Chapter Text
The city was bustling with many tourists due to the Cherry Blossom Festival that was being held this week. Nekoma was one of the largest cities in the country that held the festival, attracting people from all over the world to view the blooming cherry blossoms.
More people, especially tourists, meant more things to steal. It was easier to steal from tourists since they were always distracted from sightseeing and they were careless about their belongings. With more foot traffic meant easier targets to pickpocket and for one to blend in with the crowd to not get caught.
The city’s guards, Vigilantes, were doubled on each street to watch the crowds. Their main concern at the moment was to make sure violence didn’t break out between natives and foreigners like the years prior. But regardless of how many Vigilantes were standing guard, fights always broke out.
Vigilantes were Nekoma’s guards; they would patrol the streets, arrest criminals, protect the citizens, and stand watch on huge events like the Cherry Blossom Festival. They would kill as well if the situation escalated to that point, but that has only ever happened a few times.
They were ranked between B, C, D, and E. Each Vigilante would be put on patrol and guard duty, but those roles mainly went to the D and E ranked guards. B and C ranked Vigilantes worked on the more exciting cases, like crime scenes, interrogations, investigations and such.
Being used to big crowds, Tsukishima swiftly strolled past tourists down Market Street, the most jam-packed vendor street. In honor of the festival, the tents for each vendors varied from coral, peach, salmon, and rose; with every other tent being striped in white and a type of pink.
Cherry blossom petals littered the tops of the tents and street.
Bypassing a family of six that appeared poor, Tsukishima’s sharp eyes searched amongst the crowd until he spotted his target, a middle-aged man wearing a lavish cashmere wool coat. He purposely side-stepped and bumped into the man.
“I’m so sorry, I wasn’t watching my step!” Tsukishima apologized, bowing.
The man brushed invisible lint from his shoulder. “It’s okay, accidents happen.” his accent sounded American.
When Tsukishima bowed he opened his eyes to look at the floor. “Oh, I think you dropped your wallet.” he bent down and picked it up, handing it to the man.
“Oh, why thank you! I would’ve been in big trouble if I lost this.” The man chuckled as he inserted his wallet back into his coat pocket.
“You’re welcome. Well, have a nice day.” Tsukishima smiled and continued on his way, making sure to hide within the crowd. Because of his height, he needed to hunch over to blend in.
Once he was five meters away, Tsukishima straightened, fingering the coins that were in a secret pocket inside his walnut colored vest. He pushed up his spectacles and smirked.
Like taking candy from a baby.
He glanced around Market Street, searching for more easy targets who were distracted by the vendors.
Children in dirt stained rags screeched as they ran by him, laughing in glee as another meager child chased them with a stick.
A few tourists eyed the children in disdain, clutching onto their coin pouches for dear life.
As Tsukishima ambled through Market Street, he surveyed his surroundings. Each street vendor kept boasting about their products; ranging from fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, meats, exotic animal meat, fish, sweets, jewelry, fabrics, footwear, trinkets, newspaper, books, perfumes, herbs, toys, and almost every other thing native to their country.
There was a fruit vendor two stations before the newspaper station Tsukishima was trying to get to. He tossed a coin at the short light brown haired vendor, which hit him on the forehead, and snatched an apple from one of the buckets.
He bit into the apple, juice running down his chin.
“Dammit, Tsukishima! Just hand it to me like a normal person!” the vendor yelled, massaging his forehead.
Tsukishima took another bite, unfazed by the short guy’s outburst and smiled. “This is a tasty apple, Yaku.”
“All my fruits are tasty, idiot.”
“Nah, they weren’t good last year.”
A tall white-haired man picked up Yaku before he could attack Tsukishima.
Yaku kicked at the air, face red and eyes blazing. “Put me down, Aone! That punk has it coming!”
Tsukishima chuckled to himself as he turned away. His eyes landed on a petite blonde in the next station-that sold sweets-as she handed a little boy a wrapped manjū. The young woman perked up when she saw him.
“Hey, Tsukishima! When did you guys get back?”
He leaned against the wooden post as he took more bites of his apple. “Hey, Yachi. And just last night. Where’s Tadashi?” he glanced around the area, searching for freckles and strands of hair sticking up.
“He had to use the restroom, but he should be back soon.”
Straight across on the other side of the street through the throngs of people, Tsukishima was able to spot his other friends that were also vendors. Matsukawa and Hanamaki’s herbs station was right across from Yachi and Yamaguchi’s station. On their right was the trinkets station whose vendors were Asahi and Goshiki. Both their stations were surrounded by tourists, and Yachi’s station was starting to get crowded as well as people were getting reeled in by the smell of sweets.
