A/N: I do not own Transformers or My Hero Academia
A Prime Obstacle
A group of General Education students were surrounded by half a dozen robots, shaking in terror. None of them had a Quirk to deal with these robots, which was why they were placed in the General Class to begin with.
Student 1: What was U.A. thinking?! Why would they throw these things at us knowing we didn't have a Quirk to deal with it?!
As the robots loomed over them with their menacing red eyes, blue plasma shots impacted the side of several robots, drawing their attention away from the General Ed students. The students looked in surprise to see Optimus Prime come charging into the battlefield, both his hands transformed into Ion Blasters.
A three-pointer aimed and fired a volley of missiles at the Prime. Optimus leaped over the missiles and rolled on the ground. Seeing the robot was about to fire more missiles, Optimus fired a shot to its shoulder which caused it to turn slightly sending its missiles directly in the path of its fellow robots.
The friendly fire made quick work of the other robots, clearing a path for the general ed students, who all looked at Optimus in awe.
Optimus: The way is now clear. Go now!
Student 2: But why would you help us? You don't know us. And this is a competition?
Optimus: Do I need a reason to help when someone is in danger?
His words struck a chord with the students who looked at him in awe. He then turned away and walked toward more robots, moving to help more students in trouble.
General Student 3: Man, I thought that guy was probably all talk at first, but he's the real deal.
General Student 4: You said it. Wouldn't want to get on his bad side.
As Optimus was busy hanging in the back and saving the students who couldn't defend themselves, the rest of Class 1-A was pushing on. The whole class showed no hesitation as they rushed through the Robo Inferno. A skill and trait they picked up on after their close encounter with villains at the U.S.J. As Aizawa put it best, they learned not to hesitate, because hesitation leads to death.
Present Mic: Wow! Almost all of Class 1-A is tearing through the Robo Inferno with no problem. But it seems one member of the stars of today is hanging in the back taking down the remaining inferno! What do you think your star student is up to Eraserhead?!
Aizawa: He taking down the majority of the robots. Isn't that obvious?
Present Mic: Uh, he does know this is a race right? Taking down more bots won't grant him a spot in the next round.
Aizawa: He knows. He just doesn't care. Optimus Prime isn't motivated by the promise of victory or the glory of first place. All he cares about is making sure his classmates are safe. It's why he rushed in when that Zero Pointer fell after Todoroki froze it.
Present Mic: Well, looks like this is as much as we'll see out of Optimus Prime in the whole festival.
Aizawa: Don't read the will just yet. He might just manage to surprise us.
Present Mic looked to his long-time friend in surprise. It was rare to see him speak so highly of a student, much less a first-year. Did Aizawa have faith in one of his students?
Optimus had just cut down the last of the smaller robots with his sword before transforming his hand back to normal. He then extended the hand to a downed student who graciously took it.
Optimus: Are you okay?
The person he held was a blond girl with a mix of Japanese and American heritage, as well as a set of horns on her head and hooves for feet.
Pony: Yeah. Thanks for the save, partner. That two-pointer almost had me. Oh, I'm Pony by the way. Pony Tsunotori. It's nice to meet a fellow foreigner here in U.A.
Optimus: Nice to meet you Pony. I am Optimus Prime.
Pony: I know. Heck, everyone knows who you are.
Optimus: I see. "Looks like everyone is paying attention to me, exactly as Nezu planned."
Pony: But why'd you help me? Are we in opposite hero course classes? Aren't you helping out an enemy?
Optimus: Why would you be my enemy? We're all here training to become heroes. Shouldn't we be focused on becoming better allies?
Pony's eyes widened at his words. Granted the only reason she voiced such a concern was because one of her classmates Neito Monoma, has it out for Class 1-A, for some strange reason. Hearing how they got the top scorer in the practical exam, had 21 students as opposed to the normal 20, and survived a villain attack got on his nerves for some reason. So much so that he spread that competitive spirit to those like Tetsutetsu and others. Thankfully, their Class Rep, Kendo Itsuki managed to help keep him in line, with a hard chop to the neck.
Pony: Yeah, you have a point. But there's no way I'm letting you beat me!
She flashed him a challenging smirk before taking off.
Optimus smiled. While he never was one for competitive sports, he did enjoy seeing a positive example of competitive spirit. Anyway, it was time for him to get back in the race. He already handled a majority of the robots for the other students. But in so doing, he had fallen behind the leaders by a wide margin.
He transformed his legs and kicked up a dust cloud as he drove to the second obstacle. He heard Present Mic say something about a fall, but he didn't know what that could mean.
Only when he arrived did he see what the loud obnoxious hero meant. It was a large canyon of stone pillars, with tightropes connecting the pillars. Several students were taking it slow and steady going across the lines. Others were either flying over it or jumping from pillar to pillar.
Optimus: "It seems the students will need to cross without falling into the pit below."
