The moment Aizawa mentioned "Sports Festival," the entire class tensed. Then erupted.
"Wait, what? Already?!" Kaminari's voice cracked.
"It's like, the biggest event in UA!" Mina spun in place, excitement radiating off her.
Jason raised an eyebrow as whispers spread like wildfire.
Even he had heard of the UA Sports Festival. It was more than just a competition—it was a national broadcast, a showcase for the top Pro agencies, and a battleground for reputation.
And Jason hated attention.
Aizawa's voice cut through the chatter. "You've had your warm-up with the USJ incident. Now it's time to prove yourselves in front of the world."
Jason leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "So it's a flex contest."
Momo gave him a side glance. "It's an opportunity. Students are scouted into hero internships based on their performance."
Jason made a face. "Internships? So I get to play errand boy?"
"You get exposure," she corrected.
"Ah, yes. Exposure—the unpaid currency of the modern age."
She sighed, but her eyes sparkled. She knew he was going to participate no matter how much he pretended to hate it.
---
Later – Training Ground
As the class prepped for more advanced exercises, Jason trained alone. Word of his performance during the USJ attack had gotten around, and whispers of the "phantom kid" were starting to circulate.
Bakugo sneered at him in passing. "Don't think that smoke trick's gonna win you anything, gas-boy."
Jason smiled lazily. "You thinking about me a lot, Boom-Boom?"
"Tch."
Jason turned his focus inward, breathing deep. If this Sports Festival was going to be public, he'd have to make sure he didn't lose control again. His gaseous form, while powerful, left him vulnerable. Ten seconds of invulnerability—followed by a crash.
He needed to use it right.
---
Dorm Rooftop – That Evening
Momo sat beside Jason, arms wrapped around her knees.
"I think you'll win," she said suddenly.
Jason blinked. "You're usually better at playing it safe."
"I've seen you fight. You don't hold back when it matters."
Jason looked at her—really looked—and caught the hint of pride in her voice.
"Thanks, Princess."
He ruffled her hair. She swatted him away, cheeks flushed.
---
End Scene: The Announcement
The next morning, a massive hologram of Principal Nezu flickered to life above campus.
> "Students of UA! The time has come! Three days from now—the UA Sports Festival begins! A chance to show the world your strength, your heart, your resolve!"
> "For some, it's glory. For others—legacy."
> "Be ready. You only get one chance to make the world see you."
Jason stared up at the projection.
"Guess I better give them a show they won't forget."
(>) Means it's an announcement guys