Kaina sat across from Keigo and Naomasa Tsukauchi, her eyes heavy with the burden of the story she was about to tell. The weight of her past hung in the air like a storm, and the two men could see the torment in her expression. She took a deep breath, preparing herself, and then spoke.
"I'll start from the beginning…" she said quietly, her voice trembling but resolute.
Keigo gave her a soft nod of encouragement, pulling out his recorder and placing it gently on the table. "Take your time," he said. "Whenever you're ready."
Kaina exhaled deeply, her fingers tightening slightly as she prepared to relive the painful memories. "It all began when I was eighteen… two years ago," she started, her voice raw, as if each word was pulling her back into the nightmare she had lived.
Flashback 2 years.
Kaina stood in front of the imposing HPSC building, her hero costume clinging tightly to her form, the weight of her decision settling in her chest. "This is my first step... toward something bigger," she thought, a determined smile curling her lips. With a deep breath, she made her way inside, her boots echoing against the marble floor.
As she entered the reception area, she spotted the receptionist sitting at her desk. Kaina approached her confidently, her smile soft but full of purpose. "Excuse me," she said. "I'm Lady Nagant. I'll be working here from now on."
The receptionist looked up, immediately recognizing the name. She returned the smile warmly. "Welcome, Lady Nagant. The president is on the top floor. Take a right, and his office will be at the end of the hall."
"Thank you," Kaina replied, nodding politely before heading to the elevator.
As she rode up, the weight of the moment sank in. This was what she'd been waiting for—a chance to make a difference, to prove herself. When the elevator dinged softly, announcing her arrival, she stepped out and took a right as instructed. The plaque on the door read: "President, HPSC." Her heart quickened, but she maintained her composure, knocking firmly.
"Come in," a voice called from within.
Kaina pushed the door open, stepping inside. Seated behind a large mahogany desk was a man in his thirties, dressed in sharp, formal attire. His gaze was fixed on her, a faint smile playing on his lips. Surrounding him were five other figures, all dressed in identical black coats, their expressions unreadable.
"Good morning, sir," Kaina said, her voice steady but respectful. "I'm Lady Nagant, the newly appointed hero."
The president smiled, leaning back slightly in his chair. "Welcome, Lady Nagant. We've been expecting you."
Kaina nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. "Thank you, sir."
"Well, it's your first day," he continued, his tone conversational. "How are you feeling?"
Kaina kept her composure. "I'm feeling good, sir. Ready to serve."
His smile widened slightly, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Excellent. I see here that your quirk is 'Sniper,' correct?"
"Yes, sir," Kaina confirmed with a nod.
The president exchanged glances with the others in the room, his smirk deepening just a little. "Good. From now on, you'll be assigned certain missions."
She noticed the subtle shift in his tone and couldn't help but feel a hint of apprehension. Still, she trusted the path she had chosen. "What kind of missions?" she asked.
"Don't worry," he said with a casual wave of his hand. "The missions will be easy for someone like you. And through your work, Japan will know peace."
Kaina's heart swelled with pride at his words. "I will do my best, sir."
"Very well," the president replied, leaning forward slightly. "There are no missions for you at the moment, but rest assured, when there are, we'll contact you. For now, get comfortable and settle in."
She nodded again, bowing slightly in gratitude. "Thank you, sir."
As she turned to leave the room, she couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation. Her first real mission was just around the corner, and she was ready for it. As she walked back down the hall, she smiled to herself, excitement bubbling up inside her.
"I can't wait for my first mission," Kaina thought, her steps light and confident.
A few days later, Kaina received the call she had been waiting for. Her first mission. The excitement bubbled in her chest as she entered the president's office, the energy buzzing beneath her skin. But as soon as she stepped inside, a chill settled over her. The president sat behind his desk, that same unsettling smile plastered on his face as he greeted her.
"Welcome, Lady Nagant. I trust you're eager for your first mission?" His voice was warm, disarming even, but Kaina couldn't shake the feeling that there was something lurking behind it.
She beamed, though the unease gnawed at the edges of her excitement. "Yes, sir. I've been waiting for this."
The president chuckled softly, his eyes never leaving hers as he slid a folder across the desk. "Good. Then let's not waste any time. Read this."
Kaina reached for the folder, opening it eagerly. Her eyes immediately landed on a man's face. Beneath the photo, the name was printed: Mirrormind. Her brow furrowed, and her fingers tightened around the edges of the file as she scanned the details. "He's my target?" she asked, glancing up.
The president gave a slow, deliberate nod, his smile not faltering. "Indeed. A dangerous man, as you'll see."
Kaina blinked, her enthusiasm faltering. She hesitated. "So... I'm supposed to take him into custody?"
A smirk curled at the corners of the president's lips, but it didn't reach his eyes. "No, Lady Nagant." His voice was like silk wrapped around steel. "You're going to kill him."
The words hit her like a punch to the gut. Her heart stilled, blood rushing in her ears. She stared at him, disbelieving. "What?" she whispered, the shock evident in her voice.
"You heard me," the president said, his tone still casual, almost as if discussing the weather. "Mirrormind is a threat that cannot be contained. He's committed atrocities—murdered innocents. His existence is a stain on society, and we are the ones to remove it."
Kaina's hands trembled as she gripped the folder tighter, her voice weak, shaken. "I... I'm sorry, sir, but I can't—" She struggled with the words, her pulse quickening. "I can't kill someone."
The president's smile flickered, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly. But instead of lashing out, his expression remained calm, almost patient. He tilted his head, watching her as though she were a puzzle he had already solved long ago. "Can't?" he repeated softly, as if tasting the word. "Lady Nagant, do you truly believe that?"
She opened her mouth to respond, but the words stuck in her throat.
The president leaned back in his chair, his gaze never wavering from her. "You're thinking too small, Lady Nagant. This isn't about your comfort. This is about the balance of power. Do you think a man like Mirrormind can be contained by our system? Do you truly believe that locking him away in a cell will stop him from spilling more innocent blood?"
Kaina shook her head, trying to focus. "But we have prisons, we have—"
"Tartarus?" he interrupted with a soft chuckle, as if the idea amused him. "A temporary solution at best. Tell me, what happens when he escapes? When his connections, his influence, free him from those walls? Can you truly guarantee that he won't strike again?" His voice lowered, taking on a conspiratorial tone. "If he escapes, the blood will be on your hands,Lady Nagant. The innocents he kills afterward... they will haunt you. All because you couldn't make the hard decision today."
She opened her mouth to argue, but he wasn't finished. His gaze softened, as though he were the one offering comfort now. "You have the power to prevent suffering, to end a cycle of death. You are a hero, are you not? You exist to protect." He leaned forward, his voice a whisper now, yet commanding. "Does it matter how you achieve that protection, as long as it's done?"
Kaina's resolve faltered. The weight of his words pressed against her chest like a vice, suffocating her convictions. "But... I..."
