Here is the thirty-fourth chapter in this story released in accordance with my release schedule for this story. The Sports Festival is official over, the winner has been determined so all that is left is to heal up the final combatants and award the medals to those who earned them before they can head home and relax following an intense and fun day. That is all that I have for the administrative stuff I have for y'all and while there are no questions to answer here there are four guest reviews that need a response, so I will do that now. Do keep them coming as your support is the best motivation for me to keep producing chapters at this kind of rate.
To Guest (guest), thank you for your review, glad you enjoyed the chapter. As for the Black Trio, while last chapter was an anomaly with them not being at the same time I will still release them all at the same time going forward but it seems like the consensus is to do so once they're ready rather than on a set day of the week so there will be times when they could be sooner than my fortnightly goal depending on how productive and busy I am. You make a valid point and this is a series with two other franchises, it's why things like Asta and Yuno can lose to someone their own age like Bakugo who they wouldn't have faced in Black Clover is possible without retconning them in my opinion, so all I will say is wait and see as the offers are coming in the near future. I will still defer to canon for critical moments but as shown by how Asta made the finals, Yuno the semis, and Ruby the quarters (along with Noelle, Nero, Weiss, and Mimosa all making it to the top 16) I will change canon when needed and that will be seen more in the coming arc as I polish up how the Hero Killer Arc will go. I do not consider being respectful of canon as being scared to change it so just be patient and all will be revealed. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.
To Guest (different guest), thank you for your review and continued support. Yup, Bakugo was always going to win but he had to earn his win and it took all he had to beat both Yuno and Asta while also not disrespecting him the way Todoroki did. Yup, it was revealed a while back but it wasn't until the Sports Festival that Asta was so active with this aspect of Anti-Quirk and not until the final that it became common knowledge for the whole class. It's a big advantage at times but as Bakugo showed, localized factors are going to be harder to deal with. That combined with Bakugo's skills and realization made this hard for Asta but he fought to the bitter end and a silver medal is nothing to sneer at. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.
To Nathan Ramos (guest), thank you for your review, glad you liked the chapter. It's good to see that the final lived up to its billing and yup that was something in the MHA canon I didn't like, Bakugo v. Todoroki should have been better but it wasn't so changing it to be Asta v. Bakugo and a battle where both give it their all for a truly worthy final. Right now Bakugo will only see Asta and Yuno as rivals, Ruby isn't one especially because he still calls her 'Petals'. He beat her quick, which shows that he understands she's potentially a threat if not dealt with right away. Course once we see ultimate moves things could change especially as Asta and Yuno grow their Quirks over time will challenge him, along with Deku's improvements of course, but for now Bakugo is on top. Right now I do not think I can adapt Ruby's eyes beyond them being silver, that's just too hard to adapt. If it was similar enough to her Semblance I could have as an awakened power but it's not so as of right now she won't have that power. As for Lumiere, I'll have to think on it as it does kinda work but I'm not sure how the timeline will work as it might not be enough given how Lumiere is set to predate All for One and be one of the earliest Quirk users. I do have a plan for the general backstory to Lumiere and all that but that is still a long ways off and needs refinement. It would make more sense for Augustus Kira Clover to be a descendant than Lumiere and could play into his ego and pride because he's a direct descendant of the first Quirk user and like the baby his Quirk is light based. All that said there is the fact that the baby isn't Japanese but Chinese in the MHA canon to factor in as well so I'm not sure how it will all work but I will think on it. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.
To KGBeastboy (guest), thank you for your review and recommendation. I'm not sure if she's impressed people enough for an offer after the Sports Festival or even showed off her Quirk. Of all the three branches, Huntsman is the most technical due to the weapons that are used and the skill behind them with few relying solely on Quirks and even then there aren't many Quirks that are directly useful for taking down Grimm. Size is one of them and you make a good point, perhaps we'll see Vlad suggest it at some point. I will go more into the nuances, roles, and inner workings of the Huntsman and Quirk Knight branches during the Hero Killer arc when we see the other major internships. The offers are coming soon so stay tuned and all will be revealed. Do keep reading and enjoying my work.
That is it for this long pre-chapter note so it is time to sit back and enjoy the thirty-fourth chapter in Black RWBY Academia.
Disclaimer: I own nothing related to these three great franchises.
Chapter 34: Medals and Aftermath
"Asta!"
The yell came from who else but Noelle as the smoke cleared and her eyes went wide at the sight of Asta unconscious on the grass near the base of the wall that had been behind him, swords vanishing as he lay there and blood on the back of his head. Before anyone else could react, and as Present Mic was confirming that Bakugo had won, Noelle was already on her feet.
"I've, er, gotta go make sure he's ok." Noelle said as the robots arrived and quickly removed Asta while two more went to get Bakugo who they could all see was now unconscious as well having lasted long enough to be confirmed as the winner before passing out in the middle of the battlefield. "As a friend of course, nothing more."
At that Noelle turned and before anyone could say anything or question her excuse she turned and headed out of the box. She wasn't the only one who was going there as Yuno and Mimosa were leaving Class B's box at the same time Noelle left her class's but no one else moved, they just blinked at it before finally Ruby broke the silence.
"What was that about?" Ruby asked. "I get why she rushed off to see Asta, she's his bestie, but she didn't need to justify it or anything, we all get it."
"Nero, aren't you going to go with her?" Weiss asked. "A few went to see Midoriya after his loss to Todoroki after all and you're about as close with Asta as Noelle is."
"No, this is something that I think is best for Noelle to do on her own." Nero said shaking her head. "She needs to understand why she had that reaction and if I'm there it will delay it though I expect there will be a few others going to see Asta as well so no doubt she'll still fail to understand. That, and I am pretty sure that Bakugo has some broken bones and if I go I may be roped into mending them and then get a lecture on how to improve my healing capabilities and I'd rather save that for another day."
"But come on." Mina said. "There's no way that Silva knows why she's acting like this and Asta's clearly as dense as they come. It's great to watch, really pulls on my heartstrings, but annoying as well."
"She's such a tsundere and he's dense." Toru added. "Like even a classing manga tsundere and a dense Shonen protagonist aren't as stereotypical as these two are. Mangaka could learn from them, I bet they'd make great main characters in some action series."
"Huh?" Ruby asked looking confused. "I don't get it."
"It's ok Ruby." Weiss said. "Don't worry about it. It's as you said, Noelle is Asta's best friend so she's going to make sure he's ok."
"Oh ok, just like you did for me." Ruby said with a smile at Weiss and not realizing how accurate she was being. "That was so nice by the way, meant a lot after being beaten by Bakugo."
"Pretty much." Weiss said before quickly changing the subject just in case someone wanted to compare her to Noelle, not that it would be a fair comparison as she wasn't like her friend in that regard at all, not in the slightest. "Anyway, how did Bakugo win that? He seemed to be more in control but that final hit Asta landed was a really good one. There was no way that Bakugo wasn't hurt by it so I thought that Asta had it there."
