Dammit, I was on such a roll until my laptop decided to give me issues which set me behind. I was hoping to have this chapter done before July ended. Thank goodness I keep everything backed up on an external hard drive.

Fairy Tail belongs to Hiro Mashima and My Hero Academia belongs to Kohei Horikoshi

Reminder: There will be spoilers for both Fairy Tail and My Hero Academia.

TRIGGER WARNING: This fanfiction contains violence, death, rape, sexual assault, and other material that may be sensitive to the reader.

This chapter contains none of the above

I would like to thank those on FanFiction who have favorited and followed this. Along with those on AO3 who gave it a kudos and bookmarked it. And please, leave comments even if it results in me making changes.

I will admit I was a little nervous putting this out there because a lot of the crossovers revolve around the heroes. Not to mention this revolves around Overhaul, one of the greatest but also most hated villain.

I would also like to reiterate what I wrote in the first chapter. Yes, the pairing in the beginning is Lucy and Chisaki and that could change. But if any of you who read this want the whole thing to be Lucy with a sweet yet still an asshole but not a child abuser Kai Chisaki/Overhaul then please let me know and it can be just that. Afterward, I can do alternate versions with other pairings.

The whole choosing a path thing is something I may or may not do. It depends on if I think I can pull it off.

Also, I remembered that Chisaki also refers to the Boss as Pops so I'm going to be changing the title depending on the setting they're in. I apologize if it gets confusing especially since Lucy refers to the older man as Jiji.

Chapter Word Count: 7500+

Thursday, July 11, 2024

Lucy has done a lot of thinking when Chisaki hasn't been around, about what she had done. Her feelings on the whole matter have been scattered all over the place. She would break down sobbing over the fact that she lost control and killed all of those people, but when she remembered why she was there in the first place she was filled with anger again.

How had her friends from Fairy Tail coped with the fact they've killed someone? Yes, they've killed others as well… in battle. Lucy wasn't in a battle though. Considering Erza's history, she has a feeling the red headed warrior would have done the same had she seen the scenario. Possibly everyone else now that she thinks about it. It doesn't make her feel any better. But what's done is done. There's no turning back now. It's just a matter of learning to control that rage and to not let it consume her again and move forward.

Speaking of moving forward, she and Chisaki got a little closer after the ordeal. He's not as apprehensive about holding her hand and giving her a hug now and then. However, for him, she had a close brush with death. As far as he knows there were three unknown people there that could have easily killed Lucy had she not been quick enough to escape.

She hated lying to him, she wanted to tell him the truth that it was her that was responsible for all that carnage. That she has the ability to transform into her friends and use their abilities. She's caught his thoughts on quirks, but would he hear her out if she told him? Go ahead and call her selfish but she doesn't want to lose Chisaki before they've even begun.

"Then how about you tell me who needs to be killed and I'll do it for you?" While not the most romantic thing to say, she appreciated the sentiment all the same. Honestly, it sounded like something Cobra would say to Kinana. Just like Kinana with Cobra, Lucy would and could never ask Chisaki to do that.

When she told him that she was retiring as Celeste, it shocked him that she would leave the potential victims with no hope. He didn't mean for that to come out the way it did, he knew she didn't want to. However, now that she's been labeled a villain, it'd be best for her to keep a low profile.

One thing she has learned in the three months she's known him is that when it comes to those he cares about, he's very loyal and protective. Yes, he's a little… extreme but he is a good man and has everyone's best interests at heart. Jiji had told her that since they've met, Chisaki's extreme reactions have toned down a bit. Not much, but he can notice the difference in his protégé.

Jiji and Ms. Yamamoto have been a big help when she needs a sounding board. She can't exactly see any licensed counselors. There was a big debate on whether to fill Fukuzawa in on Lucy's story. The counselor knows about Lucy's history as Celeste and hasn't turned her in. What would she think of Lucy though if she learned the truth? Jiji and Ms. Yamamoto left that decision in her hands.

Her spirits have been a big help too when Lucy has the privacy to summon them. More so Scorpio, Gemini, and Aries who had been contracted to Angel. Back then Angel made them kill innocent people and that's something they have to live with for all eternity. Their feelings on the matter have gotten better since being contracted to Lucy but every once in a while, they can't help but mourn over the innocent lives they had taken.

Two years had gone by before it was discovered that Lisanna was in Edolas. However, the only reason why that discovery was made was because of the anima that sucked Fairy Tail into that world.

Lucy wanted to think that after two years Fairy Tail would have stumbled upon her by now but at this point, her best option was to keep an eye and ear out for Ivan and the black-haired man that transported her here. She found a way to find him on a website by his quirk alone, which she assumed would be the ability to jump between worlds. However, one had to pay to access said information.

