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Sixteen years. Atsushi didn't remember them. But he knew it had been almost sixteen years since he last saw his bio parents and was left at the orphanage. The only reason he knew that is because the Headmaster had told him, a few weeks before his adoption, that he'd been left there in the garbage by one of his biological parents- with a paper listing only his name and birthday- around Christmas time.
So that meant he had only been in the orphanage for six months by the time he had been found by his dad. And saved from that horrible place.
Did Atsushi ever wonder about his bio family? Of course he did. If nothing else he wondered why his parents waited over two years to abandon him. Just young enough that he didn't have any proper memories of them. But old enough that he still remembers the feeling of terror at wondering where they were.
But as the years crept forward. He found himself thinking about his origins less and less. Only really thinking about it around his birthday or Christmas. But today, it was the anniversary of his adoption. He'd been a Fukuzawa for fifteen years. Five times longer than he'd ever been a Nakajima.
And in those fifteen years. He'd been loved so fiercely. His family had grown. Gaining three older sibling, a little sister, and an brigade of grandparents.
Why would he ever want to find his bio family? His real family was right here.
But enough about Atsushi's musings in his bio family. Today was a cause for celebration! Today, Kyouka's adoption paperwork had finally gone through. She was here to stay.
Atsushi had Kyouka positioned so she was sitting on his left shoulder. They carried her into the agency while Ranpo and Akiko made sure the door was open. Osamu, being half blind, had no depth perception at the moment and was just making sure Kyouka didn't fall.
"Mere mortals of the Armed Detective Agency!" Ranpo announced, sounding like he was announcing royalty. "May we present to you! The newest official member of the Agency, the new baby of the family! Izumi Kyouka!"
Everyone else looked amused at the procession. Though other than the family, the one who looked most delighted was Kenji. Stars in his golden eyes.
“Can I be put down, please?” Kyouka asked. And who was Atsushi to deny his sister. Besides, they all had work to do today.
There was nothing strenuous on the agenda for the day. Just some paperwork. This evening, though. Ranpo had determined that they should have a bonfire. But seeing as this was Kyouka's evening, he did get her approval. And Ranpo had decided he was going to make some American treat typically enjoyed in the summertime. Something called a s'more.
Though Atsushi knew the reason he wanted to make them was to make sure they're actually good before trying to make them for Poe.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Shortly before Atsushi and Kyouka were supposed to head out for lunch a few hours later. The door opened and an older couple walked in.
Immediately, Atsushi and Naomi were there, greeting them.
"Good morning!" Naomi smiled. "How may we help you today?"
The man bowed his head briefly. "My wife and I would like to request a meeting with your president if you don't mind."
Atsushi looked between the couple. They looked oddly familiar. But Atsushi was positive he'd never met them. "Of course." He addressed Naomi. "Naomi-chan. Can you bring these two to my dad's office? Kyouka-chan and I were about to head to lunch."
Naomi saluted. "You got it, Senpai! Have fun with Kyouka!” She gestured to the couple
“Right this way, if you don't mind. Fukuzawa-sensei’s office is just down the hall.”
Atsushi didn't pay much mind to the older couple watching him as he and Kyouka left for lunch. Even as they were led away by Naomi. He knew he didn't exactly look like the average 18 year old.
But something in the back of his mind rang out with familiarity. Ah well. They were here to speak to his dad. If they were both still there when he and Kyouka got back. Maybe he'd talk to them. But for now, he'd let Naomi and his dad handle them.
~~~~~~~~~~(Fukuzawa POV)
The couple that Naomi escorted into Yukichi's office looked so familiar. Though he couldn't place where he may have seen them before.
“Fukuzawa-sensei, these two requested to speak with you. I hope that's not a problem.” His son's mentee said. “Senpai and Kyou-chan just left for lunch. Would you like me to bring some tea?”
He nodded and gestured for the older couple to take a seat. “Thank you, Naomi. As for the tea, perhaps later.”
The teenager smiled and bowed respectfully before leaving and shutting the door. The office now in gentle silence.
"Can I ask why you wanted to speak to me directly?" Yukichi addressed the older couple sitting across from him. "We have many capable detectives working here. Including my children. Surely they'd be just as willing to help you." It was such a rare occurrence that someone requested to speak to him directly. So one would have to forgive him for being a bit wary of the two people in his office.
The man- it only just now occured to Yukichi that neither of them had told him their names- cleared his throat. "It's because parent-to-parent. We'd *prefer* to talk to you." He nudged his companion gently.
She pulled a photo out of her purse. It was visibly worn around the edges and discolored from what looked like tears. "We're looking for our grandson. And we have on good authority that he is residing in this city."
"Might it be better to start with your names and your grandson's name?" Yukichi couldn't see the photo, the image was pointed away from him as the couple looked at it sadly. But it was no doubt an image of their grandson.
And he felt for them, he really did. The brief times any of his children- most recently Atsushi and Kyouka, though Osamu was just as prone to trouble - were missing, he worried nonstop. And based on the wear and tear of the photo. This couple's grandson had been missing for quite some time.
"Of course." The woman nodded, placing her hand holding the photo in her lap. "My name is Nakajima Miyoko. And this is my husband, Hideo." She handed over the photo. "We're looking for our grandson, Atsushi."
Ice flooded Yukichi's veins as he took the photo from Miyoko's hand. While he was definitely smaller in the photo than Yukichi had ever seen him. Ametrine eyes, and silver hair broken only by a small tuft of black on the right side. This was no doubt a baby photo of his son. His pride and joy.
So that's why they looked familiar. They both had features he'd seen day after day for fifteen years on his son.
It took him a minute to regain his composure. It wouldn't do to be accusatory right out of the gate. "I'm guessing the reason you wanted to speak to me and not one of my detectives is because..."
Hideo nodded. "Because you know that name. Your family name matches the one that is linked to Atsushi in that newspaper article. His biological father is our son." In his hand was a nationwide printed newspaper. With Atsushi's name attached to the photo from that day. Somehow some reporters had gotten his son's name. As the Yokohama printings of that article just said that Atsushi was an anonymous member of the Agency.
