having mindless wolves and dogs, killers that kill like it was breathing. Sheeps on the mafia... are... a huge... risk" he said cautiously.

Akutagawa was a dog, a wolf. 

Predictable as anything and under Dazai's control.

But... the sheep... that was another story.

Drinking the rest of the alcohol Dazai sighed.

"Until some time ago, I had never thought about the possibility of exchanging sheep and wolves. Someone who had as much irrationality as rationality." Dazai was silent for a few seconds, then he continued, "And to tell you the truth

, this type of person is... fascinating and a true anomaly in nature and the food chain."

Dazai rested his forearms on the counter with a sigh, the music already lowered.

"What they have in predictability, they have in unpredictability. It is impossible to know what is going on

someone's head, who is an anomaly to nature." then he stopped "Someone who can be both the cause of violence and the pacifist. It's incredibly confusing the way these types of people act. There is no logic whatsoever in what they do."

In reality they are not even aware of their

your own intelligence.

"Ah, a sheep who kills is most likely a wolf. But who can tell? Sheep are such...  quiet creatures, sweet and loyal to their shepherd... would anyone ever tell them they were actually a wolf?"

No, of course not. 

"Besides not having any way to prove it,

No one will ever call them carnivores, when in reality... they only eat grass? They are herbivores, aren't they? A sheep that eats meat is... strange."

Again, a silent pause.

"So, tell Odasaku... who would want such creatures? Anomalies of nature. They eat both grass and meat

, according to the situation. But because they are supposedly tame animals like sheep, we will never know what they want. " then looking with some intensity at Oda, Dazai said "Even if you try to offer them meat they will opt for grass." he smiled "And why? First it is easier to

to obtain, without having to hunt like carnivores, because sheep eat and want meat. Secondly, being sheep superficially, they should choose what is right and not what their stomach wants."

A somewhat indecipherable smile appeared on Dazai's lips. 

"Interesting, isn't it?"

he sighed "A sheep changes its existence according to the circumstance, sacrificing a piece of meat for dry grass... which does not taste as good to them as meat would taste to them, but! " Dazai leaned back a little, thoughtful " Being silent animals, no one will ever notice

that their stomachs growl with hunger for meat. Why?" The boy smiled emotionlessly "Because they don't speak, they remain silent and the silence... is something almost terrifying."

In silence there is room for everything, good and bad. 
It is in silence that uncertainties arise.

Dazai sighed with a smile.

"I already told you about my partner, didn't I?"

Oda just looked at him in response. 

"Well, he's the perfect example of a sheep. The most terrifying type of sheep. The flexible one."

Nakahara Chuuya it was a dog, Dazai had jokingly called him,

except... he wasn't.

If Chuuya had been the dog Dazai had called him...

He would never have given in to the pleas of his former organization.
He would never have accepted with some hesitation and bitterness his brother's declarations.

He would have given in to Dazai's orders

But he had done none of that.

Chuuya was unique and therefore an anomaly in the framework of the functioning of the world that Dazai had observed.

Despite having been a raw meat eater, Chuuya did not fit into this metaphor. 

And now, Dazai saw this.

"He's unique." finally he

said "I will never understand what he does and what he doesn't do"

Call Dazai smart, but when it came to Nakahara Chuuya the boy refused to enter into that aura of strangeness and mystery. 
In fact, it scared him. 

Chuuya seemed to have the ability and power to control him.

And he didn't even need to do much, Dazai would willingly trust his judgment.

Something new and.... strange.

"Where does he fit then? The good side? The ones who don't eat meat? Or the herbivores?" Dazai paused for what seemed like a thoughtful moment, then said

"Neither. No place can ever be this... flexible it would have been impossible to archive the temporary balance." he lowered his head, closing his eyes, sighing "So... then what? Then, I let him choose."

In the world, flexibility of Nakahara Chuuya's existence was actually

*in the end

a threat.

"Confusing as he is and I know I will never understand him completely... I let him choose." he laughed a bit "Risky right? Trusting a two-faced person is indeed a risky move."

But in truth, Dazai really had no place to tell him anything.

He, himself was

not exactly the most trustworthy person in the world.

If Chuuya trusted Dazai it meant he had to choice.

"Then," Oda's voice called him back "You think it's more safe chosing a wolf than a sheep, but you choose the sheep"

Dazai didn't respond, looking ahead without speaking.

"That's right. Am I reckless?" he looked over his friend.

After looking at him for seconds, Oda just sighed.

"You know the best for you Dazai." then he asked "Is the trouble worth it?"

Dazai blinked confusingly.

"I suppose. Chuuya is loud and annoying but, he is not boring"

It was definitely worth it.

But between the silent and quiet sheep Chuuya and the dog/wolf Chuuya, Dazai would rather deal with Chuuya's loud growling and barking than his silence. 

Because in the silence, there was nothing to see.

Chuuya was a shadow.

"I don't mind the noise Chuuya makes no matter how annoying it is." Dazai admitted, his hand on his now empty glass. "I always prefer the dog to the sneaky sheep. It's easier to know what a dog wants and it becomes boring" he sighed "But... that's why I make sure Chuuya is always

annoyed and alive with me. I hate when he is silent." he paused "I saw it twice." he paused again "I don't wish to see it ever again."

After all, as intelligent and flexible he was, everybody has their limitations.

"But, his problem is... his emotions. They are his worst enemy.

" Dazai said "When Chuuya doesn't show any emotion, it makes me really scared. It means... he, is going to eventually, explode...."

Like a bomb.

Boom.

The background of Chuuya's necklaces.

A 🧵 fic

Chuuya had joined the Mafia, like Dazai planned, but unfortunately he was taken under Kouyou's wig.

That was not something he had predicted.

And because of it, Dazai had complained about it with Mori.

However it hadn't been very useful, since Chuuya was still under

Kouyou's care.

Yes it was a bit disappointing, but it also was something that Dazai was able to ignore, since he had been put in charge of the Mafia men.

His time was spent in annoying missions and dealing with even more annoying individuals.

And to make matters worse, during

this period, Dazai didn't see Chuuya.

