This will be workshopped
The polish of the floor below him was the first thing that came to mind. Next were tailored black shoes that registered as Dazai's. He was met with the lazy smile of Dazai, and further back, both groups were staring back at him. He quickly rose from his position with a bit of embarrassment, having the vaguest idea of what happened.
"Dude you turned into a tiger and started to cause mayhem," Tanizaki said nervously. Atsushi deadpanned at that, 'This was just what I needed.'
Naomi nodded next to him aggressively, then said, "Yeah, it was so cute. You were jumping around with Mii hanging from your mouth."
The information mortified Atsushi, but the train continued as Kenji, with eyes full of stars, exclaimed, "The transformation was amazing."
"I was kind of hoping you and Chuuya were going to fight." said Hirusto for Gin. "Maybe, he would crush you with gravity,"
"You dropped me again, didn't you," Atsushi side-eyed his mentor, who tried to look innocent.
"Wouldn't dream of it," Dazai replied with a toothy grin. A low hiss came out of the now-human tiger.
"I did let you fall though," The detective stated.
Atsushi clicked his tongue. His eyes widened as something dawned on him. He looked around for the other cat until he spotted him next to Chuuya, who seemed disoriented. He rushed over to the other cat and picked him up to check his physical well-being. Haruno watched the display as a small smile crossed her face. Her cat was a human that she was sure of. However, he had always been such a good cat, loving and caring, always in tune with her emotions. But the truth was in front of her in this place, and hopefully, soon, she would finally meet her cat. She found herself replaying every moment, every second.
The night she met Mii was a cold night after such a long day at the agency. The cases seemed to pile up on her, and Haruno was trying her best to make sense of it all. It just felt like she was drowning. The thing is that she had come to realize that she had no life outside the agency; being the president's secretary was a demanding and all-consuming job. And there was no room for anything else. Haruno heard a meow from the alleyway she passed by. There he was, so cute and barely standing. She walked further into the dark to the furball. She found him outside a bar. His eyes stared up at her. There was nothing in them that screamed that he needed her assistance. But she was cold.
"Hey kitty,"
There was no response but a deadeye stare.
"Are you cold?" Haruno asked the cat, who seemed to come closer to her.
"I am too?" She pulled the cat to herself; it was that she was missing something she could take care of.
"I'm cold too," The cat meows in response, seemingly agreeing with her. They sat there for a while, and eventually, she stood up.
"You want to come home with me," She got the cutest meow in response, making her features glow. Slowly, she picked up the cat. The cat purred and nuzzled into her body. It was warm. They both started on their way home.
She loved him. And she knew that Mii meant no harm to her family. She was content with knowing that simple truth because Mii was her family, too.
"Let's take a few minutes for all of us to collect ourselves and meet back in thirty." said Fukuzawa.
Many of the audience agreed by exiting the theater to go about their break. Haruno made her way out to her own room. It was smaller than the rooms she had seen, but it was just her and Mii-chan. It felt like something was coming. The more she watched, the more she worried for the president and the other members of the agency. It felt violating to be in people's heads to see their thoughts and experiences, especially Atsushi. She didn't think he knew what he was signing up for, but there were not many safe places for ability users. A meow broke her thoughts as she saw Mii slide past the slightly shut door. She went to the door and closed it. The soft fur of her cat, rubbing himself against her leg. Haruno scooped him into her arms and placed him on the bed.
"I'm worried,"
A bright light took over the room, blinding Haruno. When she could see again, an older man with a gentle smile was in the place of her cat. She was in awe.
"I am sure you're not alone in that worry,"
"You're Mii-chan,"
"I apologize for the deception,"
"You're going to tell them," that could be the only reason why he was showing her now.
"It would be for the best. I fear the tension will only grow."
A hum came out of the young woman, "Well," she outstretched her hand.
"I am Haruno Kirako."
"Soseki Natsume, the pleasure is mine," their hands met in the middle, a smile on both of their faces, tears starting to pour out of Haruno's eyes.
"I don't know why," Haruno used the back of her hand to wipe away her tears. Her chest ached like a support that was always there gone with no way to recover.
"Do not be mistaken I will continue to reside in my cat form most of the time," His hand went to wipe her tears.
"So, who were you following? It was Dazai, right?"
"I think if I had a daughter she would be just like you. Don't ever change, Haruno," the older gentleman said, patting Haruno before walking to the door and opening it before returning to his cat form and sauntering out of the room.
The group had split up, one to the game room and the other to the cafeteria. Tanizaki enjoyed the cafeteria with his sister and other members of the agency. But his mind kept spinning with questions. The biggest was not Scenebro. No, it was the danger that lingered in their future. Would some of the members here end up dead by the end of this viewing? He didn't like the thought they might be his co-worker, but first, they were his friends. Tanizaki didn't want to see them hurt from all this mayhem. He frowned.
"Hey, you okay you've been staring at the wall,"
"Someone's going to die,"
"What?!"
Tanizaki turned to Naomi, "Not how I meant, it's just that letter said that a tragic fate must be avoided. That's why we are here, which means someone died, maybe," the words just fell out of his mouth. It made him want to throw up. "We all die or we're dead already and we just don't know it yet,"
Tanizaki felt a pinch on his arm.
"Aw! Why would you–!" Tanizaki shouted at his arm. He looked over at his sister.
"Don't be ridiculous! You felt that right. That's pain, we aren't dead. We live in a world with ability users, you're one of those users. It's a byproduct, all these weird things that happen."
"Yeah, you're right. Sorry, just this has been stressful. I hope Atsushi okay."
"You know Atsushi, he can bounce back."
"Yeah, kid's getting the brunt of it," said Kunikida.
"How about you, you learned some things in there I am sure you would prefer to not know,"
Kunikida thought for a moment about his partner and his relationship with the Port Mafia. He was glad he knew. He wished it was something he had learned from Dazai through the growth of their relationship. He looked around at the Tanzaki sibling; Dazai just wasn't that kind of person. All of this was unwilling, and he was amazed that Dazai hadn't put a bullet into the projector. He knew his partner; maybe it wasn't on the level of Chuuya's bond. But he knew Dazai. He had to tell himself that if this was going to work.
"It's all so much that when I get some free time, I plan to really think it through, but until then, I'm just going to watch."
The Tanizakis' just nodded their heads.
"Well, we are making progress so that a positive,"
The collective agreed.
"I just wished that didn't come at the cost of our sanity."
"Well, I will start making something to hold us over before the next showing."
"I will go get Atsushi," Kyouka said to the group.
"Okay,"
"Man, your the best Kunikida," said Tanizaki.
"Most responsible of us all," Naomi agreed.
His body felt right again. Atsushi could hardly remember the last time it didn't ache. Now, all he needed was a good shower. He removed his hoodie to see bandages similar to Dazai wrapped around his frame, and further down were the scars from the orphanage. Atsushi removed his bandages and, to no surprise, found that the stabbing from his rival was completely gone. He stared at himself for a bit and then at the hoodie that Dazai had given him. His face acted on its own, blooming a smile. He grabbed his one bar of soap and got to business. Soon enough, Atsushi was smelling fresh, and he felt refreshed.
Atsushi got out to find his hoodie and joggers clean and fresh, smelling like lavender. It felt weird to know that someone or something had so much control of the environment he existed in. The detective opens his bathroom door to the sight of two plushies. One was a tiger with a tie and bangs, and the other was a redhead with a black and white shirt and a beige cape. It was odd that the two were there as he walked further into the room. In the corner of his eye, he saw a shadow. He tried not to freak out as he turned to the table in the corner. Sitting peacefully was Kyouka, staring into his soul. He jumped ten feet.
"Kyouka don't sneak up on me like that,"
"Are you feeling better?"
"Yes, quite. Were you worried about me?"
"You just seem stress and I am sorry,"
A smile crossed his features, "Kyouka, none of this is your fault."
"I-" The younger looked down at her hands. She felt accepted and too far away from everyone else. She knew that in her future, everyone would accept her, and now, but with the Mafia only inches away, she just felt dirty.
