Prodigies - My Hero Academia

You Were Made for This

Before society's introduction to quirks, an event such as the Olympics was the source for great athletic involvement, entertainment and representation. However, a demand for battles with humans' newfound abilities rose in popularity faster and before any other sport could keep up. The annual Sports Festival became a televised sensation for hero agencies around the globe to scout out recruits. Participants will not only have to fight vigorously to stay in the game, but also for the spotlight. After all, going pro means students must gain the attention of heroes to ever be considered for an internship and stay in the public's good graces. 

The pressure to perform for millions of eyes bore into their heads. Some running over the risks of failure, others dreading their limitations. Feet dragging on the concrete while he walks, Midoriya keeps his eyes lowered. With poor posture and a mind spinning out of control, the student expresses his phobias. "I'm pretty nervous about this. I mean- despite training, I still haven't figured out how to not break my bones." Midoriya's mentor chuckles, causing a raise of concern in his tone, "All Might?"

The hero scrolls through his phone, extra fabric hanging from his thin physique. That grand pattern of red, white, and blue is a promise of peace. A suit tailored to be durable and succeed his strength and agility. A figure feared by the criminal population, but adored by thousands, if not millions of citizens throughout several countries. Lifting his device, All Might shows an image from this last summer. "Look, it's you. Crying."

In the photo, a battered, beaten boy lays in the sand. Dirt and grime stains his clothes and smudges his skin. A fresh high school graduate feeling defeated by the crushing weight of several heaps of scrap metal. Training those three months meant fighting tooth and nail to simply be ready to obtain One for All. Most would call this opportunity a miracle. Especially for someone starting off life at the bottom of the food chain. 

Midoriya scowls, "Not helping."

Slipping the phone into his pocket, "Listen, Young Midoriya, One for All is difficult to master." , All Might shuffles closer and leans down to whisper, "Wanna know a little secret? I was quirkless too before the torch was passed onto me and trust my word when I say that you've had tremendous progress since we started. There's no need to worry. Just go out there and give it your all. I know you'll win."

The student's eyebrows raise and hands clench into fists. Those worries subside after hearing words of encouragement. Knowing that his idol may have gone through similar hardships as himself sets up a new perspective. Perhaps a leap of faith is in order to gain control of this intense power. Eyes bright and full of anticipation, Midoriya nods to his hero.

'I will win and make All Might proud.'

"Now go on to your class. Present Mic should be announcing you soon." His form bulks, suit now fitting tight over a famous muscular frame. "I'll see you on the field. Good luck out there!"

***

Below the stadium seats is a round hall of waiting areas, locker rooms, and an on-site medical station. Due to high security, precautions are put in place to ensure only university students and faculty can enter this section of the arena. Pro heroes on duty for this event are instructed to patrol the halls, entrances, exits, and paths where festivities are held. In a waiting space of their own, 1-A students chat amongst one another in their respectful groups, engaging in casual conversation when a head of green hair comes into view.

"There you are, Deku!" A bubbly brunette waves, "What's with the long face? Aren't you excited?"

The student freezes, "Oh, uh-"

"Midoriya." A student emerges from his seat, stepping up to look down on his classmate. "Know that I plan on not holding back and I expect the same from you. Show any weakness and I'll make sure that you fall. We aren't here to be friends. You all seem too naïve to understand that this is a competition. We will always be at war. Like sensei said, power will dictate over peace." Tension sweeps over the room while he exits. All eyes fall on the victim of Todoroki's declaration of war, but the room remains silent.