His hands were starting to get stained by human blood and, unwarily, his heart darkened over time....

Those were the rumors that circulated around the Mafia.

He wasn't worried nor aware if Chuuya had listened to them. 

After all those

stormy and wild eyes held secrets behind the wide fog that covered them.

Maybe that was the reason Dazai could sympathize and - somehow - respect the boy.

Across those eyes, the human decline was written.

It was fascinating and it had some kind of beauty that Dazai could

appreciate.

It was different from the kind of beauty Dazai found when he saw - with luxury - dead and bloodied bodies.

Chuuya was the personification of something that wanted to keep.

He made his choice when he talked with Rimbaud that day.

He was going to keep it.

So, with these thoughts Dazai walked across the Mafia hall.

Dark and heavy steps filled the environment as the opposition entered the hall - light and elegant steps.

Dazai's eye hoovered to the ground. Shiny and smooth, with a similar aspect to a glassy surface.

He was obviously lost in thoughts, so he didn't notice the two people who silently started to walk towards him.

The coat he was wearing floated behind him, even though he was walking slowly.

For some reason, he lifted his head and that's when his eye widened, more lively than

when he shot corpses and a smile creeped his lips.

Just like that, Dazai Osamu was no longer the terror of the Mafia - he was just a child.

Chuuya Nakahara and his mentor were walking towards him.

Dazai's smile was genuine and he quickly ran towards the pair, making

Chuuya's perfect posture fail.

He only smiled in response as he saw his "friend"'s eyes fluttering shut, as he seemed to struggle with his emotions.

That didn't seem to affect the least Dazai.

He already had his purpose in mind.

"Chuuuuya!" he sang, like the boy's name

was a melody. The only answer he got was the woman's soft sigh.

How disappointing, he thought as he pressed his lips together.

Kouyou's hand was resting on her pupil's left shoulder, her fingers curved over the surface almost in a protective way.

Silent filled the air.

Dazai let out an exaggerated loud sigh as he closed his eye. 

"What do you want... shitt-" Chuuya shuddered as the woman pressed her fingers into his shoulder "...Dazai..."

Seeing this, with his curious and interested eye, Dazai laughed a bit.

"Nothing!" Kouyou frowned in

pure disbelief and Chuuya looked at him "I was just walking down the hall aaaand... I saw my... dog!"

At that Chuuya couldn't keep quiet and the woman retracted her thin arm from the boy as she held her hands together.

"I am not you fuck-" Dazai smiled as he saw the boy

struggling to not curse "I am not your... " Chuuya seemed hesitant, like a child who knew nothing about proper speeching " I am not your dog!"

The tip of Dazai's mouth held a small laugh.

Anyone who would look at them, would say that they had known each other for years - and

not for one month.

"Ehhh?" he tilted his head a little "But I was convinced that Chuuya was the one losing the bet!"

As expected and to the sound of Kouyou's silent amusement, Chuuya broke his perfect posture.

"You were the one who cheated! You put water in the controller!

"he accused Dazai with a somewhat angry expression "It was cheating! You cheated! It didn't count! I am not your dog, you freak!" 

Dazai, not the least convinced and more amused than anything, simply smiled - he smiled happily.

Even Kouyou was surprised.

"Oh? That's a harsh accusation Chuuya is making here." he giggled" Such big words for someone so small..."

"Why you-"

Dazai didn't let him continue.

"Chuuya doesn't have the proof." he said as a matter of fact "Therefore Chuuya can't prove I was cheating."

Dazai sighed "So I will just assume Chuuya is trying to excuse his poor ability in videogames." He shrugged his shoulders as he saw Chuuya's face changing into something like indignation.

"You cheated!"

"Chuuya lost."

"But you cheated, bastard!"

Dazai sighed once again.

"You lost the bet. You are my dog" he said calmly.

"I am no one's dog!"

Dazai online offered him a laugh in response as Kouyou took a step ahead, trying to stop the conflict between the two boys.

He put his hand in his pocket and raised a hand towards Kouyou.

"Don't worry

Kouyou-san. I am just here to give something to Chuuya."

That caught Chuuya's attention. He relaxed his tense facial muscles as he looked curiously at Dazai.

"You are?" he asked more quietly, genuinely surprised - just for a moment, because after that he returned to his

unimpressed face.

"Yep!" he said as he smiled a bit maliciously "I am sure Chuuya will like it...."

With that affirmation, Chuuya was sure he wouldn't like it. Kouyou however, calmed her pupil a bit.

"Here!" he showed him a box and Chuuya remained unimpressed.

"What the hell

is that thing?" Chuuya was suspicious.

Dazai shrugged ignoring the boy's glance.

"It's a collar for my dog!" he explained happily " Because Chuuya lost the bet, I bought him a collar!"

Realization hit Chuuya, he remembered when him and Dazai went to drink hot chocolate

and Dazai told him that he was going to buy something.

So that's what he went to buy... A collar...

"Open up! I bought it just for my dog!"

That didn't seem to help Chuuya's enthusiasm but Kouyou patted him with her hand, leaving him with no choice.

Hesitantly he stretched

his hand as he held the tiny box with his hand. 
During the movement, he looked suspiciously at Dazai, who was smiling like a kid who just got his favorite toy for Christmas.

Slowly, Chuuya looked down to the box and opened it. His eyes widened up as Kouyou leaned a bit, with

genuine curiosity. She too was interested and surprised.

"So? Did Chuuya like his brand now collar." Dazai's eye was closed so he didn't see how Chuuya held the "collar" and looked with pure surprise at it.

"It's a beautiful necklace, lad" she commented softly.

Chuuya didn't

comment it. He simply raised the "collar" to put it on his neck and when Kouyou tried to help him, he gently denied it.

"Eh???" Dazai looked at Chuuya as he  put on his "collar" - this was nothing what he intended to do.

His stormy eyes were closed as he tired the material

to his neck.

Dazai had no reaction , but just for a while because when he recuperated his senses he laughed - a bit forcedly.

