A/N: I do not own Transformers or My Hero Academia.

Be prepared for a Dragon Ball-like fight.

A Song of Ice, Fire, and Metal

Present Mic: This is it! The fight you viewers, have been waiting for! A true battle of elites! In one corner: He's the son of the Number Two hero, who got into U.A. on recommendations. His Quirk can literally freeze others in their tracks and burn people up! Please give it up for the hero course Class 1-A: Shoto Todoroki!

The crowd went wild as Shoto made his way slowly onto the stage, a cold, calculated look in his eyes.

Present Mic: Versus. He came from Canada to Japan and managed to snag first place in the school's entrance exam, the first foreigner to do so in U.A.'s history, and nearly catching up to All Might's score! He's a walking, talking metal powerhouse who bulldozed his way past the competition! Also from the hero course Class 1-A: Optimus Prime!

The enthusiasm continued from the crowd as Optimus also walked on stage, and his eyes showed an indescribable expression.

Up in Class 1-A's booth, many of the students looked worriedly down at their classmates. It was no secret to everyone who the powerhouses of Class 1-A were. Since the day of the battle trial, everyone could tell who the two strongest students in Class 1-A were.

And now, they were facing off against each other. And, to the knowledge of everyone in Class, one had finally decided to stop holding back half of his power.

Mashiro: Who do you think is gonna win this?

He asked no one in particular.

Mezo: Hard to say. Both are strong in their own ways.

Fumikage: That's correct. While Todoroki has raw power on his side, Prime has unparalleled skill and ingenuity. It matters how each of them uses their strengths in this fight.

Denki: Yeah but don't forget, Optimus has that cool Ultra-Instinct rip-off ability of his that he used to send the Nomu flying. Todoroki stands no chance against him if he uses that.

Tsuyu: But that power could've also been a fluke. He hasn't shown anything like that since then. And even if he did, he'd probably hurt himself like he did last time. Ribbit.

Rikkido: Todoroki is also crazy strong. You guys remember that skyscraper-size glacier he unleashed at the beginning right?

Hanta shivered. He knew firsthand how bad that could get.

Minoru: Plus now that he's using his fire, OP's gonna be both cooked and frozen.

Toru: I'm kinda scared how this fight is gonna go. You all remembered how Todoroki's last fight went. And then there's Optimus' weird powers.

Kyoka: Yeah, I could do without any more damage to my hearing, thank you.

She almost went deaf with Todoroki's last fight with Midoriya.

Ochaco: How do you think this fight's gonna go Yaomomo?

Everyone turned to their deputy, who was looking down at Optimus with a concerned expression on her face, biting her bottom lip nervously. She too was worried about how this fight could go down. While she did not doubt Optimus' strength or his skills, she couldn't help but be wary, especially since it seemed like Todoroki was planning on using his fire in conjunction with his ice.

Mina noticed her concern and a sly smirk fell into place.

Mina: What's the matter Yaomomo? You look awfully concerned about our boys down there. Maybe a bit tooconcerned.

Momo's face went red.

Momo: N-No! I mean, yes! I mean, yes, I am worried. For both of them! Not just Optimus!

Mina's smirk grew.

Mina: I never said Optimus' name specifically.

Momo's face went even more red. Thankfully, she was saved from further teasing by someone's return.

Izuku: Hey guys.

Everyone turned to see Izuku return, his head bandaged up and his arm in a sling.

Ochaco: Deku! You're okay! Did the surgery go well then?

Izuku: Yeah. Recovery Girl did an amazing job.

He then looked around and noticed someone was missing.

Izuku: Where's Iida?

Hanta: He left. Optimus said he had some sort of emergency that forced him to leave the Sports Festival early, just after their match.

Izuku: What happened?

Everyone looked at each other as if they knew the answer.

Momo: We don't know. Optimus wouldn't say what it was; we should just ask Iida and respect his privacy if he didn't want to share. But he did share his regards with us.

Izuku frowned. He hoped that whatever befallen his friend wasn't too terrible.

Eijiro: Anyway, what's your take on this fight Midoriya? The two manliest people in 1-A are duking it out! Who do you think is gonna win?

Katsuki gritted his teeth at that comment. He too was watching this fight with interest, mainly because whoever won here, would be facing off against him in the finals. He knew he would beat Bird's head and his apple-obsessed shadow, the thing was obviously weak against the light if what he saw during the Calvery Battle was any indication.

He was looking forward to this final fight. Once he wins against either Robo-Boy or Icyhot, he can prove once and for all, both to his extra classmates and the entire world, that he is the strongest. The hero that was gonna surpass All Might.

But a small part of him, really wanted it to be Robo-Boy who won. Ever since school started, that metal bastard has been showing him up. On the entrance exams, in the Quirk assessment test, at the U.S.J., and even at this festival. He heard the whispers of his classmates. How Optimus Prime was the strongest person in the entire school year. This was his chance to put that metal extra in his place.

Izuku: Todoroki doesn't stand a chance.

The suddenness with which he replied surprised his classmates, even Katsuki.

Eijiro: Wow Midoriya, that was... blunt. I mean, I'm sure you're still a little sore about losing to him, but I don't think it's nice to write him off like that. Especially since he's using his fire now.

Izuku: It's not that.

Izuku was staring intently at both Shoto and Optimus on the field.

Izuku: I'm not so petty at my loss that I would want Todoroki to lose just because I'm upset. I know better than anyone how strong he is, especially with his fire. But I have this feeling, that Todoroki wouldn't use his fire, even now.

Denki: Wait what?!

Hanta: Why wouldn't he be using something that could give him such a big advantage? Does he still think he can win with only half his power?

Izuku: I can't say. It's personal.

His words shut down his curious classmates from asking any more questions.

Izuku: Plus, it's not just about Todoroki using only his ice. It's also because of something Optimus told me when I ran into him.

Everyone leaned close to him, desperate to hear the oh-so-important words from Optimus Prime. Even some students from Class 1-B next to them leaned in to hear

Momo: What did he say?

Izuku continued to look down at the field, looking closely at Optimus.

Izuku: He said he would do what Todoroki asked of him before the beginning of the festival.

His classmates looked confused, but as soon as they recalled the brief confrontation in the locker room between the three of them, they remembered. And all of their stomachs dropped in dread.

Izuku: He said he would stop holding back.