Atsushi was in front of her with the tiger in hand. "Kyouka, I made the choice back then, and I am making that choice now, so I'm not going anywhere."
He extended the tiger to her, "You must like him a lot,"
"Yeah, he's my tiger." holding it close to her chest.
"Quite a cute little tiger," Atsushi said, his smile ever present to the younger one, causing her to mirror the expression.
"We should go eat," Kyouka was blushing as she pulled Atsushi out of the room.
Atsushi hummed in agreement as they both exited the room with a bounce in their steps.
There wasn't much of a crowd in the dining area, and those who were there were spread out around the room. He sat Kyouka down, "I'll go grab us some food,"
"I can do it?" Kyouka attempted to rise from her seat.
"It's fine," waving her off.
He made his way to the kitchen to collect the food. Maybe he should open the blinds for everyone and put the pot out for easier access. Atsushi lightly chuckled; who was he kidding? He felt like he could eat a deer all by himself. One of many downsides of his ability was the aftermath, one of them being exhaustion and hunger. His thoughts continued, and he did not notice the other person in the room until they addressed him.
"Atsushi, I want to thank you," a deep voice sounded almost too close to his ear.
Atsushi was startled, almost dropping the two glass plates. The weretiger turned to the doctor. "Thank me?" he said with a trimmer.
"If it wasn't for you I don't think I would get to see Dazai again. Well, not in a neutral environment," Mori seemed to be far away.
"He has been so temperamental," Mori looked down in contemplation. "It's my fault, so don't blame him."
"You–" he couldn't form a word, so many questions bounced in his head. The biggest one was the man of the hour, Odasaku.
"You are a good kid," Mori said, his hand resting on his head, similar to how Dazai would through the view. A smile graced his face as the hand left. "You have a lot of courage. I see a lot of Dazai in you,"
He tried not to feel anything from the older man's kind words, but he couldn't. He felt it in his chest, a slight warmth he could still feel where Mori's hand had rested on his body. He watched as the older left him to his own devices.
For the last six months, Kyouka had lived without love, care, worry, or someone willing to protect her. So, the girl who had killed 35 people felt wrong and right all at the same time. She was playing with the loose strand of her long black hair as she waited for Atsushi. A small smile rested on her face until she looked up and saw him. The girl jumped up, watching him every step until Mori left the dining area. She was shaking uncontrollably. 'He was in there,' her body moved on its own. 'The boss was alone with Atsushi.'
She ran into the room, finding Atsushi humming a little tone and pouring soup into two bamboo bowls resting on a dark wooden tray with rice, tofu, and some pickled vegetables. Without thinking, she ran to him, crushing him in a hug from behind.
"I told you I would bring the food to you," Atsushi said lovingly.
"You were talking to the boss,"
"Well, it would be rude to ignore him."
"Atsushi."
"Come on, let's eat it not like we have much time." Atsushi turned around, removing the smaller hands from his person before handing Kyouka her tray. He smiled, patting her on the head lightly before grabbing his own tray and heading to the door.
Mori was quite interested in how things had been playing out in their little showing as he exited his room. Things weren't bad at all. He looked around the plaza and spotted his second apprentice with that orange calico cat right before they walked through a wall. He rubbed at his eyes. Sure, he was old, but surely he wasn't going senile; he was only forty. The place was weird, utterly separate from reality. The layout didn't make sense, and now people were walking through walls. His lips twisted. It was pretty interesting.
A sound blared, indicating that the audience should return to the theater. He was the first in his seat; thus, the enjoyable watch as everyone piled in. Finally, getting comfort with his sitting. Yosano chatted loudly with the great detective. Akutagawa whispered quietly to his sister. The door opened again to Dazai, and the cat in toe descended the stairs. Gin quickly made her way back to her seat next to Hirusto. The project started up, but Mori's focus remained on his apprentice and the magic wall.
"Do I smell… Miso Soup," Atsushi thought of coming to the waking world. A table is shown being set up with delicious food.
"Man, I would love to wake up to a home cooked meal," Tachihara whimpered.
"Sucks to suck because I get a home cooked meal whenever I am at home." Gin said through Hirusto.
"You cook," Tachihara asked, astounded.
"Chuuya taught me," Akutagawa said with little regard for how Atsushi was staring at him.
"When would you have time aren't you an executive?" Tachihara turned to Chuuya.
"What does that have to do with anything? Knowing how to cook is necessary for anyone, and Akutagawa already has bad health and bad habits as it is."
"Sure," Tachihara said dumbfounded.
Atsushi is seen lying on his futon. He sniffs the air and quickly jumps up.
"Good Morning," Kyouka is sitting in the room with a meal made for Atsushi.
"What?"
Kouyou's seething gaze pierced the tiger boy. What was annoying is she could tell that his future self was not in on this; his innocence in all of this just pissed her off more.
'Gods, why do I attract this kind of attention?' Atsushi thought to avoid her scathing gaze.
"Let me guess Chuuya taught you." Tachihara
"No, it was big sister,"
"What are we teaching a class on cooking,"
The opening begins to play.
"Oh, how I missed you opening number!" Tachihara exclaimed.
"You really like this opening?" Tanizaki
"Why wouldn't I its a fun song, good opening to make the show less depressed,"
"The show is not sad," said Yosano.
"Yeah, it is. No matter how it's hidden, the show is depressing," Tachihara pushed back, slightly looking at Atsushi.
"I'm not depressed," Atsushi shouted at the redhead.
"Listen, we get it. You have been put through the ringer, and I guess it's only downhill from here, but hey, at least you are somewhat immortal or whatever."
"I am not immor-"
"Wait!" Tachihara yelled, startling the weretiger and audience members
"What?!" Atsushi screamed out, slightly shocked by the outburst
"If this follows the rules this is the last episode of the season,"
"We can leave?" said Akutagawa pointedly.
"No, the opening is going to change. Fuck!"
"Good," said Haruno.
"What you say," Tachihara seemed to glitch for a moment.
"I said it before, and I will say it again. I don't like this opening, deal." Haruno stated petting her cat.
"Oh, so you want to die young," Tachihara raised from his seat, ready to throw hands at the glasses girl.
"I'm not a fan of it either," Atsushi said, drawing the mafioso's attention back to the weretiger. "I would prefer something more light-hearted like that mini-series." Atsushi nervously played with his strings on the hoodies.
"You're the MC. Maybe, it your fault the opening is like this."
"Isn't it Atsushi and Dazai," said Kenji.
"That makes it worse," Chuuya tried to say as gently as possible to the young blond.
Atsushi thought back that he would really like it to be something normal and happier.
"Why are the two of us roommates!" Atsushi yells out.
"I agree with the boy tiger," Kouyou glared.
"Boy tiger?" The names kept increasing.
"We just don't have anymore space,"
"Damn, yall bitches broke," said Hirusto for Gin.
"This is why I always say being the good guy doesn't pay," Higuchi jumped on the train.
"Ah-Agree," Chuuya finished off.
"When have you ever said that," Akutagawa questioned.
"Just now," Chuuya crossed his arms in a show of confidence.
"Seriously,"
"She was happy to do,"
"Order too,"
"Bruh, this guy!" Higuchi yelled out.
"Same guy that forced that poor destitute weretiger to work at the agency, this guy is such a villain. Poor Tiger boy got his leg chopped off in the next episode after," Tachihara shook his head, disgusted by the actions of one Dazai Osamu.
"A true villain," stated Chuuya.
"Well, I won't say," Atsushi trying to defend his mentor.
"Yeah, well you ain't the one say it," Chuuya quickly shut down any defense from the weretiger.
"You understand, Atsushi," Dazai waved Atsushi closer to him.
"No, I don't,"
"Yeah, you got to make more sense of this can't she stay with Kenji or Yosano,"
"Yosano drinks and has too many instruments in her apartment; not only that, she tends to have to do late-night calls. Kenji has way too many plants and brings home strays." Dazai stated with indifference. There was another thing: all in all, he thought they would work well together, making them more functional overall, plus it would bring some entertainment to his life. At least, that's what he thought future Dazai would think.
