Linked Paths

Arc II - Many Firsts [Chapter 2: Dates]

I grin pleased, "If it becomes apparent that she is no longer of use to you, Tomura shall eradicate her immediately."

Garaki: "Yes, indeed."

I have no doubt that we will decrypt the data. But the more important question is...

"And how long will it take to create a stable specimen?", I want to know.

Garaki: "Once we've sifted through and analyzed all the data...", *is briefly absorbed in his crazy mind*, "It depends on many factors, but I think at least three months."

I know Garaki will do everything he can to push the research forward.

I nod, "You're dismissed."

Garaki: *bows respectfully and leaves my office straight away*

The moment he closes the office door behind him, I lean back in my office chair. We've taken an important step forward today. The data is essential for my goal. Not much longer and we can celebrate the birth of 'Zero'.

My thoughts get caught up in my plans for a while until they end up at her. It always does.

Reflexively, my gaze wanders to my right, to a very specific spot. I lean forward again and open the bottom drawer of my desk. I pull open the false bottom and take out the photo I've been keeping inside. Like every day, I look at it with melancholy in my heart and indescribable hatred in my veins. Like every day, the rage inside me rises quickly as I look at it. Not for long, and I am forced to put it back again.

Every time.

Half of me has wanted to burn it for a long time, but the other half wants to cherish it like a treasure. After all, it's the only picture of her that I still possess.

It is quickly hidden, the drawer closed. What remains is sheer wrath.

This picture is also of great relevance as it effectively reminds me of my mantra. My inner vow, that I will not rest until I have taken my revenge. Revenge on this unspeakable man. I will take everything that means anything to him. Piece by piece. Before I erase him from this world, I will cause him suffering. Just like he caused me to suffer. When I think of him, all that's left today is nausea and detestation. The engine of my existence.

Yet vengeance is by far not my only aim. I want chaos. I want misery. I want to confront the ones who call themselves 'heroes' with an equal counterforce.

A rapturous grin steals across my face. I can hardly wait. Even if it will cost my own life...

× Izuku's POV ×
[16th of February, Friday, 'Marlies' Coffee Bean']

Tamamushi: "And for you," *serves me my Latte Macchiato*, "the usual.", *tucks the now empty tray under his arm*, "It's on me today."

"Oh, thank you so much!", naturally my cheeks turn rosy. I smile at him sheepishly and gratefully.

Tamamushi: "Well then, enjoy yourselves. Alas, I must get back to work.", *gives me a longing look*

It also makes me feel warm in my tummy. I watch him smitten as he turns away and carries on with his duties, taking an order at another table.

Shin: *gives a whiny sigh*, "Oh man, why can't things go this well for me too?"

My head moves to the right, where Shin is pouting with a dejected face.

Laha: "Oh don't worry about it. I mean, it wasn't that bad."

Shin: *has to sigh again, this time even more bummed out*, "It was super weird between us at the fire warden the day after though."