Chapter 2: The Offer
???: Optimus...
Optimus stirred, hearing someone call his name. Someone familiar.
???: Optimus... Can you hear me?
Optimus then opened his eyes and saw he was standing in a void of open space, the ground beneath his feet being clouds, and the sky resembled the infinite cosmos
Optimus: Where am I?
???: You are home, my disciple.
Optimus turned to the voice and his eyes widened at who he saw. His silhouette was made of pure light, but with his thick and long beard and kind eyes, and referring to Optimus as "his disciple", Optimus could recognize who this was immediately.
His silhouette was made of pure light, but with his thick and long beard and kind eyes, and referring to Optimus as "his disciple", Optimus could recognize who this was immediately
Optimus: Alpha Trion?! I-I...
Alpha Trion: It's been a long time, my old friend and student. Welcome to the Realm of the Primes.
Optimus did not pay much attention to his mentor's words, rather a deep sense of shame and regret fell upon the human Prime. The last time he saw Alpha Trion, he was a lifeless husk of metal with a fusion cannon blast in his chest from Megatron when he raided the Iacon Hall of Records. Optimus bowed his head.
Optimus: Please forgive me! For not being able to save you! For not being able to save Cybertron like you hoped I would! For not stopping Megatron when I should've!
Alpha Trion: Raise your head, my student.
Optimus did so.
Alpha Trion: I do not blame you for any of that Optimus. I know you did your best to save Cybertron. And while you did indeed fail, you didn't give up. You kept fighting. Despite all you've lost, you stood strong in the face of impossible odds and emerged victorious. I couldn't be more prouder of you my student.
That praise caused Optimus to smile. Alpha Trion soon held a regretful look on his face.
Alpha Trion: Which is why it pains me to do this to you.
Optimus blinked in confusion.
Alpha Trion: Your arrival in this new world, and your transformation into a human, was our doing. Me and the other Primes.
Optimus' eyes widened in shock. The Primes were the ones who sent him here?!
Alpha Trion: Before you ended up becoming one with the All Spark, we saved you and used our power to send you here.
Optimus: What about the core? If you stopped me from becoming one with the core, does that mean that the All Spark didn't–
Alpha Trion: Do not worry. New life breathes in Cybertron. And will continue to do so till all are one.
Optimus then sighed in relief. Glad to know his sacrifice wasn't for nothing and that his home was able to create new life. He then focused back on his mentor.
Optimus: For what purpose did you bring me to this world then?
Alpha Trion: Tell me Optimus, what are your thoughts on the world we've sent you to? I want your honest opinion.
Optimus took a moment to gather his thoughts.
Optimus: It is a lot like Cybertron before the war.
Alpha Trion: How so?
Optimus: The world has put too much focus on Quirks. Much like on Cybertron, the power, or Quirk, you're born with, largely decides your place in life. People with powerful and flashy Quirks are paraded around at a young age, believing they are destined for great things without working to earn them. On the opposite end, those with weak or no Quirks are cast aside, made to believe they are worthless and have no place in the world. And those with Quirks that suit that of villains are instantly categorized as such, without taking the time to look into their character. The heroes, people who are responsible for protecting the innocent, are more concerned with their popularity than they are for the lives in danger. The ordinary people are not much better. They seem to accept what has happened, grown too accustomed to the world, believing that a hero will step in and solve their problems instead of doing it themselves. This society is fragile, and if continues down this path with its current views, I fear there may be a repeat of the war that doomed our homeworld.
Alpha Trion had a proud smirk on his face, pleased with his disciple's wisdom.
Alpha Trion: You always were an insightful one. Able to pick all that apart after less than a day in that world. I'm impressed, and it was one of the reasons that we sent you here.
Optimus looked back up at his mentor.
Alpha Trion: You are not a native of that world, not even human, but you were able to spot the problem instantly, while those native to this world have lived their entire lives blind to the problem right in front of them. As such, you have a greater chance of changing the course of this world from ruin.
Optimus: How? How could I possibly do such a thing?
Alpha Trion: That is for you to find out Optimus. It would be best if you found your own path to achieve your goals.
Optimus understood the words from his mentor's mouth, but he had another question.
Optimus: You said changing the mindset of the world was one of the reasons I was sent here? What is the other?
Alpha Trion looked away from his disciple, a pained expression on his face.
Alpha Trion: I'm afraid I cannot share that with you now Optimus.
Optimus: Why not?
Alpha Trion: Because you are not ready.
His mentor's blunt remark caused great shock on the Human Prime's face.
Alpha Trion: While it is true you have achieved impossible feats and are an experienced and hardened warrior, right now, as a human, you are nowhere near strong enough to face what is coming. And knowing you, you would immediately seek to challenge this evil. And if you did as you are now, you would die, and all hope would be lost.
Optimus had a shocked look on his face. Was this evil that his mentor was talking about really that dangerous? But if it was, why wouldn't he tell Optimus anything? Before he could ask, he felt a shift in the air around them. He looked at his hands and saw that his form was beginning to glitch.
Optimus: What is happening?
Alpha Trion: It appears our time is up.
Optimus: Pardon?
Alpha Trion: It took considerable energy for us to speak Optimus, and now it seems that energy has been used up. You will now return to the world we sent you to.
Optimus: Will we ever speak again?