"How very clinical of you," Yosano raised an eyebrow at the younger; sometimes, he was too smart for his own good.
"Well, the poor girl has no family. She all alone in the world, the Port Mafia might send assassin after her,"
The agency and Tachihara turned to the Mafia, waiting for confirmation.
"Why do you look at us like that?" Chuuya growled.
"Well, is it true," Naomi pushed.
"Big sister did seem pretty angry with us," Kenji commented.
"It was a fair angry." her eyes locked onto Atsushi in silent rage, and she slowly turned back to the screen.
"That's true,"
"You must protect her,"
"I understand," Atsushi said, making a cat-like determined face. "I'll do my best,"
"Ha," Dazai turns into jelly as he turns around.
"Nothing is going on between those eyes," said Kouyou.
"Sometimes I wonder how Dazai could have ever been an executive in the Port mafia," said Naomi.
"He does look dumb," Tanizaki agreed.
"He looks dumb cause he is dumb," said Kunikida.
"Like a clown." said the good doctor.
"Yah," many in the audience agreed with the statement, finally finding a word for it.
"Instead of messing with Atsushi, why don't you write your report about being captured, Dazai," Kunikida says, busy at his desk.
"Oh please like that's going to happen,"
"Ha Ha Ha," Turning back to his normal self. "Atsushi,"
"This Guy!" Tachihara yelled.
The gallery let out a chuckle at Dazai's dazainess.
"Yes," Atsushi looks over to Dazai, his hands hovering over the keyboard, slightly nervous about what was coming.
"You're scaring the kitty cat," Yosano cooed.
"Do your own work," Ranpo said with a munch.
"I need you to write a report for me,"
"Do it yourself!" Kunikida yelled ten seconds from straggling the brunette.
"We know you can do it; we believe in you, Mr. Dazai," said Kenji.
"Maybe, I will." Dazai almost sounded like he might try for a day.
"Huhhh," Atsushi let out, annoyed at his mentor trying to get out of work.
"Agreed, wereboy," said Tachihara.
"That doesn't mean what you think it means." Tanizaki sighed.
"It's going to be all about the person who placed the bounty on your head." At that point, Atsushi and Kunikida grew interested.
"You know who that is," Kunikida side-eyed his partner.
"Fucking, finally I have been wondering myself," Chuuya leaned back in his chair, his eyes sparkling.
"You don't know?" Atsushi tilted his head to the side.
"Like I said to Dazai in episode umm… ten. Akutagawa was running that opportaion I can't manage everything,"
"Huh… I guess that makes sense, so who knows outside of Dazai," Atsushi's bright eyes stared holes into Chuuya. The innocence and kindest assaulting him.
"That is none of your concern," Chuuya fired back, flustered; he was getting annoyed with the agency, always trying to learn more about the works of the Mafia using Atsushi to get him to soften up. That wasn't going to happen.
"Off the Port Mafia records," Dazai said, raising a thumb drive with PP on it.
"It looks like it was the leader of the a american organization called the guild,"
"Well, that's unexpected," said Haruno.
"I thought they were just an –"
On-screen, Dazai goes on to explain who this group is, and the more they hear, the more the agency grows concerned. Sometimes, it did feel like Atsushi just pulled the crazies out, drawing them to Yokohama, to the agency.
"–What would a group like that want with Atsushi,"
"Bruh, he's a weretiger that's his thing. Honestly, without the healing part, it's a lame ability. Oh, who am I kidding, he's lame," Hirusto said for Gin. Atsushi let out a sigh at the comment. Akutgawa was grinning ear to ear with joy at the insult.
The sounds of a helicopter are heard as the people in the room are confused by the noise growing louder.
"You all got to come see this!" Tanizaki yelled, throwing the office door open.
"Where's the fire?" Chuuya said dryly.
"Aren't you worried?" Atsushi asked.
"Why should I be? I'm not a member of your little agency." said Chuuya.
"You seem sort of invested?"
"If I am invested it is only to see bandages meet his certain doom."
A simple "Oh," was Atsushi's reply.
They all run up to the roof to see a man holding a suitcase, a helicopter behind him along with two other people, a redhead dressed like a maid/farm girl, the other a butler. A wicked smile across the man's face as it cuts to the title of the episode.
"Is this the guy?" Tachihara was almost completely disappointed.
"That's the guy," The older Tanizaki pointed at the screen, the mafioso's face twisted, asking a question.
"You know the guy Atsushi and Akutagawa fought in the flash forward."
A resounding "Oh," went across the room.
Borne Back Ceaselessly into the Past.
"It eluded us then, but that's no matter–tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther… And then one fine morning–," No one knew why he started to recite this or how he remembered so much of it. "So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past." Mori recitation.
"I am not a fan of the work," Dazai commented.
"Neither am I,"
"Hmm…"
Atsushi noticed something; the only area where Mori and Dazai could connect was in literature. Maybe it would be helpful to show him the room. The weretiger shocked his head. That was a dumb idea. Mori was still the Port Mafia's boss. He just wondered if he could do something to help Dazai heal whatever it was that Mori did or Dazai didn't do. It would be nice if Dazai could start to move forward from the rage.
"Oh, how nice to finally meet you president Fukcona," he paused, unable to properly pronounce the president's last name.
"Fucking Americans," Tachihara growled.
"This guy is going to just be annoying,"
"Fukazawa," The president remained seated with his arm crossed.
Mori got a laugh out of that.
"Amused are we?" Fukazawa's steel gaze is still on the silver screen above.
"Well, why wouldn't I be?"
"Oh, we park our copter by highway."
"Oh, I see right next to our yacht in the Yokohama harbor." said Ranpo, like he has a daddy to buy him a yacht.
"Har har har," Yosano is doing her best rich person impression.
"What is it that you wish to discuss? Speak your mind,"
"Seeing as you came all this way," said Kunikida, pushing up his glasses in annoyance. So much paper was coming his way, and with a partner like Dazai, he knew him and Atsushi would be left to do it. 'Damnit'
"I feel the disrespect from here," Tanizaki sighed, head bowing. He watched as the man went about insulting the agency again, and it began to make his blood boil.
"It's from the ceramic store next door. "
"That's my Naomi," Haruno exclaimed, feeling comrades with her fellow secretary. Sure, it was their job to keep the peace and maintain a pleasant work environment, but sometimes people need a little sassy. It was kind of a requirement for any good secretary.
"The true guard dog of the agency," Yosano reached forward to steal one of Ranpo's snacks, which was met with resistance and then acceptance.
He takes a sip and then places it down. "My apologies, please call me Francis old sport, I insist."
"Old sport?" Fukazawa was unsure if he was insulted; he felt that he had much more life in him; why did everyone hyper-fixate on that? He tried to focus back on the show, but he could only hear his subordinates shouting insults to the blond on screen.
"This ain't the 20th century," said Yosano.
"We got touch screens now," said Ranpo.
"And coffee markers," said Kunikida.
"And the president is only 45," said Naomi.
"God, kill me if I get that old," Dazai moaned, any happy mood crushed by the idea of growing old.
"I'm the leader of the Guild. We are headquartered in North America. I personally own three conglomerates, five hotels, an airline, a university.
"Hey, boss man, why don't you use that Katana you carry around like a big stick and cut this joker down, hah," said Tachihara with his usual lack of self-preservation.
"Boss man?" Fukazawa asks, looking between his sword and the mafioso.
"Well, you are the boss of the agency." Tachihara seemed confused by the president's confusion, equaling two people oddly confused.
"Hey, show our boss some respect," said Yosano from her seat.
"Oh, like you guys do for our boss," said Gin through Hirusto.
"You got some nerve," said Kunikida, joining in the increasing mayhem.
"Oh, you lot haven't seen nerve," said Higuchi.
"Enough," the president demanded from the crowd. They all looked at him before pouting and settling down, though the tension was still there.
