Archive of Our Own

The first time that Chuuya met a certain fox was when he was ten years old. At that age he was a rather rambunctious child with a natural talent for swordsmanship that was shown at a young age. Ever since he could pick up a stick it has been his dream to be a great swordsman. Once he was ten he began formal training with his brother within their home. When he was a bit older his brother said that he would be introduced to a proper dojo to train under. Until then he would hone his skills.

Just because Chuuya had goals in mind from the time that he was a small child did not mean that he didn’t have fun. While his brother was gone working he would often go out into the woods to explore and play in the little river that flowed close to their home.

This particular day was a warm summer day with the sun shining brightly in the sky, the birds flying and chirping loudly. The young boy was picking up rocks from the river that looked interesting when he heard something that sounded like a distressed animal. Chuuya, the ever curious child, went to investigate where the sound was coming from. 

As he approached the thing that was making the noise, it got louder and his heart beat faster. Chuuya had moved too fast before thinking that this could be a dangerous wild animal or something else.

It was common knowledge that within the forest were mystical creatures or monsters that were far too dangerous for any one person to deal with. Somehow, that thought didn’t cross a ten-year-old’s mind. The only thing he was worried about is the distressing sound.

When he arrived where the sound was at, to his surprise it was a fox pup stuck under a rock. The little creature was trying to dig out using its front legs, attempting to pull out. The rock had fallen over their back legs keeping them from being able to move. The little fox makes a pathetic sound trying to get out. Chuuya felt his heart seize seeing it in such distress.

The fox had dirt covering over their fur so he couldn’t make out the exact color, but he had to guess brown. Chuuya slowly approaches the rock, making sure not to spook it. The fox suddenly stopped its pathetic whining when it spotted the human approaching. That only agitated the animal more and began to hiss.

Must think I’m here to hurt him. Chuuya thought.

It was going to be hard to reason with an animal. The hissing was also not enough to scare him away. It just made him more determined to help out the creature. Chuuya continues to move slowly before coming to the rock. The eyes of the fox not leaving him, ears laying flat on its head. Once the fox realized that Chuuya was only trying to help, the angry sounds seemingly stopped.

Instead the animal just watched with big eyes that looked almost like huge black holes. Chuuya first tries to pull it off and roll it away. That didn’t work. He notices that he was close enough to the hill where he could use it as leverage to roll it off the fox. Positioning himself in a way where his back was against the hill and then using it as leverage to kick off the rock it rolled off.

Much to the young swordsman's surprise the fox didn’t run away immediately. The fox stayed where it was at, almost like it was in shock or maybe now that the rock was moved there was something else going on. Chuuya frowns a bit. He starts to get closer to look at the fox. A warning growl came out.

“I’m not gonna hurt ya,” he says. The fox continued to growl, but it wasn’t as vicious. Chuuya grabs it by the scruff. “I’m just going to see if you’re hurt.”

The fox went silent, not making a sound as he managed to get it where he could look over the little woodland animal. In a way it almost seemed like it understood him. Chuuya examines the back legs touching one of them. The fox makes a yelp in pain.

“It might be broken,” he says out loud. It wasn’t like the fox would understand, right? “I’ll take you home and get you all patched up. Can’t have you out here while you’re injured.”

Chuuya nestles the fox in his arms like he was carrying a cat. There wasn’t a sound of protest or much wiggling. The young boy could not be more relieved to know that his brother would not be home. If he tried to bring the injured animal home while he was there then he would be told just to leave it in the forest. Chuuya couldn’t do that to an animal in need. He liked animals!

He jumps over the little river and goes through the back entrance of his home. Once there he could see that the fox was covered in dirt. First thing is a bath. He sets the fox down on the ground in the backyard while he runs to fill a bucket with water. A few minutes later he comes back with a bucket, towel, and medical supplies to help wrap up the foot.

Cleaning the fox seemed to be a rather easy task since it didn’t seem to fight him on it. Now that the mud was being washed away Chuuya could see soft looking brown fur and a rather long tail. The thought crossed that for a wild animal they were being weirdly calm, just looking at him with wide eyes.

The movement of the eyes felt weirdly human as well. It felt like he was studying him, not in a way that an animal would study something that could potentially hurt them either. It was rather unnerving, but he ignored it for now.

Chuuya cleaned up the fox, which he now knows is a boy, and wrapped him up in a towel careful not to hurt the leg. He towels off the little creature before placing him in his lap. He reaches for a bandage to wrap around the leg. Now that he was really holding the fox, Chuuya was able to look at it a bit better.

The first thing he noticed is the tuffs of fur around the ears and the tips of his ears looking a little bit white. The rest of the fox was brown except the little tuffs. “You got weird ears,” he comments. The fox makes a sound that almost seemed like he was annoyed by the comment.

Chuuya tries to play it off as nothing, but something was definitely weird. “Well, your leg is all wrapped up. I don’t think you should be walking on it.” Chuuya hums a little bit looking at the fox. Maybe he could convince his brother to let him nurse the fox to health. Chuuya was certain that he could do it if he just looked at him with big enough eyes to melt his heart. Verlaine was always a softy when it came to him.

Now he just had to wait until he brother arrived home to give him the biggest puppy-dog eyes that he could muster. Until then he figured he should be practicing his form a little bit. Chuuya pets the little fox’s head before placing him down on a pillow. The fox was sitting comfortably on a pillow to where he could keep an eye on it.

Despite the intentions of the placement of having it outside in plain view it felt like the fox was watching him. It was weirdly calm, seemingly accepting that it was in his house with a nice yard and decent living space. Chuuya would sometimes look over from where he was hitting the dummy to see that the fox had fallen asleep.

The poor thing must be exhausted. That just means he could train without having those large fish-like eyes looking at him. After practicing his form a bit he hears his brother calling for him. Chuuya immediately drops his wood sword running towards him with a wide smile.

He comes to the door seeing his brother take off his shoes. “Well, aren’t you excited to see me.” Verlaine chuckles a bit. “Now, what could be so exciting that you couldn’t wait to tell me about it?”

“I found a fox!” That gave the expected reaction. His brother just looked at him with a bit of a dumbfounded expression.

“You found a fox?”

Chuuya nods his head excitedly. “I went out to explore the woods and found it trapped under a rock,” he explains. The young boy takes his brother’s hand, leading him in the direction where the fox slept. “I think its paw is broken. Can we keep the fox while the paw heals?”

“You already brought it inside?!” His brother sounded exasperated.

“I cleaned it off!” Chuuya argues. “Please! Please!” He manages to muster up the biggest eyes he possibly could. These eyes could melt some mighty cold hearts.

Verlaine sighs heavily, a fond expression over his face. “Let’s take a look at this fox.”

Chuuya smiles brightly. He got him hooked! Now it was just to show the poor sleeping creature that was still, miraculously, laying on the pillow. The young boy looked at his older brother while he contemplated his decision. Chuuya knew the answer would be yes, but just needed those words to come out.

Verlaine looked at him, crossing his arms. “I’ll let it stay as long as it doesn’t get in the way of your training.” Verlaine gives the answer. “It can stay here only until the paw is healed, understand?”

“I promise!” He nods eagerly.

Verlaine nods his head, ruffling his hair. “I’m going to make dinner. You finish your training for the day.”

He goes back inside the house leaving Chuuya alone with the fox. The young boy pets the head of the sleeping creature, careful not to startle it. He began to wonder what he could name him while he cared for it. It wouldn’t be very nice if the animal didn’t have a name while staying here. He had time to think about it though. Right now he has to get back to training.

The rest of the day went by rather quickly. Chuuya had finished his training, checked on the fox that still seemed rather weird, and then had eaten dinner for that evening. His brother had given him some leftovers to feed the fox so it wouldn’t be hungry. The animal ate it all very quickly. Chuuya smiles a bit, petting his head.

When it got late enough he brought the fox to his room to sleep. Chuuya yawns a little bit, laying down in the bed. The fox curled up around the edge of his bed like it was about to go to sleep as well. Soon enough he found some sleep.

That was short lived when he heard something just outside. It sounded like someone was talking to themselves. Chuuya gets up from his bed, grabbing his wooden sword that he always kept with him. Slowly he leaves his room to find the source of the sound. The voice that he did not recognize was coming from his backyard. He walks along the edge of his house when he spots a figure.

The figure seemed to be struggling to walk. As he got closer the light of the moon allowed him to see who this person was more clearly. The figure appeared to be a boy that appeared to be around his age. That wasn’t the only odd part about him. Chuuya began to notate the oddity of this other kid in a place he does not live at!

One: There were no other children close by

Two: This kid had ears and a tail.

That last detail tripped him up. This kid had ears and a tail! This kid wore clothes similar to his own, except they were blue. There was also the detail that he had what looked like clawed feet. This kid wasn’t human. Normally supernatural beings tend to avoid humans altogether. Now there was a… fox…in his backyard…a fox in his backyard. A fox that has tuffs very similar to…

“What the hell.” That was the only thing he could really think to say. He couldn’t believe that the fox he just rescued ended up being something that just tricked him to have a place to stay. The fox had heard Chuuya speak, startling him. He falls on the ground.

He looks at Chuuya with surprise like he wasn’t expecting him to be up yet. Those big eyes blink at him. Chuuya crosses his arms looking at the other kid.

“I heard kitsune liked to play tricks on people, but this is a weird trick.” Chuuya hums. He swings the wooden sword over his shoulder.

“That’s because it’s not,” the boy huffs, crossing his own arms. “I was just wanting to stretch out a bit.” The tail of the fox moved around looking particularly fluffy. Chuuya made note that he only had one tail so this fox kid must not be that strong.

“So you were just taking advantage of me until you were healed,” Chuuya states. He walks over crouching down in front of him.

He scoffs. “You’re the one that found me.” He mumbles a bit. “Not like I have a home and you are giving me a place to rest and eat. It seems like a good deal.”

Chuuya doesn’t know why, but hearing him describe it that way made him look rather pathetic. The kitsune looked like a wet cat. Maybe that is wrong. The big eyes that looked at him seemed more fish-like. He also was hurt and considering the risks that the forest had, Chuuya couldn’t just force someone out.

He sighs heavily. Something told him that he might regret the words that would come out of his mouth. “You can stay here until you’re better.” The kitsune looks at him with wide eyes, a bit surprised looking that he wasn’t going to kick him out because he wasn’t a fox kit he thought he rescued.

“I don’t want you causing any issues though! Got it?!” He looks at him with a determined expression. The kit nods his head quickly. “So, what’s your name?”

“Osamu Dazai.”

“I’m Chuuya Nakahara,” he smiles brightly. Chuuya stands up offering his hand. The kitsune hesitantly takes it. “Let’s get back to bed. It’s kind of late.”

