Step One in catching a crowd's interest:

Make a statement

When the announcement regarding the 'arrival' of the Pokémon first came out, the media went into a frenzy to find out about these 'iffy creatures', hoping to discover just about any information they could get their hands on. Not one news channel has stopped talking about the Pokémon, to the point they begun making segments about them. But before anything too sensitive could be spread, the information and footage were kept under wrapped by the government, leaving nothing on the table for the media to broadcast. Clearly, the public hadn't been happy with this, noting from their grumbling and angered speculations online right after, releasing complaints after complaints.

But once you had heard that everything was kept hidden for the time being, you were rather relieved.

With all the public's negative views running around, the wild Pokémon could easily be a thorn to show with their unpredicted actions and natures. There was also the fact that the wild Pokémon themselves weren't all too adamant with humans yet either, and would most likely be aggressive to any threat sent their way.

Therefore, you knew if anything negative about the creatures were served to the platter, it would most likely mean serving the Pokémon to their 'end'.

This was your chance to strike first.

To show what you know, that these 'iffy creatures' were more extraordinary than they could ever imagine, all while giving them an impression of a lifetime.

After all, a good first impression always leaves a better impression to the eyes of doubters.

For the Pokémon's very first appearance on live television, you wanted to take things a bit slower, less colorful in some words. You had never been one to be the showy types, so you decided you wanted to show the Pokémon with more extra care. And loads of caution.

But as you racked your brain, thinking day and night for the best entrance you could display without any ideas coming up, you decided to look through things in a different approach, thinking of the things you actually wanted to come out of this festival.

Like how you want to leave the crowd awed and baffled.

How you want everyone watching to have their eyes glued on to the Pokémon, unable to pull their eyes away any longer than a second.

Or how you want them to finally be resolved with acceptance after the festival, looking at the Pokémon in a new light.

Questioning, not out of fear, but instead with a want to know more.

So in conclusion, you figured that the best way to leave an impression on those brimming with uncertainty and short-sightedness...

.

.

.

Was to throw it right at their faces from the start.

"Keep it up Arcanine!" You patted the oversized dog, watching as he barked back passionately, increasing in speed. You tighten your hold onto Arcanine's mane, squinting your eyes at the sudden rush of air crashing into you, as you chuckled.

If you had to describe what it was like riding a 1.9-meter fire canine, you'd simply say, without a doubt, that it was like being the wind itself. All while feeling like being wrapped in the warmest heating pack.

Arcanine was a fireball, figuratively and literally. He was always simply filled with uncontained energy, something you tried to keep up with but ended up always completely failing. After joining UA, you had slowly begun realizing upon moving to Musutafu how restless the beast had been feeling, and guilt began eating you up. Unlike the forest near the town you and your mother lived, there wasn't any place you could release the Pokémon without seemingly looking for trouble. So in replacement, you tried to make do with the stuff within the dormitories range, including the school's facilities.

This was probably the entire reason why you had to chase around UA for the fire-dog during Shinso's visit. The restlessness was eating the Pokémon up, and with all that feeling being suppressed in this fire-dog, Arcanine was somehow 2x faster than you remembered.

Moving to the second obstacle was seemingly going to go by without a hitch.

You sighed. But that didn't stop you from feeling aggravated, the throbbing part in the back of your head annoying you constantly. A vein could very well be pulsating on your temple as you grumbled agitatedly, making the enormous dog peer up to catch your attention, crooning inquisitively.

"It's nothing Arcanine..." You rubbed his mane affectionately, your gaze softening only for it to harden within seconds. "It's just that I'm going to have to deal with a certain cat later it seems..." You chewed the inside of your cheek huffily, as Arcanine gave a knowing huff in reply.

'Meowth, when I asked you to do an errand for me...this wasn't what I was asking for!'

"Wh-W-WHA?! Who are you?!" Back in the reporters' section, Present Mic was eccentrically pointing at the outlandishly proud cat in confusion, head moving around like a squawking cuckoo bird at the sudden appearance of a crude talking cat on their desk. Aizawa, who was initially surprised, reverted back to his neutral stare, staring at Meowth who turned towards the voice hero exasperatedly.

"Hey! Didn't I just introduce myself?" The cat gazed at the blond hero judgingly, looking outwardly offended before he decided to be the bigger cat in this situation. Meowth was feeling quite forgiving today, so he was going to be generous. "Hmm, alright then, guess it can't be helped if I'm talking to a numbskull." Meowth shrugged gleefully, "I'll just introduce myself again, so listen up!"

Man, wasn't Meowth generous. The unstinting cat thought with a Cheshire grin.

"Huh?!" Present Mic was a mix between feeling insulted and confused, looking at Eraserhead for help as the man in question could only huff out a tired sigh in response, ignoring his workmate. Meowth cleared his throat, exaggerating it loudly, before abruptly pointing towards Present Mic impishly, a recognize sneer hanging off the corner of his mouth as he said.

"We're gonna take over this Sports festival!"

"Hey, you didn't need to say that twice! And that wasn't even an introduction yo!" The voice hero was having none of it, as Meowth laid back tiredly, looking interested.

"Welp! can't be helped; it's not my fault introductions get boring fast." Meowth shrugged placidly-eyeing his claws with a yawn, as the murmurs of the crowd continued to grumble on in confusion. In all of the past Sports festival UA had ever hosted, this might be the oddest event that happened. And many things happen at the sports festival.

Present Mic could only blink his wide eyes, his sunglasses unable to conceal the absolute puzzlement swirling in his expression, as he stared at the deranged cat sitting on the reporter's table. He sneakily leaned towards Aizawa in a whisper, all while pulling the mic away, his whispers appearing more like aggravated murmurs instead.

"Oi, Eraser-Should we call the security team or something? The cat's taking up all the attention!" Present Mic nervously eyed the Class A homeroom teacher, pointing his thumb towards the door persistently. He caught sight of the cat now making silly faces to the camera, whispering even louder. "Not only that, we're getting pretty off track from the main events-at this rate, the crowds gonna start complaining! What should we do?!"

Aizawa and Present Mic had a long staring contest, with the former looking hollow. The man could clearly understand Present Mic's sentiments, but he himself wasn't sure what to make of this situation, leaving both of them silent. That was when Meowth, who obviously had heard the whole thing, rolled his eyes, spinning his limber body around to face the duo, this time having the decency to place a paw on the mic.

"Oh c'mon, you're kicking me out already? And it was just getting to the good part!" Meowth then pointed to himself ecstatically, wide cat eyes gleaming in nothing sort but trickery. "How 'bout you don't do that, and I'll help ya out with the commentary instead! It's a win-win!" The cat kicked off with a devilish smile, as Present Mic gawked.

"You heard that!? And commentary? What?!"

Aizawa finally decided to step in before the conversation would roll around once again, telling Present Mic to calm down as the bandaged man asked.

"...You're...Meowth right?" Aizawa remembered clearly seeing you with that cat before earlier that morning, walking after you lazily as you stumbled to the 1-A's breakroom.

"Ting, ting, ting! we have a winner!" Aizawa's eyes twitched beneath his bandages, the mummy man finding himself wishing the day would end sooner. Meowth did an amplified spin, holding the mic to his mouth.

"Yep, That's right-Meowth, that's the name!" Meowth was gloating as the crowd could only stare at the screen unsurely as the cat deviously sat before the camera with a gleeful smile-as if his entire arrival hadn't disturbed the entire stadium. "And I'm here to show you all just what we Pokémon's are made of!"

There was a small silence that crossed the reporter's room, with a posing Meowth basking in the middle of a hush. If your ears could squint, you could hear the crickets cricketing.

"...OH! You're with (last)?" Present Mic was finally able to make a deduction, as the cat rolled its eyes. It seems the blond hero was finally following the conversation, as Meowth gave the teacher a look.

"Yeah, as if that wasn't obvious from the start!"