Endeavor looked down on the upcoming battle with an excited grin. Now that Shoto was using his fire properly, he could show everyone in this stadium how strong he was. That he was strong enough to surpass that Buffon All Might even.

But even as he thought that he couldn't help but frown as he thought back to his words in the hallway after his fight with that Midoriya kid.

Shoto (Flashback): For that one moment. I forgot you even existed. Maybe I don't need you.

That ticked the Number Two hero off. To think that his son didn't need him. Absurd. No one else in the world knew how to use a Fire Quirk better than him. If he wanted to learn how to best use his left side to the fullest of his abilities, he would need to learn under him. That's why he was gonna send an internship offer to him after the festival. If Shoto was smart, he would accept.

All he had to do now was crush the remainder of the competition and show the world that the son of Endeavor was the strongest of this generation.

Endeavor: "Speaking of competition."

His gaze then found Optimus Prime. He looked down at his hands, and to his rage and frustration, they were shaking.

He hated how his body was reacting, but he couldn't help it. Every time he thought back to that moment in the hallway when he felt that overwhelming wave of pressure and killing intent, coming from a mere boy, he couldn't help but freeze up, despite his Quirk burning hot enough to ward off people next to him.

He once thought that maybe this boy was related to All Might, but now he was beginning to reevaluate that opinion. This kid was more than that.

He had tasked his agency with finding everything they could about this kid, but they hadn't gotten back to him yet. He wasn't surprised. Doing a background check, especially discreetly like he wanted, would take time. He probably wouldn't have anything till the end of the day.

Still though, despite the nerves and red flags that Optimus Prime gave him, Endeavor was confident in his creation's chances against this obstacle. It would only help serve as a stepping stone to his path to greatness.

Shoto: So, here we are.

Shoto tried to start up some conversation, but Optimus was giving him the silent treatment. But that could just also be because Shoto's never been good at conversation. Still, the Prime's silence was unnerving to the Quirk prodigy. He expected some sort of speech about how he should embrace his left side, about how pleased he was that Shoto decided to use all his power. But all he got was an unreadable expression on his face.

If he did say something like that, Shoto would just tell him to shut up and that he hasn't forgotten anything. That he was still going to be an amazing hero with just his ice. He would admit that the moment he used his fire against Midoriya, he didn't feel so much shame as he usually used his fire for more than heating himself and others. But it was only after he was alone did the shame of what he'd done dawned on him.

He broke his vow. He betrayed his mother and let that bastard of a father influence him. He then decided to double down on his devotion to his vow. He may have broken it when fought Midoriya, but he was tired after using his ice to trap Hanta in the giant glacier, so that's why he resorted to using his fire.

Now that he's warmed up and been properly rested, he should be able to beat Prime without having to use his fire. Unlike Midoriya, he didn't have a Quirk that could demolish giant robots like he did. Just a transformation Quirk as well as some fancy moves.

Of course, he didn't forget what happened at the USJ. How could he? He was sure that memory would stay with him for the rest of his days. The day a hero student surpassed All Might and saved the day in his place.

But Prime had shown no indication of that power since. So it must've been just a fluke. If Shoto could just trap him in his ice, then he would win, and show his old man that he didn't need his fire.

Optimus: Shoto.

Shoto blinked when he heard Prime call his name. He looked at his opponent to see his eyes were covered by his dark blue hair.

Optimus: You asked me before the festival began, to bring my best so that you could beat me.

He then looked back up, and Shoto felt a chill throughout his whole body at those bright blue eyes glaring at him. It was both cold as steel and hot as burning metal. And it made Shoto use both his Quirks subconsciously in tandem to regulate his body temperature.

Shoto: What of it?

Optimus: I am merely reminding you of your own words.

Midnight: Contestants!

Optimus: Whatever comes next, remember this:

Midnight: Ready?!

Optimus: You asked for this.

And for the first time in the whole Sports Festival, Optimus' faceplate shut around his mouth.

Midnight: START!

Shoto acted immediately. Frost generated on his right arm as he prepared to send a wave of ice to trap Optimus Prime.

POW!

But, despite the level of training, he put into his reaction speed and his Quirk, he was too slow. In the blink of an eye, Optimus went from the other side of the arena to right in front of him, delivering a punch so hard that if his hand was transformed, he may have had his head taken off. Even without the metal, his jaw was almost dislocated.

Shoto went flying, rolling over and tumbling almost out of bounds. He was dazed but had enough sense to create an ice wall to keep him from going out of bounds. His back slammed hard into the ice wall, cracking it.

He barely had time to think as he looked up to see Optimus in the air, right hand pulled back and morphing into a sword. Shoto barely managed to roll out of the way as Optimus stabbed his blade into the ice, right where his head was just a nanosecond ago.

Shoto froze, but Optimus didn't slow down for a second. He effortlessly pulled his sword from the ice and went on the offensive, swinging his sword with perfect precision and grace honed by eons of practice.

It took everything Shoto had just to keep up. He didn't even have enough time to think and use either of his Quirks as he narrowly managed to dodge Optimus' attacks. Despite not getting any deep cuts, the sword managed to nick at his gym uniform and make small cuts into his skin.

Optimus then delivered a spartan kick that sent Shoto rolling over backward onto his back. He groaned but gasped when he saw Optimus leap into the air, bringing his hands together and slamming them on the ground where Shoto barely rolled out of the way.

Getting to his feet, Shoto finally managed to get his bearings to send a wave of ice at the human Prime. But Optimus rolled out the way, drawing his ion blasters and opening fire on the half-cold, half-hot user. Shoto managed to create an ice barrier to block the shots, but the power behind them caused multiple cracks to form, especially against continuing shots.

Optimus then jumped into the air and fired on Shoto from above.

Shoto formed a barrier on top of his head to block the shots, but as Optimus landed on the ground, one shot got through his defenses and hit him dead in the chest, sending him through the weakened ice barrier he created earlier.

As Shoto got to his feet, he gritted his teeth in frustration as he slammed a foot onto the ground and sent another, much larger wave of ice crystals at the Prime. Optimus stood his ground and transformed his shoulders, truck exhaust pipes on his shoulder.

He then threw his arms forward, and the pipes on his shoulders flipped 180 degrees, and a blast of fire erupted from the pipes, melting the ice before it could reach him.

