Chapter Text
At the stage, Aizawa was seen speaking to his students about the exercise.
"Now explain what you learned or what you would do differently," Aizawa said.
"Well, if I'm not brawling with my enemies, my quirk feels kind of useless," Kirishima said. "Had that fight been real, Shiozaki would have finished me off before I could even hit the ground."
"I need to give more detailed instructions to the bugs I call," Koda said.
"And I probably killed it, and earned a few new fans in the process," Kaminari boasted. "It's cool, those warm feelings aren't something you can control, now let's hear some praise! I'm not shy!"
"Denki, bro, love the enthusiasm, but maybe dial it back before your teacher obliterates you," Johnny said.
Tsuyu took her turn to speak next, "We lost Koda and Kirishima pretty quickly, and it hurt our team morale. I would have liked to win without losing anyone, but we were sloppy out there."
"I feel for Tsu on that one," Rainbow Dash said. "Had this been real, that means two of our teammates could have been killed. As a pro, I should be able to protect my students in a real fight."
"Good input," Aizawa said.
"There's also my binding cloth," Shinso said as he held the scarf. "I couldn't even use a tenth of what I learned from you. It's so frustrating."
"It's called training for a reason," Aizawa said. "The scarf is hard to use, it took me six years to master. Move on but don't forget this feeling."
"...Right," Shinso said.
"Human Torch, Rainbow Dash, any analysis you wish to share?" Aizawa asked.
"Well first off, these kids are great," Johnny said. "They took time to understand Shinso's power and were able to adjust to it really quickly. Things were tough at first but they adapted well. These kids are a clever bunch, and I guess you're teaching them well, Eraser."
"To Tsu's point though, Eijiro and Koji were lost way too early," Rainbow Dash said. "I think they were a little too eager to prove themselves out there. Speaking from personal experience, that kind of mindset could get you hurt."
"Tsu was able to come up with a plan fast at least, and both Shinso and Denki were able to adjust to it and use it to their own respective advantages," Johnny said. "I know Shinso feels like he didn't do much, but I can't agree with that. He did plenty. He managed to hypnotize both Rarity and Iceman out there, not bad for a beginner."
"Yeah, I totally did great, especially against Allision Dillion," Kaminari said. "I proved to be the stronger electric user out there."
"Denki, buddy," Rainbow Dash said. "I get you're proud of yourself, and I get wanting the glory. I was the same way before my friends had to humble me."
"Humble you? How?" Kaminari asked.
"They 'recruited' a little someone named...Mare Do Well," Rainbow Dash said while glancing at her friends, each of them awkwardly rubbing their heads or nervously whistling.
"Yeah, we definitely remember that," Twilight sheepishly said.
"See, back in the day, I had such a cool hero moment and was praised by my hometown," Rainbow Dash said. "I was so proud of myself that I kept looking for any problems I could. I didn't do it to help people, I did it because I wanted to be told that I was doing great. That's not something a hero should have in mind when trying to help out. I learned that lesson the hard way."
"Nothing bad happened, right?" Kaminari asked.
"Something bad did almost happen, I nearly got my town flooded because of my ego," Rainbow Dash admitted. "After that, I vowed never to let fame get to my head again. It did take me a while to really learn that lesson but that was definitely a good start."
"I've made mistakes like that too," Johnny said. "Fortunately my family was around to fix those mistakes. Peter too on occasion."
"I started keeping a list," Peter said.
"Point is, dial it back," Johnny said. "The girls will come to you in time, but they like it better when you play it cool."
"Cool huh?" Kaminari crossed his arms and stood in a gangster pose. "This cool enough?"
"You're getting there," Johnny said.
"Anyway Eraser, bottom line is that these kids did amazing," Rainbow Dash said. "They definitely deserve an A for effort."
"Thank you for your feedback," Aizawa said.
The other students began making their own points as well, starting with Yuga, "Those two went through work studies dug deep in their reflections."
"Not surprising," Sero said. "They faced those Shie Hassaikai villains. I heard it was a pretty intense raid. That type of thing changes you."
"Compared to the others..." Jiro said while trying not to laugh. "That braindead shock jock looks like a total moron."
"Well, he has Johnny as a mentor," Gwen commented. "Johnny's great but humility is not his strong suit."
"Yeah, I've seen up and close how arrogant The Human Torch can be," Jiro said. "He's still cool though."
"Alright, listen up," Aizawa said. "Kirishima, you should focus on getting your opponent to fight you head on."
"Yes sir," Kirishima said.
"Koda, you already said it," Aizawa began. "Increase the accuracy of your controlled animals. Don't rush, consider your enemy's weaknesses."
"Yes," Koda nodded.
"Kaminari, you weren't serious at the start!" Aizawa scolded. "Are you only strong if your team's in trouble!?"
"No..." Kaminari shamefully said.
"Asui, focus on how to recover from a mistake rather than the mistake itself," Aizawa said.
"Yes sir," Tsuyu said.
"Use what you learned today to improve your future," Aizawa said. "Dismissed."
"Yes sir!" the class said.
Shinso still looked disappointed in himself as he grasped his cloth.
"Even though he won, he's still aware of his inexperience," Midnight noticed. "Yet instead of feeling dismayed, he's replaying the match in his head and figuring out where he could improve and dominate the next match!" Midnight began swooning. "It's so invigorating!"
All Might awkwardly glanced at Midnight, "Contain yourself."
Peter also seemed uncomfortable by Midnight's actions, "I still find it strange she's a teacher at this school."
"Especially in that outfit," Twilight said.
Meanwhile Vlad King was seen front and center with his team, "So...do you know why you lost? Or shall I explain it to you?"
"Oh boy..." Bobby said as he stood by Rarity.
"Shishida was your focal point," Vlad King said, this startling the young beast. "Or wait, was Shiozaki your ace!? If you'd only come together as a team, you could have taken them all!"
"Mr. Vlad's eyes gets so scary when he's mad," Tsubaraba said.
"Yo Vlad, chill out," Bobby said. "These kids did their best and had a strong start. They got two students at least."
"That boy Shinso was just a bit of an unknown for them," Rarity said.