Alpha Trion: I do not know Optimus. That is up to the whims of the universe, but know this, my disciple. I, and the other Primes as well, are always with you. Through the Matrix of Leadership.
Optimus smiled in comfort, knowing his mentor and predecessors were always with him, if not in person.
Alpha Trion: One last piece of advice.
Optimus looked up at his mentor, his attention fully on him.
Alpha Trion: If you are to defeat this threat, you will need both training and allies. Despite how strong you are Optimus, you are but one person. There is little you can accomplish by yourself. Seek out friends and allies, and become stronger in this world of Quirks.
Optimus had a determined look in his expression.
Optimus: I will. I promise I will not let you and the other Primes down.
And with that, Optimus was gone. Alpha Trion had a regretful and worried look on his face despite his disciple's words.
Alpha Trion: I hope you don't.
???: You didn't tell him.
Alpha turned to the side and looked at the Prime Mini-Con, Micronus Prime, who was floating in the air cross-legged.
Micronus: Why did you hide the truth from him? I know he was your former student, but that doesn't give you the right to coddle him. We are running out of time.
Alpha Trion: I know, I just... I wanted to give him a chance.
Micronus: A chance?
Alpha Trion: A chance at happiness. He's been so focused on saving Cybertron for Eons, that he's never had the chance to live a normal, peaceful life. I wanted to give him that, if only temporarily before he has another impossible burden placed upon him.
Micronus sighed.
Micronus: I understand. But we don't have much time left. We all felt it. HE is coming back. We have to be ready. Or else everything, not just us and this world, but all worlds and realities, are doomed.
Alpha Trion sighed as he looked up at the starry night sky of the Realm of the Prime.
Alpha Trion: Why must the whole of existence pay for our mistakes?
Micronus: Cause the Author wrote it that way?
Alpha Trion let out a chuckle at that.
Alpha Trion: You always were one to break the fourth wall.
Micronus smirked.
Micronus: What can I say? I'm the prankster of the Primes!
***
Optimus slowly opened his blue eyes. He sat up and rubbed his head with his left hand. He felt as if what he had just seen was but only a dream, but the Human Prime had enough experiences with visions and dreams to tell the difference. Now that he thought about it, did he ever have dreams when he was still a Cybertronian?
Optimus looked around and saw that he was sitting in a hospital bed. He looked around and saw that he was in a hospital room, the bed and equipment. He had seen such while checking on June Darby, Jack's mother, who was also a nurse.
He tried to stand, only to stop when he felt something retraining his right hand. He looked down and saw he was handcuffed to the bed. While he could easily break out from this with his abilities, that would most likely get him into greater trouble than he already was, though he didn't know what trouble he was in already.
The door to his room then opened.
???: I see you're awake.
Optimus looked up to see a man dressed in a large brown trench coat with a matching fedora. He looked to be in his mid-to-late thirties.
He looked to be in his mid-to-late thirties
???: My name is Naomasa Tsukauchi. I'm a detective with the Police Force.
Optimus: Greetings Detective Tsukauchi. My name is Optimus Prime.
Tsukauchi: Never heard of a name quite like that.
Tsukauchi said as he pulled up a chair and sat down next to Optimus' bed. He then pulled out a notepad and began writing.
Optimus: I get that a lot. The truth is it's the name I was given after completing a trial in the past.
Tsukauchi: Really? Then if you don't mind me asking, what was your original name?
Optimus: Orion Pax.
Tsukauchi chuckled. Laughing at the humor he still had the same initials.
Tsukauchi: Seriously?
Optimus: I see no reason to lie to you detective.
Tsukauchi: Fair point.
Optimus: However, if I may ask a question of my own for the moment?
Tsukauchi: "He's not like most people his age. Acts more mature, almost like a soldier." Go on.
Optimus then began to lift his right arm, only for it to be stopped by the handcuffs. He gestured to them.
Optimus: What is the meaning of this, if I may ask?
Tsukauchi looked sheepish as he rubbed his head.
Tsukauchi: Oh that. That's mainly used as a precaution given what happened several hours ago.
Optimus: Have I broken the law?
Tsukauchi laughed out loud for a moment before he took a look at Optimus' expression and stopped. He seemed taken aback by the reaction the detective had. The way Optimus asked that question, made it sound like he genuinely wanted to know, which made Tsukauchi laugh because he thought the kid was joking. But he was seriously asking.
Tsukauchi: Wait, you don't know?
Optimus: I wouldn't have asked if I did.
Tsukauchi seemed to be silent for a long moment, a look of curiosity forming on his face, before he answered.
Tsukauchi: You interfered with hero work and broke several Quirk laws.
Optimus: Quirk Laws?
Tsukauchi: Please don't tell me you don't know what those are either.
Optimus shook his head, causing the detective to sigh.
Tsukauchi: When Quirks first came into appearance, there was chaos. Order was non-existent and society almost collapsed because we didn't know how to manage this new phenomenon. As such, the Government put into place special rules that help people manage how to use their Quirks. Some of the rules you broke include: Using you're Quirk out in the open, using it on a person, using it to interfere with Hero Work, and so on. Do you understand now?
Optimus: Yes I do. But I would like the clarify, that I only used my power to save both those boys from dying at the hands of that sludge monster. Plus it was my first time using this power.
Tsukauchi blinked.
Tsukauchi: Wait, are you saying you only unlocked you're Quirk today and at that exact moment?
Optimus: I believe that to be the case, yes.