"It was a good shot, probably broke Kacchan's ribs if I had to guess, but it didn't knock him out and in a battle like this Kacchan can only be beaten if knocked out or his Quirk was nullified." Izuku said as he thought over the battle that had just happened. "That was what Asta was going for, I could tell, but he wasn't able to hit Kacchan's hands. That final move he pushed through the shrapnel, another weakness that Anti-Quirk has that Kacchan exploited which even I initially missed, to try and land it but failed because Kacchan sacrificed his ribs to protect his Quirk. So long as he can move and blast he had the edge."
"And from there all he had to do was overwhelm Asta in a way that Anti-Quirk couldn't counter." Nero said understanding how the battle had gone the way it had gone. "That's why he used the same move that he did on Yuno only on the ground rather than on a barrier or shield. He pushed his massive explosion into the ground to blow it apart and use the shockwave to blast Asta out of bounds while avoiding his swords in the process. If his ribs were broken during it then it's no wonder he passed out after that explosion."
"Precisely, he was never aiming for Asta at all there." Izuku said. "If Asta had stepped forward and gone for the block with the flat of his great sword then he probably would have won it but he acted instinctively and it cost him in the end. Kacchan used the environment against him, that's how he won but it took all he had to pull it off."
"Well it will still look good for Asta regardless." Nero said. "That's what matters and there's always next year. No way that Asta loses to Bakugo a second time, he's not the kind of person to let that happen."
The others who knew Asta well enough nodded at that as the battlefield was dismantled for the upcoming medal ceremony. There was a bit of a break before that to set it up and of course for Asta and Bakugo to get patched up so they had a little time, time that they used to discuss the Sports Festival as a whole and see how it went.
It was in the books now and a champion had been crowned but they all knew that they could improve from it and all intended to learn because they'd have two more shots at winning it in the coming years and now that Bakugo was the first winner they all had a target to knock of his pedestal this year and going forward. He'd done it and won but now it was time for Bakugo to try and maintain that top spot and there were plenty who were hungry for it in both classes as they waited for the closing ceremony.
Noelle didn't notice any of this as she hurried down to the Nurse's Office. After her loss to Ruby she'd ended up there and been patched up pretty quickly so she knew how to reach it and hurried through the bowels of the stadium to get there hopefully in time to see Asta wake up and make sure he was ok after losing in the finals. As his friend of course because that's what friends did, nothing more and she kept telling herself that.
As always that kind of thought sent Noelle into a tizzy that she quickly denied as she reached the lower level where the Nurse's Office was and entered the corridor towards it. As she did she realized that she wasn't the only one approaching it and as soon as she saw who she had a very mixed reaction as she came to a stop outside the room facing her cousin Mimosa and Asta's adoptive brother Yuno as they too came to a stop upon seeing her.
"Mimosa, this is a surprise." Noelle said as she tried not to read to much into why her cousin was here, Yuno she could understand for a few reasons but she really didn't want to think about why Mimosa was here or especially why it bothered her so much. "What are you doing down here?"
"I came to see if Asta was ok, he did just take a heavy hit at the end of that match." Mimosa said worry in her voice and just as uneasy at seeing Noelle here as Noelle was to see her but unlike her, Noelle was actually in Asta's class and it was well established that they were close friends at this point so this was to be expected even if she didn't know why Noelle being here bothered her so much that Noelle was here. "Yuno wanted to make sure that Asta wasn't taking the loss too hard and I want to make sure he's recovering alright."
"Bakugo is strong, there is no shame in losing to him." Yuno said simply getting Noelle's attention just as she remembered Asta's fight with Mimosa and how it had gone down. "Asta needs to see that as well. Plus there is still the medal ceremony so I want to make sure he doesn't miss that because knowing him he might."
"Ah that does make sense." Noelle said glad that Yuno had given her something to focus on other than Asta accidentally groping Mimosa. "He did earn his spot on the podium so he deserves his moment."
"Why are you here Noelle?" Mimosa asked her voice a little hesitant as she wasn't sure what her cousin's reasons would be.
"Well, y, you know, Asta's my friend and classmate so I wanted to make sure he wasn't too badly hurt." Noelle said flushing at that before she recovered. "We are going to be Quirk Knights together after all so it's only natural that I be concerned for him when he gets reckless in battle."
"Yes after this performance Asta will get a lot of offers I bet though only the Quirk Knight ones will matter." Mimosa said. "I wonder what he'll chose. I already know where I'm going if I get the offer so I hope he joins me there even if it is a longshot."
Noelle didn't like the sound of that at all and she felt a pain in her chest at the idea of Asta being a different Squad to her that she didn't understand. She already knew where she was going, she could only get one Quirk Knight offer and it was the worst of the worst, while Mimosa could get just about any she wanted other than the Green Praying Mantis so she'd have options, options that Asta would no doubt have as well.
She knew that her cousin wouldn't go for her family's Squad, Mimosa had been vocal about wanting to forge her own path as a Quirk Knight even before coming to U.A., or Noelle's for that matter. In addition she wouldn't join her brother in the Coral Peacocks, if for no other reason than that her brother was in that Squad, so that left two likely ones for someone of Mimosa's heritage though Noelle expected her cousin get at least 7 offers.
Based on what Mimosa had said Noelle could deduce which Squad she wanted to join and Noelle really, really, hoped that Asta didn't get an offer from them. Thankfully he shouldn't, that Squad was notoriously classist and even if Asta had won they wouldn't offer a commoner an internship but there were other Squads out there and Noelle was worried.
Given the caliber of some of the Squads that would likely offer Asta an internship, Noelle doubted that he'd take the same as her even though it was basically a guarantee that he'd get an offer from that Squad. Noelle really wanted him to join her, because she fought by his side already and no other reason she told herself, but after this performance if Asta didn't get an offer from at least a majority of Squads she'd be shocked.
Pushing that to the back of her mind, and trying to not show that Mimosa's words had gotten to her, especially because that was clearly not her intent, Noelle turned and walked into the Nurse's office just as Recovery Girl's lips extended and kissed Asta's head. She let out a shocked gasp at that, it was still an adjustment for her to see the old hero's Quirk in action, but she covered it with a cough as she entered followed by Yuno and Mimosa who missed the action. That got Recovery Girl's attention and she turned to them so Noelle decided to talk to avoid any awkwardness.
"How is he, ma'am." Noelle said in a polite, formal, and respectful tone as the door closed and she noticed that it was just Asta there which meant that Bakugo had already been healed up enough to leave. "We came to check in on him."
"He'll be fine." Recovery Girl said going back to Asta, who was still out cold, and wrapping his head in bandages as he was raised in a sitting position in the bed. "I've healed his fractured skull, that was the worst of his injuries, but it will take a moment for him to come too. The other cuts I've dressed and dealt with but he'll need some more sessions for them as I didn't want to overdo it though he certainly has more stamina than most kids his age. This is the best I can do for now; you do have the ceremony to deal with and he should be at it after all he accomplished today."
That was when Noelle, Yuno, and Mimosa realized that Asta's chest was covered in bandages as he sat unconscious on the bed and there were more bandages on her arms, neck, and face from the shrapnel he'd taken. It wasn't as bad as Midoriya's injuries but it was still noticeable especially because all Noelle had was a brace over her nose from Ruby's headbutt and Yuno had a few around his head from his loss to Bakugo.