"Not that we've spoken to our son since Atsushi went missing." Miyoko assured. "We have nothing to do with him or our daughter-in-law."
Yukichi was mature enough to admit to himself that he was mildly panicked at the thought of any of Atsushi's biological relatives seeking the weretiger out. Atsushi didn't remember his time before the orphanage. And at this point, he barely remembered the orphanage itself except for the worst of it.
Though Atsushi had told him, all those years ago when Akiko had urged Atsushi to talk about what exactly happened in that establishment. That the headmaster had told Atsushi that the way he was treated there was nothing in comparison to how his biological parents had treated him.
And after seeing his son so miserable, so upset. Yukichi had sworn to himself that day, that if any biological relatives of his son came looking for Atsushi with any nefarious intent. That he would protect his son as much as possible.
He took a deep breath. It was counterintuitive to think, with no evidence, that they were here to harm Atsushi. "What are your intentions with meeting my son?”
Miyoko sniffed as if she were on the verge of tears, and she must've been. Seeing as she pulled a handkerchief out of her purse. "We want to get to know him. For nearly 16 years, we've been looking for him. Then, when we finally found where he'd been taken. He was gone again, in a closed adoption a few months prior. And all we could hope was that he was being taken care of."
"Seemed like a decent establishment. A bit worn down, but that's unfortunately what happens when funding gets reduced." Hideo shook his head disappointedly. "Damn shame, you know? At least the other children seemed well taken care of."
Simmering anger replaced the ice in Yukichi's veins. "That 'establishment'. Mutilated and tortured my son." It took great effort to keep his voice even. He wouldn't give specifics. That was up to Atsushi if he wanted to tell them. If Atsushi even wanted to meet them. "It would be in your best interest to not speak of that place in my presence or Atsushi's."
"We don't mean to offend, Fukuzawa-san. Our main goal is just to make sure our grandson is okay." Hideo said in an attempt to deescalate the situation.
On his desk, sat several pictures of his kids throughout the years. Including the small celebration at home a couple weeks ago for Kyouka having passed the entrance exam and joined the family. Yukichi stood and grabbed that picture frame to hand it to the couple then sat back down. "Atsushi grew up being told every day how much he is loved and cared for. He is a strong, compassionate if not a bit hot-headed, kind young man. And everyday that he has been my son, I am infinitely proud of him."
The couple ran their fingers over the picture. Eventually, Miyoko looked up with teary eyes. "Who are these other people?"
In the picture, Atsushi was holding Kyouka like a cat while Akiko, Ranpo, and Osamu laughed in the background. "Those are my other children. Although I adopted Atsushi first. He is my second youngest. He has two older brothers. An older sister, and as of today, a younger sister.”
Yukichi watched the couple closely for a while. He still didn't know what to think of them. They were looking sadly at the other pictures of Atsushi he kept in his office.
"Fukuzawa-san. Do you think he wants to meet us?" Miyoko asked softly, almost hesitant.
He sighed deeply. "As much as I wish I could tell you the answer. Atsushi is a grown man, even if he only recently became so. I cannot answer that for him. It is entirely up to him if he wishes to meet you." Some small part of him wanted to hide his youngest two children away from the threats that had been placed on their young shoulders. But it wouldn't be fair.
Hideo, who now that Yukichi actually looked at the man, had the similar shade of gold in his irises that Atsushi did, leaned forward to hand the photos back to Yukichi. "We've waited 16 years. We can wait as long as Atsushi needs us to.”
His cellphone rang, with the sound of cats meowing thanks to Ranpo. The called ID showed that it was Kyouka. She usually only called in emergencies.
Quickly, he answered the call. "Kyouka? Is something the matter?"
"Papa. Was no one going to inform me that whenever Tora-nii encounters Tachihara in public, the two of them end up trying to maim each other?" His youngest sounded exasperated. And in the background, he could hear Atsushi trying to hit his best friend over the head with something heavy. “I didn't think that best friends typically did this!”
"He's been like this since he was 14. Trust me. It's good for them both. And it's been a while since they could, as Ranpo put it 'play' like this." Yukichi checked the time. "Could you please tell your brother that there are people here wishing to speak with him?"
He could hear Kyouka use her hand to muffle the microphone, but still her calls to Atsushi to pass on the message were still audible. A moment later she returned to the conversation. "We'll be back in a few minutes. Bye, Papa."
"Don't break any laws, Kyouka." He said before hanging up.
Both Miyoko and Hideo were looking at him curiously. "Apologies. Atsushi and his best friend are sparring partners and it's been a while since they got to train together. So I suppose they got into a bit of a spat."
"We had noticed a sword at his hip when he passed by us earlier." Hideo commented, a bit awkwardly. "How long has he been training?"
Yukichi smiled fondly at the question. "Well, he first expressed an interest in learning when he was seven. But he's been fascinated by them since we met. Because I wanted to make sure he was serious about his desire to learn. I told him if he still wanted to by his eighth birthday, I would start training him then." The memory of Atsushi's bright smile that day was one of his favorites. "Then he earned a proper steel blade on his 16th birthday. I dare say he is a better swordsman than I was at that age.”
“Are any of your other children trained like that?” Miyoko asked, a pinched look threatening to overtake her face. As if she didn't approve of weapons training.
Nodding, Yukichi, using the photo from the small celebration, pointed to each of his children. “My eldest daughter trained with blades of various kinds. Though her favorite is her machete. Osamu, my middle son, prefers firearms. Even with his impaired vision, he's a better shot than most. And Kyouka prefers knives, but can wield a sword in an emergency.”
Hideo’s eyebrows shot up. “And your eldest son?”
“Ranpo's talents lie elsewhere. He's more of the scholarly type. Though all of my children are highly intelligent.”
Five minutes passed before he heard Akiko shout, "STOP DRIPPING BLOOD ALL OVER THE PLACE!", and Yukichi knew Atsushi had most likely arrived.
And his suspicions were proven correct when Atsushi entered his office with a tissue pressed to what was definitely a freshly healed broken nose that had been bleeding quite profusely.
"Atsushi. Why?" He gestured to the space on the couch next to him.