Tsukauchi had a suspicious expression on his face.
Tsukauchi: Well you certainly didn't seem like you were struggling to use it.
Optimus: I have had much training in the art of combat over my life detective.
Tsukauchi: I can see that.
The detective admitted, taking note of Optimus' well-toned and athletic body. He soon frowned as he remembered something the doctor told him.
Tsukauchi: While you were under, the Doctor took a look at you. He told me that over 70 percent of your body was full of scar tissue. A lot of which seemed to have formed years ago. If you don't mind me asking, what exactly happened? That couldn't have come from the Sludge Villain?
If you don't mind me asking, what exactly happened? That couldn't have come from the Sludge Villain?
Optimus looked away from the detective and out the window at the starry night sky, his mind flashing back to the countless battles he experienced, and where each of those scars may have come from. Some of them were from his countless duels against Megatron, most prominently on the Ark, SpaceBridge, near the Volcano, etc. He had a stab wound on his side from his evil counterpart that Mech created, several energon blasts that looked like bullet wounds, not to mention the amount of scaring he must've gained when the base was destroyed. Thankfully, most of the scars from that horrific event were removed when Smokescreen revived him with the Forge of Solus Prime, but some remained. And it wasn't just physical, there were scars mental as well as emotional.
Optimus: Let's just say, I've lived a long and harsh life detective and faced many enemies who showed no mercy.
Tsukauchi's look became soft as he looked at the boy. At the moment, he didn't look like a teenager, but a veteran soldier who had suffered battle after battle with what was probably no end in sight. But it also made him curious as to what kind of life he may have led. He was about to ask when the door opened and the doctor walked in.
Doctor: Oh good, it seems you are awake.
The Doctor was a fairly old man with a portly and short stature. He was completely bald and had a large and bushy mustache. He also has special goggles on his face with an emerald tint in them.
Doctor: We didn't have time to introduce ourselves, what with you being unconscious from pushing the use of your Quirk
Doctor: We didn't have time to introduce ourselves, what with you being unconscious from pushing the use of your Quirk. My name is Dr. Daruma Ujiko. I'm the head of this hospital.
Optimus: Pleasure to meet you Dr. Ujiko.
Optimus shook the Doctor's hand, but the moment he did, he felt something. Something... dark and sinister from the man, despite the kind smile he gave the Human Prime. He blinked and then the feeling was soon gone.
Dr. Ujiko: Is something wrong?
Optimus then shook his head.
Optimus: My apologies, I just didn't expect the head of a hospital would spend his time checking in on someone like me.
Dr. Ujiko laughed.
Dr. Ujiko: Why wouldn't I?! You're the hero of the day! Despite the media giving all the credit to All Might.
The doctor seemed to growl that last part, something Tsukauchi missed, but Optimus picked up on it. He soon smiled and became excited.
Dr. Ujiko: Besides, I had to treat you. Especially after I examined your blood!
Optimus: My... blood? "What does he mean? Energon should flow through me, not normal human blood, right?"
Dr. Ujiko then reached into his lab coat and pulled out a vial of red blood, much to Optimus' surprise. But as he looked closer at the vial, he noticed there were traces of blue sparks in the red liquid.
Dr. Ujiko: We took a sample so that if needed, we could give you a blood transfusion. But when we tried to do tests, we couldn't find a match among any type in existence. At first, we thought we discovered a whole new blood type, but it turned out to be so much more than just that! I don't know what they are, but it seems the blue sparks act as a sort of self-repair. If you end up losing blood, these sparks can be used to quickly heal the damage fast enough so you wouldn't need a transfusion. Not only that, but they also seem to strengthen the white blood cells, enhancing your immune system. Not only that, but we did several tests, and this blood is compatible with all types, including type O, which is the universal donor. Essentially you have the perfect blood! If I hadn't read the reports and seen the news, I would have thought you're Quirk was Perfect Blood.
He laughed at his jest, but Optimus was zeroed in on the vial of his blood. He knew immediately what those blue sparks were: Energon. Somehow, his human body was pumping both blood and Energon through him, which shouldn't have been impossible if what he heard from Ratchet was true. His old friend mentioned the human body couldn't contain the power of Energon and it would most likely perish. Raf did survive after being exposed to Energon, but that was used to purge the Dark Energon from his body. Was this another side effect of becoming human?
Tsukauchi: Is it safe? I admit I don't know much about medicine and proper procedure, but using blood with little blue sparks taken from an unconscious kid doesn't seem very smart.
Dr. Ujiko: I promise I've done the tests myself and it's perfectly safe. I've even tested it with a patient who needed some blood, and believe it or not, only a drop of it was required and the patient was immediately back to full health. He should be able to walk out of here in under a week.
Tsukauchi was slightly suspicious, but he didn't detect any lies from the man with his Quirk, Lie Detector, so it must be true. The Doctor then turned back to Optimus.
Dr. Ujiko: Please, if you don't mind, I would love to continue to take blood from you. You're blood could revolutionize the entire industry! We wouldn't have to worry on blood shortages again with your help! So if you would please–
He started to approach Optimus' bed with a large syringe when Optimus leaned back greatly. If he wasn't handcuffed to the bed he would be moving to jump out the window.
Optimus: I thank you for the idea doctor, but I'm afraid I'm gonna have to decline.
That certainly wasn't something the "good" doctor wanted to hear.