"Can we see him?" Yuno asked.
"Sure, he'll come to in a moment but don't overwhelm him as he's still got to recover his energy from the healing." Recovery Girl said and as if to prove her point there was a groan and slowly Asta opened his eyes. "Or now, he's a strong one indeed. Here, eat this."
Recovery Girl held out an energy bar and Asta groggily took it and ate it without an issue. It wasn't a pretty sight as Asta wolfed it down but Noelle recalled how she had to eat one when she came too here so she didn't comment as she moved to be next to Asta while Recovery Girl backed off and went to her desk smiling at the sight of friends and future heroes supporting each other. This also allowed Yuno and Mimosa to take spots on the other side of Asta's bed.
"Ugh, my head hurts." Asta groaned as he swallowed the last of the energy bar he'd been given and his vision came back to him having been blurry when he woke up and noticed he was sitting up and in a bed. "Where am I?"
"The Nurse's Office in the stadium." Yuno said getting Asta's attention and he looked over at his brother and rival. "You were blasted into the wall like Midoriya was and hit your head hard. It's no wonder that it hurts even after getting it healed up."
"So that's what happened." Asta said as it all began to come back to him. "Damn, I thought I had that when I hit Bakugo in the chest despite all that shrapnel of his but his final move was too much. I just remember the explosion and then nothing."
"It was a lot for sure but Bakugo barely survived it." Yuno said. "He passed out right after you did, which was better than I managed, though he was still in bounds when he did so I doubt it would have been a tie even if he'd passed out before the smoke cleared."
"He's a lot smarter than I thought." Asta admitted. "I just thought he'd blast me with his explosions and maybe try to get behind me like he did to you but he realized that I had to hit a Quirk Factor to neutralize it so he avoided that at the cost of a few hits. He's also immune to his own explosions and used that against me by forcing me to rebound one of them back at him and he figured out I can't affect things that aren't made by a Quirk."
"He may be a brute with no manners and a bullying nature but he's not an idiot." Noelle said getting Asta's attention and he turned to her. "Even I have to admit that after watching this. Still uncouth and not going to go anywhere with that attitude but he's not stupid. He has a strong Quirk and knows how to use it."
"Hey Noelle, thanks for coming to see me." Asta said smiling at her causing her to go bright red and Mimosa to huff at her cousin's reaction. "Sorry I didn't see you after your loss to Rose, I should have."
"It's ok, I wasn't too bad and you had to focus on Ida, that was a big match." Noelle said shaking her head, she knew why Asta couldn't see her and was fine with it as he had to focus on his next match. "And it worked, you made it to the final."
"That I did, oh hey Mimosa." Asta said noticing the final person and smiling at her as well which caused the reverse reaction that the girls had had when he'd smiled at Noelle. "You came as well. Sorry for our battle, I didn't mean that."
"Oh no, it's ok, I didn't mind and accidents happen." Mimosa said going bright red as Noelle felt really off at that as the memory came back to her. "I'm just glad you're ok. I was rooting for you in the final what with Yuno not in it. Pretty much all my class was given Bakugo's attitude."
"Thanks, I will be my head is hard." Asta said with a chuckle. "It will take more than a concrete wall to take me down."
"That it is." Yuno said. "It's been hit a lot."
"Yeah well that's just my training and the occasional holy fist of love from Sister Lily." Asta said looking at Yuno. "Still, I made it to the final so I guess this round goes to me."
"I did beat you in the other two rounds but you did make the final where I failed so in the end you did have a better Sports Festival than me which just means that I've got to get stronger." Yuno said with a smile. "I'll give you this round Asta but don't expect to win the next one. Next year I'm winning this. Neither you nor Bakugo will stop me."
"Ha, good luck with that." Asta said with a grin. "I'm going to win it instead. I've gotten a taste of the final, I won't lose in it again. Whoever it is next time I'll beat them be it you, Bakugo, Todoroki, or anyone else."
"I look forward to it." Yuno said. "This has shown both of us that we have a lot of work to do so that we can face off next year."
"That it has." Asta said. "I'm going to train so hard when I'm all healed up. Noelle, you joining?"
"Of course." Noelle said trying to repress a smirk as she noticed Mimosa look a little off at that and not knowing why she was glad she had one up on her cousin. "I still have a lot of work to do myself and your Quirk is a good safety net for me."
"Great, Mimosa, you should join as well." Asta said. "I feel like I could learn a lot from you as well. Noelle and Nero have taught me a lot but I'll learn from anyone."
"I, I'd like that." Mimosa said with a blush that Noelle didn't like it and which Asta naturally didn't notice. "And I am sure I can learn from you as well Asta, you've shown me a lot already and I want to get stronger."
"Well I'll be training twice as hard as you." Yuno said. "That way I'll win next time."
"Then I'll have to train harder." Asta said grinning.
"And I'll train even harder than that." Yuno said grinning back.
"Well I'll…" Yuno said before Recovery Girl suddenly interrupted them.
"If you are done, the medal ceremony will begin in 30 minutes and you two should get down to the area under the stadium." Recovery Girl said coming up to them carrying a new PE shirt for Asta in her arms. "There is no third place match so both semifinalists are considered bronze medalists so both you boys are on the podium. You girls should head out as well. You should be with your classes for this."
"You got this Yuno, right?" Mimosa asked looking at him.
"Yeah I'll help Asta and make sure he gets there in one piece." Yuno said and Mimosa nodded and headed to the end of Asta's bed.
"Noelle, let's go." Mimosa said as Recovery Girl handed the shirt to Yuno to hand to Asta. "I think the guys need this moment."
"Fine, they can have it." Noelle said though she'd hoped that Asta would use her as a crutch to lean on, she'd let him this time, but she understood why he couldn't right now. "Just don't stain yourself Asta. You need to rest."
"Yeah I will." Asta said with a nod that caused him to grimace a little.
Noelle sighed at that but accepted it as she and Mimosa were shooed out of the room by Recovery Girl. Once they were gone Asta swung his legs out of the bed and stood before he wobbled a bit and Yuno grabbed his arm, putting the shirt on the bed in the process. There were no need for words as he steadied Asta before picking the shirt up and handing it to him before they both headed out as Asta put the shirt on wincing as he zipped it up over his bandaged chest. It was time for the medal ceremony and they needed to be in position for it.
The boys walked in silence through the stadium and into the underground part that Recovery Girl had directed them to and where the podium would be. Both of them were lost in their own thoughts about what was going on and how they'd done in the Sports Festival. They'd certainly done well, there was no question about that seeing as both made it to the semifinals and Asta made it to the finals so they were on the podium, but they'd both lost to Bakugo in their quest to win gold and that gave them plenty to think about.
That loss and to a mutual opponent taught the boys a lot and showed them that there was still a long way to go for them to reach their shared goal, and rivalry, of becoming the Wizard King one day. It wouldn't break them though, far from it, it actually energized them to do better, work harder and surpass not just each other but Bakugo and the rest of the Hero Course and show that they were the best. It looked like they had a new rival to contend with and no doubt others would appear throughout the year but for now Bakugo stood atop the class and so he was the target.
