Sorry for the wait. It took some time to figure out where I wanted this chapter to go.
I'm going to try to buckle down with the next one, but with Thanksgiving coming up, it may be December before it's up.
Heaven.
That's where he was. He had been executed and somehow made it to heaven.
At least, that was the only explanation Chuuya had for the cloud he was laying on and the literal angel he had trailing feather light kisses up his slender- muscular- torso. Maybe death wasn't so bad. He moaned when she reached his neck, finding a sensitive spot of flesh that made him jolt to full mast.
Violet eyes met his. A proud smirk graced her lips from the way his body responded to her, then they both dissolved into a fit of lazy chuckles as she devoured his lips with her own. Sliding her leg over his hips to straddle him completely, she pulled away to start casting her glorious spell over the rest of his bare body but Chuuya had other ideas.
He cupped her porcelain cheek, tracing it with his thumb, loving the way she smiled as she leaned into his touch; then the way she gasped as he suddenly flipped their positions where he was on top. Her laughter was like music when he started attacking her chest with his mouth; morphing into sensual groans that he wanted to hear even louder.
"Didn't you say something about demonstrating how you use your tongue?" Akiko murmured.
Chuuya looked up with a devious smirk, the teasing glint in her eye was like kindling for his fire. He kissed the channel between her breast- never breaking eye contact- and began to move down the path of her belly. Lower. Drawing out breathy gasps. Lower. Goose flesh covered her skin. Lower. Lower. Lower. Neither would look away. At last he reached the X on the treasure map that was her perfect body and sunk himself to start digging for gold.
Her hands dug into the sheets, throwing her head back with a cry of his name.
He needed to hear it again.
Soon he had her begging for release, wailing from the top of her lungs.
"Chuuya!"
He hiked her leg over his shoulder.
"Chuuya!"
He added his fingers.
"Chuuya!"
He was so close to tasting the ambrosia of the gods. Just a little bit more…
"Chuuya… Chuuya… wakey, wakey Chuuya."
Blinking his blue eyes open, the redhead's blurry vision soon came into focus and oh how he wished it hadn't. Dazai's chipper smile in the early morning light was a torture even the Inquisition would have thought to horrendous. Head still foggy and laying on his stomach, he blinked again trying to make sense of where he was.
Dazai sported a twisted grin just inches from his face that made his skin crawl, and suddenly everything came back. His mind flooded with glimpses from the day before- images of the angel he'd just been dreaming about; of the lunatic grinning at him now- his hand moved on reflex but Dazai was quick to jump back before Chuuya's fists made contact with his nose.
"Good morning to you too." The prince laughed as the room began to shake from the gravity trying to crush everything around him. "Uh-Uh-Ah. Sleeping gas, remember?" He gestured to the vents but Chuuya just glared as he sat up, red locks a wild mess. It seemed Dazai had no other choice but to activate his ability where he stood and cancel out Chuuya's with an energy wave through the room. "Not much of a morning person are you?"
"Not much of a you person." Chuuya gumbeled.
"Aww, well I promise to use a bucket of water next time."
"What the fuck do you want, shithead?"
"At the moment, to have someone wash your mouth out with soap." The prince shrugged and pointed to the clock on the nightstand that Chuuya saw read half past eight. "It's time to get up, can't have my dog lazing about all day now can I," Dazai's coy smile made Chuuya want to throw up but his dark eyes narrowed as he continued. "And… you've been called to meet the highest authority within the Agency, so get dressed."
"You can tell those geezers to fuck off for all I care." Chuuya yawned.
Dazai threw his head back laughing, which only made the vein in Chuuya's head throb more. "While I'd love to see someone have the balls to say such to the king's, you're dumber than I thought if you think they're the most important individuals within our organization."
"LIKE HELL I AM!!!" He shouted. "If not them, then who?"
Dazai sighed, tucking his hands back in his pockets. "Ugh! I've already had all I can take of you. Just get ready and someone will come get you." He made it all the way to the door before glancing over his shoulder. "Oh and… this is a classy place, so do take a cold shower before you poke someone's eye out." His chuckles could be heard through the door even when the alarm clock slammed against it, breaking into a million pieces.
Burying his head in his hands and groaning to will away the sleep still clouding his mind. Did Chuuya think he was in heaven? Ha! Only in his dreams. His reality was without a doubt hell, and that bandage vogue happy prick of a prince could challenge Satan himself to an asshole composition and wipe the floor with him.
To make matters worse… he did need a cold shower. Most of all he needed to will away every one of those damned errotic thoughts. Whatever spark he'd felt meeting the princess yesterday should've been stomped out the moment he'd learned who she was. He snickered at the sheer irony of it all. Figures the girl of my dreams would end up being the fucking princess. She was so far out of his reach she may as well be on another planet. Street rats don't get princesses, that only happens in crappy chick flicks... Of course, gravity was the driving force of the cosmos, so maybe...
…No. It didn't matter, once he paid his dues and the three week trial was over he was getting as far from Yokohama as possible. Five years in captivity gave him plenty of time to think. This city never gave him anything but pain so why stay?... You know why. A voice whispered. Not that sickly inhuman voice from Suribatchi city, his own voice. One he constantly tried to suppress.
The irritation on his left arm started up again and try as he might, it was hard to ignore. Fortunately that asshole hadn't seen.
He shook his head, ridding himself of all the unpleasant thoughts plaguing his mind and leapt out of bed. No more of that. First order of business, shower away that damned dream. Second, find clothes that suited both himself and his needs.
It was surprisingly easy.
The Agency had provided him with a variety of decent options, nothing over the top or too fancy but sufficient. Like the night before he ended up taking the simple route, this time black jeans and a white t-shirt, but he still needed the right coverage. That came in the form of a black jacket lined with red linen that extended past the jacket's cut off point, and flared out over his hips. Satisfied, the sleeves extended all the way to his hands. What he wouldn't give for some gloves.
Till then, his pockets were good enough. He had just put on his shoes when there was a knock on his door. He huffed, already guessing who it was and sure enough Hirotsu stood on the other side with an expansive gleam. Chuuya frowned when the old man said nothing but held out a gloved hand as if expecting a tip.
It took a second but Chuuya figured out what he was insinuating, taking the now empty cigarette case and giving it back to it's proper owner. Hirotsu didn't even bother checking if it was empty or not, just pocketed it and turned on his heels.
"Don't take it personally, I was going to give it back." Chuuya quipped.
"Mhmm." Hirotsu grumbled, leading Chuuya to the elevator. He stayed uncomfortably quiet until the doors slid closed and they began the ascension to the head office. Standing with one arm behind his back while Chuuya shrugged in the corner, Hirotsu broke the silence. "I was with the Port Mafia, kid. Petty annoyances like lifting cigarettes don't even register as crime in my eyes."
Chuuya piqued.
"What does is taking a precious gift from someone very dear to me. Try asking next time. The edge in his voice told Chuuya he was serious. Apparently the case meant more to the old fart than the death sticks it was meant to hold. He wouldn't apologize, but the twinge of remorse he felt wouldn't allow him to take it again. Now he'd just snort like it wasn't a big deal to him and change the subject.
"Here I thought those old geezers killed all of the Port Mafia."
"You'd be wise not to disrespect my bosses in my presence, boy. And you shouldn't believe everything you hear. While the king's did extinguish most of the Port Mafia, there were those within the organization who willingly submitted to them because we hated what path the old boss was leading us down."
"Or you were just looking to save your own skins…" Chuuya added, watching Hirotsu's hand tighten behind his back.
"That is true about some. I, on the other hand, welcomed the king's new regime, in favor of seeing Yokohama thrive once again."
"Sounds to me like you just stood by while your comrades were being slaughtered to get a leg up in the world."
"Don't presume what you don't know. My comrades- my real comrades- died long before the Crimson Night. We were nothing but play-things for that bastard… when I think that he might still be walking around somewhere…" Chuuya could see Hirotsu trembling under his three-piece suit. Not from terror, from sheer anger. "...Well, it's no matter. If by some chance he's still alive, the prince will deal with him accordingly."
Chuuya laughed condescendingly. "You're seriously putting all your hopes on that asshole?"
"Watch your mouth." Hirotsu warned. "You know nothing of the prince."
"I know he's a condescending prick who thinks he's smarter than everyone, and has no problem hurting others so long as it benefits his sick little schemes." He had learned the latter the hard way after all. If there was one thing Chuuya hated more than betrayal, it was being used. And damn it if he didn't fall right into Dazai's web without even knowing until it was too late.
