#natsuko higuchi

[aarcanechaoss]

Can you do a fic with Higuchi and the black lizards.About seeing Higuchi at an outing with her sister school on a day off and she looks so different(i headcanon her having black hair and being more kind and respectful as to keep her mafia identity and sister identity a secret)

And Higuchi has to frantically tell the other parents and teachers their her coworkers(but they dont believe her cause she says she works in an office but their all dressed in black and looking scary)

It seems wierd but i had this scenario in my head for a while🤣

Ignore it if you want💙

👀 hold my beer I have an idea… don’t mind me just gonna throw Natsu in here 😎

“Come on Kuniko we’ll be late.” The dark haired woman called, the small apartment making it very easy for her voice to travel.

“Coming Natsuko!” The fourteen year old sang as she rounded the corner grasping at her school shoes. “I’m so excited you’re tagging along today.”

“I can tell.” She laughed, ruffling her sisters hair.

“Duh. You never come on excursions anymore and you know my friends parents like to talk to you too.” Kuniko says as they exit the apartment.

And with one last glance into the mirror, she locks the door.

Natsu didn’t mean to lie to anyone. She didn’t enjoy it but she didn’t want her sister to get hurt, not while she worked at the Port Mafia.

Kuniko only ever saw Natsu, her sweet and kind big sister who’d give her the world. Natsu who worked odd office hours but made it home for tea, who would hide her injuries and help her with her homework. Natsu who would chat with Kuni’s friends and their parents and laugh with them over whatever silly thing the kids did at sleepovers.

The Port Mafia saw Ichiyo. Ichiyo who wore a blonde wig so she wouldn’t be recognised in public. Ichiyo who craved affection from a man who would never give it to her. Ichiyo who didn’t belong.

They could never meet. She wouldn’t allow those two worlds of hers to collide.

But of course those hopes don’t last.

~~*~~

“Natsu!” Mrs Nakamoto greets, pulling the black haired woman in for a hug. “Oh it’s been too long. That office job of yours must be working you to the bone! You’ve lost so much weight.”

She was a kind woman, Kuni’s best friend’s mum. She helped them both the second she found out Natsu was raising Kuniko herself at seventeen.

“Hello Mrs Nakamoto, how have you been?” Natsu asks, smiling as she hugs the older woman back.

“I’m doing great! Just wonderful now that I know you are one of the other chaperones. Mr Sato is here too by the way.” Kuniko’s other friend’s dad. He was younger than Mrs Nakamoto but not any closer to Natsu’s age.

“Hey Natsu.” He greeted, grin cheery and welcoming as always. “How’ve you been?”

“Busy. Way to much paperwork recently.” She answers, and that isn’t a lie.

“Tch. You need to take some time off.” Mrs Nakamoto tutted. “You are young so you can’t go working yourself to death you understand.”

“I understand.” Natsu grins.

“She understands but probably won’t listen.” Kuniko buts in, making the parents and her friends laugh.

“Very funny Kuni.” Natsu rolls her eyes as the teacher makes her way to the collection of guardian chaperones.

“Ah Mrs Higuchi?” Natsu doesn’t ever think she’ll get used to the teachers doing that.

“Miss.” She corrects. “I’m Kuniko’s older sister.”

The teachers face flushes. “Oh my god I’m so sorry!”

“No worries. Happens all the time.”

And with that let the chaperoning begin.

~~*~~*~~*~~

Of all places Higuchi never expected to see people she knew; the Zoo was quite high on that list. Yet here she was half panicking behind her sister because she thought she saw a very familiar head of choppy copper hair.

She couldn’t have right? She must be seeing things… she highly doubts anyone from the Port Mafia would come to the Zoo today of all days…. Right? Yeah… maybe she just needs to go to bed early tonight or something.

And so the day continued, Natsu playfully shoving her sister and chatting with the parents. The teachers even joined their chats every once in a while.

It was her sister that pointed it out as they sorted themselves for lunch. She noticed that four people dressed in all black, with a shorter male stood in the middle had been looking their way, specifically towards Natsu. Her eyes widened… no, no it couldn’t be who she thought it was right?

Slowly she turned her head, eyes widening as she locked eyes with the copper haired male from earlier. Tachihara.

If that was Tachihara then… she scanned the group, the Akutagawa’s, Hirotsu and Chuuya too… what’s next Mori is going to appear out of nowhere?

“Why’s that group staring at you?” Mr Sato questions. “Should I go and check?”

“No.. no it’s fine I know them.” She said with a sigh. Mr Sato was by no means a small man, he was tall, had muscles and could probably put up a decent fight but… they were the Mafia, he wouldn’t win. And knowing them whatever he did would end in an altercation.

“How do you know them?” A teacher questions, looking quite nervous and she side eyes them.

“Work.” She says quickly. “I’m just gonna… go talk to them… okay?”

The parents nod while Kuniko gives her older sister a confused look.

~~*~~*~~*~~

“See I told you I saw Higuchi.” Tachihara tutted as he sat himself down to eat some ice cream he’d just bought.

“Are you sure it’s her?” Gin questioned. “Also I’m fairly certain you are scaring those school likes Ryu.”

“Then they should grow a spine.” Was her brother’s response.

“Yep okay.” Gin sighed.

“Why does she have black hair?” Chuuya questions as he takes a seat beside Tachihara and Hirotsu.

“Who knows. Maybe it’s a fresh dye.” Tachihara shrugs. “Oh hey she’s coming over.”

The Black Lizard and co turn to see an almost embarrassed looking, dark haired Higuchi speed walking towards them.

“What are you doing here?” She questions. No hello, no asking how Akutagawa is doing. Nope, none of that.

“Hello to you too.” Chuuya drawled before giving her an appreciative look. She looked good in jeans and a tight long sleeve.

“Hello Mr Nakahara.” She says through her teeth. “Why are you here?”

“Day off, got bored.” Tachihara answers.

“So you come to the zoo? Today!”

“What’s wrong with the zoo?” Hirotsu questions.

“… you aren’t meant to see me like this.” She almost panics and they can tell she’s trying to keep a cool head. They give each other worried glances.

“Like what?” Akutagawa asks, nose scrunching as he did. “You dyed your hair? Was it supposed to be a surprise?”

“No this is my natural hair colour I normally wear a wig.” She blurts out accidentally. She can see Tachihara almost choke on his ice cream at that (is that even possible?).

And before they can ask any more questions Mr Sato, Mrs Nakamoto and Kuniko wander over, to warn her that lunch was nearly over.

“Natsu dear we’ll have to get ready to continue walking around the zoo soon.” Mrs Nakamoto smiles. “Hello dears I’m a friend of Natsuko’s.”

“Natsu…” Chuuya says before smiling and moving to reach a gloved hand forward for a shake. “Lovely to meet you I’m Chuuya Nakahara.”

“Hinata Nakamoto and this is Katsuki Sato.”

“Hello.” Mr Sato greets, towering over the much smaller man.

“Sis says you work with her at the office.” Kuniko adds, giving them a look filled with suspicion. Then they realise, oh, this is why she didn’t want to be seen.