Dr. Ujiko: B-But why?! You could do so much good for the world if you give us much of your blood to study! Help so many people! Save so many lives! Are you willing to let those people die?! Why?! Are you that afraid of needles or something?!
Tsukauchi: Doctor!
Tsukauchi almost had to restrain the doctor who looked as if he was going mad. Optimus understood where the man was coming from, and to be honest, all that sounded well and good, but Optimus just couldn't. There were too many risks of whatever may come with giving his Energon Blood (A/N: Coining that term from here on out) to others. They didn't know the true effects of the blood on another person in the long run, as it hadn't been a day since Dr. Ujiko had given his blood to that one patient. Maybe after more time and more observations, and after knowing it was completely safe, he could share his blood with the world.
But there was another, more prominent reason why he was so hesitant to give the doctor his blood, and that reason was Dr. Ujiko himself. While the Doctor presented himself as someone polite and caring, as well as enthusiastic about saving lives, there was something underneath. Something dark and twisted. It reminded him much of the Decepticon's mad scientist Shockwave. That and the fact the man moved to test his blood on a living human being without Optimus' consent raised a lot of red flags for the Human Prime.
But he couldn't share his suspicions here, it would be the word of him, a stranger and a teenager, against a highly reputable doctor. It would only land him in more trouble, so he came up with an excuse that was also the truth.
Optimus: I want to be completely sure this is safe before we begin any more trials. It hasn't even been a full day since you gave my blood to that patient, without my permission no less.
Dr. Ujiko looked away, appearing ashamed of his actions.
Optimus: While I do see the benefits of sharing my blood with others, I fear we are ignoring any disastrous consequences that may come from it.
Dr. Ujiko: If you're worried about being blamed for any lives that may be lost if it doesn't work out, don't worry, I'll take full responsibility. And if you're worried about me stealing all the glory, we can write up a contract so that
Optimus shook his head.
Optimus: I do not care if I am blamed for anything that may go wrong, or if I gain praise from anything that may work out. All I care about is the lives my choice can touch. If even one life is lost because of my blood, I will never forgive myself.
Both the Doctor and Tsukauchi were surprised by his words. Tsukauchi was more because of his unwillingness to want fame from this. Most people his age are desperately trying to become heroes to receive the same level of fame as both All Might and Endeavor, and if Optimus did this, he would reach that level of fame without having to go to a hero school. To see his humbleness caused the detective to smile.
Tsukauchi: "He's a lot like you Toshinori. Maybe he could even be your successor."
Though unbeknownst to the detective the Number One hero had already found his successor.
The Doctor seemed less than pleased with this outcome. He was hoping to get his hands on more of Optimus' blood. His mind was already thinking of the countless ways he could utilize it on his "patients". But he could do nothing if Optimus flat-out rejected him, especially in front of a police officer. So he aimed for a compromise.
Dr. Ujiko: Very well. It is your blood. However, may I at least draw another sample? At least to use this on further tests to determine if it's safe.
Optimus thought about it for a long moment before nodding.
Optimus: Very well.
Soon, the Doctor had gotten his blood drawn when he turned to leave. But before he left, he turned back to Optimus.
Dr. Ujiko: Please consider my offer more. If your blood really does hold the key to a brighter future, I would love to continue working with you. Here's my card.
He then handed Optimus a card with his name and phone number on it. In all honestly, Optimus wasn't going to accept. While he did want to use his blood to help others if he could, he would do so after finding a different doctor, as he did not trust the man in front of him.
Dr: Ujiko: Other than that, your injuries aren't severe. You just passed out due to exhaustion from using your Quirk and adrenaline. As soon as you finish whatever business you have with the detective, you're free to leave.
And then he left.
It was silent in the room for a long moment, neither the detective or the Human Prime speaking. Eventually, the detective decided to break the silence.
Tsukauchi: I'm surprised. Most people would have taken the deal the doctor gave you. If not for the fame then to help a lot of people.
Optimus: I will repeat what I said before, I cannot live with myself if an innocent life was lost because I was careless with my choice, whether it would save lives or not.
Tsukauchi: I agree.
The two were again silent before the detective broke it with a cough.
Tsukauchi: Well, let's get back to you. Starting with, who are you exactly? We have a name, but that's all. We checked and can't find your fingerprints anywhere in the world. Nor can we find anyone who looks like you in our database. You're a foreigner, look to be American, or even Canadian, but I don't know many foreigners who look like you. So who are you? Where did you come from? And why are you here?
Optimus was silent as he pondered his answer. He didn't want to lie to the man, nor did he feel like he could. But it was highly unlikely the officer would believe him. Who would believe that he was once a transforming alien robot from another dimension that was transformed into a human? But he had to say something. He was about to open his mouth when the door opened again.
Both Optimus and Tsukauchi looked at the door but blinked when they saw no one there.
???: Look down here.
Both men followed the voice and saw... Optimus wasn't sure what he saw, but it was a short white mouse... bear... man... person thing with a tail standing in front of the door with a smile on his face. He was dressed in a fancy business suit with a scar over his right eye.
He was dressed in a fancy business suit with a scar over his right eye
While Optimus was confused at the identity of this newcomer, it seems Tsukauchi was well acquainted with him.
Tsukauchi: P-Principal Nezu?!
Nezu: Yes, it's me. I could be a mouse, a dog, or even a bear, but the most important thing is... I'm the Principal of Heroics!