Dazai nods his head. He leans against him for support for the broken leg. The two made their way back to Chuuya’s bedroom. Dazai didn’t turn back into a fox, instead he came under the covers of the futon with him. Maybe he liked the warmth of it. It was strange seeing him up close like this. The tuffs of fur around his ears seemed so soft that he wanted to touch them.

Chuuya resisted the urge because that might make things a bit weird. Now that they were laying down he found it hard to actually fall asleep. Dazai seemed to have the same issue. He was holding onto his tail for comfort. Maybe he could get to know him a bit.

“Where are your parents?” Chuuya jumps right into the hard questions. Dazai looks at him a bit surprised. “I’m sure they’re looking for you.”

The kitsune shakes his head. “No. They aren’t,” he tells him. “They’re dead. I don’t have anyone.”

Chuuya bites his lip. He really messed up there. He felt bad bringing it up at all. “Well, you have someone now.” Dazai tilts his head a bit. “I mean, we can be friends. That way you won’t be alone.”

A smile comes over Dazai’s face that has Chuuya’s heart beat a little bit faster than he would care to admit. “Friends. I like that a lot.”

There was something about the kitsune that he really liked. A child doesn’t understand the feelings of romantic interest or of crushes. He was just starting to develop them. For some reason seeing a genuine smile come across the other kid’s face made him oddly happy. Chuuya returns the smile.

“Goodnight, Dazai.” He closes his eyes, feeling a bit more at peace.

“Goodnight, Chuuya.”

With those simple words of invitation did Chuuya Nakahara invite the most chaotic being into his life, not even realizing it. The weeks that Dazai stayed with him while he was healing were fun, but also full of stress. The kitsune did not like to stay still to save his life and would often try getting into some type of trouble or roll around bored. He would also try to steal food which wasn’t a good idea when one’s brother is keeping an eye out for a troublesome animal.

Chuuya would be the one to bring meals to his room, sometimes extra little snacks that the fox enjoyed. When he got a bit better the two would sneak out to play in the river chasing after bugs or little frogs. Dazai wasn’t very fast with his bad leg at first, but gradually he did manage to catch a few as they jumped around.

When he was healed it didn’t seem that he wanted to leave the home very much. He would sneak in and out of the back garden area constantly. He was very much a wild creature in that sense. On some nights he would hear him come in to sneak into his futon. Chuuya would complain about it, but the kitsune would just flash those big brown eyes at him and beg to let him stay.

He relented letting him stay now and then along with giving him food. Sometimes Dazai would come with gifts and just leave them on the doorstep to his house which his brother found… disturbing. Chuuya would then lay into him when they were out playing in the woods. The kitsune would look at him with big eyes, but he did stop dropping him off at his doorstep.

During the winter months Chuuya spent more time inside. Dazai would sneak in wanting to have some additional warmth because it was freezing in the woods! He would let him in but told him to behave while he worked on his other studies. Dazai would nod his head as he settled using his tail to help keep him warm.

While he worked on writing Dazai peaked over his shoulder. “What are you doing?” He asks.

“I’m practicing my kanji,” he answers. Chuuya looks at him. “Do you not know how to read?”

He shrugs a bit. “I don’t know much,” he answers. “Just from what I’ve heard your tutor teach you. Why do you need to know if you’re just going to be swinging that blade around?”

“You gotta train your mind like you would the body!” He argues.

Dazai hums a bit. “Can you spell my name?”

“Uh yeah. Give me a moment.” He grabs a new piece of paper. He dips the brush in the ink and begins to write out his name. After a moment he shows him the finished product. “There we go.”

Dazai looks at it with wide eyes like he was trying to read it. Maybe understand it. Eventually he shrugs. “Yeah. Nope, can't read it.” He flops down onto his back. “Or maybe you just have bad handwriting.”

“I do not!” Chuuya turns around frustrated. “You’re just illiterate. Learn to read then we can talk.”

“I’ll learn to read just to prove that you have bad hand writing!” Dazai announces.

Chuuya rolls his eyes. The kitsune was an odd creature indeed. He would try everything to get under his skin. It did work quite a bit, but part of him liked having Dazai around. Every time he would look at him with those big brown eyes he felt his heart beat a little bit faster. He also had a rather cute smile with small dimples. He didn’t know why that was something he noticed about him.

He did notice that there appeared to be more white fur appearing on him. Dazai had explained it was normal as they grew older and more experienced. Eventually both his ears and tail would turn white. That is how one could tell if a kitsune had reached the age of maturity. He mentioned that at some point he would get more tails. Chuuya couldn’t wait to see what he would look like with multiple tails. If they’re as fluffy as the one he has now then it was going to be a practical cuddle pile. Not that Dazai would ever let him touch his tails.

As the winter months passed on, the Spring air soon began to come out in full force. With the warmer weather it meant that Dazai spent more time in the woods doing whatever it was he did. The kitsune would often go off for days at a time only to return back asking for snacks or some kind of food.

With the flowers beginning to bloom and animals that were previously asleep awoke, Chuuya realized that it had been a year since he had welcomed Dazai into his life. Since then the fox has been something that was his constant. It almost felt natural to see him sneaking in or bringing something he found from the woods.

During this particular spring day while he trained he noticed he hadn’t heard from Dazai in a few weeks. Chuuya began to worry about if something had happened to him. His brother was out for the day so he decided to take it upon himself to try searching the woods for him. Surely he was just hiding somewhere.

He had decided to bring a wooden sword in case something tried to attack him. While it would not be as effective as a real sword he did feel a bit better protected. Chuuya ventured out into the woods, crossing the river that came across his path. He ventured a little further into it than normal. The deeper he went, the more unnerving it became. The calling of the wild animals that lived in there weren’t chattering nearly as much, there wasn’t the sound of a single bird.

Chuuya frowns a bit. He notices something strange about a tree. It was torn up, what looked to be black flames that had died out burning it to a crisp. He pokes the spot with his sword. That caught it on fire. The young boy acts quickly stabbing it into the ground to stop the burning. Chuuya sighs.

The sound of branches breaking could be heard.

Turning around he sees a figure running towards him. By the time he registered who it was they crashed into each other. This caused Chuuya to fall onto his back with something heavy over top of his body. He looks up at the other eleven-year-old.

The two look at each other in both shock and surprise. Dazai was on top of him panting heavily like he had been running for his life. Chuuya then noticed that his clothes were bloodied, a big stain going across his chest. It looked like something had attacked him. He was bleeding a lot.

“Chuuya?” Dazai asks, surprised at seeing the other boy here. “What are you doing here?”

“Looking for you,” he answers. As if that wasn’t obvious. “You’re bleeding. Were you running from something?”

Dazai straightens up, still on top of him looking back to see if he was being followed. “Not anymore.” He slowly gets off Chuuya.

“What were you running from?” Chuuya gets up from the ground.

“Arahabaki,” he whispers softly like he was scared to say the name, his ears lowered out of fear.

That began to make sense considering the damage he saw while looking for him. He had heard the rumors of a cursed being of destruction living within the woods. The being was said to be made of black and red flames that burned everything in its path. It seemed that he had a run-in with it. Well, he was straight up attacked by the beast.

He wondered why the monster was attacking him. Though he didn’t know much about the beings that lived in the forest. He knew that they were dangerous and unpredictable. Arahabaki was no exception to that. Chuuya looked at the wound. It seemed deep.

“Let’s get you to my place,” he says softly. Dazai turns his attention back to him. “You’re hurt and that wound looks pretty deep. I’ll get you all patched up.” He offers his hand.

Dazai looks at it for a moment before taking it a bit hesitantly. The two began to walk through the forest. Now that the bit of a rush was settling down Chuuya was able to take him in more. He hadn’t seen him in a few weeks so he was able to notice the tips of ears were a bit more white than they were before and the tips of his tails… His tails?! Dazai had gotten a second one in the time that he wasn’t around.

“Woah! When did that happen?!” He asks motioning to the tails.

“Oh, just recently actually,” he smiles a bit. “I was excited to show you. Cute, aren’t they?”

Chuuya blushes slightly before nodding his head. “Yeah, they are cute.” He admits.

That seemed to make the kitsune rather happy. When they got home he told Dazai to sit in his room while he went to get the medical supplies. He listened to the orders, pulling the top of his kimono down so that he could clean it. Chuuya thought about getting him a new one because that one was torn. He did have one that he could have that he never wore anymore.

Chuuya grabs the medical supplies, some water, and the old kimono before returning to his room. Dazai was sitting there with his tails waving around. He begins to clean it. The wound wasn't as bad as it looked. Still pretty deep. He would do what he could to ensure that it would heal. Once the salve was on he wrapped his chest up as best he could. It still wasn’t pretty, but better than nothing.

Dazai took the kimono and looked at it. It was a fine piece with beautiful details of flowers sewn into the dark fabric. The kitsune thanks him before going to get changed. A few minutes later he comes back with the fresh clothes on. He looked better at least. While he was wrapping up the wound he did notice a few extra bandages that were also not there a few weeks ago.

Chuuya almost wanted to ask but considering how he was just attacked he didn’t know if that was the best idea. More than likely it was due to Arahabaki attacking him. For now he would be quiet about them. At least Dazai was safe.

“So, why was that thing after you?” Chuuya asks.

“Arahabaki doesn’t like kitsune,” he answers. Dazai relaxes a bit. “Our magic sort of counters it.”

Chuuya hums a bit. “Well, if it does try attacking you again then just run here. I’ll protect ya.”

Dazai laughs a little bit. “Chuuya thinks he can take on Arahabaki. That’s cute, chibi.”

He sighs heavily. “Will you stop calling me that! I’m not that small!”

“Then slug.” Dazai grins.

Chuuya growls in annoyance. You save one goddamn slug and it becomes a freaking nickname. Fine, whatever, he could live with that. Anything but being called short. “Mackerel.” He counters with his own smile. Dazai narrows his eyes at the nickname. He didn’t like it much either.

“Meanie,” he pouts. “Is Chuuya going to feed me? All that running for my life made me rather exhausted.”

“I have some leftover rice and tofu. C’mon.” He stands up. Chuuya offered his hand to him because he was still worried about him moving around. Dazai takes the hand, getting up.

Chuuya fixes up something to eat. The fox eats it happily. He begins to tell him about what he had been doing the last couple weeks and why he hasn’t been around. Apparently he met another kitsune that seemed to take a liking to him. He had more or less decided to take Dazai under his wing. He had mentioned that he seemed rather old, but his magic was very powerful. It wouldn’t be bad to learn from someone like him.

That was a relief to know that there was someone out there at least watching over him. Chuuya often worried about when he would go out there. Now knowing that something was hunting him there was a bit more worry about his safety. Dazai also mentioned that it seemed the other kitsune had a medical background so he could take a look at the injury more in depth.