"I have received reports that you issued a bounty to encourage the port mafia to attack us, is this true?" A close-up of the president as his eyes open focused on the blond.
"Encouraged is a bit of a stretch more like incentivized," said Mori.
"Does it matter when my members have been personally attacked," said the president.
"I find there to be a difference," Mori fired back; the room seemed to drop in degrees.
"I do not nor do I enjoy your games."
"All conflict is a game." The two seemed to be seething; it was cut off by the show.
"Yes, it was a big mistake on my part to think such a famed criminal group would be so incompetent."
"I beg your ParDon?!" Kouyou exclaimed.
"He said you guys are incompetent," said Yosano with no hold bars.
"To make amends, I bring you a business proposal. You've got a nice little company here in an attractive neighborhood as such."
"I'd like to buy it from you. Don't misunderstand–,"
"Huh, I think I need to clean my ears guys. I couldn't have heard what I thought I heard." Yossano used her pointer to clean her ear.
"He said he would like to buy your little run down shack." Kouyou smirked at the doctor.
"I could buy every piece of property that you can see from here. It's not the building I am interested in. I'm interested in one thing,"
"Oh no. This is human trafficking. Atsushi isn't for sale." said Tachihara.
"Is it human trafficking if its a weretiger,"
"It has a name Atsushi, Atsushi–,"
"Whatever at least its animal smuggling or poaching,"
Atsushi let out a hiss, which made a blush appear on his face. 'One of these days, I will get you, Akutagawa Ryunosuke.'
"And that is?"
"What do you think? I want your Gifted Business Permit."
"Gifted Business Permit?" The white-haired detective rolled the words on his tongue.
"I guess you wouldn't know it's not really talked about in the day-to-day business. See a Gifted Business Permit is," Kunikida was cut off by the on-screen blond.
"You see, for a group of gifted individuals to open a business, they need permission from a special branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs," the blond explained.
"The real overseers of all this," whispered Mori, crossing his legs.
"So, we have one of those?" Atsushi questioned with a slight tilt to Kunikida, who could only look down at his notebook and then at Dazai.
'Maybe, there was a point to it,' Kunikida thought, returning his gaze to the screen.
"Yeah, so does the Port Mafia." Tanizaki answered. His sister rolled her eyes. It was absurd that an organization like the Port Mafia could get away with so much.
"Huh," Atsushi thought it over. "That doesn't make sense?"
"Well, kid, we have it," said Chuuya, a scowl present on his feature.
"But you guys are criminals," the weretiger says as a statement of fact.
Many on the other side of the theater shouted in disbelief, like he had said something crude.
"We are also the reason you lot do not see gang wars every day," Kouyou lectured.
"Yeah, kid, we are important to the ecosystem of Yokohama," Chuuya crossed his arms.
"Those fools are about the only ones you can't buy with money. We are a secret society that officially doesn't even exist."
"Well, you ain't the only ones that are a secret society." Chuuya fired back.
"Making it seem like they invented secret society," Higuchi co-signed.
Atsushi was still trying to make sense of how the Port Mafia could get their hands on such an essential piece of paper.
"There's something in the city that we want. We'd rather not rile up the ministry while we look for it–."
"I refuse," The president cut him off.
The agency started to applaud, "See that, our boss is way cooler than yours; remind me, how much screen does your boss have?
"Our boss didn't need all that wasted time he made his impacted,"
"–with pink diamonds."
"Well, hold on a second, couldn't you guys just let him have it and get another one," asked Tachihara, fingers playing with a non-existent mustache.
"I sincerely hope you are joking," said Ranpo all too seriously.
"Of course, it's all for the fun of it," Tachihara said as he was talking to his superior. The only response was a side eye from Ranpo.
"–It is a symbol of hope not just for our members but also for that of Master Natsumi without whom this agency would not exist."
'Master Natsumi,' Haruno pondered the name, 'so he is a very important person to the president.' Her hand continued to groom the fur of her cat.
"He doesn't talk much but when he does–," said Naomi.
"The president pops off," said Tanizaki, kind of getting excited.
"So, that's who sensei is?" said Atsushi under his tongue. His eyes drifted over to his mentor. But Akutagawa caught the words under the weretiger's breath.
"Our permit is not for sale to the highest bidder. it is not a plaything for the idle rich."
The agency members start to clap their hands, proud of their da-president. Haruno's cat made his way to the rookie, flopping straight to the ground, waiting for Atsushi to pick him up. Akutgawa watched as the weretiger pulled "sensei" to him and started to pet sensei's well-groomed fur; a gentle purr covered the space around them.
'That cat is Master Natsumi,' The mafioso couldn't form a single thought after that because the man himself was a legend in both the government and in the dark underbelly of Yokohama.
The blond is dissatisfied with the response he received, "So you believe that there are things money can't buy? That's the boring mantra of the poor."
"Now, hold on a second. You can't just assume we are broke," said Tanizaki.
"But you lot are broke when Dazai was with us. He wore a custom black suit. Now he wears a bargain-brand brown suit looking like he's about to sell me on the best casket for my loved one." said Kouyou.
Some of the audience turned to look at Dazai, though he wasn't wearing his usual work attire. Somehow, it made him seem more approachable; however, no one could deny the mafia executive was right. They were broke bitches.
"if you members vanished I'd make a bet this little agency would cease to function."
"Seems you agency members have a storm coming, wouldn't it be better to give up before you lose more than you can afford." the female executive chuckled at her own comment.
"It is something others have killed for," the president proclaimed.
"Is that so…" Kouyou smiled at the president.
"–We're done here," the finality was clear in his voice.
Naomi clapped her hands to summon Kenji, "Kenji–"
"So, what Kenji is your butler now," Fancy Hat said.
"Of course, not,"
"I like doing tasks. It takes everyone stepping in to keep something functioning," the fourteen beamed, brightening the room with his smile.
"Agreed, young Kenji," said Mori.
"Thank you, Doctor Mori,"
"I'll leave a message for you in tomorrow's paper; think it over carefully, old sport.
"It's about to go down," Tachihara said in a deep voice.
"It would seem," said the good doctor.
"I always get what I'm after," He said as his final farewell.
"Just sounds like a spoiled brat," said Noami.
"You're sure about that 'cause we have that were Tiger you after," the good doctor said back.
The elevator door opens, and the redhead girl smiles at Kenji. "That's a really cute hat."
"Thank you so very much, Miss," the door closes, and the elevator level is shown as it descends.
"Got to love Kenji's aesthetic,"said Haruno.
The door opens again, showing the girl wearing it; Kenji is gone. "Well, what do you think," She beams at her co-workers.
The members of the audience were shocked by the turn of events, staring on as they walked out of the elevator with no care at all.
"It's great but you look better in burlap," The butler replies.
"Why you," the red-haired scrawled.
"Are you okay Kenji,"
"Any pain, anywhere?"
"I think I'm fine."
"First, there was one," Francis said to the void.
"Oh, can that do that same trick on the weretiger." Akutgawa smirked, quite amused by his own sense of humor. Atsushi clenched his fist, 'You can't punch.'
The agency is shown as the words "The following morning…." are typed out. Kunikida is heard sounding concerned,
"Hey! Did you hear what happened!"
"War has begun, now we can sit back and watch the dog fight," said Kouyou. Dazai side-eyed her.
"What mad I stole your gimmick. Don't worry I will give it back with interest." The executive was simply a buzz with the way her lips tilted upward and her relaxed posture. Dazai's mind started to turn.
"Yeah, it's on the news–," Dazai said with Atsushi in front of them both looking at the TV.
"As we reported earlier,"
"That's our building!" Tachihara exclaimed.
"Seven story building has completely vanished overnight.–" Kunkida joins the others in front of the TV.
"You were saying Big Sis," Dazai's eyes focused on the screen above.
"So, this was the message," Dazai says, turning off the TV.
"No one's seen Kenji since yesterday. I'm really starting to worry about him now," Tanizaki holds onto the straw hat with a downcast expression.
