Two weeks later, the day of the U.A. Sports Festival finally arrived. I stroll out of Izuku's domicile, where his mother has implored him not to infringe upon their privacy. Meanwhile, Inko's voice carries out to me as I go to the door, "Oh, and Azure, don't forget to take care of yourself too!"

I smile at her and nod, "Thank you, Inko." Then, Izuku emerges from the house, and we walk together toward the U.A.

"I know I asked you this already, but you will be participating in the festival, right?" Izuku's voice echoed as we strolled towards U.A. A mix of determination and anticipation illuminated his expression. With each step, I pondered over the significance of his question, especially in light of recent events. Since the villain's attack, uncertainty seemed to shroud every decision. But amidst the chaos, one truth emerged: U.A.U.A. had a guardian, a protector who wasn't going anywhere.

"I mean, I could try," I mumbled, rubbing my neck nervously. "But do you think Aizawa will let me participate? I might outshine everyone, and then you won't be scouted by any heroes." Izuku shook his head firmly and reached for my hand, halting our steps just before the gates of U.A.

"Azure, you deserve to outshine us all. I mean, you're a prodigy. You can help us, and I'm sure Aizawa will not let your talent go to waste. He'd be foolish if he does," he reassured, his eyes reflecting an unwavering belief in my abilities.

I chuckled softly, leaning forward to kiss his forehead gently. "Fine, I'll talk to Aizawa before the festival starts. Now go on; I'll meet you in the waiting room," I said, watching him nod before he enveloped me in a quick hug and darted off. I sighed as he disappeared into the distance, steeling myself for the forthcoming conversation. "Let's do this," I muttered, determination coursing through my veins.

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"It's not me you have to ask that, Azure," Aizawa's voice interrupted my thoughts as I stood in his office. He was shuffling through papers, and I stood there with my hands clasped before my stomach, feeling a nervous flutter. "I thought so. I'll have to talk to Nezu then," I replied, trying to keep my tone steady.

Aizawa nodded in understanding. "Sorry that I couldn't help you, but don't worry about outshining everyone," he said, a faint smirk on his lips. "I knew from day one you're better than you think yourself."

I couldn't help but give him a shaky smile before walking out of his office and heading towards the principal's office with newfound determination.

When I arrived, I heard Nezu already engaged in conversation with someone. I knocked on the door, and his familiar voice called, "Come in." I entered, smiling at the sight of the mouse-like principal, then nodded at Ms. Midnight, who was also in the room.

"Hah, it's you, Azure," Ms. Midnight exclaimed, pulling me into a close hug. "I thought I'd recognize that pretty face anywhere," she added with a chuckle as she released me.

Returning her hug, I then turned to Nezu. "Sir, can I talk to you?" I asked, and he nodded, gesturing for Ms. Midnight to step out. She blew a kiss my way before leaving, and I rolled my eyes playfully, smiling.

"It seems my students like you, Azure. Now, what would you like to talk about?" Nezu inquired, his expression warm and attentive. I smiled before explaining that I should join the Sports Festival on Class 1-A's side.

He nodded thoughtfully. "I don't see why not, but be careful," he advised, his voice conveying concern.

I nodded earnestly. "I will be, sir. Thank you," I said, gratitude evident in my voice. Nezu smiled warmly and waved me off, his small paw-like hand encouraging. As I exited the office, adrenaline sur me, leaving me slightly giddy. It was time to show the world that the kaiju were back, and we wouldn't hide again this time. With renewed determination, I strode down the hallway, my heart pounding with anticipation for the challenges ahead.

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I was in the waiting room, speaking quietly with Izuku when Todoroki approached us. "Midoriya," he said, drawing our attention and the curiosity of our classmates, who turned to watch. I narrowed my eyes and crossed my arms, studying Todoroki as he glanced at me briefly before focusing on Izuku.

"You and I both know that I'm stronger than you," Todoroki declared, his voice steady and confident. I raised an eyebrow at his audacity. He is in some ways, but Izuku has the strongest hero's power. Todoroki may have the power of ice and fire, but... I sighed and shook my head, trying to quell my rising tension. No matter which of them is strongest, they're both my friends. I need to calm down.

Stepping up to stand just behind Izuku, my towering stature made him reach only to my chest. "And what makes you think that, Candy Cane?" I snorted at Todoroki, who met my gaze, tipping his chin up defiantly.

"Because it's the truth," he replied, his tone unwavering.

I snorted again before stepping around Izuku, hinging my hips forward to be face-to-face with the dual-haired boy. "You might have fire and ice, Candy Cane, but he has me. And hell, he doesn't even need me to save his ass all the time. Izuku is strong in both power and mind." I tapped Todoroki's nose lightly. "You are strong too, but back off before I make sure you can't speak."

The room fell silent as our classmates watched the exchange, their eyes wide with anticipation. Todoroki held my gaze for a moment longer before giving a slight nod, acknowledging my words. Satisfied, I straightened up and stepped back, feeling a sense of protectiveness over Izuku and a renewed determination to support him and my classmates in the upcoming challenges.

Todoroki swallowed but nodded, stepping away. I looked at Izuku, who sighed, looking a bit sad. "You don't need to save me every time, Azure. I'm just wasting your time," he said quietly.

I snorted before placing a hand on his shoulder. "You'll never be wasting my time, Izuku. Like the rest, I've told you this: you're my human. Every moment with you is worth all the effort to keep you all in line." I kissed his temple gently. "Just stay strong, and I know you'll do just fine in this festival."

Just then, Iida burst into the room, shouting for us to get ready. I straightened up, giving Izuku a reassuring smile as we formed a line to head out. "Ooh, I'm so excited for this," Mina said, hopping up and down beside me.

I giggled at her enthusiasm, and she beamed at me. "Aren't you, Azure?" she asked.

I shrugged with a small smile. "Sure, I am, but I'm mostly here to protect you all."

Mina cocked her head. "I thought Izuku was your human."

I smiled warmly. "You all are."

Mina smiled and linked her arm with mine before we both had to part, forming pairs as we prepared to exit through the doors. The crowd began to cheer as Present Mic's voice boomed over the speakers, introducing us.

"And Class 1-A's own kaiju, Azure! Queen of the Monsters!" he shouted.

I snorted at the title, feeling strange being addressed like that in front of everyone. But it was just fine—I was the queen of the monsters, after all. Stepping out into the arena, I could feel the eyes of the spectators on me, their excitement palpable in the air. My heart pounded, not from fear, but from the thrill of the moment and the determination to show the world what we were capable of.

As we moved forward, I glanced around at my classmates, seeing their faces lit with anticipation and resolve. We were ready for whatever challenges lay ahead, and I knew I was prepared to protect them and prove our strength.

Stepping forward confidently, I glanced back at Izuku, who stood firm beside me. We would face whatever came our way together, and I was proud to be here with them all.