The amount of money wasn't the problem, it was whoever kept an eye on the activity of the website itself. She learned that some could look into the people wanting information by using the I.P. Address to track them down. There were many people out there skilled at what is known as hacking. She thought of Hibiki's Archive Magic, and it made her wonder if he would be able to hack the council or if anyone tried hacking his magic to get sensitive information. Information in the wrong hands has been proven disastrous.

Her spirits suggested to put Fairy Tail behind her for now. They're not saying to give up searching for the man responsible or forget about her guildmates but for the time being, she should consider this as another adventure. She's made some friends, gained parental figures and has a man in her life that considers her his girlfriend even though he never has officially asked. They're still unsure about him but that could possibly be because he has never been with a woman up until he met Lucy. She very well may be the only one he'll ever have in his life. He has shown that he genuinely cares and would do anything for her as well as be loyal and protective. That's really all they can ask for.

So, they suggested for her to live in the moment, spend time with Chisaki to get to know him more, spend time with her new friends and try to help those in need that won't end up in her getting locked up for it, go back to work and be around people again. Should she and Fairy Tail find each other again and she has to make a choice between going back with them or staying on Earth, they'll cross that bridge when they get there. For now, they want her to live.

So that is exactly what she is going to do, starting with going downstairs for her shift at Sushi Serenity.

Chisaki isn't an idiot, he knows Lucy has been hurting. He did the only thing he could do and that was to be by her side. When she was ready to talk, she would. He hoped. If not, that's okay with him. It's not like he doesn't have his own shit he'd much rather not talk to anyone about. Maybe one day he'll tell her everything.

He has been spending so much time with her that he realizes he hasn't been giving the Yakuza his full attention. He apologized profusely to the Boss who just waved off his apology telling him it was completely fine. It makes him happy to see his protégé focused on something other than the Yakuza and even happier that his attention has been on Lucy. She puts a smile, he's never seen, on Chisaki's face.

Chisaki was thankful that the conversation he had with Pops was done in private because he had become a blushing mess when they discussed the emotions Lucy evoked in him. His reputation as the stoic asshole you dare not fuck with would have been ruined.

Pops had told him there was nothing wrong with showing emotions and wanting to become closer to her. She's a beautiful, smart, strong woman who understands the role of being the Boss of a Yakuza. She's exactly who he'll need by his side when he takes over. It's a lonely position without someone to lean on who's not part of the clan. In his own opinion a Yakuza needs a Matriarch as much as a Patriarch.

That is when the conversation turned to the topic of intimacy and had Chisaki's face burning hot. He knows Chisaki well enough to know that is a concern. Can she handle being in a relationship with him? He wants to be more intimate with her, but what if it takes a long time to get there? Can she handle going at his pace? What if he's not able to despite wanting to be with her in every way possible? Can he handle the rejection if he couldn't provide something she would want?

Pops had to get him to calm down before he ended up destroying the building. He assured him that he has faith it will all work out with Lucy. That she's a very patient woman and has been able to handle him thus far and that's saying something considering his temper and how extreme he can get at times when he's unable to control himself.

Before leaving the office, Pops informed him that he has his blessing in his developing relationship with Lucy. He also informed him that Lucy's birthday was a week ago and maybe he should do something for her. Chisaki has never been one to celebrate birthdays, or holidays, so what would one even do? it hits him. He may not have an idea of what to do but he does have something he can give her.

In the meantime, he wants to find Kurono. He's walking through the compound, hunting the man down. He eventually finds him in the little library they have pouring over a stack of books.

"What are you doing?"

Kurono doesn't bother looking up from the page he is reading and replies, "I'm researching uncommon phenomena."

Chisaki groans, "Not this again." He picks up a book and skims through it, "Why are you obsessed with discovering if someone can subconsciously detect one's purity? If it were possible, someone would have discovered it by now."

Kurono closes the book and turns his attention to his comrade, "Yes, that is true, however, you're a unique case. While being an introvert is a common trait, you take it to a whole different level. Humans are social creatures and have a desire for more. You, however, avoid people as much as you can and social settings like it's a plague. For you, it is a plague. Your mind and body reject the notion of being close to anyone in any way shape or form apart from a few select people. You have been able to make a couple of friends even if you are an ass and refuse to refer to us as such."

Chisaki scoffs and lets his friend continue.

"As much as you don't care to admit it, you crave intimacy just like everyone else. But the thought of that causes your whole being to react negatively because of your fear of germs. You're scared that you will catch a disease. You still attempted to go on a date once despite that. You were anxious during the whole thing. At the end, you went into a tailspin just at the thought of kissing her goodnight and haven't given being with a woman a second thought until Lucy."

