Authors Note: Hello! Thanks for taking the time to check out my story. I'm moving portions of it here from Ao3, just for funsies. Anyway, I appreciate you and I look forward to your thoughts/feedback! Big kisses and I hope you enjoy the read.
He's here…
Neither side anticipates the sudden arrival, nor the silence that seems to follow. Even his movements are muted and his steps are surprisingly soft for someone comprised of so much chaos. They don't fear him. Why should they? Rumor has it he needs all five fingers to do any damage, but what good would that be if he can't catch them in the first place? Despite their confidence, the Shie Hissaikai remains on edge. Their eyes fail to shift from the approaching figure, the one so many associate with death.
What was his name again? Some would refer to him as the Reaper, but others scoff at the thought of such a pretentious title. To request a name implies interest and that is something this legion is lacking.
The man of the hour seems to be aware of these unwelcoming eyes, but he pays no mind to their quiet malice. He can barely see them between the slits of his hand, so why make the effort to actively seek out their shapes? They don't matter. In the grander scheme of things? They really, really don't matter. Tomura Shigaraki had only a single goal at the moment: lie through his teeth before the great taking. Despite being so invested in his ideals, he seems to know when to set aside wrath and revenge. There is a purpose to being so passive. After all, wasn't he instructed from his own master to start all over again – no matter how often? This is a new start, a new path, but one filled with so much falseness.
"Ah, you came."
The voice that greets Shigaraki makes him want to recoil. He suppresses the sickness bubbling within his belly – the need to vomit from the fake pleasantries they are about to exchange. God, he wants to scratch off his own skin! It feels so wrong pretending to be over all of the atrocities this pretentious prick imposed! Look at him… Sitting so calmly, eyes half-lidded and already exhausted by the decayed deity's entrance. If he were anywhere else, with anyone else, he'd be met with eyes that were ecstatic or even full of fear. It seems if he is to return to an elevated status amongst other villains, he needs to play the role of a humbled fool.
"Is it necessary for this lair to be full of so many corridors? I would've been here sooner had the complexities not intervened." His response is raspy, as is the rest of his speech. Only a hint of annoyance is evident in the statement he shares. Too much, and it'll signal a bad start to the partnership they're trying to patch up.
Shigaraki sits down without even being asked to. His eyes never leave the others. In a way, he's curious to see just how this heathen will respond. But he doesn't. He's not met with any outward indication that he's violated some kind of norm. That is, until, his foot is placed upon the counter. He picks up on the brief appearance of anxiety arising – good thing he didn't wipe his shoes.
"If we're going to talk shop, those need to be off the counter." The other speaks so seriously, despite the seemingly innocent offense.
"And if this is the beginning of a business meeting, you're going to let me get comfortable. Let's not have a bad start to this, Overhaul." His named is breathed from chapped lips – lips that scrape and scratch every letter and vowel that leaves them. If that's what the other is called, it shouldn't be said with any kind of respect. But because he's playing nice, only a slight smidge of softness is applied, just to damp down the damage he really wants to do. "Anyway…"
The pale villain allows a small, red bullet to emerge from his pocket. "Let's talk about this. We're partners, right? It's only fair to know." He seems interested in the explanation behind what this newfound monstrosity can mean. He has to know, right? That's why they've made this deal. And if he can access that information, imagine how it could benefit him beyond this building…
A shame he isn't given enough time to prod about this product. A new voice emerges from the shadows to impose resolve.
"Hey, now! Let's not rush things. There's so much that needs to be done…"
He doesn't anticipate this new, grand appearance. It's a woman – specifically one without a mask. Is she not aware of how risky that is? She doesn't exactly match the aesthetic of this place, these people… Something about her energy is a little too inviting, too overwhelming, too filled with life instead of loathing. She is dressed a bit more professionally than her peers – adorning a form fitting black dress, comprised of lace with a black slip. The sleeves are long and touch the knuckle of her thumb, but the length of her garb barely reaches the knees. She looks a little out of place. Even her expression clashes with the conflict the two had previously established. She's smiling… So much so, that it causes him to shift in his seat, if anything to avoid outwardly cringing. God – it looked so ugly, the way she so boldly expressed her amusement. It reminds him of All Might, of Ms. Joke, of all the heroes who couldn't keep their lips shut and sealed. Why the hell was she here?
"Isn't that right, Shigaraki, Tomura?" She attempts to bring him back from whatever awful place he escaped to. Words are coated in honey. Every syllable is so sticky, so sweet – it forces each letter to be aligned. And when they leave her mouth, they're still stuck to her tongue, implying that she's not down to dismiss him so soon. Even the way she says his name comes off as constricting. Who gave her the right to utter the title of an up-and-coming titan? She, on the other hand, is trying to keep the peace – if only for her boss and no one else.
