Recap: In the last chapter, you with the rest of the top 5 of the Sports Festival began their drawing to find out their next pairing. In the end, you were paired against Tokoyami, while Bakugo would be fighting against Iida. Todoroki, the only one without a pairing, went and moved to the semi-finals without a fight. After your fight, you won a close game against Tokoyami, the game ending off in a sour note causing you to feel guiltier than you hoped, while Bakugo easily outmatched his match against Iida. With racing thoughts of uncertainties, you were finally pulled to the edge of that insecurity once you had a terrible conversation with Endeavor, a man who seems a little too interested in the Pokemon, before you, swirled by self-deprecation, came to decision that you'll lose the next battle to ends it all, hoping that you'd let Bakugo and Todoroki into the finale for the final match. Who knew, that Bakugo had other ideas, and now, you're fighting those 2 together in the finale?

❧❧❧

You found yourself walking off with no direction in mind.

Your feet dragged you along the way on a dead-tired adventure, your eyes seemingly finding comfort in eyeing the ground while your fingers tugged on the loose fabric within your gym pants mindlessly.

As the blaring noise of the cheers of the spectators numbed down, the moment you felt the cool wall on your back, it felt like everything was finally hitting you as you slid to a crouched slump.

With the battles now coming into preparation for the 3-on-battle, there was a long needed period of time for things to be set up in preparation. From what your told, the stage was currently being altered, Cementoss working hard on creating a stage up to par for such battles, while Meowth and Present Mic were entertaining the crowd with jokes, and sometimes more info about the Pokemon Meowth has yet to talk about.

For most, you find yourself slumped by a stadium wall, eyes locked on to the grassy plains adjacent from where you sat. It was embarrassing, slightly concerning to be in this slightly dimmed down area outside of the stadium all alone, trying to stop the heaviness in your heart from bringing you any lower.

Why?

Why...do you feel this way?

Why are you acting this way?

You frowned, focusing on ground, counting each rock that just happens to catch your vision for some odd way to gain calamity. You narrowed your eyes, taking a deep inhale in.

You made it this far, yet it wasn't something you planned at all to happen in these following events. You wanted to finish this last battle with a loss. But in the end, you're in the finale, battling the two top students of your class, Bakugo and Todoroki.

But it's all fine, you huffed another low sigh.

You'll just leave with a bang, and lose in the finale.

As you numbly listened to strange quietness around you, and the subtle echoes of Present Mic and Meowth's commentary and the crowds excited cheers, you were surprised by the sudden loud croaked entering your ear. The sound familiar yet, completely out of nowhere. You furrowed your brows in confusion.

"...(Name)-chan, what are you doing here, kero?"

You raised your heavy head, your eyes sliding to a large entry hallway, where Tsuyu peeked over. The only part visible was her eyes and the top of her head, as she looked at you with her signature bland look. Her wide eyes blinked at you, taking in your slouch form. She let out another soft croak. You took that moment to process it all.

Your eyes widened slowly, as you jolted up in realization. "A-Ah, Tsuyu-chan...!"

You fumbled out of you slumped form quickly, perhaps a little too hastily for you slammed the back of your head to the wall, the pounding ache causing you to groan as you clutched it. It stung, and you swear you feel the blood rushing your head. You let out a longer groan.

Tsuyu tilted her head a little, coming out of her hiding spot to eye your currently pained reaction. You groaned out, still delirious enough to ask. "W-What are you doing here...?" The pain was slowly subsiding, but it hasn't quite gone away as you stared up at her blanked look.

She answered honestly. "I came to check up on you. I saw you went here all alone after the announcement, so I followed you." Tsuyu than asked again, a slight tinge of curiosity in her voice. "(Name)-chan, why are you sad?"

You jolted again, this time subtly able to avoid slamming your head back into the sturdy wall to meet Tsuyu genuinely worried yet curious eyes in shock. "H-Huh? I'm not sad, Tsuyu-chan...where did you get that idea?"

You felt a little uncomfortable with the sudden question. The fact that she can see how you're feeling was making you feel wary, as you were sure her question wasn't asking if you were sad, but rather asking why you were sad. So, it seems Tsuyu is already certain your upset. You didn't bother to say anymore, opting to not look at her anymore, in hopes the question will be changed.

Tsuyu didn't let up with her staring, simply watching your nerve-wrecked movements before she walked over, crouching down next to you. "...You seem sad. Does it have anything to do with the Pokemon?"

You frowned when Tsuyu pressed on, but you only sigh. You needed to get this off your chest one way or another. And with the smallest reluctant, you yielded. With your nod, Tsuyu hummed, sounding like she expected it as she asks again. "I see. And it's also connected to the Sports Festival, right kero?"

Another small nod from you, and this time Tsuyu didn't say anything. She didn't add anything more, but it was already enough to have you ready to pull out all your worries, all your frustrations out on a silver platter.

When silence followed, a tranquil silence that gave you moments to consider what you wanted say, you didn't hesitate to open your mouth.

"...It's just..." Your frowned deepened, your forehead bunching up in frustration. You kept your vision on your hands. "I don't know...I feel...bad."

Tsuyu stayed crouched next to you, her eyes trained on whatever greenery ahead of you two, as the feelings inside of you broke out. "...With the Pokemon coming out, the news spreading all over- it's still really hard to catch up." You sighed, pressing your eyes together tightly. "Everything feels like it's going so fast, all of a sudden, I need to showcase the Pokemon in the festival, so hopefully the people will see just how amazing the Pokemon are-," You clenched your hands tightly. "Then the stakes started feeling higher cause now the Pokemon that I care are just going to be taken away from me and..."

You eyed the swinging grass being brushed by the wind, narrowing your eyes at them. "It just feels too much."

Tsuyu peered over, as you continued. "Then the whole Sports Festival came up, and I was certain of what I wanted to do." You looked towards Tsuyu who met your eyes, feeling a passion that surged in your heart to go on. "I wanted to show the world the Pokemon I see! I wanted everyone to know...just how great the Pokemon are!"

Tsuyu let out a soft croak, but she still waited for your next burst, your eagerness dumbing down to uncertainty. You sighed, looking away once more. "But then...I look at you guys, who are trying so hard to win this Sports Festival, trying to gain the attention from the pro-heroes...that I started feeling guilty." You tightened your hand. "I feel horrible, for taking over something that would probably help you get an opportunity with the heroes, only to make all of the focus on me and the Pokemon."

You paused, sighing. "I felt like I was using you guys..." The main reason of your current frustration came out, as you slightly bit your bottom lips, trying to form the words you wanted to convey, the words you wanted Tsuyu to understand. "I...I felt like I was looking down on you guys, like I was taking everything from everyone."

You can see it. Ibara, Sero, Uraraka, Iida, Midoriya, Momo, Shinso flashed into your mind, Tokoyami being the last one. Their want to win so blatant to you it feels so wrong. You sighed, finally understanding your internal confusion. "...I think that's why," You paused, remembering the events of the entire festival. "I think that's why I let Midoriya win, just so he could get the limelight during the obstacle race...and everything, from my battle with Sero, to Ibara...to Tokoyami. My guilt just kept festering, and now, that's all I feel."

You slumped down more, as you sadly watched the concrete. Feeling that exact feeling within you right now, taking you hostage. As another wave of quietness filled the air, you were prepared for it to stay this way when Tsuyu said.

"Hmm...(Name)-chan, don't you know you're looking down on them already if you're thinking that you should lose."

"..."

"Huh?" You abruptly lifted your head, meeting Tsuyu's as per usual, calm blankish look. Tsuyu croaked, putting a finger under her chin.

"It's true you shouldn't have taken it easy." Tsuyu explained calmly, her hands laid on her knees. "I'm sure deep down we all want you to go out against whoever you go against. We would all want to beat you in your best, kero."

You felt your eyes drawn at Tsuyu, taking in each word she brought to light, before she smiled at you a little, and it comforted you wholeheartedly. "But, that doesn't mean you have to go out like Bakugo-kun."

You blinked, just feeling more confused. You looked around a little dazedly. "Umm...I don't think I can even if I wanted to...?"

"Mmh, that's right." Tsuyu agreed easily, you weren't surprise as it's coming from the resident blunt girl from the class, as she speaks. "So that means you don't need to go all out like Bakugo-chan, or Midoriya-chan or Ochaco-chan." You blinked, as Tsuyu croaks. "Just do your best in your own way."

'My...own...way?' You thought confusedly. You wrapped your hands around you knee softly as Tsuyu blinked her frog-like eyes your way knowingly.

"(Name)-chan, I've been watching your battle this whole time, since I'm not in the final event. But you...you were still thinking about them, Sero-chan, Ibara-chan, and Tokoyami chan right? Even Midoriya-chan, you were thinking of him." She announces, as you frowned uncertainly. "...You were holding back so they could show off."

You shook your head. "T-That's not-,"

"The reason you didn't throw out Sero-chan right away was because you wanted him to show the pros his ability." You didn't want his battle to end just like that.

"For Ibara-chan, you chose Pikachu-chan because you wanted her to go beyond her control," You wanted everyone to see how grand her quirk could expand.

"And for Tokoyami, you didn't want his weakness to be exposed...that's why...you chose a Pokemon that had nothing to do with it." You felt Tokoyami could show more when he's against someone who wasn't with light elements.

Tsuyu points out, what she was trying to say to you was clear. "(Name)-chan, you were just thinking ahead for them."

You felt your arms tighten around you knee, as you processed her explanation slowly. Still in denial, you urged. "...That still doesn't change that I was subtly looking down on them."

"That's true, kero." Tsuyu answers easily, and you find yourself looking at her again for support. "But some parts in that action, brought you to help them more in my opinion."

You sighed, as the frog-girl continued.

"This time, fight with all you got, with your wants in mind (Name)-chan." She encouraged, sounding incredibly soft. "It's okay to focus on your goals. The Sports Festival isn't only about the hero class students. The general Rd student and the inventor student showed that didn't they? It's about proving oneself. So fight, with the intentions of winning instead of losing (Name)-chan."

In that turn, you felt Tsuyu reach out a hand to yours, interlocking your fingers together against each other. And you accept that, holding her hands tightly, as if you were holding her statement closely to your chest. You didn't react, but Tsuyu knew that you understood what she meant. Your eyes softened.

"...Thank you Tsuyu-chan." You uttered then. And She responded with a croak happily, eye-shut jubilantly.

"This is just the Sports Festival (Last)-chan, don't think too hard."

You nodded softly. "Okay..."

As you two sat with interlocking hands, Tsuyu decided to input when it felt like the cloud dancing on your heads were dissipating, squeezing your hand for your attention. "You know; the others are worried about you too." You curiously turn to her as she continued. "They all wanted to find you too."

You raised your head, blinking in subtle surprise. "Really? Now I feel bad for worrying everyone..."

"It's because they care very much." She responded, remembering the moment before left the bleachers.

"Tsuyu-chan, where are you going?" Uraraka asked, noticing Tsuyu leaving her seat. Tsuyu turned, answering without a word.

"To find (Name)-chan." She croaked, earning the attention of most of the class. "She looks like she needs to talk to someone."

"Y-You're going to see..." Uraraka seemed bewildered, surprised evident in her expression before she suddenly responded in eagerness. "I-If you're looking for (Name)-chan, I want to come along." She pressed a hand on her chest, nodding seriously. "...She helped me, so...I want to return the favor." It seems she isn't the only one, as a few looked ready to pipe in, but Momo intervene.

"She might want the space truly, so I think it would be a bit rambunctious for us all to go together." Momo looked apologetically, earning a few sighs, knowing she's right. Then, she turns to Tsuyu's halted step. "But Tsuyu-chan, if you find her...can you comfort her in my steed too?"

"Yeah, me too." Jiro piped, earning a few nods from Sero, Midoriya and Kaminari too.

Sero voices. "She doesn't seem to look good, so please send her our cheers!"

"Yeah, I'd definitely want to watch her win this fight!" Kaminari agreed, before realizing he might be putting too much burden on your shoulders. "With what (Last)-chan can do! It would still be a cool fight, no matter what!" Jiro simply sighed at the idiot.

"Tsuyu-san." Suddenly Tokoyami called out from his seat. His eyes tried to convey his thoughts. Tsuyu waited for wait he said as he met his eyes at her firmly. "...Please send (Last) our encouragement."

Tsuyu could only blink, before nodding her head agreeably. "Okay." She croaked.

Tsuyu smiled subtly, also remembered another thing. "Ah, your friend was also looking for you, Shinso-kun if I'm not mistaken?"

"Hitoshi too?" Your eyes widened, sort of bewildered.

As Tsuyu wanders about the corridor in search of finding you, she was mildly surprise by the appearance of the purple-haired boy she seen you talk with, seemingly also searching for someone. He noticed her, and had come up to her a little dully.

"Hey, you're from class 1-A right?" Shinso asks hesitantly, his dark-ringed eyes prominent. Tsuyu nodded, answering blatantly.

"Yes, I am. Do you need something, kero?"

"Do you know where (Name) is? I'm looking for her." Tsuyu hummed.

"I'm looking for her too."

"Really?" Shinso answered, looking around subtly as he continues on. "I wanted to check on her, but I can't seem to find her."

"Me too, I think she went off somewhere all by herself." Tsuyu answered. Shinso frowns a little, swiping the back of hair with a sigh- the smallest frustration can be hinted from his action.

"Ah, if that's so, I guess it would be better if I wait until she comes out." Shinso responds after small contemplation, turning to leave after a small pause. "Thanks."

Tsuyu nods, watching as Shinso attempts to walk away before she hummed, adding kindly. "Do you want me to relay something to her if I find her?"

Shinso halted from moving away too quickly, thinking it over. He ended up refusing. "No need, (Name) will come by sooner or later. I know that (Name) will talk when she wants to..."

"You two seem very close." Tsuyu noted, not even hiding how blatant her statement was, Shinso seemingly feeling targeted, stiffening.

"Not really..." He responded softly. With that, he nodded subtly in her direction, as if to send his regards, before turning to leave for real. As Shinso walks away, Tsuyu couldn't help but notice his ears tinged red. She tilted her head in interest.

"We all care a lot about you, (Name)-chan." Tsuyu began, the warmth from her hand was coaxing your attention. "So you don't need to hide away like this again, okay kero?"

Your small smile broadened, knowing that what Tsuyu said, was the ultimate truth. "...Yes, okay." You softly replied, your eyes finding the sky this time. The bright vibrant sky, brightly covering the top with a blanket of blue. "And..." Your call earned Tsuyu's curious hum. "...About the thing you said about going all out," You met her blank pupils. "I'm not completely certain of all these things around me, but at the very least. I'll...I'll do my best."

You answered honestly, encouragingly raising your joined hands in a cheer as Tsuyu hummed, happy. And for that small moment, you two sat together in the dull area, eyes locked on the sky and the clouds where the brightness gleamed down at you two. Your and her intertwine fingers wrapped tightly against each other.

.

.

.

With renewed feelings, you walked up the stairs leading you to one of the break rooms. You got the 3rd break room, and from the signs it should be here somewhere.

You felt lighter, but you weren't surprise that a lingering hesitance was still held in your heart. You did just pour out all your tiredness and worries to Tsuyu, who you can feel only warmth for right now and eternal gratefulness. Your tired thin lips grew to a small smile. It felt nice. Nice to let it all out, when you felt that you couldn't do it.

Tsuyu was ever-so-kind, and you began remembering just how much of a great person and friend she was. The fact that she came looking for you was already so incredibly sweet of her, it made you feel like you were eating 2 ton of sugar already. And the fact that not only she was worried, as the others, Uraraka, Momo, Tokoyami, Shinso and Midoriya were just as worried, it made you feel...appreciated and cared for.

It's...been a long time since you felt that way. Appreciated.