Hirotsu sighed, looking back at Chuuya with cold eyes. "Don't presume what you don't understand. Unethical as his methods are, Dazai never fails in doing what's best for both this organization and Yokohama. More than that, he'll do what everyone else is afraid to so they don't have to stain their conscience. You don't like it-- you're not the first-- but there isn't one person in the Agency who doesn't hold him In high regard for that very reason. Instead of harping on how his actions yesterday disquieted you, you should remember that if it weren't for those actions you'd be dead right now."
That was what infuriated Chuuya the most. Knowing that part of his life debt was owed to the suicidal nutcase who didn't even care to save his life. At least the princess had been genuine in not wanting to see him die. He was positive, Dazai would gladly be the first to sign his death warrant. Not that Chuuya would give him the opportunity to do so. "If you respect him so fucking much, than why are you afraid of him?" He asked.
"... Because those reasons are what make him the perfect heir to the throne of night." Hirotsu said, looking away. "In order to control what lives in darkness, you have to be the thing they fear. And believe me, boy, only an idiot wouldn't be afraid of Prince Dazai."
"Guess I'm an idiot then…" Chuuya snickered.
"I guess you are." Hirotsu muttered just as the elevator was coming to a stop. "In any case, the former boss will wish he'd stayed safe in his corner of hell. Both the prince and princess have vested interests in seeing to that."
"Meaning what?" Chuuya raised an eyebrow.
"It's not my place to say. Let's go." Hirotsu muttered just as the elevator doors opened.
Was it possible the main office got bigger? Or was it just the morning light streaming through the colossal windows that made it seem so? The king's sat at a small circular table with Elise, indulging an assortment of fruit-filled pastries and tea. Fukuzawa went a healthier route of white rice and smoked fish which he shared with his furry companion. While Mori sat with a cup of coffee and half eaten crescent, reading the paper.
Apparently the jailbreak yesterday made front page news. Someone had even leaked Chuuya's mugshots and saw fit to paste them directly below two separate photos of Dazai and Akiko. Headline reading: Dangerous Criminal Set Free By City's Prince Princess!
Wonderful. Now Chuuya's face was everywhere. It didn't take a genius to figure out this was the Ministry's handywork. No doubt a ploy to make sure he couldn't set foot outside the Agency without causing mass alarm, the added bonus of casting the Agency and its occupants in a bad light was just the cherry on top.
As usual, Hirotsu dropped to one knee when he and Chuuya approached the table. He cut the younger man an rigid look as if ordering him to follow suit, but Chuuya ignored it. These geezers may be king's but they weren't his king's.
If the morning news bothered Mori, he didn't show it when he noticed they're arrival. "Well, good morning Chuuya. I trust you slept well?" The doctor said, reaching for his coffee.
Heat creeped up his neck as images of his dreams flashed in his mind, he quickly shoved them away. "Better than I have in a long time."
"That's understandable. I doubt anyone could rest easy knowing they were on death row… well apart from Dazai that is." Chuuya rolled his eyes. "You're the talk of the town today." Mori folded his paper and tossed it Chuuya's way. "Leave it to the media to spin lackluster fabrications to paint director Taneda justified in his self righteous attributions. I keep telling Fukuzawa we should invest in our own paper… or at the very least pay the editor twice as much as the good director."
Not willing to give his business partner the appeasement, the king of twilight simply plucked another bit of rice with his chopsticks into his mouth before saying. "You know my opinions on idol gossip, doctor. Let's count our blessings that no news about the recent disturbances have made the tabloids as of yet."
"For now, yes. But it's only a matter of time." Mori sighed then regarded Chuuya. "Still it's nothing to be concerned about. Petty cynicism is a daily occurrence for our organization. We've survived far worse."
"It'll be old news by tomorrow once my success in Tokyo makes headlines. Miss Haruno has already made the calls."
Chuuya tore his focus off the front page article and followed the new cheerful voice to its source on the sofa. A young man with shaggy black hair, dressed like a Newsie kid complete with a newsboy cap, sat with his legs folded and his eyes closed. Munching on a bag of potato chips with dozens of other cheap snacks and snack wrappers littered all around him. He had a fair complexion and a slim body, and almost everything about him screamed slob. Chuuya didn't know whether to laugh or be aghast.
However, if he was behaving so leisurely in the head office with the kings none the wiser, he must be important so Chuuya chose a civil approach with. "Who the hell are you?
The boy didn't answer… or, he didn't care to answer. Discarding his now empty bag on the floor and opening a fresh one. It was Hirotsu who was about to throw a conniption fit yet again over Chuuya's lack of manners or respect, but Fukuzawa raised his hand halting him and stepped in.
"Chuuya, allow me to introduce my ward, Ranpo Ed--"
"That's Detective thank you very much!"
Fukuzawa huffed. "My ward, Detective Ranpo Edogawa."
"Yo!" Ranpo waved at Chuuya, who awkwardly reciprocated.
"Your ward?" Chuuya asked Fukuzawa. "Is he a prince too?"
"Ha! As if." Ranpo snickered. "I'm way more important than any prince. I'm a genius. Heck, If it weren't for me Dazai wouldn't even be a prince." He bragged, "Actually, if it weren't for me, you guys wouldn't even be king's."
"Yes Ranpo, we know." Mori gumbeled, as if he'd heard this a thousand times before and was sick of it.
"Just making sure." Ranpo smiled. "It's all thanks to me and my glorious ability. I deserve appreciation."
In all his life, Chuuya had never met anyone even half as arrogant as this clown. His haughty personality and pushy narcissism was almost too big for the room he was sitting in. Normally, Chuuya would crush guys like this without a second thought. But as obnoxious as Ranpo was, he didn't hold a candle to Dazai in that category. There was an innocence about him that made his ego almost… enduring.
Oh great, now Chuuya realized he hated Dazai so much, he had none left to spare for anyone else. The enlightenment only annoyed him further until Ranpo pointed at him.
"You should be thanking me too." Chuuya blinked. "I was the one who told them they should stop your execution since you'd be the key to solving this case. A little gratitude would be appreciated. Or just fawn over my awesomeness, that works too."
You know what, scratch what he thought a second ago. Not only did Ranpo beg the question of, how can anyone talk with a mouth full of potato chips? But how could anyone be this self absorbed? He was really getting on Chuuya's nerves-- and from the looks of it, everyone else's-- only he didn't seem to care. This clearly was a regular occurance.
"What are you talking about?" Chuuya growled. "There's no way you could've known that."
"That's where you're wrong, Chuuya." Fukuzawa said. "Ranpo's ability is quite unique. It is the very foundation on which our organization stands. Even Dazai's is inferior."
Now Chuuya knew they were full of hot air. If his own ability couldn't beat Dazai's, how could this guy's? What's more, how could an organization be built on a single ability? His expression must've said everything he was thinking because Mori spoke next.
"Instead of speculating, why not see for yourself? This is the reason you were summoned this morning so… Ranpo, would you mind?"
"Absolutely!" Ranpo jumped to his feet, discarding his snacks and reached into his pocket. Chuuya braced himself, ready for whatever the self proclaimed genius would dish out, it turned out just to be his glasses. A special pair gifted by Fukuzawa many years ago. His ability couldn't work without them… or so he believed. "Prepare to be mind blown! Ability: Ultimate Deduction!"
Waiting for anything to happen, Chuuya couldn't figure what was going on. He didn't see a colorful aura or feel intense power. As far as he could tell, Ranpo just put on his glasses and opened his emerald eyes, staring at him. He even looked back at Hirotsu and the king's for clarification but they were all focused on Ranpo.
It was a few seconds before he spoke.
"You don't have to worry about him escaping or rebelling." He announced. "He's thought about it of course but won't go through with it. Even though he's unsure about us, he feels indebted to us for saving his life. He's got a strong sense of loyalty and pride and won't leave until he's repaid the debt."
Mouth gaped and brows frowned, Chuuya was stunned. Ranpo's power could see his innermost thoughts?
"What he said about hearing the voice in Suribatchi city is true. As well as why he was looking into Arahabaki, but he stretched the truth about certain details. Not to mention withheld information."
"What are you, some kinda human lie detector or something?" Chuuya gritted his teeth.
"We figured as much." Fukuzawa told Ranpo, ignoring Chuuya's outburst. "Can we trust him to work with us?"
"Yes." There was no hesitation in Ranpo's voice. He seemed like a different person. Before he was carefree, childish, and his arrogance was revolting. Now he was serious, calculating, and intimidating. "He refuses to betray or use anyone the way his best friend did him."
It was almost comical, how wide Chuuya's eyes got. Though everyone present was nothing but sympathetic.