"Uh right but...why are you here?" Present Mic couldn't stop himself from questioning, pointing at where the cat stood with a perplexed grin. The cat gleamed, eyes lighting up as if he couldn't wait for that question.

"I was just gettin' there!" Meowth quickly cleared his voice, before rambling on, turning to where the crowd were. "Well since we have someone literally riding the back of an actual terrifying Pokémon out there, I betcha y'all have tons of questions! Since Cadaver and Showboat here have literally as little knowledge about us Pokémon as everyone in this stadium, I thought that I should lend a helping paw!" Meowth raised a paw triumphantly, grinning all cat-like. "Think of me as your third commentator, nice to meetcha ya!"

The two commentators stared silently at the cat, one looking a bit nerved, while the other stayed dead-silent as they both gazed the cat in question. The cat, who looked way too happy to be the same cat that was making a fuss earlier, had a paw extended in handshake in their directions, shaking it when they didn't take it.

"..."

"...we'll leave it you then..." Eraserhead grumbled out, turning his gaze back to the race as Present Mic gawped again.

"Hey Eraser, He just called you a Cadaver!"

"Looking forward to working with ya lot!" The cat cheekily grinned, moving his outstretched hand to a salute before his eyes glanced at your form on the screen, 'I got your back boss!'

Just Yesterday, right after you got home from school, you went searching for the silly cat that never left a day quiet for even a second.

"Meowth." You called, walking around curiously in hopes of an answer. Your Pokémon were lying about in the dormitory, as you walked carefully around each creature. Some were tuckered out, napping, while some were playing with each other in hopes for some sort of entertainment as you found yourself giggling at their antics.

It didn't take much time before you finally noticed the figure out on the courtyard, an empty place you left open for any of your Pokémon wanting a breath of fresh air. Meowth was laying down comfortably in a nap, the sun sunbathing him warmly, as he hummed delightedly.

The talkative cat leisurely stretched its body, yawning loudly to purposely annoy you, before huddling in a tiny cat loaf. He was deliberately showing you how comfortable he was feeling at the moment, probably in an attempt to shoo you away.

Meowth loves his afternoon naps. Knowing this, you would usually leave the cat alone when it was having his precious siesta, but just today-you just couldn't quite wait anymore.

You bent down beside the cat, watching as Metapod had just entered the courtyard only to rush off towards a tree, hoping to get some sleep too. You focused back on the 'napping' cat. "Meowth...wake up for a second."

The cat groaned, rolling to his other side to avoid you altogether-his back side facing you. "Can't it wait?"

You pursed your lips, looking at him in slight desperation. "...Please?"

This made Meowth groan louder, stretching once again before rolling to you with a huff, a grumpy face overtaking his earlier at ease expression. A scowl appearing as his forehead furrowed agitatedly.

"Make it quick then." He snapped, as you had to press your lips from laughing at the sudden grumpiness your cat emitted. You quickly fished out your phone, as Meowth perked a bit in interest, curiously wondering what all the fuss is about.

"Tomorrow's the Sports Festival, and I was thinking about it. I realized Present Mic-sensei and Aizawa-sensei don't know much about the Pokémon." You showed Meowth the app, the Pokedex to be specific, as he rose a brow. "So tomorrow, can you please give my phone to one of them. I'm sure it'll be extra help for them, especially since they'll need all the information they can get."

"Why can't you do it yourself later?" Meowth questioned, rolling to its back with a grunt, eyeing the sky. "You'll meet them before the Sports Festival for sure!"

"I suppose so." You answered briefly, looking around unsurely. You were surprised when your Misdreavus dove to your head, clutching your head like it was its very own bobble-head, letting out cries of giggles. It was gleefully smiling, as it's wide eyes shined with mischief.

You giggled, pulling the Misdreavus to your lap, patting it lightly as it snuggled into you. "Well then, could I ask for your assistance your greatness Meowth, to assist me if we do not meet in the morning? Or at least remind silly ol' me?" You joked, the corner your eyes crinkling in laughter.

Meowth sighed testily, taking a look at your eyes that showed more anxiousness than he thought behind your jokes and friendly questions. You were already terribly nervous and it was so painfully obvious-even as you tried to hide it. The sports festival must be really bothering you if you would even bother telling him to do such a simplistic thing.

After a pause, the cat begrudgingly nodded at your question, earning a bright smile from you. "Thanks, Meowth. I knew I could count on you. I just have a bunch think about for now..." You looked dazed for a moment, before you smiled once more, giving the cat an appreciative look.

Only replying to you with a grunt, Meowth stayed silent as you watched Misdreavus cheerfully play around, even to the point of bothering a grumpy Metapod as the both of you basked in the quiet ambiance together.

When the sun was close to disappearing, you finally got up to leave. You gave Meowth a small ruffle on the head, making sure to pet his fur just the way he likes it, causing him to grumble before you told him to come inside soon for dinner.

Misdreavus, who clung on to you like a moth to light, circled you gleefully, as you left Meowth trying to get back to his much appreciative catnaps, shutting his eyes tightly.

Only to realized he was having a hard time doing so.

Though he would rather choke than admit it, your anxiousness made him, slightly, just a little bit, teensy weensy worried.

Yeah, pretty weird right?

At this point, he wondered if you were even going to function normally tomorrow. Heck-you would definitely forget to hand your phone to the streety-looking man with all that jitters! The cat pouted, staring at the sky as if the answer would fall before him.

...So what?

Why should he care! This was payback to the author for not making him appear in the first arc of the story! He doesn't need to follow any ol' script! He was Meowth for crying out loud!

...But then again, you really did seem uneased...

There was a small pause, as Meowth's head worked like gears. He tossed and turn in aggravation, wracking his brain to help you out until he finally lit up with an idea.

A very fun idea.

Meowth smirked coyly. Knowing that you would have no idea what he was going to do the next day.

So when the day of the Sports festival arrived, after forgetting to hand your phone to Aizawa who you did ended up meeting in the morning-you thanked Meowth profusely who decided to become your errand cat grouchily. You were so grateful to the cat that you hadn't noticed how eager Meowth had looked that entire morning after.

You sighed. That idiotic cat has always caused trouble when you were least expecting it. If you knew one thing from this, you knew Meowth knew just how to rile up a crowd, and not gonna lie, it was mostly in a bad way. It's safe to assume that Meowth was going to be the source of trouble for your two teachers.

But Meowth could, and it's a very small could be the helping hand you needed to win over the crowd's approval. If anyone knows more Pokémon than you, it had to be him! It's a still small chance of working, but you'll be holding on to that false hope for the rest of the event.

"So are we doing this commenter thing or not?!" Meowth voiced piercingly, as you slumped a bit. Is this really going to go well...?

You shook your head, trying to stay optimistic. 'Meowth, though I'm still going to scold you for not telling me this, I'll leave the rest up to you!' as you wished your luck upon the trickster of a cat, hoping that Meowth will try to keep himself at bay.

...And not cause any trouble to Present Mic and Eraserhead. Hopefully, they can keep the cat in line.

"U-Uh Right!" Hazashi Yamada, the voice hero, cleared his throat. The hero looked a bit frazzled up, and it was quite amusing to see the usually obnoxious hero so stunted upon a cat's arrival, as he fixed his sunglasses feverously. "A-Alright Everyone! Let's get right on track! Will our curious first place student, with more questions than answers, keep their title to the end, or will our other contenders steal the show?!"

The crowd's attention had finally been reverted back to the main event, as Present Mic sighed, thankful to be able to change the stadium's atmosphere. Meowth leaned towards the window curiously, eyeing the screen inattentively. "Welllll, I ain't too interested in the others...but let's see what these other twerps are all about!"

The pleading stare of Present Mic was left unnoticed by Eraserhead.

Back with the rest of the student body, the students were left speechless as the earlier iced and melted robot was now at the brink of collapsing, sending the students all walking backward with uneasiness. Due to the already unbalanced stance of the bot, it came crashing down within second, the sound echoing loudly as many murmured worriedly if there was anyone underneath.

