A Test of Wills

A faint smile still played on Shigaraki's lips as I met his gaze, my eyes narrowing slightly as I considered his question. "Why should I tell you?" I asked firmly, trying to inject a sense of confidence into my voice. Shigaraki's smile grew, and he leaned forward, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I think you will," he said, his voice low and persuasive. "You see, Vesper, I'm not just any ordinary person. I'm someone who can offer you... things. Things that you want, things that you need." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. What could Shigaraki possibly offer me that I would want? And what did he mean by "things"? I tried to keep my expression neutral, but Shigaraki's eyes seemed to bore into mine, as if searching for any weakness. "I'm not interested," I said, trying to sound convincing. But Shigaraki just chuckled, a low, throaty sound. "Oh, I think you are," he said, his eyes glinting with knowledge. "You see, Vesper, I've done my research on you. I know all about your past, about your motivations. And I think I can help you." I felt a surge of alarm at his words. How much did Shigaraki know about me? And what did he plan to use that knowledge for? I tried to keep my face blank, but my heart was racing with unease. "I'm not interested in your help," I repeated, trying to sound firm. But Shigaraki just leaned back in his chair, a look of calm satisfaction on his face. "We'll see about that," he said, his eyes never leaving mine. "You see, Vesper, I think you're more interested than you let on. And I'm willing to make you a deal. If you answer my questions, I'll give you something in return." I hesitated, unsure of what to do. Part of me was screaming to get out of there, to run as fast as I could from Shigaraki and his sinister games. But another part of me was curious, curious about what Shigaraki knew and what he was willing to offer. "What do you want to know?" I asked finally, my voice cautious. Shigaraki's smile grew, and he leaned forward, his eyes glinting with excitement. "Oh, I think we'll start with something simple," he said. "Tell me, Vesper... what do you hope to achieve in this world?"