Tsukishima finished his apple, tossing the core into a trash bin behind Yachi. “I’ll wait for Tadashi over there.” he pointed at the newspaper station, pushing himself off the post.
She nodded in acknowledgement as she wrapped another manjū for a customer.
“Newspapers for sale! Read all about current events, especially on the Cherry Blossom Festival!” a small gingered young man shouted, waving around the newspaper in his hand and jumping high.
“Don’t scream or jump, Hinata, you’re chasing away all your customers.” Tsukishima teased.
Hinata scowled. “Back off, Tsukishima. Your giant body’s blocking the customers.”
“Then I’m doing them a favor.”
“Don’t start fighting.” Warned a soft, stern voice.
Tsukishima glanced behind Hinata as he recognized his boss’s boyfriend, Sugawara, organizing the stacks of newspaper on the counter. Before he can apologize, he hears a familiar voice.
“Tsukki, it’s been so long!” Yamaguchi cried, embracing Tsukishima in a tight hug.
Tsukishima smiled and gently pushed him away. “Don’t exaggerate, Tadashi. How’ve you been?”
Hinata returned to shouting and jumping about the newspapers for sale, scaring off a few tourists from his high jumps.
“I’ve been good. Tourists have been buying our sweets since the festival started yesterday.” Yamaguchi grinned proudly.
“I bet.”
“How was the…” Yamaguchi lowered his voice, “the job?”
Tsukishima pulled Yamaguchi inside the newspaper station, out of earshot from everyone except Suga. “It went very well.”
Tsukishima arrived back to Nekoma the night before. Daichi, the boss of the band of thieves known as Karasuno that Tsukishima was in, sent him and a few others on a job to another city for three weeks. A friend of Daichi needed help stealing a painting from some millionaire, so Tsukishima and others were sent to help.
It was tiresome traveling four hours to another city, especially with Tendou and Futakuchi tagging along. Tsukishima was grateful that Akaashi went too because if not he would’ve gone crazy.
Tendou wouldn’t stop singing and Futakuchi wouldn’t stop complaining.
Even though Tsukishima’s only been a member of Karasuno for two years, going out to do “jobs” was still fairly new to him. But Tsukishima was a great thief; he was tall, swift, stealthy, and fast, which is why Daichi recruited him.
After a year of knowing each other, Daichi offered Tsukishima to join Karasuno. Tsukishima knew a few of the members and knew they were thieves. At first, Tsukishima didn’t want to join. He wasn’t a thief (even if he had stolen before) but Daichi convinced him that if he joined, Tsukishima would no longer have to worry about going to sleep hungry. It took a while for him to contemplate the offer, but with no family, only Yamaguchi as his best friend, Tsukishima accepted to join.
There were currently ten total members in Karasuno with Daichi as the boss.
When Daichi was a child he lost his entire family to a house fire and was placed in a foster home. His foster parents, Ukai and Takeda, looked after five children, Daichi included, but they were poor, so food, water, medicine, and clothing were scarce. Daichi’s foster family lived in the impoverished side of the city, and regardless if his foster parents asked the mayor and city council members for help, their pleas were always ignored.
It was during the beginning of Daichi’s teenage years that he began to steal. And boy, was he great at it. His foster parents were appalled when Daichi began bringing home pouches filled with coins and jewelry, demanding that he return the items and money he stole. A dew days later, one of the younger orphaned child became gravely ill. Daichi gave the money he saved to his foster parents so that they may pay a doctor and buy medicine.
Soon, his foster parents became on board with Daichi’s thievery. The city wasn’t going to help them or anyone that was suffering, so they decided to take matters into their own hands. As time progressed, Daichi recruited two of his foster siblings, Kiyoko and Tanaka, and together they would steal from the rich—only the rich.
It took a while for Ukai and Takeda to save but eventually they were able to buy a bigger home. After Daichi turned eighteen, he moved out and bought his own spacious home. Kiyoko and Tanaka soon moved in with Daichi. By that time, they had recruited others and Daichi decided to name their group Karasuno. Once a person became a member they moved into the home Daichi owned.
It was easier to keep tabs on the members, talk about their plans, and each person that joined had to be someone who could be fully trusted and great at thievery. Daichi also liked to be cautious in case if the Vigilantes caught wind of one of them.
