A/N: I do not own Transformers or My Hero Academia.
The Rift
Days have passed since the end of UA's sports festival. The students were given the rest of the week off to rest after the grueling experience. And many of them needed it, especially one Izuku Midoriya.
Izuku was currently on the train, squeezed between several passengers, looking over his phone. His hands were still wrapped in bandages from the overuse of his Quirk. Thankfully there was no permanent damage besides the scar on his left hand. However, Izuku such a price as trivial, especially when one thought of Optimus'...
He shook his head.
He then went back to his phone and continued reading the news. Most of it had to do with the U.A. sports festival. Try as he might, he couldn't find much mention of himself, much to his disappointment. People like Shoto, Katsuki, and Optimus dominated the news feed, but in the case of the latter two, it was in a more negative light.
Given his matches against Ochaco and Optimus, Katsuki was seen as a brute who always brutalized his opponents, no matter who they were. People were calling him a villain, something that disgusted Izuku. Kacchan may be rough around the edges, rude, and mean at times, but he would never become a villain, and it wasn't fair for people who didn't even know him to label him as such.
But despite the bad reputation Katsuki was getting, it paled compared to what everyone said about Optimus. While no one was calling him a villain, gossip magazines were creating outlandish stories about him and how he got his scars. Abusive parents, self-mutilation, child soldiers, government experiments, vigilantism, and, most popularly, hero schools were abusing their students.
UA was under a lot of fire due to that last one, even after Principal Nezu hosted a press conference where he assured everyone that they were in no way abusing any of their students. Recovery Girl even provided evidence that the scars Optimus gained were before his time at UA.
That led to everyone trying to dig into Optimus' past to find out who or what gave him those scars. Many people posted fake information online to try and get attention, but they were quickly rebuked. Someone even leaked that Optimus was living in the dorms of UA, and multiple reporters tried to break in and interview him. Thankfully, UA's new and improved barrier kept them out.
Thankfully for his friend, it seemed that a lot of the heat regarding the Sports Festival was soon replaced with another growing trend if one could call it that.
Tenya's brother, the Pro Hero Ingenium, was attacked by the Hero Killer known as Stain, who's killed over a dozen heroes over the past year. He's always been a side note in the news so far, but his attack on such a popular Pro put him in the spotlight. People are now asking questions like who he is, what his motives are, and what his Quirk is. So far, there's no answer to any of these.
Man 1: Hey, you. Excuse me. You're Midoriya from Class 1-A.
His statement shocked Izuku, as well as everyone else in the cart, who now realized they were standing next to a celebrity. The man who recognized him flashed a congratulatory thumbs-up.
Man 1: Great job in the sports festival. I rooted for you.
Soon the dominos began to fall and more and more people began speaking to the shy young man.
"You were in the top eight, right?"
"That's so impressive."
"Shorter than I thought."
"I can tell you really want to be a pro one day."
"KEEP TRYING FOR IT, HERO!"
Izuku, unused to all this praise and positive reinforcement, was soon overwhelmed.
Izuku: I-I will. Thanks.
Man 2: So what's the story of that kid who came in second place? Optimus Prime?
Izuku snapped out of his daze at the mention of his friend. The other passengers soon began to ask similar questions.
"Yeah, what's his deal exactly?"
"How'd he get all those scars?"
"What was with that insane power of his in his fight with Endeavor's kid?"
"Is he single at all?"
More and more people were asking about Optimus. Questions he didn't have an answer to. And even if he did, he wouldn't share them with others without Optimus' permission.
Izuku: I'm sorry but I can't tell you anything about Optimus without his permission! So please stop asking me!
He yelled at the other passengers as he sprinted out of the train it arrived at his stop. He heard the faint questions of the curious people but ignored them as he sprinted out into the rain, opening his umbrella and making his way to U.A.
As he walked, his mind flashed back to the aftermath of Optimus and Katsuki's match.
Flashback
The entirety of Class 1-A sprinted their way down to the infirmary after the match was over, Izuku in the lead. When they got there, they found Momo standing outside the room, a concerned look on her face. She saw them approaching and moved to meet them.
Izuku: Yaoyorozu! How's Optimus?
Ochaco: Is he...?
Momo had a pensive frown on her face.
Momo: I've been outside since the moment they brought him in. Hopefully, we'll be hearing something from Recovery Girl–
At that moment, the old heroine in question stepped out of the infirmary. In that instant, everyone hounded her to learn about the fate of their class rep.
Recovery Girl: CALM DOWN YOU BRATS!
Everyone complied with her words instantly. She then released a sigh.
Recovery Girl: He's fine. The stubborn fool is just exhausted from pushing himself too far. All he needs is a little rest and he'll be fine.
The entire class let out a sigh of relief.
Eijiro: Well that's obvious, nothing can keep a man like OP down for long.
Denki: Yeah... but still, who'd've guessed he had so many scars?
At the mention of scars, the entire room then became somber. It was unreal to them. To think that someone as kind and strong as Optimus had such horrific scars all across his body, nobody thought such a thing could happen.
They all couldn't help but wonder what happened to him. And Recovery Girl picked up on his. She then tapped her cane hard against the stone floor, cracking it, and getting everyone's attention. She had a stern, no-nonsense frown on her face.
Recovery Girl: Now you all listen here, and you listen well. I know what happened in that match is a shock to all of you. Heck, the entire world. But if you really want to help your class rep, here's the best thing you can do.
Everyone leaned in close, desperate to learn how they could help their class rep.
Recovery Girl: Don't ask him about it.
Her answer shocked them all.
Mina: W-What do you mean?
Recovery Girl: I'm sure a lot of you have questions, especially about his scars, but I'm gonna tell you right here and now, don't. Don't ask about them.
Rikkido: But–
Recovery Girl: No buts!
Her outburst caused everyone to flinch back. She then calmed down and released a sigh.
Recovery Girl: Look, I get you all are teenagers, so you're naturally curious about a lot of things, but it would be in everyone's best interest if you just left this be.
Eijiro: But we only want to help!