Shoto's eyes widened in shock as he saw Optimus using fire to stop his ice before growling in anger.

Shoto: ARE YOU MOCKING ME?!

He roared as he put more power into his ice. His ice soon managed to overwhelm the fire. But Optimus had run forward, using the incoming ice as a springboard to leap into the air. He then concentrated the Energon into his right fist and slammed down on the ground right in front of Shoto.

A shockwave of energy exploded from the point of impact, shattering the ice and sending Shoto flying. He would have flown out of the area and lost then and there, but Optimus grabbed him by the leg and threw him back into the arena.

Shoto groaned as he struggled to stand despite all the bruises he'd received. If not for the high amount of pain tolerance he developed "thanks" to his father's intense training regiment, he wouldn't be able to move. He looked up to see Optimus Prime walking slowly towards him, drawing a sword.

Optimus: I am not mocking you Shoto. I am merely doing what you asked of me. And if you want to survive, I suggest you do what I asked of you.

It was at that moment, that Shoto just wanted to go, screw it, and use his fire! But his pride held him back. He wouldn't do it again. He wouldn't break his promise again. He could win! He could beat Prime without his fire.

But as he looked at the Prime move to engage him again, Shoto couldn't help a certain emotion from building within.

Fear.

Present Mic: WOW! Not even two minutes in I've already chewed down to my skin biting my fingernails!

Aizawa: Gross.

Despite Aizawa's disgust with his co-host/best friend, he couldn't help but look down at the match with a weary expression. He wasn't blind. He knew that Optimus Prime was holding back a lot in this festival. He didn't approve of it, but he also understood that Prime was too caring of other people's emotions and self-esteem to utterly crush them with his superior skill. He was too much of a softie.

But he didn't know he was holding back this much strength and skill. Sure, Todoroki's stubborn refusal to use his fire played a part, but he was still strong with only his ice. Aizawa was certain that the fight would have been slightly in Prime's favor if Todoroki just used his ice.

But he didn't think Todoroki would be this out of his league!

Who was Optimus Prime?! What on Earth did he go through to make him this strong?!

In the Class 1-A booth, everyone was pale as they stared down at the field.

Hanta: I don't believe it...

Rikkido: I knew Optimus was strong but...

Fumikage: To see him have this much power, so much that Todoroki can't even properly fight back is...

Toru: ... Scary.

Denki and Minoru were shaking the hardest out of the class, remembering the threat Optimus gave them after they tried to pull their perverted prank on the girls.

Both: "We're dead!"

Momo was in awe of Optimus. It was almost laughable at how worried she was for him before the start of the match. But even though she was in awe of the Prime, a sense of shame filled her as she recalled their fight in the battle trials.

Momo: "Was I really so weak compared to him?"

Izuku himself stared at Optimus with awe and a twinge of envy. He was barely able to stop Todoroki's attacks, and it came at the cost of breaking his fingers. But Optimus was able to push Todoroki into a corner without even breaking a sweat.

Izuku: "Am I that far behind him? And... can I even hope to catch up?"

Katsuki himself stared at the arena with a look of disbelief. He was sure Robo-Boy would win this fight, but he didn't think the metalhead would utterly destroy Icyhot like he was right now. And as he watched the fight, if it could be called that, he couldn't help the blasphemous thought from entering his mind.

Katsuki: "Is he better than–"

He then shook his head. No! NO! He wouldn't go there! He wouldn't allow doubt to cloud his conviction! He was the strongest no doubt about it!

But even as he tried to convince himself of that, he couldn't stop those treacherous thoughts from entering his mind.

Endeavor was furious!

This was his moment! His chance to show the world what his creation was able to do! And this no-name foreigner was completely stealing the spotlight from him. All because Shoto was still continuing on with his childish rebellion.

Endeavor: SHOTO! STOP DISGRACING YOURSELF AND FINISH THIS OBSTACLE!

Normally, hearing his father sound so angry at him not using his fire would cause a sick twisted amount of joy to fill him up. But right now, he honestly couldn't care less about what his father wanted.

Shoto was breathing heavily as he felt frozen sweat cover his whole body. His skin looked white and blue-grey, a sign of frostbite. His gym uniform, covered in dirt, had multiple cuts and tears.

In contrast, his opponent didn't have a scratch on him. His uniform had no such scratches or tears, and no trace of dirt on it. His breathing was calm and measured, and not a trace of sweat was on his body.

Shoto: "How? How can he be so strong? To not even be phased by everything I did?"

No matter what Shoto tried, Optimus Prime had a counter. He would throw a block of ice, and Optimus would dodge. Form weapons made of ice, Optimus would destroy them with his superior skills. Create a wall between them to stall him while coming up with a plan, Optimus would just shatter it a second after it formed.

No matter what he did, no matter how much ice he threw at the Prime, it wasn't enough. It would never be enough.

Shoto: "Do I really have to resort to using... that part of myself to beat Prime?"

He took a glance at his left hand, doubt creeping into his mind before he shook his head. No! He had to keep fighting with his ice. He had to prove to his father, and to himself, that he could be a hero with only his right side.

Optimus noticed his inner turmoil and decided to speak up.

Optimus: Is this all worth it?

Shoto blinked at the question as he stared at the Prime. Since this match began, Shoto had barely a second to breathe, let alone speak. And Optimus was silent for the majority of the fight outside of a few instances. But right now, there appeared to be a lull in the fighting, and Shoto wouldn't squander a chance to regain his strength. Even if it involved talking about something he despised.

Optimus: Look at yourself. You're in pain. Cuts and bruises all over your body. And it seems to me you are in danger of frostbite. If you do not do something to increase your body temperature soon, your life could very well be in danger. Is your pride worth that much? To the point where your body is in constant pain?

Shoto: Yes.

Shoto's mind answered instantly. What was a little pain now, compared to what he's suffered his whole life?

Optimus looked at Shoto with pity. He hated this. Where people went as far as to seriously hurt themselves, all to fulfill their promise. He admired those who would put their lives on the line to protect others, as well as take an injury in place of another. But to see someone so young as Shoto willingly punish himself, just to keep to his vow of not using his full power, sickened the last Prime.

He then narrowed his eyes as a thought came to him.

Optimus: Then, is your pride worth more to you than an innocent life?

Shoto's eyes widened. He didn't answer, but that was enough for Optimus as his pity was soon replaced with disappointed anger, his fists clenching.