All that was reinforced when they reached the large area that was beneath the field and found the podium made of concrete and Cementoss near it. Naturally the largest of the three round platforms was in the middle and had a red 1 on the center. Bakugo was already standing on it grinning like a madman at his victory and lording over the others. His right arm was in a sling and there was a cast over his hand and while they couldn't see it his chest was tightly bound to protect his recently healed ribs but he was showing none of it as he stood there.
He wasn't the only one already in position, Todoroki was there as well. He'd come straight here following the final and was on the third place podium to Bakugo's left looking contemplative with a thousand yard stare in his eye. His nose was bandaged, along with one on his cheek, and like Bakugo and Asta his chest was wrapped under his shirt but they didn't see it.
It was clear that Todoroki wasn't in a talkative mood and neither Asta nor Yuno saw a need to discuss anything with him at this moment, not that Yuno really had anything to say as he didn't know Todoroki at all. For his part, Todoroki had had two emotional battles first with Midoriya breaking his walls and then Asta trying to beat the concept of friendship and family into him so it was best to just leave him be as he dealt with it. Besides, the boys had their own places to take.
"Ah good you're here." Cementoss said as they arrived. "There are still a few moments while the first years take the field and Midnight says a few words but if you take your places we can start soon. Congratulations, all of you, few ever get to stand on this podium so regardless of the place you should be proud of yourselves and for those not on the top, well this will be even more motivation to make it there next time."
"No one will knock me off this spot." Bakugo said proudly. "This is where I belong and finally the world will see it."
"Thanks." Asta said with a grin as he went to the second place one on Bakugo's right, ignoring his classmate in the process, and using a set of steps that were in the back of the podium to climb up and onto his spot. "Still annoying that I'm not on top but this is a good start and it will certainly motivate me."
"I told you I'd win." Bakugo said though he was glaring at Yuno now as Yuno walked over and stepped up to the 3rd place spot to stand next to Todoroki though Todoroki was closer to Bakugo. "You may have beaten me in the Entrance Exam, Yuno, but I beat you here with the world watching. Neither you nor Asta can beat me."
"This time." Yuno said calmy. "Next time neither of you will beat me. I won't lose to someone twice."
"Yeah Bakugo, don't expect a repeat." Asta said. "Next year I'm going to win the Sports Festival."
"Bring it." Bakugo said grinning at the challenge, at least these two were people who could actually challenge him to go plus ultra so he would accept one from them. "I don't care who, I'll beat you all."
"Next year will be interesting I feel." Cementoss said with a chuckle because it wasn't just these four, though all were immensely strong, there were others gunning for it so it should be good, especially if Midoriya got his power under control because then he'd be right up there with this lot. "But enjoy this moment. The time is here and only four per year get to stand where you are so embrace it."
At that there was a grinding sound and the podium began to raise and Bakugo looked up grinning as a window of sunlight appeared before them accompanied by an explosion and the roar of the crowd. It was time for his moment and the other extras were just there to see him standing atop the class but all three with him had their own thoughts and promises as they got ready to receive their medals and the accolades that came with placing in the U.A. Sports Festival.
"The first year students have now completed all of their events in their Sports Festival." Midnight said her mic on as fireworks went off overhead and the crowd cheered. "So now it's time to honor those who made it to the end and enjoy the award ceremony."
All of the first years in all the courses excluding the four who'd made it to the semifinals of the third event, and Ida though that was due to a family emergency, were gathered in the center of the stadium in their respective classes looking towards Midnight who stood before them but off to the side. The raised concrete battlefield had been removed and the field was back to how it had been for the Cavalry Battle. The only thing off was an empty rectangle that opened before them in the grass but there was no doubt what that would be for.
Izuku, Ochaco, Ruby, Weiss, Noelle, Nero, and all their class stood together as more fireworks went off around the rim of the stadium, smoke billowed up before them in the rectangle and confetti shot up from hidden cannisters in front of where the smoke was coming from as music played and the jumbotron showed that it was time for the awards ceremony. This would close out the Sports Festival so it was time to give out the medals to those who'd earned them.
Only Ida wasn't here to watch this moment due to the family emergency that had come up. He'd only told Izuku and Ochaco about it and Izuku was worried and hoped it wasn't major. He couldn't dwell on that right now though because it was time for the awards ceremony and the whirring of the podium could be heard by all.
A moment later it arrived and locked into place, displacing the smoke in the process, as the confetti rained down so all could see. Bakugo was grinning as he stood atop it with Asta smiling on the second place spot while Yuno looked stoic and Todoroki contemplative on the third place one. There was no need for any comments on it as the medalists were all behaving well, though Bakugo's grin was unsettling, while the gathered press took pictures and video of the ceremony.
"And now it's time for the hardware that these students earned." Midnight said thrusting her arm out and posing though at least it wasn't an overly sexual one. "There are only a few worthy of distributing these awards and with our medalists we would have asked the best two to do the honors together but alas one was called away to his work he was trying to avoid so that leaves only one person truly worthy of distributing them."
As Midnight finished there was a deep laugh that all knew well and the crowd got excited. Everyone who could looked to the sound and saw the imposing silhouette of All Might on the rim of the stadium as the sun blocked his features from view while the crowd began to exclaim and cheer for the Number 1 Hero.
"Citizen's I am here to hand out the medals for these fine students!" All Might cried as he leapt off the edge and down to the stadium below.
"Presenting All Might, the number one hero!" Midnight said at the exact same time finishing as All Might landed on one knee next to her and the crowd went silent at the timing mistake that had occurred between the two pros so Midnight muted her mic as she turned to All Might. "Ruined that, didn't I?"
"Just a bit." All Might admitted from where he was on one knee as he looked at her while the crowd started to mutter about how All Might was their teacher this year and how lucky they were as All Might got to his feet. "But don't worry, it will pass."
"Anyway, now that you're here why don't you start the presentation." Midnight said her mic back on as she held out the tray of medals, all a circle of metal with the U.A. crest and a laurel wreath on it on and a crown above the crest between the ends of the wreath with a red and white strap, the only difference being that two were bronze, one silver and one gold. "These young, hot, boys earned it."
There was a slight groan at Midnight's choice of descriptors, along with an envious glare from Mineta and a few skipped heartbeats from Noelle and Mimosa. However, this was Midnight so it was in character for her and the moment passed almost as soon as it happened as All Might was already moving, which got everyone's attention as the ceremony began.
"Young Yuno, congratulations you showed great power and a keen mind out there today." All Might said as he took the first bronze medal and walked up the stairs that appeared for the third place podium and draped it around Yuno's neck as he bowed his head to the number 1 pro. "To go as far as you did without moving in the final round was impressive and you almost lived up to your pledge."
"Thank you, sir, you're words are kind despite not backing up my pledge to win the Sports Festival." Yuno said as he accepted his medal before All Might shocked him by stepping up and embracing Yuno in a hug that he didn't reciprocate.
"That said you need to remember that all Quirk have limitations and there will be times when you can't use it." All Might said quietly as he patted Yuno on the back. "Yours is especially strong and I know that Julius and the other Quirk Knight Captains will have taken note of it and your abilities so do not worry there but don't forget that there will be those who can overpower your Quirk or bypass it. Don't leave it to power alone, you can't always rely on your Quirk after all."