Overhaul turns his head to eye the new arrival. His expression changes – Shigaraki makes a mental note. It's not exactly elation or even adoration that's in this man's eyes. No, there is never any love. Rather, it's evident that this presence has a prominent hold over fellow heathen. She brought him back – allowed him to dismiss the disaster that was a filthy shoe on his fresh fucking counter. Shigaraki thinks she knew about the unease by somehow sensing it. She isn't even eyeing how his feet are positioned. She knows that if she does, the conversation will shift again. It seems she's experienced in the art of defusing, but that again makes her unfit for this space.
"Took you a little longer to show up." Overhaul is quick to comment on her lateness rather than her relieving appearance. Regardless, he speaks to her in the same calm and comprised manner as he did earlier with this forgotten deity of decaying. It seems she is no exception to life around here, but she takes the passive scolding rather well.
"My apologies, Overhaul. I knew I'd be seeing you and wanted to make sure I was…" She pauses, allowing remaining words to leave her lips through a hum. She's contemplating the right thing to say. Clean? Fresh? Fragrant? Not associated with filth in any capacity?
"Presentable." Because that's what he prefers. Presentable can mean so much, but she abides by his definition. Even so, that last word passes through a mouth that's been molded into a smile. Everything she says results in a smile. Shigaraki finds it sickening… And he also finds it annoying that the two are carrying on a conversation without even acknowledging his existence. What kind of business was Overhaul running here?
The masked man chimes in just in time. He somehow picked up on his guest's annoyance. While he usually wouldn't care to deal with this silent temper tantrum, he figured it was finally time to transition into the real conversation for the evening.
"Allow me to introduce you to Yuasa. She does a lot." He lifts his arm, as if to divert the attention within the room to her. She too allows her gaze to return to Shigaraki and even takes a moment to shift her body towards him. He has all of her attention now, despite the comments that leave Overhaul's lips.
"What do I call you?" Overhaul began, "A secretary?"
He chuckles to himself from behind the mask upon extending such a brief beratement . But all at once, he gives her the space to correct him – something that not many have the privilege to do. She nods in response, but not to his last question. Rather, she agrees with the idea that she does, indeed, do a lot. It doesn't hurt to remind her leader just how much she's been able to bestow.
"A secretary implies I only answer your calls and get you coffee." Her attention shifts from the plague-masked man to the one with the hand on his face. She's giving Overhaul too much attention – seconds longer, and she knows she would've lost the stranger. Interesting – she seems to be the only one taking the initiative to treat him so seriously.
"Shigaraki." Why is her voice so commanding? When she says his name, he feels inclined to listen. It's not that she's demanding his ears or his time; rather, it's uttered in such a way that sounds as if she's begging for his approval. He likes the sound of such submission…
But to Yuasa, this is a tactical way of speaking. Despite whatever submission he assumes, she is being sincere. She heard he needed help and Overhaul, of all people, asked her to be of assistance. She cares not for the politics of these "peace talks" – she cares about what comes next. Perhaps that's why it's so easy for her to practice politeness. Just like anything else, it's disarming. He doesn't expect to be treated with so much respect, not after the rough start between these two serpents. And he certainly doesn't expect what she says next…
"Starting today, and going forward, I would like to be what you need me to be. I extend my services to you."
His eyes widen, but ever so slightly. The hand on his face does well to hide his astonished expression. It's not that he's touched by her offer – far from it. He's simply off-putt by the sudden extension of assistance. And what services was she referring to? His mind couldn't help but borrow from the darkest of deposits, leading him to assume that she, indeed, was more than a secretary.
A hand that was once casually resting upon his knee begins to squeeze into the fabric of his pants. Nails are bending, teeth are grinding, body is clenching, and he is fighting! Fighting to bite back a slew of savageries towards such an audacious and unnecessary offer!
"Are you giving me a whore, Overhaul?" He practically spits out his statement, wanting his disgust to be so evident.
Despite being insulted, Yuasa continues to grin; however, the muscles within her shoulders begin to tighten. All that tension builds up within her body. She dare not show her discomfort; she dare not expose any indication of vulnerability towards a man so full of vexation. She can't let him know he's won… So she dismisses his comment; acts as if it fell onto deaf ears.
Overhaul, on the other hand, is raising a brow. A whore, huh? The other seems to misunderstand. Is he really ignorant enough to assume that the only opportunity she can provide is with her body? The leader looks to Yuasa for a reaction, but isn't surprised that she is unmoved. She's heard worse and on a day-to-day basis, but it's never been his responsibility to hold her hand. Regardless, he takes some initiative. After all, the other man is indeed insulting someone that, in their own way, belongs to him. He leans forward with tensed body, allowing fiery gaze to eviscerate the other's entirety.