"What the hell did they do to him, I swear if they–" Tanizaki started to grow pissed.
"Let's not worry yet–hmm… I mean it all in the future right." Dazai calmly states.
"So, they'll get rid of anyone, "said Dazai, thinking over their situation hand on his chin. "Whether it is us or the Port Mafia."
"Seems so," said Ranpo. "They are playing the short game but it is their fault to be so dumb as to attack us both at the same time."
"I don't want you out there on your own."
"Always the right move to stay in groups."
Kunikida turned to Atsushi behind him, "Work with Atsushi to find Kenji."
"Dazai, you'll be with me."
"That's right put him to work,"
"We'll consult the president. We don't know what kind of powers they have. If you encounter them, retreat immediately."
Akutagawa let out a puff, 'that shouldn't be hard for Atsushi.'
"Naomi, you should head back to the agency." Tanizaki's voice sounded quite timid. There is a clear shift as they are now standing at a crossway.
"Why did you go?" Haruno asked Naomi with a tone of pure concern.
"Not going to let him go alone."
"Atsushi there,"
"Without me, he is alone,"
"If they can make old buildings disappear, it doesn't matter," Naomi fires back; a man runs into the scene, his white coat blowing behind him.
"Elise, where are you."
"Um... is that who I think it is?" said Yosano.
"Please tell me I am imagining it," said Ranpo, rubbing at his eyes.
"No, I'm seeing it too," groaned Dazai.
"Please come out," The man in the white coat yelled.
"Guys, I think it's my doctor," said Tachihara.
"Hey, man you know my sister isn't gifted like you or me." The man is still shouting out a name. This continues as the two siblings argue, and the man wanders around the crossway.
"This is going to be a long episode," Chuuya sank further into his seat. He knew his boss. Whenever Elise was involved, things got out of hand. The amount of times he and Dazai were forced to wear cute girly outfits because of that girl. He banged his head against the back of his seat.
"Oh, really would help if I reminded–"
"Please, don't," Hirusto said for Gin.
"you of how we–."
"Huh," Hirusto said for Gin. Match most of the audience's thoughts as normal. This would be the part where Naomi would go on a very inappropriate rant.
"Naomi?" Both of them are shocked by her disappearance, and they look into the crowd to make sense of it.
It became clear to the audience just how Kenji disappeared, and so too had Naomi. Tanizaki looked over at his sister as his sister looked over at him; dread filled them.
"Oh, I'm in big trouble now," The man murmurs to himself.
"You and the agency," Kouyou agreed.
"I Found you," Junichiro starts to run toward the redhead. She turns her eyes wide, and her mouth gap.
"Let's play a game," Her enjoyment of the development is clear in her words. Suddenly, everyone in the crosswalk is now in a bright child's playroom. Atsushi, Junichiro, and the man are shocked at the change.
"So, this is that girl's ability. How annoying?" Chuuya said, thinking back on his and Dazai's fight with Rimbaud. Space control abilities were a special kind of annoying. He wondered how much control she had over her environment.
The redhead stares out into the crowd of people who seem bewildered; she continues, "I'm not very good at public speaking. But still I have to explain what's going on to everyone."
Tanizaki was growing frustrated by this girl's rambling. He didn't care about where they were. He just wanted his sister and co-worker back. His nails dug into the fabric of the chair.
"Everything is going to be fine," Naomi whispered into his ear. He tried to let that be calm to him, but it wasn't.
"Where is Naomi?" Junichiro's face was filled with rage, barely content.
"Yeah, cut the bullcrap. And where's Kenji?" said Tachihara
"Oh," she seemed fazed by the outburst. "I am sorry. Only me to explain that first your agents are over in that room," she gestured to a door which Junichiro went to look through the window to see Naomi and Kenji held by puppet arms. It appeared like they were asleep.
"Kenji! Naomi!" Junichiro tries for the door, but it doesn't open.
"It won't open without a key," she says, almost taunting him.
"She's really got some nerve," Yosano rubbed her forehead trying to get out the wrinkles that were forming.
Atsushi runs to the other door, looking through the windows. "They're all frozen, has time, stop."
"My name Is Lucy. I created this world with my ability. Don't worry, you can leave whenever you want to that white door, but unfortunately, your companions will be trapped here."
"Nice to meet you, Lucy; how about we skip on the babbel and get to the smacking you around the part?" Tachihara said, sounding ready to throw hands.
"Agreed," Tanizaki's voice was deep and unforgiving.
"I just want you to play in this room with my friend." Her face twisted, showing her true intent. "Say hello Anne."
"Umm…"
Her ability is activated by showing a giant doll above her; the words Guild Apprentice: Lucy M. and Ability: Anne of Abyssal Red appeared on two cards.
Kunikida's journal in hand wrote down all the information present. A part of me wondered if Mori would use his ability because there was such limited information on the man. Even his time in the military was covered in red tape.
"Anna loves to play," the ability hung in the air threatening to all in the room except the ability user.
The crowd ran straight to the exit, "I forgot to mention about the door, if you leave and you forget everything that happened here."
"Well, I guess leave at anytime is out of the list,"
"Yup," Ranpo agreed with the bodyguard.
"It's not safe here, you need to run," Atsushi said, looking back at the man.
Hearing this from the sunshine boy, almost everyone in the theater laughed, breaking all the tension building up; some even fell out of their seats, Chuuya.
"But the girl I'm looking for might be here. She's beautiful, just like a little angel," Pulled out an old photo of the girl.
"I see," Kunikida nodded his head slightly, very comfortably.
"Sorry, I'm afraid I haven't–."
"Her name is Elise," He stands up from his place on the floor.
'No one asked,' many in the theater thought.
"Ever since we've been seperated, I have no idea what to do with myself." the man said while holding a picture of the girl looking at it longing.
"Is he doing a soliloquy?" Yosano said through tears and laughter. Ranpo almost choked on his snack as laughter ripped his lips again. It just felt entirely wrong that this man, a mafia boss, was larping as some average country doctor.
"I understand," Atsushi's determination, clear in his two-toned eyes.
"Do you, Atsushi? Do you understand," Tachihara tried to keep the smile off his face.
"The rules are simple: play around tag with my dear Anna," Lucy said with her left hand caressing Anna.
"I am not a fan of how she touches that doll," the bodyguard winced.
"But if you open the door using this key," A key appeared between Junichiro and Atsushi.
"It sounds too easy to be true," Chuuya almost rolled his eyes.
"Oh, there's definitely some kind of twist," Yosano agreed, matching CHuuya's energy,
"Well, at least Mori's there." Higuchi, trying to make the mood go back up.
"And how did you come to that conclusion?" Kouyou asked.
"Cause it's Mori," Higuchi started to feel unsure of her own words, like she was walking on eggshells.
Yosano sighs, "That's not a defense, and also, why are you assuming that Mori would help."
"Cause it's Mori." Tachihara jumped in to save Higuchi from the onslaught.
"That's not–" Yosano's argument was left unfinished as Tachihara cut in.
"No, if we are allowed to use 'it's Dazai' for everything then we should be able to do the same for Mori."
"But–,"
"No."
"Well, then who wants to give it a try,"
"Why do they all have to be so creepy," bemoaned Atsushi.
"Is she more creepy than Akutagawa in episode ten or three?" Yosano question.
"Oh, umm…" Atsushi tried to avoid the question via non-verbal response. No matter how he answered, he feared that Rashmon might impale him. Akutagawa swirled at the screen as he did not want to risk angering the good doctor in case he would be receiving her treatment again.
"Can we play at the same time,"
"Tanizaki asking the real questions,"
"Seems like sometimes he is the only voice of reason in your little club," Kouyou chastised.
"But of course it's much more fun if we all play together,"
"Also, I don't like this faux cheerfulness," Tanizaki said almost through a growl.
Atsushi grabs the key from the orb. 'We'll win if we use Junichiro's light snow ability to project illusions.'
"Kind of unexpected pairing," Hirusto said for Gin.