After Dazai finishes eating, the young boy returns to training. The kitsune hung around outside watching him, holding a book that Chuuya let him borrow now that he knew how to read. He seemed to enjoy it. Chuuya made it a point to buy a new book that seemed to be up his alley.

When it got a bit hotter he decided to take a little bit of a break to catch his breath and drink some water. He takes a seat next to him, enjoying the soft breeze that came through. There was a worrisome thought playing in the back of his mind.

“So, will you be alright out there?” He asks. Dazai looks up from the book he was reading. “You looked terrified out there.”

“Chuuya worries too much,” Dazai teases. Chuuya did notice the strange look in his eyes though. He was worried, scared to go out there. “I’ll be fine. It’s not like I can live here all the time. I doubt your brother would like that.”

Chuuya would argue that point, but he was right. He also couldn’t ask that he stay either. Kitsune tended to avoid humans. The only person that Dazai seemed to like was him anyway. He didn’t care for Verlaine.

“I guess you’re right,” Chuuya huffs.

Dazai places the book down, standing up. “I should leave though,” he says. “Mori might be worried since Arahabaki was spotted. Got to let him know I’m alive.”

“Already? Don’t you want to stay a little long?” Chuuya didn’t know where this panic came from. It was rather sudden. He didn’t want to let Dazai out of his sight since seeing him look so scared.

A sly little smile came over his face. “Oh? Is Chuuya going to miss me?”

A light flush comes over his cheeks. “W-what?! N-no! Like hell I’ll miss your mackerel ass!”

“Chuuya is going to miss me! Chuuya is going to miss me!” Dazai jumps off, a little wobble to his steps and begins to chat it over and over going in little circles.

Chuuya growls, mostly out of frustration for this. He picks up his wooden sword, landing it hard over his head. “Will you shut it!”

“Ow! Chuuya is so mean!” He whines rubbing the spot where the bump was now forming on his head. Dazai shoots him a look. “It’s not like you won’t see me. I’ll be back to visit. You have good books and food.”

Chuuya thought he looked like a kicked cat. He kind of felt bad for hitting him. That and he shouldn’t have hit someone injured like that. “Well, you can visit any time.” He looks away worried he might be blushing.

Despite not looking directly at the kitsune he could feel those brown eyes looking directly at him. It was just Dazai’s uncanny ability to peer into people’s souls. Arms were suddenly wrapped around him bringing him into a hug. Now his heart was beating incredibly fast. It seemed that Dazai’s heart was also beating just as quickly. For a moment they stayed that way, not saying a single word or moving out of the embrace.

Dazai pulls away from him. He runs over to the fence. “I’ll see you soon then.” He smiles before jumping up and turning into a cute brown fox.

Chuuya was just stunned looking at where he vanished off to. It wasn’t something he was expecting at all. Dazai didn’t seem the affectionate type, but maybe this was an exception since he did almost die today. A gentle smile came over him thinking about how close he was, how the ears tickled at his chin when he was being hugged.

It was the closest he had gotten to touching his fluffy ears. He wondered if maybe in the future he could touch them again. Chuuya was certain that Dazai would be coming around soon. It wasn’t like he could stay away. If the past winter had anything to say about it then he most certainly will be back. For now he will focus on his training and get stronger.

Internally the young man made a promise that nothing would hurt Dazai again. He wanted to defeat Arahabaki so that he wouldn’t have to see that utterly terrified expression grace his face again. That is what he would do no matter what. Chuuya was determined to make it a reality.

Seeing the kitsune became a daily event it seemed. Whenever his brother would leave for work like clockwork he would come over the fence. Dazai would spend time hanging around with him, harassing the young man, and even stealing his food. He would talk about his lessons and how his magic was developing.

Chuuya was also developing his skills. He kept getting better every day where he was moving faster, his form absolutely flawless. His brother had begun to find him a suitable dojo that would be able to help him reach his goal. It was all a matter of finding the right teacher. The nearby village did have a few reputable ones to choose from. Verlaine didn’t want him too far away from home. Chuuya didn’t want to be far away from home either.

Not just because he would miss his brother, but because of Dazai. The two had practically become inseparable. Over the years they had grown closer together. Chuuya had grown a bigger attachment to the kitsune than he cared to admit.

Since turning thirteen it felt like he was thinking more about him. It was around this age when his brother had informed him that he would be studying under Yukichi Fukuzawa. He was a legendary samurai that was praised for his skill and the many accomplishments he had under his belt. Chuuya was excited to be learning under such a man.

It was a few days before he would be entering the Fukuzawa Dojo when he had told Dazai about it with such excitement. He talked about how he would be meeting other people that were training just like him. While he talked he could see a bit of distress coming over the kitsune’s face. He flops on the ground in front of him with a pouting expression.

Chuuya thought that he would be happy for him, but perhaps he underestimated how possessive Dazai was. “This isn’t fair!” He whined. Chuuya just watched him roll around in the grass. “Chuuya doesn’t need to go see some special teacher!”

“I do if I want to become better,” Chuuya argues. The fox stops for a moment to look up at him. “This is a big deal for me and I would like to think my friend would be excited for me.”

Dazai pouts more. “I won’t be able to see you anymore.”

“Of course you will.” Chuuya needed to assure him that he would in fact be seeing this pathetic creature. Though it wouldn’t be like they were now. “I’ll even bring you some extra treats.”

“It’s going to be harder.” Dazai crosses his arms. “I haven’t even mastered masquerading myself.” He mumbles the last part.

Chuuya looks at him. He hadn’t seen him so upset before. He was now laying on his back on top of his four tails. Every year a new one would pop out in glorious fluff. They were rather wild looking with how they moved. Chuuya also noticed how every year the brown fur on them had faded away. This almost made Dazai look regal, but looking at the pathetic state he was in now he wasn’t exactly elegant .

If anything he looked like a fish flopping around on dry land. There were additional bandages on him now. There were ones covering his neck and arms. Dazai really didn’t take good care of himself. His mentor wasn’t doing a particular good job either. Well, Dazai is alive so that is something. That didn’t stop Chuuya from worrying about him.

Chuuya hadn’t met him either. That is expected since most kitsune tended to avoid humans for the most part. The young samurai just happened to be a special exception to the one that was super possessive of him.

“Dazai, I promise that I will still see you every day,” he says. This was to help placate the fox in some manner. That wasn’t the answer he was looking for, but he didn’t look like a pouting child anymore. “By the way, I was wondering something. You keep coming here with more bandages. Are you still being attacked?”

That flipped a switch where he instantly sat up from where he was just lying. “Is Chuuya worried?” Dazai tilts his head.

“A bit.” He answers honestly.

The two looked at each other for a long moment. He could pretend that he didn’t notice the cuts or that he seemed particularly destructive. Chuuya’s second nature was to care about his friends. Considering how long they have known each other by now he hoped that Dazai would at least trust him with that much.

“I’ll be fine,” Dazai decides to provide that answer. “It’s kind of cute seeing you worry though.”

There was that mischievous smile he always wore on his face. Dazai suddenly stands up to look Chuuya in the eyes. He flushes a bit. He hated that he got so close. In some weird way he felt like Dazai could read his mind or maybe his emotions. That was impossible though. There is no way that he could tell everything just by looking into his eyes.

Chuuya didn’t want him to know what he really thought about the kitsune. He didn’t want Dazai to know how lately he has been finding it harder and harder to fall asleep without thinking about him. How he found it harder to not think about the stupid fox. Being this close felt like all those thoughts were on display.

This only ended up being a way to distract him as Dazai snagged the poetry book that was next to him before running off to the tree by the fence. Chuuya growls angrily, going after him. “Mackerel! Give that back! You hate poetry!”

“But you like this book so much.” Dazai lays on a branch. Chuuya would normally climb up there. This time he decided to see if he could bribe him to give it back. “I just want to see what is so great about it.”

He glares up at him in annoyance. “Dazai, give it back.” He grumbles.

“What will you give me if I do return it?”

His dignity. That is what the look in his eyes said.

That is what Dazai really wanted. He wanted Chuuya to beg for it back. That wasn’t going to happen. “How about I make you some fried tofu? Sound good?”

Dazai hums a bit like he was thinking. He jumps down from the tree giving him the book back. “That’ll do.” He goes to sit on the wooden walkway that was outside the house. “So, Chuuya said he would give me treats since our time together will be shorter, right?”

He sighs heavily. “Yeah, I will. Just try not to cause too much trouble.”

Dazai does a dramatic gasp like he had been hurt in some manner pressing his hand to his chest. “Me? Cause trouble? I would never do such a thing.”

Causing trouble was one of Osamu Dazai’s specialties. He would do anything to make life just a little bit harder or more chaotic. Though he did have his moments where he wouldn’t try causing chaos. Since he has been training with this Mori guy he has been getting better at magic and using it to make protection spells around his home. It was a comforting thought. It made the two feel safe that nothing could get to them here.

Now Chuuya just had to keep his end of the one-sided promise. That all began when he entered the Fukuzawa Dojo.

When the day came that he would be entering the Fukuzawa Dojo the young swordsman was nervous. This would be the first time that he was allowed to train around people like him. They had been coming here probably for years now, already formed bonds. He was nervous that they might not like him.

Dazai had made the comment about how everyone would like him. “You’re just likeable, chibi.” That is what the fox had told him. Maybe he was right. It still didn’t ease up on the nervousness that he felt about meeting a whole new set of people.

That day his brother had walked with him to the dojo. Chuuya had noticed from the tree line of  forest a certain creature that, despite saying that he wouldn’t babysit the little slug, he clearly was worried about him as well. Before going into the building he waved at him subtly with a smile.

Now that he was out of the watchful eyes of the kitsune he could focus on his first impressions. Fukuzawa was a stoic man. He had power that came from just a single stare. He had bowed to him making his introduction.

“I am Chuuya Nakahara,” he introduced himself. “It is an honor to be learning under you.”

Fukuzawa nods his head. “I have heard a lot about you from your brother,” he says. Despite the cold expression and intimidating demeanor, he spoke rather kindly. “I look forward to watching you grow. Let us introduce you to the rest of the class.”

Chuuya stands up straight following him inside the training room. There were several other students within the dojo. Everyone seemed excited to have someone new coming into the class. After Fukuzawa introduced him, the other students began to surround him and talking excitedly. They all seemed rather friendly. The nervousness that was felt previously seemingly melted away.

Dazai was right. People did like him. He made friends with people easily. There was a group of upper classmen that seemed to like him a lot that took him under their wing. There was also a boy around his age that he became friends with named Buichiro Shirase. The two younger boys would often play games together in their down time and after classes the two would go into town.

