A Monster Like Me

by Dazai_Shinju

Summary:

Damn it Dazai! You were supposed to slay the dragon, not lay the dragon!!!!
Dazai is a knight sent to slay Chuuya, but that isn't quite what happens... I will trigger warn you; Chuuya is tall when he's a dragon. Yes, I know, very unnatural and upsetting. Don't worry, he's still a chibi when he is in human form.

Chapter 1: Suicide Mission

"You summoned me, Mori?"

The man clad all in black stood before the iron throne, dark hair falling over a face half covered in bandages. His long cloak fell around his shoulders, its color melding with the shadows of the hall.

Mori Ogai's mouth twitched, as if he were holding back a smile. This particular subject never bowed or addressed him by any sort of honorific, a prospect that he found more amusing than anything.

"Tell me Dazai, why is it you wish to die?" The king asked, intentionally leaving off his title as well.

"Let's turn that question around," Dazai replied, his eye flashing as he met Mori's gaze. "Is there really any value to this thing we call 'living?'"

"Touche," the king replied, his eyes roving over the man in black. He was one of the few who knew why the boy wore those cloth strips around his arms and neck. "You have shown a surprising vitality for someone with such a bleak outlook. You have proven your worth, so I think I will reward you, my loyal subject~" He said, the mockery clear in his voice. Dazai scoffed, but before he could reply, Mori continued. "I haven't found a willing partner to do lovers suicide with you, but I will give you the next best thing. With luck, your death will be quick and painless. I'll turn your suicide into a noble quest and have you die a hero."

Dazai perked up slightly, a glint of morbid interest in his blood red eye. "A suicide mission? So you're just going to throw away your favorite tool, huh?"

"I can be merciful," Mori said, his snakelike grin betraying that this was hardly the truth. "A powerful dragon has been discovered in the Emerald Mountains, and I want his hoard. What do you say, Dazai; fancy yourself a dragon slayer?"

"Now this is interesting... why not? It would be an honor to be killed by such a majestic creature~" the brunet replied sarcastically.

"I knew that you would accept. If you defeat the beast, send word and you'll have riches and honor beyond your wildest dreams. If not, I doubt you'll be missed."

Dazai turned to go, a satisfied smirk on his face. Finally, something to break him from the dull monotony of his usual life.

Maybe if I slay the beast, someone beautiful will fall for me and we can jump off a cliff together. If not, well, I'll get to see something new before I die. I wonder how big this dragon is anyway...

Dazai packed his bags and left that very day, riding off towards the distant mountains on his skittish grey mare. Mori was right, he had no one to say goodbye too.

He made no rush to complete his journey, driving his horse at an easy pace as he took in what would most likely be the last days of his life. Dazai felt his spirits lift once he reached the trackless wilderness; the solitude and gentle sounds of nature his only company. There was no one to watch him, to criticize him, to impress. There was no reason to put on a fake smile and pretend everything was fine. It was just him and his horse in this wide green country.

After a few weeks steady travel, Dazai made it to the foothills of the great mountains. The shining peaks indeed looked like emeralds in the morning light. Wild sheep grazed on the open pastures, and the only obstructions in the rolling grassy hills was the occasional tree or lone boulder.

"Looks like you'll have plenty of grass to eat, Setsunai. Let's hope that the dragon doesn't see you as food, huh?" Dazai said, patting the horse on the flank. Inwardly, he felt slightly nervous at how exposed he was out here. The towering mountains seeming to loom over him, and it was easy to imagine some great beast perched on the peak, watching his every move.

Even after another day of steady riding, there was still no sign of the dragon. The standing stones had become more frequent, and the terrain had become more rocky and broken up; evidence of a glacial activity in a bygone day. Wildflowers of every color grew on all sides, and the soft sound of a mountain stream just made the scenery more beautiful. It was hard to imagine a bloodthirsty dragon living anywhere near here.
Dazai travelled further into the mountains as he slowly made his way towards the tallest peak. If dragons were as proud as legend said, this is where it would make its home. He could now see occasional signs of the dragon: huge clawed footprints, fallen and splintered trees, and the occasional pale gleam of bone from one of its meals. Dazai smiled as he imagined himself lying out here, getting covered in a shallow grave of new grass and fallen leaves. It was an oddly peaceful thought to imagine his own bones lying in this beautiful wilderness with no gravestone or memorial to mark them.

The air grew thin, and the morning mist hung heavily on the mountainside. Tall spires of rock reared up on every side, their mist shrouded shadows making them look like some huge monster lying in wait. Setsunai huffed and snorted, sensing Dazai's own unease, but he urged the reluctant horse on. As the mist cleared, however, Dazai finally found what he was searching for. Far ahead, nestled on top of a steep anticline, was the yawning maw of a huge cave. This was most definitely the lair of the dragon.

Getting there proved to be more difficult than expected. Steep drops and impassable crevices opened up suddenly beneath his feet, and rocky outcroppings blocking his path. Finally, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Dazai made it to the base of the cliff below the dragon's cave. He stopped to camp for the night, but didn’t dare to light a fire this close. Weary but unable to sleep, he laid down on his bedroll and watched the stars.

 

Dazai sensed rather than saw something moving in the night. It was far too dark to see anything, but he imagined that he felt a disturbance in the air, and heard the faint sounds of a huge beast breathing. He lay absolutely still, clutching his sword with a white knuckled grip and straining to hear the faintest sounds. Setsunai suddenly spooked, but her frightened whinnying was suddenly cut off with the sound of crunching bones. The darkness made everything so much worse... Dazai's imagination ran wild, and he couldn't fight what he couldn't see! He just lay there in silence, praying that the dragon wouldn't notice him.

Of course I'm not that lucky, Dazai thought as he heard the soft footsteps approaching him. Suddenly, the full moon came out from behind a cloud, shedding light on Dazai's foe at last. The silhouette of a giant serpent was slowly stalking closer, its gleaming eyes fixed on him. Dazai sprang up and drew his sword, but his hand was shaking. He'd never seen anything so big!

When the dragon saw it was discovered, it quitted stealth and walked towards Dazai more quickly, its claws clacking menacingly as he came nearly face to face with the small warrior. Then the dragon spoke.

"Who the hell are you, and why are you here?!"

Dazai jumped in surprise, not expecting to hear such a human like voice.

"I'm here to kill you, slug!" Dazai replied, faking bravado.

"That's laughable; I could crush you with one paw! Leave now; I'm not giving you any of my treasure!"

"I can't!" Dazai said in a sudden burst of frustration. The dragon's cocky attitude irked him for some reason. "You killed my horse, remember? How am I supposed to get home?"

"Not my problem. Just get lost, scum!" The dragon huffed and turned to leave, but stopped to look over his shoulder.

"You didn't answer me earlier. Who are you?"

"My name is Dazai; you?"

"Chuuya."

With those parting words, the dragon retreated into the night.

Chapter 2: Mission Failure

Summary:

Dazai and Chuuya fight!

Dazai lay quietly for the rest of the night, but sleep had fled his eyes. To make matters worse, he was forced to listen to the sickening munching and tearing noises as Chuuya devoured his horse. He shuddered and pulled his blanket closer around himself, trying to block out the noise. Dazai's thoughts were in turmoil; the dragon was nothing like he'd expected, and was a far more terrifying opponent than he could have imagined. It was unlikely that he would be able to outsmart it, and there was even less hope that he could win in direct combat. Even if he somehow won, a mountain of gold and a river of silver wouldn't do him any good since he had no way home without his horse. All in all, his prospects looked bleak. It was not until the sun had risen that he finally fell into a fitful sleep.

"You're still here, huh?"

Dazai's eyes snapped open, and he jumped to his feet, nearly falling over as he untangled himself from his bedroll. The dragon was right there, just casually lying next to him and looking down with distaste. The beast looked even more powerful and majestic in the full light of day, its scales gleaming like pearl and ruby, its mane the fiery orange of an autumn sunset. Before he knew what he was doing, he was looking into Chuuya's eyes, the dragon's gaze freezing him in place. One eye was blue; the enchanting blue of deep water, while the other was a rich, vibrant brown. Dazai felt enchanted by those eyes, his resolve wavering and his mind wandering. He quickly turned his gaze downwards, realizing that he had nearly fallen under the dragons spell.

"You need to leave. I have no mercy for humans who trespass on my land." Chuuya said, his voice commanding and filled with power.

"It's not so simple," Dazai replied. "My king ordered me to slay you, so I can't go back even if I wanted to. I have to either kill you, or die trying."

"There's no way you can kill me, you pathetic excuse for a dragon slayer. The iron scales that cover me give me armor like tenfold shields! My teeth are swords! My claws are spears! The shock of my tail is a thunderbolt through the sky! My breath of fire, my signature, is death!" He roared proudly, puffing out his chest and swinging his long tail from side to side.

Dazai took an involuntary step back, clutching his sword in a white knuckled grip. It felt like a toy when faced with this creature of destruction, who's boasts, though vainglorious, were likely not far from the truth.

"That's right, give up while you can~" Chuuya taunted, looking down at the warrior with contempt. He could pick him up with one paw if he really wanted to. How could this little human possibly expect to kill him?

"I know I probably won't win, but I'm gonna fight you anyways. Heroic death and all that shit," Dazai said with a smirk. He pulled himself together and charged, aiming a sweeping blow to Chuuya's foreleg.

Chuuya roared with delight, parrying the blade with his claws and making Dazai stagger back. He always loved fighting, and this strange, spunky human was fun to banter with as well.

"I'm not that hungry after eating your horse last night, but if you're offering, I won't pass up on dessert!"

Dazai shuddered as he imagined Chuuya's teeth ripping him apart, his bones crunching in those powerful jaws. Even though he wanted to die, such a violent death suddenly seemed less appealing now that it came to it... That thought distracted him enough that he barely dodged Chuuya's jaws, which snapped shut a fingers width away from his face.

Dazai stepped back, holding his sword on guard while the dragon crouched down, its tail swaying from side to side.

"Come on, try to hit me!"

He's just playing with me, Dazai realized. He's so confident he can win, he's not even really trying!

"Don't underestimate me, you lazy wyrm!" Dazai said with forced bravado. He attacked as he spoke, feigning a right slash before jumping to the side. Chuuya tried to parry with his claws again, but he wasn't fast enough, and Dazai's sword slashed him across the paw. Chuuya hissed in pain, but the cut was shallow, most of the force spent on his thick scales.

"Nice, you managed to draw first blood! No other human has done that much," Chuuya said with a grin, his predatory fangs on full display. He pounced, intending to grab Dazai in his paws, but the troublesome warrior slipped away at the last moment. Dazai tried to stab at Chuuya's neck, but the dragon reared backwards onto his hind legs, an exhilarated grin still plastered on his reptilian face. He was having more fun than he had had in years.

"Why does your king want to kill me? I haven't caused any problems," Chuuya asked, wanting to know more about his foe before he killed him. He didn't really want to kill Dazai, but he kinda had to if he wanted to maintain his image as a ferocious dragon...

"You know humans; they like to stamp out anything that frightens them. Plus, Mori's a greedy little shit, and he wants your gold," Dazai replied, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Chuuya laughed out loud at Dazai's description, slashing with his claws in a blow he knew Dazai could dodge. "That's how you talk about your king? Ha... you're definitely different, I'll give you that." He pounced again, but Dazai slipped out of the way and cut Chuuya across the arm. Chuuya grunted in pain, knocking Dazai to the side. I might have underestimated this warrior, Chuuya thought, leaning down to lick his bleeding foreleg.

Dazai staggered to his feet, still shaking from adrenaline as he leaned on his sword. Yes, he'd cut Chuuya twice, but the dragon was barely hurt. He, on the other hand, was dizzy and reeling from a single, indirect blow. He knew that if he was hit full on, he would die. He stood on guard with his sword raised as Chuuya fixed his amber and sapphire eyes on him again.

As they continued the fight, Chuuya felt a strange feeling stirring in his chest. Was it respect? for a human? He couldn't deny that his heart was racing in his chest as he fought, and that he actually felt a small thrill of fear as Dazai fearlessly fought against him. He repeatedly slipped under Chuuya's guard, using his agility and small size to his advantage. Finally, Chuuya managed to hit the tricky little human with his tail, which sent him flying into a nearby boulder.

Pain exploded all over Dazai's body as Chuuya's tail hit him in the stomach, and his vision went completely black. He didn't know how long he was out, but the next thing he knew, he was lying on his back, feeling like he'd been caught between a hammer and anvil. He forced his eyes open, but his vision was swimming so much he could barely make out the towering form above him. Dazai choked and coughed up blood as he tried to crawl backwards, but Chuuya pinned him to the ground with one huge paw. He reached for his sword, but his fingers closed on empty air. He looked around, seeing the outline of it lying far out of reach. This is it, this is the end...

"That was a good fight, Dazai. I've never met any warrior as fierce as you," Chuuya said, looking down at the battered and bloody warrior he had pinned beneath his paw. Chuuya gave him a moment to regain his senses, but Dazai didn't cry or plead for his life like Chuuya had half expected. No, instead he closed his eyes and smiled; going limp and ceasing all resistance.

"Good job Chuuya, you won... please, make it quick..."

"That's it? No last words or regrets, brave warrior?" Chuuya asked, his eyes fixed intently on Dazai's face. Why doesn't the idiot look afraid?

Dazai shook his head, not having anything to say for himself. He'd known he would die at Chuuya's hands, had wanted his miserable life to end, and now his time was here. He was relieved that it all would be over soon, and that he wouldn't have to carry on his miserable life any longer. At the same time, Dazai's heart twinged with an unexpected emotion. Was it... regret? Regret that this was all his life had come to? Regret that he had nothing to live for; that he had never found something better? It's too late for that now... it'll all be over soon, Dazai thought, waiting for the inevitable. He felt Chuuya's warm breath wash over him as the dragon lowered his head until his snout was only inches from Dazai's body. He braced himself, preparing for the sensation of razor sharp teeth tearing into his flesh.

Scales gently brushed against his face, and a strong, hot blast of air ruffled his hair. It kind of... tickled? Dazai opened his eyes, watching in confusion as the huge dragon sniffed him up and down, like a hound investigating a scent. He waited a moment to see if Chuuya would do anything else, but the dragon didn't seem very interested in killing him.

"Aren't you going to, you know... eat me?" Dazai asked tentatively, his eyes meeting Chuuya's.

"Nah, I don't want to," Chuuya said, sitting back and looking down at him. "You're all skin and bone, and would definitely taste terrible. I was just trying to scare you earlier," he continued, laughing at Dazai's confused expression. He waited a moment, but the warrior didn't get up or try to move, he just stared back at him with a sad, defeated expression. Chuuya noticed for the first time that his eyes were an enchanting red; beautiful and deep as a precious garnet, and just as cold.

"Well, aren't you gonna get up?" Chuuya asked after the silence stretched on a bit too long. He nudged Dazai encouragingly with his snout, hoping to elicit a response. "Dazai?"

Chuuya watched with concern as Dazai's eyes fluttered shut, and he drifted into unconsciousness. He looked really pale, and his heart didn't sound as strong as it should have.

"Damn it, humans are so fragile," he muttered, scooping Dazai up with his paws. He didn't know what to do or what was wrong; Dazai had been awake and coherent just a minute ago!

Chuuya brought Dazai up to his face, his keen senses detecting Dazai's deteriorating health.

"You're hurt! How do I make you better?" He asked, trying to suppress the worry in his voice. He didn't know why he felt this way, but for some reason, he didn't want Dazai to die. He rushed him back to his cave and laid down, wrapping his tail securely around Dazai's scrawny body. He felt cold, and his eyes looked unfocused. Chuuya wracked his brain, trying to recall everything he knew about human health, which admittedly, wasn't much. He was used to killing, not healing!

Dazai watched dumbly as Chuuya tended to him, completely limp in the dragon's grasp. He lay there in a daze, his mind too hazy to wonder why the dragon was taking care of him, or even to be afraid. His head was spinning, and the world seemed to be fading away... Then everything went black.

Notes:

Here's a drawing I did of their fight!
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStrayDogs/comments/1g93iui/knight_dazai_vs_dragon_chuuya/

Chapter 3: The Greed of Dragons

Dazai yawned and stretched, wondering why his body felt so sore. He was warm and comfortable, and for a moment he thought that he was wrapped up in blankets in his own bed. When he opened his eyes, however, he realized he wasn't in his bedroom, or even under a roof. He looked up in confusion at the cave ceiling, then down at the heavy coils surrounding his body, and it all came back to him. The dragon, the battle, getting hit with this very tail... but then, why was he alive? Why had the dragon taken him to his cave and let him sleep in his grasp?

"Good, you're awake," Chuuya said gruffly, raising his head to look at Dazai. "Feel better?"

"...yeah," Dazai replied cautiously, still feeling a shiver of fear as Chuuya's massive form towered above him. "Why... why didn't you kill me?"

"I didn't feel like it."

He didn't feel like it? What is that supposed to mean? I thought that all dragons loved death and destruction! Dazai thought.

"Well, you should have. You won, I lost. Go ahead and just get it over with."

"You're still on about that heroic death bullshit?" Chuuya said, rolling his eyes. "Well too bad, I'm not going to kill you."

Dazai stared back up at Chuuya with an unimpressed expression. "What possible benefit could you get from keeping me alive?"

Chuuya smiled, his fangs gleaming in the light. "You're the most worthy adversary I've ever faced! I want to get you healed up so that you can come back and fight me again!"

"You stupid lizard..." Dazai groaned, his head swaying dangerously, but he didn't pass out again. "I can't go back until I fulfil my mission. I can't kill you, so please kill me! That's what I've wanted from the start. I have no family, no friends, no-"

"So that's the real reason you came on this suicide mission, huh? Not for honor and glory, but because you are too weak to keep on living? Pathetic," Chuuya growled, his tail tightening around Dazai. The man let out a cry of pain as the coils tightened, but Chuuya didn't release the pressure.

"Chuuya- please stop-" Dazai choked out, blood leaking from the corner of his mouth as Chuuya aggravated his wounds. Chuuya's growl deepened, but when he saw the blood, he slowly let go.

"And here I thought I'd finally found a brave warrior to face me. I guess I was mistaken," Chuuya scoffed, looking away. Humans have such short life spans; why does this one; the only one I'm interested in, want to throw his away so badly? It's stupid and weak, and I don't want him to do that! He thought to himself, struggling to understand why Dazai was so suicidal. The fact that this talented, intelligent human thought so little of himself made him angry for some reason.

"I'm sorry to disappoint you," Dazai replied, shifting against Chuuya's coiled tail. It was still too tight for him to escape, and even that small movement made him wince in pain.

"I could tell that you were holding back yesterday; that you lost on purpose." Chuuya said at length. "I'm not letting you die until you give me a real fight. That means nursing you back to health, so tell me, what hurts?"

Dazai blinked in surprise, not expecting Chuuya to ask or care about the injuries he'd sustained.

"My back hurts a lot, and so does my head," Dazai said. He had a faint memory of being hit by Chuuya's tail and crashing into the rocks. He could feel the bruises and barely closed scabs pressed against Chuuya's scales. He raised his hand to the back of his head and wasn't surprised to find that his hair was matted with dry blood.

"Alright, how- how can I help?" Chuuya asked, seeming a bit unsure of himself. For some reason the thought of helping Dazai made his heart speed up. He told himself that he was just worried about his lack of medical knowledge, and humans in general. Dazai was surprised that Chuuya sounded sincere in his desire to help him, even if it was just so that they could fight again later. After a pause, he replied:

"I have alcohol and spare bandages in the saddle bags outside. If you grab them, I can take care of myself."

Chuuya nodded, then slowly uncoiled his tail from around Dazai. "You stay right here, got it? Don't wander deeper into my cave," He said sternly before walking outside to find the bags. Dazai did as he was told and stayed seated on the cold stone floor, his mind reeling with questions and doubts. I just wanted to die, damn it! Now I'm being kept alive like some sort of pet just so that I can fight again!

Dazai looked up as Chuuya returned a minute later, holding his bags in his mouth. He dropped them at his feet with a huff, then retreated further into his dark cave, leaving him to his own devices. That was just as well, since Dazai would have to remove his old bandages before he could treat his wounds.

Coins clanked and jewels tumbled down in a tide as Chuuya curled up on his hoard, shifting his serpentine body so that he was partly covered in the shiny treasure. He growled softly to himself, feeling an innate desire to protect his treasure and prevent Dazai from coming any closer. Even if he was helping this human, he didn't trust him, especially not with his precious gold.

The smell of alcohol and Dazai's stifled grunts of pain were easily perceptible to Chuuya's dragon senses, but he didn't stir from his place. The thought of coming closer again and offering comfort and help rose to his head unbidden, but he quickly pushed it back down. I don't care about Dazai as a person; I just want him to live up to his full fighting potential before I kill him, Chuuya thought, trying to deny the stirrings of pity in his heart. He distracted himself by licking the large gash on his foreleg, the wound stinging as he brought his attention to it. It was the worst injury he could remember getting, and it had hurt so bad he'd hardly been able to sleep that night. He growled to himself again, remembering how skilled Dazai was with a sword. He couldn't wait to test himself against the warrior again when he was back to full strength.

Dazai finished bandaging himself up, but Chuuya didn't emerge from his cave. Dazai waited for awhile, snacking on some rations from his pack and thinking about life, but Chuuya still didn't stir from his treasure hoard. Eventually, he got up and wandered deeper into the cave in search of his new 'roommate.'

As the cave got darker, Dazai cast a sign for light so that he could find his way. The cave was much bigger and deeper than he expected, with lots of side tunnels and passageways. He saw a bit of light down the main corridor, and rounded the turn. A gust of cold air ruffled his hair as he stared out into the massive cavern beyond. The place was illuminated by dimly glowing crystals, showing the shadowy outlines of stalactites hanging like ruined pillars from the ceiling. Most magnificent of all, though, was the hoard of treasure. A shaft from unseen heights cast a ray of sunlight upon the pile of gold and gems, circled about by Chuuya's shiny white coils. He doesn't look too happy to see me here; I wonder if dragons are as greedy as legend says, Dazai thought, slowly walking forward.

Chuuya's eyes narrowed to slits as Dazai got closer. He let out a low growl to warn off the unwanted visitor, but Dazai didn't turn around to leave, and only came closer to his precious treasures. I told the brat to stay put! What is he doing?

"Don't you dare touch anything, Dazai..." Chuuya growled, his teeth bared and ears flattened in a threatening display.

"Oh, the big, bad dragon doesn't want me touching his gold? Classic~" Dazai snarked, circling around to the side. "I'm not going to steal it, if that's what you're worried about. I have nowhere to go, remember?"

Chuuya followed him with his gaze, the coins cascading around his head in a golden waterfall. "Yeah, yeah, I don't care. Keep your grubby human paws off my treasure."

Dazai grimaced in annoyance at being called 'human' again as he walked even closer. It felt like a cruel joke when he felt anything but human. Chuuya jumped up and snarled, gnashing his teeth to try and scare Dazai off.

"Don't. Touch. Anything."

A single gold coin rolled away from the pile and came to rest right at Dazai's feet. Chuuya's eyes widened, another low growl rumbling in his chest. Dazai looked straight up at Chuuya, a shit eating grin on his face as he deliberately placed the toe of his boot on the coin.

"Don't you dare..." Chuuya breathed out, his voice barely a whisper.

"Oh, oopsie~ What are you gonna do about it, Chuuya?" Dazai asked sassily, scooting the coin back and forth with his foot.

That was it. Chuuya's instincts to guard and protect his hoard were on overdrive as Dazai sassily ignored him and stepped on one of his precious coins! Chuuya lunged forward and grabbed Dazai in his paw, swiftly carrying him away from his treasure.

"YOU LITTLE SHIT!!!!" He roared in Dazai's face, spit flying everywhere. "I told you not to touch anything!!! Do you think this is some kind of game?!?!"

"Maybe~"

For a moment, Chuuya was at a loss for words. He just mouthed silently, his eyes bugging out in fury at the sheer audacity of one Dazai Osamu. It took all his willpower not to chuck him across the cave as hard as he could. Instead he settled for a firm shake.

"Oh, you're asking for it now, bud. Can't you see that I'm a fucking dragon?!?! Don't you know that I could easily kill you if I wanted?!?!" Chuuya hissed. Dazai's hair was blown back by Chuuya's heavy breathing as he seethed, bringing him closer to his face until they were only inches apart. Dazai's heart was racing, and he felt a primal fear at being manhandled by an angry dragon.

"Go ahead~" Dazai said cheerfully, pretending that he was unaffected by Chuuya's threatening display. "I'm suicidal, so death threats don't really work on me."

"Oh, I'll show you-" Chuuya growled, his tail lashing back and forth. He had absolutely had it with Dazai's attitude. He grabbed him by the belt and stormed out of the cave, determined to teach him a lesson. All Dazai could do was hang limply from Chuuya's mouth, feeling like a naughty kitten getting carried around by the scruff of its neck. Soon, Chuuya set Dazai on a pinnacle of rock that towered hundreds of feet above the valley below.

"You're being a brat, so guess what? You're stuck here until further notice!" he proclaimed proudly, looking quite smug about his punishment... until he saw that Dazai hadn't lost his annoying smirk, and was backing up towards the edge of the cliff. Chuuya's heart sped up, and he suddenly realized that putting a suicidal man near a cliff probably wasn't a good idea.

"I don't think so. Goodbye, Chuuya~" Dazai said, a sad smile quirking his lips. Then he leaned backwards, teetered precariously on the edge, and fell.

Chuuya didn't think, his body just moved on its own. One moment he was watching Dazai jump, and the next he was diving after him, a desperate urge to save this man burning in his heart. With no thought for himself, Chuuya forced himself to go faster, catching Dazai with his paws in the nick of time. He tried to pull up again, but his inertia was too great and the cliff too low. He was going to crash; all to save a human he had met yesterday. A human who wanted to die.

Notes:

Damn it, Dazai...

Chapter 4: A Ray of Hope

There was a moment where Dazai felt weightless; his feet no longer touching solid ground, and nothing but air beneath him. The sound of rushing wind filled his ears, cutting off all other noises except for the rapid beat of his heart. A feeling of euphoria and dread gripped him like a vice as the cold wind whipped around his body, catching his hair and stealing his breath. That's alright, I'll be dead in a few moments anyway...