He then heard a scream and his eyes widened when he saw a girl lose her balance on the tightrope she was on and begin to fall. Without hesitating, Optimus rushed in, drawing his sword and cutting the tightrope she was just on from his end before using it to swing and catch her much like that one hero from those comics Jack, Miko, and Raf showed him. When the arc of their swing reached its maximum height, Optimus let go of the rope and landed on one of the pillars.
Collecting himself, he turned to the girl in his arms.
Optimus: Are you okay?
The girl he saved was a young girl with shoulder-length, bob-shaped hair, side-swept to her right, with shorter strands hanging above her eyes. She had fair skin, an athletic build, and cerulean eyes, and was wearing an awed expression on her face as she looked at him. This was Yui Kodai, a member of Class 1-B.
She soon realized she was staring before looking away with a neutral expression on her face, though that did little to hide the pink on her cheeks.
Yui: Yes.
Optimus sighed in relief. He did not doubt that whoever fell into the pit would survive, given it wouldn't be appropriate to murder students on live television, but he reacted instantly to save.
Optimus: That's good to hear. Try to stay safe for the rest of the course, okay?
Yui: Mm.
She just nodded, but Optimus took that as a yes.
Optimus then looked out to the course to see how the other students were doing. He saw Tenya was about to transverse the fall. He managed to pick up Tenya saying something to himself.
Tenya: My older brother's probably watching. I can't do anything foolish. I got this.
He then proceeded to travel down the tightrope his hands held out in a T-Pose for balance as his engines propelled him forward.
Present Mic: Boy does he look foolish!
Optimus frowned at the hero/teacher's comment. What Tenya did was the most logical course of action. This way he would be able to keep his balance and travel through the course safely. Now was Optimus gonna copy him? No way in Kaon's Pits.
But that was because he had a different idea in mind. He ran to the edge of the platform and leaped off aiming for the side of a nearby pillar. Transforming his hand, he ejected an Energon Hook and latched onto the side of the pillar. Then, focusing the Energon into his legs, he leaped to the next, exploding in a burst of speed and power as he latched onto another stone pillar with an Energon hook.
It took some getting used to, but soon enough, Optimus was making it through The Fall like a pinball, bouncing between pillars.
His attention was soon captured when he heard the cackling of a mad woman. Looking up in the sky, he saw a girl with shoulder-length pink hair. She wore the regular U.A. gym uniform, but she also added some of what could be her gadgets onto it, including red and gold steampunk goggles, a utility belt to hold the various tools she carries around, oversized speed-assisting boots, and what could be a jet pack strung over her shoulders. She must be a support course student, given they could use their handmade gadgets for the Sports Festival.
Support Course Student (SCS): Notice me and my super cute babies, companies! AHAHA!
Optimus' eyes widened as he looked around frantically, searching for any signs of human infants.
The SCS landed on one of the pillars but did so that she ended up losing her footing and began to fall. She shot a hook from her harness to try and latch onto a nearby pillar, but the shot was too wide and it ended up missing, causing her eyes to widen in fear. Optimus came in an instant, grabbing the line and landing on a nearby pillar.
The SCS reacted instantly and pressed a button that caused her to be pulled upward. Optimus used his strength to lift her from the line up to the top of the stone pillar. He soon joined her.
Optimus: Are you okay Ma'am?
The SCS's eyes sparkled as she looked at him.
SCS: I found you!
Optimus blinked. She found him? She was looking for him?
Optimus: Excuse me?
SCS: I saw you earlier! How you made those wicked awesome sword babies with your hands and used them to slice apart. SWICK! SLASH! SWOOM! Sword hand Slice!
She then made several cutting motions with her hands. Optimus chuckled slightly at her attitude. It reminded him much of Miko and her excitable nature. Though he didn't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing. Ignoring that thought for now, he asked a question.
Optimus: Pardon me for asking ma'am, but what did you mean by babies earlier? I didn't see any infants with you.
The SCS's eyes gleamed with pride as she gestured to her pack and boots.
SCS: You're looking at them! These special babies are gonna help momma get noticed by all the support companies and make her name known throughout the world!
Ah, so she meant her inventions. He heard some creators refer to their inventions as their children, something Preceptor did often. That made way more sense.
SCS: But you! I could tell just from a first glance those metal hands of yours are truly something special! I've studied countless metals from aluminum to vibranium and I've never seen anything like that before! It's like it came from a whole 'nother planet!
Optimus: "She's not wrong."
SCS: Please! I beg of you! Give me your arms!
Optimus backed away until he was on the edge of the pillar, the girl's eyes sparkling as she stared at his arms like a piece of meat.
Optimus: I'm afraid I cannot do that ma'am.
SCS: (Whining) Why not?! I want to study that metal?! Do you know how many wonderful babies I could make for you if you just give me a piece?!
Optimus thought about it for a moment. What she said did have some merit. If she could somehow replicate the metal of his cybertronian body and make weapons out of it, it would do well in his future career as a hero. And he could use the metal to reinforce other parts of his body so he would get less injured.
Optimus: How about this? After the Sports Festival, I will come to visit the Support Course and then you can look at the metal of my transformations. Does that sound like a reasonable deal?