Beneath the collapse iced robot, someone had to punch his way out, the sound of pounding metal surprising many people. Both Meowth, who was disinterestedly watching what transpired, and an onlooking Present Mic watched as Kirishima came out of the rubble in anger. "I'M...ALIVE!"

"Oh...He's alive." Meowth passively commented before Present Mic filled in loudly.

"Ahh! 1-A Kirishima was trapped underneath, Crazy!" The voice hero pointed out flamboyantly.

Meowth raised a disinterested brow at the hero but didn't comment any further, as a half-hardened Kirishima was fuming, gritting his shark-like teeth agitatedly. "That Todoroki, he gave false hope to everyone too pass-at least (Last)-san made it obvious we couldn't do that yet!" Kirishima grumbled out, "If it was anyone else they'd be dead!"

Kirishima, with the ability to harden his body, was able to get out of the rubble of frozen robots at ease. It was incredible how quickly the robot went from melting to freezing, only showing the difference in raw power he had with his classmates-heck creatures!

But damn, was your entrance pretty cool!

Kirishima's attention had now been diverted to the echoing sound of something else pounding beneath the robot, as that someone else, who had also been trapped, emerged out even angrier than ever. "Class A..." Tetsutetsu began. "are full of jerks!!" He gritted his teeth, eyeing the mess of robots angrily, "If it was anyone else they'd be dead!"

"Ahh! Class B's Tetsutetsu was also trapped underneath, Crazy!" The voice hero pointed out flamboyantly.

"You're sounding like a broken record here, Showboat!" Meowth commented with a sweatdrop, shaking his head in a bore. Tetsutetsu's quirk was apparently to make his body to steel, and if that doesn't scream carbon copy, Meowth wasn't sure what would. "Not to mention those chums!" The cat sneered, his brows twinging.

"Our Quirks are identical! I'm already as tiny as it is!" Actual tears streamed out from Kirishima, as both the two similar-quirked people went rushing off. The joke of them being identical is getting a bit out of hand.

Meowth cackled, pointing a claw to the camera to add a finishing blow to Kirishima's pride, "Now this is what it really looks like when someone wants to copy your homework folks!"

"That's not helping!" Kirishima bellowed to the sky in agony.

"It also reminds me of that one meme of two American spider-heroes pointing at each other!"

"Stop!"

Though everyone's attention is on the now crumbled down robot, it still doesn't change the fact that there were still more robots waiting for their turns to push back some students. There couldn't only one robot, Kaminari thought as he tried to devise a plan to pass the gigantic android. It was then that Bakugo rocketed above one of the gigantic robots, using his explosions to make him afloat in the air. As he reached on to the top of the robot, he slid down right after, easily crossing the metal-heads.

"1-A, Bakugo, He goes over instead of under. clever!" Present Mic complimented, as Meowth shrugged his shoulders, a teasing smirk appearing on his annoying cat face. "Not bad I guess, but I thought explosion-boy here would do better to self-destruct instead, after all, it is coming from a guy who explodes, both on the inside and outside."

With Present Mic and Meowth commenting now and then, you were able to pinpoint from all their joyous commentating that even with the minor inconvenience you and Todoroki had set up, the others were already quickly making their way past the first obstacle in ease.

'As expected' you huffed a laugh.

"That First barrier was to easy huh? Then what about the second?" Present Mic grinned towards the desk cat on the counter, who mimicked the man's expression.

"What exactly is in the second obstacle?" Meowth gleefully asked, leaning over towards the window, before sending a sly grin Present Mics way, who sent a wider grin.

"I wonder what?!" Present Mic continued on, sending finger-guns the cats way this time, as Aizawa was now staring at the two noisy commentators bantering to each other with sly smirks on their faces.

They got close. And quickly nonetheless.

The press box had never been any noisier than it had ever been in UA sports festival history.

Aizawa slumped. This was going to be a very tiring day.

As Arcanine raced forward, your eyes narrowed on to the path noticing something odd in the distance. You still couldn't quite make it out, until Arcanine halted just mere meters away from it, sending a few crumbles of rocks tittering down to a dark covered pit.

"If you fall, you're out! If you don't want that, you must crawl. This is The Fall!" Present Mic explained as you were greeted with the 2nd stage. Platforms of around the same heights and size were scattered in front of you, maintaining each a similar distance, and the only sign to pass through was the ropes connecting to each platform. How eccentric of UA, as per usual.

But the smirk from the corner of your lips couldn't hide your amusement. 'Easy!'

Telling Arcanine to go back, the canine began slowly walking backward. When it was ready, the dog began speeding up as it jumped easily to one platform before it took its time to get to the next. You were carefully choosing which platform Arcanine should head, pointing in the ones that seemed the most fitting to go on to, as your eyes zeroed at the end of the fall. Of course, Arcanine wasn't as fast as you had been while racing on normal pavement, but even so, Arcanine was still jumping over with incredible speed, not the least bit worried it would fall.

"What? Seriously still too easy for our number one?!" Present Mic gaped, as Meowth was quick to shut the man's mouth abruptly, grinning in a very concerning way. Meowth was surely basking in the attention of so many onlookers, that he couldn't resist in explaining with a cheer.

"Now lookie here folks! Since this trumpeter doesn't know a thing, Lemme explain to you just what Pokémon we have here!" He shrugged with a wide grin, as Present Mic recoiled once again.

"Trumpeter?"

'They're arguing again...' Aizawa thought as Meowth gestured to the screen of the majestic creature, whipping out your phone from who knows where before showing it to the crowd-who seemed pretty eager and curious.

The Legendary Pokémon: Arcanine

A Fire Type

Arcanine has incredibly high speed. It is said to be capable of running over 10,000 km (6,200 miles) in a single day and night. The fire that blazes wildly within this Pokémon's body is its source of power.

"10,000 kilometers a day?! You're kidding!" Present Mic looked genuinely shocked, shaking his head back and forth solemnly, "Even in this day and age, I don't think that's normal..."

"You see, Arcanine speed isn't one to joke about! Coming from the east, China specifically, this dog is basically one with fire!" Meowth began, he placed both of his paws on both hips as his brows twitched, suddenly looking like he was having a problem. "If I have to talk about characteristics..." Meowth voice got less enthusiastic, "I guess brave and loyal..."

You were pretty sure you heard the internal struggle of a cat having to compliment a dog.

"So, this Pokémon has a fire within its body, and that's what pumps its speed?" Present Mic followed along, keeping a lively atmosphere as the cat waved his paws as if shooing a bug pompously.

"Yeah, yeah, that's right! Arcanine's speed is no joke! He's a powerful mutt if I'll have to say!" Meowth explained, while the crowd of onlookers awed and nodded along, too entranced at the majestic beast. "In the legends and illustrations, at least from what I have seen, it was said to have warded off the evils that plagued the earth. It was famed as a mythical creature that protects its country."

Meowth was really running with his role, seemingly less enthusiastic as he says, not that he was jealous but even he understood what the legend implies. There's really no denying that Arcanine was a pretty amazing Pokémon to begin with, as Present Mic peeked to him, trying to gather as much information for the people as possible. "So some knew of this Pokémon? Did they believe they existed?"

Meowth shook his head, the grin he had appearing once again. "Nah, they had no idea it was a living breathing Pokémon. I'll say there might be a riot at the east about this mutt right at this moment." Meowth cackled, somehow imagining the situation that was probably transpiring. Before pointing to the camera for all to see, "Arcanine is truly a majestic creature, so feast your eyes!"

After feeling that his job was done, Meowth slyly handed your phone to the curious Present Mic who took it blankly. "Here you go, since I'm far more knowledgeable, you can have it! Gotta have you keeping up with my knowledge!"