Yet even so, your troubling noisy thoughts still were messing about in your head. Nothing was quite clear at the moment, and you were just having trouble figuring out what you should do. You sighed. Nevertheless, as you stepped the steps leading higher up, your steps a little sloppy out of laziness and probably for crouching to long, you were surprised when you felt the presence of another up the floor.

You frowned at the shadow, raising your head to meet the boy's gaze, who stood on the entrance of the stairs. Your frown was quick to vanish, your eyes widened a little as you meet an equally, fumbled expression, his heterochromia eyes of turquoise and grey that held uncertainty and confusion locked on yours.

Your eyes were a parallel of each other, your emotions completely at sync these final moments. It's odd, just before the sports festival began, your eyes couldn't have been borne more disparity. The coldness ringing in his eyes, filled with distrust and a wall to block out everyone around him, while your eyes held confidence, a bit of cockiness and a will to complete a mission.

Now look where you both are now. At your wit ends, only doubt waving through you two as you looked for a resolution.

And like that, both of you could only say simultaneously.

"Oh."

『 Chapter Thirty-Nine 』

For once, there was a more awkwardness than anything else between you and Todoroki. Not to say the talk with Todoroki by that tree with the two Vulpix prancing about wasn't awkward, but you were sure both of you were filled with turmoil that was...less confusing.

You were visibly astounded by the boy's appearance, probably expressing them without thinking, while the half-and-half boy a top of the stairs only had this brief flash of surprise, before as usual, his apathetic-nature came forward. You can't help but think though that he seemed much softer. Definitely the iciness thawing him has begun melting.

You turned your head, feeling uncomfortable. It doesn't change the fact that you sort of got into a small scuffle earlier. In reality, you didn't necessarily start the fight between you two, but you did initiate the one by the tree so, yeah. It was uncomfortable.

Noticing that Todoroki wasn't moving, in fact he wasn't saying anything, you decided to just quickly make your way to your waiting room. Rising up the stairs heavily with your gaze glued to the stairs, and frankly, anything that wasn't the well-known pro-hero's son, you walked pass him to walk across the halls.

"Wait." Todoroki's cool-sounding voice echoed softly, and you could only release a small sigh. You turned, though you didn't really want to, as Todoroki turned to face you. He stared at you, watching you fidget a tad under his gaze, before he looked through your own eyes, a sort of sincerity flashing in his gaze. He sounded a little strained, and anxious. "...Can we talk?"

...How could you say no when he's looking at you like that.

With another small sigh in a way to release your nerves and distress just a little, you bobbed your head forward one single time, Todoroki's tense shoulder relaxing just a margin.

You both were quick to move somewhere more private to talk, somewhere more comfortable than a hallway. Hallways were for confrontations and fights, it's in no way a place to talk heart to heart, at least that's how it's portrayed in shows. The fact that you're moving somewhere else relieves that from you, as Todoroki leads you to his break room. Player 2's waiting room.

You entered and took a seat on the many chairs, leaning your crossed arms on the table that's closest to the door as Todoroki shuts it. When the door thudded close, it sounded like the sound was a signal that there's no getting out of this conversation now, as you tense uncomfortably. And it probably applied to both you and Todoroki, himself.

Todoroki turned, taking a seat before you. Your eyes met briefly, but you shied away to look at the surroundings more. Lockers on the side. More tables. More chairs. There's also a table holding a huge bottle of water and ocha. To be honest, you could use a drink. Your throat feels like it's going to clog-

"...Do you want to drink something?" Todoroki asked out of nowhere, and you whirled your attention back at the boy. Perhaps the surprise showed on your face, as Todoroki gestured to the drinks impassively. "You were looking at them."

Right, of course. You smiled frigidly. "Hmm, yeah. I'm just a little bit thirsty."

Your brief answer sounded antsy, but Todoroki paid less mind to it. In fact, he moved to the drinks, pouring whatever you had been eyeing for a while. You called. "You don't have to, Todoroki-san. I can do it myself."

"It's fine." Todoroki answered, and left you no room to comment.

Just like that, a cup of (cold/hot/warm) beverage sat before you. You were now just staring at the drink, taking note that Todoroki didn't grab a drink for himself. Nonetheless, you still appreciated the gesture of kindness, and nodded to him a little. "Thank you."

Todoroki nodded, humming in reply. You went straight to taking a sip, appreciating the drink chugged down your dry throat, before Todoroki finally decided to get down to business.

"...About earlier." You sat down the cup, seeing Todoroki raised a finger to drum the table quietly. He looked a little lost, but he ended up looking at you. "Sorry. I said something out of line."

You felt warm. So that's what he wants to talk about, your whole awkwardness fading away to open up. You sent him a small smile in apology too. "No, it's alright. I'm sorry too, I think I kind of got too defensive before. That was my bad..."

Todoroki stayed silent for a moment, before he included. "I've said more things before that too. I apologize for that too."

You felt your smile grow a little larger, and you nodded, forgiving him. It's all over anyway, your fight was brought on from misunderstandings and pettiness. There was no need to drag your anger any longer, as that feeling was washed away. Todoroki gave you a small smile too, a handsome one at that, and that was a start to your reconciliation, truly.

You added with a lift, jesting. "...Do my eyes really look like your fathers?"

Todoroki small smile turned a little softer, as he eyed his hands on the table. "...At first, they did. I thought you were just as obsessed a he was." He gazed at you again, dragging on with seriousness. "Thought that look in your eyes held the same intention as he did." Then he calmed, thinking it over, a certain gentleness in his tone. "But after a while and seeing you with your Pokemon...I thought you had more of my mother's eyes instead."

"..." You blinked. You...had his mother eyes? You decided to wait it out first before jumping to conclusions like last time, as Todoroki continued.

He looked at you with a small nod. "...It reminded of the warmness my mother had before." He seemed to be thinking about something, a memory resurfacing. You were glad it was a good memory at the least, as he calmly uttered. "It's comforting..."

You felt your face get hot, the blooding rushing to your face. "A-Ah, is that so. Thank you."

A comforting silence echoed between you two, you more out of embarrassment, while Todoroki seemed to be contemplating his next words more. He looked at you seriously then, a little anger and unsettlement in his expression.

"...I saw you, with my old man." Todoroki looked unsure. "Did he bother you?"

You sighed a little, the blood on your face finally coming down, as you pressed your back onto the chair. "No. Not really, he was just pestering to me about the Pokemon." He looked more upset at the notion, so you added. "It really doesn't matter. He asked me about how I tamed them and such, and I was quick to end the conversation."

Todoroki wasn't entirely convinced, but it settled him a little. "...Okay. It's good that nothing got too out of hand."

"Hmm..." You smiled a little, agreeably. "...You know; I'm surprise you care so much about the Pokemon. It makes me really happy that you do." The smile you sent him was genuine, and it made Todoroki quiet for a bit, as he eyed down at the table again.

"...It's not really care." Todoroki answered, nitpicking a little as he fiddles with his finger. "...One just comforted me, so I guess I wanted to return the favor..."

You blinked, not quite sure what he meant by that. Nonetheless, you ignored what he said, this time asking a question, hoping to diverge the topic in the meantime. "...Your battle with Midoriya," He raised his eyes to meet your soft ones. "...You used your fire, are you...okay?"

Todoroki thought about that for a moment. He looked at the hand he had that brought out his fire. His. Not Endeavors. Todoroki clenched his hand, addressing your question. "...I never thought about it."

You watched him carefully, Todoroki focusing on the table mildly. He continued, mind filled with endless thought. "Before that fight, I never really thought to think about it."

You frowned a little at his mild words. So this is what's stressing him now. He still sounds confused. He turned his gaze to yours, remembering something. "You said something similar before. Something similar to Midoriya's words." He thought about it for a minute. "I didn't think about what you said before the match, but during the battle, I remembered it." He huffed. "I guess in a way, both you and Midoriya helped bring my fire out."

You looked at him in bafflement. You brought that out too? You didn't think you small words of advice worked and impacted him like that, it sorts of make you shy again. Your starting to realize a soft Todoroki, is a frightening Todoroki. The power this boy holds; you should be warier.

Though Todoroki seemed thankful for that, or probably just a little muddled, you weren't completely sure. If he said he never thought about it before, then you guessed he was still just as muddled in actuality. But this time, at the very least- you brought your hand forward passed your cup, a bold move on your part, to gently cover his clenched one. You smiled. "...If you've never thought about it, then there's no better time to think about it than now..."

You wrapped your hands around his warmer hand, the act surprising him but not disgusting him or annoying him. He felt...glad. He eyed the way your eyes seemed to crinkle in happiness, as you give an encouraging nod. He smiled a little then too.

The both of you just filled with warmth overflowing in your hearts.

Then the moment was ruined, and the door was slammed open.

You jumped, clenching your hand harder against the other. Todoroki didn't even look that surprise at the slamming, as the both of you whirl your attention to the newcomer. With a boot raised up, being the reason the door was slammed open, there was an actual slightly fuddled, but angered expression taking over the resident bad boy of your class. Bakugo Katsuki, who entered the room.

"...Hah?" He dumbfoundedly asks.

「A Wild Primeape Bakugo has appeared! Join forces with contender Todoroki to calm him」

Bakugo looked at both you and Todoroki in incredulity, you felt yourself feel a little nerved at the sudden interruption to your conversation with the half-and-half, surprise at the blonde's appearance. That can't be said for Todoroki reaction however, who was apathetic as ever. But weirdly, he felt a bit irritated.

"Wait, why are you both here?" Bakugo's voice raised in aggression, pointing scathingly at both of you. Bakugo in anger went to look at the name plate of the room. "This waiting room-," Then his expression grew upset, realizing he made a mistake. "Oh, damn it, this room two?!"

Todoroki continued to eye Bakugo with a small blank look, while you looked at him in surprise. None of you voiced anything, but Bakugo's eyes were quick to notice something absolutely ridiculous in his eyes. He noticed your hand over Todoroki's, your fingers curling on top of the cold-hot boy, and he only felt annoyment rising from his gut. "And why are you holding that extra's hand?!"

You jumped, knowing that was intended to you from the way Bakugo glared at you. You looked down to see your joint hands, Todoroki mildly taking note of it, before you took your hand off of his like it was burning fire. You apologized embarrassedly. "Ah-I'm sorry Todoroki-san. I didn't notice."

You apologized to Todoroki, who didn't seem to mind, before you looked towards Bakugo mildly, your attention still mostly on Todoroki due to that awkwardness. "And Bakugo-san...what are you doing here?"

Bakugo grew more irked.

「Primeape Bakugo is hit with 'Lack of Attention' from Contender (Last)! It's effective in raising his anger!」

"That still doesn't answer my question, Fussbudget!" Bakugo angrily berates, gritting his teeth. He appointed his question to Todoroki, who eyed him. "What about you, huh?! You half-and-half bastard!"

Todoroki just stared at Bakugo for a second, before he slowly turned his head back to stare at the table, completely unbothered by Bakugo's appearance now. And also, completely ignoring Bakugo's jeer. You sweat-dropped a little as Bakugo's anger seemed to be ignited even larger. So large, that you felt his heated annoyance from where you sat.

「Primeape Bakugo is hit with 'Ignored' from Contender Todoroki! It's effective! He's super mad now!」

Bakugo in all of his rage, trudged slowly in anger. "Although I'm the one in the wrong room, what's that attitude towards your opponent, huh?" Bakugo 'calmly' stomped closer to Todoroki, and you could only watch nervously as Bakugo marches up to slam a hand of explosion on the table. "Where are you looking at, you two-tone bastard?!"

You nervously watched as explosion were bursting in front of Todoroki's face, loudly echoing the room. Todoroki had a lack-luster expression, you'd think he would react more as his hair billowed at the explosion. You, yourself, had sided away from the attack on the poor table, sipping your drink owlishly at Bakugo's rage and Todoroki lack of care.

「Primeape Bakugo used 'Intimidation' on Contender Todoroki! It's not very effective...」

But you're actually sort of surprise that Todoroki seemed to react just a little, a memory resurfacing in his mind. Once Bakugo had yielded his explosions, smoke now lingering in the room as you waved your arm about to wave it from your face, Todoroki voiced. "That's..."

"Hah?!" Bakugo questioned heatedly.

"-what Midoriya told me too." You paid attention as Todoroki propped his right arm to closely examine it. He looked at your curious eyes briefly. "He...made a mess and destroyed all the issues that I've been carrying." His eyes sidled up to Bakugo's menacing stance, uncaringly asking. "He's your childhood friend, right? Has he always been like that? Midoriya?"

It was an honest to god question, but the irritated and trembling furrowing of Bakugo's brow showed that it was a completely unwelcomed question.

「Primeape Bakugo is hit with 'Bringing up Midoriya' from Contender Todoroki! It's super, super effective! Contender Todoroki's not a very good partner in calming Primeape Bakugo down...」

With trembling rage, Bakugo clenched his right hand tightly. You were sure he was gonna pop a vessel with how incredibly angry he was, his expression contorting to heavy angered lines. Bakugo trembled. "That nerd..."

This time, Bakugo decided to really take his anger out on something, raising his leg to kick the table, you jumping in surprise with your cup in your hand, blinking at the table strewn on the floor in shock.

「Primeape Bakugo used 'Death Kick' on Table!」

The table is practically dead now, and you didn't hesitate this time to yell. "Hey! You could've knocked over my drink! Not to mention, stop using your quirk outside of the battlefield!"

You glared a little, upset at the blond for deciding to use his anger on objects. What if it hit one of you? You noticed the way Todoroki had to pull his arms away from where he laid them out on the table. Todoroki put them on his lap blankly while Bakugo bellowed. "Who cares about that?!"

You narrowed your eyes at Bakugo, who decided to ignore you for now.

Bakugo had enough. He grunted in anger, pointing his anger towards Todoroki. "I don't care...about all of that!" Todoroki side-eyed Bakugo, eyeing this angered gremlin while you watched the exchange. "I also don't care about your family situation!"

Todoroki's eyes narrowed a little, while you raised a brow. Does Bakugo know about Todoroki's situation too? You sort of doubted Todoroki told, but you can't be too sure as Bakugo berated again. "-Or your feelings? So use that power on me too!" Bakugo glared heavily. "Your fire on your left side!"

Todoroki stayed silent at Bakugo's angry berate, who heaved in anger.

You knew Bakugo was looking for a death match, so it wasn't surprising for him to want Todoroki to go all out. Of course, since you were also included in this mix, your unsettlement at being together with Todoroki and Bakugo was blatant as Bakugo didn't leave you out of the ring. "And you-!"

Yikes. He sounds mad. You haven't even done anything really, and he's already mad. You sweated a little, but kept a stern up front as Bakugo stomped over to you, looking down at your sat form. "Don't think that doesn't go for you too-!"

Bakugo really sounded like he had a problem with you, and knowing him, it's best to just let him take it all out. You crossed your arm, setting your cup on your lap as Bakugo's glare intensifies.

"You're not out of the grid either in this, you Fussbudget!" He berates, and you would probably be six-feet-under if his quirk had anything do with his impeccable glaring abilities. You frowned a little, as he yells. "The truth is, you act like you're giving it your all, when the truth is you ain't giving jack-shit!"

Todoroki watches from the sideline, but you had a feeling he was about to interfere when his gaze shifted a little. You met eyes with him, and you hoped it sent what you were saying to him. Don't do anything. Todoroki begrudgingly shifts in seat, but otherwise, doesn't move. You meet your eyes with Bakugo again, who lists angrily.

"It starts all the way from that nerd, Deku, in the Obstacle race, as you let him win!" That's right, you let him win. "By not throwing out elbows from the beginning." You made him stay in the ring longer. "By letting vines go all out!" You decided to choose an unsuited Pokemon in typing. "And for not exploiting that bird's weakness!"