He declared with a bright and cheerful expression.
Optimus: "Principal of Heroics? What could that mean?"
Tsukauchi: W-What are you doing here?
Nezu: Why the answer to that my dear Tsukauchi is simple.
The chimera then looked Optimus directly in the eye.
Nezu: I've come to meet the hero of the hour!
Despite stating his intention, Optimus could feel there was more to it than that. But nonetheless, played along, grateful for the distraction.
Optimus: It is a pleasure to meet you Principal Nezu. I am Optimus Prime. However, I must point out that what I did requires no need for praise. I merely did what others would have done in my position.
Nezu's eyes seemed to sparkle at his words.
Nezu: Polite and humble to boot! Oh, he's just perfect!
Optimus and Tsukauchi were both confused.
Optimus and Tsukauchi: Perfect for what?
Nezu: To join my school of course!
Both Optimus and Tsukauchi had different reactions. The Detective's eyebrows shot wide open in surprise, not expecting such a response from the eccentric chimera, though he probably should by this point. Optimus was just confused. School? What school? The chimera did say he was a principal so it would make sense to be the head of a school, but why did he want Optimus?
Seeing the Prime's confusion, Nezu spoke up.
Nezu: Let me introduce myself properly. My name is Nezu, and I am the principal of U.A. High School.
Optimus' eyes widened at that name. U.A. High. During his research, that name had come up several times. After the profession of Hero started, a lot of schools focused on nurturing young heroes were created. And out of all of them, U.A. was the best in the country, if not the whole world. He didn't read much beyond that so he didn't know any of the staff, including who the Principal was.
Optimus: It is an honor to meet you, Principal Nezu. Though if I may ask, why do you wish me to join you're school?
Nezu: That is the wrong question! The real question is why not? You showed incredible bravery earlier today in your rescue of both middle school boys. Not to mention the skill you showed in doing so. U.A. would be honored to have someone like you in its halls. So what do you say, would you like to join my school?
Optimus seemed to consider the offer. He knew that U.A. was the best, and the hardest hero school to get admitted to. Many young aspiring heroes would probably kill to be given the offer he had just been given on a silver platter. However, if he did join, then most likely he would be drawn into this world's society more than he would like and eventually be swept up in the corruption he can see clear as day, much like many of this world. He didn't want that to happen to him. Not when he had a mission to accomplish.
Optimus: I appreciate the offer Principal Nezu, but I'm afraid I must decline.
Nezu, while he did seem a little disappointed, had an almost proud twinkle in his eyes. Tsukauchi had a different reaction.
Tsukauchi: YOU'RE SAYING NO?!? Nezu is practically letting you into U.A. with no problem?! And you just flat-out rejected his offer after less than a minute of considering it?! What kind of kid are–
Nezu: Detective Tsukauchi!
The detective stopped his rant as he looked down at the chimera, whose face was full of disapproval.
Nezu: I will admit I was upset that he has refused, but I do not need you to throw a tantrum in my place and condemn him for his choice. He has every right to refuse if he wants to.
Tsukauchi seemed to look ashamed of himself after the lecture and looked off to the side, rubbing his neck. Nezu sighed before looking back at Optimus.
Nezu: While I am upset by your answer Optimus, I know I cannot force you to come to school, as that is the exact opposite of what a hero is.
Optimus: Thank you, Principal Nezu.
Nezu: However...
Optimus looked at the Principal, who had a mischievous look in his eyes.
Nezu: ...May I ask you to accompany me for a little walk?
After getting his handcuffs removed and his clothes back, Optimus was walking side-by-side with Principal Nezu down the street.
Detective Tsukauchi tried to follow, but Nezu told him it was fine, causing the man to slump. It seems that the Principal of a hero school has a lot more power than the average officer. Or perhaps that was just in the case of Nezu.
As they continued to walk, Optimus had asked what Nezu wanted to do, but the chimera waved him off, saying he was looking for an excuse to stretch his legs after being stuck at his principal's desk for months managing heroic brats. Optimus felt there was more but stayed silent.
As the two walked, they would pass by several pro heroes, some in the middle of making an arrest, others doing a commercial, like that snake head woman that reminded him much of a person from Earth's Mythology. He only hoped she didn't turn people to stone like the being he heard from that legend.
As he saw the latter group though, he fought to keep the look of disappointment off his face. He still didn't agree with all this, this propaganda that was going around. It just reminded him too much of Cybertron before the war.
Eventually, the two found themselves back at the hospital but now standing on the roof. The two looked out at the city before them.
To Optimus, it was beautiful. The light and stars. It reminded him so much of his time on Cybertron before the war. A time he yearned for more often than not to return to.
Nezu: Beautiful, isn't it?
Nezu spoke up for the first time since they started walking.
Optimus: Yes, it is.
The two returned to silence for a long moment before Optimus spoke up.
Optimus: Why did you invite me on this walk Principal Nezu? Was there something you wished to show me?
Nezu had a sly smile as he continued looking out at the city.
Nezu: More like there was something I wished to know by watching you as we walked around. And now I have my answer.
Optimus: And what is it?
Nezu then turned to look Optimus dead in his blue eyes.
Nezu: Optimus... you're not from this world, aren't you?
He tried. He really did try to control his emotions so he wouldn't give anything away. However, he made one small slip-up, and that was all Nezu needed.