The president stood up slowly, walking around his desk until he was standing beside her. "You still don't see it, do you?" he murmured, his voice low and dripping with quiet authority. He gently took the folder from her hands and placed it back on the desk. "Let me remind you of something." He paused, his eyes darkening. "Your father. That 'accident' of his... you know that wasn't just fate, don't you?"
Kaina's breath caught in her throat. Her pulse hammered. "What are you talking about?"
The president's smile returned, but it was colder now, like the edge of a blade. "I believe I've made myself clear. Your mother is all you have left, isn't she?" He took a slow step closer, his voice soft yet terrifying. "Finish the mission, Lady Nagant. Or else... she might find herself facing the same 'unfortunate accident.'"
Her mind spiraled, the room seeming to tilt around her. The walls felt like they were closing in. Her mother. The only person left that she loved, the only family she had.
He had planned this. He had known how to trap her, known what buttons to push long before she had ever stepped foot into his office.
The president stepped back, smoothing his suit as though nothing had happened, as though he hadn't just dismantled her life in a few simple sentences. "You will finish the mission," he said, his tone lighter, like they were simply discussing the weather again. "It's inevitable. There's no need to dwell on it any longer. We'll send you the location soon."
Kaina's lips trembled. She wanted to scream, to run. But all she could do was nod, her voice barely a whisper. "Yes... sir."
The president's smirk widened. "Good. Make sure you don't fail."
As she left the office, the weight of his words settled heavily on her shoulders. The air felt suffocating as she made her way down the hall, her heart in turmoil. She had come here to be a hero, to bring peace and justice to the world. But now, she found herself caught in the twisted hands of the very people who claimed to stand for that peace.
"I... came here to be a hero..." she thought, her hands shaking as she clenched them into fists. But what kind of hero was she becoming now?
As Kaina sat silently on a bench, her thoughts weighed heavily on her. The notification on her phone jolted her back to reality. Her heart skipped a beat as she realized it was time. The location was nearby. She stood up, her legs feeling weak beneath her as she walked, each step slower than the last.
"I can do this," she thought, trying to steel herself, but doubt clung to her like a shadow. "If I don't… what will happen?"
She reached the building, a tall structure that loomed over her, casting a long shadow. Her feet felt like lead as she took her position, scanning the area for her target. And then she saw him—Mirrormind. His head gleamed like polished glass, reflecting the surroundings in an unsettling way.
Kaina extended her rifle from her right elbow, her quirk activating instinctively. She locked onto the target, but her hand trembled, her finger hesitating on the trigger. Her mother's face flashed in her mind. The warmth of her smile, the only family she had left. Kaina clenched her jaw, trying to steady her breath, to steady her hand.
Her hair fell across her face as she shook her head, clearing her thoughts. "I have to do this," she whispered, but her voice wavered. She loaded the rifle, but the weight of the decision was crushing her. Her hand shook as she hesitated. And then... she pulled the trigger.
The bullet flew straight, piercing through the air before hitting its mark. Mirrormind fell instantly, cold and lifeless. The sound of the shot echoed in Kaina's ears, but all she could hear was her own ragged breathing. She stared at the body, her vision blurring as reality sank in. Her hands felt foreign, stained in invisible blood.
Her phone rang, snapping her out of her trance. She fumbled with it before answering. "Good job, Lady Nagant," the president's voice came through, cold and indifferent. "Your mission was a success."
Kaina's voice was hollow, barely above a whisper. "Yes, sir."
"You'll get used to it. Don't worry. Just wait for the next mission. Until then, do as you like," he said, before hanging up.
She stared at her phone, a flicker of anger flashing across her face. Her hand clenched tightly around it as her thoughts swirled. "I'm a murderer now," she thought, her chest tightening. "This isn't what a hero is supposed to do. This… this isn't what I wanted."
Disturbed, she tried to steady her breath, to calm the storm inside her. She descended from the building and walked the streets aimlessly, her mind heavy with the weight of what she had done. Her phone rang again. This time, it was Itachi.
She looked at the screen, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite everything. "He always knows when to call," she thought, answering the phone.
They talked for a while, his calm voice soothing her nerves. But she didn't mention her mission. She couldn't bring herself to. This was a secret she would carry alone, just as she had done with the other missions that piled up—more than she cared to count. Each one left a scar on her soul.
Kaina became a weapon to kill villains under the name of justice. At that time, she had killed more than 6 villains, which was causing her mental stress… and after that. Kaina's got another mission, and this time, it left her in disbelief. As she stepped into the president's office, her cold, unblinking eyes locked onto him. Silence filled the room like a dark cloud, her presence heavy with tension. She didn't need to speak; her rage was palpable.
The president, unbothered, sat behind his desk, a placid smile playing at his lips as he slid a thin piece of paper toward her. Kaina's gaze narrowed as she reached for it, her hands stiff. Her eyes darted across the details, and her heart froze in her chest.
The target was a pro hero.
Her fists clenched by her sides, every muscle in her body wound tight. When she finally spoke, her voice was cold as ice. "What is the meaning of this? First villains, and now pro heroes?" The disgust in her words could have burned through steel.
The president leaned back, his expression calm, almost amused, like a cat playing with a mouse it had already caught. His gaze never left hers as he spoke, his voice soft but condescending. "I see your loyalty to the title of 'hero' remains... unshaken." He sighed, a mocking edge to his tone. "These so-called 'heroes' are nothing but illusions of the very corruption they claim to fight. In the shadows, they have done far worse than some of the villains you've already eliminated. They kill, manipulate, and betray for power, not justice."
Kaina's expression didn't change, but inside, her rage churned violently. The president's calm, almost detached demeanor only fueled the fire burning in her chest.
"Tell me, Lady Nagant," he continued, a slow smirk creeping onto his lips, "what is a hero to you? A symbol of justice? A beacon of hope?" He shook his head, his tone dripping with disdain. "It's a façade. Power corrupts all, even those who wear a smile and call themselves heroes. Your target has committed atrocities behind the veil of heroism. If you were to dig deeper into their past, you would find blood on their hands, more than you can imagine."
She stared at him, the coldness in her eyes deepening, but her silence betrayed nothing.
The president's smile grew sharper, his eyes narrowing slightly. "You hesitate because you still believe in them, don't you? You think there's a line between hero and villain, that killing a hero is somehow different. But tell me... if a 'hero' does the very things we abhor in villains, does the label really matter anymore?"
Her insides twisted at his words, but she kept her voice level. "I know what you're trying to do. But killing them won't make me like you."
A low chuckle escaped the president's lips, his eyes gleaming with something darker. "Make you like me? Oh, Nagant..." He stood slowly, walking around the desk with a casual grace that felt predatory. "You and I are far more alike than you'd like to admit. After all, you've already taken lives. What difference is one more?"
Kaina's fists tightened, knuckles white as she bit back the fury rising within her. "I kill villains, those who choose to destroy and harm without remorse. But heroes—"
"Heroes," he interrupted, his voice low but filled with an unsettling calm, "are simply villains who hide their crimes better."
