Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Another year had passed and he still wasn’t dead. Most would think practicing and engaging in war were easy strategies for death. But no and now since the merge of life and death. 

There aren't any good battles, mostly just petty fights he needs to break up. Though he did have some good constants in his life. 

Such as Oda, a calm deity who had a soft spot for orphaned children. He had about six of them, they were all humans. What surprised him the most was his husband.

Ango was one of strictest people he knew (aside from Kunikida) he enforced the fact Dazai had to do his work. God he doesn’t know how they’ve been married for so long. 

Chuuya tried explaining it to him but it shifted in a different direction. When he stupidly asked how Chuuya would know. 

The god of love hit him over the head with a gold plate after that. He didn’t want to go to the anniversary of the gods. Especially when his father was there. It was always terribly boring. Kouyou made sure of this when she sat Chuuya as far away from him as she could. 

So he just lies there and waits, and waits until finally the lovely god himself walks in. “Wake up you fucking asshole, and get ready. Or im going to throw your fucking ass into one of the holy pools.” 

The God in front of him was so lovely, the anniversary outfit he was wearing was more revealing than normal. A long pinkish white skirt falling down one slice falling between his thighs. 

Two slits go up the side showing off his thighs a wider piece falls down the back off his legs. All off his back is completely empty. 

The front is a lovely silk top a slice is taken out and it shows a bit of abs and would be between where his breasts should be. 

In the middle tying the two pieces together was a ribbon rap. The outfit was brought together with the lovely black choker, hugging his neck. 

The black choker that he gave the boy when they were much younger. It was a possessive need to show people that the god was in fact a high body that was close to Dazai which was terrifying in itself but it also kept the god he was torn from quiet. 

Even if the boy would always argue if someone even talks about Chuuya marrying Dazai. He hated it even more when people commented about him becoming Queen one day. 

He would usually scoff and laugh telling them that if Dazai became King they were all doomed. He would then proceed to tell everyone how bad Dazais decisions would be. 

The Chibi moves to open the curtains covering the archways letting the morning sun in. But before he can make it he pulls the love god towards him. 

“Nope I’m tired and Chibis gonna be a pillow.” He nudges his face into his neck. He licks and bites a few times causing the boy in his arms to twist trying to get away. 

“Stop it, you're messing up my hair.” Chuuya whined and complained as Dazai just pushed his head farther into Chuuyas neck. 

Pushing the red curls out of the tightly woven braid spiraling around itself. Tiny crystals and golden chains keeping it together. 

Makeup made his face look a lot rounder with a faint tint of blush below his eyes. White highlighter Accentuating his pale blue and hazel brown eyes. 

“Baby let me stay here for a while. I need energy.” He mumbled out. Pausing for a few minutes before a sigh is brought out of the smaller. 

Relaxing into the touch of the older, moving his hands up to card through the brown hair. Letting the taller hold him. 

“Chuuya!” Kouyou screams through the halls making her way towards the room Chuuya disappeared into. 

“Okay let me go we’re gonna be caught.” Chuuya whispers, moving out of Dazai’s embrace. And pulling himself up. 

His hair had come undone and was cascading down his back. A few parts framing his face perfectly. 

His lips parted slightly as he giggled, and Dazai is only supposed to be a man. 

So as a man he surges up to capture his lips in a kiss, smashing their faces together probably wasn’t the best idea he’s ever had. But the Chibi was sitting delicately on his hips, and he looked gorgeous. 

How could he resist? He jabbed the smaller one in the side. The small boy gasped, making an entrance for his tongue to slip into his mouth. Sucking and tugging on the others swapping saliva. 

Chuuya slowly brought his arms up to tangle around Dazai’s neck. Running his thin pale fingers through his hair. Scratching the sensitive scalp below making sure not to tug. 

Dazai pushed him slowly onto the mattress, hands trailing around his hips. Rubbing circles on his hips, moving his hand to rub up and down on the sides of his waist. 

He moves his to the live gods neck moving the choker up so he could taste the younger neck. Biting down causing the smaller to cry out. 

“You better not be Fucking cause Kouyou will have your heads. If she has to get a new outfit for Chuuya.” A chirpy voice yelled as she burst through the door.

Dazai pulled up away from Chuuya leaving the smaller gasping beneath him. His chest falling and rising faster each second. 

“Chuuya come on, we need to fix this before Kouyou sees it!” Kyouka, one of Chuuya’s favorites, speaks timidly and hurriedly from the back. 

Two of Chuuya’s other kids were standing in front of her, Kenji was standing in front of her. Kenji was an enthusiastic boy who worked in the garden. 

He had light yellow blonde hair that Chuuya himself cut. He was wearing a black undershirt with a 

(in Dazai’s opinion, because Dazai once said this to Chuuya and he tried to cut his dick off.)

Ratty white over shirt, and pale dark blue ripped overalls. With a blackish belt circling his waist. The overalls stopped slightly higher then his knees. 

And his legs were completely bare, with tan sandals on his feet. He had Hazelnut brown eyes, Chuuya fawned about all day. 

And a slight dusting of freckles, not nearly as much as Chuuya though. He had a straw hat tied with a string hung around his neck. 

The small child walked up to Chuuya, who right now looked like he was napping. With the way he was carefully laid out on his mattress. 

Hair sprawled everywhere, eyes fluttered closed. The child grabbed the hand of Chuuya pulling it up trying to drag the taller one up. 

“Wake up,” the small kid spoke loudly while shaking his arm around. As the Chibi slowly stirred pulling himself up. Dazai almost wanted to punch and scratch the kid. Just for taking the beautiful sight away from him. 

“I’m up Q, now is the time to get me ready isn’t it?” 

Chuuya whispered to Q before pulling himself up grabbing the child’s hand.  He moves towards the door, small children following him like a mother duck. He quickly makes his way out the door and back to his own room to get fixed up.

But not before he kissed Dazai’s cheek and told him he’d see him soon. Q was an absolute menace to everyone but Chuuya. 

Q would terrorize everyone in the poorer neighborhoods yet Chuuya still took them in. 

Their two toned hair, one half brown and  one half white never worked for the kid Dazai thought bitterly. 

An “ugly” looking mustard yellow scarf wrapped around their  neck. A navy blue top hat and white bow sat atop his head. That hat was a gift from Chuuya just like Kenji’s straw hat. 

He was wearing a dark navy jacket with a button up white shirt underneath. Light cream striped shorts falling around mid thigh.

White knee high socks with darkish brown shoes. These were all paid for by Chuuya, everything each of the children were wearing was from Chuuya. 

Chuuya was one of the only gods who actually shopped around mortals. Or even went near them, the gods loved their creation of course. But it was never seen as useful to talk to them without reason. 

The pornai and hetairai around were slightly different, they were more seen as playthings to the gods. Often some of the more flirty gods took their servants to their bed. 

Most of the time the gods brought Pornai to their homes. Hetaira would be more likely to live with the gods and goddess. 

Dazai would often do this as well as more pretty ones, men and women. No one in his bed though not in the one he slept in. He’d fuck them anywere but there, that’s we’re he slept. 

And only Chuuya had the privilege of sleeping with him there. Whether it was fucking or legitimately sleeping in the bed. It was reserved for Chuuya and Chuuya and him only. 

Many people had begged him, pleading that he let them stretch on the comfortable mattress. But he only moved to a soft lounging Chair and fucked them there. 

He had once asked in much desperation if Chuuya ever let the pornai or hetaira fuck him. At first the god laughed asking why it mattered. But after some silence he stated he would never sleep with a mortal or someone he didn’t want to. 

He knew he had no right to care but the fact Chuuya never said he didn’t let gods fuck him hurt. This was because he knew how many would be desperate to fuck (or be fucked by) the redhead. 

He knew it was hypocritical and he knew it wasn’t fair to Chuuya but he wanted the boy to himself. He would have killed and terrified anyone who tried to take the boy away. 

A loud knock and the thudding of a door banging open startled him. Causing him to drop a robe that was tied around his waist. “Gross, put on some Clothes and come on, the ceremony is going to start soon.”Yosano called, grabbing a grape from a bowl. 

Moving behind a divider he re-wrapped bandages around his arms. Before pulling the golden armor over his chest. Fastening the leather straps against his waist. 

Black slacks with gold around his thighs tightly strapping the last straps. He walks out pulling his shoes on as he goes. 

Yosano is leaning against the large white wooden door. There are little stars and hearts drawn in the corners of the door. Drawn by Chuuya and his kids when they first arrived. 

“Ready oh dear sweet brother?” Yosano questions as she turns, throwing the large door open. So she can properly walk away. 

Lagging slightly behind he listens to her talk. As they walk the long corridors, large archways dropping into deathly waterfalls. 

They stop right before the large stage, his mother and father standing in front of the large thrones. Millions of their subjects packed together tightly. Waiting patiently for the gods to arrive. 

A large horn tears him out of his thoughts as the announcer announces each god. “Mori Ougai god of death, and his husband Fukuzawa Yukichi god of life.” 

He states as the couple sits smiling and waving perfectly. “Yosano, The god of healing and a chair in the death court  and her lover Kouyou the god of the blade and the spring seasons.” Both Yosano and Kouyou stepped forward with light pink flower petals falling around. 

As they both bowed and smiled at the adoring crowd. before turning to sit on their thrones, one on each side of Mori and Fukuzawa. 

“Ranpo Edowgawa the god of knowledge and his lover Edgar Alan Poe the God of literature.” The announcer yelled as the two men stepped forward. Giving curt waves and turning back. Ranpo sitting next to Yosano and Poe sitting next to Kouyou. 

“Dazai Osamu the God of war, and Gin Akutagawa the goddess of assassins.” He was surprised but stepped forward non the less. Taking the younger girl's hand and bowing. 

There were definitely a few red faced girls in the crowd but he couldn’t care less. He walked over slouching down onto the throne beside Ranpo. 

“Mad you weren’t introduced with your little side piece?” Ranpo whispers as the Announcer states two more gods. Atsushi moved to sit next to him, shuffling slightly. 

The Announcer keeps screaming gods names as Dazai whispers back. “No, but I’m more interested in how Atsushi and Akutagawa got together.” He remarks sitting up more. A smug smile on his face. 

“Tachihara Michizou, god of crafts, and Chuuya Nakahara god of love.” They both stride out and Chuuya looks Fantastic. Long copper hair loosely fitted into a bun. 

Crystals, gold chains, diamonds and obsidian woven into his hair. A slight gold eyeshadow circling his eye, enhancing the shine of his eye. There was a bright white highlighter in the corner of his eyes. 

He flashed a cocky grin to Dazai as he walked over to his throne. Sitting down and crossing his legs, the slit falling to the side exposing his leg. 

The pale flesh had small purple bite marks, he really wasn’t paying attention to what the announcer was talking about. Not when he had better things to pay attention to. 

The movement of gods sitting only caught his eye slightly. Before he snapped back to looking at Chuuya the older boy. The little siren was smiling and waving and giggling at the crowd of mortals and spirits infront of him. 

After a few minutes of staring, Ranpo hit him in the arm, just as Mori stood up. “Welcome guest, I’m glad you were able to make it today. those you could not pless their souls and hope they’re making themselves comfy in the underworld.” Mori’s voice boomed across the hall.

“Today celebrates 10 years since the War of the Titans. We hold a memorial for those who died, and who survived.” Mori raises a goblet filled with wine, ready to toast to the people. 

Taking a large sip he brings his glass down as each and every person in the hall raises their glass as well. Taking small sips of the exotic wine of life, the people murmur amongst themselves. 

“We fought bravely, fighting for what we wanted! What we believed in it was all a reward to get rid of their tierney. Now anyone with a kind soul can pass through waiting for reincarnation we’re as those with evil conscience will forever be haunted with what they did.”  Moro continues walking up to the offerings. 

“Some may have donated a lot, and some few. But it’s those who do these acts without the need to be the ones who will be rewarded.” Clapping can be heard as Moro finishes his speech making it back to right in front of hisi throne.   

A loud thud is echoed through the hall as everyone falls silent. The thick golden  liquid flows effortlessly across the floor. Slowly trickling down the steps, towards peoples feet. 

“What an amazing speech!” A sarcastic voice comes from we’re the arrow had been shot. Implanting itself inside Moris heart. Mori had fallen back into his husband's hands sliding down off the throne. 

Mori’s head was laying on Fukuzawas lap, pieces of his yukata wrapped around the wound. Yosano had moved over to help heal the king. 

“Well now there’s no king I might as well take the crown for myself.” The man shouts pushing through the crowd of people. A large army following behind him, the man slowly stalks forward climbing up the golden steps. Blood of the god coating his shoes. 

He’s close enough now that Dazai can tell who he is, it’s terrifying when he does. Because this man is supposed to be dead. 

“Aren’t you supposed to be in exile, Fyodor? Maybe even dead?” Yosano comments while comforting a distressed Fukuzawa. 

“You gods think I died while in exile? No, that was only temporary. I've left the hell you disowned me in.”  Fyodor starts lifting his staff up ready to strike Yosano. 

A loud clang is heard as Dazai stops the attack with his sword. “You were the one disobeying the heavens you allowed mortals to buy their way into reincarnation. You allowed them to bribe and pay for your lies. We never disowned you! You did this yourself!” Dazai shouts pushing Fyodor back. 

Just the Sigma grabs his arms, “We would support you later on for you to overthrow Fyodor but not now! You're not strong enough and we don’t have a plan.” He whispers in his ear, but Dazai’s not listening. 

All he hears is the rush of blood the thud of the arrow burying itself into his fathers chest. Red hot anger seeping into his skin. He’s furious, who does Fyodor thinks he is trying to take the throne and killing his father. 

So he attacks, throwing Fyodor across the Pavilion, causing him to hit a beam. The man just smirks as he moves back towards him. 

The gods scatter Fukuzawa and Yosano moving Mori to the side streams of blood coating the floors. The others have fallen from their thrones and moved to crouch on the ground ready to help if needed. 

He’s strikes, cutting in his side, golden blood dripping out of the wound. He doesn’t care though pain non existent because he has Fyodor pinned sword buried in his shoulder. 

“Do you honestly believe you can beat me? Seriously how can you be that foolish? I’ve been alive millennia more than you.” Fyodor calls, pulling the sword out of his shoulder and throwing it. 

Hitting his thigh with enough force to make his legs buckle and fall to the ground. It burns piercing hot flesh slightly melting at the contact. Fyodor just slowly creeps towards him. Smirking viciously as he pins him to the ground. 

Spear pushing bluntly against his chest, he wants to die but not like this not by the hands of his fathers killer. Fyodor leans down, kicking Dazai slightly before digging his heel into his abdomen. 

“Do you think your death will be quick and easy?”  He can hear Fukuzawa begging for Fyodor to let Dazai go because he didn’t mean it. But he did, and Fyodor  knew that. 

Paying no attention to the begging, Fyodor pulled a small knife out. Moving it towards his eye, he plunged it in. A loud scream rattle off each wall, it takes a few minutes till he realizes it’s his own. 

His right eye was bleeding and throbbing, a large ball-like thing was resting on his face.  His pupil was dilated staring up at Fyodor with shaky vision.

He was about to push the knife into the other eye, when he was suddenly pulled off of him. A small deity with flaming orange hair moved to kick him throwing him against a pillar. 

“Chuuya!” A god screams moving to save the boy who threw him against a pillar. Another god pulls him back to his seat. 

The boy standing there with tears filtering down his face is gorgeous. When studying Dazai he found some evidence that might prove he’s his lover. But with how his spy’s had talked about Dazai flirting with them. 

He’s probably a fling, the goddess of love! Not even he could control the suicidal mania that was the God of war. Oh how Fyodor would treat him once he was king, he would take the one thing Dazai had going for him. 

He was truly exquisite, especially while crying. He would give all of Japan to this man, making him cry would be an absolute pleasure.

He slowly moves, sitting up and pulling his slightly broken body.  The boy had run over to Dazai, tears falling as he quickly wrapped the man’s eye. 

Moving slowly towards the boy, before pulling him back causing him to stumble. The man falls into him, and he smirks victoriously at the pain slightly showing in Dazai’s eye. 

Chuuya’s wiggling and cursing him out, kicking his legs and almost screaming. Moving away slightly he pulls a sword out ready to pierce straight through Dazai’s heart. 

“No, no please!” He wasn’t listening to Fukuzawas begging. But this was different this was quieter, this was the creature in his arms begging. The other gods were staring horrified some had closed their eyes. 

He really would give this person whatever they wanted, so when the redhead begs for him to let Dazai and his family live. He would allow it, a benefit would also be to have the knowledge that Dazai knew the god chose him. 

“Please I’ll make a deal with you! What do you want? I'll do it.” Chuuya whispers trying to make Fyodor fold, none of the gods react to this presumably because it was to quiet to hear. Even he had to bed done a little to hear what was being said over the screaming and sobs. 

Fyodor smirks. Gripping his stomach and chest harder keeping the boh steady. 

“You’ll be the queen! If you do, I'll let them be beheaded quickly.” Whispering back smirking against the gods ear. This makes the redhead's eyes widen, darting between Dazai and him. 

“No I’ll do it yes, but just please exile them instead.” He’s looking down tears brimming, hands gripping his shirt. 

“Deal!” He whispers back a shaky sob escaping the red head. He thinks about the consequences, but if he had Chuuya with him that would break Dazai enough that revolts won’t happen.  Mori’s also dead and Fukuzawa is probably rendered useless. 

He’s almost glad Dazai can’t hear and instead gripping his eye. It’s almost all Dazai’s fault the redheads like this. 

“Fine Dazai! You and Fukuzawa may leave.” Finally speaking loud enough for each god to hear, as he sits on Mori’s throne pulling the redhead into his lap. “Whoever doesn’t agree with my practices you may also leave.” 

“What?”  Yosano screams, throwing herself toward him, but is stopped by Fukuzawa. 

“Chuuya you’ll come with us right?” Dazai’s voice breaks in the middle seeing as his little doll isn’t even looking at him. But instead turned away staring at a wall. 