Recovery Girl: How? How could you all possibly help him with this? Do any of you have a Quirk capable of erasing scars? And even if you did get rid of the physical scars, how do you plan to get rid of the emotional scars? Do any of you have a mind erasing Quirk?
Her words, those harsh, were true. What could they do to help Optimus heal from whatever happened to him?
The look of discouragement on their faces caused Recovery Girl to sigh.
Recovery Girl: You all care for him. He's lucky he's got friends like you all. But you, as his friends, have to respect his privacy. Why do you think he never shared this with any of you? He didn't want to make any of you uncomfortable or burden you with his problems. Look, I'm sure one day when he's ready, he'll share this with you all, but until then, after everything he's done for you all, the least you can do is be patient with him.
Everyone seemed to absorb her words before Momo spoke up, standing tall and proud.
Momo: Very well, we'll defer to your advice Recovery Girl.
She then turned to her classmates and addressed them in her best Vice Rep voice.
Momo: You heard her everyone. After all our class rep has done for us, let us repay that kindness with our patience. No, asking him about his scars or his past, no matter how badly you are dying to know.
It may seem like these words were rolling off her tongue, but it was a struggle for Momo to say them, considering she too so desperately wanted to know more about her crush. But she would respect his privacy.
Momo: However, let's make sure that Optimus Prime knows that no matter what, we are here for him, as he is often there for us.
Everyone: Right!
Recovery Girl had a pleased smile on her face as she looked at the assembled class, all willing to do whatever they could for their enigmatic class rep.
Recovery Girl: "That boy has no idea how lucky he is to have an entire class at his back. And to have such a beauty leading the charge." That's all great to hear. Now get! All of you! I can't work with all these people around! Some of you have an award ceremony to attend!
With that, Recovery Girl reentered the infirmary. Momo then began to lead the class back to the stands while Shoto and Fumikage left to prepare for the award ceremony.
As he was walking down the hall, Izuku spared a glance back to the infirmary door and stopped when he saw the last person lingering before it.
Katsuki was just staring at the door as if he was trying to burn down the door like he had heat vision. Izuku didn't even notice when Katsuki got there, and his old childhood friend always made a point of loudly announcing his presence to everyone around him.
But what surprised him, was the look on Katsuki's face. It was a look that, in all the time they've known each other, he's never seen before. An emotion he'd never thought to associate with Katsuki Bakugou.
Regret.
Flashback End
?: Good morning, Midoriya!
Izuku was pulled out of his memories by a familiar voice. He turned behind him and saw another friend he was worried about running toward him in the rain, decked out in a full-on green raincoat.
Izuku: Whoa, Iida? You really went all out with the rain gear.
Tenya: Why on earth are you walking so slowly? You'll be late.
Tenya said as he passed him on the sidewalk, causing Izuku to run to try and catch up.
Izuku: Late? But... there's still five minutes before the first bell.
Tenya: U.A. students should always arrive ten minutes early, don't you think?
Tenya then took off, sprinting the rest of the way. To be honest, his normal, by-the-book attitude was concerning to Izuku, especially with what happened to his brother. It seemed off.
Making his way inside, Izuku shook off the water from his umbrella as he watched Tenya put away his rain boots.
Izuku: So, Iida. Um...
Tenya: If it's about my brother, don't be concerned. I'm sorry if I made you worry. Everything'll be fine.
Despite the confident smile on his friend's face, Izuku had enough practice to see that was a lie. But he didn't push it. Instead, he moved to address another topic of concern.
Izuku: I'm glad to hear that, but there's something else I want to talk to you about before class.
Tenya: What may that be?
Izuku looked to the side nervously.
Izuku: Well, did you see the last match at the Sports Festival?
Tenya: Yes, I did during the train ride to the hospital.
Izuku: So... that means... you saw Optimus'...
At that, Tenya grimaced. When the smoke cleared and Optimus' scars were revealed, Tenya dropped his phone in shock, cracking the screen. Those scars, it was unnerving. It almost felt as if the universe was punishing him for some reason, for both his brother and his class rep, the two people he admired most, to go through such traumatic experiences on the same day. It was cruel.
Tenya: Yes, I did. I won't lie to you Midoriya, when I saw Prime's body, I shut down for a brief moment. To think someone like him, an ideal example of heroism, could have such wounds.
Izuku: Yeah, I know what you mean.
He did. It was still jarring to think someone like Optimus could suffer like that.
Tenya: But Yaoyorozu already reached out to me. Rest assured, I will be doing my best to make sure not to bring our class rep any more suffering that he already has gone through, whatever it is.
And with that, Tenya began to walk to class with Izuku right behind him.
Within the confines of Class 1-A's classroom, the students began talking about their newfound fame. For better or for worse.
Mina: It's so weird that people recognize us from TV. Everyone wanted to talk to me on the way here.
Eijiro: Yeah me too!
Toru: People on the street were staring at me! It was kinda embarrassing.
Mashirao: Sure but isn't that pretty normal for you?
Hanta: You won't believe what a bunch of elementary school brats yelled at me.
Tsuyu: 'Nice try'?
Hanta then released a groan, recalling the humiliating instant defeat he suffered at the hands of Shoto, and the meme that popped up after his loss.
Denki: All it took was one Sports Festival and suddenly were like celebrities.
Minoru: This school really is amazing.
Kyoka: Yeah, but the attention can be pretty nerve-racking. Especially when it's not you the paparazzi want to learn about.
At that, everyone had a knowing look in their faces. It's true, while many excited fans offered congratulations to the hero students, a lot of the questions they asked were about Optimus Prime and his scars.
They turned to the odd seat in the back belonging to their class rep, who for the first time since school started, hadn't shown up before everyone else. At that, everyone began to be worried. they had followed Recovery Girl's advice and decided to leave Optimus alone for the time being, letting him heal and recover.
Momo: Has anyone spoken to Optimus at all since the Sports Festival ended?
A lot of them shook their head no.
Eijiro: I tried sending him a text a couple of times over the break, but I never got the courage to do it.
He confessed, looking quite ashamed of himself.
Shoto: I saw him.
Everyone whipped their heads to see Shoto Todoroki, looking outside, an expression of regret on his face.