Tsukishima was the last person to join the group, his first year he wasn’t allowed to go on a job yet, so he just stole from people on the street until a year ago when Daichi started sending him out with the others. Usually their jobs consisted of going to someone’s house, either in Nekoma or another city, to steal something extremely valuable. A few times they’d be contacted by someone to steal something, like the job Tsukishima just came from. Sometimes they also stole from businesses but those were rare.
“What about the travel?” Yamaguchi asked.
“A pain in the ass.”
Yamaguchi laughed, hand over his mouth.
“So,” Tsukishima rested his hand on his waist, “anything new going on?”
“Well, I’m sure Daichi already told you about the new Captain that got transferred here about two weeks ago.”
“He did. How are things under his command?”
“To be honest, things have been a bit calmer ever since the new Captain arrived. From what I’ve heard, the Vigilantes seem to hold a high respect for him.”
“That’s what the boss said. Karasuno’s been lying low these last two weeks because of that.”
Yamaguchi worriedly gazed at Tsukishima. “Be careful, Tsukki. We don’t know much about how this new Captain works, so keep an eye out.”
“Don’t worry, Tadashi, I’ll be fine.”
Yachi was getting swamped with customers at the station, so Yamaguchi excused himself to help her out.
“Is it alright if I stick around?” Tsukishima asked Suga.
The gray-haired man was flattening the boxes that the newspapers get delivered in.
“Sure, but can you give Hinata a hand while I finish cleaning?”
Tsukishima didn’t want to work with the high on candy man, but he had nothing else to do so he nodded, grabbing a pack of newspapers and joining Hinata out in the front.
“Come get your newspapers! Extra, extra, read all about it!” Hinata yelled, bouncing high on his feet. He turned to Tsukishima, frown on his childlike face. “Come on, Tsukishima, you gotta yell too.”
“Tch, no I don’t.”
“If you wanna stick around then yell.” Suga implored from behind.
Tsukishima rolled his eyes, quickly giving in. There was no point in arguing with Suga—he always won. Rolling up the sleeves of his tunic, he raised his voice. “Newspapers for sale! Come get your newspaper to learn all about the Cherry Blossom Festival!”
Hinata cheered victoriously and joined Tsukishima in shouting.
This wasn’t the first time Tsukishima’s done this. He was a newspaper boy before he joined Karasuno two years ago. He used to work with Suga and Hinata, and even though he didn’t work at the newspaper station anymore, Tsukishima sometimes helped because he liked hanging out there.
Tsukishima was surprised when he found out his former boss—Suga—was dating Daichi, who’s Tsukishima’s current boss. To this day Tsukishima still views Suga as his boss, and not because he used to work for him, but because he’s Daichi’s boyfriend.
Oh, what a small world.
Market Street was busy with many tourists buying from the vendors, and a few Vigilantes strolled by to make sure everything was in order.
One of the Vigilantes, Kageyama, warned Hinata to stop jumping because it scared the tourists. Hinata merely glared at the Vigilante, who had almost an evil smirk on his face. Tsukishima swore to himself that Kageyama purposely liked to pick on Hinata. Maybe it was because the ginger was short.
After an hour of selling newspapers, Tsukishima noticed that the crowd parted to let someone pass through.
He recognized the Vigilantes right away in their black uniforms with white details. Even though one didn’t have his signature hairstyle, his bright eyes weren’t hard to miss. It also wasn’t easy to ignore the other guard who was one of the most beautiful people Tsukishima’s seen. The two Vigilantes were Bokuto and Oikawa, flanking a person Tsukishima’s never seen before. He easily guessed that the person was the new Captain. The Captain wore a black uniform that was similar to the Vigilantes, but his uniform had red details and he wore a few medals and had the golden three-star insignia on his right breast pocket.
Bokuto’s light gray and black hair was in a slick side parted style. He was a B ranked Vigilante so on his right breast pocket he wore the silver two-star insignia. Bokuto was raised on the impoverished side of the city as well and he became a Vigilante to take care of his family. Daichi was upset at first because one of his oldest friends was now someone who can arrest him, someone who knew about Karasuno. But Bokuto assured Daichi that he wasn’t going to rat him out since Daichi helped the less fortunate citizens with the money he’d make from selling the items he’d steal. Just to be safe, Bokuto would alert Akaashi, to then inform Daichi, of his work schedule and when he’s patrolling so that he doesn’t have to arrest anyone from Karasuno if they were to ever get caught.