"We had an unknown too!" Vlad King gestured to Allison. "She could have been your advantage, but you misused her!"
"Come on man, you're a teacher," Bobby said. "Teach, don't scold. Even Wolverine isn't this aggressive when he's trying to educate these kids."
"They had a good plan, but they definitely could have improved I admit," Rarity said. "Ibara did well for example, she captured Eijiro Kirishima."
"One problem Miss Rarity," Monama said from nearby. "They intended to use her to deceive. But it's not in Shiozaki's nature to lie. You should have considered that fact Beast Man."
"You're correct, and that failure let our opponents come up with a plan," Jurota said as he turned to Ibara. "You have my sincerest apologies."
"May the flames of hellfire purify your soul," Ibara said.
"Wow..." Bobby awkwardly rubbed his head. "That's pretty deep."
"Such a shame, but now I know that Shinso's good, I can't wait to have him on my side," Monama said before calling out to him. "Shinso buddy, let's come up with a strategy to make Class A cry like toddlers! Something that will really ruin their lives!"
"Wow that kid's weird," Bobby said. "Anyway, the rest of you listen up."
"Yes sir?" the class said.
"You may have lost, but the bright side is that you know where you went wrong," Bobby said. "Jurota, you're strong, but you do come across as prideful at times. I should know, I'm the same way. Might be good to dial it back and try to control that pure rage."
"Of course," Jurota said.
"Ibara, you're a sweetheart, and I know you wish to maintain honor," Rarity said. "I will never ask you to deceive, but sometimes being a hero means stepping out of your comfort zone. Only you can decide how you want to do that."
"Yes ma'am," Ibara said.
"Hiryu, you got great leadership, just show a bit more confidence in yourself," Bobby said. "Your plus is that you're a quick thinker, you just got unlucky. Keep that in mind for next time."
"I will," Hiryu said.
"Kosei, you were great at the start, but you reacted to hastily to something going wrong," Rarity said. "Maintain your focus at all times."
"Thank you," Tsubaraba said.
"Ally..." Bobby began. "You'll get them next time."
"Yeah sure," Allison said.
"You should probably go and plan with your next team as well," Rarity suggested.
Allison turned to where Izuku's team was, the boy was sitting beside Mayday. She could already tell it was going to be awkward. "I'll try."
"And don't feel bad about losing," Bobby said. "You guys did amazing, and you made Class A earn their win. Those kids already have battle experience, so the fact that they struggled to beat you says a lot about your innate talent."
"Indeed, and I'm very proud to have worked with you kids," Rarity said. "You're such little darlings."
Hearing such kind words nearly broke the students, sans Allison, amazed by how kind and pure Rarity was being.
"Your words are like an angel's kiss," Ibara claimed. "Miss Rarity, I would follow you into battle at your whim."
"Aw, you're so adorable," Rarity pulled Ibara into a shared hug. "I just want to take you back home with me."
"Don't care carried away, Rares," Bobby said. "But seriously, I can probably take you kids in for Work Study. Assuming Vlad's okay with it."
"Thanks, but since you lost with us, he probably won't trust you," Hiryu said. "Shame since I feel like I can learn a lot from you."
"I concur," Jurota said.
"I would love to learn from Miss Rarity," Ibara said, breaking away to admire Rarity. "To be ever present in your radiance would be an honor to a simple soul like myself."
"You're quite the little beauty yourself, Ibara," Rarity said. "Oh I would love to have you model some clothes for me."
"Okay, that's enough," Vlad King said. "Stop spoiling my students. I don't want them settling for second place."
"They're not settling, dude," Bobby said. "They know they lost, but they also need to know that they can improve."
"They will improve, after I whip them into shape!" Vlad King shouted. "Now, all of you, back to your seats!"
"Yes sir..." The kids lamented as they went to sit down.
"Freaking grouch," Bobby said.
"Well he is their teacher," Rarity pointed out.
"Still, he doesn't need to be a dick about it," Bobby said.
"Got that right," Johnny said as he walked over. "That guy's rough."
"Hey Torch, good win out there," Bobby said. "Of course, I did go easy on you."
"Did you now?" Johnny sarcastically asked. "Well damn, I guess I should have known. You're just so talented as a hero, aren't you Bobby?"
"And Rarity, so elegant, and stunning...even when you lose," Rainbow Dash teased.
"Take your win with humility," Rarity said.
"I am, you did great too," Rainbow Dash insisted. "Hey, I mess with ya, Rares, but in the end, you held your own. If you went fully pro, you'd do well."
"Thank you dear," Rarity said.
"You were awesome too, Bobby, you've definitely gotten better," Johnny said.
"I just can't stop improving," Bobby boasted. "You know what that means for me? It means I can only keep getting better."
"And you know what this win means for us?" Johnny asked just as he began to sing. "That weeeeeee are the champions, my frieeeeeeeeeeend!"
"And weeeeeeeeee'll keep on fighting, to the eeeeeeeeeeend!" Rainbow Dash sang.
"Good grief," Rarity lamented.
"Weeeee are the chaaaampions!" Johnny said.
"Weeeee are the champions!" Rainbow Dash sang.
"No time for losers!" Johnny sang.
"Cause we are the champions!" Rainbow Dash sang.
"Ahem!" Aizawa interrupted. "Need I remind you that this isn't a concert!?"
"Ha, busted," Bobby teased.
"Whatever man," Johnny said. "Come on Dash, let's hit the winner's circle."
"Yo! Pinkie" Rainbow Dash called. "You're up soon, you better do well!"
"Okie Dokie Loki!" Pinkie said.
"Loki!? Where!?" Kaminari asked in worry, prompting confusion from Pinkie Pie.
Meanwhile Mineta was observing while Monama spoke to a very uninterested Shinso, "Is it me, or is that guy way too full of himself to realize no one cares what he thinks?"
"Maybe, but in the meantime, we should come up with a plan as well," Izuku said as he pulled out a notebook. "Let's brainstorm some ideas together."
"Oh, Uncle Logan!" Mayday called.
"Kid, I told you, when I'm on duty it's 'Wolverine'," The veteran said.
