#i have to reread this tomorrow and make sure there aren't mistakes

[naomihatake]

In search of freedom (Ch. 1)

1. They're bad news

Chapter 1 ; Chapter 2

⠀⠀⠀⠀She's been searching for freedom her entire life and everytime she thought it was laying right in front of her eyes, she was mistaken. She was running around the East Blue, seeking herself and her dreams, meeting people she never forgot. No matter how much she traveled, she could only catch a glimpse of peace before realizing everything would crumble at her feet.

⠀⠀⠀⠀Maybe it was destiny that brought her on that ship with three strangers — foolishly, that's what she tried to believe when the moon shined beautifully and hope settled in her chest, squeezed by the same ribcage where feelings were blooming.

Pairing: female!reader x OPLA Zoro Roronoa. This chapter follows the events of the first episode.

Warnings for this chapter: physical violence (fights), mentions of deaths, fluff, some cursing, mentions of tarot and palm readings

Word count: 3,6k

Theme song: “Loreley” by Blackmore's Night (click on the link)

A/N: This is the first part of a fanfiction I was thinking of since first watching One Piece Live Action. I started the anime too and I'm around episode 64 already. I'm using the OPLA course of action for now and I have no idea for an ending, but enough scenarios to write and share. I don't know how far this will go, but I'll have fun writing it and considering how much I like Zoro (born anime and LA), I'm using both of them as inspiration. Sorry for the lack of interaction between reader and Zoro, but I promise things will change.

The reader will be referred to as "Witch" especially in the next chapter, because I have no intentions of using "Y/N". There will be more information revealed about her past and abilities in the next chapter.

I'm open for comments and opinions <3

"Excuse me," she smiled sweetly while swaying away from someone who was standing right in front of her and a table she had to serve for. "Here," she carefully let the plates down.

She received a large smile coming from the young man with dark curls and a straw hat hanging around his neck. His pink haired companion seemed very shy, barely glancing at her before looking back at his plate, thanking in a small voice.

The tavern buzzed with a peaceful energy in the late hours of morning, the big windows letting the warm rays of sun in, lighting up the place. There were men sitting at a few tables, no sign of any other woman except for her and the very owner of that place, who just finished cooking something — were those cookies? It smelled divine.

Her dress fluttered around her knees as she moved away from their table to take other orders, a strand of her hair falling against her cheek after running around for so long. When she finally stopped in her tracks by the bar, intense eyes searched for anyone else who might've needed something. Lucky for her, she could finally breathe for a few seconds, resting her hips against the bar.

However, her eyes fell on the tall figure who just chugged down his throat a shot of alcohol. His green hair made her frown to herself, looking away before she could get caught ogling some stranger. After a few seconds, she looked at him again, this time at the three swords resting against his hip.

Three swords? What can someone do with three swords?

Everyone probably had the same question whenever they saw him for the first time. However, he felt somehow familiar, as if she's heard of someone like that before. A pirate? No, wait, a pirate hunter? The owner told her of so many things and so many people it was impossible to remember each one of them, but she was pretty sure she mentioned some pirate hunter only a few days ago.

Her thought process was interrupted when a man with blonde hair and suit walked by in front of her. Considering the men dressed in white uniforms who entered with him, they must be marines and he was probably their superior — he was walking like he owned the entire port.

She held back from rolling her eyes in annoyance. Her thoughts ran back to what her friend said about pirates last time, the way they argued back and forth about how pirates aren't good. However, she had her own reasons for claiming that not all pirates were ruthless monsters, without elaborating.

She flinched lightly when she heard the thud of a metal plate falling on the floor, snapping her head towards a little girl who was stuttering apologies to the blonde man. Her eyebrows were pulled together at his angry and loud voice mocking the child who had tears in her eyes, fear seeping through her very bones at the exaggerated reaction.

Apparently, they knocked into each other. Oh, there were two cookies on the floor. One of them got crushed under the man's foot.

She smoothly made her way by the side of the little girl, smiling at her as she crouched down to her level.

"Is everything alright, little one? Did you apologize?" the woman's hand squeezed the girl's shoulder warmly.

Rika's only response was a nod.

"Good job. It's alright, I'll help you clean up. Why don't you bring me a broom, hm?" she coaxed the girl with a gentle voice.

Once the girl walked away, she stood up straight again, arching her eyebrow questionably at the arrogant man by her side.

"Is there anything else I could help you with?"

"What, are you working here? If the answer's positive, then you better teach those stupid kids some manners," he huffed.

"You should teach yourself how to behave," she commented right back, her sharp gaze sizing him up and down.

"Take that back. Next time I won't be so nice," the blonde marine grinned.

Oh, and what an ugly grin it was on that fucker's face.

"You dropped my food," a low voice from behind interrupted.

The young woman turned her head towards the voice, confusion written on her face as she made a few steps back, out of his way. It was the green haired man she noticed earlier, now sitting on one of his knees on the cold floor.

Rika came back with a broom almost twice her size, the object quickly taken from her hold by the woman who smiled at her again. While they exchanged glances, the pirate hunter let himself down on one of his knees, taking some of the crushed cookie into his palm.

A sly smile tugged at the woman's lips. A pirate hunter or not, he had more dignity than a marine even in that kneeling position. She was more satisfied to see the little one smiling.

"Your turn," the green-haired man lowered his voice, a dark glare thrown at the astonished marine.

The pirate hunter raised back up and placed the metal plate on the bat, his intimidating height against the arrogant blonde monkey in front of him telling enough.