"No sir, Asta has taught me that already and I've learned a lot from my loss." Yuno said with a bow of his head as All Might stepped back. "Thank you for the words of advice, I will take them to heart and stive to work harder going forward."
"Good." All Might said as he took the second bronze medal and moved over to Todoroki who bowed his head to accept it. "Now, young Todoroki, congratulations. You've been through a lot to reach this stage; I assume there is a lot you that have to think about after your battles."
"Midoriya broke through my walls and opened my eyes in our match." Todoroki said softly as he rose his head and looked at All Might. "I was raw after that but it helped and allowed me to use my fire on Asta but his Quirk showed me that he can counter mine with ease. Then he showed me things that I must think about, things I'd never thought about before."
Todoroki paused for a moment as he thought on what next to say. When All Might didn't move or say anything it was clear that he was waiting for Todoroki to continue so he did just that.
"I now understand a little as to why you're so interested in Midoriya and I'm getting a feeling that there is more to Asta than meets the eye, his result today and how he's already changed Silva since the start of the semester shows it." Todoroki said. "Both of them have something intangible that I don't understand. What I do know is that I want to be the kind of hero that you are, All Might, but my path is foggy now and I must find it again as I think on all this but there is someone I must settle things with, Midoriya showed me that and Asta has given me the courage to see it through."
"I must say I've never seen this look on you before or heard you talk so much." All Might said before he stepped in and hugged Todoroki. "It's good, it shows that you can learn and grow so do that from this tournament. I won't ask for any details, trust yourself and you will find your path and work things out on your own."
"Thank you." Todoroki said as All Might backed off and stepped down to get the silver medal and approached Asta.
Asta may not have won but he was grinning as All Might picked up the silver medal and walked towards his podium, steps coming out for it as Yuno picked up his bronze medal to look at in his hand and Todoroki continued to look contemplative. Yuno would keep this on his wall as a motivator for the future to do better, to upgrade it to a gold next time when he stand atop this podium next year and he knew that Asta would as well but for now Asta was the one in the lead, he'd made the final and it was his moment so Yuno would give it to him.
"Young Asta, you showed immense strength and determination out there today." All Might said as he reached Asta and Asta lowered his head to accept the medal. "You showed that background doesn't matter, that determination, hard work, and an understanding of your power can take you far."
"Thank you All Might." Asta said before All Might embraced him just as he had Yuno and Todoroki though Asta at least tried to hug the buff hero back.
"There's no way that Julius didn't notice and won't be impressed by your Quirk, he's always looking for strong and interesting Quirks with smart people who use them so expect him to take an interest in you and Yuno." All Might whispered. "And while some of the Squads won't want you, some will so your path is clear just remember that there will be those who your power won't work as well on or who are hard to hit. Keep training for that."
"I will, the final showed me that and more regarding my limitations and where I need to improve." Asta said as All Might backed off. "I made it to the end but I'm not on top and to be Wizard King I must be on top so I won't let this happen again, I'm going to train extra hard from now on."
"Just what I like to hear." All Might said as he stepped back and took the gold medal and walked up to Bakugo on top of the podium where Bakugo was grinning like a madman clearly impatiently waiting for this moment. "Finally, young Bakugo, in a world where we're always being compared to one another and across the various hero branches, there are very few who can keep focused on the top spot. In this class there are a few who can do that and you are one of them, the one who emerged victorious in the end and now stand atop the podium. Despite multiple fourth place finishes before and during the Sports Festival you didn't let it get to you and pushed through to emerge as the best of the first years. Congratulations."
"You're damn right I did." Bakugo said as All Might held up the medal and raised it to put it over Bakugo's head, Bakugo noticeably did not dip his head like the others did. "Now put that thing on me and crown me the best so that all can see, All Might. Next up is your spot, I will surpass you and this shows it!"
"I look forward to watching you go forward." All Might aid as he put the medal on Bakugo and went to hug him but Bakugo stepped back and raised his left fist in the air grinning so he just lowered his voice instead. "Just remember that attitude is also important and you'll hit a wall one day if you don't sort it out."
"Shove off, I'm the best and the can all see it." Bakugo said as he opened his hand and blasted an explosion into the air and laughed before blasting another one out. "See it everyone, this is what a champion looks like! This is what it takes to be the next number 1 hero!"
"Well, here you are!" All Might sight loudly, a mic now on as he turned to the students while Bakugo cackled and caused more explosions behind him in a rather unsportsmanlike display that was drowned out by All Might's voice. "The first year medalists in this year's Sports Festival!"
All Might paused for a few seconds to let that sink in as Bakugo's explosions and those of the fireworks continued. It was only for a few seconds as All Might still had more to say so once he felt the moment for the medalists had passed he continued.
"However listen closely because any of you first years could have ended up standing on this podium today." All Might said to the gathered students while Bakugo still blasted explosions behind him. "Think about that, about what you've done today and what these four did to break free from the pack and stand before you with medals around their necks. Think of how you've challenged each other, learned, understood your powers more, and climbed even closer to your goals of being pros no matter the branch you wish or end up in. After today I think it's clear that our next generation of heroes is proving to be the most promising one yet!"
At that All Might thrust his left arm into the air finger to the sky as the kids before him thought on his words and knew that he was right, they all had grown and challenged themselves in several ways today but there was so much more to do and seeing those in their class who had gone that extra bit and made it to the podium only inspired them to do more. All this meant was that training was really going to pick up in the wake of the Sports Festival.
"So I have one more thing to say to everyone in attendance today and to all of those watching at home." All Might said. "Everyone, yell it with me. You know what it is…thanks everyone for your hard work!"
"Plus Ultra!" The crowd roared at the same time All Might thanked them following his brief pause. "What? That was the perfect time for a Plus Ultra All Might!"
"Oh sorry it was but I wanted to thank everyone for such a good job." All Might said embarrassed as the teachers and students sighed at that. "So I wanted to honor that."
With that the Sports Festival ended and the students went back to shower, change into their uniforms, and then returned to their classrooms as dusk fell to get an update on what was coming up for them over the next few days. They had them off so they could recover but to be ready when they came back as there would be pros looking to recruit them already so they had to be ready for that.
All would be dealt with then but for now they were dismissed. It was clear that after the Sports Festival and all that had happened things had changed, however, as they realized the adversaries, rivalries and growth they had in class and that they all had a lot to work on when they returned to school.
"Rubes! Well done today!"
The enthusiastic greeting was of course Yang's as Ruby and Weiss walked out of the front doors of U.A.'s main school building as and onto the drive to find Yang and Blake waiting for them off to the side but still on the drive with the former waving enthusiastically at them. The third years didn't have their Sports Festival from two more days, the second of the days that the first years had off, so there was no need for them to be at school after watching the events but, well, Yang was Ruby's ride back home and besides she wanted to see her little sister and her sister's best friend, possibly more, as soon as possible.