"Come on, don't be such a grump," Mayday said.
"Mayday! Be mindful of how you speak to Logan!" Peter scolded.
"Ugh, fine..." Mayday said. "Wolverine, we're going over some plans, can you and your lovely wife join us?'
"We'd be happy to," Fluttershy brought her husband along. "Come on Logan."
"Yeah sure," Logan said as he sat by everyone.
"Alright, let's get our creative juices flowing!" Ochako said.
"Oh! I have an idea! How about super team attacks like in a video game!" Mina said.
"This ain't a video game kid," Logan said.
"She's just excited, let her have fun," Fluttershy said, much to Logan's annoyance.
"Oh hey, shouldn't we invite our other teammate?" Mina turned her attention to the nearby Allison.
"Do we have to?" Mayday asked.
"Mayday, part of being a hero is giving others a chance to do good," Fluttershy said. "You can't be a hero if you don't see the good in others."
"Within reason," Logan added. "Still, Allison's here to learn, and she wants to be better. You don't gotta be her best friend Mayday, but you gotta give her a chance. Otherwise you'll find yerself in a handicap."
"Okay fine..." Mayday called the girl. "Yo! Ally! Come make plans with us!"
"Well this is a surprise," Allison sat by her teammates. "So, what's the plan?"
"How about some introductions first?" Fluttershy said. "I'm Fluttershy as you know, and this is my husband Logan."
"That's Wolverine to you," Logan said.
"I got it," Allison said, then turned to Izuku. "So, what's your name?"
"Midoriya, Izuku," The boy introduced.
"Midoriya? That's quite a name," Allison said.
"Just so you know, it's his last name," Mayday confirmed.
"Oh right, Japan does that last name before first name thing," Allison said. "I never understood that."
"Get used to it," Logan said.
"Sure," Allison turned to Ochako. "You are?"
"Uraraka, Ochako," The girl said. "I'm Peter's sidekick, just like Deku."
"Who's Deku?" Allison asked.
"I am, it's my hero name," Izuku said.
"Mine is Uravity," Ochako said.
"Ashido, Mina," the girl said. "My hero name is Pinky. But I prefer Alien Queen. Spider-Man likes it too."
"Neat," Allison said.
"Mineta, Minoru," the boy said. "Most call me Grape Juice, but you can call me the man of your dreams."
"Uh...cool?" Allison replied. "So...do I call you by last name or something?"
"That's how it usually is," Izuku said. "You can call me 'Deku' if you'd like."
"You can call me by whatever name," Ochako said.
"Same, but I'd prefer if we were on a first name basis," Mina said.
"Same here," Minata said while flexing his arm. "I'd really love to get to know you more."
"Dial it back, shrimp," Logan said, much to Mineta's annoyance.
"Okay, noted," Allison said. "So...let's get to planning."
Tenya gathered his team together, "We should strategize as well." He turned to his hero mentors. "Spider-Man! Amethyst Sorceress! Care to join us!?"
"Sounds good," Peter said.
"Of course," Twilight said.
"So, what's the plan guys?" Flurry asked.
"Most of our planning should focus on Todoroki," Shouji said.
"Me?" Shoto asked in surprise.
Sero realized his team should be planning as well, "Hey, what about us?"
"Sure, gather around," Gwen said as she and Peni got the students together.
"Bakugo! Come on!" Jiro said. "Let's get on the same page!"
"The page is, stay out of my way!" Bakugo warned.
"Of course..." Jiro lamented.
Peni face palmed in annoyance, "I just had to get stuck with Mr. Personality here."
"Don't be that way, this is our chance to guide him," Daredevil said.
"That might be hard," Jiro said.
"In this line of work, you will have to team with people who are difficult, something I know from experience," Daredevil said. "Katsuki Bakugo could be a key to helping these kids work with someone with a large ego."
"I heard that!" Bakugo warned.
At the moment, Izuku was still making some plans with his team, "We'll be up against Shinso in the fifth match. His voice modifier is a big threat."
"You have no idea," Allison said. "He's really good at just sneaking around unnoticed and tripping everyone up. Getting that vine hair girl and Iceman in quick succession was ridiculous."
"Any suggestions?" Ochako asked.
"Sticky acid, floating kick for the win!" Mina cheered.
"Uh...what?" Mineta asked.
"She's spunky," Allison said. "But if you want to counter that Shinso boy, just try not to talk too much around him. If you hear someone's voice, make sure you know who was speaking."
"Noted, thanks," Izuku said as he wrote it down in his book.
Nearby, Peter was observing his squad while they planned amongst themselves.
"There are plenty of places to hide," Tenya noted.
"It'll be a pain to find the enemy," Ojiro said.
"I can handle that," Shouji insisted.
"They might be aware of that, make sure you keep yourself hidden as well, Mezo," Flurry said. "If anything, I can fly up for a bird's eye view."
"Bad idea, your wings take up a lot of power," Tenya said. "Save that for when we really need it."
"These are great plans guys, but the other team may be aware of that," Peter said. "Plus, one thing you need to know about Saiyaman, it's that he's really great at fighting people who are hiding. He can feel out your energy signature."
"We'll keep him off you if we can," Twilight said.
"Be honest, could any of us take him on in a fight?" Ojiro asked.
"There's no way in hell you can take him on," Peter said, this worrying the students.
"Peter!" Twilight scolded.
"Hey I gotta be honest," Peter said. "Weights or not, Gohan isn't slowing down that easily. Those weights barely did anything with Johnny, Dash, Bobby and Rarity."
"He's not wrong, this will definitely add to the difficulty," Tenya said. "Let's figure out ways we can avoid either Saiyaman."
"THEIR TEAM'S DEAD!" Bakugo shouted nearby as his teammates sat in annoyance. "I'LL BLOW THEM STRAIGHT TO HELL! I DON'T NEED YOU!"
Peni looked like she was ready to unleash her own discipline on Bakugo when Daredevil calmed her down.
"Katsuki, for your sake, I really hope you can back up what you say," Daredevil said.
"Of course I can! Just look at me!" Bakugo shouted while showing off some sparks. "I'm fierce!"