Yosano is seething yelling curses at the redhead and him. Koi you had her pinned down keeping her from fighting the two of them. 

Fukuzawa pulls himself up grabbing Mori’s dead body and then Dazai’s arm. Pulling them through the parted crowd a few people following them. As soon as they’re out of sight he smiles. 

Pushing the redhead aside he stands up moving toward the stairs. Chuuya just stumbled falling into Fukuzawas throne. “For those who’ve chosen to stay, congrats on your part of the new era.” 

“No dead person can pass into reincarnation, without paying and yes it will be a hefty price. For those who cannot pay tough luck you’ll wonder around hell the rest of time!” Fyodor announces in a sing-song voice. 

This was a start of a new era, one that would be torture for all below and around Fyodor. 

Chapter Text

“We welcome you back.” A long line of servants, pornai, and hetairai are bowing their heads to him. Aniko, one of his favorite pornai moved up to him, grabbing his hand and talking fast. He normally didn’t like them touching him but the childlike enthusiasm amused him so he let her. 

Her pale hands moving fast as she speaks walking behind him. Her brownish red hair bobbing as she skips beside him moving towards the dining hall.

As he stops in the room he doesn’t see the lovely redhead. “Aniko? Where is Chuuya?” He questions the girl. 

She almost looks sad that he asks for him, but even if she’s his favorite mortal to fuck. She really couldn’t compare to the love god. 

Not in looks, no nothing could compare to the fiery locks. Not in desire, no one really could win. The redhead could make anyone bend to his will. 

“He’s only left you guys room to go to his servants room. They’ve been extremely bold and have been harassing some of us!” She complains moving to sit in his lap. 

He pushes her off not wanting to do this right now; he really only wants his love right now. Yet the god was ignoring him even though he’s been good to him for the last three years. 

Stuffing his face was easy, roasted chicken, potatoes, large portions of other foods. Obviously cooked to perfection by a bunch of servants Chuuya had picked up over the course of their marriage. 

Moving to sit up pushing Aniko to the side telling her to leave him alone right now. He hoped Chuuya was in their room and no one else was there. 

Opening the large white door. He'd torn down a lot of the rooms making it fit more to his own taste. Although Chuuya protested the change of the gardens and Dazai’s room. 

Glass covering each arch, tearing down a lot of the thrones was therapeutic. Although he banned his ‘Wife’ from the god of war's old room,with much protests from the small redhead but this was quickly sucked out of him. Refurbishing each and every furniture piece. 

Moving into his room he sees the redhead sitting in front of a mirror. Hair being brushed and pulled, smiling as a little girl brushes makeup onto his cheeks. The small farm boy places food not worthy to be eaten by Chuuya on the vanity. 

“Leave” He commanded, causing the small children to look at him. The kids look at him with confusion and fear written across their faces, until they look at Chuuya. They were terrified of Fyodor since he almost slit Kouyoka’s throat, only stopping when his love hit him. 

He had every reason to hit the kid, now the kids feared him. They usually avoided him and stuck by Chuuya they also avoided everyone else. No one treated them badly, necessarily no one would hurt Chuuyas kids. 

Now though  Chuuya just nods, slipping the brown haired kid off his lap. Keeping the kids behind him and out of sight of Fyodor. 

“Not you” He tries to stop the redhead, but Chuuya just shrugs while walking out carrying one of the kids and grabbing the other's hands. He doesn’t like it, he has gotten too cocky.

He would ignore what Fypdor said, or just flat out ignoring him. It started to piss him off, he would often put the kids above him. 

This wasn’t good, he shouldn’t be running away from his husband. Q had reminded him, he knew Fyodor didn’t like his ‘kids’. 

Fyodor had once pulled a knife on Kyouka, due to her getting his hair wrong. This caused the little girl to cry causing Chuuya to run and comfort her reassuring he loved the thin braids in his hair. 

He had bought her a black kimono with a longer and more expensive fabric. It had lovely red and white Camellia flower patterns with gold flakes. This was his attempt at an apology which she graciously took. 

She surprisingly still wore the fake white flower hair bands he had given her when he first took her in. She always asked Chuuya to tie her hair each morning. 

He still missed Dazai, missed the soft kisses in the mourning and the soft sex. God it had been three years since he’d seen him but the pain in his eyes when he was evicted from his own kingdom. 

Tucking the kids into their beds which he made Dazai buy. He knew what was waiting for him when he went back to his room.

He layed with Q when they expressed they couldn’t sleep. They had read books and told stories, sometimes Q would ask for stories about his life before they knew each other. 

They weren’t always good stories and sometimes they made either Chuuya or Q cry. But the stories always ended up killing Q to sleep. 

Their head was laying against his chest, small puffs of breaths could be heard for the younger. He moved their head to the side and slid out of the bed. 

He walked silently through the halls, trying to take as long as possible. But  he ended up in front of the large white doors anyway. Pushing them open was easy, what lay on the other side was probably gonna kill him.

“Hello doll” Fyodor commented as he walked into the room trying to stay quiet. Fyodor stalks up to him, crowding him against the wall. He feels sick, his body uncomfortably warm.

It was uncomfortable as it always was whenever he was close to him. Pushing three fingers into Chuuya’s mouth causing him to choke. Knees wobbling as his head thrummed trying to get him away from this place. 

“Now?” He asks quietly but before Chuuya can answer he shoves his fingers farther down Chuuya’s throat. Gagging and choking around them hurt buts of pain sprinkling his throat. 

“There old enough that they don’t need to be tucked in, Chuuya, are you trying to avoid me?” It was sarcastic and didn’t accomplish anything since; they both knew it was.

Moving over to their bed He pushed the boy onto the bed pinning his hands above his head. “Fyodor stop that hurts, I don’t wanna do this I’m tired.” He whimpers out trying to squirm away from the touch of the god. 

He doesn’t though he continues sucking, biting and pinching the flesh. The ginger below is trying to scratch and claw his arms and back leaving long red stripes.

“I could kill you if I wanted.” Chuuya slurs waking up with a pounding headache. His milky white flesh littered with red and purple marks. Rings of bruises circle his wrist, he’s not greeted by a litter of kisses. 

Just a scoff, “No you couldn’t Кукла, you're too weak for that.” He runs his hands along his arms, moving to comb the knots out of his hair as the door bursts open. 

“My lord, we’ve got a meeting you need to attend.” A white haired mortal steps through the door bowing, keeping his eyes away from the naked couple. 

He was dressed in a fine suit although he had a disgusting smirk plastered on his face. He was the royal treasury overseer making sure no one was able to get to Fudor riches. But also the eye of Dazai which was by far the most precious of them all. 

God Fyodor would probably have Ace’s head if he even gazed upon his lover's body. He cut off one of his hetairai’s heads because they cut the ginger’s skin. 

“Ace, what do you need?” He questions pulling himself out and pulling the soft blankets to cover the smallers bare body. Ace moved  over to allow a few servants rush to help slide golden armor onto the gods body. 

“Yosano has complaints, my lord. She would like to arrange a meeting with you.” He offers keeping his eyes averted even now bowing down for the two. The guards posted outside were doing the exact same. 

“Fine we can arrange it, will it work if it’s over breakfast? I know she’s picky about what she does and when.” He answers, allowing the other to write the request down. 

“I can get this to Kunikida, he’ll plan it out and then will send it to Yosano. Does today work?” He continued waiting for Fuodor to nod or give some kind of agreement. Which he does, before signaling for the servants and him to leave. 

Which they do, quickly shuffling to do their respective jobs. Not bothering to look back at the man in the bed. 

“ Why do you look so sad, Маленькая любовь?” He questions moving over to the ginger. Moving him away from the small splatter of blood on the bedding. 

He doesn’t answer, he never does surprisingly the god of love doesn’t know what true love is. And some may call this possessiveness or obsessiveness but has anyone truly been in love. 

In the way Fydor is in love with Chuuya, the need to have him all to himself. He had the knowledge of knowing how everyone was using the small boy for their own gain. He wasn’t any better but truly it was amazing to bask in the gods presence. 

It’s truly disappointing that the choker the god was even now holding on to. A symbol of his lover's past relationships, it was truly amazing how much the boy clung to the shackle around his neck. 

The seal that kept the god inside him at bay so he could live a peaceful life. “Are you sure you don’t wanna come with me, Кукла?” 

As soon as he sees the shake of the boys head he turns to leave, only sweeping his eyes one more time over the naked god. Before pushing the doors open greeted by two soldiers that start briefing him.  Of all the situations that have happened while he was off holding down a rebellion. 

Yosano is sitting on her old throne around the long breakfast table. Munching on some oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies. And strawberry crepes a desert her wife loves as much as her. 

“Is there something important we need to talk about? Because we don’t seem to have a meeting today.” He asks as he strides into the room grabbing paper from the servants. 

“Yes, I’ve invited the remaining gods for a meeting. We have to do something. I would also like to applaud you on your victory.” She grabs another strawberry shoving it into her mouth. 

He nods absentmindedly, not particularly paying attention to what she has to say. Gods start to filter in some grimace at the sight of Chuuya perched on Fyodor’s lap, some though  just sit down resined to their fate. 

Out of all the gods only a small chunk left mainly Ranpo and Poe who they had no record of were the two were. But they knew it wasn’t with Dazai and Fukuzawa which was good. Oda and Ango with their Orphans also left but there was no report on if they made it to Dazai or not. 

Atsushi and Akutagwa made a beautiful couple now both growing into their abilities enough to have a complete hold on them. He never felt the fear of the people betraying him. There was no reason and he had enough power to destroy each one of them. 

“Fyodor, we need to talk about how the people of the kingdom are being treated. With how much you’ve increased the pay for rebirth. Almost no one can afford it. There are riots happening underground.” Yosano explains laying out papers with graphs. 

“Yes people are being treated badly but isn’t it their fault, how can you prove to me it isn’t their fault they're in this mess?” He questions nonshalontly lounging on the throne, Chuuya struts in. 

Two of his servants followed him, he waved to him signaling for him to come over.  Patting his lap in a silent tell to sit there. 

As the boy does, most of the gods scoff, shaking their heads. Their displeasure is always apparent when they see Chuuya. It’s mostly fueled by Yosano who is still salty about Dazai losing Chuuya and Chuuya picking Fyodor. 

He focused on Chuuya on his neck, sucking and pulling at the skin. Chuuya doesn’t make a noise, he's zoned out and not paying attention. 

“Could you please stop playing with the slut on your lap. And pay attention to the topic at hand, there are people dying because of your cruelty.” Yosano hiss’s out venom laced in every word. 

“Cruelty, what am I doing? Am I really cruel just because I only allow those who can afford it to reincarnate? Anyone can climb the social ladder; it really just depends on how smart you are! Don’t you agree  Chuuya?” He doesn’t expect an answer because there never is one. 

Chuuya doesn’t talk or share his opinion on the subject at hand. Only hides his face in Fyodor’s neck, tears threatening to fall from his pretty blue eyes. 

“Starvation right now is the leading cause of death, the slums are not making enough to survive? Disease is running rampant. The rich are taking advantage of the poor; they barely pay their workers a livable wage.” Kouyou protests, an argument that makes logical sense. 

To everyone but Fyodor, the solution seemed easy. 

“So what, they can’t work enough to live? How is that my problem?” He asked, falling back and lounging with Chuuya curled up on his lap. 

The two servants were positioned to stand right behind his Любовник and him. “Fyodor the underworld is overflowing; because no one can buy reincarnation. Can you lower the price or I don’t know, maybe help the population?” 

“Fine, what do you propose? I’m not lowering the prices, but there’s also the plot of Dazai and Sasaki’s regions?” He states trying to move the topic on to something else so he doesn’t have to talk about the economic crisis. 

“What do we do about their regions? We have the money but we don’t have the support. If Sasaki and Dazai join forces together, then we would be in deep trouble.” Kunikida explains showing graphs about how the war would go. 

Fyodor felt the twitch of Chuuya as soon as Dazai was mentioned. It almost made him smile, the agony his Ангел was facing. He knew that he was probably still in love with Dazai or in love with the thought of Dazai. 

It almost made him want to destroy the boy, show him where he belonged and how Dazai would never come back for him. 

“Dazai is too emotionally devoid and out of his mind he wouldn’t be able to help. Sasaki is almost under our control; her forces have fallen since the wall fell. We took one of their Capitals two years ago.” He explains lounging while rubbing Chuuya’s back moving it up and down. Moving his hand to make skin to skin contact, moving the fabric aside. 

“We’ve been at war with Sasaki for two years, she isn’t holding up that we’ll. There’s a large death toll tipping on her side. If we throw a few gods into the mix then we will be able to finish them faster.” Tachihara helps explain, moving his hands fast. 

“Fine, Kunikida, Yosano, and Tachihara stay. I want to discuss these issues privately. As for the rest, I don’t wanna see you today.” Fyodor scoffs out breathlessly, huffing as he turns the two kids pulling Chuuya off his lap.

The walls hadn’t echoed prayers in awhile known that said a gods name Atsushi would know. most people refusing to pray to Fydor and ultimately being forced to or hung, sometimes even brutally murdered. 

Fyodor was a tyrant, that was at least what  Yosano said, when she was arguing with Chuuya. He almost would feel bad for the god but how could he? Chuuya was the reason Fyodor was here, he had helped Fyodor’s army drag themselves into their capital. 

Atshushi never got the gods' reasoning, why choose a guy who was abusive to him and his servants  when Dazai was nice and available. But he chose Fyodor, very obviously a piece of shit. 

He’s the reason Mori’s dead, Fyodor is the reason Dazai isn’t around anymore, he's the reason everyone is dying. He just doesn’t get why he just doesn’t do anything. 

He allows the god of death to grab his arm and dig his nails pulling him down and sucking on his mouth. Bruising his arms like the many ones decorating all the way up to his shoulders. 

The black looking binder-like shirt, wrapped around  his neck. Feeding into a ribbon bow at his waist, two loose fitting pants with two holes running up to high thigh. 

“Chuuya! Can we talk to you?” The god turns looking almost heavenly, his hair highlighted in the sun. His eyes shimmering and slowly crinkling a suspicious look found its way onto his face. 

His servants stay near him almost gluing themselves to his side, his lace sleeves hiding them slightly. He has to mention alone a few times before the god pushes them away saying they can run along for a while. 

“What do you need, Atsushi? You people don’t usually talk to me.” He tries joking but it falls flat, before turning into a more serious attitude. 

“Me and Akutagawa are leaving,” he starts noticing the surprise not hidden by the small smile written on his face. “We’re going to find Dazai and we’re going to get him to help fight against Fyodor.” 

“No you won’t be able to fight against him, and you will not leave. I forbid you from doing that.” Chuuya argues, moving his hands fast and glaring at him. 

“We want you to come with us-“ 

“Me come with you? Try to leave and escape Fyodor you can’t do that! What about the citizens, what about Kouyou or the kids? Do we just forget them and who the hell knows if Dazai would fight.” He starts getting angrier the second. 

“ You're going to get Akutagawa killed because of some dumb fantasy maybe in your head.” This is plain bullshit. Atsushi would never do anything to hurt Akutagawa (unless he deserved it.)

“Really then what do you suggest we do Chuuya. Because all I’ve seen from you is how you push everyone aside to please Fyodor. It really is like Yosano says you are a Whore that only cares for himself.” He didn’t mean it, looking back he was just angry he needed an outlet and Chuuya was there. 

“Fine then, I tried to worn you. You can go through an active battle field and get to some lazy ass guy who can’t do shit. And when you realize that everything went wrong you can come back and beg Fyodor for forgiveness.” His eyes were flaming as he stalked towards him glaring sharply piercing his skin. 

“But I will not let you drag Akutagawa into this messed up deliosion you’ve created for yourself. You can go alone or you don’t go, and if you do try and convince Aku I will tell Fyodor’s everything and I won’t spare you.” With this ending monologue he flies around grabbing Akutagwa with him. 

The last line hits close and although Dazai was the one to save him. Chuuya was the one to do the parenting, he would cook and read to them. 

And his mind was set in stone without or with Chuuya’s help. He would try to  get to Dazai. Although it wouldn’t be as easy as it should be. Dazai wouldn’t be able to manipulate the war without his other  eye. 

The odds won’t be in their favor but they have powerful allies they will win. Chuuya will regret everything and everyone he’s ever wronged or done wrong the gods won’t forgive him.

Chapter Text

His feet hurt from falling from the window outside at the back of the castle. His feet were torn and cut up blood stickley drying on his hands and feet. His ankles hurt and were slightly swollen. 

He looked back at the window solemnly, Chuuya was standing a little away from it. It was hard to see him since he was farther up but he could clearly make out the grimace painted on his face. It honestly didn’t surprise him that he didn’t try to check on him. 

He just turned not bothering to stare at him pulling a distressed looking Aku. The iron sword intricately decorated with jewels on the handle swung at his hip. He would need it, there were too many threats out in the desert for him to not carry one. 

Jumping down into the white desert sand was a pain, it hurt and it made him want to be sick. A vile burn spread through his body. Sticky gold blood, caking his legs and arms.  He had jumped through branches of sharp throned trees and bushes. 

Trudging on he knew he had to move Fyodor would send troops after him soon. He pushed himself, dragging his body through the sand moving at a slow pace. 

He wasn’t supposed to leave, he promised Aku he wouldn’t leave without him. But Chuuya brought up good points no matter how much he didn’t like him. He wouldn’t let  Aku get hurt just because he’s following the letter he got. 

He went and grabbed Akutagawa's hand gently pulling him to the side and down the hall. Moving slowly through the halls, tugging a confused and slightly angry looking  Akutagawa behind him. 

He moved into his old large bedroom, a small layer of dust covering almost anything. The last time he tried to sleep alone Fyodor had convinced him it was a stupid idea even though he truly didn’t want to sleep with him.