You raised your eyes up in surprise, and Bakugo notices. "Yeah! I noticed alright! After watching his battles, and from the way his quirk reacted in the cavalry battle against my explosion!" He gave a feral smile, his palm facing upward to emit tiny sparks. "He can't handle the light! You had that dog and that rat that could counter that, yet you didn't!"

You looked down at your hands, sighing a little. "...Yeah, that's right, I didn't."

Bakugo pointed down, not letting up even though you seemed down. Bakugo isn't the type to anyways, taking it easy? Yeah right! "You treat this like a fucking show! You're not even taking the next battle seriously if you're here with this extra and doing lovey-dovey shit! I don't care why you're doing this shit-show! If you just want to make a show, join an act!" He gritted his teeth. "And use your toughest pets to fight me!"

With that one final yell, Bakugo seemed to feel like he said enough. He was about to march out of this room, the anger in him just wouldn't settle down. He noticed you stayed silent, eyeing the cup in your hands. Bakugo had the nerve to feel just a twinge of guilt, wondering briefly if he had made you cry. "Tch!" But it's none of his business anymore if he does, as he turns to glare once more at Todoroki, who glares apathetically, and turns to walk out.

But he can't.

You called out before he could leave.

"You know..." You voiced steadily, raising your head up a little. Bakugo peers back, noticing your expression is not sad or baffled like he would expect, but rather, it was impassive. It lacked any care, like his words meant absolutely nothing.

But that was not it. In your eyes, a furious annoyance danced within them. "I was going to keep silent at first. Only because you're right." You narrowed your eyes, where guilt was supposed to linger, but now there was only built-up confidence. "I am just giving in act. That was the whole plan of mine after all, just to show Japan how great the Pokemon are."

Bakugo and Todoroki attention were pinned on to you, as you crossed a leg over the other. In every battle, your confidence was always dripping with your uncertainty, remorse, all of the things weighing you down. But now, the air exuded from you, was strong.

You tilted your head, eyeing the tiled floor. "I felt bad after using the Sports Festival after a while. Felt bad for using you all for my grand plan." You raised your hand up, gesturing it towards Bakugo. "I can't help but think about that feeling every time I step up to battle."

You wildly looked about, listing lazily. "Like how I'm basically just toying with everyone, and stuff like that. But, y'know," Then you calmed, staring up at Bakugo who's glaring at you. Your eyes shifted to Todoroki blank look. "Now I just feel a bit stupid."

You rose out of your seat, walking closer to the hothead with a heavy glare in your eyes. You jeered, "I'm still winning, aren't I?" A smirk rose from your smile, and you felt Bakugo getting you instantly. You tilted your head, continuing to rile up the blond. "So...if you so desperately want me to go all out~"

Your eyes narrowed, that smirk still playing on your lips. "At least give me a reason too."

A stale challenging air surrounded you two, Todoroki also feeling this subtle change. You expected the hot-head to glare menacingly as he always does, but you were surprise to see him huff, his own challenging smirk, much more feral than yours, took form. His eyes glinting in interest. "Is that a challenge?"

You shrugged, finding the situation funny as you huffed. "You heard me. If you can't even beat me when I'm not even playing right, then don't even bother sprouting out those stuff." Your smile loosened, as you continued to jeer. "Unless of course, you don't think you got what it takes against me, so you threaten instead?"

Bakugo mildly glare, the challenging jeering look he gave you evaporated to seriousness. He stared you down, voicing quietly, the shouting subsiding to show his absolute seriousness. "Hope you'll still go through with it, or not...I'll make you eat your words."

"That's fine by me. Looking forward to it."

You smiled, and with Bakugo's small smirk, he finally stomped away. You think, in some odd way, that his bubbling anger had finally tittered down. You sighed, releasing the antsy feeling coiling you from that confrontation. Guess you'll have to add waiting rooms as confrontational places. With Bakugo gone, you whirled to Todoroki, who still sat on his seat, as if taking in the conversation.

You scolded a little, coming a little closer. "You know; you could've said something back to him right? You don't need to let Bakugo do all that strutting about over you if he bothers you."

Todoroki answer blatantly. "It's fine."

You chuckled, "I'm sure it is." You then took notice of the clock hanging on the wall, seeing that the time to your battles with each other was coming closer. "Well, I probably should get ready now. It's getting closer..." You commented, before smiling a little. It's nice to feel this relax with the half-and-half boy. "...See you in the field?"

Todoroki lifted his gaze to you, you noticed thoughts were still plaguing his mind, but you know he would be okay. "...Right."

You nodded a little, before making your way out of the room. You sent him one last small smile, giving him the statement that you felt was so right below your gut. You pocketed your hand, as you said. "...I hope you'll find your answer soon."

Todoroki stayed silent, before he nodded appreciatively. With that, the battle that was anticipated by all, comes up.

❧❧❧

It felt like it took forever for the last and final battle to commence. You find yourself walking up the stage, already knowing how different this was going to be as you set foot on it, eyes raising up to look at your surroundings.

This time, for this special 3-way battle, you find yourself stepping onto a corner of the platform. A corner of an equilateral triangular stage, with Bakugo and Todoroki standing on the other two corners. Cementoss had made sure that the length distance between each fighter was equally in length, to make it so it would be fair. Another thing you noted, was that they decided to expand the stage. It made sense, since there isn't just going to be two fighters in the ring, there were three.

Even though the three of you stood in your individual corners, you felt it was quite spacious, heck, two Mamoswine would fit this one corner, so it won't be that easy to just accidentally side-step out of bounds. You felt a little relief from that.

"Our new stage is set!" Meowth began, a strange notion for him, as he gestures. "Looks like we're finally ready for our last battle for the day!" Meowth turned teary-eyed, wiping it away with a tissue. "Damn it! It's so sad that this is finally the end." Then in a switch, Meowth murmured lazily, getting onto his belly with a bored look. "Talk about finally, let's get this show on the road!"

"What's with that switcheroo!" Present Mic accused.

Meowth could only groan, stretching his back like a true feline. "Give me a break, it's been a long day!"

"...Tell me about it." Aizawa murmured, while Present Mic could only blanch.

"Oi! Eraser!" The blond hero shouts, as Meowth sent the tired hero a thumbs up. So this is why Aizawa prefer cats, it's definitely the loving of naps.

Nonetheless, you awkwardly shuffled in spot. You may have been acting confident this whole time, but let's face it. Fighting Todoroki and Bakugo...is a little unnerving. You sighed through your nose, perking when you felt the telltale feeling of something clambering up your body, noticing as it halted on your shoulder to see a smiling Pikachu.

You cooed curiously. "Ah-Pikachu, what are you doing here?" You were pretty certain you left him with the others in the waiting room, seeing as you thought he would need more of the rest. Pikachu only squeaked a 'Pika!' while raising his tightened paw fist confidently. You felt calmed. Pikachu was going to be there for you. "...Thank you Pikachu."

You got him nuzzling into your neck, his fur ticking the skin there as you chuckled.

Up on the bleachers, Midoriya and Uraraka sat on their seats worriedly, pinpointing their vision on you. You seem okay, you were giggling about with Pikachu, but they still weren't sure, especially since this battle is going to a really large fight. Uraraka murmured. "(Name)-chan...Bakugo-kun...and Todoroki-kun. It's a scary battle."

"A fight between our top fighters." Sero commented, scratching his nape. "This is going to be a tough one."

Jiro mused to no one in particular. "Who do you think is going to take the top?"

Shoji, who had been watching all the battles carefully, answered cautiously. "It's hard to say, Todoroki seems likely, but that depends on his usage of his fire side." He eyed Bakugo, who was scornfully shifting his glare to Todoroki's lack of care and your playful gestures to Pikachu. "Bakugo's able to quickly abolish others weakness but (Last) always seems to think one step ahead."

Midoriya nodded a little, as if to answer Shoji's analysis positively. Nonetheless, a worriedness definitely has still been blanketing him, and the few others. You definitely did not look okay after they announce the final battle being between the top 3. His brows furrowed "...(Last)...."

"...Don't worry, kero."

Midoriya blink out of stupor, as Tsuyu appears, hands hanged out in front of her as usual. Some of the others turned, Momo bringing up softly. "Ah-is (Name)-san alright, Tsuyu-san?"

Tsuyu gave her a gummy smile, the cute puffed out smile with her eyes shut. She croaked. "Yup, she's alright."

There was a sense of relief that completely calmed the group of friends, as Tokoyami nodded, crossing his arm. "That's good."

"...But is she...?" Uraraka doubted a little, eyeing as you got into a conversation with Pikachu. The brunette blinked when you suddenly brought your attention to the bleachers. She saw you searching around the bleachers for where your class was, and your (color) eyes gleamed when they caught in hers. You smiled widely, something that made her feel so happy about, before you waved at all of them.

"Hmm...yeah, (Last)-san is okay." Midoriya commented, smiling happily at your own happiness. He sent you a small thumbs-up, giving you a confident nod, which you returned in kind.

Back with where you were, after getting your cheer from your friends, you were brought back by Midnight, who stood adjacent to you, standing on the line of the triangular stage between Bakugo and Todoroki. She sternly settles. "Listen up! Same rules as the games before. The contenders cannot get out of the line, that's an automatic out!"

Midnight eyed the readied Todoroki. "Immobilizing them equals a loss."

She then moved her gaze to the glazing glare of Bakugo's. "The winner wins when both of their contenders are out of bounds, forfeiting, or knocked-out."

Midnight then pinpointed her gaze to you. "This applies to each of the contenders!"

The provocative hero masked eyes gleamed, as she raises her whip. "Then...!"

.

.

.

Deep breaths, (Name)...

You took that moment to let that calmness ease you, readying yourself for the hardest battle you're going to deal with.

.

.

.

The sound of the whip slamming down resounded "...Start!"

「 Todoroki Shoto vs. (Last) (Name) vs. Bakugo Katsuki 」

You pocketed out the Pokeball, watching closely as without even a second to waste, Todoroki pressed his right palm on the floor horrendously, ice shredding out in impeccable speed both your and Bakugo's way. It was fast, and you acted as quick as you could. You could hear the slight bewildered shrieks coming from Pikachu in your ear, as you stood your stance.

You can hear Bakugo blasting off his explosion in retaliation, but even that seems all for naught as ice continued to form again and again. Until that was it.

It was all ice.

"Todoroki attack right away-!" Present Mic swings out, the ice's tip almost hitting the other side's stadium top once more. "Is he trying to keep both of them away? Do we already have a winner?"

"Nah!" Meowth shook, cockily crossing his arms with a smile. "That's impossible!"

"You sure, (Last) looks pretty frozen there!"

"Nu-uh, it's fine!" Meowth insists. Present Mic opens his mouth again, as Meowth turns his head to him, an unsettling smile pulled on his face. "I said, it's fine."

Present Mic decided not to press further.

"It's on a much bigger scale than the one with Sero." Midoriya notes, leaning forward in anticipation. "He aimed for the attack while being cautious for what come's next..."

Right when it seemed like things were the end, there was a pounding within the ice, garnering a few curious on-looks. Heavy thuds pounded again, the ice shaking as if to resist whatever demon that was being thrall within. With furrowed brows, the first to question was Mineta. "What's that sound?"

Tsuyu answers. "It must be Bakugo-chan's doing...or maybe a Pokemon...?"

With each thud, Todoroki's eyes narrowed down. Trying to figure out who was popping out first, Todoroki readied himself for whoever it may be. And in a bang, the person came out.

Of course, it was none other than Bakugo, with a heavy explosion, founding his way out of the ice through a hole made through with brute-quirk. Todoroki jumps away to avoid the ice shards from Bakugo's blast, as Bakugo sneers menacingly, completely fine and well.

Sero sweated. "He used explosives to prevent himself from being frozen over and dug himself out?"

"T-That's crazy-!" Kaminari cringes.

"Because your quirk is strong..." Bakugo places his hands on the ice, preparing to launch himself to Todoroki. In amazing speed, he burst out, barreling towards Todoroki. The half-ice, half-hot boy attempted to fight head on, but Bakugo dodge him before he could attack, as he grips a fistful of Todoroki's hair. "Your attack...is careless! You think I'm a fool!" Dropping down behind Todoroki, Bakugo slams his explosions. "You, idiot!"

Todoroki was quickly swept off by the blast, only able to stop himself by creating an ice barrier, circling it around the tiny stadium they had that wasn't covered by ice.

"He uses his ice to avoid getting thrown out of bounds!" Present Mic announces, as he peaks around. "The fight is still on, but (Last) is still out of the picture!"

"Is (Last) frozen over?" Kirishima questions, his brows furrowing lightly. The boy had a few tapes and bandages on his face from his scuffle with Bakugo. "There's no way...right?"

"Hmm~ It's most likely~" Aoyama, who happens to be sitting next to Kirishima answers as easygoing as per usual, he had a bandage on his chin from his battle with Mina, who disagrees.

"No way! It's just started!"

"Yeah, but that was the same for this guy's battle..." Kaminari answers a little too honestly, pointing his thumb to his seatmate next to him, Sero's spatting in return.

"Seriously?!"

Before anyone knew it, as Todoroki circles the stadium to confront Bakugo, Bakugo barrels forward again, aiming on explosion on Todoroki's left. Seeing this, the recommended student raises his left arm, and grasp Bakugo's arm. It was at that moment; it was obvious what Todoroki's next move should be.

"Use your left, Shoto!" Endeavor thinks at that moment. It seems quite blatant to the duo battling it out what should be the best act Todoroki should pull. Todoroki furrowed his brows, unsure what to do.

And then...there was fire.

But not quite from where anyone would expect, a fire burst through the hole Bakugo made, like a torch the heat sizzled towards the direction of the duo fighting it out, their attention momentarily away from each other as they both jumped out of the way from the sizzling heat.

"Fire!" Uraraka voices, eyes widened, as her smile broadens.

"That means-," Jiro huffs with a small smile, pressing her chin to rest against her hand.

They both call out at the same time. "It's (Name)!"

As Arcanine stood at the entrance of the hole, it's majestic fur seemingly glistening like the dances of fire as it radiantly strode over, you stood by his side, hands on your hips with a small grin. Pikachu huffs, shivering again to only sneeze blearily.

You sent him an apologetic look, deep down agreeing as you nodded. "Yes, I hope to never go through that again..."

The crowd begins its cheers, as the 3rd player made its late appearance once more.

"Talk about being fashionably late-!" Present Mic yells, as Meowth cackles.

"That's how all the Main characters appear, duh!"

You shivered again involuntarily, coaxing your hands on Arcanine's warm fur for comfort. Thank god you acted quick, because you were pretty close to being a frozen popsicle with Pikachu right there. If you had just taken out Arcanine a little late, that would pretty much be the end of you.

To be fair, you were pretty much a popsicle to begin with, your entire body feeling like it was frozen solid before Arcanine had huffed hot air onto you. Nonetheless, it was a feeling unlike any other, and you honestly hope it would be the last, because it was not a good experience.

You eyed the duo, Bakugo's narrowed gaze, and Todoroki's furrowed look. You jutted your head forward with a small smile. "Sorry I'm late. Had to take a small detour before I came across Bakugo's hole." You smirked, eyeing Bakugo with a huff of laughter in the tip of your tongue. "What are ya? A Diglett?"

Bakugo returns the smirk. "Haah?"

You patted Arcanine's back, before putting him back into the ball. Arcanine had already gotten his moment to shine, leaving only one member of your team that hasn't gotten any action. He's been restless, and you're quite aware of it. But you know, that out of every one of your Pokemon, He was the Monster for the job.

You bounced another ball in your palm, before releasing him forward. "Sorry for the wait, Let's go," As the Pokemon's figure materialized, showing off those navy blue fur, and black covering various areas of his body. He's always been one to train. He'd be out in the garden to train with pretty much anything and anyone. The most battle-focused Pokemon you know, Of course, it has to be-! "Lucario!"

Lucario appeared, his appearance completely materializing as the Pokemon stood still with his eyes closed.