"Even without my sight, I can just see the smugness on this kid's face," Daredevil thought to himself before speaking aloud. "Fierceness will only take you so far. Something my colleague Luke Cake can attest to."
"Keep in mind that the other team has Kitty and Gwen," Peni said. "Those girls will destroy you if you're not careful."
"They don't scare me!" Bakugo shouted.
"Well if you're not careful, they'll make you regret that," Peni said.
"Leave Kitty and Gwen to Peni and myself," Daredevil said.
"You calling me weak!?" Bakugo shouted.
"No, I'm calling you foolish," Daredevil said, causing Bakugo to stutter in anger. "I don't doubt that you're strong, but all that power means nothing if you can't manage it."
"I hope they're getting through to him," Jiro worried. "Then again, Bakugo hardly respects anyone, so I can't be sure."
Nearby Peter was shaking his head at Bakugo's outbursts while still trying to focus on his team's planning.
"We can save Iida for a trump card if our team's behind," Ojiro said.
"Before you rely on me, there's something I should tell you about my Recipro," Tenya said.
"Instant Kale Floating Bomb!" Mina cheered nearby.
"None of these terms makes sense!" Mineta shouted.
"Seriously, enough of this," Logan said. "I already told you kids, this isn't a game. Take it seriously or it's going to affect your performance."
"Logan, mind your tone," Fluttershy urged. "Mina's just excited, it's really cute honestly."
"I get that she's feeling enthusiastic, but if she and the others aren't careful, they're going to look bad out there," Logan said.
"It's just a bit of training," Fluttershy said. "You've been a teacher at Professor X's school, so you've seen kids who get excited."
"Yeah, they're the first to get hurt," Logan said. "Thankfully this ain't the Danger Room, but one wrong move, and someone could really get hurt."
"I'm with Wolverine," Izuku said. "This is fun but we do want to prove ourselves as heroes."
"But, to Mina's point, team attacks are important," Mayday said. "Even daddy and Uncle Logan-"
"Ahem..." Logan said.
"...Fine. My father and Wolverine have their own team up move," Mayday said. "The Fastball Special."
"Whoa..." Mina turned to Logan. "You and Spider-Man have a team-up move!? How does it go!?"
"He throws me like a baseball and I extend my claws out," Logan said. "You can figure out the rest from there."
"We gotta try that!" Mina said. "Mayday, you and I are totally doing that!"
"You want me to throw you?" Mayday asked.
"I'll cover myself in acid, I'd be an Acid Ball!" Mina said. "It's so gonna rock!"
"Uh...I don't know if I want to throw someone covered in acid," Mayday said.
"Use your webs then, we gotta try something!" Mina said. "It's awesomeness waiting to happen!"
"Sure, I guess," Mayday said.
"Reminder that injured students should see the nurse," A robot said. "Humans are fragile creatures whose parts can't be replaced."
Johnny gestured to the creature, "Is anyone going to explain that? That sounded like some Machine Uprising type shit."
"Careful Johnny, that robot was probably built by Eggman," Rainbow Dash teased. "He might have secretly infiltrated UA High and plans to turn everyone into robots!"
"Ha, imagine if he actually did that," Johnny said while chuckling a bit. This feeling didn't last as worry began to wash over. "That's actually a concerning thought though."
"Yeah, it is," Rainbow Dash admitted.
"Feel that! Such passion! Such vigor!" Midnight said as she sensually rubbed her arms. "Like a Spring Awakening!"
"It's winter though," All Might said as Midnight seemingly fainted. He then focused on the other students. "The end of the year is nearly upon us. Everyone's been working to perfect their quirks and develop their ultimate moves. Young Midoriya in particular has improved with One for All. He learned Shoot Style and Air Force. Most of the students even got provisional licenses. A few even fought against the Shie Hassaikai. And bounced back. In the midst of all these events and troubles, they pushed on earnestly toward their goals. Now they have the opportunity to compare themselves to other students chasing the same dream. In a way, this is a rehearsal for the rest of their lives."
"So All Might," Vlad King said. "What do you make of Shinso?"
"He's great, and determined," All Might said. "The fact that he felt frustrated after his match was very telling."
"This is a test for him," Aizawa said. "If he does well, he could very well transfer. I imagine he's eager to show off in his next match."
"Alright, well what about Dillion?" Vlad King asked.
"I think she still feels like she has a lot to prove," All Might said. "Her last team didn't show too much faith in her, and she might struggle a bit in her team. But I have faith in her teammates."
"If she wants it, she'll show it," Aizawa then turned to the other teacher present. "Well Vlad, a lot left to go."
Vlad took a deep breath before shouting, "Second round teams to the field!"
Before long the two teams started making their way to the training area, both classes walking side by side with their mentors.
"Hey, Yaoyorozu," Kendo said.
"Yes?" Momo replied. "What is it, Kendo?"
"Is there any reason you weren't at the School Pageant?" Kendo asked. "I was so sure you'd be there. You would have definitely stood a chance."
"For some reason, Mr. Aizawa didn't tell us that something like that would be taking place," Momo said. "Plus I had band practice, I wouldn't have had time to prepare for it. It's likely a pageant wasn't deemed necessary for my hero progress."
"Hm..." Kendo began remembering something. "Funny, after we were in that commercial for our intern days, people started lumping us in the same category. Our fans pushed us into a box."
"Into a box?" Momo asked, the girl actually envisioning something like that literally happening.
"You know, it's like people think idols are all alike," Toru said. "At the festival, people shouted 'Yaoyorozu' and 'Kendo' because they lumped you together."
"Makes sense," Momo said.
"Idols...a troubling nature," Tokoyami said with the other shadow kid shuddering in agreement.
"Pinkie Pie, Deadpool, had that happened to you two?" Momo asked. "Were you lumped in a box?"
"Me and my friends usually are since we're from Equestria," Pinkie said. "Everyone assumes we're all smiley and happy and sing about Friendship."
"You do though," Nightwing said.
"Not all of us are like that," Pinkie said. "Rainbow Dash doesn't do that all the time, she's a lot more like what you'd expect from a cool American Pro Hero."