Nezu: I knew it! AHAHAHA!
As Nezu crackled like a madman, Optimus let out a sigh. It felt kind of annoying to have his facade seen through so easily, but it felt almost liberating. To have someone else know his secret or at least part of it.
Optimus: How did you know?
Nezu: Well, it was obvious! To anyone as smart as me that is. While others can change the weather with a punch and grow to the size of skyscrapers, I have my intelligence! You may appear calm and focused, but on the inside, you are doing everything you possibly can to keep yourself from falling apart. And it's not because you are on Earth. You seem comfortable on Earth, but not this Earth, which makes me think you have come from someplace like Earth but not. Nor are you comfortable with your own body, not completely. It feels new like you're wearing completely new skin. Which means you most likely were something other than human before you arrived.
Optimus: I see.
He has to admit, he was shocked and impressed that Nezu had managed to pick all that apart after less than an hour after meeting him.
Optimus: Was there anything else?
Nezu: It was how you viewed the world.
Optimus arched his eyebrow.
Nezu: You view the world differently than everyone else. Everyone born in this world looks at it through multiple lenses. Some people accept the world as is and go on with their lives. Others hate it and wish to destroy it, some wish to become a part of the world, some wish to change it through force, etc. But you! You see the world in a way I've never seen everyone else do before.
Optimus: How so?
Nezu: You see the problem don't you? How fragile this society of heroes is? You can see how close it is to falling apart.
Optimus nodded.
Optimus: Yes. While this society has placed a large amount of faith in heroes, it has blinded them to their strength as individuals. They believe that no matter the danger, no matter the situation, a hero will come in and save the day. While such a belief is admirable, it keeps them from becoming their own heroes. From saving themselves from their own problems.
Nezu: Yes, indeed. Humans, in their admiration of heroes, have forgotten how to stand up for themselves.
Optimus: Not only the civilians but the heroes themselves. They look upon everything as a competition, the saving of lives as a chance to get ahead of one another. All for glory and fame. Something a true hero shouldn't concern themselves with.
Nezu: I agree. This society has focused so much on competition that we've forgotten what it truly means to be a hero.
Optimus: Lastly, this world seems to place those with powerful and flashy Quirks on these pedestals. They worship those with strong Quirks while ignoring those with less noticeable Quirks and outright shunning those without one. And that's not even beginning to cover how they see those with Quirks one might categorize as villainous.
Nezu looked at the Prime, noticing the tone he carried in his voice.
Nezu: You make it sound as if you've seen something like this before.
Optimus: I have... on my homeworld of Cybertron.
He confessed.
Nezu: Could you please tell me more?
And he did. For a long time, Optimus would be explaining to Nezu the history of Cybertron leading up to the war, his role in it, what his species was, and how they eventually came to Earth and ended the war, before he eventually sacrificed his life to breathe new life into his world before arriving here and the mission his mentor tasked with him
Nezu, was silent the entire time Optimus explained his tale. While it was difficult for him to comprehend, he knew beings like All For One and powers like One For All existed, so it wasn't so much of a stress.
When Optimus finished his tale, Nezu rubbed his eyes to stop any stray tears that may threaten to leak out.
Nezu: You... You have had quite a harsh life young man.
Optimus: I am far from a young man Nezu.
Nezu: To me you are. You are nothing more than a young man asked to carry too many burdens on his shoulders. Nonetheless, I am amazed. To see you still standing strong despite all the responsibility, that it hasn't turned you into someone bitter and cynical. It takes a special kind of person to keep that from happening to them.
Optimus said nothing but nodded in thanks for the Principal's words. The two stayed silent for a moment longer, looking out at the city before them. Eventually, Nezu spoke again.
Nezu: Optimus Prime. Now knowing all that I know about you, I ask you once again, will you join my school?
Optimus: Principal Nezu–
Nezu: Hear me out! I know you have no desire to conform to the ways of this world, and I'm not asking you, rather I am asking you to help in changing this world.
That caught Optimus' interest.
Optimus: What do you mean?
Nezu: Like you, I too see the problem with our current society, and I know that if nothing is done to change it, our foundation would collapse beneath our feet before we know what happens. But there is nothing that be done about the current generation of heroes, but maybe, just maybe, we can save the next generation.
Optimus: How?
Nezu: As you know I am the Principal of U.A. High. For years I've been working to try and change the mindset of the students in my school, trying to implement classes and courses that help remind the students what a true hero is. I've even hired teachers who share the same beliefs as me. But something has been missing. It wasn't until I first saw you that I realized what that something was.
Optimus: And what is that?
Nezu: A leader.
Optimus' eyes widened at the word.
Nezu: It hit me right then and there. I could give the students the best guidance possible, give them all the tools they needed, and the right teacher, but without someone to lead them, someone among them, they wouldn't know what to do with all that they were taught. That's why I want you to join my school. Because I know you won't lead them astray.
Optimus: How can you be so sure Principal Nezu? You only met me today.
Nezu: I know because of this.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone then played a video. Optimus' eyes widened as he saw it was a video of him telling off the heroes during the Sludge Monster. The video had only been up for a few hours but already had close to a million views.
Nezu: They tried to take it down because it was putting such a negative view on heroes, but it kept getting reposted. This is the real reason why I want you to come to my school. While you're skills and Quirk would be a wonderful addition to this school, it is your heart and spirit that are truly invaluable to me. You know what is wrong with this society, and you're not afraid to speak your mind. I admire that greatly. I need someone like that in my school. Someone like you.