Rikkido: You did? Where? When?
Shoto frowned in shame. How could he tell them that Optimus had gone with him to see his mother in the mental hospital?
Before he could offer an excuse, the door to the class opened, and everyone froze as they saw the person they were speaking about enter the room, looking as good as new, a stark contrast to his appearance at the end of the Festival.
As Optimus stepped into the room, he noticed quickly that the entire atmosphere changed, and he knew he was the cause of it. He sighed in regret.
Optimus: Hello everyone.
He got several unenthusiastic greetings back from his classmates, as many tried to avoid looking at him in the eye. Such aversion caused Optimus to look down in shame. He was the cause of this awkwardness, so he needed to fix it.
Optimus then stood before the entire class and to the surprise of all, went to the floor and assumed the stance of a traditional dogeza.
Optimus: I'm sorry.
His apology caught everyone off guard, and he would go so far as to perform a foreign form of apology.
Optimus: I'm sorry for the trouble I no doubt have caused all of you over the break. I'm sorry for the worry and fear you all felt at the expense of me. I can only ask for your forgiveness and work to do better in the future. I hope you accept my apology.
No one said a word, only staring at the kneeling Prime in open shock and mouth. Until one person decided to end this.
Katsuki: Oi, oi! Just get off the stupid floor will you, Prime! No one here gives a rat's butt about your scars. Stop thinking everything bad that happens revolves around you. You're the extra here, not me!
Despite his words seeming harsh, everyone understood the sentiment of his statement. And, less crudely and rudely, agreed.
Momo: I can't believe I'm saying this, but Bakugou is right Optimus.
Katsuki: Hey!
Momo: Truly we don't blame you for any trouble we may have encountered in the past couple of days, nor was it a burden to worry about you. After all, you constantly worry about all of us. It's only right we worry about you too. And don't worry, whatever story involves your... past, we won't ask, nor force you to answer. That is your choice, and yours alone. Isn't that right, everyone?
At once, the entire class nodded their heads and voiced their agreement. Optimus raised his head and looked stunned at the support and respect his classmates had for him. Momo then walked up to him and offered up her hand.
Momo: So get up from the floor already, before Mr. Aizawa chews you out for lying in his spot.
Optimus chuckled as he accepted her hand and rose to his feet. He then made his way to his desk, nodding to his classmates. He then noticed Shoto looking away from him in shame. He must still be feeling guilty about the hospital visit.
Optimus then placed a reassuring hand on the other boy's shoulder, causing him to look up to Prime in awe. Optimus gave him a reassuring nod and a gentle squeeze before releasing and continuing to his seat. The message was clear.
"I do not blame you."
By the time Optimus sat down, Aizawa entered the classroom.
Aizawa: Morning.
Everyone: Good morning, Mr. Aizawa!
Tsuyu immediately made note of a change in their teacher.
Tsuyu: Ribbit? Mr. Aizawa, you don't have bandages anymore. That's good news.
Indeed, Shouta Aizawa was free from his bandages, although he now had a new scar just under his right eye.
Aizawa: The old lady went a little overboard in her treatment. Anyway. We have a big class on Hero Informatics.
At once, a sense of dread enveloped the students.
Everyone: "Oh no."
Denki: "Informatics? Please don't tell me it's a pop quiz."
Eijiro: "Crap. I bet it's about hero laws. I'm so bad at stuff like that."
Aizawa was silent momentarily, building up the dramatic tension, as he loved before informing them.
Aizawa: You need codenames. Time to pick your hero identity.
Everyone: THIS IS GONNA BE TOTALLY AWESOME!
His eyes then flashed red, causing everyone to quiet down.
Aizawa: This is related to the pro hero draft picks that I mentioned the last time we were in class together. Normally students don't have to worry about the draft yet. Not until their second or third year actually, but your class is different. In fact, by extending offers to first-years like you, pros are essentially investing in your potential. Any offers can be rescinded if their interest in you dies down before graduation, though.
Minoru, who was nervously shaking pounded his hand on his desk.
Minoru: Stupid selfish adults.
Toru: So what you're saying is, we'll still have to prove ourselves after we got recruited.
Aizawa: Correct. Now. Here are the totals for those of you who got offers.
He clicked on a button and a screen popped up showing the various people who got offers and how many they got.
Prime: 5034
Todoroki: 4123
Bakugou: 3556
Tokoyami: 360
Iida: 301
Kaminari: 272
Yaoyorozu: 108
Kirishima: 68
Ururaka: 20
Sero: 14
Aizawa: In past years it's been more spread out. But there's a pretty big gap this time.
Everyone was in shock as the massive gap in offers, though they expected the top three would have the most, they didn't think the gap could be that large.
Denki: Gah! That's not fair!
Yuga: What about the real star? Moi?
Kyoka: Todoroki's ahead of Bakugou, and Prime's ahead of them all.
Eijiro: Yeah it's the opposite of how they placed in the Sports Festival.
Hanta: They probably weren't excited about having to work with the guy chained up at the end.
Katsuki: If I scared a Pro, then they're just weak!
Momo saw the low number of offers she had and sighed. But she managed to put on a smile as she turned to her neighbor beside her and her crush behind her, the two who had received the most offers.
Momo: That's amazing. You two must be proud.
Shoto didn't share her thoughts.
Shoto: These offers are probably because of my father.
Optimus: And I assume most of these offers are from heroes who are more interested in what publicity I could give them than my potential as a future hero.
Optimus said in a small tone of disgust. If there was one thing he hated, it was when he, or anyone, was treated like a tool to further their own fame.
Ochaco on the other hand was excited as she viciously shook Tenya by his shoulders, tears in her eyes.
Ochaco: [Excited] People want us!
Minoru was doing the same for Izuku but for a different reason.
Minrou: Midoriya. You got none. I bet everyone was really grossed out by the crazy way you were fighting.
Despite his harsh words, Minrou spoke true for once. A lot of people would be disturbed by how much Izuku was breaking his body to use his Quirk.
Aizawa: Despite these results. You'll all be interning with Pros. Got it? Even those of you who didn't get any offers.