As time progressed for him over the year he had arrived he did spend a bit more time out in town, a bit longer after lessons than he used to. He liked hanging out with the people that shared his interests and loved being able to play games with them. When he did come back at the end of the day he would always make sure to have something for a certain kitsune.

The only thing he didn’t know at the time is that the fox seemingly watched him from a distance most of the day.

From the distance in the tree line sat a fox looking rather displeased with a certain dojo that housed the only friend he had. Dazai did not like to think that he was the jealous type. He didn’t like to think that his thoughts were only full of a brightly smiling redhead with sparkling blue eyes. And yet…

Dazai felt frustrated because he couldn’t stop thinking about him!

Since he started true and formal training he was becoming more irritated that Chuuya’s time was being taken up with new friends. This is what he was worried about. He was worried that he might not like to spend any more time with him, that his distractions when he tried to meditate were becoming too much.

Now Chuuya has friends. Though he did try to talk to Dazai about his friends, telling him their names, what they liked, and about how they were as people. That didn’t matter much to him though. He didn’t like them. He didn’t like having to share his slug! Dazai also didn’t want to be friends with those people either no matter how much Chuuya tried to make it seem like a good idea. He didn’t like anyone else.

That didn’t mean he wasn’t lonely. He huffs a bit in his human form watching the building from a distance. Just inside was the object of his affection. “This is pathetic.” Dazai says out loud. He had to get out of here.

The kitsune turns, beginning to walk away from the school. If he continued looking at this place he might actually go insane. Chuuya would come to find him at some point, maybe he might grace his presence when dinner was made.

The woods were rather peaceful today, a nice summer breeze blew through that made it feel peaceful in a way. Though the silence that permeated throughout the forest told a different story. He had been noticing that lately the woods had gotten more quiet, like Arahabaki was getting closer and closer.

Dazai hadn’t noticed any signs recently though. He didn’t smell anything different. But… there was something watching him. He looks around in the distance to try seeing if he could see something. There wasn’t anything within the woods. Maybe his mind was playing tricks on him. He begins to walk towards Chuuya’s house so he could steal some peaches from him.

CRACK!

Dazai freezes in place, his eyes wide as he turns to see a black figure that one could only describe as monstrous. Black flames that were all consuming covered the body with the appearance of horns on top of the head of the beast. It slowly stalked on all fours towards Dazai, like it had just found its prey.

Slowly he begins to step backwards, ready to run when the chance allows it. His mentor wasn’t here to protect him and Chuuya’s home was still far away. Dazai was also not confident in his own magic yet. Not that he had any good offensive magic.

A long time passed as they stood there looking at each other. They were completely silent, the only sound coming from the black flames of Arahabaki. Then…

Dazai took off running. He had turned into a fox, weaving through the trees. He dare not look back because if he did then that might cause him to run into a tree or something. The fox suddenly trips into the dirt with a yelp. Something grabbed onto a tail. He ended up turning into his human form scrambling onto his back as the beast raised a claw.

Picking up some rocks that were under his body Dazai threw them at the monster. It growls loudly, the claw coming down on his leg cutting it. He hisses, but this was the chance to escape. He scrambles up running as fast as possible.

Blood was coming down his leg so he knew it must have been a deep cut. He could look at that when he got to Chuuya’s home. No. He couldn’t do that. It might try to hurt him. Then where could Dazai run to? There was too much distance between him and his mentor currently. He tries to think of something, but those thoughts are disrupted by him tripping over something.

Dazai rolls down a hill, mud and dirt clinging to him, his body slamming against the side of a building. Big brown eyes opened up realizing that he was now close to the village. The kitsune looks up at where he fell from, staying completely still. There wasn’t any sign of the beast following him. Relief now washed over.

Laughter could be heard from where he was. Slowly, careful not to alert anyone within the village he gets up. Much to his surprise the building across from where he was at was Chuuya and what looked like two of his friends plus some random girl. That was someone he never mentioned before. She was pretty, clinging to Chuuya like she owned him or something.

Dazai growls lowly at someone touching his Chuuya. There is no way that he could like someone like her. She just seemed to be all over him for whatever reason. After a life threatening altercation he was feeling particularly petty right now. He just wanted to have Chuuya’s full attention on him. The gash in his leg didn’t help anything.

Dazai really didn’t like to think he had such a jealous streak. Maybe this girl really brought it out of him. Or maybe he just had to face the fact that he liked Chuuya more than he cared to admit.

By his feet were rocks that he could throw to get his attention. He looked at the people as they were laughing. One of the boys that seemed older with blonde hair was laughing very loudly and obnoxiously. He decides that should be his first target. Winding up his arm he throws the rock directly in the middle of his forehead causing him to fall down backwards.

The group watched in worry as their friend tried to regain his senses. In that time he threw a rock at the other boy with grey hair and the girl. Yeah, he could just throw the rocks at the person he had his eye on, but it wouldn’t be nearly as satisfying as seeing these people in pain. Dazai giggles a little bit. They began to look around for the source.

He hid easily, picking up another rock with his next target in line. He throws it at him, hitting the side of Chuuya’s head. The redhead turned around where he thought it was coming from. To his surprise he saw the kitsune there with a big grin. It was rather funny seeing his eyes practically bulge out in shock at seeing him so close to the village.

“Who the hell is hitting us with rocks?!” The blonde shoots up looking around. “I’m going to kick their ass!”

“You sure you should be moving like that man?” The grey-haired boy, who he knew as Shirase, asks. Dazai didn’t care to learn the other names.

“I’m fine! Not the first time I’ve been knocked around.” He grins. The blonde looks at Chuuya who was just staring in the direction of Dazai. “Something interesting over there?”

The tone sounded playful, but there was an accusatory tone to it. Chuuya quickly turns to look at him. “I just thought I saw a wild animal,” he answers. “Well, I should go. I have some chores I need to do.”

“Aw man that sucks,” the pretty girl says. “I was hoping to spend more time…”

“Rain check,” Chuuya interrupts. He quickly gets up from where he was sitting going to where he saw the fox at.

Dazai had stayed in his human form waiting for him. He looked at the blood that was now on the ground. A hand slaps at his head. He looks at the other teenager. “Chuuya is finally done,” he says, trying to sound playful. Though he could see the worry in his eyes.

“What the hell was that?” He asks in a hushed whisper.

“I just missed you,” he answers with a grin. Dazai was still trying to play confident. “I just had bad aim.” Chuuya rolls his eyes. They then land on the clearly still bleeding leg. His ears drop down. “I was attacked. I fell down that hill.” He points up.

Chuuya doesn’t say anything snarky. He was more concerned about it. Now he felt really guilty. “Turn into a fox and I’ll carry you back. Then we can fix up your leg.”

Dazai did think about making a comment if he could handle his weight, but decided against it. Chuuya was very strong. He could lift him up easily while he was human and wouldn’t even break a sweat. That strength is a very attractive feature that certainly didn’t keep him up late at night.

He turns into a nearly white fox jumping into Chuuya’s arms to be carried back. While walking back Dazai indulged in being held close by him. Thinking about how that girl was hanging off him made that jealous streak of his just come up. It wasn’t very like him. He shouldn’t care. He shouldn’t have to worry about it. Of course Chuuya would like a girl with pretty hair and who looked like she took care of herself.

Compared to him, the girl must get a lot of attention. Her eyes were clearly set on Chuuya.

They arrived at his home without much issue. When the coast was clear he turned back into his human form with Chuuya ordering him to sit down and show his leg. He rolls up his pants to show him the injury. It didn’t seem that deep so thankfully Mori wouldn’t have to do stitches.

Chuuya cleans off the wound and then wraps it up. He looks at him. “What happened?”

“Just being chased by a monster,” Dazai answers. His tails move around him. “I thought I was going to die.”

That only deepened the very prominent frown on his face. “I’m sorry…”

It sounded like he was taking on the weight of Dazai being attacked on his shoulders. That always seemed to be his way of thinking. “It’s not your fault,” he says softly. Dazai looks down at the wound. “Normally I would be able to avoid it, but it seems like Arahabaki is getting closer to town.”

“That’s concerning.” Chuuya takes a seat next to him.

Dazai felt his heart beat a little bit faster being so close to him. He wanted to curl up with his tails and just rest like this. He resisted the urge. He couldn’t let what imaginings he had run wild.

“Well, until that thing is dead it is just one more thing to worry about.” Dazai flops onto his back. “Thanks for patching me up.” There was a silent sorry about hitting his friends, but he didn’t feel that guilty. Especially with that girl. “So, who were those people you were with?”

“Oh that was just Shirase and Albatross,” he answers. Chuuya was not telling him about the girl. He frowns a bit.

“Who was the girl?” That is what Dazai really wanted to know.

“Yuan?” The teenager tilts his head in confusion. The kitsune nods his head. “She has just been hanging around us lately.” A little bit of a cocky smile came over his face. “Are you jealous?”

Dazai scoffs looking away. “As if!”

That was the thing though. He was jealous of her. The girl, Yuan, was draping herself all over Chuuya like she belonged there. It made something inside him feel like it was being squeezed. Dazai tried not thinking about it that way, tried to ignore what Mori called a crush away. He was jealous though. Dazai wanted to be the one holding onto his arm in a possessive manner, he wanted to be the one Chuuya would look at.

Those were feelings he couldn’t allow himself. Dazai didn’t deserve the attention he was given by the young swordsman… yet he desperately craved every bit of it.

“Well, you don’t gotta worry about her.” Dazai turns his head to look at him. Chuuya was now looking away. “I don’t like her that way.”

Now that was confusing. What did he mean by that way? Dazai was going to ask him when he heard the front opening. Verlaine was here. The kitsune quickly jumps up, turning into his fox form and runs up the tree to leave. Chuuya gives a smile before he goes to talk to his brother. There wasn’t time to dwell on what he was going to say.

Dazai also had to create a little bit of distance from the other person. He was beginning to question more things about himself than Chuuya.

A few weeks since the attack had passed and things had gotten… more complicated. That same streak of jealousy he had before came through again. This time those friends that the fox has been trying to ignore were now at Chuuya’s place, laughing and enjoying snacks with tea. Dazai really was seething with jealousy now. At least that girl wasn’t there fake laughing at Chuuya’s lame jokes.

Conversely, Dazai was still looking into the place that he was so used to sneaking into just to spend time with the other fifteen-year-old. He couldn’t harass the little slug he had grown attached to. This became increasingly frustrating that there were people always around him. It wasn’t fair how popular he was. That was something he expected from the other. It just hurt that he couldn’t be part of it.

He runs away from the house, thinking that a little separation would be good for them. He ends up finding himself at a small little pond watching the fish swimming around. Dazai began to wonder if he had a place in Chuuya’s life anymore. It wasn’t like they could really be part of the same world. They were both different, reflecting different aspects of the world around them.