The Support Course Student's eyes shone like stars with excitement!
SCS: You mean it?!
Optimus: I give you my word ma'am!
SCS: Awesome! Don't forget your promise! If you do, I'll hunt you down and cut off that arm with a buzz saw.
Optimus: "I don't think she's joking." Let's introduce ourselves. I am Optimus Prime from Class 1-A.
Mei: Nice to meet you! I'm Mei Hatsume, a future inventor, from Class 1-H! Please to meet you, Metal Man!
Optimus: My name is Optimus Pri–
Mei: Now it's time to get back to the race! Mama needs to show off her babies!
And with that, Mei jumped off the pillar and continued to make her way through the canyon, leaving a bewildered Optimus behind. He sighed.
Optimus: The humans do have strange ways.
But he had a fond smile on his face.
Optimus: But that's what makes them so interesting.
He then continued his way through the canyon of pillars, helping out any other contestant who looked close to falling.
Hero 1: I have to say, this batch of first years looks promising.
Hero 2: Yeah. I don't remember a crowd being as hyped as they are now since the time All Might went to U.A.
Heroine 1: It's because of Class 1-A. No hero class was ever attacked by villains before, so everyone's excited to see what they learned.
Hero 1: Who do you have your eyes on?
Hero 2: I got my eyes on Endeavor's kid. He's already done so much with his Ice. Wonder how powerful he'll be when he starts using his fire?
Heroine 1: The explosion kid's got my eye. He's getting through most of those obstacles like their a breeze.
Hero 1: I know what you mean. Compared to those two, not much of Class 1-A looks to be all that impressive with a few exceptions.
?: You think so?
The three heroes turned at the voice and their eyes all widened at how they saw.
She was a short woman, around 5'2.5'', but her white rabbit ears made her look taller. She had white hair and light brown skin. Her legs were strong and muscular. She wore a white and purple hero costume with a crescent moon on the chest and a bunny tail on her rear. This was Rumi Usagimyama, AKA Mirko, a loner pro hero who was quickly climbing up the ranks.
Mirko: I think the rest of Class 1-A is just as, in some cases more impressive, than those two. Especially that one kid who gave the opening speech. What was his name again? Optimus Prime? Weird name. Sounds more like a hero name to me.
The three heroes were surprised to be in the presence of such a rising star, and also who she focused on.
Hero 2: The first-year rep? Sure he's impressive, especially since he managed to score the top of the Entrance Exam, but he hasn't done that much since the race started.
Heroine 1: Yeah. He's been mostly in the back with the other classes while other members of Class A take the lead. Seems he was just all talk.
Mirko scoffed.
Mirko: If you idiots were paying any real attention, you would've noticed why he was hanging back! Take a look at the screen!
She pointed at the jumbotron and the three heroes looked to see Optimus rescue another student, this time General Ed from falling into the canyon.
Mirko: The reason why he isn't out in front is because he's been hanging in the back, helping those who are struggling!
Hero 1: But why? This is a competition? So why would he help out his opponents like that?
Mirko shrugged.
Mirko: I don't know. Maybe he's just that big of an idiot? Or he's so confident that he can win that wasting some time helping out others won't impact him too much? Doesn't matter. He'll win, or at the very least, come into the top 10. I don't doubt that for a second.
The three heroes looked at Mirko in disbelief, surprised to see her speak up for a student. Even she was shocked by how much she was supporting Optimus.
But she couldn't help it. There was something about that kid. Something that just screamed greatness!
She usually hasn't attended the Sports Festival since graduating. Most of the heroes who come to this thing were looking for heroes to take on as interns, or even sidekicks. Not her. She was a loner. Always was, and always will be. So she didn't think to waste her time watching a bunch of brats beat the snot out of each other, even if it was entertaining at times.
But this year, she decided to make an exception. Like many heroes here, she too wanted to see what Class 1-A was made of since their fight with a villain. She still wasn't looking for a sidekick or someone to take on as an intern, but she was curious to see what a bunch of brats who encountered villains before their first internships could do. And she wasn't disappointed.
But like she said, the person she had her eyes on the most was Optimus Prime. It all began with his speech at the beginning. Despite having no interest in taking on interns or sidekicks, she did usually tune in to the opening speech, just to see if any of the brats would wet themselves talking to so many people. That was always a good laugh.
But, to her pleasant surprise, the Prime kid didn't look the least bit nervous. She either thought he must've been well prepared, or had balls of steel.
But when he gave his speech, everything changed.
She didn't know what it was. Maybe it was his voice, his words, or maybe even her enhanced hearing thanks to her Quirk, but his words hit her right in the core.
Since becoming a hero, she focused most on fighting villains. Sure if someone was in danger, she would rush in to help. But her main focus was always the thrill of fighting and beating villains. It was one of the main reasons she became a hero, to take down scumbags who thought they could get away with bad things.
But after Optimus' speech, she couldn't help but evaluate herself and her reasons for being a hero. She still wanted to beat the bad guys, like always, but at the same time, she wanted more. She wanted to do more for the people she protected than just stop the villain. She wanted to inspire them, more than she already did. She wanted to make the little kids smile at the sight of her.