Izuku: Oh, so, we're all interning?
Aizawa: Yes. You already got to experience real combat with real villains during the attack on the USJ facility. But it'll still be helpful to see pros at work. Up close and personal in the field. Firsthand.
Rikkido: And for that, we need hero names!
Ochaco: Things are suddenly getting a lot more fun!
Aizawa: These hero names will likely be temporary, but take them seriously–
The door slid open.
?: –Or you'll pay for it later!
Hanta, Denki, and Minoru all lit up in perverted excitement at the new arrival as they strutted into the room.
Midnight: What you pick today could be your codename for the rest of your life. It's important not to choose something utterly indecent.
Students: It's Midnight!
Optimus: "Is she really the best person for this sort of thing?"
While he had gotten to know the Modern Art History Teacher better since school started, and was able to quickly realize that despite her pervert act, she loves and cares for her students greatly, she still wasn't what he pictured when the thought of modesty.
Aizawa: Yeah. She's got a good point. Midnight is gonna have final approval over your names. It's not my forte.
As he said that, he thought back to his days in high school. At the time he didn't care about being in the spotlight, so choosing a hero name never mattered all that much to him, so he just went with whatever his friend Hizashi came up with at the moment.
Aizawa: The name you give yourself is important. It helps reinforce your image and show what kind of hero you want to be in the future. A codename tells people exactly what you represent. Take All Might for example.
At that, Izuku's face became contemplative as he thought about the kind of hero he wanted to be.
As whiteboards were passed down, Optimus took hold of one and stared at it for a moment. In all honesty, he never thought about giving himself a code name. He never needed one before, and never really saw a need for one.
But as he thought about it more, there was only one option so he quickly wrote the name down.
After several minutes of brainstorming, it was now time to present the names of everyone to the class, much to the shock and embarrassment of others.
Unsurprisingly, Yuga was the first one up.
Yuga: Hold your breath. The shining hero. My name is "I Cannot Stop Twinkling"! Mon amis. You can't deny my sparkle.
Students: "COME ON."
Optimus: "... Is he serious?"
Midnight took his whiteboard and made several edits to it.
Midnight: It'll be better this way. Take out the "I" and shorten the "Cannot" to "Can't".
Yuga accepted the revisions with grace.
Yuga: It's stunning, mademoiselle.
Students: She likes it?!
Rikkido: Also, you're not really French, are you? That's just an act.
Mina soon stepped up to the podium.
Mina: Okiey Dokie, lemme go next! My codename: Alien Queen.
Midnight suddenly pictured that horrifying monster from those old thriller films.
Midnight: Hold on. Like that horrible monster with the acidic blood? I don't think so.
Mina: Dang it.
Students: "That one wasn't okay? Since the first two were weird, I think I have to come up with something really clever now."
One brave soul raised her hand.
Tsuyu: Ribbit? I think I've got one. Can I go next?
Midnight: Come on up.
Tsuyu: I've had this name in mind since grade school. "Rainy Season Hero: Froppy".
Midnight: That's delightful! It makes you sound approachable. What a great example of a name everyone will love.
Everyone's spirits soon lifted at the introduction of a normal name. They all began chanting the name "Froppy".
Eijiro was up next.
Eijiro: I've got one too! The Sturdy Hero. My name is Red Riot.
Midnight: "Red Riot"? Interesting. You're paying homage to the Chivalrous Hero, Crimson Riot, yes?
Eijiro: That's right. He might be kinda old school, but someday, I wanna be just like he was, Crimson is my idol.
Midnight: Hm. If you're bearing the name of someone you admire, you have that much more to live up to.
Eijiro wasn't deterred by such an obstacle.
Eijiro: I accept the challenge.
At that, Izuku thought back to all the names he came up with as a child: Mighty All Man, Captain All Might, Super All Might, etc. Wow, looking back on it now, he really was such a massive fanboy. But now that he has All Might's power and is training under him, he couldn't just copy his name. He needs to make his symbol.
The names took off after that.
Kyoka: The hearing hero: I'm Earphone Jack.
Midnight: Now that's a good one.
Mezo: "The Tentacle hero: Tentacole".
Midnight: Oh I like what you're doing with that, a nice portmanteau.
Hanta: "The Tapping Hero: Cellophane".
Midnight: That's on the nose. Good work.
Mashirao: "Martial Arts Hero: Tailmain".
Midnight: No surprise with that one, I guess!
Rikkido: I'm the Sweets Hero: Sugarman.
Midnight: Perfect!
Mina: PINKY!
Midnight: Make those looks work for you, girl!
Denki: Stungun Hero: I am Chargebolt! Electric don't you think?
Midnight: Makes me all tingly!
Toru: "The Stealth Hero: Invisible Girl".
Midnight: That really suits you! Now come on! Whose gonna step up next?!
Momo: I hope I can live up to this name. The Everything Hero: I'm Creati.
Midnight: Creative!
Shoto: "Shoto"!
Midnight: Just your name? Is that it?
Shoto: Uh-huh.
Fumikage: "Jet Black Hero: Tsukuyomi"!
Midnight: [swooning] Ah, God of the Night.
Minoru: "Fresh-Picked Hero: Grape Juice".
Midnight: Very Ketchy.
Koji held out his whiteboard which read: "Petting Hero: Anima". Midnight gave him a thumbs up.
Midnight: Yep. All about it!
Katsuki: King Explosion Murder.
Midnight: I'm gonna say that one's a little too violent.
Katsuki: Huh? Whaddaya mean?!
Eijiro: Why don't you be Explosion Boy?
Katsuki: You shut up weird hair!
Ochaco then got up and made her way to the podium.
Ochaco: This is the name I thought of: Uravity!
Midnight: I just love that.
Ochaco sighed in relief.
Midnight: To be honest, choosing names is going faster than I thought it would. All we have left is young Bakugou, who needs to rethink his, and Iida. Oh yes, Midorya and Prime too.
As Tenya stared at the whiteboard, one name kept coming to the forefront of his mind, the name his brother once held, and wanted to entrust to him. It was what he always wanted, to carry on the family hero name, but never like this. Not with his brother paralyzed and the perpetrator still out there.