Atsushi, having propped his katana against the side of the couch, flopped down and with a congested voice, responded. "Because I got pistol whipped." He lowered the tissue briefly to check if it was still bleeding. It wasn't, thankfully.
Yukichi sighed and held his son's face in his hands, checking for any further injuries. Other than a slight bruise on his jaw, there was nothing. "Dare I ask why Michizō pistol whipped you?" He squished his son's face gently then released. Reaching under the table to grab the first aid kit.
"Because he's an asshole and when I joked that he wouldn't shoot me, he said 'Oh yeah? Well I can still do this!’ Then he had me in a headlock and suddenly my nose was broken." Atsushi grumbled. "He's lucky I'm too attached to him to throw him into the ocean."
Yukichi pulled out an alcohol wipe from the first-aid kit he was now glad that he kept in his office for minor injuries that didn't need Akiko's attention. And carefully wiped away the crusted blood off his son's face. "Language, we have company. Which of you started this?"
"I am a perfect angel who has never started a fight once in my entire life." Atsushi said as he scrunched his nose indignantly. "All I did was apologize to his girlfriend for having to put up with him. It's the one thing we can commiserate about together.”
Once the blood had been wiped away. Yukichi patted his son's face in a wave of parental affection. "Of course. I don't deny that you are more level headed than your siblings. But as your father, you tend to have a hairpin trigger when you and Michizō spend time together. Which, I suppose, is good seeing as that's why I arranged for you two to meet in the first place."
"Betrayal." Atsushi stated, deadpan. "But that's not why I'm here right now." He turned to look at the couple on the other couch. "I was told you wished to speak with me?"
Hideo grabbed his wife's hand and squeezed it tightly. "Yes. It's a true pleasure to finally meet you, Young man. We've been waiting for this day for so so long."
Atsushi's brow furrowed slightly as he tilted his head like a cat. "I'm sorry? Have we met before? I'm usually better at remembering people.”
Miyoko smiled, her eyes still glossy, and gestured to herself and then her husband. "My name's Nakajima Miyoko, and this is my husband Hideo."
Atsushi, whose face had been flushed from his fight with Tachihara, went pale as a sheet. "Na- Nakajima?" He looked to Yukichi, slight fear swirling around in the ametrine irises.
It was all Yukichi could do to put a hand on his son's shoulder. "They are your biological grandparents. They apparently found you from the newspaper article about your success on the Moby Dick."
"Grandparents." Atsushi muttered softly. But with a slight shake of his head, he looked back at the couple. "I was unaware I had any. Or at least any that I was genetically connected to. I apologize, I hadn't given the idea much thought."
Hideo shook his head. "No need to apologize, my boy. We're strangers to you. But. If you'd allow us. We'd like to get to know you."
"We're your biological father's parents." Miyoko handed the photo she had brought with them to Atsushi. "Unfortunately, we don't know much about your mother's side. And we haven't spoken to her or our son since you went missing. So I'm very sorry if you were wondering about her side of the family, dear.”
Something unreadable had clouded over the joyful expression that had resided on Atsushi's face mere moments ago. "I really hadn't thought about her. Not since I was seven." His tone was even. Almost hollow. "I barely remember my time in the orphanage, let alone anytime before then."
"Do you have any questions for us?" Hideo asked. Seeming to pick up on the drastic shift in Atsushi's mood.
Yukichi watched his son stare almost blankly at the photo of himself from, if the writing on the back of it was any indication, his second birthday. "Did they ever love me?" Atsushi did always ask the difficult questions.
The couple shared a sad look and a silent conversation before Miyoko reached over and pat Atsushi's knee affectionately. "I think they did. You were a very smiley baby. Lit up the room with your giggles. You were born with a head full of hair. As silver as moonlight. Though, that dark streak didn't come in until you were a little over a year old."
Hideo nodded with a fond smile. "It was the strangest thing. like some reverse poliosis. But it was precious. Because you were, no are, precious."
That unfortunately seemed to upset Atsushi further. Though Yukichi could only tell because he knew his son so well. So seeing the weretiger's jaw clench and one of his hands reach up to clench the moon pendant around his neck. Yukichi squeezed his son's shoulder to try and keep him grounded.
"If I was a happy baby. What changed?" Atsushi's eyes were full of hurt and a fire that worried Yukichi. "What about me made them wait over two years to throw me in the garbage of the orphanage in the middle of winter?”
"I-" Hideo started before sighing and looking Atsushi in the eyes "I know this answer may do more harm than good. Your parents didn't exactly take you being Gifted that well."
It would have hurt Atsushi less to have shot him at point blank range. And likely would have been kinder. Atsushi could heal physical injuries. But this?
His expression went vacant, though his eyes were of a wounded animal's. And in a despondent voice, Atsushi spoke. "I see. I guess the headmaster didn't lie to me after all. Thank you, I suppose. It's...good, to have confirmation."
"Oh, my boy." Miyoko tried to grab Atsushi's free hand. But he had an iron strong grip on the fabric of his hakama. "Your grandfather and I, we thought the world of your ability. We initially thought you were just a regular cat. But we knew you were special. We promise that even if your parents didn't think so. We adored and loved you. And we still do. Even if we do not know you yet."
Yukichi could see that this was getting to be too much for his son. And with the knowledge that Atsushi, when he gets this stressed, unfortunately tends to hallucinate. He needed to get Atsushi to calm down.
Then, as if she were a godsend, Naomi knocked on the door and entered. Mii-chan ran in ahead of her and hopped into Atsushi's lap. "I'm sorry to interrupt, Fukuzawa-sensei. But Mii-chan was meowing urgently at your door and Haruno-san told me to let him in."
The calico immediately started nuzzling Atsushi's hands, and the effect was just as quick. Atsushi let go of his pendant and started petting the cat. His breathing started slowing down, and his shoulders were visibly relaxing.
"That's quite alright, Naomi. One can't control a cat when they've made up their mind." He hoped that she knew just how much that one action helped. Even if Yukichi didn't quite understand why this cat was so attached to Atsushi.
Naomi nodded. "I'll let you get back to your meeting." She closed the door and the office was silent once more. Save for the purring from the calico.