Optimus: You would stand by, and let an innocent perish, all to keep your pride? If that is the case, then it is you who doesn't deserve to be a hero, just like your father!

Shoto's eyes narrowed with rage as he snarled at the Prime. How dare he compare him to that bastard?!

Shoto: Take that back!

Optimus: No. Because deep down, you know I am right. As you are now, you are being exactly like your father! Too concerned about your pride and ego to notice the people around you are suffering! Stubbornly refusing to change, to accept aspects of yourselves you wish to hide, keeping yourselves from your full potential!

Shoto: I'm warning you!

Frost was beginning to surround Shoto, but Optimus ignored his warnings and pressed on.

Optimus: Your mother would be ashamed of you.

At that, memories of his mother flooded through his mind. Of her crying in pain. The look of hatred and fear as she stared at him. And finally when she poured boiling water all over his face.

At that moment, all the restraint Shoto's been keeping himself under shattered like broken chains as he slammed his right foot to the ground, exploding in power!

Shoto: I SAID SHUT UP!

Ice exploded out from him, racing towards its intended target. Optimus had no time or place to dodge, so he brought his arms to his face to shield himself from the frozen shockwave. But the ice didn't stop there. It kept going, and growing, and growing, and expanding, until it was even larger than the massive glacier Shoto unleashed in his first match against Hanta.

Everyone in the stadium was frozen with terror. Never before had they seen the power of this scale, especially from someone so young.

Endeavor himself was also in awe of his son's strength. He knew he was strong, especially with his ice, but to see him unleash such a destructive move, one that managed to snuff out his flames, he couldn't help a small bit of pride form in his stomach.

He could only imagine how powerful he could be if his fire matched the control he had with his ice.

But despite that, he couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed in Optimus Prime. He had hoped the arrogant child would have been able to force Shoto to unleash his fire like the Midoriya boy had done. But it seems he wasn't enough.

Oh well, he was certain there would be more chances and opponents in the future that would draw out Shoto's full power.

Class 1-A was currently shivering, both from the cold and their fear of Todoroki's power. Tsuyu looked ready to enter hibernation and Hanata was still, mind filled with flashbacks of his fight against Todoroki.

Denki: T-That's bigger than what he did at the beginning. R-Right?

Eijiro: Y-yeah. A-And a whole lot more colder.

Mina: W-WHERE DID THIS EVEN COME FROM?!

Ochaco: W-What about Optimus?!

Izuku looked down with concern in his eyes while Momo gripped her gym pants.

Present Mic: W-Well, who ever thought we'd see two giant icebergs in one tournament? H-Huh?

Present Mic asked his co-host, shaking from the cold. Aizawa didn't answer him.

Shoto was freezing, more than he'd ever done in his life before. His adrenaline, which was running high just a minute ago, now cooled down, along with his rapid heart rate. He was beyond tired. He may not even be able to compete in the final round.

But that didn't matter, because he did it. He beat Prime! Using only his ice! He managed to keep his vow, and now he proved to his old man he can become a hero with only his right side!

A large maniacal smile soon dawned on his face as he began to laugh like a madman. He knows it's out of character, but right now, he doesn't care.

crack...

He stopped laughing when he heard a faint sound, the sound of ice cracking.

Crack...

Minoru: What's that terrifying sound?

Tsuyu: I think I might have an idea, Ribbit.

CRACK...

He began to see a fracture forming from a specific point in the ice.

CRACK!

No. No! It can't be! It shouldn't be possible that he survived that!

CRACK!

A red metallic hand broke out from ice and the owner followed after, digging himself out of his icy tomb.

Shoto watched in disbelief as Optimus Prime pulled himself out of his icy tomb and stood to his full height, brushing some frost off his shoulder, looking completely unphased at being buried under several tons of ice.

The crowd went ballistic. Shoto's ice attack was impressive, but for Optimus Prime to shrug it off like nothing was just too good.

Present Mic: HE'S ALIVE! I DON'T BELIEVE IT! Optimus Prime somehow managed to claw his way out of the tomb of ice and stay in the competition!

Class 1-A looked with awe and jaws dropped.

Hanta: He tunneled through the ice with nothing but his bare hands!

Denki: These two are insane?

Tsuyu: I'm seriously beginning to consider that may be possible. Ribbit.

Momo, while amazed, let out a sigh of relief.

Momo: "Thank goodness he's okay."

Izuku looked down in awe as he saw his friend/rival emerge from the ice. He knew Optimus was tough, but to see him take on all of Shoto's ice, and emerge unscathed. He has a long way to go if he ever hopes to measure up to Optimus.

Katsuki just looked on in disbelief. Despite what many people say, mainly behind his back, he's not a brainless muscle-head. He knew that if he got trapped in that much ice, there would be no way for him to break free. The cold would keep him from sweating, leaving his Quirk not to work to free himself. But Robo-Boy broke free with little to no difficulty. And if Optimus Prime could do it so easily, did Katsuki stand a chance against him?

He looked down and noticed, his palms were sweating, but for the first time in his life, it was because he was nervous.

Endeavor looked at the field in disbelief.

His son showed these people how powerful he truly was, at least with half his strength, and that boy just managed to climb his way out of several tones of ice, with no scratch on him.

As he stared at Optimus Prime, the Number Two hero felt his heart stop as he stared at the Prime, remembering his threat from before.

Optimus (Flashback): If you ever, lay your hands on any of your children, or even your wife, to harm them, it won't matter how hot your flames burn, that will only make it easier for my sword to remove your head from your body.

He was rattled when the boy first said such a thing, mainly because he was still scared by that aura of a dragon coming from the boy. But some time after, he dismissed the threat as childish arrogance, thinking the boy had no chance of delivering on his threat.

Now though? Now Endeavor was seriously considering hiring some bodyguards, if only toslowOptimus Prime down should he decide to come after him.

Optimus then jumped down from the iceberg to the stadium floor, letting out a sigh of relief now that he was free.

Optimus: "That was close."

When Shoto unleashed that iceberg on him, Optimus quickly tapped into the power of Micronous Prime to create a barrier to shield himself from the ice. Even with the barrier, he could feel the chill in his very bones. He had to quickly, but carefully, dig his way out of the ice without collapsing the whole thing on himself and anyone else that may be under the giant ice. If he was still a Cybertronian, the ice might have already severely damaged his internal systems.

