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𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐓 chime of silverware and soft murmur of conversation filled the air at the upscale Ginza café. Sunlight streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the polished marble tables and plush velvet seating.

Todoroki, with his distinctive duel colored hair, sat across from Achilles who lounged comfortably in his chair, exuding an effortless charm that drew the eyes of everyone around them.

Achilles, with his ash-blond hair perfectly styled and golden eyes hidden behind designer sunglasses, cut a striking figure. His attire a tailored suit jacket over a silk shirt, that most likely cost more than what most people make in a month spoke of wealth and sophistication. A playful grin tugged at his lips as he leaned forward, animatedly recounting the details of a particularly gruesome historical assassination.

"You know, Shoto—Achilles began, his voice a smooth purr. "—there was this assassin back in the seventieth century who used a poisoned needle hidden inside a ring. Ingenious, really. The victim never saw it coming."

Todoroki nodded, his expression a blend of curiosity and confusion. "That's... interesting, Haruto. But why do you find these stories so fascinating?"

Achilles' grin widened, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and something darker. "It's all about understanding human nature. The lengths people will go to achieve their goals, the mistakes they make... it's a study in psychology and strategy."

Todoroki tilted his head, still not entirely grasping the deeper implications of Achilles' interest. "I suppose that makes sense. But doesn't it get... disturbing?"

Achilles chuckled, the sound low and almost musical. "Not if you have the right perspective. Besides, it's all history. Nothing to worry about now."

A waiter approached, delivering their lunch—an artful arrangement of gourmet dishes that looked almost too beautiful to eat. Haruto thanked the waiter with a charming smile, his eyes lingering on the young man just a moment too long, causing him to blush and quickly retreat.

"Haruto, you always seem to know exactly what to say to people." Todoroki remarked, picking up his fork. "How do you do it?"

"Flattery and observation."Achilles replied, leaning back and crossing his legs with a casual elegance. "People are like books. You just need to know how to read them."

Todoroki frowned slightly, pondering his friend's words. "I guess... I never really thought about it that way."

Achilles laughed softly, reaching out to ruffle Todoroki's hair, much to the latter's mild annoyance. "That's why you have me around, Shoto. To enlighten you."

Despite his confusion, Todoroki couldn't help but smile. "Well, I'm glad you're here, Haruto. Even if you do have some strange hobbies."

Achilles' grin became almost predatory for a brief moment—a fleeting shadow that vanished as quickly as it came. "Strange? Perhaps. But everyone needs a hobby, don't they?"

Todoroki nodded absentmindedly, focusing on his meal. "True. I just never expected yours to be so... morbid."

Achilles waved a hand dismissively. "It's all in the name of understanding. Knowledge is power."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics, with Achilles effortlessly steering it towards Todoroki recent training and the latest gossip at U.A. High. Throughout, Achilles' eyes never stopped analyzing, his heightened senses picking up on every subtle twitch and inflection in Todoroki responses.

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃'𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐓: bnhaWhere stories live. Discover now