He moved closer, his eyes sharp, dissecting her resolve with every word. "This world is not black and white, Nagant. You still cling to that illusion, but deep down, you know the truth. These heroes..." His voice softened, but the weight of his manipulation pressed down on her. "They're no different from the villains you've already killed. The only difference is the mask they wear."
Kaina's breathing grew heavier, but she remained still, locking eyes with him.
"And if you refuse?" He stepped even closer, lowering his voice to a whisper that crawled up her spine. "Well... you know what happens. Your mother will learn the cost of your 'heroic ideals' firsthand. And unlike the heroes you still hold so dearly, I will keep my promises."
The threat lingered in the air like a heavy fog. His smile remained serene, but there was no mistaking the malice underneath it.
Kaina's mind burned with anger, but also with the grim realization that he had anticipated every move, every argument she could make. He had wrapped his fingers around her life and twisted it until she had no room to breathe, much less fight back. She knew refusing him was a battle she couldn't win—at least, not yet.
Without a word, she turned on her heel, the venom in her thoughts boiling just beneath the surface. As she walked away from his office, her heart pounded with fury. Count your days, you bastard, she thought bitterly. Your time is running out.
Shortly after leaving, her phone buzzed with the mission location. She headed toward it, her steps heavy with the weight of what she was about to do. The reality of it gnawed at her. Killing villains was one thing, but a pro hero? Someone who was supposed to protect people?
She was deep in thought when her phone rang again. It was Itachi.
Her breath hitched as she answered, forcing herself to sound composed. "I'm busy, Itachi. I'll call you later."
His voice came through softly, with a sense of concern. "Alright, Kaina. Take care."
She hung up, steeling herself for what lay ahead. The target was in sight. Her hands, though steady, felt heavy with the burden of her actions. She locked onto the hero, her rifle extending from her elbow, and before she could let herself think, she fired.
The hero dropped, lifeless.
Her heart pounded, each breath heavier than the last. She looked down at her hands, as if expecting to see the blood that wasn't there but felt all too real. She hated this. She would never get used to it.
The phone rang again. Her eyes flickered to the screen, and she answered. "Mission complete," she said flatly.
"Good," the president's voice replied. "We'll be in touch for the next one."
Kaina lowered the phone, her fingers tightening around it as her rage simmered beneath her cold exterior. This wasn't what she had envisioned when she became a hero. Each mission eroded a piece of her soul, leaving behind only anger and bitterness. She knew she couldn't keep this up forever—something would have to give, or she'd break.
Day after day, the missions began to take their toll on Kaina. Each time she was handed a new target, the weight of her actions bore down on her more heavily. Villains, corrupt heroes—it didn't matter anymore. They all fell by her hand, and with every shot, a piece of her humanity crumbled. She had thought she could endure it, that the constant reminders from the president about her family's safety would keep her focused. But she was drowning in the blood that she could never wash away.
One day, however, no mission came.
The silence was almost unnerving. For the first time in what felt like forever, Kaina wasn't given someone to eliminate. She tried to tell herself it was a relief, but the emptiness gnawed at her. She had become so used to the numbness of her work that now, without it, the pain resurfaced with an intensity she hadn't expected.
To clear her mind, she decided to take a walk through the park. It was a rare, sunny afternoon, and the warmth of the sun felt foreign on her skin. She had been appointed as one of the top three heroes, her reputation soaring in the eyes of the public despite the secret darkness she carried. Children playing in the park spotted her almost instantly, their bright eyes lighting up with recognition.
"Lady Nagant!" they called, running toward her in excitement.
Kaina paused, looking at the small group of children gathering around her. For the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of something warm inside her. She managed a small smile as they approached, their innocence a stark contrast to the heavy burdens she bore.
"Hello," she greeted them softly, trying to match their enthusiasm, though her heart was still heavy.
The children were bursting with excitement, asking her about her quirk and how it worked. One of the younger boys marveled at her sniper abilities. "Can you show us how you shoot from your arm? That's so cool!"
She chuckled lightly, shaking her head. "I don't think I can do that right now," she said, her smile faltering slightly as she tried to hide the weariness in her voice.
One of the little girls shyly asked if she could shake hands with her. Kaina hesitated for a moment, looking at the girl's outstretched hand. It was such an innocent request, and the other children eagerly followed, their hands also extended toward her, eyes filled with admiration.
Kaina swallowed hard, forcing herself to push past the fear gnawing at her. She gently reached out and shook their hands, one by one. But as soon as her fingers made contact, the illusion shattered. In her mind, she saw blood—so much blood—coating her hands, dripping down her fingers, staining the hands of the innocent children reaching for her.
Her breath caught in her throat, and she quickly pulled her hand away, her heart pounding in her chest.
The children looked at her in confusion, their small faces turning to concern. "Are you okay, Lady Nagant?" one of them asked, eyes wide with worry.
She forced a shaky smile, but her voice cracked as she spoke. "I-I'm sorry… but I have to go," she muttered, backing away from them.
Without another word, Kaina turned and ran, her boots pounding against the pavement as the voices of the children faded behind her. "Lady Nagant!" they called after her, but she didn't stop. She couldn't.
Tears filled her eyes as she ran, blurring her vision. She tried to blink them away, but the overwhelming flood of emotions she had buried for so long now broke free. She could feel the invisible blood on her hands, the guilt clinging to her skin like a second layer she couldn't wash off.
She collapsed against a tree, hidden from view, her chest heaving as the sobs she had held back for so long finally escaped her. The weight of everything—the killing, the corruption, the manipulation—came crashing down on her. She was supposed to be a hero, but all she saw was the monster she had become.
"Is this really what I wanted?" she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible through her tears.
Her mind raced back to when she first joined the commission, bright-eyed and hopeful. She had wanted to make a difference, to protect people and bring peace to Japan. But instead, she had been turned into a weapon, a tool for those in power to maintain control through violence and fear.
As the tears streamed down her face, Kaina wiped them away with trembling hands. She knew she couldn't keep running from the truth. Something had to change—because if it didn't, she wouldn't survive much longer in this endless spiral of guilt and bloodshed.
For a while, Kaina endured it, pushing down the guilt and suffocating under the weight of her actions. But things were starting to shift. She had grown suspicious of the Hero Public Safety Commission (HPSC), and her desire for the truth led her to investigate. One evening, Kaina found herself in a room filled with endless files, documents of government operations and secret dealings. The dimly lit room smelled of old paper and dust, but she ignored it, her focus solely on uncovering the truth.
Her fingers flipped through the files rapidly, scanning for anything that could explain the constant missions and the twisted justifications. Then, she found it—a databook labeled Financial Records. As she opened it, her eyes widened in horror. Page after page revealed details of money laundering operations, carried out under the government's watchful eye, funneled through secret organizations. The people she had been killing? Many of them had backed out of these corrupt operations, posing a financial threat to the commission.
Kaina's breath hitched as she read further, discovering links to quirk donations and illegal experiments. And then her stomach dropped—there, buried in the files, was a name she recognized: Takashi Yaoyorozu.
Itachi's father? she thought, her heart pounding in her chest.