Dazai felt the impact shake through his body, everything going black for a moment. Dimly, he was aware of powerful talons gripping him around the middle, then a sense of weightlessness. The great crows have come to take my soul, he thought, knowing that death had come. Then, he felt a second impact, and everything went black again.

Chuuya managed to grab Dazai just in time, his paws wrapping protectively around his small, delicate frame. The ground loomed up too close and too fast, however, and Chuuya knew that he would crash. Chuuya whipped his tail behind him, redirecting the trajectory of their fall into a less vertical one. Tall, dark pines suddenly loomed up in front of him, and a heartbeat before they hit, he did what came naturally. Chuuya curled in on himself, shielding Dazai's body with his own as they hit the wall of trees.

Wood splintered, rocks cascaded down, and dirt clouded up like smoke as Chuuya came to a tumbling, sliding crash. His mind was foggy with shock and pain, and he let out a soft whimper as he felt every new bruise and bump on his body.

Dazai...

Chuuya slowly raised his head and looked down at the small human clutched in his paws. Dazai met his eyes, his red one fuzzy and disoriented, but alive. Chuuya let out a sigh of relief, then let his head flop back down to the ground.

As Dazai's head cleared, he realized that somehow, inexplicably, he had survived. You weren't supposed to feel pain when you were dead, and Dazai was most definitely in pain. Chuuya saved me, but why...? Dazai looked up and met the eyes of the dragon, wondering what lay behind their mysterious depths.

When Chuuya's head flopped back onto the ground, Dazai realized that he'd hurt himself saving his life. It was written in the rapid rise and fall of his chest, and in the soft, pained whines he seemed to be trying to suppress. Dazai looked back up at the rocky pinnacle he'd jumped off of, then at the scar made in the landscape from Chuuya's crash landing. He felt a pang of guilt in his heart, and an unexpected feeling of pity for the monstrous creature. He climbed carefully out of Chuuya's grasp, then walked over to his huge, scaly head. The dragon seemed much less menacing now that he was lying still and making noises like a wounded animal.

"Are you alright?" Dazai asked cautiously, looking over Chuuya's serpentine body, and at his mane, tangled up with branches and pine needles. The cut he'd given him on his foreleg had begun to bleed sluggishly again, but he didn't see any other major injuries. A fall like that must have hurt, though.

"Fine," Chuuya wheezed, shifting his head a bit closer to Dazai. "Got the wind knocked out of me, that's all." He closed his eyes in pain, belying his words as he let out a shaky breath.

"I'm sorry... You're hurt because of me..." Dazai said quietly, his eyes wide with guilt as he began to process the enormity of what had just happened. Chuuya had used his own body as a shield to save his life. Chuuya grunted in acknowledgement, looking up at Dazai with doleful eyes.

"Why did you jump? Was it because of me...? I promise, I wasn't that mad; I never wanted to hurt you-"

"No, its not that," Dazai quickly reassured, taking a cautious step forward. "I gave up on life years before I met you."

Chuuya felt relieved that he hadn't inadvertently driven Dazai to suicide, yet another part of him was deeply troubled. He didn't know the cause or extent of Dazai's trauma, or why he had given up on life so completely.

"Then what is it? You can't just jump off a cliff and not even tell me why!" Chuuya growled low in his throat, his eyes narrowed slightly.

"It's a lot of things, ok? What I want to know is why you would go to such lengths to keep a pathetic person like me alive? Why?!"

Dazai didn't understand why this dragon seemed to care about him to the point of jumping off a cliff after him; it just didn't make sense. Chuuya growled to himself, but didn't answer right away. Why do I care so much about Dazai? It was true that he thought he was talented and a worthy rival, but that wasn't enough to explain how he'd reacted when Dazai attempted. He'd jumped after him without hesitation, which was something he wouldn't do for just anybody.

"Because killing yourself is stupid and pathetic, and you shouldn't want to." Chuuya muttered at length, not meeting Dazai's eyes. He didn't understand his own emotions on the matter, so he just shoved them aside and adopted his usual grumpy attitude. Dazai wasn't satisfied with that answer, and could tell that Chuuya was hiding something deeper.

"So it was merely an altruistic impulse? Pft- dragons don't do things like that out of the kindness in their hearts."

Chuuya huffed and moved his head away, flopping it back down on the grass away from Dazai, but he wasn't one to be ignored. Dazai walked right back, standing right in front of Chuuya's face with his hands on his hips.

"Well?"

"I know that I'm regretting my decision," Chuuya said, stubbornly moving his head away again. He was like a guilty dog that refused to meet his masters eye. Before he knew it though, Dazai had walked right back, and was leaning against his muzzle in a would-be-casual manner.

"I think I have a right to know why you took out half the forest just to stop my suicide," Dazai pressed. "And I doubt it's just to fight me later on. You wouldn't risk your hide just for that."

"I don't have to explain myself to you," Chuuya huffed, shaking Dazai off his snout and getting clumsily to his feet. His body was all battered and bruised, but he wasn't seriously injured because of his hard coat of scales. His arm was aching though, and he realized with annoyance that the gash was bleeding again, dying his white scales crimson. He staggered away and plopped down to lick it clean.

"Hey, hey, don't lick it! It won't heal right if you keep doing that," Dazai said, following after the big dragon.

"But it hurts! What else am I supposed to do?" Chuuya asked testily, a slight growl in his voice. Dazai walked closer and crouched down next to his gash, which was sluggishly leaking blood thickened by dirt and other debris.

"First, we need to wash it properly, then wrap it up so that it can't get infected. Trust me, I've dealt with my fair share of wounds before," Dazai said, reaching out to tentatively touch the scales next to the gash to see how badly it hurt.

"I can see that, but why do you still wear so many bandages? I mostly smell old scar tissue," Chuuya asked, a puzzled look on his face. Dazai flinched back, hugging his arms to his chest.

"That's none of your concern. What we have to worry about now is your injury. Is that the gash I gave you yesterday?" Dazai asked stiffly. 

"The very same," Chuuya grumbled, laying his head back down on the ground. He could sense that he'd struck a nerve, but he didn't know why.

"Just stay here; I'll be back to dress your wound in a moment," Dazai said with a sigh, getting up and walking off towards the sound of running water.

The river was less than a five minute walk from where Chuuya had landed, but it was a good twenty before Dazai returned with a wet cloth. The dragon could see that the bandages over Dazai's left eye were damp, but he didn't say anything, even if his head was bursting with questions. He wanted to know why Dazai wanted to die, why he always wore bandages, and why his mood and actions changed as unpredictably as the weather. He wondered if Dazai had been deliberately pushing his buttons to try and get himself killed, or if he'd only been trying to get Chuuya to pay attention to him. He wanted to ask, but he knew that it would only make things worse.

"Hold still," Dazai said, crouching down over his foreleg and gently dabbing at the blood with the cloth. Chuuya grit his teeth as the man carefully removed all the dirt, rocks, and other debris that his tongue hadn't gotten. He marveled at the drastic change once again in Dazai's demeanor; it was caring and gentle, while before he'd been angry and aloof.

"This might hurt a bit, but it'll keep this from getting infected, alright?" Dazai said, pulling out a small flask of liquor and emptying the last of it onto the open wound.

"GAH- Ouch!!!" Chuuya exclaimed, flinching away. The alcohol made it feel like his arm was on fire!

"Hey, hold still, the worst part is over," Dazai reassured, reaching into his pocket for the spare roll of bandages he always kept with him. Chuuya let him wrap up his arm, watching the practiced motion as his wound was slowly covered in the white cloth. We match now, don't we? He thought to himself.

"Thank you," Chuuya said, his voice soft and sincere. Even if he didn't understand the man, and even though he was hurt because of him, he still appreciated this.

"Don't mention it. Now, just leave it alone so it can heal, alright? No more licking," Dazai said with a half smile. Without conscious choice, his perception towards the dragon had shifted away from 'dangerous monster' and towards something much softer. He wasn't afraid of Chuuya anymore; not after he'd proven that even a dragon can have a good heart. Unlike me, who is just a monster masquerading as a human...

"I won't, you bossy bastard," Chuuya replied, his voice lacking any heat. He let out a sigh and stretched out on his side, relaxing in the sunlight. "And thank you I guess, even if this is your fault," Chuuya added with a wry grin. Dazai returned the smile and sat down nearby, stretching his own aching limbs.

"We make an odd pair, don't we? A dragon and a dragon slayer who don't want to kill each other."

"Yeah, crazy right?" Chuuya replied, his gaze wandering back to Dazai. The man looked subdued and pensive now, and he wondered what he was thinking about. For a long time, the two just sat in silence and listened to the peaceful sounds of nature.

"What is it that you really want, Chuuya?" Dazai finally asked, fiddling idly with the bandages around his wrists. He didn't know what he expected to hear, but-

"To feel less alone,"

It was not that.

"What?" Dazai asked, blinking stupidly. It was such a simple and human sentiment that it took him completely by surprise. Chuuya hadn't quite realized the truth either until Dazai had asked that question, and the words had just spilled from his lips unbidden. Chuuya mumbled something incoherent to himself, then turned his head away to hide the rising heat in his face.

"Didn't catch that," Dazai called, a smile slowly spreading across his face. He'd caught the faintest hint of pink as Chuuya turned away, the blush unmistakable.

"Maybe I don't mind having your dumbass around, so don't go dying on me, ok?" Chuuya grumbled, his face heating up more.

"...Well, maybe I don't mind your company either. And maybe I'll give living another shot, just maybe."

Chuuya's head shot up, his mouth dropping open in disbelief. Dazai was willing to give living another shot? Slowly, a smile spread across his draconic face as he studied Dazai's expression seeing the way his eyes darted away from Chuuya's own as he leaned in closer. He didn't smell as strongly of despair anymore, and Chuuya caught the faintest hint of some other emotion that he couldn't quite identify. Embarrassment, maybe?

"You're just like a dog, always sniffing me. It's weird, man!" Dazai exclaimed, pushing on Chuuya's snout to try and get him to back up. Damn it, why is my heart beating so fast?

"Do not compare me to a dog! I am a mighty dragon, not some slavering canine, thank you very much! And you better give living a shot after I dived off a cliff to save your stupid ass," Chuuya said, feigning indignation but unable to deny the fondness he felt for Dazai. My human...

No! Dazai's not a shiny treasure to hoard! Don't get attached to him! Chuuya thought, trying to shake off the inexplicable desire to wrap Dazai up in his tail and nuzzle his hair. My instincts are getting all confused, making me possessive of him like he's a valuable gemstone. These feelings are stupid, so stop feeling them, Chuuya! He reprimanded himself sharply.

"You sure care more than I do, that's for sure. What are you going to do with me now, oh great dragon?" Dazai asked sarcastically, his lips quirking into a slight smirk.

"...Well, I guess I'll fly us back home, and we can figure things out from there," Chuuya said with a shrug. He held out his paw, waiting for a sign from Dazai that he could pick him up. For the first time, Dazai allowed himself to hope that things would get better. He'd never been happy among humans, but maybe, just maybe, things would be different with this dragon.

"Are you going to let me near your treasure now?" Dazai teased, stepping forward and allowing Chuuya to grab him.

"NO."

Chapter 5: Breaking The Ice

Summary:

Were going to get some very fluffy scenes before the main storyline begins! I'm just going to write a few cute, domestic encounters as Dazai and Chuuya hesitantly warm up to each other. I'd love comments on some of the scenes you'd like to see! If I like it and it fits with my narrative idea, I might just add some of them in! Also, thank you readers for sticking with my story; its been fun to write, and I always love to see your nice comments!

Dazai didn't know what to do with himself. Chuuya had brought him back to his cave, told him to be good, and then just plopped down and started staring at him. He didn't know if it was normal for dragons, but it was weirding him out.

"...What is it?" Dazai finally asked once the silence had stretched on too long.

"You're a strange human. I'm trying to figure you out."

"Okay...? Also, can you stop calling me a human? I don't like it."

"Why not? You are one," Chuuya asked, cocking his head to the side. He could smell the agitation radiating off of his companion, and remembered how he'd displayed a similar scent before when he'd asked about his bandages. He shifted his coils, now on high alert. He'd learned by now to recognize when he was approaching a touchy subject, and was determined not to make Dazai upset again.

"There's something wrong with me, ok? I'm an outcast; something you of all people should understand," Dazai replied bitterly. Chuuya looked at him thoughtfully, weighing his words.

"I guess I understand that. You don't feel human, huh? I won't call you one then. I don't know what its like to be human either."

Dazai shot Chuuya a suspicious look, his eyes narrowed. "Why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?"

The dragon looked down, unsure of what to say. He didn't want Dazai to think he was pitying him, but he didn't want to lie outright either. "Well, uh, I want to be a good host-"

"You think I'm weak, don't you? You're worried that if you make me upset I'll try to kill myself, is that right?" Dazai asked with rising anger.

"You just jumped off a cliff! How am I supposed to react?" Chuuya exclaimed, his mane bristling with frustration. Everything he did to try and help Dazai seemed to backfire, and now even his kindness was being thrown back into his face.

"Don't pity me! Just- just leave me alone!!!" Dazai roared, his eye blazing with fury.

"Fine! But don't expect me to feel bad for you when you're acting like a dick!"

Chuuya stomped off deeper into his cave, seething and muttering to himself. He laid down next to the entrance to his treasure room, just to make sure that Dazai couldn't sneak down there. "I'm going to sleep, so don't you dare bother me!" he called back, to no reply. His patience was gone, and he knew that he needed some time to collect himself before he did something he would regret. He didn't understand why Dazai was so difficult, or how he always managed to push his buttons.

"Stupid lizard," Dazai muttered, pacing back and forth. He knew he was being an ass, but he didn't have it in himself to care. These past two days had been a whirlwind of emotion, and he had no clue how to begin handling it.

I can't believe that I'm still alive because of a dragon; a creature I was taught to fear and hate since childhood. What's gotten into me? Why do I feel so drawn to this big, scaly monster?

Dazai had many questions to ponder, and few answers to find, so he decided to take a walk to clear his head. It wasn't until late that he returned to Chuuya's cave, the sun long gone behind the horizon. Dazai curled up on his bedroll, feeling lonely and miserable as he lay on the hard stone ground. He tossed and turned, trying to calm his troubled mind, but it soon became clear that he wouldn't get a wink of sleep that night. The familiar, tense clawing of insomnia ate at his insides, making his heart and breathing quicken until he just couldn't lie still anymore.

Finally, Dazai took his blanket and pillow and wandered further into the cave. His limbs seemed to move on their own, and before he knew it, he was standing right in front of the sleeping dragon. Chuuya looked peaceful in sleep, the lines of anger and worry smoothed from his face. His animal like snout and scaly, reptilian features were so strange and monstrous, yet they possessed a certain elegance; beauty even. Dazai felt a sudden urge to close the distance between them; to run his hands over the smooth scales of Chuuya's face, trace the contours of his horns...

The dragon's breathing was slow and rhythmic, his body quiet and still in sleep. Dazai just stood there for a long while, not sure why he was here or what he hoped to achieve. Chuuya's paw twitched, lost in some dream, and his tail curled tighter around himself, drawing Dazai's eye. The man slowly approached and reached out a tentative hand to feel Chuuya's tail. Slowly, he leaned against Chuuya, relishing in the contact. He moved closer, dragging his pillow and blanket with him as he climbed into the thick, comforting coils.

Dazai's heart hammered as he settled in, afraid that the dragon would wake up at any moment. Chuuya didn't even twitch, however, and Dazai finally began to relax. Why the hell am I doing this? He wondered as he nestled into the scaly warmth. He was afraid of how Chuuya would react if he woke up, but at the same time, he took solace from the contact. The dragons tail was warm and soft, chasing away the nervous energy that had kept him awake for hours. Finally, Dazai fell asleep.

 

Chuuya felt much better the next morning, his aches and pains nearly gone. He yawned widely, then looked around for Dazai. He saw his boots and backpack lying next to the boulder he'd been sitting on last night, but there was no sign of the man. As he woke up more fully, he became aware of a slight weight pressed against his tail.

"Dazai?" Chuuya exclaimed in shock, looking down to see him snuggled up in the crook of his tail with a blanket and pillow.

"H- huh?" Dazai replied blearily, sitting up and rubbing his eyes. "Something wrong?"

"You're in my personal space, that's what's wrong! Did you seriously sleep there all night?"

"Oh..." He'd hoped that he would wake up before Chuuya, but he'd slept in. Damn, this is embarrassing. Dazai quickly got up and backed up a few steps, looking anywhere but at Chuuya. "Well, its not my fault that I couldn't sleep! The ground isn't very comfortable, y'know!"

"But my tail? Seriously?!? You're supposed to be afraid of me, not- not use me as a bed!!!"

Dazai's face flushed, and he turned away with what he hoped was a dignified huff. "Ugh, just forget about it already! I don't know why I did it!"

"You're just a needy little thing, aren't you? Can't sleep on your own?" Chuuya taunted, a sly grin crossing his face.

"No, I just don't have a bed to sleep on, so I found the next best thing!"

"Okay fine, fine, I get it, but this is a one time thing, okay? If you don't like sleeping on the floor, make yourself a bed of leaves or something." Chuuya scratched his tangled mane with his foreleg, then started walking towards the entrance of the cave. "I'm going hunting, so be good while I'm gone and DON'T TOUCH MY STUFF."

"Fine, since you asked so nicely. What am I supposed to do while you're gone?" Dazai asked sarcastically.

"Get a fire going; I might share my kill if you're good."

Dazai found himself watching fondly as Chuuya stalked out of the cave. The big lizard is growing on me, Dazai grudgingly admitted to himself. Chuuya had intrigued him from the moment he'd first laid eyes on him, but now that interest had grown into a strange fascination. There's something about him; I don't know what, but I can't keep him off my mind. Unbeknownst to him, Chuuya felt the same way.

Chuuya flew high in search of prey, and quickly spotted a herd of sheep grazing in the foothills. The animals scattered, baaing their distress as Chuuya swooped in on them from above, his eyes locking an a particularly large, delicious looking ram.

Shlunk! The feeling of his claws stabbing into the ram filled him with ecstasy and bloodlust. Chuuya roared in triumph, soaring back into the air with his prize clutched in his talons, the unfortunate animal bleating in panic as its insides spilled out into empty air. I can't wait to show Dazai!!! Chuuya thought excitedly, looking down at the prey dangling from his claws. It had an impressive set of horns, and its meat looked tender and delicious. He's going to see what a great hunter I am, bringing back a trophy like this!

"That was fast," Dazai remarked as Chuuya landed beside him, a dead ram clutched in his talons. Dazai had just finished gathering some sticks for a fire, but hadn't had any success lighting it.

"I'm a great hunter," Chuuya replied, his head held high as he presented the sheep carcass to Dazai. "What part do you want?"

The dragon looked a little bit like a hunting dog who had just proudly retrieved a kill. Dazai's lips quirked up in amusement, finding his pride amusing. "I get to choose, huh? Well, I always like a good mutton leg."

"You're welcome to it, I have plenty!" Chuuya replied eagerly, then ripped off the leg with his teeth and dropped it at Dazai's feet. He felt an unexpected thrill from sharing with Dazai, and his smile only broadened as Dazai accepted the gift.

"Thanks...?" Dazai replied, holding the bloody, slightly damp mutton leg at arms length. "Can you start the fire? I like my meat cooked, you know."

Chuuya was more than willing to comply. He leaned over Dazai's pile of twigs, then carefully breathed out a small stream of black and red flames. The branches crackled, and orange flames leapt up from the logs in a cheery blaze.

"There we go, you're all set. I bet you can't light a fire that quickly, huh?"

"Nope, I can't breathe fire like you can..."

"I can do a lot of things you can't since I'm a dragon. You're going to need my help surviving in these mountains," Chuuya continued, the sarcasm lost on him. "I'll catch you food every day if you want!"

"Sounds good," Dazai said noncommittally as he began to cook the meat. The smell of burning wool immediately assailed his nostrils, and he pulled the leg back off the fire.

"You're supposed to skin it," Chuuya added helpfully. Dazai shot him a glare, which slowly softened into an abashed grin.

"Cooking isn't one of my talents, as you can see~"

"Ha, loser having to cook his food~ I can just eat it raw!"

To punctuate that statement, Chuuya took the ram in his paws and started chewing on its head. Dazai rolled his eyes good naturedly, then turned his attention back to cooking his own food so he wouldn't have to watch. The sound of Chuuya eating the sheep: bones, wool, and all, was a bit irksome to Dazai, but he did his best to ignore it. He focused on cooking his food and tending the fire.

After awhile, Dazai took the leg of lamb off the fire. Chuuya came over and watched as Dazai examined the cut of meat, his own meal already done. It was blackened on the outside and undercooked on the inside, but there was enough edible meat for him to make a decent meal.

"You weren't kidding; you can't cook~" Chuuya joked lightly, taking in the mess that had once been a perfectly good mutton leg.

"Shut up," Dazai said, taking a hesitant bite. He wrinkled his nose; it tasted even worse than it looked.

Chuuya rested his head next to Dazai, watching as he ate. "If you aren't going to finish that, can I have the rest?"

"You just insulted my cooking!" Dazai chuckled, reaching out to pat Chuuya affectionately. He quickly arrested the movement, and turned the gesture into a dismissive sort of wave.

"I don't want the burnt stuff, just the extra bones and meat!" Chuuya said, looking up at Dazai with pleading eyes.

"I don't know how you're still hungry after eating that entire sheep, but here you go I guess," Dazai replied, tossing the shin bone into the air. Chuuya deftly caught it in his mouth, then started chewing on it with a contented look on his face. He's just like a dog; a giant fire breathing lizard dog, Dazai thought with some amusement. As he continued to feed Chuuya the scraps, Dazai realized that he actually didn't feel miserable right now. He was almost... content? It was a strange, unfamiliar feeling, and he didn't know how to handle it.

"Look at us; a dragon and a dragon slayer having breakfast together without trying to rip each others heads off," Dazai drawled, tossing Chuuya the last piece of meat.

"I don't think you qualify as a dragon slayer anymore," Chuuya said, subconsciously scratching at his mane again.

"Yeah, you're probably right. I think fraternizing with the enemy disqualifies me from that profession~" Dazai replied, another small smile gracing his lips. "You act just like a dog, you know? Now you're scratching yourself like a mutt with fleas," He added as Chuuya once again began messing with his mane. Chuuya growled a warning. He didn't like being called a dog, especially one with fleas.

"It's not my fault its all tangled up with branches and leaves! You were the one who took a swan dive off the mountain."

"I guess I should probably help you out with that," Dazai said with feigned exasperation. "After all, you did just catch me a very nice sheep..."

Chuuya's ears perked up as Dazai praised his hunting and offered to brush his hair. Even more time with my human! Perfect!

Without further ado, Chuuya grabbed Dazai by the back of his shirt and carried him back to his cave like a little lost kitten.

Chapter 6: A Walk in the Woods

Summary:

Ah, the denial is strong with these two...

Chuuya lay coiled up in a tight ball, refusing to acknowledge that he was enjoying Dazai's touch. He kept his eyes closed stubbornly as Dazai worked at the knots and tangles in his mane; pulling out branches, leaves, and other things that had gotten caught in his hair. Dazai's slight weight on his neck and the feeling of him combing out his thick red hair was soothing, and was doing no favors for Chuuya's already mixed feelings about his new guest.

"This would be much easier with a horse brush," Dazai grumbled, tossing another twig onto the ground.

"I didn't ask you to do this, you know."

"I know, but I was sick of watching you try and untangle it yourself with your clumsy dragon paws."

"Fair enough," Chuuya huffed, then winced in pain at a particularly hard tug. Just then, the comb snapped in two, eliciting a curse from Dazai.

"That was my only comb, fuck it!"

"Its probably not made for dragons," Chuuya shrugged.

"No shit. Well, looks like you're screwed, big guy," Dazai said, sliding off of Chuuya's neck and onto the ground. The dragon instantly missed the contact, but refused to admit it out loud.

"You know what this cave is missing? Literally everything. I don't even have a place to sit besides the cold, hard ground," Dazai griped, settling down on a boulder. "There's nowhere to sleep or rest, no food, shitty lighting, and everything is cold, hard stone!"

"I've lived here for years and been perfectly happy, so sorry if it doesn't suit your tastes," Chuuya replied with an exasperated eye roll. Dazai's complaining was a bit annoying, but he knew that he had a point. His cave was hardly a suitable place for a human to live.

"It's different for dragons! Come on, can't you raid a village or something to get me the stuff I need?"

"No! I don't want to stir up trouble, and I promised someone important to me that I wouldn't hurt anyone without cause," Chuuya replied, his eyes distant as if recalling a fond memory.

Someone important? Like a significant other?!? Dazai felt a wave of jealousy, immediately followed by frustration at himself for feeling that way. I shouldn't even care that he has a social life outside of me! It's not like it matters, anyway!

"Can't you just buy the stuff then? You have plenty of money," Dazai asked, already knowing the answer.

"I'm not spending a single coin on you!" Chuuya replied firmly. Dazai's hopeful expression slipped, and he looked down at the ground.

"Oh, alright. I guess I don't have a choice since I'm stranded out here..." Dazai said dejectedly.

Chuuya tried to keep a stern expression, but damn, he just wanted to cave and give Dazai whatever he wanted. He growled to himself, debating about what to do. Finally, he said: "I know of a place where I can get you your stupid human stuff..."

Dazai looked up with a surprised and hopeful expression, suppressing a satisfied smirk. "Really? And I thought all you cared about was your gold~"

"You're taunting me, I know it," Chuuya said with an exasperated eye roll, "but I know a way around that problem. I can get you what you need without spending a coin or killing anybody. I know some people who might trade you what you want for alchemy ingredients, and this mountain just so happens to have plenty of rare plants and ingredients you can collect."

Dazai's face immediately fell. Oh, I have to do the work myself... damn it! Usually, he was good enough at manipulation to get out of most of his work, but it seemed like Chuuya wasn't as easy to con as he'd originally thought.

"Don't be such a pussy, Dazai! If you want something, you have to work for it," Chuuya said, giving him what he considered a soft pat on the back. Dazai staggered forward, barely maintaining his feet.