"Uh, thanks." Present Mic scratched his noggin, curiously pointing out at the cat, who looked pretty proud at what he's done. "But then I'm curious. If that big guy is a fire type, what's your power? Is it the power to talk?" The question itself made Meowth stopped grinning to himself, as he glanced towards him with an empty expression.

"Huh? Oh, that. Nah-I'm just special." The cocky smile made an appearance once more.

1st Pokémon: Arcanine

'Hmm, I don't know if that was what I was going for, but you got their attention.' You mused, noticing that Todoroki wasn't too far behind you. He was also rushing through the second course with ease, sliding across the rope with his ice-stare dead-set onto your own. You also heard the small explosion of Bakugo, who was still a bit behind, exploding mid-air after the two of you. Well, with his quirk, he's a bit of a slow starter.

'...If this was flat ground, our gap would've been pretty wide by now.' You thought pettily before your eyes landed at the others.

The rest were still at the beginning of the trail, having to stop short at the sight of the fall. The fall looked to be awful to accidentally dropped to the ground, as the students stayed rooted to their spots, overcome with nervousness. That was until Hatsume Mei, the support girl who ended up recreating your hero outfit, who was stashed with inventions all over her body, rocketed over the canyon, making it quite far ahead. Your stare grew amazed, Hatsume was eccentric but she sure was incredible.

"Different types of people are trying to get their chance, isn't that right Eraser Head?" Your ears perked at the comment Present Mic said as he gestured to the Homeroom teacher of Class 1-A, with Meowth peering over lazily to eye the silent hero for his response.

"Why did those idiots stopped moving?" An irked Eraser replied-pointing out to the students rooted in the front of the fall, as Meowth flinched in surprise.

"Oh-ho, the hobo can actually get mad too huh?" Meowth whispered to Present Mic, who nodded with a wide smile as if used to it. Then Meowth's eyes trailed up, staring at something critically. "Hey," Present Mic, who begun feeling that the cat was truly warming up to him, perked with a small grin, "How'd you get your hair to look like a banana every day?"

Present Mic's smile crumbled and came crashing down in seconds. Eraserhead dully said right after. "With 3 whole packages of hair gel."

'Different types of people are trying to get their chance...' Ignoring the last of their conversation, you watched with a weird feeling coiling in you as Hatsume used her inventions to gain another jump forward. The rest crawled their way over with the ropes, willing themselves to make it pass, even as they struggled at times. They were sweated, heaving tiredly, with their limbs aching. Yet their eyes were focused on the getting passed the platforms.

"...Hm." You turned your gaze forward, as Arcanine jumped over to another platform with a small slip. You patted him to be careful.

Other than making fun of how embarrassing Iida had looked trying to pass through the fall with Meowth's obnoxious laughter echoing in your head for probably decades. You were finally seeing the stair leading to the 3rd stage.

"Almost there, Arcanine!" You encouraged. Just two more platforms away as Arcanine walked back to get as much momentum needed, pausing for a moment, before rushing forward to make the jump. Your eyes were glued on to the next platform, leaning forward a bit...

When Arcanine abruptly halted right at the time he was about to jump.

In a flash you lost your hold on the dog's body, your eyes widening at the feeling of being thrown over. You were sent flying forward in midair with the inability to do anything, making you yelp in surprise. You reached forward, grasping onto something, anything before you could fall to your improbable doom when you felt the brush of something and held on to it tightly.

With your right hand burrowing into the ledge, crumbles of small dirt falling off in the process, you were now well aware that gravity was pulling on to you as you think. It was heavy, and you unconsciously tried to burrow your nail into the ledge tighter. Your eyes briefly made an unconscious decision to glance at the darkness below, before you find yourself trying to pull yourself up.

"Yow! Looks like there's a bit of trouble with our First place runner!" Present Mic commented, using his hands to cover his eyes as Meowth barked out, "Get up there boss!"

You gritted your teeth, raising yourself as hard as you can. You can hear the worried barks of Arcanine above. You made sure to keep yourself calm, breathing steadily, as you urged yourself to pull yourself up with all your strength. You were nowhere as strong compared to your classmates, but this situation was familiar. It wasn't too long ago when you had clambered up a mountain, and you used the slightest knowledge you had learned regarding it, you continued to try to get on safer ground.

Once you were able to pull yourself high enough to roll away from the ledge, you heaved an uneasy sigh, before turning to see what happened. Arcanine whined one of his legs caught in the ice, as it was looking at you to see if you're alright. It huffed a breath, trying to walk over unconsciously as you smiled at the worried dog, gesturing him forward.

"I'm fine Arcanine, hurry and burn the ice." You bellowed, as your eyes darted to the perpetrator, who was getting really close.

'that was seriously close Todoroki, I could've fallen!' You huffed, narrowing your eyes at the bicolored boy, who's expression wasn't the least affected by your own. But you did notice how his eyes were earlier widened in an emotion you weren't quite sure of before they returned back coldly. You took this chance to notice the rest trying to close the distance, with Bakugo leading the pack at a faster speed. Your eyes quickly shifted to Arcanine, who was still two platforms away.

"Arcanine! Into the ball for now!" Making a quick decision, you pulled out the ball, pressing it as Arcanine had finished burning off the ice, entering the ball quickly without complaint. You pocketed the ball, only glancing back once before you rushed to the stairs. Hurrying before the Todoroki can catch up.

"Looks like first place got into a bit of scuffle, but pulled out strong! Arcanine was put back into his ball after being caught by our second place's ice!" Present Mic commented, his eyes were locked on the device with hidden wonder, looking at the Pokedex with fascination. "Uwa-there's so much info-!" Of course, Present Mic did notice how the cat had kept silent this time, as he glanced to Meowth, who was too busy grinding his teeth, appearing furious.

"That turned Voltorb's sure cocky." Meowth sneered, crossing his arms defiantly. The cocky look in Meowth stare made Present Mic curious. "He could do better than that to stop us!"

Present Mic blanched, "I thought you were worried for (Last), but you just want her dead don't you?"

"Like Boss would die!"

Back in the first year stage stadium, the spectators had begun discussing with each other eagerly, watching as the teenagers were slowly making their way closer to the finish line, as the audiences inputted their opinion in excitement and interest.

"Wow, those two in the lead are ways ahead!" Someone from the crowd pointed out, as Todoroki was already finished with the 2nd course, moving to probably race past you.

"The one that's got a Pokémon, you know those things from the news! She was able to pass through the stages easily and then she put it in a ball?! Does she control them? How frightening!"

"Aren't the creatures...dangerous? Allowing it in a Sports Festival might be a little presumptuous-even for UA. We don't know anything about these things."

"She must've been the one judging how to pass through each stage, it's likely she's deciding on what the Pokémon should do."

"The first runner is interesting, but the second guy is no joke either. His quirk is strong, and his physical ability passes the others by quite a landslide."

"Of course, he is the Flame Hero: Endeavor's son!"

"No wonder, the blood that's second only to All Might! They'll be fighting for him as a sidekick!"

"Both the leader and second lead also have good judgments. With the Pokémon breaking the news, and that raw power from just one Pokémon, not to mention her ability to keep one at bay, many would be looking for her as a sidekick as well."

"But that cat sure is biased to the first place runner..."

You raced forward after finishing up with the stairs, heaving a bit but not slowing for a second. "The Leader and the runner-up are easily passing through!" Present Mic commented, before gesturing to the ones behind you two, "But as the leaders are up ahead, everyone is clumped behind. The number of people to pass the stage hasn't been announced, so don't slack off and keep going!"

With Present Mic's cheers of encouragement, everyone tried to go forward to their best abilities that made the announcer hero swell in pride, grinning almost uncontrollably.

"Oh no, just take it easy everyone! the numbers that could pass through are actually more than I thought..." Meowth leisurely looked at the paper book, that held all the information of the event, eyeing with little interest. Present Mic took a glimpse towards the feline in horror, as Meowth flipped over the pages. "It says right here that-,"

"Oi, don't tell everyone yet!"