"I'm giving you an opportunity." Voice is suddenly so stern. Yuasa had not expected the shift in tone, let alone her own boss taking the initiative to speak on her behalf. She feels comfortable talking again, if anything to further weaken the wrath in the room.
"One that's not filled with lust. Shigaraki, if I may…" She looks to Overhaul who rises from his seat, implying that she can sit in the space he once occupied. Although the gray-haired man's gaze was once on the fellow male, he had no choice but the follow the movements of this maiden. She seemed persistent, despite his attempts at tearing her down.
"I heard you were trying to rebuild. After All For One's unfortunate departure from the scene, it seems many of us are at a loss and on the edge. We have every right to be – some heroes are more confident than ever and are attacking us during a time of disarray. You are seeking something stable. So is Overhaul. I don't think that was communicated very well during your first interaction."
Yeah, no shit. Yuasa wants to believe that things would've gone smoothly had she been there for crisis management. A pity her suggestion was dismissed. Those around her assume that pain is the only way to make a point. However, she knows that hate begets hate… And she fears that Shigaraki only made himself available to pass along that anguish. She struggles to fault him for those feelings. She too would salt the earth of anyone who took away her symbols of stability. So, she makes an effort to empathize and she does her best to make sure he finally sees her.
"That is why I've took it upon myself to seek out a new base of operation for you, access to civilian life, and two new members to be added to your league. Overhaul told me he owes you a soldier and an arm. That last thing might be hard to come by, so I am offering you an additional body while the original is healing."
Now he's intrigued – but what exactly is the catch? She speaks as if her prophecy is promised instead of something that has the potential to be. It sounds too good to be true. What's in it for her? But more importantly, how can she even make all of these promises possible? Was this her attempt at swaying him towards their side? Shigaraki feels all the more on edge now due to her listing these potential lies. Regardless, he decides to entertain it.
"What good is access to civilian life?" He's genuinely curious. This was never something he thought he needed, especially since he didn't consider himself to be a wanted man.
Yuasa simply chuckles in response. Funny… She remembers Overhaul asking her the same thing at one point. "I give you access to resources that people with warrants, bounties, or wanted statuses can't exactly get a hold of. If you need tools, someone else will go to the store for you. If you need food, that is arranged as well. If you're craving burgers at ungodly hours, I can get that too. You'll be able to navigate this world from within the shadows. You won't need to starve, or worry about medical attention, or anything else that involves you leaving the place that makes you feel safe."
"Are you getting it now? Yuasa is a jack of all trades. While she's working on the technical aspects of certain operations, it leaves more time for me to think of suitable plans." Overhaul interrupts, further validating his member's abilities. There's a hint of pride in how he addresses her, but also uses this opportunity to briefly jab at his new (but still pending) partner. "If you had someone like that, I doubt you'd be in this position."
Perhaps he shouldn't have said that… But Overhaul is aware that he is perceived as having the most power in this room. He feels comfortable extending critiques towards fellow criminal; after all, he didn't see him as equal. Shigaraki is fuming beneath his façade. Marrow meets with marrow. He strains his jaw while biting down on such wicked words. Does he know who he's dealing with?! Why doesn't he seem to care?! What could he do to make him change his tone? To silence that endless stream of cockiness that seems to flow from his masked make so effortlessly?
Yuasa emerges into the conversation again after acknowledging the awful tension that Overhaul, once more, awoke. "He does have someone – it's me."
It's you? There she goes again, speaking with so much certainty. Somehow, Shigaraki feels all the more pulled in by her preachings. She talks like a hero, but has evil intentions. Who the hell was she? He finds himself asking about her identity often. It's not supposed to matter in places like this, but she behaves in such a way that counters the usual villain dynamics. He almost prefers the belittlement from fiends; at least he knows that their emotions are honest. With Yuasa and her kindness, it's hard for him to understand her intentions.
Overhaul expresses visible disapproval towards her sudden defensive stance. He tugs at the edge of his glove, but not in a way that would imply a threat. He suppresses the urge to remind her of her place, of her original loyalty… But he knows she has a way with words. He just expects that verification to solidify her stay with the Shie Hissaikai. No matter – he has every intention of getting that out from her in the evening.
