Show me your motivation

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After a few tense minutes of silence, the stadium's atmosphere was still thick with anticipation following the intense moments between Izuku and Katsuki. The crowd had calmed down a little, though the energy still buzzed through the arena.

Suddenly, Present Mic's voice boomed over the speakers, breaking the tension.

Mic: ALRIGHT, EVERYONE! IT'S TIME FOR THE SEMIFINALS! THE MATCHUPS ARE SET, AND THINGS ARE ABOUT TO GET EVEN MORE INTENSE!

The crowd perked up, eager to see the next battles unfold.

Match 1: Izuku Midoriya vs Shoto Todoroki

Match 2: Katsuki Bakugo vs Ochaco Uraraka

After leaving Momo in the Recovery Room, Izuku made his way through the hallway, his mind still on the upcoming match with Shoto Todoroki. As he turned a corner, he was met with the imposing figure of Endeavor, the No. 2 Hero, and Shoto's father. His presence was overwhelming, radiating heat and a stern gaze.

Enji: There you are, "he said, his voice low and authoritative". I've been watching you. Your power... summoning weapons, a dragon, and your battle with the brainwashing kid and the speedster... It's impressive.

Izuku stopped, his expression neutral, though a flicker of irritation stirred inside him at Endeavor's tone and words.

Enji: You have strength and speed that reminds me of All Might, "he continued, clearly trying to size him up" But that's where it stops. It is my son's duty to surpass All Might, and your match with him will be a good stepping stone for him to show the world his superiority. So don't hold back. I don't want you to disgrace either of us by going easy on him.

Izuku's eyes narrowed slightly. Endeavor's words brought back memories of Shoto's declaration that he refused to use his fire during their match. Izuku could feel the weight of Shoto's struggle and how much he resented his father's expectations.

Endeavor went on, his voice full of confidence and arrogance.

Enji: If he used his left side—his fire—he'd be unstoppable. My masterpiece will win this entire festival if he just stops holding back.

That was enough. Izuku clenched his fists, a pulse of irritation flaring inside him. His voice, though low, was sharp.

Izuku: Shut up, "he muttered".

Endeavor's eyes flared with anger.

Enji: What did you say? "His voice was heated, more aggressive now"

Izuku: I said, SHUT UP. "he spoke louder. His voice was so intimidating that, despite Endeavor's blazing fire quirk, he felt nothing but cold for a split second—a strange, eerie sensation that caught him off guard".

The hallway seemed to darken as Izuku continued, his eyes sharp and unwavering.

Izuku: I'm not All Might and Shoto—he's not you.

The words hit with the weight of a sledgehammer. For the first time in a long while, Endeavor found himself at a loss, his body stiffening as though the temperature had dropped. The coldness in Izuku's voice cut deeper than any flame could burn, and it left Endeavor stunned.

Izuku: You talk about your son like he's just some tool to surpass someone else, "he continued, his tone unyielding". But Shoto is more than that. He's his own person, not your 'masterpiece.' So stop acting like you own him.

For the first time in a long time, Endeavor, the towering, flame-wielding hero, stood frozen in place—unable to summon a response. Izuku's voice had stripped away his usual fiery confidence, leaving only the chilling truth hanging in the air. He could feel the weight of Izuku's defiance pressing down on him, and for once, his fire was not enough to drive it away.

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