"Apologize to the girl," he demanded in a relaxed tone.

"Me? It was her fault for bumping into me. The lady should apologize for disrespecting me."

Apologize, my ass, she thought to herself, one step away from bursting out laughing. What did he take her for?

"Do you want a fight or what?" he drew his sword out, a knowing grin curled on his face. "I don't need three swords to fight."

The woman looked down at the little girl who was still by her side, ruffling her hair.

"Why don't you go to your mother, hm? And stay there until I call you back."

Her stern voice didn't give space for arguing; Rika complied, going to the kitchen.

She heard some muttering and next thing she knew, both of the men in front of her had drawn their swords out. Apparently, the green-haired one decided to advance closer to the marine, in an attempt to keep the fight away from the lady.

Hmph. Swordsmen and their unusual gentlemanly behavior.

Squeezing the broom in between her fingers, she moved away, furrowing her eyebrows in a scowl.

"No fights in here, you jerks!" she scoffed.

Expertly, while the other marines attacked one man — how unethical of them — and swords clashed against each other after sharp whistling noises, the woman swept away the cookies on the floor. She faked doing her own duties, like the good employee that she was, throwing careful glances at the fight happening right next to her. If she wasn't careful enough, she could get sliced in two.

"I advise you to get out of the way," she heard the swordsman's voice growling right after he threw a chair into three men, making them fall to the floor.

"You'll destroy the entire place if I do."

Right after saying those words, without anyone noticing in that damned agitation, with a quick movement of the broom, she made one of the marines trip.

Just like the idiots that they were.

"Oh my god, you should be more careful!" she placed a hand over her lips, fake surprise and fear coloring her features.

Who would believe such an innocent being was capable of such malicious actions?

With a strong creak followed by a thud, one marine was thrown into a table that turned the both of them upside down, groans filled with pain vibrating through the tavern.

She was right about them destroying the place.

However, the commotion didn't cause too much distress to the woman still moving the broom around, acting as if she had business with that newly found weapon. It might not be lethal, but she couldn't be spotted while she was intentionally making the marines' jobs harder. In the month she's been working there, she saw more than just one fight and used everything that she saw fit to stop it — be it a broom or a kitchen knife.

Now that she analyzed the fight better, it seemed like the pirate hunter barely even had to draw his sword out of its scabbard, at some point knocking someone's head into the bar. He used his raw strength and the objects surrounding him, thankfully without destroying any of them. The can he threw into another man's stomach seemed so effortless.

That must've hurt, though.

The blonde marine was quickly pulled by the back of his collar, back colliding with the bar, and an angry swordsman towering over him. She didn't hear anything nor paid attention anymore, eyes focused on the tavern that was ruined only half way through.

She sighed after watching both of the men walking out of there, biting her lower lip to hold back a fit of laughter at the marine who stumbled while being dragged by the bounty hunter.

"Why do men always fight in this tavern?" she talked to herself, raising one of the chairs and putting it back in place. "One day of peace is all I want in this port, only one day, and I can't get even that."

She sighed again, only for that long exhale to get stuck in her throat once her eyes fell on the table that was almost sitting in the opposite way rather than how it should be. Once she approached it, stepping by the marine who was trying to get up.

She would never help someone who had less dignity than a dog following some orders from a brainless monkey. Heck, even those animals were smarter.

Instead, she tried to move the table back in its place. Her fingers were so close to gripping at one side of the table before someone appeared at the opposite side. The young man with a straw hat and a square smile she served only a few minutes ago raised the table by himself, carefully arranging it until he was satisfied with its position.

"Thank you so much for the help," she smiled at him. "Be careful where you step, I think a glass also broke."

There were some shreds on the floor somewhere close to the table the young man sat at earlier.

"Thank you for your concern," he smiled just like the first time.

Gosh, has she ever seen such a beautiful soul? His eyes sparkled and the happiness suited him like it did to a little child who has no clue of the harsh world. However, he didn't seem phased or scared by what happened earlier — his hands weren't shaking at all and there was no fear lingering in his stare.

She turned to take the broom and came closer to his companion, who was sitting under the table. She bent her torso to give him a hand, helping him get back to his feet.

"Careful with the glass, check your hands," she warned again.

"I saw what you did there."

She turned towards the straw hat guy, blinking owlishly at him.

"I don't really get what you mean."

She started sweeping the shred of broken glass, not paying attention to the curious and insistent gaze she was receiving.

"You surely do. I'm Monkey D. Luffy and I'm gonna be King of the Pirates!"

Her eyes widened at the second part of his speech, snapping her head back at him. Without even realizing, her fingers were squeezing the broom quite harshly, fingertips going white.

"That's—" she started in a small voice, blinking like an idiot and staring at him.

She's heard that before. She's heard the same dream before and it brought so much suffering.

"That's dangerous," she finally got the courage to continue, still hesitant.

"You're brave for interfering with their fight."

Luffy looked into her eyes as if he could guess the thoughts running through her head, as if he could read her very soul, drinking in her features and reaction.

"You must've seen wrong," she let out a light chuckle, getting a grip on herself. "I'm just clumsy sometimes."

She was thankful she stopped herself from cussing out the Marines, because in less than a second after she finished her sentence, a few other men dressed in white uniforms appeared to help their comrades back to the base. She casted a skeptical eye at each one of them, like silent warnings.

They were pathetic, some of them still stumbling while trying to get up, their swords thrown around carelessly. After they all disappeared from her sight, her shoulders obviously relaxed again.