"I get lumped in with weirdos like Squirrel Girl because I'm 'unusual' or something like that," Wade said. "Put Squirrel Girl in the spotlight, and she ain't so great."
"You also get lumped with most anti-heroes," Nightwing said. "People compared you to The Punisher."
"What the hell would he and I have in common?" Wade asked. "Is it because we use guns?"
"Well that's what it means to be shoved in a box," Nightwing said. "It could be that simple. I've been lumped with former sidekicks."
"How many former sidekicks even made it far?" Wade asked.
"Well, there's The Winter Solider," Nightwing said. "And also War Machine."
"They're not even that popular on their own," Wade said.
"Hey, Winter Soldier has done well for himself away from Captain America," Nightwing insisted. "He was part of The Thunderbolts."
"Tch, that's not a flex dude, The Thunderbolts suck," Wade said. "Those guys cause more harm than good. Besides, everyone knows it was a villain group."
"It was?" Toru asked.
"Yeah, a creep named Baron Zemo founded it, and that guy regularly throws hands with Captain America," Wade said.
"I won't deny that The Thunderbolts have villainous origins, and that they've made mistakes," Nightwing said. "But they're still around and still trying hard. Bucky Barnes does a good job with guiding them and that should be respected."
"When Nightwing and I first started in The Teen Titans, we did not have it easy either," Starfire said. "We have had our share of blunders."
"The most embarrassing one was when Cyborg and I tried a double team attack, and messed up really badly," Nightwing said. "We got into an argument so bad, he ended up quitting the team for a little while. Fortunately we patched things up, but it did teach one good lesson about being in a group."
"What's that?" Komori asked.
"When something goes wrong, the last thing you want to do is point fingers," Nightwing said. "No one likes messing up, but even the most properly coordinated team could have a slip up or two. It's bad since our slip up allowed a dangerous villain to escape our sight, which is another reason I felt so heated. But when you mess up, you need to admit when it's your fault, and work things out with your partner."
"It's a good lesson for you kids today," Starfire said. "Don't let any mistakes bother you, a little quick thinking will get you back on your feet."
"Wow, the training hasn't even started, and we're already getting valuable lessons," Kendo said. "I feel honored."
"Geez, was that long winded story just an excuse to have a 'valuable lesson' to teach?" Wade asked. "If so, good job. Something like that is better off saved for the end after the person messes up in the first place. Because now, you probably stuck it in their head that they'll mess up. Unless you're into sabotage."
"Wade, be nice," Pinkie scolded.
"Why wait for the end? It's good to cover basics now," Nightwing said. "Besides, I can't see these kids making too many mistakes. They already look like a well-oiled machine. They just need to keep their eyes on the prize."
"Exactly, besides we have Momo Yaoyorozu with us, and I believe she is Class Representative," Starfire said.
"Assistant Class Rep actually," Momo clarified. "Tenya Iida is the class rep."
"Meanwhile, we have Itsuka Kendo, and she's actually class rep," Wade said.
"Sure am, I'm the official class rep," Kendo said.
"Here's a fun fact, Izuku Midoriya was class rep for Class A very briefly before giving the position to Iida," Toru said.
"Yes...even though I had more votes..." Momo muttered.
"Did you say something, Momo?" Nightwing asked.
"It's nothing," Momo said. "I don't suppose you have anything to tell us before we start, do you Nightwing?"
"Just try your best," Nightwing said. "If you need help, we're here for you."
"We will try not to lose," Starfire said.
"Deadpool, Pinkie Pie, any advice?" Kendo asked.
"Just do your best," Pinkie said.
"And try not to lose," Wade said.
"Wow, is that the best you two have?" Nightwing asked. "Starting to see why it took Eraser Head so long to let you in."
"Nightwing!" Starfire scolded.
"It's just a joke, they can handle it," Nightwing turned to Wade and Pinkie. "Life's one big party with them. I'm kind of jealous of that simple mindset."
"Simple!?" Pinkie asked, with Wade looking slightly bothered.
"Nightwing, please be courteous, you know better than to speak in such a way," Starfire said.
"Alright Star," Nightwing said, thoughts running through his head. "I know that was harsh, but I think Deadpool and Pinkie Pie could use a little kick to take this a little more seriously. They need to remind the teachers watching why they're heroes too."
"Itsuka..." Pinkie turned back to the girl. "You're a very smart girl, so you don't need me to tell you anything you already know."
"Thank you, Pinkie Pie. I do hope I can prove myself, especially to Yaoyorozu," Kendo said.
"Me?" Momo asked.
"Yes you," Kendo said. "Honestly, I'm very jealous of you. You have better grades than me, and a better quirk too. I want to try and be my own hero, so I'm eager to have a chance to show my skills against you today."
"With all of my heart, I gladly accept," Momo said.
"Hey Tokoyami..." Came the voice of the shadowy Shihai Kuroiro. "If you think about it, we're pretty much lumped in a box too."
"If you say so," Tokoyami said as he began mentally analyzing the other boy. "Shihai Kuroiro. Your quirk lets you enter shadows and move freely in it."
"You and I share a destiny, we are brothers in the shadow," Shihai said.
"You too have stared into the abyss?" Tokoyami asked.
"Love live eternal darkness friend," Shihai said as the teams began to separate.
"Tsukoyomi will be fun to work with," Nightwing mentally commented. "That other guy though, he has me slightly concerned."
"Those two aren't twinkling at all," Yuga said as he joined his squad.
"Let's go, Class B!" Wade cheered. "Time to stick it to Class A." Some thoughts ran through Deadpool's mind. "Mostly because I want to rub it in Aizawa's face."
"Hey, Deadpool," Nightwing called. "Good luck out there. Try to give us a good fight."
"...Yeah, you'll get one," Deadpool said as he left as well.
At Capsule Corp, Tony was seen carefully observing the situation as well. "So...any early wagers?"
"Deadpool's team will lose," Kaiba said.
"What makes you say that?" Bulma asked.
"He's a fool, and he will drag his team down," Kaiba explained. "It's only logical."
"That's a bad reason to think they'll lose," Bulma said.