It was a stupid idea though and nothing good came from asking Fyodor stupid things, pushing that train of thought aside he turned to Akutagawa. “Aku I know you're probably gonna be mad but please hear me out.” His voice slightly cracking in the middle, tears burning in the corners of his eyes. 

“Chuu-“

“I know you adored Dazai when he was here and you thought of him like a brother. But I don’t want you to throw your life away running through not only a battle but also fighting Fyodor.” He breathed out huffing and grabbing his shoulders. Slightly shaking and a slow stream of tears falling down his face. 

He couldn’t have Akutagawa hate him, he really couldn’t, he could bare with all the other gods.  He couldn’t deal with what Akutagawa might say. He didn’t want to lose him, Aku knew everything that had happened. 

He never judged him, he always accepted him and never hurt him or wanted to hurt him. He knew he was shaking uncontrollably, tears streaming down his face, choked sobs falling out of his mouth.  

Aku just pulls him into a hug, slowly lowering both his and Chuuya’s limp bodies to the ground. “Ma I don’t blame you, you told Atsushi that you wouldn’t let him take me. He didn’t even give you any concrete proof that Dazai reached out to him.” 

There wasn’t concrete proof was there?  He was just stupidly believing that Dazai had randomly asked him. It had been three years, he wasn’t coming or helping he had his own problems to deal with. 

He slowly says, pulling more sobs from the shorter. “There was a letter though I didn’t see it, he just told me it was from Dazai and he wanted you too. I don’t blame you for being scared or nervous, you're just protecting me and the other kids.”

There was a letter? This could be easily faked, yet he was just believing in the middle of a war that the real Dazai had sent him a letter? 

He wanted to run and get Atsushi to stop him from getting hurt. If he died it would break Akutagawa and he didn’t want Aku to deal with that. 

Aku wipes the tears away from his face, pulling him up which only make Chuuya more  grateful for him. They moved towards the door that was slightly cracked open. Which was odd he could’ve sworn he closed it.

The pale sand swirled around him, his feet burning as he switched from his tiger form to his god god. Sometimes slipping and falling the sand giving way below his feet. 

The slow stream of river flowing by his head, the clashing of swords and the loud explosions still echo in the distance. He’s finally made it to Sasaki’s land, a long stretch in between Dazai and Fyodor's land. 

The glimmering white marble expanses, tall groves of trees in courtyards.  Large white wooden terraces with lights hanging off. Vines crawling up the sides of the home's terracotta cracked roof tiles. 

He darted from roof to roof hopping over the alleys, people huddled over small fires. The gore of the world being left behind, he almost imagined the soldiers dying on both sides. 

Sitting down his argument with Chuuya resurfaced in his mind. He didn’t understand how the god could be okay with what was happening. 

He had never been in battles, he didn't slice peoples necks,  he only saw the end of the horrors that Fyodor showed him.  It was infuriating that he tried to talk about something he had no part in. 

He sat on top of Fyodor's lap and ate, not caring that the man he’s with is the reason for so much destruction. So much horror, he pushes these thoughts away focusing on the task at hand. 

He needed to get to Dazai, it was their only hope, the only way they could end the war. He had gotten  a letter a little while ago. Explaining how to get to the other side. No more no less it really wasn’t very detailed. 

Clutching the white crumpled paper in his hand, the pressure to make it with this small thing. The only reason he even knew if Dazai was still alive. The last 3 years they had no knowledge since Sasaki stood between them. 

Hopping off the wall he moved into a small dirt road, large rocks. Must cover most of the bottom caused by the large waterfall. Jagged stones sticking out catching on his clothes making him turn and twist. 

The lush greenery and tall trees shading him kept him hidden and away from the soldiers. He wanted Akutagawa to come; he really couldn't imagine his life without the boy. 

But the thought of Fyodor chasing and executing both him and Akutagawa without mercy. It sent a cold shudder down his spine imagining him getting hurt. Maybe Dazai would execute him for not following the directions precisely.

Which meant he left both the gods eye and Chuuya behind. Although he wondered even without the war Chuuya would come without his kids. Not unless he himself or they were endangered, he thought bitterly.  

It was always the same shooting up each morning, a pounding in his head. Tears threatened to spill from his eye the other socket wrapped tightly by bandages.  

He never looked at him, no matter the scenery, no matter what he wore. It always repeated, sometimes Fyodor would be there covering his eyes. Sometimes he scratched out his own bleeding sockets unfocused and hazy. 

He wondered sometimes in the deep of night if he could’ve changed things if he fought more. If he was stronger or better would anything change? What is happening to him? Does he still remember him? 

So many thoughts raced through his head all the damn time. It almost hurt his brain, when he was first dragged he didn’t want to do anything. He couldn’t sleep, he could barely remember what those eyes looked like. 

It sometimes swept deep knotting in his stomach making him want to throw up. The nausea and vial filling his throat made his throat feel like sandpaper. 

He realized fast he couldn’t sit on his ass, Fukuzawa was doing everything. Setting up houses helped the people set up large scale farms. Setting up fish farms to help feed the common people. 

It was the one day he saw Fukuzawa sitting staring at his wall. Slow slipping tears falling down his face, quiet muffled sobs into his hand. 

It broke the haze that was separating reality and the false hope. He knew what he had to do, he didn’t want to see someone he loved so dearly break down.   

He had to pull himself together. Chuuya had chosen his path and he had to choose his own. So he pulled on a mask, only showing a cold calculating side of him.

Fukuzawa had the heart to show compassion and care for the people of the streets. 

Dazai never held that although that was something Chuuya often pulled out of him. It was something he reminded himself everyday. He was the strategist the one that made the political decisions. 

He’s the reason they had a currency, the reason they had a working army although it didn’t pale in comparison to Fyodor’s army. 

Dazai wasn’t stupid, he knew Fyodor could be just as cunning as he was. The god of death was quite good at manipulating people. He had a plan though he just needed Atsushi to come with Chuuya and it would be set with or without feelings. 

“Dazai-san, Sasaki is waiting for you in the courtyard!” A small bright energetic girl exclaimed happily bouncing up and down. Skipping back to Fukuzawas side, making sure he was all right. 

Walking through the much less fancy halls, paintings and flowers decorating the sides. Fabric and carpets hanging over the window casting intricate patterns.  

The hallway seemed to grow as he made his way to the area not wanting to be there. “Glad you could finally join us.” Was muffled as he swabs open the door smirking viciously. 

They had a reputation as barbarians often being depicted as weak and crazy. Since they had left Fyodor and their people to starve and die. But they brought it upon themselves; he didn't force them to stay. 

They chose to live under that psychopath's rule allowing the slavery, destruction and deaths to pile up. 

He honestly had gone dull to everything that was happening only trying to protect the people around him. 

Some demonized him for that but it was easy to ignore that. They all were demonized. He wasn't special, he just was the leader, the one that held the control. 

“Yes I’m here, don’t waste your tongue with congratulation’s. What do you need? There hasn’t been any conflict worth mentioning on our borders.” He explained sitting down casually  on the chair. 

Leaning back and looking smug about the outcome that will happen of this exchange. He already knew about how her guards were fidgeting and looking around terrified. 

She had a mask of calm and composure, although she was tapping her fingers and scraping her nails against the table. The tapping of her leg had not gone unnoticed, the tall figures behind him were cold and unmoving. 

“Dazai, please, my kingdom needs troops  Fyodor has been slaughtering us. We finish one battle and he starts another one. You have some of the best fighters!” Sasaki almost begs, eyes looking desperate, flicking her eyes between the soldiers and him. 

“Our city will not provide you with those people, I will not let my citizens be slaughtered by Fyodor. I respect them, unlike you I will not send people to their deaths without helping them fight.” Dazai shares glaring back at the Queen. 

She shudders pushing herself back and sinking down slightly before pulling herself back up. Shouldering herself and glaring back making him laugh loud and high pitched fake as her smile. 

“We have a truce Osa-,  Dazai,” she corrects herself fast before continuing. “You promised you would help us out if we needed it. You have a duty and a right, you should also be helping your fathers people.”  She finishes with a thin smile painted on her lips. 

“We made no such deal, you are much larger than we are and we cannot afford to help you. I do not care about who dies or lives in this war.” He was lying through his teeth, there were a few people he would be destroyed if they died. 

Namely a ginger who’s hair gleaned in the sun, yellow highlights dancing in orange hair. Pale pink lips and multi-colored eyes always look so proud. There was something so amazing with the way he could always help Dazai out. 

Comforting and caring are always so fulfilled, no matter what. So happy and loving, so hopeful no matter the situation. He was always so happy whenever Dazai did anything he seemed good at. But he was never angry whenever Dazai failed. 

It was almost terrifying that Chuuya might not be with Atsushi. That maybe Atsushi left him behind or that Chuuya had stayed behind and didn’t leave. 

The thought made him sick, an itch erupting under his skin. The feeling of bugs crawling all around his body, a vile flu crawling up his throat. 

There was a thrum of static around him, the race of his heart deafening all of the world. The sound of all the discussion falling on deaf ears, his thoughts racing in circles. 

It would tear his heart apart if he didn’t show up if he doesn’t get to see the god. He might burst, scream and cry. It doesn't matter he hates being separated and away from the redhead. He swore he wouldn’t cheat or lie he would be fully devoted to the god. 

He’s had time to think maybe Chuuya didn’t want to stay, maybe Fyodor had threatened him? He would come with Atsushi and Dazai would protect him. He would make sure Fyodor would never hurt him again. 

Muck and water filled his shoes, he had been scraping through the bottom of the river. Keeping the water away from the paper, knowing Dazai might have Atsushis head if he didn’t have it. Trying to keep away from the small feuds between Dazai and Sasaki. This always happened in the rugged parts. Fighting and death wasn’t uncommon in the slums. 

Even back when Mori controlled the whole land, humans were humans. Now they’ve been amplified, more and more even between two groups that were supposed to be at peace. 

Once he finally made it to the outskirts of the city he breathed a sigh of relief. Making it away from the slums and to the golden new city. 

Tall sleek sandstone bricks, mortared and pasted together. Spikes with peoples heads were on the top of the wall gruesomely torn of the body. He could barely tell which was the rich side and which was not. 

On one hand tall metal box’s high in the air by wooden legs. Shady dealer's running around the alleys, markets pushed together packed with people dressed in dirty robes. 

Thieves running around pushing people away or tugging them down. Only the shop owners tried to stop them from escaping, though they gave up after a few minutes deciding it wasn’t a bother. 

On the other side there were small sandstone buildings complete with dome roofs. The markets had fancier stuff, more luxurious dresses, fine jewelry. Definitely not as nice as back in the capital, but it was more populated. 

More humble looking people moved about with cleaner streets, no smells of rotting human bodies. Fruit and meat sellers moved toward people. He pushed out of his way as he landed onto the ground moving towards the temple. 

A sketchy guy moving around a large black cloak covering his body. “Sir would you like to buy this?”

He shakes his head moving away from the guy trying to figure out we’re the temple was. “Are you sure it will make anyone fall for you.” 

He pushes him away, the man staring angrily at him. Before a blank look swallows his face and he’s gone running away into the crowd. Atsushi decides to try and out some distance which resigns him to pushing his way through the flow of people. 

The loud noises thrummed through his ears as he steered his way through the crowd. People popping up and shoving different objects in his face. Rice and spices filled his nose causing a cough to form in his throat. 

Weaving through the labyrinth of small streets, he feet meet the large white steps. Large and gleaming shining in the pale sun. A layer of mist covering the city, making it harder to see. 

“Name and Business or get lost kid no one needs you here?” Atsushi’s almost mad at how the human speaks to him and nobody in his eyes. 

Atsushi pulls his head high trying to look collected and calm. “Atsushi Nakajima the god of animals,  a spy from Fyodor’s kingdom. I’m here to meet with Dazai Osamu, the god of war.” 

He shows them the crumpled piece of white paper, the scribbled note with Dazai’s handwriting. The guards look stiffly at him, sizing him up, piercing their gaze making sure he’s who he says he is. They moved their axes, large sharp silver glinting in the sun. 

They looked at him with a mix of disgust and fear, almost all people looked at any god from Fyodor’s territory like this. He didn’t blame from the outside it would look extremely suspicious since they sided with Fyodor. 

Those who were there and could see what had actually happened. The blood and tears shed between each god and the horrific scenes everyone had to experience. 

Stepping up and skipping steps as he moves up the stairs. The wind blowing around him a pungent stench covering his nose. A cold sweat drenching him fisting and clenching his hands. 

What’s happening back at the palace? 

What if Chuuya tells Fyodor? 

What if Dazai doesn’t believe me? 

What if Ryuu gets punished for his actions? 

Racing and running spinning in his head waves of nerves. What ifs? His head going fuzzy and out of body experience not realizing what his body is doing. 

Almost fully covering his eyes as he wanders around with no direction or solid plan. No reason behind the twist or turns just on autopilot. Tapestries hung on each wall depicting different events. 

Some with the gods, some of the war most depict titans as awful creatures black and bruised ugly scarred and Burt flesh. Some torn revealing bloodied skeletons mangled and disfigured. 

Priests and priestess ran about none bothering to question his existence. Small rooms with archways instead of walls, an island of marble surrounded by water. Prayers and incense burning in the middle tablets hanging around the room with Kanji written on them.

Moving to a room and hearing faint voices muffled by the large white wooden door. Two guards standing on either side, large axes in hand glinting in the sun. A look of slight confusion painted on their face as they looked at him. 

He pushed the crumpled white piece of paper forward showing the scribbled handwriting to them. “Atsushi Nakajima I have a meeting with Dazai-san today.” He politely stated as the guards look between themselves deciding what to do. 

Before pushing the doors aside a steady stream of light filtering in. Not that it’s noticed by the people arguing at the round table. The guards walk in seemingly trying to say something and cut through the loud bickering. 

“Osamu-“

“Do not call me that name. You have no right Sasaki, now I suggest you leave.” 

“My lord-“

“You can’t just kick me out! I need these troops and your help. You have a duty to help us.” 

“It would be suicide to send my people to help you, your advisors are on Fyodors side. They are planning your down fall I’m not dumb enough to mess with that.” 

It was Dazai, almost wrapped head to toe in bandages, thick golden armor adorned on his body. The woman across from him was Sasaki, her raven black hair tied in a ponytail. 

Gold and diamonds threaded through her hair, they were also some glued onto her face in intricate patterns. Her makeup is delicately done, shimmering in the light. 

The anger painted on her face was very obvious, she shouted at Dazai, his back facing him. Before she stood up, her dress flowed around her as she stormed out two guards following suit. 

A loud sigh escapes Dazai’s lips as he turns, finally spotting him. “Atsushi I see you did in fact get my letter!” He switches tones like a mask, going from enraged and exasperated to happy and cheerful. 

“Ah come with me please,” he starts before turning to a guard asking them to set up a tea table. “Come on Atsushi.”  It was weird not seeing half of his face, covered by a tight wrap of bandages. 

They move out of the battle room walking down a winding corridor to the end. The last door was the one they entered a small table with a simple white tablecloth with blue flower designs. 

A simple blue china tea set was being placed on the table. A pinkish hue in the tea, as they sit down casually talking. 

“Atsushi? Is Chuuya and Akutagawa coming later?”  Dazai asks quietly, looking curious, and slightly mad. Is he going to be mad that Chuuya isn’t here, would he bring it out on Atsushi? 

“I was going to bring both of them, I had brought it up with Akutagawa the day I got the letter.  I had just found time to bring it up with Chuuya but instead of being on board he refused.”  He explains trying to twist it in a way to make it seem like he wasn’t the fault that

Chuuya wasn’t with him. 

“We screamed at each other, and he fought me saying that he wasn’t going to allow Akutagawa to risk his life.” He explains leaving a few details out, although Dazai seems like he is figuring out a lot of things. 

“Ah yes, Chibi has had a protective nature when it comes to his children that he loves so dearly. Now let’s talk business, do you know about any weaknesses Fyodor might have.” Dazai asks quickly, changing the subject away from Chuuya. 

“Weaknesses?” He questions carefully hoping it isn’t what he thinks it is. 

“Yes, relationships, people he sleeps with, any close friends or kids.” Dazai explains carefully while sipping the tea slow puffs of steam flowing off the cups. 

“He doesn’t have any kids, and he has pornai and hetairai. Doesn’t treat anyone like Chuuya though, Chuuya basically follows him around. Letting him do whatever, whenever, no matter the occasion or place. He sleeps and does everything with Chuuya.” Atsushi explains as Dazai's face morphs into l what Atsushi thinks is hurt. 

“Ah, okay I will find another approach, we can spend the nights leading up to our departure. I have a few things I need to do before we leave.” Dazai tells him, smiling slightly, before getting up to leave. 

“Miko, can you show Atsushi to his room?” The maid standing in the corner nods, moving to follow her as she walks down the corridors.

It’s silent for a good while as they move only the echo of the shoes against the stone floor. Once they do reach a creaky wooden door though Miko speaks up looking at him. 

“Don’t worry about Dazai-san, he's just stressed about getting his kingdom back.” She sweetly reassures, as she opens the door to his room. He gives her a half hearted nod before collapsing onto the bed barely noticing the door closing behind him. 

Chapter Text

He was terrified, waking up in a strange place, the walls much more bare then the one he shared with Akutagawa. There were no paintings hanging on the walls, no portraits of the two of them. 

He always loved those, the remembrance of a happier time when nothing was wrong. Miko had come in sometime when he was still in a hazy drunk with sleep.

Dragging his eyes down the need to just fall to bed curl up and sleep forever. 

He wanted this all to be a dream, a crazy reality that his mind had made up. Although he’s wanted that to be true for a long time. A slimmer of hope that he had made everything up. 

Though that could never be true, he had too little knowledge to know how the world truly worked. Too much childish imagination to know what was really going on. He tried though he tried way too much, trying too hard wanting to fix things. 

He would fix things and he would make it better for everyone. He’d fix things, he just needed Dazai’s help with that. Getting the gods eye would make everything balanced, and once everything was balanced everything would be right.