"I have to admit I hated each second of staying so much with these idiots around," she huffed quietly. "That spoiled child who takes advantage of his father's status was getting on my nerves."

"That's why you helped that swordsman, right?"

Luffy continued with his supposition, not letting go of what he thought he saw — it was the truth, but it would be dangerous to admit.

"I didn't help anyone, really. That was unintentional."

"Don't press it too much, Luffy," his companion's voice trembled.

"Koby, I know what I saw," Luffy pulled his lips into a straight line.

She resumed what she was doing, sweeping at the pieces of glass, seeing almost each one of them in the light seeping through the window.

"If you want to become King of the Pirates, I suppose you also want to get the One Piece, right?"

She was foolish. She was stupid for asking, for getting herself in such business that somehow always ended with too many deaths, with broken dreams. However, something was nagging in her gut. Deep down, it felt so right to ask.

"Yes! I need the Grand Line map for that and I intend on getting from the Marine Base here."

"You're insane, kid," her shoulders shook with her light laughter.

It was a sour sound.

She stopped, leaning her weight into the broom, looking down at the glass in front of her. She shouldn't help them. She should stay in her place if she wanted those young men to survive. What they were trying to do was basically suicide, they just didn't know. Koby seemed to be more fearful, hesitant and so, so shy. Luffy didn't say "us"; he said "I" — the pink-haired guy was not really part of the plan.

Against better judgment, she raised her head at him, promises sparkling in her eyes just like the shreds of glass.

"You can't just ask for that map and I hope you know that. What you want to get yourself into isn't just dangerous, it's like jumping into a suicide mission," her voice strained, pouring all of her hope in her next words: "However, I can help you get inside. Be careful, you have to make sure no one catches you."

"So I was right about you!" Luffy beamed.

"Right about what?"

"That you're brave."

Her lips opened, but no sound came from between them. It was pointless to deny it when he seemed so stubborn about what he saw and believed.

"I think this is a lot to say about someone who's helping you steal secret maps," the side of her mouth curled upwards.

Koby was left astonished. Stealing from the Marines was suicide.

"Listen here, kid," she lowered her voice, stepping closer to whisper. She set her gaze on Luffy's. "You have to get out of there alive, no matter what. Lie if you have to, but I have a feeling you're very bad at that, so be careful. That isn't a place to fool around in. You could get yourself killed in a blink. The Marines are very sneaky."

"There are good Marines and bad Marines," he shrugged. "Maybe I'll meet someone who's willing to help."

"I like your enthusiasm, but that unit base doesn't fit," she shook her head. "Both Captain Morgan and his son aren't the good kind of people."

She squeezed the broom in between her fingers again, an ugly feeling clawing at her throat. She didn't want a kid to die for following his dreams, but freedom was something she always craved.

"I'll tell you a way to get inside the base from underneath. You have to keep your lips sealed — I don't worry about myself, but about the owner and her daughter. I don't want word spreading around."

"You can count on me!" he placed his hand on his heart, as if he sealed the promise there. "Who are you? I want to know who's helping me."

Damned be his sincerity.

"I'll give you my name after you get out of there alive."

She smiled, eyes sparkling with delicious mischief.

"That is a promise. I'll be around the Marine Base and I'll tell you my name after I see you get out of there alive."

That seemed to stir something in Luffy's soul, inhaling with pride. A man of his word, indeed, just like she thought.

"Deal.

•┈┈┈•┈┈┈•┈┈┈

Her name left the lips of a scolding mother, even if it wasn't her mom.

"I saw you." The second time she heard tthat same phrase in one day.

Annie patted the tip of her shoe against the floor repeatedly.

"I was just lucky enough not to get myself in trouble," she shrugged.

However, her eyes fell on the floor, guilty about getting caught like a deer in the light.

"You could've gotten yourself in big trouble!" the owner of the tavern raised her voice.

Rika pouted up at her mother, trying to sweeten her reaction.

"She just wanted to help, just like—"

"Rika," this time, the scolded one firmly spoke her name. "Don't take me as an idol. It's true that something could have happened."

The little girl shouldn't worry about such a bloody world just yet and she wanted to help it for as long as possible. Being stubborn was a death sentence, even if she would always get herself into trouble if it meant to stick to her principles.

She'd rather die on her feet than live on her knees.

"Just because this time everything was fine, it doesn't mean next time will be the same," Annie exhaled loudly, frowning.

"There won't be a next time," the young woman sank her chin in her chest. "I should leave these days. Soon enough, word will spread out about my tarot and palm readings. I don't want to cause you any more trouble."

"You little witch," the usual scolding was replaced with a warm nickname.

She raised her head again, struggling to smile. Leaving after she got attached always hurt.

"That man was Roronoa Zoro, wasn't it?" Annie asked, her body suddenly tensing.

"Most probably," she shrugged. "Three swords, three earrings. He put on quite a show, to be honest," the words were followed by a chuckle.

"I see the way your eyes are sparkling. Don't even think about getting into some conversation with such a troublesome person."

"What could do some adventure to a poor soul like me?" she teased.

"It could bring you six feet under."

•┈┈┈•┈┈┈•┈┈┈

"I'm no witch, you idiots!" she struggled against the harsh grip the two men had on her arms.

She hissed when one of them sank his fingertips in her upper arms, glaring at him.

Shithead marines.

She continued writhing and struggling, stomping her feet into the ground in an awful attempt to stop them. She intended on keeping her promise after she helped the straw hat sneak into their base. She waited for as long as it was necessary after she gathered her things in a bag that hung around her shoulders. She was supposed to leave that place after she made sure the kid was alright and alive.