Mirko: "Gosh look at me. Going soft all because some kid said some sweet honey-filled words."
But she knew the truth. Prime meant every word he said in that speech of his. He truly believed anyone could become a hero, even if they didn't have a Quirk. Before today, she would have called bull on that kind of crap. But now...
She smirked.
She couldn't wait to see the fire that would rage because of his words.
At the front of the pack, Shoto came to a stop next to two large signs that said "DANGER MINES" with a red skull on it. In front of him was a dirt pathway, covered in countless dark circles.
Present Mic: And now, we're finally approaching the last obstacle. Everyone had better tread carefully/. You're stepping into a minefield! If you look carefully you'll see where those little bombs are buried, so keep your eyes on the ground, folks. By the way, those land mines were designed for the games, so they might be loud and flashy, but they're not that powerful. Just enough to make you wet your pants!
Aizawa: Get a hold of yourself.
The students began making their way through the minefield, doing their best to avoid stepping onto any landmines. One such student failed and a purple explosion went off, sending him flying.
Random Student: I'm okay!
Shoto was tiptoeing his way carefully through the mines.
Shoto: "Very clever. Those in the lead are actually at a disadvantage here. Guess it makes for good entertainment."
BOOM! BOOM!
Shoto heard explosions from behind him. At first, he thought it was just some other poor contestants sent flying from the mines, but these explosions sounded different. He turned around and his eyes widened when he saw Katsuki flying towards him, using his explosions to keep him afloat.
Katsuki: Ha, ha, ha! It's over.
With a yell, coupled with a powerful explosion, Katsuki propelled himself into the lead!
Katsuki: Idiot! You're declaration of war, was to the wrong people!
Katsuki then turned his explosion onto Shoto who dodged.
Present Mic: Just like that, a new student has taken the lead! The media here is going crazy! There's nothing they love more than an upset!
As the two lead students battled it out for first, the rest of the students made it to the minefield, trying to find the best approach to move through it. Tenya himself tried to outrun the explosions as he sprinted through, but he wasn't fast enough and was caught up in the explosion.
Present Mic: Hey, hey, hey! The rest of the competitors are catching up, too! And what's this? Can our two leaders fight each other and stay in front of the competition?!
Optimus soon arrived at the minefield and grimaced.
Optimus: "What I wouldn't give to be able to fly again?"
He could channel the power of Onyx Prime and form the Dragon Wings to fly over the minefield, but doing so would take too much out of his system. It wasn't small like changing his voice. He needed to conserve his energy for the next two events.
He could make his way slowly through the minefield, but given how far back he was compared to everyone else, he doubted he would make it through in time before the first 42 competitors crossed the finish line.
He was pulled out of his mind when he heard the sound of exertion. Turning, he looked and his eyes widened as he saw Izuku, holding a piece of a robot, dig a pit full of mines.
Optimus: "Don't tell me? Is he going to–"
Izuku: Thanks for the idea, Kacchan! Super explosion turbo speed!
Holding the piece of metal in front of him, he ran and jumped on the gathered mines!
BOOM!
A massive pink mushroom cloud formed from the start of the Minefield, the ground shaking beneath everyone's feet. Everyone stopped, even Katsuki and Shoto, and looked at the front. Emerging from the pink cloud, Izuku Midoriya was flying through the sky at high speeds.
Tenya (Baffled): Midoriya?
Present Mic: Whatever the case, Class 1-A's Izuku Midoriya, is suddenly in hot pursuit of first place!
The next second, Izuku sailed past both Katsuki and Shoto.
Present Mic: Strike that! The lead is his!
The crowd-watching went crazy, and so did the two leaders. Both of them forming an unspoken truce, they chased after Izuku, Shoto forming an ice path to make his way faster across, unintentionally helping others, but not caring in the slightest, as he had more important things to worry about.
Back at the start, Optimus couldn't help but stare in amazement at Izuku's actions. What he did was beyond reckless and could have seriously hurt him. But he bravely took the risk and it paid off for him. Seeing such an action inspires Optimus.
Optimus: "Right. No time to be careful. It's time to show the world what I can do!"
Getting into a sprinter starting stance, he transformed his legs and revved up the wheels. He also began to focus the Energon in his body down to his lower half, specifically the wheels, causing them to spin so fast they kicked up a dust cloud.
Over the past two weeks of training, he figured out how to focus the Energon in his body into a specific part to lead to a massive boost in power. He called this new move:
Optimus: Overcharged: MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE!
And with that, Optimus took off in a burst of speed, leaving a large dust cloud behind! The students out in front looked in shock to see the charging Prime close the distance between them! As he entered the minefield, mines began going off as soon as he passed them, but he quickly was able to outrun the explosions. Others next to him when he passed, were not as fortunate.
Present Mic: WOWZERS! Class 1-A's Optimus Prime has kicked it into high gear as he makes a mad dash for the lead.