“We do.” And surprisingly it’s Akutagawa to speaks first. “She’s Mr Nakahara’s secretary along with my sister.”

The lie was almost fluid, falling from his tongue smoothly- but Natsu could see the worry in her friends eyes as he spoke, assessing him with sharp eyes.

“And you do?” Mr Sato questioned.

“Security!” Natsu grinned, patting the Emo man on the shoulder. “Akutagawa, Tachihara and Hirotsu here work as Mr Nakahara’s security…”

“Oh.” Mrs Nakamoto hummed. She seemed impressed. “We’ll we best get back too it. Can’t let the class leave without us… see you another time dears.”

The older woman practically drags Natsu away from her co-workers whilst Mr Sato and Kuniko continue to give them sharp looks.

They didn’t believe them… and that was fair- who would believe a group of people dressed in all black and clearly not all that important looking.

“We’ll that was fucking awkward.” Tachihara said once they were out of ear shot.

“Yep.” The group agreed.

“Perhaps we should agree to not speak of this again.” Hirotsu offers. “It seems she really doesn’t want us to know her as anything but Ichiyo Higuchi.”

“No one else still blown away that she wears a wig like all the time?” Gin said suddenly. “Like how have we not seen that? How has it never come off?”

“You know what?” Tachihara said. “You’re right… what the hell!”

“I agree with Hirotsu.” Chuuya cuts in as he laughs at Akutagawa rolling his eyes at his sisters antics. “Unless she speaks about it first- keep your mouths shut. Alright let’s go I don’t feel like sticking around.”

The group agrees, readying themselves to leave as they watch their co-worker laugh and smile with her sister and friends. They would leave it at that, she could come to them in time, when she felt her sister was safe, when she felt she was safe.

[sadisticsmiles]

Unlike in the English version of L365, I was able to finally listen to the BGM for OTBS from the Japanese app. In both OTBS and its social counterpart, Chiaki refers to the MC as “Senpai”/“____-senpai”, and speaks very formally in his personal and private time. I don’t like to call this a “Notice me senpai” route since as an otome game, the main story is from the MC’s route anyway and she’s HIS senpai, but she does have her internal monologue concerning the game anyway; along with that, Chiaki is a sensitive guy who bottles up his feelings and makes things hard for himself, especially with trust issues (as we see from him having to also reflect on his past and a certain root to how he turned out. I did enjoy the BGM, as I mentioned.

[aarcanechaoss]

Yamizakura “Flowers at Dusk”

Wait okay so I fucking hope I’m not like the last person to have thought about this but I was writing notes for a little what if I had planned for Higuchi (half to prove I don’t hate her half because the idea has stuck with me for nearly a month)

But I think I’m onto something

Linkylink 2 and Linkylink 2

Ichiyo Higuchi, real name Natsuko Higuchi has a story called Yamizakura aka Flowers at Dusk within it is a story of unrequited love between a young woman named Chiyo and a young man named wait for it Ryōnosuke

Um yes hello do I want Higuchi to fully be able to blast flowers at people - yes yes I do. I mean just imagine her going oh look a yamazakura, boom whomping Sakura tree. But it also gives Hanahaki vibes :( ->

Okay okay jokes aside though big sads if I’m the last one to think of this but like.., I was just gonna pick Yamizakura cuz I really liked the title and it just spoke to me and for SO FUCKING LONG have I imagined Ichiyo ripping off the bandaid and letting Natsuko (let’s say they are very different idk) have at the world.

Idk man sometimes I think about that scene in the bathroom with the Black Lizard where they pretty much were like “hey we don’t really respect you so make the right decision and we won’t kill you ourselves” and I feel sad for her like we know she has BAMF energy like imagine she harnesses that raw beautiful energy of hers and idk seduces her prey and just imagine right like imagine this as an example of what she could do- like I’m imagining she could do some serious damage but also just I can see something like this happening ->

-> -> -> -> a little steamy so be warned <- <- <- <-

It was so simple really, allowing a little skin to show really does wonders for the pea sized brain men like this have. Ichiyo- no.. Natsuko- felt his hand slide up her dress, the high slit making it easier for him to grab and grope at whatever he wished. His other hand tangled in her freshly dyed locks (it certainly was nice to have dark hair again) her wine coloured eyes watched their surroundings, watching for the team she didn’t expect to pay attention.

It wasn’t until his lips met hers did she reciprocate any actions, acting drunk certainly was a bore. She hoped- in the dark crevices of her mind- that the Akutagawa’s, Tachihara and Hirotsu were paying attention, however unlikely it is as her tongue grazed the inside of her targets mouth. It took a moment of course, with her hands gripping his face tighter, keeping him in place nails almost digging into the skin, for her ability could be torturously slow some days.

He was struggling to breathe now. Good. She pulled away, a slight trail of blood falling from the corner of her mouth, wine eyes glowing in an almost sinister way. She could hear the way he tried to breathe, tried to beg as he began to cough, the blood splattered petals coming out of his mouth. He dropped to the ground, he couldn’t think, he was dizzy, couldn’t even attempt to attack the woman he was convinced was stupid to have given him the time of day- what a mistake that was. Even more so when she pressed a finger to her ear and spoke, voice low and vicious.

“He’s out. I’m with him around the side if you want to bring the car clos- what did I do?” She paused, a smile unlike any she’d ever dared show as Ichiyo stretched across her pretty features. “I gave him a terrible terrible cough.”

BRUISES MASTERLIST

[aarcanechaoss]

Reapers & Secret Keepers

Blog One | Blog Two

I’m planning chapter 8 for A New Life and just wanted to know your thoughts

Who would you like Yuki Nakamura’s love interest to be?

Reminder:

Seiko Fujiwara’s love interest is Oda Sakunosuke that has been planned since day one even though there is a joke about her and the ADA President

Natsuko (Ichiyo) Higuchi’s love interest is most likely going to be A SECRET (for those who did see what I originally wrote SHHHH)

Extra infoooo because I haven’t added her profile yet ->

She’s quite quiet, prefers to only speak when necessary

She does have a traumatic background because who doesn’t in BSD

She’s a clerk at the ADA, working closely with Atsushi - she has a desk near the front door instead so she acts as a receptionist for clients

She is quite smart but prefers her receptionist job to any other

Yuki is apart of the Reaper Core - which is how she knows Atsushi - but she has a completely different role

She is not immortal before anyone asks she is 22 years old born and raised in Yokohama to a Military Family

Can she fight? Yes she knows how to defend herself

How will she tie into the story? Hah you think I’ll tell you just yet? What I can say is that she does become friends with Natsuko (Ichiyo)

[aarcanechaoss]

5. Bruises

Masterlist

Natsu tries to begin her reign of terror but her father decided to visit

Warnings: swearing, briefly mentions workplace abuse (the slap)

Natsu decided to take her time in reorganising herself.

It started small; subtle threats towards the assholes who ran about the Port Mafia and then subtle changes to her wardrobe with different coloured blouses and jackets etc.