"God dammit!" she shouted. "How many times do I have to explain I'm not doing anything wrong?!"

"You're lying to people and receiving money, filthy witch. You're a thief," one of the men commented as they continued walking her away from the port.

"I didn't steal shit!" she snapped.

"Watch out!" she heard a familiar voice.

Instantly, she bent her torso down. The man on her right was punched in the face with so much force he released her grip on her and stumbled into the marine on her left, both of them now on the ground.

She didn't even get enough time to process what was happening, something curling around her waist carefully, but so fast. A yelp left her lips when she realized she was being lifted off the ground, turning her head towards the source.

It was the straw hat's arm. He ate a devil fruit, didn't he?

He was on a boat that was sailing a few meters away in the sea and she was being pulled towards him. She also recognized the pirate hunter from earlier and a woman with orange hair, both of them far too relaxed for what was happening.

That guy was made of rubber!

She recognized Koby who just got to his feet after she got past him, her feet finally touching something solid again. She blinked confused at the straw hat.

"You can't bring everyone that you like on this ship," the swordsman let out a hopeless sigh.

She busted out laughing like a maniac, the colorful and rich sound filling the air. Her shoulders shook and she had to place her hand over her stomach, tears gathering in the corners of her eyes. Obviously, her reaction was met with an especially questionable look coming from the swordsman, who most probably thought he got on a ship with another insane human.

"You're insane, kid," she wiped the tears in her eyes with her fingers, still smiling widely.

She hasn't felt such relief in years.

"I guess I gotta fulfill a promise, right?"

•┈┈┈•┈┈┈•┈┈┈

[selfaware-bungou-stray-dogs]

We will protect you. Part III

Self-Aware! Armed Detective Agency x GN! Reader

Description: First Day of the Charity Fair. Armed Detective Agency is on their duty.

Warning: OOC. Stalking. English is my second language.

Part II

Part IV

________

You read the list of recipes again. Your shift will start in ten minutes, so, you decide to refresh your memory.

Mii-chan was sitting on your shoulders, looking at the recipes with you. You scratch him behind the ears.

"Sorry, Soseki, I knew, that is not the most interesting thing to read. Tomorrow I will bring a book."

Natsume only purred and rubbed his head against yours.

You heard noises coming from the next room. Merlyn were arguing with Mr. Burke.

"With all due respect, Mr. Burke, but letting a cat be here is a poor businesses decision"

You rolled your eyes. Merlyn could talk to a wall and get better results, then trying to convince Mr. Burkle to change his mind and tell you to bring Mii-chan outside.

Because Mr. Burkle liked animals and knew, that Mii-chan will attract more customers. Yes, most of the café income will be donated, but, next month café employees will have a chance to get a big prize. All businesses, that participated in a fair will get bonuses, but, the biggest bonus will be given to a business, that earned more money than others.

So, Mii-chan's place in this café for the next eight days is safe. As long as you don't bring him to the kitchen and not to the part of counter where you put orders.

Sounds of argument disappeared, and Marlyn left the manager's office. They glared at you and Mii-chan.

"Just make sure that flea bad won't cause trouble."

Soseki hissed and you rolled your eyes.

"Hello to you too."

Merlyn Bourke grumble something and left to the other room, where they will spend the rest of the shift, doing manager's job.

Mii-chan hiss again and look at you. Then at Mr. Burkle's office door. Then, at Merlyn's 'office' door.

You whispered.

"As long as I know, they aren't related, despite their family names sounding similar. As for Merlyn... Imagine, that Kunikida tried to replace Fukuzawa and start doing twice the work as usual. And talking with others ADA members as harsh as he can, even being borderline rude to them to make them work better. That's the description of Merlyn."

Mii-chan mewed. You finished with re-reading recipes and moved to the main part of the café. Right now, the café was on a short break, so previous shift can leave peacefully, and current shift can prepare for work peacefully.

Mii-chan jumped on the counter and sit in loaf position. His collar with a little bow looked cute.

You chuckled, remembering one of the times Natsume Soseki helped you.

_________

You feel absolutely exhausted. You need to finish two more essays until next week. But you feel so burned out, you feel, that you can't write correct words. In your mind, your thoughts were beautiful and clear. In reality...

You looked at the paper sheet before you.

"Evil is not good"

Genius thought, right?

You hear the knock on your door. In a second, Natsume Soseki walked in, holding a cup of tea in his hand. He walked closer to you and gave you the cup.

"Here, [Y/N], take a little break."

You looked at Natsume with gratitude and took the cup. Tea was tasty and hot. Meanwhile, Natsume was rereading everything you wrote.

"Writer's block?"

You hum.

"Mhm. Can't write anything right. Soseki, do you have any tips?"

Natsume looked at you with the corner of his eyes.

"You are overthinking too much. When you are that stressed, you can make mistakes."

Suddenly, he perked up. He took his phone from his pocket and open the recorder app.

"You need a different way of working. Please, lay down on your bed."

You looked at Natsume with a puzzled look, but he only encourages you to lay down. You shrug and lay on your bed on your stomach.

Natsume put his phone near your head.

"Okay, start talking about what you want to write. I will guide you and show, what to write in an essay."

Before you can ask why you need to lay on your bed for that, Natsume Soseki transformed into a cat.

Calico cat jumped on your back and start kneading your back.

Natsume Soseki, the man, who created The Tripartite Framework, who was a teacher of Fukuzawa Yukichi, Mori Ougai and, perhaps, Santouka Taneda, were giving you a cat massage.

