A/N: I recommend reading this chapter on Wattpad. I used a lot of GIFs in the sword fight that help paint a picture of how it's going.
I do not own Transformers Prime or My Hero Academia.
The Last Prime vs. The Hero Killer
Tenya: GO BACK! YOU HAVE TO GO BACK! WE CAN'T LEAVE HIM!
Deku: We can't! We need to get you and Native out of here!
Tenya: I don't matter! You should've just left me! You all shouldn't have risked your lives for me! Optimus shouldn't die for someone like me!
Shoto: First of all, it's a hero's job to risk their lives for others. And second of all, do you really have so little faith in Optimus Prime?
His question caused Tenya's eyes to widen as Deku carried him.
Shoto: You know as well as I do what he's capable of. We know he won't allow himself to fall to the Hero Killer of all people, not without a fight.
Tenya cast his gaze downwards. He knew Shoto was right. Optimus Prime was the strongest of all the first years, if not in pure power, then in will. But that didn't stop the guilt and fear from growing within him. Optimus shouldn't even be in this mess. The only reason he's involved is because Tenya let his anger get the best of him and tried to take on the Hero Killer alone.
If Optimus died or got hurt because of him...
Deku: I'm worried too, Iida.
His classmate's confession caught him off guard.
Deku: All I want to do right now is drop you and rush back to his side. But he asked me, and Todoroki, to get you and Native to safety. He trusted us with this. And I won't let him down!
Tenya was surprised at the conviction in his classmate's voice.
Deku: Besides, this is Optimus Prime we're talking about! If any one of U.A.'s first years can take on the Hero Killer, it's him!
Tenya wished he could share Deku's optimism; he really did. But he couldn't, not when he was responsible. They were all in this mess because of his selfishness, and if anyone died or was seriously hurt because of him. He would never forgive himself.
But he had to have faith. Faith that Optimus would last long enough till help arrived. Faith that he could apologize to the Prime for his hurtful words and punching him. And hope that Prime would forgive him.
Shoto looked at Tenya sympathetically, showing some understanding of what he was going through.
Shoto: "Iida... I've been worried about you ever since your brother was attacked. I recognize the face of someone who's drowning in resentment. And I know just how narrow your field of vision can get when you long for justice."
His mind then went back to the day after the Sports Festival. The day he visited his mother for the first time in years.
Shoto: "That day, I told her about life with my father and about who I have become. She cried and apologized. She forgave me. Faster than I ever imagined. She told me to move forward. That nothing was holding me back, and doing so would be her salvation. If I hadn't spoken to her, I would never have been able to choose my old man's agency for my internship. I couldn't bear being near him. I haven't forgiven him. I doubt I ever truly will. But I chose him to learn what it takes to be the Number Two Hero with my own eyes and ears. I had to know."
Shoto clenched his fists.
Shoto: "My old man is a scumbag. But a scumbag with the judgment and instincts of a number two hero. And I can acknowledge that. It's so simple. But I still needed two people to show me."
At that, his mind went back to the Sports Festival.
Izuku: (Flashback) It's yours! Your Quirk, not his!
Optimus (Flashback): What if you go down this path, and you're wrong?
Shoto: "Just a few words. Two short sentences and one question."
That's all it took for his life to change forever, and he could never fully express his gratitude to the two responsible for it.
As the screams of innocents and monsters echoed throughout Hosu, the only sound coming from an out-of-the-way alley was metal clashing against metal at high speeds as Optimus Prime and Stain clashed their weapons against each other.
Stain used his environment to its full advantage as he lept from wall to wall, using them to help dodge and strike Optimus Prime. He had even tried to get around the Prime to his targets, but Optimus quickly jumped in the way of his path to block him from leaving.
As for Optimus, he spun around with his sword and axe combo, becoming a whirlwind of speed and metal, one that was hard for Stain to protect himself against. Already, he had gathered a few nasty cuts. Optimus's use of kicks and the occasional headbutt kept Stain on his toes.
This fight wasn't as easy as Optimus had predicted it might be. For one thing was their location. Optimus was used to sword fighting in large open areas, giving him more room to dodge and jump around to avoid and land attacks. He didn't have much experience fighting in such a narrow space, something Stain excelled in as he jumped from wall to wall, launching attacks from all sides. Only Optimus's fighting experience kept him one step ahead of the vicious Hero Killer.
Not only that, but Optimus had to admit that, for a human with much less experience than him, Stain was a formidable opponent. It was no wonder that he could build up such a terrifying reputation as the Hero Killer. If he was a Cybertronian, his skill with a blade could easily rival that of master swordsmen like Drift and Dreadwing. Even Megatron would be impressed by Stain's mastery of the blade. He definitely spent much time honing his swordsmanship.
For Stain, he was growing more and more impressed with Optimus Prime and even more annoyed as well. Heroes today mostly aim to try and master their Quirk, ignoring other aspects of themselves. Such a mindset kept them weak and from reaching their full potential. The few heroes that did seek to expand their skills elsewhere mostly did so because their Quirk required it of them, but they stopped learning when they got the basics.
But Optimus Prime. Not only did he improve more than just his Quirk, but he also sought to expand on his skills and continued to learn and grow. Even more proof that he was a true hero. Which made Stain all the more infuriated.
There was a crisis going on in the city they were in. That fool Shigaraki was launching an attack, innocents were dying, and this boy, who was a representation of a true hero, was here, fighting him, all to save the lives of a couple of fakes! Stain couldn't understand it! Why was he wasting his time with such fakes when he could save the lives of people who deserve it?!