"Not really they team up in episode three," Yosano corrected.
"Maybe that's proof they need to stop. Bad things keep happening when these two are together." Tachihara added with a good amount of nodding their head.
"Go!" Anna moves instantly, showing up right behind Junichiro and grabbing him before Atsushi can even register the movement.
'She fast,' He turns to see way above his friend, helpless in her grasp.
The girl giggles manically as the camera makes her appear monstrous, "Catch you."
"Well, that's not good," said Chuuya.
"Now, all we need is the tigerboy to be caught," Kouyou smiled.
The middle title screen appears as she says, "One down."
Nomoures' puppet hands appear from the black door, pulling Junichiro to the green and purple void. It happens so fast that all Atsushi can do is watch.
"Not a fan of the hands," said the bodyguard.
"Junichiro!" The weretiger shouts as the screen cuts to Junichiro screaming, the door shutting behind him, leaving him and the doctor. Atsushi is left shell-shocked by the turn of events.
"Yay, another friend!" She says gleefully, shocking Atsushi out of his daze.
"No one here is your friend,"
"Well, knowing Atsushi he wants to be friends," Akutgawa groaned.
"You don't know that,"
"Yeah, I do. It's one of your bad traits." Atsushi could only let out a 'tch' less. He might start a fight with the dog.
Atsushi jumps, matching the speed of the puppet. It is clear that the rookie is only trying to avoid getting caught by Anna.
Lucy claps at the display as Anna goes behind her, "You have such a strong and useful ability. You must have been highly valued from the moment you were born. I know that you're an orphan. I grew up in an orphanage too."
A window was shown slowly panning to reveal a younger Lucy looking out into the snow, "I still remember the cold After using freezing rags–,"
"Oh great, another person with an orphanage background, why are there so many orphanages that mistreat their orphans like it's bad enough that they don't have parents? Why add to it."
"Everyone ignored me because of my ability; they thought I was some kind of freak."
"Okay I have to say it."
"No, no, you don't."
"But I do. This bitch has the ability to create a playroom. Atsushi is a fucking weretiger at the very least, I understand why he got abused. These two are not equally yoked in any way."
"You do know that just being an ability user, even if it's as simple as transforming into a street cat, can cause fear and uncertainty with the general public. There is a reason we need a permit to even work together and why ability users normally flock to one of the three main organizations. To everyday people, we are the equivalent of Frankenstein's monster, and sometimes the scariest things are the unknown."
"I heard when you were taken that the agency was desperate to find you,"
A sigh ran through the agency. It was odd how many people seemed to have a hang-up on Atsushi.
"How wonderful it must have been because of your great ability."
"I'm just getting tired of everyone wanting a piece of Atsushi's ass. Like we get it, he has cake, but it's not an excuse."
"Sometimes I worry about what's going on in that head of yours." Chuuya bemoaned.
"Just stating facts."
Atsushi wasn't even sure which part to address, so he just blurted out, "Cake?"
"That's not–"
"He really is just hiding behind a giant present." Tachihara's eyes seemed to zero in on Mori.
"There's a lot more going on here than the doctor," Ranpo groaned.
"What about me makes me so distracting to you, Tachihara?" Mori locked eyes with his subordinate, almost like he was possessed. Tachihara answered with a complete lack of his normal humor.
"Because I know you're not just there; nothing is a coincidence not for people like," he paused, avoiding the word that came to mind, "us."
"Do you not trust me?"
"Whatever your orders are, it is all the same to me."
"And I'll be all alone again,"
"Naturally," Tachihara sang.
"Tell me, why are you special? Why am I not special? It's not fair! You should know how I feel better than anyone else. You deserve to stay here more than anyone else!"
"Ma'am, this is a wendy's,"
"He isn't your therapist nor is it his fault for your misfortune."
Atsushi dodges the puppet, beginning the chase again. He passes the door, 'I need to lock that door with this key,' The doll catches up swiftly, and the detective throws the presents lying around. It was enough to allow for him to make a play for the door .
"I win," the key is shown as Atsushi is about to put it in.
Dazai looks on at what would seem to be his apprentice's win, but he knows it won't be. No, this girl has a strong hatred for Atsushi, and there is no way she would allow for his win in any way. He let out a sigh. He wondered if Mori would help Atsushi or…
"Kid be careful," the man yells at Atsushi, seemingly noticing something. The key changes, moving on its own accord and striking Atsushi across the cheek. An outcry of pain as the weretiger throws the key.
"You shouldn't throw away your chance of escape," Lucy mocked, picking up the key.
"Not that he had much of a choice. I mean it literally got up and walked away." Yosano growled; out of all the views, she didn't really enjoy the situation the kitten was in. She knew it would be more, but with Mori just existing in this room. It left a bitter taste in her mouth. It would seem she and Tachihara were on the same page on the matter.
"Weren't we supposed to win if we used that key!" Atsushi shouted in anger.
"That's right if you could open the door,"
"I don't know how to use this key either," The key laughed at him while Lucy smiled, certain of her own victory. "It's a complete mystery to me."
"This little bitch," Yosano cursed, Ranpo got a laugh out of the good doctor way with words.
'So, there was no way to win in the first place," Atsushi, understanding how hopeless the situation is…
"The real game starts now," The puppet seemed bigger and more horrifying than ever before in the game. "You're obviously really good at tag."
"Grow Up!" Tachihara yelled out that if he had popcorn, he would have thrown it.
"But I wonder how much longer you'll last!" In avoiding the hands, Atsushi falls, getting caught on a ribbon and landing in a pile of presents. Barely able to regain his breath, the puppet hooves over the detective
"There's nothing I can do. I'm going to be caught. There's no way for me to fight back; it's hopeless." using all his strength, he makes a run for the white door.
Atsushi watches himself run to the white door. He didn't know what the right thing was. He wasn't Chuuya, he was Dazai, He wasn't Akutgawa. He couldn't find his way out. He wasn't enough. All he had on his side was sporadic luck enough to live but never enough to have a life.
"You're leaving your friends behind?!" Lucy was completely shocked by the turn of action.
The audience was different; many of them understood. There was a sound almost like a giggle, a high-pitched giggle that seemed to vibrate through the room slowly. Everyone turned to see Hirusto and the assassin one was just sitting there playing with a cigarette. The other is laughing their ass off with the cutest voice anyone has ever heard. They watch as the assassin wipes their eyes, seeming to cool down from their laughing fit.
"Did you just laugh?" Tachihara, both he and Atsushi were standing, eyes wide. Gin only tilted his head and then looked around, trying to find the culprit and pointing at himself.
"Yes you,"
"Who else,"
Gin started to write, then raised his whiteboard, "I didn't say anything."
"But you did!" Atsushi shouts.
"You heard Gin, you must of hallucinated all that," Akutagawa grinned.
"But," Tachihara cried.
"Sit down!" Akutagawa threat pain to the two if they didn't and they are not crazy so they sat down with no more words.
"Don't do it kid," the man grabs Atsushi by the string wrapped around his neck, choking him.
"Face your enemy," the man smiles sinisterly. "I wouldn't advise escaping in this situation,"
"Oh," seemingly shocked by his action.
"Um, bruh I think you left your persona on the other side of the room."
"Assuming that you are willing to trust the words of a simple neighborhood physician." His face twisted back into its mask.
"If we're to believe that girl's words, you'll forget every time you go through that door. You won't remember your friends being in danger, leaving you completely vulnerable. Let me teach you something,"
"How good of a teacher do you think Mori is?" asked Haruno.
"I don't think you wanna go down this road," said Ranpo.
Haruno sighed, but continued, "Dazai, you were his apprentice, was he a good teacher?"
"He doesn't like Mori," Tanizaki whispered afraid of the bomb that was about to go off.
"You think liking someone has anything to do with being a good teacher. The people I learned the most from I have the most complicated relationship with, hatred, love. Do you think the opposite of love is hatred? No, it's indifferent. You don't think about them or want them ten feet below." Tachihara imparted, and there was a pause.