Optimus: "Despite being a more fragile species, the humans do have better resistance in some aspects than Cybertronians."

He thought while flexing his fingers, feeling the warmth beginning to return to them. He looked over at Shoto, expecting the young man to capitalize on his opponent's weakness, but he just stood there, staring at the Prime in disbelief.

How?

That was the one question Shoto Todoroki kept asking himself over and over again as he just stared at Optimus Prime.

How did he survive his attack? How did he dig himself out of the ice? How was he able to stand there as if nothing happened? How was he so much stronger than him? How? How?! HOW?!

HOW WAS HE SUPPOSED TO BEAT THIS GUY WITH JUST HIS ICE?!

At that moment, he realized the truth, and it hurt more than any abuse he received from his father over the years.

Shoto: "I can't beat him."

That was the cold, hard truth. He couldn't win with just his ice. Not against Optimus Prime. Not against Izuku Midoriya. And probably not against Katsuki Bakugou. And if he can't beat those three with his ice, could he even defeat most villains with his ice, or even save as many people as All Might with just his ice?

The answer was no. What was he thinking? Everyone here was trying their absolute hardest to be the best, Midoriya, Ururaka, Bakugou, Prime, and countless others. They were all doing their best to become the greatest heroes they could be. He thought he was doing the same. Trying harder than anyone to show he too can become a hero.

But he wasn't. He was never really trying at all. He was just putting half his effort into everything he did, bragging that he could beat everyone here with just his ice. What right did he have to look down on others, when he was never really trying to be a great hero in the first place?

Optimus: You've realized the truth, haven't you?

Shoto was pulled out of his musings as he looked to see Optimus standing in front of him. A small frown of pity on his face. Normally, Shoto would be angry at such a sight, but right now, he didn't have the strength.

Shoto: You knew, didn't you?

Optimus only nodded.

Shoto gave a humorous scoff. Of course, Prime knew. Midoriya also knew as well, that's why he fought so hard for him to bring out his fire.

If that was the case, if he was okay with just using half his power in everything, then maybe he didn't deserve to be a hero after all.

Optimus: You're wrong.

Shoto's eyes widened. Did he say that out loud?

Optimus: What you've learned is no doubt difficult to process, but the truth doesn't matter. It matters what you do with it.

Shoto looked at Optimus with wonder and awe.

Optimus: You now have two choices to make Shoto, choices that will define you for the rest of your life. Will you continue to stand where you are, refusing to acknowledge your pain and stay the same? Or will you break the chains of your past and take your first step into your future? The choice is yours.

Shoto knew he was at a fork in the road. What he decided next would influence him for the rest of his life. It should be an easy choice really, but his mind was so scrambled, so all over the place that he couldn't think properly.

?: COME ON TODOROKI

Shoto's eyes widened as he heard a familiar shout, from the last person he expected. He then turned up to Class 1-A's booth to see Izuku Midoriya on his feet, cheering for him?!

Izuku: DON'T GIVE UP! DO YOUR BEST!

His classmates looked at him in surprise. He suffered a devastating loss against Todoroki, and now he was cheering for him instead of Optimus, who Izuku was good friends with.

But despite hearing his friend cheer for his opponent instead of him, Optimus had a proud smile on his face, thinking back to their conversation before the match began.

Hallway - Before the Match

Optimus: I will stop holding back.

With those words, Izuku Midoriya went still.

He remembered all the times he'd seen Optimus fight. He knew the Prime was stronger and more skilled than everyone in U.A. probably better than most pros too. But the idea, that he was holding back all this time terrified the young hero in training.

And disappointed him.

Izuku: "Does this mean, he's been holding back all this time, against me?"

The thought caused Izuku to think back to what he said to All Might just moments ago. How he believed Optimus would be a better candidate for One For All. All Might had helped but most of those worries and feelings of envy to rest, but not completely. And now, hearing that Optimus hadn't even shown his full strength, caused that doubt about himself to grow.

He then shook his head. This wasn't about him.

Izuku: I-I see... Well, good luck. I'm sure if anyone has any chance of reaching Todoroki, it's you Optimus.

Optimus: I can't do it alone, however. That is why I need your help Izuku.

His words caused Izuku to freeze.

Izuku: My help? What can I do to help you? I already did everything I could to try and help Todoroki in our match. But it wasn't enough. I wasn't able to reach him, not completely.

Optimus: Be that as it may, you still managed to bring out Shoto's flames, and that connection you two formed in your fight will be integral in bringing Shoto out of the walls he's built around himself.

Hearing Optimus' words, and remembering the pain Todoroki went through caused a burning desire to grow within Izuku. He may have failed to save him completely in their fight, but with him and Optimus working together, there was no doubt they'd save Todoroki.

Izuku: What can I do?

Optimus: Cheer for him.

Izuku blinked. He wasn't expecting that.

Izuku: What?

Optimus: Shoto will most likely be entering this fight with very few, if none at all, supporters. His statement at the beginning of the festival did cause many to be standoffish towards him. He will likely not have many friends who are supporting him. He will need someone in his corner. That someone has to be you. Can I count on you, Izuku?

Izuku's eyes shined with determination as he placed his good hand over his chest.

Izuku: Always.

Present

Izuku nodded at the Prime, one Optimus smiled and returned before turning back to Shoto, who looked shocked at Izuku cheering him.

Optimus: The choice is yours Shoto. Will you let your spark whither away and die in the cold? Or, will you let it shine so bright that it eclipses the shadow your father tried to cast over you?

Shoto: "Choice?"

Shoto, thought, the word sounding foreign to him. He always thought he chose to cast aside his father's goals and ambitions, but he never did. They were always the driving force behind everything he did, even if he tried to achieve them in a way contrary to what he wanted. It was always about either his father or his mother, never about him. But now, he has to make the first real choice for himself. And that thought filled him with indescribable joy.

Shoto: "I could get used to that."

He thought with a warm smile, as the frost covering his body began to melt and steam began to rise. Fire erupted from his left side, small at first, but soon began to grow with size and heat.

Endeavor: Do it Shoto! Unleash your fire on that metal bastard!

The words of his old man made him freeze, his flames stopped growing as they began to be extinguished as memories of trauma flashed back to him. His abuse, the training, his mother's hateful glare, Tou–

Optimus: SHOTO!