"And are our other suspicions about him correct as well?" Mori asked, folding his hands in front of him.
"They are. One hundred percent."
That pleased Mori but Chuuya was starting to panic inside. What suspicions? How did Ranpo know about Shirase?
"And what is your conclusion about Chuuya's character?"
Ranpo again pointed a finger. "My deduction is that Chuuya Nakahara is two sides of the same coin with loyalty as the axis. He never let the hardships of his life discourage him like others. He's bitter but not diabolical. Relied on his ability more than people, but only for self preservation. He values life and honesty above all else. Lying just isn't in his character. My conclusion is that he's just a lost stray dog like the rest of us. One with a conscience we can trust. He has my stamp of approval."
With that, Ranpo removed his glasses and went back to his carefree snack munching.
Chuuya was shaking with anger. And why wouldn't he? He'd just had his whole psyche stripped bare and put on display. What were these people playing at?
"Thank you for the assessment, Ranpo." Mori said. "Brilliant as ever."
"Ha! That was nothing. You should've seen me yesterday after I solved the murder case." Ranpo boasted. "I met some weird gloomy guy with a raccoon who challenged me to a battle to see which of us was the superior detective. I wiped the floor with him obviously. He was kinda cool though, I wouldn't mind recruiting him."
Mori stood and went to retrieve a paper slip from his desk, which he promptly signed then brought to Fukuzawa and Ranpo for the same. "Good news, Chuuya, you've just been acquitted, free to roam the Agency at leisure. You just need this permission slip and you'll no longer be considered a threat on our premise."
"What the flying fuck, you bastards?"
"You're angry. It's understandable, I suppose that was a little insensitive of us, profiling you without permission, but it had to be done. Now that we know for sure you're not a security risk, we can begin the process of having you fully exonerated."
"And that makes it ok?" The floor cratered where Chuuya stomped his foot, but didn't dissuade the king's or Ranpo at all. "Just what the hell do you really want from me?"
Fukuzawa sipped his tea while Mori handed the permission slip to Hirotsu then secured his hands behind his back and walked over to stand before Chuuya, who glared daggers at the king. "The real question is What do you want for yourself, Chuuya?" The words were like a slap to the face. "Until you can answer that question with certainty, you will never nurture that potential inside you into greatness. All your life you've let your power keep you alive, but you've never actually used it for its true purpose have you?"
"And what is it's true purpose?" Chuuya growled.
"That is for you to decide." Said Fukuzawa, coming to join his colleague. "In the end, the answer can only come from you."
"I'm not interested in hearing philosophical bull shit, old man. You don't know me. And I don't need you or anyone else telling me how to use my ability. I've done just fine on my own."
"Your track record says otherwise."
Chuuya moved to charge Fukuzawa, only to halt when he felt the cold steel of a katana tip pressed to his neck. Confusion creased his brows when he realized he never saw the blade leave its sheath. Even the aura of gravity armoring his body wasn't enough to stop the sharp edge from cutting into his skin. Blood oozing out. Confusion turned to cockiness and the red aura extended up the katana to the king wielding it.
A king who was still standing despite the heavy gravity forcing him down. Chuuya's arrogance dissolved into a frown. Was Fukuzawa like Dazai?... No. Closer inspection and he clearly saw the line of sweat running down the old man's cheek. He was struggling to withstand it, all Chuuya had to do was increase the weight and he'd crumble, however he made the grave mistake of meeting the silver haired king's eyes.
Cold and sinister. Like a predator on the hunt. Those burning grey eyes had him pinned. Chuuya may have had superior power but every instinct in his body told him he was going to die. Was this what being frozen with fear was like?
The stand off lasted only a few seconds but it felt like eternity. It was Mori who broke it. "Yukichi enough. The boy doesn't know any better. Let him go."
Chuuya's eyes widened. It was his ability that held Fukuzawa, yet he couldn't deny the overwhelming feeling that it was the other way around. Only certified when the katana left his neck and the old man sheathed it regardless of the gravity still weighing him down.
A relieved breath and his ability decimated. I wasn't breathing the whole time?
Fukuzawa tucked his hands back into his kimono and went back to his tea.
It took Chuuya every once of self control to stop his heart from exploding in his chest. "W-what kind of crazy ability was that?"
Mori piqued. "Oh, Fukuzawa wasn't using his ability." Chuuya was stupefied. "You could search the world a hundred times over and never find anyone with half the resolve or strength of will as the great Silver Wolf. You were smart to listen to your instincts, had you so much as breathed your head would be laying on the new Persian rug before you even realized you were dead."
Suddenly the suspicions about how these two old timers were able to exterminate the Port Mafia in one night made a little more sense. How can anyone be that strong? Was it because Fukuzawa was Soukoku or was Mori correct about his strength of will being par none? Either way, Chuuya found himself feeling something akin to respect.
"That's going to need stitches." The king of the night removed a handkerchief and pressed it to Chuuya's bleeding neck. "Hirotsu, escort Chuuya to the infirmary."
Hirotsu looked ashen, stuttering. "T-the infirmary, sir?"
"Yes. Not only does this wound need proper care, Chuuya needs a health check and official signature from our head physician on his pass slip. It would be unethical for me to sign it off."
"A-as you w-wish sir."
"Oh Specs," Ranpo waved. "If you're headed down there, take this for me, will ya?" He tossed a pristine white box wrapped with a blue ribbon to Hirotsu, who handled it with care. "I got my own box this time so those are all hers." Hirotsu's fearful exposition broke into a soft smile momentarily.
While Chuuya wasn't really interested in a trivial health examination-- especially when there were certain things he wanted to keep hidden, he was eager to get away from Mori and Fukuzawa… and more specifically Ranpo. So he followed Hirotsu back out of the head office, holding the bloody cloth to his wound.
Mori mused, pouring himself another cup of coffee.
"His wound wasn't that serious, doctor. I made sure of it." Fukuzawa said, lifting a brow as Mori hummed. "And we both know that you could've signed the health certificate…"
Mori took a sip of his coffee before responding. "Consider it another test. If this doesn't make him abscond, nothing will."
"You're impossible." Fukuzawa scuffed.
"Care to make another wager, my friend?" Mori quirked.
Looking over his colleague's shoulder, Fukuzawa asked Ranpo, "What are my odds at winning?"
"Zero!" No hesitation.
"Forget it."
Mori pouted, going back to his coffee. How disappointing.
The doors opened to the lobby. Marble tiled floors polished to the point Chuuya could see his reflection. There were various men and women hurrying in different locations, carrying files, coffees, and tablets. None paid him or Hirotsu any mind as they made their way across the reception area.
"Oh big brother, I'm so happy you're ok, don't ever scare me like that again!"
Chuuya looked up to see two teenagers locked in an embrace by the receptionist station. Well, 'locked' was putting it mildly. The more accurate assessment was a long haired brunette in a high school uniform was crushing the life out of a sweaty, fellow redhead in an oversized white sweater with another red one tied around his waist. The kid was obviously younger than Chuuya, but at least a head taller and could've easily escaped the girl's bear hug if he'd wanted.
"N-Naomi, please. We're at work and for the last time, I'm sorry I worried you but it's over now." The boy said.
"That's not the point!" Cried the girl- Naomi. "If you had died I wouldn't be able to go on in the world. I love you big brother! So, so much!" Chuuya watched Naomi bury her face in her brother's sweater, clutching onto him like a lifeline. Her brother sighed then tentatively wrapped his arms around her.
"It's ok now. I'm here."
It was a tender moment, Hirotsu almost hated interrupting it as they approached and he cleared his throat. The boy looked up with alarm and attempted to stand up straight, a difficult task with his sister still clinging to him. "Oh! M-mr. Hirotsu, sir. I'm sorry I didn't see you." He fumbled his words.
Hirotsu held up a hand and softened his features. "It's quite alright Tanizaki. I just wanted to say how relieved I am to see you in good health. You worried us all."
Funny enough, the boy looked mortified and started bowing his head, spewing apology after apology. Only stopping when he noticed Chuuya. "Oh! Is this him?" He asked Hirotsu. "The guy Dazai and Miss Akiko saved from execution yesterday?"
"Am I that famous already?" Chuuya grumbled.
Hirotsu nodded and raised a hand. "May I introduce Chuuya Nakahara."
The young man smiled, lowering his head, "How do you do, I'm Junichiro Tanizaki." He said politely then gestured to his sister. "And this is my little sister, Naomi."
"Hi!" She waved, smiling just as brightly as her brother.