Softly, almost inaudibly- it was only because Yukichi was sitting next to his son that he could tell- Atsushi started talking to the cat. Or, more accurately. The cat was talking to Atsushi and he was responding.
"My oldest daughter and her girlfriend's cat." Yukichi explained at seeing the confused looks on the older couple's faces. "He's rather attached to Atsushi, as are most cats in the city. So my daughter and her girlfriend bring Mii-chan to work with them. Helps boost morale." Though part of that was because most everyone working here adored cats.
Mii-chan meowed boldly before gently batting a paw at the dangling moon and star earrings Atsushi was wearing. And it prompted a small exhale of laughter from Atsushi. "Mii-chan says that of course he boosts morale, he's a cat. It's what cats do."
"You can talk to cats?" Miyoko sounded amazed.
Atsushi nodded slowly. "Usually they tell me gossip. The happenings around town. It's why I'm so good at my job." He gently unstuck Mii-chan's paw from being stuck on the earring. "I can just ask a cat near where I'm investigating, and after some normal gossip. I tend to get helpful information."
That made Yukichi remember one of the few investigations he had allowed Ranpo to take Atsushi along on when the weretiger was six. According to his sons. Atsushi had interrogated a cat and, with that information, helped his brother. And Ranpo had snapped a picture. That photo resided on Yukichi's desk at home.
"That's amazing, my boy!" Hideo exclaimed. "Putting your ability to good use in an unexpected way!"
Mii-chan apparently decided that Atsushi needed more comfort. The calico climbed onto Atsushi's shoulders and draped himself like a scarf. The purring getting louder. The cat's tail hitting the weretiger's left earring.
"Oh! Before I forget!" Miyoko startled and reached into her purse. She pulled out a small photo album and handed it to Atsushi. "I had copies made of every picture we have of you. From the day you were born to the last time we saw you before you went missing. In case we managed to find you."
Yukichi watched as his son opened the album to the first picture. And Miyoko had not been lying. This photo was clearly from the day Atsushi was born.
In the photo, a newborn Atsushi sat, swaddled in a green hospital blanket. A tiny blue and pink hat covering silver hair peeking out of the fabric. The flash had clearly been on when the photo was taken because Atsushi looked incredibly displeased with his very red face all scrunched up.
Above his head was a small placard that read: 'Nakajima Atsushi. DoB: May 5th. Time of birth: 3:47 AM. Weight: 2.94kg.'
"Thank you." Atsushi said softly. Closing the book for now. "Do you have any questions to ask me?”
"What exactly is your ability, my boy?" Hideo asked after a few long seconds of consideration. "We know you can turn into some kind of big cat. But you were just a cub last we saw you."
Atsushi raised the hand not petting Mii-chan and in a momentary flash of blue light. His left hand was a tiger paw. "Beast Beneath the Moonlight. I can turn into a white tiger. But even when I'm not actively using my ability. It has sort of passive aspects. I have exceptionally good hearing, sight, and smell. I'm quite fast and strong. I also have regenerative healing. Which comes in quite handy.
Miyoko perked up. "Is that how you healed your broken nose earlier?"
"Yes. But I've also, unfortunately, regenerated severed limbs." Atsushi and Yukichi both grimaced at the memory of the weretiger's 18th birthday. "When I'm in my full tiger form, I'm bulletproof."
"That's amazing! We knew you were special. But this is spectacular!" A proud light was burning in Hideo's eyes. "Your father mentioned that you're a swordsman as well. Quite the skill set!"
Miyoko gently slapped her husband's shoulder. "We should be asking about his academics. Not treating his ability a party trick" She clasped Atsushi's hand- which was still a paw. "What was your schooling like?"
Another flash of light and Atsushi's hand was back to human. "My grades, while not the best in my grade, were still pretty good. I was part of debate club in both middle and high school. And last year, I was the captain of the debate team. My mentee, Naomi-chan, joined the team as well."
"Oh! That's how your parents met." Miyoko sighed wistfully. "University debate club. Your mother went to a different school, but they argued against each other and well." She patted Atsushi's hand. "They married not two months after graduation. You were born a year later. I still remember the cake they'd served to tell us and your mother's parents. Same cake we have for all important special occasions. A coconut cake. I can always send you the recipe, my dear. Important to give family recipes to the young ones.”
Yukichi saw the awkwardness on his son's face before the boy even spoke. “Oh, I'm…kind of allergic to coconut. Sorry. I know with regenerative healing allergies are only a little annoying. But my Akiko-nee is very serious about keeping me from going into anaphylactic shock.” He grimaced in almost audible discomfort. “I don't know if I'm worthy of family recipes. We've only just met.”
Miyoko nodded in understanding. “That's alright, dear. On both fronts. There are more family recipes without coconut. And yes, while we did just meet. That doesn't mean I can't give you recipes I've been wanting to for years.”
"You got any hobbies, Atsushi?" Hideo was clearly trying to dispel the tension that had settled over Atsushi.
Atsushi nodded slowly. "I like to sew, and I'm taking up crochet again. Though my ability, being a cat, I have to remain incredibly focused or I'll end up tangled in yarn."
"The first time that happened. You fell asleep like that and your brother and sister tried to bury you alive." Yukichi fondly remembered. For some reason. His eldest two liked to try burying Atsushi alive as a child.
Both of the Nakajimas looked a bit concerned, which Atsushi picked up on. "Medical students are weirdos. Akiko-nee was no exception."
"Oh? Is your sister studying to become a doctor?" Miyoko perked up again, fascinated by the possibility.
It was Atsushi's turn to look taken aback. "No? She is a doctor. Got her medical license at 19. That incident happened when she was 16. Which is why I said she wasn't an exception. My older siblings are something of prodigies. Just in different fields."
Miyoko's attention turned back to Yukichi. "You let a little girl go into medical school? She had to have started when she was-"
Yukichi held a hand out to stop the line of questioning. "Akiko was 14 when she started, yes. She wanted to start earlier, but myself and my eldest convinced her to wait."
"Why did you agree to let her go to medical school in the first place? That's no place for a teenager!" She looked teary eyed again and like she was horrified.