Last party in the team, 6th player: Lucario

"Here's (Last)'s last Pokemon of the day, Lucario, who looks to be going to take the stand as the last Pokemon for our very last battle this sports festival!" Present Mic expands, entering the Pokemon's name in the pokedex like a pro as the pokedex introduces the new player. "Let's see what this Pokemon has in store for us!"

Lucario: The Aura Pokemon

A Fighting and Steel Type

By catching the aura emanating from others, it can read their thoughts and movements. It concentrates its mental energy and fires off mysterious waves called auras, which can crush boulders of large size to dust.

Opening his eyes, Lucario eyed his surroundings carefully, assessing the crowd and the 2 within the stage. He always had that stern-look to his eye, but when he looked back, you gave him your proudest smile, earning yourself a returning soft look. You smiled, the serious Pokemon quickly whirling back to face the two others, eyes narrowing pointedly.

"Ah, Lucario! Now he's a fighter!" Meowth choruses, smiling wickedly. "He hasn't shown up much, but I can assure you this isn't a battle that'll disappoint!"

Present Mic shouts in wonders. "That's news coming from you!"

"What. Is. your problem?!" Meowth snaps.

"Heh, another mutt?" Bakugo sneers, "I'll take you down..."

Todoroki huffs, eyes wandering from both you and Bakugo warily. You crossed your arms proudly.

The battle has just begun. As Todoroki and Bakugo were planning their next attacks with you and your Pokemon in the picture, it was now or never to finish up all of your requested acts in this finale. You widened out your stance, hopping off the ice mole cave as you called out again. "Lucario!" Your eyes looked forward, your smile widening into a ferocious smirk. You felt Pikachu excitedly cheer with you. "With all the power within you, it's time." You gestured out a hand, clenching your hands as the band holding a peculiar stone began lighting up.

"H-Hey, what's happening...?" Present Mic voices, as Lucario began lighting up, the shine overcoming the stadium.

"He's powering up...!" Meowth snickers, as Lucario's form started shifting.

"What? so soon?!"

"Has to be now or never!"

"Let's go! Lucario, Mega Evolve!" You watched as Lucario's form shifted, the black steaks he had were intermingled more in his bluish fur. His aura-sensing appendages gotten longer, their tips turning to the color of crimson, along with the edge of his arms and legs. The shift in his eyes gleamed, turning from the coil of red to orange. He let out a battle cry, the pointed spikes he had becoming more prominent.

The cry had earned a praise of excited cries in return from the spectators as Meowth starts of the commentary in a snap. "First time, eh? Don't worry, I'm sure it'll still be as apprising as the next few times to see it! Mega Evolution is only available to certain Pokemon through a stone, that changes their appearances and ups their powers!"

"So this is another power-up move, Mouser?" Present Mic questions, as Meowth nods.

"Yeah! Was first founded in the country, France. This power-up last the entire duration of our battle, unless of course, it faints or the battle ends!"

"Lucario..." Your eyes gleamed. "You know how this go! Aura Sphere!"

With all the energy built up within the Mega Lucario, his eyes gleaming readily, you saw he had prepared all his energy conversed with him. Todoroki got in a battle stance, but Bakugo seemed to have other plans. As you stood out of the ice mole cave, with Pikachu hanging by your shoulders, there were about 3 things happening all at once.

Lucario had release his aura sphere, the burst of rounded auras propelling forwards to his foe, 2 bursts moving in impeccable speed to where Todoroki and Bakugo was standing. Todoroki tried to block it with his ice, the right part of his face slowly growing icier, his lack of usage in heat was apparent. But Bakugo, he did the opposite, and instead of holding his defensive, he headed upward first.

Your eyes narrowed, knowing that wouldn't help Bakugo. The blond was quick to notice the incoming force changing directions, as he clicks his tongue in aggravation. With quick precision, Bakugo fought the aimed Aura Sphere with his own explosion. Upon the impact of two powers, it took you minute to realize...that Bakugo was rushing straight towards you.

You blinked, seeing him blast your direction speedily. "Oi, oi, oi! Don't get so cheeky! After all," Lucario eyes widened when he saw where he's going. "You're still hiding behind your dog, ain't you?"

With a blast heading your way, you're quickly reminded of the events in the mines during the race, as with haste you sided away from the face-full of explosion, wincing from the loudness. But of course, don't forget Pikachu is still there, and he's not one to let that just slide. With a heavy frown, Pikachu bounces out of your shoulder, his cheeks pouches began sparking, and slammed a thunderbolt towards Bakugo.

Bakugo's eyes widened last minute, before he was struck by the lightning bolt. He landed a little far off on unstable feet, whip-lashed.

"Whoa, she got him!" Kaminari yells. "I think this is the first time Bakugo's gotten a hit during the 1 vs 1!"

"Wait, both of her Pokemon attacked, is that allowed?"

Midnight seemed to know exactly what people are thinking, as she gave a thumbs up. "It was never not allowed!"

As Bakugo steadied his footwork, seemingly dazed for just a second, you mused. "You really think I can fight you head on?" You smiled genuinely, eyes-shut, "Even I'm aware of my own weakness. I told you didn't I? If you can't even beat me when I'm 'not trying', Can you even complain?"

You expected Bakugo to gleam even redder in anger, but the absolute feral glee he gave you was enough to show you his excitement. "HAHA, now you're talking!"

Your blood was pumping as Bakugo races forward to you. A certain feeling rising in your gut, and your smile broadened widely.

With Todoroki, Lucario was battling it out on his own against the recommended student. Todoroki seemed bewildered by this, slightly surprise as Lucario went off all on his own after sending you a small nod, then rushing towards him. That aura sphere thankfully was held back by his ice, but Todoroki knew that was close.

Now that you were distracted in battling it out with Bakugo, Lucario used those time to focus on getting to him. With his claws extracted, gleaming under the sun, he clawed against the ice, breaking it.

'Steel?' Chipping the ice bits by bits, Lucario continued his act as Todoroki formed another wave of ice, hoping to stop the creature from getting closer to him, however, in last minute Lucario moved away. Todoroki was a little distracted to notice Lucario appearing by his side as he slammed him with power-up punch easily, slamming his fist through the ice and him.

Closing off his back with his ice, Todoroki stayed within bounds. The Todoroki boy let out a grunt, wiping the underside of his chin where Lucario's fist had impacted. Even so, he did not release his fire.

As Bakugo barreled towards you again, you made your marks to dodge again. Getting into a head-butt with the hothead is totally not recommended, but with his gaze focused on you at the moment, you got to stay alert. Just in the motion of throwing a blast punch again you dodge it by taking steps backwards. The blast did hit you, but it didn't come to the point where you couldn't stay on your feet.

And you always knew the best option was staying on your feet.

You braced your stance a bit. You sweated. 'Capturing those Pokemon head-on did at least teach me this-!'

"You know, watching your fights, I noticed one thing those extras keep forgetting to do..." Bakugo voiced lowly, as you tried to keep on the defensive while he attacks offensively. However, there's only so much you can do against someone's who's trained in combat, as you kept your eyes completely trained on him. Pikachu moves for a tail-whip after another of your quiet command, but Bakugo's a little to quick-witted. He blasts Pikachu when he comes barreling over, as Pikachu rolls off on to the ground with a small cry.

"Pikachu!" You worriedly say, keeping your self-rooted for Bakugo's next attack.

"They forget...that their main priority to attack, is you!" He prepares another blast, as you get ready to dodge. But unlikely for you, Bakugo's figuring your pattern. Once you made your turn to dodge, Bakugo grabbed your arm.

"Your actually pretty quick, but not quick enough!" Hurling you over with care in the world, you were swept off towards Lucario, still trying to fight off Todoroki's ice. Lucario felt you, he knew you were coming his way, and had quickly captured you before you impacted him. You winced.

"And Bakugo's got Todoroki and (Last) where he wants them!" Present Mic shouts, noticing suddenly as he begins with widened eyes. "W-What's this? Pikachu's out of bounds!"

You noticed that too, as you saw Pikachu angrily on the sidelines, not trespassing that part of the line any longer. You sighed, sending it a small nod. Meowth grumbled. "Damn it, stupid mouse can't even stay within the goddamn line..."

Pikachu caused a small uproar, sending a glare at Meowth, who probably couldn't even see it even if he wanted to.

"With Pikachu out of bounds, (Last) is not allowed to fight with Pikachu for the duration of the battle."

Midoriya's brow furrowed. "...So (Last) isn't disqualified. At the end, (Last) can still fight as long as it's without the Pokemon out of bounds."

Bakugo jeers. "Told you, they should've tried to get you outta bounds." Bakugo wiped a sweat, eyes gleaming dangerously as he eyes both you and Todoroki. "I'll fight you both on, come on and take out your fire side," His gaze then burnt at Todoroki, who stayed still through it all. Was Todoroki even going to battle it out at all? Bakugo sneers, his growing anger increasing. "...Or am I too inadequate for you to let it out...?"

Bakugo seemed especially upset now, the veins on his eyes were prominent. You rise up with the help of a worried Lucario, who you knew was feeling both the feelings of Todoroki and Bakugo at the moment. Their aura's must speak for themselves, as Lucario kept an eye on you pointedly, showing his worry.

"...The way Bakugo grabbed Todoroki's left side earlier, he purposely grabbed it and timed his explosions. With (Last), he knew to battle combatively. He's done his research." Aizawa surprisingly spoke up, Meowth and Present Mic paying attention to the quiet mummified man's analysis. "The kid improves every time he fights."

"Oh?" Present Mics awes.

Meowth coughs. "Favoritism!"

Present Mic laughs. "Nah, can't be! Don't worry, I know who he's actually rooting for."

Aizawa ignores the duo, grumbling. "Todoroki does really well, but his attacks are too simple, his condition is off after his battle with Midoriya...and (Last), well..."

With his drag, you frowned, biting the inside of your cheek. Your eyes went from Todoroki off on your left, while Bakugo stood menacingly on the right. Lucario in his form held your arm to keep you upright.

...This was hard.

As much as you had been doing so well these following battles, you've come to the obvious point of the battle that you knew you were incredibly lacking. Your completely untrained in terms of combat whatsoever, and who could blame you? You didn't know you were going to be needing combat training any time soon- your Pokemon have always been the one to take that brunt, an honestly you just didn't think you were going to make it this far. If this was a battle with simply Bakugo or Todoroki individually, you'd say it's not completely far off that there was a chance you could beat them. But sadly that wasn't the outcome.

The problem lies that since you're battling the two of them, your Pokemon would definitely be distracted with one other, and you'll have to hold your own front. What Bakugo said was correct, your Pokemon being out of bounds wouldn't necessary matter. Rather, it all comes down if you either faint or step out of bounds.

It's funny no one thought of to ask it to be elaborately early on, but Midnight said it plain and simple. 'The contenders that step out or is unable to continue, will not advance.'

Both Bakugo and Todoroki knows you can't win against them alone, pretty much anyone could tell. You're just lucky you got a Pokemon in your grasp.

You sighed, so...what's next?

.

.

.

Your brows furrow.

...You showed everything you needed to, it should be enough right...?

...Your job is done.

...Is there anything you have to do to go for from here...?

...

Noticing your fumbled look, and Todoroki's disgruntled face, Bakugo's hands sparked another explosion, his anger unfurling. "Oi, you two! You better stop making a fool out of me-!" You flinched, but honestly have a hard time bringing yourself to stare at him. "I'll kill you. The title that I want is the undeniable first place! I can't get that if I win against a half-assed scum like you!"

Todoroki seemed equally as fumbled as you are. Bakugo continues to berate. "There's no point unless I go above Deku! If you're not here to win, don't stand in my way! Why are you just standing there-?!"

You saw Todoroki clenched his fist, and the turmoil in his head just kept going and going. Your eyes slowly drifted to Pikachu, who hobbled closer, but stay outside the line, looking at you with that face of worriedness. You then look at Lucario, who's eyes seemed to be just waiting, waiting to see what your next plan is-what is your next choice. You bite your lips in frustration.

...you...just...

"Todoroki-kun! (Last)-san!" You blinked, eyes scouring towards where the voice came. It was Midoriya. "Don't lose! Give your best!"

...You remembered watching everyone do their best in the festival. Their rivalry, their best, their all. In that moment, with Midoriya's words ringing in your ear so clearly, you remembered Tsuyu's words too.

"So fight, with the intentions of winning instead of losing (Name)-chan."

Damn it...

Damn it...!

You gritted your teeth. Right, not yet-!

You sent an apologetic look at Lucario, apologizing for worrying him all this time. The Pokemon only blinked at you curiously, as you quickly eyed the surroundings carefully. It looked like Todoroki was readying his fire, and Bakugo was coming over with his own attack.

You knew the next act, and you were certain of it.

"Lucario..." Your call earned his blinking stare.

'...Yes.' It telepathically responded. You smiled.

"Let's get these two out." You smirked. That glint in your eyes is back, as Lucario nodded heftily. "Meteor Mash!"

As Bakugo noticed your incoming attack, Todoroki also catching sight of it, Lucario curled his arms back in a noticeable act to punch, he rushed to scene, and as if the meteors were slamming into the duo, he slammed forward. Lucario's dark swirl of orange eyes leered over the duo, as Todoroki once again used his ice to stop him from going backward. Bakugo clicked his tongue, hurling over Lucario to go for a back-attack, but Lucario notices. You cheered. "Dragon pulse!"

With a huff, gapping his mouth open Lucario releases a shock wave intense enough to get Bakugo frowning. Bakugo used his explosion to get himself away, his boots skidding on the ground as he narrowed his eyes. Lucario huffs, hot air puffing out of his nose.

"Damn, the Mon's intense!" Present Mic lowly commented, gaping slowly. "Against two, he's holding up well!"

"Lucario's the least person you'd want to put a sneak attack on! Cause frankly, it wouldn't work, he's completely aware of where you stand!" Meowth glees, as the battle was yet to be done.

That heart-pumped feeling surfaced again, and you used that feeling to move you forward. "Come on Lucario! One more Aura Sphere!"

Lucario moved with your excitement, the way your eyes seemed to dance with a hurl of energy that he mimicked, as swirling his hands again to release the aura it has within, as Bakugo and Todoroki got ready for the spheres to follow where they go. Your excitement seemed to follow along the crowd's cheers, and this time your raised your hand forward. "Let's go!"

Lucario hurled his attacks, both Todoroki and Bakugo using their own attacks to fight it back, either to use it defensively or offensively. Bakugo rivaled it with his own explosion with a battle shout, while Todoroki created another wave of ice. The aura spheres were able to be thwarted, but you felt that blood-pumping feeling flowing in your veins as Lucario stood confidently.

Lucario met your eyes, and you felt the confidence he had on you, mirroring the confidence you had in him.

Your heart pounded excitably, everything within you felt hot, and it compelled you to continue on. It was weird, yet you can't help but crave that feeling to last longer. The want, the need-!

Your eyes widened in realization. Your shoulders sagged.

That's it...

As you smiled broadened, you felt Bakugo yell. "Don't mess around!"

"Lucario!" You called, your eyes lingering in the way Bakugo was prepared to go all out. You knew, from the way he hurled his way towards you and Todoroki, Todoroki's getting more lethargic than usual due to the freezing nature of his quirk. You yelled with all you got, with your heart pumping vigorously, the joy you felt running through your veins. "This is it, our final act Lucario! Close Combat!"

"I told you, if you're going to act like this is a show, you should've joined a fucking act!"

"You, dumbass! don't you see! This is a show!" You retaliated with a shout, gloating as your head tilted to the side. Bakugo's attention was quickly captured at your insult. "I'm going to show the whole Japan how great Pokemon are! And you, yes, you Bakugo and Todoroki are also included!" Your smile broadened almost sinisterly. "After all, it's my show!"