He tried to write out the name, but he couldn't finish it. So instead, he settled on his real name and presented it to the class.
Midnight: You're using your real name, too?
Seeing the expression on Tenya's face raised a few red flags for Optimus. It was a look he's seen on many Autobots and one he's had before. It was the look of someone who wanted revenge. He would need to keep a close eye on him.
Midnight: Midoriya? Are you ready?
Izuku: Oh, yes.
He then stepped up to the podium and showcased his choice, much to the surprise of his classmates.
Minoru: Really, Midoriya?
Denki: You sure about that?
Eijiro: Yeah man, remember that could be your name forever.
At that, Izuku could only nod in acknowledgment.
Izuku: Right. I used to hate it. But then, something changed, I guess... Someone taught me it could have a different meaning. And that had a huge impact on how I felt. So, now I really like it.
He thought back to the phrase two people told him once regarding this name.
Ochaco: [Flashback] It gives off a certain "you can do it!" vibe!
Optimus: [Flashback] What was once a weakness, can be turned into a source of strength.
The thought of those two and their kind words, brought a smile to his face as he proudly shared his hero name with them all.
Izuku: Deku. That has to be my codename!
Katsuki looked baffled while both Ochaco and Optimus had bright smiles on their faces, proud that he took their advice to heart.
Midnight: Oh! So moving! Perfect! Now all that's left is Prime. Come on up now!
Optimus took a deep breath and made his way up the podium, his classmates watching with anticipation, wondering what name he had chosen for himself. He made it to the podium and showed his name to them all.
"The Hero of Freedom: Optimus Prime"
Midnight: Okay, I can tolerate using your name at least twice, but I want a good reason now why you thought to use your name.
Eijiro: Yeah? Why not something like Full Metal?
Denki: How 'bout Paladin?
Mina: OverPower, 'cause it uses your initials.
Fumikage: I'm partial to Brightheart myself.
Several more name suggestions were thrown out before Optimus began to explain himself. He debated whether or not he should say anything, but he figured it wouldn't hurt to explain himself.
Optimus: Because... in a strange way... Optimus Prime is my hero name.
Everyone was confused. Then Midnight's eyes widened in realization.
Midnight: Wait... so are you saying that...
Optimus nodded.
Optimus: Indeed. Optimus Prime was not the name I was given when I was born. Rather, it is a name I earned.
Everyone was shocked at this revelation.
Shoto: Earned?
Optimus: Yes. Back home, Prime isn't just a name, but a title held with great reverence. One does not take the name so casually. To earn it, one must be found worthy of it.
Izuku: And... you were found worthy of it.
Optimus: Yes, I was, much to my surprise. As such, I was gifted the name Optimus Prime. And after being granted such an honor, I can think of calling myself by no other name.
Momo: Then what's your original name?
Everyone looked at Optimus, who, to the shock of all, began to look uncomfortable.
Optimus: There is no need to share that.
Minoru: Why?
Optimus looked down as his wild hair covered his blue eyes.
Optimus: Because that name belongs to someone who has long since been dead.
He said it softly, but everyone still heard him. Everyone's curiosity peaked and they so desperately wanted to ask what he meant, but they remembered Recovery Girl's warning and decided to drop it for now.
Midnight, seeing as the mood turned somber, decided to change the subject.
Midnight: Very well, I accept it. But if I may ask, your title, "The Hero of Freedom", what exactly do you mean by that?
Optimus: That is what I fight for.
Midnight: Well, it has a nice ring to it, but there's no reason to fight for it. Slavery is practically non-existent in this day and time.
Optimus: I do not just mean freedom from chains or tyrants. I also fight for freedom from fear. The freedom to pursue one's dreams and goals. The freedom to live a life of happiness. That is the freedom I fight for. For freedom is the right of all sentient beings.
Everyone's eyes widened at his last statement. There was something just so pure, just so bright about that statement, especially coming from him. Such a dream sounded impossible to a rational person, but coming from the mouth of Optimus Prime, everyone felt like that dream could become a reality.
Midnight: I love it! The passion of youth is on full display!
Midnight was shaking with excitement as Optimus returned to his seat. The wave of awe carried on until Katsuki went back to the stand to present his revised name.
Katsuki: LORD EXPLOSION MURDER!
Midnight: That's basically the same thing.
The name choosing soon came to an end (with Katsuki still not choosing a suitable name yet), they were then given their forms to choose which hero agencies they wanted to intern with, the ones who were on the board were given a larger list than the ones who weren't. They had about two days to turn in their papers.
It was now lunch time and many students were still looking through their choices.
Mina: Guys have you decided what Pro agency you wanna go for?
Minoru: My top choice is Mt. Lady.
Tsuyu: Mineta, are you thinking something perverted?
He then cast a terrified glance at Optimus, worried he may be listening.
Minoru: Possibly...
Mashirao: You made it pretty far in the tournament, it's weird you didn't get any offers.
Mina: I know!
Ochaco laughed at Mina's outburst before turning to Izuku.
Ochaco: Hey Deku, who is on your list?
Izuku: There are around 40 heroes who'll take us, so after looking up their specialties and splitting them into groups I can start narrowing them down...
Everyone: There he goes again.
That knocked Izuku out of his muttering.
Izuku: Huh? Oh. Sorry. What'd you guys say?
Tsuyu: You're really thinking hard about this, aren't you?
Ochaco: Don't worry. It'll all work out. I've settled on my pick.
Mina: Already?
Mashirao: What agency?
Ochaco: The one that the battle hero, Gunhead, runs.
Izuku looked confused.
Izuku: Huh? Gunhead's a big brawler, though. Are you sure that's where you want to intern, Uraraka?
Ochaco: Yep! He sent me an offer.
Izuku: Whoa, really? But I thought you were trying to become a rescue hero like Thirteen.
Ochaco: Ultimately that's the plan. But I've been thinking ever since my fight with Bakugou, that the stronger I am the more possibilities I have.
Optimus: That is a wise outlook to have Ochaco.
Ochaco: Aw, thanks Optimus. By the way, how's your search going?