"It was either let her go to medical school, or let her become a serial killer. Regardless of her ability and her eccentricities, my daughter is a talented doctor." Yukichi didn't appreciate his parenting being questioned in such a manner. "You haven't raised teenage girls. You'd be surprised at how okay they are with murder."
Atsushi coughed, hiding a laugh. "No, I think that's just Akiko-nee. And she's always been like that. Kyouka-chan doesn't like murder.”
“Just last week Kyouka threatened to remove someone's hands because they tried to touch her hair.” Yukichi was proud of Kyouka for standing up for herself. But threatening civilians was not exactly good tiger behavior as Atsushi would put it.
Miyoko was wringing her hands together to the point it looked painful. “Oh, I wish such a little girl didn't resort to such violence. She could get hurt.”
The mirth on Atsushi's face evaporated. “She's almost 15. I was already a capable swordsman by that age. The fact that in much shorter of a time than it took me, Kyouka-chan is highly skilled in her craft. I think Kyouka-chan is pretty safe. In fact.” Atsushi leaned forward slightly. Careful not to displace Mii-chan. “I dare say she's more safe than most teenage girls.”
“But you're children. Kids should be going to school, having fun with friends, not being in such a dangerous profession.” She continued. “Don't you want to be a normal kid?”
“I was a normal kid, Miyoko-san.” Atsushi said plainly. “But I'm an adult. What I wish to do with my career is protect people. My family and I do that. And Kyouka-chan is free to decide she wants to switch to part time so she can go to in-person school like I did.”
Hideo took the newspaper out once more and held it up. “But you were in horrible danger just over a week ago. You're too young to be putting your life on the line like that. You should be safe. Protected.”
Yukichi knew what his son was going to say before the words even came out. Atsushi's face hardened bitterly. “Like I was with your son? Oh I bet he and his wife were so protective of me. That's why I got mutilated and thrown away like garbage.”
“That's not fair, Atsushi.” Miyoko said softly. “We just worry that you're in danger. You're our only grandchild that we know of. And you're in such a dangerous profession.”
Atsushi was breathing deeply. And based on how his eyes kept looking at the corners of the room. His mind was starting to play tricks on him. The weretiger stood up. “You don't get to make that call. You don't get to dictate my life.” He stormed out of the office, Mii-chan still on his shoulders. Not bothering to shut the door to Yukichi's office.
A moment later. The door to the agency slammed shut. Then oddly enough, opening and shutting again. Prompting Ranpo to stick his head in. “Aki and Osamu are going after him.” He looked at the Nakajimas, unimpressed.
“He also has your sister's cat with him.” Yukichi gestured for Ranpo to sit down.
Ranpo obliged and leveled the older couple with a glare.
The last time Yukichi had seen this level of seriousness on his eldest's face was nearly 12 years ago. All the lightheartedness had evaporated from Ranpo as he stared at the Nakajimas.
"You two were aware of how your son and daughter-in-law treated Atsushi. Were you not?"
Miyoko, who had been staring at the door as if Atsushi was about to walk back in at any second, startled and looked at Ranpo, shocked. "Excuse me?"
Bright green eyes narrowed slightly, and Ranpo smiled as if he was imagining destroying the couple's lives. "You heard me. Atsushi wasn't born with his ability, and even if he was. No baby would have the control he does now. My family knows what happened to my brother in that orphanage. And if what the headmaster said was true, that his biological parents were worse than even that. Then there's no possible way to cover that up."
Hideo looked pale. "I don't know what you're implying, young man. But I don't appreciate-"
He was cut off by Ranpo raising his hand quietly. "Let me finish. Now, an ability like Atsushi's, when it manifested. The healing aspect would most definitely have only worked on life threatening injuries. And given that there were absolutely no reports of child abuse tied to a child matching Atsushi's description. The only explanation for that would be that your son and his wife mutilated their baby in such a way that his ability had to step in and intervene."
Ranpo took a breath and leaned forward a little bit. Making sure to look both of the Nakajimas in the eyes, his smile straining. "You lived next door to your son at the time. And you both seem to be in decent health, hearing included. There's no way you wouldn't have heard Atsushi screaming and crying. You said his ability manifested shortly after his first birthday? That's a year and a half before he went missing? Did you ever intervene?”
"Of course we did!" Hideo was visibly hurt by the question. "We tried to keep him as far from danger as possible. We even went so far as to file for custody and arrange to move far away from our son. Just to prevent Atsushi from being hurt like that anymore."
Ranpo's right eye twitched ever so slightly. "Now. How on earth would Atsushi know that? He doesn't remember his biological parents. To him they are cruel specters that used to haunt his nightmares as a kid. Nightmares that had him running into my room in the middle of the night. He doesn't know this. But said nightmares would have him bite his lips bloody trying to muffle his own cries." His voice was full of anguish. Yukichi remembered when Atsushi did the same thing as a toddler.
He remembered gently wiping the blood off Atsushi's sleeping face and gently waking the boy up so he could drink something and calm down. More often than not, the ametrine eyes would be bloodshot and watery.
Miyoko wilted slightly. "He should know we care. That we wanted to protect him."
"But he doesn't." Ranpo snapped. "He doesn't know you. For all he knows, you stood back and let him be tortured. I would love nothing more than for my brother to have the chance to get to know you. But not once, in the hour he was in here, did you try to explain that you tried to protect him. You just said that you loved and adored him. But you can still be horrible to someone and claim to love them."
Yukichi put a hand on Ranpo's shoulder. "Take a deep breath, son. You've made your point." He looked at the Nakajimas. "You need to understand. Ranpo and Akiko especially, are protective of Atsushi to the point of literally drawing weapons on anyone who unknowingly offers him something he's allergic to."
"As if you didn't carry him in a baby sling while you worked until he started school because you didn't trust anyone except the brigade to watch him at first." Ranpo managed to joke.
He shot his son an unimpressed look before continuing. "I would do anything to protect my children. So while I think he could have said it with more tact. I do not disagree with Ranpo. Atsushi has absolutely no clue that you tried to take him away from the abuse.”
“He may not want to hear anything else you tell him.” Ranpo warned them. “And if that's the case. You need to respect that. Got it?”