At that moment, Optimus overtook Shoto, Katsuki, and Izuku.
Present Mic: And the lead is his!
The crowd went wild!
After a few more seconds, Overcharged powered down and Optimus was moving at normal speeds. He turned back to see Katsuki firing off his explosions in an attempt to catch up.
Katsuki: You're not winning this time Robo-Boy!
Shoto created an ice path to help him get through the minefield quicker.
Shoto: "This path will end up helping others, but there's no time to worry about that now. I need to catch up to Prime!"
Izuku himself was in awe of Optimus' action.
Izuku: "Even after all that planning, he still managed to find a way to come in first. He's amazing! Still, I can't give up now! But first I need to figure out how to land!"
He then soon got an idea as he was about to pass directly in between Katsuki and Shoto. Maneuvering his feet midair, he placed his foot on the two shoulders, then with all his might, slammed the piece of metal he was holding to the ground. The mines exploded beneath him, sending him flying forward.
Izuku: "I can't give up! I need to show the world who I am!"
Izuku landed in a roll and sprinted as if his life was on the line after the Prime, despite the Class Rep having a major lead. Shoto and Katsuki emerged from the explosion and chased after him and Optimus.
Present Mic: I don't believe, both Prime and Midoriya cleared that minefield in an instant! Eraserhead, your students are amazing! What the heck are you teaching them?
Aizawa: This has nothing to do with me. Each of them is powered by their own drive to succeed.
Present Mic: There you have it, Eraserhead is a terrible teacher.
Aizawa: I'M WHAT?!
Present Mic: Well it looks like our champion is about to enter the tunnel with the other three far behind him. Let's give a warm round of applause for our champion! Optimus Pr–Hey hold the phone folks! What do we have here?!
The teachers and spectators, both in the stadium and watching from home, all looked in surprise as they saw Optimus Prime suddenly stop just outside the tunnel leading back into the stadium.
Present Mic: What's this?! For some reason, Optimus Prime has stopped just outside the entrance to the stadium! Is he taking a quick break?! Well, he better hurry cause it seems those three are closing in on Prime, hungry for the win!
Nezu watched this from the confines of the booth overlooking the third years and he couldn't help but have a mischievous smile on his face as he sipped his tea.
As the three runner-ups closed in on the stadium, they too saw Optimus just standing there with his back turned to them.
Izuku: What is he doing?
Katsuki: Who cares?! If that robotic jerkwad thinks he can take the win from me just by standing around, he's got another thing coming for him!
As the three closed in on the entrance, Optimus began to slowly turn around to face them.
Optimus: Your last obstacle is...
He then transformed his hands into blasters and opened fire!
Optimus: ME!
All three boys' eyes widened at the sudden attack as they scattered to avoid the blaster bolts!
The crowd went wild at such a plot twist!
Present Mic: WHAT A PLOT TWIST! I don't know what's going on, but it seems Optimus Prime has suddenly begun firing on his classmates, despite being easily able to claim the victory! Is that even allowed?!
Midnight answered.
Midnight: As long as he doesn't force them out of bounds, anything goes!
Present Mic: But why would he attack them?
Aizawa: He's acting as the final obstacle.
Present Mic: Huh?
Aizawa: Prime knows he could easily claim victory, but in doing so, his classmates, especially those three, wouldn't learn anything. So he's trying to force them to work together.
Izuku: Optimus, what are you doing?! AH!
Izuku cried as he dodged another ion blast from the Prime.
Optimus: I told you. Your last obstacle is me. If you three want to win this race, you'll need to go through me.
Katsuki had a vicious smirk on his face.
Katsuki: You mean I get to beat the crap out of you? Perfect!
Izuku: Kaachan! Wait–
But the blonde bomber ignored Izuku's cries as he charged the Prime, Shoto following suit as he prepared to launch a wave of ice toward him.
Katsuki: DIE!
Katsuki thrust his hand forward in an attempt to hit him, but Optimus easily dodged the strike, grabbed him but the hand, and spun him around and into Shoto, cutting off the latter's attack and sending the two boys stumbling back.
Optimus: That approach won't work against me. If you want to get past me, you three will have to work together.
Katsuki visibly growled while Shoto just glared. Izuku took a glance behind them to see the other students were beginning to catch up.
Izuku: "This is bad. If we don't get past Optimus soon, the rest of the students will catch up, and then who knows who'll win."
His mind worked at lightspeed to try and come up with a plan. He soon got an idea. A risky one, and one that would undoubtedly cost him the race, but he needed to do it to get past Optimus.
So, with a battle cry, he charged the Prime, much to Katsuki and Shoto's shock and Optimus' disappointment. The Prime shook his head.
Optimus: I expected more from you Izuku.
He soon aimed his blaster and opened fire. Izuku did his best to dodge the blaster fire as he closed in on the Prime. He performed a somersault, picking up a handful of gravel as he rolled, and then threw it at Optimus' face when he came to his feet.
Optimus: Ah! Scrap!