Stain used this anger and frustration to fuel him, his attacks becoming wilder and erratic, making it harder for Optimus to predict his movements. It was then that Optimus did something unexpected. He fired off the jet function on his axe and swung the blade at Stain at high speeds. If Stain was a second slowed, he would have lost his head. Instead, only his short sword was shattered by the high-speed attack.
The rocket axe continued its trajectory until it embedded itself into the alley's wall. Optimus tried to wretch the blade free, but Stain struck, forcing Optimus to jump back to dodge his attack.
Optimus narrowed his eyes as he raised his sword and prepared to go again.
Now that they had entered into a temporary lull in battle, Stain looked at the axe in the wall with a frown. If he had been a second slower, he would have been killed. And Optimus Prime knew that. It made Stain rethink how the fight has been progressing so far. Now that he had a moment to breathe, he realized that Optimus had been actively trying to kill him throughout their fight, throwing attacks that would surely have been lethal if they landed.
But unlike that fake who tried to kill him earlier, there was no anger in Optimus Prime's eyes. No hesitation in his movements. No sick, twisted pleasure that he seemed to glee from causing pain. Not even a detached look of boredom on the face one might assume from emotionless killers. All there was a fierce determination that allowed him to do what needed to be done, no matter the cost.
And to do it again.
That's when Stain realized the truth.
Stain: You've killed before.
It wasn't a question.
Optimus's stance didn't change; he didn't look shocked, confused, or even tense up as if he'd been found out. He stood there perfectly still as if what Stain said hadn't affected him. And that was all the answer Stain needed.
Something inside Stain seemed to break as he realized the truth. He began to breathe heavily as his body shook in rage. Optimus Prime had dared to condemn him for killing others to achieve a better society when his hands were clearly soaked in the blood of others. That hypocrite!
And if there was one thing that Stain hated more than fakes, it was hypocrites!
He dashed forward, swinging his blade so fast that only Optimus could see it. Optimus met the attack, and the two continued their heated duel, with Stain on the offensive. Their swords clashed at lightning speed, sparks flying.
Stain attacked with a level of ferocity he reserved for only the worst of fakes. Slashing wildly and angrily with his sword, like a child throwing a tantrum. A very dangerous, highly skilled child.
Optimus met his attacks with cool indifference. Remaining calm as he blocked the Hero Killer's strikes, moving with grace honed by eons of fighting.
Stain: Why do you condemn me?! Why do you say my way is wrong?! What right do you have to say that, when you've done the same thing for your goals?!
Optimus: I never had a choice! I wished I didn't have to kill! Believe me! But it was war! It was either kill or die and let my friends and innocents suffer! I had no choice!
Stain: And you think I did?! Do you think I didn't try to use words to convince this world to change?! I did! I implored this society to change! To return to the true roots of heroism! But they refused to listen to me! It was only after I started killing that the masses started to pay attention to me! That's when I learned that the only thing they'll listen to is violence!
Optimus: Violence may sometimes be required, but death never is! The moment you spill blood, the moment someone dies in pursuit of a 'righteous' cause, then it's stopped being righteous!
Stain jumped back to avoid the slash that nearly took his head off. Optimus then approached his axe and pulled it free from the wall.
Optimus: I know I'm what I'm doing makes me a hypocrite. I know that once I kill you, I won't be able to accomplish my goals, that my friends may very well turn on me. But I can't let it happen again. I can't let another person like my brother destroy this world. Not when I can stop it.
Stain continued to breathe heavily, and the sting of betrayal was a fresh wound that continued to bleed. But one that fueled him as he drew another knife and charged the Prime, Optimus moving to intercept.
Shigaraki: Ahhh~~! Can you hear it? The fires raging, the screams of innocents running in fear. It's like music to my ears. Soon, everyone will forget about the Hero Killer and only remember us.
Shigaraki had a large smile on his face as he looked at the chaos of Hosu City. His master hesitated to hand him the Nomus, but he finally relented, giving him three completed ones. While they were not as strong as the Nomu from the USJ, they were missing that special ingredient, as the doc called it, they were still doing a lot of damage. No doubt, this will put some fear back into the hearts and minds of the people and make them forget all about the hero killer.
He clutched his shoulder in pain. That guy really pissed him off. Going on and on about killing heroes and then refusing to kill the most heroic brat on Earth. Gosh, what a hypocrite. He still couldn't fathom why his master thought bringing that lunatic into their party was a good idea. Maybe it was all some sort of test? He hated tests.
Suddenly, Kurogiri appeared beside him.
Kurogiri: Tomura.
Shiagarki: Oh, hey Kurogiri. What do you think of the show? Isn't it glorious!
He said, gesturing to the fires of Hosu.
Kurogiri: Very. But there's been an interesting development.
Shigaraki raised his eyebrow. This could mean one of two things. It was something that would make him excited or something incredibly boring.
Shigaraki: What is it?
Kurogiri: The Hero Killer is currently fighting in an alley a few blocks from the chaos.
Shigaraki rolled his eyes as he scratched his neck. Of course, it is about that bastard.
Shigaraki: Why should I care about what that loser does? This is our night.
Kurogiri: Because the person he is fighting is none other than the hero student who thwarted our attack on the USJ. Optimus Prime. And it seems the hero student is winning.
Shigaraki stopped scratching as his eyes widened. Then, a manically glee overtook him as he smiled.
Shigaraki: Oh, that's too good. Stain has to fight the one hero he actually doesn't want to kill. Oh, the irony is hilarious!
Kurogiri: How do you wish to proceed?