If Natsu was honest she didn't mind the simple black suit with a white blouse but she could do so much more it's why today she decided to be a little bolder.

Finally after nearly week or so of working officially as Natsu Higuchi she'd be able to start he reign of terror.

Stepping towards the front door of the apartment she really felt good about herself, her hair felt healthier than ever now finally being her natural colour and felt extra confident on top of that, she missed feeling as such.

With a little hum she messaged Chuuya, letting him know she was coming down now- over the last week he'd taken to giving her a lift. And with one last look at herself she gave a satisfied smile, she was going to knock them dead.

Chuuya gaped as the woman stepped into the car, hair freshly dyed and trimmed, makeup she clearly took her time to perfect and...

"Hello Chuuya." She purred, brown eyes sharp and awaiting his appreciative gaze... and oh did he appreciate.

The maroon coloured long-sleeved top had a sweetheart neckline that fully accentuated features, the colour suiting her perfectly and her pants were a nice charcoal grey with a belt accentuating her waist and the black boots she'd begun wearing throughout the week.

"Natsu." He said- sometimes the name still felt strange to say. "You look... really good."

"Aw thank you honey." She smiled, giving him a teasing wink. "I think today will be the day I officially switch from Ichiyo to Natsu... figured I'd go with a bang."

"A bang alright." Chuuya muttered as he started the car engine to take the two of them to work. "To the meeting we shall go."

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

The two mafioso's managed to make their way to the meeting room without bumping into anyone... anyone of importance anyway. This made them the first to enter to room besides Mori and Elise themselves.

"You changed your hair?" Elise asked, head tilting ever so cutely as she looked at the new dark hair.

"I didn't like the blonde Ichiyo had."

"But I'm blonde..." she pouted making the mafia members laugh. Natsu lent on the table, back facing the door as she ruffled the ability's hair.

"Blonde suits you and you are perfect." Natsu smiled. Elise gave a glowing grin, one that always reminded her of Kuni.

The doors to the room slammed open, uncaring as usual of their etiquette... it could only be the Black Lizard.

"Sir." Akutagawa said as he entered, clearly just as irritated with the unnecessary noise as the rest of them.

"Good morning sir." Tachihara said with a bow before finally spotting the now black haired woman facing away from them. "Who's that?"

Natsu gives Mori an amused eye-roll before turning around, crossing her arms as she did... no Chuuya didn't look.

"Higuchi?" The three unit leaders exclaim, even Akutagawa seems surprised.

"Yes?" She asks with a raised brow.

"We knew you liked boss.. didn't think you'd go as far as to make your hair dark too big sis." Tachihara joked, he seemed to think it quite amusing. Natsu barely spared a glance towards the ability user, face showing clear distaste- Akutagawa chose to ignore it... or he didn't actually see it.

"I wasn't aware my natural hair colour was so outlandish." Natsu answered, her tone still and almost warning. Tachihara stopped, he stood stock still having never heard that tone before... having never seen such a cold look in her usually warm eyes.

"Oh.. uh no sorry Higuchi."

Tachihara felt confused... Higuchi, his big sis in all but blood and name had never scared him before, something was different- dare he believe it, but maybe she wasn't Higuchi? Maybe it was an imposter? He shook his head, removing such an outrageous thought.

"It looks good." Gin said quietly, voice as pretty as a bell... Natsu admitted she was a beautiful young woman and having such a pretty voice could be envious.

"Thanks. The blonde was ruining my hair." Natsu grinned. "How many more people are we waiting for?"

Natsu turned to Mori waiting her answer... even she didn't like silence like this.

"Ozaki should be here soon then we can begin, she's escorting our... guest." Mori smirked, Natsu gave a raised brow, a feeling of dread settling in her stomach- she could only imagine why he gave her that look.

Only after everyone took a seat did Kouyo arrive.... With Noriyoshi Higuchi close behind.

Natsu shot Mori a glare, one everyone caught which made them all fall into thought.

Why did she react like that? Why such an angry look? Who is this man? And finally, how did she get away with glaring at Mori in such a way?

"Hello Rintarō." The man grinned, smile as eerie as the one Natsu bore in that video of her beating up Nakamoto and Sato. Chuuya immediately recognised said smile... ah a family member.

"Noriyoshi." Mori greeted, hand waving to signal the chair between himself and Natsu was for him.

"It's been years old friend." Noriyoshi said.

"Yes it has. Everyone this is Noriyoshi, head of the single most powerful ability driven clan in Japan."

"Hello sir." Everyone said, it was like the room turned cold, demanding everyone accept his presence.

"Why is he here?" Akutagawa asked... as eloquent as ever.

"To visit my daughter mostly." He answered with a genuinely large grin. "And business of course."

"Okay?" Tachihara muttered.

"Sorry young man." Noriyoshi asked snapping his attention towards the young man.

"I just said okay." Tachihara said quickly... some days he wished he thought before he spoke.

"What business?" Ozaki questioned after a beat of silence.

"General business. My family is well respected within the government, and I'd like to offer my hand to not only the Port Mafia but the Armed Detective Agency as well." Noriyoshi answered, again smiling eerily.

"Mori said powerful ability driven clan... may I ask what that is?" Hirotsu asked finally speaking up.

"Many of those in the clan, or the family as we like to call it too, hold abilities. From weak and unassuming to strong and dangerous, from being born into the family to adoption like my wonderful children."

Natsu turned to Chuuya and rolled her eyes... Chuuya gave an understanding nod.

"So what you just grabbed kids off the streets?" Elise questioned. Natsu could see the gleam in Noriyoshi's eyes as he spotted the young girl and couldn't help but drop her face into her hands... no one could ignore that.

"What's wrong Chiyo?" Noriyoshi pouted, eyes gleaming comically with tears.

"Nothing." She muttered... she really wished he'd told her he was coming to her work today, next time they have a moment to themselves she's going to curse her father to hell and back... at least he had the decency to call her by her (Grandmothers chosen) other name still.

"You seem distressed Higuchi.." Mori smiled.

Fuck... they were in this together... what were they planning?

"I'm sorry Chiyo?" Tachihara looked like he was going to pull out his hair. "Big sis who's he to you?"

"Big sis?" Noriyoshi asked, face scrunched up in confusion, a different air in comparison to the cold tension from before.

"Oh.. yeah I call her big sis sometimes. She's my boss though."

"Interesting..."

"Stop talking." Natsu said face now hidden behind one hand in annoyance.

"Anyway." Mori interjected; a laugh not-so-subtly hidden. "I want to bring in a few people for you to... well I won't beat around the Bush Noriyoshi if you and your family would like to torture them it's up to you."

"We have a torture team in the Port Mafia.." Ozaki said quizzically... she was certain they did unless that had just been Dazai, and she just didn't notice a change.

"We do... officially it's Noriyoshi's clan now."

Natsu didn't suppress the evil gleam in her eye as she sat up at the new information... this would certainly be fun for her.

In walked five people, three with bags over their heads with the two who led them in immediately locking onto Natsu.

"Miss Higuchi." They gleamed... if you looked close enough you would swear you saw tails wagging.