That had to wait for them to be dismissed for the day and any additional healings, which both girls needed hence them leaving later than expected as the sun had almost completely set, though Ruby still had bandages around her chest for her back wound and Weiss's upper arm was bound from where Todoroki had broken it but she didn't need the sling anymore. Now that that was done though they could leave and waiting for them was Ruby's boisterous older sister and her roommate and best friend Blake.
"Thanks Yang." Ruby said with a slight blush. "But I feel like I could have done better. I was so close to the podium."
"Better than top 8?" Blake asked as the girls reached them. "That is still impressive Ruby, especially for a Huntress track student who's Quirk is a supplement to her weapon which she's not allowed to use in the Sports Festival."
"Yeah but I didn't make the podium like Yang did." Ruby pointed out. "Nor did I get to face Weiss in the final like I wanted."
"I lost before you, I'm to blame for that more than you are." Weiss said simply. "And Belladonna's right, you were amazing today Ruby. Few in our track make it that far because of our reliance on weaponry. Our Quirks are usually supplemental to our skills with a weapon due to the nature of Grimm. Not everyone has a power like your sister's."
"I am unique aren't I." Yang said with a grin. "I could have been a top hero if I wanted but I'm a Huntress through and through."
"Not what I was going for." Weiss said, she wasn't sure how to handle Ruby's older sister because she got a protective vibe from her and she had her own conflicted feelings towards Ruby but she had to be civil regardless. "But you aren't wrong, there aren't many Huntress track students with a Quirk that is directly combat orientated."
"Schnee's right." Blake said as they began to make their way to the entrance. "You and Nora are exceptions, and even then Nora is only that if someone juices her up with electricity, the rest of us either use our Quirks to aid our weapons or can't use them to their fullest extent in the Sports Festival even if Pyrrha's is at least somewhat suited to combat. Ruby making it as far as she did was damned impressive, especially when everyone else who made it to the quarterfinals either had a direct combat Quirk or a Quirk that could aid combat. Ruby's can, she showed that in the first round, but not to the extent that that other speedster's can."
"True and I'm proud regardless." Yang said tossing her arm around Ruby's neck and pulling her close. "You were top 8 and the only girl to make it that far, along with the top girl in the obstacle race and the top female rider in the Cavalry Battle. You did great in your first Sports Festival and next time will be better."
"Thanks, I intend it to be." Ruby said with a smile. "I had Weiss's support in it as well which helped a lot."
"One of us had to do well and I lost a tough match the round before Ruby so naturally I'd support her." Weiss said. "It was a shame Ruby had to face that brute."
"Yeah that was hard to watch but he won fast which meant he saw Ruby as a threat or else he wouldn't have gone so hard against her." Yang said as they reached the entrance. "So I can't blame him for respecting Rubes out there though if I do get to fight him I'll punch him so hard in the face that he bounces out of the room and loses a tooth. Anyway, losing to the winner isn't a bad thing. The guy you lost to got crushed in the semifinals, Schnee, and right after that insane match against the green haired kid."
"Midoriya's match with Todoroki was something else indeed and with that power of his I'm not sure my glyphs could have blocked the wind his flicks generated but Todoroki was able to match him." Weiss said. "However, against Asta, Todoroki had no chance. Asta's power is hard to counter at the best of times."
"It can burst me out of my Quirk." Ruby said helpfully. "Learned that the hard way when I face planted into that big sword of his in our battle assessment."
"Precisely, the ability to nullify Quirks and the effects of them, along with briefly stopping someone from using their Quirk if he strikes their Quirk factor, is a tough power to face." Weiss said. "Pretty much Bakugo was the only one who could beat him and did though it took a lot."
"Tell me about it, that was an epic final." Yang said as they walked through the front gate and onto the public street. "So much excitement that…"
"Ah there you are Weiss; I was waiting for you."
The voice that interrupted them was cool and refined but there was an undercurrent of love in it that showed it wasn't scolding. All four girls turned to see a woman in her mid-20s with a rigid posture and gait walking towards them having been clearly waiting in the area for Weiss.
The woman wore the uniform of a member of Atlas Agency, a white militaristic style outfit with a high collar, white pants and boots and a white jacket over a blue corset thing and a white blouse. The only odd thing was that there were cuts in her upper arm sleeves exposing her pale skin. To reinforce the clear Huntress vibe she had was the saber at her right hip showing her weapon of choice.
However, the thing the three girls who didn't know the newcomer noticed the most was the snow white hair the woman had. It was styled into a tight bun with a sweeping front bit out and over the right side of her face to her chin and a small twirl on the left side giving it a practical look but the color was the dead giveaway. After all, there was only family in the nation, if not the world, who had hair that pure a color of white and with that Yang and Blake at least knew the woman's reputation though they'd never met her before.
"Winter!" Weiss said excitedly as she rushed over and threw herself on her older sister.
That act along broke Winter's demeanor and she smiled as she caught her sister in her arms and hugged her showing her strength by not being bowled over by Weiss. Their relationship may have been strained because of their father but it meant a lot to Weiss that Winter was here.
"You made it." Weiss said as she broke apart as Ruby, Yang, and Blake blinked at it as the older girls hadn't expected to see Ruby's friend so exuberant and Ruby was a little stunned to finally be meeting her bestie's sister. "I was hoping but I thought you'd be busy at Atlas today."
"Thankfully Clover is the same rank as I am so the agency had a deputy run it while the boss is away which meant that I could come with Ironwood but I have to return tomorrow so that Clover can attend the final day." Winter said. "It's a fair trade off as I wasn't going to miss your first Sports Festival after all. This was a great time to see how you are doing and I can see you are doing well."
"Yes, training is going strong and I'm currently second in the class academically when all things are considered." Weiss said. "Momo's memory is just something that can't be overcome."
"Yes Miss Yaoyorozu's near photographic memory is why she was able to handle a Quirk like that, it is no wonder that she is a recommended student at U.A.." Winter said as she gave Weiss a soft smile. "But what I really want to know is how you're doing outside of classes and training? I saw that in the Sports Festival, you did well by the way, as well as a Schnee could do without a weapon or an awakened Quirk, and you improvised impressively against Endeavor's son which surprised me as our training has been rather rigid. However, I'm more curious about your social life. You have made friends since coming here, right? You wouldn't have been so free flowing in that battle if you didn't have at least a training partner."
"Of course I told you last time we called." Weiss said as she turned and hurried back to Ruby to grab her friend by the left hand and drag her over flushing at the contact and the cute eep that Ruby made at Weiss's actions. "Sorry Ruby, this is a bit sudden but this is my older sister Winter, Winter, this is my best friend Ruby who I told you about."
"You called me your bestie!" Ruby said excitedly as Yang smirked noting that Weiss hadn't let go of Ruby's hand, and that Ruby hadn't released Weiss's hand, while Blake just watched curiously her cat ears twitching. "Yay!"
"Ah Miss Rose, I've heard a lot about you so I was hoping to meet you." Winter said holding out her hand and Ruby instinctively shook it though she still held Weiss's hand in her other. "Weiss talks about you often. You've made a good impression and you've improved and broadened her training and combat skills, I can tell, so thank you."