She asked as they all turned to Optimus, only to balk at what they saw. Optimus' desk and the surrounding area were covered with offers, all of them neatly stacked at different heights. How he managed to fit and organize it so nicely was unbelievable.
Optimus: Having so many offers, it's a slow process
Mina: I'm more shocked that you somehow managed to organize this many offers than I am by how many you got.
Mashirao: What do these different stacks represent?
Optimus then began pointing out the different stacks of offers.
Optimus: This one represents an agency that specializes more in fighting villains. This one focuses on rescue. The one in between them are the agencies that are a balance between the two. These offers are set more in urban settling while the ones next to it are countryside. This stack right over here are agencies that focus more on publicity than they do hero work, I'm working to avoid them.
Izuku: What about that large pile behind you? Did you not sort those out into groups yet?
Optimus turned and saw a pile of over a thousand offers.
Optimus: Oh no. Those are offers I've already looked through and decided against.
His answer shocked them all.
Mina: You not only managed to organize the mess of offers you got so neatly, but you managed to breeze through over a thousand in less than an hour!?
Tsuyu: How did you do that?
Optimus had a proud smile on his face as he answered.
Optimus: Being the apprentice to the head librarian back home did have its perks. Fast reading and organization were among many of the talents I picked up from my mentor. "Or else?"
He shuddered slightly. While Alpha Trion was a kind and benevolent mentor if you messed with his library or his organization system... one could only pray to Primus they would survive the encounter. And don't even get him started if you turned in a book even one day late.
Izuku: Oh, that's right... you were a librarian before coming here. I honestly forgot. Sorry.
Optimus: It's no problem, Izuku.
Optimus waved off his apology as he went back to his many offers. But Izuku still stared at Optimus with contemplation.
Izuku: "If you were a librarian before coming here, then how did you get all those scars? And what kind of trial did you have to go through to earn your name?"
Izuku as he watched Optimus flip through the offers he had absent-mindedly. He couldn't help feeling slightly envious as he looked through the offers he had. So many offers, most from popular pro heroes, while he didn't even get one. There were offers from top heroes like Yoroi Mushi, the number 9 hero, small-time pros like the Lurkers, and if he read this name right, he even got an offer from All Might's former sidekick Nighteye!
However, one name stuck out to Izuku, causing him to speak up.
Izuku: No way... this hero sent you an offer?!
Optimus was about to put the file away, but Izuku's statement stopped him.
Optimus: What about that is so special?
Izuku: Because they've never done that before! Ever since they became a Pro, this hero has never taken on a single sidekick or even sent an offer to other hero schools. They're famous for being a loner. But to think they sent you an offer.
Izuku couldn't help the jealousy rise within him.
Optimus then took a quicker look at the file. This hero did indeed like working alone, and according to their track record, they're more focused on fighting villains it seemed. They have an agency headquarters but it appears they travel all around the country as opposed to just staying in one place.
Still, Optimus was intrigued as he began looking over this file more closely. To be honest, the main reason why he was struggling to choose an agency was because he felt no need for it. He already knew how to operate as a hero, maybe not according to this world's standards, but he had little desire to conform to them. Plus, not to sound arrogant or boastful, he felt he was already at the peak of his skill level, so there was likely not much for people to teach him.
But he had an interest in this hero as he read more about them. He was curious why they decided to work alone.
Optimus: Then I believe I have made my decision.
Everyone else looked at him in surprise.
Ochaco: Are you sure? Shouldn't you look through the rest of your offers first?
Optimus: It's fine. Besides, it would be rude to refuse this person's first request for an intern if they've never done it before.
Optimus then glanced off to the side and saw Tenya write down a pick for an agency. The look in his eyes worried him.
The end of the day came and Optimus presented his top three choices for his upcoming internships. At the top was the one Izuku helped him pick. The other two belonged to heroes named Sir Nighteye and Yorai Mushi.
Aizawa: So you made your choices.
Optimus: Indeed sir.
He handed Aizawa his list as his homeroom teacher looked over his choices.
Aizawa: Not bad. These heroes will play to your strengths if even one of them accepts you. You made fine choices. But keep in mind, that you should also make sure to improve upon any weaknesses you have.
Optimus: Of course, sir.
Optimus then moved to leave, but Aizawa stopped him.
Aizawa: Prime, wait a second.
Optimus turned back to his teacher.
Optimus: Is something the matter sir?
Aizawa looked around the staff room. Making sure there was no one else around, he then looked over at his student and bowed his head.
Aizawa: I'm sorry.
Optimus blinked in surprise.
Optimus: About what?
Aizawa: For not noticing that isn't right. For noticing and not doing anything about it.
Optimus: Anything about what?
Aizawa: Your pain.
Shock flickered across the human Prime's face.
Aizawa: You can't play dumb with me, Prime, I've noticed ever since the entrance exam how different you were from the other students. How prepared, confident, and numb you are in the face of danger. I thought it was just superior training or something, but after seeing your scars, I've realized the truth.
He then looked his student dead in the eyes.
Aizawa: Something horrible happened to you, didn't it? And it wasn't just once.
Optimus made no action to say otherwise.
Aizawa sighed as he hung his head.
Aizawa: You really are the worst problem child I've ever had.
He then stood up and placed a comforting hand on Optimus' shoulder.
Aizawa: I won't push you to tell me what happened, that isn't my right. But I will say this. I've got your back. And not just me, all the teachers and staff here at U.A. are behind you. 100%. No questions asked. We'll do our best to make sure you and the other students are safe. You have my word on that.
Optimus was floored by Aizawa's promise. And, for the briefest of moments, it was like he was seeing the face of his old mentor, Alpha Trion in place of Aizawa. He shook his head at the memories as he gave his teacher a grateful smile.
Optimus: I thank you, Mr. Aizawa.
Aizawa rewarded him with a rare sight even his closest friends rarely saw, a genuine smile.
However, the sound of the door opening broke them apart as Aizawa quickly went back to work as if nothing happened and Optimus was trying to look as inconspicuous as possible.
Snipe looked between the teacher and student with confusion.