You skidded to a stop when you finally made it to the 3rd stage. You had rushed as fast as you could, and were now lightly panting as you tried to discern the sight before you. Of course, you were no Iida, but you were able to maintain a pretty decent distance with Todoroki as you were met with a flat road with a few hinted dark spots on the ground. The course stretched on quite long, but you noticed that once the course has ended, the finishing line was just beyond your reach.

Your eyes narrowed at these dark spots. It appears to be like something was hidden beneath the ground, but you couldn't quite make out what it was as Present Mic explained.

"We're already at the final barrier, what could it be...?" The voice hero feign curiosity, pausing dramatically before shouting out ecstatically, "It is a Minefield!"

'Minefield...' You stared at the bombs hidden beneath the ground. 'Definitely couldn't use Arcanine anyways...'

"The mines are placed so that they can be found if you're careful, so work those eyes and legs. These landmines are meant for use in the competition so they're not all too powerful, but still! the sound and sight of them will be flashy, make sure you don't wet yourself!" The ever so enthusiastic Present Mic explained, seemingly sounding like he was alluding to a familiar experience as he turned towards the two silent presenters with vigor. "Hey you two, let's show some spirit!"

"Wooo..." Meowth lazily lifted his arms in mock spirits, not quite enthusiastic as he laid down languidly, as Aizawa rebuffed Present Mic explanation of wetting their pants with an inert, "It depends." Present Mic wasn't sure if Aizawa could turn his head in his bandaged state, but he was sure the dark-brooding teacher's eyes move to him.

"Woah! I understand the lack of motivation from Eraser, but you too Mouser?!"

"I told'ja the names Meowth!" Meowth irately complained, as he pointed towards Present Mic sullenly, somehow feeling a bit disappointed, "And fake landmines...How incredibly dull!" The cat grumbled as he watched the scene before him.

You hesitantly walked forward, carefully eyeing the ground to avoid any of the small explosives. Compared to the two earlier trials, with Arcanine easily jumping passed each obstacle without much trouble, this was going to be a bit trickier for you. For now, you'll have to stick with slowing down as you chose your steps carefully.

A blast of explosive caught your attention, as a dash of pink dust puffed into the air with someone sent cartwheeling in a wail. It was then you noticed the ongoing crowd appearing right behind your form. A few who weren't all too careful were sent flying a bit above the ground, causing you to wince.

You eyed the students far behind, noticing the students of mostly class A and B taking the lead.

You knew you should probably turn away by now, but for some reason, you stayed rooted with your eyes away from the finishing gate. It was like you couldn't pull your gaze away, as you watched how your schoolmates and friends' expression shifted every now and then. Like how their brows furrowed seriously, and their eyes quickly shifted to watch their steps to gaze at the front. Their determination oozing out as they tried to reach the finishing line.

Everyone hasn't quite given up yet, as you felt the feeling you felt Arcanine had, a fire burning within them in passion. It looks like their doing everything they can to win...

Then your eyes scanned the area, trying to pinpoint where a certain friend of yours was. Strangely, you hadn't quite seen a familiar green-haired boy, who agreed with you to do his very best this festival before you went on.

'No signs of Midoriya-kun yet huh?' You thought to yourself, frowning unconsciously. 'You haven't given up yet, have you?'

Then he spoke.

"Do you really have time to be distracted?"

The clear cold voice of Todoroki jolted you back to the minefield before your eyes were swept with the sight of him much closer than you anticipated. You felt your eyes narrow unconsciously, as you chose to ignore his words and keep pushing forward. You placed your foot forward, eyeing the ground with an on growing smirk rising from the corner of your lips, an idea appearing.

"Oh? I think you're the one that needs to focus." You jeeringly replied, stepping forward without trouble, as Todoroki made it his job to tail you. You eyed him silently, the glint of mischief irritating the bicolored boy. Just when you were about to take a certain step, a plan to hopefully to distance yourself from him even more, you heard the familiar 'Mankey' classmate of yours, causing a commotion behind you two.

"-This doesn't bother me!" Both you and Todoroki simultaneously glanced back, watching as Bakugo had rocketed forward, avoiding each landmine by flying over it as you were quick to move away when Bakugo appeared next to Todoroki, glaring daggers at the recommended student viciously. Todoroki's brows furrowed upon the appearance of Bakugo, as the blonde's left hand sparked. "-You! You were declaring war on the wrong people!"

"Uh oh..." You hesitantly stepped away from the two, eyes blinking widely in surprise as Bakugo chose to attack Todoroki with an explosion.

"What's this? Our two runner ups are brawling up!" Back at the first year's stadium, the crowd cheered, excitedly watching the buildup unfold before their eyes.

'upfront battles...I'm really out of my element.' You eyed the situation blankly, deciding to silently stride forward in cold sweat. They had begun pushing each other, attempting to pass one another, as you glance at them nervously, '...I'm really out of my element here...Let's just avoid them...'

You walked off, choosing to ignore their brawl. But of course, that didn't stop the fact that Todoroki and Bakugo were well aware you were trying to sneak off, as they now turned their attention to you.

"Oi, don't think you're getting away after that little speech in the breakroom fussbudget!"

You sweated. If It was even possible, you were in deeper trouble than you thought.

You were struck shock when Bakugo's sparks of explosions came in your direction, the explosion bursting on your left. You on an impulse ducked quickly, crouching down before the blast could hit you. Apparently, Bakugo was able to push Todoroki back to attack you. Your heart was beating loudly, pounding even, as you tried to keep your gaze zeroed on to where his foot landed, watching the way his foot carefully stayed perfectly away from the landmines, one inch away from his foot. Unable to pursue your earlier plans, the one you were planning to do to get Todoroki off your tail, you slammed your hand on the landmine by his leg.

The explosive was impressively loud and definitely surprised you. You underestimated the slight powers pertaining in one mine, as you were sent flying sideways a bit.

It caught Bakugo off guard, as he jumped back with a click of his tongue, able to avoid it. With bright pink fog appearing before him, Bakugo was forced to be pushed back by Todoroki who appeared next to him.

You gasped, trying to keep your legs intact the floor, as well as narrowly avoiding the other landmines on accident. You huffed when you got your bearing, triggering a bomb you passed as it exploded. Pink evaporating in the air, as you were left to walk hastily forward.

"Now the lead is being threatened, but our lead was able to keep their spot firmly! Be happy, mass media! This is the kind of development you like!" That was total luck on your part, as sweat was beginning to trickle down your form. If it was possible, Bakugo seemed more annoyed.

"Sock him, boss!"

You huff at the last comment, not the right time Meowth.

What was going to be your next attack now?

You needed to get away, but with both Todoroki and Bakugo scuffling out a bit behind you, you wouldn't make it just yet. You're completely outmatched if you tried to fight them purely on your own strength, and honestly, these two wouldn't need to do much if they wanted to overtake you. The lucky part for you right now is that they're trying to overtake each other, so that's why they were still maintaining the second and third place. Once one outdoes the other, you better be ready to say goodbye to your first place.

You stood there to what seemed like an idiot to the two, almost like your legs were glued to the ground. The two boys took noticed of that and were instead focusing more on each other.

You drummed a finger on to your side. You need an opening. Just a tiny one, a slight distraction. And then you'll be able to beat them if your plan goes right.

'C'mon think, think...' You blinked to stare at the blond and bicolored boy, clenching your teeth, 'Just need the right timing...!'

'Just a small opening...'

And right then and there, the earsplitting explosion burst into the air.

Your eyes widened, as you watch a huge explosion go off before you. All you could really see was pink, pink shrouding everywhere within your sights, as you feel the sensation of the blast trying to push you back. This was a bigger bomb, not the ones that one landmine would mostly create, as you unconsciously squinted your eyes.

That's when you saw it, something shooting out of the huge explosion, followed by a trail of pink in a single line.