Oikawa’s brown hair is styled the same as Bokuto’s and he too is a B ranked Vigilante and dons the two-star insignia. He was raised in the upscale side of Nekoma and followed his father’s footsteps by joining the Vigilantes. Oikawa didn’t care much about his position, he merely joined to get his father off his back. It’s something to do and even though he hates working, it pays well, and he’d rather have his own money than his father’s. His smug and flippant attitude rubbed people the wrong way, especially the poorer ones, and he enjoyed being an asshole about how much money he had. Although, he did get along with a few of the indigent citizens in the city, especially Matsukawa and Hanamaki.
The new Captain was much different than his predecessor, Nekomata, in many ways. He was young, about two years older than Tsukishima, messy black hair with a fringe covering some of the right side of his face. Tsukishima thought that he too should have his hair styled like his inferiors. He was all sharp angles, sly eyes and smile, wearing a fitted double-breasted blazer that had a mandarin collar, dress trousers, and plain toe shoes. Tsukishima could tell that underneath the uniform was a strong toned body.
If he was being honest with himself, the new Captain was ridiculously attractive.
Tsukishima caught Yamaguchi’s gaze, the latter nodding slightly as if to say, “Yeah, that’s him”.
Unfazed by the Vigilantes and Captain, the tourists would part to let them pass but then regroup to continue shopping. Of course, they didn’t care since this wasn’t their city.
It was surprising to see Bokuto and Oikawa act so professional, but Tsukishima assumed it was because of the new Captain. Normally Bokuto would be loud and talking to the vendors, trying to use his status as a Vigilante to get free things. Some would see it as an abuse of power for Bokuto doing that, but the loud man just wasn’t savvy enough. He simply just liked getting things for free. Oikawa would also talk to the few vendors that tolerated his snooty personality and a few of them would even flirt with him but not today.
They stared straight ahead with their backs rigid and arms straight on their sides. It was actually quite a sight to see, especially since it was those two. Although if Tsukishima was being honest, the most incompetent Vigilantes were Lev and Koganegawa. Still, he couldn’t wait to get home and tell Akaashi.
The Captain took a small sniff of the air, noticed the sweets station and turned to Yachi and Yamaguchi, his sly smirk forming into a gentle smile. But his eyes remained the same.
Out of all the stations, why did the Captain have to stop at the one with the most nervous vendors? Yachi and Yamaguchi were slightly shaking, and Tsukishima knew that inside they were both yelling “Why me?!”.
With the Captain’s focus on the sweets, Bokuto quickly smiled and waved at Tsukishima, earning a nod from the thief. Oikawa smacked Bokuto but hypocritically turned to also smile and wave at Matsukawa and Hanamaki.
The Captain marginally bent forward and placed his index finger on the corner of his mouth as he thought about which dessert he wanted.
“Hmm, given the time of year it is and what the city is celebrating, I’d like a sakura mochi, please.”
Tsukishima could hear the Captain’s voice from where he was standing. It was deep and smooth, a voice that could get whatever he wanted. A pleasant shiver ran down Tsukishima’s spine.
Yamaguchi gulped. “S-sure thing, Captain.”
“That’s Captain Kuroo to you, freckles.” Oikawa reprimanded.
The Captain straightened, folding his hands behind his back. “It’s no problem at all, Oikawa. As long as they address me with my correct title, then I have no problem.”
Jeez, conceited much? Tsukishima scowled internally.
Yachi nervously helped Yamaguchi wrap the sakura mochi in a sheer pink bag, being gentle as to not squish the rice cake as she tied the top and handed it to Kuroo. He grinned, showing teeth that reminded Tsukishima of a predator that cornered its prey. He tipped Yachi and Yamaguchi handsomely, both who claimed it was too much, but Kuroo insisted they keep it.
“Newspapers for sale, get your newspaper!” both Tsukishima and Hinata shouted as Kuroo and the Vigilantes turned to continue their stroll.
Involuntarily, Tsukishima’s golden eyes landed on Kuroo, who met his gaze. Tsukishima knew that he should avoid the Captain like the plague, especially because of what he does for a living. The Captain knowing who Tsukishima is can become a problem for Karasuno. Tsukishima doesn’t know what overcame him, but he felt like he needed to make his presence known to Kuroo.
“Hello, would you like to purchase a newspaper?” Tsukishima asked him, focus unwavering from Kuroo’s cat-like amber eyes. He noticed then that he was an inch taller.
Hinata uncharacteristically quieted down, asking tourists in a calm voice if they would like to buy a newspaper.
Tsukishima knew Hinata was straining to hear their conversation.
The Captain looked down to read the cover of the newspaper.