~~~~~~~~~~~~(Atsushi POV)
One foot in front of the other. Atsushi's feet knew where he wanted to go. Even if Atsushi himself wasn't paying attention. He could barely hear his Grandcat on his shoulders speaking to him. Trying to calm Atsushi down with half distressed meows.
Sometime later. Maybe five minutes, maybe an hour. Atsushi reached the training hall he'd been using for the past ten years. The practice target with the shredded picture of Mori's face in the corner.
He stood in the center of the main room, breathing deeply. Barely noticing the feeling of the calico leaping off his shoulders before a flash of light and his Grandcat stood in front of him as a human. A comforting pair of arms instantly wrapping around him
"It's alright, Little Cub." He soothed. Using one hand to smooth Atsushi's hair, which had started to fall out of the braid he'd had it in.
Atsushi relished in the feeling of his Grandcat hugging him. He loved seeing the man in cat form almost every day. But sometimes. He missed having him as a human figure in his life. Slowly, he returned the hug. "I'm sorry, Ojiichan. For losing my composure. I don't know what's wrong with me."
His Grandcat pulled away and put his hands on Atsushi's shoulders, making the weretiger meet his gaze. "There is nothing wrong with you. Anyone would've gotten upset at this situation. And if I'm correct. Your father and Ranpo are tearing those two a new one.”
"What should I do, Ojiichan?" Atsushi asked. His voice came out smaller than he'd intended. Today had been going so well, and now he was faced with a dilemma he doesn't know how to handle.
His Grandcat looked deep in thought. "Well, unfortunately, my boy. I don't know. This was a situation none of us ever expected you'd be faced with. What does your heart tell you?"
What did his heart tell him? He could sense Byakko in his soul, the tiger was irritable and fearful. Uncertain of the Nakajimas. But Atsushi's heart? "I don't know! They seem like decent people, but the thought of having any kind of connection to my bio family hurts. And what if they're lying about not being in contact with them? Hideo and Miyoko aren't my grandparents. You and the brigade are. And it feels weird to have them expect a relationship like that right off the bat!"
The expression on his grandfather's face softened sympathetically. "I think, Little Cub, you've answered your own question.”
Atsushi wilted. "Yeah. You're right." Frustration made his eyes sting. "I don't want to upset them. But."
"But." His Grandcat guided him to the bench at the side of the room. "Them being here is upsetting you."
Both cat shifters sat down. And Atsushi ran a hand over his face, ignoring the slight flashes of light through stained glass at the corners of his vision. "Do you think they'll be mad at me? I mean, they seem like they want to get to know me. And as far as I can tell. I'm their only grandchild. Is it cruel of me to deny them that relationship?"
"No, Little Cub. It's not cruel of you. What is cruel, is them effectively ambushing you with this. If I were in their situation. I would've sent a letter to the agency, telling your father everything that needed to be said and left contact information if you wanted to contact me. " The calico man ran his thumb over the handle of his cane. The cane itself still had the stickers Atsushi had stuck on it over a decade ago.
Atsushi leaned his head on his grandfather's shoulder. "I'm glad you're my grandpaw. Even if it took me six years to admit that's what you are to me."
The smell of floral perfume, wine, and specifically peach blossoms preceded Osamu and Akiko's arrival. Which stopped the calico man from responding. A moment later, Akiko walked in, dragging Osamu behind her.
It took them a moment to notice Atsushi wasn't alone, but when they did. Akiko's face broke into a smile. "Jii-chan. You're back in town?"
"Dear girl, if there is one thing you should know by now. It's that I'm never too far away." Their grandfather returned the smile. "Little Cub here called me and when any of my grandchildren are in trouble, and I can help. I will be there as fast as possible."
Akiko pushed Osamu forward. "You haven't met this one, I don't think. This is our newest brother. And I'm positive Atsushi's told you about our baby sister.”
Their grandfather nodded, amusement in his expression. "Yes, Atsushi's told me all about Kyouka. And I already know all about you, Dazai Osamu."
Osamu looked genuinely taken aback. "You do?"
"I'm sure neither of these two, or Ranpo have informed you. As they aren't enthused about this fact. But I do keep track of *both* of my former mentees." He leaned on his cane slightly, despite the fact he was still sitting. "Your father and Mori both."
"Yeah, 'Samu." Akiko sighed dramatically. "Like how Mori initially paired up you and Chuuya. Jii-chan here paired up Dad and Mori. The original Double Black. That partnership ended when yours truly entered the picture.”
The calico man stood up and walked up to Osamu. "Now. It's been several years since I last saw you up close. Even if you didn't know I was there. Let me get a good look at one of my newest grandchildren. That is if Hirotsu doesn't mind sharing you."
“Tou-chan and Hirotsu have essentially decided to co-parent Osamu.” Atsushi informed.
He studied Osamu carefully for a few seconds before nodding. "A fine young man. Your siblings and your father have done an excellent job helping you."
Osamu was still visibly dazed, but with a shake of his head- which both Atsushi and Akiko laughed at- he started asking his questions. "What do you mean you paired Mori and our dad together? Have you met him? Mori still thinks he's got a shot with Dad."
Their grandfather waved a hand, amused and exasperated. "Oh don't be daft, my dear boy. That was not my intention when I had them working together. And I question Mori-kun's logical reasoning if he didn't pick up on the fact that Yukichi-kun was not interested."
This was completely new information to Atsushi. "You mean Mori's been flirting with Tou-chan since the very start?!" He looked at Akiko who was now looking slightly nauseated.
"Unfortunately, Little Cub. By that time, your father already adopted you and Ranpo. And Mori-kun kept asking for parenting advice for Elise. Saying that it would be easier for him to learn if he lived with your father." Their grandcat looked much more tired all of a sudden.
Akiko turned to gag. "Mori? Flirting? How did he never pick up on the fact Dad swings for no teams?!”
"Come along, children. I do believe if we dally any longer, there may be a crime scene to clean up. Your brother may not be as adept with weapons as you three, or Kyouka, but when it comes to threats to any of you. He may try to rip someone's head off." He ushered Atsushi and his siblings out of the building and back in the direction of the agency.
Akiko rolled her eyes, but still followed without hesitation. "Jii-chan, we're adults. You can't really call us children."