Prime's voice brought him out of his spiral as he focused on Optimus, a look of determination in the Prime's steel blue eyes.

Optimus: Do not pay him any mind! Do not obsess over the past and on things that cannot be changed. Focus right here! Now! At this moment!

His words had the desired effect as Shoto managed for once to push out the painful memories. He didn't forget them, he wouldn't for a long time, but he felt like he was taking a step forward and leaving them where they belong. In the past.

His flames regained their spark and exploded in power.

Ochaco: He's using his fire again!

Eijiro: Man, is it just me, or is it hotter than before when he fought Midoriya bro?!

Minoru: What is with you and Prime, Midoriya?! Why are you two so crazy as to egg someone on to use their full power?

THWACK!

Tsuyu hit the tiny pervert with a tongue slap.

Izuku looked on in amazement and awe, a smile growing on his face as he saw Todoroki use his fire.

Izuku: "You did it Optimus... you were able to help Todoroki."

Optimus: "No. We helped him. Both of us."

Izuku could almost hear Optimus speaking to him, even though he wasn't there. And somehow, that thought made tears well in his eyes.

Endeavor had a pleased smirk on his face.

As Optimus stared at the flames, he couldn't help but find himself in a trance.

Suddenly, he wasn't in the arena anymore. Instead, he was back on Cybertron looking at the remnants of a lost battle. The fires of wreckage surrounded him, the cold metal corpses of his comrades and enemies littered at his feet, and Energon caked his hands, the lifeblood of his friends... and victims.

Shoto: You're crazy, you know? Both of you are?

Shoto's voice brought him to the present. He shook his head in an attempt to clear himself of the uncomfortable memories. He hoped Shoto didn't see the look of horror on his face and think he was the cause of it.

Optimus: Excuse me?

Shoto: You and Midoriya? Helping your opponents. When you could easily win against them? You two are insane. But, it's little wonder you two are friends.

Optimus had a warm smile on his face.

Optimus: That's just who I am. I do not know who I would be if I stood by, and let someone suffer in front of me. And I know Izuku is the same way.

Shoto gave a small chuckle as shook his head, getting his flames under control. His face soon became serious.

Shoto: You were lying by the way.

Optimus took a step back in shock. Did he know?!

Shoto: You said you would not hold back in this fight against me. But you have been. You haven't once shown meityet. That power... the power you unleashed at the U.S.J... the power that you used to defeat the villains and save the day... the power that allowed you to surpass All Might.

Shoto then looked Optimus dead in the eyes.

Shoto: I want to see it again.

Optimus: Shoto–

Shoto: Please! I–I need to know... I need to know how far I have to go... to stand beside you!

Shoto had such a pleading expression in his eyes, begging Optimus to show him his power.

Optimus thought it over for a moment. He hadn't intended on using his power in this fight, or even this whole tournament. He wanted to keep his true strength hidden unless villains would see what he was capable of. Plus, he didn't want to hurt his classmates by going too hard.

But, seeing the pleading expression on Shoto's face caused his resolve to crumble. He had asked Shoto to embrace his full power, it would be hypocritical to not do the same when Shoto asked him to do the same so earnestly.

Optimus: Very well.

Optimus then took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and reached deep within himself. In his mind's eye, he was standing before the Matrix of Leadership. He reached out his hand, and with a silent command, commanded the Matrix to lend him his power. And like a lock and key, the Matrix obeyed and opened.

A massive gust of wind exploded from Optimus Prime. The spectators covered their faces with their hands to shield themselves. Both Shoto and Endeavor's flames were extinguished by the gust of wind. Even high above, Class 1-A had to cover their faces to shield themselves.

The wind died down, and everyone looked with dropped jaws at the sight before them.

Optimus Prime was enveloped in a blue-white aura, his dark blue hair aglow and waving as if blown by an invisible wind. His blue eyes shine brighter than they usually do.

Optimus: Let's finish this, Shoto!

Present Mic: What the?! What's with the light show Prime's putting on?! Does his Quirk allow him to transform into a Super Saiyen or something?! Eraserhead?! What's going on with your student?!

Aizawa: I have no idea.

Aizawa was telling the truth. He read the reports about how Optimus Prime had been able to save the day instead of All Might and sent that monster, Nomu, flying. He thought the reports were exaggerating, but now, looking at Prime, he couldn't help but think those reports had some truth to them.

Ectoplasm: So that's it, isn't it? That's the power he unleashed in the U.S.J. when he saved you?

The trench coat-wearing math teacher/hero asked All Might as he looked down at Optimus.

Toshinori: Yes. It is."The Power of the Primes."

He recalled the conversation he and Tsukauchi had with Prime after the U.S.J. At first, All Might feared when Young Prime exhibited multiple Quirks, that he was an experiment of... him. But he was relieved to learn that wasn't the case, though he was skeptical of the whole 'mystic power gifted by a bunch of dead alien gods'.

But he believed Optimus. Not just because of how earnest the boy (and he's using that term loosely) was, but because he couldn't help but relate the idea of a Matrix of Leadership to One For All. Both were a crystallization of power, passed down from wielder to wielder.

He couldn't help but fantasize, about what kind of being could be created, should One For All and the Matrix of Leadership merge.

Endeavor looked down with wide eyes, too shocked to even try to reignite the flames around his body.

This power... he'd never once seen anything like it. He felt a fraction of it when he confronted Prime earlier, but that paled to the pressure and aura he felt from the strange boy his son was fighting.

He suddenly felt a spike of fatherly concern for his son. Worried if he would be strong enough to survive.

Watching the match on the television, Tomura Shigaraki dropped his pencil on his notepad as he stared at the image of the brat who ruined his plans at the U.S.J., glowing that same glow he did before he destroyed Nomu.

He felt a wave of fear grip him as he stared at the image of Optimus Prime on the screen, recalling that chilling terror he felt when the hero-in-training told him to leave.

Toru: Wow~ Pretty.

Aoyama: Oui! I hate to say it, but Optimus Prime's sparkle has managed to eclipse my own.

Rikkido: Wait, isn't that the same kind of power he used at the U.S.J. when he sent that bird villain flying?

Fumikage: Indeed. It seems Optimus Prime had decided to show his true power now.

Mina: Do you think Todoroki will be able to survive that?

