MHA: Sand Sand Fruit

As the second stage of the Sports Festival, the Cavalry Battle, came to an end, Akira swiftly took the captured points and dashed toward Bakugo. According to the earlier agreement, Akira ensured that Monoma Neito's team secured enough points to advance to the next round.

"This concludes the second event, the Cavalry Battle!" Present Mic's voice echoed throughout the stadium, followed by the enthusiastic cheers of the audience.

The participants stopped their actions, many collapsing from exhaustion or sighing in relief.

"Haha! Did you see that?!" Monoma sneered, his face alight with pride. "At the last second, I managed to steal points from Bakugo Katsuki! Class B reigns supreme!"

Bakugo yawned, unimpressed. Despite Monoma's obvious attempts to rile him up, he didn't take the bait. Instead, he replied with an air of boredom, "Enjoy your little victory while it lasts. Pray you don't run into me in the next round."

Without waiting for a response, Bakugo turned and walked away. Monoma, however, refused to let it go.

"Don't act so smug, Bakugo!" Monoma yelled after him. "This was a well-earned win, and you know it!"

"Sure, sure," Bakugo replied lazily, waving over his shoulder. "Class B's the best, right?" His dismissive tone only added fuel to Monoma's indignation.

One of Monoma's teammates hesitantly commented, "Do you think he's telling the truth? That he let us win?"

"Of course not!" Monoma retorted, his face flushing. "He's just bitter about losing. Typical Class A arrogance."

Meanwhile, Present Mic's voice filled the air once again:

"Alright, everyone! Let's look at the final standings for the Cavalry Battle!"

The large screen displayed the results:

- **1st Place: Shoto Todoroki's Team!**

- **2nd Place: Akira's Team!**

- **3rd Place: Bakugo Katsuki's Team!**

- **4th Place: Monoma Neito's Team!**

"The top four teams will advance to the final event! Contestants, take this opportunity to rest during the hour-long lunch break before the final stage begins!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating the incredible performances they had witnessed.

---

**Elsewhere, in the Stadium Stairs**

"Endeavor, long time no see. How about a cup of tea?" All Might's cheerful voice stopped Endeavor in his tracks.

The No. 2 Hero turned, his expression unreadable. "All Might," he said, his voice cold.

All Might offered a friendly smile. "It's been, what, ten years since our last conversation? Thought I'd come over and say hi."

Endeavor scoffed, clearly uninterested. "You've said it. Now move aside. I don't have time for this nonsense."

Undeterred, All Might continued, "Come on, don't be so cold. Your son, Todoroki, put on a stellar performance out there—especially considering he didn't even use his full strength. You must be proud."

The mention of Todoroki seemed to strike a nerve. Endeavor's frown deepened as he replied, "Your apprentice, Akira, performed well too. You've taught him admirably."

All Might hesitated, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. Truthfully, Akira's progress was largely self-driven; he hadn't needed much guidance.

Endeavor, sensing the hesitation, began to walk away again. However, as he reached the corner of the stairs, he stopped and spoke in a low, firm tone.

"Remember this, All Might: one day, I will ensure my son surpasses you."

All Might's smile faltered. "What are you talking about?"

"My son, Shoto, will surpass you and your apprentice," Endeavor declared. "I created him for that sole purpose."

Though his words carried an air of confidence, Endeavor's expression betrayed a complicated mix of pride and frustration. Without waiting for a reply, he descended the stairs, leaving All Might standing in stunned silence.