You giggle. It felt so nice.

Mii-chan meowed, asking for you to start talking.

"Okay... So, First, I need to list my opinion on the matter."

Mii-chan purred.

"Then... I will list my reasoning behind my opinion."

More purring.

"First argument, short review, the second... Ow!"

Mii-chan hissed and carefully bit your ear.

"Okay, explain first argument in a detail..."

Mii-chan licked the place he bit and purred again.

After more kneading, purring and some biting, you had a clear plan for both essays.

___________

In reality, you pet Mii-chan's head.

"Thank you, Soseki..."

Mii-chan meowed.

You glance at the clock. It was almost time for your shift.

You hoped, that others won't be hurt.

__________

Armed Detective Agency were on a lookout. Today, they will be the ones, who will stay in a café protecting you. Others will patrol the rest of the Charity Fair just in case.

They saw, that café start working again. Their mission begins.

__________

Fukuzawa Yukichi and Ranpo Edogawa were already in the café.

They occupy one of the tables. Ranpo was enjoying soda and cake, while Fukuzawa was drinking green tea.

You approach them.

"Hello, Ranpo, Hello, Yukichi!"

Ranpo grinned and waved at you. Fukuzawa smiled warmly at you and greeted you with a nod.

"Hey, my favorite assistant! Do not worry about today, the Greatest Detective in the world won't let anything happen to you." proclaimed Ranpo.

Fukuzawa sighs and looks at you.

"[Y/N], please, do not worry. Ranpo and I will stay here and protect you, meanwhile the rest of the ADA will patrol near the café and scare Stalker off."

"Understand. But... I am worried about the others..."

Ranpo laughed and boop your nose.

"Do not worry, [Y/N], they will be okay. Besides, I knew, that Stalker can't do anything against them."

"I hope, you are right. Call me, if you need anything. I will be behind the counter."

_______

Fukuzawa finished his tea.

On the outside, he looked like a calm person.

On the inside, he was furious.

His desire to protect you were akin to a dragon fire.

You are so precious. So perfect.

Fukuzawa hide his smile, recalling, what happened one summer morning.

_______

Fukuzawa was drinking tea and reading the newspaper. When, suddenly, he got a notification. Someone texted him. Fukuzawa looked at his phone's display and saw a message from you.

Must resist the urge to pet: Yukichi! Help, I’m being kidnapped!

Fukuzawa feel a chill running down his spine. What? You were supposed to be with Gen'ichirou! Did someone attack you two and defeated Fukuchi? Fukuzawa start tapping message as fast as he can.

Fukuzawa : Where are you?

Three dots appeared. The wait was torturous.

Must resist the urge to pet: I’m with some strange person. In a car. Help.

It was bad. He needs to do something.

Fukuzawa decide to call Fukuchi. Maybe, you were kidnapped, while he was distracted?

Fukuzawa dial the number. A few moments later, he heard the voice.

"Hello, Fukuzawa. Do you need anything?"

Fukuchi sounds calm. Not worried or angry. He doesn't know, you were in danger. Fukuzawa spoke.

"Where’s [Y/N]? They texted me that they were being kidnapped."

Fukuchi was silent. Then he answered.

"[Y/N]? Fukuzawa, what do you mean? They're right next to me in the car...

Then there was silence. Then Fukuchi spoke again.

"We will return home in five minutes. Please, wait for us."

Fukuchi hand up. Fukuzawa breath in and out. You were with Fukuchi? Then why did you text him about kidnapping?

Perhaps, he should wait for Fukuchi's return.

Five minutes later, Fukuzawa saw Fukuchi's car stopping outside the house. Fukuzawa decided to greet you outside.

The moment he stepped from the house, you jolted from the car and hide behind Fukuzawa.

"Yukichi, save me from this man" you point at the second person, who stepped outside the car.

Fukuchi slowly approach you two. Fukuzawa blinked and chuckled quietly.

Fukuchi didn't have his mustache anymore.

Meanwhile, Fukuchi was looking at you. He spoke to Fukuzawa.

"I decided to freshen up my looks a little. Got new haircut and barber offer me a shave. I agreed."

You grab Fukuzawa's sleeve, trying to hide your face behind it.

Fukuchi glare at you.

"THE NEW HAIRCUT AND SHAVE AREN’T THAT BAD!"

You trembled behind Fukuzawa'a back.

"WHO ARE YOU?!"

Fukuzawa start laughing. He placed his hand on top of your head and ruffle your hair.

"Okay, calm down, you two."

You close your eyes, accepting the pats.

At the end, you finally accept, that strange man really was Fukuchi.

But Fukuchi decide not to shave his mustache again, when they grew back.

___________

Kirako Haruno was one of your first clients today. She waved, when she came closer to the counter.

"Hi, [Y/N]! Hi, Mii-chan!" Kirako carefully scratch Mii-chan's chin.

Kirako knew who Mii-chan truly was. You were told, that back in their world, Natsume was taking care of Kirako, while she was in 'stasis' and had a strange form of self-awareness. And, after Kirako finally became truly self-aware, she and Natsume talked. They didn't have any bad blood between them and managed to became good friends. Natsume wasn't against posing as Mii-chan for Kirako, and Kirako assist Natsume while he was writing.

You smiled and Mii-chan meowed.

"Hi, Kirako. How can I help you?"

Kirako stopped petting Mii-chan and looked at the menu.

"Can you recommend something? Everything look fantastic, I can't decide what to get"

You thought for a moment.