"Hello dogs." She said with a wave.

"Nakamoto, Sato, what are you doing here?" Hirotsu questioned. They were his men after all. Then it registered... they greeted Higuchi and she in turn... called them dogs.

"Did we do good miss?" Minato Nakamoto smiled, Hideo Sato's eyes gleaming just as much as they awaited their answer.

"Are they for me?" She asked, all but ignoring Hirotsu's question as she stood and walk towards the three people pulling off their Hesham hoods. The three men looked absolutely terrified- ah the three assholes who ran off, how fun.

"Yes." Mori answered gleefully. "You and Noriyoshi have full reign now."

It was Akutagawa who stood, dejection across his face.

"What is going on? Is this some payback because I slapped you two weeks ago? Mori clearly stated they would be for Noriyoshi's family." Though he spoke calmly it was clear the Rashoumon user felt confused and irritated.

"They are." She said smiling, tilting her head to the side. "Which means the torture units are mine now..."

The Black Lizard unit leaders stared wide eyed... Higuchi never spoke so unwaveringly towards Akutagawa... ever.

"Excuse me?" Noriyoshi asked darkly. "What did you do to my daughter?"

"Daughter!" Tachihara exclaimed, Gin doing so quietly along with Kouyo.

"Ignore him... he only knows abuse." She said before briefly looking towards the rest of the room. "I'd watch your words if I were you."

"I will not ignore this... Natsu look at me." The now brunette woman turns towards her father.

"Yes father?" She asks, a quiet 'who the fuck is Natsu' coming from Gin as she did.

"Why didn't you tell me you'd been getting hurt here?"

It was like whiplash how fast the terrifying man's mood changed.

"Because you'd make me lose my streak." She muttered. Chuuya couldn't decide if this needed popcorn, or he needed to carry one of the Higuchi's out of the room... either way still pretty funny in his book- he definitely wasn't trying to hide his laughter as he watched.

"Mori." Noriyoshi turned towards the mafia leader who just sat and watched.

"Don't talk to me about it I only knew she was considered weak..." there was a glare sent across the room before settling back on Natsu. "Do you like your gift?"

The mafia members watched as Natsu's face morphed into an unnerving look of glee as she turned back towards the shaking and terrified men.

"Oh I love it..." she grasped one of their chins, voice turning sweet, unnervingly so sending shivers up many of the rooms inhabitants spines. "I can't wait to make you break."

[aarcanechaoss]

4. Bruises

Masterlist

A meeting with Mori, Chuuya’s now involed and some dogs grovel at Higuchi’s feet.

Warnings: swearing

Higuchi woke up the next day with an uncomfortable crick in her neck, sleeping on the couch- no matter how comfortable said chair may be- is not good for your neck.

As she stretched she noticed a stinging sensation in her arms, looking up she spotted scratches, ones she had given herself during her panic attack last night.

She truly feels sorry for herself. Ichiyo held on for so long. Natsu was a side that had been suppressed for a long time... even if she was the original Higuchi.

She stared at the scratches a little longer, mind wandering to yesterday's events, she winced, even Natsu admits she could have gone a little easier on them. Her 'punches' definitely weren't pulled and while she didn't regret it she just knows she'll have to have a talk with Mori about it.

Shit.

Natsu rolls her eyes, she needs to call her family... tell them that Ichiyo broke... tell them Natsuko (Natsu) was back.... But she could do that later.

A knock pulls her away from her thoughts, she barely has time to pull down her sleeves when Chuuya barges in.

"Holy fuck you're alive."

"Yes?" Natsu askes with a raised brow.

"You completely missed today's meeting so when Akutagawa told me he slapped you yesterday I wanted to check on you... and Mori asked me to bring you to his office." Chuuya looked just a tiny bit frazzled, in the sense that he had worry etched in his expression no matter how cool he tried to play it off.

"Ah." There was a meeting on today. "Yes I fell asleep late last night."

The lie rolled easily from her tongue, unlike Ichiyo who'd been unable to tell a lie.

They were two sides of a coin, yet they were one person all along. Ichiyo was simple, sweet, clumsy, and perfect. Natsu was complex, cold, balanced, and terrifying. Grandmother wanted a perfect Ichiyo, so she became so. Every member of the family did so for her- it was the task she'd given after all, why not follow her expectations for as long as they could.

"You slept here?" Chuuya asked. She nodded. "Why?"

"I just did." She said- she didn't have a reason, one she wanted to share anyway.

"Ooo-Kay." Chuuya looked a little awkward which was cute to Natsu- seeing an executive being so simple that is.

"Does Mori want me now?" She asked cocking her head to the side, hair slightly messy and makeup completely gone and her eyes... there was something there that wasn't there before.

"Uh yeah let's go..."Chuuya said spinning around, knowing that Higuchi was following him.

"Higuchi!" The yell made the blonde mafioso smile, Elise greeting her always brought a smile to her face. With a grin Higuchi ruffled the girl's hair as they stepped into the office.

"Hello Higuchi, Nakahara... we need to talk."

"Want me to leave boss?" Chuuya asked.

"He can stay." Natsu answered having a sneaking feeling she knew exactly what was to come from this impromptu meeting.

Chuuya shot Mori a glance, one filled with questioning at Higuchi's blunt words.

"Very well- may I ask why?"

"I feel like I know what this is about... it'll be easier having an executive understand the situation too and Nakahara is well respected by the Black Lizard."

The room fell silent... this wasn't a tone Higuchi often if ever used even as she gave commands, she sounded colder, angrier... Chuuya didn't know what to think- Mori however, he knew why.

Mori gave an understanding nod before waving his hand at them, telling them to take a seat.

"Shall we start with the video?" Mori asks. Elise nodding happily.

"Video?" Chuuya questions.

"I didn't hurt them that bad... maybe I did? I could have done worse." Natsu says nonchalantly giving Chuuya whiplash. Mori gave an evil gleam as he turned his computer towards the two, keeping it clear so he and Elise could watch it as well.

Chuuya had to give it to the blonde- she could move. He barely saw her in the field and as far as he was aware she was known for her proficiency with guns less so than knives or general hand to hand combat.

Chuuya also had to admit he didn't expect to see the least feared woman in the mafia (by word of mouth- personally, he thinks she's fine) suddenly become the most terrifying for those two men. Even the executive had to suppress a flinch as the blonde woman slammed the second man's face into the wall, knife twisted into his thigh before turning and giving the most chilling smile he's ever seen... and he's seen some creepy ones.

"That was... something?" Chuuya said. "I don't see what is so alarming that we need a meeting? Seems like Higuchi just defended herself."

"Ah but it was more than that wasn't it... Natsuko."

"Yeah figured you knew what happened." Natsu said.

"Natsuko?" Chuuya asked now seemingly alarmed. "I thought your name was Ichiyo?"

"I am... but I'm not- take that as you will." She laughed and lent back in her chair in the least professional way she could, arm bent over the back, legs spread comfortably.

Chuuya frowned, very clearly confused along with Elise while Mori just grinned.