Nezu then put his phone away and looked Optimus Prime dead in his eyes.
Nezu: So, Optimus Prime, I ask you, no, I beg you... Please, come to U.A.
Nezu bowed.
Optimus was stunned. This chimera, which held so much power and influence in the world, someone who was in charge of the most famous hero school in the world, was bowing to him and humbly asking for his help.
Optimus thought for a long moment. He saw the points that Nezu made, about needing a leader among the students. And he could tell the Principal was completely genuine in his desire to change the world and this society. But Optimus had his doubts on whether or not he was that important to the chimera's plans. He was but a soldier, one that had no war to fight now. What could a simple soldier do to change the world?
However, he then remembers Alpha Trion's advice before he left the Realm of the Primes.
Alpha Trion: If you are to defeat this threat, you will need both training and allies. Despite how strong you are Optimus, you are but one person. There is little you can accomplish by yourself. Seek out friends and allies, and become stronger in this world of Quirks.
Remembering the words of his mentor, the advice he gave him before he disappeared, Optimus' resolve hardened. Where else would be the best place to gather allies and train his human body than a school that trains heroes, and the best one at that? He's made his decision
Optimus: Raise your head, Principal Nezu.
The Chimera lifted himself from his bow and widened his eyes when he saw Optimus' outstretched hand. He looked up and saw a warm smile on the Prime's face.
Optimus: It would be my honor to join U.A.
Nezu's smile was brighter than the full moon as he took the Prime's hand in his paw and shook it vigorously.
Nezu: I think this might be the start of a beautiful friendship, Optimus Prime.
Optimus: As do I Principal Nezu. As do I.
***
Kamino Ward was a large town in Yokohama that held many inhabitants and businesses, but fewer heroes. And those heroes who were there were mostly small-time, barely D-List. This was because there was virtually no crime in the town. Most people assumed it was due to the presence of All Might, but it was a much darker reason for why there was so little crime.
Hidden in this city lies an ancient evil, one as old as the dawn of time itself, hidden under everyone's nose. Manipulating everything from the shadows to keep itself hidden from the heroes.
And it was exactly where a certain doctor was currently heading with a vial of stolen blood.
Dr. Ujiko: Bah! That arrogant brat! Just because it's his blood and it's special, he thinks he knows what's best. If it wasn't for that detective, I would have taken that boy with me and repeatedly sucked him dry.
He entered an abandoned warehouse. He entered a secret elevator and made it down to a certain level. He then flipped on the light.
All around him were monsters, terrifying monsters being grown in purple and green liquid tanks. But he wasn't afraid. Why should he be? After all, these were his children, and there was no way a child would ever think of striking their parent.
He made it to the other end and entered another secret code which led to an elevator that took him further underground. He was nervous to be doing this, but he needed to let his master know what he found. It could be a great asset for his master's plans.
Eventually, he entered a pitch-black room, the only source of light being the many screens surrounding a single individual. He was turned away from the Doctor and looked at the screens, but he felt his presence and addressed him.
???: Why are you here?
The doctor shook at the voice of his master. Even after over a century of serving the villain, it still frightened him a great deal to speak to the Demon Lord.
Dr. Ujiko: A-Apologise my lord, but I have something here that may interest you.
The man was silent before he slowly turned his chair to face the doctor. Ujiko winced at the state of his master. Where was once a feared and imposing-looking figure looked close to a man near death? He had multiple life support tubes plugged all over his body, keeping him alive. His face above his nose was heavily scared, showing he had no eyes, ears, and a barely noticeable nose. This was the most fearsome villain in existence. The villain who called himself by the same name as his Quirk. The Symbol of Fear, All For One.
AFO: Why have you disturbed me Kyudai Garaki?
Ujiko, his real name known as Kyudai Garaki, flinched at his voice before explaining himself.
Garaki: I have something to show you. Something I think you'll be pleased with.
He reached behind himself and pulled out a vial of blood. All For One used one of his many stolen Quirks, a telekinesis one to attract the vial to him.
AFO: What is this?
Garaki: That is the key to your return as the most fearsome villain in the world.
All For One would have raised an eyebrow if he had any.
AFO: Explain.
Garaki: This blood comes from a teenager who recently saved a couple of boys' lives before All Might stepped in. I know you watched it given it had All Might.
Garaki knew the intense hatred his master had for the smiling Buffon. So much that he would spend so many hours watching All Might videos, just so that he could come up with ways to mock the man when the two finally faced off again.
AFO: Why would I care about some insects' blood?
Garaki: Take a closer look and you'll understand master.
He did so and his eyes widened when he saw the blue sparks in the blood. He could feel the power radiating from it.
AFO: What is this?
Garaki flinched at the sudden change in his master's tone. He sounded serious, more so than usual.
Garaki: T-This is the blood from that boy. It has remarkable properties that could help with the creation of the Nomus and possibly heal your–
AFO: What is his name?
Garaki flinched at being cut off.
Garaki: W-What?
AFO: What. Is. His. Name?
Garaki: O-Optimus P-Prime.
All For One was silent for a long moment, repeating the name in his mind for a long time.
AFO: Leave.
Garaki: I-I'm sorry.
AFO: Leave! Now.
