*Heavy Angst/Vile topics Warning*
In a chance encounter at a convenience store, Y/n, a young girl from a wealthy family, crosses paths with Michael Kaiser, a boy caught in the throes of poverty. Despite her sister Vespera's disdainful behavior towar...
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(*Warning: this chapter has mentions of attempted harm/suicide, read at your own risk. I do not promote self-harm of any shape or form. I will have the part marked if you wish to skip.*)
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Y/n sighed heavily, exhaustion settling deep in her bones as she continued her relentless search for Alexis. It was late now, the stratum quiet except for the echo of her own footsteps echoing in the hallway.
Every logical part of her brain urged her to stop, to rest, but there was one place she hadn't checked. The nurse's clinic. Despite the late hour and a growing sense of unease, she pressed on.
Approaching the clinic door, Y/n noticed small drops of blood on the floor, enough to catch her attention and quicken her pace.
Without hesitation, she tried the door finding it surprisingly unlocked. Stepping inside, she scanned the room cautiously her eyes locking onto Akuma who was tidying up.
"Akuma," Y/n called out firmly, shutting the door behind her and leaning against it. "We need to talk."
Akuma turned to face her, a hint of surprise crossing her features at Y/n's sudden appearance. "Alright, talk," Akuma replied calmly, meeting Y/n's suspicious gaze.
Y/n didn't mince words. "Why is it that every time someone leaves here, they seem like lifeless puppets with new necklaces around their necks? What's going on?" Her voice held a mixture of accusation and concern.
Akuma continued her task, not pausing as she responded coolly, "I'm just doing my job, Y/n. Health is sensitive, and I can't control how people react.
Y/n's suspicion only grew at Akuma's nonchalant response. "And these necklaces?" she pressed further, her voice unwavering.
"They're part of a new technology to regulate stress, I thought that was understandable." Akuma explained, her tone slightly condescending. "But I get that some people take longer to understand things," she added dismissively, which earned an eye-roll from Y/n.
"Akuma, please explain these necklaces better," Y/n began. "What exactly are they doing to the boys?"
Akuma leaned down , her gaze unclear. "It's taking the stress and translating it into comfort . If you wanna know so bad, they can also influence behavior to a certain extent."
Y/n nodded slowly. "And who designed them?"
Akuma's lips curved into a cold smile. "A very talented scientist, but that's not important. What's important is that they work."
Y/n's eyes narrowed. "But do they work though? The boys are struggling."
Akuma shrugged. "Adjustments are still being made, but they're necessary for optimal performance."