Vincent's mind became a battleground for self identity as he confronted the presence of Fenrir's fragment.
Within the depths of his consciousness, shadows coiled and writhed, casting an eerie stillness over the desolate landscape.
"Vincent, you've become powerful indeed. But let's be honest, this talent of yours, these strength, are all thanks to me. I've been subtly guiding you, whispering secrets of how to fight . Did you truly believe you were a natural-born genius?" The fragment's voice slithered through the darkness, its tone filled with sly confidence
Vincent's eyes narrowed, a flicker of irritation crossing his features. He tightened his grip on his ice sword.
"My strength came from my unwavering determination," he retorted, his voice filled with conviction. He could not let doubt or the fragment's taunts cloud his resolve.
With a surge of power, he unleashed his attacked , ready to kill the enemy and free himself from this prison .
Unfortunately , the fragment dodge it with ease.
"Unwavering determination? That's quite a claim coming from you. Don't you remember when you were just an average guy? You couldn't even muster the courage to confess your feelings to the love of your life. And now you dare speak of determination? What a joke."
"Shut up!" Vincent's voice reverberated with a thunderous roar, anger fueling his every step as he surged forward, desperately trying to catch up with the fragment's elusive speed.
But no matter how fast he moved, the fragment seemed to effortlessly dodge all of his attacks. Its agility and reflexes were beyond anything he had encountered before, leaving him frustrated.
"And now you're getting angry, just because I'm telling you the truth," the fragment chuckled, its voice laced with amusement.
"You may have grown stronger, but deep down, you're still the same weak and average person. "
Vincent's fists clenched, his anger boiling beneath the surface. The fragment's words cut deep, striking at his insecurities.
He took a deep breath, steadying himself, refusing to let the fragment's taunts undermine his existence .
"Let's talk about what you did after you gained your power," the fragment chuckled, its tone filled with a twisted delight.
"Instead of confiding in your best friend, sharing the truth about yourself, you chose to trust a woman you had just met—a woman who, by the way, caused your death. It's a good thing Evangeline rescued you; otherwise, you would be a science experiment now," the fragment taunted with a dark chuckle.
Vincent's expression tensed, his brows furrowing as he confronted the fragment's accusation. He knew that it had a point, one that he had wrestled with in the depths of his own thoughts.
"You believed her because, as always, you rely too much on others, and you're too lazy to do things on your own" the fragment sneered with a sharp edge in its voice.
"That's not true!" Vincent protested, his voice firm and resolute, pushing back against the fragment's assertions.
"Oh, so it is not true that you have been relying on your rich billionaire best friend since you were young?"
"That you never thought of improving yourself because you're a complacent piece of shit ?"
"Or that you always daydreamed of becoming a somebody without putting the work?"
"And even when you got your power, you still relied on Evangeline to provide for you. What a loser!" the fragment jeered, its voice filled with contempt.
"I..." Vincent could not utter any words.
"That's right, no matter how you deny it, you know that you're nothing but a loser," the fragment added, its tone laced with disdain .
"That's only because I was weak before," Vincent answered, his voice filled with vulnerability.
"Weak?" The fragment chuckled, its tone filled with amusement.
"When you were still normal, you didn't even bother to improve yourself. When you gained power, you still relied on others. And even when you became the strongest, you still followed others like a little puppy. This isn't about weakness or strength. It's simply a matter of you being incapable of thinking for yourself."
The weight of the fragment's words settled upon him, stirring a sense of unease. Was he truly incapable of thinking for himself? Had he been drifting through life, passively following the lead of others?
"So, tell me . What's the difference if I were to take over your body? You don't even bother to think for yourself, so it's much better that you let me take control. I will protect everyone on your behalf."
Vincent remained silent, his expression filled of contemplation. The fragment's accusations struck a nerve, resonating with a truth he had been hesitant to confront.
As the fragment's chuckle echoed, Vincent's mind churned with conflicting thoughts. The memories of his past choices and actions flashed before him, highlighting the moments when he had relied on others for guidance, when he had failed to take initiative and forge his own path.
"I have Fenrir's memories. The moment you give me control, everyone will be much happier. They will love more the Fenrir who remembers them." the fragment added, its voice dripping with arrogance and persuasion.
"No, they love me!" Vincent protested but his voice was filled with desperation.
The fragment's expression twisted, a smirk playing on its lips.
"Do they truly love you? Or do they love the image of the Original in you, the idea of what you represent to them? The idea that you are needed so they could resurrect the original ?"
Vincent's heart sank at the fragment's words, uncertainty creeping into his thoughts. He had always believed in the love and support of those around him, but now he found himself questioning the authenticity of their feelings.
"They love me," Vincent insisted, his voice wavering slightly. "I have felt their care, their affection. We have shared moments of joy, laughter, and genuine connection. It can't all be superficial."
"Perhaps you're right. Perhaps they do love you. But ask yourself, do they love you for who you truly are, or do they love the image they have created in their minds? "
"Sophia and Nathan ..." Vincent instinctively spoke.
"Oh, don't be so naive. People are fickle creatures. They are drawn to strength, success, and the comfort you provide. But when your power wanes or your achievements fade, will they still be there? Will their love endure?"
"No.. They are different "
Floods of memories resurfaced in Vincent's mind, a torrent of moments that shaped his existence.
As he searched for someone who could justify his being, two figures emerged from the depths of his recollections: Nathan and Sophia.
Nathan, his best friend since childhood, had been there through thick and thin. They had shared countless adventures, supported each other through difficult times, and built a bond that seemed unbreakable.
Nathan's unwavering loyalty and genuine care had always provided him with a sense of validation.
Sophia, on the other hand, was a newer presence in his life. She had entered with a whirlwind of passion and understanding, bringing with her a deep connection that was genuine and pure. She had waited for him when he was at his most vulnerable moments, and had embraced him with acceptance and love, reminding him of his inherent worth and strength.
"Give up, Vincent, and give me full control."
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