After looking the siblings over, Chuuya deemed them sincere enough. "Guess the Agency really does take all kinds. What's a couple of high schoolers doing working here?"
Junichiro laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, Naomi is technically the only student. I just turned eighteen, it's just the two of us.
Of course. More orphans, best guess is this kid has worked himself to the bone to not only keep him and his sister together, but also to give her a better life. Five seconds after 'Hello' and Chuuya could already tell Junichiro was a good person. Hirotsu's next statement only verified it more.
"Junichiro is a local hero now. He shielded an expectant mother during the shootout with the Azure King cult and took six bullets to the chest. The woman just gave birth to a healthy boy two days ago and has named her son after him."
"That's right! My big brother is a hero." Naomi boasts. "A very handsome one." She ran her hand under her brother's sweater, making him jump.
"Ah! Naomi, you're embarrassing me."
Taken back by the siblings' uncomfortable closeness, Chuuya chose to focus on what was said before. "Six bullets? How are you even alive, man?" Though he suspected he already knew the answer.
"The princess, of course." Of course. "Speaking of, how many times, Junichiro?" Hirotsu questioned and the boy shriveled into a pale, quivering ball, curled up on the floor.
"F-f-five t-imes!" He stuttered with his head in his hands. "It… w-was horrible…" Naomi wrapped her slender arms around him, babbling words to try and comfort him.
Chuuya raised an eyebrow and Hirotsu closed his eyes in understanding. "I can't even imagine." He said. "We're on our way to the infirmary now for Chuuya's health check before he's clear to roam our base freely."
The siblings looked up at Chuuya in sheer horror. Clearly they knew something he didn't. Junichiro noticed his neck wound and jumped to his feet then patted him on the shoulder. "G-good luck, man."
"Um… thanks I guess." Chuuya muttered.
He followed Hirotsu towards a flight of stairs leading down but as they left, he heard Naomi say something to her brother about taking care of him. He glanced back when Junichiro squealed in surprise and saw him back on the floor with his sister on top of him doing things he was sure siblings don't do. Especially in public.
"I thought they were brother and sister?" He asked Hirotsu.
"Don't ask about what you don't want to know."
This place just gets crazier and crazier.
Was this an infirmary or a chop shop?
Not that he'd ever spent any time in doctors offices, but he was sure they didn't have a rather impressive collection of power tools and medieval weapons hanging on the walls.
It was like a hospital, construction company, and museum decided to share one roof.
Possibly a concert hall too, given how electric guitar and pounding bass drums bleared over the stereo system to back some guy screaming about a passionate night with a woman who broke his heart. Chuuya's mood greatly improved as the music pulsed through his body, making him feel alive, while seemingly having the opposite effect on Hirotsu.
They rounded a corner and Chuuya's mood improved even more by the sight that greeted them.
Red heels tapped in perfect sync with the beat, as Akiko continued polishing her clever.
She sat facing away from her desk and the stacks of files, surrounded by gleaming medical tools and freshly sharpened knives. The dark shadows under her eyes were a clear sign the
princess hadn't gotten much sleep the night before, but damn it if she still wasn't breathtaking holding deadly weapons.
Heat crept up his chest as memories of her on top of him, crying his name flashed in his mind. No!... Don't let your stupid dream get to you, idiot!
Hirotsu got her attention, stepping forward and bowing his head, which made her immediately turn off the music, much to Chuuya's disappointment
"Good morning, princess--"
"Spear me the honorifics, Hirotsu!" She snapped. "I'm not in the mood. I've been up all night preparing for the expedition to Suribatchi city tomorrow, I ran out of wine halfway through and my dumb dad changed the cellar combination… AGAIN! Honestly, you'd think he doesn't trust me. And if that wasn't bad enough, I have to comb through every one of these medical files and write those damn apology letters from both me and Dazai, since his lazy ass won't bother! So fuck your ceremony and tell me what your doing here!"
Wow, and Chuuya thought he wasn't a morning person.
Akiko's rant didn't nettle the older man in the least. If anything he fought back laughter and presented her with the white box Ranpo sent, her sour mood morphed into girly excitement as she untied the ribbon and tore into the box full of intricately decorated sweets.
She moaned in satisfaction, popping one in her mouth and once again, Chuuya was plagued with impure images he had to suppress. Once the princess had eaten a couple more and Hirotsu was certain she wouldn't gut him like a fish, he handed her the pass slip.
"You're father. Request you to sign this, should you see fit that is."
She read it quickly and finally looked at Chuuya, instantly zeroing in on the cut on his neck she recognized. "Uncle?" She asked, Hirotsu nodded. "Did dad have to intervene?"
"Not as much as usual, princess."
Akiko smirked before standing. "You're excused, Hirotsu."
"Princess, I don't think that's a good--"
"I said leave." Her tone left no room for error so Hirotsu bowed one more time then took his leave. Giving Chuuya a warning look as he passed by.
At last it was just the two of them alone. An awkward silence while she retrieved her stethoscope and clipboard.
"You met Ranpo." She said it as a statement more than a question. "He must like you."
"And that's a good thing?" Chuuya scuffed.
"Here, it is. At the Agency, there's no one's approval you want more."
"Who says I want anyone's approval?"
Akiko chuckled. "Even so, you can't be as bad as the Ministry claimed if Ranpo says you're good." She motioned for him to follow her to the exam room and take a seat on the table where she looked over his wound. "This says a lot about you too. This last guy who challenged my uncle ended up soiling himself and groveling on the floor." She mused.
Chuuya rolled his eyes. "I think that says more about that guy than me." Akiko had to agree.
For the most part the examination was pretty straightforward with her checking his vital signs and reflexes; he couldn't figure what had Tanizaki and Hirotsu so alarmed before. The most difficult aspects he found was hiding his annoyance when it came time for his weight and her telling him 'no cheating' with his ability on the scale. Not to mention making sure to only offer her his right arm for the blood pressure band.
It was while she was busy writing things down on her clipboard did he decide to turn on the charm with a cocky smirk. "So you do like wine and rock music,"
"I like a lot of things." She rebuffed, refusing to look away from her chart. "Wine just happens to be at the top of the list. I never would've gotten through my freshman year at university without it."
"And what about the other things you like, princess?" For some reason, Chuuya found he didn't like calling her by her title. It didn't suit her at all.
Akiko put her pen to her chin, pensive. "Hmm… My patient's not attempting to flirt with me, for one… and don't call me princess." She hated hearing it from everyone else enough as is, but coming from Chuuya just sounded wrong.
"As you wish… Beautiful." Much better.
She cut him a dirty look but made no attempt to correct him. Grabbing a bottle of disinfectant to start cleaning the dried blood off his neck.
There were several picture frames adorning the wall, mostly ivy league degrees, but one picture in particular caught Chuuya's eye. A group photo of Akiko as a young girl-- still lovely but lacking the fire in her eyes. She stood next to her brother, who sported even more bandages
than now, in front of they're adopted father with a hand on each of their shoulders and… Elise? Smiling at the camera but looking exactly as she does now. It made Chuuya pique.
"The answer is 'yes,'" Akiko murmured, "that is the same Elise. And no she hasn't changed."
Chuuya reframed from asking the obvious and instead went for the answer. "She's his ability, isn't she, you're dad's?"
"He prefers the term his Darling, but yes. She is his life long companion and confident. The only one who knows him as well if not better than Fukuzawa."
And he keeps her manifested at all times, just how powerful were the king's?
"Can I ask you something?"
Akiko paused her ministrations. "Depends on the question." She frowned.
"What made them decide to take over? Everyone knows the story about how they did it, but the Port Mafia had been in power for years after the war and they did nothing to stop them. So what changed?"
All anyone ever cared about knowing of the crimson night was the fact that the Soukoku alone annihilated the Port Mafia and crowned themselves Yokohama's kings. They knew the how, when, and where, but nobody really cared for the why. Everyone just speculated about the obvious. They wanted power and wealth, they were tired of getting no recognition, they were bored, they were heroes, they wanted to do what was right.
Chuuya had heard it all but never got the definitive answer. There had been about a five year period after the great war where the Soukoku had vanished, leaving the city to decay and not appearing together again until the crimson night, so what happened in that time to make them take such drastic action?
Akiko had been quiet for a long time. It made Chuuya peer up at her tentative. For a moment he thought he said something wrong with how dazed she seemed to be. The quiver of her bottom lip told him she was lost in unpleasant thoughts, he was fixing to apologize and blow it off.
