[DISCONTINUED] Shattered Chains: A Hero's Beginning / Male Reader x MHA

[PROLOGUE] Chapter 6: Fractured Freedom

Within the confines of their prison, Y/N began to hone his quirk, using it as a means to sense the presence of others within the hideout. Though his abilities were still in their infancy, he gradually developed the capacity to map out the layout of the stretching corridors without ever needing to set foot outside their cramped room.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks stretched into long, arduous months. Y/N's relentless determination saw him meticulously observe the movements and routines of Overhaul's minions. He sensed, observed, and studied their patterns, committing each detail to memory. Each passing day brought him closer to understanding the inner workings of their captor's domain, like a spider weaving its web of deceit.

But as Y/N's confidence in his growing knowledge of the hideout swelled, so did the cruelty of the experiments inflicted upon him. Overhaul, the manipulative mastermind, had learned about Y/N's discovery of the experiments that he'd put Eri through, and sought to quell any spark of rebellion within the boy's spirit. The torment that once seemed unbearable had intensified, testing Y/N's endurance to the brink of collapse.

The experiments became a merciless assault, ravaging Y/N's body and soul. Overhaul meticulously struck at his captive's vulnerabilities, each session designed to push him to the brink of oblivion. Y/N's strength waned under the relentless onslaught, his body succumbing to pain and suffering. Yet, as Y/N's body bore the scars of Overhaul's relentless experiments, he discovered a cruel twist in his captor's game. Overhaul would deliberately keep him on the edge of death, ensuring that Y/N remained just barely alive. It was a calculated torment, denying Y/N the solace of death's embrace while withholding the full restoration of his broken body. Overhaul reveled in the malicious power of this sadistic dance, delighting in the shattered shell of Y/N's existence.

Within the depths of their prison, Eri remained a steadfast companion, offering what comfort she could in the face of Y/N's suffering. Her gentle touch and whispered words provided a glimmer of respite in the darkness. Y/N found solace in her presence, a beacon of warmth amidst the coldness that permeated their surroundings. But as Y/N's physical and mental limits were pushed to their brink, he knew that waiting for the perfect moment was a luxury they could no longer afford. With his mental map of the hideout nearly complete, he resolved to seize their freedom now, no matter the cost.

With Eri safely cradled in his arms, Y/N summoned a surge of energy, shattering the door that had held them captive for far too long. The force of his attack sent the door hurtling toward a hapless minion, their existence snuffed out under the weight of the metallic door.

As they fled through the darkened corridors, encounters with members of Overhaul's group were inevitable. Swiftly, Y/N guided Eri into an adjacent room, shielding her from the violence that was about to unfold. Barely a second passed before the corridor became a battleground. Y/N unleashed a relentless torrent of fury upon his approaching enemies. Blasts of energy erupted from his fingertips, tearing through flesh and bone. Each strike was swift and lethal, leaving a trail of disfigured bodies and scorch marks in his wake, his blows leaving his enemies disfigured and seared with agony.

Eri, her senses heightened by the rapid increase of violence, heard the sickening sounds of the merciless onslaught. Fear gripped her, and her innocent eyes widened with dread. Before she could bear witness to the grisly aftermath, Y/N swiftly covered her eyes, pulling her close, and whispering words of reassurance through gritted teeth, he would make sure that she saw none of the aftermath, as she had already seen enough.

This cycle continued for a while longer, with Eri being placed in a room nearby, away from the battle, and Y/N proceeding to brutally injure and kill anyone who got in his way.

The final corridor stretched before Y/N and Eri like a narrow path to liberation. Their hearts pounded in unison, their desperation and panic surging through their veins. But just as they reached the precipice of escape, a thunderous crash shattered their hopes.

A massive concrete slab crashed down, violently separating Y/N and Eri, driving them apart. The barrier stood as a testament to Overhaul's sinister presence, a tangible reminder of the power that sought to keep them chained.

As Y/N struggled to his feet, his eyes locked with the chilling gaze of their captor. Overhaul stood at the far end of the room, an imposing figure radiating a cold and calculated malevolence. His voice cut through the air like a venomous whisper, dripping with disdain and superiority.

Overhaul: "You foolish children, you have no idea what you've started."

Y/N's fists clenched at his sides, his rage simmering beneath the surface. The scars that marred his body throbbed, a painful reminder of the torment he had endured. But in that moment, the pain transformed into an inferno of determination, fuelling his defiance. He met Overhaul's gaze, unwavering, his voice laced with defiance.

Y/N: "I know exactly what you are, Overhaul. A monster who preys on the innocent, who uses them as pawns in your twisted games."

Overhaul's lips curled into a sinister smile, relishing the challenge presented before him.

Overhaul: "Oh, how perceptive of you, my dear Y/N. But it matters not. Your resistance is futile. You and the girl belong to me, body and soul."

The weight of those words hung in the air, suffocating in their implications. Y/N's mind raced, searching for a plan, an escape from this treacherous standoff. But deep down, he knew that there was no turning back. He had made a promise to protect Eri, a promise he intended to keep, even if it meant facing this embodiment of darkness, no matter the cost.