Their grandfather lightly tapped Akiko on the top of her head with his cane. "I've known you since you were thirteen years old, young lady. When you get to be my age. Anyone younger than you by more than ten years is a child in your eyes."
"Please tell me you called Dad and Mori kids back then!" Osamu, having gotten over his initial shock, was delighted to know someone who could have embarrassing stories about the now Mafia boss.
"I do recall calling the both of them brats at one point." The older man responded. "They were a pain to make cooperate with each other. Mori-kun kept asking your father out for drinks, under the guise of asking for parenting advice. But Yukichi-kun threatened to hit him over the head with the sheath for his katana. Never before had I witnessed two grown men fight like teenagers."
Osamu looked at Akiko and Atsushi. The latter avoiding his brother's gaze like it was his job. "So that's where Tiger-chibi and Ane-san learned to hit people- specifically me and Ranpo- over the head with blunt objects."
"If you two would stop being unwarranted freaks about your partners. We wouldn't have to hit you, Osamu." Atsushi flicked his brother's ear.
Their grandfather separated the two of them. “Please don't call your brothers freaks when one of them isn't here to defend himself.”
“Yes, Ojiichan.” Atsushi replied.
The calico man nodded. “Good. I know your father raised you to be a gentleman. So it would do you good to behave like that.”
Well now Atsushi felt like a scolded kitten. But he didn't allow himself to pity. No. Because Osamu and Akiko were snickering at him because he got scolded.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Atsushi watched his Grandcat tap on the door to the president's office- which based on the sounds inside, Ranpo was still berating the Nakajimas- and then opened said door. He gently pushed Atsushi inside. "Yukichi-kun. I believe this stray cat happens to be yours."
Both Ranpo and their dad stood up abruptly. "Natsume-sensei!" The president exclaimed. "When did you get back into town?"
The calico man put a hand on Atsushi's shoulder. "I'm never too far. And when Little Cub here called me, I can't refuse helping one of my favorites. I did tell him that if he ever needed help. He can always call me."
Miyoko looked confused. "I'm sorry, who's this?"
Ranpo smiled brightly, with a pointed look at the Nakajimas. "That's our Grandpa! Natsume Sōseki, technically he's our dad's former mentor. But he's our Gramps." He waved cheerfully at their grandfather. "How's it going Gramps?"
"Quite well, my boy. I'm glad to hear you've found your American beau." Their grandpa smiled warmly. "I was just helping Little Cub calm down when your other brother and your sister found us. So I've been telling the three of them what your father was like as a student."
their dad started to look mildly embarrassed. "Sensei. Please, let's not." He looked at Atsushi with concern. "Are you alright?"
Atsushi nodded. "Yes, sir. I just needed a few minutes. And I called Ojiichan while I was walking. Just to have another ear to listen. I didn't quite expect him to be in town. Though I am happy to see him." He did like spending time with his Grandcat. Even if it was more often than not in cat form.
A hand ruffled his hair affectionately. "And listen I shall. I'm more than happy to be a listening ear to any of my grandchildren. Even if dear Kyouka and I haven't met yet."
Ranpo started walking to the door, apparently done berating the Nakajimas. "Kyou-chan should be in Uzumaki with Kenji. They're quite sweet on each other. I'd be happy to introduce you to the newest addition to the family.”
“Lead the way, dear boy!” The calico gestured with his free hand. Following Ranpo out.
While Ranpo and their grandfather walked out of the office. Atsushi sat back down next to his dad. "Apologies for losing my composure. I tend to have stress induced episodes of a sort." He didn't want to tell them that they stressed him out so much he started hallucinating. "But I'm much more calm now."
"Are you alright?" Hideo asked. Both him and Miyoko looked a bit crestfallen.
Atsushi nodded cordially. "Yes. I just needed a breather. And it had been a while since I have talked to my Ojiichan. So I had hoped he would help. And he did."
"How long has he been in your life?" Miyoko's voice was softer, more sad.
"Well, I met him when I was six. He was initially my mentor to help me train my ability. But he would also pick me up from school when needed. And in the rare events where it was too dangerous for me to be in the city. Ojiichan would take me on a trip for however long the danger persisted. Which was never longer than a week." Atsushi smiled fondly at the memories. Especially the cat themed festival when he was twelve.
His dad put a hand on Atsushi's shoulder. “A fact for which I am grateful for. I would never deliberately put you or any of your siblings in danger if I thought it was too risky. And Natsume-sensei was listed as your guardian in case something happened.”
Miyoko started wringing her hands. In the same way Atsushi did when he was anxious. "Are you happy, Atsushi? With your life the way it's played out? With your family?"
A loaded question. But one Atsushi was prepared to answer. His smile turned warmer, and he made sure to use the a gentle tone of voice. "Yes. In the grand scheme of things. I can't imagine a happier childhood. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Even if this year has been a bit strenuous."
"You know." Hideo paused to clear his throat. "When we saw you earlier. We initially thought you looked remarkably like our son, but with your mother's cheekbones and jawline. But seeing you. Actually looking at you. You are your father's son through and through." And given that he glanced at Atsushi's dad. It was clear who he meant.
Atsushi felt his mood immediately lighten up with Hideo's statement. "I've been told that once or twice. And there is no one I would want to emulate more than my father. I was raised with kindness, patience, and compassion. I grew up knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that I'm loved and wanted."
He could see, out of the corner of his eye, his dad fighting a smile. Really, his dad should give himself more credit. Atsushi and his siblings all came into his care at the lowest points in their lives. And he helped mold them into better people.
Miyoko smiled a sad smile. "Can we at least give you our contact information? That way if you ever do decide you want to know more about your roots. We're able to help?"
Nodding, Atsushi wrote down his cell number on a sticky-note and handed it to the Nakajimas. He knew he didn't have to. But he wanted to. "If you need help. Give me a call. I am a rather competent detective. And while I don't know what the future holds in terms of our relationship. I don't bear any ill will towards either you. My very early childhood was difficult for all of us. The only people I harbor any hatred for are your son and his wife. But even then. I just pity them for needing to hurt a baby to feel better about themselves."