The bolded headline read: THE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL CONTINUES
Tsukishima carried on. “Everything you need to know about what’s going on in Nekoma City is in here.” He held up the periodical.
Kuroo’s feline gaze raked over Tsukishima’s body before snapping up to his face, lips curling into another predatory grin.
Damn, he’s hot.
“But of course. As the new Captain, I must know everything that goes on in my city to keep it safe from criminals.” His velvet voice is both cautious and tantalizing.
Tsukishima wondered how Kuroo’s moans sounded.
Instantly, he chided himself in his head, face turning the same color as the bag the sakura mochi is in. Where the fuck were all these thoughts coming from? He just barely met the Captain, which by the way Tsukishima shouldn’t have any contact with. He shouldn’t be thinking about Kuroo in that aspect at all.
“That’ll be two xens, please.” He handed Kuroo the newspaper, holding his palm face up.
Kuroo gave the newspaper to Bokuto as he dug inside his pocket to pull out his coin pouch. Without breaking eye contact with Tsukishima, Kuroo collected five xens. He smiled sweetly, but Tsukishima could feel it was fake.
Kuroo dropped each coin one by one into Tsukishima’s open palm.
“Here’s a little extra so that you can buy yourself something nice.” Kuroo taunted.
Bokuto’s right eye twitched and Oikawa pressed his lips tightly to not laugh.
Inside, Tsukishima was furious. He imagined punching the Captain, stealing all his coins and medals, and stomping on him for good measure. If only the Captain knew that Tsukishima didn’t need his charity. He calmed himself, he wasn’t about to give Kuroo that satisfaction.
So, he smiled and bowed. “Thank you, oh so gracious one for saving me today.” He preached sarcastically.
Bokuto couldn’t help it, he let out a snort. Oikawa tensed his entire body to not slip up like the other Vigilante.
Hinata began stuttering. “News-newspapers for s-sale…”
When Tsukishima straightened, he expected Kuroo to have a fuming expression. Nekomata hated smart mouths. He especially hated Tsukishima for all his snarky remarks.
However, instead of a snarl on Kuroo’s features, the Captain’s eyes softened ever so slightly as he chuckled.
“My, my, I see we have a porky mouth.” He claimed.
Tsukishima frowned. Porky?
Bokuto, Oikawa, and Hinata all visibly relaxed.
“Well, thank you mister…”
“Newspaper boy.”
No way in hell was Tsukishima going to give the Captain his name.
Kuroo raised a brow, confused, before getting the hint. He smirked. “Alright, I’ll just call you Porky then.”
That caused Hinata to burst into laughter.
Tsukishima glared at Kuroo as he began to walk away, Bokuto and Oikawa flanking him. As the crowd gathered again after breaking apart to let them pass through, the Captain and Vigilantes disappeared.
“That was too close. Why’d you have to go and open your big mouth?” Suga chastised Tsukishima as he leaned over the wooden counter.
The latter turned around, eyebrows furrowed. “His face irritated me.”
Suga sighed. “Still, you shouldn’t become familiar to the new Captain. We don’t know what he’s like. Things were easier with Nekomata because he could be bribed. By the looks of it, this Captain takes his job seriously and will throw all of us in jail,” he snapped his fingers, “just like that. Market Street will be shut down.”
A few years ago, Ukai and Takeda purchased the land that Market Street is on. Wanting to give to the community to improve it, Ukai and Takeda only charged the residents a small fee for rent so that the merchants can sell their products and have money for their families. With the rent money, Ukai and Takeda would include it to their funds that went towards improving hospitals, schools, and homes.
So, it was important that Ukai and Takeda not get arrested because then many families would be affected.
“I’m sorry.” Tsukishima bowed. He couldn’t allow to screw up, especially since Karasuno is now his family.
“Just stay clear of the Captain and other Vigilantes, alright?”
“Yes, sir.”
“You don’t have to be so formal.”
The delicious aroma of curry wafted through Tsukishima’s nose as he played Go Fish with Akaashi and Kenma on the floor in the living room. Instead of occupying one of the three gray arm sofas, the thieves opted to use cushions to sit on the hardwood floor around the coffee table.
He closed his eyes and sniffed the air, mouth watering as he couldn’t wait for the food. Nishinoya and Terushima were in charge of cooking in the house, and they were the best damn cooks. Their food was the only food Tsukishima would eat entirely, the rarest of times he’d even ask for seconds. When it came to others’ cooking, Tsukishima would only partially eat their food.
Akaashi’s melodic giggle brought Tsukishima out of his daze. Akaashi held the cards against his face to hide his mouth.