A hard knock on the wooden door shocks him out of his thoughts. Spinning to look at the door fast and hard as Miko walks in. “Excuse me Atsushi-san, Dazai-san is waiting for you in the tea room.” 

“Do you want me to escort you, or do you remember we’re it is? Or maybe do you need a little more time to get ready? There will be people, gods and generals you may want to wear something more armory.” Miko states sweetly, questioning him lightly and staying near the door. 

“Can I have some time to change please? Also may you step out for a minute? I need to get ready for a minute and would appreciate it if you can step out please. Then can If you can may you please bring me to the tea room?” He asks as politely as possible, almost begging for some time alone. 

Miko obviously takes the hint by the way she quietly leaves. Shutting the door behind her, he hears her heels stop right outside the door obviously waiting for him to come out. 

He doesn’t want to keep her waiting so he hurries gathering some papers he worked on when he woke up in the middle of the night. Some he stole while Fydor was distracted, he tries not to think about what was  going on back home. 

Not wanting to think about the vile and sick things that may have happened. The anxiety of not knowing if Akutagawa was okay or not was practically eating him inside. 

Changing into the armor in the closet, with a little wider frame then his. Causing him to have to double wrap it, the silver glinting in the sun. Finishing up he tightens then thigh straps adjusting them silently. 

Finishing packing everything into his arms was easy, looking over it a few times trying to figure out how to pick up a few documents. “Miko, can you help me with something?” Atsushi calls out to the girl, causing her to enter. Asking what he needs help with, and saying she can help with anything. 

He pushes the scrolls and documents into her hands letting her adjust. “I’m done! Can you show me the way to the tea room please?” 

“Of course, please follow me.” She chirps keeping the documents in her hands tightly gripped. He follows her out of the room, clicking of her heels on the stone floor bouncing around the halls. Twisting through the halls, making their way to Dazai. 

Making their way to the white wooden curtain door, flower petals are woven into the fabric. Pushing the aside she places the documents into a basket at the side of the circle low table. Atsushi moves to sit down on one of the plush seats. 

“Ah Atsushi, was the room to your liking? If so, I assume you had a good sleep!” Dazai chirps, pulling a document out and placing glasses to keep them spread out. 

Dazai didn’t look like he had a good sleep though, dark eye bags dragging down his face. His eyes glazed over and slightly foggy looking dazed and confused. His body looked stiff and sharp but still aware of what was happening around him. 

“I slept alright, it’s a lovely room. I'm glad to have it! Though I did have some time to plan.” He’s a little nervous with the few gods standing behind Dazai. Moving to sit down as soon as he waves his hand for them. Getting Miko to place down some fresh hot tea on the table for them. 

“Dazai-san, I appreciate the offer for help in the war but I don’t understand what you need our help for?” Naomi asks, looking at the war god who was pouring over the documents. 

They would be truly helpful in the war against Fyodor much more helpful than other gods that hadn’t shown up. “We have to rethink our strategy for the fight against Fyodor. It would’ve been easier to travel if we had an Akutagawa that would allow us to travel in the shadows away from Fyodor’s light.” 

“What about Chuuya? I’m sorry if this is rude but how could a god like that help us in a war?” Atsushi asks quietly, trying to get answers from Dazai. 

“War isn’t good, people don’t like that and since we started that war we would need a fall back. Chuuya is the love god he’d be able to make everyone feel better and safer.” Dazai explains hurriedly, before moving back to some maps and documents. 

“Wait, how is everyone being devoted and fully in love with Chuuya a good thing?” Tanizaki asks, holding onto his sister's arm as she leans against him. This seems to make Dazai either uncomfortable or angry? It was hard for Atsushi to tell, Dazai had gotten better at hiding his emotions.

Not letting anything slip past the facade and mask he has put up. “He would help us gain the support of Citizens even after the war. They believe in him being a rising figure that holds authority. They believe his powers are divine to smooth things over. They also will believe he sides with the less hateful because of his nature. So most likely  they’ll side with whoever he sided with which would help us if we have him on our side.” Dazai explains pushing the plans out. 

Atsushi doesn’t get this, the people can’t be naive enough to believe Chuuya’s good? He’s a monster who has sided with a demon, only hurting his people. If this monster sided with them they’ll be doomed, since people will relay his horrible behavior onto the group. 

“His reputation is terrible, especially with the common people. It would only dampen our own reputation if we are seen with him.” Atsushi tries to explain, to break the fog that covers the true evil that’s Chuuya Nakahara. 

“I believe Atsushi is correct, unlike us he has been living in the capital. He knows what has happened for the past three years. It may be easier to format a correct plan if we listen to him, Dazai.” Fukuzawa advises rubbing Dazai’s back and smiling at him. This is brushed off by Dazai who just looks over the plan again. 

“Fine, If Atsushi will speak on what he lived through we could modify the plan I’ve already come up with. But in the time being I already have a plan that will work out.” Dazai argues, spreading out the plan more  as everyone moves to look at it. 

The plan was careful and detailed, a map of battles that were being fought across the land. There was a path drawn out on how to avoid them. Circled in red was a base he thinks? Before taking a closer look seeing Ranpos name scribbled in messy handwriting. 

“Please, do tell us about what’s happening in our old home, Atsushi. That would be truly helpful, if you can.” 

Fukuzawa says resting his hand on Atsushi's back, breaking him out of his supposed stupor. 

“Uh, depending on what you want to know, I was allowed into the planning room. So I could tell you what Fyodor is going to do. I could also talk about the relationships between each gods or with the people. There’s also the people and what has happened to them over the years.” Atsushi mumbles out, stuttering over a few words trying to get an idea of what they want to hear. 

“All of those will be helpful, we can find holes in his plan.” Dazai scoffs out, looking angry and resentful vile spilling onto his words. “If we know the relationship between gods and gods or even gods and people. This would allow us to push them apart, and get them to fight against each other.” Dazai continued before signaling for Atsushi to continue. 

“Ah yes, for the plan Fyodor wants to attack Sasaki, he knows if you and Sasaki team up it will be disastrous. Sasaki’s walls have already fallen, and they're very close to capturing her palace. They don’t know we’re Ranpo and Poe are. But they do know that  they aren’t here though.” He starts to explain watching everyone’s reactions carefully. 

He coughs slightly, as Fukuzawa takes a sip from his tea gracefully. “Yosano has caused quite a commotion since the underworld is overflowing. The price of reincarnation has even gone up since you left, people can barely afford it. People can’t afford housing or food yet they work all day. There's also a rise in slavery of mortals who oppose him.”  He continues on, as everyone looks over the plans. Fukuzawa smiles at the mention of Yosano or her, causing a fuss against Fyodor. 

He takes this as his right to continue, “the gods basically just follow Fyodor. Kunikida has been making plans for Fyodor though he sometimes slips good mess ups causing Fyodor harm. The rest follow but also object to him fighting him on some subjects. Chuuya is probably the only one who doesn’t fight him on anything. Most of the time Chuuya sided with Fyodor, which would make it hard to get a good reputation by pulling Chuuya under us.” He shares his observations, these causing tension in the air.

Dazai rips the paper as he scrubs trying to fix any mistakes in the plan. “Alright, now that we’ve learned that information, I will leave you all to create a plan. We should aim to leave in two days.” He stands quickly pulling the papers into a basket. Quickly moving towards the door, long strides making it quicker. 

“Dazai-“ Fukuzawa tries to call out to him, but is stopped when the curtains slide close. He proceeds to sigh, sitting down as everyone filters out. Atsushi stops for a second looking at the defeated man, before moving out of the room to leave him alone. 

He feels lighter after the talk with Akutagawa, the feeling that bricks have been pulled off his shoulders. It was nice hearing that he wasn’t the awful villain all the time. It was different and a strange feeling was crawling and settling in his chest. It’d been awhile since he had ever had this strange feeling. 

Walking about the halls he feels light feather light footsteps as he gracefully strides along. Walking out to the garden he walks along the Terrace. Unable to go down to the people he settles for waving and smiling at them. 

They smile back for some reason, the kids spinning around and waving, jumping up as if to reach him. As a small smile reaches his face, as a girl moves toward him, dirt on her face. Reaching small hands out as her eyes hollow with a begging look. 

He snaps his fingers and a basket appears in her hand, a fresh loaf of bread, small container of soup, another container with tofu, sliced apples and carrots, with two large potatoes. This is on one side while a few past Aries and treats are on the other, mixed in with a bottle of fresh water. And another with medication of the gods ready to heal anything with just a drop.

As she sifts through everything he smiles, snapping a few more into others' hands. Reading their hearts is a part of the job as it is his organ that he created. It allows him to read their consciousness seeing how they would use the basket. 

Readying him to give it to those truly in need of them, desperate parents, children with ill siblings or relatives. Of course this practice was forbidden, but Fuldor never cared if he did it as he was the only one who could. Other than Fukuzawa, who taught him the skill allowing him the generosity that lay in a human heart. 

“Mistress Fyodor, you are not allowed to do that-“ Aniko tries to stop him, vile and hatred very present in her voice. She reaches out ready to pull him off the ledge brushing her hand against his arm a prickling sensation hitting him hard. 

“Chuuya that is my name by which people call me, me and Fyodor are not married nor realatied so it is in fact a lie if you call me that. Also there are no rules forbidding me from handing these out. So unless you're Fyodor then I don’t think you have any right forbidding me from doing this.” He speaks calmly and slowly  hoping to get his point across without any anger in his voice. 

“Ah of course, I’m truly sorry Mistress Fyodor, I never meant to make you angry, I just wanted to advise you against doing something that may cause you harm.” She sheepishly apologizes although she doesn’t fix the mistake she puts so obviously in her wording. 

“I told you I’m not-“ he starts his tone rising with every word ready to snap and yell at someone. 

“CHUUYA, enough she apologized for her mistake. And is just trying to keep you from getting in trouble even though it’s her who’s more likely to get in trouble because of this. Also is it really a mistake everyone knows your Fyodors anyway.” Yosano fumes striding towards the two of them, anger glaringly obvious in her eyes. 

“Do you know how bad he treats her? Of course you don’t, because you are treated like utmost royalty by Fyodor and everyone with half a brain cell. His Mistress, especially Aniko, are treated like shit by him. And you want to bully her because you're jealous? She didn’t do anything wrong! While she only wants to warn you to be careful.”  She yells not allowing him to say a word as she pulls her close striding away while whispering quiet words to her. 

“It’s okay I can take care of you for a while, he won’t get to you will he? You did the right thing, he just doesn’t appreciate it. You did absolutely nothing wrong.” Her voice gets quieter as she walks, allowing him to tune out everything.

Sliding down to the floor as his chest tightens, as he wonders what he did wrong. Analyzing everything they said to each other trying to find anything that pointed to him being the bad guy. 

This is cut short when he realizes that the mortals below probably saw what happened. And as held quickly looks over the ledge he was once sitting on. He sees most looking at the gifts smiling at each other and talking about what they’ll use them for.

Absentmindedly he smiles realizing they didn’t hear and if they did it didn’t warp their perception of him. As the small girl looks up smiling and waving followed by other huge toothy grins making him laugh. Temporarily forgetting about what happened content with looking at these kids play together. 

This kind bubble of happiness is broken when he hears horns blare announcing sun down. Making him flee his way into the halls, bumping into walls as a terrible headache hits. Along with other feelings he can’t quite place not understanding them himself. 

Though he knew he needed to get to his room, even with the feeling clouding his judgment. Unusual sounds echoing around him as he walked though they might’ve been made by him. They echo around clinging to him and not letting go and not wanting to Hoping to stay forever. Bessemer in the unstable part of his mind, the part that’s controlled by that dreaded creature. 

This causes him to stumble around leaning against the walls for support leaning his head against the cold hall wall. Trying to look even semi presentable when Kouyou and Yosano walk by the girl pressed in between them looking elated. Though a look of disgust and hatred paints itself on two of the three people as soon as they spot him. The other has a look of concern, confusion on her face. Looking slightly torn between helping her wife or adopted brother. 

She picks her side though turning a blind eye and rubbing the small of her wife’s back. Pushing her away from the god as he staggers into his and Fyodor’s room. Falling into the chair as the kids rush up to him, crowding into his space. 

“Is something wrong, Chuuya-san?” Kouyoka asks tentatively, stepping forward to help the older man. Pulling the decorations out of his hair, letting the long ginger locks fall. Curling in on themselves as they bounce slightly before falling into place ready to be brushed. 

“I’m just tired Kouyoka, today was a severely eventful day. Lots of things happen that you shouldn’t have to worry about.” He replies, trying to comfort the children's worries, brushing them aside so he doesn’t have to face them. 

“Mama, If you're really tired, how about we run you a bath, or you could just sleep now! That should help with the tiredness.” Elise suggests smiling at him pure and innocent. He can only reply with a weak shake of his head and a small smile. 

“This isn’t a type of tired that can be fixed by sleeping, and even though that’s an amazing idea. I don’t think it will help that much, sorry Elise.”  He tries telling her as he stumbles out of the chair. 

The room spins around him, voice morphing together as their volume changes. The walls clang together as objects fly around. Panic stricken screams echo about the room, he briefly wonders who their from. Or why his mouth feels completely dry, a burning feeling rising up his throat. 

It’s nauseating, vile running up his throat as he tries to choke it down. Head pounding as he slowly falls, the world around him blurred and fuzzy. It finally goes black as he hits the cold ground static sounds filling his ears blurring any other sound making sure he can’t hear them. As he drifts of letting his body relate and melt under the tiresome weight it always faces. 

He was in the middle of figuring out what the hell he’s supposed to do, the wars in there favor but it’s pointless. And nobody has figured out what Dazai and Fukuzawa were planning if they were. He also had to stress on not knowing where Ranpo and Poe were.

Which meant two of the smartest gods were missing and off the charts. With Ranpo also being very loyal to Fukuzawa he could be helping them. These stupid gods can’t even find simple Data on a few people? 

Plus there’s been quiet gossip running around that Atsushi is going to join sides with Dazai. And even rumors that Chuuya, beautiful Chuuya, would join forces with Dazai. 

So he had to laugh when Ace came barging in screaming his head off about betrayal and some shit. This Buffon has the nerve to kick his door in and scream about how his Chuuya, his  Partner, was planning on betraying him. 

How would he even do that? His pathetic kids' lives were in Fyodor's hands, he couldn’t even breathe wrong without Fyodor noticing. He couldn’t betray him, without everyone he loves being crushed underneath Fyodor's hand.

“Ace, stop Fucking yelling, explain what you heard or I will cut your ears off.” He breathed out, getting to the end of his line ready to snap  and he was about to break Ace's neck. 

“Chuuya and Akutagawa were talking in Chuuyas old room. The one you told me to tell you if he ever went in it, because of the ‘sentimental’ value of the room. While they were talking they mentioned Dazai, And Atsushi running away because of a letter. Dazai has a plan and he wanted Chuuya and Akutagawa to come find him. Chuuya also knows that if he takes a step out of line then you won’t hesitate to kill his kids or the people he cares about.” Ace relays pretty much everything he can remember keeping unimportant stuff to himself. 

But this was most certainly new, though he could work with this. He knew Dazai was alive and at least doing something, though it was possible Sasaki was sending for him. Although she wouldn’t ask for Chuuya, she hated him with almost every bone in her body. Coming to the same interesting conclusion the rest of the gods had. 

The situation Chuuya is in was interesting, with how he never stands up for himself. The rest of the gods point at his flaws while ignoring their own. It was a simple case of people punching a scapegoat because they can’t punch the real mastermind. It was honestly pathetic especially with how he doesn’t fight back against them. 

“Uh, excuse me my lord? Your opinion on what we should do going forward?” Ace interrupts again, breaking his train of thought. 

“How about we ask your opinion, since you heard it first hand what should we do?” He says sugar coating his words, letting Ace talk away allowing himself more time to formulate a better plan. 

“Well sir, I advise we kill the traitor close circle, then go after Atsushi and capture him and get what information he has. He may even lead us to Dazai allowing us to capture everyone starting a ruckus. Sir” this plan formulated by the oblivious naïve human has so many  holes. To many ways it could go wrong, definitely not stable enough to go through with.

“Okay let’s say we kill everyone Chuuya cares about, who will keep him chained here? He’s not staying because of me, he’s staying because their lives are on the line. If they were gone he would conspire with Dazai and kill me.” He states glaring at the mortal as he slowly steps toward him.

“Second, if we do run after Atsushi we’d be going into an open battle field with people who hate us. This would lead to a shortage of trained military ready for the war going on.  And again we already know where Dazai is hiding. The reason we haven’t gone to fight him is because there is a kingdom in the way, may I remind you.” He seathes, pushing the idiotic mortal aside. 

Heading out of the room, before turning to stare at him, “I’m going to formulate a plan that won’t blow up in our faces and get Chuuya’s side on this.” He replies leaving him alone in the room. 

Briskly walking down the hall, pushing his way through the small crowd of gods outside his study. Surprisingly while walking past Kouyou and Yosano's room he sees Aniko sitting on the gods vanity. 

Laughing with the healer, as she styles her hair sipping dark red wine. A calm and cheerful atmosphere around them as a fire crackles in the hearth. He decides he’ll question Aniko later when they're in private. 

So he walks away making his way to his and Chuuya’s room, letting some of his anger melt away in excitement of seeing the redhead. Although as he pushes the doors open he doesn’t expect what he sees inside of the room.

Kouyoka is kneeling on a cushion beside their bed, holding a wet rag on Chuuya’s forehead. Dipping it in ice water and squeezing it every few seconds, before placing it back on his forehead. Kenji is pacing a steaming bowl of soup down on the side counter allowing it to cool off a little bit. 

“What’s happened here?” He asks, looking at the whimpering god as he writhes in pain. His face beet red and scolding hot when he placed his hand against the normally cool skin. 

“He passed out, we brought him to the bed, Q, and Elise are bringing him medication.” Kouyoka answers, bowing slightly towards him as she continues with her job. 