"I don't even know what I'm looking for," He protested with a scowl, pouting because he wasn't getting his way. Chuuya noticed his friends disappointment, and sighed to himself.

"I'm letting you live under my roof and I'm sharing my kills with you, so stop acting like a kicked puppy! You gotta pull your own weight sometimes, cause I'm not going to do everything for you."

"Fine, but at least show me where to find those alchemy ingredients," Dazai begged, holding onto hope that Chuuya would change his mind.

"Hm, there's a lot of different plants in the valley, like foxglove, wolfsbane, and different kinds of mushrooms. Be careful not to poison yourself, kay little guy?"

Dazai grumbled some more at the nickname, but nodded. "I read a lot growing up, so I know my basic herbology..."

Chuuya frowned, sensing Dazai's glum mood. He hadn't really thought about it, but the mountain valley would be difficult to reach without flying. "Hey, I can give you a ride there. Do you want to go right now?"

"Sure," Dazai said with a shrug. "It's not like I have anything better to do."

Dazai expected Chuuya to place him on his back, but to his annoyance, he held him in his paws like a piece of luggage. Dazai once again found himself dangling over empty air as Chuuya took off into the sky. The cold wind snatched Dazai's breath away, and he gasped as he watched the ground shrink below him, the mountains and river glittering in the noonday sun.

"Pretty cool, huh? I bet you wish you could fly!" Chuuya called over the wind, craning his neck down to look at Dazai. The man looked like he was in awe of the view, though maybe a little apprehensive of the height judging by the way he clutched onto Chuuya's paws.

"Yeah, it's beautiful!" Dazai called back, letting out a nervous, exhilarated laugh. Chuuya began to descend in slow spirals towards the mountain valley, setting him down on the soft grass on the riverbank. Dazai looked back up longingly at Chuuya, wishing that he could keep flying with him. He knew it was silly and childish, but that little joyride had been fun.

"I'll pick you up at sunset, alright? Don't get into trouble, and watch out for monsters!"

"Monsters, fun," Dazai replied sarcastically. "I hope there's nothing too big, cause I don't exactly have a scaly coat or fire breath to protect me."

"I doubt there's anything worse than a few dire wolves and giant spiders. Nothing a seasoned warrior like you can't handle, right?"

"I'll be fine. This should be good enough, though I would feel better if I still had my sword," Dazai replied as he pulled a dagger out of the sheathe in his belt. The runes engraved in its blade gleamed a dull blue as they responded to Dazai's touch.

"Did you cast those yourself?" Chuuya asked curiously, leaning over Dazai to look at the silver knife. He didn't know much about magic, but he could sense the destructive power in the blade. Dazai nodded, his heart racing as he felt Chuuya's breath on the back of his neck.

"Well, I guess I'm gonna go hunting for magic mushrooms~ Have fun with your very important dragon duties while I'm gone~" Dazai teased, feeling a bit uncomfortable with how close Chuuya was to him.

"Alright, sure. See ya later!"

Chuuya took to the air, leaving Dazai alone in the forest. He breathed a sigh of relief, that fluttery feeling in his chest fading now that Chuuya was gone. Weird, I don't think I have heart problems... maybe its the leftover adrenaline from flying, Dazai thought dismissively. Either way, he felt less anxious now that he was alone in the beautiful mountain landscape of Chuuya's home. He closed his eyes, just taking a moment to breathe in the rich, earthy scent and listen to the sound of the river.

Dazai laid his cloak on the grass, then wandered into the grove of aspen trees to find some magical herbs and fungi. He was glad that he'd brought leather gloves as he began to harvest wolfsbane and hemlock, laying it out in neat rows on his cloak. He kept his eyes and ears alert as he gathered, not needing Chuuya's warning to know that being alone in a forest was dangerous. He stiffened as he heard a soft rustle in the tree above his head, then slowly looked up.

"That was sooner than I expected," Dazai murmured, observing the large, bulbous spider as it climbed down the aspen stalk, its mottled grey and white body blending in with the bark. It was only the size of a watermelon, meaning it was still quite young. A quick stab was all it took to make it fall to the forest floor, its legs curling in on itself as it died.

Not thirty minutes later, Dazai heard the approaching footsteps of a larger creature. With a sigh, he set down the bunch of herbs he'd gathered and drew his dagger, looking around for the monster.

hisssss....

The bushes rustled, and Dazai stood on guard as a giant lizard like creature lumbered out into the open, its pink tongue flicking out to taste the air. Slowly, its head turned towards Dazai, and it let out another low hiss, poison dribbling from its jaws.

"Well, hello~ A relative of Chuuya's, I presume?" Dazai asked with a smirk, keeping his eyes on the green, reptilian thing. He'd never seen a monster quite like this one, and was thus on guard, observing it carefully. An ambush predator by the looks of it. Better keep out of striking distance and attack from the side, Dazai thought, slowly circling left. He kept his eyes on the creature at all times, watching as its long, forked tongue flicked out again and again, keeping track of him as well.

Dazai moved until he had the sun at his back, temporarily blinding the monster with its lidless eyes. Then, he rushed forward, his dagger gripped tight and ready to stab down. With a speed and agility unguessed from its bulky frame, the lizard moved as well, turning and snapping at Dazai's leg even as he drove the knife into its flank. Dazai was forced to let go of the blade as he jumped back, avoiding the needle-like teeth by a hair.

Damn it! I lost the dagger! It was stuck in the creatures shoulder; too close to try and retrieve with those snapping, poisonous jaws in the way. The monster hissed angrily, walking with a slight limp as it came after Dazai. He backed up, crouching down as he did so to grab a large stone.

As he bent down, the monster struck, racing forward to try and bite at him again. Dazai swung the rock in a sideways motion, hitting the monster in the head. It stumbled to the side, stunned from the blow.

"Fightin' dirty, huh? Well, two can play at that game!" Dazai exclaimed, bringing the rock down again and again, laughing with glee as blood spurted everywhere. Yes, yes, yes! Die, trash!!!

Dazai blinked, coming back to his senses as he took in the carnage he had created. He hadn't realized the extent of his violence until it was over, and the creatures head was a bloody, pulpy mess on the ground. He felt a stab of self loathing at how naturally killing came to him, and how unfazed he was by the sight of blood and carnage.

Dazai pulled the knife from the creatures shoulder, cleaned it on the grass, then returned it to its sheathe. Then, he harvested everything that could be used for alchemy from the monsters carcass and headed back to his little camp. Two monsters in less than an hour... these woods must be dangerous, or I just attract trouble like nothing else.

After a couple hours exploring, Dazai gave up trying to gather mushrooms and just stayed put to wait for Chuuya to come back. Everything from harpies to ghouls seemed to be out for his blood, leaving him beaten up and exhausted. Claws, fangs, feathers, and other body parts lay spread out on his cloak, outnumbering the mushrooms and flowers he'd gathered. I'll definitely make a better profit from these than I would from just gathering herbs, Dazai thought wryly as he smashed another giant spider that was trying to crawl up his leg.

Staying put had decreased his monster encounters, but a few still kept trying to creep up on him. It was like he was a magnet for trouble, and he'd seen way more monsters in just a few hours than he had in years. Come on Chuuya, come back... I'm getting tired, and its getting dark!

Just after the sun set, a small bat fluttered over to Dazai's campsite and landed on a branch over Dazai's head. It had the pure white fur and pinkish wings of an albino, giving it a stunning and otherworldly look. Dazai smiled at the little animal, watching as it fluttered its wings sleepily. The rare albino bat felt like a token of good fortune, like it was keeping the monsters away. The howling of wolves faded, and Dazai would have thanked the gods if he believed that they cared about the likes of him.

After awhile, the bat fluttered over to Dazai and hooked its small wings onto the collar of his shirt, looking up at him with a small squeak. It had a scar over one eye, no doubt from some predator drawn to its white fur.

"Hey, little guy. Don't bite me, ok?" He said with a laugh, stroking the small, fluffy creature with one finger. It let him pet it, and soon fell asleep against his chest. Dazai's own eyelids began to feel heavy, but he forced himself to stay alert. It was full dark now, and he wasn't going to trust his safety to superstition. A lot of the nastiest creatures would be out on the prowl now.

"Crack!"

Dazai leapt to his feet, his heart suddenly hammering in his chest as he realized that some gigantic creature had managed to sneak up on him. Fuck! I must have dozed off! he thought, drawing his silver knife in a flash. The bat squeaked at the sudden movement, then fluttered back off into the night.

"Relax, it's me!" Chuuya said with an exasperated sigh, stepping into the firelight.

"You're late! You said you would pick me up at sunset!" Dazai exclaimed, anger and relief replacing his fear as he realized that he was no longer in danger.

"I forgot," Chuuya replied with a shrug. "I see you've been busy monster hunting, huh?"

"I wasn't hunting them, they were hunting me! What happened to 'there's nothing worse than a few dire wolves and giant spiders?'"

"I didn't think that there was! I've never seen most of these things so close to my home," Chuuya said, stepping closer and sniffing at a giant snake. It looked tasty, so he reached down and grabbed it.

"Hey, hey, hey! No touching! I'm selling that, remember?" Dazai exclaimed, rushing forward and tugging at the snakes tail.

"Fine..." He dropped the snake. "And I suppose I have to carry this all back home, huh? And then to the village tomorrow too?"

"That's what we agreed, and the least you could do after forgetting about me and leaving me alone in these monster infested woods!"

"I don't usually see monsters-"

"That's probably because you scare them all off! Me, on the other hand; I look like food!"

Damn right you do, Chuuya mentally shook himself, shocked at himself for thinking such a thing. Dazai would not taste good! He's bony and wiry, hardly a good meal!

...but that's not the way you want to eat him, is it?

"I'm not letting you eat the snake, so stop drooling over it!" Dazai said, snapping Chuuya back to reality. He reared his head back, his face flushed with embarrassment as he frantically tried to push certain thoughts from his mind.

"Y-yeah, I know, but its tempting," Chuuya mumbled, looking away. "I'll uh, take you back to our cave..."

Chuuya picked Dazai up in one paw again, carrying him and the rest of the stuff back to his cave. Looking at the monsters Dazai had slain gave Chuuya a sudden pang of insecurity, and he remembered with embarrassment how proud he'd been when he'd caught the sheep. He felt the sudden urge to catch something bigger and more impressive to prove to Dazai that he was a better hunter.

As Dazai changed into clean clothes, Chuuya settled down on the ground, once again blocking the entrance to his treasure room. He wanted to sleep on his hoard, but he still felt too protective of it to let Dazai near. He'd just gotten comfortable when he felt Dazai climb onto his back, dragging his blanket behind him.

"Really? Again?" Chuuya asked with a disgruntled rumble, feeling the slight weight of Dazai as he poked around, apparently trying to find the most comfortable spot.

"What can I say? Your big scaly self is a lot more comfortable than the ground," Dazai replied, climbing over Chuuya's coils. He found a cozy spot soon enough, and and laid down with a tired groan. Chuuya's belly was even more comfortable than his tail, and Dazai sank into his body like it was a feather mattress.

"I should kick you off right now," Chuuya grumbled. He tried to ignore the way his heart was racing, but damn, it was hard when Dazai was acting so cute.

"Mph," Dazai groaned in protest, pulling the blanket over his head. Chuuya was so soft and warm, and he really didn't want to get up...

"Don't get used to this," Chuuya finally mumbled, looking away. I want to pull him closer, though that's probably just my hoarding instincts talking. It doesn't mean anything, he thought, trying to relax. Dazai was tiny compared to his massive frame, yet Chuuya was hyper aware of the contact, his stomach fluttering with butterflies as Dazai nestled against it. Usually, Chuuya could fall asleep on command, but right now his body didn't want to listen to him. It was a long time before the dragon was finally able to drift off to sleep.

Notes:

I'd love to see comments and theories about the story, and ideas of what you readers want to see! It might not happen until later in the story, as I'm planning for this to be a pretty long fic.

Chapter 7: Chuuya's Height Insecurities

Notes:

We finally get human form Chuuya!

Dazai slept better than he had in years, and probably would have slept all morning if he didn't roll around so much in his sleep. As it was, he had rolled a little too far this time, and woke up suddenly as he slid off Chuuya's side and onto the ground.

"Ugh... morning, Chuuya," Dazai groaned, staggering to his feet and wrapping his blanket around himself. It seemed that he'd lost his pillow sometime in the night, and now had the pattern of Chuuya's scales impressed on his cheek. The dragon stirred at his voice, and opened his brown eye sleepily.

"Morning, shitty Dazai..." Chuuya yawned, and almost nuzzled Dazai affectionately before he woke up all the way and stopped himself. He got up and stretched, his eyes falling on the pile of monster claws and other stuff Dazai had gathered. I'm going to catch the most ferocious monster to show Dazai that I'm better at hunting! Chuuya thought, his ego threatened by how competent Dazai was with a knife.

"We're going to sell these today, right? How's that going to work when you're, well... a dragon?" Dazai asked, his eyes going to his kills as well.

"Don't worry about it, I can change form. Go ahead and start a fire, I'll be back with breakfast soon," Chuuya said, then took off into the air. Why's he off in such a hurry? Does he have to go to the bathroom? Dazai wondered, snickering to himself as he watched Chuuya go. He didn't mind being left alone again, though he would have liked to ask more questions about how Chuuya changed form. Could he turn into a human? Dazai wanted to see that.

Yesterday, it had only taken Chuuya a little over fifteen minutes to hunt, so Dazai got right to making the fire. Then he sat down and waited, and waited, and waited... What's taking him so long? Dazai wondered as the morning slowly passed by. He drew in the dirt, gathered more sticks for the fire, and stared aimlessly into the distance as time slowly ticked by. Finally, he saw the serpentine form of Chuuya round a nearby mountain peak, clutching something large in his paws. Why couldn't the idiot catch something more modest like another sheep, or hell, even a bear? Dazai wondered, shaking his head as he watched Chuuya eagerly fly his way.

"Is that a gryphon?" Dazai asked with amused resignation as Chuuya landed beside him. The creature was impressive; with rich golden brown feathers and long hooked claws as sharp as knives.

"Yep! It was a tough monster to take down, but I'm way stronger!" The dragon proclaimed, his tail swishing eagerly as if he expected praise.

"You did good I guess, but you sure took a long time. I've been waiting here awhile, you know," Dazai said with a smirk, thinking that Chuuya's ego needed to be taken down a few notches. Chuuya snorted smoke, his wagging tail slamming into the ground.

"It's bigger and tougher than any of the monsters you took down yesterday!"

"Yeah, yeah, but you're also a lot bigger and tougher than me, so its not that impressive," Dazai said with a shrug, feigning indifference as Chuuya seethed.

"I didn't catch it to impress you anyway," He huffed, the lie obvious. He'd spent all morning trying to find the biggest and coolest monster to bring back for Dazai, and now the little shit was making him feel stupid about it. Dazai smirked, thoroughly entertained by how easy it was to get under Chuuya's scales. He didn't push too hard, though; he didn't want Chuuya to pout and refuse to take him to town.

Chuuya was still feeling a little put out after Dazai's casual dismissal of his hunting abilities, but he still consented to take him to buy his 'stupid human stuff.' He even allowed the man to climb onto his back this time since they were flying a longer distance. Dazai enjoyed the view from Chuuya's back, feeling a bit more like a passenger and less like luggage on their flight. He clutched his mane tightly as they soared into the air, flying higher and faster than he'd gone before.

"Oi, quit pulling. And you're using some of that money to buy me a brush, understand? That can be your payment for this trip," Chuuya growled. Dazai loosened his grip just a bit, not wanting Chuuya to know how nervous he felt. He missed the safety of Chuuya's paw now that he had to hold on himself, and every dip or sway of Chuuya's body giving him butterflies.

"Alright, you big baby, I'll get you a brush. Where are we going to anyway? I don't know of anyone who'll buy this stuff outside of the city," Dazai called back, his voice snatched away by the wind so that he could barely hear himself.

"I know a place," replied Chuuya as he swiftly flew over grassy plains and fields. "It's not far from here, and it gets plenty of strange callers. It's a designated neutral zone."

Dazai nodded, even though Chuuya wasn't looking. He'd been to one before; a safe haven for both humans and magical creatures, at least in theory. All he'd seen was a slum filled with humanoids, half breeds, refugees, and everyone else society deemed lesser, all crammed out of sight and forgotten.

"Look at those filthy creatures, trying to settle in OUR lands! If you aren't human, you have no right to behave like one and be around normal people. You may not have pointy ears or horns growing from your head, but you are a demon, bastard child. You belong down there with the rest of the freak show!"

Shut up! Dazai thought, quickly asking a question to distract from the voices in his head. "Do you know someone there?"

"I have an acquaintance; an old elf who keeps the best wine this side of the kingdom," Chuuya replied, licking his lips.

"I prefer whiskey,"

"Tch, of course you do. I wouldn't expect you to appreciate the finer things in life," he replied haughtily.

"I didn't peg you for a wine snob, Chuuya~"

"Oh shut up."

The land slowly changed from untamed wilderness to cultivated land, the occasional cottage or farmers field breaking up the rural landscape. Chuuya dropped altitude, slowing down to a leisurely pace as they neared their destination.

"Chuuya, be careful! You're in crossbow range!" Dazai said, his concern mounting as the houses grew closer together, and he saw a few townsfolk looking up at them in surprise.

"Don't worry about that, no one will shoot. This village lies on the outskirts of the Fey Wood, so people are used to strange sights," he replied, rolling his eyes at Dazai's concern. Even if someone did shoot, his scales protected him well. He was in no danger.

"Still, I doubt they see dragons often," Dazai said, the others reassurances not entirely quelling his fears. When humans saw a dangerous creature, they killed it. That was just how it worked.

Chuuya just scoffed at his continued skepticism, and swooped down to land in an open area in the village. He helped Dazai off his back, then looked around warily.

"Now that we're here, um, I should probably change into my human form..." Chuuya said, not meeting Dazai's eyes. He shuffled his paws, his ears twitching slightly as he spoke. Dazai could tell he was nervous, though he didn't understand why. Maybe he feels safer as a dragon: all big, strong, and armored in scales. Or maybe he's just nervous about being around so many people.

Will he like my human form? What if he thinks I look ugly? Ugh, Chuuya! Stop overthinking! It's not like it matters what he thinks! Chuuya took a deep breath, then closed his eyes and concentrated on shifting shape. He felt the warmth of his draconic magic wash over his body, making him feel woozy and lightheaded. When the feeling cleared, he opened his eyes to see Dazai... looking down at him!

Dazai had stepped back in surprise as Chuuya was suddenly enveloped in a deep red light, blurring his dragon form and then... changing it. Chuuya had always been beautiful to Dazai, but as a dragon that beauty was both enchanting and dangerous, like the leaping flames of a forest fire. It was still the same fire, the same Chuuya, only softer now, his features small and delicate compared to his draconic body. His vibrant orange hair hung in loose curls around pale, freckled skin, framing a face a god would be jealous of.

"Oh, damn..." Dazai thought, and accidentally muttered it out loud.

"What's that supposed to mean?!?" If he still had a tail, he would have been swishing it restlessly from side to side. I knew it! He doesn't like it!

Dazai's face reddened to match Chuuya's, and for a moment he was at a loss for words. "I-its just that you're so short!"

"Haaah?! Who you calling short, bandage bastard? I can pick you up with one paw!" Chuuya exclaimed in outrage, scales rippling over his skin for a moment before he regained control of himself.

A sinister smile slowly spread across Dazai's face. He remembered all the times Chuuya had made jabs at his size, and decided it was time for some revenge. Little guy indeed! "Aw, are you embarrassed, chibi? you're such a smol little guy~"

"Can it asshole, and don't call me chibi!"

"But it suits you! I should just call you chibi from now on!"

Chuuya transformed right back into a dragon and picked Dazai up by his feet. "Who's the chibi now, huh?" he taunted, shaking him up and down.

"Hey, stop that!" Dazai exclaimed through his laughter, a huge grin on his face. Chuuya's ears perked up at the sound, and he realized with a jolt that this was the first time he'd ever heard Dazai laugh. His heart fluttered, a warm feeling flooding his body. He wanted to make Dazai laugh again.

"You should know better than to insult a dragon! We're dangerous creatures, you know?" Chuuya said with a teasing lilt, bringing Dazai closer to his face.

"Oh no, I've been captured! Unhand me, you vile beast!" he laughed, struggling playfully against the dragons grasp.

"Not until you are punished for your insolence!" Chuuya quipped back, flicking Dazai on the nose. That elicited another round of giggling, and this time Chuuya joined in. They got plenty of weird stares from passers by, but neither human or dragon cared about that. When their laughter subsided, Chuuya reluctantly shifted back into human form, though this time he kept his horns. They would give him a bit of a height advantage, at least.

"Alright, troublemaker, lets get going. I want a good glass of wine before I have to deal with more of your nonsense," Chuuya teased affectionately, slinging one of the bags over his shoulder. Dazai took the other one, then followed his friend down the road towards an inviting looking building made of sturdy wood and iron. He glanced up at the sign before following Chuuya inside The Black Lizard Inn. 

Chapter 8: The Black Lizard

Summary:

Another long chapter with lots of character cameos!

Dazai squinted as he stepped into the inn, his eyes adjusting to the dim illumination cast by old spell candles and a warm, crackling fire. It had been so long since he'd been around people that the sensations nearly overwhelmed him: conversation, plates clanking, and the shrill piping of a bard at his reed pipes rang in his ears, and the thick, smoky air threatened to choke him.

"Come on," Chuuya said, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the bustling common room. Dazai followed dumbly as Chuuya led him to the bar, seeming completely at home in this place. Dazai, on the other hand, felt uneasy. He avoided crowds whenever he could, and when he wanted a drink, he'd go to The Lupin Bar. He wished he was sipping a whiskey on the rocks with his best friend instead of getting dragged through this rustic, crowded place by a short ginger.

"Ah, Master Nakahara, it seems you've made a friend. Never thought I'd see the day."

"Hirotsu! It's been too long," Chuuya exclaimed, smiling up at the silver haired innkeeper. "This is Dazai, my... friend, yeah."

Dazai gave a slight nod in greeting, a bit wary of the stranger. He had the black skin and white hair of a drow: a cave dwelling, spider taming race of dark elves. Hirotsu, however, didn't seem to fit the bill, much like how Chuuya wasn't at all the dragon he'd expected. His appearance and demeanor were all the polite and gracious host.

"Well, its nice to meet you, Dazai. Want a drink? The first one's on the house."

"Uh, sure. Can I get a whiskey?" Dazai asked with an uncharacteristic timidity.

"And I'll have a red wine. Oh, and we have some stuff to sell, cause shitty Dazai keeps complaining about my cave not being a 'comfortable living space.'"

"Is that so? Shouldn't you be able to buy him some things, Chuuya? You're rich as a king!" Hirotsu asked with a light chuckle, making Chuuya's face redden. He knew that his greed was a bit ridiculous, but by the seven hells, he was not going to share his gold with Dazai.

"If he wants it, he has to work for it. I already give him food and a place to live-"

"Raw meat and a cold, dark cave," Dazai cut in, shooting Chuuya a glare. He was still a bit bitter about being dropped into a monster infested forest cause the dragon couldn't spare a few gold coins. Chuuya immediately began to argue back, telling him that his cave was very nice and that he should feel lucky to live there.

"Well, I can certainly take a look at your wares," Hirotsu said, only the slightest quirk of his lips suggesting that he found their bickering amusing. He poured their drinks, then turned around and banged on the door to the kitchen. "Tachihara! Handle the customers for me, will ya?" He called, then gestured for the duo to follow him. Wooden floorboards creaked as they walked to a quieter room in the inn. Bookshelves lined the walls, and a few comfortable chairs were set up around a low table.

"Now we can speak properly. What are you selling, Dazai?" The old drow asked, his tone polite. Dazai set his bag on the table, reached inside, and set a few of the monster trophies he'd gathered on the table.

"Ghoul blood, dire wolf teeth, and spider eyes?" He asked, looking over the gristly wares with a practiced eye.

Dazai nodded, impressed. "I have more in my bag, but first I want to know if you're interested in buying. They are all really fresh, so they should make good alchemy ingredients."

"Yes, I think I will buy these, they're quite valuable. Did Chuuya kill the monsters?"

"Nah, it was the skinny little guy over here. He's quite the fighter; gave me this when we first met," Chuuya said, holding out his bandaged arm. Hirotsu looked back at Dazai with a newfound respect, wondering how such a young, unassuming human had wounded a dragon and taken down so many monsters. Red eyes, a sign of evil and strange powers in humans... there's much more to this boy than meets the eye...

Hirotsu hid his thoughts behind a neutral expression, though he couldn't help but wonder what all this meant. The usually solitary dragon had taken in a human with red eyes; a human who had apparently tried to kill him. "Well, that's certainly impressive. How much are you offering for the spider eyes?"

Chuuya reclined in his chair, sipping his wine as Dazai and Hirotsu discussed deals and prices. The strong drink was already going to his head, and he felt light and happy. He didn't mind that the negotiations took awhile because he got to listen to his humans voice. It was nice. When Hirotsu offered them more to drink and rooms for the night, he eagerly accepted.

"C'mon Dazai, you can buy your shitty human stuff tomorrow. Lets just enjoy ourselves tonight!" Chuuya said, taking Dazai's hand and leading him back down the hall. His face is all flushed, but he only had one glass of wine. Why's he already acting so tipsy? Dazai wondered as he stumbled after the ginger. Once again, he was met with a wave of sounds and smells as they opened the door to an even more crowded common room. It was near dinner time, and most of the tables were filled with guests of all species and ages.

"Chuuya! Come sit with us!" A high voice called through the racket.

"Great, it's The Flags..." Chuuya groaned.

"Who are they?" Dazai asked, his voice dropping subconsciously as he eyed the strangers. He wasn't keen on socializing with anyone besides Chuuya, especially such a rowdy looking group.

"Stupid adventurers," Chuuya murmured, leading him towards an empty table. The group just laughed, then picked up their drinks and walked over to Dazai and Chuuya's table.

"What's this? Got yourself a pet, dragon boy?" one asked, a wide grin plastered on his face.

"This is Dazai, my companion," Chuuya said pointedly, shoving off the grey feathered wing the harpy tried to wrap around his shoulder.

