MHA: Sand Sand Fruit

Aizawa Shouta glanced at All Might out of the corner of his eye, his tone calm but firm. He knew that this year's first-year students were particularly dazzling.

This was also the first time in U.A.'s history that the principal had established a special team from the first grade.

"Even without you telling me, I know this first-year class will surprise many people," Aizawa said matter-of-factly.

Hearing this, All Might smiled. "The strength of Akira and the others has grown faster than I expected. By the time they return from the Brave Academy, I believe they'll surpass even our expectations."

Aizawa didn't respond, but the hint of a nod showed his agreement.

"Let's discuss that later," Aizawa said, turning toward the stadium. "For now, we need to focus on the sports festival. It's about to begin, and we should prepare."

---

The room was filled with murmurs and exclamations.

"That's incredible! You're the first first-years ever chosen as exchange students!"

"Yeah," Yaoyorozu Momo said thoughtfully, "but it feels like our class just lost half its combat strength."

Iida adjusted his glasses, his expression serious. "I'm curious about what kind of students they'll face at the Brave Academy."

Akira leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, and replied casually, "No one. Their side didn't send anyone over."

This revelation caused a stir.

"What? No one?"

"Then how is it an exchange program?"

"It's more like a solo expedition," Akira said with a smirk. "We're going as representatives, and we'll return to U.A. once a month. The program lasts anywhere from three months to a year, depending on the results."

Before anyone could ask more, Present Mic's enthusiastic voice blared from the speakers.

"Students, it's time! The U.A. Sports Festival is about to begin! All first-year participants, please head to the arena!"

Iida sprang into action. "Akira, put on your sportswear quickly! The opening ceremony is starting!"

Akira nodded, standing up and stretching.

---

The massive stadium was alive with energy. Spectators cheered, cameras flashed, and fireworks painted the sky above.

Present Mic's booming voice echoed across the arena as he addressed the crowd.

"Welcome, everyone! Media, fans, and supporters from all over, get ready for the event of the year! The U.A. Sports Festival is about to begin! Let's give it up for our first-year students!"

Cheers erupted as first-year students from the Hero Course, General Studies, Support Department, and Management Course walked out from different entrances, gathering in the center of the stadium.

Above the arena, pro hero Midnight stood on the podium, her signature whip in hand. She waved to the crowd before addressing the students.

"The contestants will now swear the oath!" Midnight's voice rang out, silencing the murmurs of the crowd. "Akira Kitagawa from Class 1-A, step forward!"

---

All eyes turned to Akira as he climbed the stage. The cameras zoomed in on him, projecting his image on the giant screens.

In the stands, students from other courses whispered among themselves.

"That's him? Akira Kitagawa?"

"I heard he's strong, but arrogant. Isn't he the one who got kicked out of being Class 1-A's squad leader?"

"Yeah, but Class 1-A's full of weirdos anyway. Better watch out for them during the competition."

Amidst the whispers, Akira stood tall on the platform.

He glanced over at Yaoyorozu Momo before stepping forward.

"Hey, what am I even supposed to say?" Akira muttered.

"Keep it confident and inspiring," Yaoyorozu replied with a calm smile. "You've got this."

Taking a deep breath, Akira faced the crowd.

"This festival isn't just a competition," Akira began, his voice steady but powerful. "It's a test of our strength, determination, and resolve. Every one of us is here to prove something—not just to the world, but to ourselves."

He paused, letting his words sink in.

"So let's give it everything we've got. No holding back, no excuses. Because at the end of the day, we're all aiming for the same goal—to become the best version of ourselves!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, the energy reaching a fever pitch.

Akira stepped down, the applause still echoing.

"Not bad," Kaminari said with a grin as Akira returned to his classmates.

"Yeah, you actually sounded cool," Kirishima added, giving him a thumbs up.

Akira shrugged, but a small smirk tugged at his lips. "Of course I did."

---

In the stands, pro heroes watched the proceedings closely.

"That's Endeavor's son, right? Todoroki Shoto?" Mt. Lady asked, pointing at the icy-haired boy among Class 1-A.

"Yes," Kamui Woods replied. "This year's first-years are something else. Between Todoroki, Bakugo, and that Akira kid, we're in for a show."

"And here I thought the sports festival was going to be boring," Mt. Lady said, leaning back with a grin.

---

The first-years stood ready, the opening ceremony complete. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, the festival officially underway. The real battles were about to begin.