“That won’t be necessary, I already have something to heal him. Now, leave both of you.” He swears  glaring at the children as they quickly start to leave. Though they are interrupted by the door slamming open. 

“No, I don’t trust what you're gonna give him, and why should we leave. It's not like you can do anything to us.” Elise states standing her ground even when her smarter siblings tell her to drop it. 

“I can do whatever I want, you're not special just because Chuuya likes you. You can be replaced. Plus your mother hasn’t been very smart so he owes me greatly. So no he can’t protect you.” He whispers, smirking at the defeated look on the girl's face. Closing the doors after pushing all of them out keeping them away from the sick god. 

“Fyodor?” A harsh whisper breaks through the angry tension. Strangled and muffled, by the harsh fever his throat torn and ragged. Not even able to open his eyes fully, yet he still calls for him. Not Kouyou and definitely not Dazai, Chuuya calls out for him. 

Allowing him to move him to lean against his chest in an upright sitting position. Grabbing a bottle of golden liquid from his belt, pushing it against the gods lips. Before tipping the bottle, allowing the contents to slip down his throat. “Hush for a while, I have a favor to ask and questions that need answering and you won’t have a choice in the matter.” 

Chapter Text

“Are you feeling alright, love?” He asks pulling a stool to where Chuuya was lying in the bed. Eyes shut tightly as he thrashed around bright golden blood slipping out of his eye sockets. Long scratch from we’re he’s tried tearing skin off, such an ugly thing to be happening. 

“Mama, please wake up!” One of his stupid kid wines shaking Chuuya’s arm trying to keep him from hurting himself. Though this causes more damage then good  as she’s gripping it hard enough to almost bruise the delicate skin.  Awful colors blooming on Chuuya’s soft pale arm where the stupid child has  gripped the soft flesh . A scowl forms itself onto his mouth as he watches this interaction. 

“Stop it you useless thing! You're damaging the skin, it's going to turn  ugly if you keep this up.” He hits the child’s hand away, causing the skin to turn pinkish red. And a sharp wail echoes across the walls as the girl backs up into the brunette. Hugging herself close as she tries to escape his wrath. Though it happens eventually to everyone anyway. 

“I’m sorry.” She stumbles back stuttering as she trips over her words. Backing up away from him hitting the other kids as they huddle together looking scared. Elise looks furious as she looks at him, not speaking and only comforting her sister.

After a few moments of silent tension Chuuya gasps, twisting around and curling in on himself. Whimpering and moaning as he shakes and turns face twisting in pain. Finally after a few seconds Chuuya shoots up, gripping him, scratching and pulling at the armor trying to pull him towards him. Pushing his face into his neck sobbing and clawing at his back. 

Gasps and sobs echo around the room as Chuuya cries. Fat ugly tears spilling down his face as he gasps, pushing his hands against his ears. “Fyodor, it burns. You gave me medicine, why does it burn? Please, I thought you were giving me medication.” He can basically see Chuuya’s head vibrate. Dark red and black swirls creeping up his skin  scaring the poor soul. 

“Calm down, and stop this act. It’s not gonna get you anywhere. Though it’ll probably help if you take off your damn collar. And it’s annoying  to hear Chuuya say you're being overly dramatic.” He sighs as Chuuya rasps and cries in his arms. 

A few deafening seconds pass by as Chuuya sobs and whines. Thrashing around as he seeks comfort that is not being given to him.  He starts apologizing trying to calm down the shaken children though he himself isn’t calm. As they were staring at the two of them, wide eyes terrified and a horribly silent silence filling the room completely. 

“I have a proposal to make with you, but I want you to feel better before I propose it to you as you aren’t in the right headspace. And it is a big decision that will affect you, so that’s why I need you to be clear headed to talk about.” He states while stroking his hand over the  strands and pushing his fingers in between carding them through and gently tugging out knots.. Making sure to pull out any knots that may have formed leaving it smooth and soft. 

Ready to be twisted into any style that Chuuya chooses, though it is usually something he offhandedly mentions that he thinks is pretty. It always does look stunning on him, he always knows it will look amazing on him. 

Just like every single fabric he buys for the love god looks exquisite on him, no matter how they’re styled. Even now there seems to be a divine aura around him, though he’s so pale and so humanly sick looking. That just adds to the affect as he looks broken and unable to fight. 

His body seems torn between being a god and just shutting down completely. He’d almost never guess the power locked beneath his skin. Golden blood circling throughout his body mixed with black tar that somehow doesn’t stain his pale skin. 

“Fyodor-.?” Chuuya whispers out trying to get his attention and pull him out of his stump. He recoils away from Chuuya, looking at the god blinking away misty covered eyes. Looking at blood streams from where he pushed his sharp nail in too deep. Drawing small streams of golden blood twisting and crossing creating abstract patterns. 

“What” he snarls, snapping at the god who’s staring at him, sitting on his knees, hair dangling down delicately. 

Silk sheets wrapped around his waist clinging to naked skin. Drying from golden blood and water spilled. 

“I apologize for any trouble I may have caused with Aniko. I now realize she was trying to protect me and I am sorry if I caused stress or issues between you two.” He mumbles out voice strained and dry, erupting in a painful coughing fit the moment after. 

He hadn’t realized Chuuya would bring it up as it wasn’t trivial. Aniko tried correcting him for some stupid decision he made and Chuuya snapped back. Honestly he’s surprised it hadn’t happened before with Anikos track record and how she treats the others. 

“It’s been a week since the incident so you don’t have to worry, Sweetheart. It’s all taken care of, none of it is your fault and Kunikida is fixing your reputation for this.” He praises quietly going back to stroking  the gods' hair. As he leans against his chest trying to imitate Fyodor’s breathing patterns. 

The children are watching, the often are even though Chuuya sends them away so they don’t always see. Keeping cool and calm composure is surprising for little useless mortal things. As they are usually high maintenance and are all bubbly. 

They sit there quietly for a while before Chuuya ruins it by asking him a question. “Can you tell me the plan now? I feel you should give me time to process and think about it. Plus I’m feeling hardly better, my head still hurts and my body aches. But I really want to know what you need me for, I want to be useful!” He sounds surprised by his own voice and what words he allowed to slip out. 

“You don’t sound better Darling, I want you to be fully better. Nothing can be wrong. This is a futile part of my plan and if the tiniest thing goes wrong the whole thing is ruined.” He tries to explain to the frustrated ginger rubbing up and down his back. Tracing his spine with his finger in a circular motion calming the little god. 

“When do you want me to ask then? When am I going to be better just like you want?” Chuuya pleads looking up at the taller man, wanting to find out when he can leave the room. 

“Chuuya, shut it, I don’t want to hear anything from you. You will stay in this room until I say you are better and you won’t leave until then. Trust me Chuuya I will know when or If you leave this room. So you will not ask or know anything about my plan because you aren’t needed.” He whispers harshly into the gods ear, gripping his wrist tightly, causing rings of bruises to form. His nails digging into his arm causeing the skin to become more irritated. 

He already regretted following this part of the plan, no matter how satisfying Dazai’s reaction would be. With this Chuuya let his tongue run free, and god was it testing his patience. Honestly maybe if there was a way to keep the god fully silent he might’ve gone through with it. At first his beautiful god really did get on his nerves but he’s now found acceptable times to fight back and if they aren’t acceptable times he knows the consequences of his actions. 

Trailing his hands up he threads them through the ginger curls pulling his head towards his. “Are you sure you understand Chuuya, I wouldn’t want anything bad to happen to you or your little family.” He whispers his voice rasping slightly as he talks.

Chuuya keeps his mouth shut only nodding his head to signal his understanding. His eyes are blown wide, tears forming wetting his lashes. He tugs the gods' heat closer, placing a quick kiss to the crown of his head. Pulling away, watching as Chuuya just keeps his head down staring at the sheets that are bunched in his fists. The useless children still haven’t gotten the hint to leave and are all still standing there watching the interaction between the two of them. 

“I’m off then, goodbye Chuuya. And please love, get some rest. You don’t want to be useless to me do you?” He mumbles as he walks to the door watching from the side of his eye as Chuuya’s head shoots up. Quickly shaking and denying the accusation with so much force it’s so cute. 

 “Of course not love, we’re so close to winning this whole continent why would you betray me?” He smiles viciously looking at Chuuya. He looks so broken so defeated it’s such a pretty sight. It’s worth everything that he’s doing just to see that look.  

“Why do you let him treat you like that?” Comes a faint whisper though he barely hears it. Fyodor left so why does he still feel his presence everywhere? Why does everything feel so off at the moment like a balance has been tipped and it doesn’t feel like it was in his favor. 

“You wouldn’t get it Elise, it’s better if he treats me like this then other people. It’s better if I take the blame, I know how easy a heart breaks. Why would I wish such harm on another person?” He asks questioningly, keeping his eyes locked on the bed not fully trusting himself to speak. 

“But Mama-“ Kenji starts rushing over to him as he sits up swinging his legs off the bed. 

“Silence all of you, it’s my fault I am in this mess I can deal with it myself! I do not need anyone taking the blame for something that was caused by my own actions. So no you will not fight me on the, Understand?” He croaks out his voice shaking sounding like rough sandpaper. 

A mantra of Of course bounces off the room as he steps towards the vanity. Swaying as he walks his feet unsteady and uncoordinated beneath him. He falls into the chair, his back scraping against the back of the rough chair.  The push seat cushioning his fall, laying he spreads his body out pressing a hand against his flushed face. 

“You look so pretty, really tired and sick but very pretty.” Kyouka comments while brushing through his hair. Smiling slightly behind her sleeve, as Elise nods, helping twist the strands into a style. 

“Yes look what stupid has done, sucked out all the cheer from our Ma. How can you let someone you love treat you like that? It’s absurd, if I fell in love it would never be with anyone remotely close to him.” Elise rambles as she looks at him questiongly.

“Love” he pauses thinking as he furrows his brows trying to remember a time he was in love with Fyodor. “I’m not in love with him, what made you think that? I don’t think I’ve ever been in love with him.” Huh? What is he talking about? Why is he saying this out loud? He doesn't even think of these things.

“What do you mean? You're the god of love and you're with someone you do not love? How is that even possible?” Elise explains shaking him slightly as Q looks confused, Kyouka seems to agree with that statement. Kenji has paused preparing the food to stare at him. 

“What about Dazai, were you in love with him? Or any of the other people the city said you were in line with?” Kyouka asks quietly, playing with her hands as she looks down. 

“I don’t think we did enough to be in love, true I cared deeply about him. But it never felt reciprocated or if I did try to engage in something non-sexual he would wall himself up and not talk to me for the next few weeks.” He seems to genuinely answer, surprising even himself as it’s not what he feels like he should think.

“Is that why you started a relationship with Fyodor so quickly, even after he hurt Dazai? Even though it would severely damage your relationship with everyone?” Q continues the line of questions attacking his brain for answers he doesn’t want to provide. 

“He offered me something I couldn’t refuse. So I became his consort, because it was something that was the best option at the time.” He starts his brain feeling like rot and his head pounding but the need to figure out why Fyodor needed him was strong. 

“So-“ Kenji starts cheerfully ready to add his opinion, as he is back from his stunned state. 

“Kenji Darling, my head is killing me and my body aches. Can you please get this over so I can know what Fyodor wants from me?” Chuuya pleads with the boy though his time is harsher than intended. They all seem startled with how he’s acting, not that he is surprised as well. It’s weird how he talks genuinely saying whatever comes to mind right at the beginning. 

It feels weird not being in control of what he says and how it comes out. He’s used to knowing what and how to say things to make people pleased. This is just raw emotion and hatred mixing together into words and he doesn’t understand why the vile truth is spilling out of his lips. 

It’s making his head spin with nausea at the thought of saying something wrong and fucking everything up. He doesn’t care enough to worry about his own safety but one wrong move, one slight thing off. And Fyodor could go into a rage and burn everything down that he’s struggling to protect. 

“Does he really know where Ranpo is? He could just be messing with you, also how do you know Dazai will stop there? What happens if he doesn’t and we miss him completely.” The man questions standing by the closed door looking at the god questiongly. 

“Of course he does that’s why I drew out this plan, it will ensure Dazai is slowed down enough. So we can have time to properly prepare for a fight. And weed out any unnecessary people or traitors that need to be hung.” Fyodor replies calmly, taking a sip of his drink carefully prepared by the servant who is standing at the door. 

“And yes I know full well Dazai will stop at Ranpos, though Ranpo has declared that he does not in fact belong to one side. We both know if push comes to shove he will help Fukuzawa. And since that would be two geniuses plus Poe, we are majorly screwed if this happens. Plus that would be giving them an advantage in planning, and it would give them an extra two gods. Both of which you would want if going up against a war god as we are.” Fyodor explains calmly walking about a knowing aura surrounding him. He looks as though he has figured out something even before his opponents thought of it. 

“What about Dazais eye, what if they go for that? What is the whole reason he can’t just grow a new one?” The shadow man happily asks away as many questions as he wants. 

“Dazai’s eye shows a part of him he will never be able to get back something that will forever be stuck in the past. His godly powers are also limited without two eyes to use them with. As they are the sources of power and how we use them, basically though there are a few exceptions.” Fyodor states pouring himself another glass of alcohol not ready for how this conversation hurts his brain. 

“What about Ace? Now that you’ve gotten what you want from him, what are you going to do?” The shadow man questions again, covered completely and hiding from the warm thrum of sun. Pouring gently through the open windows, curtains pinned away to let the sun soak through. 

“Ace is useless to me now, he’s been reporting meaningless things. And as soon as things go awry and Dazai shows the slightest inkling of winning he will swap teams. Pleading victimhood to either side.”  Fyodor retorts, smiling sharply at the other man, he then turns around pulling the curtains quickly, a sharp scraping sound echoing in the room. This leaves the room bathed in darkness allowing the intruder to walk around. 

“You seem to like useless things, you keep that stupid little love god with you. And he really isn’t needed, I still don’t know why you're doing so much to keep him isolated and it’s not like most of the gods don’t like him already just intensifying those emotions..” He comments falling down to lounge on the couch by the fireplace.  Kicking his feet up to be comfy, as he squirms around trying to find a comfy spot. Only finally stopping when both legs are draped off the end and his arms are flung over his face. 

“If you think Chuuya is useless in this war you’re more stupid than Ace. He’s a powerful asset and is one of the things Dazai craves the most. Dazai might not even know it himself but truly he is fighting for Chuuya.” The god of death answers, a bit amused by the shock on the other's face. 

“Plus I do not need to give you reasons as to why I am doing things you just do them. If he has no one else to turn to he will turn to me making him dependent on Me. No matter what I do or how I act. He will always be loyal to me.” Fyodor snarls out, glaring at the other man as he countines his speech. This doesn’t get the hopes reaction as the man is practically vibrating with happiness and cheer. A mask he so easily falls into, one he pushes on others when asked. 

“Of course I don’t need to know the reason, I’m happy as long as you give me someone to play with.” He apologizes, calming the others' nerves as his smile stretches.  He loves this job more than any of the others Fyodor sends him on. He gets to see the effect on what’s happening to Chuuya, how bit by bit he’s breaking down. Why each person decides to blame him instead of themselves is just fascinating. 

“How are you sure Dazai is going to fall into the trap, what’s valuable enough to him that you don’t mind losing?” He wonders, thinking as hard as possible before jumping up and skipping to Fyodor. “Please tell me you’ve been able to make it so you can hear and see everything through Dazai’s eye. It would be so cool since he can’t reach his full potential without it anyway!” He squeals with excitement with all the infinite possibilities of how to torture Dazai Osamu physiologically. 

“I’ve got a different idea on how we’re going to slow him down, and that has no reason to defy me. And has no way to escape my grasp.”  A twinkle can be seen in Fyodor’s eyes exiting him as he wonders who will be the poor soul chosen for this. 

He’s going to sell the god out and possessively take him back, claiming he owned the boy. And that no one had the right to see or speak to the god. Since he is so selfishly Fyodor’s.

He wasn’t pouting, he wasn't whining, though that wasn’t what the others were thinking of him. He was just simply refusing to talk or look at the others until they realize they are wrong and need to in fact include Chuuya in their plan. Especially with the type of things he knew Fyodor was capable of. Plus the type of people the asshole surrounded himself with. It didn’t help they had pushed them leaving, back a week. And they didn’t have a good final copy of a plan yet. 

While Atsushi's claims made theoretical sense there was just this gut feeling that he was wrong. His brain was telling him all the ways Dazai knew Chuuya that Atsushi could never have dreamed of knowing. He knew what made Chuuya tick, what made him angry, what made him happy. What type of flowers he likes for different occasions. 

Who Atsushi was describing wasn’t Chuuya, it couldn't have been. How he describes his movements and his actions. They sound almost doll-like, a marionette played by Fyodor and from the sounds of it Fyodor alone. A soulless creature without a heart or a brain, nothing like Chuuya at all. 

“Dazai open up the door you need to eat, and I would like to have a conversation with you about the trip.” Fukuzawa begs from the other side, tapping gently on the door. Trying to persuade Dazai to let him into his room, this has been going on for a week. Every day before a planning session they would come and try and force him out of his room. 

Though this time felt different as it was late afternoon not early morning when he was coming by.  It was strange since he also didn’t leave. Unlike the many other times he came by, he would usually just leave the tray of food on the ground for Dazai to find the next time he opened the door. Which is exactly why there was a pile of non eaten dishes stacked right outside Dazais door. 

“Fine” he grumbles walking over to the door flinging it open. “You may come in, did guys finally realize that my plane was better. Then whatever half ass plan you guys could come up with?” He mutters under  his breath angry at the way they’ve brushed him off. Despite this being the thing he was born to do and he knows the most about this. 

“When is the last time you cleaned up Dazai, you look like a mess.” Fukuzawa replies, pushing his way in and putting the tray on his dresser. The food on the plate did not look appetizing, it looked like the time he and Chuuya tried to make soup. They threw it up for the next week or so, it was that bad. He had tried to feed it to Chuuya’s kids after he felt better. Boy did he get in trouble with Chuuya, the little snitch told Chuuya to stay away from him. 