"Oh? Did Chuuya like his collar? Is Chuuya admitting his dog's characteristics?" he tilted his head, in amusement.

But Chuuya didn't answer as he

finished putting the "collar" on and, finally opened his eyes.

Dazai's heart made a flip when he noticed the lack of their typical violence. They were soft - equally fascinating, but no longer defensive.

The storm had calmed down. That made Dazai's mouth open a bit.

But that was it, because he could speak back. He couldn't tease or make fun of Chuuya.

He was, for the first time, speechless.

Chuuya looked at him with a tense expression.

"This is not a collar, it's a necklace bastard" he started to say, but his words were no longer violent

- Dazai realized that he liked the soft tone of Chuuya's voice; he continued "And I am keeping it, not because I am your dog or anything but..." he paused, one could say he was truly embarrassed "because I... I liked it" his expression softened and he added a quiet "Thanks"

Again, Dazai lost the ability to answer.

He simply stayed with his mouth open as he saw Chuuya smiling - an honest, white and captivating smile - and then he turned to his mentor to say something.

She nodded her head in approval and Chuuya flashed a gentle smile.

Then, the boy looked at Dazai, who - by the way - was still speechless and offered an honest smile.

"I'll see you around Dazai" he said and Kouyou nodded gracefully. After that they left.

The pair passed right next to Dazai and the wind by the created made Dazai regain his

senses.

His plan had failed.

Chuuya wasn't supposed to enjoy this present.

Who would want a collar, for God's sake?

Chuuya was supposed to scream with him, to get angry.

He was not supposed to act elegantly - Dazai blamed Kouyou - and to be gentle with him.

Their footsteps were far and far away as Dazai thought about the plan he had failed.

He wanted to scream.
He hated that boy so much, the guy ruined all of his plans in seconds.

It was so so unfair.

How dare him.

How dare him to be happy with an offense?

His mind was a mess

and, suddenly, the only thing he could think about to calm down was the way Chuuya smiled at him.

A genuine and honest smile.

He really liked the present.

He sighed.

It was disappointing yes.

But that was fine with Dazai.

He would have a lot of chances to make fun of him.

Besides, he thought as turned his heels, the /necklace/ kind of suited him.

And a beautiful smile suited him too.

That was a different kind of beauty that Dazai had found on Chuuya.

And now that he was thinking about it...

Dazai kind of liked to see Chuuya happy.

The only thing he thought about as he was walking down the wall, was the living contraction that Nakahara Chuuya was.

That, by itself, was enough to make Dazai's life brighter and his heart lighter.

He just didn't know it yet.

Time has passed by.
Dazai had become increasingly distant from everything and everyone - including Chuuya.
And he was pretty much his only "friend" and the person he got "along" with.

He was someone who Dazai thought was worth knowing - worth exploring.

Unwarily, he found himself studying Chuuya, like one would study a scientific object.

Every step, every move, every word, his weaknesses, his strengths, his problems, what made him happy or sad... Dazai wanted to know everything about him.

He was thirsty for more "Chuuya".

He wanted to know Chuuya, like no one ever has done.

But the limitations were clear - the boy didn't want to get involved with Dazai.

To be honest, Dazai didn't blame Chuuya, but that didn't mean that he would leave the other alone.

It was a new emotion.

Like a compulsion or an impulse, this was something that was out of his control.

He was so out of himself that he -foolishly - confessed his "love" for Chuuya just after they met.

"Ew!"

Yeah, definitely not one of his brightest moments.

Luckily Dazai was a good actor.

But the emotions that Chuuya caused Dazai were like a drug.

Once he gave in, he would find himself obsessed with him.

Chuuya was like a drug.

But if so, he was the sweetest drug Dazai had ever tasted.

However, drugs shouldn't be abused, so Dazai drank Chuuya - but just a

silent and little sip.

No one would ever notice - certainly not Chuuya, who cursed Dazai every time he saw him.

That was not enough to distance Dazai from his addiction - probably nothing will ever be able to make Dazai lose interest in Chuuya.

But just for precaution, Dazai kept Chuuya away from his world.

A world full of darkness, blood and pain.

Chuuya was not like that.

"It must be because I love you!"

Yeah...loving was a good way of dying, wasn't it?

Dying of love, of deception... it would be beautiful.

So beautiful...

But so so painful.

It would not be a painless death.

These were Dazai's thoughts as he was sat on the bed, where Chuuya was peaceful resting.

He might never wake up, he though.

And even so, as he thought his fingers curled around the soft ginger hair, pulling them away from Chuuya's wounded face, it would still be incredibly fascinating watching him go.

Sometimes, Dazai had to stop his train of thoughts, because some were definitely questionable.

Chuuya moved slightly on the bed, leaving his arms hanging on the air.

It was almost comparable to a flower, that had just blossomed and opened its delicate petals.

It reminded Dazai of the fascinating, red spirals,

that were previously drawn on his skin and were traced by Dazai's finger, in a soft caressing.

Flower, red, alive, human, captivating, interesting and fascinating.

As an involuntary smile appeared on his lips, like a soft breeze, Dazai realized it was not only an admiration

or fascination.

Chuuya was not an animal who needed to be open to be studied.

He was not someone who should be kept like a wild animal.

As much as Dazai liked the idea of having Chuuya all for himself, to have his full attention... his heart wouldn't allow it.

Chuuya was more beautiful when he was free and happy than when he was trapped - like the day when Dazai had found him, after being stabbed.

Or when he was brutally tortured - and he endured all of it and it was fascinating - the feelings Dazai expected after seeing him was not

*were not satisfying enough.

He preferred much more the smile Chuuya had given him when he had gifted him his necklace...

And, he noticed Chuuya was not wearing his necklace. He was wearing another necklace - Dazai knew it had been a gift from his friends.

A relieved smile appeared on his lips as his fingers ran through the ginger curls.

He touched Chuuya's hair like it could it could be easily broken. From the tip of his fingers he could feel how delicate the hair was.

Another thing that has always surprised Dazai was how

gentle, almost angelical and weak Chuuya was. It was truly fascinating, considering Chuuya's inhuman strength.