“I wish I was there. That must have been a sight, to see Kou like that.”
Kenma wiggled his toes as he asked Tsukishima if he had any fives. “I didn’t think Bokuto was capable of acting mature.”
“He can be when he has to.” Akaashi stated, asking Kenma if he had any fours.
“Alright you beasts, foods ready!” Terushima yelled from the kitchen.
Tanaka and Tendou came running down the stairs, drool dripping from their mouths as they ran into the dining room.
Kiyoko emerged from the office to the right of the living room, scrunching up her nose slightly in disgust. “Don’t drool all over the floor, we just got it waxed.”
Tanaka and Tendou were already sitting when Tsukishima entered the dining room.
Like the rest of the seven-bedroom home, the walls were cream with white high ceilings and gray trims. There were wooden beams in the living and dining rooms, gray shag rugs were placed in the foyer, living room, and hallway upstairs. As well as having roman blinds, goblet curtains also decorated the windows for extra coverage. Besides the sofas and coffee table, the only other furniture in the living room was a wide five shelf bookcase, and two side tables with silver candlesticks.
Daichi liked the house to be plain but allowed his cohorts to decorate their bedrooms however they wished, except for painting the walls.
Akaashi and Kiyoko offered to set the table while everyone else took a seat. Daichi entered last, taking a seat at the head of the table and offering everyone a smile.
“You’ve been holed up all day in the office, boss. Everything okay?” Tanaka asked.
Daichi rolled his neck, relieving the tension he felt. “Yeah, apparently the Kobayashi’s are going to be out of town tomorrow night. Mrs. Kobayashi’s mother became ill, so the family’s leaving first thing tomorrow morning.”
Everyone was seated by then. Kiyoko took the other end of the table, Tsukishima, Akaashi, Kenma, and Futakuchi sat on one side while Tanaka, Nishinoya, Tendou, and Terushima sat across.
They were all staring at Daichi, eyes beginning to sparkle with excitement.
Daichi put his hands together, closing his eyes. Everyone followed suit, bowing and simultaneously voicing their gratitude.
As everyone began to eat, Daichi continued to speak after chewing.
“As we already know, the Kobayashi’s are a wealthy family. One of the wealthiest in Nekoma.”
Futakuchi asked the question everyone was already thinking about. “Which valuable item will we be taking?”
It was quiet for a few moments as Daichi finished chewing.
Nonchalantly, he answered, “Their medieval Broadsword.”
Tendou squealed, dark red eyes widening. “That’s easily worth 200,000 xens!”
“Whoa, we haven’t stolen anything that expensive here in Nekoma in some time.” Kiyoko claimed.
“Yeah, boss, do you think it’s a good idea to go after something that valuable with the new Captain?” Terushima questioned.
Daichi shrugged. “Honestly, it’s risky. Yet, everything we do is risky. The Kobayashi’s hardly ever leave their home, if they do it’s only for one night and we’ve never broken in because the family can arrive home any moment. However, they’ll be gone for a couple of days this time, and we should take advantage of that.”
“I agree,” Kenma started, “they’re a boring family that enjoy staying home. They don’t care much about vacations and such, they would rather sit on their wealth than spend any of it. Who knows when we’ll get an opportunity like this.” He took a sip of water. “Regarding the new Captain, we’ll just be extra careful and have two people tail him and report to the others his whereabouts.”
Daichi smirked. “Exactly right, Kenma.”
“Even though we just got back last night, can we still volunteer to join this mission?” Futakuchi asked.
“Hey, you guys already did a job, it’s our turn!” Tanaka growled.
“Tanaka’s right. Although,” Daichi glanced at Tsukishima, “to be safe, we need a shadow on this mission, both to dig up details and to join on the robbery.”
Tsukishima sat up straighter. “What do I have to dig up?”
“I need to know exactly where the sword is kept. A floor plan of the home would be helpful too for exit plans. Also, what day the Kobayashi’s are returning, if there’s any alarms or traps that we can avoid, and if they have guards.”
“Alright. By when would you like all this information?”
Daichi tilted his head. “You think you can report to me by tomorrow night?”
“Tch, I’m not some amateur.”
That made Daichi grin. “Great.”
“Who else will you be sending?” Nishinoya asked.
“You, Tsukishima, Tanaka, and Terushima. Kenma and Kiyoko will follow the Captain. The rest of us will be around the block watching the Vigilantes.” Daichi turned to look at Akaashi. “Do you know which days Bokuto isn’t working?”
Akaashi wiped his mouth with a napkin. “He’s off the day after tomorrow.”