Shigaraki: Hmm?
Kurogiri: While I know you are no fan of the Hero Killer, if he is captured, it could prove problematic. Plus, given your hatred of Optimus Prime, this may be a prime time to eliminate him by siding with the Hero Killer.
Shigaraki ignored the unintended pun Kurogiri made as he thought about it. While he really hated the Hero Killer, he hated Optimus Prime more as he looked down at his damaged hand. Some days, he would forget the prosthetic fingers were there, but when he remembered, the fury and rage he felt toward that brat returned a hundredfold. He didn't just want Optimus Prime dead, he wanted him to suffer, to scream, cry, and beg for mercy before he finally killed him.
But that was it; he wanted to be the one to kill Optimus Prime, so he was tempted to leave them alone, let the brat take down the hero killer, and kill him another time when an idea came to mind. He remembered the doc was working on something that would change the power base of the entire world. He just needed test subjects.
Shigaraki: "Looks like I can kill three annoyances with one combo." Kurogiri, call the doctor. Tell him I got a test subject in for his special juice.
Back in the alley, Optimus and Stain continued their heated duel, one that was quickly reaching its conclusion.
Despite taking advantage of the alley's narrow walls, allowing him greater mobility, Stain quickly lost ground against Optimus Prime. No matter what tactic or trick he tried, Optimus knew exactly what he would do and was ready to counter him.
Stain: "It's like he knows all my moves! Has he been analyzing my fighting style this whole fight and already knew how to counter it?!"
It would have been incredibly impressive, more proof he was the ideal hero, if it wasn't being used to systematically take him apart. Not only was Optimus able to pick apart his moves, but he was also getting tired, evidenced by his heavy breathing and slower movements, and several surface cuts covered his body. Compared to him, Optimus Prime looked no worse for wear. His hero costume had cuts, but not deep enough to touch the skin, and whenever Stain did manage to get deep enough to draw blood, Optimus quickly managed to transform that part of his body into armor to shield himself. His breathing was also steady and calm despite it being deep. He was tired, but not to the extent of Stain, who felt like he would collapse any minute.
Stain had never been pushed this far despite keeping himself in peak condition. Thanks to his Quirk, he always defeated the heroes he sought to kill with little to no issue. However, given Optimus's unique circumstances, his Quirk has little effect on him. His swordsmanship was among the greatest he's ever seen, surpassing his years of training and talent. And above all, his unyielding determination wasn't something he could win against, no matter how much he tried.
The Hero Killer's time was up as Optimus knocked aside one of his blades, transformed his leg, and delivered a devastating kick so hard that Stain nearly shattered the brick wall he slammed his back into. He dropped his sword, feeling several ribs broken and probably a concussion.
Still, he tried to reach for his downed swords but stopped when he felt a sharp object held at his throat. Optimus Prime stared down at him with pleading eyes.
Optimus: Please... don't make me do this.
Optimus pleaded with the Hero Killer, but he had to try one more time. He didn't want to spill human blood, he really didn't, but he couldn't let another Megatron be born, not if he could stop it.
Optimus: I'll give you one chance to end this without further bloodshed. Please, put down your swords. Give up on this twisted mission of yours. Surrender yourself to the heroes and vow never to take another life. Do this, and I will spare you.
Stain looked insulted.
Stain: You think my life matters more to me than my mission. You think I wasn't prepared to sell my body, life, and soul to accomplish my mission. I know the moment I set myself on this path, I would burn in Hell for my sins. But I accepted the cost because I knew this society needed to change. If you think I fear death, you're more naive than I thought.
Optimus expected such an answer. Fanatics like Stain were rare. Ones who were so willing to die for their cause because they truly believed it. But Optimus had to try.
Optimus: Please stop. No more people have to die. No more blood has to be spilled, innocent or guilty. Please don't be the first human life I have to take.
At that, Stain raised his eyebrows. 'First human life'? What did he mean by that? Whatever, it didn't matter. Stain wouldn't betray his cause, he wouldn't stop killing fake heroes, and even if he was caught, he would escape and continue his mission of blood. And Optimus could tell from the look in his eyes.
Optimus closed his eyes as he let out a sigh of resignation. He expected such an answer; humans were stubborn, but he had to try one last time to try and end this without someone else having to die. But Stain wouldn't change his methods. And if his charisma and methods ever got out there, then just like on Cybertron, he would gather a movement of like-minded individuals and cause chaos worldwide. The Decepticons would be born anew, and this world would suffer. Something he couldn't allow. Unfortunately for Stain, he didn't have the bond he had with Megatron before his fall, which may have saved him.
Optimus: Very well. You made your choice, and I will make mine. Forgive me.
He said this not only to Stain but also to his friends from the U.A. He had no doubt they would feel betrayed by what he was about to do, but he could accept it so long as he kept this world from becoming like Cybertron.
He opened his eyes, emotionless and resolute, the look of someone who has more blood on their hands than humanly thought possible. He raised his axe hand while his sword held at Stain's throat.
Optimus: Farewell, Stain.
Stain: Chizome Akagoru. My name is Chizome Akahoru.
Optimus nodded as he raised his axe high, willing to end his life quickly, a small mercy.
Optimus: Farewell, Chizome Akagoru.
Stain closed his eyes as he accepted his fate. He knew embarking on the path of blood would end with his death. He took small comfort in the fact that a true hero like Optimus Prime would do the deed, not a fake like Endeavor.
As he thought of the flaming hypocrite, his one regret was that he never killed the man himself.