Before he can respond, the meeting is interrupted by another member. "Overhaul, your presence is requested." He releases a sigh of mild annoyance. Things were just getting good! He rather liked the idea of seeing how many more buttons he could push. "I'm a wanted man, it seems. Yuasa, I trust you'll be fine on your own. Continue filling him in on what you have in mind. And Shigaraki…"
As he's walking away, he makes a point to stop mid-path. He doesn't bother turning his head to acknowledge the eroding other. Rather, he places a mighty severity on his words, expecting them to be abided by. "Remember that you're only borrowing Yuasa. This is a partnership. We share things. Once you realize her full potential, I expect you to be responsible." And with that, his body disappears into the darkness of the two doors ahead.
Somehow, Shigaraki continues to express doubt. So much severity has been placed on this person, but he has yet to really see why. So far, she has only extended ideas, but has yet to put any moveable parts into motion. He'll believe the hype when he sees it; and more importantly… If he does see it, then it's him who decides what happens to her. The useless are placed with trash and the useful get eaten alive.
"Don't listen to him." There she goes again, interrupting all of those invasive (and offensive) thoughts. She wants his attention to turn back to her. It seems she's constantly struggling to remain relevant towards this reaper. "I think I can do some great things for you. Do you have any questions about the process?"
Yes. Many. But that isn't the question at the forefront of his mind. He wants to know how someone like her can collaborate with someone like Overhaul. The differences seem too distinct. What exactly was her role within the chaos?
"What's your business with Overhaul? You don't exactly fit the bill for villainy." He's blunt about his curiosity. He'd rather know the person who was assigned to him. And, more importantly, once he's able to understand their role, it'll be easier to eradicate it from the inside out. It was never anything personal – just a precaution to make sure that things can no longer grow upon salted earth.
Yuasa is a little surprised by his inquiry, but it's a lot tamer than his previous statement. He has every right to question her compliance… But if it were anyone else, she'd soon have them hunted.
"You're absolutely right. This isn't really my scene, but Overhaul and I have quite the complicated history. We met through very…unconventional means. "
Yuasa was the first in her family to go to college and the first to consider being anything other than a hero. She remembers her mother insisting she sign up for the hero academy – "you have so much potential, Yuasa. Imagine how much you'd be able to grow!" But every time those words were withdrawn, her daughter would politely decline. She focused her efforts on research and took advantage of opportunities to work with professors as an undergraduate student. Although she primarily engaged in grunt work, her persistence and presence within her school life allowed her to make connections with other scholars, public figures, and even heroes. When she graduated, she joined a research center and anticipated being buried in paperwork. However, the center she worked for wanted to be a bit more active and applied. Yuasa didn't simply sit behind a desk – she met with recovering addicts, sexual assault victims, and other vulnerable populations within the city; populations that most heroes often forgot about or dismissed.
She remembers her mother's disapproval – the torn look in her eyes when she realized who exactly consisted of that crowd. What many failed to realize was that villains were part of that vulnerability. Despite their association with evil, they had moments when they too were made into victims. That was part of the code, wasn't it? No one is safe, even if your ideals align. But it was through them that Yuasa learned to be unafraid… Because the moment she was able to guide them towards stability, those "bad people" ensured their loyalty. To be discarded did some damage, but to be rebuilt, especially by hands that one could easily break, meant the world to someone who once valued murder. The center and Yuasa received silent respect from the streets, but hesitation from those who preferred the presence of heroes. Needless to say, she learned to be fearless. She saw worse, felt worse, heard worse from those she worked with.
"We met during a charity event. Or, rather… I was there, he was not. I work for a rehabilitation center of sorts. We organized a gathering for donors. The thing you need to know about the center is, we're actually quite disorganized. We have so much work, so many of us take on multiple titles. I was tasked as event management and treasurer – meaning I needed to make sure everything was operating as it should, all while managing our accounts. We were receiving an extensive amount of donations – some through checks and cash, while others simply gave us their routing numbers. Crazy, right?"
In many ways, the night was perfect. She remembered weaving through crowds, striking conversations, and providing direction. Despite her anxiety, everything seemed to be going as they had hoped. She remembers being pulled aside by a donor who commended her for her quickness. He urged her to pull out her planner and recited a series of numbers that reflected both his donation and the source it was coming from. She planned on entering all of this information in their database that evening. She knew that carrying a "pen and paper" was a little reckless since it was serious information, but the evening was too stressful for her to practice caution.
She told herself it was only temporary. Nothing could happen here – why would it? These kinds of things, these kinds of events… They often went unnoticed by the public. The public likes action and spandex suits; they don't care about this kind of shadow-work. She was lucky to even acquire the interest of these donors; although, many of them believe that her kind of work will simply be of aid to heroes.