"Dazai, huh? How'd you catch this grumpy dragons eye?" a cat eared man asked, taking a seat next to Chuuya. He wore only black and white, reminding Dazai of an alley cat that had lived near his home. He didn't like these people at all, especially because they were treating Chuuya like an old friend. It rubbed him the wrong way.

"Who the hell are you guys?" He shot back, glaring suspiciously around at the group of five.

"I'm Albatross-"

"More like pigeon," the cat cut in, earning an indignant squawk from the harpy. "I'm Piano man, the leader of our little band of adventurers."

"I'm Lippmann; the handsome one of the group~" a golden haired elf said, holding his hand out to Dazai. "This is Ice man, our best fighter." The fifth member of the party gave a terse nod, then sat down slightly apart from the group. He had a scar over one eye, but the other gleamed a bright yellow. A lycanthrope, Dazai thought nervously, making a mental note not to provoke him in any way.

"Stop bothering us and leave already."

Lippman met Chuuya's growl with a grin, then pulled up a chair for himself as well.

"fufu... nice to meet you, Dazai..." A quiet, wheezing voice chuckled. Dazai's heart skipped a beat as he met the deep black eyes of the fourth stranger. He was unnaturally thin and pale, and for a moment Dazai had taken him for a wraith. "We're... friends of Chuuya's, you could say... My name is Doc... the party healer."

Healer? he looks like the one who needs healing, Dazai thought, bewildered.

"So, how'd you meet Chuuya?" Lippmann asked, brushing golden hair out of his eyes. Dazai just looked at them all warily, not wanting to speak in front of so many strangers. Finally, Chuuya replied for him.

"He was sent to fight me by his king, but the idiot lost on purpose," Chuuya said, taking another sip of his wine. "I healed him up cause I wanted a better fight, but... I guess we just haven't gotten back to the fightin yet, ay, Dazai?"

Dazai nodded silently, slumping down farther in his chair. The Flags shared a private look, Lippman hiding his grin behind a fake cough.

"Sounds like you two have an interesting dynamic... bet you like living in a cave, fufu~"

"Not really," Dazai admitted quietly, his leg bouncing beneath the table. Albatross burst out laughing at that, leaning on Doc for support. The sickly man bowed slightly under the weight, but soon his wheezy laughter joined in,

"Hey! I treat you great! And my cave is the best in the entire Emerald Mountains!" Chuuya protested, wondering why no one could see that a cozy cave full of gold was the best anyone could ask for. "Dazai just likes to whine!"

"I have every right to whine when my roommate is a greedy slug," Dazai retorted, the teasing coming easily to his lips. Everyone laughed at that, and even Iceman smiled slightly.

"At least I don't look like a dead fish, unlike some bandage waster I know," Chuuya growled, suppressing his own smile.

After that, conversation came easily, and Chuuya found himself enjoying his time with Dazai and the flags, as much as he wished he could deny it. The wine eroded his usually reserved and grumpy facade, and soon, he was talking and laughing with all the rest. They had dinner: a savory lamb stew courtesy of the Inn, everyone happy and at ease... except Dazai. Once again, he felt like alone in a crowd; an outsider, closed off from the drunken pleasure of the others. He dutifully ate his dinner and socialized with the others, but he felt no real emotion behind it. He just wanted to get away from all the noise and spend some time alone, but he hid his feelings well and participated politely in the conversation

"How did you meet Chuuya?"

"Well, that's a funny story~" Albatross chirped, sharing a private smile with the others.

The dragon scowled, taking a long pull at his second glass of wine. "More like embarrassing, but whatever," he mumbled to himself.

Piano man chuckled, his large, fluffy ears turning towards Dazai. "You see, your dragon friend had a bit too much too drink and was causing trouble. Everyone had fled besides us and the innkeepers, as Chuuya had halfway transformed and was causing quite the scene; knocking down tables with his tail and roaring up a storm. We did our best to calm him down, then took him home to sleep the wine off."

"The big, bad dragon threw up all over the floor, then started c-"

"Don't say another word," Chuuya growled, his claws digging into the table.

"Embarrassed, Chuuya?" Albatross's wings fluttered as he continued the narrative. "He started crying like a baby and talkin about all his issues~ said he was lonely and was gettin all upset about how he can't remember his family-"

"That's ENOUGH!" Chuuya roared, flinging his glass right at the harpy's face. Faster than thought, Ice man intercepted the glass, his fist shattering it before it could hit his friend. White and grey feathers ran red as the wine splashed all over Albatross. The carefree atmosphere at the table crumbled in an instant, and for a moment, everyone was too stunned to speak.

"Come on, Dazai. We're leaving." Chuuya growled, dragging Dazai roughly from the room.

"D-did you see that? He just threw his cup at me! Bastard lost his temper again!"

"You never know when to shut up, do you, Albatross?" Piano man said with a heavy sigh as he watched the two go. "You should never mock someone for their weakness, especially a dragon."

 

Dazai stumbled after Chuuya, his mind reeling from the encounter with the flags. Chuuya stomped up to their room without a word, though a deep growl rumbled in his throat.

"Are you okay?" Dazai tentatively asked.

"Fine, just annoyed with that kite-winged klutz! He didn't have to embarrass me like that!"

Dazai sat down on the bed, keeping a safe distance from the seething dragon. "I won't take what he said seriously, it sounds like you were pretty drunk-"

"Don't. I don't want your words, just... get me another glass of wine, will ya?" Chuuya interrupted sharply.

"Alright," Dazai replied softly, then slipped from the room. Chuuya can't remember his family? and it bothers him that much? I didn't think dragons cared about that kind of thing, but then again, Chuuya isn't like any dragon I've ever heard of.

Dazai leaned against a rough wooden post as he waited for his turn to order.

"Hey," A soft voice called. It was Piano man. He leaned against the wall next to Dazai, his ears lowered slightly as he gave Dazai an apologetic smile. "Can you tell Chuuya that we're sorry?"

"Sure," Dazai agreed, glancing up at the fey briefly before stepping up to the counter and ordering another red wine. When he reached into his bag to pay, Piano man stepped forward and set a few coins down on the table.

"It's on me. How's the grumpy dragon?"

"He's pouting," Dazai said, a fond smile crossing his lips unbidden. "He'll be fine, he's just drunk. What was up with earlier anyway?"

The fey sighed, wondering how much he should tell this strange human. "Chuuya gets sensitive about questions about his past."

"What happened to him? Why doesn't he remember his family?"

"I don't know, and if I did, it isn't my place to say. He'll tell you when he's ready," Pianoman replied, pushing away from the wall. He gave Dazai one more contemplative glance before returning to his table and the rest of the flags. Dazai turned away as well and walked up the creaky wooden stairs to their rooms, his mind spinning with questions.

"'Bout time," Chuuya said gruffly as the brunette opened the door. Dazai winced as Chuuya grabbed the cup from his hands and chugged the contents in one go. He's already really drunk... lets try and get him to bed before he passes out, Dazai thought, watching the way he staggered around with concern.

"It's been a big day, huh? Aren't you feeling sleepy?"

"A little," Chuuya replied, his voice a bit slurred. He began to take off his shirt, his fingers fumbling with the buttons. "Dragons love... love to sleep, you know?"

"Yes, and it's night time. Lets get some rest, huh?" Dazai was relieved that Chuuya wasn't fighting him on this. He helped him unbutton his shirt and take off his shoes, silently praying that he would continue to cooperate. It took some effort with Chuuya in the state he was, but soon, Dazai had him cozy in bed.

"Goodnight, Chibi," Dazai said softly before turning to go. He'd just put his hand on the doorknob

"Where you goin', zai? Aren't you gonna sleep with me?"

Soft, hazy eyes met Dazai's, the gaze innocent and eager as the dragon moved over to give Dazai room on his bed.

"I'm not going to sleep yet. I'll be back later tonight, okay?"

"I don't wanna sleep by myself... I wanna sleep with you... please..."

Dazai hesitated, his hand on the doorknob. He looked back at Chuuya, his resolve wavering as he saw him pull the blanket up to his chin like a troubled child. How can I say no to a face like that? Slowly, Dazai let go of the door and returned to Chuuya's side, climbing in bed beside him. The redhead hummed happily, scooting just a bit closer. They weren't touching, but Chuuya's presence next to him felt like fire, his every breath and tired murmur magnified to Dazai's ears.

"Dazai..." Chuuya reached out to touch his shoulder. "You're eyes are so pretty... like rubies..."

Dazai was taken aback by the sudden compliment, and turned his head to face Chuuya. "Rubies, huh? An apt analogy from a dragon," Dazai replied with a soft chuckle, trying to ignore how close they were in bed. There was a few minutes of silence, and he thought that the dragon had fallen asleep until he heard a quiet question.

"Doya miss your home? Before me, before you came... you had a different home..."

"I don't miss it," murmured Dazai. "I wish I could forget my past, honestly."

"At least you have a past... I don't remember my family... growin' up, learnin' to fly; none of that. It makes me sad..." Chuuya eventually said, his voice full of melancholy. "Wah about you? ...Your family, your life before ya met me?"

"I ran away from home when I was eleven," Dazai replied honestly, knowing that Chuuya wouldn't remember in the morning. "I lived on the streets for awhile before I met my best friend, Odasaku..."

Chuuya shifted in bed, drawing closer to Dazai so that they were almost touching. "Why'd you run away?"

"I hated it there," Dazai replied, looking away from Chuuya's innocent gaze. "My mother left soon after I was born, and my father always blamed me. I hated him, and I hated myself."

"I'm sorry," Chuuya said softly, reaching out and taking his hand. He could smell the old festering pain in his companion, like a corrosive rot in a young and healthy tree. "If you want... if you wanted... I can go an kill him. I'll kill whoever hurts you."

"N-no, that's okay," Dazai replied, trying to pull his hand away, but Chuuya's grip was firm. Dazai's breath caught in his throat as he struggled to keep his composure. I slept with him as a dragon, so why does this feel different? Why is this more scary?

"I'll kill... kill anyone who touches my treasure..." Chuuya murmured, a possessive light gleaming in his eyes.

"You're treasure? Who said anything about your damn gold?"

"Mine... kill anyone who touches it... no one hurts what's mine..." Chuuya slurred, his other hand reaching for Dazai. Cold dread washed over Dazai as he realized the drift of the dragons drunken ramblings. What the hell?!?! Why is he so mad about this now?!?!

"Let go!"

Dazai shoved Chuuya away from him with all his strength, knocking the dragon to the edge of the bed, but he didn't let go of his hand. Dazai frantically pushed on Chuuya's horns with his other hand, trying to create some space between himself and the dangerous predator before him.

"It was one coin, and I said I was sorry! Please, Chuuya!" Dazai exclaimed, trying to pry Chuuya's fingers off. They felt wrong, bigger and rough to the touch... scaly.

The dragon didn't listen, and Dazai could only watch in horror as he began to grow and change before his eyes. The bedsprings creaked as Chuuya's body lengthened and grew in size, a long tail sprouting from his back and scales erupting over his skin. Dazai whimpered in fear as Chuuya towered over him; neither man nor dragon, but something in between.

"You're mine, Dazai..." Chuuya growled, his long, forked tongue flicking out to taste the air. His eyes fell on Dazai's waist, seeing the exposed skin where his shirt had hiked up. He leaned down, tasting the skin. Dazai shuddered at the warm, wet touch, squirming even more frantically against the dragon that had him pinned to the bed. "Mine..." Chuuya growled again, then bit down gently, his fangs just barely breaking the skin.

"Please, please don't," Dazai begged, frantically trying to push Chuuya away. This is it, I'm going to die. He's drunk, and now he's going to tear me apart!

Chuuya licked away the blood, muttering something unintelligible. The only thing Dazai could make out was "treasure" and "mine" as Chuuya swayed from side to side, tipped forward, and collapsed on top of him. Chuuya just tried to eat me!!! He literally bit me, he was gonna eat me!!!" Dazai thought frantically as he pressed his hands to the bite mark.

"Dazai... I lov..."

Chuuya trailed off as sleep claimed his tired, inebriated mind.

Notes:

Dazai, honey, he doesn't want to eat you in the way you think...

Chapter 9: Tongue Tied

Dazai stared at his cup of tea as it slowly cooled, the aroma of herbs helping to soothe his aching head.

"You don't look too hot, mister. Are you feeling alright?"

"Fine, just a little hungover," Dazai replied, looking up at the red haired kitchen boy with sleepy eyes. "Do you have any medicine for pain?"

"I think Hirotsu has some in the back. I'll go check," he said, casting one more concerned look at Dazai. The bandaged man didn't care that he was attracting stares with his mussed hair and bloody shirt. He'd hardly gotten any sleep thanks to Chuuya: both the pain of the bite and the weight of the half dragon lying on top of him had kept him up all night. He'd tried to push him off, but Chuuya had wrapped his damn tail around his legs, making that nearly impossible.

Tachihara returned shortly with two small cups of medicine. "This is the masters own recipe for hangovers. I got one for you and your friend," he said, setting them down in front of Dazai. He contemplated the dark red liquid for a moment before quickly downing it, wincing at the bitter flavor. Soon, he felt a slight ease to his headache and muscle pains as the potion began to do its work. I'll bring this up for Chuuya, he's gonna need it, Dazai thought as he took the other cup up to their room. The dragon was still snoring happily in bed, so Dazai just left the cup and a note on the nightstand, telling him that he was going to the market for the day. With how much Chuuya had drunk last night, he definitely wouldn't feel like going to such a crowded and busy place. Dazai didn't really want to either, but staying at the inn had reminded him of all the amenities Chuuya's cave lacked.

Chuuya didn't wake up until after noon, and by then, Dazai was long gone. Everything hurt, and he felt sick to his stomach... how much did I drink so much last night? Better question, what happened? I don't remember much... Chuuya groaned inwardly, hoping he hadn't done anything too embarrassing. He pulled the blanket over his head to block out the weak sunlight that filtered through the drapes. There was an unusual smell on the bed, and took a while for his aching head to register what it was.

"Dazai?" Chuuya called, his voice cracking in his dry throat. He sat up and looked around, but to his dismay, the taller boy was nowhere in sight. Despite his weariness, Chuuya got to all fours and began to sniff around the room, trying to put the pieces together. Fuck, I hurt him somehow... did I get mad and scare him off? Am I ever going to see him again? the dragon thought frantically as he took in the smells of blood and fear. Then, he noticed the cup and note on the nightstand. His shoulders relaxed as he read the note and realized that Dazai would be back soon, and had brought him something for his hangover. He gratefully drank the potion, then curled up in bed again to wait for his companion to return. With his aches and pains soothed, he was able to quickly drift off again. Dragons do love to sleep, after all.

By the end of the day, Dazai's purse was considerably lighter, but he was satisfied with the days work. He'd loaded a cart with everything he could think of to make Chuuya's cave into a comfortable home, and replaced his worn out, bloody clothes with a few new outfits. He got himself a drink and talked to Hirotsu a bit before returning to Chuuya's room. Was he stalling? Maybe.

"You're back..." Chuuya mumbled sleepily. He crawled over and rested his head on the edge of the bed as he watched Dazai, taking in the new scents that clung to him from the marketplace. He didn't carry Chuuya's scent as strongly now that he'd washed and changed, and the dragon felt an unexpected desire to change that.

Dazai stiffened in his chair as Chuuya drew closer, but he forced himself to sound calm. "Yeah... you feeling better, Chuuya?"

"Mhm hm, hangovers almost gone," he replied, stretching out his aching limbs. "You've been gone all day, I was starting to worry that you'd run off on me."

"Oh? Why is that?"

"I smelled your blood on the sheets, and when I woke up, you were gone. Did I... did I hurt you?"

So he doesn't remember... Dazai bit his lip. "...You were really drunk, so I don't blame you..."

"What did I do?" Chuuya insisted, sitting up in bed.

Dazai looked at the floor as he replied, his hand idly picking at the bandages around his neck. "Well, you brought up that time I stepped on your gold coin... you were really worked up about it, and said that you would kill anyone who touched your treasure. I tried to get away, but you held me down and bit me, then passed out."

"I... what?!?!" Chuuya exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise at the revelation. "No, no no, I wasn't trying to kill you, I promise! I was just..." he trailed off, hiding his face in his hands.

"What, wanted to see what I tasted like?" Dazai retorted sarcastically, rolling his eyes. "You were out for blood, man. It was terrifying."

"I'm sorry," Chuuya mumbled, refusing to look at Dazai. Oh, this clueless idiot... I'm so glad he doesn't know how dragon courtship works or else I'd have a lot more explaining to do, Chuuya thought miserably. I really am a fool when I've had too much to drink...

Several heartbeats passed in awkward silence before Dazai spoke up again. "Well, I finished shopping. Wanna head back to the cave?"

"Yeah, sure. Lets go," Chuuya replied, quickly pulling his boots on. He thanked Hirotsu as they left the Black Lizard Inn, then transformed back into his usual form.

"Ah, its nice to be bigger than you again," Chuuya sighed, shaking out his mane. It still felt a little knotted and tangled, and he suddenly remembered Dazai's promise. "Did you get me a brush?"

"Of course I did, you dumb lizard, though I don't wanna brush your hair after that stunt you pulled last night~"

"You will, or I'll hold you upside down for the flight home~" he retorted smugly. Dazai sighed, then climbed onto his back in silent acquiescence, a pout still on his lips. When they got back, Chuuya gave Dazai a small corner of his cave to be just his own, and helped him carry his stuff in. He even gave him a few glowing crystals to make the space more comfortable. Gotta take care of my Dazai...

"You're awfully quiet today," Dazai remarked.

"What was that?" Chuuya asked, snapped from his thoughts.

"I just thought you'd complain more about letting me have my own space," the brunet replied with a shrug.

"Oh! well, its a pretty big cave system, so I can spare a small chamber for you."

"Thanks, dragon. You're not half bad."

A small smile spread across Chuuya's face at the unexpected compliment, and the end of his tail began to swish from side to side. "You're welcome, mackerel~"

"What's that? Why are you calling me a fish?" 

"Well, you said not to call you a human, and you're always giving me nicknames..."

Dazai snorted with laughter, and Chuuya's smile widened. "Mackerel," he repeated, rolling the syllables on his tongue. "Pretty creative for a big ol' slug like yourself~"

"Oh, shut it. Now, are ya gonna brush me or what?"

Dazai rolled his eyes, but got out the horse brush anyways. He looked over Chuuya's long, thick mane, realizing that this was going to be quite the task. Oh well, I promised...

Chuuya melted under the brush strokes as Dazai worked to untangle his hair, a low growl of contentment rumbling in his throat. It felt so good to get this kind of attention from Dazai, and once again a strange tightness gripped his chest. He didn't understand what the feeling was, much less what to do about it, only that it was addicting. I'm going soft, aren't I? Oh well, this feels too good to refuse... Slowly, his eyes began to drift closed as he gave into the soothing touch.

"Really? Gonna take another nap? You've slept for over 24 hours already!"

Chuuya opened one eye and glared at Dazai. "Don't judge me," he growled, snorting a puff of smoke.

"Lazy wyrm~"

"Stinky mackerel~"

Dazai stuck his tongue out at Chuuya, and the dragon playfully returned the gesture. Without warning, vivid memories flashed through Dazai's mind, and he quickly went back to brushing his hair.

Chuuya was oblivious to the effect that brief view of his tongue had on Dazai; too relaxed to pick up on the telltale scent of embarrassment emanating from him. He just laid back and enjoyed the rest of the grooming session, his mind wandering with thoughts of Dazai. When he'd finished, Dazai stepped back to admire his handiwork. Chuuya's mane shone like molten gold against his porcelain white scales, looking soft and luxurious in a way it never had before. It was so soft and silky, and the majestic dragon looked all the more ethereal. He waited for Chuuya's reaction, but he just continued to stare off into space with a dreamy look in his eyes, too lost in his own thoughts to notice.

"Whatcha thinkin about, slug?"

"Hm? Nothing," Chuuya replied absently, his tongue flicking out to give Dazai a little lick on the face.

Oh, fuck.

Chuuya's ears flattened against his head as he realized what he'd done. Dazai was just standing there dumbfounded, too shocked to even wipe the drool off of his face.

"You, um, had dirt on your nose!" Chuuya said quickly, then fled deeper into his cave and plunged into his hoard. Dazai wouldn't- he can't know what that meant! He doesn't realize that I just kissed him, right?!? He just thinks it's an innocent little lick!!! He thought desperately as he buried himself beneath the coins and clinking goblets.

Dazai stood frozen long after Chuuya had vanished into the depths of his cave. Slowly, he raised a hand to his face and felt the sticky wetness left behind from the surprise lick. What just happened...?

After awhile, Dazai drifted over to his new bed and plopped down on the covers, staring at the dark cave ceiling above him. No doubt Chuuya didn't mean anything by it... it was just a friendly gesture, like when a dog licks your face, he told himself, though he had trouble believing his own words. Chuuya had run off like he'd done something scandalous, which only added to Dazai's bafflement. He didn't like dogs, and always hated when one of them had the audacity to lick him or rub against his legs. Somehow, though, Dazai wasn't disgusted by Chuuya, even though his kiss was much bigger and wetter than any dog could manage. I want to feel that again... He rolled over in bed, trying to quiet his mind, but it was no use. He could still feel the ghost of Chuuya's touch even after he'd wiped his face clean; the feeling of that warm, wet tongue refused to leave his mind.

Chuuya was having similar problems sleeping as that moment replayed again and again in his head. Dazai's taste still lingered in his mouth, and to Chuuya's shame, he found that he really liked it. He burrowed deeper into his mound of treasure, letting out a low, embarrassed whine. Little did Dazai know, but dragons weren't social creatures like dogs or even humans. They only showed such displays of affection to their hatchlings... or their mate.

 

The full moon hung low in the sky, casting an ethereal glow on the endless fields of lavender and sage. Dazai relaxed into the warm, springy bed of flowers, breathing in their scent and letting the peaceful night wash over him.

"The moon is lovely tonight, isn't it?"

Dazai looked to the side and saw Chuuya lying next to him, the red hair of his human form shining in the moonlight. He smiled, then reached out and took his hand. He felt like he could lie here forever, just gazing at the stars besides the person he cared for the most.

"Dazai..." A voice like honey, only Chuuya hadn't spoken. Two bats wheeled overhead, one white, the other pure black.

"Hello, little friends," He said with a smile, watching as the white bat danced playfully in the moonlight. The other kept its distance, circling high in the sky.

"Come with us," the voice called again, and before he knew it, Dazai was getting to his feet, his hand slipping from Chuuya's.

"Where are we going?"

"Not far! Follow us!"

Dazai looked back up at the bats, then slowly took a step forward. He took another few steps then hesitated, glancing back at where Chuuya lay. He hadn't moved, and was still gazing at the stars.

"This way! We want to show you something!"

Dazai hesitated, torn between following the bats and lying back down next to Chuuya.

"Come with us!" The voice sang again, and Dazai felt a strong urge to follow the bats wherever they might lead him. He took another few steps before stopping again, shivering in the chill. I shouldn't leave Chuuya...

"Step outside!"

Dazai blinked, and the fields of lavender faded away from his eyes. He was back in Chuuya's cave, barefoot and shivering as he gazed out at the night sky. I was sleepwalking... The cold night air bit through his thin shirt, and he quickly went back to bed. As Dazai crawled beneath the covers, the memory of his dream slipped away like sand through his fingers.

Notes:

THE LITTLE KISS WAS SO CUTE XD

Chapter 10: Just A Taste

Notes:

I was very busy this week, so sry that this part is a little late!

From the shadowy comfort of his cave, Chuuya listened to the world slowly wake up. Birds sang as the sun rose, mixing with the soft sound of Dazai's breathing. His unique scent blended with the familiar aroma of cool stone, pine, and precious metals in a way that just seemed right. This isn't just my home now... it's Dazai's. I hope I can make him happy here.

Dazai had been on Chuuya's mind all night as he shifted between wakefulness and a half dreaming state. He'd been worried when he heard him walking around late at night, but the man hadn't carried any trace of fear or distress, so Chuuya had let him be. With a heavy sigh, Chuuya shifted in his golden bed, resigning himself to a sleepless night. Dazai awoke long after the birds, stretching and yawning as he faced a new day. Chuuya's ears perked up immediately, and he rose to his feet to greet him.

"Mornin' Dazai," Chuuya said sleepily as he emerged from deeper in the cave. Act natural and don't say anything about what happened yesterday, Chuuya thought as he stretched and yawned, feigning a casual attitude.

Dazai looked up as he heard Chuuya's voice, and despite his best efforts, a shiver went down his spine when he saw that wet, pink maw open. "Morning, Chuuya!" He replied cheerfully. "Sleep well?"

"Yeah," I didn't sleep at all last night, "you?"

I had weird dreams and was sleepwalking, "pretty good, I like my new bed. It's more comfy than your tail~"

"Is that so?" Chuuya replied coolly, staring down at Dazai with an unimpressed expression. "I hope it was worth battling monsters to get."

"Oh, it was. It's nice to have my own space; I prefer it, actually." Please go away, you make me feel weird things and I'm too tired to deal with them right now, Dazai thought, turning around and acting like Chuuya wasn't there.

This is about the kiss, then... I had hoped- no, that was foolish. I should just leave. Chuuya cleared his throat, shuffling his forepaws awkwardly. "I'm going out today, and I probably won't be back till late. Will you be alright on your own?"

"I'll be fine, got plenty to do anyway," Dazai replied, sitting back on his bed and gesturing to the crates and barrels he had yet to unpack.

"Well, good. Stay out of my stuff and don't get into trouble," Chuuya said, studying Dazai's expression. He wasn't close enough to smell his emotions, but was reluctant to get any closer when Dazai was acting so closed off. He hesitated slightly, waiting for Dazai to say something, but he was only met with cold garnet eyes. Reluctantly, the dragon turned and trudged out of the cave.

Dazai's shoulders slumped as Chuuya left, and he let out a long breath. The dragon was making him feel some unusual emotions: emotions he had never experienced before. He flopped back on his bed and ran a hand through his hair in frustration. What is wrong with me? Those desires are so weird and unnatural; who sees a dragons mouth and thinks "I want to get closer?" Dazai berated himself, doing his best to stamp out those feelings and just try to maintain the tentative friendship he'd so recently found. Easier said than done, and even the distraction of setting up his room didn't distract enough.