Finally, finally, everything is clicking in your head. Everything, for once this whole day, just felt so right. And this was you...not holding back. This was you, fighting in the Sports Festival in your own way.

And there was only one thing in your mind during this duration.

Winning.

Tsuyu in her seat smiled gummily, as the battle was reaching the climax.

Your eyes pinpointed to Todoroki, who couldn't look away from the absolute vigor that danced in your (color) eyes, as you shouted. "So come on, Todoroki-! Fight back!"

Todoroki stopped, watching as you called out for him once more, the fire in you reminding him of a certain past he held deeply in his heart.

.

.

.

Todoroki didn't remember much of how it all happened. He remembered feeling sad, so incredibly sad and frustrated, and angry. So angry at his father, the deep resentment in him burning to keep on walking passed these thick bushes and stomp away from his house.

He wasn't quite sure where he wanted to go. All he knew, was that he wanted to get away from that house at that moment, that was voided from his mother's loving embrace, and instead reminded him of the horrendous burning sensation stinging where his left eye was. He touched the bandages covering that part of his face, his only eye guiding him passed the looming trees.

After a while, when he felt like he walked far enough, he finally took a stop. He gave that small moment to eye his surroundings, realizing he entered a thickened forest with no guidance to where he came from. And he can't help but feel relief, as he crouched himself by a tree.

In reality, he knew that he was being silly. It's not like he can go anywhere from here, right? He frowned, breathing heavily from that overfilling anger that just won't go away. The 6-year-old clenched his hands tightly, shaking. His head tucked into his knees, as he clenched his hand tightly.

It was only after he tried to calm himself down, that he saw something strange from the small corners of where he laid his head. He felt it, the fire he knew from heart. The fire that's always been a piece with him, and something that he wished he could get away from. He heard it huff, a small snort coming from whatever it was as he slowly raised his head to meet it.

His eyes widened, as he stumbled back in surprise, ending up on his bottom accidentally. He found himself unsure on what he was staring at, looking at a small horse-like being peering at him curiously. It was tiny, but still just a little bigger than him. But what struck him the most as he eyed at was the fire flickering its mane, the crème horse huffing again, curiously looking at him just as he was looking at it.

There was a distance between the two, only able to stare at each other in bewilderment. It went on like that for what felt like hours to Todoroki, before the pony took a step closer, trotting with its growing-strength legs. But Todoroki, who couldn't see that fire again hardened his gaze. "Go away...don't come closer...!"

The pony didn't heed him, just coming closer and closer with a curious tilt in its head. Todoroki continued to try to shoo it away, his voice getting harder and meaner. He glared at the pony. "I said GO AWAY-!"

Filled with rage as the fire got closer and closer, Todoroki raised a hand, and hit at the sniffling horse trying to sniff him. The horse recoiled with whiny, and Todoroki eyes widened in shock at himself. The pony looked hurt, backing away from him now. And Todoroki could only do the one thing he could at the shock, tears surfacing.

He cried that day. The guilt, the frustration, the pain just releasing as he cried loudly and without a care. He wiped his tears every now and then, sobbing until his throat burned, his chest heaving from how hard he was crying.

He didn't even hear the pony, already imagining it had run off, only to be mildly surprise when he felt a nose nudge his knee. He glimpsed up in surprise, wide watery eye watching the pony who had not left, curiously watching him. And that's when the apologies he had withheld in his heart came out, holding out the huffing pony's nose as his cries furthered. "...I'm sorry! I'm so sorry...!"

Through that entire time, the pony held still, letting him cry his entire heart out.

When Todoroki calmed, the two of them stayed in silence in that lone forest.

It wasn't long though for the moment to come to end, as he remembered seeing another horse come by, a larger one huffing. It was beautiful, he noted, as he watched the pony that stayed by his side the entire time, whinnying in reply. He knew that this was going to be goodbye, as Todoroki watched the pony leave.

But the Pony stayed, just for a little longer. Todoroki could only watch in surprise as the pony nudged the bandaged part of his face kindly, as if caressing that burn. Todoroki eyed it with wide-eyes, watching as the pony let out another tiny whinny, before running off.

And Todoroki could only watch as they ran off, running off in a field that was mere steps away from where he sat. They disappeared after that, and that was the last time he saw them. But for a moment, Todoroki felt comforted-and he would never forget that.

As soon it got dark, he got found. He never told anyone what he saw, but he always remembered that fire-being running off, the fire that didn't hurt as it nudged his face.

He went home that day, and for a single night, he didn't feel that mad.

.

.

.

The fire was lit again, flittering his body as if just waiting to finally come out. Todoroki eyes hardened, as your smirk broadened.

With Bakugo's smirk growing to at the realization, and Todoroki readying his left arm to release his fire, Lucario readied himself for his very last move, going in for the punch without the care on his defensive. You readied yourself, eyes zeroed in completely into the fight. This is it. The last straw-!

And in a heavy collision, Bakugo's explosion releasing it's all onto his competitors, and Lucario aiming for that reckless punch, you saw Todoroki falter.

And then it exploded.

"Whoa! Bakugo added force and rotation to the enormous fire power he showed during the match with Uraraka! He's a human missile!" Present Mic excitably pointed forward, bursting with absolute glee as the crowd a waits for the outcome. Due to the intense collision of power, the ice that Todoroki had created were shattered. "(Last)'s Lucario went with his full combat punch, but Todoroki didn't use that super-blast he used during the match with Midoriya! What's the outcome of this battle...?"

When the dust finally cleared, as the spectators all watch in bated breaths, and the rest of the students watching tried to see what happened, everyone held their breaths to see who stood the last standing. In the end, the first spotted before the crowd was Bakugo, laid on his front within the stage. On top of a barrage of icicles formed by Todoroki was a knocked-out boy, Todoroki, completely out cold. While you...

You groaned, rubbing the back of your head. You noticed quickly of the destruction around you, as well as how you were laid out on the ground. Pikachu hobbled over to you worriedly, squeaking as he shook for your attention as you seated yourself.

Then you noticed where you laid. You're out of bounds.

With that realization, you slowly looked around for Lucario, wondering if he was okay, only to find the said Pokemon closer to the stage, fainted, and back in his usual form.

"Lucario-!" You shouted, finding yourself racing over with a shout. You rushed over to your Pokemon, who was knocked to the ground tiredly, eyes barely open in slight pain from the attack. You knelt down your creature, Pikachu scampering closer too, looking over the wounded creature worriedly.

"...Are you okay?" You leaned closer to Lucario, though he was in pain, smiled through it lightly. A sense of relief washed you, he'll be okay. He apologetically eyed you, and you were quick to shake your head vigorously. "Don't be." You worded softly, smiling brightly as you could. "You did extraordinary."

With you out of bounds, and Todoroki out cold, it became apparent who was the winner of this fight. Bakugo, who was quick to access the situation all together, got back up on his feet stiffly. He glanced at you, who looked back with a look of uncertainty, before pinpointing his gaze to the half-and-half boy. His realization set in.

Todoroki extinguished his fire.

"Oi..." In slow numb steps, Bakugo started towards Todoroki. Then he sprinted over, frustration visible on his feature as he pulled the unconscious boy by the front of his gym shirt, trying to shake him back to consciousness. Bakugo angrily began, sounding soft, most likely numbed from the large attacks the three of you set. "Don't fool around! I told you it'd be meaningless! I don't want to win like...this..."

A purple like mist began making its way unnoticed towards Bakugo and Todoroki, the frustrated blond crazed eyes were pulled to a halt. Bakugo choked once the smell took in, as in a mere second, he flopped over, unconscious as well.

You watched from the sidelines, still holding Lucario's head up carefully as Midnight had ripped a part of her thin sleeve, exuding that purple mist smell carefully. You can't help but think how similar your quirks are, watching in blanked awe.

Midnight carefully stepped closer towards the out cold boys, noting their placement, before peering to consider your placement, still holding onto your Pokemon as you watched. She raised her hand up in decision. "Todoroki-kun is out of bounds! (Last)-chan is also out!" She eyed you one last time, before announcing the winner. "Therefore, it's Bakugo's victory!"

A stream of cheers soon followed, but one the winner couldn't and honestly, wouldn't appreciate. You settled Lucario down for a moment, unsteadily getting back to your feet as the robotic nurses came rushing in to take the injured.

With Bakugo's picture on the screen, announcing him as the winner, the game has finally ended. The School festival was complete. "All the events have now been completed!" Present Mic rejoices, "The first-year winner for this Sport's Festival is...Bakugo Katsuki of class A!"

You raised your eyes to where Present Mic, Aizawa and Meowth should be, squinting towards the small silhouette of a waving cat gesturing to you. You had no idea what he was trying to tell you, but you sent a smile anyway, sending him a small thumb up in your slightly ruffled state.

Meowth sighed, watching the way you smiled sweetly at him. The feline could only begrudgingly smile, knowing that everything is okay. Well, that's the end of it...

❧❧❧

As Lucario was pulled towards the nurse office on the stretcher, you following him, keeping him company through it all.

He seemed well-enough to still stay conscious from the way he smiled at you appreciatively, nodding at the nurse Pokemon fluttering about for him, and you were glad that it was so, hearing from Recovery Girl that Lucario was fine, and it would be alright for him to join you again. Without much hesitance, he was quick to join you back in the Pokeball, as you walked down to a hidden area for all the top 3 winners to go too.

With a slightly ruffled up Pikachu, peering at you worriedly on your shoulders, you could only chuckle. "Sorry we didn't win buddy. I thought we were close." Pikachu wholeheartedly agreed, cheekily pressing his nose to your cheek in his own congratulations. You giggled again. "Yes, yes, we all did good."

With ease, you entered through the hidden area, only to see...

"...Bakugo..." The raging pulls of chains made you blink, as you deadpanned. "...Why are you chained up?"

Pikachu dumbfounded blinked as well as Bakugo stood on what looked to be a winner pedestal, taking the stand in the middle as 1st place. However, instead of standing victorious like how a winner would usually do, Bakugo was, quite literally, chained up. With a block of concrete keeping him upright, and his two hands held together in front of him within large metal lock, Bakugo was quite literally looking like a feral animal just waiting to be let lose. You could only stare as Bakugo's wild gleaming red eyes move to meet yours.

"MHHHKERGHHH!"

Oh yeah, he was also muzzled too.

It took you a few seconds to process this before Bakugo was trying to rip his arms out of the chains once more, angrily facing towards...oh! Todoroki was already here too. Looks like they both got conscious after a while. He seemed ignorant to whatever angered screams Bakugo was sending him, as he merely glanced up at your approaching figure.

"(Last)-san..." You gazed over, Bakugo angered noise becoming background noise. Todoroki was very good at ignoring Bakugo for some reason, as he voices dully. "...Sorry."

You raise a brow. "For not letting out your fire? You probably should say that to this guy," You gestured to the raging Bakugo, who's still yelling muffled profanities. You assured Todoroki softly, smiling at him understandingly. "...Take your time...to figure things about."

A quietness followed, before he gave you a very tiny nod, almost completely nonexistent to the eye. Nonetheless, you saw it, as you gave him your own tiny nod.

You got onto your podium, noticing the big 3rd on your stand.

As the collision of last battle hindered anyone from catching sight of the students, there was a bit of a debate on who had stepped out of bounds first. Luckily, the teachers were prepared, and installed a camera that perfectly captures whatever happened in the field. It took a few checks before the teachers decided that Todoroki was able to get out of bounds just a bit later than you due to his ice wall keeping him within the border. By the end, the decision was made, and Todoroki took 2nd place, while you took 3rd.

Not a bad win in your honest opinion, not a terribly bad win at all...

Your smile softened.

You were pulled back to reality at the angry rattling of chains being tugged from the 1st place pedestal, as you gazed up with a furrowed look. "Bakugo, have you been raging ever since you woke up?" You only got another muffled reply.

As much as Bakugo could grouched like the absolute gremlin he is, you were still surprise by how much rage he held within him. You sighed a little, knowing his character enough to know the reason he wasn't happy. He did say he wanted to win in the most inducible way, so you suppose this was an expected reaction.

You sighed, rising towards the 1st podium to try to take off the muzzle. "Here." Bakugo whirled to you aggressively, slamming you with the intenseness of his gaze. You frowned, a little nerve-wrecked by the ferocity this boy emitted, but held on, reaching a hand out. "I'll take off your muzzle, but you gotta calm down...okay?"

Bakugo didn't answer, but you were thankful he listened as he quietened down. With wary motions, you carefully tried to unstrap the muzzle, accidentally touching the brief spikes of his hair in your silent endeavor. Bakugo was incredibly stock-still, glaringly watching as you carefully unclasp the straps, your wrist unconsciously brushing against his bare neck, causing him to involuntarily shiver.

When you finally were able to get the darn muzzle off, siding away from the uncharacteristically quiet boy, you waited for his reaction. His frown didn't twitch once, as you could only shrug a little at the expected reaction. It's not like you were expecting him to thank you or anything, as you gave him a small smile, turning to get back to your pedestal, when he...

"Oi..." You peered back, seeing him look on the ground. You were waiting for his smart mouth to get all talky, as per usual, but found yourself fooled once again as he murmured quietly. "...Not bad."

Your eyes widened, Pikachu's eyes actually looked ready to pop out his sockets too, as the two of you gaped at him. Todoroki, who had been listening discreetly seemed surprised too, raising his downturned head up for a peak. Nonetheless, all your shock expression was quickly washed away as Bakugo's calmed expression shifted easily to his volatile nature in a snap.

"NOW, LET ME OUT AND FINALLY LET ME PUMMEL THIS-!" And he's back to shouting profanities as Midnight began announcing the final 3. Bakugo was deliberately trying to rip his arms around and actually fight Todoroki again.

"All the first year's event for this year's U.A Sports Festival have been completed." Midnight's voice echoed.

You reached a hand forward to Bakugo. "Uh...Bakugo-kun, we're about to be announced-,"

"COME AT ME HALF-AND-HALF BASTARD!" You knew for a fact that the crowd above you three could hear that. You sweat-dropped, signing into your fate begrudgingly.

"...Now we will move on to the award ceremony!" Unsurprisingly, you heard the uncertainty in the hero's voice, as right after her announcement, trumpets began. In congratulations to the winners, the winner's pedestal begun raising itself back into center field. You glanced above, taking note of the fireworks being blasted to the sky festively, as you caught a wandering Dragonite flying above as per usual.

And in sudden burst of streamers and smoke, the sound actually making you jump, Bakugo was still angrily fighting against his chains, his angered grumbling loud and uncaring. Todoroki was as calm as ever as you could only watch Bakugo exasperatedly.

There you stood, before probably thousands of people watching from the bleachers and through the screen, as the first year students stood before you, facing your way. Even from where you stand, you can tell the crowds absolute bafflement at Bakugo's rampaging, as you let a small, almost quiet sigh.

"Welp." You shrugged to Pikachu, who hummed, sighing too.

It was...nerve-wrecking, still, surrounded by these many eyes. Maybe just a little bit more nerve-wrecking since you're taking full notice of the attention instead of trying to ignore them to focus on the fight. You watched as your friends smiled once you eyed them, as you nodded back appreciatively. Your eyes had also met Shinso, who's tenseness dissipated by your appearance, a wry smile on his face.

Sadly, there's a face you didn't see. 'Iida-kun...' You worriedly had thought. You heard it briefly from Tsuyu, but it still saddened you. You hope his brother and him would stay strong.

Getting right back to business, Midnight's decorative shackles clattered at her outburst movement, as she raised a palm, spreading it out to gesture in confidence. "Now we will hand out the medals! This year the medal will be presented by this man...!"

Above the stadium, on a particular top of it, a silhouette had appeared. This very familiar silhouette that would send anyone filled with trust and hope as he laughs joyously. You raised your head, covering the sun reflecting in your eyes with your hand as a cover as All Might stood with his hands on his hips.