Yuasa found time to briefly part from the party. She found herself outside in the garden, surrounded by black and silence. Finally, she felt like she could breathe. Many of her muscles were aching. She truly was tense during every interaction, anticipating the worst from the wealthy. Despite her temporary relief, she did not anticipate the anarchy to come. Someone calls to her from behind, but it's someone she had not seen…
"Minamura, Yuasa?" They speak her name so softly, as if genuinely wanting to be correct. She turns around instantly, trying to compose herself before this stranger. Odd… She doesn't remember them from earlier. She should've. They were, after all, wearing a mask and as far as she was aware, no one took the initiative to hide their identity here. Was this person a hero she just wasn't aware of?
"Yes! I greatly apologize. I just wanted to get some air before I came back inside…" Hand motions to chest in an attempt to soothe the rapid beating beneath her breast. "Look at me being an awful host… I'm supposed to greet you, not the other way around."
A chuckle leaves the shadowed stranger. It seems her obliviousness is amusing – perhaps this would be easier than he initially thought. "Actually, I'm rather glad I found you first." She should've been more mindful of where his hands were, because from the depths of his pockets emerges a gun. Her eyes had widened, but she bites her tongue. She wants to scream, but she knows that will only lead to bullets in her body. Instead, arms slowly rise out of instinct, indicating a position of submission before the other. She wishes she didn't embrace the path of a coward, but by expressing her fear, she would put so many more at risk. Fuck!
"Wow, I didn't think it'd be this easy. Alright boys, you know what to do." Before Yuasa could protest, she felt an immense weight upon her presence. She was forced onto the earth, face colliding with filth. She remembers the absolute adrenaline, the absolute fear, the absolute desire to awaken her quirk until-… Until she saw black.
"Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought someone would try to take that information. But Overhaul did. And yet, in the process, he wound up taking me too. After I got knocked out, I remembered waking up to see him… Albeit, while holding a gun to my forehead."
She awakes. The smell of carnations and mint hit her nose first, right before she coughs into her lap. With every heave, she feels her body lunge forward, followed by a mighty constriction around her presence. She can't move… No matter how much she squirms and shakes, she can't break her current confinement. She's too ensnared by her current captivity to even register the room she's in. There are white floors and white walls, all seemingly freshly scrubbed. This place is a little too well polished to be a torture room, so where exactly is she? What exactly happened? She tries to turn her head, but a throbbing pain emerges. Whatever hit her earlier had seriously damaged her neck and shoulder. It was far too reckless to try to take everything in, unless she was looking for an early grave.
The door behind her opens. From the reflections on the floor, she can see three bodies approaching. Two decide to stay by the door, while one feels confident enough to come closer. This isn't the man from before. He is wearing the same kind of mask, but he allows his eyes to be exposed. The scent of mint is even stronger; perhaps it's coming from the beak he has bound. She remembers reading about the herbs plague doctors used in their masks to avoid impurities. Could it be that she was in a hazardous situation?
"Ah, it's the woman of the hour. You finally came to. That's a relief." His voice is oddly calm. He takes a moment to squat before her, allowing his eyes to look up at her, despite his position of power. Perhaps he's aware of the trauma on her neck or maybe he just wants to instill a false sense of security between the two. Regardless, he continues to talk, but not without withdrawing a weapon. It's the same gun from before! Well, she thinks… They all look the same to someone who's in shock. He's casually aiming it at her head, but his expression doesn't alter. He looks…unfazed, unmoved, uncaring. He isn't unhinged or driven by adrenaline. In fact, he simply appears uninterested.
"All I need from you is simple confirmation…" His free hand wanders into his other pocket, pulling out the small notebook she used earlier to record those donations. Something sickening descends into her stomach. So, that's what they were after? The money. "Are these the routing numbers to your donors? Did you memorize any more before you wrote them down?"
She's shaking… Goosebumps consume her skin. He asks her a simple question, but she doesn't know what to say! Overthinking… She's overthinking. If she responds, he might shoot. If she stalls, she might get hurt. What was the best avenue against this? How could she get out of here?
"Yuasa..." The masked man says her name in a playful tone, as if trying to regain her attention. "Let's not forget that I'm the one with the gun here. If you answer my question, I'll make sure to shoot where it won't hurt. I'll make it quick. I promise." Aw, how sweet; he's being 'a little' considerate of her confliction. She, however, does not fall for the false sense of security.
"I-I'm sorry… I-…" She breaks eye contact with him, but only for a moment. She takes a second, and only a second, to find remnants of certainty for her next statement. "The numbers, the money… I'm sorry, but… I-It's not enough. It wouldn't be enough for you."