"They… found something." She took a deep breath, looking away. "Something that showed them the true horror of the Port Mafia. My dad had intended on taking over the mafia himself but…" Chuuya took notice of the way her body tensed, he swore she had moisture clouding her eyes, she was forcing herself to ground out the words. "...but what they found was the final straw. They couldn't let the Port Mafia continue on."
"What did they find?" The question left before he could stop it and he mentally punched himself for it when her pain filled eyes met his.
"Death." She said,
It was then Chuuya saw the pain in her eyes fade into anger. He suspected he knew the reason but refused to voice it. Instead he used his thumb to wipe away the single stubborn tear she hadn't been able to suppress, making her drop her guard just a little. "I'm sorry." He was sincere.
There it was again. That pull in those damn blue eyes that tugged at her chest and made her forget everything about herself. Her gaze fluttered down to his lips and she found herself leaning In closer, closer… She turned away, refusing to acknowledge the disappointment written all over his face. Instead she cleared her throat and walked over to a cabinet. "I'll get you a bandage. Good news is it doesn't need stitches."
Chuuya raised an eyebrow. "You're not going to use your ability?"
Akiko paused. "Do you want me to?"
"Well it's for healing right? I didn't really get to see how it works yesterday. And unlike your crazy brother, I don't care much for bandages."
A smile broke her lips and suddenly all the tension and pain from before evaporated from the princess, replaced with excitement. She turned back to Chuuya and ordered him to lay down, he complied, intrigued when she flounced over and started securing his arms and legs into leather restraints.
"I'll try anything once, but this seems like a fifth or sixth date type of thing." He teased,
Akiko smiled, fastening the last restraint good and tight. "I doubt you could handle what I do on a third date… much less a fifth or sixth."
"Is that a challenge?" Whatever game she was playing, he was all in."
"Hmmm… I guess we'll see." Satisfied. She began unbuttoning her blouse and discarding her tie, fully aware of his hungry gaze as she revealed the black tank top underneath. "My ability is Thou Shalt Not Die." She said, lifting his shirt to expose his stomach. Now we're talking.
"It allows me to heal any and all injuries… as long as they're fatal."
"Well that's handy." No wonder she was so highly regarded, king's daughter aside. However, he started to pique when she went to pull something out of a drawer and heard a buzz sound like a power tool being tested.
"It is. The conditions however, are not exactly pleasant. In order for me to heal mediocre wounds like say a gunshot, or… a cut on the neck… I must first bring my patients to the brink of death."
Say what?...
Chuuya's smirk melted the moment he understood her meaning. Eyes darting around the infirmary at all the different weapons and tools, finally realizing their purpose. The memory of the princess wielding that giant meat cleaver yesterday and healing all those he tried to kill. Him actually dying and waking up to her soft touch on his skin. Now he understood Tanizaki and Hirotsu terror before because it was starting to take him over now.
"Now, this is your first time so I should break you in gently…" She turned around holding a power drill with the longest sharpest drill bit he'd ever seen. "You better hold on tight, little boy!" She grinned.
Damn these restraints were tight. Nothing could stop the machine happy princess. Not even gravity. Maybe he wasn't ready for every game she liked to play…
Beautiful signature signed and sealed with her stamp of approval, Akiko beamed, handing her ashen patient. "There you go. Chuuya Nakahara, you have a clean bill of health."
There was absolutely nothing clean about what he just endured. He could still feel the drill digging into his gut. If that was her definition of 'gentle,' he vowed then and there to never piss her off.
He accepted the pass slip with a shaky hand and hopped off the table. "You know, I was kinda worried about taking you to Suribatchi city. It's not exactly a place for a princess, but if anything, you'll fit right in."
"I'll take that as a compliment." Akiko preened, then looked Chuuya up and down, frowning her brows.
"What?" He noticed.
"Your attire... needs something."
"Should I be insulted?"
"No. I like it, I really do." She panicked. Curse her habit of thinking one thing but saying another when flustered. "I-I mean. Something about it… or you… or… I don't know. Something just
doesn't seem complete." She turned away so he wouldn't notice the heat coloring her cheeks. He noticed. "Just forget I said anything. I have work to do."
Chuuya suppressed the urge to laugh. The princess was easy to tease but one had to do so carefully or risk being back on her table. "If you figure out what it is, let me know. I'll consider 'doctors orders.'" He pocketed his hands, "Later… Beautiful."
Akiko didn't even try to stop her smile as he left.
Unsurprisingly Hirotsu waited at the top of the stairs. Leaning against the wall with a freshly lit cigarette that he heartily offered Chuuya. The young man quickly snatched it, inhaling almost to the butt.
Hirotsu smirked. "What did she use?"
"Power drill." Chuuya answered without delay. The older man nodded knowingly.
"My first time was a buzz saw. Car accident with the prince. Word of advice, never let him drive."
"Duly noted." Smoke poured from his nostrils. "Your boss send every newcomer to their doom like that?"
"Only the ones he has high hopes for." Hirotsu said. "Come on. Let's get you something to eat. First thing to happen when the shaking stops is unbelievable hunger.
The old man was right. Chuuya had been ravenous. He'd followed Hirotsu to the in house kitchen where the staff was busy preparing all manners of dishes, sauces and sweets. He wasn't even sure what he ate, only that it was all delicious like dinner the night before. Hirotsu sat opposite of him amused as he sipped black coffee.
They were on the way back to the elevators when the loud, angry ravings of a mad man bounced off the high ceilings.
LISTEN HERE YOU INCOMPETENT GIRL, HAVE YOU ANY IDEA WHO I AM? I'LL HAVE YOUR LIFE FOR THIS!
Recognizing the voice doing all the shouting, Hirotsu cursed under his breath but loud enough for Chuuya to hear. They rounded the corner and saw the receptionist whimpering in her seat as a lanky man Chuuya almost mistook for a butler given the way he was dressed, pounded on the desk and demanded to see the king's.
The poor girl was close to tears and Chuuya was close to showing the guy what a meteor to the head felt like but Hirotsu interjected. "Ace!" The man stopped shouting. "What are you doing here?"
Ace? Why did that name sound familiar?
"Hirotsu. Finally someone competent." Ace said, composing himself and pointing to the receptionist. "This hairbrained hussy refused to give me leave to see their majesties, even though I have important business with them!"
The girl in question tried to defend herself but Hirotsu raised a hand in sympathy before regarding Ace. "What kind of business?"
Ace snapped his fingers and a boy in his mid teens, wearing a collar, shuffled to hand him a large portfolio then backed away timidly. Chuuya took note of how Ace never once bothered looking at the kid.
"Renovation projects for the casino of course." Ace beaming, though nothing about his smile was genuine and his voice was rancid with carefully covered malice. "There are several details I must personally discuss with his majesty before construction can commence. Not to mention, I heard of the incident yesterday and wanted to see that the princess was unharmed."
And then it hit Chuuya where he'd heard that name before. He distinctly recalled Akiko complaining about having to avoid a snake named 'Ace' and Mori mentioning something about a casino. Honestly Chuuya had been too vexed thinking about the other creeps mentioned to register the rest of the conversation. This was said snake who without a doubt lived up to the name.
"I must say I was shocked that his majesty sent the princess and her brother of all people to the penitentiary to retrieve some low worth trash not even fit for recycling. You would think he'd have some concern for his daughter's safety?"
One more word out of this clown and this low worth trash was going to make him regret ever opening his entitled mouth.
"Princess Akiko and Prince Dazai are the finest agents within our ranks and the princess is more than capable of defending herself. I can assure you, Ace, that the boss would never endanger the lives of his precious daughter, or that of his sole heir. You shouldn't be so quick to doubt their capabilities, or the boss' judgment." Chuuya didn't miss the way Hirotsu emphasized Dazai's title and neither did Ace.
His ire was evident in his tone despite his plastic smile. "Of course, I suppose that was impertinent of me. I was concerned and let my emotions get out of hand. His majesty knows best and I shall never question his decisions again. Now may I see him?"
Hirotsu pulled out his cellphone and the speed dial. "Boss, apologies for disturbing you but Ace is here with urgent business regarding the casino. Do I send him up?... Yes sir." He pocketed
his phone. "Apologies Ace, but the boss is tied up with other matters today. He said to come back tomorrow."
The vein in Ace's head was practically dancing. Nevertheless he retained civil composure. "Well, it can't be helped. Then I'll just drop by the princess' office to say 'Hello' and be on my way."
Like hell he was!
"I'm afraid she's indisposed as well." Leave it to Hirotsu to save the day. "But I'll be happy to send her your regards."