“Good, we’ll move then.”
Tsukishima took one last look at himself in the mirror before throwing a dark hood over his head. He wore a vest over his black long sleeve tunic so that his forearm coverings blended in. His breeches were dark as well and he wore knee-high boots.
“Be careful.” Akaashi murmured and Kenma gave a small wave from his bed as Tsukishima opened their bedroom window.
Once he stabled himself on the ledge, Tsukishima effortlessly climbed up the wall, reaching the roof in a matter of seconds. Since their bedroom was on the second floor, it was just easier for Tsukishima to exit through the window rather than the front door.
Night had already fallen, and Tsukishima himself became the darkness.
His golden eyes gazed at the city surrounding him. The area where he lived was dimly lit, but the center of the city that was north of him was bright. It annoyed him that the Kobayashi’s lived in the most populated part of the city. He simply hated all the rich snobs that lived there.
After waiting a moment to adjust to the darkness, Tsukishima gracefully ran and jumped onto the roof of the next house. It was a bonus that the homes here were so close to each other.
Without breaking a sweat, Tsukishima jumped from roof to roof as he headed toward the bright lights. Every so often he’d glance down mid jump to check if anyone’s noticed him. So far, in the midst of the night he saw people doing drugs, drinking, playing card games, having sex, and gossiping. No one paid him any attention.
When he was about twenty feet away from entering the center of the city, Tsukishima climbed down the wall of a small house and hid in the shadows as he drifted closer.
Daichi informed him that Mr. Kobayashi has recently been visiting the Nohebi bar, no doubt to meet up with his paramour and to drink to his heart’s content.
Tsukishima used to frequent the bar before joining Karasuno. He’s gone back a few times when he felt like blowing off some steam. Now that he thought about it, it’s been some time since he’s seen Suna, one of waiters at the bar. Once he gathered all the intel he needed, Tsukishima decided that he should seek out the waiter for a quick romp.
It’s been awhile.
The neon green sign NOHEBI with a snake coiled around the name came into view. Tsukishima pushed through the double doors, instantly inhaling cigarette smoke and beer.
He almost gagged.
The bar was dim, green lights illuminating a few areas, but Tsukishima could still see clearly.
The owner of the bar, Daishou, was about to step into a back room with his girlfriend Mika before he spotted Tsukishima. Daishou stopped momentarily, snake eyes quickly glancing at a table in the back corner. Tsukishima nodded his thanks as Daishou and Mika disappeared into the back room.
Tsukishima glided around the occupied tables to take a seat behind the already drunk men. They didn’t notice him, too busy spewing out demeaning comments about their wives.
It was the silver haired heavy-set man’s turn to complain. Tsukishima focused all his attention on him.
“I hate that witch’s mother. A real old bitch-” hiccup “is what that woman is.” Mr. Kobayashi slurred.
His friends laughed, a few agreeing that they knew what it was like.
Mr. Kobayashi took another gulp of his beer. “Now that the old bitch is-is dying, the whore wants to go see her! Pfft, suddenly she lo-loves her mother now.”
What a pathetic man.
A sea breeze cocktail was placed in front of Tsukishima. His eyes flickered up to see Suna giving him half a smile. The waiter merely winked before heading to another table to serve.
Even though the bar was busy, the few waiters and bartender managed to keep up.
Tsukishima took a sip of the fruity cocktail as he continued to eavesdrop on Mr. Kobayashi and his friends.
After two hours of listening in on them, Tsukishima deduced three things: when the Kobayashi’s will return, where the floor plans are located, and that Vigilantes will be guarding the home.
That was all Tsukishima needed from them. He assumed that the floor plans will be in Mr. Kobayashi’s office since the man vented that’s where he spends most of his time to be away from his family. And with the floor plans he should also be able to learn about if there’s any alarms or traps as well as the sword’s location.
Tsukishima stood, deciding now would be a good time as any to sneak into Mr. Kobayashi’s office since the drunk man’s mistress finally arrived.
The double doors opened, and Tsukishima cursed.
Kuroo entered the bar, along with two different Vigilantes, Yukie and Ushijima.
Tsukishima pressed himself against the wall, hiding in the shadows. Out of all the damn bars Kuroo could have waltzed into, it had to be the one Tsukishima was at.
The Captain surveyed the bar once, amber eyes not catching Tsukishima’s hidden figure, before settling on four men sitting at one of the tables in the middle of the bar.
“Kindaichi Yuutarou, Kunimi Akira, Yahaba Shigeru, and Watari Shinji?” Kuroo asked in a low voice.