He really didn’t feel like he looked that bad, he remembers the time he looked way worse.  His hair is only slightly longer than normal, dark eye bags dragging down his face.  He looks slightly paler than normal but really he doesn’t look that bad. The bandages normally wrapped around his eye socket were changed yesterday but have accumulated gunk since then. “Yes, I get I look bad but it is not that bad you're being overly dramatic.” He mentions closing his eyes tightly trying to formulate a plan that everyone would approve of. 

“That is not, you know what? Whatever. Why are you acting like a child? Atsushi knows so much more about what’s going on than we do. Why are you so interested in keeping Chuuya in the plan? It’s not like he is useful to us, the way Atsushi makes it sound he’s basically a dog to Fyodor. Meaning there’s no way we can get him without Fyodor knowing. Plus maybe you just can except it but Chuuya doesn’t care about you anymore. Maybe that’s why you fight Atsushi so much.” Fukuzawa tries to reason with him though it falls on deaf ears. 

Ignored by the part of him that still longs for the other god.  How could Chita not still care about him, how would he be able to move on with someone. Anyone, especially Fyodor, the whole situation doesn't make sense. This isn’t how Chuuya is, and of course he knows he and Chuuya, they.

“Dazai I know you miss what we had but it’s gone, our life is here now. And unless you step up and help us fight we won’t stand a chance to get that life back.” Fukuzawa yells anger apparent in the way he stands, trying to lodge some sort of sense into his son's thick head. 

“What if I tell you there’s a way to both get what we want. But of course you won’t listen to me because how would I, the god of you know war,   know anything about war!” He snarls back at the other man, jumping up so that he could face him. 

“I have come up with enough solutions to solve countless wars but you people don’t care because you think he knows more about Chuuya than I do. I know Fyodor if he wanted everyone to hate Chuuya every goddamn person would hate him. So no, I will not listen to your bullshit excuses.” He laughs as Fukuzawa backs up, it’s almost scary how much he’s changed. Snapped into that mask he’s always hated so much, one built up  of bloodlust and pain.

“We have a plan that I believe is enough to topple Fyodor, but they want to have your opinion about it. Before we send troops and go after him.” Fukuzawa mutters out, pushing a stack of crisp papers into his hand. Backing away towards the door as Dazai sits looking through them. 

“None of this will work, there’s enough plot holes that Fyodor will most definitely see through. Plus without my other eye I wouldn’t be up to full capacity. Ranpo would be the only outsider with knowledge of how to find it, we might also be able to get him on our side before Fyodor. But no you will not have my men die because of this foolish plan, I’m the general this is my city. You can’t do anything without me.” He states coolly towards his parent seeing how angry this makes him.

His amusement grows as Fukuzawa lashes out against him. “I created this place, I’m the one who built it from the ground. Your city is nothing without me.” He argues trying to find a point in the deep sea of madness. 

“I’m the one that has grown this city, I’m the reason we are powerful and able to strike against Fyodor, something we weren’t able to do before. You may have built it but I have sculpted this city into what it is today. This is all my hard work.” He fights back against the attack, forcing Fukuzawa to calm down and get back to the original topic. 

“Then come out here and actually help make a plan instead of denying anything we send to you.” The older god fixs himself. Dusting off his clearheaded and smiling as he sees Dazai hitch. Finally contemplating the suggestion. 

“My opinion will be taken into account and know if you will tell me what I should and shouldn’t know?” He questions carefully making sure to get everything sorted before agreeing to anything. That comes out of the older gods mouth. 

“We won’t force our opinions into you, as long as you take into account what we have planned and read through everything carefully making sure not to miss anything.” Fukuzawa finilizes making sure to lay everything out, not making Dazai feel like he has been backed into a corner. 

“So do we have a deal? Will you come with me?” Fukuzawa asks impatiently, waiting quietly for his son's decision as it will be the reason if they win or lose this war. It’s all up to Dazai as it always has been. 

“Fine I will attend this meeting but I wanna make this clear, we decide on a plan today or I leave by myself. Got it?” Davao asks sternly hoping for a nod which he gets as his signal to follow his father down the twisting halls. Making their way to the loudest room in the fortress. 

“Dazai-San!” Atsushi squeaks, jumping up and away as he sees the god approaching the tent. He looks down at the messy plan they have drawn up. Key points written at the side as they try to map out where they will go over his and Dazais trip. 

“What plan do you guys have at the moment?” He asks while falling back into his throne leisurely lounging as he watches the chaos room fight. 

“We have many many different options sir, right now we plan to rally the gods and overwhelm Fyodor.” One of the guards sate very confidently. 

“That won’t work, the gods won’t join something they know nothing about without someone they know personally. Also how will we overwhelm Fyodor while he has triple the Militia power we do?” Dazai asks curiously, pointing out holes in each plan they list off. 

“How about we create a more solid plan by combining each plan together.” The tiger god announces in the dead silent room, gaining everybody's attention. Dazai just nods, smiling viciously as he looks down scribbling something down on a piece of paper. 

 “Hoping on Atsushi's idea I have a plan of my own, we first will leave the fortress and head to Ranpo. Which should be hard to find but Atsushi should be able to guide us. Then after we see him we try to retrieve my eye. This will allow me to be at full strength to fight against Fyodor. Then we try to rally Yosano through the underground passage. Then once we have all the necessary steps we can finally face off against Fyodor.” Dazai digest never looks up from we’re he’s examining his hand. 

He nods a long to the plan, ready to have full advantage over Fyodor. “Great, it was so lovely seeing you all, Atsushi. We should head out in an day  or two just so we can  be ready.” Is all he comments before leaving Atsushi alone. 

Chapter Text

He hated the plan they came up with, though at least he got some input and idea as to what would happen. Getting his bag packed was simple, even though he was missing half of his powers, and vision. 

Nothing around him was from his childhood, everything was newly made. Definitely not as perfect and personal as the old picture at the castle. But they also didn’t have as much money and resources as Fyodor.

Packing a small sack with a few changes of clothes, maps, scrolls with legends and a ton of new bandages and ointment invade he or Atsushi got hurt. These prices along with small painting he had made with Chuuya when they were younger. 

Moving over to the changing area he pulls down on his under clothes. Adding bandages to any exposed area of skin that wasn’t covered by light fabric. Once he was done he pulled in the heavy armor adjusting the leather straps to make it fit right. 

Once he finally gets all ready, everything is packed and accounted for. He walks out into the hall decorated in a portrait of no person in particular. Through paintings with the heavens, the land and the deathly world. We’re quite common, beautiful colors in each stroke depicting each land with amazing strides. 

The open windows- if you could call them that, as they were only holes in the walls. Lead into the high class villages, gambling dens and high Casinos line the walls. Barely anyone lived and stayed and slept in this small circle of hell. 

Most people lived on the outer wall, drinking themselves dead. These people were mostly refuges from the war, accepted from both sides. Allowing people who were drafted and stolen to return to some place. Letting them escape from the life that was chosen for them. 

Walking to the front entrance he observes as Fukuzawa fusses around Atsushi. As they go over last minute plans, and back up plans. They go over What-if scenarios and any possible weather change that could happen. 

It seems so silly to him as Atsushi just listen nodding along to whatever he states. The few workers they have, run around gathering supplies for Atsushi. Promising to pray and try to get others to his makeshift holy temple. Allowing him more spiritual energy and faster regeneration, along with other helpful properties. 

“Are you ready, Dazai-san?” Atsushi asks, seemingly finally noticing him. Turning to look and stare at him, smiling as he pulls away from the gods touch. 

Finally as the servants finally finish running around they hand Atsushi bag to him. As he slings it over his shoulder, adjusting it until it sits comfortably. He has very similar armor to Dazai, with minor changes. 

It seems lighter and more flexible to his shapeshifting abilities. That would help protect himself while he’s in his tiger form and not able to protect himself with normal weapons. This would open him up to way to many attacks from the enemy. 

“I have this for you!” Fukuzawa speaks, handing them a letter with coradinets on it. “ Last known location that we have for Ranpo. I’m sure he’s still in the same spot though he doesn’t like moving around.” Fukuzawa states as he hands them the letter allowing them to look over it. 

“Please you two be careful, it’s very dangerous and we don’t know if Ranpo has been captured or picked sides.” He continues on with his lecture as he fusses around them. Making sure they have everything and that they are set and ready to go. 

“I’m sure we will be fine, Fukuzawa. No need to worry too much, we will survive I promise . Plus, Ranpo is smart enough to know that choosing a side is bad for him and Poe in the long run.” He states firmly making sure Fukuzawa knows and realizes they can do it. 

“Of course I’m sure he is smart enough,” Dazai agrees, smiling at his father. “I’m all ready and packed for the trip and I’m ready to go if you are Atsushi.” He nods, turning to Atsushi as he finally is done getting ready. 

“I’m pretty sure I’m all ready, how far is it? And how long are we going to be walking for? How many breaks and is there going to be a constant water source?” Atsushi asks, trying to figure out if he is really packed, for what’s to come. 

“We’re going to be following a river to Sasaki’s kingdom, then when we get there we’re going to move to the coast and follow that. We can take a normal amount of breaks, but I want to take at most eight days.”  He answers all of Atsushi's questions, trying to remember the distance and obstacles between him and the secret base the Ranpo and Poe were hiding in. 

“Then yes I am prepared for our journey, I’m just gonna say my final goodbyes.” Atsushi says quietly moving towards a gossiping group of workers. Talking quietly and hugging them whispering sweet things before moving back to Dazai’s side. 

“Okay, I’m all set, let’s get going now!” Atsushi chirps, appearing happy, though there are small pricks of tears in the corner of his eyes. Hugging Fukuzawa, and nodding at the few people he cared about. They push through the curtain ready to finally finish this war. 

“What does he want from you, why did he call you to his office!” Elise yells, touching up the light make up that’s around his eyes. Q shrugs their shoulders as they watch everyone move around the room. 

He’s being shoved around and dragged down to have his hair styled and while it’s set he’s pulled behind a divider. Allowing him to pull on an elaborate kimono tying the obi around his waist as he wraps the kimono around his body. 

Moving outside of the divider he stares at himself in the mirror he almost doesn’t recognize himself. Sure he looks the same but it’s not the same. It’s almost as if someone else has inhabited his body. And they’ve completely changed who he is. Though it’s not surprising even if it’s different he has to adapt to change. Has to fit in with what’s expected of him no matter what.

“Ready to head out?” Kouyoka asks, striding up beside him. Looking up at him a small smile dancing on her lips, allowing her to look a lot younger and innocent. They look almost identical in how they stand, how they dress, their body and face shape. It’s almost as if she’s been molded in his image, even if it’s impossible. 

“Of course I’m ready,” he assured her, “I’m perfectly fine.” He added quietly on, breathing a few times before reaching his hand out and holding hers. As soon as she grabbed his hand he pushed the doors open saying goodbye to the other kids. 

It was surprisingly quiet throughout the halls, only servants moving around. Keeping their heads down as they scurried about, carrying laundry and other objects. He and Kouyoka continue in silence until they reach Fyodor’s door. Nodding at each other as they part ways. She even allows him to give her a quick kiss on the forehead. 

He breathes quietly watching Kouyoka walk away, slightly smiling to himself. Calming his erratic heartbeat he pushes the door open. Faced with Fyodor standing with an all to Familiar look on his face. 

“Ah, Chuuya I’m so glad you’ve finally decided to join us .” Fyodor states walking towards him, and wrapping an arm around his waist. Tugging him close to his chest and whispering in his ear. “You’ve been cooped up here for a long time, how about we go on a little sight seeing trip.” 

His legs felt like they were going to fall off, not able to shift into his tiger form as Dazai wouldn’t be able to keep up. “Atsushi, how about we take a rest here for a second then we can head further upstream.” Dazai suggested falling back on a rock and taking a sip of his water container. Kneeling down he splashed water onto his face allowing the cold of the water to calm his burning skin. 

They weren’t too far away from the back of Sasaki’s kingdom. Right at the top of the waterfalls that made the camp so easy to protect. As it would be hard to get so many troops down the steep cliff. This also posed the challenge of having to climb up the cliff side though. Which took a toll on his physical body as he was still quite weak. 

“Why did you defend Chuuya if I may ask Dazai-san?” He questions trying to make any conversation he can with Dazai. It’s weird sitting in silence so he tries to fill it any way he can. Even if that means he has to ask awkward questions that will probably leave them both in awkward positions.

“Cause I promised to stay by his side, just as he promised to stay by my side.” Dazai states, coughing hard after Atsushi asks the question. 

“Though your logic is flawed, Chuuya is by Fyodor’s side now, not yours. So it makes me wonder why you're still defending him. Even though you don’t matter to him.” Atsushi fires back angrily though it’s barely heard over the loud clashing of the battle in front of them. 

“Do you really care to know why?” Dazai asks, exasperated and annoyed looking like he’s ready to hurl either himself or Atsushi over the edge. 

“Yes I want to know why you're acting this way, of course I do, why wouldn’t I?” He yells  back at Dazai, leaping angrily to his feet. 

“Because something’s not right and until I can cross reference your story with someone who actually cares for Chuuya. Then I’ll make a decision on whether to stay by his side or not. So don’t meddle in my process and definitely don’t stick your head in we’re it doesn’t belong.” Dazai argues, pulling his body off the rock and trudging forward. 

Gathering anything left on the ground he hurries after him. Realizing that the rest of the journey would be tense just because of that one stupid question he asked.  It’s awkward as they move without saying a word to each other, a look of disgust and anger still on Dazai’s face. 

He tries to make light conversation and switch the mode but Dazai doesn’t reply and instead ignores him. In favor of looking at the map and wading through the river. Of course for most of the journey they are going to spend it in the trees. But the branches hitting his face and cutting his chest and arms hurts. 

In the silence sharp thoughts fill his head, one’s he wouldn’t dare say aloud. Thoughts about Dazai dying to Fyodor, or Akutagawa hanging because of him. These thoughts settle and soak in causing him stress and anxiety trying to wrap his head around the possibilities. He settles in pushing them as far away as he can until he’s forced to realize if they’re a reality or not. 

“Isn’t it lovely, Chuuya Darling.” Fyodor stated happily looking upon the battlefield. Soldiers' kids basically are fighting, slashing and  brutally murdering the enemy.  “We make progress day by day, slowly we are inching towards the Capitol building. Once we have the palace then we have the kingdom. Once we have the kingdom we can move forward to taking the rest of the continent.” Fyodor continues talking smoothly with a smug aura surrounding him. 

The sight itself makes him want to vomit, the lifeless corpses of both men and women Ally and Foe all laying dead on the ground. Some of their heads twisted in the wrong direction. Limbs separated from bodies, heads pushed onto poles.  As the troops fight against each other falling and dying quicker then they can be healed. 

Kouyou and Yosano are also overseeing the battle, but they aren’t in it though. They are watching from right beside Chuuya and Fyodor. Standing holding each other's hands, watching as the murdering takes place. The only thing they do is squint and make sure that everything is going the way Fyodor wants it to go. 

What was even worse was the starvation rate going on and knowing that as soon as the last sword was swung. The hungry, sick and dying people would storm the field, ripping apart pieces of human flesh to eat. 

The thought itself was horrific to think about, and Fyodor’s words weren’t making the situation better. “Isn’t this a lovely view for the first time you’ve been out in what is it? three years? Yes, that seems right.” Fyodor taunts trying to get a reaction out of him. 

“I have a favor for you Chuuya? A little reward for you being good so far. So are you ready to hear my proposal?” Fyodor jokes way to lightly, making Chuuya feel uneasy and uncomfortable. The thought of something bigger happening without his knowledge scares him to know end. 

He still replies with a quiet yes and a nod, turning to face fyodor so he can hear what’s expected of him. “Remember when we were able to intercept that letter between Ranpo and the traitor? Well we were able to track down the location by letting animals follow the varied birds. Due to this we were able to find out where Ranpo and Poe have been hiding this whole time.” Fyodor starts giving him background information that will be important later.

“I want you to convince Ranpo to join the war, or just bring him to me. If I want to win this war with that mole escaping. I need his help, Atsushi has been in every meeting he will be able to tell Dazai whatever he wants to know. So while you deal with Ranpo I’m going to be sorting out the reconstruction plans to hide his treasure.” Fyodor explains pressing exceptionally close to Chuuya’s body. Smiling against his cheek as he kisses it right before harshly grabbing his chin and pulling their faces close together. 

“I know you can do it can’t you my dear. You're gonna be so good for me, and if so I’ll have a surprise for you.” Fyodor whispers before pushing him away, making him stumble back and hit his head against the wall. “So what do you say? Are you in, my love?” Fyodor questions sincerely, reaching out a hand for Chuuya to shake. 

And despite his better judgment he does just that, reaching out a quivering hand to shake the other. Forcing him into a contract he doesn’t know yet. “Of course I can do it.” He assures more to himself than anyone or anything else.

“Marvelous my darling I’m so happy, why don’t we head back so you can get packed  and ready for the trip. You're leaving early in the morning so I hope you get up nicely .” Fyodor explains cheerfully as Chuuya just sits. Horror festering and worming its way inside of him. Making it hard to concentrate without wanting to puke on the floor. 

“Of course, anything you need. I will need to get packed though the journey may be shorter but I will need a lot. May I have the map to where Ranpo is?” He promises quietly, turning and facing. Watching as Yosano and Kouyou stare at them. A mixture of confusion and disgust on their faces. As they look at them, staring directly at them. 

“That’s so sweet, I’m glad to know that and I will make sure to remind you whenever I need.  Anyways you have a long trip to prepare for let’s get heading back so you can pack. I’ll need to grab the map from my study though.” Fyodor commented, smiling down at him as he cupped his jaw, kissing him slowly. It lacked so much though, instead of the warmth that was supposed to fill his body with it. His body froze, shaking and freezing on him, it was cold and rough. Lacking what he truly needed, what he wanted, what he used to get from Dazai.