Panic swelled inside her as the pieces began to fall into place. She had unknowingly been a pawn in the president's game of eliminating threats to his empire, including pro heroes who had refused to cooperate. Five of them were on the list. Five heroes she had killed.
Her hands shook as she connected the final dots. The commission wasn't after peace; they were after power, wealth, and control. And now, it seemed, they would eventually turn their sights on Itachi's family. The realization made her stomach churn with disgust.
As she continued reading through the files, something caught her eye that made her freeze. Her breath hitched as her gaze locked onto a name she never expected to see: All for One. Her heart pounded in her chest, and her hands trembled slightly as she stared at the page, unable to look away.
With mounting urgency, she flipped to the financial records once more, her eyes darting to the final page. There, in black and white, it was confirmed—all the money had been funneled directly into a new organization he was building. A bitter taste rose in her throat. He's still out there, pulling the strings.
She flipped through the documents further, her fingers moving faster as dread settled in. There were articles clipped to the files—old reports of battles between All Might and All for One. One in particular had a crude, hand-drawn circle around it. She frowned, her mind racing.
Why circle this? she wondered, the knot in her stomach tightening. It felt deliberate, like a hidden message, but she couldn't grasp its meaning. The world around her seemed to shrink, the weight of what she had just uncovered pressing down like a vice.
Determined to gather evidence, Kaina pulled out her phone, ready to take pictures of the incriminating documents. But just as she was about to click, the door creaked open behind her. She froze, heart racing. Quickly, she shoved the files back into place, her mind scrambling for a cover story.
A familiar voice broke the silence. "What are you doing here, Lady Nagant?"
She turned to see one of the president's lackeys standing in the doorway, his eyes scanning the room with a smirk. Kaina straightened herself, masking her fear with a cold, hardened look.
"I'm reviewing criminal files," she said icily, keeping her expression neutral. "Getting information for my next target."
The man's smirk only grew wider. "If you're free later, why don't you come to my office?" His tone was sleazy, dripping with entitlement.
Revulsion surged through her. Without hesitation, she extended her rifle arm, the barrel stopping inches from his face. "Watch your mouth next time," she said, her voice low and threatening.
The smirk faded as the man stepped back, a flicker of fear crossing his face. Kaina brushed past him, her heart pounding in her ears. As soon as she was out of sight, her cold mask crumbled, and she blinked back the tears that threatened to spill. She was disgusted—with the commission, with herself, with everything she had become.
I don't want to be a hero anymore, she thought, her heart aching with each step.
Back in her room, she sat down heavily, her mind spinning with everything she had uncovered. Her reflection in the mirror was unrecognizable—a woman broken by the very system she had sworn to uphold. Tears welled in her eyes, and she let them fall, feeling the weight of all the lives she had taken press down on her chest.
I can't take it anymore… she thought, shaking her head. I'm done with this.
Without a second thought, she stood up, her resolve hardening. "Fuck it," she muttered under her breath, storming out of the room. She wasn't going to be a pawn in their game anymore.
As she made her way home, the tension in her body was unbearable. She could feel eyes on her, watching her every move. And then she saw them—two agents stationed near her house, hiding in plain sight. They were here to keep tabs on her, maybe even waiting for an opportunity to eliminate her if she stepped out of line.
Her blood boiled.
Kaina turned toward a tall building nearby and quickly ascended to the roof, positioning herself to get a clear view of the agents. She didn't hesitate. She extended her rifle from her elbow, locking onto the targets. Her breathing was steady, her hands no longer trembling.
With cold precision, she fired. The shots rang out, and the agents dropped dead before they even knew what hit them.
Kaina stood there for a moment, staring at their lifeless bodies from her vantage point. Her chest heaved with each breath, and for the first time in a long time, she didn't feel guilt. She didn't feel remorse. What she felt was anger—an all-consuming fury at the system that had turned her into this.
As she holstered her rifle, her tear-filled eyes hardened with resolve. The HPSC had used her for far too long. Now, it was her turn to fight back.
Determined to end this once and for all, she marched into the HPSC building, her mind set. The moment she stepped inside, her eyes fell on Keigo, standing casually near the entrance. He had been working here for a year now, she remembered, though that seemed like a lifetime ago. His golden eyes lit up when he saw her.
"Hello, Tsutsumi-san," he greeted with a friendly smile. "It's been a while, hasn't it?"
She met his gaze, her expression cold and distant, a far cry from the warmth she once held. Keigo blinked, surprised by her icy demeanor, but before he could say more, she spoke, her voice flat and commanding.
"Move aside."
Startled, he stepped to the side, muttering, "You could've asked nicely, you know…"
Just as she brushed past him, his voice stopped her. "By the way, have you heard anything about Itachi?"
She froze mid-step, eyes widening slightly at the name. Keigo noticed, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "Yeah, I saw his reel. They're calling him the 'most handsome hero.' I'm so jealous."
Her heart twinged at the mention, sorrow flickering in her gaze for the briefest moment. "I'm sorry, Takami," she murmured, her voice softer now but still distant, "I don't have time for this." She turned away, her movements brisk and unyielding.
Keigo watched her, a frown slowly forming on his face. Her eyes—there was something different about them. They weren't the same as before. No light, no warmth. Only cold, lifeless resolve. A shiver ran down his spine.
"O-okay…" he muttered, stepping back, but something nagged at him. Something isn't right.
As she moved further down the hall, he couldn't shake the unease growing in his chest. His instincts screamed that something was off, and so, with a flutter of his wings, he decided to follow her, silently slipping into the shadows.
She headed for the elevator, and as the doors closed behind her, Keigo flew up to the higher floors, carefully keeping out of sight. He landed softly near the corner of the hallway, watching her emerge from the lift.
She walked straight to one of the cabins, her steps sharp, purposeful. His brows furrowed as he saw her approach the door. Whatever she was doing, it wasn't business as usual. What are you up to, Tsutsumi…?
Hidden in the corner, he remained out of sight, ready to see where this would lead.
Kaina knocked on the door, and upon hearing a voice from inside, she stepped into the room. He sat there, relaxed as always, his posture one of ease and control, that same unnerving smile tugging at his lips as he looked up at her.
"No missions today, Nagant. What brings you here?" His tone was casual, almost amused, as if he had already anticipated her arrival.
But Kaina didn't return the smile. Her eyes were cold, her voice devoid of any warmth as she spoke. "I know your secret."
For the briefest of moments, his smile faltered, his eyes narrowing with a calculating gleam as he leaned forward slightly. The shift was almost imperceptible, but Kaina noticed. His voice, though still calm, carried a harder edge now. "What do you mean by that?"
"You made me kill every single person who stood in your way," she said, her gaze unwavering. "I did your dirty work."
He stared at her, and then his lips curled back into a slow, dark smile. "And what of it? They were parasites—germs infecting society. I did you a favor by removing them. You should be thanking me."
Her voice sharpened, cutting through his façade. "Then why did you fund the villain organization? Why did you create the chaos I was trying to stop?"