Just as Optimus was about to deliver the final blow, a dark portal opened up, like the ones that warp villain Kurogiri made, formed between the two. Optimus immediately jumped back and got into a stance, ready for anything.
As he waited for a tense second, he heard a familiar voice come from the portal.
Shigaraki: Well, well, well, this is a surprise. The noble hero, Optimus Prime, is about to kill someone in cold blood. I wonder what the press will think of this.
Optimus: Tomura Shigaraki.
Optimus's eyes narrowed as the psychotic manchild's head emerged from the portal, realizing he was the one behind the Nomus attacks. But what was he doing here? Was he here to rescue the Hero Killer? Did that make them allies? Given what he knew of Stain and Shigaraki's personalities, he doubted it.
Shigaraki: Oh! You remember me! I'm so touched! I remember you. I've been thinking about you every. Single. Second! Thinking about the ways how I'll make you bleed.
Optimus: Why don't you come closer, and you can tell me all about it as I carry you off to prison.
Optimus thought of rushing Shigaraki right there, but he held back. He didn't know where the portal led or if a trap would be on the other side. Plus, he couldn't just leave Stain in this alley.
Shigaraki: Tempting, but I'm not here for you. Well, not entirely. Just checking on an investment, so to speak.
He then turned his attention to the downed Hero Killer, who looked up at the manchild in spite.
Shigaraki: Oh, why do you look so angry? Was someone upset that his hero wasn't all he cracked up to be? Join the club. You should be thanking me.
Stain: Do you think I would accept your assistance in helping me escape? And what's the price, join your juvenile band of delinquites? I would rather die.
Optimus observed this intently, keeping his blades ready to strike. It seems they aren't allies. Interesting.
Shigaraki: Who said anything about saving you?
Stain's eyes widened at that.
Shigaraki: I couldn't care less if you died. And if it happened to be at this brat's hands, I'd welcome it. But I want to test something the doctor has been working on for a while now. And since two of the people I hate are here, why not try it out?
Before Stain or Optimus could react, Shigaraki moved in a burst of speed that surprised the Prime. He injected a syringe into Stain's neck and pressed down.
Stain smacked the syringe away, but it was too late as it was empty, and whatever was inside was currently flowing through Stain. He could already feel whatever was inside that syringe affecting his body.
Stain: What did you inject me with?! Trigger?!
Stain loathed that drug. It was a disgrace to the hard work people needed to put into themselves to do better. He swore off any sort of enhancement drugs when he began his crusade, or else he is seen as a hypocrite.
Shigaraki: Nah. Just something new that will make that a thing of the past like steroids. If anything, you should be thanking the brat over there for this. After all, it came from his blood.
At that, Optimus's eyes widened in horror. He couldn't. He couldn't be that stupid!
Optimus: What have you done?!
Shigaraki shook his finger like he was correcting a child.
Shigaraki: Ab, ab, ab, ab! I think you mean, "What have I done?" Man, that would make a good song title. After all, this is all because of you.
Optimus's eyes widened.
Optimus: Me?
Shigaraki: Yes, you. I injected Stain with a nice little concoction made from something special.
At the mention of something, Optimus was filled with dread as his mind latched onto one possibility.
Optimus: You didn't...
Shigaraki injected Stain with Energon!
Shigaraki smiled sadistically at the look on the Prime's face.
Shigaraki: Oh, I did. Good luck! Hope you two kill each other!
And with that, Shigaraki disappeared into the black cloud of Kurogiri's Quirk.
Stain, meanwhile, didn't look too good. His body was shaking and pulsing. The veins on his body began to glow green, followed by his iris changing color. His mind went blank to the world around him as he was filled with unquenchable blood lust. He looked up, his vision becoming different from normal. From his perspective, Optimus Prime was filled with some sort of energy.
And he wanted a taste.
It happened in the blink of an eye, and if Optimus was a nanosecond slower, Stain would've taken his head off as he raised his blades to block Stain's attack. He flinched when he felt the strength behind such a blow, it being over 10 times stronger than before. He didn't have much time to ponder as his instincts screamed at him to dodge, and he jumped back, getting a cut on his chest that would have cleaved him in two if he had a second slower.
He started breathing heavily, and his heart rate increased as he looked at Stain, his grip on his weapons tightening. Thanks to the Energon Shigaraki had given him, he was stronger and faster. This was bad.
Stain: Must... Kill... Fake... Heroes...
Stain struggled to get the words out of his mouth, his words coming out like the growl from a beast. A beast that was stalking his prey. And then, he pounced!
Deku: Alright, we should be far enough ahead that Stain won't be able to catch up.
Both young heroes placed Tenya and Native against the wall.
Shoto: This should be a safe place to rest. Far enough away from the alley and close enough to the street that when the Pros arrive.
Making sure everything was good, Deku turned back to the alley and was about to sprint back when Tenya called out.
Tenya: Midoriya? Where are you going?
Deku: I'm going back to help Optimus.
His answer shocked the three.
Native: What are you talking about?! And let that psycho have even more young heroes to kill?! Besides, he said to get us to safety.
Deku: Yeah, he did, but he never said anything about not coming back to help him when we did. Besides, despite my faith in Optimus, I don't want him to face this alone.
His words surprised the two paralyzed heroes, but Shoto nodded as he moved to stand beside the greenette.
Shoto: Right. Let's go help our friend.
Shoto's words seemed to cause a realization to fall over Tenya. He thought about everything the people in this alley had said since this night began.
Stain: (Flashback) Shouldn't you be worried about that guy?