It was exhausting. They had been traveling with  Atsushi. The kid was constantly rumbling and talking, it was annoying especially because he was blatantly ignoring him. This has been going on for about two days as they traveled. The battles going on beside them. The recent storms made traveling through the rivers hard. 

The waters up to both of their waists, sometimes when they hit rapids it was higher and making it hard to see. The branches and shrubbery around him and Atsushi hit their faces as they wade through the water. Making it even harder to go through the water. 

“Dazai-san, what happened after you lost your eye? How did it affect your ability?” Atsushi questions him, as they pause, pulling themselves out of the water and onto the banks. The growth is stronger here making it easier to hide if they needed too. 

“It weakened my abilities slightly. I can’t predict or stop battles anymore. That’s a big reason we need my eye back. So I can predict how the fight with Fyodor will go. And with my ability fully put through I may be able to warp the outcome to favor me.” He answers honestly before continuing moving forward, they had already used half of his desired time and they were still a bit away. If they continued at this pace Fyodor would have enough time to set up a defense against him. 

“I’m sorry if this is rude, but Dazai-san? If you could warp any battle in your favor, why didn’t you do it in your first fight with Fyodor?” Atsushi adds on, trying to keep the conversation going. 

“Honestly I didn’t really know how, plus I haven’t perfected it, I probably won’t be able to fully make sure I will win any fight.” He answers, looking down at the map before turning onto a side pass. 

“What other powers do you have, Dazai-san, I’m pretty sure I’ve seen you have more than that.” Atsushi asks as he follows him through the path following close behind him. 

“Not many but I can tell the spirit of troops, I can also give the people on my side of the fight a boost. They will get extra strength and would be more diligent. Most of my ability’s coral ate to war and fighting.” He responded simply, answering the question. 

“It seems that you’d be useful on the battlefield, It’s honestly so amazing that we have you on our side. It would be terrible if you and Fyodor decided to team up wouldn’t it.” Atsushi remarked before yapping about anything and everything. It honestly kinda scares him when he imagines Fyodor and him working together. They’d be capable of many things truly, they would.

“How many days are you going to be away? I don’t particularly like the idea of being away from you for too long.” Elise states fixing his bag as the sun is rising. A pretty sunset causing the room to change and shift colors making pretty shades erupt on the bland walls. 

“It should only take me two days to ride to Ranpos place as it’s not far. Maybe it might be faster on horseback. And I shouldn’t be staying for long. So I should be back between a week and two.” He assures helping her stuff outfits and shoes into the bag. Attaching another with food and water to the side of the bag he’s using. 

“Promise? I really don’t like that he’s giving you such an important mission. He’s almost never let you leave before I just don’t get why he’s doing this.”  Kouyoka asks, sitting in one of his chairs staring at him and Elise. Q had run to get the map from Fyodor and Chuuya tasked him with finding the documents as to where the treasure will be hidden. 

Kenji had gone down to the kitchen to get him more food for his journey. Now he was just left with the two girls as they pack for his trip..  He himself has his doubts of course, this was odd for Fyodor. But still he’s going to go through with it, a knock on his door brings him out of his thoughts. 

“Hello, Ma.” Akutagawa states calmly standing on the other side of the door. Watching the inside and judging how it looks. He’s ashamed even if it is just Akutagawa as clothes are thrown on any piece of furniture. Shoes are strewn across the floor.

“Hello Aku, come in, we are just packing for the trip Fyodor’s sending me on.” He replies, ushering the boy in closing the door behind him. 

Smiling as he sees Aku standing awkwardly trying to make himself as small as possible. 

“I’m actually here about that, Atsushi said they planned on getting to Ranpo eventually. I know it’s counterproductive and probably against what Fyodor said  but can you give him this letter if it’s possible?” Aku asks, handing over a folded piece of paper with a few pictures stuck in it.  

“Of course I will Aku anything you want and I’ll do it for you no matter what.” He stated trying to be as sweet as he could. Kissing Akutagawa's forehead and wrapping him in a tight embrace. 

“Thank you really, I miss him and I want him too know that. So thanks, and please be safe. I don't want to lose you.” Akutagawa replies, looking at him before turning and leaving out the door. After Wehe stares at the door he finally turns pushing the letter into a  tight pocket so it won’t get lost. 

Once Q and Kenji finally got back and they finished packing his bag he packed the horse. Hopping on and saying goodbye to the kids and Akutagawa before riding over to where Fyodor was awaiting him. 

“I’m sure you're going to do great, just try to make  me proud. Okay darling?” Fyodor questions turning to him, and smiling before sending him on his way. 

“Ranpo they’ve found us haven’t they? Do you think we should move?” Poe asks, looking at his lover. As they sit down sipping tea and eating sweets. 

“Nope, it’s better if we just let them come, plus don’t you want to see the first time Chuuya and Dazai reunite since the war started?” Ranpo answers before putting another sweet in his mouth, chewing on it carefully as he smiles at Poe. 

“I do think it would be interesting to see that, and we are going to see Atsushi once it finally stops affecting him. That will be a huge mess of emotions.” Poe answers flipping through more documents as he sips his tea. 

“That will be interesting as long as they don’t break any of my property. That would just be plain annoying instead of funny.” Poe nods at this, passing a document over and putting others in different piles. 

“Isn’t it about time we got involved in the War?”

Chapter Text

He’s exhausted, he’s almost to where Ranpo lives but still. The sun is beating down on him, burning and heating him. The kimono is heavy seemingly weighing him as he tried to move. He was ready to fall down and sleep, he couldn’t care less about anything going on. He wanted to be home, in his bed. Even better he wanted to go back in time to when Mori was alive and before Dazai left. 

A time many remembered fondly and hoped for it to return. Fidgeting through his saddle that keeps hitting his hip he finally comes across some Ambrosia drinking a few sips to try and help him keep on pace. 

Looking up at the large Rocky Mountain he sighs ready to hit his head on a jagged rock. Instead he pushes forward and grabs the only holdover rock slots slowly making his way up the surface. 

Once he finally makes it up to the top he rolls onto the grassy top. Heaving sighs of relief and gulping for any air that he could possibly swallow. His throat feels impossibly dry, making it feel like it’s peeling in the inside of his throat. 

Looking over he only sees a bunch of trees going downward on a slope. This allows him to take a slow stroll down catching his breath from the climb. Slowly making his ways through the trees he catches a glimpse of the clearing. Hills seem to surround it on every side making it a good hiding place. 

Finally he turns to see the large cave opening that hides the two gods he’s searching for. A shallow magical door blocking the entrance. Pulling himself together  he strides to the large enchanted rock. Knocking loudly before announcing his presence. “Ranpo, I know your in there! Can you please open the door! I promise I just want to negotiate with you!” 

He calls trying to get an answer from the other side. This does in fact work as he hears Poe and Ranpo conversing on the other side (not so quietly might he add, as he can hear them through the door.) 

As soon as he hears the cracking and creaking he starts to back up. And as he predicts the rock blows up allowing Chuuya to see the two behind the rock. Covering his head as pieces of debri fall around him, almost hitting him multiple times. 

“Chuuya! Why are you standing there? Come inside and join us!” Ranpo has the nerve to say as he stares at Chuuya, smiling sharply. As Poe just stands beside him his tall frame shaking slightly. 

“Of course thank you for having me, may I come  in?” He forces out trying to be polite, even though Ranpo has always annoyed the hell out of him. He always seemed cocky and self centred, Poe he liked though he was quiet and didn’t care if Chita did all the talking. 

“Why would I invite you inside if I didn’t want you in here? Now come in we have tea waiting, plus the door will close any minute you don’t wanna go home empty handed do you?” Ranpo invited turning and walking back inside Poe following quickly. 

He has to brush his Kimono off and curse whoever put him on this cursed place. He quietly moves towards the entrance, following quietly behind the couple. As they talk quietly amongst themselves, every twist and turn just brings him deeper into the tunnels. Before finally they get to a huge open space. 

Walls lined with tall bookshelves filled with books in all different launguages about all different cultures, and religions. There were tons of documents as well, documents full of information about everyone. It contained everything about your life even things that hadn’t happened yet. It was almost scary what they knew. 

In the middle of the room there was a small table with five chairs around it. A kettle in the middle with all sorts of deserts around it. In front of each chair was a teacup and a matching plate. “Come on Chuuya come sit with us! We have a ton to discuss don’t we?” Ranpo stated cheerfully and Poe just nodded along with him. 

He just nods walking slowly towards the table dodging books and papers that are flying around aimlessly. Pulling the seat out he falls down into it watching as the couple put pastries and sweets on their plates. “Would you like some Chuuya-kun?” Poe offers as Ranpo glares at him for taking a small piece of banana crème pie. 

“Why are there three chairs? May you explain that Ranpo? Are you expecting guests?” Chuuya asks quietly before, taking a small bite of his slice of pie. 

“Yes we are expecting guests they should be arriving in any minute.” Ranpo stated smiling slyly before taking another bite of his food. Poe just sighs at this muttering something under his breath before resigning to his fate. 

Atsushi doesn’t seem to get it, their only a few minutes away from Ranpo and Poes house and yet Atsushi is still talking. Not even stopping after Dazai obviously only gives him short and curt answers. 

“Is there anything I should refrain from saying in front of them. I don’t wish to offend them it may hinder their judgment and we do not want that to happen.” Atsushi countinues hurting Dazai’s ears. 

“Oh is that it? Do we have to knock or something? Or do you think it moves on its own?” Atsushi question turning to him for answers. 

“That is it. It was built before Fyodor took over so Fukuzawa knows the basic layout and so he has given me instructions as to how to get into the cave tunnels and how to get to where we’re going to meet Ranpo and Poe.” Dazai states jumping down the side of the cliff making sure not to hit any trees. Atsushi follows or at least tryies as he seems to fumble and trip way more then he is. 

It almost makes him laugh as Atsushi falls once again resembling a baby deer learning to walk. “Dazai-san please don’t laugh.” Atsushi begs as soon as he’s caught up with him. 

“Of course I’m not laughing, now come on we need to hurry up we’ve already wasted enough time travelling.” He stated before starting to weave through the trees and thick brush. 

Moving towards a small clearing the door to the cavarn opening it quietly the rock breaks apart. Falling to the ground rubble surrounding him and Atsushi. “Isn’t this a bad design, you just touch it and it falls apart m. Anyone could come in and once the rock breaks you have no defence.” 

“It will turn back into a boulder after a few secounds, also it’s been created that only certain people can open it. If you are not one of those people it will look and feel like a normal rock.” Dazai explains before making a gesture for Atsushi to follow him. 

Walking through the halls running through the mental map that Fukuzawa set in his mind. Twisting and turning only looking back slightly to make sure that Atsushi was following them. 

Then he hears it stoping right infront of one of the rooms. Not just Ranpo and Poes voices, it was another voice as well. One that only haunted him in his sleep, he never thought he would ever hear it again. “Daza-“ Atsushi tries to speak but Dazai puts up his hand silencing him immediately. 

“Chuuya” he whispers quietly staring at the man who’s sitting quietly only smiling whenever they look at him. Of course Ranpo ruins the moment he’s having by turning around and smiling at them. 

“Welcome! Dazai, Atsushi have a seat.” Ranpo of course is still smiling. As Chuuya slowly loses color turning as pale as paper upon seeing Dazai. Atsushi also seems to pale upon seeing Chuuya, Chuuya of course pushes himself up. His chair falling to the ground, and his plate crashing to the floor. 

“I apologize Ranpo but it seems as though I need to leave.” Chuuya sates pushing his way through flying books. A piece of paper flying into his hand with seemingly a route to his room if he so chooses to stay. He pushes past Dazai as well only being stopped by Dazai’s hand grabbing his wrist. He looks so pale, so frightened eyes wide and hands shaking and trembling. He tries to pull his wrist away from Dazai and he just lets him. 

He allows Chuuya to leave, watching as he turns into the tunnels. Fleeing from, fleeing from him? Why does he let him escape again? Why is he leaving in the first place?  So many questions running around his head, he almost feels faint. 

Moving towards them dodging books and papers that fly around the room. Standing he pulls out his own chair and sits down at the table with Ranpo and Poe.  Atsushi moved to sit beside him, picking up a plate. He begins to pile sweets on top of eachother stacking them precisely.

“Did I do anything wrong? I thought he would be happy to see me.” He wondered out loud staring blankly into the empty plate. 

“I think it would be better for you to try and talk to him about it, not us. But a lot probably went on in the palace and there’s a lot that’s happened to him since you left. There may be conflicting feelings at the moment in his body.” Ranpo states answering the empty questions. Trying to keep from spilling too many things that Dazai shouldn’t know at the moment. 

No, what is Dazai doing here? He wasn’t supposed to be here. That wasn’t a part of the plan, how is he supposed to act? Is he supposed to ignore or act like he hates Dazai? Fyodor never told him what to do, what is he supposed to do? 

He slowly lowers himself to the ground in his room. Sitting on the hard rock floor not bothering to get to a more comfortable area. He’s shaking, he feels as though there’s something wrapping around his chest. Squeezing it and making it hard to breathe. 

He’s trying not to but horrible thoughts fill his head. What if Fyodor finds out, he’ll murder him, maybe not even him he’ll murder Elise, Kouyoka, Q, Kenji, even Akutagawa. He couldn’t let that happen, he can’t let his own life triumph over their lives. 

Trying to pick himself up he falls again scraping his hands against the rough wall. Feeling the sharp burning pain pulse from his hand he looks down.  Golden blood flowing down his arm from deep cuts that have formed on his hands. 

Pulling his sleeves up and away from the blood so it doesn’t stain. Moving to where his bag is he picks up a jug pouring it onto his hands. Washing away the golden liquid, not attempting to treat it he just falls down onto the bed trying to figure out what to do. 

He has to stay until he can convince Ranpo and Poe to come with him and go back to the palace. 

The only thing in the way is Dazai and Atsushi, they definitely won’t want him to take Ranpo and Poe. They’ll probably try to get them on their own mission which he can’t have. He’ll have to follow after them, he’ll  pretend to be on their side. Then slowly lead them to the palace. 

Once he had it all figured out he closes his eyes, trying to slow down his breathing. Letting the fast thrum that he felt on his hands fade into the background. Finally falling into a light sleep ready to be told to come for dinner. 

Chuuya hadn’t come, to dinner. An akward time in which everyone basically stayed quiet. Even Atsushi seemed weird and was acting out of the ordinary at least for him. 

it’s late now almost everyone has probably gone to bed. He’s still up though, thinking of all the possible reason Chuuya didn’t come. He was bathing, he was sleeping, he escaped, he died, he ran back to the palace because he didn’t want to see him ever again. 

That thought plagued him, he hasn’t seen Chuuya in forever. Yet he’s here, maybe, and he’s only a few corridors away he could walk to him. Talk to him, just be in his presence, he can still hear his voice echoing around. The sweet sharp sound of it dancing in his head. 

Pulling himself of the bed he lift his heavy body up. Staggering towards the door he opens it, allowing it to swing on its hinges as he leaves it open. Leaning against the wall he allows himself to catch a break and figure out what the hell he’s doing. 

He can’t really wrap his mind around the movements of his body. Only recognizeing that he’s pushed off the wall and is moving somewhere. Though he fears he knows where his legs are taking him. Somewhere to fill the deep aching need for the tiny redhead.

Blurry walls pass by him as he walks staggering and leaning against walls when needed but trying to push through. A burning headache fighting it’s way  through his body, his eyes are burning as well. Somehow he gets there after memorizing the map about the layout of the hideout that Fukuzawa should him. 

Standing right before the door Ranpo shouted out. And sundenly it hits him that he’s here right infront of Chuuya’s door. One door is separating him from seeing Chuuya. He just need to open it and he’ll (hopefully) see him. 

So he does he brings his hand up and knocks on the door. His mind rushes through all the bad senarios that could’ve happened. It all stops and his mind goes blank when Chuuya opens the door though blinking up at him tiredly. 

“Hello Dazai, have you come to collect me for dinner? Though it’s a little late I don’t know why we’re eating this late.” Chuuya questions looking up at him with his eyes looking so soft and sweet. 

“You must have slept through it dinners already gone by. Everyone is going to bed.” He answers resisting the urge to bring his hands up and just cup Chuuya’s face.

“Oh okay then, is there something you need. I’ll go back to sleep if not.” Chuuya mutters about to turn around but is stopped by his hand. Chuuya didn’t immediately try to yank his hand away so that’s a plus. 

Instead he just looks up at him with wide tired questioning eyes. “Chuuya can we talk? I really need to talk to you.” Desperation filling his voice as he pleads hoping for Chuuya to agree. 

“I- sure Dazai come on in.” Chuuya admits sighing slightly as he moves back allowing Dazai to some in his room. As he moves in he closes the door behind him, letting it shut with a soft thud. 

Moving closer he stands awkwardly in the corner as Chuuya fiddles with his fingers while sitting on his bed. “I’m sorry Chuuya, I didn’t want to leave you an-“ he tries to explain, wanting to fill the akward silence quickly. But instead his voice is quieted for Chuuya’s.

“I’m sorry too, I didn’t defend you like I could’ve I also didn’t come with you even when you offered to take me with you.” Chuuya rambles on sounding so sweet yet he can still hear the little hitches as Chuuya talks. 

“Chuuya it’s not your fault, I acted irrationally and without a plan. I did it because I was mad and frustrated. And you did save me, you stopped Fyodor from stabbing me and killing me.” Dazai explains, moving over to gently hug Chuuya. 

“Plus if your to blame for not helping then so is everyone else as no one helped me that day. Also it was totally reasonable that you stayed behind, you had the kids, both the Akutagawa's your sister and brother. Everyone you knew was there in the palace.” He reasons with the ginger, rubbing his head in circles trying to calm him down. 

“You left everyone you knew though? And you lost your goddamn eye Dazai!” Chuuya responds through hiccups and shivers. 