His eyes widened for a brief second before his smirk returned, more dangerous than before. The tension in the room thickened as he leaned back in his chair, clasping his hands together, the epitome of control. "Ah... so you've uncovered that, too." He chuckled softly, as if the revelation were a mere inconvenience. "I see you've grown, Nagant."
His grin widened into something twisted, cruel. "But then, I suppose that means you don't care about your family anymore, do you?" His fingers drifted toward his phone, dialing a number with slow, deliberate movements—the number for the people who had been tracking her mother.
Silence.
He pressed the phone to his ear, waiting. No response.
Kaina watched him with a chilling calm, her expression unchanged. "Are you trying to reach them?" she asked softly, her voice as cold as ice.
The realization struck him, and for the first time, his smile truly vanished. His eyes flickered with shock as he lowered the phone. "You... killed them?" he whispered, disbelief coating his words.
She didn't flinch, her voice steady. "Now it's your turn."
His smirk faded completely, and for the first time, cracks appeared in his carefully maintained composure. "You think you'll walk away from this?" His voice rose in pitch, desperation creeping in. But then, just as quickly, the panic was swallowed by something darker—calculation. His eyes gleamed as if he had found a new angle to exploit. "Nagant, listen to me. You don't understand. Everything I've done was for you."
She extended her arm, the rifle hidden in her elbow clicking into place, the cold barrel pointed directly at him.
He didn't flinch. Instead, he smiled—a smile that held no warmth, only twisted satisfaction. "Do you really think killing me will set you free? You'll be even more of a prisoner than before." His voice softened, dripping with false concern. "After all, who gave you your power? Who shaped you into what you are now? Me." He gestured to himself, blood slowly seeping through his fingers as he clutched the wound in his shoulder. "Without me, you're just another lost hero, drowning in a system that eats the weak alive."
Kaina's finger hovered over the trigger, her expression unreadable.
His voice dropped to a whisper, smooth as silk. "You won't pull that trigger, Nagant. You know why? Because even if I die here, I win. Everything you've done, all the blood on your hands—it's irreversible. You've already fallen too far." His smile widened, more sinister now. "Killing me won't wash away your sins. It'll only deepen the stain."
Sweat began to bead on his forehead, but he maintained his chilling composure, playing his final card. "Think about your career. Think about what will happen to you after this. You'll be branded a murderer, a traitor. Do you really want that for yourself? You'll lose everything... and for what? Revenge?"
Kaina's hand trembled, but she steadied it, her gaze unwavering. "My career was ruined the moment I trusted you," she whispered, her voice laced with quiet fury. "You stole my hope... my future."
His grin faltered again, but he pressed on, his voice taking on a frantic edge. "Wait—don't do this! You'll be alone, Nagant. After this, you'll have nothing. You'll be hunted, despised, just like them." His words turned sharp, desperate. "Think about your future. Think about—"
Bang.
The gunshot echoed through the room as the bullet tore through his shoulder, his words cut off in a strangled cry. He winced, clutching the wound, his voice trembling now. "Y-You're ruining everything! This is bigger than you! You can't even comprehend what's at stake!"
Kaina's eyes, cold and unyielding, bore into his. "You've already ruined me," she whispered. "And you'll never manipulate anyone again."
His eyes flickered with something like fear, but still, he tried to regain control, tried to twist the narrative one last time. "Nagant... if you pull that trigger, you'll be no better than me. You'll be trapped, just like I always said."
Another shot rang out.
The bullet struck him in the head, and the dark manipulator, who had once held so much power over her life, slumped lifelessly onto his desk.
Kaina lowered her rifle, her hands steady now. Her chest felt lighter, though the weight of everything she had done remained. There was no victory here—only the quiet, cold finality of ending a chapter she had long been enslaved to.
The president had fallen, but his words echoed in her mind: "You'll never be free."
Just then, the door burst open. Keigo stood there, eyes wide in disbelief as he took in the scene. His gaze flicked from the dead body to Kaina, who stood over the corpse, a strange look of satisfaction on her face.
"Why…?" Keigo asked, his voice heavy with shock and confusion.
Before she could answer, the president's lackeys rushed into the room. They took one look at the scene and immediately began shouting. "Lady Nagant killed the president! She's a villain disguised as a hero!"
Kaina's expression darkened as she reloaded her rifle, ready to deal with the new threat. But before she could pull the trigger, Keigo stepped in front of her, blocking her aim.
"Don't do this," he said quietly, his voice trembling, pleading.
For a moment, Kaina hesitated, her grip tightening on the rifle as she stared into Keigo's eyes, her resolve wavering under the weight of her choices.
Keigo's voice trembled slightly, though he tried to maintain control. "This will only cause more damage," he pleaded, his eyes locked on hers. "Please, Tutsumi-san… put the rifle down."
Her gaze remained cold and unwavering. "Move aside, Takami," she replied, her voice devoid of warmth. "I don't want to kill you."
"I know," he whispered, stepping closer, his hands outstretched in a gesture of peace. "But please… don't make this worse."
She hesitated, her rifle still aimed at the lackeys. They, however, were growing more impatient. One of them sneered. "Hawks, what the hell are you doing? Arrest her! She killed the president—she's a villain now. We have to pass judgment!"
Keigo's eyes narrowed into a glare, his calm composure slipping. "Do you even realize who you're talking to? I'm the current No. 4 hero."
The lackey scoffed, undeterred. "So what? You work for us. Don't forget that. It's because of us you're even ranked that high."
Keigo sighed, shaking his head slowly. His voice dropped to a dangerous whisper. "I think you should be panicking right about now."
The lackey frowned, confused. "What do you mean?"
Keigo's expression darkened, and he leaned in, his voice low but sharp as a blade. "The newly elected president is going to make your life hell. You know who you're dealing with, right?"
One of the lackey's smirks faltered. "M-Madam President…?"
Keigo smirked, getting closer and placing a firm hand on the man's shoulder. "Your life is turning to hell, my friend. And there's someone else you should fear more than the president. You know who I'm talking about."
The group exchanged uneasy glances. "Who? That kid? Yaoyorozu's kid? What could he possibly do to us?" the lackey sneered, trying to mask his growing unease. "We could ruin his career if we wanted."
Keigo chuckled darkly. "That's where you'll meet your end. Aegis doesn't care about rankings or careers. He cares about one thing—his loved ones. You mess with them, your life's over. No mercy. You've never seen his rage." His smirk deepened. "All the best dealing with that."
At the mention of Aegis, Kaina's expression shifted. Tears brimmed in her eyes, a quiet sorrow washing over her as she thought of Itachi. The memory of how fiercely he protected those closest to him hit her hard—and she was one of those closest to him.
Keigo noticed her tears and stepped closer. "I'm sorry, Tutsumi-san," he said softly, his voice heavy with guilt. "But we have to take you into custody."
She looked at him, her cold demeanor softening into a sad smile. Without a word, she retracted the rifle from her arm, the metallic parts clicking back into place. Slowly, she extended her wrists to him.
"Put the handcuffs on," she whispered.
