be visible despite the warm temperature. Which could only mean–
Shoto: This is the first obstacle.
Immediately, an icy mist began to envelop the doorway the entire path was frozen in an instant, trapping everyone in place. Optimus lept off the way just in time to avoid getting trapped like his classmates.
He quickly saw Shoto make his way out of the doorway ahead of everyone else.
Shoto: Apologies.
Optimus moved to chase after him but turned around and saw four of his classmates, Katsuki, Yuga, Momo, and Eijiro avoid the ice blast and come out of the tunnel unscathed.
Momo: Nice trick, Todoroki!
Shoto spared a glance behind him.
Katsuki: I won't let you get away so easily, you icy-hot jerk!
Katsuki shouted as he chased after Shoto.
Mashiro and Fumikage were able to dodge his ice attack.
Mashiro: You froze me once before so it won't happen again!
Mina was able to stabilize herself by ejecting Acid from her shoes and sliding on the ice with ease.
Optimus smiled in pride as he looked at his classmates.
Optimus: Impressive.
A lot of other students were also able to keep from getting frozen, such as Hitoshi, who seemed to be carried around by three other students. Optimus wondered how he managed to do that. Was it a plan he organized before the event, or was it his Quirk?
Hitoshi: So they are good at using their powers huh? Guess Prime was right when he said not to underestimate them.
Shoto: I didn't expect so many people to dodge that. Especially those from other classes.
He then looked shocked as he saw Minoru through his purple balls onto the ground and use them to bounce around in the air, quickly gaining on Shoto.
Minoru: You think you're so cool, but I've outsmarted you! Ha! How pathetic, Todoroki! Eat this! My special attack! Gra–
WHAM!
He was interrupted as he was suddenly smacked by a large metallic fist. The action caused many people to stop and look in shock.
Izuku: Are you okay?!
Izuku gasped as he turned and saw the same robots from the practical exam standing before them.
1-Pointer Bot: Target acquired. Terminate them.
Present Mic: Ooh! Enemies have shown up out of nowhere! I bet we're in for a treat here! A test of strength and cunning! It's a Robo Inferno!
Three massive zero-pointer robots loomed over the student body, causing many of their resolves to crumble.
Denki: Are those the zero-pointer villains from the entrance exam?
Students: This is what they meant by obstacles?!
Shoto: So this is what the other students faced in the entrance exams.
Momo: Where does the school get the funding for these things? "Seriously, the budget they have exceeded that of my family's wealth."
While many students were hesitant to move due to fear, Optimus wasted no time as he pulled out his Ion Blaster and opened fire on the smaller robots, destroying most of them.
Optimus: We cannot falter now! The world is watching us! It's time to show them all what we are made of!
His words seemed to light a fire in the students' souls, their once crumbling resolve was now only made stronger thanks to the encouragement of Optimus Prime.
A Zero Pointer moved to attack Shoto, but he wasn't afraid as ice began to form on his right side.
Shoto: They obviously went through a lot of trouble, but I wish they prepared something a little more difficult.
He placed his right hand on the ground and began to freeze the area around him as the zero-pointer's hand loomed over him.
Shoto: Especially since my dear old man is watching.
He then swung his arm upward and sent a wave of ice up along the colossal robot's arm, freezing it completely.
Optimus' eyes widened at the power Shoto possessed, but he also looked at him with concern as he overheard him say something about his 'dear old man'. He spoke with such venom and hatred in his voice.
There was a story there.
Shoto exhaled as he then ran in between the legs, the other students in awe of the power of the Son of the Number Two hero.
Student 1: Did you see that? He stopped the robots!
Student 2: Look we can get through!
Optimus was about to charge but he noticed the Zero Pointer looked to be shaking and his eyes widened.
Optimus: EVERYONE! GET OUT FROM UNDER THE ZERO POINTER!
The other students were startled by the Prime's shout.
Shoto: He's right. I froze them when they were off-balance... on purpose.
On cue, the Zero Pointer began to collapse and fall onto the students below. Many cried and bowed their heads, but Optimus moved.
When they impacted the ground, a large dust cloud was kicked up as Shoto kept running.
Present Mic: That's Todoroki from Class 1-A pulling ahead to an early lead with a devastating display! Amazing! He's one we should watch, it almost seems unfair! Thoughts?
Aizawa: His attack was both offensive and defensive.
Present Mic: No wonder he was let in on recommendations! He's never even fought those Robo Infernos before, but they don't stand a chance against his chart-topping moves!
Aizawa: Still just because he's in the lead, doesn't mean we should be focusing solely on him.
Present Mic turned to his co-host with a pleased smile, glad to see he was taking this seriously, for him anyway.
Present Mic: And what should we be focusing on, Mummy Man?!
Aizawa groaned. Why did he let Mic talk him into being stuck here?
Aizawa: First of all, don't call me that. Second, take a look at the fallen Zero Pointer.
Mic and the crowd all looked as the camera focused in on the down metal monstrosity and all gasped.