Optimus: (Flashback) Leave my friend alone... Hero Killer.
Deku: (Flashback) Don't you worry, Iida, I'm gonna save you.
Shoto:(Flashback) Right. Let's go help our friend.
His classmates, those he hurt, ignored, or wasn't close to, all came to help him in his time of need, to save him from Stain. They all acted like true heroes. But him, on the other hand.
Tenya: (Flashback) I'll kill you!
He said that with such venom. Such hatred. One that a hero should never have uttered. How could this have happened? How could he have fallen so low?
Stain was right. He wasn't a hero. He was just some child seeking revenge. He was pathetic. He was nothing but a burden to his friends. Friends that were now risking their lives to save him.
Deku nodded as he activated One For All and dashed into the alley. Shoto was about to follow but stopped when he heard Tenya speak.
Tenya: You all... have to run.
He turned to Tenya to see tears of regret forming in his eyes.
Tenya: I can't... have my friends die because of me.
Shoto gritted his teeth.
Shoto: You want to make your brother proud?!
The mention of his brother caused Tenya to blink out of his terror.
Shoto: Then you have two choices: Either sit there and do nothing to make up for your mistakes. Or stand up and be Ingenium! Become the hero he wanted you to be!
And with that, Shoto took off to follow Deku down the alley, leaving Tenya to stew in his words. He then remembered the words he had said to Stain when he had found him in the alley.
Tenya: (Flashback) I am Ingenium. And I will defeat you. That I promise.
He said that with such confidence and assurance, but that didn't last long against someone like the Hero Killer, maybe because it wasn't confidence but blind anger.
Tenya: "Can I call myself a hero? My friends are protecting me. They're bleeding for me."
He then looked over to Native and remembered Stain's words about how he just ignored the injured hero.
Tenya: "Stain the Hero Killer. I took my brother's name so that I could teach this villain a lesson. But I was so consumed with revenge that I forgot what really mattered. I was too focused on myself to help anyone else."
He then remembered when he asked his brother why he wanted to be a hero. Tensei told him that he always believed people who help others are the coolest people around and that knowing that Tenya looked up to him made him want to improve.
Stain: (flashback) Both of you are nothing but fakes.
Tenya's fingers suddenly twitched and began to close.
Tenya: "You spoke the truth, Hero Killer. Those three are different from me. I'm immature. I can't hold a candle to them."
His fingers finally closed into a fist.
Tenya: "But still..."
Optimus: (Flashback) I know Tenya has made grave mistakes. But wisdom cannot be granted; it must be earned, sometimes at a cost. And I know that if Tenya manages to live through tonight, he will take the lessons he learned here today and use them to transform himself into a phenomenal hero. Every sentient being possesses the capacity for change. That is something I believe, with all that I am.
As he came to his feet, his body began to move, and he felt a sense of resolve and determination take hold of him. But unlike before, when he let vengeance guide his actions, he was now fueled by the burning desire to prove his Class Rep right.
Tenya: "If I don't stand up right now, I'll never be able to be as good as them and never prove that Optimus was right. I'll never live up to my brother's name!"
Optimus: "This isn't good! His fighting style has completely changed!"
Optimus was quickly getting overwhelmed by his opponent, who was now swinging his swords around like a wild beast, unlike the master swordsman he was moments ago. The change in fighting style was so sudden that he couldn't counter all his attacks, and many of them got through and cut into his clothes. His armor managed to block some, but not all.
He was also still shocked by the surprise that Energon had been used to enhance Stain. How did the League get more?! Since the USJ, he and Recovery Girl personally made sure all the Energon Blood they had already collected from him was destroyed so no more villains would try the same trick. They tracked it all down!
So how was it possible the League still had some?! And why did it look so different from normal?! Questions he would need to ask this doctor Shigaraki mentioned.
Optimus: "Later! First, I need to survive this!"
Stain then got a cut on the arm, one that grew a significant amount of blood. Stain then brought the blade to his mouth and licked it. Once again, the familiar paralysis took hold, and Optimus crumpled against the wall. He expected the paralysis to pass in a few seconds like it did before, but when the same amount of time passed and he still wasn't able to move, he then realized something.
The Energon must've enhanced Stain's Quirk as well! This wasn't good!
It only got worse when Stain placed a foot against his neck and raised his blade high, preparing to stab him. The mad look in his glowing green eyes showed he was beyond reason.
Stain: Kill... Heroes!
He plunged the blade, and Optimus closed his eyes to accept his fate.
?: SMASH!
But he was not destined to fall that day. This is evident by a green blur of electricity that came in and saved him at just the last moment.
Deku: Get away from my friend! You villain!
Optimus widened his eyes at his appearance.
Optimus: Deku?! What are you doing here?!
Deku: What does it look like?! We're here to save you!
Optimus: We?
A blaze of fire erupted before the mad hero killer could pounce again, making Stain jump back to avoid the flames, growling like an animal.
Shoto: I have to say, Optimus, I expected you to have defeated the Hero Killer by now. It looks like I overestimated your strength.
He said in a joking tone with no real malice, but Optimus was in no mood for jokes.
Optimus: What are you two doing here?!
Shoto: It's like Midoriya said. We're saving you!
Optimus: I gave you two an order!
Shoto: With all due respect, this isn't the classroom! You don't have any authority as Class Rep out here!
Deku: Besides, if the roles were reversed, you wouldn't have left, no matter our argument!
Optimus knew his friends were right, but he didn't want them to be in more danger! They were just children! Superpowered children, but children all the same!