They nervously glanced at each other and then at the double doors.
“Y-yes?” Kindaichi answered.
“You four are under arrest for trafficking and distributing illegal substances. Now, please stand and don’t resist arrest.”
Kunimi grabbed his glass of beer and threw it at Kuroo before jumping out of his chair, dagger at the ready. The other three followed suit, all pulling out daggers or blades and standing beside Kunimi.
Both Yukie and Ushijima instantly retrieved their pistols, pointing them at the four men.
Kuroo had managed to smack the glass off to the side but beer still got on his uniform. He sighed heavily.
“This is a brand new uniform and now you’ve ruined it.” He snarled, eyes seeming to glow under the green lights.
Tsukishima almost gasped. Kuroo appeared like a feral black leopard, ready to tear apart his prey.
The bar had gone quiet as everyone watched with wide eyes. Daishou emerged from the back room, hair and clothes disheveled.
“What is the meaning of this?” he hissed.
“We came to arrest these men and this one,” Kuroo pointed at Kunimi, “attacked me.”
Daishou glared at them. “Just go, you imbeciles. Putting up a fight will only cause you more trouble.”
Kindaichi ignored him as he charged at Kuroo.
“Make sure his comrades don’t escape and get everyone out.” Kuroo commanded.
Yukie and Ushijima obeyed, the former rushing to the other three criminals while the latter ordered everyone else to evacuate.
Shit, I need to go.
Tsukishima was glad he knew where the hidden back door was because the entrance was crowded as everyone tried to exit simultaneously.
“Don’t push or shove, calmly exit.” Ushijima growled.
Yukie shot Watari, grazing the man on his leg. He turned a table to hide behind it while Yahaba and Kunimi hid behind the counter bar.
When Kindaichi was about to strike, Kuroo quickly deflected the dagger with his katana, knocking the weapon out of Kindaichi’s grip. However, he pulled out another dagger from his back.
Daishou, Suna, and the rest of the workers were already out of sight, no doubt escaping through the back room at the very moment Kindaichi charged.
Tsukishima hid as he kept his eyes on the fight before him as he maneuvered down the uneven wooden wall, hands searching for the hidden lever.
A blade had pierced the leg of one of the customers and Ushijima was tending to the wound, Yukie turned a table to hide behind as she called for backup in her two-way radio as Kunimi and Yahaba continued to throw their daggers, blades, and anything else they could get their hands on. Kindaichi was surprisingly keeping up with Kuroo, but Tsukishima could see that the Captain was merely toying with him.
Tsukishima’s hand found the lever. He turned it and could feel a draft.
The injured Watari propped himself up on one of the tables, gray eyes focused on Kuroo’s back. The Captain swatted the dagger out of Kindaichi’s hand then knocked him out with the hilt of his katana, back still turned.
Captain, turn around.
Watari threw his dagger at Kuroo, the accuracy of his throw even in an injured state was alarming.
Finally, Kuroo whirled, but he lifted his katana too soon to block the attack. His eyes widened. He doesn’t make mistakes like this.
Right before he’s impaled, a shuriken from his left hits the dagger, sticking it to the wall.
Kuroo can hear Watari curse, but he turned his attention to the wall on his left.
There’s no one there.
Backup Vigilantes finally arrived, outnumbering the three conscious criminals.
Kuroo sheathed his katana as Kageyama, Lev, Shirabu, and other Vigilantes arrested the men.
He remembered seeing the bar owner and his few staff members leave through the back room that’s beside the counter bar. Ushijima made sure all the customers were being rushed out of the bar, even though unfortunately one of them got injured in the process.
The other people that were left was himself, Yukie, and the four men. But where did the shuriken come from? The only possible answer was that someone else was in the bar, someone that was expertly hiding and watching from the shadows.
Kuroo recalled when he first met Shirabu, the Vigilante whose ambition was to move up the ladder. He remembered Shirabu informing him about criminals they haven’t caught yet because they don’t know who they are. These criminals were experts in their field, they knew when to strike, how to hide their tracks, hide their identities. Many valuable possessions have been stolen over the years and no one has ever caught or even seen these thieves. One thing they do know is that it’s a group of them because no way in hell can it be one person committing those crimes.
However, there were rumors of some of these thieves and what people called them. Shirabu stated that one of them was called the Shadow because even though you couldn’t see them, they were always there, lurking.
Kuroo took one last glance at the wall where the shuriken came from.
Could it be possible that the Shadow was here? If so, for what reason?