"Oh it's nothing, Weiss has helped me out a lot as well." Ruby said smiling as she shook Winter's hand. "We balance each other out I feel."
"I can tell, this is just what I'd hoped for Weiss when she said she was going to U.A.'s Hero Course and not following the path our father wanted for her." Winter said as she ended the handshake. "And you did well yourself, the top Huntress track student and a top 8 finisher. While that would be expected from a recommended student such as yourself it is still impressive especially because only one other recommended student made it that far. I wouldn't be surprised if Atlas tries to pry you away from Beacon after that. Your family must be proud."
"Oh they are." Ruby said waving back ignoring the Atlas comment as she was pretty much committed to Beacon. "My sister Yang is a third year."
"Yang? As in Yang Xaio Long, the Golden Dragoness." Winter said her eyebrow quirking and the action allowing Yang and Blake to walk over and join the conversation. "I didn't realize you two were related."
"The different family names throw people off, I won't get into that but like you I've got a little sis to look out for." Yang said grinning as she held out a hand to Winter. "I do hope that yours can treat mine well."
"Likewise." Winter said as they shook gripping harder than necessary but they were both protective older sisters so it was kind expected. "You may still be a student but your reputation is already impressive. A two time Sports Festival medalist, including a gold at your last one, and work study student who's already gotten results at Beacon, few Huntresses can claim that before even graduating."
"Nothing compared to yours." Yang said as they broke apart. "From the whispers I've picked up you're tapped to be the next Winter Maiden they say."
"We'll see, the current one is still alive and she was a true powerhouse in her prime." Winter said. "I'm just glad that Weiss has found a good friend who shares her path and makes her a better person."
"Likewise for Ruby." Yang said. "But we should get going. I know Ruby would like to spend time with her bestie but our dad and our uncle Qrow are back home in Patch watching and want to call. They couldn't make it unfortunately as something came up there."
"A shame I'm sure but they are both notable Huntsmen in their own right so I know that Patch is safe with them on the job." Winter said though Weiss noticed the slightest twitch in Winter's eyebrow at the name Qrow. "And I understand, I am only in town for the night and would like some time with my own sister to catch up."
"Understandable." Yang said. "Come on Rubes, let's get back and celebrate."
"Ok, call me later Weiss, alright." Ruby said as she hugged Weiss who was surprised but hugged back enjoying it. "But after you're done catching up with your sister, that should be a priority."
"Of course, same to you Ruby." Weiss said before the girls broke apart. "And be safe."
"I will be." Ruby said before she hurried off as Yang waved by to them so that she could get her bike and Blake headed to public transport as she refused to ride with Yang.
"Interesting girl." Winter said as they left. "Very different to you. It's a good thing that you have a best friend like her. She brings out a side of you I never thought I'd see and one you'd never be able to find if you'd gone to Shiketsu."
"Ruby has taught me a lot about my own weaknesses and insecurities which has helped me grow." Weiss said. "As has most of the class for that matter. You'd be surprised at how far Noelle Silva has come since she started and met Asta."
"Well then tell me all, I did notice that she was in your class as well so I'd like to hear about her too as I did have a strong rivalry with her sister back in our Shiketsu days." Winter said as they turned and headed off to where there was a car waiting for them. "And about your year so far, it's been rather exciting it seems."
"It has but as we go why don't we talk about who Qrow is." Weiss said and grinned at Winter and flinched at that all by confirming that something was up. "Thought so, I noticed that you got a reaction out of Xiao Long mentioning him. So, how do you know Ruby's uncle?"
"He's a Huntsman and a colleague, that's all." Winter said a little too fast as her cheeks flushed in a way that Weiss had never seen before. "Anyway, your performance, how did you feel it went?"
"It could have been better." Weiss said deciding to let it drop for a moment but she was going to get to the bottom of this and hopefully one day meet Ruby's uncle given that he could elicit such a reaction from Winter. "I was pleased with…"
At that Weiss began going over how she did and Winter interjected with her own views and tips to improve based on how she saw Weiss's performance in the Sports Festival. It would help with training and Weiss would plan plenty with Ruby going forward while Ruby was doing something similar with her sister and Blake.
There was a lot to do after the Sports Festival but it had been a good, fun, time and for the moment the Huntress girls were going to enjoy their time with their families. After all they had to rest so that they were ready to come back and deal with whatever was next for them when school resumed.
Noelle sighed as she entered the apartment her family owned, her shoes already off and by the door and thought about what she wanted to do as she took her blazer off and hung it on a hook above where her shoes were, bag in her hand. The day was over, she'd done well but not as well as she'd have liked and was all healed up following a second healing session after being dismissed so she wasn't sure what to do. She had some time off and while she'd likely go and train with Asta and Nero tomorrow she was going to enjoy this night, probably start it with a nice hot bath to unwind and then a light meal and bed.
At least that was her plan until she entered the living room to drop her bag off, she'd deal with any homework that she might have tomorrow, before going to find the staff to draw her bath, and found her oldest brother standing at the far end looking out the window and over Musutafu as the sun set over the city. He had his back to her and was in his full Quirk Knight outfit but as the door to the living room closed behind Noelle, Nozel turned to face her.
As always he had a cool look on his handsome face, the one he always had when he looked at Noelle seeing only the failure that she was, the stain on the family name and the reason why their mother had died. Still, he was here, which surprised Noelle as that meant that he'd taken the time out of his busy schedule to swing by after watching the Sports Festival. Well, she could handle that because she was no longer the meek girl her siblings bullied, she'd come a long way since starting at U.A. and she knew who to thank for that as she dropped her bag on the ground and met her brother's gaze with only a little fear in her own.
"Nozel, what are you doing here?" Noelle asked as looked at him quelling her fear as best she could. "I wasn't expecting you to bother with me while you were visiting."
"This is a family property; I can enter it as I wish." Nozel said as he walked towards her but stopped in the middle of the room leaving plenty of distance between them. "And seeing as I was here for the Sports Festival I thought I'd come by to make sure you were well served while living here. You may be a failure but you are still a Silva, Noelle, so there are standards that are to be expected from you even if you have to live below a Schnee."
"Yes well she did beat me to U.A. and I don't mind as Weiss isn't all that bad." Noelle said trying to not let her brother's words get to her. "And as you can see I am doing fine so you can return home or the Squad HQ, whichever you're going to."
"The latter, I have some paperwork to deal with after the Sports Festival as I intend to make an internship offer to that Yuno kid, his Quirk is powerful and he has a good sense of how to use it." Nozel said. "I think he'll do well with us. There wasn't anyone else worth an offer and I'm not going to waste one on non-Quirk Knight track students."
"Really? A low class orphan getting an offer from the Silver Eagles." Noelle said. "That is a surprise."
"I can recognize talent and power and he has it unlike the other Quirk Knight kids." Nozel said. "Plus he has a good mind and a calm personality, he'd do well with us even if he'd have to understand his place."
"And yet he was only third while Asta was second." Noelle said pride in her voice that Asta had done better than Yuno. "Aren't you interested in the silver medalist? He was the top Quirk Knight student."
"No, he's a brash simpleton with a gimmick of a power that I don't understand fully." Nozel said simply. "He only made it as far as he did because of favorable matchups so he's not as good as he likely thinks he is. He's better suited to the lower Squads."