Before anyone could say anything, Deku got a nasty cut on the leg from Stain. Thankfully, the Hero Killer was too insane to lick the blood, but the cut was still deep enough that it left it hard for him to move.
Deku: What happened?! He's way faster, and his fighting style's completely changed!
Optimus: It's Energon! Stain has been injected with Energon, enhancing his abilities at the cost of his mind! He's much more dangerous! Get out of here! This is my fight!
Shoto still didn't know what this Energon was or how it related to Optimus, but such questions could be saved for later. Right now, his friends needed his help.
Shoto: This is our fight, too! He almost killed two of my friends! No way am I just gonna run away and let this bastard get what he wants!
He said as he created an ice path of spikes to slow him down, but the Hero Killer proved unimpeded. He quickly closed the distance and was about to take off Shoto's left arm, much to the hero student's horror.
?: Recipro Burst!
However, an armored knee came rocketing in and broke the blade before it could cut Shoto. The figure twisted around and struck Stain in the face, sending him into the wall. Everyone was shocked by the newcomer's entrance, but Deku soon looked in relief.
Deku: Iida!
As much as Optimus hated that another one of his friends was in danger, even he couldn't stop the relieved look on his face at his friend's timely save.
Shoto: You're free too? Guess his Quirk isn't as great as I thought it was.
Tenya had refused to look at any of them, keeping his head down in shame.
Tenya: Todoroki... Midoriya... Prime... This has nothing to do with you. I apologize.
Deku: Come on. Not this again.
Tenya finally raised his head, a pained expression on his face.
Tenya: I'm okay. And I won't let the three of you shed any more blood for me!
Stain seemed to recognize Tenya and some of his sense returned—at least enough for him to speak a sentence.
Stain: You're still... a fake. You ruined... the word... "hero"!
Shoto wouldn't take that kind of talk about his friend, especially from someone who's been driven mad.
Shoto: You're a fundamentalist lunatic whose hopped up on steroids. Iida, don't listen to any of this murderer's nonsense.
Tenya: No, he's completely correct. I have no right to call myself a hero... at all.
Deku looked shocked at what Iida had just said, while Optimus looked understanding. He, too, understood that some of his actions didn't make him a hero, despite what others may say. Like the one he planned to do to Stain with all his friends gone.
Tenya: Even so... There's no way I can back down. If I give up now, the name "Ingenuim" will die! Along with the faith of those who believed in me when I didn't deserve it!
He looked at Optimus as he said that last bit, receiving a nod of approval from the Prime.
Stain: Pathetic.
Stain then rushed to Tenya, who Shoto pushed back as he unleashed a torrent of flames that forced the Hero Killer to leap upward to dodge. Shoto continued to shoot fire as Stain dodged it, growling like an animal as he stared at Tenya.
Tenya then got an idea as he looked at his leg. His engines were shot, and the radiator was probably broken from that kick.
Tenya: Hey, Todoroki! Can you regulate your temperatures?
Shoto: Not well on my left side, but yes, I can!
Tenya: You gotta freeze my leg for me without plugging the exhaust!
Shoto looked confused, which left him wide open for Stain to throw a knife.
Stain: You're in the way!
The knife would have landed in Shoto's skull if not for a metal arm to shield him, the blade embedded in Tenya's flesh.
Deku: No, Iida!
Optimus gritted his teeth. Seeing his friends shed blood forced him to try something desperate. He then channeled the Energon in his blood, spreading it throughout his body, hoping it was enough to overcome the paralysis.
Any part of Stain's psyche that was still rational was getting increasingly annoyed with these meddlers and with that fake. Why couldn't they just be good little fakes and die?!
Stain: Why won't you just stay down?!
He shouted as he threw another knife that, this time, Tenya blocked by diving forward to shield Shoto's leg. He said they wouldn't shed any more blood for him, and he meant that. Shoto quickly cut off his flames.
Shoto: Iida-
Tenya: Do it! Hurry!
Stain raised his sword and prepared to end these two annoyances once and for all. When Optimus Prime shot forward, his desperation worked as he could now move his body. He drew his sword and blocked the Hero Killer's strike.
The two stared each other down. Green-tinted red eyes met with bright, glowing blue ones. One holding rage, the other hope.
Optimus: You asked why we won't stay down. It's because each and every one of us is a hero!
His words seemed to stir something inside Stain.
Optimus: And real heroes never give up, no matter the odds!
He then delivered an Energon-enhanced punch to Stain's stomach, one so strong it shot him back into the air, coughing up massive amounts of blood, the red liquid tinged with green.
Tenya: Thank you.
Optimus: Anytime. Now go finish this... Ingenium.
Tenya's eyes widened at the use of his brother's hero name. Tensei asked him to carry on the name, but he felt he couldn't until Stain died. The Hero Killer mocked him for his use of it. But hearing it from Optimus gave him the courage to make it his own.
As Shoto finished freezing his engine, Tenya–no, Ingenium–took the blade out of his arm with his teeth.
Ingenium: "Thank you, Todoroki. And thank you, Optimus Prime, for always believing in me. I will fight... with or without my arms!" Recipro Extend!
His leg engines flared to life as he shot upward, meeting the falling Hero Killer!
At the same time, Deku, ignoring the stabbing pain in his injured leg, charged up One For All and shot forward at Stain at the same time.
Deku: "One For All: Full Cowling!"
Stain noticed the two hero students coming at him, but he had no room to maneuver.
Shoto smiled as he watched his friends, one that Optimus shared.
Shoto: Go, guys.
Optimus: End this nightmare.
Ingenium: "If I just... use my leg..."