"I assume you knew about... this sir?" Chuuya asked. The boss nodded.

"I worked with her father alongside the agency's president Fukuzawa." Mori grinned. "Knew her since she was little... when little Natsu just started identifying different types of poison."

"Even now I can still taste the cyanide you put in my tea." She said sarcastically, a brow raised teasingly as she did.

"You deserved it you little shit." Mori muttered.

"So wait. Let me get this straight. Ichiyo Higuchi's real name is Natsuko-"

"Natsu Higuchi at your pleasure." She said offering the executive a hand to shake. He reciprocated- even if so warily.

"What's with the name change?"

Natsu took in a deep breath and cracked her neck before turning to the gravity ability user with a smile.

"Honestly the story is pretty mundane- my grandmother has an ability. That's the simple version. Grandmother has things she's particular about- very open about a lot of things, one of my brothers is gay, my older sister non-binary, she's cool with all that plus most of us are adopted."

"But?" Chuuya asks.

"But she also has her ideals and tasks she wishes to give. She treats it like a training exercise, and we all follow along and make it a competition. See dear old grandma has in simple terms a hypnosis ability. It locks your conscious into a room, you can see, hear, and feel everything- so who you saw was really me, but it was as if my personality was swapped. Ichiyo was supposed to be a perfect version- with flaws of course... can't be a Mary Sue now can we. Ichiyo is clumsy, good-natured, and not fit for the role of a mafioso. My task underneath all that was to last in the mafia-"

"And you did well. Nearly six years- that's the longest someone's lasted, according to your father." Mori said, grin still plastered on his face- Chuuya is certain that was an evil grin at that.

"Okay." Chuuya started. "Grandma hypnosis, real Higuchi is a badass, other Higuchi was... for your grandmother's fun?"

"Yep pretty much."

"Why was I told?"

"Like I said the Black Lizard respect you so if there ever comes a time where I have to explain that batshit story again you can back me up in case Mori or Elise can't."

"So I'm your backup?"

"Pretty much Mr Nakahara." She purred, now leaning close. The red head flushed slightly at the proximity before looking back to their boss.

"Perfect. Chuuya you and Natsu will be... close friends from now on."

"Yes sir."

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

The two mafia members stepped out of the large building- Mori deciding neither had any more work for the day and could go 'bond' or something- aka it was Elise's idea because she wanted two of her favourite people to be friends too.

"So-" Chuuya started. "What do you want to do?"

Natsu gave a bored look and shrugged.

"Want to get some food? I want to go book a hair appointment first though I'm sick of being blonde and my hair feels terrible."

"... you aren't a natural blonde?" For once Chuuya really didn't try to hide his expression.

"No? Did you think I was? I get my roots done every few weeks so I guess I could have pulled it off. My ability isn't magically being blonde mate."

"Oh... yeah... okay." Chuuya said making her snort. "You have an ability?"

"The Higuchi's pretty much grab anyone they can with an ability... from weak and unassuming to strong and dangerous."

"Do I want to know where you lie on that scale?"

A beat.

"Probably not."

"MISS HIGUCHI!" Someone called startling the two mafia members. Natsu was the first to turn, a sneer placed on her face as she spotted the two men she'd beaten yesterday at the bottom of the steps.

"What?" She asks, staring down at both men.

They dropped to their knees leaving both Chuuya and Natsu confused- especially as one pulled out flowers.

"We want to apologise ma'am." They say in unison. The bouquet held blue hyacinths... so she supposed their apology was sincere enough.

"For what?" She asks, brow raised and voice teasing slightly as she stepped down towards them- Chuuya just stood and watched.

"For the bullying and calling you weak and useless. For letter others hurt you, pull your hair and verbally abuse you. We were wrong." One said.

"I'm glad you learnt your lesson." She said.

"Yes ma'am." The other answered.

"What changed your mind about me?"

"We realised you were terrifying."

"Because I dislocated your arm and smashed your face into the wall?" Her tone was mocking them, and they took it with grace. "Such pathetic dogs you are."

"Yes ma'am we are."

Higuchi gave a smirk, looking over her shoulder she noted Chuuya's amusement.

"You're dogs are you?"

"Yes."

"My dogs?"

"Yes ma'am we are."

Natsu began to laugh, shoulders shaking as she did- she was enjoying this. Though she did think she'd shaken them up so much... and she's certain they don't know why either but it's hilarious to her.

"Names." She commanded; amusement still clear in her expression.

"Minato Nakamoto." The first said. He had mousy brown hair and a scar across his lips. She gave an appreciative hum as she finally bothered to assess her two dogs.

"Hideo Sato." The second said too. He had white hair and plain features... she would enjoy messing with these two- as payback mostly.

"Well dogs... I'm leaving so go back to your kennels." She snapped- still very much enjoying their fear.

"Yes ma'am. Have a good day ma'am." They yelled as they rushed away.

"That was amusing." Chuuya snickered.

"Hilarious even- anyway... shall we good sir?" She asks with a smile arm looping into the executives.

"We shall my lady. Do you need a ride?"

"Sounds easier. I took the bus yesterday."

"I brought the car today. Let's go."

With that their afternoon seemed to breeze by, Chuuya opting to pay for the quick meal they had and offering to walk with her throughout the mall they'd decided to visit.

It was weird for Chuuya (not the being given orders to 'hang out' with another mafia member) to see Higuchi- no Natsu- in such a different light.

While they didn't get to speak much typically, she was never on the front lines and she would have normally been found clinging to Akutagawa... which he assumed wouldn't be happening now, especially after being slapped as hard as she was- she told him about it during their meal.

"Hey Higuchi-"

"Eh call me Natsu... what is it?"

"Natsu." He let the name settle on his tongue, honestly it suited her better. "What was with the clinging to Akutagawa."

"Ichiyo wanted acknowledgment... and affection that didn't come from family members. Natsu eh. I want affection sure but... in a different way." She said, snickering as she did at her little joke.

"So," Chuuya coughed. "What will you do with your hair go natural?"

"Yeah. Plus it'll look healthier when I do that. It'll be nice to have black hair again."

Chuuya nodded, Higuchi with black hair wasn't an unappealing vision... he could say he appreciated the thought- she was a beautiful woman after all. Chuuya shook his head at the thought gaining a raised brow from Natsu.

"Tell you what Chuuya." She said with what was definitely a teasing tone. "How about you be the first person who sees my new hair?"

He gulped. He really didn't understand what was happening, how she was making him feel flustered- was this her ability?

"Sure Natsu."

Ah and if that wasn't the smile he remembers seeing from her, bright and full of life.

"I'm ready to head home.. give a girl a lift?"

"Yes, yes." He laughed as she looped her arm around his once again. Looks like they'll be close after all.

Neither regretted the day, both had an enjoyable time and even as it came to an end and Chuuya had to officially get her number (with Natsu as the name in said contact).

Natsu certainly enjoyed being free again and it was obvious- oh she can't wait to cause havoc at the mafia... she absolutely cannot wait.

[aarcanechaoss]

3. Bruises

Masterlist

Higuchi finally snapped, they did it, they pushed her too far.