“I didn’t have kids relying on me, and you're the whole reason I was even able to leave safely. How about I explain the eye thing too you tomorrow okay?” He tries to reason, while he rocks his body slowly  in an effort to calm the crying god down. Combing his fingers through his hair and keeping him as close to his body as possible. 

“How is everyone?” He asks changing the topic in an effort  to distract Chuuya and maybe help him relax. He also is worried about Yosano and some of his other friends that he hasn’t seen or heard from since he left. 

“I dunno I don’t talk to most people, most people try to avoid me though so it’s always kinda hard check on them.” Chuuya answers as honestly as he can in his state at the moment. Though this does surprise him since most people genuinely like Chuuya and their opinion shouldn’t have changed too drastically. 

“Do you know the reason they act like this?” Dazai questions seriously, hoping and praying to not get the answer he’s thinking of.

“I honestly don’t know, I guess there are reasons, especially because not everyone seems to be annoyed by me. But there are people who seem to dislike me and it surprised me who they are. And I kinda always thought it might be my ability mixing in with their thoughts but I never dive to deploy into it.” Chuuya states swaying slightly as he falls lightly into the bed looking exhausted. 

This isn’t helping so he’ll have to ask Chuuya when he can think clearly and isn’t being threatened. By the claws of sleep that are dragging down his eyes.

“The kids don’t act like that though so at least I have a few people.Plus it’s weird since I usually already have someone with me so now that I’m alone it feels weird.” Chuuya continues as Dazai tries to make him more comfortable to go to bed. 

“You must miss them a lot, they were pretty good kids.” Dazai comments helping move Chuuya more into the middle of the bed.

“I thought you didn’t like them though? Why the sudden (not really) change of heart?” Chuuya questions looking up at him through bleary eyes and red wispy lashes. 

“Well they truly made you happy, and I really could never hate something that made my Chuuya happy could I?” He offers as an answer smiling down at the adorable redhead.

“ ‘zai” Chuuya whispers out quietly, as he clutches onto Dazai’s hand loosely. 

“Want me to stay with you Chuu Chuu? Is this because of the separation Anxiety that apparently has been drilled into you?” He ask’s joking around. 

He was ready to leave as soon as the red head lying on the bed asked him too. Not expecting though for the red head to squeeze his hand and quietly ask if he can stay with him. 

And who is he to deny his favorite person such a request? So instead of leaving he’s moving Chuuya over and laying down next to him. Allowing the smallers body to curl into him, safe with him for now. 

“He’s arrived safely, I trust?” He asks sharply  to the man in the corner of the room. Things are going a little fast but he knew he had everything under control. 

“Of course as you predicted he is exactly on time though the duo arrived a little earlier than expected.” The man replies with dark shadows enveloping him and cloaking him in darkness. 

“Your tricks will have worn off Atsushi by now, do you think that will cause problems for us?” He murmurs questioningly. Turning he can barely make out any object in the room due to the darkness. 

“I’m sure they won’t, after all I’m just amplifying what is already there. Festering and growing under the skin, I just help it grow across the rest of the body.” The man states with a wicked smile attached to his face. 

The man’s powers are truly amazing especially since he’s not on the receiving side of it. Though he wonders how true and real it feels. Turning back he glanced at the table papers scattered around with small cut out glued around. 

“The pan is in action, and we have trackers in them. One sacrifice is worth crushing this puny rebellion.” The man adds before disappearing into the night leaving him alone with his thoughts. 

He‘ll miss Chuuya for sure, but the role Chuuya is playing in this plan is better than any pleasure. So ultimately both of their sacrifices will be worth it even if Chuuya’s sacrifice will be much bigger.

Chapter Text

Breakfast was quiet, only the soft chatter from Poe and Ranpo could be heard. Echoing through the hall, his conversation last night with Chuuya was still stuck in his mind. How honest the redhead had seemed the whole time. Yet he would barely even look at him. 

Instead, he’s staring at his food, pushing it around, and scraping his utensils against his plate. Atsushi of course isn't much better staring between the two of them until he's caught then going back to shoveling food into his face. 

He's been acting differently since they saw Chuuya, Dazai thought with everything Atsushi had to say earlier he would've said more to Chuuya. Not only because he's sitting two feet away from him so any talking with Ranpo and Poe would be heard by the so-called enemy. Not only that, Chuuya also slept close enough to him that he could've poisoned their food or killed them while they were sleeping. These, of course, were things he brought that he was worried about while living in close proximity to Chuuya 

It honestly doesn't seem as though Ranpo notices the awkward tension hanging in the air. Poe does though, staring at all of them gaping until Ranpo pulls him back into their own world. He knows he should probably use this time to discuss the help he requires from Ranpo and Poe. But he can't bring it up at least not right now as it pains him to remember he and Chuuya aren't in fact on the same side. 

So instead he stays quiet, eating his breakfast until he physically can't handle it anymore and claims he's done. Turning to him Ranpo states that he wants to have a meeting with him after lunch. Honestly, he isn’t looking forward to it, he’s safe at the moment away from the harsh reality of this miserable universe. 

He nods agreeing to whatever Ranpo mutters out. He then stands up smiling at the group as his plate disappears, vanishing as if it was never there as he turns away. Moving toward the corridor he hears Chuuya and Atsushi mutter that they will also be leaving. 

Twisting through the corridors is easy, each step he takes echoes softly against the walls. Making his way to his room he tries to make a mental list of everything he needs to get done before meeting with Ranpo. Surprisingly he finds it easier than the last few days when he tried thinking up plans. He wants to blame it on the fact that he's now actually sleeping on a bed instead of the hard earth. And although that may be part of the reason he doesn't truly believe that's the whole reason why he can finally concentrate. 

Finally seeing his door he opens it up stepping inside and making sure the door is fully shut, before letting out a sigh of relief. Scanning over the room he checks to make sure nothing has been disturbed while he's been gone. Finding everything the way it was left he turns to the desk in the corner of the room.

Looking over the papers he brought he sighs slumping down into a wooden chair. Running a hand through his hair he pushes it back before looking down at the papers scattered on his desk. 

Reviewing the plans he brought up with Fukunazwa back at the temporary base. Most of it is about how to get his eye back or to get Ranpos help in the war. Rubbing his forehead, he sighs trying to make sense of it all. Piecing together the ends and odds of his plan. 

Trying to figure out how he can keep the people he wants alive, but also make sure Fyodor stays dead. It's not going to be easy, he's sure he'll lose something though it probably will be worth it.

Atsushi is staggering through the halls, his head is spinning, and nothing seems to be real anymore. All that he knows is the feet in front of him, everything else seems to be lies. 

Nodding around he hits his head against a wall falling as static surrounds him. He knows he should probably get somewhere but his head is spinning. And it feels like gravity is against him pushing him towards the floor.  

Trying to just move a finger is a difficult task in itself. He doesn't know why it's happening but he knows something is wrong, his brain seems to be lagging. Though it's almost impossible for gods to get sick (unless poisoned) so he doesn't understand what's happening. 

There's a small part of him that wants to blame it on Chuuya since it's been happening ever since he first saw him. But there's a larger part of him telling him that it's a stupid conclusion to come to. He doesn't get it. He remembers his attitude toward Chuuya for a while now and he can't remember anything changing. 

It could be an ability but he's never seen anything like it, he could probably ask Ranpo or Dazai but he doesn't want to bother either of them right now. Especially since Dazais reviewing the final versions of the plan. Then trying to convince Ranpo to help them. 

He doesn’t want to be a burden to anyone, especially not Dazai. He's done enough for him and he can't expect him to just fix all his problems. The sound of shoes against the floor pulls him out of his thoughts. He hears the person stop above him before crouching down to be at his level. 

Tentatively the stranger seems to reach out his hand before pulling it back. He really can't see their face. It is almost annoying how his eyes seem to be preventing him from seeing the person. “May I help you?” the stranger asks quietly, looking down at him to see his reaction. 

He tries his best to hum or even bod his head but it feels almost impossible in every way. The stranger seems to pick up on how difficult it is for him to move. The stranger grabs his hand pulling his arm around thin covered shoulders. Pulling his limp body up from the floor and making sure he stays up. “Are you comfortable, does anything hurt?” The stranger asks seemingly concerned. 

“I'm fine” he's able to mumble though both his face feels numb and droopy. Even his legs dragging on the floor hurts even though he's so heavily leaning on the stranger. He almost feels bad for the poor person dragging him since he's not the lightest and it must be hard dragging him. 

“I'm taking you to your room, is that okay?” The stranger's (a man,) his brain finally processes due to the haze. And because of this haze, he doesn't try to figure out how the man knows where his room is. Or how the only people who should be in the tunnels should be him, Dazai, Ranpo, Poe, Chuuya, and Karl. 

He just hazily grunts at the man, seemingly it's a good enough response since they continue moving along. Slowly trudging on through the winding hallways, the man makes no small talk as they walk along. 

Once they finally make it to his door, the man pushes the door open dragging them both inside the room. Then he quickly closes the door before turning back around, looking at the crumpled god on the floor. He finally picks the god up for the last time, dumping him into the bed, then releasing a sigh of relief. 

“I'm gonna grab you some medicine, I'll just be a minute.” The man stands up walking away from the god to grab something from his belt. Atsushi really can't see what the stranger is doing. His mind is too numb to care at this point. 

“Dazai I’m sure we have things to discuss, please sit down,” Ranpo suggests, looking up at him and smirking slightly. He nods down at him pulling out his chair, and sits down on said chair. 

“Ranpo, I would like you to keep an open mind and think about everything that we offer and how it will affect the world based on your decision.” Dazai pleads before laying out a bunch of rolled-up pieces of paper. 

“I promise, now are all of these plans?” Ranpo asks questioningly after promising. Slightly tilting his head and smiling slightly. 

“Yes almost all of them are the plans, some of them are diagrams of how we get into different places without Fyodor noticing.” He explains handing some of the bunches of paper to Ranpo for him to inspect. 

“So what do you need from me?” Ranpo asks, finally looking up from the diagrams, and putting them down lightly onto the table. He then proceeds to look up at him. 

“We need you to help us get through his traps and any obstacles that may be in our way.  It would also help because although I’m stronger than I was, having another mind to put into battle strategies will help us have the upper hand compared to Fyodor.” Dazai explains trying to illustrate an image for Ranpo.

“So am I getting this right? First, you need your eye, which if you've become stronger and your ability has grown the eye might slow you down if my data is correct. Then we have to draft a way to defeat Fyodor and get the throne away from him. Then we somehow have to transition the kingdom between two extremely different leaders. And may I remind you, you haven't explained to me how you're gonna win over the people. And what your ideas for the land are. What if they're completely different from mine?” Ranpo explains breaking down everything he wants to know from the war god. burn

“The eye won't slow us down, it enhances my ability, so the training would still be useful. As it only enhances what I already have. The throne will be easy to take if we plan our attack right. The transition should be easy, well easier people will probably be more flexible since it's only been a short time since their last ruler.” Dazai explains nonchalantly before turning to Ranpo tilting his head at the confused look on the other god's face.

“So what just because your dad used to be king you should have the throne again? Honestly, after the way all of them are being treated by Fyodor, they'll probably want an extremely good leader. I just want to know the land is in good hands.” Ranpo explains looking extremely more vulnerable than he was at the start of their conversation. 

“I do Ranpo, I really want to be a good leader. I want to keep my people safe and make sure that after all of this, they are well taken care of so they never have to worry again.” He sounds so vulnerable he absolutely hates this. But if that's what he has to do to get Ranpo and the others to trust that he wants what's best for his land he'll do it.

“That's the only thing we can ask for, I’ll be holding you to this just so you know for future uses of course,” Ranpo states jokingly while taking a drink from a glass placed right next to his arm. 

“I expect no less of you Ranpo, I’ll make sure I hold myself to your standards. And be my version of the morals you need a leader to possess.” Dazai jokes back, laughing slightly before smiling hard. Before looking back down at the papers scattered across the desk. He's glad he's gotten all of this sorted out. He hopes Atsushi hasn't gotten himself in too much trouble. 

“Would you like to finish polishing out the plans, now that we've sorted out what type of leader you are? We do have limited time to get all of it sorted out.” Ranpo ominously states getting a certain look from the other man. Dazai just nods along unfolding the papers with a sigh. Knowing that it's probably going to take much longer than he anticipated. 

He swears the liquid a brown good color was divine but it must have done something to him. Cause now even without his permission his spilling everything. “You must’ve done something to me, this is absurd my bodies not listening to me.” He whines, getting overly frustrated at the man sitting across from him.

“As I said the last time you accused me of it, I did no such thing. It was a healing elixir, you're wearing off someone's ability which is why your body is reacting this way. You got so used to it controlling your mind your body doesn’t know how to function since it’s been removed.” The man states sounding annoyed at the constant pestering. 

“But everything’s wrong my brain seems to have been switched. The way I felt about people no longer feels true.” He cries out, feeling as though the pressure in his head is about to explode. Even yelling isn’t helping at this point but he just wants to know what’s happening and why it’s happening to him. It feels so unfair, he really wants to cry. 

“Oh, I don’t mean to pry but would you like to talk about it? It may help you feel better, you don’t have to of course.” The man states making his way over to feel his forehead. He tries to look at the man’s face but his vision is still blurry and the veil the man is wearing is not helping. 

“It’s just I thought I knew definitely what I thought about what I thought about people but now it doesn’t seem so clear. An example is Chuuya after what he did I knew I hated him. But now it doesn’t seem like the hate is as present. Sure I’m Angry but what he did now kinda seems reasonable. I'm also really worried about Ryuu I'm scared something bad might've happened to him. It was as if it was clouded over before I kinda feel like a fraud I'm pretty sure I almost forgot about him. Well, not about him more about what might've happened to him. I put him in danger I was naive and came here even though it may have been a trick. I put him in danger just because I was reckless. I was so stupid, how could I have done that? What if hates me now oh god what if he never wants to see me again.” He rambles on, only stopping when he feels a wet sensation on his cheeks. Raising his arm he tentatively touches his face collecting the tears onto his hand. Before hurriedly whipping them onto the blankets below him. 

The man still hasn't said anything allowing the god to speak freely and then collect himself. Before tentatively speaking again, “I'm not going to sit here and tell you you didn't act like an ass. But you had your reasons. You trusted yourself and that might or might not have been the wrong choice. You can't change the past but I'm sure Akutagawa will forgive you. He unfortunately truly does love you. You will have to show him that you're worth that love though. Next time you gotta think with your head before you react otherwise something horribly wrong that you can't fix might happen.” The stranger advises, seemingly looking straight at him through the Vail. He sits contemplating what the stranger said to him. 

Before turning to the other man who's still staring at him. He feels his eyes getting droupy and just keeping himself up is hard. His arms have turned to jelly and are aching as he lays down. Shutting his eyes as he speaks. “I’ll do just that, thank you for the advice. And for staying and listening to me, it means a lot to me that you didn't leave the minute you had a chance. I'm glad met you.” He slurs out feeling his body drop as he finally meets the sleep his body has been so desperate for. Just because of that, he's not able to pick up the last words the man mutters as he makes his way out of the room. 

“Don't thank me just yet Atsushi.” Is murmured as he leaves. Closing the doors behind him and walking away into the distance. 

Lines of people line the streets, the war is finally over and Sasaki has crumbled. It was bound to happen eventually, though it was a very nasty battle. Corpses line the streets women, children, soldiers, it doesn't matter who they were now they are dead. Killed because of their queen's idiotic decisions. Kicking a corpse to the side he trails behind a general. The man is pointing out different things to him. 

“Approximately how many people are still alive? And how many were killed.” He asks as the general freezes hearing his voice. He turns slowly before pausing to think about the numbers. 

He continues walking as the general thinks knowing exactly where he wants to go. The general followed behind still thinking about the question the other asked. 

Finally standing before the right door the man behind him finally finds his tongue. “About 235 thousand are left alive out of 568 thousand citizens.” He pushes open the door making the man pause for a minute as he stares at the old queen. “The citizens have been rounded up by our troops. We’re awaiting your orders on what to do with the alive citizens. As well as what to do with the corpses that invade the kingdom.” He finishes looking over to Fydor who is viciously smirking while staring at the woman on the ground. 

Her face is contorted in a mixture of Hatred and Panic. Trying to scramble up off the ground but the chains pull her down once more. Staring at the amusing sight he pulls himself back together before turning to the man behind him. “The ones alive will make good labor and bring them back to our kingdom. And assign them jobs in the field, in the castle, or on construction sights. As for the dead, bring them into a pile and burn them.” 

A loud scream echoes around the room, forcing the two men to look at the queen on the ground. “I forbid you from doing that Fyodor, you know what will happen if they are burned. I won't allow you to harm my people anymore.” She yells forcing her legs to hold her weight as she struggles to stand. 

“I don't believe you have any power at the moment. Those were my orders, and my troops do as I say. I also don't care what happens to your people in the afterlife. And it's not like You're ever gonna see them again, You're not even gonna make it till the burning I'm afraid.” Her face morphs into panic as the reality of her situation sets in. “Go tell my orders to the troops I want it done as fast as possible I have other uses of my troops at the moment.” He turns addressing the man before giving him his back. Facing the dishonored queen, he watches as she falls apart sons racking her weak body. 

He can feel the general unease radiating from his body. “ I said leave us, didn't I?” He snaps turning to glare at the man until he finally unfreezes scrambling to get out of the room before he's killed as well. Turning back to the woman he's relieved to see that she's not fighting against him seemingly accepting her fate. 

“Get it over with, and do make it quick.”  She nods up at him a defeated look in her eyes. He pulls out his sword putting it against her throat as she breathes a sigh of relief. The last words she said were only a quiet goodbye as there was a clean slice right through her throat. Black sliced-off hair falls to the ground along with the slump of a body and the roll of her head. 

Stepping away he examines the blood dripping down his arms. Stepping over her decapitated body he heads towards the door. Someone will clean it up later. “Disgusting”