I feel a craving, but not for alcohol. My heart speeds up when he's near me, yet I'm not afraid. What the hell is this feeling? Am I maybe... no, it can't be. Someone like me can't experience an emotion like that. Yet, thoughts of Chuuya in both human and dragon form invaded his mind, depriving him of a moments rest. Things that had seemed insignificant before: the touch of scales against his hand, the sound of Chuuya's laughter, the serenity of brushing his mane; it all replayed in his mind in vivid detail. Dazai was haunted by the ghost of Chuuya's touch, his tongue on his skin-

Dazai slapped his forehead as if he could physically knock the thoughts out of his mind. He got up and paced around the cave, wondering what to do with himself. His heart throbbed painfully as he remembered how Chuuya had jumped off a cliff to save him, and the hopeful look on his face when he'd promised to give living another shot.

The only reason I'm alive is because I care about this dragon... Maybe, just maybe, I'm not as indifferent as I'd like to believe.

The sun was beginning to set outside, so Dazai busied himself with lighting a fire and rifling through the pages of a cookbook to find something easy to make. He haphazardly smashed tomatoes in a large pot, then added water and and ingredients in measurements vaguely guessed from the instructions. Ten minutes later, he had a dubious pot of tomato soup boiling over the fire.

Dazai sat beside the cave entrance as the sun disappeared below the horizon, waiting for Chuuya to get back. He cradled a bowl of soup in his hands more for the warmth it provided than the actual food, which was chunky and over seasoned.

As the evening wore away, Dazai's loneliness and impatience grew. Is Chuuya ignoring me on purpose? That bitch... He was about to retreat farther into the cave when he saw Chuuya's silhouette approaching in the twilight.

"There you are! I was worried about you!" Dazai cried, jumping to his feet.

Chuuya stopped in his tracks, his head cocking to the side. "You were?"

"Yeah, as if. Welcome back, idiot." Dazai snarked, making a rude gesture. The dragon rolled his eyes, feeling a flash of annoyance as he followed Dazai into the foremost chamber in his cave, only for him then to completely ignore him.

"What's with that attitude, huh? I got you everything you wanted," Chuuya growled, sniffing the tomato soup and immediately dismissing it as inedible. "Is it because you can't cook worth shit?"

"Maybe~ or maybe I was wondering where you were all day?"

"Did you miss me?"

"Nah, just got bored without your scaly ass around," Dazai quipped back, earning a huff of laughter from the dragon.

Chuuya shifted into human form, then sat down beside Dazai on the bed. "Man, I'm tired. I was out patrolling today, making sure no one entered my territory-"

"Oh, like a dog checking to see if another dog's pissed on his favorite tree?"

"Shut up! I was making sure that no other large monsters were trying to claim my land, and luckily, none were. There were a lot more small monsters than I remembered, though, especially undead. Why do you think that is?"

Dazai thought back to that day he'd spent in the wilderness, trying to remember anything that might give him a clue. Indeed, quite a lot of the monsters that had attacked him were necrotic or cursed in some way. He hadn't given it much thought then, but it was abnormal that there would be so many undead monsters in a place like this.

"Were there ever people in this valley? Somewhere the ghouls and grave wights could have come from?"

"I don't know," Chuuya replied with a shrug. "If there was, it was a long time ago."

"The stars probably aligned or some other magic woke them up, I don't know. It won't be a problem though, right?" 

"Probably won't, just some weird magical fluke. That kinda stuff happens," Chuuya agreed, not feeling too worried. "I'll protect you from all the scary monsters, kay?"

Dazai rolled his eyes fondly, then flopped backwards onto his bed. "I'm not a child; I'm not scared of a few monsters."

Chuuya lay down beside him, a teasing grin on his face. "Says the guy who pouts like a little kid when he doesn't get his way~"

"You're just as bad!"

"Nah, you're way worse~"

I'm gonna get some revenge and steal his personal space for once! He deserves it after sleeping on top of me! Chuuya thought to himself as he pulled the blanket over himself. There's no other reason, why would there be?

"What an annoying dragon," Dazai muttered under his breath, rolling on his side and facing away from Chuuya so that he couldn't see the huge grin on his face.

 

Time passed in tentative peace, but below the surface, tensions were rising. Chuuya slept with him every night now, but he was usually in his dragon form and simply coiled himself around Dazai's bed. There was no intimacy in that! Dazai longed for more than shared glances and shy touches, and forbidden fantasies played in his head every night when he should have been sleeping.

After a few weeks, he simply couldn't take it anymore, and he knew that he had to either act now or go mad. I can't exactly ask for that, but I can make it look like an accident! I'll do it tonight, when he's home and in a good mood.

 

Dazai set the brush down triumphantly, then scratched behind Chuuya's ear in the spot he knew he loved. "There you go, doggy, all brushed. You happy now?"

"You know I hate that name," Chuuya grumbled, but his voice didn't have much bite. He was too relaxed and content to start an argument with a certain annoying mackerel.

"Hey, I just remembered: I've got a special treat for you!"

"You didn't cook it yourself, did you?" Chuuya asked, his voice filled with caution. He knew firsthand how bad Dazai's cooking 'surprises' could be.

"Not this time; this time you're gonna like it. Its a kind of spiked candy, I bought it in town."

"Spiked? Careful, Dazai, I just might eat the whole bag~"

"Alright, I'll get you some. Open wide, big guy!" Dazai said playfully. Chuuya obliged, and opened up his huge dragon maw.

Ba- bump!

Dazai's heartbeat thudded in his ears as he saw the inside of Chuuya's mouth. Sharp ivory teeth stood in contrast to the soft pink interior they framed, all so close, so temptingly close...

Dazai unwrapped the candy and stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Chuuya's open mouth. Heh, I'll give him a different kind of treat! It was easy enough to feign tripping over the uneven stone, and he fell- straight into Chuuya's mouth! Pleasant tingles exploded over Dazai's skin in a weird, wonderful, dizzying mix of nervousness and excitement as he felt the dragons maw envelop him. A shuddering breath escaped his lips as he pressed his face against the slimy, bumpy surface of the tongue.

The sound of his own heart echoed in his ears, and suddenly, Chuuya couldn't breathe. Coherent thought fluttered away like startled butterflies as he felt Dazai's body inside his mouth!!! He was overwhelmed with sensations: the taste of bandages, the press of skin against his tongue, the tickle of breath that wasn't his own- instinct acted in place of reason, and Chuuya began to close his jaws around Dazai. Protect! Keep safe! Mine!

Chuuya's eyes widened as he realized what he was doing, and he quickly spat out the intruder.

"I'm so s-sorry!!!!" He spluttered, his face as red as his hair. He coiled into a tight ball and 'hid' underneath his own tail.

"Its fine, I was the one who tripped," Dazai shrugged, trying to play it cool even as the thick saliva dribbled down his blushing face. It was so wet in there! I wish I could stay longer...

Chuuya's voice was muffled as he spoke from the depths of his coils, his face burning with shame. "Y-you're okay, though, right? It was just an accident! Lets just forget all about it!!!"

"Sure, sure, no problem. I'll just... change into something else," Dazai said with an awkward chuckle, feeling his damp clothes cling to his skin. Chuuya groaned internally as he peeked out from his coils and saw how much drool he'd gotten on Dazai. This is horrible... but at least this was a simple accident, not a kiss, and it's not my fault if I like his taste! It doesn't mean anything!

"I'll leave you to it," Chuuya said, then quickly turned away and retreated into the depths of his lair. As burrowed back into his hoard of treasure, he wondered if Dazai had secretly enjoyed that as much as he had.

 

With Chuuya gone, Dazai didn't have much to do besides change into his nightclothes and go to bed. It usually took him awhile to fall asleep, but this time sleep claimed him almost as soon as he'd closed his eyes. His mind slipped away into a soft world of moonlight and flowers just like the dream he'd had a few weeks back.

"Follow us, Dazai!"

Dazai looked up at the bats with curiosity. The white one flew in playful loops while the black bat hung back, just like in the dream he'd had before. 

"Come with us, we want to show you something!"

The words seemed enticing, and he almost wanted to give into it, but natural caution held him back. He laid back down next to Chuuya in the soft heather. He didn't want to leave his side even in sleep.

"Follow us! Come here!" The voices chorused, but Dazai only had eyes for Chuuya. His gaze ran over his pale, freckled face, meeting the eyes that glimmered like different colored jewels. Human or dragon, those eyes were always the same enchanting hues of sapphire and dark amber.

Suddenly, a chill went down Dazai's spine, and he sat up, looking around. The moon was turning the color of blood, and a wind had picked up, carrying with it the scent of moldering dirt and old blood.

"Listen to me, Dazai."

Dazai watched in fear as the black bat flew closer, its large wings silhouetted against the blood moon.

"Stand up."

Dazai reached for Chuuya's hand to ground him, but he had vanished! Dismayed, Dazai stumbled to his feet, his form trembling as he fought the compulsion. Something was very, very wrong, and he knew that he must not follow the bats to where they were leading him. He had to find Chuuya, he had to stay with him-

"Follow me!"

Dazai's legs moved on their own, and against his will he took a few steps forward before regaining control again.

"Where is Chuuya?" He managed to ask through the knot in his throat. The bat flew even closer until its wings nearly brushed his face with each flap, its purple eyes gleaming as it met Dazai's gaze.

"WALK. COME OUTSIDE!" The bat commanded, and Dazai found himself unable to resist. He struggled to wake up again, but this time he couldn't do more than crack his eyes open a slit, his lids feeling impossibly heavy. He could make out two blurry, indistinct shapes in the night, one mostly white, the other black.

"He's a strong one, keeps resisting our spells~" the first said gleefully.

"Yes, a rare specimen indeed. Look, even now he fights to awaken."

Dazai forced his eyes open wider, and tried to call for help, but only a soft groan escaped his lips.

"Oh, he looks so delicious! Can I please try his blood? Just one quick bite?"

"Patience, Kolya, we must get somewhere safe first. Soon, we'll have our fill."

Chapter 11: Cursed Blood

Chuuya rolled over in his sleep, growling softly as a wave of unease swept over his unconscious mind. His tail swished, causing a small avalanche of gold coins to clink and tumble around him, but he didn't wake.

Then next morning, Chuuya couldn't shake a lingering feeling of unease. Must just be anxiety... heh, I hope Dazai wasn't too upset about falling into my mouth. Chuuya stretched his long, coiled body, his ears pricked to listen for any sign of movement from Dazai. It was unusually quiet, so he assumed that Dazai was still asleep. Chuuya settled back down to wait for him to wake up when a horrible realization struck him: he couldn't hear Dazai's breathing! He jumped to his feet with a start, gold coins flying everywhere.

Chuuya's heart raced with panic as he sprinted to Dazai's room, banging his head on the stone ceiling as he shoved it inside.

"No, no, no, no..." Chuuya muttered as he cast his eyes around the room and found it empty. "DAZAI!!!!"

Without a moments delay, Chuuya rushed outside and took to the skies. Animals went to ground and birds took wing, screeching in panic as Chuuya's frantic roars echoed through the mountain valley. He flew back and forth in frenzied haste, calling Dazai's name again and again, but the bandaged brunet was nowhere to be found. Where did he go? What happened to my Dazai?!? Chuuya grit his teeth and tried to force the panic down so that it wouldn't overwhelm him. He flew back to his cave and sniffed at the ground, taking in Dazai's unique fragrance. It was everywhere in the cave, though, and a wave of panic washed over him for a moment. Focus, you have to focus! you have to find him!

Chuuya closed his eyes, pushing aside the maelstrom of thoughts as he focused on finding out which scent trail was the freshest. He followed it out of the cave, and then...

Nothing.

The footprints ended abruptly a few steps outside of the cave mouth, leaving no trace of the man that made them.

"DAZAI!!!!" Chuuya roared desperately, but there was no answer besides the echo of his own voice.

Tears welled up in Chuuya's eyes, but he refused to break down now. He snuffled at Dazai's footprints, his nose catching a new odor this time: grave dirt and old blood. The dragon stiffened, his ears flattening against his head as a growl rumbled in his throat. What are vampires doing in my mountains? Why did they take Dazai?!? How could I let this happen?!?!?

Chuuya threw back his head and roared, the very ground shaking with his fury, or maybe Chuuya was the one who was shaking, he couldn't tell. Hot tears streamed down his scaly cheeks as his roaring turned to desperate howls, then sobs of fear and grief. Dazai was gone, and he didn't know how to find him. Dazai was gone...

 

Dazai came back to consciousness slowly, like a fish rising to a lure. Sound came to him first, the voices muffled and indistinct as if his ears were stuffed with cotton. Then, he felt sensation; rough ropes wrapped around his wrists, a hard stone chair beneath him...

"Wha..." he rasped, his voice hoarse and painful as if it hadn't been used in a long time. Where am I? Who are these people? Where is Chuuya?!?

"Yippee! Look, Dostoy, he's awake!"

Light footsteps approached, and an ice cold hand tilted Dazai's head upward. His eyes snapped open and he tried to jerk his head free, but the strangers grip was firm.

"Such a fascinating specimen..." Lank black hair framed a paper white face, but it was the eyes that caught Dazai's attention. They were a deep purple, and shockingly familiar.

"You're a vampire..." Dazai said softly. It wasn't a question.

"What a smart little human you are!" A gleeful voice called from behind. "If you can guess why we stole you, I'll tell you our names!"

"...to drink my blood?" Dazai replied, his mind reeling both from the situation and the extreme difference in temperament between the two. The tall vampire in black was obviously the leader; his cold presence thrummed with dark power, and his amethyst eyes seemed to carry the weight of centuries.

"Scoooore! Good job! Bravo! My name is Nikolai Gogol, and THIS is none other than Lord FYODOR DOSTOEVSKY!!!!"

"Must you make everything into a game?" Fyodor sighed, stepping back. "And of course we're going to drink his blood, even a child could guess that!"

Dazai tugged at his bonds, but the ropes were tight and strong. "What do you really want with me? Why risk stealing from a dragon when you could have much easier prey?" Why travel to the middle of the wilderness just for me? Why spend weeks waiting for the right opportunity to lure me from Chuuya's cave?

"Do you really not know?" Fyodor purred, his smirk mocking. "What you are, and how valuable you will be to us?"

"Pfft- ha ha~ You think you're a normal human, then? You don't know that you have cursed blood? That day in the forest- so many monsters wanted t- to eat you! Didn't you notice?!" Nikolai chortled, though quickly stifled his giggles at a glare from Fyodor.

"Monsters and magical beings like us can sense the black magic locked inside your weak, mortal frame, and they want it for themselves."

Dazai remained silent, and simply glared back at his captors with a defiant expression. He ignored the way his stomach twisted with dread as the vampires words woke a long suppressed memory: echoes of his fathers cruel voice and cold black eyes. "Don't come crying to me, you disgusting child! Is it a surprise that no one likes you? That you have no friends? The other children can sense the corruption in your veins, and so can I!"

Fyodor's smirk widened, and he leaned closer to his prisoner. "You are quite a rare delicacy, Dazai. Why do you think that dragon has kept you around so long, hm? Think he fancies a human pet? He's just waiting for your flavor to mature before he consumes you, like a vintage bottle of wine."

Dazai glared up at Fyodor with hatred as he spat out a reply. "I am no pet, least of all Chuuya's! He cares about me and would never harm me!"

Nikolai clapped his hands together in glee. "Bravo! Such a defiant glare for a helpless mortal!" He exchanged a glance with Fyodor, and they both chuckled softly. Fine, don't believe me. I know that Chuuya would never harm me, even if I do have cursed blood, Dazai thought, though doubt gnawed at the back of his mind. He knew that Chuuya's friendship was genuine, but sometimes the dragon got a hungry glint in his eyes, almost like he wanted more.

Fyodor drifted closer again and regarded Dazai with contempt. "You wouldn't have survived long with that dragon, I can assure you. Sooner or later, he would have eaten you and taken your power for himself. We, however, wouldn't want to waste this precious resource on only one meal. Better to keep you as our own personal blood bag."

"What power?" Dazai protested, straining against his bonds again. "I can't do anything special! I'm a mediocre mage at best; I can barely cast a sign for light!"

"Yet magic saturates your very being, and denying it won't make it untrue." Fyodor's eyes drifted down to Dazai's neck, his gaze hungry. "I've waited so long for this moment..." he muttered to himself as he reached out a hand and tilted Dazai's head to the side.

Dazai shuddered as the vampire cut away the bandages on his neck, but he kept his silence. It was the only form of defiance left to him. "I like it when my prey has a backbone... it makes breaking them so much more exciting~" Fyodor whispered, then slowly sank his teeth into the soft flesh of Dazai's neck.

Cold, dead lips brushed against Dazai's exposed skin, and then he felt it: the sharp prick of the vampires fangs. He shuddered and let out an involuntary gasp, but he didn't cry out. Show them weakness, and you've already lost. I must not be afraid, I must not...

Fyodor drank slowly, savoring every drop of blood that passed his lips. Color slowly began to return to his skin as Dazai's life force flowed into him, filling him with a strength he hadn't felt in centuries.

"Oh, oh! Can I try? Pretty please?!?"

Fyodor drew away slowly, a dreamy look in his eyes as blood dribbled down his chin. "Of course you can, my sweet. Come here~"

Nikolai squealed with delight, then threw his arms around the other vampire and pulled him in for a kiss. Dazai felt sick as he watched Nikolai lick up the blood from his lips, and quickly looked away, but he couldn't block out the noises.

"Oh, Fedya~ mph!"

"Ngh- gah! Don't bite so hard, my dear~"

"Mnnnn... it's so good! Ah-ahhhh...."

That's my blood they're drinking... Dazai felt sick as the grim reality came crashing down. I'm nothing but a blood bag for these two; a rare treat for whatever monster can catch me.

Dazai longed to be back in Chuuya's cave, safe and tucked away in his coils. He wanted to wake up and find that this was all a nightmare, that he didn't have cursed blood, that the fates weren't so cruel. Now I may never see Chuuya again...

Dazai was broken from his reverie by another sharp bite to the throat. He tried to pull away, but Nikolai grabbed a fistful of his hair and held him in place as he eagerly sucked on his blood. Dazai's eyes fluttered shut as he fought down a whimper of pain. I must not show weakness! Show them weakness and you've already lost... you've lost...   lost.....              

Chapter 12: A Stone Prison

"CRASH!"

"Oh! You're awake! Sorry about that!"

Dazai sat up in bed and rubbed his eyes, the motion accompanied by the sound of chains clanking. His head spun from that small action, and he took a moment to orient himself. He was in a sparsely furnished stone room, his arms and legs weighed down by iron shackles. A stranger knelt at the foot of his bed, cleaning up the shattered remains of a broken bowl of water.

"Hello?" Dazai called tentatively, but the boy didn't seem to hear. He was muttering to himself as he gathered up the shards of glass, his head lowered so that his rough cut hair fell over his face. Dazai stared for a moment at the odd color combination: white and purple. "Who are you?"

"Ah, hello!" The boy said breathlessly, jumping to his feet and giving a low bow. "My name is Sigma! A pleasure to be meeting you, Dazai sir!"

A pleasure? Sir? Is he mocking me? Dazai gave him an unimpressed glare from where he sat, chained to a bed in a vampires hall. Sigma couldn't meet his eyes for long, and awkwardly began to fiddle with the hem of his sleeve. He was a shade pale and his eyes were an unusual color, but he didn't have the unnatural pallor of a vampire.

"So, what are you, some kind of servant for them?" Dazai asked with distaste.

"Yes, yes I am. I serve Masters Dostoevsky and Gogol!"

"Willingly?"

"Well..." Sigma trailed off, letting his hair fall down to hide his face again. "The masters don't treat me poorly... as long as I do everything they tell me to do..."

"Like taking care of their prisoners. Just great." Dazai sighed, and flopped back onto the bed. "Don't you have any moral qualms about all this?"

Sigma finished cleaning up the last bits of broken glass, then straightened up and looked down at Dazai sheepishly. "I can't do anything about it, I'm sorry. I'll help you out with anything else you need, besides, you know, escaping..."

Dazai huffed and turned his head away in disgust.

"...I'll get you something to eat, then," Sigma said, then hurriedly excused himself from the room. Dazai remained still where he lay, staring up at the ceiling of his stone prison. They'll probably be back for my blood soon enough, and all I can do is sit here and wait. Please, Chuuya, find me soon!

 

Find him, find him, find him, Chuuya repeated it in his mind like a mantra as he searched and searched, investigating every old crypt and monster den he knew about. Find him, find him, you have to find him!

Another dead end. Chuuya's breath quickened as he found another tomb barren and devoid of Dazai's scent.

"WHERE ARE YOU?!?!?" He screamed, his claws tearing at the earth. He rammed his horns into the old ruin until it collapsed in on itself in a mound of dirt and old stone. It had been two days. Two days that Chuuya had searched tirelessly, not even stopping to eat or sleep, yet he could find no trace of Dazai or his kidnappers.

"Dazai..." Chuuya gasped, sinking to the ground. His tears were long spent, but he still let out a few shaky sobs before staggering back to his feet to continue the search. It was no good, he was having trouble remembering where he'd been and where he had left to search, and even having trouble flying in a straight line. On the evening of the third day, Chuuya flew home, defeated.

"I just need some rest... look again tomorrow..." he mumbled to himself as he dragged his weary feet through the entrance of his cave. He stopped at the fork that led to Dazai's room, and stared in at the empty bed for a long time.

Carefully, Chuuya took the corner of Dazai's blanket in his mouth and carried it to his mound of treasure. It smelled like Dazai; it smelled like the person he had grown to love, and that brought him comfort. Chuuya curled himself around the blanket, hugging it tight and pretending that it was Dazai in his arms as he finally allowed himself to sleep.

After some rest, Chuuya came down from his panic and began to think. I need to find Dazai as fast as possible, which means I need to know where to look. He needed help.

 

"Master Chuuya! A glass of red, I presume?"

"Not right now. I need to talk to you, please," Chuuya said, leaning against the counter for support. Hirotsu stopped polishing the cup he'd prepared for the redhead and looked down at him with concern. Chuuya's face was pinched with stress, and he had dark bags under his eyes.

"What is it?"

"It's Dazai."

Chuuya explained the situation to the innkeeper, who listened with rapt attention and growing concern. "I know we aren't that close, but I just didn't know who to go to..."

"You did the right thing," Hirotsu assured him, his voice lowered with concern. "I'll do everything I can to help you find him."

Hirotsu went to go search through his old books and maps, leaving Chuuya with a much needed meal and a cup of soothing herbal tea. He would have preferred wine, but he needed to keep his wits about him for Dazai's sake. He looked around hopefully for the flags, but they were nowhere to be seen, and their scent was old and faded. They must be out on one of their adventures... I wish they could help me find my Dazai...

A few hours later, Hirotsu returned with an armload of dusty scrolls and set them on the table before Chuuya. "I gathered as many maps of the kingdom as I could, old and new, and marked the most likely places."

"You didn't have to do all that," Chuuya mumbled, taking the first scroll and looking it over. "These are valuable, and you wrote all over them... just to help me?" He couldn't fathom it.

"If it helps you find your human, it will be worth it. Take the maps, they're yours."

Chuuya stared up at the innkeeper in mounting disbelief. "You aren't pulling' my leg, are you, old man? I mean... why are you doing all this?"

"I've served you drinks for years, Chuuya; we're hardly strangers. I want you to continue to visit, and with Dazai at your side. Consider this a future investment," Hirotsu said, a soft smile on his face as he took his leave.

"Wait!" The chair scraped back loudly as Chuuya hurried over to the innkeeper, fishing in his pockets for something. Slowly, he drew a large emerald from his pocket and held it out. Now it was Hirotsu's turn to be surprised: the miserly dragon was giving out gifts?

"This is worth much more than a few dusty maps-"

"I know." Chuuya's hand trembled as he pressed the gemstone into Hirotsu's hand, but as he let go, a warm feeling rushed over him. One emerald was a cheap price to pay when he saw the wonder and gratitude in the old drow's eyes. "Now don't go tellin' people that I'm going soft, got it? This is just a thank you, from both me and Dazai."

Hirotsu stood speechless, clutching the priceless gem as Chuuya gathered up the maps and rushed out the door.

 

Sigma returned with a bowl of broth and a thick slice of bread, and the savory aroma filled the small stone room. He set the tray across Dazai's lap and took a seat next to his bed, his head lowered in a servile manner. Dazai took a few spoonful's of broth before looking up at him, fixing him with his penetrating red gaze.

"So you've been commanded to care for me, right?"

"Yes,"

"And that includes watching me eat?"

Sigma glanced up for a moment before looking back down at the floor, his lips pressed in a tight line.

"It's alright, I get it. You need to make sure I'm healthy and strong so I can give enough blood?" Dazai dipped the bread into his soup and took a bite, watching as he squirmed under his questioning gaze. It amused him that the Sigma was acting so polite and nervous around him, a prisoner in chains.

"Uhm, well... something like that."

Dazai laughed heartily, then raised his glass in a mock toast. "In that case, I'll be sure to eat every bite."

Chapter 13: Scars Tell a Story

Summary:

This is heavy angst, so good luck

He knew that this was coming soon enough, and he didn't fight them as Sigma and Nikolai led him down a hallway and into a bright, sterile room. He sat down on the stone chair without protest, knowing that he was no match for a vampire. He waited for Nikolai to bite down on his neck as he had previously, but instead, he grabbed Dazai's wrist and reached for his bandages.

"NO! DON'T TOUCH ME!!!" Dazai roared, jumping to his feet and trying to yank his hand free from Nikolai. Pop! His shoulder twisted unnaturally, but the vampire held on with inhuman strength.

"Careful, Dazai~" Nikolai crooned as he forced the struggling man back down. "Tie him down, Sigma."

"GRAAAHHHH!!! LET GO OF ME!!!!"

"Please don't fight, he's only trying to take off your old bandages!" Sigma pleaded as he tied the ropes with shaking fingers. No, no, no, no! You can't take them off!! You can't see!!! Dazai thought desperately as he struggled against his bonds.