Dazai gently touches the bandages that seemingly covered his body now hiding away the very scars that were both from survival and self inflicted. He couldn’t deny that Chuuya had looked at them with worry, always questioned them. He knew though. He knew about them, but never judged Dazai about the scars.

Maybe now the other boy was tired of him. Perhaps he didn’t want Dazai inside his life. He couldn’t exactly contribute too much. Doubt began to creep up in his mind about not being enough for him. That Chuuya would just discard him now that he had real friends. Dazai grabs onto his ears, shaking his head.

He couldn’t let him go. He couldn’t let go of the only thing that made him feel anything, that made him want to stay alive. Now he was just a pathetic, jealous fox.

“It’s not fair…”

“And what is not fair?” A voice comes behind him.

Dazai turns around, surprised at seeing his mentor here. “What are you doing here?” He grumbles. He turns his attention back to the water. One of his feet touches the water. 

“I noticed you seemed rather distressed and wanted to check on you.” The older kitsune answers coming next to him. “Now, what could be bothering you so much? It surely has nothing to do with Chuuya Nakahara, now does it?”

“No!” Dazai’s tails fluff out in annoyance. “It’s just… he is around so many people now. It’s annoying.”

“You mentioned before that he has tried inviting you to join, no?” Dazai makes a growl. Mori chuckles a bit. “Anti-social as always. Perhaps you should try meeting him halfway.”

“Halfway?” Dazai tilts his head up in confusion. “What are you on, Mori?”

“Relationships with humans are complex,” he explains. Mori was someone that spoke from experience. He had his fair share of human relationships and why he would caution him about the people he interacted with. “Perhaps, the best course is merely to ask to be invited.”

Dazai didn’t like being open, he didn’t like showing sides of himself, sides he tried to hide away from Chuuya. The biggest one is the insecurity he felt about the place in Chuuya’s life. Chuuya was special. “That sounds mighty pathetic.”

“I think the one who looks pathetic is the person looking at fish while his friend searches for him in the woods.”

“Chuuya is looking for me?” He asks rather surprised.

“I spotted him a moment ago,” Mori hums. “Perhaps you should meet him halfway.”

Dazai narrows his eyes getting up. “Always have to be a smartass.” He quickly rushes towards him, turning into a fox.

Mori chuckles lightly at his student. He runs off in another direction to investigate some rather disturbing sightings.

Slowly he approached the area where he knew Chuuya would start searching first. He remained in his fox form watching from a distance. The other person had a sword attached to his hip like it was his lifeline. It was a smart idea to have in these woods. The young samurai was walking around carefully like he was looking for him. Though Dazai had a feeling that he already knew that he was being watched.

Chuuya stops suddenly. That turned out to be right. Those senses were always strong. “Dazai? Are you watching me?”

He didn’t respond. He didn’t know what to say and was feeling rather petty right now. “I haven’t seen you around much and I got worried.” Those blue eyes kept scanning the area trying to latch onto some form of white. “I get the feeling that you’re upset. Is it because people have been coming to my house a lot more recently?”

Of course I’m upset!

Dazai was a possessive animal that didn’t like to share anything. The only thing is that the girl seemingly stopped hanging out because he saw her less and less around the dojo. Though he wondered if he should bring up the concern that he has been having. About the Dazai’s place in his new life that he was building. Those were fears he didn’t want to exactly voice out loud.

“Alright I get it,” he relents, taking the silence as an answer. “You know, I’ve wanted you to meet them for sometime now. They’re nice people. They could be your friends too.”

That still wasn’t what he wanted to hear. Dazai wasn’t certain exactly what he wanted to hear though. Something along the lines of a confession or something about his undying loyalty. That sounded about right.

“How about you come back to my place and we can talk over some fried tofu.” Now Chuuya was resorting to bribery. That was a mighty tempting offer. Dazai hadn’t eaten anything yet and the idea of having dinner with him sounded nice.

Slowly he steps out of where he was hiding to reveal himself to the other teenager. Chuuya smiles brightly when he sees him. He looked so happy. That made his heart beat a bit more in his chest. Dazai begins to walk towards him.

CRACK!

He stops in his tracks as the sound of a tree tearing apart. Standing directly behind Chuuya is Arahabaki. The figure was imposing as always with swirling black flames. The two were frozen as they saw the beast glowering down at them.

Fear.

Panic.

Those were the emotions going through Dazai. Not for himself. It was for the person that seemed determined to stand his ground. In a swift movement he pulls out his sword, the blade shining out in the light of the forest, black flames reflecting in the shining material. Nonono! Surely Chuuya wasn’t that stupid to try fighting off this monster!

Dazai had turned to him, trying to call for him not to fight Arahabaki. It would only lead to death. Too many people had tried to fight the monster only to end up killed by the sharp claws that it wields.

“Chuuya! Don’t fight it!” He yells loudly. His voice drew the beast’s gaze towards him. Dazai’s eyes go wide. “I’ll draw it away! You run!”

“What are you…”

The monster runs past the young boy before he could finish the sentence heading directly at Dazai. He barely managed to make a shield to prevent the monster from landing a blow at him. This time he was prepared for the attack. There is no way he would let anything happen to Chuuya. Even if a few minutes he would be able to get out of here. Dazai would lure the monster towards Mori and he could deal with the rest.

Massive claws were aimed directly at him as he tried to run, a fanged mouth nipping at his tails when he ran. Even just a few minutes would be better than nothing. Chuuya would be safe, return to his friends, and Dazai might be able to bother him more. That is what will happen.

When he did circle around he didn’t see where Chuuya was so he must have run off like he said. Good. That is what was supposed to happen. What wasn’t supposed to happen is the beast suddenly tackling him down on the ground. A claw digs into his shoulder. Dazai screamed in pain. There wasn’t an easy escape route. There wasn’t any loose rubble today.

Hot breath came over his face as Arahabaki finally caught the prey. Dazai might actually die. This might be the end of him. If anything, the person he loved most was going to be safe.

Loved.

That was something he hadn’t confronted yet. That was also something he couldn't do now. Dazai was about to die. He closes his eyes not wishing to see his demise in front of him. That demise never came. Instead what came is a short redhead using his sword to block the mouth of the beast. Both hands were on the handle as he pushed back against the monster.

“C-Chuuya?” He couldn’t believe that the idiot didn’t run away! “I told you to run!”

“And I can’t let you get eaten!” He growls as he manages to push the black flamed beast off him. Chuuya pants heavily glaring at it, fire lit in his eyes. “I’m not letting that thing hurt you again!”

Dazai was at a loss for words. All that was coming up in his mind was how he should be running away! There is no way that he could fight that monster! Yet… Chuuya held himself with such confidence, a cocking smile playing on his face. He was fully confident that he could win.

The monster growls loudly with Chuuya returning the same energy back. He was going to finish this monster off even if it was the last thing he ever did! Dazai backs away quickly, holding onto his bleeding shoulder. There was no way he would get in his way. Arahabaki makes the first move charging towards him. Chuuya stood firm, making a move to his left, slashing at it.

Loud screams rang through the forest. Birds flew away in fear, Dazai covered his ears. Chuuya had managed to land a hit causing damage. This made the young swordsman confident. It meant that steel could hurt it, that this monster wasn’t some invincible machine. He turns around to face it again.

The monster seethed with anger looking at the boy. Another swift attack came, this time the beast lifted a clawed hand swinging at him. Chuuya manages to use his sword to block the attack, sending him flying towards a tree. Dazai comes out of his hiding spot.

“CHUUYA!” He yells loudly. Dazai’s ears go down now that the monster turned his attention back to him. “Shit…”

Dazai tries to back away quickly before it could attack. He wasn’t fast enough. The monster trapped him against a tree sealing any possible exits of escape. This could not be the second time today where his life was about to be over. Surely with that loud scream of pain it got Mori’s attention. He might be on his way here… right?

“Osamu!”

A hand reached out for him. Without thinking he takes it. As he is pulled away Arahabaki swings down, slashing down the arm in front of him. It wasn’t Dazai’s though. Chuuya yells out in pain as he stumbles back with Dazai. The two fall on the ground together. The kitsune immediately turns to look at the wound. Angry black flames cover the bleeding arm, the cut looks deep enough that he could see bone. Nerve damage? Mori mentioned something about how this could cause nerve damage and then the hand wouldn’t be useful.

Oh no. Oh no! He quickly puts pressure on the hand to try to stop what bleeding he could. That wasn’t possible though. It wouldn’t stop! He looks at the beast as it begins to stalk towards them. He tries to make a shield strong enough to protect them. At least he would try to save Chuuya. He had to! Chuuya couldn’t die!

Like a prayer a silver knife is thrown at the monster, angry growls coming out. Mori. Mori came. Arahabaki retreats into the dark recesses of the forest. The older kitsune comes over to where the teenagers were. Dazai was holding the bleeding arm.

The older man kneels down to look at Chuuya. “Move your hand.” He says calmly. Dazai listened. “We need to get him home now. I’ll be able to clean up and stitch the injury.” He picks up Chuuya carefully. “Show me the way.”

Dazai nods his head leading him quickly to his home. Instead of sneaking in the back like he normally would, he bangs on the door. Verlaine opened it. Upon seeing the three of them he let them inside. He didn’t ask questions. In some way Dazai always figured the man knew about their friendship. Maybe this was his way of allowing his brother to have a friend close by.

“Take him in here.” Verlaine opens the sliding door to a room. Mori sets him down. He takes out medical supplies he had for such emergencies. “I’ll get water.”

“Dazai, wait outside.” Mori orders.

“I-I can help…” He tries to argue. In truth he didn’t want to leave Chuuya’s side.

“No.” Mori looks at him. “Wait outside. You are injured and I do not need more blood than I am dealing with to be around.”

Dazai nods his head, going outside to wait for him. He watches as Verlaine went into the room with a bucket of water and a lot of rags. The young kitsune presses his knees to his chest using his six tails to wrap around him. They were covered in mud,dirt, and blood now. It wasn’t a pretty sight.

Now the only worry is if Chuuya will be alright. He couldn’t help feeling guilty about all of this. If it weren’t for him and his petty personality Chuuya wouldn’t have gone to look for him. If it weren’t for the fox Chuuya would have just stayed home and then have been with his friends. He couldn’t cry. If he cried then Chuuya would make fun of him.

Dazai presses his face against his knees. Tears were so easy to fall out, wetting the fabric. If anything happened… if Chuuya died then… then…

That wasn’t going to happen! The kitsune knew him so well that there wasn't any possible way to kill him. Chuuya will live, Chuuya will be fine, Chuuya isn’t someone weak. It is just part of his stubborn personality that he loved so much.