"Just because I like being around her doesn't mean I'm comfortable at the thought of being intimate with her."

Kurono coughs, "That's not true."

Chisaki narrows his eyes at his friend who looks embarrassed, "And how would you know that?"

Kurono blushes and rubs the back of his neck, "Well one night I tried to call but you didn't answer so I set out to find you. I can't even remember why I called because when I got to the door of your room, I may have heard you moaning out everything you would like to do with her while jerking off."

It was Chisaki's turn to look embarrassed. It's true, he has done that on numerous occasions. "Just because I'm capable of thinking about it doesn't mean I'm capable of going through with the action."

"I think you are, but now it's different. You're not anxious about following through with the act but scared because of your inexperience."

If it were anyone else, aside from Pops, he would have walked away from this conversation at the beginning. It's more embarrassing than the one he had with Pops. But Kurono is right, he is a friend. Kurono has never judged him and has been by his side through everything.

"Can you blame me for being scared? I'm a 26-year-old who has never had any form of intimacy. Also, how can you be so sure she's a virgin?"

"I'm not 100% sure, but going by your body's reaction to her, I'd say it's a safe bet she is. Hence, the research. I've been curious to know if my theory is right. My bet is she is and there's nothing to worry about. It's all new to her as well."

"How in hell has no one caught her interest? How did I manage to catch her interest?"

Kurono shrugs, "That's something you would have to ask her. It's not the first time you've caught a woman's interest though."

"Yeah well, it wasn't so much me they were interested in but more the power I have in the underworld. Or they want to live on the edge being with a man part of a Yakuza."

"Yeah, that is true. Lucy has made it known she doesn't care for titles or where someone is in the hierarchy. You know, I've heard you refer to her as your girlfriend. Did you ask her, or did you slap the label on yourself?"

"I may have slapped the label on myself. She hasn't been correcting anyone though."

"As much as I don't want to say this, it's possible she hasn't been correcting anyone because she's scared of you."

Chisaki's heart drops, "She has no reason to fear me. No matter what happens, I don't think I have it in me to hurt her. She has been non-judgmental, and understanding and takes care of me when my issues act up."

"Talk to her about it. Also, talk to her about being an official couple. Technically to those outside of the compound, she's single. You've seen the way the men here look at her, but they know you've claimed her and wouldn't dare try anything with her. Those outside of here don't know that and there's nothing to stop them from trying to get her to date them."

Chisaki growls, "Like fucking hell they are."

"Then get a move on and talk to her. She's good for you. Don't wait until it's too late."

Chisaki nods, "I'll talk to her tonight when she gets out of work." He turns to leave, and Kurono gives him one last piece of advice.

"I know it's easier said than done with you, but when it comes to being intimate with her be confident, don't think about it, and live in the moment."

Lucy is so glad her shift is over. She's missed the job and her co-workers; however, she did not miss the drunk men hitting on her and their attempts to grope her ass. She exits the building and one of the men that had been trying to flirt with her is there waiting for her. 'Great, I can't go home because then he'll know I live above the bar.'

"Hey there sweet thing. I've been waiting for you. C'mon, I'll take your perky ass home."

"No, thanks. I can walk myself." As Lucy walks away from the building she thinks about where to go until she loses the man. She doesn't get very far when she's grabbed by the arm and pulled back.

"Aw, c'mon baby. Let me take you home or if you want you can come back to my place."

Lucy opens her mouth to tell the guy off when a third voice joins in.

"She said no."

Lucy looks in the direction the voice came from. Stepping out of the shadows is, "Chisaki."

Chisaki keeps his eyes on the jackass who still has a hold on his woman. Glaring he asks, "Are you going to let her go?"

The man pulls Lucy into him so her back is flush against his chest, "What if I don't want-oof"

Chisaki smirks as Lucy elbows him in the gut, swings her fist up to hit him in the face, and gives him a roundhouse kick sending his ass to the ground. He stands over the scowling man with an even more intense glare, "Do you know whose territory you're on?"

The man loses the scowl, and his face goes pale when he gets a better look at the man. A few of his friends had a run-in with a couple of members of a yakuza when they tried robbing a store, one of the men fitting this man's description. A man in a black mask, and business suit, with white gloves and auburn shaggy hair. He heard this guy is someone you don't want to piss off. He's hospitalized and killed those who talked shit about the organization and those who tried to fuck with the businesses they protect. Those who have survived his wrath had said to steer clear of the man if possible.

"I'll take your silence as a yes." Chisaki then growls out, "This will be your only warning, you do not look at, talk to, or put your hands on her. Are we clear?"

The man vehemently nods his head, "Yes sir."