"Well, everything here is tasty. But, I must say, that all milk in the café are sweet, so, keep in mind, if you want to order a dessert."

Kirako carefully read the menu again.

"I will have an apple tart and black tea, please. Will eat it here."

"Will be right up."

You stepped in the kitchen and start preparing tea. Meanwhile, Kirako sat on one of the tables in the café, not far away from Fukuzawa's table.

Soon you put a tray with a black tea, chocolate biscuits and apple tart before Kirako.

"Enjoy"

Before Kirako can ask about biscuits, you answered.

"Biscuits are from me... Thank you, Kirako..."

Kirako smiles.

On your way to the counter, you remembered one of the little moments you shared with Kirako.

_______

"They are so cute and fluffy" cooed Kirako, watching the cat video you were showing her. You nodded in agreement.

You two were having a lazy hour full of snacks and cat videos. Kirako practically forced you into it, after she noticed that you were stressing about university again.

Kirako rubbed her chin. Her eyes sparkled.

"Hey, [Y/N] let's go for a walk. The weather is nice. Let's take a breath of a fresh air."

You wanted to refuse, but, you must admit, that you still feel tired. You still need some time away from the university and study.

"Let me grab my jacket, and we will be on our way."

_______

You smile at the memory. But, you couldn't enjoy the trip down memory lane for too long. You have new customers at the counter.

_______

Kirako take a good look around the café. It wasn't the biggest café, and it doesn't have many places to hide.

Kirako wasn't the detective, but she has a good memory and was quite observant.

She remembered Fukuzawa's instructions for her.

"After Natsume's-sensei and Karl's attack on the Stalker, they won't be really active tonight. It will be a good chance to take a first look at the café. Plus, we might find, if someone from [Y/N]'s fellow students are observing them. You and Naomi will be first to go to the café. Report, if you see something suspicious."

Kirako looked around again.

And she noticed them in the window.

The same person in black that Ango saw in walls' memories and Natsume-sensei attacked.

Kirako sent a quick message.

"They are here. Third window from the entrance. Want to do something."

The answer was delivered almost immediately.

"Naomi is on her way. Be careful."

The moment Naomi walked inside the café, Kirako finished her tea, and tart and left the café.

________

[Y/N], my dear [Y/N]...

Oh, my sweet treasure...

Why are you talking to this woman?

Why are you still dirtying yourself?

Didn't you get the message...

You are mine...

AHHHHHHH! IT BURN!

_____

Kirako looked with disgust at the scratched Stalker, who still slightly reeks of rotten durians and was laying on the ground and howling with pain.

Kirako was holding an empty water bottle. Just a few moments ago, it was full of salted water. Kirako prepared this bottle before she came to

Stalker were so absorbed in their thoughts, they didn't notice Kirako walking behind them and pouring salt water at them.

At their fresh scratches.

Kirako rolled her eyes.

"There is more where it came from. Stay away from [Y/N].

Kirako turned around and left the sobbing person behind.

_______

Naomi Tanizaki greeted you with a hug.

"[Y/N], you looked so good in this uniform! During our next shopping trip, we should find similar clothes for you."

You chuckled.

"Okay, no problems. What can I get for you?"

Naomi took a quick glance at the menu.

"Big Capuchino to go. That's all"

You take her order and start making her coffee. You remembered your first coffee time together.

______

"So... What do you want to discuss, Naomi?" you tilt your head, looking at Naomi. It has been two weeks since BSD Gang appeared in your apartment, and you still feel a little bit shy around them. She turned around, holding a book in her hands.

"Flowers."

You blinked.

"Flowers?"

Naomi nodded.

"Yes! I want to learn about this world's flowers."

You chew your lip.

"What do you want to know?"

Naomi looked from side to side.

"Everything... Anything. I just want to spend time with you."

You stay silent. You remember, how you promised Naomi, back when you received the first note from her in the app, to have some tea together.

"Let's brew some coffee and tea. And... Let's talk about anything we want."

Naomi looked happier than before.

You two went to the kitchen.

_________

You finish preparations and drew some flowers on Naomi's plastic cup. You also included a bad of candies from your own stock.

When you gave it to her, she smiled.

Naomi left the café. You turned towards Mii-chan.

"Was it me, or she had spikes on her shoes?"

Mii-chan murped.

______

Naomi stayed at the café entrance, waiting for Katai to take over. Back in a café she noticed, that Stalker was on their knees, but still observing [Y/N].

Naomi tapped her feet impatiently. Where is Katai, she wants to finally get her hands on the pathetic Stalker.

Katai, without his futon, finally appeared. He looked confident.

"Surveillance are under my control. Do whatever you want with them, Naomi."

Naomi nodded and moved to the Stalker's spot.

Behind her, Katai walked in the café.

______

[Y/N].. ow ow ow

Why are you ow ow ow

Hugging... Ow

Will punish... ow

SMACK

______

Naomi looked at the beaten up Stalker. She spent three minutes kicking them with her special spiked shoes.

Naomi put her feet on Stalker's head.

"Another warning for you. Go away and never return. Leave [Y/N] alone."

After another small kick, Naomi picks up Stalker's phone and left.

______

You greet Katai with a little smile. He waved at you and looked around. There were multiple people here.

"The place is becoming more and more crowded, am I right?" asked Katai, looking at you with pity. "Isn't it too much work for one employee?"

You shrug.

"Even if it is, there is nothing I can do. I am not even an official employee, I am a free labor student... I am fine, to be honest. Charity Fair is important."

Katai rub his neck.

"Well, yes, it is... Can I have simple black coffee? Here."