That familiar laugh had everyone giddy, as joyous cheers and excitement arrived. "It's All Might!"

All Might's boisterous laughter was suddenly cut-short, something that's a little unheard of for him. "Eh...please excuse me..." He sounded awkward, you were quick to hide your laughter once you noticed a curious Dragonite cooing at him, hovering him as All Might sweated at the being's curiosity. Dragonite was probably wondering why this burly man was standing at the projecting stadium, worried he might fall. As All Might nervously waved off the muddled being, it was clear the being did not understand what All Might was trying to tell him. You snickered a little louder. "A-Alright...AHEM!"

Getting back on track, All Might jumped off, extravagantly so. Dragonite blinked, cooing as he flew a little closer at the nerve-wrecked man, watching bewilderedly as All Might rolled down flawlessly.

"Our Hero..." Midnight began.

"I've got the medals-!" All Might started.

"All Might-!"

"-Right here!"

Midnight and All Might ended up talking over each other, causing a wreckage in All Might's introduction. All Might's sure not getting much of a break you noted, as Midnight quickly apologizes with a small apologetic smile. Dragonite hovered above, just out of worriedness over the huge hero, who waved it off as assurance steadily. Contented by his wellbeing, Dragonite went back to patrolling.

"Oh, All Might's getting better at communicating with the Pokemon..." You mused to Pikachu softly, the mouse nodding in agreement,

"Then, please award the medals starting from third place." Midnight quickly moved things along, holding up the medal awards up, as All Might agreed silently.

Starting with third place, you were greeted with All Might rising on to the stairs leading to your pedestal. Bakugo had turned from an angry, feral, screeching boy to a slightly calmer, with the most menacing look in his gaze, Bakugo, while Todoroki stayed ever so silent. You smiled appreciatively at All Might's appearance, Pikachu mimicking your expression.

"Congratulations young (Last)!" You bended your neck for him to place the bronze medallion. You felt the weight of the medal rest on your chest, as you met All Might's friendly bestowing grin. "Just as everyone had noted thus far! You and your Pokemon are so incredibly strong!"

You smiled a little smaller, appreciation shining in your eyes but also...something else.

"You proved to follow your words, you did your very best for the Sports Festival." You felt your forehead furrow, moved and completely warmed at those words. Pikachu nudge your cheek with his nose to ease you, as you petted him in response.

"Tell me young (Last)," He gestured at you to explain, that broad smile never disappearing. "You made a name to the Pokemon. You showcased everything you got." He met your gaze. "How do you feel?"

You paused, calmly looking about in contemplation at All Might's question. Then you answered, knowing just how you felt, and you were unafraid to say it. You admit. "To be honest, I'm a little disappointed."

"Oh?" All Might's un-changing grin was still there, but you actually felt like he sounded a bit taken aback. You felt a few side-stares from your competition, but you weren't disgruntled.

"...At first, I didn't really have winning the Sports Festival in mind at all." You voiced, confidently standing before the pro. "But fighting everyone who was doing their best," You briefly eyed the students of the first year classes listening in. "And fighting all I got with hard opponents..." You side-glanced the narrowed-eye Bakugo and peering Todoroki. "For a moment...it made me want to win."

You smiled a little bit more broadly. "I guess you can say I'm a little sad by the lost. Looks like, I've still got a lot of things to learn..."

All Might seemed quiet, but for some unbelievable reason, you could feel his happiness. Maybe it was the way that he just suddenly brought you into a hug that left you blinking up at large pro-hero's back, but you felt his happiness coursing through you. He spoke softly, as if to say that this piece of advice to you, and only you. "Good, that's good. Remember this disappointment, and work it to become a better hero, person, or whoever you want to be." He patted your back like an old dad would do, and you felt yourself smile, Pikachu thankfully wasn't smothered. "There are things you can learn for yourself, things you can keep training to become. Keep Improving, for the betterment of yourself."

All Might smiled so largely. "I hope you know, that you have the essence to be a hero."

For a while, you just stood there, unsure where to go from here. But in the end, you gave the Pro a returning squeeze before he pulled away. And your smile filled with warmth was sent to him back. You'll remember his word of advice.

Moving on, All Might went to greet Todoroki, "Young Todoroki, Congratulation." He rounded the silver medallion over the downhearted boy, who was filled with questions still swirling in his head. All Might asked. "Is there a reason why you did not use your left side in the finals?"

Todoroki focused his gaze more on the ground than All Might's. "I had the opportunity during the match with Midoriya, and then got lost somehow. I think I understand you care for him...both of them." Todoroki took a small pause, before announcing. "...I wanted to be a hero like you. But I didn't think it was right for me to put my issues behind me...and just ended it there." Todoroki voiced his thought clearly, as he eyed up All Might. "There are still things that still need to be settled."

It was nice to see Todoroki finally come to a conclusion, as you watched him from the side. All Might hummed, noting. "The look on your face is completely different from before." The hero leaned forward to envelope the half-and-half student in a hug. "I won't inquiry any further, but I know you'll be able to settle things."

"...Yes." Todoroki softly voices.

And finally, that leaves number one. "All right, young Bakugo!"

Bakugo shook in uncontained rage, but you were more amazed that he had kept himself quiet during all the awarding. All Might eyed down Bakugo's chained form. "Wow, this is extreme." Since Bakugo was free from the muzzle, he was completely allowed to talk as All Might compliments. "You lived up to the pledge you gave. Good job!"

A shining thumbs up was sent to the infuriated boy, who gritted his teeth together, crossly beginning. "All Might..." He sounded incredibly dreadful, and you and Pikachu simultaneously sweat-dropped again as with beyond rage, with the most menacing look Bakugo had to offer, he yelled. "This first place...is MEANINGLESS!"

The aura around Bakugo is truly a hell of fire. "Even if the public approves, it's garbage if I don't approve of it!" His rage face was so bad his eyes were twitching in franticness, raised up so high as if to show the uncontained anger he held.

"Hm." All Might agrees with a hum, gesturing around. "In this world of comparative assessment, not many people can uphold the absolute evaluation of an unchanging scale." Bakugo wasn't amused by All Might's advice, and the hero's bafflement is apparent to you. All Might quickly ushered the gold medal, offering it to the rage-filled teen. "Accept this medal, as part of your scars so that you never forget."

However, Bakugo was adamant on refusing. "I said I don't want it!"

In a small slight ruffle, All Might tried to forcefully drag down the strap down on Bakugo, who refused to back down. In the end, the number one hero was able to hang the medal on his jaw. Bakugo forced to accept this medallion as his own.

All Might gleamed a smile, gesturing about. "These are the winners this time." He began, talking about the trio of you standing on the winner pedestal, before quickly interjecting. "But everyone, every student here has the possibility of standing up here, just as you have seen." All Might encouraged, all the students taking in his encouragement seriously and appreciatively. "The sight of them competing, enhancing each other, and rising further above...The next generation of heroes is definitely sprouting forth!"

With a powerful hand shooting to the sky, his forefinger pointing upwards in confidence. "And so here's some final words, Everyone, please repeat after me...Ready!"

Everyone bellowed as confidently as possible, the school catchphrase so clear and ready to be called out.

"PLUS ULTRA!"

"GOOD WORK!"

And just like that, All Might was able to cause a huge ruckus within the stadium in a matter of seconds, the pro-hero sweating in embarrassment. You tilted your head, shaking it in exasperation. "Well...this was a long day." You perked, glancing behind at Meowth's voice.

The feline had himself perched on Bakugo shoulders tiredly, the frustrated male with the medallion still hanging on his jaw could only glower. Meowth called out, pointing at him. "Whaddya' think ya gremlin? Tired too?" Bakugo just attempted to snap at him. Meowth glowered back, pointing to the ground like he was a dog. "Down Bessy!"

"Meowth...stop patronizing Bakugo-san." You worded, the cat slowly sliding off of Bakugo's body, making his way towards you.

"Hey! I was just teasing! Seriously, will anyone give a cat a break?"

You shook your head fondly, as Pikachu huffed exasperatedly. Nonetheless, you were surprise when All Might turned to you, suggesting happily. "Now, young (Last), What do you think about letting out the full team now?"

"Hmm...Well I thought you'd never ask." You chuckled, zipping open the pouch holding the Pokeballs. "Honestly, would've had you guys with me on stage, but they didn't compensate for Mamoswine's size." With another huff of laughter, you threw the Pokeballs forward, releasing your team, all of them emerging one by one on the ground. You gestured widely, a grin playing on your face. "-And now, this is the whole team who made it possible to get this far!"

Arcanine and Mamoswine stood before the back, being the largest ones in your group. Lucario stood by you, as you smiled at the creature who nodded back in return. Then that leaves Reuniclus, hovering closer over your free shoulders, Mimikyu who hung by your leg with a shadowed arm around it, and Pikachu, gleefully proud. A sense of pride washed over you as you showed the Pokemon that worked hard in the Sports Festival. Of course, you can't exclude the rest of the Pokemon that helped out in the background, smiling at Dragonite still circling overhead.

The students were quick to gleam, an excited look in some of their faces at the now known Pokemon stood before them. You watched as the Pokemon began doing their own thing, mingling about in lazed nature. You huffed, knowing that Mimikyu, of course, stayed close to your leg. You picked the nodding plushed-head up carefully, smiling at its chirp.

"Aww~! (Name)-chan, that's so cute!" You blinked, seeing Mina and Tooru coming by. You were surprise as they got close to your face, giving you a congratulatory hug, "Congrats on 3rd! Here! Look, I was even able to snap some pictures as memories!"

You blinked down at Mina's phone, watching as there was a picture of the winners on the pedestal, a pretty comical sight of you, Todoroki and Bakugo. Then there was a picture of you with all your Pokemon that you just release, and you holding Mimikyu. Even before this, there was a picture of the rest of the classes, sitting on the bleachers and what-not. Your eyes gleamed, the photos... "They're so cute!"

"Right?!" Tooru cheered.

You eyed the pictures, realizing that you didn't take any for yourself. You sadly weren't able to capture any memories of the Sports Festival since you were so awfully busy, so seeing this made your heart warm. You look at Mina hopefully, who blinked her yellowish-tinted eyes peculiarly at your look. "C-Can you send some of those...to me...?"

You nervously asked, feeling a bit shy all of a sudden as Mina and Tooru looked at each other in surprise. Ok, Mina mostly stared at an invisible head, but that's beside the point as they cheered together, uncontained happiness shown on their faces. "Of course, have all of them (Name)-chan!"

"O-Oh...!"

"Actually, we haven't exchange numbers yet! Come on, come on, let's do it!"

Meowth watched as you begun exchanging numbers with your friends, actually, it was surprising it hadn't been done before. Guess the school had them all super busy to exchange them. Meowth raised his head up to the sky. "Man, I worked way too hard..." He raised his head further to eye an infuriated Bakugo, who's apparently still chained up. Meowth got comfortable on the stage. "Since you're here, here me out alright? I just feel like spilling all my thoughts. You don't mind right?"

Bakugo was seriously about to commit murder.

As you gushed with Mina and Tooru about the pictures they had taken, you were surprise when you felt someone hovering by your side, Tokoyami was there, eyeing you patiently. Feeling like he wanted to talk, you wandered towards him, a small smile on your face. "Hey..."

"Congrats on placing third (Last)-san." He nodded, as you nodded in return.

"Right, thank you..." You tilted your head curiously, bouncing a quiet Mimikyu on your arms. "...Is there something else you wanted to say?"

"Ah, not really." Tokoyami seemed to grow a little shy, and by the way he turned away you assumed so as he continues. "Your last battle...I felt your fire."

You blinked. "My fire?"

"Yes, I hope, I'd get to fight you with that same fire one day." Tokoyami responded, as your eyes widened a margined. For a moment, you stayed silent, taking in his words. And then you nodded, reverently. Your heart agreeing beyond a doubt.

"I'd love to fight you next time, but," You continued, trailing off at the end. Tokoyami perked curiously, awaiting your next response. You smiled cheekily, leaning over to him to sneakily say. "Next time, I'm pretty sure Arcanine's going to be some pretty big trouble for you."

You winked slyly as Tokoyami eyes widened. Without a second beat, his eyes softened, nodding his head firmly. "I'd have it no other way."

You giggled, as Tokoyami simply smiled through it all. You weren't surprise when Uraraka and Midoriya came by, the two of them bearing wide smiles as Uraraka tackles you, clutching your right free hand. "(Name)-chan, so close! You were so close to beating our top 2!"

You nodded, agreeing frantically. "I know right?"

You two chuckled together as Midoriya gleams. "(Last)-san, congratulation."

"Mmh, Thank you Midoriya-kun!" You smiled, as you eyed your bronze medallion carefully. "Though I got third place this time, who knows? Maybe next year, I'll beat everyone here and take first place y'know? It's exciting just thinking that...!"

Midoriya took in your words, aweing for a single minute. He...never thought he'd ever hear you say that. Midoriya could only nod brightly, agreeing all the same, as the four of you continued to discuss about all the fun things and exhausting experiences the Sports Festival had to offer.

Nonetheless, you would have no idea what's to come to you as suddenly, by the gateway, it sounded like chaos was arriving. You and everyone else curiously eyed the gate, as Present Mic, who was still in the commentary booth with Aizawa, voiced in outrage. "What? What's going on? We're not done?!"

And in a surprising turn of events, you were quick to have your mouth agape as a stampede of your Pokemon, literally you weren't sure if it was everyone but it was enough to send you reeling, to see them heading straight for your direction.

Bakugo didn't need to commit murder cause your Pokemon did it for him, and it was to you. You were slammed to your back in no time, from the face of Emolga faced to face against you, his chipper look smiling down at you, as the sight of Greninja's eyeing form and Absol, who slowly arrived next to you came in view. Mimikyu chirruped worriedly at you tumble. You blinked as if you woke from the afterlife, being greeted by Arceus himself.

"...What...I just...What??" You couldn't form words, but all you remembered is being smothered by happy trills and coos, and that was all that mattered, as you laughed at the craziness of it all. Who knew your Pokemon would come by just like that.

Besides the bewildered other students and crowds, who were staring at the new faces of Pokemon around the expanse as Pro-Hero security came by with Tropius.

But even as you feel like your back is going to feel that pain for a while, and you're starting to wonder if you're ever going to see the light of day as your being smothered by your Pokemon- you wouldn't have it any other way.

The Sport Festival has officially ended.

But there was one more thing you had to do before the day ends completely.

❧❧❧

After trying to get the entirety of your Pokemon all the way back to the dormitory, it took a lot of help from the other pros and Tropius for all of them to get moving, before you finally got back to track in your final mission.

All the energy you had built up for this day had been completely sucked out of you, as you wobbled out tiredly. At this point, you're just running on adrenaline and necessity. But even so, you still pushed on, for there was one more thing you needed to do, and that was...to check on the security Pokemon one last time.

God, you were tired. You lazily walked out of the stadium, peering about the festivity to see a much lesser crowd that that bustling noon. The sky had now turned to a bright-orange sunset, and your classmates were already ordered to head back to class for a last homeroom session with the mummy, Aizawa.

You blearily wobbled forward, stretching an arm. To think your energy would be sapped out to this extent. As you stretched your hands out to hopefully gain some semblance of your energy back, you accidentally knocked your hand against someone, hearing his grunt at the abrupt hit. You blinked, turning to apologize. "Oh...Sorry-,"

You were met with Monoma's surprised face. 'Oh...'

You were equally as surprise as he was, eyeing the blond with sudden blankness. That didn't last long, as Monoma recovers fast, a façade crazed look that Monoma quickly adopted took over his expression, causing you to recoil blankly. "What's this? WhAT's ThiS?! (Last)-san are you skipping out on classes when everyone should be back already?!" He laughed derangedly, cackling like an evil witch in an old Halloween movie.