Suddenly 'snake' was a misinterpretation because Chuuya was sure this guy ate them for breakfast. He was positive he was trying and failing to incinerate Hirotsu with his mind before grinding out, "Please do. I do look forward to seeing her at the masquerade ball. Good day, Hirotsu." He turned on his heels and left the Agency building with the timid boy fumbling behind.
Once he was promptly out the door, Hirotsu gave the shaken receptionist the rest of the day off with a bonus in her salary and Chuuya asked, "Who the hell was that piece of crap?"
Hirotsu sighed. "A thorn in all our sides. I need to inform the prince." He motioned for Chuuya to follow and when they got to the elevator, he hit the lowest button to take them down. "I told you about some in the Port Mafia submitting to the king's," Chuuya nodded. "Ace's father was an executive who ran a neutral casino for them back in the day. After the crimson night, he was one of the first to bend the knee to the bosses. Mainly to save his own skin of course."
"Of course."
"Mori kept the casino since it's a good source of information in the city and allowed Ace's father to keep management of it, which he did devoutly for many years but… he died three years ago under mysterious circumstances and Ace took over management."
"Meaning he killed his old man to get a leg up in the world." Chuuya clarified.
"There's no proof but yes, everyone knows it. Ace is nothing if not ambitious and doesn't let anyone or anything stand between him and his goals. And he makes it no secret what his ultimate goal is."
"To be king." Not a question.
"He refuses to acknowledge Dazai as the heir because he believes if he can marry Akiko he'll have a one way ticket to the throne. Fortunately that's all just a pipe dream, it'll be snowing in hell before the princess ever falls for his schemes or the boss ever to bless his pursuit of her."
Like that would stop him from trying. Chuuya thought. "Who was the kid?"
Hirotsu closed his eyes, dreading the subject. "His latest unfortunate, I'm afraid." Chuuya waited for him to explain. "Ace's ability allows him to turn people's life force into gems that he keeps as collateral. He uses it on all his staff. Almost all of them are lost souls or patrons who have debts to work off. The collar is meant as a reminder of their station, any disobedience and he crushes their jem, killing them. They live in fear for their lives until their terms are up."
Eyes wide with realization, Chuuya murmured. "You mean they're--"
"Slaves. Yes."
"Why the fuck would the old geezers let someone like that live, much less work for them?"
"That's a dispute the king's have on a near daily basis. Neither agrees with Ace's methods, and Dazai wants any excuse to put him down but it's not that simple. Ace's father kept a detailed portfolio of every member in the Port Mafia. Information he used as leverage to stay alive, he claimed to have done the same for the Agency members and I don't doubt it. If anything were to happen to Ace, those files would be released to the government. They look for any reason to overthrow our organization, the king's can't take the risk… for now at least."
Chuuya understood but was still miffed. "Basically he has the geezers by the balls."
Hirotsu's silence was his confirmation.
Meanwhile outside the Agency, Ace stomped down the stone steps, the boy, Karma, rushed to open the car door but was stopped when he was backhanded and knocked to the ground. "I can do it myself you worm!" Ace screeched. "I swear, when I'm king the first thing I'll do is throw that senile old man off the highest roof! Just who does he think he is? Nothing! That's what. From the moment I was born I was destined to be a king! I'll show him, I'll show them all!"
Karma said nothing sitting opposite of his master as the car pulled out of it's parking space. Guess this is what he gets for attempting to pickpocket the worst targets imaginable.
Ace mercilessly tapped his foot, frustration and anger overflowing. He was so sick of waiting. He just needed the right opportunity to do away with those ridiculous old fools and that bastard, Dazai, who thinks he had a right to his throne. Ha! Over his dead body would Dazai ever assume supreme power. He'd keep the princess of course, spirited as she may be; she was still a stunning creature. Fit to bear his children and stand at his side. Her fiery personality could be easily extinguished once he had her jem in his hands. And what a fine jem it should be.
If only he could eliminate Dazai first…
Curiosity cooled his irritation as he reached into his coat, removing an anonymous letter he'd received earlier that morning. It was stamped with a vulgar grinning rat and had a single cryptic text written inside.
-Come to the east harbor tomorrow night if you want to be king.-
He had no fear of ambush. The message didn't say to go alone, and even if it was a trap, his ability was more than enough. What did he have to lose? He'd play along if only to sate his peaked curiosity. Besides, he could always make room in his collection of servants if it turned out to be some kind of hoax.
Dazai wanted to die.
He always wanted to die but today he really wanted to die.
As if aching from the beating he took from the puny slug yesterday wasn't bad enough, he had the extra work load of training the new recruits in Kunikida's absence. Honestly that man and his foolish ideals. One curb in his damned perfect world where nobody gets killed and he's sulking like a lost puppy. The only difference being Dazai hated puppies-- and all dogs in general-- but found Kunikida and his goodie two shoes idealism… amusing, to say the least.
He watched as the latest green twerps botched their ninth attempt at swiping the knife at the practice dummies and huffed. "Again!" He shouted. When they flunked their tenth attempt, he was ready to throw himself in front of a bus… again. "How many times do I have to say it? Killing someone is easy, defending yourself is the hard bit! If you can't handle a lifeless dummy, how do you expect to handle the field?"
A collective Sorry sir, was their response and Dazai just rolled his eyes. Sorry doesn't keep you alive, idiots.
Junichiro was demonstrating gun practice to some of the senior trainees who graduated from the knife lessons the rookies were currently learning. So far none warranted being impressed but they were certainly more interesting then his group.
The prince's irritation only grew when he heard the elevator door open and Hirotsu and… ugh! Chuuya stepped off. Oh great, he got approved by Ranpo. Now he really, really wanted to die.
As usual, Hirotsu bowed low when he approached. "My prince, I'm sorry for interrupting you."
"Save it." Dazai said. "Why is the slug here?"
"Don't talk like I can't hear you, shithead." Chuuya sneered. "If you've got something to say to me then say it."
Dazai ignored Chuuya, waiting for Hirotsu to answer.
"Your father instructed me to show him around since he got approved, but that's not the reason we're here." Dazai listened intently. "Ace was just here demanding an audience." The prince cursed. "He said he was here to discuss renovations but it was clear what he really wanted was to snoop."
"Did you keep him away from my sister?"
"Of course sir. Your father turned him away until tomorrow."
"Of course he did." Dazai snorted. "Sis and I will be gone tomorrow. Thank you, Hirotsu." Frowning, he thought of something else. "Hirotsu." The man stood straighter. "I want you to put a stealth squad together, five or less, and have them follow Ace. If there's the slightest chance he's involved in the old boss sightings, I want to know about it."
"Of course sir."
The sound of clattering to the floor turned their attention back to the group practicing with knives and the one who dropped his, scrabbling to pick it up. Dazai frowned.
"What the hell is wrong with you?" He said approaching the trainee. "It's simple, you swipe and stab. Use your weight to shift!" He snatched the knife from the simpering kid and demonstrated, longing the knife in the dummy's chest. "Do it again!"
"I-I'm sorry sir." The kid mumbled. "I-I'm just n-not used to holding a real kn'nife yet. Mr. Kunikida has had us starting with fakes."
"Kunikida Isn't here." Dazai rebuffed. "And you better get used to it if you don't want to be thrown out on your ass. Now do it again, and get it right." The warning in his voice was evident. "That goes for all of you!" He bellowed, "Don't forget who's in charge of the army around here."
"Only because your daddy gave it to you!" Said an arrogant voice that made Dazai hault. "Everybody knows it, they're just afraid to say it." All eyes, including Chuuya and Hirotsu, pointed in the direction where a short haired blonde man with a small braid and combat boots haughtily loaded another round into his gun and fired several shots into the target. All perfect bullseye's, impressive given the shades he wore.
Those around him looked alarmed by his boldness, avoiding eye contact with the prince as he passed them. The cocky man lowered his gun, regarding Dazai with a twisted grin. "Oh sorry, did I hit a nerve, your majesty?" He mocked.
"Not at all," Dazai's voice was eerily calm. "I'm curious about what it is that everyone is afraid to say, that you apparently are not."
The man chuckled, patronizing. "Only that the reason you're so revered around here is because of who your dad is. Must be nice being a spoiled little rich kid who gets away with whatever the hell he wants."
Junichiro ordered the man's silence but Dazai waved him off. "Is that what you think I am?"
"It's the truth!" The man retorted. "Not everybody gets to be born with a silver spoon in their mouths. Or be the boss's favorite. I bet you wouldn't last five minutes on the streets."
Nobody moved. Most barely breathed. The entire training area was dead silent. Hirotsu's mouth was wide agape, beside him, Chuuya was down right impressed with the guy's nerve. He was so cocky and impulsive, looking for a fight and not willing to take shit from anyone no matter who they were. Much like himself.