Katai turn around and sat at the farthest table. He took his laptop from his bag and start typing something.

You start making his order. With the corner of your eye, you noticed, that Kirako and Naomi returned and now were sitting at the same table as Katai.

Another memory, this time with Katai, appeared before your eyes.

______

You were laying on Katai's mattress, while Katai was checking your laptop. He wanted to make sure, that you don't have any viruses or trojan in your laptop.

Thankfully, nothing bad was discovered. You yawn. A little idea came to your mind.

"Hey, Katai, want to watch a movie together?"

"What movie?" asked Katai, glancing at you.

"Matrix"

For the next two and a half hours, you and Katai were snuggled under one blanket, watching the movie.

_________

You brought Katai's order to him. You also add some red bean buns you brought from home.

Katai took a bun.

"Thank you, [Y/N]."

"No problems. Girls, do you...?"

Naomi interrupted you.

"No, don't worry, we will just sit here."

You nodded and return to the other customers.

__________

Katai was monitoring the surveillance cameras. He turned them on and off, all for ADA not being caught while teaching Stalker a lesson.

Naomi gave Katai Stalker's phone. In a matter of seconds, it was hacked and Katai start working on his part of the punishment.

Before that, he sent a text to an ADA chat with Stalker's current whereabouts.

_________

I... I will return...

These girls... Will pay... Ow...

For taking [Y/N]... Away...

For beating me...

I... will get you, [Y/N]... You need to be..

Kept away from this people... I knew where the back door is... I soon will be there...

Where... did the snow came from...

*SMACK* *TWHAK*

________

Junchirou Tanizaki was looking at the Stalker, whose nose he just broke. Stalker was covering his nose with both hands. Blood dripped on the ground.

Junchirou grabbed Stalker's jacket and shook them.

"You will never come near [Y/N]. You will leave this city. You will leave this country. And you won't even breath in their detention. Or else... You will be dead."

Junchirou kicked Stalker in the stomach, picked them up, threw in the nearest garbage container and left the dark alley.

Now he needs to go to the café and guard you over here.

According to Ranpo, the Stalker will be persistent.

Well, he is also persistent. And he cherished you.

He remembered this one time, you two cooked together.

_____

"Okay, just add some spice, and ramen will be ready" instructed Junchirou, cutting fried meat for dinner.

You nodded and start slowly adding the last ingredient.

The aroma of cooked food was fantastic.

You turned off the stove and put the pot of ramen on the table. Junchirou cast a quick glance at you and smiles.

"I am so glad that we are finally here, near you." confessed Junchirou.

You let out a quiet laugh and gave Junchirou a side hug.

"And I am glad that I have so many new, wonderful friends."

_________

Again in the dumpster!

My hit list is getting bigger and this people say! [Y/N] are mine and only mine!

I will destroy all enemies of our love!

Will start with this blonde boy! He was on one of the pictures I destroyed.

Come here you...

________

Kenji Miyazawa was looking at the dumpster, he threw on the nearest roof.

He thought about talking with Stalker, but they tried to attack him, screaming threats and promises of what they will do with [Y/N].

And Kenji can't let them make their threats a reality.

Because you are important. Because you are his friend.

Kenji hurries to the café. You need all of them to protect you.

Kenji remembered, how you two went to a farm market.

______

"[Y/N], I tell you, this meat will be perfect for a pie" grinned Kenji, pointing at the small stand near you.

"Kenji, I do believe you, but I don't want to use your power too much." You explained. You already have your hands full. And Kenji was holding a few bags with fresh cheese, cotton cheese, at least a few dozen kilos of vegetables and fruits. Kenji smiles and assures you. "Don't worry, [Y/N], I can carry much more than that. Let's buy some meat"

Kenji looked at you with pleading eyes. You can't say no to these eyes. That evening, all of you enjoyed some meat pie.

_________

Stalker literally rolled from the dumpster. They curled on the ground, trying to make sense of what just happened.

With no success.

After a few minutes of laying on the roof, Stalker finally stand up. They finally spoke.

"I only need to avoid the kid... [Y/N] still will be mine..."

They took a photo of you, that they stole three days ago.

Then they heard a crackling sound.

"You truly are despicable. The waste of good bandages isn't that shameless in romantic questions."

Someone's hand grabbed their shoulder.

"Well, I will teach you manners. Lesson number 1. Don't go near [Y/N]"

*ZAP*

_________

Doppo Kunikida rolled his eyes, looking at the twitching Stalker, who he zapped a few moments ago.

"I hope, you learned your lesson. But, if not, all of us will be glad to repeat the lesson."

Doppo turned around and marched to the roof exit.

You are such a good person. A little bit chaotic, but perfect in your way.

Doppo smile, remembering one of many moments you shared together.

______

You and Doppo were putting books in the library on their respectful places.

"Pay attention, we need to pay attention to full book titles. Alphabetical order may be the most common one, but, nevertheless, it is the easiest to use in the libraries." explain Doppo, checking the order of the books he put in.

You chuckled and re-check the books you were organizing.

"Okay, if you say so..."

Doppo looked satisfied with your answer. Everything was nice.

Until Kunikida saw the section with Dazai Osamu's works.

Books were not only standing in non-alphabetic order, but some of them were upside down, or laying on the side. You even made a little house with five books.

"[Y/N]! What happened with these books?"

You laugh.

"Well... I thought it would be nice, to arrange at least one section in a way it mirrors someone of you. So, Chaotic Dazai get... Chaotic section."

Kunikida huffs and start reorganizing Dazai's section.

