**Chapter 236: A Painful Victory**

As I stepped onto the stage, I was met with the familiar face of Shinso, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of confidence and intensity. I made sure to keep my guard up, both physically and mentally, aware of his quirk that allowed him to copy people's voices. I wasn't going to fall for that trick again. The match began, and Shinso charged at me, his movements swift and calculated. I dodged and weaved, avoiding his attacks with ease, but I knew I couldn't let my guard down for a second. Shinso's quirk made him a formidable opponent, and I had to stay focused. The battle raged on, with both of us exchanging blows and neither gaining the upper hand. But I had a plan, and I put it into action, using my agility and quick reflexes to outmaneuver Shinso. In a flash, I landed a decisive blow, and Shinso stumbled backward, defeated. The crowd erupted into cheers as I stood victorious, but my triumph was short-lived. As I moved my arm, a searing pain shot through it, and I let out a loud, involuntary scream: "OW FUCK!" I immediately covered my mouth, shocked at my own outburst. I looked down at my arm, and my eyes widened in dismay. The bruise had turned a deep purple, and the swelling had worsened. Ochaco rushed to my side, concern etched on her face. "Vesper, oh no, your arm!" she exclaimed, gently taking it in her hands. I winced in pain as she examined the damage. "It's bad," she whispered, her voice trembling. Without a word, Ochaco helped me walk over to Bakugo, who was watching us with a mixture of curiosity and concern. She held out my arm, showing him the extent of the damage. Bakugo's eyes widened in shock, and he took a step back, his face pale. "Whoa, what happened?" he asked, his voice laced with worry. I just shook my head, still trying to process the pain. Ochaco's grip on my arm tightened, and I knew she was trying to help me stay calm. I glanced at Bakugo, and for a moment, our eyes locked. I could see the concern and guilt written all over his face. He knew he had caused this, and I could sense his regret. The crowd's cheers and chants faded into the background as I stood there, my arm throbbing in agony, and my friends' worried faces etched in my memory.