Keigo's heart clenched, but he did as she asked, locking the cuffs around her wrists. As they walked toward the interrogation room, a deep silence settled between them, weighed down by the gravity of what had just transpired. Kaina glanced at him, her voice barely above a whisper.
"My career was over the moment I believed in him."
Keigo's chest tightened, but he said nothing, leading her away, unsure of how everything had come to this.
Flashback end:
The flashback faded, leaving the room in a heavy silence. Keigo and Naomasa Tsukauchi exchanged looks, both processing what they had just heard. Keigo's voice was quiet, almost disbelieving. "She told the truth… all of it."
Naomasa, equally shocked, nodded slowly. "She did." His voice held a mix of concern and determination. "Do you know the name of the organization, Kaina?"
Kaina shook her head, her face weary. "I don't know," she admitted.
Tsukauchi's brows furrowed, his thoughts racing. "This is bad. I need to inform All Might." The gravity of the situation was clear to him now—this went deeper than any of them could have imagined.
Keigo, still reeling, turned back to Kaina, his eyes filled with regret. "Why didn't you tell us earlier?" His voice cracked slightly. "We could've helped… saved you from carrying this burden alone."
Kaina looked at him, her eyes tired yet resolute. "How could I?" she asked, her voice soft but filled with the weight of years of secrecy. "I didn't want you to see this side of me… the darkness I had to face. I didn't want to drag you into a world that could destroy your hope and your future."
She paused, her voice lowering. "Your career is just beginning, Keigo. You're only 18… and back then, you were just 16, not even licensed as a hero. I couldn't let you be part of this."
Keigo met her gaze but said nothing, the silence between them filled with unspoken pain.
Kaina smiled weakly. "I know Itachi must be criticizing himself right now," she said, her voice tinged with sadness.
"Yeah…" Keigo muttered, a touch of guilt in his tone.
"He always told me, 'Don't do this alone. Talk to me,'" she continued, her smile growing more sorrowful. "But I kept telling him I was fine. I knew he had his doubts." Her sad smile deepened, eyes clouded with memories. "Even if I'm sentenced to death… just tell him one thing: I don't regret any of it. He shouldn't blame himself."
Keigo's heart clenched, his voice tightening with emotion. "Don't say that. He'll come for you. I'm sure of it," he insisted. "He won't let you die. He'll find a way. He'll do something—anything—to save you."
Before Kaina could respond, a guard stepped into the room. "I'm sorry, but your time is up."
Keigo glanced at Kaina one last time, nodding slightly as he stood. "Just wait, okay? We'll figure this out."
He and Naomasa left the room, leaving Kaina alone. For a long moment, she sat there, staring at the door with a teary smile on her face, her heart heavy with both acceptance and sorrow.
As Itachi stepped out of the airport, the world seemed to descend into chaos around him. A wall of flashing cameras and the chaotic clamor of reporters greeted him. His eyes remained calm, but the weight of the situation pressed down on him. Not this again… he thought, his expression betraying nothing as he prepared himself for what was to come.
Within moments, a swarm of reporters rushed toward him, their microphones thrust in his direction, and voices overlapping in a desperate attempt to get a reaction.
"What do you have to say about the President's incident?"
"Is it true you're involved?"
He kept his gaze forward, his steps steady and deliberate. He was used to this—being the center of attention in ways that tested his patience. Silence was his shield, and he wielded it expertly, refusing to acknowledge the barrage of questions. His calm demeanor only seemed to frustrate the reporters further, their questions growing more pointed and invasive.
"Lady Nagant killed him—what's your take on that?"
Itachi clenched his jaw slightly but remained unresponsive. He had learned long ago how to remain respectful while holding firm in his own silence. His focus was on staying composed, walking through the crowd as if the chaos around him didn't exist. But then, one question cut through the noise and pierced the calm he'd built.
"Lady Nagant—what's your relationship with her? What's your connection to a villain?"
Itachi's steps faltered, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to stand still. Slowly, he turned his head, his black eyes locking onto the reporter who had dared to speak. The air grew thick with tension as his gaze, cold and unyielding, bore into the reporter's soul. The silence that followed was suffocating.
His expression remained unreadable, but the intensity of his stare spoke volumes. The crowd of reporters, once so loud and eager, fell into an uneasy hush, all eyes on him, waiting for his response. When Itachi finally spoke, his voice was calm, but it carried the weight of a thousand unspoken warnings.
"Just because you have the right to ask questions," he began, his tone as sharp as a blade, "doesn't mean you should cross the line."
The reporter who had asked the question visibly recoiled under Itachi's gaze. There was no anger in his voice, only a quiet authority that made it clear he would not tolerate baseless accusations.
Itachi's eyes swept over the crowd, his words measured and deliberate. "Do your job," he continued. "Find the truth. Don't throw around accusations without proof."
His words hung in the air, and the reporters, who had been so eager for a scandal, suddenly seemed unsure of themselves. They gulped, stepping back slightly, their eagerness to provoke him fading under the weight of his calm yet chilling demeanor.
Before the situation could escalate further, Yana appeared, moving swiftly to Itachi's side. "Come on, Itachi," she said softly, placing a hand on his arm and gently guiding him away from the crowd. He nodded, allowing her to lead him, and they quickly slipped into the waiting car.
As soon as the doors closed, Itachi let out a small sigh, his eyes drifting towards the window as they drove away from the chaotic scene. Yana glanced at him, concern flickering in her eyes.
"I'm sorry you had to deal with that," she said quietly. "The media can be ruthless."
"It's fine," Itachi replied softly, though his mind was still replaying the question about Kaina. He felt an odd mix of emotions—concern, anger, and a deep-seated frustration at how easily the media twisted things for their own gain.
What he didn't know was that even as they left the airport, the media houses had already begun circulating a new rumor, fueled by the very pictures they had taken. Secretly, they had snapped photos of Itachi and Kaina together in the past, and now, those images were spreading like wildfire.
Across the city, images of Itachi and Kaina walking side by side, their every glance and movement scrutinized, flooded the news. Headlines speculated about their relationship, spinning wild theories about Itachi's involvement with a supposed "villain."
And as those images spread, Kaina's world and Itachi's collided in the worst possible way.
In the car, the atmosphere was heavy with unspoken emotions. Yana and Momo both sat quietly, their expressions somber as they glanced at Itachi. Yana broke the silence, her voice soft yet filled with concern. "It will be fine, Itachi," she said, trying to reassure him. Itachi looked at her, his expression calm, and he nodded in acknowledgment.
Beside him, Momo gently placed her hand on his, her touch filled with both comfort and worry. "Brother..." she said quietly. Itachi turned to her, noticing how much she had grown. She looked more mature now, her once-childish features replaced by the grace of young adulthood. He gave her a small, genuine smile. She's changed so much,he thought.
Momo smiled back, though her eyes still held sadness. "Thank you, brother, but..." She hesitated, her voice faltering as her emotions threatened to spill over. She looked at him with a sad, conflicted expression. "I—I... Itachi..."