"Personally, I think that Class B has potential," Medaka said. "They're just overlooked because Class A keeps shining."
"Well I'm with Class A," Tony said. "You see that girl? The one with the ponytail? She's someone to keep an eye on and for very good reason."
"Geez Tony, don't age gaps mean anything to you?" Kaiba asked.
"That's not what I meant you little...!" Tony shook it off, not wanting to let himself be bothered. "What I mean is that Momo Yaoyorozu is a student of Twilight Sparkle."
"Big deal," Kaiba said. "What's so great about Twilight Sparkle anyway? All she does is talk about Friendship. She's just as bad as Yugi Moto's group of friends."
"Say what you will, but even you can't deny her incredible feats," Tony said. "Twilight Sparkle is one of the most intelligent people either of us know after all."
"This girl was there during the Hassaikai Raid," Bulma said. "She helped against guys like Wesker, Bison and members of The Brotherhood. She definitely held her own, so underestimating what she could do wouldn't be wise."
"There is one thing I will credit Class A on," Kaiba said. "Fumikage Tokoyami."
"Oh yeah, he's the one who was trained by Hawks," Bulma said. "He did well at the Sports Festival."
"He was also targeted by the League of Villains," Leon said. "Tokoyami did some heavy damage against some of the villains. His quirk is not to be underestimated."
"What about the other kids though?" Chun-Li asked. "The ones from Class B?"
"I don't know a damn thing about them," Leon said. "I just know that orange haired girl was in the Beauty Pageant. But beauty won't help here."
"Says the guy who simps for Ada Wong because of her looks," Tony commented, much to Leon's annoyance.
"You're one to talk Mr. Billionaire Playboy Philanthropist," Leon commented.
"It's fine Leon, most boys can't handle a pretty face," Rouge said while winking at the man.
"You're not funny," Leon said.
Rouge smirked once more at Leon before turning to Sally, "So Sally, any takes?"
"I can't say, but if that one girl was trained by Twilight Sparkle, then her team has a good chance. Especially with Starfire and Nightwing there too," Sally said. "Doesn't help that the other team has Deadpool and Pinkie Pie."
"Wow, no faith in either of them?" Dante asked.
"Well, to Seto Kaiba's point, they're not very reliable," Sally said.
"People always underestimate the party animals," Dante said. "You guys are going to eat your words sooner or later."
"Deadpool's a kickass mercenary," Sunset said. "Pinkie Pie's wacky and unpredictable. Don't underestimate either of them."
Back at the stage, Vlad had commented on the current pre-battle situation. "Both teams are in their bases. Now, it's time." The teacher cranked up the intensity. "Team Kendo, tear them to pieces! Start with the second match!"
"Stop with the biased commentary!" Mina scolded.
"This better not be a recurring thing dude, it's going to get old fast," Peter said.
"K Team, let's go!" Kendo declared as she and her teammates ran into their battle positions.
Sero was observing with the others on stage, then turned to Tetsutetsu. "Kendo seems like a really important part of your class dynamic."
"YEAH! She gets the job done no matter what!" Tetsutetsu shouted, much to Sero's dismay.
"Why are you yelling!?" Sero asked while covering his ears.
"That's our brilliant class representative for ya!" Tetsutetsu continued to shout. "She's smart and decisive even under pressure! So awesome! She's also brave, risking herself on the front lines while others are counting on her. Plus her attitude rocks! Without her we would've killed Monama or be a fool like him right now!"
"Uncalled for!" Monama declared.
"Think of her as the class's big sister," Tetstetsu said. "Itsuka Kendo inspires all of us to do our best!"
"That kid better not shout like that when it's our turn," Videl said.
"Doesn't seem so bad to me," Gohan commented.
Mayday scooted over to her Class B friends. "So...how good is this Kendo chick that she's getting showered with this much praise?"
"She's not just good, she's great," Franklin said.
"Itsuka's a smart girl, she can handle just about anything," Rina said.
"I'm convinced that when she graduates, she'll have a spot in The Avengers waiting for her," Franklin said.
"Well you're confident," Mayday said as she focused on the screen. "Guess I'll just have to see for myself."
Shoto took note of everything Tetsutetsu said as he focused on the screen, "Well, if that's the case, I wonder if Yaoyorozu's plan would work?"
"Why? What's she up to?" Ojiro asked.
"Don't worry about Momo," Twilight said. "I have confidence she'll do well. UA doesn't take Recommendations for just anyone."
Momo's team continued to run through the battle area, to which Nightwing spoke up to speak to Momo. "So, leader is Momo Yaoyorozu, correct?"
"Yes sir," Momo said.
"Got any plans?" Nigtwing asked.
"My plan is to immediately start reconnaissance," Momo said, then turned to Tokoyami. "If you please."
Tokoyami nodded and called his beast, "Now Dark Shadow!" He extended the shadowy bird. "Report back when you've found the enemy."
"You got it!" Dark Shadow said as it swerved around.
"Good start," Nightwing said. "Just be careful, I heard your quirk has a weakness. It was broadcast all over the Sports Festival."
"Do not worry Nigthwing, we've taken that into account," Momo said.
"You do know what the other team can do, right?" Starfire asked.
"Just the gist of it," Momo said. "Franklin Richards and Rina Howlett frequent our dorms to converse with Parker, Flurry Heart and Asui. Plus, I did my Internship with Kendo, so I know what her quirk can do as well."
"Hopefully it's enough," Toru said.
"Let us have faith in our teammates," Starfire said. "Momo Yaoyorozu is a smart girl and very capable. I have seen it for myself. I know she will lead us well."
"I promise to live up to your expectations," Momo said.
"Don't do it just to impress us," Nightwing said. "Do it for yourself too."
"Of course," Momo said.
Meanwhile Dark Shadow was flying through the training area while trying to find the enemy team.
All the while Kendo is running ahead of her team with Deadpool right by her side.
"So...you feeling confident?" Wade asked. "How well do you know the other team? Better yet, how well do they know you?"
"They should at least know what we can do," Kendo said. "But we've improved, so they'll have to be ready for anything!"