Deku: "If I just... use my arm..."
At once, they both threw their limbs at Stain. Ingenium hit him in the stomach with the knee, and Deku struck him across the face.
Both: "...that's all I need to beat this guy!"
Shoto: "They landed two attacks. Now it's my turn."
Optimus then noticed that Stain wasn't as stunned as he appeared. He saw his eyes open.
Optimus: Ingenium! Duck!
His warning came at the right time as Ingenium narrowly dodged a desperate slash from Stain, the cut managing to cut pieces of his hair.
Ingenium: I–We will defeat you, Stain! Because you are a criminal.
Shoto: Don't let him get away!
Shoto roared as he sent his flames at the villain.
Ingenium then relieved a powerful kick to Stain's side, the force breaking several of his ribs.
Ingenium: And we are heroes!
Blood emerged from Stain's mouth before Shoto's flames consumed him.
Ingenium and Deku were still falling, so Shoto created an ice ramp to stop their fall.
Shoto: Get up! Keep fighting!
However, Optimus held out a hand. The others looked at him with confusion before he pointed at the Hero Killer.
Optimus: I do not believe that will be necessary. The Hero Killer seems to have lost the will to continue.
Indeed, it seemed like the Hero Killer was unconscious after the beating he took, but one could never be too careful. After several tense seconds of nothing, they all breathed easier.
Optimus: We should tie him up so he cannot escape. We should also relieve him of his weapons; it wouldn't be good for him to try to sneak attack us.
Izuku and Shoto nodded in understanding as they went to look for rope. Tenya stood there, dazed.
Optimus himself looked back at the Hero Killer, a contemplative look on his face. He could still do it. Right here and now. He could end this world's Megatron before he could do any more damage. But he took one look at Tenya and changed his mind.
No. He couldn't kill Stain after all that Tenya's been through to escape his shadow. That would only cause whatever growth he went through to crumble. And also, Stain was currently helpless. And no matter the villain, even if it was Unicron himself helpless before him, Optimus Prime would never terminate a helpless life. Otherwise, he would become the very monsters he was trying to prevent from being born.
So, with resignation, he took Stain down from his perch upon Shoto's ice block and began to remove his weapons. Stain would live. For now. Besides, Optimus needed answers about the Energon Shigaraki injected Stain with.
After thoroughly disarming Stain and securely tying him up with some rope that someone luckily threw away, the group reached the street. They ran into Native, who was finally free from Stain's Quirk. Native offered to carry Izuku, saying it was the least he could do after all the Hero Students had done for him. He apologized for being useless during the fight against Stain, but everyone assured him that Stain was too dangerous of an opponent to take on alone.
?: What are you doing here, boy?!
The shout of an elderly man causes others to look across the street. There stood a tiny old man in a white and yellow hero costume.
Izuku: Gran Torino! I was only–
He was cut off as the man, Gran Torino, shot up into the air and probably the use of jets on his leg, and kicked Izuku square in the face, much to the shock of the others.
Gran Torino: I thought I told you to stay on the bullet train!
Shoto: Whose this?
Izuku: Gran Torino, the hero I'm interning with.
Optimus: "So this is the man who mentored All Might?"
Optimus recalled Izuku mentioning he was training under the person who taught All Might. Now that he had met the man himself, he was surprised. He expected someone more like All Might to train, well, All Might, not some cranky tiny old man. But despite his size and age, Optimus could tell he was a true warrior and an experienced mentor.
Also, something else about the tiny old man made Optimus shiver.
Optimus: "Why does he remind me so much of how Alpha Trion gets when a book is overdue?"
Izuku: I don't get it, how did you find us?
Gran Torino: I was told by someone else to come here. I have no idea what's happening, but I'm glad you're not dead.
Izuku: Yeah, me too.
Gran Torino: Tch. "This side of him reminds me so much of Toshinori."
He then looked at his companions, seeing some duel hair and eye-colored kid with a scar, a kid covered in blood and armor, some hero with face paint, and–
Gran Torino blinked as he looked at the other person standing there with them. He looked like a kid, but those eyes were anything but that of a youngster. They were the eyes of an old soul, older than him even. How in the world did someone who looks so young end up with eyes like that?
This is a story for another time, as several more heroes rounded the corner. Endeavor sent them to check what was happening at this location, and they were surprised to run into children. They moved to call an ambulance for their injuries. They were all shocked as they saw the Hero Killer in custody, surprised that mere hero students could do such a thing themselves.
As the heroes began to look over the students, Tenya began to walk over to his classmates, ignoring the advice of the Pro next to him and his own injuries.
Tenya: You guys...
The three turned to face Tenya as he bowed his head in shame for his actions, barely holding back the tears.
Tenya: You were all hurt because of me. I'm truly sorry. I was just so angry. I couldn't see anything else.
Izuku looked at his friend with empathy as he felt his own guilt well up in him.
Izuku: I'm sorry too, Iida. You were going through so much by yourself. But I couldn't tell do anything to help. Even though you're my friend.
As Tenya continued to cry, Shoto decided to give him some tough love.
Shoto: Hey, pull yourself together. You're the class secretary.
Tenya then began to whip the tears from his eyes with his arm, walking to stand in front of the person he wronged most, not having the courage to look him in the eye
Tenya: Optimus... I'm so sorry. Sorry for everything. For striking you and saying such hurtful things when you only tried to help. And even more, putting you in danger for someone like me. Please... forgive me.