Both Bakugo and Todoroki had stopped their scuffle to also look, and not only the two, everyone who was behind you three was staring in agape at the scene, watching the metallic green item, a junk from one of the robot's it appears, flying cross the landmine field.

"What the heck?!" Meowth gawked.

"Class A, Midoriya! Uses the blast force to catch up!" Like staring at a flying cow jumping over the moon, you had your head craned up, staring at the single student holding on to the metallic item firmly as he passed over everyone's head-just like you what you had done when you first brought out Arcanine. "And he's in the lead!"

"Wow!" You awed with your mouth slightly ajar, unable to keep your amazement quietened upon watching the scene. After the shock waned off, instead of feeling angry at being your number one spot taken like a baby's candy, you found yourself unintentionally grinning in newfound laughter. Your eyes crinkled a bit, as you shook your head. "You never cease to amaze me, Midoriya-kun..."

Then everything followed in an instance. Bakugo and Todoroki, who are both still aiming the first spot in this lively race, quickly took action to chase after the green-haired underdog. Bakugo, not caring anymore about your particular awed form, passed by you without a word as he rocketed forward to beat Midoriya. "Deku! Don't you dare get ahead of me!"

Todoroki quickly following suit, icing the ground while passing you just as quickly as the explosion boy, as you flickered your gaze to him. Only to find him observing you with his eyes holding his usual coldness. He turned away as silently and harshly as the wind.

You watched as he wasn't losing to either Bakugo or Midoriya, going at amazing speed. He really was incredibly skilled, that Todoroki. Not to even begin with how he really knows how to make someone feel immobilized. With that stare...looking at you like you were incompetent of passing him now...

You smirked, you weren't too sure about that yet. With Todoroki's help, there was now a single iced road you could take without triggering any of the landmines. Todoroki really must be aiming for the first spot if he decided that it didn't matter if anyone else could follow up by using his ice.

You chuckled and followed after, using Todoroki's newly created pavement. With both of Todoroki's and Bakugo's sight dead-set on to Midoriya, you picked up the pace, using all your energy in this last segment of the race, your hand reaching to your small bag, fishing out another particular Pokémon.

"The leads have stopped their grappling, and are running to catch Midoriya! They stop fighting when their common enemy appears. Although they're still fighting!" Present Mic ecstatically leaned to the window, making Meowth move away irately.

"What are you saying?" Aizawa ruggedly asked as Meowth commented further with a sneer, "The excitements making him lose some brain cells..."

You watched carefully as Midoriya was now falling to the ground with speed. It appears Midoriya didn't quite think about the landing much as he began falling down unceremoniously as Bakugo and Todoroki picked up in speed.

But Midoriya wasn't done for, not yet at least. With quick decision, the minute he was about to crash into the landmines, he slammed his metallic sled on to the ground, landing his feet on both Todoroki and Bakugo's back.

Another huge explosion appeared, but this time you were aware of it.

Using the bomb explosion to his advantage, Midoriya was blasted forward using both classmates as leverage to push forward, his body flying headfirst. Midoriya is now in the lead, rolling forward before he stumbled onto his feet to run to the gate of the stadiums.

"Midoriya blocks those behind him. He has cleared the landmine obstacle!"

Your eyes widened, as your smirk grew, 'There's the opening-!'

Both Todoroki and Bakugo were left trying to catch up after being blocked, pink fog wafting away as they tried to pursue Midoriya's stumbling form when,

"Now, Pikachu!"

Both of them were struck, freezing right up after as if the adrenaline had died down. The sound of the crackle and the way the shock was apparent from their expressions left you chuckling, as static flew everywhere in bright yellow. Their gazes locked onto your tittering form, cringing and grunting as they stumbled. Looking at the electric mouse gazing onward seriously, its red cheeks sparking up from its spot on your shoulder.

The two top students in your class were left at the mercy of being electrified and were now having a hard time gathering their bearings.

"Wha-?" Before the Voice hero could comment any further, Meowth shouted out with cheer.

"Let's go!"

Your eyes glimmering in mirth before you pulled out another ball once again, their eyes falling at your form in anger and in aggravation, as you pointed the ball forward and cried out.

"Arcanine, one more time!"

Released out of the ball, Arcanine's form begun morphing out-his bright sunset fur blinding in a sense like trickling fire in a campfire. The landmine was once again greeted with Arcanine's appearance, as once more, you were riding the huge dog with Pikachu scampering onto the dog's head as Arcanine jumped onward. It was a blur in your eyes, as you held on tightly on to the orange-black schemed Pokémon, as Arcanine speeded up. Watching as the distance between you and Midoriya's rushing form grew thinner.

"Eraserhead your class is amazing! What are you teaching them?!" Present Mic questioned, watching the scene with bated breaths, as Meowth watch with anticipation written on his expression.

Aizawa's dry eyes gaze with nothing but assertion, speaking earnestly. "I'm not doing anything. They're igniting each other on their own."

You passed the gate, with Midoriya still ahead of you. Darkness engulfed you as the light at the end of the hall invited you over. Yet all you could see was Midoriya's back.

"UA Sports Festival first-year stage-!"

"Oi, are you ignoring me?" Aizawa's voice cut in unceremoniously as Meowth laughter filled the air once again, with Present Mic not at the least caring as you gazed forward with heavy breaths. The excitement slowly dying down as all you could see was Midoriya's determined form.

"Who could've predicted this development, or this ending from the start of the race?" The sound of Bakugo's explosion, the spread of ice overflowing the ground, and the quicken steps of both Midoriya's and Arcanine's echoed back at you, as your eyes didn't waver from the glow of the sun on the other side. You released your breath, clenching your hand around Arcanine's fur tightly.

"The first to return to the stadium..." The whole stadium finally came to view, like the first time the class entered the stadium, awestriking in every way as all the colorful people's excitement was clear as daylight.

And all you could hear was tired breaths. "This person is..."

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

You smiled brightly.

"Midoriya Izuku!"

The lone boy who didn't stop in his race appeared before the stadium, messy green-black hair and cute freckles on each cheek, Midoriya was the first one to pass the gate on UA's first stage as confetti rained down on him. Cheers deafening to the point it could make anyone feel their entire body was combusting, as he didn't have time to catch his breaths when he was pushed abruptly by Arcanine's sliding body, who slid the surprised winner forward.

Kamui Woods and Death arms, who were guarding one of the areas, caught sight of the winner. A funny picture of Midoriya, surprised and out of breath, being pushed by a huge hyper fire-dog who had its tongue lolled out with a bright yellow mouse on top of the dog's head, yelping at the sudden collision, the words 'Winner' written on the bottom in bold font.

Mount lady was too busy being photographed by various paparazzi, and far too distracted to notice as the two heroes realized it was the boy a year back during the sludge event. "Oh, it's that kid." They gazed with unreadable stares, too distracted to notice as Dragonite appeared, hovering behind the two male heroes quietly to look at the scene a bit muzzily.

In an unknown area, a certain villain with dirty mint hair framing his head, scratched the skin on his neck all while huffing detestably. His red eyes narrowed on to the green-haired All-Might loving student as he watched the scene shrouded in the darkness of his room. "That brat..."

Shigaraki looked at the scene disgruntledly, the artificial hand over his face unable to really show his complete expression, as his hand scratched relentlessly on his battered neck in aggravation. But then he paused for a moment, noticing something in the picture, as his blood-like eyes disregarding the annoying brat and the mammal-like slobs to see the smallest appearance of the person on the mutt's back. The person, happy with uncontained glee with both her hands held up in cheer, as he stared longer.

"Hmm..." Shigaraki's scratching continued, only much more lightly.

"Ooh, man! I really thought the boss was going to win there!" Meowth complained, laying down boredly, crossing his arm crossly. Though the cat acted crossed, his eyes still held interest as Present Mic was hushing the cat, "There's still the other stages, don't forget!"