Time seemed to pass both slowly and fast. By the time he felt a hand touch the top of his head it was dark outside. Mori looked exhausted, his clothes covered in blood. Verlaine was coming out of the room. He looks at the two of them, his arms crossed.

“It is time to go,” Mori spoke softly. Dazai looks at him and then Verlaine.

“Can I see Chuuya?” The words sounded so small coming out of him. It sort of terrified him.

“Let him rest,” Verlaine says. He sounded rather cold.

“You can see him when he wakes up.” Mori looks at the other person.

“What about the black flames?” Dazai asks, panic setting in again. “They were covering his wound.”

“I’ve done what I can to purify any remnants of Arahabaki.” He runs a hand through his ears. “How he reacts is up to him.” The older kitsune helps him up. “Let us get you fixed now.”

Dazai nods his head. He walks out with Mori, his eyes looking at Verlaine who had the same cold expression on his face. He hated the kitsune. Verlaine hated that he was ever involved in his younger brother’s life. Because of Dazai’s involvement he may never be able to pick up a sword again. Because of him his life was now hanging by a very fragile thread that could be cut at any point.

Over the next few days Dazai found himself watching the house from a distance. He would see doctors from the village coming, assuming they were going to check on Chuuya’s injuries. There would also be people from his dojo coming with gifts. They would spend time there. He never got close enough to see what they were doing with him. At least that girl didn’t come around to see him.

Funny that even while he was so worried about Chuuya that petty jealous side would come out. Dazai sighs heavily. He missed Chuuya. He hits his head against his knees thinking that this was pathetic. Maybe he could try seeing him once, just once before he vanished from his life. At least he wanted to see that he wasn’t dying.

Gathering up the courage he approaches the door knocking on it timidly. Knocking now? He must be very nervous. Maybe some part of him was thinking that Verlaine would tell him that Chuuya absolutely wanted nothing to do with him and that would spare his feelings at hearing the words come out of Chuuya’smouth.

The door opens up, the man looking at him with those cold eyes that made Dazai feel small. Oh yeah. He still hated Dazai. It almost seemed like he wanted to turn him away, but a heavy sigh came out of him. “Come in,” he says, creating a little opening. “Chuuya has been asking about you. Give him a little peace of mind.”

Dazai’s ears perked up upon hearing that. Chuuya had been asking for him. More thrilled is that he was awake. He goes to the room that he knew belonged to Chuuya. The door was already open so he could look outside while he recovered from his injuries.

Chuuya looked pale and exhausted. He did lose a lot of blood so that is expected. Other than his arm he noticed a few other wrappings around his head and hand. He must have been hurt a lot more than he realized. He grimaces at the injuries that were a result of Chuuya protecting him.

When the two looked at each other there was a light that went off in those dazzling blue eyes of his. They looked so happy and relieved to see him. If he could move easily Dazai would bet he would force him into a hug. Dazai takes a seat next to him with a soft smile.

“Hey, Chuuya,” he says. Dazai felt so nervous. Scared that he would yell at him. “How are you feeling?”

“Like shit,” he jokes. It was an attempt at lightening the mood. “But, I’m alive. Can’t really move much. Doctors say I broke a few ribs, probably when I hit that tree, so I need to rest for a long time. How about you? How are your injuries?”

“Chuuya worries too much,” Dazai tries to keep the mood light. “My injuries didn’t need to be stitched up. You were too reckless.”

Chuuya chuckles a little bit. “Well, I couldn’t let anything happen to you.”

You could have left me.

Dazai didn’t think his life was worth saving. It wasn’t anything compared to someone like Chuuya that had such a bright life ahead of him. There wasn’t anything special about himself. There were other kitsune in the world, but there was only one Chuuya Nakahara.

“Do you know if you will be able to swing a sword again?” Dazai asks hesitantly. If he managed to destroy his dream then he really ruined Chuuya’s life.

“I think so.” Chuuya moves his fingers a little bit. “Can’t tell right now, but I got a feeling that I’ll be just fine.” Those blue eyes looked at the fox. Dazai had to avoid the gaze or he might just burst into tears. “Dazai, I’m not going to blame you for what happened. I did what I did so I could save you. I don’t regret that.”

“But you might.” He really couldn’t do this. All the thoughts of being pushed away, of being brushed off to the side began to weigh down on him. “If you can’t follow your dreams it’ll be my fault. If you can’t then…”

“Then I’ll find a new dream.” He sounded so sincere, so certain of himself. “I couldn’t let that thing kill you. There is only one Osamu Dazai after all.”

Dazai looks at him with wide eyes, tears threatening to spill over. Something about that just made him feel so… so happy. Chuuya thought the same as him. In some weird way Chuuya saw value in his life. He couldn’t help laughing. It made him so happy, so happy that Chuuya cared that much about him.

“Hey, hey don’t go crying!” He teases him. Dazai didn’t even realize he was crying. The one good hand reaches out, wiping the tears away. “Such a baby.”

“You’re the baby.” He sniffles a little bit.

Chuuya smiles a little. “Hey, there is a festival in about two weeks.” Dazai blinks. He had seen the festivals, Chuuya had gone to them with his friends and brother. He never went though. Too scared to try interacting with people. “How about we go together? I’ll be able to walk around, but not too much. There will be good food and some games. You can try winning me a prize.”

“Is this just a trap to introduce me to your friends?”

“A little bit, but I want to share it with you. So, what do you say? Want to go?”

Dazai thinks about it for a moment. Every part of him was saying YES! Everything was screaming to accept it, but there were parts that were scared. However, being this close to Chuuya, seeing those sparkling eyes and sweet freckled face made him feel certain that everything would be fine.

“Yeah. I would love to go.”

The day of the festival came way too quickly for Dazai’s liking. There were all sorts of butterflies rolling around in his stomach. He felt like he was going to throw up. He had made sure he was clean enough for today, with his hair all washed, tails scrubbed until it felt like fur would fall out, and had on some new clothes that Mori had gotten for him.

It was a simple yukata that was a dark blue color with black hemming going over the edges. It wasn’t anything complicated, but it was nice at least. Now he was waiting for Chuuya outside his house for him. They had agreed to meet there so they could walk together. He had done something to make himself at least look human so people wouldn’t be staring at his ears and tail.

Chuuya then came out of his home. Damn it. He looked handsome. His hair was styled where the red locks flowed down his perfect face framing it nicely. He wore a black yukata with red hemming around the collar and sleeves. A yellow tie keeping it closed. There were flowers printed on the bottom. It appeared to be lotuses. The fabric seemed very high quality. Now Dazai just felt underdressed.

“You look good,” Chuuya compliments with a smile. Dazai blushes a little bit.

“You don’t look bad yourself.” Why was he feeling nervous? This wasn’t a date! This was supposed to be a fun time out in the town so they could enjoy the festivities and the fireworks. That is all this was supposed to be! “But you feel a bit overdressed.”

“Jealous that I look better than you?” Chuuya grins coming closer to him.

Dazai rolls his eyes, a little smile on him. “As if.”

“You know, it’s weird seeing you without ears and tails,” he says looking him over. “I liked them better. They made you look less stupid.”

“You’re stupid,” he grins. “I still can’t read your writing.”

“Bullshit.” He suddenly reaches for his hand. “Let’s get going. You owe me a prize.”

Dazai looks at the hand for a moment before hesitantly taking it. He laughs lightly as they walk down to the village. The area was filled with colorful lanterns, amazing smelling food, and villagers walking around. This now became so much more intimidating seeing everything out in front of him. Chuuya was still holding onto his hand like he was keeping him close.

It felt like his heart would beat out of his chest. There were some people that came up to Chuuya checking to see how he was doing with the injuries. He would easily talk to them with a bright smile on his face. He really was a natural at talking to people. Everyone seemed to like him.

Eventually they made it to a food stall where they got some fried tofu, much to Dazai’s delight. Chuuya had gotten a meat skewer to enjoy. They walked along the path, coming up to a few games that Dazai did try to play, but kept losing. He wasn’t very good at these games. Chuuya would make fun, laughing at his defeat.

“Well, when you’re better you can win me prizes,” Dazai huffs.

“You’re saying that there will be a next time?” Chuuya grins brightly. “Alright, next time, I’ll show you how someone really wins prizes.”

“I hope you get humiliated.” He grins a bit. Chuuya opens his mouth to argue when a very loud obnoxious voice could be heard.

“Chuuuuuuuyyyaaaa!!!!” The two turn to see a blonde running towards them. He was holding a candied apple in his hand.

“Tross!” Chuuya grins at his friend.

“Oh, you bring a date?” He looks Dazai up and down.

“This is Dazai,” Chuuya says almost as if he had been talking about him previously.

“This is the infamous Osamu Dazai that Chuuya won’t shut up about,” another voice says as a man with a white and black yukata says.

These were more of Chuuya’s friends. Now he was beginning to feel more nervous. It struck Dazai that he has been talking to his friends about him. Since when? No idea! What exactly has he told them? Did they know he was a kitsune? Maybe not. They were acting pretty neutral about him being here.

“Where is Shirase?” Chuuya asks.

“Entertaining Yuan,” Albatross answered. “I would avoid him tonight, especially since you know the whole thing with…”

“Yeah, yeah don’t bring it up,” Chuuya says quickly. Dazai tilts his head curiously.

“Chuuya is hiding something,” Dazai hums.

A light flush goes over his cheeks as he turns to the fox. “No, I’m not.” He then turns to his friends. “Why don’t we just go play some games and get something to eat before the fireworks.”

“That sounds good to me!” Albatross begins to lead the way to the next stall.

Dazai would have normally tried to find a way out of this, but he had to admit that he was enjoying himself. The four went to try competing in some other little carnival games. Dazai learned the other man went by the nick name PM for whatever reason. He seemed rather close with Albatross, often keeping him in line when he acted out.

That seemed to be a habit where he would tell the loud blonde to calm down. It was kind of funny seeing how he would be ganged up on by Chuuya and PM. It made the kitsune realize that he has been avoiding these people for a long time for no reason. Surprisingly he was enjoying time with them, laughing and making jokes.

As it got later in the evening Albatross and PM left to find some of the other members of their group and to find a place to watch the fireworks. Dazai thought that they would watch them together. Chuuya had other plans in place. He had taken a hold of his hand leading him to a part that seemed to be away from people, a little section on top of a hill. There they could see the wide open field and people all taking a seat to watch the fireworks.

Chuuya motions for them to take a seat so they could enjoy the sight. Without anyone around he decides to lift the spell. That thrilled Chuuya to no end. He had asked to hold onto one of his tails since they seemed so fluffy. Dazai sighs a bit, allowing three of them to surround him. Chuuya petted them gently, a soft smile on his face.

Normally he wouldn’t let anyone touch his tails. This was a special night so he decided to indulge his little slug a bit. The night sky was filled with beautiful stars. Dazai looked up admiring them before bright colorful splashes came to light up the sky.