"Good, now get out of here." He watches in amusement as the man scrambles to get off the ground and runs away. Chisaki yells out, "Make sure to pass that message along." He turns his attention to Lucy who has her arms crossed and is glaring at him.

"I could have scared him off myself you know."

He pulls down his mask and kisses her on the cheek. "I know." After putting his mask back on he says, "It never hurts to have back up."

Lucy blushes from the unexpected kiss on the cheek, "Y-Yeah. So, what are you doing here?"

"I wanted to see you." He smiles behind his mask at her rising blush. "I also wanted to talk to you about something."

"O-Okay, want to come up?"

"Sure." As he follows behind, his eyes travel up and down her backside.

Lucy is so thankful that he doesn't have enhanced senses like dragon slayers because if he did, he would be able to smell what his stare is doing to her.

Upon entering, the two take their shoes off in the foyer. The first thing Chisaki notices upon entering the rest of her apartment is how clean and tidy the place is.

"Why are you surprised?" Lucy asks when she sees the look on his face. "I'm going to get changed, please make yourself at home."

"Sorry, please don't think I've had the impression you're a messy person. I'm just shocked to know that like me you don't live in a clutter. As a matter of fact, your place is devoid of much of anything." There are a few fake plants, a bookshelf containing a few books, and a desk containing a stack of papers as well as a dip pen. He didn't know there were still people out there who used those. A recliner is in the corner by the window angled towards the television. From what he can see of the kitchenette it's spotless with very little littering the counter space. Down the hall, there are two doors, one for the bathroom and the other for her bedroom.

Lucy yells out while getting a change of clothes, "Because of how busy I was, I never had the time to go do some shopping and decorate the place. The little I have is from Jiji and Ms. Yamamoto." She then heads to her bathroom to change and freshen up. "Ms. Yamamoto tidied up the place while I was laid up so when I came home it wouldn't be to layers of dust coating everything. Even threw away the spoiled food. Jiji paid to stock the fridge and cupboards when she informed him how little food I have here."

Curious, Chisaki makes his way to her desk, "I've noticed he treats you like you're his daughter. Ms. Yamamoto too. She seems very fond of you." He scans the top paper. It seems to be the start of a story.

Lucy can't tell him that Jiji already has a daughter since it's not her place to tell him. However, she can tell him, "Ms. Yamamoto took me in when I arrived here and had nowhere else to go and we grew close."

"And you grew close with Pops too. It's never bothered you that he's the boss of the Shie Hassaikai?" Chisaki isn't one to snoop but he must admit he can't help but read what's caught his interest. 'The Adventures of Iris: A Journey to Another World.'

"When I met him, he was a kind old man who helped me when I needed it. I didn't find out until months later that he's the boss of a Yakuza."

He backs away from her desk when her voice gets louder so he doesn't get caught. "How did you find out?"

"He and Ms. Yamamoto weren't exactly quiet when he would come over to discuss with her about what to do with me." More like she read it in his soul, and she did her research before confronting him about it. "He very well couldn't take me back to the compound. She didn't mind keeping me around. She was lonely and wanted the company." She walks into the living room and Chisaki is leaning against her desk, arms crossed, eyes roaming her body. She's in a baby blue sundress that accentuates her chest and hips as well as shows off her long legs.

Lucy fidgets a little, "Do you like it?"

"You're beautiful." He clears his throat, "It's beautiful but why are you dressed up? Do you have plans tonight?" If she does, well then, they're canceled. Chrono wasn't wrong in saying that he needs to cement their relationship so there's no confusion that she's his, with her consent of course.

"No, it's just you're always wearing a suit and it makes me feel underdressed when I'm with you dressed casually. Not that I'm complaining, you're very handsome in a suit…" Lucy trails off when he takes off his coat, drapes it over the chair, and then loosens his tie. "What are you doing?"

'Be confident, live in the moment.' "Making you feel less underdressed." He untucks his dress shirt, undoes the buttons at the top, and rolls up the sleeves.

"You don't have to do that." Oh, dear Mavis. Lucy must hold herself back from fanning her face with her hand. He hasn't even done that much but going from his neat and clean appearance to well this… When he untucked his shirt, she caught a quick glimpse of his abs and happy trail. She notices he's not wearing anything underneath and is disappointed when he only unbuttons three buttons. It's getting her hot and bothered which she doesn't know why. She's seen men in less, hell she's seen Gray nude countless times. She then wonders how many people have seen Chisaki in this relaxed state.

"Well, you told me to make myself at home." Chisaki sits down in her chair, arms on the armrests, legs slightly spread. He's thoroughly enjoying the reaction he's getting out of her, especially her attempts to stop herself from rubbing her thighs together.

Lucy looks around at everything but him. "So, you said there was something you wanted to talk about?"

"Yes, come over here Lucy," Chisaki commands her.