Midoriya heaved a tired breath, trying to catch his breath as he laid onto Arcanine's large nose. His eyes were on the blue sky, watching the rain of confetti fall down. Pikachu, who had still stuck on top of the canine's head, peered down to stare at Midoriya with wide dark eyes, cutely cocking its head as Midoriya gave it a tired tiny smile.

"That was amazing Midoriya-kun!" You had slid down, appearing right beside Arcanine's big rounded head. Midoriya only had to stare ahead to see you, you staring down at him with a huge grin, the sun hallowing behind you as he squinted. His cheeks automatically heating up as he notices you were extending a hand to him.

You chuckled as you pulled him to his feet, standing him up on wobbly feet with Arcanine's help, as he this time gazed upon the whole stadium, cheering for him. You gave his shoulders a small squeeze, finding yourself entertained at the almost disbelieving stare he held, as you left him on his own to bask in his win. You walked towards your Pokémon, the ones who made it possible for you to pass this event so quickly.

"Arcanine, Pikachu, you guys were the greatest!" You reached up to scratch Pikachu's ear, who cooed at you as wrapped your arms as best as you can around the big mutt laying down on its belly, who was equally as happy. You giggled as Arcanine deep grumble vibrated as you hugged the dog tightly, Pikachu sliding down to your right shoulder with cheerful squeaks, brightly nuzzling into you.

As you hold on to your Pokémon securely, your eyes couldn't help but stray towards Midoriya, who's eyes had watered up as he cried. A smile crept up to your face, warmth spreading inside you.

After wiping the tears that were forming with his forearms, he abruptly whirled around to you, looking at you stiffly. He strode towards you, making you pull away from your huffing pooch, to be met with Midoriya's serious expression. You tilted your head as Pikachu rounded to your other shoulder as he said.

"(Last)-san! I-I did it!" You gave him a confused smile as he smiled at his own hands as if he still couldn't quite believe it. "I won..."

You silently watch as the male was distracted, that disbelieving still there. You raised a brow, before moving closer to lightly flick his forehead, causing him to drawback with a yelp. You placed your left hand lazily on your side, your right hand that had flickered the green-haired boy turning to ruffle his hair teasingly. "Not yet Midoriya-there's still other stages before you really win." As you slowly pulled your hand away, your smile shining, "But, you were really cool-you completely caught me off guard there."

Midoriya eyes shimmered like crystals as if he was going to cry, causing you to look at him frantically and nervously. "Hey don't cry!" You patted his back as he instinctively tries to rub his eyes as if that'll stop the tears. "But seriously, that was so incredible how you used the landmines as a bomb to rocket off like that! You just have ideas sprouting out of that head of yours like daises don't you Midoriya-kun?"

"I-I could say the same for you, electrifying them when they were still in shock from the bomb, making sure your fire-dog burns part of the ground before jumping over in the first obstacle, that was so cool (Last)-san!"

"All I'm doing is ordering my teammates around, it's really not all that." You were left chuckling, as you petted Pikachu once again. You leaned on to Arcanine as Midoriya still rebuffed you with a shake of his head.

"It was just luck for me, but still for you-!" His expression suddenly shifted.

His heart had been beating so hard, that he wasn't quite thinking straight. But as he urged himself to take a small breather...something didn't quite make sense. You were confused to see him so silent all of a sudden, as you waved your hand in front of his face.

"A-Ah it's nothing (last)-san!" He looked nervous, his expression twinging in confusion, glancing at you then to the floor constantly. You continued to watch him confusedly, wondering worriedly if he was going to faint. Then he gazed at you, still looking rather nervous. "U-Um...(Last)-san, before-!"

A large tongue suddenly swiped at Midoriya, as you stared at each other in surprise. Arcanine seemed to be grinning after he had unexpectedly licked the green-haired boy, who was now covered in slobber.

You snorted before laughing, watching as Midoriya was tackled into the ground with more licks as you clutched your stomach. Midoriya was too busy trying to fend himself off from being slobbered up completely as you covered your mouth, "Oh Arceus, it looks like the winner is getting a kiss."

Midoriya called out, "Ah-(Last)-san, a little help!"

You maneuvered your way to Arcanine, telling him to back up as you extended your hand to Midoriya, who stared up at you with red-cheeks, "Congrats winner." You pulled him up once again. Midoriya's heart thumped loudly, and not only from the adrenaline of the race as he squeezed your hand tightly. Not letting go even as you pulled him up. But...

...He'll ask you later.

The rest of the students were beginning to trickle in, one by one, each with bated breaths and sweat covering their entire body, as they either heaved tiredly in the side or flopped to the grassy plain with a sigh of accomplishment or disappointment.

You did notice how both Todoroki and Bakugo had appeared right after you, finding yourself impressed that they still had some power to push forward after you had Pikachu electrify them. You heard footsteps behind you, as you turned to see a burnt-out Ochaco, tiredly jogging your way.

"(Name)-chan, Deku-kun, you're both amazing...!"

"Uraraka-san..." Midoriya called out as Ochaco breathed heavily, still tired it seems as she grinned at you both.

"First place and Second Place is amazing, I'm so jealous!" You chuckled at her, Pikachu perking up at the brunette's appearance. Uraraka leaned to you, still smiling as you wrapped your arms around her steadily, releasing your hold on Midoriya's hand. She flopped to you. "I'm seriously so jealous!"

"Don't be Ochaco-chan, you were amazing yourself!" You complimented her, squeezing her in a side hug that made her return it with wide smiles, she laid her head on your shoulder tiredly as you patted her side securely. You didn't forget to give Midoriya an encouraging smile again, as Midoriya combusted to a shade of red, trying to cover his face. Why does he always feel shy when you smile at him like that?

...But that thing...it's still weighing in his mind. His brows furrowed, trying to take the thought away.

As you patted a drained out Uraraka, who was snuggling into you like a kitten even with her entire body burning up in this heat-infested day, she murmured into you, "Hmm, you still feel quite cold (Name)-chan...It feels nice."

"That's because I haven't been running as much as you guys..." Your brows pinched together in amusement, feeling Pikachu climb up your head to pat Uraraka on her head softly as you questioned with a touch of worry, "You'll be fine for the next event won't you?"

"Mhmm...I will."

Leaving her in her drawled out sigh and Pikachu to his tiny squeaks of questioning to Ochaco, you caught sight of the ever so stoic Todoroki who was eyeing you from afar, causing you to narrow your eyes at him. As your gazes stayed like that for a moment, you both turned your head away simultaneously as your mood soured.

Realizing the Pokémon on your shoulder that was patting her head, Uraraka lifted her head away from you, her chocolate eyes landing on to the mouse who perked when she noticed him. Pikachu tackled forward, as Uraraka return him with affection. "Pikachu! Aww~ we're you comforting me? you're seriously the cutest!"

Your eyes gleamed, as Pikachu cuddled back with equal love and affection.

Step Two:

Show possible Good relations with humans

Just the Pokémon being themselves is already enough it seems. You watched the cute scene happily, knowing that if you felt glad at that scene, then others would as well. The murmurs all around grew loud, as you glanced around curiously.

As you were finally within the stadium again, you finally were aware of the words that were flying out of the spectator's mouth. Glancing around, you hear the murmurs and see the wide eyes of everyone as Pikachu was being snuggled up with Uraraka, and Arcanine was being gazed upon by everyone who just arrived from the race, the mutt sticking out like a sore thumb. It was eyeing a nervous Midoriya contemplating by himself, who jumped in surprise when Arcanine grunted to grab his attention.

And as you hear their conversations, the audiences, you were amazed at what you heard.

"That big Pokémon there, it just like a giant dog isn't it?"

"The mouse is so cute! What a peculiar bright fur!"

"So they can create powers like that too? Wow!"

Your heart squeezes, and you couldn't look away from the crowd as it feels like you couldn't breathe. But it was the good kind, the one that left you breathless and unable to move from your spot. It was like for the first time on rainy days, the sun decided to come out, and the whole world just lit up before you. You clenched your fist to your heart, unconsciously smiling.