"It's not something you or him should be proud of. This waste of a good bandages are like a rock that was thrown in the bag of flour."

You chuckled quietly and continue help Doppo, this time, for real.

_________

Atsushi and Kyouka were keeping an eye on Stalker. They were still laying on the roof, after beating and zapping from Kunikida.

They twitch and slowly get up.

On weak legs, they walked towards the roof exit.

When they finally left the roof, Atsushi and Kyouka slowly followed them.

___________

I... I... Won't... Give up...

They... Were the one... Who decide to attack me...

[Y/N] didn't ask them to do it...

They... Love me... Will love me...

WH-WHAT IS THIS THING?!

_______

Stalker hopped, that girl with the knife, that creepy thing with katana and half-tiger, half-human were their hallucination.

Pain was real.

_______

"They are unconscious" Kyouka stated, slightly kicking Stalker. They were alive. But even more damaged.

Snow demon was holding Stalker's small bag that they were hiding in their inner pocket.

Bag, full of pictures of you, that were taken secretly from the distance.

Atsushi, who transformed back into human, grabbed the bag.

"While I want to destroy them, I think we should save them as an evidence. Just in case."

Kyouka nodded. Atsushi cast a last glance at Stalker, after disappearing in the dark alley. Kyouka kicked Stalker one more time and follow Atsushi.

You became an important part of their lives.

There is no way they will let anyone hurt you. Or let someone, who made you cry, pay.

________

You three finished swimming in the pool and now were relaxing in the picnic area.

The ice cream was perfect for that hot summer day. You, Atsushi and Kyouka enjoy cold treat, while sitting under the tree on your backyard.

Demon Show was sitting not far from you. It finished brushing Kyouka's hair and now was brushing yours.

The day was perfect.

________

Stalker heard a metallic noise. They opened their eyes.

Yosano, who was holding her cleaver, smiled. Her smile was crazy.

"Poor thing, you need a doctor, right? Don't worry, I will help you. After my treatment, you will never ever mess with [Y/N].

________

Exhausted, Stalker was laying on the ground.

All their wounds were gone, but, they would prefer to have their wounds back instead of receiving the treatment from Yosano.

Doctor huffs and, after stepping on Stalker, left the alley.

She smiled again. This time, the smile was real.

_______

You two were visiting a botanical garden. They have an area with real butterflies.

Butterflies were beautiful and colorful.

Yosano manage to take many photos that day. On one of them, you were staring at the butterfly, that decide to land on your nose.

You looked so adorable, trying not to sneeze and scare the butterfly.

______

Stalker managed to stand up only half and hour later. They were disoriented, terrified and dizzy.

And they were stubborn as hell.

Even after everything they went through, they were adamant on making you theirs.

And tried to make one last attempt to get to the café to observe you.

But they couldn't make it past the alley.

Because they crashed into someone's chest.

Stalker looked up and looked right into Dazai's brown eyes.

For one moment, Stalker thought, that he was looking death in the eyes.

Dazai Osamu whispered.

"So... You were the one, who made My Dear Guiding Light cry..."

_______

It's been few hours, since they appeared in your world. All of them want to talk to you. To make sure, that you are real.

To make things easier, they decide to approach you one by one.

It was Dazai's turn.

Dazai was sitting before you. You were holding his hands.

"Dazai... I am sorry. I am sorry for unknowingly pocking my nose into your past. And into your thoughts. I will accept your disgust and hate, but, I assure you, if I knew, that you were self-aware, I would stop reading and watching."

Dazai felt tears in his eyes. He embraced you. For the first time in his life he hugged someone.

"I could never hate you... Someone so human and kind... Thank you, [Y/N]... For being near me during all this time."

You hugged him in return.

"You are welcome, Dazai."

Dazai whispered.

"Please... You can call me Osamu."

________

Dazai left the beaten up Stalker in the alley.

He started walking at the café.

Your shift will end soon.

___________

Your shift was almost over. And almost whole ADA gathered in a café.

Junchirou and Atsushi were helping you by the counter, Mii-chan entertained clients by simply being there and letting pet himself, Doppo, Kenji, Osamu and Yukichi were making sure, that customers wasn't trying to cause trouble, Akiko, Naomi, Kirako and Kyouka were helping you with carrying trays. Katai was helping Ranpo with uncovering last bits of information, so Ranpo could investigate.

_______

Ranpo was slightly worried.

He knew, that he will uncover everything, he is The Greatest Detective in the World.

But he was worried, if he uncovers something, that will make you upset.

He didn't want to make you upset.

He prefers, when you were happy.

_________

You and Ranpo were visiting a small candy shop.

Both of you were happy, like two kids at a birthday party.

With hands full of snacks, you returned home and had a True-Crime podcast marathon.

With Ranpo commenting every single actions detectives and police do.

_________

The moment your shift finished, Katai obtained the last file from Stalker's phone.

ADA and you gather around Ranpo.

Ranpo drank the rest of his soda (fifth one).

"Well, time for me to uncover, who is our Stalker's accomplice. Super Deduction"

It took Ranpo one minute to form a list of accomplices.

You looked at the list, slightly worried.

"It's... A lot of people..."

Ranpo nodded solemnly.

"Yes. But, I am sure, that they won't like what will happen tomorrow. We will patrol the rest of the Fair. And here... Well, They will see, how protective Port Mafia can be."

All of you nodded.

ADA help you with cleaning up. You left café with all of them. Together.

The day ended.

First day of the Charity Fair was a success.

You wonder what would happen tomorrow.