Izuku capitalized on the Prime's temporary blindness, ducking under a strike and wrapping his arms around Optimus' body in a death grip.
Izuku: Got you!
Optimus looked shocked at Izuku's action, seemingly surprised that Izuku managed to touch him. He frowned as he began to pummel Izuku to get him to let go, either by kneeing him or hitting him on the back with his arms. But Izuku held firm!
Izuku: Kaachan! Todoroki! Go for the finish line!
His shout caught all three by surprise.
Katsuki: What?
Izuku: We don't have time! The longer we wait, the sooner the other students will reach us! You two deserve to win this! GO!
Both contestants stood there for a moment before they moved past Optimus and made their way down the tunnel.
Optimus: You're letting them win?! Why you?! Do you think you'll be able to stop me?!
He continued to hit Izuku harder and harder, but the young successor held firm, refusing to let go.
Izuku: I don't know! But I have to try! It's like you said, it only takes the courage to try! So I'm trying with all my courage! "I'm sorry All Might. I know you wanted me to shout to the world I'm here. Maybe next year."
As he said this, Optimus couldn't help but look stunned before he smiled. It seems Izuku took his words to heart from the speech.
His battle instincts soon flared in warning as he turned around to see Katsuki coming straight for him. Seeing what was about to happen, Optimus immediately broke Izuku's grip on him and tossed him out of the way so he wouldn't get hit.
Katsuki: DIE!
He let loose a powerful explosion on Optimus' back that sent the Prime flying. As he began to stand to his feet, he stopped when he noticed the ground beneath his feet turn to ice. It was too late for him to react as a glacier formed and trapped him inside.
He looked to see Shoto let out a chilling breath as he glared at the Prime.
Present Mic: I don't believe what I'm seeing folks! It seems Katsuki Bakugou and Shoto Todoroki, both students about to take the lead, came back just in time to save their competitor Midoriya from Prime!
Aizawa's eyes focused solely on Prime, now realizing the reason for his decision.
Aizawa: "So that's your game Prime. Get them to work together against a common enemy."
Izuku: Kaachan?! You came to save me!
Katsuki: Shut it you dang nerd! I just didn't want to have such a hallow victory! No way would I accept a win just because of something you did! I'll win with my strength. And that starts by putting Robo-Boy in his place.
Shoto was of a similar mind to Katsuki, despite how strange that sounded. He too didn't want the victory handed to him. He would win with his strengths, his Ice, andnothingelse.
Optimus suddenly began to laugh, surprising the two students who came back to, quote-unquote, help.
Shoto: Why are you laughing? You're trapped, and your plan failed. You lost.
Optimus: Maybe to you, it seems. But you three learned a valuable lesson. There are some villains you can't face on your own.
Katsuki developed a tick mark at his statement.
Katsuki: You don't know what you're talking about?! I could've beaten you on my own no sweat!
Optimus sighed. It seems Katsuki's pride and ego were bigger than he thought. He then looked behind them and smirked.
Optimus: Maybe so, but don't let your guard down that you forget your real enemy.
Both Shoto and Katsuki's eyes widened as they turned to see Izuku making his way down the tunnel back into the Stadium.
Katsuki: DEKU! Get back here!
He went chasing after his former childhood friend with explosions as Shoto made a trail of ice to try and catch up.
Optimus had a smile on his face as he stared at the top three.
Optimus: It will be a long road for these young heroes, but I believe those three will grow into the best of their generation.
Optimus then flexed his robotic limbs and easily freed himself from the ice.
Optimus: I believe it's time to end this race.
Present Mic: Who would've imagined that at the beginning of this race, the climax would be a non-stop mega-mix of surprises? The first to make it back in the stadium is our first-place winner!
Everyone watching held on with bated breaths as they waited for the first person to come out of the tunnel. And low and behold, out of the shadows, emerged none other than...
Present Mic: Izuku Midoriya is our champion!
The crowd cheered at the greenette's victory.
In the Midoriya household, Inko Midoriya, mother of Izuku, had tears streaming down her face as she watched her baby cross the finish line.
Inko: Oh, my baby Izuku!
Outside the stadium, Death Arms and Kamui Woods were standing guard before the former turned around to see the screen, recognizing the kid on the screen.
Death Arms: Hey, it's that kid.
Kamui Woods looked at the screen and recognized the kid as well.
Kamui Woods: Oh yeah, he's the one that fought the Sluge Monster too.
Within the confines of his room, Tomura Shigaraki was watching the Sports Festival, hoping to learn everything he could about the brats that ruined his fun. He watched scratching his neck but stopped when he saw Izuku cross the finish line.
Tomura: It's that brat.
Izuku was panting heavily as he felt the air reenter his lungs. When he finally calmed down, he took in that the entire stadium was cheering for him. Him?! The once upon a time Quirkless loser! He couldn't believe it, it almost seemed like a dream. But the pain from Optimus' blows still remained so it ruled out that possibility.
His gaze then focused on the teachers' booth, and one teacher specifically. Toshinori sat there, giving a polite congratulatory clap, but he was shaking in barely controlled excitement. He was so proud of his successor.
