Whispers of the past

Unleashing Potential

Y/N's pov:

I sat in Narumi's office, the sterile environment contrasting sharply with the whirlwind of emotions inside me. I had been officially released from confinement, cleared of any immediate threat, and now I was to become an official officer of the First Division. Narumi had arranged everything, but as I sat there, I felt nothing but a hollow emptiness.

Narumi watched me from behind his desk, his brow furrowed with concern. He had always been a figure of strength and authority, but now, his worry was palpable.

"How are you holding up, Y/N?" he asked gently, his voice breaking the silence.

I looked up at him, my expression blank. "I'm fine, Captain Narumi. I'll focus on my duty and only that."

Narumi's concern deepened. "You don't have to do this alone. If you need to talk, I'm here."

I nodded mechanically, not trusting myself to speak further. The past few days had drained me of any energy to feel or express emotions. The betrayal by Soshiro, the public humiliation, and the crushing weight of my reality had left me numb.

After a few moments of silence, Narumi sighed and handed me my new identification badge. "Welcome to the First Division, Officer Y/N. I know you'll do great things here."

I took the badge, my fingers brushing against the cold metal. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate the opportunity."

Narumi stood up, walking around the desk to stand beside me. "Remember, Y/N, you're more than just your duty. Don't lose yourself in this."

I managed a small, tight smile. "I'll do my best."

Leaving his office, I made my way to the bar where I had worked for years. The familiar neon sign flickered above the entrance, casting a dim light on the street. As I pushed the door open, the smell of smoke and alcohol enveloped me, a stark reminder of my past.

Mr. Orochi was behind the bar, wiping down the counter. He looked up as I entered, his eyes momentarily brightening before a strange, almost robotic expression settled on his face. I ignored the unease that crept up my spine and approached him.

"Mr. Orochi," I began, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me. "I'm here to tell you that I'm quitting. I've been given a new job, and I'll be working with the First Division from now on."

Mr. Orochi's movements were stiff, almost unnatural. "That's... good news, Y/N. Congratulations."

I hesitated, noting the odd way he spoke, as if he were struggling to find the right words. "Thank you for everything you've done for me," I said softly. "This place has been a refuge for me, and I'll miss it. I'll visit whenever I can."

A strange, mechanical smile crossed Mr. Orochi's face. "You're always welcome here, Y/N."

The concern in me grew, but I pushed it aside, attributing his odd behavior to the shock of my sudden departure. "Take care of yourself, Mr. Orochi. I'll see you around."

As I turned to leave, his voice stopped me. "Y/N, wait."

I looked back, my heart tightening. "Yes?"

"You will kill kaijus now ah?" he said, his eyes empty of emotions. "Just be careful."

I nodded slowly, a sense of foreboding settling over me. "I will. You too."

Leaving the bar, I walked down the darkened streets, my thoughts swirling. Mr. Orochi's behavior was strange, but I had too much on my plate to dwell on it. I had a new job, a new purpose, and I had to focus on that.