Unryu x ReaderYou hadn’t planned on taking a job at the Tsukuba Research Facility really, but right now, you were tight on funds.

You weren’t exactly qualified for the research, but a night shift spot was open for the front desk. You were hired right away but forced to sign a nondisclosure agreement. The receptionist normally there during the daytime wished you good luck and that you would need it.

You soon realized why, as it turned out, the facility had ties to criminal activity. Masked goons responsible for frequent kidnappings would barge in and out of the building with their victims.

Witnessing this, you decide to…

- Go to the VIP room to ask your supervisor about it.
- Sneak off and wander through the facility while no one is looking.
> Don’t do anything.

You decide to not break NDA or abandon your post. Best to stay there and just let it happen for now. Maybe this will all blow over in a couple of weeks.

And so, the time passes.

“Keruru…”

You were almost nodding off until you heard someone speaking. The sound of birds chirping also grab your attention, but you don’t see anyone in front of you.

You look down—

Oh.

He was so short that you couldn’t even see him past the front desk.

“Hello sir,” you start, “can I help you”

Judging by his robes and accessories, this man was definitely religious. Some deviation of Buddhism You did hear about a strange temple that worshipped a deity nearby in town. What would a priest be doing in a research facility though

“You shouldn’t be up at this hour,” he says. “What are you doing here”

“I uh, work the night shift.” You respond.

“You look exhausted.” He points out. “It’s not healthy to be awake, at least not without something to keep you active at your job. Your body needs energy.”

Why was this guy trying to lecture you

“Who are you, and why are you visiting Tsukuba” You demand to know. “Are you one of the VIP individuals that meet up with the supervisors”

“Yes”

Wait, he was Oops. Well, it was your first night, so the mistake was easy to make. It wasn’t like your supervisors told you that a priest was going to be visiting. “Apologies, I’m new here and a bit tense at the moment. Was there something you seriously needed” Surely he didn’t simply want small talk.

“I am Unryu, priest of the Nippori Temple,” he introduces himself properly. “I cooperate with the supervisors in Tsukuba. However, if something ails someone working here, then by all means one should confess rather than continue carrying a burden.”

“Confess I’m under a nondisclosure agreement.”

“Since I work closely with the supervisors, it is fine for me to know anything. I am obligated to never share confessions that are made unless the sin is so grievous.” He offers his hand, covered with a glove designed after bird talons. “You deserve a break. It will be on me. The first evening of adjustment is always difficult and requires guidance.”

Well, your back was getting a little sore from sitting here for a few hours. Might as well take him up on his offer, stretch, and grab some refreshments.

___________________

It turns out, the priest is extremely fond of birds. He doesn’t just surround himself and dress up like one for religious purposes, he brings you to a café where the two of you can watch the enclosed birds. Although, at this hour, most of them were asleep.

The best part is that no one else seems to be there late at night, and Unryu is able to ask the employees to give him peace, so you didn’t have to worry about the NDA issue or information getting leaked.

“I saw those guys in helmets coming in earlier this evening,” you explain to him, sitting across from the priest. “I had heard about recent kidnappings. Is the facility connected to it And you, for that matter, are you involved in some way”

You tense up as he ceases drinking his tea.

“Ah, that is what you witnessed. I did suggest to the General and the doctor that the Crusaders should take another entrance into the building. Apparently, the front door is just faster.” Unryu sighs. “I am sorry you had to see that. Indeed, the three of us are involved a plan that will save the world.”

Save the world

“If two thousand human souls are given to the Great Inko Buddha, then he will bring salvation to mankind. There will be no more hatred or strife, once every man and woman melt as one.” He glances at his cup when emphasizing the ‘melting’ part. “They will be thankful, free from the pain of this world, and absolved of their sins.”

“But that’s horrible” You object, just quietly enough to not start a scene.

“Horrible The filth needs to be purged.”

“But isn’t there also plenty good in this world” You ask. “What about all the people that have families Or those who take care of children Those who love animals All the doctors that like to take care of the sick Do they not matter”

…

“I agree,” Unryu concedes. “There is much good, but not enough to unify us as one in harmony. They all absolutely matter, which is why I prefer to target sinners who are beyond redemption. Those who confess to me but refuse to repent, thinking they’ll be forgiven without ever changing themselves.”

You don’t fully understand.

“Tell me, an abuser confesses his crime, but you have sworn an oath not to bring his crime public to justice… what is your next best option if he continues hurting people”

Ah, the old ‘police can’t help’ thing. You understood that at least.

“Well, I would take matters into my own hands or ask for help.”

Unryu smiles. “You have a good soul, I can tell,” he says. “If the ones being sacrificed were nothing but harmful to this world, then they should put their lives to better use.”

So he’s playing the role of a judge…

“If it really bothers you, I apologize,” Unryu averts his eyes. “You are permitted to abandon your new job if this is too much. I will understand and get your supervisors to excuse you, so long as you do not release our plan information. I am not saying this as a threat, but rather, as a warning. The military keeps everyone’s information.”

“I can’t quit if I wanted to,” you groan, “my budget’s too tight at the moment Otherwise, I would fly out of here to the next town” If you had the courage, you would fight to stop this plan.

“I see, once again, I am sorry.” Unryu ponders. “I wish I could do more, but alas, I am better with birds than I am with people. Perhaps I could try to get you a raise in payment.”

“A raise It’s only my first night and I ran off to hang out with you at this café”

“Yes, that’s true,” Unryu smiles. “I have my ways though, and you’re interesting to talk to. I look forward to having more chats with you if you stay in Tsukuba, really, even though I am certain you do not wish to stay.”

Well, even if the priest was an oddball, he wasn’t unpleasant in the slightest. In fact, he's the most entertainment you had gotten from the job, even with the disturbing revelation.

“As long as it’s alright for you, budgie boy.”

… huh He seems to be blushing after you said that. That’s oddly cute given his short stature and masked appearance.

Maybe this job wouldn’t be so bad after all What’re a few shitty humans if it means seeing this guy turn bright red