Everyone braced themselves for the worst, including the arrogant mouth flaunter. But it never came. Instead Dazai smiled and said. "Thank you for the insight." Then turned to walk away.
The blond haired man raised a confused eyebrow as everyone else looked baffled, he made the mistake of letting his guard down for a split second because that was the exact moment Dazai's fist plowed into his face and sent him flying into the shooting targets. He barely had time to get up when he was pulled up by the collar of his leather jacket and punched again by the prince, this time in the eye.
He tried to gain some momentum but Dazai never gave him the chance. Junichiro and the rest of the recruits watched in horror as the dark prince mercilessly beat the mouthy trainee into a bloody mess.
What few failed to notice but Chuuya clearly did was that the prince was enjoying it. His manic eyes and wicked smile as he continued throwing blow after blow proved this wasn't a punishment for disrespect, it was personal entertainment.
Finally the prince stepped back, knuckles bloodied with both his and his victims blood. He extended his hand to Hirotsu. "Give me your gun." He said, breathing rapidly. Everyone gasped as the old man compiled without hesitation and Dazai aimed it directly at the mangled heap of a man.
Face swollen and bloody, sunglasses passed repair, the man still met Dazai's glare head on. Showing no sign of fear, even when the first bullet passed by his right ear. When he remained unfazed, the second went past his left, taking one of his dangling earrings with it. Still the man wouldn't be bothered.
"The next one goes in your head." Dazai stated, taking aim.
"Then get it over with." The man challenged.
Dazai started to squeeze the trigger but a stock of flame red hair obscured his vision.
"Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" Chuuya said.
Hirotsu blinked, looking back and forth. When did he move?
Dazai kept the gun level with Chuuya's head, the thin line of his lips changing into a smirk. "When someone my own size gets here, I'll happily oblige them. As it stands, all I see is a pint sized twerp who clearly didn't get enough milk to drink as a kid."
"And all I see is a psychotic dick who gets off on the suffering of others. You should try looking in a mirror when you want someone to torment since that's who you really want to hurt."
Taken back by Chuuya's words but refusing to show it, Dazai pressed the gun directly between the gravity users eyes. Finger just itching to pull the trigger. He was so annoyed by Chuuya's resolve. Just what was it about this red headed slug that irked him so? He'd already checked off all the obvious, but there was something more. Something the great dark prince, Dazai Osamu couldn't place. It only irritated him more. Specifically his gun hand.
Onlookers watched with bated breath as the standoff between the prince and the ex-con continued. Tension too thick to move. Even Hirotsu was struck immobile. But Chuuya wouldn't be intimidated. Whatever Dazai was or did, he wouldn't break him. And the prince knew it.
"Well? I'm waiting, Dazai." Chuuya said.
Dazai ground his teeth… wanting so bad to pull the trigger. But lowered the gun and tossed it back to its owner. "I've got to get ready for tomorrow." He shrugged, tucking his hands into his coat. "I'll be in my office. Tanizaki, you take over."
Junichiro muttered a Yes sir, and Dazai boarded the elevator. Spearing Chuuya one last glower before the doors closed.
Tensions relaxed as soon as the prince departed. And Junichiro ordered a water break before the combat sessions started. Hirotsu gave Chuuya a sour look before going to speak with Naomi, who was still glued to her brother's side.
"Y-you didn't have to do that." Chuuya looked behind to see the bruised man stammering to his feet. Trying to salvage his ruined sunglasses. "Not like I'm the first guy the royal jackass has used as a punching bag. I ain't sorry about what I said neither."
Chuuya shrugged. "I didn't do it for you. I did it because It's fun to ruin his fun. Which he was clearly having." God he hated people like that.
Despite the pain he was in, the blonde man brushed off his jacket and pants as if they were dusty, and tried blowing off his bloody state like it wasn't a big deal. Even though Chuuya knew better.
"Still, I'm short and from Cone Street. I've had worse beatings."
Not gifted then. "Been there." Chuuya quipped.
"You're him, aren't ya? The guy, the jackass and his hot sister, rescued from execution?" The man's face lit up, which made his black eye and swollen lip look even more painful.
"I really wish people would stop saying that." Chuuya sighed. "It's not like I'm a different species or anything."
"Well, word travels fast around here." The man grinned. "Names Albatross, you?"
"Chuuya."
Albatross gapped. "No way… as in Chuuya Nakahara, the king of the Sheep?"
It wasn't surprising a punk from the slums had heard about the Sheep in Suribatchi city. That didn't mean the mention of Chuuya's old comrades didn't cause a pain in his chest. "I wasn't their king. I was just the only gifted in the flock."
"Evffin so, you guys were legends back in the day. Never thought I'd see the likes of you here."
"That makes two of us. What's a dog from the Cone doing here?"
Albatross snickered. "Three squares and a bed. Beats a leaky box and trash scraps. Plus I get to work on all kinds 'a pretty motors on wheels here. And the bigger the paycheck the better the leg." It was hard to argue that logic. "So you sticking around?"
"For the moment." Chuuya said. "Only until I repay old farts by helping to solve a case. After, who knows?"
"Then I wish you luck, Chuuya." Albatross waited a beat before his expression turned cheeky and he wiggled his eyebrows. "So… is it true ya made out with the princess?"
News really does travel fast. "What does that matter?"
"Yur kiddin', right? There ain't a man in this building-- no-- this city who wouldn't kill for a shot with her. Yours truly included. So did you?"
Chuuya said nothing. Only averted his eyes with a prideful curl of his lips. That was all the answer Albatross needed. The beaten man nearly knocked Chuuya over with a slap on the back. "You son of a bitch!" He exclaimed. "Ya got balls of steel! Now I gotta buy ya a drink."
"I just might take you up on that some time."
It was true the Agency was full of unusual characters. But Chuuya was slowly coming to realize, a lot of them were good. However, the minority that weren't, were some of the worst of the worst.
After the incident the rest of the day was pretty uneventful.
Albatross was taken to the infirmary, which Chuuya was nothing but sympathetic for. Junichiro allowed him to hang there with him in the training area, where he observed the trainee's combat bouts.
Some were good but most were too green and had no business in a fight yet. And Tanizaki wasn't much help. He was too soft. If Dazai was too hard on them and Junichiro was too soft, it made Chuuya wonder what the other guy he'd heard mentioned, Kunikida, was like.
After training was over, Chuuya spent the rest of the day following Hirotsu and Junichiro around fulfilling their responsibilities. It was tedious but after five years locked in a cell, it felt so good to move around.
He didn't see Dazai or Akiko for the rest of the day, both apparently busy prepping for tomorrow. The former he was happy about but the latter… Well, it didn't matter. If he learned anything today it was that she wasn't wanton for admires.
After dinner with the Tanizaki siblings-- and trying to keep it down witnessing what Naomi was so boldly proud to do to her brother under the table with an audience-- Hirotsu escorted him back to his room. They hadn't talked much since the confrontation with Dazai and in all honesty, it was really egging Chuuya. He'd be lying if he said the old man hadn't grown on him. He'd opened his mouth to say something once they reached their destination but stopped as soon as Hirotsu handed him a fresh pack of cigarettes.
"I can't have you stealing mine again." The old man said, lips curling up just enough for Chuuya to know he was sincere and he gladly accepted them before walking in. "Chuuya," Hirotsu called. "I'm beginning to see what the bosses see in you. But word of advice, don't bite off more than you can chew." There was no malice in his voice, it was clear this was a warning of concern. Instead of rebuffing with a sarcastic come back or waving off the warning all together. Chuuya chose the polite way of nodding in understanding. Message received, Hirotsu left him to his solitude.
This time without locking the door.
A couple hours passed with Chuuya mainly laying on his bed, enjoying the taste of nicotine and thinking about tomorrow. Five years locked up, one day of simi-freedom, and he was on his way back to that hellhole he'd called home most of his life. Playing travel guide to Yokohama's royals.
He didn't doubt Dazai or Akiko capable of handling themselves should trouble acure… and it would. But that didn't stop the unease he felt. Suribatchi wasn't a place to take lightly. It was like a jungle or desert where everything was out to get you. And this case. These sightings, something wasn't right.
There hadn't been any reported sightings of the old boss today, inconsistent as they were, that still didn't sit right with Chuuya. And he'd have to be extra careful over there given the lives he'd be responsible for.
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on his door and he quickly extinguished his cigarette before going to see who it was. Creasing his brows when nobody was there, just a neatly wrapped package with a card on top that he plucked to read. Elegant handwriting made with a simple apology.