Lucy would normally protest being ordered to do something but with the way his order came out husky and sensual, she complies until she's in front of him. She looks down at his smug face and wonders what's gotten into him. She's tempted to listen in on his soul but where would the fun be if she did that?

Chisaki leans forward, grabs her hips, and pulls her forward so she's standing between his legs, "I almost forgot because someone decided to distract me." He leans back so he can see her face over her breasts. "I wanted to talk about our relationship. I've been referring to you as mine without talking to you. You haven't corrected me so that either means you're okay with it or scared to tell me you don't want to be together." He wants to pull her onto his lap but also, doesn't want to scare her off.

"I haven't said anything because I do want to be an official couple, but it would have been nice to be asked."

"Well Lucy would you like to be mine and I yours?"

"Yeah, I would."

"Are you absolutely sure? Going by your reaction to me you look like you're ready to jump my bones." He chuckles at her indignant squawk then gets serious. "Obviously, I haven't been intimate with anyone so I don't know how long it will take for me to be comfortable with the intimate side of things."

Lucy holds his forearms, gently rubbing her thumbs along his uncovered skin, and gives him a soft smile, "I'm sure. We can take this at your pace. You're not the only one who hasn't been intimate with anyone."

He shivers at the foreign feeling he gets from her touch. "Really?" Huh, maybe Chrono's theory was correct.

Shaking her head Lucy says, "No. I have been on dates, but it never went past holding hands." She steps back when he stands and doesn't get far. He pulls her into a hug.

"Can I ask, why me?"

Lucy wiggles her arms free and wraps them around him, "Why not you? You're loyal and protective of those you care about. You may not realize it but you're even protective of the ones who need protection. Mika for example. You acted of your own accord and broke her free. You're intelligent, brave, and honest. You don't hide who you are. What you see is what you get. The general consensus is that you're an asshole but from what I see, you're only an asshole for a reason. I also want to safely assume that only I get to see this side, the handsome sweetheart holding me."

"Damn right." He holds her even tighter. They stay that way in silence, Chisaki holding her, his face buried in the crook of her neck. He's enjoying the feeling of her running her fingers through his shaggy hair. All good things must come to an end. "I should probably get going."

"Okay."

"July 24th and 25th is the Tenjin Matsuri Festival. Want to go?"

She's disappointed as she watches Chisaki make himself presentable before he leaves. "If I remember correctly, it's one of the top three festivals in Japan. You get a glimpse into many eras of Japanese culture. Tenjin is the deification of Sugawara no Michizane (845-903), the famous scholar, poet, and politician of the Heian period. Ten means sky or heaven and jin means God or deity. The original meaning of Tenjin, sky deity, is almost the same as that of Raijin, a god of thunder." Imagine her surprise at that last bit because Freed, Bickslow, and Evergreen called themselves the Raijinshuu, The Thunder God Tribe. They dubbed themselves the bodyguards for my brother who received the nickname The Thunder God.

Lucy continues on, recalling what she's read, "It's a sensational summer festival in Osaka full of rituals, dance, and music and features a procession of portable shrines. On the 25th there is a firework display that lasts an hour and a half."

"That's about right. There's more to it. Have you ever been?"

"The Tanaka's always close down so everyone can go, I never did so this will be a first for me. Is there a dress code?"

"I've never attended either. A yukata is commonly worn to the event." He's ready to go but, "You never did answer my question."

Lucy smiles at him, "I'd love to go."

"Great. Oh, I almost forgot I have something for you."

He pulls out a long box and Lucy has a suspicion about what it could be. He opens it up to reveal a silver chain necklace. The pendant on it is the Shie Hassaikai symbol. However, instead of being outlined in white and filled with black, it's silver and the outer layer is filled with blue. The inner layer is yellow outlined in silver making the pendant look like a flower. The center is the kanji for Shie Hassaikai.

Chisaki takes it out of the box and steps behind Lucy so he can put it on. "Happy Birthday Lucy."

Lucy holds her hair to the side and a shiver runs up her spine when his fingers brush along her skin.

He opens the door and gives her one last kiss on the cheek. "If I recall correctly, it starts at three, so I'll pick you up at two."

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Lucy paces in her living room while waiting for Fukuzawa to come over. She goes over in her mind one last time if this is a good idea.

She's always been a dear friend to Lucy. Ever since they met, they've gotten along well, just like when she met Levy. This is why Lucy has gone over numerous times in her head whether to tell Fukuzawa her secret.

There's a knock at the door. Lucy squares her shoulders and goes over to welcome her guest. Opening the door Fukuzawa is there with a smile on her face.

"Thank you for inviting me to your home," she says as she holds out a hostess gift. It's a box of pastries from her favorite bakery, Think.