Warnings: swearing, workplace abuse (?) and implied inappropriate comments

Higuchi let out the biggest sigh possible when she got home and practically collapsed onto her lounge, no care for whatever items became scattered on the floor.

It's been a week since she went back to work, and god is she hanging by a thread.... At least her throat was better now.

Though it still ached- it wasn't something that was going away anytime soon- her doctor in the city gave her a list of symptoms following strangulation. The neck pain and deepening of voice being the most noticeable changes she'd found.

She thought going to her private GD may have been better because in that case she knew she wouldn't be missing any information.

"Big sis?" The blonde looked up, her younger sister, Kuniko, leaning over her.

"Hey Kuni." She smiled.

"You okay?"

"It's been a long day. When did you get here I thought you weren't coming 'til the weekend?"

"Oh yeah. Grandma was being naggy again, so I thought I'd come back early... plus we heard about you getting strangled- I was worried."

"It's okay Kuni don't worry... plus today was a school day did you actually go?"

"Yesssss." Her sister huffed making the blonde laugh- she reminded her of Elise sometimes. "It's six o'clock I didn't skip anything I promise."

"Good, good. What do you want for dinner then?"

"Um.... Ramen?" Kuni practically pleaded- her sister had the art of puppy eyes down pat- the blonde just chuckled. "I can go get it."

"Yeah sure. Grab some money from my purse and go but make sure you're find my phone is on."

"Yes it is! Dad checked when I left."

Ichiyo nodded watching lazily as her sister excitedly ran about to go get herself some ramen. It filled her heart with warmth at that, seeing her so lively and happy compared to how she felt.

It wasn't a secret in the Higuchi family as to what each ones... quirks were... each being skilled in something- her father, mother, grandparents etc... her siblings and larger family all the same. Kuni is the only one who truly didn't follow the family traditions and that was wholly supported by them since she was adopted much later in her life- now being fifteen and Ichiyo loved her so especially since she mostly lived with her due to Ichiyo being closer to Kuni's school.

With a shake of her head she gets up favouring a shower today instead of her usual bath.

The shower was warmer than she normally liked but the sting felt good, like a grounding of sorts. It made her feel like she was present and stable... even if she didn't truly feel that way. She spared a glance towards the mirror scars stark on her skin coming from her shoulders to her elbows, to her hips- she preferred to keep them hidden even if she wasn't ashamed of them.

Actually she doesn't know if it's her who's not ashamed of them....

The week had been tough. She'd had shoves in the hallways, snickers behind her back- another idiot tugging her hair... truly she didn't know why they were acting like so. She hadn't seen either Akutagawa, Hirotsu or Tachihara in the week and she didn't have the energy to go tell them to deal with their units. She didn't have the energy to interact with them at all because she fears she'll break down again.

After speaking with Chuuya Higuchi wouldn't admit to anyone how she cried... just because someone offered a caring hand. She had no plans of admitting it anytime soon.

After getting out of the shower she didn't spend any time bothering to dry her hair letting it dry naturally. Pulling on her pyjamas she gave a half-hearted once over of herself and went back into the kitchen to see her sister pulling out the bowls of ramen she'd just bought.

"A chicken for you and a pork for me." Kuni gleamed as she set everything up. Being handed some chopsticks the blonde gave her sister a warm smile and thanked her for the meal.

How she truly loved her sister.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

The next few days she wished came slower. Her sister had gone home and now Higuchi doesn't know how she feels... truthfully she thinks her luck just ran out. She has to give Akutagawa some files that need a double signature and a witness- her being both the second signature and witness for him. She normally would be over the moon to be in his presence, but it felt like a switch was flicking, one second she was happy, the next she was tired. A constant internal war of wanting to just be Ichiyo Higuchi and... not.

"Sir." She called as she knocked. A grunt on the other side of the door granting her entry.

"How are you sir?" She asks as she enters.

"Fine. What do you want?"

"I have paperwork that needs both of our signatures and for each other's witness of said signatures."

"And?"

"They're due at latest tomorrow." Higuchi continued not sparing her co-worker a second glance as she looked through the papers.

"How many do I need to sign?" Akutagawa asked seemingly annoyed- though when wasn't he.

"Fifteen. I would have brought them in the other day, but you seemed preoccupied with something else and chose to leave you be."

If she'd bother to look up she'd notice how the man's brows creased inwards- a frown? A look of confusion? The lack of energy was startlingly different from the normal clingy a Higuchi. Eventually he just decided to do the paperwork.

They sat in silence... the Rashoumon user was getting confused... Higuchi gave no reactions at all besides a soft smile whenever their eyes locked- truthful she didn't realise she wasn't 'acting as usual' to herself she was just tired.

"Akutagawa I apologise it seems I've added an extra piece of paperwork don't mind it it's mine."

"Whatever." He grunted. Eying her carefully as they finished the paperwork. With her putting them in designated folders he watched quietly, thinking to himself. As he stood he hadn't realised he'd knocked over his cup of tea.. and out came the 'normal' Higuchi.

She reached forward, worry in her eyes as she grasped the cup.

"Sir are you okay? Was it still hot? Should I get you a towel-"

SLAP

The sound echoed throughout the office. A look of disgust rested on the dark haired man's face. It was like it was instinct... it must have been considering the way he slapped her. Her face was pushed now facing her left, blood peaking from the corner of her mouth at the strength of the slap and from her biting her cheek. His hand was now pressed to his mouth as he coughed though she stood still.

She didn't move for a full minute, hand still grasping the mug that once held the tea.

"I don't need your help." He said finally, each word punctuated and hurtful.

It was then she moved, slowly at that. She let the mug fall from her hand and moved to grab her folders, tucking away the last few, silent, and eerily so... she turned and stepped towards the door, opening it slightly.

"Next time don't leave your tea where you can bump it." Her voice, sure still deep from the injury she'd gotten two weeks prior, was dull sounding and bored- as though tired beyond compare- though using the same tone he had. Then she left, not without slamming the door behind her leaving the Rashoumon user to stand in silence... Higuchi never gets mad and he's almost certain (in the back of his mind at least) that she was angry with him.

The rest of the day went like that. She handed in her folders only to have another shove in the hallway on the way back.

She had someone's foot trip her down the hall.

Words of her uselessness. Words about how they don't understand how she got her role as a commander of the Black Lizard.

She also heard some curses towards her name that weren't at all subtle and some less than appropriate conversations said about her.

They really are getting bolder with their dislike for her, it was almost laughable at this point.

But the rage was boiling beneath her skin, itching, and pulling at her.

There comes a point where anger becomes outward and besides her lacklustre tone towards Akutagawa Higuchi did have the ability to be angry, very angry and very very scary. It was a fact she was well aware of and a fact her family had taken advantage of at one point in time... a fact even Mori and Elise were aware of.