The contradiction that one person can have was something that made Dazai want to know who Nakahara Chuuya was.

He was so strong, but so weak.

So delicate and elegant

, but so violent and rude.

So small, but so powerful.

So human, but so inhuman.

And Dazai's favorite was

So bright and comprehensive but so deadly and a killer.

Nakahara Chuuya was the personification of the contradiction.

He proved to Dazai that it was possible to find

in the dark, the light.

And maybe a reason to live - although Dazai doubted that.

His hand rested on Chuuya's forehead. 

A protective and honest gesture.

Was he getting soft for Chuuya?

Him, Dazai Osamu, with a killer count higher than any mafia assassin's

had a heart that beat for another person?

Oh so he had a heart.

It was a heart covered by a dark cloud of pain, death and blood, but, nevertheless, it was a heart.

He had a heart...

But he just needed to find the right wind to blow that fog away.

Even if temporarily, Dazai would treasure every single moment he felt the fresh and bright breeze that went straight to his chest.

He looked at Chuuya and smiled.

Nakahara Chuuya was the breeze Dazai craved and needed.

And Dazai loved him for that.

He had admited it.

"Chuuya, you're a joke for a mafioso"

He leaned in a little bit, just to feel the warmth that came from the calm and tranquil breathing.

Yep that was definitely his friend's necklace.

Even if Dazai didn't know them, he knew how Chuuya felt.

How so?

A crystal clear tear flowed from the corner of his eye, staining the sheet with sorrow and the irremediable loss.

And Dazai?

Dazai gently pressed his finger against the tear and a smile lit up his face and his heart.

Despite what everyone said about Dazai and Chuuya - self-proclaimed  eternal rivals - the two teens, surprisingly, got along.

Sure they both have their duties, according to their role in the organization, but they would always find each other along the way.

Sometimes in the hall, others when Mori gave them a common mission or through texting and phone calls.
 
The last ones were rare, because Dazai found it funny seeing his phone ringing with the name "Slug" on the screen.

He found it even more amusing when Chuuya ended up

*would end up meeting him, mainly to complain about Dazai's imbecility.

Something that Dazai was used to hear from Chuuya.

However, due to some increasingly dark jobs, Dazai barely had seen Chuuya.

One could say that he... missed him. 

Or at least that was what Oda had told

"How did you did it?" Chuuya asked, eyes agitated and somewhat aggressive, following his partner's careless movements "Oi. Dazai!"

The boy was in the bathroom of the place where they had spent the night. They both had separate rooms, but for some reason, Dazai had made himself

comfortable in Chuuya's room.

The boy pinched the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes, letting out an almost frustrated sigh.

Sounds reminiscent of paper, plastic, and scissors echoed. Even with the door closed, it was possible to hear the metallic noises of the scissors being

inn on the bench.

But that was all that could be heard, because Dazai hadn't responded.

"Oi!"

A louder sound echoed, followed by silence.  Chuuya raised his eyebrows, surprised by Dazai's sudden movement.

Then,

"It doesn't matter" the noise of the bandages being rummaged

throught returned "It's been taken care of."

Chuuya absolutely hated going on missions with Dazai.

"And what's that supposed to mean?" he hadn't shouted, but his tone indicated impatience.

More shuffling sounds. Sounds that were starting to irritate Chuuya,

The boy was

seriously considering breaking down the door and doing himself whatever Dazai was currently doing.

He sighed, stretching his legs uncomfortably.

"I know the location" Dazai's voice had become significantly more serious; Chuuya slowly put his legs down, straightening himself

thoughtfully.

Dazai continued.

"The traidor. I know where he is." footsteps were heard and the door opened.

Dazai was wearing casually loose pants and a white t-shirt. Over his shoulder was a face towel. He walked towards Chuuya, who was still surprised.

Some time later....

"What?" he said, following Dazai's long steps towards him, looking to the side when the boy sat down next to him; his mouth was open "How... how did you-"

"It doesn't matter" Dazai responded by cutting him off, simultaneously grabbing the corner of the towel and throwing it

on the bed; Chuuya followed the movement in meditative silence, that is until he realized the towel was wet and on top of his bed.

"Bastard!" He nimbly leaned back, grabbing the towel and throwing it away, then returned to his starting position, looking at Dazai who was laughing

Like always.

Chuuya sighed.

"So you have the location?"

Dazai stopped laughing and his face became empty and bored. 

"Are you that slow, Chuuya? I told you that looooong time ago"

"It was just five minutes ago, or so" he frowned.

The other boy looked at him, blankly,

and then made a dismissive gesture with his hand, turning his face away from Chuuya.

"Whatever."
They both remained silent, staring straight ahead at the wall.

That is until Chuuya speaks up. 

"You slept with her didn't you?"

Dazai seemed a little startled by the statement

, but then he straightened up as if nothing had happened.

However, Chuuya looked to the side, staring at Dazai with serious eyes - the boy didn't.

"Did you? Slept with her?"

Dazai didn't respond. He didn't even look towards Chuuya, who was looking at him reproachfully.

That's okay, he didn't care.

And so, when Chuuya decided that he had given Dazai enough space to answer him-

"Daz-"

"Goodnight!!!" in a second, Dazai had stood up, a smile more fake than plastic on his lips and walked nimbly to the door of Chuuya's room.

The hand touched the doorknob, making a first movement with the wrist and the lock complained.

"Dazai-"

The door closed with tremendous intensity.
Chuuya sighed, staring blankly at the door Dazai had escaped through. He cursed himself for letting curiosity get the better of him

The next morning, Dazai didn't pay him much attention.

He hadn't made weird jokes and unnecessary comments.

Chuuya couldn't help but think that this was a sensitive subject for his partner. 

It was obvious that Dazai and the girl who had served them breakfast had slept

together.

The red marks on the female neck that had been covered with small amounts of powder and Dazai's disheveled hair... said it all.

Still, tension hung in the air as the girl served them steaming coffee, Dazai blatantly complimenting her.

Chuuya couldn't help but think

if that was something common for Dazai.