"Mori is a terrible teacher," Dazai finally opened his month both of his apprentice zeroed in on their mentor. "but maybe someone could gain something from his continuous rambling."
"So, there is something to learn," Atsushi sounding almost hopeful.
"There's always something, something to learn even if the source is someone as unsavory, traitorous, and callus as one Mori Ougai," the man in question chuckled at the insults thrown his way.
"Huh,"
"Using game theory, the optimal strategy is to launch a totally counteroffensive, catching your opponent by surprise, then you crush the enemy."
"I don't think I can do it,"
"Oh, but Atsushi, you already have," Mori murmured to himself.
"Arrogant opponent likely to make the biggest mistake," Lucy is shown smiling, allowing the man to convince Atsushi to continue the game.
'Arrogance, that was Akutagawa downfall in his need to prove his superiority he let it take over,' Chuuya thought. 'Pride will be the death of us all.'
"And if I heard correctly those friends of yours behind that door," the man look at the door before look at Atsushi to make his point. "Didn't they work to find you when you were kidnapped?" The man looked directly at the kid.
'The boss can make a blind man see,' Higuchi thought.
'That's right, they all saved me,' Atsushi raised from his place on the ground. The man still holds the string on one end while Atsushi holds the other side.
'That's right Atsushi stand up. There is no one here to save you except yourself,' Dazai smiled up at the screen.
"I think it's time for me to make my move,"
"We can't live in our mistake," Kunikida said under his breath.
"Agreed," Dazai answered back catching Kunikida off guard.
"Yes," the man let go of his end. "I think that's your best option,"
"She really enjoys her cheap tricks," and Kouyou was living for it. She didn't care about any of them and why should she the only thing, the only one of there little agency that matter was Kyouka.
"There's two,"
"Well, there's two of you!"
"Ranpo?" Yosano asked in concern.
"Oh, Shit!" now captured and pulled to the black door via the door hands.
"Give it a moment," was the great detective's response.
"All done here. Looks like your all only here mister–"
"Now, we are getting somewhere," said Chuuya with a chuckle. The agency members were concern for their members and wondering what would Mori do now. Now that there were no more eyes on him.
"I really want to see your expression when Ann catches you,"
"Why don't you try it," His eyes open, showing off a purple menicing.
A chill ran through the audience it was comfortable with just those five words it was clear who was the most powerful in the room.
'Wait, what's happening?' Lucy's body shakes as she stares in fear of the man.
'My legs are shaking so much I can't move.'
"That's what he does to women," Tachihara said with a cocky smirk.
"Are you kidding," Kouyou sounded in utter disbelief as she turned to him.
"This is the time you want to make an inappropriate joke," Kunikida jumped in, completely shocked.
"Oh, fuck off. When else am I supposed to make that kind of joke. It was the perfect opportunity,"
"Any other time," He was chastised by Dazai. Dazai, this was just too much; that was a legendary setup, and no one understood him. He looked up at the ceiling, ready to cry.
'This feeling of pure evil,' the man is emitting a menacing aura.
"Okay, pure evil. That's a little mean, that's just my inner fighting spirit."
Some of the members of the Mafia made faces of uncertainty. Dazai and Yosano let out a huff of air, 'This guy isn't serious right?' many of the audience thought.
"It's hopeless," a green speck falls down into the man's hand. "I'm afraid you've already lost, look at the door." The door glitched out.
"Oh, shit my boy Junichiro," Tachihara almost jumped up in joy.
"–so how?" The guild member was flabbergasted by the reveal of Atsushi holding onto the doorframe to remain in the game.
"You've made one mistake this fight was two against one from the beginning,"
"And that's another agency win for us." Ranpo emphasized with a good munch of his cookie.
"Atsushi has some fangs," the good doctor said, her voice taking on a center quality as if she wanted to get a closer look.
"Oh gods no…" He whispers under his breath, just another thing for them to be weird about.
"The moment this door opens," Junichiro is shown, with his hand raised, clearly using his ability.
Kunikida found a smile on his face. The kid had a long way to go, but the Atsushi that he met at the riverbank was no longer here. 'I need to add an hour into my schedule for rookie training,' pulling out his pen and jotting it down.
"Impossible,"
"Correction, it's actually an improbable, not impossible, case in point," Yosano gestured to the screen, with many nodding their heads in agreement.
"You were able to resist the force pulling you in with just your arms and legs pulling you in,"
"You give me too much credit,"
"It about the proper amount of credit," said Chuuya.
"That's literally what you are doing like…" said Ranpo.
"He was trying to do a thing, guys; let him have that one," defended Haruno.
"He just sounded lame to me. It took a pep talk from Mori just for him to actually use his brain," Akutagawa stated with an eye roll.
" Classic weretiger." The mafioso side-eyed the beast.
Atsushi could only sink further and further into his chair.
"I'm not powerful and I'm not popular,"
"Well, with that haircut, of course, you have self-esteem issues." said Hirusto for Gin.
"We all know you can speak," Atsushi shouted, rising from his chair and sending Sensei to the ground.
"Are you insulting Gin?" Akutagawa raised from his seat, pain shooting through him quite quickly.
"They started it." Atsushi pointed like a toddler.
"Oh really,"
"Sit or I will end it," Dazai said to the two, who immediately sat back down.
"That's why I understand your feelings of resentment all too well." Atsushi fighting against the pull for the arm.
"So, what's the plan exactly? Cause with one swift kick, even she could send you flying into the room." Chuuya wondered out loud.
"Isn't it obvious," Chuuya let out a growl at Dazai's retort. "Oh, that's right, Chuuya is a little slow on the pickup."
"I don't want to lose the only place you can call home. I don't want you to fail, but I am weak and inexperienced and just can't think of any other way." Atsushi moves one of his hands from the door, pulling Lucy a little bit more forward.
'Well, at least you're aware of how weak you truly are. Someday soon, I will put an end to you, but until then, don't lose to anyone else.' Akutagawa's gaze remained locked onto the screen Atsushi. "No one else,"
"A ribbon." Lucy doesn't know what to do; she is frozen.
"Looks like it finally came into use," a replay is shown showing Atsushi wrapping it around her.
"The tigerboy using his environment to his advantage," Kouyou murmured to herself, seemingly annoyed by the turn event yet slightly impressed.
He pulls her to the door, "Undo your ability to let everyone go. If you don't, I'll throw you into this room; without a key, this door won't open. That means if you're imprisoned here, no one will ever be able to free you. You'll be trapped in this room even if your release your ability. Am I wrong?"
'Wow, what amazing deductive reasoning,' Dazai was beginning to grow giddy as he watched his apprentice finish it off. Little did the brunette know that his mentor was thinking a similar thing.
"Yes," said Ranpo with laughter.
"Damn, Sushi really snapped," Tachihara exclaimed.
"Isn't that just how he is?" the bodyguard deadpan
"Well, as the sushi in question, I think I have not snapped, just doing what has to be done. Honestly, I feel bad about it," Atsushi looked down at his hoodie strings.
"Don't." Yosano firmly demands, leaving no room for Atsushi to state his case.
"–because not even death will save you in this place," at this point, Lucy is in tears.
Atsushi watches his future self make this call. He just felt bad there had to be a better way, something that would have been more gentler. Maybe that's why he was here: to find a more peaceful method to deal with the misfortune that seemed to follow him and the others.
"What did I just tell you,"
"I didn't say anything."
"I can see it all over your body language." Atsushi could only pout, trying to will himself not to think.
"I'm going to let go. You'll only have a split second before the door closes to decide. "
"Please, no, don't do it." Her pleas are met to deth ears as Atsushi closes his eyes. Her scream is heard as the screen goes black.
"Well…"
"Atsushi, really let go."
"You thought he won't. Well, he did try to run away minutes earlier."
"That's just Atsushi. He ran away in the other fight, too."
"It's a normal reaction to not wanting to engage in violence. We all are just so desensitized to it."