Toshinori: "This Sports Festival is a competition where everyone aims for the top. Even though that means defeating your friends and classmates. And for professional heroes, popularity plays a huge part in their careers, so they have to want to be the best. It's a bloodthirsty world. At your core, you want to help others. That's why I chose you, Young Midoriya. But in all honesty, I also thought your selflessness could be your weakness. Especially when you rushed in to distract Young Prime so Young Bakugou and Young Todoroki could win."
Toshinori would never admit it aloud, but when he saw Izuku rush to hold Optimus in place and allow Katsuki and Shoto through, he was worried his successor was giving up the race. Good thing those two are such egomaniacs that wouldn't accept a win given to them by an enemy.
Toshinori: "Turns out I was worried! You really are a fighter! Still, maybe cool it with the waterworks. The one I really should be worried about is him."
His gaze then turned to Optimus, who came in 4th. He recognized what he intended with that stunt of his. He wanted the three to try and work together, even if that meant giving up the win and making himself an enemy of three of the strongest students in class. While such an action was admirable in the Number One hero's eyes, he couldn't help but be concerned. If he was willing to go this far to help others improve in a competition, how far would he be willing to go in the real world? Especially given all he's been through.
He still found it hard to believe at times. That such a young person was in actuality an alien over millions of years old. But, even if he was far, far older than him, he was still his student, and he couldn't help but worry.
?: This is interesting.
?: I think it's obvious Midoriya's stock is about to go up.
?: Not so fast. He's still an unknown since we have no idea what his Quirk is. Imagine for a second if an agency were to take him on, how would they market someone so plain-looking who doesn't show off his Quirk?
The ones discussing this were three business course students, who usually elect to stay out of the race and simply perform data analysis on the future heroes as practice.
B.C.S. 2: They definitely have their work cut out.
B.C.S. 3: Well he doesn't have much going for his appearance-wise, so you'd have to push his skills and the unexpected artistic ways he performs under pressure.
B.C.S. 1: If you ask me, I think Prime's stock is the one that's gonna go through the roof. Given that despite being in last for the majority of the race, he quickly climbs his way into first place. Not to mention that speech he gave at the beginning.
B.C.S. 2: Maybe. But he threw away the win with that stunt at the end. He could have easily won but sacrificed the win. That would certainly cause his stock to plummet.
B.C.S. 3: Maybe, but keep in mind, he was able to hold off three other hero course students, one of them being the son of Endeavor, the Number Two hero. So that's gonna garner some attention.
B.C.S. 4: Not to mention he's so dreamy~
The three Business Course students looked at their fourth companion, a girl, who stared at Optimus with hearts in her eyes, letting out a love-struck sigh. They couldn't exactly refute her claim though. He was dreamy.
Toshinori overheard the conversation between the students and couldn't help but sigh.
Toshinori: "Business Course. Some things never change."
He remembered back in his day (yes he knows it makes him sound old!), the business course students of his year analyzed his future market value after he won the first Sports Festival.
Off to the side, Katsuki was panting heavily, holding his arm as his eyes shook with disbelief.
Katsuki: Deku... No way. Not again.
He couldn't believe he lost again, to Deku of all people! As he thought this, a memory of after the combat training entered his mind.
Optimus (Flashback): You fight for nothing. That is why you will never win.
He gritted his teeth at that. Robo-Boy was wrong. Of course, he fought for something. He fought to win! Like heroes are supposed to! They always win! And as long as he kept winning, he would be a hero! He'd prove it to those two, by beating the crap out of them!
Steam evaporated from Shoto as he warmed himself up, he refused to use his fire for anything else. He then glared at Izuku, who didn't notice him. He won. Somehow, he won, without even using his Quirk. A traitorous part of Shoto's mind thought that, if he used his fire along with his ice, then he would have won the race easily, but he quickly squished down such thoughts. He couldn't allow the old man to win.
He looked off to the side and watched Optimus walk over to Izuku, his eyes narrowed even more. He hated to admit it, but without Katsuki's blast sending him off balance, Shoto wasn't sure he would've been able to freeze him. Once again, his traitorous mind thought that if he used his fire, he would've been able to beat, or at least trip him into a trap to win the race without having to rely on that explosive loudmouth. But again, he shook his head. He had to beat both Izuku and Optimus with only his ice. If he didn't then what was the point of it all?
Optimus: Well done Izuku.
Izuku jumped as he turned to Optimus, worried for a moment that he would suddenly attack him. But he quickly calmed down after seeing the friendly smile on his face.
Izuku: Yeah thanks. I have to say, I was surprised when you suddenly decided to fire on us. I was scared for a moment.
Optimus: I apologize for scaring you Izuku. But I merely wanted to force you into a situation that would force you, Shoto, and Katsuki to work together, given that the current animosity is high between you three. But once again, well done Izuku, especially in your ploy to help the other two get past me. While reckless, that was a smart ploy. Especially with blinding me with the dust.
Izuku blushed slightly at the praise.