Overhaul raises a brow. Her newfound confidence is intriguing… But had she uttered the wrong word, he would've perceived it as arrogance in such a threatening time. "How would you know what's enough? Just answer the question, before I feel adventurous and find out for myself."
"Wait, please! Just…hear me out for a moment." Panic is restored. He makes a mental note of the rise and fall of her chest – so rapid, so repulsive. Look at her fear and how it leaks from her eyes. He can't find it within him to sympathize with such a sad show.
"I told him that what he was about to take from me and from others would only be temporary. After this, he'd need to find another way to make fast money. Wouldn't that be rather pointless? Wouldn't he rather part ways with that routine and have a more stable way of making money? If there are other operations to worry about, why spend so much time requiring an income? I told him I could get him much more than that…"
"This is only a temporary gig. You might drain their accounts, but then you'll need more, right? Look, I don't know what you're doing, but… If you leave me alive, I can get you more than whatever you're looking for here!" Perhaps her plea was out of desperation, but she couldn't believe that she was suddenly willing to help out someone who was about to hurt her. Where exactly was her moral compass? Maybe her mom was right… By spending so much time with villains, maybe she did feel more inclined to sympathize with their causes. Or, maybe she just wanted to live a little longer.
Overhaul was obviously not convinced. He had heard so many vows that only emerged out of desperation. He wouldn't be surprised if she was only saying that to save her own skin. "No thanks. I don't really think you can offer me much. I know how this goes, Yuasa. You really shouldn't underestimate me. I place trust in your word and then you run away. Then we'd both be out of time."
He cocks the gun, as if implying his patience is thin. "Do better."
"I-I'm not asking you to let me go, I… I am just asking for 24 hours to prove to you that I can get you more. That's it. You can watch me if you need to. I can get you money, recruitment, and access to the public." Somehow, she feels confident to utter these offers, even when looking death in the eyes. But still, the fear has yet to fade. And she wouldn't want him to think, even for a second, that she felt sure of her statements.
Overhaul is slightly intrigued. Now she's getting specific. More money, more members, more access to essentials-… This sounds good, but he knows it comes with a cost. And, more importantly, it has to come with a reason. Sure, her life is on the line… But why is she suddenly so willing to throw everything away just to make sure she stays on this earth? Isn't it far more agonizing to betray that benevolence she worked hard to build up? Most people have honor. Where exactly is hers?
"Ah… I like the sound of that. But, remind me again… Why should I listen to you?"
"Overhaul had every reason to doubt me. But…" She pauses her story and pauses her memory. This is the first time Shigaraki sees a shift in her friendly façade. Hands that were once placed upon her lap now curl up around the hem of her dress. Despite how much pressure she applies to the fabric, her expression stays the same. She continues to smile, but severity is applied to her words. A new meaning is applied to their meetings. For once, Shigaraki feels…invested – like she's pulling him into her passage.
"In that moment, I felt like he was giving me an opportunity – an opportunity to push back against something that once slowed me down."
Shaky sigh follows deep breath. She hesitates to speak, hesitates to address a memory from adolescence that had long since been buried. But here it was, being addressed…for the first time in a long time.
"When I was little, I really loved heroes. Imagine my excitement when I found out my uncle had officially received a license to be one. It was such a good day in my home… We were all celebrating. I remember feeling so proud to have him in my family, because I believed that all heroes wanted to help people. I was related, by blood, to someone who would be doing just that. I couldn't wait to tell my friends at school…"
Her head lowers. She has a hard time explaining this to eyes so empty. She knows he won't care, but at this point, she is mostly speaking for herself… If anything to try to make peace with her pains before she dies.
"When you're small, you struggle to understand context… I never picked up on the comments he made about my body or how some of his words were rather flirtatious. I just remember thinking that he loved me and that his words were simply an extension of that. When I was put to bed that night, my uncle, our new hero, had told everyone that he was going to kiss me goodnight. But in the darkness of my room, he did more than that…
I remember flying away from myself. I thought that was my quirk, because it's like I could see everything that was happening to me from a different part of the room. I remember screaming to myself to wake up, to move, but I couldn't… He was so strong. His hand was on my neck – one wrong move and I would've passed out or snapped it myself."
Throat tightens. The rest of her words don't want to be withdrawn, but at this point, she needs to power through for the sake of her own sanity.
"My quirk was awoken in that moment. I found out I could generate a force field around my body. It outlined every part of me. But because I was so weak, he broke right through it. Imagine that… My quirk is a shield for protection and I couldn't even protect myself."
Words have been reduced to a whisper. Tears that once fell out of fear now fall out of shame. Her body tried to give her a symbol of safety and even that wasn't enough to stop the suffering that he had imposed onto her fragile form.