But Grandmother didn't like that, as the matriarch she usually had the last say on what she wanted the family to do. Part of it was also to see how long each family member could last with whatever task she gave... the blonde was winning at her task... however with the amount of rage she was beginning to feel she was about to end her task with a bang.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

It was unsurprisingly a group of Black Lizard underlings that pushed her over the edge. A hefty shove into the wall near her office and a laugh from the group made something switch. Suddenly it didn't seem like Ichiyo was all there, as though she'd began to disassociate. She'd stopped moving, stopped reacting to the jeers and shoves, eyes empty and cold.

"Hey! Bitch pay attention to us. Hello!" One of them scoffed, slamming his hand beside her head. It was then her eyes moved, slowly from the group to the arm beside her.

"She can react. Good to know." Another laughed sarcastically. She then glanced upwards, the camera watching them, recording them and she knew, she just knew it was Mori who would see it.

"Hey. Higuchi you know... you are quite pretty. What are you doing working as such a useless bitch... you could be doing-" he hummed before smirking. "So much more."

His smirk turned feral as his hand touched her face, specifically the cheek Akutagawa had slapped earlier that day.

And then she snapped.

She'd turned and twisted out of his grasp, twisting his arm as she did so. He let out a gasp of pain as she pressed her foot on his shoulder blade, pulling his arm back and dislocating it quickly.

The second of the five jumped back, reaching for the knife strapped to his leg only to fumble just enough for her to grab it herself. She then turned him around with a grasp to his hair and began slamming his face into the wall while she used his own knife to dig into his thigh.

The other three assholes were smart enough to run off- good.

Higuchi gave a smile that was so unlike her typical one, one that sent the first man into a spin of fear and worry. She squatted before him; knife still gripped in her hand as she poked his now dislocated arm with the sharper end. He couldn't move, he was frozen in fear of the one woman every mafia member thought they could overpower one day.

"Still think I'm useless and weak?" She asked, her tone dark, cold, and void of emotion. Something no one in the Port Mafia- as he could recollect- had ever seen.

"N-no ma'am." He said, shaking as he did. Something about her made him absolutely terrified.

"Are you sure?" She asked again, knife now dangerously close to his throat.

"Yes. Yes ma'am. You aren't weak or useless." He said. The shaking continued even as she stood and turned towards her office.

"Go get that checked out... take your friend with you."

The man nodded, shaking still as he grabbed the barely lucid man she'd slammed face first into the wall- some blood now marring the grey walls- and walked as fast as he could away from his now most terrifying superior.

She turned and walked away entering her office as fast as she could, trembling as she did.

She couldn't believe what she'd done, she'd let that anger get the best of her... no no it wasn't Ichiyo's anger that did that. Higuchi collapsed on her closest office couch as she thought about her shitty day.

She began to scratch at her skin, arms becoming raw as she did so, the thoughts entering her mind feeling near foreign... she hadn't been that angry in such a long time, she hadn't let herself be that bad since before she joined the mafia.

But she realised... maybe Ichiyo really wasn't fit for the mafia.

Maybe the past few weeks was some sick way of fate telling her that Ichiyo wasn't needed anymore.

The scratching at her skin became worse over the minutes she sat there shaking and scared of herself.

She didn't have the power one in a command unit deserved as Ichiyo... she didn't have the respect she tried to earn, the trust she badly wanted or the acknowledgment she had craved. Ichiyo wouldn't get that. She understood that now.

It was then whatever last tether stood broke, snapping so loudly it made her cry out in pain.

Ichiyo was gone.

She wouldn't be coming back for a while.

It was time for Natsu to come back into the light.

[aarcanechaoss]

2. Bruises

Masterlist

Higuchi was tired, she didn’t have energy to deal with people today, sadly things just can’t go her way…

Warnings: swearing, Higuchi is still in pain, talks about the bruises and pain, two assholes act like assholes to her

It's so cold. She can't feel anything but cold water sloshing against her, pushing her under...

Lower ...

And lower...

And lower....

Until her breath caught, and water filled her lungs, ice cold and dark.

It took minutes... it felt like forever as water filled her completely. Took forever for the numb feeling to completely take over, till she couldn't feel the ache in her throat anymore. Till it was just bruises on her skin.

She wished there was someone she could reach out too, something to hold onto. These bruises have stayed... these bruises will stay.

The blonde re-emerged from the cold bath water, water drops, and tears mixed as they fell. A shaky sigh left her lips as she stood, letting the water run down the drain. She grabbed her towel, patting away the water from her body and hair.

She looked in the mirror, scars littered her body. Some she'd done herself, others given to her by comrades and by her line of work. Her skin itched, her throat itched- it's itched for days. She grabbed her hair dryer, allowing the hot air to push against the wet strands. With another shaky sigh she looked away and pulled on her clothes, she had work to do.

It would be another long day for Ichiyo Higuchi.

She'd been given a few days off after the drug scheme, so her ribs and throat could heal. She still bore dark bruises, but she supposed it was better than nothing. Mori had informed her that she wouldn't be doing any field work until he gave the order so going to work felt like a drag. Her throat still ached and itched, and the bruise was a stark contrast to her fairer skin the indents of Yamada's fingers still very prominent.

She remembers how Mori reacted to seeing her state after the scheme, eyes wide and concern glimpsing as he glared and scolded the others.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

"You mean to tell me you just let Higuchi get thrown into a wall, knocked near unconscious and then almost choked to death?" The sigh was loud and clear.

"I apologise sir- we all had our jobs and Higuchi seemed to be perfectly fine." Hirotsu said with a bow.. she barely hid the flinch as he spoke.

"Higuchi go get a referral from the doctor for a week off. After that, no field work until I deem you fit understood?" Higuchi really wished she could verbally respond but it just ached. With a nod she turned and left- Tachihara giving a soft whine at that... she knows the boy means well but some days she can't stand any of them.

Elise had stopped her at the door with a pout before passing her a folded paper a note in crayon saying to open it later- it was cute in an Elise is special kind of way.

Later Ichiyo found Elise had drawn her shooting Yamada... how sweet.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

Higuchi coughed then seethed at the ache that followed. She spared a glance at her makeup wondering if she should try to cover the dark blemishes. Then she looked towards the bandages... she's certain she'd get killed for that- somehow she feels that it would remind people of Dazai no matter the circumstances, but it was her, it was Higuchi who can only do wrong.

Respect? Hah they only listen to her because they are afraid of Akutagawa... there is nothing to respect about Ichiyo... and how she wishes that wasn't true. Maybe Natsu- no. She shook her head... she couldn't do that yet.

After one final glance at herself she decides to go in as is with her usual blouse and black pants- forgoing her jacket for the day as it was a bit warm. Rolling up her sleeves she grabs her bag, checks its contents and heads to the office.

The drive felt too short, she didn't really want to be here today she decided. Something in her bones told her that she should have just taken another day off- but she's here, can't back out now.

With a nod to the receptionist she made her way to Mori's office, he'd asked to check on her himself- which isn't ominous at all...

"Higuchi!" Elise squealed after she knocked on the door- it opening quickly. Elise wasted no time pulling her in and holding her hand in a vice grip as she dragged the blonde towards Mori.

"Hello Higuchi how have you been?" Mori asked motioning her to take a seat.

"Sore." She answered croakily.