He had slept with the girl in order to get information from her, when they both knew there was another way to get it. 

Maybe that way would be faster-

Chuuya knew about his partner's reputation as a womanizer.

Dozens of unknown numbers

called him monthly, making him "Dazai Osamu".

So, yes, Chuuya was perfectly aware of that. However that was different. Dazai didn't need to sleep with someone to get information out of them.

Chuuya didn't need to do such a thing. Besides being a low act, it was disgusting.

Selling his body for a few words was something Chuuya didn't do.

Sipping the liquid coffee, which was still warm, he looked a little uncomfortably at Dazai and the girl. 

The girl was hugging a circular metal board, laughing at Dazai's praise - obviously Dazai didn't

eat anything while at that.

Chuuya sighed discreetly.

"I swear, you are going to like it"

And she laughed, her cheeks flushed.

"I believe you, Dazai-san." She smiled and then raised her eyebrows as if she remembered something. "Oh it's true, I forgot about something!"

she looked at Dazai, who took her hand lovingly, a smile that seemed worthy of a lover, but which Chuuya recognized as being fake "I'll be back." she promised, before turning on her heels and leaving the place in quick, hurried steps.

The sound of the cup being placed

in the saucer echoed. Dazai looked at his partner without much interest, still with that air of smug superiority.

Chuuya sighed, finishing his meal - Dazai hadn't touched his.

"Aren't you going to eat?"

He looked at Chuuya with that dead, empty look, before taking a sip

coffee repulsive, taking the cup to his lips with some elegance.

Chuuya looked at him intently, pressing his lips against each other.

"Are we going out today?"

Dazai looked at him, the rim of the cup on his lips, and then placed it on the small plate. 

He sighed.

"We have almost everything we need." looked at him annoyed "Not thanks to you though"

Chuuya refrained from rolling his eyes, regretting trying to get closer to his partner. 

He should have known by now that this was not possible. 

Uncomfortably, he cleared his voice.

Dazai sighed, as he finished his coffee.

"We have wasted enough time playing hide and Seek, Chuuya."

Chuuya got the message.

"Boss is going to have our heads" he completed.

Dazai slowly nodded.

"It's a big problem having a traitor around." sighed as if the conversation

weighed on his back "Luckily, he was one of my subordinates or if he was not mine, he was yours." he declared, wiping his mouth with a napkin.

He seemed significantly more relaxed, resembling the Dazai that Chuuya knew. 

He decided not to touch on his partner's unusual methods.

However, when Chuuya stood up, he stared at him. 

"What." Dazai said, with that empty look of his.

Then, Chuuya approached his partner, putting a hand on his neck, adjusting his bandages, which were half fallen.

Beneath his fingers, he felt Dazai's muscles stiffen.

Chuuya placed a strip of bandage tape over the rest, covering the evidence of a visible mark, his gloved hands brushing against the strands of brown hair.

Moments that felt like hours passed and Chuuya withdrew his hand, leaning forward slightly with a small, teasing smile.

"Careful with these." Chuuya's hand rested against the small visible area of skin, he was very close to Dazai, who didn't change his expression of annoyance.

One last smile, and Chuuya straightened up, turning on his heel without saying anything else.

As soon as the boy had left the place, Dazai blinked his only visible eye and stupidly opened his mouth.

He shook his head and sighed.

"What a bother."

He had left the boy, obviously incapacitated by the clearly deadly fight. 

It wasn't a joke or a prank and Dazai was sure that Hirotsu and hia colleagues would take Chuuya to the HQ.

His job as a supporter was done.

But if I said I wasn't surprisingly startled

like the whole situation in question, he would be lying.

Dazai was, in fact, somewhat uncomfortable with the whole situation, a feeling that normal people would call "worry".

"Worried, me? Pff no such thing!"

Still, Hirotsu had asked him to make sure everything was okay.

And so, Dazai never saw Chuuya again.

On purpose.

It wasn't like the boy cared-

However, he did feel an unfamiliar weight on his chest, which seemed to grow little by little...

"Chuuya-kun is awake"

Roughly two weeks after Chuuya entered the mafia ward, spending those same two weeks asleep, he had finally woken up.

"I can't go see him" Kouyou explained, with a few sheets of paper between her long white fingers, her face downcast "Regretably I am

incredibly busy." with a loud noise, she straightened the pile of pappers, leaning forward slightly with a sigh and the cell phone to her ear  "Is it okay if someone else goes instead?"

And that was how Kouyou had asked Mori to go check on Nakahara Chuuya.

The man, behind her hand, both clasped mysteriously wrapped in white gloves, smiled at her.

"Very well then." placing his hand on the table with absolute silence and a sigh of equal tone, Mori looked at Kouyou "Consider it done, Kouyou-kun."

From Mori's significantly pleased

expression, Kouyou frowned suspiciously.

"Rest assured, Kouyou-kun. Chuuya-kun will be in good hands" sighing, he placed a hand on his cheek, supporting his arm with his elbow "You're dismissed."

Even though a wave of distrust hung over the woman's figure, she bowed, nodding

and left, without saying anything.

After the door closed, a second part of the plan had begun.

The sound of the cell phone receiving the call invaded the office. Mori placed the device close to his ear with his lips pressed against each other, almost anxiously.

"Ah!-"

And after this cascade of events, that's how Dazai Osamu found himself in front of the infirmary door - after smiling charmingly at the nurse, she let him in.

Supposedly, he had to check if Chuuya was okay.

He had mixed thoughts about it.

Part of him wanted to get out of there

, the other intended to see Chuuya, again.

But it wasn't like Dazai had any choice after Mori was the one who had asked - ordered - him to come there.

Without much choice he entered the room.

Chuuya was sitting on the bed, with his back against the headboard and

eyes incredibly wide.
But only for a millisecond, because immediately afterwards he put on a relatively displeased expression. 

"What are you doing here."

It was not even a question and Chuuya did indeed look quite grumpy.

But, Dazai who was Dazai, took a step forward and

smiled broadly.

