Chapter 12: The Potential Within

The Potential Within I swallowed hard, trying to keep my voice steady. "What do you mean I have a certain potential?" I asked hesitantly, my eyes locked on Shigaraki's. Shigaraki's smile grew even wider, and he took another sip of his drink, savoring the moment. "Ah, Vesper, you're so modest. You don't even realize what you're capable of." He set the glass down on the bar and began to walk towards me, his eyes gleaming with excitement. As he approached, I could feel my heart racing in my chest. Bakugo's restraints seemed to be the only thing keeping him from launching himself at Shigaraki. Dabi, on the other hand, seemed completely uninterested in the conversation, his gaze still fixed on me with an unnerving intensity. Shigaraki stopped in front of me, his eyes searching mine. "You have a certain... spark within you. A spark that can be fanned into a flame, and that flame can be used to change the world." He reached out a hand and gently brushed a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch sending shivers down my spine. I tried to step back, but my feet seemed rooted to the spot. "What are you talking about?" I asked, trying to keep my voice firm. Shigaraki chuckled. "Oh, Vesper, you're so innocent. You don't even realize what you're capable of. But I do. And I'm going to help you unlock it." He turned to Bakugo, a mischievous glint in his eye. "And with your help, Katsuki, I think we can bring about a new era of villainy." Bakugo's eyes flashed with anger, and he struggled against his restraints, but they only seemed to tighten. "You'll never get her to help you, Shigaraki," he growled. "She's not like you." Shigaraki's smile never wavered. "Oh, but that's where you're wrong, Katsuki. Vesper has a certain... je ne sais quoi. A certain charm that can be used to manipulate others. And with my guidance, I think she can become a truly powerful villain." I felt a surge of fear at his words. What did he plan to do with me? And how was I going to escape? Shigaraki seemed to sense my fear, and his smile grew even wider. "Don't worry, Vesper. I'll take good care of you. I'll help you unlock your potential, and together, we'll change the world." I knew then that I had to think fast, or risk being trapped in this nightmare forever. But for now, I was at Shigaraki's mercy, and that thought sent a chill down my spine.