Atsushi wakes up to horns surrounded by the other victims. The agency members, plus the man, are in a complete daze. Atsushi let out a sigh of relief that it was over as if something had occurred to him.
"Thank god everyone is okay," Kunikida said.
Tanizaki hugged Naomi who hugged him back. "I'm glad everyone is okay. That you are okay." Finally, feeling like he can breath again.
"You did good," She hugged him just a little hard. All the agency felt a wave of relief wash over them.
The rookie looks around, finding Lucy to his left. "Lucy," running over to her."
Yosano let out an audible groan as she was concerned for the girl, of course, and she could think of some solution that would take her far away from Atsushi and allow her to have a life worth living. She cared too much about Atsushi to let his kindness be his downfall.
"Listen, if I can help you in any way," Lucy turns to him, showing the fresh tears in her eyes.
Atsushi felt his heart squeeze. He could close himself off to someone else pain, not when he knew that pain so intimately.
"Bro, where's the braces," Hirusto said for Gin.
"OMG! That faker." Tachihara yelled out.
"Honestly, that is very on brand." said Chuuya.
"Wait!" Atsushi reached out, but she was long gone.
"Please don't go after her."
"Oh, Elise there you are?!" The man shouted, shocking Atsushi from whatever thoughts he may be having about Lucy.
"Are you are you? Where are you been? I was so worried." The screen showed a young girl smiling brightly. Atsushi is shown making a dumb face with the man behind conversing with the girl.
"And she is…" Atsushi asked no one answered.
"I thought if I suddenly disappeared it would make Rintaro worry." The girl said; Atsushi turned, bewildered at the girl's declaration.
"And she is…" Atsushi asked again. The audience is oddly quiet when just a few minutes ago everyone was sooo talkative.
"I really just want to see him cry."
"You're lucky you're so cute."
The weretiger is startled by Kyouka running right into him. "Oh, hey Kyouka,"
"That's sweet," Yosano smiled.
"Oh, come on!" Everyone turned to the source which was Atsushi who immediately blushed at the attention.
"Do you not think that's sweet?" Kouyou's frowned deep.
"No, it's very sweet," Atsushi could see his own death.
"It's very sweet."
"Did you come to get me?" He turned to face her.
"I was getting worried."
"Thank you," He bent down to her height, smiling brightly.
It was a nice refreshing break from the mayhem that just occurred.
"I believe will be taking on leave now," the man said. Atsushi and Kyouka both turned to the other two.
"Thank you and goodbye," said Dazai, it wasn't funny and most wondered how long Mori would let Dazai's rudeness continuing.
"I wanted to thank you for your advice earlier. You said you were a doctor, right?"
"Yes, he's a doctor and and he's being sued for malpractice."
"Now that's mean you know I have always been up to par," Mori replied. It was getting worse no one knew what to do.
"Ex-doctor, I'm just a simple old man in charge of the small group now," the man said, slowing Kyouka reaching for Atsushi's sleeve.
"Remember," Atsushi takes notice of the man's words as the music's beautiful song keys in.
"The fuck." Yosano curse quietly.
"an optimal solution exists in any situation regardless of the difficulties. You must not forget that especially in times of confusion," Atsushi inscribs these words to his heart.
"Right."
"Farewell," the man waves at them as he and Elise depart.
"Atsushi, you do understand that if you see an older man giving out candy on the street, to first not take the candy and second get an adult. This is one of those moments." Dazai turned to the younger. The younger adult just had no response for the hostility being thrown at him.
"There's always an optimal solution, yeah." Kyouka grabs him with her other hand.
"Hey, What's up?" Kyouka is now kneeling, holding on to Atsushi for dear life. "What is?" Atsushi asked again, growing more worried. "Kyouka, what's wrong?" Kyouka is in utter distress and is starting to hyperventilate.
Dazai was not please but that was obvious. He didn't need Mori pushing his world review onto his kids. Why did he have to put up with this?
"I had a good time today. I must admit I really wanted to use my ability to decimate my enemies like I used to,"
"Glad you enjoy yourself," Kouyou said through gritted teeth. She was kind of hoping that the tiger boy would meet his maker.
"I am sensing a bit of hostility," Mori fired back.
"Nothing of the sort, Mori."
"Hey now," the man makes it to his destination. "That may be true but…"
All the members that were shown from the previous episodes are there outside of Akutagawa. Chuuya takes off his hat and kneels; the others follow suit.
"So, this is a Guild assassin?" the man says, walking over the corpse.
"Is he?"
"What now holds on a second maybe there is a reasonable explanation."
"Like what," Akutagawa side-eyed the idiot.
"Well, I'm glad you asked; clearly, the man is secretary to the Port Mafia Boss, who is Elise."
"Hmmm…" Chuuya tries to understand the clear jump in logic as he hears his on-screen answer his question with all seriousness. It was a bit disorienting with how serious his on-screen version was compared to the theater.
"It's not wrong. Let's give him a half point." said Ranpo.
"Apparently, the agency isn't the only one in the skirmish with the guild."
I should take my own advice." The doctor walked past Chuuya, turning around and pushing his hair back. Two Cards appear next to him. The first one read, 'Port Mafia Leader: Mori Ougai.' The next card read, 'Ability: Vita Sexualis'
"No!" Tachihara cried, completely shocked by the revelation. "What is this world coming to…"
"We need an optimal solution for the Agency and the Guild."
"But you just gave that amazing advise to the small orphan child," Tachihara pointed out.
"Yeah, he was in dumbstruck by your awesome vernacular," Hirusto said for Gin.
"To be fair I was referring more to Fukazawa."
"Oh," the president tilted his head in Mori's direction.
"It's been a while, wouldn't you agree?" a smirk broke the doctor's face.
"I would prefer not too,"
"Always the bore,"
"Those who dare to oppose us and insight our wrath will die," Mori said, looking down at the corpse.
"Well said, boss," started to clap. Some of the Mafia joined in, though less enthusiastic.
"Thank you, Tachihara."
The screen displayed in big red kanji, 'To Be Continued.'
"I guess you were right, Tachiara; this is the last episode of the season." Higuchi looked down to Tachihara in the front row. The start of the ending number plays on the screen.
"When have I ever led you astray,"
"Many times
Kyouka got up from her seat and went over to Dazai, who still seemed to be in a bad mood. Though his face seemed calm, there was a hardness in his eyes that showed his truest nature, but still, he was the only one she could talk to about this. Dazai looked up, his eyes becoming slightly calmer. He smiled.
"Can I speak with you outside, Dazai?"
His eyebrow frowned before going back to normal, "Sure."
Kyouka went to the door, Dazai following closely behind her. A few stares were felt as they both passed. Once outside the theater, they both were unsure of the next step. Though Kyouka tried to avoid human contact, she grabbed Dazai's hand, steering him to the dining hall. Only a few steps away, Dazai thought better and guided her to a wall. Before, the teenager could ask who walked through the wall and allowed her to pass through as well. She looked around, finding herself in a dimly lit hallway with two doors. Dazai walked to the nicest of the two and opened it, gesturing for her to enter. She walked to the room. Kyouka was in awe of the books and the layout of the room. It was cozy but not too cozy. She turned to Dazai, who was now leaning against a desk, his eyes never wavering for her person.
"You sure, you're not screenbro?"
"Now why would I reveal so much of myself,"
"To throw people off your trail," Dazai only smiled brighter, then switched the conversation back on topic.
"What is it you wanted to speak with me about?"
"I'm worried about Atsushi," Dazai asked more with his eyes. "I saw Mori talking to Atsushi I don't–they have been quite friendly."
"I agree, so I guess you wish for me to have a word with him,"
"Yes."
"Okay, then."
"Anything else?"
Kyouka looked around the room before deciding not to say anything else. She bowed her head and left.
"-And a new, even deadlier enemy emerges."
"Next time on Bungo Stray Dogs, Episode Seventeen: Three Companies Conflict."
"Seems like we are going to war then," said Tachihara.
"Would seem so..." Yosano was not pleased with this development at all.