"Ruude." he sighed, closing his eyes "Chuuya could have at least pretended that he was happy to see me!"

As he spoke, he walked towards the boy who was following him with a very suspicious look.

He placed a hand on the sheets, being followed by Chuuya's gaze.

"I can pretend I am happy to see you, see."

Chuuya just frowned and forcefully ripped the sheets from Dazai's palm, recoiling in disgust.

"What are you doing here, bastard?"

Despite being clearly in a bad mood, his usually violent tone seemed a little softer.

Realizing what he had noticed, Dazai wrinkled his nose in disgust. 

"Seeing you-"

"Cut the crap."

And it was always like that. Chuuya never let Dazai have his time in the spotlight.

Sighing, Dazai straightened up with a bored expression, the smile having evaporated.

"I am here to babysit you."

Chuuya arched an eyebrow.

"No, you are not." he said.

Dazai sighed as if the conversation had left him tired.

He missed the Chuuya who didn't speak. 
That Chuuya didn't say anything.

Now this Chuuya, wouldn't simply shut up.

Did he think that

Dazai was there to kill him or something?

Giving up on teasing the other, Dazai sighs. 

"I am here to check on you." he said without looking at Chuuya, adjusting his coat "But I can see you are fine.", he looked at Chuuya "So I'll be going now."

And without saying anything

else, Dazai turned on his heel, preparing to leave the compartment. 

"Wait!"

The boy stopped walking, the sound of his shoe hitting the floor echoed around the place.

"What... What about Ane-san?"

And that seemed to visibly cheer Dazai up, who approached the bed with a smile.

"Ane-san asked me to give you this." Taking a small piece of paper out of his pocket, Dazai said; then he handed it to her, saying "Here."

Still suspicious, Chuuya hesitantly accepted the paper with a slow movement.

At that same moment, Dazai leaned towards Chuuya, raising his

her arms around Chuuya's neck.

The boy's back lightly hit the headboard of the bed and he seemed to let out a sound of surprise.

Chuuya's arms were spread wide, as if he didn't know what to do, and his eyes were wide as they had never been before.

The strangely comforting sound of Dazai's breathing hovered over Chuuya's exposed neck, and he suppressed the breath he was about to release.

Dazai's hands were relatively cool, but warmer than Chuuya's were.

The boy was partially sitting on the side of the bed, avoiding

Chuuya's legs, which were in fact still hurting.

Very slowly, Chuuya closed his eyes, slightly lowering his head in disbelief. 

"Dazai..."

"Hm?" the muffled voice rang out.

"What... what are you doing?"

A moment of calm and silence passed before Dazai said.

"I am not certain, but... I think normal people call this a hug."

A hug....

A warm hug....

A brief smile and...

Chuuya let his head rest on Dazai's shoulders, finally almost unconsciously wrapping his arms around Dazai's torso.

Indeed a warm hug...

It was actually longer than it was supposed to be, because time seemed to have stopped.

So, Chuuya just stood there.

"Just this once." he muttered.

Dazai heard it and silently, he smiled.

"I need to see him a bit..." the woman finally looked at the two, who had obviously

had separated; her gaze rested on Dazai "If you don't mind?"

The boy adjusted his clothes and Chuuya looked away, the blush that had been there had faded.

"Sure." he smiled "I was just leaving" when he passed the woman, he smiled at her charmingly "Call me"

She laughed and

Chuuya rolled his eyes.

After the embarrassed laughter died down, Dazai's smile disappeared and he, after opening the door, looked at Chuuya in silence. 

The two exchanged glances.

It was a look that said more than a thousand words.

Then Dazai looked away with a brief

blushed and addressed this time, the girl.

"Call me, beautiful lady"

One last look at Chuuya that seemed to have more color than the last time he had seen him, and Dazai left the place.

"Cute right?" said the nurse approaching Chuuya, who was still lost in thought.

"Who?"

Looking at the records, she said

"Your friend? He's cute right?" 

Chuuya simply blinked his eyes in confusion.

"Oh. I don't know... I never noticed that."

She sighed.

"Well that's fair, I suppose" and with a smile he added "Now let's check your pulsation, shall we?"

And it still took a few minutes, but after that, Chuuya checked the paper Dazai had left him.

His eyes swept over Kouyou's impeccable and elegant handwriting.

She was apologizing him for not having been able to come to him and that Mori would be the one to see him.

Chuuya snorted.

Mori, right...

He sighed and smiled a bit when seeing his mentor's signature.

But then... then ....

His eyes narrowed as he noticed very small letters below Kouyou's signature.

There is more

It said this. 
Chuuya frowned looking at the letters in confusion.

Shrugging his shoulders without much surprise, he checked the back of the paper.

And there it said.

"Chuuya you are human."

And underneath it was like this

"Signed, Dazai"

And Dazai's handwriting was really as unbalanced as the boy.

He pressed his lips against each other

him during one night.
The man had sighed as he lifted the glass up to his lips.

"I would say you are missing him"

"Ehhh?"

Dazai didn't miss Chuuya. He had been doing well alone with the missions Mori gave him.

He was an executive and Mori had trusted Dazai the destiny and

Actors.

Actors are people who play the roles of fictional characters, adapting to each of their details with ease.

Outside, it could be child's play, pretending to be a character for a few days or a few months. 

Refreshing! Motivating! A new experience!

And maybe it would be true if they weren't paid to play fictional roles.

They were serious professionals, with responsibilities and talent.

They weren't there playing make-believe.

"Do I regret it?"

Yes. 
The actor regretted it very much.

"No." he had smiled "Being here,

with everyone makes me glad to be here." the smile that danced on his lips was more plastic than anything else, but his natural charm covered the lie.

It can't be said that he hated acting. But he really wasn't a big fan of his own profession.

For him, it was a profession like any other.

It demanded a lot from him, but it's not like he was sensitive enough to break like glass.

For years, he had walked side by side with a studio director, called Port Mafia, until he... didn't.

There was nothing holding him to that

place.

He, absolutely, cared about no one - those whom he cared had already gone with the night.

So, the actor left Port Mafia to work at an Armed Detective Agency.