Lucy takes the box from her and closes the door. After her guest has her shoes off, they head to Lucy's living area and sit on their knees at the tea table that already has tea set out on it.

"How have you been Fukuzawa?"

"I've been doing well. I've been helping Mika get acclimated to her new living quarters. For a woman who has gone through such horrors she is admirably resilient."

Lucy smiles, "That's good to hear. I'm due for a visit sometime."

Fukuzawa takes a sip of her tea and sets the cup down gently. "While I always enjoy spending time with you, I have a feeling there's more to this than just hanging out and catching up. What's troubling you?"

Lucy looks down into her cup and fidgets, "Well, I… um, haven't been completely honest with you about my history."

Fukuzawa hums, "I've always had a sneaking suspicion there was something you weren't telling me."

"I'm sorry, it's not that- "

"It's okay Lucy. We all have something difficult to open up about."

"This is more than difficult, this is scary and I just…" Lucy takes a deep breath, "My name is Lucy Heartfilia, however, I'm not from the small-town Magnolia in America. I'm from the small-town Magnolia in the country of Fiore on the continent of Ishgar on planet Earthland."

Fukuzawa freezes mid-bite into her little cake and stares at Lucy wide-eyed.

"I understand if you think I'm crazy. Ms. Yamamoto can confirm it though."

Fukuzawa puts her pastry down. "Ms. Yamamoto knows?"

"Yes, she and Jiji were the first and only ones that know."

"Is everything you've told me a lie?"

Lucy waves her hands in front of her, "No! There's some truth to my story like my mom dying from sickness when I was ten. My dad setting up an arranged marriage and I running away from it, but it wasn't my adoptive Grandfather and brother who found me. They did adopt me as their own but that wasn't until way later after I met my best friend, Natsu, who saved me from sex traffickers and took me to the guild called Fairy Tail."

"A guild?"

"Yeah, a magic guild to be exact. See, where I come from there aren't quirks, there's magic." Lucy sighs, "Two years ago I didn't get back from a job and find my family gone without a trace. What happened is that when I got back from my job, I went to the guildhall and found that my friends weren't themselves. They were put on a spell to turn against me, and it would stay in effect until the caster deemed it time to erase them." Tears well up in her eyes, "They all yelled and screamed at me that I was worthless and didn't belong there. That I was weak and not worthy to be a member. I know it wasn't them saying those words, but it still hurt. Turns out, it was my grandfather's son, my brother's father that was the culprit along with another man, but I wasn't able to get a good look at his face. He wanted to hurt Fairy Tail and we didn't even get a chance to fight before he took me away and brought me here."

Lucy cries as her friend remains silent. She wants to listen in on her soul, but she can't invade her privacy like that. After what feels like hours, her friend finally talks.

"I knew you were hiding something, but nothing like this." Fukuzawa chuckles nervously. What does she say to this? She just found out that her friend is from another world that has magic. It seems impossible but yet, she finds herself thinking that it could be quite possible. What reason does Lucy have to lie anyway? And why didn't she tell her? Did she not trust her? No one knows what quirks everyone has on this planet so it could be safe to assume there's someone who can travel between worlds. Then it hits her, if the wrong person finds out about her situation and what she can do, who knows what would happen to her.

Fukuzawa gets a good look at her crying friend. It had to have been so hard for her. Being torn away from her family, the last thing she heard was cruel words spewed at her even though it wasn't them but a spell. Arriving in a new world clueless about everything, not knowing anyone. She'll ask another day how she met The Boss and Ms. Yamamoto. Something else sticks out from her story. She was saved from sex traffickers. She has spent her time in this new world saving others from the same fate and other kinds of horrors.

She bows her head to Lucy, "Thank you for trusting me with your secret."

"You're not mad I kept it from you?"

"No, that's the kind of secret you don't want the wrong person finding out about and I promise I won't tell anyone."

"Thank Fukuzawa, that means a lot to me." There's a knock on the door. "Excuse me."

There's a delivery man on the other side. "I have a package for a Miss Heartfilia."

"I'm her." She accepts the package, thanks the man, and goes back to where her friend is waiting for her.

Fukuzawa watches Lucy put it to the side and her curiosity gets the better of her, "Well? Don't wait to open it just because I'm here."

Lucy smiles. When she opens it, she pulls out a beautiful yukata.

"Oh wow, who's that from?"

"Chisaki. We're going to the Tenjin Matsuri festival together. He didn't have to do this though; I could have picked something out."

"Girl quit complaining." Fukuzawa takes it from Lucy. "Who knew someone from a yakuza could have such good taste."