Not saying another word, Garaki turned and immediately left the room, leaving his master alone.
But not truly.
???: Is that any way to treat your subordinate?
An eerie voice echoed throughout the room, yet had no owner. All For One's lips morphed into a sneer.
AFO: You were the one who wanted privacy.
???: I suppose I did. But you didn't have to be so mean about it. Especially when the good doctor only sought to help his beloved master.
All For One clicked his tongue.
AFO: Why are you here now? You've been silent for years, even after my battle with All Might. But the moment you saw this and heard the name, you suddenly became active once again. What has piqued your interest?
???: You're holding it in your hands.
All For One looked at the vial of blood in his hands.
AFO: This blood?
???: Not the blood, but what flows through it.
AFO: And what would that be?
???: Energon.
If All For One had any eyebrows, he would have raised them in interest. It seems the allusive voice in his head knew about how special this blood was.
AFO: And why would this be so special?
???: Because it is the key to my freedom. And you, my favorite Disciple, are going to help.
All For One growled at how he was addressed. He first heard this voice around the time when his Quirk first manifested centuries ago. At first, he suspected that he had taken a Quirk that had turned him mad. But over time, he realized the voice in his head was not the result of a Quirk. He didn't know who, or what was speaking to him, or from where, but he had to admit, the voice had provided sound advice on how to handle his criminal empire, and how to deal with foes. Though the voice had taken to calling itself his master, and All For One his student. The arrogance in his voice! The Symbol of Fear had no master, he was the master of all.
Even after all this time, he still didn't know the name of the one who was contacting him. He asked multiple times, but the being refused to answer, claiming he doesn't give his name to lower life forms.
Though he took note of something. In the centuries he's heard this voice, not once did it ever make its intentions known. It claimed to see great potential in All For One and wished to cultivate such potential. But it seems he just made his intentions clear.
AFO: So that's what it was all about. All these years, whispering into my ears, my dreams. It was all to manipulate me into freeing you?
He then used one of his Quirks to vaporize the blood.
AFO: Well I won't do it! I am the greatest villain this world has ever seen! The one who will destroy this society at its very core! I am not some errand boy for a voice in my head!
The voice was now silent.
Thinking he had shut the voice up, All For One turned to go back to what he was doing.
???: YoU DaRe?
When suddenly, a dark aura enveloped the villain. He collapsed to the ground as immense pressure fell upon him. The pain was so sudden and intense that he couldn't concentrate enough to bring up a Quirk to use. He started to cough up blood.
???: Did you forget how you came to become 'the greatest villain in the world'? You were weak when I found you! Lost, scared, alone. But I took you in. Because I saw in you something I've never seen before inside an inferior species such as humans. Potential, mixed with a deep ambition, much like myself. I forged you into a being worthy of serving me. And you dare defy me after all I've done for you? Perhaps I should just kill you and move on to your protege, he seems much more eager to do something besides sitting around in the dark brooding.
Hearing him thinking of targeting Toumura shot a sense of panic through the Demon Lord. He fought through the intense pain and moved to speak.
AFO: No! Don't! I'll do it! I'll do whatever you ask! Just leave him be!
The pressure continued for several moments before he was finally released, the dark aura dissipating.
???: That's more like it worm. Remember this. Just because I'm in a different dimension doesn't mean I can't hurt. Find as much blood from that human as you can. You can test some of it on your precious Nomu's, but no carelessly wasting it. I'll be watching.
And with that, it was silent once again. Being truly alone, All For One used a Quirk to wipe away all the blood and moved to contact the Doctor.
AFO: Doctor, get as much blood from the human as you can.
Within another plane of existence, an empty void bathed in an eerie green glow, a lone titan floated there. How long have they been here? It may have seemed like centuries on Earth, but for them, it's been Eons.
???: Heh, that never gets old. Being able to remind those insects of who is the superior species. Unfortunately, I can't do more for it to truly stick.
It's true. While they were able to touch Shigaraki, or All For One as he calls himself now, they couldn't do much beyond simply putting pressure on his spirit and weakening him. If they pushed it, they may be able to kill him, but then they would have to mold a new pawn from scratch. And that wouldn't do, not when they were so close to freedom.
They admit in the beginning this was for their amusement. Being able to mold a lesser lifeform into a being of fear was a fun way to pass the time in the empty abyss that was the Dead Universe. But now an opportunity had presented itself. One that would pave the way for his return.
And to think, it was all because of their successor's appearance in the same realm as their apprentice.
Thinking about their successor, or more accurately usurper, causes the titan's body to glow in an ominous dark glow. Their red eyes flashed with malicious intent. They took from them what was rightfully theirs. The Matrix of Leadership. Something they had been preparing their whole life for. But then, before they could enact their plan for the expansion of Cybertron's Empire, they were betrayed and banished here by their mentor, Alpha Trion, and the rest of the old Primes! The one who granted them the title they rightfully earned! And then replaced them with that new sparkling!
Oh, the rage they felt for Optimus Prime could barely be kept contained. It was a good thing nothing was alive in this realm besides them, or else any other living beings would have died from the darkness they were unleashing.
???: No matter. Whether he realizes it or not, that sparkling has just paved the way for my return. And when we meet face-to-face he will know the truth.
And the darkness they were keeping in exploded outward in a terrifying wave of purple flames and evil.
???: I AM THE LEGACY OF PRIMUS!