And there, there was a mean guy named Kuniki-

"I think the kid has heard enough" a tall, stern-faced man adjusted his glasses, reprimanding the man conducting the interview.

But the man just ignored him and turned to the boy and sat down.

"My name is Dazai. Dazai Osamu." then he smiled almost gently "Welcome to the Armed

Detective Agency"

Nakajima Atsushi was the name of the boy, who bowed his head 

"Thank you Dazai-san! I am happy to be here!"

Intertwining his fingers, with his elbows on the table, Dazai smiled.

Seconds later Kunikida had entered the place, grabbing the boy's arm,

dragging him out of the place.

"Come kid. Let me show you the agency's conduct"

"Is there... one?"

Dazai said "no" and Kunikida said "yes".

Atsushi didn't question it.

The detective agency was a place that specialized in two things: writing and acting.

Dazai was a writer, he wrote scripts for films and other projects, which would later be revised by Kunikida and approved by Ranpo.

Atsushi had entered as an actor.

At that time,

had a grand project in hand, in addition to an additional plan that no one - with the exception of Ranpo, probably - knew about.

"The Port Mafia seems a good place to look for actors."

Logically, no one seemed very excited. 
The quality of Port Mafia's actors was unquestionable

, however, relations between the two organizations were not the best.

Well aware of this, Dazai had suggested it because of the low costs of external work.

It wasn't expensive because the actors were very well paid, so there was no need to try to get more money from others

not so well paid places...

Dazai twirled the pen on his finger as everyone gathered in the meeting room. 

"Low costs. Good quality. Variability." Dazai sighed, adjusting himself in his seat "It sounds a wonderful offer."

Kunikida grumbled softly and the others didn't

looked very different.

Realizing this, Dazai sighed.

"Look. Our people are the best." he looked at Yosano nodding slightly "Yosano-san here is amazing, Kenji-kun is a ray of sunshine, Tanizaki-kun is a talented actor... and Atsushi-kun seems to be learning to."

he crossed his leg, leaning back slightly "However it's not even close to what the PM has. And to a big project such as mine. I will be needed more people"

After a final sigh the room fell silent. 

Or rather, it would have remained silent if Ranpo hadn't been chewing a gum.

Everyone looked at him.

"I agree with Dazai here. It's clear that the agency alone won't be able to fulfill our true potential" he said casually "I suggest leaving our differences with the mafia behind and work together."

Dazai smiled meaningfully.

"Thank you Ranpo-san."

Ranpo just ignored him, looking at a painting on the wall.

After contemplative moments Dazai finally spoke.

"Well? Do we agree on this?"

Needless to say, everyone ended up - albeit reluctantly - agreeing. 

"We're done here, then. Ranpo-san will inform the President of our

decision."

The conversation ended.

As Dazai left the meeting room, he called the director of the organization, who immediately answered.

He asked him for the best of his people - he was sure he'd know everyone.

"Dazai-kun. No need to talk about the costs now." from the other

side of the line, Mori said "I am almost certain that this team will be more than enough for you"

Dazai tilted his head back, leaning against the wall. 

"Huh? Sure." he leaned against the wall, sighing annoyedly" I probably know everyone anways"

Mori said nothing.

And Dazai

"Hirotsu-san, Kajii-san, Gin-chan, Q..."

Dazai should... he really should have read the signs in Mori's silence.

"Higuchi-kun, Tachihara-kun,  Akutagawa-kun and...

Because-

"Who are you?"

@Nidhiku35026755 

Also as this is a sketch.
That will be the plot.
Something quick.
If it was good, I can rewrite it more carefully.

the future of the organization.

When Dazai became an executive he teased Chuuya so much about it.

It was something funny, actually, considering that Dazai never cared about being an executive and Chuuya was the one who wanted that place.

Dazai had an idea of why.... but that was none of his business, plus he had been quite busy lately - he had no time for those.

However, and just like Oda had said, Dazai started to notice that everyone knew and saw Chuuya, everyone but himself.

That had caused him a slight ache on his chest - and he ignored it.

He wasn't avoiding Chuuya, he just realized that their paths, at some point, would have to diverge.

But like everything related to Chuuya, that was also something Dazai couldn't be sure of.

But of one thing he was sure of, he indeed missed Chuuya.

What made him realize that was another conversation with Oda - whom Dazai had told his feelings towards the boy.

But it was quickly forgotten as he stepped in, to train Akutawaga.

The darkness' veil took control of

his person and he was no longer Dazai Osamu but the "youngest executive" who caused terror everywhere.

So, Chuuya was someone Dazai didn't think about frequently.

His mind was black and it only had place for the Mafia's ideals.

The only consolation he had was the warmth of

Nakahara Chuuya was, first and foremost, a mystery to Dazai. 

Not in the sense that Dazai didn't know him well, because he did.

He knew by heart everything Chuuya liked and disliked. There was no one more interested in the mafia in the boy than Dazai Osamu.

However,

Chuuya continued to be a mystery  for Dazai.

And that only made Dazai even more amazed.

The first time he had honestly spoken about what he saw and felt for the boy had been in the company of Oda.

At the Lupin bar, soft music played, a relaxing and comfortable jazz and

the clinking of glasses echoed satisfyingly through the air.

The ice ball in the glass had made a familiar noise as it was placed on the wooden countertop.

"Thaaanks" he replied almost cheerfully to the man who had served him the drink and then turned to the man sitting next to

him "Should I tell you a story today, Odasaku?"

Oda Sanesoke was a very calm and interesting person. Dazai had quickly understood that the man was a very good listener.

And since then, he talked to him about things. Interesting things, other less interesting things, people...

Dazai told him about everything and nothing.

"Ah. My drink is not cold enough" he observed, lowering his torso and looking at the ice ball submerged in the brownish liquid; then he stood up with a smile "Which means I have time to tell you something."

Of course Oda didn't

answer him. Taking an innocent sip of whiskey, the man did not utter a single word. 

Dazai took this as consent, exhaling deeply, eyes fixed on the ice ball as if it were the most interesting thing there.