Snipe: What happened?
Optimus & Aizawa: Nothing!
Snipe didn't believe that for a moment, but he didn't press the issue.
Optimus turned back to Aizawa and bowed his head.
Optimus: Thank you for your advice on choosing Internships, sir.
Aizawa: Of course. Have a good day Prime.
Optimus smiled and turned to leave, but stopped when he spotted an internship form lying on the table. He caught Tenya's name and his top, along with only choice. The Normal Hero: Manual, Optimus saw his name among the offers for him, but he decided not to go for him because her didn't think he'd learn much. So why was Tenya, someone who had a speed-based Quirk, interning with a hero so far out of his strengths?
And then, he remembered something that caused his eyes to widen. Manual was based in Hosu City. Hosu City, the place where Tenya's brother Ingenium was attacked by the Hero Killer. And the place where he was believed to still reside for the time being.
He didn't think about anything else as he then bolted out of the office and ran down the halls of UA, ignoring the shocked cries of his teachers, desperately searching for his friend. The look in his eyes, the communication blackout, all the signs were there, but he'd been foolish to believe Tenya wouldn't give in to some primal desire like revenge, but he should know better. After all, even he was susceptible to that poison.
Izuku: Optimus!
Optimus turned to see Izuku running up to him with stars in his eyes.
Izuku: You'll never believe what just happened?! I'm gonna be interning with a Pro who taught–
Optimus: Izuku!
Izuku was cut off by the sharpness in Optimus' voice and the intensity in his eyes.
Optimus: Answer me this now. Where is Tenya?!
Izuku: W-What?
Optimus placed his hands on Izuku's shoulders.
Optimus: Where. Is. Tenya?
Izuku was so overcome with the intense gaze that he couldn't bring himself to answer for a few seconds. Finally, he managed to gulp down some bile and find his voice.
Izuku: I-I don't know. Uraraka and I wanted to find him to ask him to walk home with us, but he must've left to turn in his forms.
Optimus: Scrap!
Optimus then let go of Izuku and bolted down to the exit, leaving Izuku baffled by the desperation in Optimus' face.
Momo and Kyoka were chatting together in the hall, discussing internship options.
Momo: So have you decided on a place to take your internship?
Kyoka: Yeah, I think I'm gonna go to Death Arm's agency. If the U.S.J. taught me anything, it's that I need to work on my physical strength, so I'm hoping that interning there will help me gain the muscle I need.
Momo: Well I'm proud to hear that.
Kyoka: What about you? Have you picked out where to go from the offers you got?
Momo looked away with a frown. While she did get around a hundred offers. None of them really spoke to her so much. She was planning to interning with the highest person who gave her an offer, that being Uwabami. Maybe interning under her would help her grow and catch up with Optimus faster, but she still wasn't sure.
Momo: I'm still a little unsure of who would be best to help me.
Kyoka: Well why don't you ask someone like Midoriya or Prime for help? Midoriya's a crazy fanatic for heroes so he may be able to find something for you. Plus Prime is crazy good a organizing, so he can help you have options.
The thought of getting personal help from her crush was an attractive offer to the heiress. But she didn't want to rely solely on Optimus' help to get stronger, she wanted to learn how to stand on her own.
Momo: I don't think that's a good idea. I really don't want to bother him when he's trying to choose his own internship.
Kyoka: Last I checked he already chosen his top three. Besides, even if he hasn't, knowing him, he wouldn't mind helping you.
Momo had to concede that Kyoka had a point. But she was still unsure.
Momo: I don't know...
Kyoka then looked ahead.
Kyoka: Well why don't we ask him, he's heading our way.
Momo blinked as she looked up and saw Optimus running towards them. She then broke out in a nervous blush and stammering.
Momo: O-O-Optimus! H-Hello, h-hi I have a–
She didn't get to say more as Optimus bolted past both girls and continued running down the hall to the stairs.
Kyoka: Whoa! Where's the Fire Prime?! What's got him so spooked?
Momo just continued looking where her crush ran off.
Momo: I don't know.
Optimus made it to the entrance and began to frantically look around for Tenya. Searching all over, he finally spotted his retreating form running down the hill. Transforming his legs, his wheels burned rubber as he took off to catch up to Tenya.
He quickly reached the boy and swerved in front of him, causing him to stop.
Tenya: Prime?! What do you think you're doing?! UA students shouldn't be using their Quirk on Campus!
Optimus didn't say anything as his legs returned to flesh as he stared at Tenya. The Class Secretary began to look slightly nervous.
Optimus: Tenya, we need to talk. Now.
Tenya: If this is about class duties then I'm afraid I'm going to have to cancel. I need to get home and prepare for my internship.
Optimus: That is precisely what we need to talk about.
Tenya: Look if you're offering your help to choose an internship, There is no need, I already decided upon an agency.
Optimus: I know. I saw you put down Manual's agency. Andonlyhis agency.
Tenya: Of course. I believe there is a lot I can learn under the Normal Hero. He's–
Optimus: Tenya.
Tenya froze at the tone he heard in Optimus' voice. He looked at him and flinched under his intense gaze.
Optimus: Do not take me for a fool. We both know the reason you're interning with Manual, the real reason you're going to Hosu.
Seeing that there was no point in lying to his Class Rep, Tenya dropped all pretense of friendliness.
Tenya: What of it?
Optimus: You're making a mistake.
Tenya: Funny, some might call what I'm seeking justice.
Optimus: This is not justice, this is revenge.
Tenya: Is there a difference?
Optimus could barely believe the words coming out of Tenya's mouth.
Optimus: Are you even listening to yourself? Do you know what you sound like?
Tenya: Someone who will get justice for Tensei.
Optimus: Are you serious?! Do you know how many seasoned heroes Stain has killed and injured, including your brother?! If even he, a seasoned pro, was unable to defeat him, what in the name of Primus makes you think you can?! Stop acting like a child!
Tenya didn't say anything at first but then spoke
Tenya: Is that all you have to say to me Prime? If so, then we are done. I need to get home.
He then walked past Optimus, his tone indicating he was done talking. But Optimus wasn't done. He reached out and grabbed Tenya by the arm to stop him.