"Better than writhing in pain I suppose." The man joked. "Elise here was very worried about you- even drew some more pictures for you."

"Thank.... You." She breathed.

"Take your time. I just wanted to ask some questions don't worry, pen and paper right here just in case but I also wanted to check your bruising since I'm well aware of how the medics treat you in the Black Lizard headquarters. It doesn't look too bad, still dark and I assume your ribs are bruised still too?"

Higuchi gave a slow nod.

"Hmm. Make sure you are taking pain killers if it hurts too much."

She gave another slow nod.

It wasn't a secret how she was treated when Akutagawa wasn't around even if Mori ordered it she doubted it would change any time soon.. unless- no. She shook her head again.

"I want to ask about what happened at the drug scheme." She nodded again.

"We went in... a fight started because Akutagawa blew up the cars." She took a slow deep breath soothing the ache. "I spotted Yamada and it seemed like he'd spotted me too I think I hit the wall... next thing I know- I'm in some nightclub playing piano and singing while still on a drug scheme."

Elise offered her a glass of water pouting as she did. Higuchi took it and nodded her thanks.

"Then his ability slipped. He'd lunged for-for me and grabbed my throat and then I woke up to him strangling me. I clawed at him, looked for help... saw no one come." She took another shaky breath. "I found a piece of concrete that came off after I'd hit the wall. Hit him with it until I could move...."

She gave a cough hands reaching for her neck again.

"Slow down it's okay." Elise said.

"Then I found my gun and shot him... after that I just... walked off to our car, saw the doctor, then met with you."

Mori nodded slowly taking in the information she presented.

"What did his ability feel like?"

"Scarily real."

"Like me?" Elise asked.

"You are real... not scary." Higuchi grinned.

"Okay that's good enough for me- I've had paperwork left in your office if you want to work on that for the next couple of days." Mori said with a wave of his hand- eerily reminding her of the conversation she had with him about how the mafia didn't suit her. It doesn't and she knows that, but Ichiyo had to be perfect... it's what her grandmother always wanted.

With a bow she turned and left- after giving Elise a shoulder squeeze in thanks for their kindness... it was one of the few things she loved about the Mafia.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~*~~

Mori was right he had left some paperwork for her to do- at least she won't be bored and she's sure she has emails that need to be done but she's thankful for the silence.

Her office was cool and stuffy since she hadn't been in it for a while- god she needed to decorate maybe she could do that too.

With a crack of her neck- oh yeah that still hurt- she opened the curtain letting in some natural light- it felt good... but really made her realise how dull her office is.

It's not as grand as any executives office but it's nice and she likes it. Large enough to have two couches and a coffee table along with her desk and bookcases- overall a nice space... not that anyone but her uses it. She gave a soft sigh and sat down to work; it was a decent amount of paperwork after all.

Three hours in and she decided she needed a short break, with a stretch the blonde stood grabbing her phone and keys and left her office, locking the door as she did. The common room in the Black Lizard headquarters was only a few floors down so she hopes she can just sneak in and out after getting something from the vending machine.

Sadly she wasn't so lucky in being unseen or sneaky.

"Oh hey look who's alive." She barely hid her flinch as one of the black lizard members appeared from around the corner- clearly aiming for the same vending machine. "Little Miss dog... I suppose that makes her a bitch."

The subtleties were so strong.... With a slow blink she continued to get herself a snack and ignore the ignorant mafioso's- what is it with these assholes and not remembering that she has a higher rank than them....

"Oi look at us." She spared them a cold glance; care gone completely at the two mafia. "Going to answer us or have you gone completely mute now too? Just a bitch waiting to get her bone."

Ichiyo didn't have the energy to deal with assholes like this today.. usually she doesn't deal with people like this at work, usually it's just the drunkards at the bar who can't handle the word no and she wasn't going to encourage them either. With a raised brow she went to move away, the elevator oh so close.

"Hey!" The first one gripped her shoulder, pushing her into a wall- she really wished they would stop now.

A seething sound left her lips, with ribs still being bruised there was no appreciation for the slam into the wall for the second time this week.

"You might have a higher rank than us, but you know you hold no power right? I don't think this bitch knows that she's not respected or feared-"

"I know." She croaked. "I'm just doing as ordered now let me go."

"I don't think we will." The second one said pulling on her hair. "What a nice bruise you have I bet it hurts."

"If we add any bruises to her I think they'll notice. All we can do is this." The first one said also pulling on Ichiyo's blonde hair. Her face scrunched, the tickling itchy feeling coming back to her throat- not that she could do anything to satiate it right now.

"Let go." She said, her voice a hoarse whisper.

"Or what?"

"Or you can get punished." All three mafia members whipped their heads towards the new voice... the red hair and hat signifying who it was immediately if you couldn't recognise his voice. The two mafia let go of Ichiyo, bowing lowly to the executive.

"Nakahara." She rasped.

"Man Elise undersold it you look like shit." Chuuya laughed as he shooed the two mafia away- making sure to remember their faces.

"Thanks." She said, rolling her eyes as she did.

"I was on my way to check up on you anyway- let's go to your office." She nodded grasping her food, phone, and keys tighter.

He'd been silent on the elevator, to be fair she hadn't spoken either (not even a whisper) and even as she unlocked her office door they were silent. Even as he shut the door behind them and took a seat on one of her couches. The silence was deafening especially as she opened her packet of chips awkwardly.

"So-" she started. She looked at him, wine brown eyes looking so wide and inviting. "What was that downstairs?"

Higuchi just shrugged.

"You don't know or don't want to talk? Or is your throat still hurting and I'm being a dick?"

"It hurts still but you aren't being a dick. I just sound like I smoked for fifty years right now." She lightly joked.

"Okay so what was that then?"

"Nothing all that unusual... they don't usually manhandle me when they want to be assholes though."

"So that treatment happens often?"

"I thought everyone knew I wasn't liked here?"

"I didn't." Chuuya pouted and shrugged. "The Black Lizard always listened and watched you intently during meetings."

"Because those scarier than me were in the room?" She offered.

"I'm sure you can be scary." He said.

Oh he didn't know how true that could be.

"On another note Mori told me you got seriously hurt and didn't get proper medical treatment so I'm just seeing the damage."

"Got suffocated and thrown into a wall." She said as deadpan as she could- the lack of energy felt more noticeable as she did.

Chuuya laughed lightly and gave her a once over.

"You ever need a hand come find me or Ozaki yeah." He said before getting up- leaving just as quick as he'd appeared earlier.

Higuchi gave a sad sigh now that she was alone she supposed now she could relax...

By relax it meant she let tears fall, ruining whatever makeup she had on, the mocking and pushing hurt more than the bruises did and she really wished it didn't. All she wanted was a little respect as Ichiyo, powerless and human Ichiyo.

But no. They respected and feared those who outwardly used their abilities for violence... Ichiyo just seemed so weak in comparison she supposed- as sad as it was to admit. She hated feeling such a way, but she could hold on a little longer right? She could make it another week yeah?

She could live as Ichiyo just that tiny bit more.