"Have you ever heard about the sheep that pretended to be a wolf?"

Dazai began to say with an almost inconsistent smile on his lips "And what about the wolf that pretended to be a sheep?"

Oda just took a sip of his drink very calmly, silently listening to Dazai's words.

"Tell me between the two... the wolf-sheep and the sheep-wolf...

who would you consider the most dangerous?"

Jazz played relaxedly in the air. Dazai touched the ice ball with his finger, causing it to sink.

"It depends, doesn't it? It's very difficult to say what each  will do." Suddenly, Dazai raised his head, looking enlightened

"Oh, maybe... there is the certainty that, at least, one of them will be highly predictable."

Silence and Oda swallowed a quantity of whiskey, feeling the heat of the liquid

When he finished, Dazai was looking at him with that mysterious look. 

"I know the wolf is going

to act according to his instints, even though it's a sheep behind it. Like a wild animal it will follow his dangerous nature " he paused and then shrugged "I can easily defend myself against him" 

For the first time Oda spoke out.

"That's correct."

This brought a smile to

Dazai's young face.

"I knew you'd get it!" he said, but then his tone fell a little, becoming more serious. "However, faced with a sheep that is, underneath, a wolf, I can do nothing." he paused, looking ahead "I have no way of knowing whether the sheep will attack or not. "

Oda said nothing.

"So a sheep... could always be a wolf underneath, and a wolf could be a sheep in reality." One finger played absently with the ice ball, returning his attention to the glass. "Ah looks like it is cold enough now."

And with that said, Dazai drank whiskey like

it was water.

Oda looked at him with an unreadable gaze.

"Ah. It really is a problem, isn't it?" he laughed softly. "Whether the sheep will eat me or the wolf will follow me like a sheep..." he sighed "It's really interesting too."

Appearances can be deceiving.

That was true.

After looking at the wall behind the counter without saying anything, Dazai turned to Oda.

"Good! But if that's the case, what should I do? Between the two, who would I choose?"

The wolf.

"The wolf of course. I may be lucky enough and it will be a sheep behind it" he said

"But ah... "Dazai asked the bartender for a second glass, and then sat back down properly. "A sheep can be a wolf and a wolf can be a sheep, right? What a dilemma..." Dazai sighed, placing a hand pressed against his cheek and his elbow on the counter. "What to do? What to do..."

Oda didn't answer, somewhat intrigued and interested. Despite being a child, Dazai spoke loudly to the adults. 

It was really interesting to hear him speak.

"I must test them." Dazai said sternly, "If I give grass to a sheep, it will eat it if it is a sheep, which is actually

a herbivore. It will enjoy it. But if I give another sheep that is a wolf the exact same thing it won't eat. Or it will way it, but it won't like it." Dazai paused "Everybody knows sheep like grass and they enjoy it. It's not a certainty but it's a way to separate them."

Oda spoke

"We intend to do the same for the wolves right?" 

Dazai smiled at him.

"Yes! But, wolves are carnivores. If wolves are really wolves, they will eat sheep without thinking twice, whether they are wolves or not. The wild instincts of a predator

wouldn't allow them to think." he said "Which means wolves eat each other, in the end." 

Cannibalism.

"Yes, Odasaku, it's indeed a cannibalism behavior, but... I don't think their stomaches care about it." said the boy and then drank some of his drink, putting it down

on the counter "Now the sheep, whether they are wolves or not, would never eat each other. First, it would ruin the disguise and secondly sheep are content with grass and not meat."

Sheep, whether they are wolves in disguise or not, will never be able to be a mindless animal.

"I know what you are thinking Odasaku. Sheeps are dangerous. And yes, you'd be right. A sheep can be a wolf and it won't succumb to their instints, because that will blow their cover."

 That's why you should always choose wolf.

"That's why, the mafia enjoys

There's something so beautiful, yet so twisted, in the way Dazai Osamu looks towards Nakahara Chuuya.

And the boy, lazy as ever, doesn't even bother to hide it.

Would it be really out of laziness? Or perhaps from the lack of awareness?

Maybe he didn't know. He didn't know how

much his voice seemed less dark — sometimes mocking the boy, others tone full of boastfulness — whenever Nakahara Chuuya was the matter.

And maybe it was for the best. He did nearly sacrifice Yokohama's safety for Chuuya.

An admirable act in terms of loyalty towards his…

friend (?), but a harsh slap on his mentor's face when it came to rationality. 
Dazai was not loyal. He was a liar, a manipulator, an unworthy person of trust, an actor, he was everything he wanted when he needed to be.

So his unexpected act of respect was… unusual.

But, truth to be told, Mori had paired Dazai with Chuuya for one reason — instinct.

Blurred memories from the past, previous experience, almost a second journey through this partnership.

So he knew the risks. But, he never thought Dazai was able to effectively become attached

to other person. The boy was smart, cold, indifferent and with the burning and open desire to die.

He'd half expected this outcome, but the probability was supposed to be down to ten. Dazai proved him wrong.

And his first reaction to this outcome, should have been eliminating

the other boy, however, Chuuya was not just any person.

Everyone, even Mori, liked him. He was precisely the opposite of what Dazai was, so he'd know from the start that they'd hardly get along... socially at least.

Dazai was like Mori- except... he wasn't. Or maybe Nakahara

Chuuya was just a special individual, because as much as hatred Dazai claimed to have for Chuuya, he would do anything for the boy.

Odds were benefiting Mori, apparently, since Chuuya was a real loyal person.

Maybe Dazai should have use Chuuya's characteristic as a weapon...

but... for some reason... he didn't. Quite the opposite, actually, Dazai never included Chuuya on his plans.

He refused to use Chuuya as his pawn, and it was something unique, considering poor Akutagawa and the training Dazai had been giving him.

Naturally, this was something

unfitting for Dazai's training, however, Chuuya was someone really strict, and he had his fair amount of darkness inside him.

Maybe that was the reason of Dazai's attachment - for his sake, Mori hoped it was, but he couldn't ignore the way Dazai shone when he heard about his

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