"What's got ya so worked up, huh?" Nikolai giggled. He popped Dazai's shoulder back into place, then reached out a claw and slid it across the bandages on his arm.

Time seemed to stop as the white cloth, his second skin, fluttered lightly to the ground. Dazai was petrified as his bandages fell away, revealing pale skin barred with thin white lines. He'd never wanted anyone to see this, had kept it hidden for so long, but now-

"Dazai, what..."

Dazai gave Sigma a glare of such hostility that he gasped and stepped back, his words trailing off into silence.

"Looks like he's been using his arms as a cutting board! Hehe~ no wonder he's so upset!"

"Don't mock me..." Dazai growled, trying to look fierce even though he was trembling all over. He wanted to run and hide, cover up his scarred arms, that piece of himself he tried so hard to keep secret, but that was impossible. He struggled against his bonds; the feeling of the ropes digging into his wrists was a welcome distraction from the overwhelming vulnerability that came with being seen.

"I'm sorry, I d-didn't know- Nikolai, can you-?" Sigma stammered, looking up at his companion. Nikolai's gaze softened, and he gave a small nod.

"Dazai..." he intoned, his voice low and laced with magic. "Your heartrate is slowing... your muscles are relaxing... you feel calm... you have no will to resist..."

Nikolai continued to murmur soothing nothings, putting forth his power to try and calm him down. Dazai was helpless, bound hand and foot, but the white haired vampire didn't want his human to be upset. His knees knocked together as he finished the spell, but he quickly straightened himself again, fighting off a momentary dizziness. That hypnotism had taken a lot more out of him than it should have.

"There we go, now he's tame as a lamb," Nikolai said cheerily, giving Sigma a reassuring pat on the head. "He won't protest even if we stick him with a hundred needles!"

"Thank you," Sigma said, his shoulders slumping in relief. "Now, how do I do this again?"

"You've got to puncture the vein, but not push all the way through, like this! Watch me closely," Nikolai picked up a needle from a metal tray and carefully inserted it into his forearm. He demonstrated a couple times as Sigma watched, the boy looking a bit queasy, yet determined to get it right.

"Are you ready? Want me to do it the first time?"

"No, I think I'm good..." Sigma said, then slowly took another needle off of the tray. This one was much thicker, and was connected to a synthetic tube. "This might hurt a bit, Dazai, but try to relax."

As if I have a choice... Dazai knew he should be afraid or at least upset, but in his current state, but he couldn't feel anything besides a placid tranquility. He was under a spell, but he saw no point in wasting energy fighting it.

"Here, let me help. You're shaking," Nikolai said. He wrapped his hands around Sigma's smaller ones, guiding his hand as he pricked Dazai's arm. Slowly, the thick, dark blood began to flow through the needle and tube, each heartbeat creating a small surge of red that dripped into the waiting bottle. Dazai watched silently, impassively, as his blood was taken. He tried not to think about the loss of his bandages, and the livid white scars that tingled in the open air.

"Done!" Sigma said, his shoulders slumping in relief. He corked the bottle, then set the apparatus back on the metal tray. Nikolai took it and licked up the extra blood greedily. Sigma ignored him, and pressed a piece of cotton to Dazai's bleeding forearm. "There, it's over. It didn't hurt too much, did it?" Sigma asked, his eyes flitting nervously over the patchwork of white lines that decorated Dazai's skin.

"No," Dazai replied flatly, looking down at his scarred arms. His heart couldn't race and his adrenaline couldn't pump in his hypnotized state, but his eyes were still full of shame and sorrow. "If you're done, cover up my arms..." Sigma nodded and unrolled Dazai's sleeves, covering his arms in white cloth again. It wasn't the tight, reassuring wrap of bandages, but it was something.

"If you're feeling well enough to stand, I'll take you back to your room."

Dazai nodded wordlessly, and let Sigma untie him. Thoughts of fighting and escape flitted through his mind, but he knew that he would never get far. He was all too familiar with the symptoms of blood loss, and he knew that he was likely to faint if he exerted himself.

With those gloomy thoughts weighing on his mind, he allowed Sigma to lead him back to his cell. What a tame, obedient sheep I am... let them believe that all they will. I can wait, I can be patient, but I will get out of here. Chuuya will come, or I will find a way to escape myself.

Sigma unlocked Dazai's cell, then untied the ropes around his wrists. "I'm really sorry, Dazai. I didn't know why... why you wore those bandages..." he said sheepishly, his head lowered so that his hair obscured his face.

"You only did what you were told to do," Dazai replied in an emotionless tone as he stepped forward into his cell. Sigma closed the door behind him, but hesitated before leaving. Dazai was just standing there, his posture slumped and lifeless, his head hanging low. He looked so defeated and pathetic, and the sight tugged at Sigma's heart.

"They won't take your blood again for another couple days, you know. You need to rest and heal up first, so don't worry, you have time. Just call for me if you need anything, alright?"

"Alright."

Sigma hesitated for a few moments, but Dazai didn't move or make a sound. Eventually, he turned around and went back to his own room, his heart filled with sympathy for the unfortunate prisoner.

At length, Dazai climbed in bed and curled up beneath the blanket, the darkness of his cell reflecting his state of mind. He ran his hands over his arms, feeling the crisscross of scars that covered his skin. Recollections of each and every mark replayed all too vividly in his head, like a dam had burst when the bandages fell away.

 

Dazai was back in his own home, woken up by the sound of broken sobs. He'd had to stand on his tiptoes to reach the doorknob of his fathers bedchambers, the hinges creaking as he stepped inside.

"Dada? What's wrong?" He'd never seen his father cry. It scared him more than anything else he'd seen.

"What's wrong, he asks?" the man had laughed, the sound choked and manic through his tears. "You are! You're a demon, a bastard, a freak!" Dazai flinched away at those words; words spoken to a child of only five years.

"M-mommy doesn't like you saying those things. She'll be mad-"

"Shut up, shut up, shut up!!! She's not coming back!!! Because of YOU!!!!" He screamed, taking he candlestick off his nightstand and throwing it at his son. The corner had caught Dazai on the shoulder, marking his first scar.

Dazai had run to his bedroom, crying and calling out for his mother, but the only answer had been the echoes of his own voice.

 

Dazai's memory shifted, and now he sat on one end of a long oak table. The only sound was the clink of knives and forks as he dined with his father. He always dreaded mealtimes, for the forced proximity hazarded the chance of conversation.

"I am going away for a few weeks, and you will be alone. I expect you to continue to attend school and not bring any further shame to me."

"Yes, father."

The man had looked across the table, his cold black eyes like pits of night. "I will be attending the merchants council, and I may be able to bring you home a gift. Is there anything you want?"

Dazai was shocked, and answered on his first impulse. "Nothing." The thought went through his mind that it didn't make any difference, that nothing was going to make him happy.

"Nothing? Boy, I am going to the Arcane Isle! People from all across the kingdom will be selling their wares. There will be more toys and little games than you have ever seen before, and yet you want nothing?"

His father was upset, and that could not happen. Dazai hurried to correct himself: "A nice book! Something written in the far away lands! I would like that very much!" He looked up expectantly, but his father still looked displeased.

"A book is droll and boring, especially for a young boy. Don't you want a toy soldier like the other children your age? Or maybe a knights helmet and a wooden sword to slay dragons?"

Dazai's face twitched and ached as he forced himself to smile. He did not want either of those things. "I would like that very much, father. I want the most beautiful helm they have!"

That finally made the man smile. Dazai's shoulders slumped in relief, and he forced himself to maintain his own smile and act the part of an eager child through the rest of the meal.

The man left the next night, leaving his eight year old son alone in the house. Dazai couldn't sleep, so he lit a candle, the flickering light casting strange shadows in his bedroom. He soon got out of bed and wandered around the mansion, his feet growing chilled as he tread on cold wooden panels. His heart felt as empty as his home, and he longed for something, anything, to ease that horrible empty feeling.

He made his way to the kitchen and ate a handful of sweets, but the sugar tasted like sand on his tongue. Nothing mattered, nothing made a difference. He was about to head back to his room and try to sleep when he saw a silver glint in the candlelight. It was a knife made for cutting vegetables, but when Dazai ran his finger along the blade, he found that it was sharp. He put his bleeding finger to his mouth and licked up the blood, feeling an unexpected rush of gratification at the act. He placed the knife against his bare forearm, then made a swiping motion, spilling his own blood for the first time. It stung, but the pain was fresh and clean, and most importantly, he had caused it. He was in control, and pain was so much better than apathy...

 

Dazai lived day by day like a robot, mechanically eating, sleeping, and regurgitating the words and expressions he knew a human should. As the years went by, he kept up a happy face, hiding the accumulating misery that clawed at his heart. He wore long sleeves to hide his cuts, which grew deeper and more frequent. He couldn't hide them forever, though...

"What in the seven hells is this?!?" his father had cried, yanking back the sleeve to expose the map of red and pink lines. Don't cry, don't cry, don't cry, Dazai thought desperately, but his body wouldn't listen, and the hot tears ran down his cheeks. He didn't say a word; he was terrified of his fathers wrath, and hopelessly ashamed at his own behavior.

"Stop this foolishness at once, you devil! What if someone saw this? What if people found out that my child is a craven? It would be a scandal!" He screamed, slapping Dazai across the face. "If you ever cut yourself again, I'll make you wish you were dead!"

Dazai nodded quickly, his head bowed as the tears dripped onto the floor. Somewhere, deep down, he'd hoped that the man would feel pity for him, spare a gentle word, show any thought for his wellbeing, but it had been foolishness. His father did not love him, and never had. As Dazai held a hand to his stinging cheek, he finally made up his mind. He was going to kill himself, and end his family line. He would bring shame on the father that had treated him so coldly, and the mother that had abandoned him so long ago.

Late that night, Dazai crept down to the kitchen, a candle held close to his chest. A glob of hot wax dripped down and burned his fingers, but he didn't cry out. He set the candle down on the table, then carefully, silently, pulled up a chair so that he could reach the medicine cabinet. Bottles and boxes lined the shelf, their labels indistinct in the dim light. He grabbed an armload of different tonics and powders, then poured a little bit of each into a cup. The liquid steamed and bubbled, a smell like burning hair wafting from the dark, putrid surface. Dazai grimaced as he raised the cup to his lips, but he was determined. I am a monster, and monsters should be killed.

"Cheers," he whispered to himself, then drank. 

Pain shot through his whole body, and everything went black. The next thing he knew, he was waking up in a hospital bed. I must have fallen and made a noise... I was found before it was too late... Dazai cursed to himself. Damn me straight to hell! I wasn't supposed to wake up again! This was all supposed to be over!!!

 

Money and threats bought silence, and as soon as he was well enough, Dazai was brought home. The medicine cabinet was locked, all sharp objects removed, and he was confined to his bedchambers until he was 'fixed.' Healers, hypnotists, and empaths were called from all over the kingdom, and soon, Dazai began to smile and laugh again. He cut himself less, and when he did, it was on the thighs or chest instead of the arms so that no one could see. Eventually he was declared 'cured,' and allowed to leave the house and attend school again. By all outward appearances, Dazai was better. Deep down, he wanted to die more than ever before.

Months passed, and Dazai's depression reached an all time low. He ran away from home one night, bringing nothing but his knife. He wandered aimlessly through the empty streets of the Port City as he worked himself up to the moment.

I want to die. I want to die more than ever before. There's no chance now of a recovery. No matter what sort of thing I do, it's sure to be a failure, just a final coating applied to my shame. I want to die. I must die. Living itself is the source of my agony.

Slowly, he drew the knife. He trembled as he felt the press of the cold steel against his wrist, and for a moment, he couldn't breathe. This would be different than the cuts he'd made before. He was really going to die, and no one would remember his name. He squeezed the hilt of the small dagger, reminding himself of everything unfair in the world.

Dazai slit his wrist, and the hot blood poured out in waves. I am a monster, and monsters should be killed. His hands were already soaked with hot, sticky blood as he slashed his other wrist.

"Ah- ahhh..." Dazai sighed, his eyes fluttering closed. Every second, every heartbeat brought him closer to freedom. As the blood gushed from his gaping wrists, he could feel himself dying. His wrists didn't hurt anymore, and all sensation in his body was fading away...

An urgent voice called out to him, and someone grabbed his wrists, trying to stop the bleeding. He didn't know who it was and couldn't understand what they said, but he paid it no mind. Death called, and he intended to answer.

 

Dazai pressed down on the hard, raised line that ran across his wrist, his fingers worrying the scar there. Years had passed, but his skin still tingled, as if the cuts had only just begun to heal. Some part of him wished that he had really died that day; died before he'd gotten a tantalizing glimpse of happiness. Then, at least, he would have been in control of his own fate. He was completely helpless now, and he longed for Chuuya's touch. Oh, how he missed the dragon...

The sound of a bolt being unlatched broke Dazai from his reverie. The clang was followed immediately by the clink of a chain, and the door swung open. He sat up in bed, expecting to see Sigma, but the human boy wasn't there. An aura of power and death proceeded the figure as he stepped into the room, his black cloak billowing behind him like the wings of his bat shape. It was the vampire lord himself, Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Chapter 14: The Rat

"What do you want?" Dazai spat, his eyes fixed on the vampire. He propped himself up on his elbows, wincing as it twinged his aching shoulder.

"Hm, so impatient, so rude... but if you insist on skipping the pleasantries, I suppose we can get right to business." Fyodor took a seat in the only chair, tenting his fingers together.

Dazai waited, his eyes narrowed. What business could this bat fucker have with me?

"As things are, you will spend the rest of your life locked underground, serving to give us blood. I doubt you want that~"

"You're right, I don't want that at all. Chuuya will be here any day now, and I'm leaving with him."

"Ah, so you still believe that he has your best interests at heart? It would seem that your dragon has abandoned you, my dear Dazai~"

Dazai wanted nothing more than to wipe that smug smirk off his face. "Not much time has passed. I'm sure he's out there, looking for me, and when he finds you, you'll be sorry! He'll kill you for touching me! He'll tear you and your servants to pieces, then leave you to burn in the sun!"

"I highly doubt he'd manage, but no matter. For now, you are a fly trapped in a spiders web, and must look to the spider for mercy and deliverance. You see, there is something I desperately want, and only you can give it to me."

"You're already draining me of every drop of blood I can give you, what else do you want?" Dazai snapped. He wanted this conversation to be over. He wanted Fyodor to leave so that he could curl up beneath the blanket and be alone again.

"You're an incredibly rare creature, Dazai," Fyodor spoke, his voice almost reverent. "I haven't seen one of your kind for over a thousand years... One could say that you are a demon prodigy~"

The color drained from Dazai's face as he heard that name. "...what did you just call me?"

"That was your name, was it not?" Fyodor chuckled at Dazai's expression. "Every castle is full of spiders, and some of them happen to belong to me. They say many things about you; you're a monster with eyes of blood, a creature summoned from the pits of hell, a blight on human existence. You have caused so much pain and suffering in your short lifetime, and tainted all that is around you with your cursed presence."

"Get to the point. What do you want, and what will you give me for it?" Dazai interrupted impatiently. Beneath the blanket, he was gripping the sheets tight.

"I want to make more of you, Dazai. You alone can only do so much: your lifespan is short, and you cannot provide enough blood for my needs. I must learn the secrets of your origin."

The hell if I know why I'm fucking cursed, and if I did, I wouldn't help you! I wouldn't wish this life on anyone! "I'm not enough for you, huh? Even though you plan to drain me of everything I can give you? What's so special about me anyway?"

"That's what I want to find out. Was there anything peculiar about your birth? Any event that happened afterwards...?" Fyodor waited, his fingers tented together below his chin.

"I don't know, my parents weren't really the talkative type," Dazai grumbled.

"I'll give you time to think on it. Remember, if you help me, I'll help you."

Fyodor left the room, leaving Dazai alone with his thoughts.

 

Days passed, then weeks, and Dazai grew depressed and despondent. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't remember anything that might help Fyodor. Bringing up those old memories along with having his arms uncovered had only further degraded his mental state.

"Where is he?" Dazai mumbled, his face in his hands. He felt so abandoned, and he missed Chuuya so much...

Sigma sat next to him, munching on a cookie. He'd taken to baking, and usually brought in a sweet treat with Dazai's meals. It was his way of trying to cheer him up, but it hadn't been working lately. "I'm sure he's still out there looking for you," he said, even if he didn't really believe it. Every dragon he'd ever heard of was greedy and selfish.

"He should have found me by now. He's got a great nose, better than a dog, and he can follow any scent. He can fly too; he should have found me weeks ago..." Dazai trailed off into silence.

Sigma shuddered at the thought of the dragon finding them. He imagined a huge, scaly monster breaking into his home and bringing fiery destruction. He couldn't imagine why Dazai was so enamored with the creature, but in a way, he was sympathetic. Not many people would willingly live with two vampires either.

"Dazai... they don't want you to know this, and I don't know why," Sigma began, his fingers worrying the end of his cloak. "We aren't just hiding out in any old crypt... it's hidden with spells."

"Spells? What kind of spells are we talking about? Chuuya's strong and smart, he should still find it eventually, right?" Dazai's desperate eyes tugged at Sigma's heartstrings. He wanted to reassure him, but he also didn't want to give him false hope.

"I don't think he ever will... Lord Dostoevsky told me about it; this place was built hundreds of years ago in the vampire wars. It's enchanted so that no living person can find it on their own."

Dazai stared down at his food, his appetite completely gone. Only a vampire... so Chuuya hasn't abandoned me, but he'll never find this place... I'm as good as dead; I'm already in my tomb.

"I'm sorry, Dazai, I really am. I would help you if I could, but my hands are tied."

"What would they do if you set me free?" Dazai asked quietly, trying to keep his voice even. "Would you be punished? Would you take my place as the main course?"

Sigma raised hand to his throat, but quickly lowered it, disguising the motion by fidgeting with the clasp on his cloak. He gulped, not liking the way the other was looking at him.

"They've bitten you before, haven't they? It's either you or me, and you want to save your own skin," Dazai said, his face twisting in disgust.

"It's not like that! They don't ever drink my blood! My masters are good to me, so I want to serve them!"

"Then show me your neck."

That made Sigma freeze.

"Do it, show me your neck!"

Slowly, he unclasped the cloak he always wore, letting the black and white silk fall away. There was a clear bite mark on his throat, the pinkish scar tissue standing out in contrast to his pale skin. Dazai's bite was still red and itchy, but even after being reopened several times, it still wasn't as big as Sigma's. It looked like his neck had been punctured and healed up countless times. It must have, to leave a scar like that...

"There. I've seen your scars, now you've seen mine," Sigma said, fastening his cloak again. Dazai pulled at his sleeves in a subconscious gesture to make sure that those scars were covered as well.

"Then you know what it's like to be hurt by them."

Sigma took another bite of his cookie. "They get hungry just like you and I do, so I can forgive them for it. Nikolai always says that you can't have roses without thorns," he smiled shyly, looking up at Dazai. "I understand why you want to escape, Dazai, but... meeting you has been a rose for me."

 

The leaves had fallen and the snows had come, but Chuuya still searched tirelessly for his love. He'd hunted down several vampires, but none of them had kidnapped Dazai. None of them bore the bittersweet tang of Dazai's scent.

Chuuya stopped to rest in a secluded inn for the night. He sighed with relief and rested his weary body near the warm, welcoming fire. It was the last place you'd expect to find a vampire, so he almost missed the scent of blood and grave dirt through the aroma of fire and mead. When he caught it, he froze, his eyes going wide. He sniffed the air again, following his nose to a locked door.

"Sir! Where doya' think yer goin'?" The innkeeper called, but Chuuya just pushed past her and into the room, snapping the bar like kindling. The smell was stronger here, and Chuuya's heartbeat raced. A young woman lay unconscious in bed, her throat pricked with two tiny wounds, but he only spared her a moments glance. The vampire was gone, but the scent was still very, very fresh! Was he imagining things, or did it carry a trace of Dazai as well?

The innkeeper let out a horrified scream when she saw the victim, but Chuuya ignored her, leapt out the window, and transformed back into his dragon shape. Finally, he had a trail! He had hope again at last!

 

"Dostoy! The dragon, he's at the village!"

Fyodor slammed his book shut as Nikolai burst into his study, clearly out of breath. "You saw him? Did he see you? What happened?!?"

"I saw him land outside of town, but he didn't see me! I flew straight back to tell you!" Nikolai panted.

Fyodor's pale face contorted into a snarl, and he bared his sharp teeth. "Flew straight back? Fool! You've led him right to us!"

"Master, but the fortress-"

"Is old, and was built to keep humans away! We have no idea if it will stop a dragon as powerful as Chuuya! Thoughtless clown!!!" Fyodor slapped him across the face, the sound ringing through the room. Nikolai put a hand to his face, his eyes full of hurt, then dropped to his knees and bowed his head.

"What do you command, my lord?"

 

It was a night like any other; Dazai sat up late, reading a book by the light of a candle in his dreary stone cell. Suddenly, the bar clanged and Sigma burst in. Dazai put his book down and raised an eyebrow, taking note of the others flushed face and heavy breathing.

"We're moving- to a new- room."

"Why?"

"Master says- this one- has rats," Sigma panted, leaning on the door for support. Dazai didn't buy that for a minute. What's going on? Is Chuuya here? Has he found me at last?

"Would you run to my room in the middle of the night for rats? Is Chuuya close? Tell me the truth; no one is here to listen."

Sigma glanced around, then nodded quickly.

He's here now?" Dazai's eyes lit up with excitement, and a huge grin spread across his face. "I have to go to him! Come on, Sigma! He'll reward you for saving me, I'm sure of it!"

Sigma's eyes widened even farther, and he held up his hands in refusal. "No, he won't! Dazai! He'll eat both of us alive!"

Dazai's grin turned into a snarl. "That's a lie! You and your friends don't know anything!" He grabbed Sigma by the shoulders and shook him. "You have to help me! Don't listen to the vampires, they don't care about you! They're incapable of love, but Chuuya is not! I love him, damn it!"

"NO! Let go of me, or I'll get Nikolai! He'll make you sorry- he won't let you threaten me!" Sigma pulled away and made for the door, but Dazai stepped in front of him, barring the way.

"S-stand back! I'm not afraid of you!"

"Then you are a bigger fool than I thought," Dazai growled, his eyes gleaming madly in the candlelight. "Your masters aren't here to save you now, they're busy trying to keep my dragon away. You're all alone, so just give me the key."

Sigma drew a knife, holding it out at arms length. "I don't want to do this, but I can't let you escape!"

Dazai sighed and shook his head, but when he looked back up again, his eyes shone with a dangerous light. "You've never killed anyone before, have you, Sigma? You've never cleaved a man in half or strangled him until their face is purple. You've never crushed a mans skull into pudding, or watched the life drain from his eyes as his blood waters the ground beneath you."

"Stay back!" Sigma screamed, his hand trembling.

Dazai cracked his knuckles, slowly approaching the boy. "Do you know why I was called the Demon Prodigy, Sigma? Because my hands are stained with unfathomable amounts of blood. I've done things you can only imagine in your darkest nightmares. I broke even the strongest of my enemies, and had them begging for death before the end."

Sigma took another step back, and felt his back hit against the stony wall. He opened his mouth to call for help, but quick as a viper, Dazai knocked the knife aside and clamped a hand over his mouth.

"I don't want to do this either, but you've left me no choice. Help me get out, and Chuuya and I will save you from the vampires. Defy me, and you'll envy my scars. Do you understand?"

Sigma's eyes were wide with fear, but he quickly nodded his head. Slowly, Dazai let go of him and picked the knife up off the ground. I have to get back to Chuuya no matter what! I have to be cruel now so that we can survive. He'll thank me later once we're free.

"Good. Now show me the way out of here!"

Sigma had no choice but to obey. Dazai was practically skipping as Sigma led him through the winding, curving passages of the vampire's lair. Finally, I'll get to see Chuuya again! I'm going to hug him so tight it leaves bruises! I'm going to kiss that dragon bastard right on the lips! They were almost there, he could feel it. He was so close to being reunited with Chuuya and escaping this dreadful underground prison!

Suddenly, Sigma bolted, turning down a dark hallway and vanishing from sight.

"Hey, get back here!" Dazai yelled, his eyes widening with panic. He's going to rat me out! He's more afraid of the vampires than he is of me! I'll be captured, and I'll never see Chuuya again!

Dazai hesitated, then turned down the main passageway and ran up the stairs, desperate to get out before it was too late. His heart was pounding in his chest and his breathing was ragged, but he forced his weak body to move as fast as it could. There was a door up ahead, a big, wooden door reinforced with iron bars. He instinctively knew that it was the door that led out, the door to escape!

Suddenly, Dazai's legs felt weak, but he summoned up his last burst of energy and made a run for the door. Black dots swam in front of his eyes, and a wave of dizziness passed over him, making his knees shake and steps unsteady. He fell to the ground, then began to crawl forward, his limbs trembling with effort.

"Well done, Dazai, you were so close to evading me~"

No, not him! I have to get out! CHUUYA!!! Dazai tried to scream, but his throat felt like it was stuffed with cotton; he couldn't move, couldn't breathe-

"The dragon is in this very forest looking for you now. He'll sniff out our trail before long," Fyodor purred. "My servants have made quite a mess of things, but with your power, I can fix everything~"

He really is here! So close, so close!!! Dazai stared longingly at the door, but he couldn't move a muscle. Fyodor's malignant power beat him down, draining every ounce of strength he had. He couldn't even cry out as his head was yanked backwards and the vampire sunk his teeth into his neck.

 

Chuuya stopped in his tracks, sniffing the air desperately. He could still smell the vampire scent, but... no, that was impossible! It came from several directions at once! The dragon stretched his neck, carefully smelling the air. The scent of the grave was getting stronger? Closer? There! A black bat fluttered over the canopy of trees. Chuuya leapt into the sky and caught the creature in his mouth, but as soon as his jaws closed, it dissolved into smoke! Dozens more were taking wing, flying from the treetops and scattering every which way. Chuuya snapped at them, but they all just dissolved into smoke.

"GIVE DAZAI BACK TO ME!!!!!!" Chuuya roared into the night, panic clawing at his chest again. The forest was full of the vampire scent, carried on the spelled wings of hundreds of bats. He had no idea where to turn or where to go to! Dazai could be anywhere!