When he began to see the Zero Pointer fall, Eijiro activated his Quirk, hardening his body, closing his eyes, and bracing himself for the inevitable feeling of being crushed. Only after a few seconds, it didn't happen.
When he opened his eyes, he looked in surprise to see the Zero Pointer's massive robotic Corpse suspended above him and the other students. He then heard the sound of someone groaning and turned, his face one of awe as he stared at the one who saved them.
Optimus stood there, impossibly holding up the massive Zero Pointer with his robot arms. Over the past two weeks of training, Optimus had managed to push his Transformation Quirk to now completely cover two arms, giving him greater strength, close to that of his original form. But despite that, he was struggling to hold up the massive weight.
Present Mic: INCREDIBLE! It seems Prime, also from Class 1-A, is holding up the massive Zero Pointer by himself! I don't know how heavy those things are but let me tell you folks, even All Might would struggle to lift just one of them! However, I can't help but wonder why he would risk himself getting squished like a pancake.
Aizawa: Are you really that stupid?
Present Mic: Hey! Don't call me names when we're live! And why don't you enlighten us, since you see something we can't?!
Aizawa sighed.
Aizawa: He rushed in to protect the students. He realized that Todoroki's attack could lead to several students being injured so he rushed in to protect those who would have been caught in the accident. It was a brave but reckless thing to do. "Looks like I have two brats with no sense of self-preservation."
Eijiro: Whoa! Nice save there, OP! I would've been crushed without you! So manly!
Optimus: Eijrio... While I appreciate the thanks... if you would please... evacuate yourself and others... out from under the Zero Pointer... quickly I might add!
Optimus told him while straining to hold up this massive weight by himself.
Eijiro: Oh right! Everyone! Out from under the Zero Pointer, quickly! Prime can't hold it for much longer!
Everyone under the Zero Pointer listened as they made their way out from under the massive machine, many students offering their thanks to Optimus as they passed by him, but he didn't listen as he focused solely on keeping the massive piece of weight from crushing the others.
As the last student escaped from Zero Pointer, Optimus' legs buckled and he fell to one knee but still kept the Zero Pointer from crushing him and others. Now that he got the others safe, he needed to get himself out of there. He could try punching a hole through the robot itself, but that would take too long.
His thoughts of escape were distracted when he felt the weight on his back lessen. He was confused about how light it suddenly became when he heard a familiar voice.
Momo: Optimus!
The Prime turned to see Momo out from under the Zero Pointer, several large metal poles made of titanium used to help prop up the Zero Pointer. Rikido and Mezo were standing beside her, both holding the Zero Pointer as best they could.
Momo: Come on!
She shouted, just as one of her titanium polls snapped from the weight and the Zero Pointer buckled, causing Mezo and Rikido to strain to keep it up.
Momo: Hurry!
Optimus didn't waste any time as he transformed his legs and his wheels burned rubber as he drove as fast as he could to escape from being buried alive. Several more polls snapped, causing the Zero Pointer to fall closer to the ground.
Optimus slid at the last moment to avoid being crushed as the last poll snapped and the two muscle heads of Class 1-A let go, causing Zero Pointer to hit the ground.
Optimus took several deep breaths, trying to calm down his heart rate. When he did, he looked at the three with grateful smiles.
Optimus: Thank you Momo, Rikido, and Mezo.
Momo blushed slightly at the thanks and his smile, tucking her bang behind her ear shyly.
Rikido: No sweat, OP! After what you did to help the others when the Zero Pointer fell, it was only right to pay you back.
Mezo: Indeed. We just followed your example and helped out someone in need.
Optimus smiled. Glad to see his classmates were taking after him in small ways.
Rikido: Anyway, we should get back to the race, a lot of students pulled ahead while we were helping you.
Mezo: Good luck!
With that, the two boys moved to rejoin the race, leaving both Class Reps to themselves. After a second, Momo composed herself again.
Momo: Shall we get going then?
Optimus nodded and moved to join her in the race but stopped when he heard a panicked cry from behind him.
He turned and saw a dozen General Education students cornered by just as many robots, many of them looking terrified.
Optimus wasted no time in running in the opposite direction of the lead and moving to help those students.
Momo: Optimus!
Optimus: Go on without me! I must help those students!
Momo wanted to say something, but merely sighed and had a fond smile as she watched him rush to the rescue. Of course, while others were merely focused on winning, he would prioritize making sure everyone was safe.
She didn't hate it. It was one of her favorite things about him. He wouldn't be Optimus Prime without that selfless part of him.
So with determination, she continued running to join the race. He would catch up with the rest. She did not doubt in her mind.
As Optimus ran towards the endangered students, he recalled Nezu had wanted him to win the Sports Festival. He knew what he was doing now would risk that goal being accomplished, but if he turned his back on people in need to achieve victory, it would go against everything he stood for. He did tell Nezu he would win this Sports Festival his way.
So, in his right hand, he transformed the limb into an Ion Blaster while his left arm shifted into his sword.
Time to show the world what he was made of!