"Ah, excuse me…" A lone tear had begun to descend onto her design. Despite her saddened state, that smile had yet to vanish. It's almost as if she no longer wanted that moment to matter. She was gritting through the grotesqueness while he was being captivated by it.
"Later on in life, I learned the word that described what happened to me. And I also learned that not every hero wants to help people. Some of them want the money, the fame, and the blind allegiance by the general public that assumes all of their actions are for good. I never had a reason to believe heroes could save everyone or even anyone… To be honest with you, I am so exhausted by this narrative. I am tired of seeing beyond it, but being able to do nothing about it." She too is tired. Her eyes are just as drained as the other, just as sunken, but a bit more defeated. She poured out all of her emotions and packaged them into a prayer. It won't meet God's ears, but it might serve as a talking point between her and her reaper.
Overhaul says nothing the entire time she speaks. He doesn't extend any sympathy, doesn't offer any comfort… But he does allow her to have his attention, because there's something about her story that seems sincere. He understands now. He understands why she was so willing to shift sides. Yes, this was a moment of desperation, but it inspired her to see it as something else: an opportunity. Quick thinking. He likes that.
The gun in his hand lowers. He looks to the men behind her and nods his head, silently ordering them to undo her restraints. A deep sigh leaves him, revealing his reluctance.
"24 hours, Yuasa. Don't make me regret this decision."
The moment the rope is loosened, she begins to lose her balance. As her figure is falling forward, the pair catches her at either side. She is now inches away from the other's face, able to see the harshness his orbs hold. She can't look away… Something about the pain he promises pulls her in. He's revolted by the close contact, but politely parts from her weakened person. And yet, she continues to have his attention. He's greedy now… That anguish is intriguing. Aside from letting her live, what else can it do for her?
"I told him to give me 24 hours to prove myself. I did it in eight. I'm not here to waste anyone's time. Not even yours, Shigaraki."
She still never knew where she woke up, because they placed a sack over her head to suppress her sight. She knew she was being dragged out of the building and into a car, but nothing about the route felt familiar. She does know that the interaction was a bit gentler than before. Instead of being thrown, she was politely escorted out of the car and towards the door of her apartment.
"Don't look behind you. Just go inside. You'll be watched… Your time starts now. Call when you're ready or we'll just come for you."
Yuasa kept her eyes glued to the door. She dare not look anywhere else, not even on the metal that potentially served as a reflection of what was behind her. She opened the door slowly, walked to her room, shut the door, and sunk against the frame. Arms wrapped themselves around her knees. She sobbed into herself, clutching her legs even closer with every sniffle and whimper that left her quivering lips. She can't believe what she had just escaped. But more importantly, she couldn't believe what she was supposed to do…
Much of her wanted to remain sitting on that floor for the rest of the evening, but it was a mix of fear and dedication that told her to get up. She wipes away her woe and heads straight to her desk, ready to turn on the computer and make a few phone calls.
"I ended up calling a few people I had worked with before, villains that had sought services from our center. At first, I asked them if they knew anyone that was good with accounting. I got redirected to a few people, people that weren't questioning what it is I was trying to do. Turns out 'accounting' can mean a lot of things. I was able to access other accounts linked to the routing numbers I was given. In short, I got access to more than I anticipated and was able to steal a 'small sum' from each account in order to accumulate thousands over the span of a few hours."
Shigaraki leans in, expressing interest in this part of the story. If she could get away with that back then, imagine how much the craft had been perfected up until this point. "You weren't questioned?" He's surprised that other villains didn't want a piece of the action.
"Honestly, I think they just thought I wasn't good at being a treasurer. I've already done enough for them… I know they wouldn't turn their backs on me. I told some of them that I knew someone was hiring. At first, they were a little surprised that I was telling them this. It's my job to prevent them from going back to crime, even if it can't be helped. But I think they know I look out for them… And if I'm part of something, then it has to be promising." She furrows her brows. It looks as if she too is baffled by her own accomplishment, but all at once…she understands the source.
A little over seven hours had passed after her phone calls were completed. Her head was down and for once, she didn't care to see the sun coming up behind her. She spent all evening rekindling relationships, getting advice on online banking, and directing money into a deposit that she could pick up in a few minutes. She just…needed a moment. Because she had never exerted herself so much – mentally, physically, and emotionally. Is this what her life would be like now?
Despite how drained she was, her anxiety did not allow her to submerge into sleep. Sleep implied less time to finish. Sleep was something she could have if she did this right. She ran out of the building, took the bus to the bank, and emptied the account she had devoted to the centers side resources, which had seldom been used or acknowledged. This would be far less suspicious than taking from the main account. She needs to make sure they won't notice, even if she's the one handling these monetary affairs.