-I heard about what happened, I'm sorry. Hope this helps. Doctors orders...-
The last bit told him who it was from and he wasted no time in taking the package to his bed to be unwrapped. Lifting the lid, Chuuya almost laughed at the irony. How did she know?
Laying on a bed of tissue paper was a pair of black leather gloves. The soft interior felt wonderful over his hands, happy to find they covered his wrists. Exactly what he needed. But that wasn't all…
Chuuya piqued when he moved the tissue paper back, relieving a simple black hat. Classic style like something out of a mobster movie. Nothing flashy about it or particularly eye-catching but he found he liked the way he could twirl it in his hand. He'd never given much thought into hats before but what the hell, he tried it on and inspected his reflection.
"I'll be damned." He breathed. She was right, he had been missing something. Not just his attire, him. Whatever it was about the way the hat looked, completed him. Like finding the last piece to a puzzle and completing the picture. And did he look taller? He could never go back after this.
Staring at his reflection he barely recognized himself. Five years really is a long time. His hair was longer and features harder than when he'd been dragged out of Suribatchi. He changed but knew it didn't, it never did. What waited for him back there he dreaded finding out.
A yawn broke his composure and he suddenly felt so tired. It didn't take long for sleep to take him over as soon as he settled under the sheets. All the while hoping his wonderful dream from the previous night came back… this time with the inclusion of his new hat.
Hirotsu hadn't expected Chuuya to open the door so fast, as if he'd been waiting by it. He certainly didn't expect the new additions to his appearance but approved nonetheless.
Same as the morning before, their first stop was the head office where the king's, Dazai, Akiko, Ranpo, and a new guy in a freshly pressed suit with glasses and a ponytail, were waiting for them.
Akiko smiled, noticing their arrival and was the first to speak. "I see you liked the presents,"
Chuuya tipped his hat with a smirk. "Can't refuse doctors orders, now can I?"
Dazai broke out into a fit of laughter. "Oh my God! You're trying to make yourself look taller!" He grabbed his abdomen, laughing erratically.
Chuuya was getting ready to punch the prince's teeth in, but someone beat him to it.
The ponytailed man removed a notebook from his pocket and wrote something down. A second later a brick manifested from the little book, which he used to knock Dazai upside the head with.
Oh, Chuuya didn't know who this guy was but already liked him.
"Ow! What was that for Kunikida?" Dazai whined, rubbing his head.
"Nobody wants to listen to your hysterics, you buffoon! Would it kill you to learn some manners?!" Kunikida shouted.
"Why am I always the one in trouble?"
"Because you're you!" Literally everyone present said in unison. Even Hirotsu. And Dazai huffed.
Kunikida stepped forward, looking Chuuya up and down, accessing him. Everything about the man was professional. Not one wrinkle on his suit or hair out of place. He carried himself with respect and kept a firm grip on his notebook. Chuuya assumed, like everyone else at the Agency, appearances were deceiving.
"So this is him." Kunikida said, not a question. "And he has your stamp of approval, Ranpo?"
"Yep." Ranpo said, eating another potato chip.
"In that case…" Kunikida lowered his head. "I'm Doppo Kunikida, how do you do?"
So this was Kunikida. Hesitant, Chuuya said. "Can't complain." He cleared his throat, "So, which one of the house elves are you?"
Kunikida looked confused, not understanding the question, it was Fukuzawa who intervened.
"Like Dazai, Kunikida is a senior executive and investigator. It's also sufficient to say that if Dazai is Mori's heir, Kunikida is mine. There is no one better suited to sit the throne of twilight one day."
Kunikida once again lowered his head, this time to Fukuzawa. "You honor me sir."
This guy was the complete opposite of Dazai. Clean, put together, respectful, not going on and on about suicide. Chuuya was tempted to say he was perfect for the job of king someday. So what was the catch?
"Well that won't be for a long, long time. Uncle." Dazai pranced over. "Say, Kunikida, have you heard about The Hanging Health Technique?"
The hanging health technique?...
"No, what is it?" Kunikida was eager.
"Only the latest proven method of realizing shoulder cramps and muscle tension!" Dazai said, "You should write this down."
Kunikida grabbed a pen, vigorously writing down Dazai's ramblings. "This sounds perfect for me, I've got to try it."
Dazai let him continue writing a minute longer before snickering. "I'm screwing with you, Kunikida."
The pen snapped and Kunikida's hands were wrapped around Dazai's throat, choking the life out of him while the prince just giggled.
Ah, he's naive. Chuuya thought. Still, he found Kunikida very likable.
Mori pulled the men apart. "Let's get on to business, shall we?" He faced his children. "You have all you need?"
"Yes sir." They said together, Akiko lifted her bag to emphasize.
"Very good. Tanizaki is flying you three to Suribatchi by helicopter. He won't be able to land so you'll have to parachute down." They nodded. Chuuya wouldn't need one but he didn't voice it. "It will be up to you to find a way out. No doubt Chuuya will be of great assistance in that department." Mori smiled.
"No sightings have been reported since the vault the other day. Which only adds to our concern." Fukuzawa stated. "I'm afraid communication is tricky from Suribatchi, so you're on your own. Please be mindful of your surroundings."
"We will, uncle." Akiko said, flattered by Fukuzawa's concern.
"And Kunikida, I'm counting on you to handle my workload while I'm gone. Do a good job." Dazai grinned.
"So it'll be like normal…" Kunikida grumbled.
"Pretty much." Akiko agreed.
Mori regarded his son and daughter with an uncharacteristic warm smile. Extended his hands to each of their shoulders. "Dazai, Akiko. You know I have the utmost faith in your capabilities. I trained you both myself after all." He japped. "However, I wouldn't be much of a father if I didn't instruct you two to be careful. And most of all, look out for each other."
"We will, dad." Akiko said.
"We'll beat this thing like we always do." Dazai assured him.
"Of course you will." He looked at Chuuya. "Chuuya, I'm entrusting you with the lives of my most precious possessions. Don't let me down."
Chuuya shrugged, gesturing to Dazai. "I can't promise much for him, but I'll do my best."
Mori nodded and Akiko glowered. "We're not objects you own, dad."
"No, you're my children." He stated. "And Yokohama's prince and princess. You two are not only the future of this organization, but this city as well. Don't ever forget that."
"It's kind of hard too when you remind us all the time." Dazai snarked.
"We don't know how long this mission will take but I expect you both home in time for the masquerade ball. Understood?"
"Yes sir." Again, in unison.
Dazai and Akiko walked over to Chuuya, the former saying. "Let's go slug. Before the song and dances start."
"Don't go giving me orders, asshole. We're going to my truff. Which means you'll be listening to me!" Chuuya said.
Dazai laughed again. "Yeah right, that'll be the day."
Thus more bickering ensued and Akiko ran a hand down her face. "And this is what I have to look forward to. Lucky me."
They made their way out of the office, but not before Fukuzawa called out. "Good luck, all of you!" Once the three were gone, he asked his ward. "Will they succeed?"
Ranpo was silent, aside from the sounds of his munching. He swallowed before responding. "They will. But it won't be easy."
Despite the ominous prediction, both king's and Kunikida chose to have faith in Dazai, Akiko, and Chuuya. If anyone could pull it off, it was them.
Junichiro waited on the helipad located on the very top of the Agency's main skyscraper for his charges. Giving them a warm greeting once they arrived and rushed off to start the helicopter. Dazai close behind. Humming his favorite song.
The wind was strong enough to nearly blow Chuuya's hat off but he caught it fast and came up with the clever idea of using his ability to hold it in place.
"Try not to lose it already." Akiko teased. "It suits you."
"I'll try." He said. "It'll just take some getting used to. Wow! Now that's a chopper." Aweing over the large aircraft, Tanizaki was firing up.
Akiko chuckled into her glove. "If you like that, you should see our private jets."
It took a second for her words to set in, but when they did… "Wait, jets? As in plural?"
She gave him a cheeky grin. "Stick around long enough, and you might find yourself liking the Agency, Chuuya."
Normally he'd retort about that being unlikely. However, as they ascended over Yokohama, towards the shaded cursed city, taking in the spectacular view of the sun rising over the ocean horizon… Chuuya found himself wanting to agree with the princess.
A lot of characters introduced and plots beginning.Maybe it's just the Game of Thrones nut in me, but Ace is so a cross of Littlefinger and Viserys. lol! Plans for him!And for those who have read Stormbringer, I haven't decided if I'll bring on the rest of the Flags yet. I had to introduce Albatross for a very specific scene later on. ;)