Ochaco: Deku, Optimus! That was amazing!
The two looked to see Ochaco run up to them, out of breath, but maintaining her bubbly personality.
Izuku: Thanks.
Ochaco: I can't believe you got first place, I'm so jealous! And you Optimus, with that turbo-speed move at the end were so awesome! Wish I had something like that!
Optimus smiled at her energy but grew concerned as he took a glance behind her.
Optimus: I thank you for your words Ochaco, but I must ask, is Tenya okay?
The other two U.A. students looked to see their Class Secretary standing still in disbelief, muttering to himself.
Izuku: I think he's just surprised and a little upset he lost a race. Given his Quirk is taylor made for speed?
Optimus: I see. "That would make sense."
Optimus then looked back toward the gate and saw a familiar face walking through, though they looked worse for wear. He excused himself from his friends and went to greet them.
Momo Yaoyorozu made her way across the finish line, completely out of breath. Her gym top was opened to reveal a black sports bra.
Momo: How could this happen?
When he heard a perverted laugh coming from behind her, she got her answer.
Minoru was currently using his Quirk to attach himself to her back, allowing her to help carry him across the finish line at the same time. His face was still bruised from the Robot punch at the beginning, but he had a dopey grin on his face.
Minoru: Two birds with one stone. I'm a genius!
Momo: You're the worst.
Optimus: Momo?
Both flinched at the voice and turned to see their class Rep walking toward them.
Optimus: Are you okay?
Momo blushed in embarrassment as she stood before Optimus, out of breath, slouched over, with her gym top open exposing her sports underwear, and with this purple-haired pervert hanging off her. Momo sighed
Momo: Not really.
She then gestured over her shoulder and Optimus saw Minoru hanging off her back. He narrowed his eyes, causing the midget to gulp.
Optimus: What do you think you're doing Minoru?
His tone sent chills down both their spins.
Minoru: I-I'm just accepting Yaoyorozu's offer to help me! What's the harm in that?!
Momo: Except that I never offered you my help in the first place! Especially like this!
Minoru gulped as Optimus' glare further intensified. Without warning, Optimus transformed his hand into a sword and raised it into the air, much to the two's surprise.
Minoru (Crying): Wait! I promise I won't do this anymore! Please don't kill me!
Optimus ignored the pervert's pleas for mercy as he brought the sword down!
And Minoru fell flat on his butt, the purple orbs he used to cling to Momo's back sliced clean in half. He looked back at the Class Rep to see him put away his sword.
Optimus: I will hold you to that Minoru. Otherwise next time, I won't be so lenient.
As both Optimus and Momo walked away from the pervert, Minoru felt himself wishing for his diaper right about now.
After putting some distance between them and the pervert, Momo, after zipping up her gym shirt, bowed to Optimus.
Momo: Thank you so much for your help Optimus.
Optimus: Think nothing of it Momo. I was trying to repay you for helping me get out under the Zero Pointer. Are you sure you're okay though? You look tired.
Momo: I just used a lot of my lipids to get through the obstacle course. Lot more than I expected.
Optimus: I see. Well, there are some refreshments over in the corner, you can replenish fuel for your Quirk there.
Momo: An excellent idea. Would you mind coming with me?
Optimus smiled.
Optimus: Of course.
As they walked, Momo could still hear the thumping of her fast-beating heart. But she chalked it up to still feeling tired from the race.
Some time passed and the students were gathered together as Midnight stood onstage to announce the second event.
Midnight: The first game for the first-years is finally over, and what a game it was. Now let's take a quick look at the standings, shall we?
A screen then listed the first 42 students to cross the finish line.
Midnight: Only the top 42 will advance to the next round. But don't be too let down if you didn't make the cut! We've prepared other opportunities for you to shine. Now the real fun is about to begin. The chance to fully move yourselves into the limelight! Give it your best.
The students prepared themselves for what the second event would be. Midnight then cracked her whip, as the screen behind her began to cycle through multiple choices.
Midnight: Let's see what we have in store for you next. Will your wildest fantasies come to life? What could it be? The waiting is torture. Prepare yourselves... for this!
The roll stopped on something called "Calvery Battle".
Optimus blinked.
Optimus: "Calvery Battle? What is that?"
Denki looked squeamish.
Denki: Calvery Battle? I'm terrible at those.
Tsuyu: It's not an individual event, I'm wondering how they'll split us up.
Thankfully for Optimus, Midnight began to explain the rules. Participants will form teams of two-to-four people and are allowed to stack on top of each other if they want. She explained that each player would be assigned a point value based on the results of the Obstacle race. The points increase by a value of 5 starting at 42. Optimus ended in 4th place, so he was worth 195 points.
Midnight: And the one at the top is worth... TEN MILLION!
The entire atmosphere froze at that announcement. Optimus turned slowly to see Izuku standing all alone as everyone looked at him with bloodshot eyes. Seeing the amount of animosity aimed at Izuku Optimus couldn't help but sweat drop.
Optimus: "I'm glad I didn't end up in first place."