But you can't be satisfied yet. Not yet.

There is still much you can show, much you can tell, and you won't stop until you get everyone watching to see what you see. Lovable creatures, if only if they opened their eyes. Who knows, if positivity can reach people like this...there'll be a huge chance for them to be accepted, and maybe just maybe...

Things would be brighter for the Pokémon...

"Oi," You broke out of your daze as you whirled around to find Bakugo's calm narrowed eyes glaring at you. He apparently had snuck up upon you without you noticing. Your brows raised at the appearance of the class delinquent, glancing back to see Uraraka occupied with Pikachu as Bakugo stare hardened. "...Don't get too pig-headed yet..."

Your brows pinched together. "...? And this is coming from you Bakugo-san?" You didn't look impressed as that only seemed to irk the blond even more.

"Don't you look down on me Fussbudget!" He seemed completely irritated right now, as you looked around to find a way to run away. If it wasn't for the fact he wasn't gritting his teeth to the point they appear to be waning away, you would've stayed, but this man is looking ready to kill. "If you're not underestimating that half and half bastard, then you better not underestimate me!"

"I'm not." You shrugged, sighing a bit. As usual, Bakugo was hard to understand sometimes. One moment he's strangely calm, the next he's angered by something completely odd. And sometimes in those rare moments, you'd see the guy that shoved a package of bandages after you had taped his finger. It was sort of a cute memory you have of him...

Naturally, you might need to remind yourself that him being anywhere close to being remotely cute, is as rare as meeting Ho-Oh in the middle of nowhere. You questioned him back, raising a brow. "...Why don't you stop being so pig-headed?"

"Hah?!"

"You're not that special that I would treat you any different from the rest Bakugo-san. I'm simply more annoyed with half cold half hot guy, that apparently has some beef against me." You replied with a polite smile, side-eyeing to the direction of the bi-colored male. "Besides, I'm not going to go easy on you when I have my eyes set on the first spot as well."

"..."

Bakugo was hushed, an unusual feat, as you silently waited to see if Bakugo wanted to input anything more. When it seemed he was done, you moved passed him silently wanting to get away as soon as possible. When Bakugo suddenly scoffed a laugh. "Heh..."

You paused, peering behind you to catch he was doing the same. "That is if you'll even pass the 2nd round..." He said, no laughter or sneer, this time with just a blatant stare.

"You won't have to worry about that." You replied seriously, raising your head as high as you could as Bakugo suddenly scoffed, somehow finding the situation funny again. He walked over, only stopping when your sides brushed to give you his own input.

"I'm going to beat you at the 3rd stage, so I'm going to have to have you move pass the 2nd one." He said it so simply, that when Bakugo's glare hardened, you were left momentarily astounded. "I'm not letting you off for that stunt you pulled at the finish line...you're not underestimating me huh? We'll see about that."

You drew back at his words, but that didn't stop Bakugo from walking away, for good this time. You weren't completely sure what he meant, until he spat silently, the annoyance heavy in his voice.

'letting that shitty nerd win...'

Your eyes widened, dumbstruck as you watched his form walk away further.

"Oh, the announcement is about to start!" You were brought back from your clouded-state, to Ochaco pointing to a growing crowd surrounding Midnight-sensei. She appeared right by your side, looking at your speechless expression questionably. "What's wrong...?"

Realizing her question, you smiled forcefully. "I-It's nothing! Let's go!" You were quick to pull Ochaco with you as Pikachu maneuvered its tiny body to hop on to your shoulder, patting you worriedly.

You bit the inside of your cheek, shaking your head. 'I-I shouldn't be thinking about this now...I need to focus...!'

Once you appeared, you couldn't help but notice the slight glances you'd get from the other students. It made you slightly uncomfortable, but you walked towards where Arcanine laid, spotting the green-haired boy being nudged by Arcanine curiously.

"I'm sorry Midoriya-kun, I'll put Arcanine back into his ball." You patted the dog, as Midoriya vigorously shook his head, attempting to explain he wasn't bothered by it. Uraraka eyes lit up, as her paw-like hands softly petted the lion-like dog with awe.

"He's so cool!" The dog grunted at the compliment, causing the brunette to laugh. Arcanine then went to curiously eye Deku again, it's nose twitching a bit. You gave him a weird look as Ochaco hummed, jokingly commenting, "I think he likes you cause of your hair Deku-kun!"

"Huh? My hair?" Midoriya could only pat his head curiously, eyeing the dog in question who huffed in reply.

"Yeah-it's totally your hair Deku-kun!"

"W-What's wrong with my hair!?"

"Pfft-!" You covered your mouth quickly.

"The first game of the first year stage is finally finished! Now please view the results!" Midnight interrupted this odd argument as she gestured towards a screen. Most were entranced at the large Pokémon laying in the middle of the field, but they finally turned their direction towards the list in anticipation.

Midoriya was first, then you were second. After that it was Todoroki, leaving fourth to Bakugo. You watched to see who else had made it passed, mostly finding everyone from the hero courses making it to the second round. Of course, there was the exception of two other, specifically Hatsume Mei and Shinso Hitoshi. Pikachu squeaked at the appearance of Shinso on the screen, pointing a paw over, as you nodded back at Pikachu's words.

You cheered silently, 'Good job Hitoshi! And You too Hatsume-san!'

"Forty-two students made it to the preliminary, even if you didn't make it through, don't worry. You still have a chance to shine." Midnight-sensei deliberately licked her lips as you sweat-dropped. You lightly lean into Arcanine's back as he huffed out a breath, surprising Midoriya in front of him. "Now the real games begin! From now on, the press will be excited. Do your best!"

You watched carefully as the screen begun rolling up like a game on a casino, as Midnight began, "Now for the second event, although I know what it is. What could it be? What could it be? And now..." The screen came into a stop as your eyes landed on the words, "Here it is!"

'A Cavalry Battle'

This was a game where you must work in teams. There would be most likely 2-4 players acting as a team, one person needs to be carried by the others, as we fight against the other team for the headbands. In middle school, this was a must-have event in any Sports event. But UA wasn't quite as normal as any other school. 'So what's the twist?'

With the last battle, everyone's been appointed with points from their ranking. Each team would have different rankings once they had teamed up. From the 42nd runner to the 1st, there'll be an increase in points by 5. Your eyes tried automatically searching for your own points when Midnight suddenly said.

"And the points assigned to the first place is..." Your eyes landed on the first place spot on the screen curiously.

"10 Million points!"

"..." You slowly turned your head to a pale Midoriya.

The shock students had automatically moved their gazes to Midoriya, who took a harsh swallow in. You blinked around at the hungered eyes appointed to the green-haired boy, who stood stiffly just beside you. You stared at Midoriya, noticing as Arcanine's second unintentional huff breath seemed to cause Midoriya to freeze more rigidly. Your worry growing as you released what this meant.

A battle to grab the 10 million point bandana.

This isn't looking very good for Midoriya huh...?

~o~o~

This story always gives me a rush of ideas, and sometimes I can't wait to get to the next part. Hello everyone, it's been a while! The long-awaited chapter 28 has appeared! And we're done with the first stage and moving the next!

The chapter...is long. Honestly, If I only wrote the parts with the reader, this part would finish much quicker, but since Meowth had become a commentator, I had to input a lot of parts for Meowth to contribute with his role. Not gonna lie, it's awesome to write Meowth as a commentator! And I can't begin to say how sorry I am this took forever. Sometimes, I just have so many ideas that it gets difficult to stuff them in with each other.

Thank you so much for being patient and love, and also for your adorable comments. Seriously, you guys always make me feel like combusting, and your comments mean so much to me. I always look back at the comments when I need a boosting, so thank you, as always! Hope you all will have a splendid day! And see you in the next chapter.