"It is beautiful." It's a light material, the right sleeve is white, and the rest is dark blue. Blue, silver, and gold flowers decorate it. The obi belt is white, and a blue ribbon will rest on her backside. There's even seta, Japanese sandals with straps, and hair ornaments inside the box.

"So, tell me more about Chisaki."

"Well…" They spend the rest of the evening talking about Chisaki, the yakuza, and other subjects before Fukuzawa has to leave. Once she's gone Lucy lets out a sigh. That went a lot better than she thought.

Thursday, July 25, 2024

The first day started at seven forty-five in the morning and it was a busy day by the time they arrived because Chisaki got the time wrong. He was embarrassed by that, recalling the second day started at three thirty. They spent the first day of the festival at a distance up on the rooftops. They followed the procession by him using his quirk to make bridges from the roofs of buildings, connecting them. He kept apologizing that they couldn't get closer due to the huge crowd and Lucy assured him numerous times that it was okay.

She still had a wonderful time and enjoyed every second especially the Lion dance and umbrella dance of "Tenjin Ko Lion" and a parade of "Hoko Ko Mikoshi". It was majestic, colorful, and full of energy.

For someone who's worn little next to nothing, it's odd for her to be wearing very little underneath her yukata. Though she managed to cover her cleavage, her big breasts were still prominent due to the obi belt pushing them up, making them more noticeable. She'll never forget his reaction to the first time he saw her in it. He looked her up and down with a gulp, and she could see his Adam's apple move from the action. Maybe it was her being out of her casual clothing and being dressed up in a yukata because he's seen a lot of her chest due to her choice of clothing.

When Chisaki picks her up she is still amazed by the sight of him in a yukata instead of a suit. It's a simple navy blue with a darker obi belt yukata but he looks really good in it. She'll admit it's weird seeing him in the traditional footwear, geta (wooden sandals) with socks. She assumes the socks are to protect his feet from dirt. He doesn't look as uncomfortable as he did the day before. She wonders how often he goes without wearing a suit. There's been times he's gone without the coat and damn he needs to do that more.

"You ready to go?"

"Yup." Lucy grabs her bag and follows him out the door and locks it up. They hold hands as they make their way down and waiting for them below is Kurono and Jiji, who has a camera in his hand snapping a photo.

"Old man…"

"What?"

Chisaki sighs, "Never mind. Let's get going."

Lucy smiles at the other two, "You're joining us?"

"I hope that isn't a problem."

"Not at all. Chisaki, you seem to be doing better than yesterday."

"That's because he's wearing shorts underneath this time," Jiji says.

"This time? What were you wearing underneath it yesterday?"

Kurono chuckles, "His suit."

"No wonder you looked like you were going to pass out." It hits her that he's practically naked underneath his yukata.

Chisaki notices and asks, "Are you okay? Your face is all red."

"Yup! I'm fine. Don't worry about me." Lucy chuckles nervously.

"Okay… Whatever you say."

Lucy looks around and realizes this is a different route from the one that she and Chisaki took yesterday. "Where are we going?"

Jiji replies, "We're going to the shrine first, and then to avoid having to walk through the streets we'll walk to the nearest Metro and be dropped off at the Yodoyabashi Station and then walk to the area where the land procession ends before they get on the boats and begin the water procession. We'll follow along until it reaches its destination where the Dedication fireworks will be set off near a park. There will be stalls at the park serving food which I'm sure we'll all appreciate."

Lucy glances at Chisaki and he's making a face that says he is not fond of this plan.

He isn't, but he wants Lucy to be able to experience the festival up close. As much as it pains him to say, he needs Pops and Chrono there to help him keep his composure within the large crowd. They'll be far enough away from them so as not to lose the feeling of it being a date but close enough in case they're needed.

When The Boss (Jiji, Pops) found out about their plans, he had to call to make sure it was okay for them to be on another Yakuza's turf. Chisaki should have mentioned wanting to take Lucy before he asked her. He promised that Chisaki wouldn't start anything. He trusted Lucy to help him keep that promise. He wanted to go too but was busy. It had been a while since he and the other members did anything fun, so he made sure to clear his schedule for the second day of the festival. He drilled it into all their heads to be on their best behavior or else. See, The Boss has calmed down as he got older. He's not as strict as he used to be, but he wouldn't give punishment a second thought should anyone step out of line. Yes, he wants to take the Shie Hassaikai in a different direction, but he still must maintain order.

Kurono can't even remember the last time they had all gotten out of the compound that didn't revolve around the yakuza's responsibilities. He'll admit it's a nice change of pace, to get out and do something fun. As he watches the parade, he also watches Chisaki watch Lucy as she marvels over everything. A couple of times he's noticed his friend get uncomfortable and as if she can sense it, she gives his hand a reassuring squeeze each time. He hopes that one day he can find someone to fill the void in his life. His mind drifts to Fukuzawa.