Kyoka: I'm more worried about my ears at this point.

Momo was silent as she stared at her crush down in the field, shining as bright as the sun itself.

Momo: "Beautiful."

She thought with awe as a small blush rose to her cheeks.

Izuku, Eijiro, and Katsuki were all silent as they stared at Optimus with awe, and even fear. The others wouldn't understand. They were there, along with Todoroki and All Might when Optimus used this strange power to save the day. They all had the same thoughts as they stared at Optimus.

Shoto Todoroki was going to lose.

And he knew that.

As he stared at the glowing Prime, he knew that he stood no chance of winning this fight. He might not have even stood a chance if Prime fought him without that power of his. But now, seeing his power, he knew he would lose this match.

But if he was going down, he was fighting with everything he had.

His right side came to life as he shot a massive wave of ice like he had done with Midoriya at the climax of their match, but unlike Izuku, Optimus didn't move to jump over the ice, instead, he stood his ground. As the wall of ice approached, Optimus reeled his arm back and threw it with the full strength of Nexus Prime!

He hit the incoming ice wall dead on, and to the amazement of all, completely shattered the attack. Shoto didn't give up. He slammed his right foot on the ground, causing ice to spread across the field and spikes to emerge from the ground. Optimus channeled the power of Onyx Prime, formed the azure dragon wings, and took off into the air to dodge the ice attack.

Endeavor went even paler as he saw the dragon wings, remembering the silhouette of that dragon-like creature in Optimus Prime's aura.

Shoto's left side was engulfed in flames that he hurled at the Prime. Optimus used the power of Alpha Trion, which allowed him to peer several seconds into the future, allowing him to easily dodge the attacks. He flew down and moved to strike at Shoto, but the duel-colored-haired young man created an ice ramp to quickly evade Optimus' attack.

Optimus placed his hand on the starting point of the ice ramp, and using the power of Alchemist Prime, transformed the solid ice into its liquid form of water. Shoto let out a yelp as his ice ramp quickly transformed into an impromptu water slide.

Shoto landed in a tumble but quickly rolled to his feet. He was breathing incredibly hard, his heart was thundering in his chest, as if it was about to explode. And he loved this feeling. This feeling of being pushed to the edge, having to fight with his all to just keep up. It was exhilarating. He couldn't stop the large smile from appearing on his face if he tried.

But he knew this couldn't last, he was already well past his limits, his body almost ready to give out then and there. But he didn't want to give up just yet. Both his right and left side exploded with ice and fire.

Shoto: This is it Prime! Let's settle it here and now! One last attack!

Optimus stared at him for a moment before nodding.

Optimus: Very well.

He decided for this final attack, he would try out a new move he's been experimenting with. He got the idea from one of those shows Denki and Hanta showed him in passing. He wasn't sure of it at first, but after some thinking, he decided to try it, thinking maybe he could pull it off with his power.

He then widened his stance, bent his knees at an angle, bringing his hands together in a cup shape, and held it off to his side.

Both Denki and Hanta's eyes widened as they recognized the stance.

Hanta: You don't think he's actually gonna do... that move...

Denki sighed.

Denki: Well, he's already ripped off Ultra Instinct, so why not go the whole nine yards and steal the show's signature move?

Concentrating the power of Prima, the Prime of Light, an orb of blue-white orb of energy formed in his cupped hands.

Shoto didn't recognize the stance, he merely prepared his attack. When he was younger, he had once dreamed of doing an attack similar to this. Now was the time to test it out!

Shoto threw both his hands forward. Fire and ice shot out at the Prime, merging together to form a single attack. Optimus stood his ground as he stared at the approaching attack.

Optimus: Matrix... CANON!

He thrust his arms outward, and a blue-white beam of energy shot out from his hands to meet Shoto's attack head-on.

The two attacks met, and Optimus' Matrix Canon managed to obliterate Shoto's attack as soon as it made contact. But Shoto wasn't angry, nor was he disappointed. If anything, he was happy. Now he has a goal to work towards. He closed his eyes and accepted his fate.

Shoto: "Pri–Optimus... Thank you."

He was then engulfed in the beam of energy.

And then the whole arena was blinded by a bright white light. Everyone shielded their eyes from the blinding light. Even those watching from the comfort of their home had to cover their eyes at the brilliant light.

It soon died down and everyone looked down at the field and gasped at the sight. The area was halfway destroyed! Starting from Optimus, the concrete floor of the stadium was destroyed in a straight line to the end of the stadium and then to the field. Yet, amazingly, Shoto Todoroki was still in bounds. The trail of destruction seemed to just miss him, the torn-up concrete not even a foot away from him, and yet, he was completely fine.

Such a fact seemed surprising to him. He then looked at Prime, who began walking over to him, his body still covered in that majestic aura.

Shoto: You missed on purpose.

It wasn't a question. Optimus only nodded, causing Shoto to sigh.

Shoto: Well can't say I'm not grateful, judging by what you did to the field. Hate to see what would become of me if I got caught up in that.

Optimus: I didn't want to hurt you any more than I already have.

Shoto sighed again but had a fond smile on his face.

Shoto: Should've guessed such a response from you.

Optimus smiled slightly before becoming serious as he looked over at Shoto's left side.

Optimus: I see you've made your choice.

Shoto's smile dropped as he looked at his left arm, a look of contemplation on his face.

Shoto: I have. But I'm still a little unsure about it. For so long, I hated that part of myself. Tried everything I could to forget that part of me ever existed in the first place. Only now do I realize, how much that it was hurting me. I'm not gonna run away from that part of myself anymore, but it'll take some getting used to.

He then felt a comforting hand be placed on his shoulder.

Optimus: Change is never easy, especially for oneself. But I promised you this: I will do whatever I can to help you accept yourself Shoto. You have my word on that.

Shoto stared at the Prime's glowing blue eyes, seeing the sincerity and compassion in them, along with the firey determination. He couldn't stop the genuine smile from reaching his lips as he nodded in thanks.

Both heard a groan and turned to see Midnight, her appearance slightly disheveled from that last attack.

Shoto: Ms. Midnight. I would like to forfeit my match with Prime.

Midnight looked ready to say something before she groaned and shook her head, mumbling under her breath.