He must be close, he has to be! I will find him, I WILL!!!

Notes:

Do I like torturing my readers? Maybe~ Don't worry though, the Soukoku reunion is coming soon!

Chapter 15: Finding Home

Notes:

I know it's been a while since I've updated, and I'm sorry! I've just been dealing with a lot of depression and disappointment lately, and haven't been motivated to write. I've been feeling better these last few days, and wrote a ton on Saturday to bring you this chapter though! I hope you like it!

"No no no! Chuuya! CHUUYA!!!!"

"SHUT UP!" Nikolai kicked Dazai full in the face, sending him sprawling on the hard stone floor.

"Please, please- GAH!" Dazai cried out in pain as Nikolai's boot came down on his hand. The vampire was a terrifying sight to behold: his eyes burned like fire, and huge bat wings unfurled behind him, framing his figure in white.

"What did you do to my human? If you hurt him, you'll suffer! I'll pay you back ten times over!"

"I didn't touch him! I was just trying to-"

"Scare him? Cause you did! He's back in his room, crying and trembling like a leaf! Because of YOU!!!" Nikolai kicked Dazai in the side, making the man groan and curl in on himself. He actually cares about him? But he drinks his blood! He's hurt Sigma more than I ever have! Dazai coughed, and tasted the coppery tang of his own blood. He was almost surprised that he had any left.

"I should cut off your feet so you can't pull something like that again!" Nikolai seethed, his wings flaring out behind him, "...but Sigma would be upset if I did that. He's kind and gentle, unlike the rest of us."

Nikolai's wings folded behind his back, then transformed back into his usual overcoat. He looked at Dazai with a contemplative expression, then reached out towards him. Dazai flinched back, expecting another blow, but Nikolai just secured a chain around his ankle. The iron was cold and uncomfortable against Dazai's bare skin, but he was relived that it wasn't too restraining, and the chain had a bit of slack. Not enough for him to reach the door, though...

"It's good for him to have another human around, you know. He's been happier since you came. He considers you a friend," Nikolai said at length. "You like him too, don't you? Who wouldn't? He's the sweetest little thing you'll ever see..." he didn't even seem to be talking to Dazai anymore. He was lost in his own world, a warm smile on his pale face.

He's completely flipped around since a minute ago! Dazai watched the vampire closely, understanding slowly coming to his scattered brain. He cares for Sigma the same way Chuuya cares for me...

"...he is a good kid. I would never have actually hurt him," Dazai said softly.

"Really?" Nikolai asked, his smile morphing into a sneer. "If it came to it, would you choose him over your freedom?"

Dazai fell silent, which was answer enough. Nikolai regarded him with an unreadable expression, then just shrugged and turned to the door.

"You won't get that chance, so treat him well, yeah? He's your only ally."

The sound of the bolt being latched was joined by a few extra chains, and then, Nikolai was gone.

 

"Dazai? Are you awake?"

"Mhm." He didn't try to sit up as Sigma sat beside his bed. His entire body felt weak and numb, and his arm throbbed from where his blood had been drawn.

"You're so pale, you need to eat more," Sigma said, placing a glass of milk on the table and handing him a fresh baked cookie. Dazai stared at it, but didn't move to eat it. Sigma took a bite of his own cookie, his gaze wandering around the dreary cell. He felt a pang of guilt as he saw the heavy iron chain, but then again, they were the only reason he was brave enough to visit the man. He'd kept his distance from Dazai for weeks, terrified that he'd follow through with his threats.

"They were going to punish you, you know. I begged them not to."

The silence was a palpable thing, the past events weighing heavily on both their minds. Sigma let out a long sigh. "Please say something, Dazai. It's like you aren't even here anymore..."

"What is there to say?"

"Is it an apology you want? Cause I'm sorry, Dazai. Really, really sorry."

Dazai just stared at him for awhile, and Sigma wondered if he was ever going to respond. Finally, he spoke, his tone flat and emotionless. "Don't apologize when you don't mean it. You'd do it all over again if you got the chance."

"But you-" Sigma stopped himself and took a deep breath. "I understand why you're upset, but please, I'm trying to make things right!"

"Things will never be right while you serve them, can't you see? How can you let them chain me up like an animal and bleed me out until I can barely walk? Don't you see what they're doing to me? What you're doing to me?" Dazai took his hand and met his eyes in a desperate plea.

"I'm not doing anything to you!" Sigma protested sharply, tugging his hand away. "It's all Fyodor and Nikolai!"

"Standing back and watching is a choice; by doing nothing, you are allowing this to continue! You are a willing accomplice-"

"NO!" Sigma's heart was racing, and he took a step back. Dazai's words penetrated deep inside him, echoing with the horrible weight of truth. "Stop it with your mind games! I've never hurt anyone! I'm a good person!"

Dazai pressed on, his heart pounding in his chest. "You aren't blameless, Sigma. Have you ever stood up for anyone or anything? How much harm have you caused by always being a passive observer?"

"Stop talking, please stop... I'm not going to help you escape, no matter what you say! I'm loyal to my masters-"

"Seven hells, Sigma! GAH!"

Dazai threw threw the glass of milk at the wall where it shattered with a resounding crash. "I've met old wives with more backbone than you!" He put his head in his hands and sighed, trying to get a hold on his anger. "I can't force you, but please, do one thing for me. Find out what they're doing with my blood, and why they need so much. It's the least you can do." Find out what's worth taking away my life and freedom.

Sigma took a deep breath, then nodded. "Alright, I'll do my best. And Dazai? take care of yourself."

 

"I did what you asked; I found out!" Sigma whispered loudly as he set the tray across Dazai's lap. The mans eyes lit up with excitement, and he waited for him to continue with baited breath.

"It's for some kind of spell... I'm sorry, I don't know what it will do, but it can't be good." Sigma leaned in closer, his face pale with fear as he talked. "Fyodor's gone, and won't be back for another couple days. I took that time to look through his room..."

His room? Maybe he's got more balls than I give him credit for. "Go on," Dazai prompted, lowering his voice as well.

Sigma swallowed thickly, his expression reluctant, but he pushed on anyway. "There was an altar to the chaos demons, and on it... a stone basin, and a tome... it's in the old tongue, so I can't read it, but-" he shuddered, "I could feel the darkness in it, I... I always knew that Fyodor was a bit coldhearted, but this... I didn't want to believe he would do something like this."

A chill ran down Dazai's spine, but the news wasn't worse than he'd expected. Creatures like Fyodor rarely had innocent intentions. "He's a vampire; evil is in their nature."

A flash of anger passed over Sigma's face, but it was gone in an instant. "I'm sure many people would say the same about your dragon. They may have done a lot of bad stuff, but Nikolai at least still is a good person! He unlocked the door to Fyodor's chambers for me; I trust him."

"He let you? -but he practically worships Fyodor, why..." Dazai trailed off, remembering the night he'd almost escaped. It was clear that the vampire cared about Sigma deeply, and his motives were always mysterious.

"Nikolai makes his own rules, though he does respect Fyodor. He made me promise not to tell you what I found, but I just can't keep this a secret. I think that they are going to sacrifice you!"

The word hung over their heads like the blade at a gallows; ready to fall at any moment.

"Sacrifice? But they need my blood, and for that, they need me alive!"

"They must have enough, I guess. I'm sorry, I don't know what to do," Sigma trailed off quietly. He played with the sleeves on his coat to avoid looking Dazai in the eyes.

"So that's it, then? I'm going to die for a dark sacrifice? ...I suppose death is better than being a prisoner." Dazai's voice was somber. There was a time that he would have welcomed death with open arms, but Chuuya had changed everything. His mind wandered back to the dragon, recalling his gentle touches and the love in his mismatched eyes.

"No, I won't let them kill you, Dazai. I won't be a passive observer this time." Sigma said, his voice firm despite his obvious anxiety.

Dazai studied Sigma's face, hardly daring to hope. To his disbelief, the boy looked sincere! "R-really? After all this time...? Aren't you still scared of them?

Sigma chuckled nervously and shook his head. "Honestly, I'm absolutely terrified, but I can't just stand by and let this happen." You stood by long enough while they treated me like livestock... well, better late than never I guess. Dare I hope that this isn't just another trick?

"When can we go?" Dazai asked, trembling and bouncing his leg in nervous anticipation. He didn't want to get his hopes up, but the thought of finally reuniting with Chuuya filled his heart with an unbearable longing.

"I was thinking that the morning would be best. That's when you'll be protected by the sun the longest. There's just one problem... I told Nikolai that I was going to draw your blood tonight. If I don't fill the bottle, he'll get suspicious, and then this will all be for nothing."

Dazai's heart sank again. He always felt weak and dizzy when his blood was taken. After, he would be in no state to try and run away, but what choice did he have? He rolled up his sleeve and held out his arm.

"It's alright, I have an idea. Just eat your food and focus on regaining your strength," Sigma said, his mouth set in a firm line as he held the needle up.

"Sigma..." Dazai whispered, hardly believing his eyes as he plunged it into his own arm. Soon, the thick blood was flowing through the tube and into the bottle, the steady drip drip captivating him. Is this the same person who jumps at shadows and apologizes to inanimate objects? Is this the same boy who ratted me out to the vampires to save his own skin?

Sigma capped the bottle and set it aside, then pressed a bandage to his bleeding arm. "They won't know its mine until they try to drink it."

Dazai was speechless. He'd never expected the quiet, timid boy to do something so brave and selfless. All he could manage to utter was a choked thank you. Sigma smiled warmly, then left to give the bottle to Nikolai, promising to be back at the first light of morning. Oh, how Dazai hoped that he would keep that promise...

It felt like days, though in reality, only a few hours had passed before Sigma came back. Dazai's heart was in his throat as he walked through the dark, quiet halls of the vampires lair, their steps echoing off the stone walls no matter how softly they stepped.

"Well, well, well, look who it is! The demon prodigy, out of his cage!"

Sigma let out a frightened squeak as Nikolai stepped out of the shadows, his hands on his hips and a self satisfied grin on his face. NO! This can't be happening again!!! Dazai took a step back, his fists raised defensively, though he knew it was useless. The vampire had him outmatched in every area, and he had little hope that Sigma would be able to help now that they were caught.

"I warned you, but you just had to threaten my dear Sigma, didn't you?"

"Nikolai, please-" Sigma began.

"Hush, little one, it's going to be fine. Just close your eyes, ok? And your ears? Good." The vampire took a step forward, a knife appearing in his hand as wings unfurled from his back. He licked the edge of the blade, his eyes glowing a menacing green.

"STOP! It was my choice, he didn't force me to do anything! Don't hurt him, please!"

"I'm not going to kill him, calm down! I'm just going to cut off his feet!" Nikolai took a step forward, but Sigma stepped in front of him, his hands raised in supplication. Dazai watched from the sidelines, both amazed and terrified. Sigma's standing up to Nikolai? On my behalf?

"Please don't, Nikolai... please let him go! Can't you see that what we're doing is wrong?"

"You know I don't care about concepts like morals, my dear Sigma~ They're so limiting! Move aside, please. I won't hurt him if you don't want me to," he replied with his usual grin, ruffling Sigma's hair.

Dazai's heart was beating a million times a second as he frantically tried to make his case. His very life hung in the balance of a few words! "You care for him so much, even I can see that. You're powerful and immortal, but you'd do anything to protect him and keep him happy! Doesn't that sound familiar?"

"Trying to play the guilt card now, huh? That sappy stuff doesn't work on me!" Nikolai laughed. He gently pushed Sigma to the side and reached for Dazai.

Dazai backed up further, looking to Sigma for help. He was the only one who had a chance to save him: he was the one the vampire cared about the most. "Please..."

Sigma took a deep breath and nodded, gathering his courage.

"I care about you too, Nikolai- a lot! I- I think I even love you!"

Well, that was unexpected... Dazai was almost as shocked as Nikolai at the sudden turn of events. He considered escaping while he was distracted, but something held him back.

"Love?" Nikolai echoed dumbly, his jaw slack with shock. He'd never imagined that such a word could be directed towards him. His wings folded and disappeared as he gazed into Sigma's bright magenta eyes. "Why?"

Time seemed to freeze as Sigma gave him a shy smile and shook his head, his face burning with a blush. He stepped forward and took Nikolai's hands in his own. "Remember the day we met?"

"You were so small... lost and crying..." the vampire murmured in a daze.

"That's right, I had nowhere to go. You could have just left, but instead you took me home with you."

"I wasn't always kind to you... we made you our servant," Nikolai protested falteringly, but Sigma didn't waver.

"You gave me a place to stay and food to eat. You taught me to read and write; you gave me purpose." Sigma squeezed Nikolai's hands in a reassuring gesture, then directed his gaze back to Dazai. "You feel the same way about Chuuya, don't you?"

Dazai simply nodded, worried that his voice would break if he tried to speak.

Nikolai pressed his lips against the point where Sigma's purple and white hair converged. When he looked back up, it was with a softened expression. "You may go. I won't stop you."

Dazai didn't move at first; he was too stunned by the sudden turn of events. Finally, he walked to the door and stepped into the cold morning air. He almost wanted to cry at the feeling of soft sunlight on his skin and the sweet melody of birds singing. He took a few steps, hardly believing that he was finally free after being a prisoner so long.

"Come on, Sigma, it's a beautiful day! We're finally free!" he laughed happily, closing his eyes as he savored the feeling.

"If you want to go, I won't stop you," Nikolai said softly, reaching out to tuck Sigma's hair behind his ear. He didn't want him to leave, but more than that, he wanted to see him happy.

"Sigma?" Dazai turned around to see Sigma still standing beside Nikolai in the shade of the crypt. 

"I'm not coming, Dazai."

"What?"

Sigma took Nikolai's hand, a sad smile crossing his face. "I'm so glad I met you, but my place is here; it always has been. This is my home."

Dazai's eyes widened in surprise. "But what will happen to you? You helped me escape; when Fyodor gets back-"

"I won't let him touch my human," Nikolai said firmly. He squeezed his hand possessively, his heart fluttering with joy. They really do love each other. I'm happy for them.

The smile returned to Dazai's face, and he ran back to give Sigma a quick hug. "I'm glad I met you too. Take care of yourself, yeah?"

"You too. Now, go on and find your dragon!"

Dazai pulled away, his grin stretching from ear to ear. Waving his goodbye, he set off into the forest.

Chapter 16: The Second First Kiss

The thin, melting snow cracked as the dragon landed in a clearing, his ears pricked and snout raised. He'd caught a promising scent, which grew clearer as he stopped and sampled the air. Could it be Dazai, or just another enchantment to confuse me? Chuuya hardly dared to hope. He changed into his human form to more easily navigate the thick undergrowth of the Umbral Forest. As he travelled deeper, the scent grew stronger- Dazai's blood! He bent down and examined the small, red stain on a thorn bush, and the tiny bit of grey fabric clinging to it. Dazai's scent! Dazai's scent! Dazai's scent! And less than an hour old!!!

The wind changed, and suddenly the smell of Dazai's blood grew stronger, but it also carried the odor of wolves and monsters. Are they hunting Dazai? What if something horrible finds him before I do? Chuuya broke into a run, leaping over the tangled roots and thorny vines that barred his path.

A silhouette was visible through the trees, and Chuuya suddenly stopped breathing. He froze, his eyes wide with disbelief and hope.

"Dazai?" The words are barely a whisper.

"My dragon," Dazai said warmly, closing the distance between them. "What took you so long? I had to escape on my own, you know~"

Chuuya didn't reply; he just reached out and caressed the taller man's cheek, tears coming to his eyes. Dazai was so pale and thin, but he was alive... he could hardly believe it, after all this time... he brushed a lock of Dazai's messy brown hair out of his face. It had grown so long, it almost reached his shoulders.

"You never stopped looking for me," Dazai said softly as he cupped Chuuya's face and wiped away a tear with his thumb. Slowly, he leaned down, his lips brushing against the redheads.

"Never," Chuuya murmured against Dazai's lips, going on tiptoe to close the kiss.

Dazai had never imagined that emotions so tender could spring from his cold, barren heart, but now he felt the stirrings of a new, wonderful warmth. The opening of his lips was the first blossom of the love Chuuya had planted in his heart.

"Mhm," Dazai groaned, crushing his lips against Chuuya's. The redhead's eyes fluttered shut, and he eagerly returned the affection, grabbing Dazai by the hair so that he couldn't pull away. He could taste the sweetness of Dazai's skin; an addictive, delicious flavor he would never get tired of. In that moment, the fear and heartache of their separation faded away, and the only thing that mattered was that they were together now, holding each other in their arms.

A string of saliva connected their mouths for a moment as they pulled apart, and Chuuya let out a breathy laugh. "That was..."

"Not too bad for our first kiss, huh?" Dazai's lips quirked in a small smile.

"Not our first... You're such an idiot, Dazai. You had me scared for so long."

"You're the idiot for caring about me, you know."

"Of course I care; I missed your stupid face," Chuuya replied, running his thumb over his cheek in a tender caress. "I'm so sorry about everything... I was supposed to protect you-"

"Shh, it's alright. I'm just glad you found me..." Dazai sighed, leaning his forehead against Chuuya's. The redhead let out a small sob, then pulled Dazai into a tight embrace. He's shivering, weak, exhausted... I can only imagine the hell he's been through these past months. I need to get him somewhere warm and take care of him.

"Lets get you home. You can ride on my back," Chuuya said, stepping backwards and looking Dazai over. That's when he noticed it: he had no bandages! Dazai's defensive, almost terrified expression replayed in his mind as he remembered the first time he'd asked about them. The smell of old scars was much more prevalent now that they were exposed to the air, and once again, Chuuya wondered about them. His arms were still covered by his shirt, but no white linen covered his face or neck. His neck! Two red marks stood out vividly against his pale, sun starved skin.

"How long will it take to fly home? I don't even know where we are."

"We're near The Dead Kingdom... around a five hour flight from my cave," Chuuya replied, his heart full of worry. He wanted to get Dazai home now, but they still had a journey to take. Dazai's face fell, but he simply nodded. No matter how exhausted he was, he needed to get away from here before Fyodor found him missing.

"I'll carry you, alright?" Chuuya said, taking a few steps back. A deep red glow emanated from his body, and a moment later, Chuuya had returned to his true form. The huge dragon leaned his head down, breathing a warm huff of air over his companion.

"You look too tired to ride on my back. What if... what if I held you, er- ...with my mouth?" Chuuya trailed off into a mumble, his eyes shifting away from Dazai's face.

"What?" Dazai asked, confused.

"Never mind, you're right, that's a bad idea," Chuuya replied quickly, his ears lowering in embarrassment.

"No, really, what did you say? I didn't hear!"

Now I don't want to do it, but I don't really have a better option, do I? He does look so cold and weak; I just want to keep him close... Chuuya sighed, putting aside his pride for Dazai's sake.

"Would you mind if I held you with my mouth?"

In his mouth?! "S-sure, I guess, go ahead," Dazai mumbled, hoping that Chuuya couldn't hear how fast his heart was beating.

Chuuya's white scales were tinted pink, mirroring Dazai's blush as he opened his jaws and waited for him to come inside. His heart's beating really fast... is he nervous? Scared? I am a large monster with sharp teeth, anyone would be scared of- oh!

Dazai slipped off his dirty shoes, then tentatively put his hands inside Chuuya's mouth, preparing to climb in. He was immediately met with the warmth of the dragon's breath; a pleasant sensation that chased away the cold. The dragon's tongue twitched slightly at the touch, and Dazai hesitated.

"This is what I'm supposed to do, right?" he asked cautiously, a little unsure of himself in face of the dark, slimy, intimate depths. Chuuya grunted in ascent, keeping his mouth open and willing his tongue to stay still.

Slowly, Dazai crawled into Chuuya's maw, being careful of the large teeth on either side of him. He barely suppressed a moan as he felt the cushy tongue below him, its surface covered in a thin layer of saliva. Don't get distracted! You can admire the place later, Dazai reminded himself, then crawled all the way in.

Am I really doing this? Chuuya wondered as he slowly closed his mouth. It would be one thing if I was carrying hatchlings, but Dazai; the man I want to be my mate? Is this demeaning for him? Will this send the wrong message? Chuuya almost shook his head, but thought better of it as he felt the weight of Dazai in his jaws. He could feel the man's breath tickling his tongue, and that was not helping him focus.

Dazai felt much warmer and safer as Chuuya held him, though the wetness seeping into his clothes and the tight, cozy space sent tingles through his body. "I'm good to go. This isn't uncomfortable for you, right?" he asked in a breathy voice.

"Nuh-rrggh," Chuuya tried to respond, but his voice was muffled and incomprehensible. Focus, Chuuya, focus!

The dragon took off into the air, glad that Dazai couldn't see how red his face was. Dazai felt a small jolt, then they were off, flying into the sky! It was a wonderful, exhilarating, thrilling feeling after being a prisoner for so long. The light of the setting sun shone into Chuuya's mouth, and a cool breeze ruffled Dazai's hair. He shifted a bit and rested his head on his arm, looking out at the world through the dragons teeth. It was definitely an unconventional way to travel, but he'd be lying if he said he didn't like it.

"Thanks for the ride, Chuuya!"

"Mrmph." This is so embarrassing! Dazai; riding in my mouth! And he tastes so good! ...wait, am I drooling? Oh fuck, I am! No!!!" Chuuya groaned again, trying his best to stop his reaction, but it was no use. He tried to discreetly swallow the excess saliva, but all he did was squeeze Dazai with his mouth and cover him in even more of the stuff.

"What are you doing, Chibi? Trying to give me a bath?" Dazai chuckled, pushing his wet hair out of his eyes.

"Grrrr!!!"

Dazai was unfazed as the loud growl echoed around him. "You're so scary~ but don't worry, I don't mind. I'll gladly put up with your dragon breath to be back with you."

Chuuya's face was burning at this point, and he felt like he might just pass out from embarrassment. Even after the horrors he'd gone through, Dazai still had a sense of humor. Typical.

The sun set, and the world faded into shades of indigo and black. Dazai yawned, blinking sleepily as his exhaustion caught up to him. He'd spent the entire day running from monsters and the fear of Fyodor's pursuit. His mind drifted back to Sigma, and the deep scars from the vampire's teeth. He couldn't help but worry about him, even though Nikolai had promised to protect him. Chuuya promised the same thing, but I still got captured... Dazai shook his head, trying to clear that thought from his mind. Chuuya was here now, and that was all that mattered. Slowly, Dazai shut his eyes and rested his head on Chuuya's tongue, feeling safe and secure. In the grasp of a dragon, he finally felt content.

Notes:

If you're wondering, the first kiss was when Chuuya accidentally licked him in chapter 9! I experimented with some maw stuff, I hope it turned out cute instead of cringe lol. Chuuya's just being protective and caring like a mother alligator and her hatchlings. I base a lot of his instincts and behaviors off of different animals.

Chapter 17: Are You Really Fine?

Dazai stirred from sleep as Chuuya gently lowered him from his mouth. He looked up at the dragon with love, realizing that he'd carried him for the entire journey home. Home... it felt so good to be back. The cave was much larger and more welcoming than the vampire lair, and it didn't possess the same ominous presence. Chuuya was here, and the stone walls made him feel safe rather than enclosed.

"Hey..." Dazai's voice was raspy and tired, but his smile was genuine.

A low growl, almost a purr, rumbled in the dragon's throat when he heard his voice. He took Dazai's shirt in his teeth and pulled it away, exposing his thin, pale chest.

"What are you doing?!" Dazai exclaimed, quickly curling up to hide his chest and arms. He trembled, then let out a sharp gasp as he felt Chuuya's tongue trail along his back.

"What does it look like? I'm welcoming your dumbass home," Chuuya said, giving Dazai another lick. He hoped that his gentle touches would soothe Dazai's nerves, as he clearly still felt uncomfortable showing his skin. He could see and smell the scars quite well, but Chuuya didn't care about them. They didn't make the man any less beautiful in his eyes.

"I'm already soaked with your drool, why are you adding more?"

"Shut up," Chuuya mumbled, nuzzling him and taking in his familiar scent. His eyes closed in contentment as he groomed his lover, demonstrating his devotion to him.

"Stop that, I want a real bath," Dazai griped as the tongue ran over him again, pressing him down against scaly paws. The dragon's care made him feel weak and vulnerable, like a newborn kitten. Dazai had had enough of feeling helpless lately.

Chuuya drew back, his ears flattening against his head. He nuzzled Dazai, and a soft whine escaped his throat. "You smell anxious and scared. I just want to help."

"I know, but right now, I just want to get clean and dry off."

"...I understand," Chuuya said, setting him down. Dazai quickly wrapped a blanket around his bare chest, calming somewhat now that he was covered up.

He climbed into my mouth so fearlessly, so why does he smell so nervous now? Doesn't he know that I've missed him every day, and longed to have him back? I just want to show him how much I care; why is he being so cold?

"Want me to fetch some water for your bath?" Chuuya eventually asked.

Dazai nodded, pulling the blanket tighter. "Thanks, slug. I'd like that a lot."

Chuuya got everything ready for the man, then went to lie on his mound of golden treasure. Dazai was back, but his heart still felt strangely empty. The kiss and Dazai's sweet words had led Chuuya to believe that he was finally going to open up to him, let him into his life, even become his mate, but now he wasn't so sure. He didn't know what to think about the mixed signals coming from the man.

"Chuuya?"

The dragon's ears perked up at Dazai's voice. He quickly returned to the room to see Dazai standing there with wet hair and a smile on his face. He was dressed in clean clothes, and bandages once again covered his body. He seemed much more relaxed, and once again, Chuuya was baffled by his dramatic mood swings.

"You look much better!" Chuuya said, leaning down and sniffing the brunet. He's washed off my scent! Better change that! Chuuya rubbed up against Dazai, his tongue poking out to give him a little kiss. Dazai giggled and tried to push his snout away.

"You act like a damn puppy sometimes, you know?"

"Shut up, dumbass. I missed you," Chuuya said, giving the brunet an affectionate nuzzle. Strange new desires clawed at his chest, and Chuuya didn't want to hold them back anymore. He was ready to let the man know how he felt, and to mark him indisputably as his. He gave Dazai another light lick, slicking his hair to one side.