Chisaki doesn't miss the glances men in the vicinity give Lucy whether it be due to her beauty or that she's a foreigner. Possibly both. He moves so he can hold Lucy from behind. A finger slips underneath her yukata at the collar and runs along her skin, not missing the involuntary shiver from him touching her skin until it finds the chain to her necklace. He hooks his finger around it and gently pulls it out to rest on her yukata instead of hiding underneath. He wants everyone to see just who she belongs to. Pleased when their eyes turn away, he wraps her arms around her resting his hands on her stomach and his chin on top of her head. He smiles when she rests her hands on top of his. He wonders if she knows that PDA such as this is inappropriate. If she did, she would have pulled away by now. Does Chisaki care about being inconsiderate to those around him? Hell no, because he has a message to get across.

Lucy knows this kind of public affection is frowned upon, but she can't bring herself to move from their position. It is crowded enough to play it off as making room for others. When the water procession begins, she steps out of his hold, grabs his hand, and walks along the river following the boats. They get to the park and once the scent of food hits Lucy's nose her stomach lets out a loud grumble.

Chisaki lets out a laugh, "Hungry?"

Lucy blushes and mumbles, "Shut up." They walk around the stalls until Lucy finds something that she would like to eat. She decides on tamago senbei. She tries to offer some to Chisaki, but he turns it down. Figuring this would be the case, she pulls out a small container of fruit that's been in her bag that doubles as a cooler. She hands it to him and can see the grateful look when he accepts it. He pulls down his mask and begins to eat the fruit she cut up.

Edgeshot, who is on patrol during the festival, accidentally bumps into them. "I am so very sorry."

Lucy's grip on Chisaki's hand tightens, "It's quite all right sir." He continues on his way and Lucy is surprised to hear another one of her friends' voices. This time it's Freed.

They found a good spot in the park to watch 3,000 fireworks.

"I enjoyed today very much. I've never had the time to experience what Japan has to offer."

"Funny enough, neither have I and I lived here my whole life."

They sit in comfortable silence watching the fireworks.

When it's time to leave they say good night to Pops/Jiji and Chrono/Kurono and Chisaki takes Lucy home. It's a silent but comfortable trip back.

Lucy unlocks her door and turns to face him, "I had a lot of fun."

"I did too." Even though there were many times he felt uncomfortable due to all the people around him, he enjoyed himself. He tucks a strand behind her ear and cups her face as he gazes into her eyes. She gulps when he removes his mask and looks down at her plump lips and back to her eyes.

She leans up. They both slowly meet each other in the middle and Chisaki pauses. He breathes shakily, closes his eyes, and gently presses his lips against Lucy's.

When they slowly pull away from each other, Chisaki slowly opens his eyes as Lucy's flutters open and the desire in her eyes encourages him to swoop in to kiss her again, but this time he presses his lips harder against hers.

She slides her hands up his chest and then winds her arms around his neck, taking the kiss deeper.

He steps forward making her go backward, her back colliding with the door, his hand moving to cradle her neck. Her lips are so soft and plump and taste like strawberries.

She rakes her fingers through his hair and tilts her head to the other side changing the angle.

Chisaki breaks off the kiss, pulls back, and is breathing heavily, "You need to get in your apartment, Lucy."

"Yeah, I probably should" Lucy pants. She was not expecting that at all. "Thanks again for today." She reaches behind her and opens the door. Through her heavy breathing, she manages to get out, "Good night Chisaki."

"Good night, Lucy." He gives her a light peck on the lips. "And call me Kai when we're alone."

"Okay, Kai."

Kai loves the way his name comes from her lips. He remains where he's standing as Lucy enters her home and rests his forehead on her door when it's closed. This woman… He thought it was going to be hard to be intimate with her when it's the exact opposite. It's going to be hard to stop before they do something they're both not ready for.

Okay, so I get that it's more than likely too soon for them to kiss considering Kai's Mysophobia. Please take into consideration that Lucy is supposed to be different than other women. Everything is thrown out the window when it comes to her.

I'm not sure how many people are familiar with the TV Show Monk, but Adrian Monk also has OCD and mysophobia. He was able to have a healthy marriage until something tragic happened. His OCD and mysophobia became way more extreme afterward. He has a couple of friends, but they aren't able to physically get close.

The center of the Shie Hassaikai symbol is the kanji for the name, right? Please correct me if I'm wrong about this.

I learned so much writing this chapter. I got Information on Tenjin Matsuri festival from numerous sights. Wikipedia, , TripAdvisor and tenjin-matsuri dot com. I even went as far as watching clips of the festival on YouTube.

Think is a real bakery in Japan.