The Nakajimas looked stunned by his words. Miyoko took a card out of her purse. With an address, email, and two phone numbers. And as she handed it to Atsushi. She grasped his hand once more. "That is such a mature answer, sweetheart. I am proud of the man you've become. Even if my words don't mean much to you, since I am practically a stranger. But I am so proud. Your father did a wonderful job with you.”
“You'll be a fantastic detective, kiddo. I'm sure of it.” Hideo's tone was equally as proud as he stood up and helped Miyoko to her feet.
The door closed behind Hideo and Miyoko. And the second he could no longer hear them. Atsushi sighed deeply, exhaustedly, as his head fell into his hands. His elbows propped on his knees.
"Are you feeling alright, Atsushi?" His dad asked as he put a hand on Atsushi's back.
He took a second to respond, just trying to not get overwhelmed again. "Mhm. Just. Not exactly sure what to feel at the moment." A few more seconds of slow deep breathing passed before Atsushi felt okay enough to raise his head. "I am sorry for storming out earlier. I-"
He was stopped by his dad holding his free hand up. "You have nothing to apologize for. I can guarantee that if anyone else were in your shoes at that moment. They'd lose their composure as well."
"If you say so." Atsushi picked up the photo album that had been left on the arm of the couch earlier. "I doubt my bio mother's family would want to find me. And Hideo and Miyoko obviously have agreed to let me initiate any further contact. But anything I should know about my grandparents?"
His dad made a slightly flabbergasted face. "Atsushi, I haven't spoken to my parents in twenty-five years. I highly doubt you'll be forced to interact with them."
"Alright then. Just thought I'd ask." Flipping through the photo album. There were a few pictures of Atsushi, him being held by people who had to be his biological parents. They hadn't lied. He was quite the smiley baby.
But about halfway through the album. Something clearly changed after the dark streak in his hair grew in. The smiles seemed dimmer and dimmer until almost non existent. Atsushi slammed the album shut. Dread oozed out of the later photos and it made Atsushi want to burn the ones with his parents in them. Or at least cut them out of the pictures. “Say what you will about today, but now you have all of my baby photos, Tou-chan.”
~~~~~~~~~~
The sun was starting to set. And Atsushi was holding the photos in his hand. Seeing his biological mother and father's faces for the first time should've been this deeply emotional moment. But all he felt was apathy. They weren't his family. His entire family was in Yokohama.
In the light of the fire he and his dad had lit in the back yard. Atsushi could see Kyouka's worried expression. "Atsu-nii, are you okay?" She asked as she settled down next to him on a chair made for outdoor use.
Atsushi nodded. "I'm okay. Want to help me cut these photos up?" He held the chosen images up. Letting the light of the fire illuminate them.
Barely a second following the question, Kyouka had summoned Demon Snow "You just want your parents out of them?"
Atsushi hadn't even finished nodding before the Ability drew her blade and carefully sliced.
The pictures falling in two piles. The cut out images of his biological parents, and what remained.
Kyouka grabbed the pieces of images of Atsushi's parents and her face scrunched up in a mild disgust. "You don't look like them at all. You much more resemble Papa. I wouldn't even guess these two people were even distantly related to you."
Their dad, who had been relatively quiet this entire time, let out a quiet huff of laughter. "I'm sure your brother appreciates that, Kyouka."
"Of course I do!" Atsushi smiled brightly for the first time today. He wrapped his arms around his sister and pulled her close in a hug."And of course I resemble the person who raised me."
"Yes yes, Tiger boy. You're the apple of Dad's eye and his absolute favorite." A new, more sarcastic voice called out. Alerting them to his presence.
Atsushi turned and saw Ranpo dragging Akiko behind him, the former carrying bags of what had to be the ingredients for S'mores. Something Ranpo had been eager to show the rest of the family.
Ranpo dropped the bags onto Atsushi's head before ruffling Kyouka's hair. "Hey kiddo.”
“Nii-chan.” Kyouka blinked owlishly at him. “You're going to teach me to make a s'more. What's in it?”
Ranpo pointed at Atsushi. Prompting the weretiger to open the grocery bag. “Graham crackers, marshmallows, and... chocolate?” He looked at Ranpo incredulously.
From behind Atsushi, Akiko sighed dramatically. “Fine. I won't yell at you just this once. But no more chocolate for you after this, Tiger.”
“No fair, Ane-san!” Came Osamu's voice. The brunet must have just gotten here. “I offer him some chocolate and I'm almost shot. You throw scalpels at the Tanizakis for the same thing, but Ranpo gets off scot free!?” The eye patch clad man flopped into the chair on the other side of Kyouka. His bottom lip jutted out in a pout.
Kyouka smiled cutely. “That's because Ane-san won't bully Atsu-nii if he has an allergic reaction. Cause Ane-san is nice about it.”
Sitting in the chair on the other side of their dad, across from Atsushi. Ranpo pulled something else out of the bag Atsushi had been holding. “There are also metal sticks for roasting the marshmallows over the fire. Which is what you're supposed to do.”
“Sounds messy.” Kyouka said. Though she was still visibly intrigued.
Akiko sat down next to Ranpo. “It's apparently supposed to be. He subjected Kira and I to videos on how to make them.”
As Ranpo instructed them on proper s'mores technique- how difficult was it to roast a marshmallow?- Atsushi threw the pieces of photographs containing his bio parents into the flames. Watching his mother and father's faces curl up. Darkening around the edges before turning to ash.
A sense of peace fell over Atsushi while he put the remaining photos back in the album. Once that was done. Kyouka handed him a gooey melted confection that was lightly charred.
“It's pretty good. But I want to know your thoughts.”
Atsushi took a bite. And, considering that he hadn't had any appreciable amount of chocolate in a decade. He had to admit. It was worth the slightly itchy mouth. He gave a thumbs up at no one in particular as he wolfed the remaining s'more down. Immediately grabbing the supplies to make another.
Perhaps one day, he'll reach out to Hideo and Miyoko. Ask them about their son and daughter-in-law. But for now a door has closed that Atsushi hadn't even realized was open. Now his family felt complete. And that's all Atsushi needed.
Even if Akiko was not so subtly trying to take his second s'more out of his hand.