"..." You sent him the most unintentional, disgusted look you could pull, Monoma quickly addressing it with a finger point. "Don't give me that look! I caught you myself (Last)-san! HAHAHA-!"

You looked around like you were lost, which honestly you might've preferred to be than being in the presence of this salty character. You sighed, you just wanted to get this checking done with already so you can finally rest and take a long, nice sleep. You narrowed your eyes at him. "You do know that you're also not in class, right?"

Monoma huffed pompously, expecting your response. "I have a permission slip." He held up a piece of paper, as your eyes landed on the supposed power move. You looked at him again.

"That's a bathroom slip. Which is odd since I don't remember we have bathroom slips on this school." You furrowed your brow. "Actually does any school have bathroom slips...?"

"Still permission-!!"

You sighed, wiping a hand to your face exasperatedly. You pointed out nonsensically. "Is it just me, or did your personality spiral out of control? Did the loss hit you that bad?"

"HUH? Sorry, I couldn't hear you." This Ass-

"Never mind," You waved off, trying to find a way to get away. "Anyways, I got to do something, so excuse me."

As you bid your goodbyes, as expected, Monoma wasn't willing to let you leave just yet. "Leaving already? We just started talking." Monoma sneered impulsively, looking down at you arrogantly. Was this boy seriously a member of the love interest again? "All you class 1-A are so impudent! Just as expected." 'Speak for yourself' you wanted to snap, but decided against to. "You may have won this round, but mark my words, Class 1-B is gonna take a run for your money...!"

You blinked as Meowth continued on his deranged laugh-wait, Monoma, not Meowth. Funny how your brain just automatically corrected it to Meowth, but somehow it makes this whole conversation easier to endure. You took a deep inhale, trying to just ignore his negativity as you gazed your eyes to the sky in thought. You supposed, some of his words are positive, so you'll just take those. "Well, I'm sure that class 1-B will definitely one us up in something." You remembered watching class B's classes whenever you were called upon. "You all are strong..."

"Yes, your arrogance...huh?" Monoma went to brush his fringes back, still holding that arrogance he held before when he halted mid-brush. His grey irises blankly looked at you. Since you were getting tired of all this fighting, you continued with a tilt, almost teasingly.

"I did say it before; you know? I have no intention of downgrading your class. Besides," Monoma's face just continued to go aghast. "I've watched you all in your classes, you all are amazing too."

Monoma looked speechless, he probably was speechless, looking at you with widen eyes as if you spoke in another language entirely. Nonetheless, he quickly cleared his throat, twisting his head to the side in embarrassment. "HA-! Y-You're just saying that...!"

"Hmm..." You ignored that response, deciding to add thoughtfully. "You know; I did sprout out all that stuff about your personality." You looked away coughing a small, 'Because it's true.'

Monoma wasn't afraid to point it out. "I heard that."

But then you look back, smiling a little. "But you know, it's kind of nice that you care so much for your class, you encourage them to their best and what-not." You calmly explained, the annoyance towards him having been put aside for a moment. "You're at the very least, a good classmate and a good supportive friend to them, you know?"

Another quietness.

"Honestly, your pretty compassionate." Spurred by the feeling of the discomfort from saying all that horrible stuff. You coughed, since he kind of deserves it, but you decided to look into the pieces of...good characteristic you can think out of your head. "And...you're confident, a little too much, but it's a nice trait to have."

Silence.

"Though you could work on that personality a bit." You went back to normalcy, deadpanning at the blond still looking away. You explained by squeezing your thumb and forefinger in example. "Just a little..." You deadpanned at yourself. "Okay, a little bit more than a little, but you get my gist, right?"

Silence, still. How long has it been since you've been talking to a wall now? You were now getting a tad worried. You reached a hand forward to touch his shoulder. "Monoma-san...? Are you okay?"

You hand barely grazed his shoulder before he whipped his head to your direction to side the hand away. And then you saw, with slightly widen eyes, as his face was completely flushed. A light shade of red covered his cheeks and he didn't have that presumptuous look- in fact, he looked bashful. He...honestly looked oddly cute. It was so completely, utterly, out of character for him that you could only blankly stare at him like he was an alien that came to visit you.

Once you met eyes, he had covered a part of his face with his hand, the tips of his ears red as well. You swear, this must be an alien taking over Monoma's body.

There were no words exchanged, rather, there can be no words exchange any longer for in a wide haste, Monoma dashed off, leaving you blinking away the dust as once he was in a considerable distance, he whipped around to face you, still red-in-the-face. He tried to bring himself to cockily eye you, but honestly it wasn't working out as it usually does. "HAHA-! Do not flatter me with your sweet words (L-L-Last)-san! I know this is your way in trying to manipulate me!" He smiled coyly, it looking incredibly forced with his blush still taking over his face before he claimed loudly. "Mark my words (Last)-san! Class B will reign over Class A in no time!"

He turned swiftly. "Then, Farewell!" And he dashed away.

You reached a hand out, as if to stop him, but it was too late. And just like that, he was gone.

.

.

.

"...Huh?"

Weirded out, you decided that you shouldn't press on the matter any longer - any longer and you'd just get a migraine. You went to a secluded area between the greenery, looking around to see if there was anything amiss for the last time today.

In your silent observing, you were quick to hear the slight rustling in the bushes. You turned over, eyes softening at the sight of the familiar silver, outward horns poking out of the bushes, a dark-furred dogged-like creature nosing out of it calmly. "Hello Houndoom, how's your day?"

Just as you expected, it was Houndoom who came out of the bushes. The large Pokemon was definitely not a size as large as Arcanine, but if you weren't aware of how Houndoom can be, you'd be pretty intimidated as his stern eyes glowered at you. His devilish tail swished, as he got closer to you, as Houndoom huffed at your question, causing you to chuckle. "I suppose you are. But aren't you at least happy you aren't out and about like the rest?" He could only release another fiery huff.

In your Pokemon Security team, there are 5 members you have inputted into the group. There's Tropius, Swirlix, Dragonite, with Bastiodon, who was a Pokemon from the agency. Leaving your last member of the security team, who wanted to stay out of sight but help out quietly, was your one and only Houndoom.

Out of the blue, you caught sight of the Houndoom picking something up with his jaw, being mildly careful as he brought out to show you something. And there she was, Purrloin, yowling in agitation, being held by the scruff of the large dog. You raised a brow. "Purrloin? What are you doing here?"

You reached out to capture the cat, who tried to scratch Houndoom in the face, thus making the dog let her go, as she scattered closely to you. She was quick to nuzzle into your chest affectionately, coyly and innocently trying to gain your love, all while blinking hade eyes up adorably.

You looked down at her unamused, she was being suspicious.

Your accusation was proven correct once Houndoom showed off an abundance of materials being hidden behind the bushes, siding the bushes with a paw. You could only blanche before sighing, the feline still cooing in hopes of getting your less stricken scold, while you simply took in the abundance of things she had stolen from visitors carefully.

To be fair, you were mildly impressed. Even that Ditto that stole items didn't steal as much as Purrloin did. A criminal gift indeed.

You wiped a hand down your face exasperatedly, before reaching out to thank Houndoom, petting his nose. "Thank you, you're a lifesaver." Houndoom gave a prideful growl, perhaps not wanting to be babied, but you still took the chance to pet him. You knew deep down, he appreciated the love. "And you," You scolded, eyeing the feline looking at you with wide watery eyes. You took the chance to look away, before scolding again. "We've talked about this, no stealing, even if it's fun watching their reactions."

Purloin deflated, pouting cutely. You spat in aggravation, trying to shut-down the sad act. "Don't give me that look! That may work on others, but it doesn't work with me!"

Knowing the cat, she wasn't going to back down without a slight fight, still putting her adorable act that made her so easily steal stuff. You were adamant on being firm, while also trying to find a way to return all the stolen items as fast as you can. Perhaps the best way is to put them in lost and found...?

While you were trying earnestly to get your point across to a non-listening feline, Houndoom merely watched this with his usual stern-frightening eyes, watching carelessly when something passed by. He was waiting tiredly for this one-sided debate to be over when he caught sight of that specific something.

On the corner of his eyes, he saw a child, dragging along a balloon, who looked to be trying to get away vigorously.

Houndoom watched. The more he watched, the more he realizes that the balloon was definitely no ordinary balloon. With hasty thinking, he quickly barked, garnering your attention away from the cooing cat. He huffed, gesturing to the Pokemon with his nose, your eyes widening upon noticing it.

And just like that, an agreement was made between Houndoom and you.

"Houndoom, guard Purrloin. I'll get that Pokemon!"

You were now so thankful that you hadn't decided to call it quit for the day, rushing after that child holding onto a squirming balloon. You knew what Pokemon that was, remembering reading about it one time. It was a Drifloon.

As you saw it squirm its string out of the child's grubby fingers, you can't help but wonder how it got in this situation.

Honestly, if you didn't see how the kid looked with the balloon, you would have honestly been more worried for the child.

For...

Drifloon: The Balloon Pokemon

A Ghost and Flying Type

These Pokémon are called the "Signpost for Wandering Spirits." Children holding them sometimes vanish.

During the olden times, before quirks had been developed, Drifloon was a Pokemon that was actually known as a well-known spirit in Japan that pops by from time to time. At some point, they were quite the fearful sights, and balloons were looked as bad signs, especially if you found one floating all on its own. There were even old articles you were able to scour talking about them. It honestly just made you sweat, just knowing how in-graded the Pokemon were back in the days when quirks had not made their appearance.

But seeing how the kid has not disappeared, you assumed that the Drifloon just ran into some bad luck and ended up in the clasp of a kid's hand. You tried to follow the kid, who rushed around the school happily.

He was probably enjoying his last moments of the festivals before he would be needed to head home. As he rounded a corner from one of the buildings, running about in happiness, you tailed after him, noticing the boy just about to slam into someone walking out of said building.

"Oof!" He fell down, clamping his hand tightly on the balloon string so it wouldn't fly away. The kid frowned, upset at the fall, but the other who got hit, was much more upset.

"Oi!" You recognize that voice anywhere, even without seeing him around the corner, you knew. "Watch where you're going brat-!"

The little boy trembled, frightened, and somehow, whatever the Drifloon caught sight of, also made it tremble. You rushed into the scene right at the moment the kid burst into tears, and you caught sight of a slightly reeled back Bakugo, who of course, only got more agitated, that menacing sneer from his awful mood intensifying. "Suck it in!"

Honestly...Just what were you expecting from Bakugo, you sweat-dropped. Maybe helpfully picking the kid back on his feet-yeah right! You didn't pay any attention to Bakugo once he took in your sudden appearance, smiling down at the teary-eyed child. "Hey, are you okay? Nothing hurt?"

The kid blinked teary eyes up at you, before nodding a little shyly, tightening his grip on the balloon string in hesitance as you reached out a hand for him to take so you can bring him back on his tiny legs. "Come on, let's get you back on your feet!"

As the kid took your hand, it seemed like the boy finally noticed who you were. You found yourself greeted with wonderment and glee, his eyes sparking in recognition, and before you knew it, he was bouncing on the balls of his feet. "Oh my god! You're the Pokemon trainer!"

'Pokemon trainer...?' You blinked at the nickname, but ultimately chuckled lightly. Oh, looks like you've got a fan already, that's sort of embarrassing. "Ah...yeah, that's me-!" You cheered awkwardly as the boy seemed to grow even more ecstatic, hands clenched so tightly he's almost caving it.

"You were so cool! When you rode that huge fire dog into the arena! And when you ended up capturing the last head-band during the cavalry match, and, and, and, Oh! When your mouse got super-duper huge!" The boy was gushing all about, emphasizing on how big Pikachu got with his small-length arms, "Like this huge! IT was Amazing!"

...

You watched blankly as the kid giddily bounced on his feet, his admiring eyes just unable to stop eyeing you up with amazement, looking at you as if you were the greatest person he had ever come across, and not gonna lie, it was sort of cute. You couldn't stop the huff of laughter bursting through as you smiled.

"Oh, Oh, can I get an autograph please! I have to show it off to the class!" Though you still can't help but wonder why anyone in Arceus's name would want your autograph, you didn't hesitate to write down your signature in the boy's notebook, which he held closely, almost hesitantly, your way.

"S-Sure..." You replied softly, writing down his name nicely on it, before saying. "Uh...Where's your parents?"

"They should be by the booths, don't worry, I know where they are!" He answers confidently, as you finished up writing down your signature. Kid just looked at your autograph like it was a founding heirloom, and it made you downright shy deep down. You smiled, as he gushed at it, talking about how his friends would be so jealous, even though you highly doubted it.

Through this all, you almost completely forgot about the reason you came by here in the first place, your eyes quickly pinpointing Drifloon who floated blinkingly, confused by the entire ordeal. He's still there, you sighed gratefully. "Anyways..." Your eyes turned to eye the seething Bakugo, a horribly irritated expression dress on his features, the boy shaking in unparalleled rage. You blinked slowly. Oh Right. "Bakugo-san, you're still here...?"

"OF COURSE I'M STILL HERE!" Bakugo bellowed, and the boy promptly slid behind you for protection, you rubbing your head awkwardly. "DON'T THINK I DIDN'T KNOW YOU JUST COMPLETELY FORGOT I WAS HERE!!"

"Hahaha..." You laughed slowly. Because it was true.

"YOU FUSSBUDGET!" He seethed further, you can see multiple veins on his necks popping. You shifted away, not even pretending to hide the kid and balloon Pokemon away from this boy's abrupt anger. The kid fearfully took a peek at the person he bumped, before recognition came to him again.

"Oh wait, he's the number one winner, right?" The boy suddenly questioned, finally recognizing Bakugo. You wondered if he's going to start gushing and asking for his autograph too, when you were struck by surprise at the boy's expression twisting in disgust, as he spat lowly. "What a waste..."

"What did you say!?" Bakugo's super hearing is truly astounding, but you were just as shell-shock. The kid hid again behind you, as you tried to calm the fire.

"C-Calm down, Bakugo-san. He's just a kid..." You pacified, Bakugo clicking his tongue loudly as he twisted his head away. You decided to just quickly finish your task so you can separate the duo. You turn to the boy, smiling as nicely as possible. "H-Hey, is it okay for me to ask you for a favor?"

Your question prompted a wide-eye giddy look, the kid's apparent disgust at Bakugo gone as he nodded frantically. "Yeah! Definitely! What is it?"

"Hmm..." You pretended to hum, your eyes lingering on the drifting balloon, who seems to be noticing your attention on it. "I feel a bit bad to ask, but can I have your balloon...?"

Just as you expected, the kid's expression fell a bit, not expecting it at the very least. He looked frantically between you and the balloon, before softly repeating your words in confusion. "M-My balloon...? Why?"

"W-Well," You tried to figure an answer, side-eyeing to see the raise-brow stare Bakugo was giving you before answering the best possible answer you could think of. "Well you see, do you remember...Pikachu?"

His eyes lit up. "Of course! How could I not!?"

"Right! Well you see, he loves balloons!" You widened your arms in emphasis, "He really loves balloons, and since he was one of the stars of my team, I wanted to give him a little gift." You're pretty sure you heard the balloon gap, but you continued. "But it can't just be any balloon! It has to be purple!"

Your answers seemed to gather you small nods from the kid your trying to tempt, as he awed fascinatedly. You smiled, continuing. "You see, you're the only one who has a purple balloon at the moment! So I can only ask this huge favor from you!"

The kid nodded, only much slower now, as if contemplating your explanation. You hesitantly pushed. "S-So, will you help me?"

The child only blinked, as he answers the next thing. "Um...sure!" Success! your eyes gleam happily, though you should've realize it shouldn't have been that easy. His smile broadened as he cheers. "But what do I get in return?"

"...Huh?"

"My dad always said that you can't give anything for free, so," he tilted his head, a strange frightening aura was coming from his eyes. "What do I get...?"

