Therapy Playlist (Ikuzo, Temera!) Ryomen Sukuna x Fem!Reader

6: Machiavellianism

A clandestine meeting was underway in the heart of Roppongi, concealed within the sleek, minimalist, Japanese interior of "Hikari no Hana," a high-end sushi restaurant. The private room was shrouded in an air of exclusivity. Even though the interior was styled traditionally, the wall was improved with concrete, layered with plaster wood and adorned with exquisite ukiyo-e art.

The delicate aroma of freshly prepared sushi lingered in the air. Unlike transparent shoji doors, the opaque surface of the fusuma provided a non-see-through space in the room. A low and long coffee table, elaborately set with a spectrum of culinary masterpieces-toro, uni, artistic sashimi platter, and the finest sake-lay before the attendees who sat seiza style on the zabuton lay on the tatami floor, each bite a testament to opulence.

Seated around the table were Japan's most influential figures. At the head away from the door, the prospective Prime Minister, Matsuda Arashi, dressed in a fine black suit with a golden tie. To his right was the venerable Supreme Court Chief Justice, Takamura Emi, whose discerning eyes missed nothing. Beside her sat key ministers: Nakamura Daichi of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; Watanabe Kiyoshi of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare; and Kuroda Masato of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Each person wore an expression of inscrutable intent.

Presiding over this assembly, across the table, was Torashi Ishida, one of Japan's richest international businessmen, his demeanour a blend of old reverence and quiet menace. His legal confidant, a prestigious lawyer, was flanking him, a figure enshrouded in a perpetual air of calculated composure.

Ishida lifted his teacup to his mouth after giving a welcoming speech, "Ladies and gentlemen, I trust you find the fare to your liking."

Matsuda nodded, setting down his chopsticks with a precision that mirrored his political manoeuvres. "Indeed. The proposal you've laid before us is interesting."

"Interesting," echoed Takamura, her tone neutral, "yet fraught with complexities. The establishment of a recreational venue on such a scale demands meticulous scrutiny."

Ishida's eyes glinted with an unspoken promise. "True, Takamura-sama. However, consider the ancillary benefits. The influx of international capital and the opportunities for economic stimulation."

Nakamura interjected, his voice a measured cadence, "The infrastructure implications alone warrant a comprehensive evaluation. Such a venture must be seamlessly integrated into our suburban fabric. Be mindful of the location, considering where you plan to build it upon."

Watanabe, ever the pragmatist, chimed in, "And the workforce? Near the local community?"

"Rest assured, gentlemen, all necessary precautions will be taken. We endeavour to ensure that this project enhances the nation's prestige, bringing prosperity to all involved." Ishida's lawyer said.

Kuroda, whose interests lay in the nation's economic vitality, posed a pointed question, "And the source of your initial capital, Director Ishida? I assume that's why you dare to call us here." His voice had a bitter undertone.

A shadow of a smile crossed Ishida's face. "Our investments are diverse and robust. The provenance of our capital is above reproach. Diversification, after all, is the bedrock of sustained growth. And after last time, I think it would garner goodwill and raise morale. With your collaboration too, we plan to add a comprehensive development plan such as funding local infrastructure, parks, and housing."

Unbeknownst to them, hidden behind the concrete walls that separate another private room adorned with delicate cherry blossom motifs, Detective Shiu Kong and his lieutenant who recently returned, Fushiguro Toji, listened intently through a covert listening device, their presence a silent spectre.