He waited for the rejection and the cruel "no" he knew was coming. He had already forgiven him twice for his attitude in the entrance exam and for running away at the USJ. There was no way he would forgive him for a third slight against him, especially one so personal.
He waited for it, but nothing came. Then he felt a comforting hand be placed on his shoulder, and he looked up to see a sight he never thought he would see again.
He was smiling.
Optimus Prime, the person he punched and said such hurtful words to, had shed blood to protect him and was smiling at him with so much warmth and joy that he couldn't understand.
Tenya: Why... Why are you smiling?
Optimus: Because you finally called me Optimus.
Tenya was speechless before he choked out some sob-filled laughs. That's why he was so happy. It was so ridiculous that he couldn't help but laugh.
Optimus wanted to say a lot more to Tenya at that moment, but for now, he was just grateful he didn't lose another friend. In more ways than one.
So distracted by relief that he didn't notice the flying Nomu swooping down until it captured Izuku in its legs. Blood was leaking from its body, staining them all.
Izuku: Hey! Let me go!
Optimus quickly transformed his hand into his ion blaster and took aim, trying to find a safe way to hit the beast so that Izuku didn't end up as a stain on the street. However, it turned out he didn't need to do a thing.
He heard the sound of ropes being cut and someone licking something. He turned around and saw Stain use a hidden blade to free himself. He ran at unbelievable speeds, undoubtedly enhanced by the Energon still in his body. He lept onto the back of the stunned Nomu and stabbed his small blade into the exposed brain of the monster, bringing it down and saving Izuku.
Stain: Everything I do... is to create a stronger society.
A wave of fear gripped everyone present at once, paralyzing them all—except for Optimus, who was paralyzed not by fear but by how familiar it was.
Optimus: No...
It was at that moment that Endeavor arrived on the scene.
Endeavor: What are you all doing standing around there? The villain must've flown this way, right?
Sidekick: You took care of the rest?
Endeavor: Mostly, but things got a little rough in the end.
Endeavor took note of all the parties gathered, especially Optimus Prime, before focusing on the person standing on the Nomu's corpse, realization hitting him
Endeavor: Hold on. Don't tell me that man is––
Stain took notice of Endeavor, his grip on Izuku now gone as his mask slipped away. He growled with such intense hatred, the power of hate allowing his brain to push through the Energon scrambling his mind.
Stain: Endeavor.
Endeavor powered up a fist of flames and prepared to throw them at the villain.
Endeavor: Hero Killer!
Gran Torino snapped out of his terror to call out for Endeavor.
Gran Torino: Wait, Todoroki!
The number two hero hesitated, now noticing the Midoriya boy next to Stain.
Stain: You false hero.
At that moment, everyone watching was trapped. Not by a Quirk or some other power but by the amount of hatred emanating from just one man. All except one, who was trapped by his own memories of a similar scene.
Stain: I'll make it right.
?: The age of Primes has ended! No more false prophets! Follow me, and you will never be deceived! RISE UP!
Stain: These streets must run red with the blood of hypocrites.
?: I will lead us all, into the future!
Stain: Come on! Just try and stop me, you fakes!
?: I!
Stain: There is only two people who I'll let kill me. They are true heroes!
?: AM!
Stain: ALL MIGHT AND OPTIMUS PRIME ARE WORTHY!
?: MEGATRON!
And as everyone was knocked off their feet by the hero killer's hatred, the man leaped forward, aiming to take out the king of all fakes himself, while everyone was paralyzed by fear.
Gran Torino: Todoroki!
Sidekick: Boss!
Shoto: DAD!
SNIKT!
All except one.
Stain snapped out of his madness as his small knife stabbed someone. Someone who was not Endeavor. He saw his victim, and his eyes widened in shock, along with everyone else watching, none more so than the man who was just saved.
Optimus Prime stood like a wall between death and Endeavor, Stain's knife through his right hand, blood dripping from his palm. He didn't scream in pain, he didn't flinch, he just looked as unflinchable as ever.
Stain, meanwhile, felt his whole world crumble. Why? That was one word that kept repeating in his mind. Why? Why? Why?! WHY?!
Stain: WHY WOULD YOU SAVE HIM?! HE'S THE WORST OF ALL THE FAKES! THE REASON WHY THIS SOCIETY IS THE WAY IT IS?! SO WHY?! WHY SAVE HIM?! WHY CHOOSE HIM OVER ME?!
Everyone watched and waited with baited breaths for Optimus's answer. But the Last Prime was done. He was done trying to understand Stain and done putting up with his slag. In his eyes, Stain wasn't even worthy of an answer.
He conveyed as he glared at the man, his eyes glowing.
Optimus: Chizome Akagoru...
He began, closing the faceplate around him, as Stain felt true fear for the first time in forever, especially since the Prime had used his real name.
Optimus reeled his left fist back, charged it up with Energon, and said only one word.
Optimus: ...Begone.
He threw an uppercut, and the Energon-powered punch exploded, shattering Stain's jaw and sending him flying! He crashed back down on the ground, once and for all unconscious and defeated, with Optimus Prime standing victoriously over his body.
And the camera that Optimus noticed earlier caught it all. No doubt the press would have a field day. Controversial Hero Student Optimus Prime defeated the infamous Hero Killer Stain: A great victory.
But to Optimus, this was far from a victory. He was too late. He didn't stop this world's Megatron in time. And no doubt this would would suffer for it.
Once again, Optimus Prime failed to stop a war from happening.
He could now only hope they were all ready for it.
A/N: I really hoped you all enjoyed that. As for my poll. I got many reviews that tell me to keep the format as is, so that's what I'll do.