You stared at the kid in astonishment, gaping. '...I just gave you my autograph for free!'

You racked your brain for the right choice, looking at the attentive wide-eyes peering into your very soul. You stuttered softly. "I could...pay you back twice the amount?"

"Not interested."

"Then thrice...?"

"I don't want money!"

'Then what are you interested in?' You thought in a flurry. You were going to pay him back anyways, but to think he isn't interested. What are you going to do?

"What the hell? Why do you want a stupid balloon so much?" Bakugo grumbled, sounding exasperate but somehow calm, his roughish voice surprising you again. He walked close by, giving you a look. "If you want it so bad, just grab it, idiot."

'...Do you even want to be a hero?!' You exasperatedly thought. Bakugo out here telling you to just rob a kid.

"Give it here brat. She gave you an autograph, didn't she?" Bakugo snarled, raising a hand to snatch the balloon, but the kid was having none of it, getting teary-eyed.

"B-But she gave it to me for free! That's not how it works!"

"WHAT DO YOU EVEN MEAN?!" Bakugo responded. You knew right then that this was going nowhere. There has to be something that you can give that the boy will take. With a heavy sigh, you shifted your eyes to the sky, narrowing at it disgruntledly.

That's when a bright idea flew by. Your eyes widened, that's it!

As the two bantered about, you clapped your hand for their attention. "Then," The little boy eyed you curiously, your stern eyes gleaming. "This should do it, right?"

.

.

.

"Woah~!" Sparkling eyes were staring at the sky. You held tightly to Dragonite carefully, as you flew through the sky on top of the being, a kid sat by in front of you. "This is so AWESOME!"

You didn't respond, just letting Dragonite glide through the wind and sky as you got an incredible view of the entirety of U.A from a bird's eye. Some of the booths were still running, so there were still people gathered as you watched the people clutter about leisurely. Passing the glass building of U.A, what really struck you was the incredible sight of the sunset, showcasing the end of the day in vibrant warm color like a beautiful canvas in the sky.

This...was a good way to end the day.

As you called down Dragonite to where the three of you stood, you couldn't help but know you won once you saw the kid's eyes sparkling so brightly, looking ready to faint any minute. But he wasn't the only one, as Drifloon seemed to shift away in tiny screech, Dragonite's arrival hiding the sound of its scare, as Drifloon drifted about sickly at Dragonite's narrowed stare in recognition.

Nonetheless, the kid didn't hesitate in handing the growingly sick balloon to Bakugo's hands, who yelled in aggravation at being told to hold a brat's stuff, before the two you were off to the sky, Dragonite graciously being careful with his two riders.

You patted the being's head, Dragonite letting out a cute cry. It's been a while since you've rode on his back, you mused, as Dragonite slowly began descending to the ground, where Bakugo was waiting, seething.

Once he hopped off, the kid didn't hesitate in handing you the balloon. "Here! A deal's a deal!" He pushed the balloon string onto your hand, a gleaming wide smile. "Thank you so much for the ride!"

You smiled, taking the balloon carefully. You eyed the Drifloon happily, who's eyes landed on yours curiously. As you nodded, grateful. "Thank you too."

"Okay, I should get going!" The kid bounced, "I can't wait to tell everyone! I'll cheer you on as a hero!"

You blinked, eyes landing onto him bewilderedly. The kid didn't look bothered, his smile brightening widely at your surprise, showing off his teeth which was missing a few, before waving goodbye. "Goodbye Pokemon trainer!" Then he shifted his expression, pulling down an eye-lid at Bakugo. "Bye stuuupid!"

"OI!" Bakugo was still not over being sided away as he grumpily shouted. He's honestly ready to get into a fight. "Come here and fight brat! I'll take you on!"

"Seriously! Let's take it easy!" You pulled his arm in case he really starts chasing the kid, shaking your head with an astounded huff. "Just leave it!"

"That little brat-!" Bakugo gritted his teeth, before shaking your grip off his arm promptly. As the kid scurried away, he finally seemed to calm down, not giving in to chase as he huffed distastefully, pocketing the gold medallion in his pocket harshly. "Calling me a waste, tch!"

"Haha, he's a cheeky one." You answered understandingly. The kid's quite the character. "But he has his cute side."

"Bleh!"

"Man, you suck with kids. You do know that threatening them isn't going to help, right?" You commented offhandedly, which earned you a glower.

"SHUT UP!" He shouts, pocketing his hands disgruntledly as he narrowed his vermillion eyes at the floating balloon, looking at you with a raise brow. "So all that for just a Pokemon, huh?"

You eyed up at the Pokemon, drawing back belatedly. "Whoa! Yeah, you can tell?"

"Obviously, I held it!" Bakugo answered harshly. You rubbed the back of your head, embarrassed that it was that obvious. You forgot how observant Bakugo was.

"Ah-Anyways, are classes done?" You questioned, as Bakugo been tracking away slowly. You followed him in step, who didn't seem to mind.

"Yeah, Tomorrow and the day after's a break..."

"Ooh." You smiled, "That's nice."

As you two continued walking, you noticed that the two of you were finally having a calm conversation. He walked slower, and kept his gaze forward, but you find that a win. Before, you two would never be walking together like this. There's not a single possibility that you could be walking next to Bakugo like this, with the beautiful rays of sunset covering the sky, before today.

Nonetheless, you find yourself relaxing as you walked around the campus, dragging a confused Drifloon gently. You smiled at it, not noticing Bakugo's side-eye as you talked to the being. Your softened stare beaming at Drifloon, as you said. "Now, let's get you checked up."

Drifloon let off a little coo, relaxing in your hold, for it felt like it could trust in you, who holds him ever so gently. And with that, the sunset slowly began disappearing, and out came the night.

❧❧❧

That Night

You gazed down at your phone, sliding the pictures slowly in a brief burst of happiness, as if to take in each the cute pictures carefully. You were currently looking at the picture taken of some of your classmates, smiling at the camera giddily. Most of the pictures consisted of your classmates and you, taken in various moments of the festival- from the obstacle race to the bleachers in the 1 vs 1. Mina and Tooru sure took their chance to grab as many pics of everyone as they could.

You stopped sliding through your gallery after a while, pausing at a picture of somehow you, Todoroki, and Bakugo, chuckling at the angered Bakugo who comically still had the medallion hanging on his jaw. Todoroki was actually looking at the camera for this picture, all the others just seem to have side-profile pictures of him, as he looked slightly surprise upon noticing the girls were taking a picture, while you on the other hand, already prepared, grinned at camera softly. Pikachu and Mimikyu were closely with you, giving their own signature smiles. It's a funny shot of you three not in the pedestal, making you chuckle subtly.

"Wow, how'd you get a pic with those two?" Meowth mused, hanging slightly out the bed, on the verge of toppling over to the ground if he just scooted a little bit more. The feline peeked at your phone, a look of disbelief crossing his features.

"Hmm, Mina-chan and Tooru-chan were convincing." Then you remembered Bakugo. "And a tad forceful."

Pikachu and Sylveon, who had clambered up on to your sturdy bed, fussed at the pictures excitedly, curious about them. You gently sided it to their directions, as Meowth hummed. "Hehh...Guess you could say, 'Gotcha'..." Meowth finger-gunned, insinuating a joke you didn't listen to.

You smiled down at it, commenting softly. "It's nice."

You swiped to a picture you were able to snap with Shinso, who shyly eyed the camera making him look ten-times more adorable. Then you swiped another pic to your cavalry group pic, Midoriya being the most camera shy while Hatsume was a little too forward-Tokoyami was neutral while Uraraka was exasperate. You smile softened, finding it too bad you couldn't take a picture with Iida. Nonetheless, you focused back on the pictures. "I don't have that much pictures of my friends. Usually," You exited the singular photo to expand it to your gallery, where most of the pictures led to an abundant stockpile of your Pokemon doing their everyday things, like eating, napping or playing around with each other. "-It's just pictures of you guys, not that I don't like taking pictures of you all."

You assured to a pouting Pikachu and a pawing Sylveon, giggling at their cuteness.

Meowth then adds to your comment, striking a deep cord in your heart. "Well that's because you had no friends!"

"GaK!" You coughed, that just literally shot you. If you die, you know it's due to Meowth's offense.

"I mean of course, before that brainwashing guy." Meowth didn't even notice your pain, picking his ears lazily. "Before that, you were like the biggest loner in the world." Double ouch, Pikachu and Sylveon glared in your favor. "Well, except for that one guy..."

After regaining yourself, you look at the photos again, eyeing them tentatively. Then you look around your room. You don't have much pictures hanging around. You thought about it, questioning your Pokemon. "Hmm...what do you think about me printing these? We could hang them around the walls..."

Pikachu ears perked, nodding in agreement. That would be nice. Then Sylveon suddenly hobbled off the soft cushiony bed, heading to one of your drawers to drag the top one open with her ribbons. Now that she's evolved, you can't help but remember when she was a Eevee, who couldn't even open a drawer even if she wanted too. She used to only paw on it aggressively, as you chuckled at the memory.

With ease, Sylveon began pulling out what looked to be a photograph, and you were quick to realize what it was as she handed it.

"Oh, yes..." You looked down at it, a little uncertainly. It was the picture of your family, the one that you eyed when you first arrived in the dorm. You hadn't even taken a look at it for a while. Your shoulders slumped, looking at Sylveon's curious eyes, her sapphire eyes gleaming in child-like understanding, tilting her head when you seemed to be not taking it well. You consider it for a moment, then you smiled at the pic. "...I guess we could start with this."

The Pokemon silently watched you contemplate with the picture, and Meowth was the first to huff. "You don't need to Boss, and for the record, it's not because I hate seeing your sister face or anything."

You rolled your eyes at Meowth. "You can just say that; I won't judge you."

The feline gasped ghastly, like you had just insulted his entire lineage. He plopped down the floor dramatically, which you had expected by the moment he laid at the edge of the bed. "Boss! How dare you accuse me of saying those sort of...t-things!" You went to pat Meowth's head lightly, but he swatted it away. "After all the presenting I had to do-! I don't get a 'Thank you'?! The Audacity!"

"How's Drifloon by the way? And Ditto too?" You questioned after a silence, further annoying Meowth.

"Sleeping like a babe after the check-up, just like you left them!" Meowth grumbled. "Am I still not going to get any appreciation here?!"

A wave of tiredness began overcoming you, as you set the family photograph and your phone on the bedside's table. You yawned, sleepily getting into the warm and soft looking bed. "Well..." You yawned again, snapping your mouth tiredly. "...To be fair, I didn't really ask that from you." Meowth looked ready to burst into flames, but you only chuckled, shutting your eyes. "But I'm thankful. Super thankful. I felt like it was easier for the crowd to understand...so thank you, Meowth."

Meowth huffed loudly, turning his head away. "Yeah, that's not enough for me." If you were more awake and lively, you'd probably see the embarrassed tint of red on his face. "I demand retribution! Maybe...I get a whole welp of sushi for the month-no, year!" Meowth cheered, as if he came up with the best way you could pay him back.

"Whaddya' say-," Meowth turned his attention back, only realizing a little too late that you were fast asleep, Sylveon watching by your bedside with a quiet coo, Pikachu crawling closer to your laid out form curiously. Meowth shouted. "You're sleeping?! After everything I said!"

"Shh!" Pikachu interrupted, glaring at the cat. Uncaring for the cat's indignant reaction, Pikachu scampered closer quietly, deciding to curl up by your backside, letting out a cute yawn himself.

The cat grumbled, complaining silently. "Oh, so now you're sleeping-!" He berated with a hush. "I'll have you know, I was pretty much commentating so much my throat hurts!"

Everyone was doing great at ignoring Meowth, as Pikachu's soft snored followed yours, the duo of you fast asleep already. In the end, Sylveon decided to ease Meowth, who looked ready to shout again, to cover his mouth with her ribbons before he could wake you. When Meowth calmed, she removed it, smiling at him sweetly before hobbling off to curl by your legs, not saying a sound or coo.

Meowth could only sigh. It has been a long day filled with so many activates and fights. Even he was pretty tired as he enviously eyed the three of you sleeping. With a begrudging shrug, and a notion that he'll negotiate tomorrow, Meowth went to turn the lights off.

He clambered on to the bed, fixing the blanket properly with an exasperated roll of his eyes when he saw it not covering you up well. He was about to turn off the light to rest when suddenly, your phone dinged. The cat blinked, looking at the notification with a curious raised brow.

He read it, reading the message carefully, before shrugging it off. You can look at it tomorrow anyways-he decided, before ignoring it entirely. With a groaned, indolent waltz, he got onto your soft pillow after turning the lights off, curling above your head gently to not disturb you. And with a soft hum, he went to sleep too. The only sound in your dark room was the soft noises coming from a band of slumbering slumbers, tired from the events of the long day- sleeping soundly and sweetly.

And on your bedside, your phone continued to stay a lit for a minute, the latest message shining vividly.

「Mr. Detective Tsukauchi: Hello (Last). I know this is a bit abrupt, but do you mind heading down to the nearest police station? There's something I need your help with. If you have some time, I'll be waiting from 8. 」

❧❧❧

And that's it! The Sports Festivals is done! Sad to see you go my friend, but it's time to finally move on!

Firstly, I want to say my appreciations to everyone that has helped with the Pokemon group building. I remembered when the Sports Festival just begun, I asked you all to help with deciding what Pokemon we should go for the battles, and you guys didn't disappoint with all your ideas. It helped me conclude the groups, so much appreciated! I know a lot of Pokemon didn't make the cut, but I assure you a lot of the Pokemon that you suggested will get their chances in following chapters. There's a lot of events after the Sports Festival, so I assure you, that I'll do my best to give new and different, or little screen-time Pokemon some limelight. I'm sure you realize by now that most of the Pokemon are considered secondary characters at the moment, with only our three main Pokemon taking the most spotlight, Sylveon, Pikachu, and Meowth. With those 3, they definitely will be getting their appearances way more often than the other Pokemon, however, that doesn't mean the other Pokémon's we have won't get their chance to strut their stuff!

So we finally concluded also reader's uncertainty side-plot. Honestly, I'm pretty sure it's a little hard to understand, even I'm confused myself at reading it, but I feel pretty proud of it. Before the Sports Festival arc come by, I had this idea of a side-plot, where reader goes through a series of uncertainties and ends up holding back. The idea was to show both, the negative outcome, and the positive outcome through it. You might be wondering, how does 'holding back' have a positive outcome? Well honestly it works when I consider the context of the Sports Festival. Holding herself back showcased her opponent's ability far more, didn't it? Of course, in some ways, holding back and putting on a show can be showcased as 'fake', and not being real, like what Bakugo thinks. But the reason Bakugo was accepting of her in the end, was cause she was finally not holding herself back. I think of how I made reader as a character, I made her someone who thinks of Pokemon before herself, thinks of people before herself. I imagine, her character was someone that would never jump into danger head on, but would be someone who helps in the outside. because that's just her. I know authors aren't supposed to explain storylines, but I couldn't help myself with this one! Hoped it made it easier to understand, if you want further explanation, I'll try to comment and explain more XD

This was a pretty long chapter-actually it's our longest chapter so far, so I hope you enjoyed it! A whooping 25,000 + chapter, please take your time! I had fun implementing some of the fun ideas you asked and commented, so I hope you had fun too! Since the Sports Festival up, we're moving to the next arc – but not quite yet since we have one more chapter to indulge in before I end this arc. Next chapter is going to be pretty short, so I hope this long one makes up for it. It's honestly just our conclusion for this arc!!

Of course, I hope you anticipate more new things heading your way after this! Arc 3 is probably going to be hard to write for me, probably gonna add a lot of fillers for more interactions, but I'll try not to bore you with my attempts in writing romance~ Sending lots of love to you all, hope your all well, healthy and having a splendid day~!!