Moments later, she had found herself in front of the Shie Hissaikai all over again… Except this time, there were no ropes involved. She was escorted to the same room that was once her prison, but it was a chance to elaborate on negotiations instead of begging for her life.
Overhaul enters and sits in the seat across from her. She wastes no time and slides a small binder forward, waiting for him to open it. He seems a little impressed by her organization… He finds separate envelopes tucked away in the folders of the binder. Upon opening them, he sees cash… Piles of cash neatly arranged according to value. In the clear bindings, he sees images of villains followed by information about their quirks, skills, and ways to contact.
So, it seems she really did follow through. He can't help but release a mighty laugh. "I don't know how the hell you did it… I don't think I've been this amused in a long time." He closes the binder and hands it off to one of his members. Okay – now she deserves his attention.
"Minamura, Yuasa… Where have you been all my life? If this is just a starter… I can't wait to see what else you'll do for me."
She bows her head, attempting to acknowledge him as the superior at the table. "I said I would get you more and I did."
"You do realize there's no getting out of this now, right? You're part of the Shie Hissaikai. It's me and you."
"Yes, but…" He notes her hesitation. "If I may… I just have one condition."
"Oh?" He crosses his arms. "I don't think you're in a position to make demands."
"No, it's not a demand." She shakes her head. "A humble request. You see, I work with victims… They're victims of a lot of things, you know. Addiction, assault, sexual violence… I just ask that you leave them alone. Please. I'm not a hero – far from it… Never saw myself as one. But… I just think that if people are already damaged, they don't need any more traumas in their life. I just want to continue helping them."
He takes a moment to give her words some thought. That's saying something – for most people, he wouldn't entertain any kind of consideration. "Hm. 'Suppose you have a point. Fair enough. After all, you are now our public agent. What we can't get, you can. You can live your life, Yuasa. It just belongs to me now."
She doesn't know how she feels about that, but at least he's asking her to do something that's easy (and a bit palatable). "If you don't mind… I don't think I got your name. What should I call you?"
"Well now, where are my manners? I never thought introductions were in order since you were set to die, but here we are establishing a partnership and you don't even know your bosses name. My apologies, Yuasa… From here on out, you refer to me as Overhaul."
The way he says her name makes it feel personal, like he's known her for so long. He doesn't even bother using her last name. Doesn't need to. If she, in some capacity, belongs to him, they've already gotten close. And although he says his pseudonym to keep a distance, it's already something he doesn't mind her saying.
"Trust…"
It's buried in a whisper and somehow Shigaraki still hears it. She packaged it just for him.
"We have that. We ensure that. That's why it worked. That's why you have people that follow you; that died for you. Shigaraki… Believe it or not, they trusted you." She doesn't like having all of the attention on her. She tries to connect her chronicle to his own, just so everything feels like it's coming in full circle.
"What a relief it must be to know that there are people that would lay down their life for you…"
Is she getting closer? Her body leans in, and so too does her arm. She wants him to shake her hand, despite being aware of his abilities. "I want to give you all of that again. I can."
Suddenly, a green light emerges from beyond her body. It wraps itself around her hand, outlining wrist, fingers, and palm. It serves as a symbol of solitude, as something that cannot break. Through silent means, she's extending something no one else has ever been able to… The ability to touch without tarnishing and the ability to partake in normal paths. Her arm extends again. She insists he shake. It's safe. More so for him, because why should he think about her? Regardless, the offer is tempting in so many ways… Part of him longs for the ability to feel something with a foundation.
"Do we have a deal?"
Stupid smile… But he no longer sees it as something that mocks him. Foot falls to the floor and his body closes the distance between them. Hands that once resided between his legs now feel confident to extend. His left hand hovers over her own. He's eyeing the space between their palms, and then glances up at her expression again. Once more, he's seeking out certainty… He doesn't understand why he needs it so suddenly. But he complies. Hand encircles the other. He's able to shake it! And she-… She is still standing. No part of this damsel is disintegrating.
And-… Wait. Is this warmth? Is that heat he feels from the presence of her palm? Is it really extending and meeting his own entirety? To feel, if only for a moment-… This is truly profound. He lets go in an instant, recoiling hand back to his side. He breathes hard, implying that the moment was too jarring for his tastes. But he doesn't allow her to witness this as a weakness. Instead, he allows her to interpret his actions as a sign of respect, despite his rising suspicion. If she doesn't decay from his touch… How can he secure his own safety?
Is this what Overhaul meant by her full potential? Whatever that had yet to mean, he was too inspirited to retreat now.
"We have a deal."