Optimus: Listen to me, please. I know you are in pain. I know you are struggling to make sense of what happened to your family. I know you want revenge, thinking it will make everything right. I understand, but–
POW!
The punch came from out of nowhere. Optimus had no time to dodge or block as both the force and shock knocked him to the ground. He sat there for a moment, dazed, as he placed a hand upon his bruised cheek. He looked back up at Tenya with disbelief in his eyes. Tenya's face had a look of disgust in it as he looked down on Optimus.
Tenya: "Understand"? How could you possibly understand? My brother, my hero, my idol, the person I looked up to the most, is in the hospital! And he's paralyzed! He loved being a hero! Loved helping people in need and being a symbol of inspiration to everyone! And now he can't even do that anymore! He can't do anything! All because of that monster Stain! Why should that killer be allowed to walk free when such a good person like my brother can't even move his body? And you say you can understand that kind of pain?!
Tenya glared at Optimus, his brain and heart a tangled mess of pain and anger, as he said his next words.
Tenya: How can you understand... when you don't even have a family?!
*GASP*
The sound of shocked gasps pulled Tenya out of his haze as he looked behind Optimus and saw Izuku, Ochaco, Momo, Jiro, and a handful of others with them. It was then, that Tenya's anger soon left him, as the implications of what he said and done caught up to him.
He then looked down in horror at Optimus, his expression emotionless as that wild hair covered his eyes, which he saw as a small relief. He wasn't sure he could take the look Optimus would give him.
Tenya: I... I-I...
Shame and guilt overwhelmed Tenya as he then sprinted away from the gathering crowd. He heard his classmates call after him, but he ignored them as he continued running away, tears growing in his eyes.
He may have lost one idol because of a villain, but now, he had caused a rift with his second idol. If anything, this only furthered his desire to see vengeance, else this sacrifice of friendship would be for nothing.
Optimus sat there on the ground for what felt like a long time, replaying Tenya's words in his mind.
Tenya: How could you understand... when you don't even have a family?!
Optimus: "More than you can know Tenya Iida. More than you can ever know. And I can only pray you never find out."
He was pulled out of his thoughts when his friends came to his side and helped him up.
Momo: Are you okay? Here, take this and rub this on your cheek.
She created a cloth and held it to his cheek, which he did, nodding his thanks to her.
Izuku: I can't believe Iida would do that, especially to you.
Ochaco: Yeah. That was totally out of character for him.
Optimus: He is grieving. And he is lost. When people are like that, they tend to make decisions that they would not normally make.
To others, it sounded like he was speaking from experience.
Optimus: We should not hold it so much against him.
His statement caused the others to look at him in shock.
Kyoka: You're serious? The guys just sucker punched you and brought up your... um, situation, in the worst way possible, and you still want to help him?
Optimus: If I abandoned everyone who made a slight against me because they were acting in anger, then I would have a lot more deaths on my conscious. "Not that I don't have enough." Besides, Tenya will need help from friends, more than ever now.
Optimus then turned to his classmates.
Optimus: Please don't let what happened here affect your opinion of Tenya. Do it as a favor to me, please.
The others looked at each other before nodded in agreement.
Optimus: Thank you everyone. Now I'm off to the dorms. Take care of yourselves, and good luck in choosing an internship.
With that, Optimus walked away from them in the direction of the dorms. His classmates watched him walk off in silence.
Kyoka: [Whistles] Man, there just isn't a single bad bone in his body, is there? If he wasn't here training to be a hero, I would've thought for sure he was practicing being a saint.
Ochaco: Maybe. But I'm still a little worried. There's no doubt that what Iida said bothered him, at least to some degree.
Izuku: Yeah. But it's not like he'll share with us what's bothering him so much. That's just the kind of person Optimus is. He'll shoulder the burdens of everyone else, and do it with a smile so they won't have to worry about him.
As Momo watched her crush walk off, she couldn't help but worry for him. He had experienced bottling up his emotions, masking his pain so as not to worry others. But, everyone has a breaking point. How long before Optimus reached his?
She only hoped that when he did, whatever comfort or support she provided then, was enough to keep him from becoming permanently broken.
Days passed and now it was the time UA students left for their internships.
Aizawa: Everyone has their costumes, right? Remember, you don't have permission to wear them out in public yet, and don't lose them or anything.
Mina: Gotcha!
Mina yelled enthusiastically as she held up her briefcase with her costume. Aizawa was not pleased with her joy.
Aizawa: Speak properly! It's "Yes, sir" Ashido.
She deflated.
Mina: Yes, sir.
Aizawa: Make sure you mind your manners with the other heroes during your internships. Now get to it.
Everyone: Yes, sir!
As some students began to talk excitedly with each other, Tenya began silently making his way over to his train.
Izuku: Iida, wait!
Izuku called as he and Ocahco ran up behind him. Tenya stopped.
Izuku: Hey, if you ever wanna talk or anything, just let us know.
Ochaco nodded in agreement.
Izuku: We're friends, right?
Tenya was silent for a long moment before turning around to face them, a carefully constructed mask on his face.
Tenya: Yes.
He said it so devoid of emotion that Izuku and Ochaco didn't believe him, but what could they possibly do to stop him?
Tenya then looked over their shoulder to see Optimus about to board his train, and his mask slipped as shame and guilt filled him. In the days that followed their fight, he thought multiple times to reach out to his class rep and apologize, for hitting him and what he said. But nothing he thought of sounded good enough to get the Prime to forgive him, so he didn't reach out. And even if he did come up with something, there was no doubt in his mind that Optimus would try to dissuade him from his goal, and that was something he could not allow.
So he left the rift alone. It would make what he was planning all the more easier.
He then turned away, missing the glance Optimus cast his way. The human Prime thought of contacting him as well, but he too was worried that if he kept pushing, he would end up driving Tenya further and further down a dark path. Once again, he felt powerless, unable to do anything to help his friends when they were suffering.
He could only pray to Primus that he would be able to think of something soon lest history repeated itself, and Tenya crossed a line he had no hope of coming back from.