Sensing her struggle, Itachi gave her a sad smile and gently patted her head, like he used to when she was younger. "Don't think too much," he said softly. "You're still a child."
Yana nodded in agreement. "Momo, you shouldn't involve yourself in this. It's too dangerous," she added, her tone filled with motherly concern.
But Momo shook her head, her eyes welling up with frustration. "How could I not, Mother? I always see you sad... and Kaina... what she did... I—I know she had her reasons..."
Itachi's expression softened as he looked at Momo. "I know," he said, his voice quiet yet resolute. "I know the reason."
Yana turned to him, curiosity and concern mixing in her gaze. "What is it?" she asked.
Itachi hesitated for a moment, glancing between Momo and Yana. "Not now," he said, his voice low but firm. Yana understood the weight behind his words and nodded, knowing that whatever it was, it wasn't something to discuss in the car, in front of Momo.
After a brief silence, Itachi spoke again. "Did Father tell you anything?" he asked Yana.
She shook her head. "No, he didn't. He just said you were coming to Japan because you were called by the HPSC. That's all."
Itachi nodded thoughtfully. His father had mentioned needing to tell him something important, but he hadn't expected it to be related to the HPSC. His thoughts drifted back to the media frenzy, Kaina's actions, and the unsettling feeling that something far darker was unfolding.
As the car pulled up to their home, Itachi remained lost in thought. The weight of the day, the questions, and the unresolved matters with Kaina hung heavy in the air. Yana glanced at him one more time before they all stepped out of the car, knowing that whatever lay ahead, the family would have to face it together.
Itachi entered the house with his luggage, setting it down quietly. Yana watched him, her expression full of concern. "Takashi is still at the office," she said softly, "but he'll be home early, he said."
Itachi nodded in response, not saying much. Yana hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Do you want something to eat?"
He shook his head. "No, Mother... I'm not hungry," he replied, his voice calm but distant.
Yana's heart ached at the sight of her son, burdened by so much. She sat beside him, unable to bear the silence, and wrapped her arms around him in a gentle hug. "Why does it have to be you?" she whispered, her voice filled with the sadness only a mother could feel.
In her embrace, Itachi smiled faintly, though his eyes carried the weight of his past and present. He spoke softly, his words laced with bittersweet wisdom: "Because sometimes... the strongest hearts are the ones that bear the heaviest burdens."
Yana heard his words, and though they brought her some comfort, they also made her heart ache even more. She held him a little tighter, wishing she could take away even a fraction of the weight he carried.
Momo sat on the couch, frustration evident in her voice as she stared at her phone. "This is nonsense…"
Yana, sensing her daughter's distress, looked up from what she was doing. "What happened, Momo?"
"They're linking this case to Brother now," Momo said, her tone thick with disbelief. She handed the phone to Yana.
Itachi let out a quiet sigh, as though expecting this, his gaze distant.
Yana's eyes skimmed over the screen, and her expression darkened with anger. "How could they? Show me the rest," she demanded.
Momo scrolled further, her fingers trembling slightly, until she came across a photo of Itachi and Kaina together. "Look, they're twisting the story as if you two are in a relationship." Her voice lowered in frustration. "And this headline… 'World's Most Handsome Hero and the Most Heartless Villain in a Relationship.' Can you believe this?"
Yana's face flushed with anger. "How about we sue them? They can't get away with this kind of slander!"
Itachi, though calm, shook his head. "We can't, Mother."
Yana sighed, her anger still palpable but tempered by understanding. "I know... but they're dragging you down like this just to increase their viewership? It's disgusting."
Itachi remained silent for a moment, his face unreadable, before he finally spoke. "I'm not thinking about myself right now... I'm more worried about her family. Her mother... I wonder how she's holding up." His voice carried a weight of sadness as he lowered his gaze.
Yana softened, her eyes filling with concern. "What are you thinking, Itachi?"
Itachi met her eyes and spoke with quiet determination. "Mother, I have a request... I want to bring Kaina's mother to safety. I don't want her caught in the crossfire."
Yana smiled gently, understanding the depth of his care. "You don't even have to ask, Itachi. I'll send some protection if you want."
Itachi returned her smile, a rare moment of warmth breaking through his usual stoic demeanor. "Thank you, Mother."
Yana shook her head. "You don't need to thank me. I'm your mother, Itachi. It's what we do for family."
Still, Itachi's gaze hardened again, a look of fierce determination flashing in his eyes. "I'm just waiting for my chance, Mother."
Yana sighed, seeing that unyielding resolve in him. She placed a hand on his head and patted it softly. "I know, my son... but for now, eat something. You need your strength."
He was about to decline, but a single look from his mother softened him. He nodded, giving in. "Okay."
Meanwhile, Momo sat still, scrolling through social media, her frustration mounting as she read more comments. "Brother… some people are supporting you, but so many are being so negative."
Itachi looked at her calmly. "Momo, don't let it bother you. Ignore them. Come eat with us."
Momo hesitated, torn by what she was reading, but eventually, she sighed and nodded, setting her phone aside. Together, the three of them sat down at the dining table. Despite the storm of emotions swirling around them, they found comfort in the simple act of being together, the quiet strength of their family holding them steady.
Takashi arrived home earlier than expected, and his presence filled the hallway as his family sat together, their expressions a mix of concern and comfort. "So, you came," he said, his voice steady as he entered the living room. He sat beside Yana, his eyes settling on Itachi with quiet concern.
Takashi sighed, leaning back slightly as he asked, "How are you holding up?"
"I'm managing well enough," Itachi replied, his tone neutral but revealing the weight on his shoulders.
Takashi studied him for a moment, then said, "You'll need patience... more than anything. That's all I can really say right now."
Itachi nodded, acknowledging the advice. Then, his eyes sharpened with focus. "You said you had something to tell me?"
Takashi looked at Yana for a brief second before turning back to Itachi. "I know something about the HPSC... something you need to hear."
Itachi's expression narrowed with suspicion. "Go on," he urged quietly.
Takashi exhaled, gathering his thoughts. "It wasn't too long ago... around the time of the sports festival, actually. After your performance, we were all incredibly proud of you. But I've carried some guilt since then..."
Yana placed a comforting hand on his arm, and Itachi's eyes softened as he looked at his father. "I've already forgiven you, Father. There's no need to dwell on it."
Takashi shook his head, a sad smile forming. "That's because you have a big heart, just like your mother... unlike me."
Yana shot him a gentle look, her voice firm. "Don't say that, Takashi."
He smiled at her briefly before returning his focus to Itachi. "Anyway... two days after the festival, the president of the HPSC called me in for a business meeting. It wasn't unusual at the time. You know we also have a support gear company that supplies costumes and gear for pro heroes."
Itachi nodded silently, waiting for him to continue.
"We had the meeting," Takashi went on, "and the president asked me to consider investing in a new company called 'QuickBoost.'"
Itachi's eyes narrowed slightly. "I've heard of that company."
Takashi nodded. "They're in the same line of business as us. At first, everything seemed normal. But when I heard their offer, it felt... off. The terms they proposed were bizarre, like something wasn't right."