"That's fine with me but overlook Asta at your own peril." Noelle said. "He's going to be the Wizard King one day after all."
"Yes, he is your classmate so you know him but someone like him won't be the Wizard King." Nozel said, not revealing that as far as he was concerned he was going to be the next Wizard King and the only ones who could rival him were Fuegoleon and William. "And don't think you're getting out of the deal that sent you here. You're still only going to get one offer from a Quirk Knight Squad and you're going to take it regardless of any normal agency offers you may receive because of our family's name because that's why Nezu allowed you in as his exception. You may have done well today, top 16 is respectable for a failure who still can't offensively control her Quirk, and beating Leopold is a plus but it doesn't erase the past."
"I know and I accept it." Noelle said her tone cool. "I'm more than fine with the Black Bulls."
"Good, I will say this." Nozel said as he walked forward and passed Noelle to the door. "You have grown a little, Noelle, so U.A. was a good place to send you."
With that Nozel opened the door to the living room and left closing it behind him. Noelle stood there for a moment unsure what to do or how to feel at her brother's words. One thing was good though and that was the fact that Asta wouldn't get an offer from him, which meant he might chose to join her in the Black Bulls if he didn't get an offer from one of the top Squads.
It was a long shot but she still hoped for that and she was so rattled by Nozel's presence and words that she didn't even question why she really wanted that. Well that and she decided that she really needed that bath now and headed to sort it out and destress from everything.
"Hey everyone, did you watch!" Asta said excitedly as he and Yuno looked into the screen of the latter's phone as it was set up on his desk in the special housing for disadvantaged students in Yuno's room and Asta showed off his silver medal to them his head still wrapped in bandages but he paid that no heed. "Look, I won this! It's not gold but it's still a medal and I made it to the final so I'm well on the way to being Wizard King and then I'll marry you Sister Lily."
It was an hour or so after they'd been dismissed and told that they had two days off so naturally Asta had come straight to Yuno's room, Nero was invited but she said she wanted to take a bath and get an early night as this was clearly something that was family based so he left her to it, with the idea to call home. Yuno would have preferred an early night himself but he understood the need for this so he set it up and they called Sister Lily. Clearly she and the others were waiting for this and picked up almost right away and as soon as they did Asta was speaking.
"Yes Asta we're so proud of you." Sister Lily said from the other side as the other kids in the orphanage chimed in though Father Orsi wasn't there as he had a service to perform at the moment while ignoring yet another fruitless proposal from Asta. "We were surprised when you got in along with Yuno but look at you two now, you're doing so well. We're so proud of both of you."
"I never doubted that Asta would get in." Yuno said his own bronze medal still on to show it off for the kids as they'd want to see it. "And he beat me in the Sports Festival rankings even if we didn't face off at any point during it so I have a lot to improve."
"Well so long as you both keep up the good work I know you will." Sister Lily said with a smile. "I'm sure we'll see the results of that next year."
"Hey Asta, Yuno, what was it like facing the winner?" Nash asked. "We watched the whole thing and were cheering for both of you but that explosive boy beat Yuno in the semis and then you in the finals. Just how good is he to beat both of you."
"Bakugo was tough but I gave it my all." Asta said as he flexed his muscles. "It was basically…"
At that Asta launched into a blow by blow recap of the final for Nash and the kids and how he could do better before Yuno smiled and did the same for his loss in the semifinal as that had been an intense match that pushed him to his limits and showed him where he needed to improve. Talking about it with his family actually helped Yuno more than he realized as it forced him to look at what went wrong and where he could improve. It was just what the boys needed as they told Sister Lily and their siblings of the Sports Festival and how they were doing so far at U.A.
It lasted over an hour but with no school or work on campus the next day it was actually needed. They would have talked longer but the other kids were falling asleep so they bid Sister Lily goodnight so that she could put them to bed and ended the call. Once it was over Asta turned to Yuno still grinning his usual grin at his brother.
"I know we didn't win today but we did do well and showed the Quirk Knight Captains and the Wizard King what we could do." Asta said. "And next time I won't lose the Sports Festival."
"Nor will I." Yuno said smiling as well. "I'll win it next year and show that I'll be the next Wizard King."
"In your dreams, the next Wizard King will be me." Asta said as he held out his fist. "No more setbacks."
"None." Yuno said with a smile as they bumped fists. "Next time the final will be between us."
"You know it." Asta said with a yawn. "But I think I could use some sleep as well; I've had two healing sessions and have another one tomorrow so I'm pretty drained."
Yuno just nodded at that and Asta left knowing that Yuno too would crash any moment. For Asta it was imminent and he was glad he was next door as he got into his room and stripped down before he fell into bed still wearing his silver medal.
It had been a good day for Asta and he was pleased with his result even if he'd not won like he wanted or faced Yuno during it. He'd come second and that was saying something and it gave him a goal to strive for, a goal that was on his mind as he drifted off to sleep while also wondering what was in store for him when classes resumed. Little did Asta or anyone know that a storm was brewing on the horizon and soon several of them would be right in the middle of it.
"It looks like the Hero Killer has struck again." Kurogiri called out from the bar as Tomura Shigaraki sat in the back room rewatching a recording of the end of the U.A. Sports Festival. "This time it's a notable name, Ingenium, and he only crippled him rather than kill him. Likely to send some kind of message."
Shigaraki wasn't listening really; he was still in a bit of a rut following the failed USJ attack and wasn't sure what to do. Even with the meeting of the other members of the Alliance the other day hadn't helped. As a result his master had told him to watch the Sports Festival and see if he picked up anything from it. Shigaraki wasn't sure if he did or not, he was still at a loss regarding what he really wanted beyond destroying All Might, but it did at least focus his mind somewhat what with Izuku Midoriya and Asta in it.
"Based on his pattern, Stain won't be leaving Hosu City anytime soon." Kurogiri continued as the sound of a newspaper rustling could be heard. "I'm going to go and see if I can find him and bring him back for a discussion, see if he can aid us."
"Do what you think is necessary." Shigaraki said as he paused the TV on an image of the winner, Katsuki Bakugo, laughing and blasting explosions into the air. "Let's see what the Hero Killer wants, he at least has a reputation we can't ignore."
Shigaraki still had some things to work out but Hosu was going to be hot soon so he may as well see what this villain wanted. After all, perhaps something fun could come of this.
A nice little ominous note to end things on after some fun, or at least not too negative, aftermath reactions for some of the class, though that ominousness won't develop for some time as there is a lot more to deal with first starting with internship offers, hero names, and decisions. Yup, that's coming up next so a lot of question will be answered along with the start of some background and lore regarding the other two branches that will be delved even more into during the Hero Killer arc and all the fun that that has in store. For now though the kids have earned a little break before resuming their paths. That is all that I really have for this chapter as it's a nice, straightforward one so I will leave it off here. If you like this story please follow, favorite (this story and me) to keep up with it and leave a review or PM; your support is what helps motivate me to keep up this work and any questions posed before the next chapter is uploaded I will try to answer. Until next time.
Stringdog