“Tonight has been fun,” Dazai comments with a smile.

“Yeah, it has been.” His ears twitch a little bit hears a little bit of uncertainty in his voice. “Osamu…”

That didn’t sound right. “Nakahara.”

“That’s just weird hearing you say my last name like that.” He laughs.

“It’s weird hearing you say my first name,” he retorts back. Dazai looks at him. “Any reason why you used it?”

There was a bit of hesitation. “Just felt like saying it.” That wasn’t the answer. He scoots closer to him.

“Chuuya is hiding something from me.” Dazai could see that he was contemplating what he was trying to say. “Does it have to do with that girl?”

“I told you I don’t like her that way.” Chuuya sounded almost defensive. He sighs, trying to keep his cool. “Listen, we’ve known each other a long time. Fighting against Arahabaki made me realize something.”

Something felt strange. Dazai for some reason felt like pulling away, his stomach jumping around anxiously. Internally he was thinking that he should just run. That he just shouldn’t be having this conversation. When he pulled away his tails to create distance between them there was a hurt look in Chuuya’s eyes. That is what kept him stationary.

 “And what is that?”

He seemed to be at a loss for words. It was like he was trying to say something, trying to throw something out there, but they kept getting caught in his throat. Was this the pain of rejection he was so worried about experiencing? Did he bring him out here just do that? That wasn’t like Chuuya though. He wasn’t that cruel. Then why was he so nervous though?

“Just spit it out, Chuuya!”

A bright light flashes in the sky as the first firework goes off. At the same time Chuuya reached over grabbing his clothes. He kisses him gently. Another one goes off decorating the sky in a vivid red color. That is the color he would use to describe Chuuya. A beautiful red that had brightened his world since the day they met. A beautiful red that made him feel alive.

His lips were soft against his own. Dazai returns the kiss back, closing his eyes as more fireworks lit up the sky. He reaches over to pull him closer. It felt like electricity ran through them. Both pulled away, looking both nervous and excited. Chuuya had that same dumb grin. He gently reaches his good hand out touching the kitsune’s face.

“Does that answer your question?”

Dazai chuckles a little. “I think you could be clearer.”

“Asshole.”

Dazai kisses him this time, wrapping his tails around the two as they share their first kiss together. Never had he thought that feelings would be returned like this or even felt in the first place. It felt exciting and terrifying at the same time. The kiss felt natural in a lot of ways as well.

It made him assured that he would have a future within Chuuya’s life. That itself just made him melt into every touch, every soft kiss they shared that night. The future is never certain or set in stone, but for them they knew that they would be each other’s constant.

Three Years Later

Chuuya was now eighteen years old, grown into a handsome young man with an impressive reputation for his fighting abilities and agility. The scar he had gotten from his wounds that day didn’t hinder his goal. The fight that day only made him want to work harder to reach that end goal. He was determined to keep that promise he'd made to his child self

Since the injuries given to him by Arahabaki he did notice that he seemed stronger than before. The older kitsune had explained to them that it was more than likely due to Arahabaki’s influence, that the black flames that consumed it had also entered his body and mind. He had warned him to learn to control it lest another is born from the rage he sheltered.

The young man worked hard to learn to control that strength. He did not want to hurt anyone, he didn’t want anyone to suffer because of him. Least of all, he didn’t want his partner to suffer.

That morning he was getting ready for a job he had been hired to do. Because of his skills, his abilities in combat, many people within the village hired him to defend their homes and also to fight off against other things that would come out to disturb their homelands. He traveled outside it as well for many different reasons such as duels or jobs.

The one constant is that he always seemingly had a troublesome companion. That morning, as he got dressed, curled in a giant ball of fluff slept said companion. The fluffy white tails were more like a blanket for them at this point. Very nice during the winter, fucking miserable in the summer.

The spring air was crisp and refreshing so he wouldn’t have to worry about overheating. Chuuya comes over to the side of the futon, petting his ears gently. Dazai slowly blinks, his eyes looking up at him in a sleepy stupor.

“Chuuya is up early,” he yawns, little fangs showing. “Where are you going?”

“I got a job,” he explains. Chuuya wasn’t good at lying to him so he got in the habit of leaving out key details so that the fox wouldn’t worry about him. “I’ll be back later tonight. Be good, ya?”

“When am I not good?” Dazai pouts.

Chuuya could think of some very good examples right now over the last three years. There was the time when he had tricked a poor monk into thinking his staff was possessed somehow. There was also the time when he had changed out Shirase’s drink for an insanely bitter concoction. Then there was the time where he had stolen all of Chuuya’s shoes so he wouldn’t have to leave for work. That one didn’t work because he was fine with walking barefoot.

“You’re a shining example of good,” Chuuya teases. He gently pets one of the ears feeling the soft white tuffs of fur that surrounded it. “I’ll be back in time for dinner. We’ll break out the good stuff tonight.”

“Oh?” That seemed to catch his interest. “What is the occasion?”

“You’ll find out later. I got to go. Going to meet up with Albatross and PM.” He kisses Dazai gently. The kitsune melted into the kiss, relaxing back into the futon as he pulled away. Chuuya smiles warmly. “See you later.”

Dazai watches him leave their shared room. His tails moved around a bit as he thought about what the young swordsman could possibly be planning. Surely he wasn’t dumb enough to think that he could hide secrets from the kitsune? Well, if anything came about from years of knowing the other person it was that he could always figure out what Chuuya was up to.

Until the motivation hit to investigate further, he curled up back on the futon to get a little bit of sleep.

Chuuya had hoped that he hadn’t piqued the kitsune’s interest too much by the promise of the good sake tonight. He had bought the bottle originally because it was a good brand, but also the fish on there had reminded him a bit of his companion. Then again Dazai was a creature that was too curious for his own good.

That just meant he had to get this job done quickly. What was this job he was so determined to complete: kill Arahabaki.

Over the last three years the monster has been getting closer to villages, attacking people and livestock. There were even reports of the monster destroying buildings. A few people within his village had experienced attacks so brutal that they had lost their homes to the beast while he was away.nThis beast needed to be stopped at all costs.

Chuuya had asked Mori in secret to help him find the destructive god. At the request the older man found it rather odd he would go after it. He thought that his injuries might have made him scared. It had the opposite effect. Mori hummed a bit before agreeing to help him. There was only one stipulation.

Do not involve Dazai.

Mori viewed him as a son and didn’t want him to get hurt. The monster had already left so many scars on him that he didn’t want any more. Chuuya agreed. If the troublesome fox did know then he would insist on coming so he could help protect the young samurai.

This morning there was a sighting. Mori had sent him a message informing him and then passed it along to the other people he would be going with. Albatross and PM had volunteered to help join him in this fight. They were comrades and friends.

Chuuya had gone to meet them in the forest. When he arrived the two were waiting for him. Albatross gave his signature smile. PM nodded his head in greetings. It was decided to head out. They had located a path of destruction that was described in the message. The angry black flames warped through the forest like an angry scar.

The scar on his arm pulsed like it knew that it was close to Arahabaki. He takes a deep breath to calm himself. The trio began to follow the path to where the monster was located. As they ventured deeper into the forest the sounds of animals could no longer be heard. There were no birds chirping in the air, no sounds of other animals running, only pure silence.

There was a crunch that could be heard behind them. Chuuya takes out his sword quickly, turning around stopping right before he had slashed the figure that had made the noise. It was a fox with a wide, obnoxious grin on his face.

“What the hell, Dazai! I could have killed you!” He yelled loudly. Chuuya put away his sword. “What are you doing here?!”

“Chuuya was being weird this morning so I did a little investigating,” Dazai walks around him, his tails rubbing against the shorter man. The two other people just gave each other looks like this was an everyday occurrence. “You do realize Mori isn’t the only fully mature kitsune right? I have magic too.”

“Yeah, I’m aware.” Chuuya sighs. “Listen, this wasn’t something you were supposed to be a part of. Mori said…”

“Mori is overprotective just like you.” Dazai stands in front of him. His eyes narrowed. “This is just as important to me as it is to you. Let me help.”

“Dazai…” He was having a hard time turning him down.

There wasn’t time to argue more when a loud ripped through the forest. “Looks like I will be helping.” Dazai sounded almost gleeful.

“Fucking asshole.” Chuuya grumbles. He pulls out his blade again.

“Is now really a good time for a lovers’ quarrel?” Albatross asks.

“Just stay focused.” Chuuya orders.

The roar let them know that Arahabaki was close by, but they didn’t know where the monster was yet. The ground began to shake under them. Chuuya looks in the direction where it came from, black flames scorching the ground underneath. As it got closer in their line of sight the three of them scattered in opposite directions leaving the monster in the middle of their circle.

Dazai seemed to understand what they were doing. He took this chance to circle around the monster creating a barrier to attempt to keep it inside this ring. It might not work, but at least it would give them a better chance than if the monster was running around. He returns to Chuuya’s side.

“That should help.”

Chuuya still didn’t like having to involve him in this. Not that he could fight him on it right now. He takes the chance while it was trapped to charge at the beast. Arahabaki growls loudly, claws digging into the ground. Angry eyes looked directly at Chuuya. An angry pulse could be felt in the wound, something calling to the beast.

This was a calling he has learned to ignore. Fire lit up the young man’s eyes as he began to step closer. Silence fell between the two, heavy breathing coming from the monster. They were sizing each other up, trying to see what the other was worth.

Like lightning striking the ground a claw swung at Chuuya. He used his blade to stop it from hitting him. He gets dragged back out of the circle, footing not faltering. Dazai watches from a distance. Worry in his eyes as he watched his partner fighting this beast. Chuuya could handle anything thrown at him. It didn’t change the fact that he was still an anxious mess watching this unfold.

Arahabaki kept charging at Chuuya any time he came closer. The two other fights attempted to engage the monster in battle. Each time they interfered with the beast and Chuuya’s fight it would charge at them. When they were a distance away Arahabaki would turn the attention back to Chuuya. 

It became clear very early this was a fight  only between the two. Chuuya survived his attack, he survived the black flames only to make it his own. This was a source of pain for the destructive being. Only one could use the strength of the black flames.

The young swordsman gave a signal to have them stay away from the ring. They were here mostly for back-up and to help keep it away from the village. They nod once. Now it was purely between Arahabaki and Chuuya.

Chuuya lets out loud and powerful scream as he charges towards the monster. A loud roar returned the sentiment. The animal covered in black flames runs directly towards him. He moved quickly jumping to the side and swung his blade longways across the stomach of the beast. The steel went deep into its gut.

Black ooze began pouring out of the monster. That was the closest thing to blood that was connected to the wild destructive force of nature. Turning its head around, it was panting heavily. Chuuya grins a little bit. He managed to hit the monster deep inside. This was a good sign. It meant that the monster had a weakness.