Midnight: (Mumble) Sure, now these brats try to resolve things peacefully, only after nearly destroying the stadium. Seriously, you kids just keep getting more and more destructive as the years go by. If this keeps up, I might just resign for my safety.

She then cleared her throat as she addressed the crowd, flocking her whip.

Midnight: Todoroki has conceded defeat. The victor is Optimus Prime, he is now going to the finals.

The crowd cheered, for both Optimus and Shoto, the former finally deactivating Prime Mode. The two combatants looked at each other and smiled.

Endeavor still stood frozen on the stands, looking at both his son and the one who just defeated him in stunned silence.

That power... He's never seen anything like it. He had once believed this Optimus Prime was related to All Might in some way, sharing the looks of his mother, along with his Quirk. But now, Endeavor was thinking he might've been wrong.

That kind of power... those different abilities... How did one person hold so much power in them? Was he the result of multiple generations of Quirk Marriages? Seeking to create the ultimate human? If that was their goal, they may have succeeded.

In the end, it didn't matter whether this boy was the result of the ultimate Quirk marriage, a government experiment, or just extremely lucky. He would find out the truth about Optimus Prime. And then, when he did, maybe the trembling of his hands would finally stop.

Rikkido: Holy crap that fight was insane!

Hanta: Insane doesn't even begin to cover it! I've never seen anything like it!

Denki: Yeah! It looked like something out of an anime! Especially at the end there.

Tsuyu: Seriously, you'd think they would try to hold back, knowing how powerful they are. Ribbit.

Mina: Yeah but their boys. They always have this weird urge to one-up each other.

Minoru was shivering in his seat. He had thought Midoriya vs. Todoroki was terrifying, oh how wrong he was. Now more than ever he wanted to make sure he didn't get on Optimus Prime's bad side.

Toru: Are your ears okay, Jiro?

Kyoka: Yeah, thankfully Yaomomo made me a pair of earphones just before those two went crazy. Thanks again for that!

Momo: Of course. I'm happy to help you all out.

Eijiro: I gotta say, there's been a lot of matches in this tournament so far, but that has to be the manliest thing I'd ever seen.

Mezo: Yeah. This was a true battle of elites in the class. At least we now know whose Class 1-A's best student.

Fumikage: Indeed. Prime has now established himself as the brightest light of the first-years.

At that, Katsuki couldn't take any more of this as he abruptly stood up and moved to leave, catching everyone's attention.

Eijiro: Hey Bakubro, where are you going?

Katsuki: What does it look like weird hair? Getting ready for my match! If you were smart birdhead, you'd do the same. I'll destroy you!

And with that, he left in a huff.

Ochaco shook her head.

Ochaco: Same old Bakugou. So prideful and determined.

That may be how it appeared to everyone, but to Izuku, who had known Katsuki Bakugou since they were in diapers, he saw something he'd never seen before from the blonde bomber, something he thought he'd never see in his former childhood friend turned bully.

Doubt.

Katsuki Bakugou was doubting himself, and Izuku Midoriya couldn't believe it. For as long as he's lived, he's always associated confidence with Katsuki. For so long, Katsuki was the embodiment of having faith in oneself to Izuku, someone who had the confidence that they could achieve anything. It was something Izuku always admired about Kacchan, even after their falling out.

So to see him having so much doubt in himself was a surprise to Izuku.

Izuku: "He's not the only one though."

Izuku thought as he turned back to the field and looked at Optimus. While he was proud of his friend, both for winning and getting Todoroki to use his left side, he couldn't stop the feelings of envy he was feeling.

He had previously thought it would be better to give Optimus One For All, that way Optimus could grow to become an even better hero than Izuku ever could. But seeing him use such power against Todoroki, that same power that surpassed even All Might, he couldn't help but think that even if Izuku mastered One For All, he would never surpass Optimus Prime.

Izuku: "Can I even keep up with him?"

Izuku looked down at his scarred right arm, frowning in thought.

As he walked through the hallways to the waiting room, Katsuki couldn't keep his mind off the match, no matter how hard he tried. With the power both Robo-Boy and Icy-Hot had, he just couldn't help but think how weak his explosions were in comparison to them.

He then shook his head. What was he thinking? Sure, his explosions may not be able to match the raw power of both of their Quirks, but he was more than just his explosions. He was smart and agile, and he knew how to use his Quirk in the best way possible to destroy his enemies.

But then again. Robo-Boy was the same. Despite the initial limitations of his transformation Quirk, he knew how to use every part of his body to the best of his abilities, way better than he did. Plus, in addition to his skills and his weird Quirk, he also had a ruthless side to him. He may be all sunshine and rainbows, but Katsuki could see underneath the surface of that persona he showed to the class.

He was a warrior.

He saw it first hand when he saved (man did it irk him to admit it, even silently to himself) him from the Sludge Villain, then again when he pinned him down during Aizawa's Quirk Apprehension test. Those eyes. You don't get eyes like those from living an easy life.

He had to have done a lot of dirty stuff to survive if he came out with eyes like those.

Katsuki: Tch. Doesn't matter how strong he is, or whatever kind of Hell he's been through. He's just another extra. A stepping stone to surpassing All Might, and becoming the Number One Hero.

Maybe if told himself that enough times, he would believe it.

As the crowd continued to cheer for them, Optimus suddenly felt a wave of dizziness overcome him, the cheers of the audience becoming distant noise. All the strength in his limbs began to leave him.

Shoto and Midnight took note.

Midnight: Optimus? Are you okay?

Optimus: Seems... I pushed myself... too far... after all.

Shoto's eyes widened as he recalled what happened at the end of the attack on the U.S.J.

Midnight: What do you–GUAH?!

She screamed in disgust and terror as she saw Optimus fall to his knees and vomit up blood. He faintly heard shouts of horror and questions asking about his wellbeing, from who he couldn't tell, but they were distant and lost to the Prime as everything went black.

A/N: Couldn't resist doing this.

Non-Canon Omake:

Optimus gathered the chi in his hands.

Optimus: Ka-Me-Ha-Me-HA!

He thrust his hands outward!

Later...

Optimus: Why am I here?

After the match with Todoroki, Optimus was dragged to a dark room. Nezu was in front of him with several men dressed in suits with briefcases.

Nezu: I'm afraid to tell you this, but Optimus Prime, you are being sued.

Optimus: May I ask on what charge?

Nezu: Copyright infingment.