## Chapter 278: The Elusive Asset

"May I ask who this person is?" I said, my voice firm but cautious, as I leaned back in my chair and met Shigaraki's gaze. Shigaraki's grin never wavered, but I detected a flicker of amusement in his eyes. "Ah, Vesper-chan, you're really curious, aren't you?" he said, leaning back in his chair. "Very well, I'll tell you. The individual we're looking for is someone who's been in hiding for a long time. Someone who's been protected by the Hero Society for far too long." Dabi leaned forward, his eyes glinting with excitement. "We're looking for a young woman with a Quirk known as 'Wormhole'," he said, his voice low and smooth. "It's a Quirk that allows her to create portals to other locations, teleport short distances, and even bend the laws of physics to her will." I felt a surge of unease at the thought of such a powerful Quirk. "And what's her name?" I asked, trying to keep my tone neutral. Shigaraki's grin grew wider. "Ah, Vesper-chan, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it?" he said, leaning forward. "Her name is Echo. She's a young woman with a troubled past, and she's been in hiding for a long time. But we believe you might be able to help us track her down." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. "And why do you think I can help you find her?" I asked, trying to keep my tone neutral. Shigaraki leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together once more. "Because, Vesper-chan, you have a certain... reputation," he said, his eyes glinting with amusement. "A reputation for being resourceful, clever, and determined. And we believe that with your help, we can finally track down Echo and acquire her Quirk for ourselves." I felt a shiver run down my spine at the thought of what Shigaraki was planning. "And what's to stop me from turning you down?" I asked, trying to keep my tone firm. Shigaraki's grin grew even wider. "Oh, Vesper-chan, I think you'll find that we have certain... insurance policies in place," he said, leaning forward. "Insurance policies that will ensure you cooperate with us, no matter what." I raised an eyebrow, my mind racing with possibilities. What kind of insurance policies did Shigaraki have in mind? And what exactly did he plan to do with Echo's Quirk? I knew I had to tread carefully, but I also knew I had to know more.