"So, what do you expect them to do?" Wade asked.
"They already did it," Kendo said as she gestured to Dark Shadow. "They started with recon."
Tokoyami's eyes widened, "Dark Shadow has found something! They're located near the chimneys!"
"Quickly then!" Momo said.
"Remember, always think ahead," Nightwing reminded as he followed the team.
Meanwhile Dark Shadow had Class B cornered, "Why are you all just standing around!?" He dashed in to attack. "I'll take whoever I can get first!"
"I'll leave it to you, Kuroiro!" Kendo said as she helped her dark classmate jump into the shadows.
He quickly traveled around and emerged from a pipe while falling onto Dark Shadow with a sinister smile on his face, "Into the abyss."
Back with Class A, they were getting closer to the chimneys, with Yuga noting just how far the shadow could stretch. "Magnifique. You're able to let Dark Shadow go pretty far now. I trust you improved well during your work study?"
"Somewhat, yes," Tokoyami said. "The problem is that the farther away Dark Shadow is, the less time he can be out."
"Oh, speaking of," Yuga said while gesturing to a returning Dark Shadow.
Tokoyami noticed something strange as Dark Shadow got closer. Suddenly he took a hit that knocked him back.
"Tokoyami!" Momo shouted in concern.
"What's going on!?" Yuga asked in disbelief. "This can't be right!"
"Fumikage..." Dark Shadow tried resisting control. "H-he got me!" Dark Shadow then punched his summoner back.
Ochako looked on in disbelief, "What's wrong with Dark Shadow!? Is Tokoyami losing control!?"
"That's not possible," Izuku said. "There's plenty of light so he should be in full control. Could it have been possessed!? Does someone else have a power like Shinso's!?"
Dark Shadow continued to attack, taking his chance to attack everyone around as they all frantically dodged.
"Why is that Shadow acting this way!?" Nightwing asked, before coming to a conclusion. "Wait, that other kid. The one who talked to Tsukoyomi!"
"Nightwing! That boy is in trouble!" Starfire urgently shouted.
Dark Shadow towered over Yuga, the poor boy trembling at the knees. "Please don't!"
"Quick Hagakure! Light!" Momo called.
"You got it!" Toru leapt up and summoned some light. "Warp Refraction! Say Cheese!"
Dark Shadow was weakened by the light as Tokoyami used this as a chance to retract his being. "Come, quick, back to me!"
As Dark Shadow flailed around, Shihai was flung out of the beast, which Toru noticed. "Look! Kuroiro was inside Dark Shadow!"
"I knew it!" Nightwing said. "Quick, get him!"
Momo threw a net to trap the sneaky hero in training, but he used his powers to slip back into the shadows.
"He vanished!" Yuga pointed out.
"He escaped into the shadows!" Momo said. "So, that's how his power works."
Shihai emerged upside down from a nearby pipe while sinisterly laughing.
Class B Student, Shihai Kuroiro. Quirk: Dark. It allows him to melt into shadows immediately. He is able to move through the darkness, but it has to be stationary in order for him to maintain control.
"Fumkage Tokoyami, I swear I will vanquish you," Shihai sinisterly declared. "You and I share a hallow destiny of darkness."
"I see, fated rivals, very well," Tokoyami said as he removed his cloak. "I'll use your challenge to reveal something. A move I learned while working with Hawks!"
"A new move?" Shihai asked in disbelief.
"That's right," Tokoyami said. "Dark Fallen Angel."
Tokoyami recalled his days working with Hawks. Despite being his student, he did not get to do much out in the field. Hawks could easily handle any low level crook.
Every time Tokoyami caught up to Hawks, he would have already captured a crook and had his sidekicks take him away.
Much as Tokoyami wanted to work with him, he could not keep up with Hawks's speed, and it fell on him to help the other sidekicks bring in criminals and handle the paperwork.
"I was the first student that Hawks took in after the Sports Festival. Much as I chased after him, I could never be quick enough, and I ended up doing clean-up for any incidents he resolved. I had to question him about it."
In his office, Hawks had explained why he did what he did, "Well, I can't exactly let things get worse just because you need practice."
"Then, why did you ask me to intern with you in the first place?" Tokoyami asked.
"We're birds of a feather," Hawks replied while flashing a snarky grin.
"...Was that a joke?" A bemused Tokoyami asked.
"Nope, I'm twenty percent serious," Hawks said. "Half of the reason is because I wanted to talk to someone from Class 1-A. I'm interested in those thugs from the League of Villains who attacked you. To make things easier for me, I figured I could find a solid recruit who could keep up with me. So from the top competitors at the Sports Festival, I picked a fellow avian who looked worthwhile. Now, tell me about how the first attack went down at the USJ."
Reluctantly, Tokoyami put aside his frustrations and explained what happened to Hawks.
"One thing Hawks needed to know was this. I am NOT a messenger pigeon. After my weeklong internship ended, I hadn't learned anything useful. Later, for Work Studies, I was taken in by Hawks again. My classmates by this point had experienced many trials. Of course, Hawks probably wanted to know more about them too. I don't appreciate being looked down on, not even by the third ranked hero. No, the second ranked hero now."
One thing Hawks noticed, along with his sidekicks, is just how much better Tokoyami got at keeping up with the pro.
It culminated one day. Hawks had sent his sidekicks home, but not his student.
"Hey, Tokoyami, stay a while," Hawks said.
"What intel do you want now?" Tokoyami asked.
"Let's take this to the sky," Hawks said.
Later Hawks was seen flying across the air while holding Tokoyami, the student amazed by the sudden feeling of taking flight.
"It's like we're one with the wind!" Tokoyami said.
"Is this your first time flying?" Hawks asked. "Back then I told you twenty percent of the reason I took you in was for your quirk. That birds of a feather comment. Fifty percent was for information about The League. That last thirty, to be frank, is because I felt like you were wasting your true potential."
Tokoyami looked up in amazement, then back across the horizon.
"Look around, nothing beats a bird's eye view," Hawks said.
"You said I was wasting my potential?" Hawks asked.