Clearly it wasn’t used to being challenged or harmed in such a manner. It raged again, a loud painful howl rang through the area as it lunged at Chuuya. The mouth opened ready to bite the head of the attacker off. It stopped before latching down. A protection field was placed on Chuuya.

He chuckles a little. Dazai must have done it when he first came. He looked at the kitsune hiding off in the distance, a grin on his face. This gave him the chance needed. Chuuya lifts the sword up in one clean move, pushing it straight into the beast’s mouth.

The sword went directly through the brain, the tip of it poking out. Arahabaki tried to move for an attack. Chuuya moved faster, pushing it through the skull. It went deeper going towards the neck separating it from the middle.

More black ooze spilled out. More began to surround Chuuya, not touching him as the monster that had given both him and Dazai scars collapsed on the ground. There weren't any sounds coming from it, no heavy breathing. Just silence now. Chuuya pants heavily.

Chuuya looks at the monster, a triumphant smile on his face. Before he could tell PM and Albatross about it he saw a flash of white as a fox jumped onto him. Nuzzling against his neck. He chuckles a little bit, petting Dazai in his fox form.

“I knew I would be okay, but you certainly helped.” He smiles a bit.

“Holy shit!” yelled Albatross. “Chuuya, that was so badass!”

“Yeah, it was!” He grins brightly at his friend.

“I supposed we should bring the body back as proof,” PM says coming over. He had a less than enthusiastic expression on his face. He looked at Chuuya who was still petting the fox. “I take it you’re going home.”

“I’ll help bring this thing’s head back.” An upset sound came from Dazai. “I have to! I said I would be back for dinner so just deal with it.” Another angry sound came from him. “I won’t be long. We’ll have drinks and whatever you want.”

The fox still didn’t have a happy expression, but Chuuya knew what it was about. He would pick up some fresh ingredients on his way home. Dazai then pushes off him running back into the forest. Chuuya sighs heavily.

“Guess we gotta hurry or you’re in the doghouse,” Albatross teased.

“As long as I’m back for dinner it won’t matter to me,” Chuuya says. Dazai wouldn’t be mad once he made dinner for him.

The three together took the head of Arahabaki to the village leader. This was a monumental achievement that clearly needed to be celebrated. Chuuya tried to turn him down because he didn’t want to keep Dazai waiting more than he was. After a lot of insisting, his friends clearly not helping because they wanted the drinks and food, he relented to stay for some extra time.

Chuuya would make it up to the fox later. There is no way he would be that mad, right?

It was late at night when he was finally able to leave. At least Chuuya was able to get some food out of it. There was just the worry that Dazai would be upset by how late he was out. Upon arriving home he saw that there weren’t any lights on. There isn’t any way he is asleep yet. Chuuya notices a lantern was on towards the garden. He goes back there, opening the back sliding door.

Dazai was sitting there eating a peach. He turns around looking at him, a little smile on his face. “My you look nice.” He teases. Chuuya rolls his eyes. “Why not put something more comfortable on. It’s been a long night.”

“You aren’t mad that I was late?” He raises an eyebrow. Dazai was planning something.

“Oh I’m furious!” His tails poof out in full view. “Buuuuuttt…” He flops onto his back. “You have to make it up to me and I want to see you in something pretty. You also have to bring out the good sake. We were supposed to drink it together”

Chuuya sets the food on the ground before walking away. He goes to get changed out of his dirty clothes and also to wash his face. A few minutes later he comes back out with sake in hand. He takes a seat next to him, pouring into the cups. Dazai drinks it slowly.

It almost felt intentional that he was taking such a slow sip, the way he stretched out his neck. He sets his cup to the side, turning to look at the other man. Dazai had only gotten more beautiful as the years went by. The way his brown eyes were always seemingly thinking and how they looked at him. They were so soft any time they looked at him.

Dazai had gotten taller than him now, his legs feeling like they could go for days. For any other man it would be embarrassing to be shorter than their partner. Not Chuuya. He liked those long legs, the way that they would wrap around him. He liked running his hand along them as he shuttered under his touch.

“Is Chuuya thinking naughty thoughts?” Dazai teases a bit. “You always get that way after a fight.”

He huffs a laugh while taking another drink. This stuff was so good, the alcohol warmed his chest. “Is that your way of flirting?” He grins. “You can do better than that.”

Dazai hums a little bit as if he is contemplating something. He kisses Chuuya deeply, his hands digging into the fabric. A little moan came from the fox. Chuuya runs his tongue over his lips. The sweet juices of the peach he was enjoying earlier could be tasted. He wanted to taste more. Dazai opens his mouth for the other man.

Their tongues tangled together, more of that sweet peach and sake that tasted amazing. The two were moaning loudly, blood rushing south where the only thought was to see the other naked. Chuuya pushes his partner onto his back, pulling away to look at him.

On his lips was that sly smile that was all too familiar. Chuuya grabs his clothes and begins to pull them down. He wasn’t a patient man when faced with the object of his desire. A tail wraps around his body as Dazai reaches into his red locks. He is pulled closer for another kiss. Chuuya now sat between his legs pressing his cock against the other man who was equally so

“You’re such a little shit.” Chuuya whispers against his lips. His hands start trying to pull off the clothes.

“Actually, I’m a fox.” Dazai’s own hands were reaching for the sash. The yukata flew open exposing his chest freely.

Dazai leans forwards, biting then licking over his chest hungrily. A low moan came out of Chuuyat. He grinds his cock against Dazai eliciting a loud moan. The hand in his hair tightened a little bit. Chuuya leans down and kisses over his chest. The scar from when they were eleven was still slightly exposed even with all the bandages.

He kisses over it gently, feeling the rough scar tissue. He wanted to remove every last bandage that covered Dazai’s body. That would take a little too much time though. He wanted to have him now. They would have the rest of the night after all. The first step in that is getting him naked. Chuuya finally manages to get the rest of the clothes off him.

The kitsune lays under him with a smirk on his face. He reaches into his tails bringing out a little bottle. Oil. “Wow, you really had this planned, huh?” Chuuya takes the little bottle from him.

“Chuuya had to make it up to me somehow.” Dazai opens his legs up for him.

Those eyes were filled with such lust and desire. This fox was such a little menace, always found a way to get whatever he wanted. Then he would give it to him until he couldn’t walk the next morning. He places a little oil on his fingers before pressing a finger against his asshole. He pushes inside it slowly. Dazai hisses a bit, attempting to relax at the new intrusion. He slowly moves it in and out.

Once he felt relaxed around the digit he adds a secondary finger. Chuuya moves them in and out slowly, watching every little gasp and moan coming from his partner’s lips. He pushes further inside searching for the bundle of nerves that would really drive him over the edge.

“AH!”

Dazai’s back arches up when he finds his prostate. He continued brushing against that area just to hear him moan loudly, watching as he attempted to rock his hips. Chuuya grabs his hips, keeping him against the ground. A little whine came from him. Beads of semen dripped down his needy cock and now he was being denied pleasure.

Chuuya adds a third finger to finish stretching him out. Dazai looked at him with half lidded eyes, panting heavily. “Chuuuuuyaaaaa!”

Chuuya might have thought he was impatient, but it is nothing compared to the kitsune. He was always so whiney. He removes the fingers. Grabbing the oil he rubs over his cock before pressing the head in a teasing manner. He smirks at seeing the squirming fox. The way he looked laying on his back with the tails splayed out made him look like a fucking masterpiece. His eyes rolled slightly back.

There was a light blush over his cheeks going down to his neck. Dazai opens his mouth to say something or berate him for not moving enough; the shorter man pushes quickly inside him. Loud moans erupt from him, his hands digging into the wood under him causing a little damage. Chuuya would have to nip those nails sometime soon.

He bottoms out easily, feeling the tight warmth around his cock. Dazai pants heavily, his legs wrapping around him. Chuuya lowly groans. The feeling of having this warmth around his dick felt amazing. It was a sensation that he could absolutely live. His mouth also looked particularly pretty.

Another time, Chuuya.

Under him now was a pathetic fox that was losing patience. Slowly he pulled out then slamming deep inside in one quick motion. A gasp comes out, his body shuttering. Chuuya does this a few times before he gets faster. Each thrust into him sent shutters down their bodies. He positions himself to slam against the prostate.

Chuuya wanted to hear how loud he could get. Little tears prickled at his eyes the faster he got. Dazai liked it when his mind was shut off. He grips onto his cock moving it with each thrust. Now he was getting louder, each thrust and touch of the kitsune’s cock sent electricity down his back.

Rubbing the tip of the cock nearly sent him over the edge. His asshole tightened around his cock a little bit. Chuuya wasn’t going to let that happen yet. Holding the base of the other man’s dick prevented him from actually coming. A little whine comes out, a pathetic one really.

“You’re not coming until I do.” Chuuya whispers.

They kiss messily as he begins to pick up speed again. Chuuya was starting to reach his climax. Dazai seemed to want the same thing. He tries to lean up to suckle on his chest, biting at it to leave his own mark. Dazai wanted to leave his mark on Chuuya. That was just the possessiveness talking.

Heavy panting and moans were shared between them. Chuuya felt closer, he was so close to coming over the edge. He slammed harder onto his prostate, his hand moving with his thrusts. Dazai moves his hips to get more stimulation, to have Chuuya go deeper. He opens his mouth, trying to form words. The only thing that came out were sweet cries.

Just like a wave he came at one particular thrusts. His back arches up as he comes with a loud cry, white cum going over his stomach. Dazai tightens around Chuuya. It only took a few more thrusts before Chuuya was spilling inside him. Chuuya rocks his hips slowly as he continues to fill him up.

Chuuya pants heavily as he came down from his high. He looked down at Dazai who seemed to be completely satisfied. He pets his ears gently, brushing his brown hair back. He smiles a little bit. Dazai grabs his hand, nuzzling into it.

Dazai was unfairly cute, unfairly pretty in every way that it drove him crazy. It drove him crazy how much he loved him, how much this troublesome little fox meant to him. “Now that is a celebration,” Chuuya jokes.

Dazai does a tired laugh, a fond rolling of his eyes. “Well, we do have all night for more fun.” The kitsune pulls him down, kissing him gently.

Dazai gave him a look that seemed so soft, so gentle it almost felt unnatural. Despite the look feeling strange, it felt like…

“I love you, Chuuya.”

The voice that came from him was so genuine. They both knew their feelings, neither of them needed to say it out loud. It wasn't how they operated. The words being said out loud like that made his heart swell. Chuuya had never felt happier. He couldn’t feel happier in his life.

“I love you too, Osamu.”

Chuuya was really stuck with this rather troublesome companion.