In the holding cell, encased in thick, seamless metal, the harsh white ceiling light illuminated dried blood at Kenji's mouth. He was physically depleted, his small body trembling uncontrollably from the gnawing hunger and exhaustion after pushing his power past its limit. The sheer fear for his parents was the only thing sustaining his will to bargain.
He looked at Makima, the woman who arrived cloaked in danger and sweet promises. He stayed silent for a moment before a raw whisper escaped his throat.
"If... if I agree to be your weapon... what about my parents?"
Makima smiled—a warmth that was simultaneously chilling. "They are currently being detained for investigation, according to the law. But if you accept my offer... I will ensure their safety and freedom. They will be released to start a new life, somewhere no one will bother them. I guarantee it."
Kenji inhaled deeply. His body was screaming for food, but his mind held onto the most crucial issue.
"I agree," Kenji murmured faintly, then added with a slight increase in certainty, "But I have a few small conditions."
Makima raised a slender eyebrow. She assessed the boy before her. "And what might those be, little one?"
"First... I want my parents to receive a lot of money—enough so they never have to work hard again, and they can go live somewhere safe and quiet, just like they planned." Kenji paused, then asked the critical question that held his hope. "And... can I visit them?"
Makima's gaze was calm yet intensely powerful. "That is a good question, Kenji. In your new world, your needs will come first... Yes, you will be able to visit them." She paused, letting the words carry weight. "But a visit will only happen when you have proven yourself worthy of it, and when I permit it. Your safety is paramount."
Kenji nodded in understanding. That was a limitation he could accept. If he was good and worked hard, he could see his parents.
"And... and the third thing..." The boy voiced the simplest need, his voice trembling slightly, unable to suppress his physical craving.
"I'm really hungry... Can I have some food?" Kenji glanced around the empty room. "I want three chocolate-filled donuts... and a hot, grilled hamburger with gooey cheese... and two cups of cold strawberry pudding."
Bound by Innocence
Makima stared at Kenji with genuine surprise. The fact that a child with such immense power didn't crave authority, but merely family safety, occasional visits, and delicious fast food, instantly made her realize the key to his control.
"Three donuts, one hamburger, and two cups of pudding..." Makima repeated softly, before breaking into a restrained laugh—a sound that echoed like the clink of steel chains in the dark. "That is a perfectly satisfactory bargain, Hirashi Kenji. I agree to all your terms."
She extended her hand toward him. "From now on... you are the most vital living weapon of Public Safety, and you are under my direct supervision. You will have everything you need, so long as you obey my commands."
Kenji raised his bruised hand and grasped hers. The contact carried not just hope, but the complete surrender of control to the Control Devil, who had waited for this weapon. Hunger had expedited his decision.
The Genesis of a New Weapon
Makima did not let go of Kenji's hand, her fingers tightening gently, a physical representation of the bondage established.
"Very good, Kenji," she said. "You are now completely mine."
She turned to the reinforced glass and ordered with a sharp voice, "Process this boy's parents immediately under the agreed terms. Provide the necessary funds and erase all data regarding their existence." Then, her tone shifted. "And... get this child's food order here now. Three donuts, one cheeseburger, and two strawberry puddings."
Makima turned back to Kenji with a chillingly gentle smile. "Don't worry about your hunger. From this moment on... you will never go without a meal again." She emphasized the promise. "Tomorrow, you will wake up in a new facility, and your training will begin... You must grow stronger to perform the missions that await you, so you can earn your reward—a visit with the family you love."
"Are you ready to become my most important person?"