"It's good to put effort into beefing up your short-range combat weaknesses," Hawks said. "But don't forget about what you're good at. Use your quirk to move more freely. Like those two over there."
Tokoyami turned to see Rainbow Dash and The Human Torch flying in the distance. The duo hadn't noticed Hawks, or at least enough to stop and chat.
"People like them use flight not just for patrols, but because it's part of who they are, and part of what makes them heroes," Hawks said. "They experience true freedom in the air, giving them a feeling to cherish, and something to fight for. With their keen senses, they spot danger faster than most, and save lives just as quickly."
"Right," Tokoyami said, still glancing at the duo just as Hawks placed him on top of a building.
"Look, I'm not that interested in training the next generation," Hawks said as he landed as well. "This just wasn't something I could pass up. Remember, those of us who can fly, should fly. Don't be stuck on the ground with everyone else."
Back at the fight, Shihai was seen having laughed at the name Tokoyami chose.
"Dark Fallen Angel?" The student retreated back into the shadows and began to move around as Tokoyami kept an eye out. "Sounds dramatic. Show me what you've got!"
"He's moving through the shadows again!" Momo said.
"There's only one attacking too! How unexpected," Yuga said.
"This is one talented kid," Nightwing said. "If he's this good now, he's going to be even more amazing once he graduates."
Ojiro looked confused from where he stood, "Didn't this type of plan fail the first match?"
"It's actually a smart move," Shoto said. "In an area like this, he definitely has the upper hand."
"Geez..." Gohan rubbed his head in confusion. "This kid's quirk reminds me of that one guy from the Hassaikai. The one, me, Videl and Raven had to find in the walls."
"If you can travel around like that, it's definitely an advantage," Videl said. "That kid can pop up anywhere."
Tokoyami continued standing around, tension filling his body.
"Hey, are you okay Tokoyami?" Toru asked.
"I'm fine," Tokoyami said, the boy still thinking about Shihai's words. "He's fixated on me."
Shihai continued to move around at incredible speeds, the boy smiling at his plan coming to fruition. "Class A is completely in the dark. After that emotional trap I set on Fumikage Tokoyami, calling him a brother, the class probably thinks he's my target. But that's not true. I'm the Scheming Hero, Fanta-Dark! Misdirection is the key to my design!"
Suddenly he grabbed Yuga and began maneuvering away with the now terrified student.
"Aoyama!" Momo called.
"Crap! Someone's gotta save that kid!" Nightwing declared.
"Trickery..." Ibara commented from where she was watching. "How despicable he is. Wretched soul, repent at once!"
"You know, to Ibara's credit, that kid seems more villainous than heroic," Bobby said. "But, he might just be playing the role so it's hard to say."
Shihai continued maneuvering through the pipes, satisfied with how well his plan was going. "This cramped stage gives me more than enough pathways. I have speed on my side, and poor Dark Shadow is tethered to his host on the ground. Which means, they cannot catch up to me! There's no way!"
"Did you think I was slow?" Tokoyami asked from nearby, his presence spooking Shihai. Tokoyami was closing in from behind, using Dark Shadow's powers as his wings. "Dark Shadow. Dark Fallen Angel!"
"Wait, he can fly!?" Many from Class B asked.
"Hell yeah!" Rainbow Dash cheered. "Take to the sky, Tsukoyomi!"
"Wow, look at Tokoyami go!" Ochako said.
"Wow a new move!" Mina pointed out.
"How is that possible!?" Mineta asked.
"The principle of it makes sense!" Izuku said. "Dark Shadow is always floating, so Tokoyami can use it to take himself through the air! And by covering himself with his cape, Tokoyami can block the sunlight from weakening his work and maintain a high altitude! Plus with that hold, Tokoyami's hands remain free so he can do whatever he needs!"
"Wow," Mayday said. "That's some great logic-"
"It's such a brilliant move you guys!" Izuku continued, unintentionally interrupting Mayday as he spoke to everyone beside him. "It's so obvious that it didn't cross our minds, but he figured it out and it's working perfectly! It's kind of like he cut through his own personal Glorian Knot!"
"Izuku's so cute when he gets all excited like this," Twilight commented.
"He's one perceptive kid," Peter said.
"So cool! I'm impressed!" Izuku said as he focused back on the monitor.
"Hawks, I thank you," Tokoyami said as he grabbed Yuga to pull him to safety. "And I will fly even higher!"
"An unexpected rendezvous!" Yuga commented.
"Plan A was a failure," Shihai said as he slipped back into the shadows.
"Aoyama! Your naval buffet!" Momo called. "Tokoyami, cover the area!"
"Dark Shadow, do the cloak," Tokoyami said, to which Dark Shadow complied.
"I shall give light to these shadows," Yuga said as he blasted light downwards. "Naval Buffet!"
Yuga flashed enough light over the area that eventually, Shihai's location got exposed.
"There he is!" Momo said.
"I see him!" Toru said as she along with Wade and Pinkie made their pursuit.
Shihai made a run for it, but Momo was able to cut him off, "That's as far as you go!"
"We won't let you escape!" Toru said as she and the two pros joined.
"Don't try anything funny there, kid," Wade said.
"Launching a surprise attack alone, bold move, and very unexpected," Momo said. "Regardless, I've come to expect the unexpected."
"Oh I don't know about that," Shihai said as he began to run off.
"Hey, get back here!" Pinkie warned.
"You just don't know when you're beat!" Toru said.
As Momo got in close, she noticed a mushroom grow on her nose, "Huh?"
"Mushrooms!?" Toru commented as a bunch began to grow on her. "What's going on!?"
"What the!?" Nightwing shouted as he found himself covered in mushrooms.
"This is highly unusual!" Starfire said in a panic. "I believe I am going to be sick! I hope this is not a virus of sorts!"
"Silly woman, this is all part of our plan," Shihai said.
"Plan?" Pinkie asked.
"Today, Kendo proved that she is better than you," Shihai said.
Komori was seen walking along the grounds, "It's just like our brilliant class rep said shroom. If we see too much light, then Plan A failed!" Mushrooms began to grow on Komori, the girl being the cause of all this. "Cute little mushrooms for everybody!"