He continued, pulling out his phone and reading aloud. "They offered a partnership where we'd be distributing their products exclusively, with a 30% wholesale discount, co-branded marketing with pro heroes, and an expected 200% sales growth within six months. Minimum investment: two million yen."
Itachi narrowed his eyes, his expression darkening. "This is clearly a scam," he said coldly.
Takashi nodded in agreement. "Exactly. A 200% sales growth sounded tempting at first, but I realized quickly that something wasn't right. They had another purpose behind it. So, I declined their offer and walked away. But since then, strange things have been happening. Someone's trying to bring our company down."
Itachi's gaze sharpened. "What are they doing?"
Takashi sighed heavily. "First, there were false rumors about the hero suits and gear—claims that they weren't in proper condition. We managed to handle that, but then, someone started manipulating our stock prices. QuickBoost is involved. Their stock was sinking, and suddenly, someone unknown started buying it up in bulk, raising the market value. They're selling their products at lower prices now... but not to heroes."
Itachi's eyes widened. "To villains...?"
Takashi grimly nodded. "That's the speculation. Many villains have started using advanced gear that matches what QuickBoost produces. And it doesn't stop there..."
He paused, glancing over at Momo, who was quietly listening, her face full of concern. Takashi took a breath, as if preparing himself. "Several of my colleagues—pro heroes—have gone missing. Heroes I've worked with for years."
Itachi's expression hardened, and the pieces began to fall into place. His fist clenched tightly. "They're being killed...?"
Yana gasped, her eyes widening in shock, and Momo covered her mouth, the weight of the revelation sinking in.
Takashi nodded, his face lined with guilt and frustration. "After I rejected QuickBoost, they approached those heroes too. When they refused… they disappeared." He paused, a flicker of something darker passing over his face. "These weren't exactly model heroes. Most of them were in it for the money, not the cause. They were corrupt, but still… they weren't foolish enough to get involved with QuickBoost's deal. They saw right through it."
Itachi's eyes narrowed, the revelation settling deep in his mind. His grip tightened further. "So Kaina… if what Keigo said was true, she was forced to kill. She was the one who killed them…"
Yana, horrified, turned to Itachi. "This is serious, Takashi! You should've told us earlier."
Takashi sighed, rubbing his temples, as if the weight of this information had been dragging him down for a long time. "I didn't think it would escalate this far. I thought these guys could handle themselves, that maybe it was all just coincidences. But now it's clear… the HPSC president is behind this. He's pulling the strings, eliminating those who might get in his way."
Itachi nodded, his jaw clenched with a quiet fury. "The HPSC has called me in tomorrow. I'll deal with it then."
Suddenly, the doorbell rang, breaking the tense silence. Yana stood up, her face still pale from the conversation. "I'll get it."
She opened the door and froze, seeing Keigo standing on the doorstep, his usual playful expression replaced by one of seriousness. "Keigo..." she muttered, stepping aside.
Keigo quickly stepped into the house, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on Itachi, Takashi, and Momo sitting on the couch. "Itachi," Keigo said urgently, his voice low. "We need to talk. It's serious."
Itachi's gaze hardened as he listened to Keigo's urgent tone. "Please, sit down," he said calmly, though his eyes were sharp with anticipation.
Keigo nodded and sat beside Itachi, his eyes briefly darting to Momo, who was still seated with them. "Ah, Momo… how about you get some sleep? It's already 10 p.m."
Momo narrowed her eyes, her determination clear. "I want to know the truth."
Yana, sensing the tension, gently urged, "Dear, please…"
But Momo stood her ground, her voice firm. "No. I want to know."
Itachi's expression softened for a moment as he looked at his sister. "Momo... please." His tone, though calm, carried a weight that Momo recognized. She met his gaze, reading the silent plea on his face. Without another word, she stood, her anger palpable as she stormed off toward her room. The slam of her door echoed through the hallway, filling the room with a lingering tension.
Yana sighed softly, offering a sad smile, and Itachi reassured her. "Don't worry, Mother. I'll talk to her later."
Yana nodded, though concern still creased her features. Itachi then turned his attention back to Keigo, his expression serious. "So, Keigo. What happened?"
Keigo's face darkened as he let out a heavy sigh. "Things are bad... really bad."
"Tell me," Itachi pressed, his tone growing colder with urgency.
Keigo raised a hand. "No… just listen first." He pulled out his phone, setting it down on the table between them. "This is a recording I took during Kaina's interrogation."
Itachi's eyes widened in shock. "She confessed everything?"
Keigo nodded solemnly. "Yes. But before I play it, I need you to promise me something, bro… don't overreact. Whatever you hear, stay calm. And tomorrow, when we get to the HPSC, act normal. Understand?"
Itachi clenched his jaw, nodding, though his fists were tight against his sides.
Keigo continued, "Also… tomorrow, you need to show up in formal attire. They're going to cover up the situation by announcing a new hero rank first. After that, we'll talk about Kaina."
Itachi's eyes flickered with a dangerous intensity, but he nodded again, swallowing his emotions. Keigo took a deep breath, his hand trembling slightly as he pressed play on the recording. The sound of Kaina's voice filled the room, her words raw and full of pain.
As Kaina's voice echoed through the room, raw with pain and regret, Itachi remained still, his eyes focused on the floor as every word cut deeper.
"I know Itachi must be criticizing himself right now," Kaina's voice from recording. "Yeah…" Keigo voice. "He always told me, 'Don't do this alone. Talk to me,'" Kaina continued, "But I kept telling him I was fine. I knew he had his doubts."
Itachi's hands clenched tightly as her voice softened, full of finality. "Even if I'm sentenced to death… just tell him one thing: I don't regret any of it. He shouldn't blame himself."
The room fell silent. Itachi's heart ached with a deep, familiar pain. His face, calm as always, betrayed little of the storm brewing within. The weight of Kaina's words sat heavily on his shoulders.
After a long pause, Itachi finally spoke, his voice low but filled with conviction. "This system… the way they use people, discard them like tools when they're no longer useful… it needs to be torn down."
Yana's eyes softened with understanding, and she placed a gentle hand on his arm. "I understand how you feel, but…"
Keigo, who had been watching Itachi carefully, nodded in agreement. "I get it, man. This whole thing is messed up. But we need to think about what's best for Kaina. We can reduce her punishment, make sure she doesn't end up—"
Itachi cut him off, his tone calm but unyielding. "I won't let them escape. The ones behind this… the ones who pull the strings… they will face justice. I will make sure of that."
Keigo's brow furrowed. "What are you planning? We have to be smart about this."
Itachi's eyes narrowed slightly, the glint of his Sharingan faintly visible. "I'll ensure they confess to their crimes themselves. They've twisted the system to suit their needs. I'll turn it against them."
Keigo, sensing the resolve in his words, nodded reluctantly. "Alright. Just… don't do anything reckless."
Itachi stood up, his voice steady and cold. "Reckless would be letting this continue unchecked. I won't allow anyone else to be used like Kaina."