"I just washed, I don't want to get slimy again," Dazai complained, though the protest sounded halfhearted at best. He knew that the big dragon kisses should disgust him, but at the moment, he was having trouble feeling anything but excitement. The truth was, he craved Chuuya's touch. He craved this kind of affection after living his whole life without it.

"If you want me to stop, just say so," Chuuya purred. He coiled his tail around Dazai, pinning his arms to his side. With a gentle claw, he tilted Dazai's head upward, lowering his snout so that they were only inches apart. He watched his eyes closely, waiting for Dazai to stop him, but he never did. So he's willing... Chuuya ran his claw through Dazai's hair, drinking in his appearance and savoring his taste.

"Ngh- no fair," Dazai grunted, trying not to react as the tip of Chuuya's tongue trailed along his jaw. "You're so big... you can do anything to me!"

"Does that frighten you, little mackerel? Or does it make you more excited?"

An embarrassing gasp escaped Dazai's lips as Chuuya spoke in that soft, sultry tone. Both, the ravens take me! I want- I want-!

Chuuya could smell the mounting excitement in his partner, which encouraged him to be more bold. He slipped his tongue under Dazai's shirt, tasting the delicious skin below. Is this really happening? Chuuya and I... even though he's a dragon? Dazai's mind was beginning to grow fuzzy.

"You're getting me wet..." was all he managed to say. The dragon just let out a rumbling growl, almost a purr, and closed his eyes. That's the hope, my dear~

Dazai's breath quickened to shallow pants as Chuuya continued, his touches soft, delicate, maddening. He squirmed in his coils, a soft moan escaping his lips. It was too much, already too much!

"More... please!"

Gladly. Chuuya nuzzled his long brown hair, then gently pulled at it with his teeth. He wrapped the tips of his forked tongue around Dazai's neck, eliciting another delicious moan from his throat.

"Chuuya... oh, that's good... please, please..." Dazai whimpered, losing himself in the moment. He grasped at Chuuya's scales, desperately trying to ground himself as heat pooled in his stomach. He could feel a stirring in his pants as the right fork of the tongue tightened around his throat, the other snaking its way into his mouth. He could hardly breathe, but he didn't care. All that mattered was the dragon: his touch, his warmth, his amazing, talented tongue. Something made him close his mouth around the tip, and he began sucking; his own tongue rubbing against Chuuya's.

Chuuya's eyes fluttered closed. He tastes so damn good... exquisite, addicting, even better than wine. I want him, I want him to be mine!

Suddenly, Dazai felt himself crashing down on something soft, bedsprings creaking as Chuuya dominated him. Soft hands gripped his wrists, and he realized that Chuuya was human now, having seamlessly transformed without breaking their kiss.

"Mhm, Dazai... Dazai...." Chuuya found himself crooning between their kisses. His lips trailed lower, and he pressed his mouth against Dazai's neck; sucking on the skin, biting-

"NO!!! STOP!!!!"

One moment, Dazai had been lost in pleasure, the next, he felt sharp fangs sink into his neck. Terror flooded his body, and he pushed Chuuya away, squirming free of his hold and falling to the cold stone floor.

"Dazai?" Chuuya asked softly, feeling a pang of shock and hurt. Then he realized what he'd just done. I just bit him on the neck! After all he's been through, I bit his fucking neck!!!

Dazai was breathing heavily as he held a hand to his neck. "I-it's nothing," he muttered, though it was clear to Chuuya that it was anything but.

"Hey," Chuuya said, putting a hand on his shoulder. "I didn't mean to do that-"

"It's fine."

"No, I shouldn't have-"

"It's fine!" Dazai snapped, shoving his hand off. He hugged his knees to his chest, looking anywhere but at Chuuya.

"...alright," Chuuya replied softly. He looked down at the ground, his heart full of worry. "You can talk to me, you know?"

Silence.

I know he's not fine. He looks and smells so scared and hurt, but he won't let me comfort him. What am I supposed to do? Chuuya sat there dumbly for awhile, wanting to reach out, but afraid to make things worse. Eventually, he just got up to make them something for lunch.

Dazai sat still for a few more minutes, then crawled back into bed. He stared numbly at the ceiling for awhile until a delicious aroma lured him back out. He hadn't had anything to eat in over a day, and the smell of cooking fish reminded him just how hungry he was.

"Hey!" Chuuya called cheerfully, his face lighting up when he saw Dazai. He flipped the pan, pieces of chopped fish and green onion sizzling over a fire.

"Hey." Dazai sat by the fire, poking at it with a stick. He kept glancing at Chuuya, but whenever he caught the dragon looking, he would quickly look away again. Chuuya deserves an explanation. I know that I've been acting weird, and I don't want him to take it the wrong way.

Finally, he had to speak up. "...the vampires, getting kidnapped, it kinda messed with my head, y'know?"

"I can only imagine. I'm so sorry that happened to you."

"It's not your fault," but a part of me still blames you, doesn't it?

Chuuya cleared his throat, scooping some of the fish onto a plate. "Earlier, in bed- I wasn't trying to do anything, you know? I just got lost in the moment, and... biting and licking are forms of affection for dragons."

Dazai nodded, accepting both the words and the food. As they ate, Chuuya couldn't help but notice the long silences that would stretch between them. Dazai was usually so chatty, but now he only talked when Chuuya did first, and his answers were brief. He just stared into the fire, his eyes distant like he was somewhere else. What are you seeing? What happened to you? Chuuya hated to see him so shaken up. He wanted to ask about what happened so bad, but now was obviously not the right time.

He decided to give it time, and just spent the rest of the day caring for Dazai. He made sure to cook a good dinner; his Dazai had lost weight he didn't have during their months apart, and had he grown? Damn it! Chuuya felt short next to him, even wearing his horns.

Dazai felt much better the next day. He felt pleasantly warm and heavy, all wrapped up in blankets that kept him from the cold morning air. The only sound was Chuuya's soft breathing as he lay coiled in a protective cage around Dazai's bed. Dazai leaned out over the mattress and began stroking the dragons neck, the feeling of the smooth scales beneath his fingertips strangely relaxing. Chuuya stirred at the touch, and groggily opened his eyes.

"Mornin' Dazai..." He yawned widely, then raised his head and nuzzled the man. "How'd you sleep?"

"Had nightmares, but I'm used to it. You?"

"Slept like a statue." Chuuya looked Dazai over carefully, then gave him a good sniff. He seemed better, but the dragon knew by now that the man was an expert at hiding his emotions.

"How are you? Can I do anything for you?"

"No, nothing," Dazai replied, continuing to stroke Chuuya's scales. "I'm just happy to be back."

Chuuya let out a rumbling growl and nudged his hand, begging for more pats like a puppy. Dazai's affection was a drug he was hooked on, and he'd gone too long without a dose. Dazai ran his hands over the dragons scales for awhile, rubbing his snout and scratching behind his ears in the ways he knew he loved.

Eventually, Chuuya nudged Dazai with his snout again to get his attention. "Can you tell me what happened to you? I've been so worried."

"-demon child-"

"-cursed blood-"

"-tainted all that is around you-"

He'd known that he'd have to tell Chuuya eventually, but it didn't make this easier. Taking a deep breath, Dazai began to tell a simplified version of how he'd been kidnapped.

A puff of smoke blew from Chuuya's nostrils as he listened, and he grit his teeth. "They were cruel to you, and I'll make them pay. But why you? Why take you of all people?"

Dazai shrugged. "They said something about my blood tasting better than normal."

"You are quite a rare delicacy, Dazai. Why do you think that dragon has kept you around so long, hm? Think he fancies a human pet? He's just waiting for your flavor to mature before he consumes you, like a vintage bottle of wine."

Dazai mentally shook himself. He cares about me; not as a tool, but as a person! Shut up, shitty brain! Stop making me remember that bastards lies!

"That's it? They risked stealing from a dragon for some rare blood?"

"Yeah, they just wanted to drink my blood whenever they wanted, so they kidnapped me."

"So much effort to take you, guard you, keep you hidden..." Chuuya murmured, his brow furrowing in thought. Something about Dazai's account seemed off somehow, like he was leaving out an important detail.

"I told you, I just have a rare blood type. Nothing that special, I'm normal- I mean, I don't have any elf or nonhuman blood in me!" Dazai said, feeling a bit defensive now. I can't tell him the truth. What would Chuuya think if he knew what I really was? Would he see me differently if he knew about my curse?

"If you say so... I don't smell any elf in you, though there is something-" Chuuya cut himself off at a look from Dazai. It was obvious that he didn't want to pursue the topic any further. The dragon cleared his throat, then asked his next question. "What happened then? How did you escape?"

"I didn't do it on my own. Their servant, Sigma, finally got the courage to help me." Dazai's eyes were distant, and a soft smile graced his lips as he finished the story. He retold the story of his escape, and how Sigma's unexpected confession had saved him.

Dazai's tale had been brief, but what he didn't say spoke louder than his actual words. Chuuya could almost imagine it: countless days without sunlight or fresh air, locked away like a bird in a cage. He couldn't help but wonder why Dazai wasn't telling him the whole truth, though. Why would vampires go to such lengths when they could easily find other people to feed on?

"I won't let something like that happen again," Chuuya said firmly. "I'll keep watch over our home, and you'll learn how to defend yourself against creatures like them. I'll get you spell books, weapons, anything you need."

Dazai was a bit surprised that Chuuya would offer that considering how greedy he usually acted, but a lot had changed while they were apart. The incident with the gold coin felt like it had happened a lifetime ago.

"I'm not good with spells, but I guess I can give it a try. What I really want is a sword."

"Alright, I'll be sure to get you one. A nice silver sword for killing monsters." He wrapped his tail around Dazai, giving him a comforting little squeeze. Dazai hugged Chuuya's tail back, seeking the comfort and protection the dragon provided.

"Promise to keep me safe?"

Chuuya smiled warmly as he ran a claw through Dazai's hair. "I promise."

Chapter 18: A Dragons Treasure

Notes:

You guys are going to be really happy with this one!

"Dazai!"

Dazai nearly dropped the book he was reading as Chuuya pushed his snout onto his lap, his mismatched eyes shining. He brought his hands up to the dragons muzzle; petting that cute face was second nature at this point.

"What? What's got you so excited?"

"I wanna fly around with you! Lets go exploring, lets have some fun!"

Dazai sighed. "I don't really feel like it..."

"The fresh air will do you good!"

"It's not like there isn't air inside," Dazai retorted stubbornly.

"Come on, I know you'll feel better if you do! You haven't left the cave in days!"

"Can't we just cuddle a bit longer?"

"Please, Dazai? We'll be back before the sun goes down!" Chuuya pushed his muzzle against Dazai's chest, his ears going back and a soft whine escaping his throat. Dazai let out another sigh, shaking his head in resignation. He could never resist those puppy eyes...

"You really wanna hang out, huh? Well, alright, I guess it can't hurt."

"Thump, thump, thump," the end of Chuuya's tail beat a rhythm against the cave floor as Dazai finally agreed. Today is going to be the perfect day! I'm going to make Dazai so happy, he'll forget about all the bad things that happened to him!

"I haven't shown you around the mountains much yet! Come on, I'll show you my favorite places!"

"I'm coming..." Dazai rolled his eyes at Chuuya's energetic attitude. He wanted to stay and rot in bed, but a part of him knew that that wouldn't help; he needed this to get out of the depths of depression, so he reluctantly climbed onto Chuuya's back.

Dazai blinked as they stepped outside, the sunlight beating down on them and making Chuuya's scales shine like mother of pearl. He lifted one hand to shield his eyes, but at that moment, the dragon leapt into the air.

"Woah!" He grabbed onto Chuuya's mane, his stomach dropping as the wind rushed all around them. Dazai held on tight and closed his eyes, the tears from the bright sun and cold wind swept away by their speed.

The ride lasted only a minute, and soon, Dazai felt them slow down and land. He cautiously opened his eyes, then inhaled sharply as he saw the view. The mountains had grown narrower, and steep cliff faces and jagged pinnacles of rock towered over them like castle towers. The sun shone brightly in the east, the Emerald Mountains spread out in front of them like a painting. A glittering river flowed lazily through the valley, slowly growing smaller until it disappeared in distant obscurity. The world was alive with green, from the newly opened leaves of aspens in the valley, to the deeper shades of spruce and pine that grew along the rocky slopes.

"See that? We live there!" Chuuya pointed at the tallest mountain, its peak still tipped with snow.

"I've never seen it from this angle before..." Dazai said softly.

"It's beautiful, isn't it? This is my favorite spot to watch over my territory."

"Yeah... this is amazing..."

He's doing better, but I can still feel the cold and sadness inside him... the day's only just begun, though; we have time. Chuuya thought.

"I know about lots of cool things around here, like waterfalls and places to watch the sheep. Oh! There's a place where the fire birds nest! Have you ever seen one?"

"No, I haven't," Dazai shook his head, amused by Chuuya's eagerness. "I'd like to see that, though; I heard that phoenixes are very rare."

"That's what they're called? Well, they're very cool; big as eagles, but with bright red and gold feathers! If they like you, they might come close, or even perch on your horns- er, shoulder, in your case."

Wait... does Chuuya have a soft spot for animals? Dazai smiled warmly, and allowed Chuuya to lift him onto his back. He held on tightly as they flew further east, the landscape growing even more rugged and inaccessible for anything without the gift of flight.

"Okay, just keep your voice down and don't make any sudden movements. They'll come to us when they're ready," Chuuya instructed as he lowered Dazai from his back and transformed into his human form.

"Where are the nests?" Dazai asked, looking around. He couldn't see anything besides bare volcanic rock and a steep drop far below them.

"Up there."

He looked up, the sheer cliff above almost making him dizzy. He saw a flash of red streak across the sky, then vanish into a hidden cave above. A second bird flew out of its rocky nest, letting out a sharp, high trill. Dazai stared after it, almost stumbling as he followed it with his eyes. The phoenix was beautiful, its long red-gold tail like a trail of fire as it soared.

Chuuya watched the bird circle above them, but his attention was divided. Dazai's hand was hanging by his side, presenting a tempting target. He reached out his own hand, lacing their fingers together.

"What are you doing?" Dazai asked, meeting Chuuya's gaze with a teasing grin.

"I think you know, shitty mackerel~"

"Stupid slug..." Dazai replied, lifting his hand to his lips. Chuuya's heart nearly beat out of his chest as the man softly kissed it, and he looked away, brushing a strand of hair out of his face.

"Tweet, tweet, tweet, chirpchirpchirp CHEEEEP!!!"

They both looked up in surprise at the sudden, shrill call. Both phoenixes were wheeling overhead, bright fires flickering with every wingbeat. Chuuya watched them screech in confusion, disturbed by their strange, defensive behavior. They never did this when he came here alone...

The larger phoenix landed on a nearby rock, its shining golden eyes fixed on Dazai.

"Chirp chirp CHEEEEE!!!!" it screamed, beating its wings as flames licked at the feathers.

"Do they usually do that?" Dazai asked nervously, taking a step back.

"No, they don't. Maybe... maybe they just have to get used to you-"

Suddenly, the other phoenix let out a screech of its own, then curled its wings in and dived. It rocketed straight for Dazai's face like an arrow, smoke trailing behind it as its talons uncurled! Dazai cringed, raising his arms to protect his face and eyes. He braced for impact, the feeling of sharp talons digging into his flesh-

"CHEEEEP CHEEEEP CHEEEEEP!!!!!"

Dazai gasped, opening his eyes. He was whole, unhurt, but how-

He looked up to see grey and white scales, then two huge forelegs, one on either side of him in a protective stance. Dazai watched as Chuuya spat the bird out of his mouth, the unfortunate creature falling a few feet before regaining its senses and flying away. The other followed, retreating back to their nest.

"Hey, you alright?"

Dazai nodded, his head spinning from the sudden turn of events. When Chuuya offered his paws, he gratefully stepped forward, allowing himself to be picked up. Why did they attack me and not Chuuya? Does it have something to do with what I am? Can they sense the darkness in me? Is that why they chased me away from their nests? Dazai leaned his head against Chuuya's chest, letting the steady rhythm of his heart ease his nerves.

"That was so strange... I've never seen them do that before," Chuuya said, looking down at Dazai with a pensive gaze. Monsters attack him like mad, vampires want his blood, and now the phoenixes... they almost seemed scared of him. What are you, Dazai? Do you even know yourself? He leaned down to nuzzle at his hair, taking in his scent. He still seemed human on the surface, but there was more, something underneath that he couldn't quite put his claw on...

"I really am fine, you big puppy," Dazai said affectionately, pushing Chuuya's snout away. "Come on, where are we going next?"

Chuuya huffed out a puff of smoke, ruffling his brunet hair. He didn't want to ruin Dazai's mood with questions; he just wanted to enjoy their time together.

"You'll see~"

Chuuya and Dazai flew all around the mountains that day, exploring waterfalls, meadows of wildflowers, and dazzling crystal glaciers. Were these mountains always so beautiful? Chuuya wondered as he watched a butterfly land on Dazai's nose, drinking in the musical sound of his laughter.

As the day faded to evening, Chuuya felt perfectly happy. He lay beneath an apple tree with Dazai at his side, watching the sky turn to shades of pink and amber.

Dazai moved closer to Chuuya, taking his hand. He looked beautiful tonight; his red hair seemed to glow in the fading light, and his freckles looked like flecks of gold.

"You're too good for me, you know that?" Dazai said as he gently ran his fingers through Chuuya's hair. The redhead sighed happily and moved to rest his head on Dazai's chest. He nuzzled against him, still keeping some of his dragon behaviors in human form.

"Nonsense. I want you just how you are."

Dazai's hand froze as he heard those words. Just how I am?

"Y-you don't have to flatter me, I know I'm hard to be around. I'm mean and cold, and I-"

"-Have the most beautiful smile I have ever seen," Chuuya finished, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. He swung his leg over the taller man's torso, pinning him to the soft grass. "You may be cold and angry sometimes, but you're also strong and kind. You understand me; you were never afraid of what I am..." Chuuya trailed off as his lips met Dazai's again.

Dazai wrapped his arms around Chuuya's waist, closing his eyes as they kissed. He felt so warm inside, yet at the same time, so unbearably afraid. "I- I feel the same way, you know. You're special, Chuuya... you're my reason to live."

"Oh, Dazai..." Chuuya's voice was choked as he hugged the brunet tight, nuzzling into the crook of his neck. "I love you."

Is this what love feels like? A part of him wanted to push Chuuya away, to go back to what was safe and familiar, but he knew that was impossible. He'd never spoken the words aloud, but he couldn't keep them in anymore. "...I love you too."

Chuuya drew back for a moment, looking down at the man he'd fallen so deeply for. His hair was coming undone, the breeze playing with the loose strands as they lay beneath the apple tree. Time didn't matter anymore as he watched dapples of sunlight dance across his face. 

Dazai's eyes shone like fire, and a small grin played on his lips. "Well? Are you gonna kiss me or what?"

Chuuya shut that bastard up with a kiss. He pressed down hard, forcing Dazai's mouth to open as his tongue grew long and forked. The moans and gasps of the brunet beneath him were music to his ears, and the taste of him filled his heart with longing. He could still detect a trace of apple as he explored every corner of Dazai's mouth, losing himself in the heavenly sensations.

"Hrrrk- gah!" Dazai's back arched as Chuuya pushed into his throat, sending horrible, dizzying, wonderful sensations through his whole body. His hands found Chuuya's hips, and he gripped them hard, his nails digging into the skin. He wasn't sure if he was trying to push the redhead away, or pull him closer...

He was dizzy from a lack of air when Chuuya finally pulled away, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.

"Well? Did you like that, or was it too much?"

Dazai coughed, his hand going to his throat. He'd never felt anything like that before. It was like choking... but in a good way? As he regained his breath, his cocky smile returned. "You're playing dirty, using your dragon tongue like that~" he said, then pulled Chuuya in for another kiss.

Both of them were panting and breathless when they finally pulled apart. Dazai's lips were bruised, and Chuuya's were bleeding from a playful bite. He'd kept his own fangs to himself this time, even though he longed to pepper Dazai's skin with marks. The sun had almost set too, and even though Dazai didn't say anything, he could feel the tension and fear that came with darkness. It was no wonder, after what had happened to him...

"Hey," Chuuya gave Dazai a peck on the cheek. "Lets get back. I've got a surprise for you at home."

Dazai lit up at the mention of going home, casting a nervous glance at the lengthening shadows. "That sounds good, and a surprise? What is it?"

"It's a surprise, dummy! I can't tell you!" Chuuya rolled his eyes, then transformed into dragon form.

"Wha- Oh! What are you doing?" Dazai exclaimed, grabbing onto Chuuya's tail as it coiled, trapping him as securely as a fly in a web. Before he could even protest, Chuuya began to fly.

"What the hell?" he muttered, spitting out some of the orange fur that had gotten in his mouth. His excitement was growing with every second, and he strained to see through the blindfold of Chuuya's tail, but it was no use. All he could do was wait anxiously as Chuuya took him to the 'surprise.' It wasn't long before Chuuya landed and began walking, holding the captive Dazai proudly in his tail.

Clink, clang, chink! Chuuya's paws left the smooth stone and unleashed a sudden clamor. We're back in the cave? And in Chuuya's treasure hoard? He's never allowed me here before! He could hear the dragon digging through his hoard, and his excitement grew.

"Alright, we're here!"

Chuuya's voice was a bit breathy as he transformed back to his human form, reaching for the gifts he'd prepared. He held a scabbarded short sword in one hand, his other clutched tightly around something Dazai couldn't see.

"For you," He said, holding out the sword. As Dazai took it, he gasped, surprised at its weight.

"It's pure silver, made special for fighting monsters," Chuuya said, watching anxiously as he drew the blade. The sword slid easily from its sheathe, glittering like it was newly wrought. The grip was supple leather, and the crossguard was engraved with runes for strength and sharpness.

"This is really cool," Dazai said, testing the weight in his hand. It was shorter than the swords he was used to, but it was heavy and well balanced, and it felt natural in his hand. "Is it really for me...?"

Chuuya nodded, his face flushing with excitement and nerves. He clutched the other gift close, his knuckles turning white with how hard he was gripping it. Am I really putting myself out there like this? Is the moment right? There's no turning back once I give it to him...

"Dazai?"

Something in Chuuya's tone made him pay attention, so he sheathed the sword and met his gaze.

"There's something else I need to give you... a present," Chuuya said, his heart beating a rhythm like a battle drum. His feet felt like lead as he took a step forward, then another, coins clinking under his boots. Chuuya looked up at Dazai, and for a moment, he couldn't speak. He just took Dazai's hand and pressed the gift to his palm, his touch lingering a moment longer than necessary.

Dazai's breath caught in his throat as he looked at the gorgeous gemstone. In his hand he held a ruby the size of a chickens egg, its depths a deep, lustrous red. This is some kind of test, right? Chuuya's a dragon; greedy and possessive! He wouldn't just give something like this away... would he?

Chuuya's hand trembled as he tucked a strand of hair behind his ear. "It reminds me of your eyes..."

Chuuya's voice was unusually soft, shy even, and that alone convinced him that this was no joke. Chuuya was really giving him this gift, this... priceless treasure. Dazai ran his finger over the surface, taking in the flawless craftsmanship. The facets were expertly carved to catch the light, giving the stone its own internal glow.

"It's... beautiful," Dazai finally managed. "H-how can I accept this? It's a gift fit for a king!"

Deep breaths, Chuuya; you've imagined this moment a hundred times. You've got this.

"Maybe, but when I look at you, all the treasures beneath the earth feel like trifles." Chuuya reached out a hand and caressed Dazai's face, his touch as gentle as his voice. "I want you to be mine, Dazai... I'd choose you over a mountain of gold."

"What... what are you trying to say?" Dazai's voice came as a breathless gasp.

"That I'm in love with you, Dazai. Will you be my mate?"

Chapter 19: Cracked Gemstone

Dazai held the ruby in trembling hands, his eyes flickering nervously between the stone and Chuuya's expectant expression.

"Chuuya, I-" The words completely failed him, and all Dazai could do was stare at Chuuya, at those eyes so eager, so full of hope... What am I supposed to do? Me, his mate?! But I'm- I'm ME! I'm a failure, a wretch, not even human!!! I can't let Chuuya bind himself to a monster like me! He deserves better! He deserves to be happy!!!

Unbidden, tears came to Dazai's eyes, rolling down his cheeks in fat, heavy drops.

He's so happy he's crying! Awww, its so sweet! Chuuya thought, his smile growing broader, but as he waited, doubt began to seep into his heart. Dazai was just standing there, eyes full of tears, clutching the ruby in a white knuckled grip.

"Chuuya..." Dazai's voice was choked and strained. "I'm sorry..."

Dazai could pinpoint the exact moment when Chuuya's heart broke. He could see it in his eyes, like panes of glass had shattered beneath the blue and brown irises. Chuuya just stared transfixed at Dazai, his smile slowly fading.

"Please, listen. Things were never going to work between us. I care about you, Chuuya, but we can't be together because..." Dazai took a deep breath, forcing himself to continue. "Because you're a dragon."

'Because you're a dragon.' Chuuya's eyes widened, his lip trembling as he tried to understand the words that had just come from Dazai's mouth. No... Dazai was different... he didn't just see me as a monster, a beast to be slain... he loves me for who I am...

"I see..." It was all Chuuya could manage

"Chuuya, if you'll let me explain-"

"I'm going to get some air." Chuuya pushed past Dazai, transforming into his dragon form as he rushed out of the cave.

"Chuuya- please!" Dazai sank to his knees, the gold coins clinking and tumbling around him. He gazed at the gemstone as his tears continued to fall, misting his eyes and wetting the cold, hard surface.

"I had to do it, I had to..." he sobbed, gazing into the red depths of Chuuya's gift, it's facets reflecting a hundred accusing eyes. A teardrop splashed down on the surface, then another, blurring his vision as they fell. That was just as well, because Dazai hated the reflection that stared back at him.

 

Chuuya took a long pull from his goblet, then smashed it on the floor. The glass shattered with a satisfying crash, and wine ran like blood between the hewn stones.

"Damn it, Tachihara, spare me this weak crap! Get me somethin' stronger!"

"Seven hells, can't ya just ask like a normal person?" Tachihara exclaimed, throwing up his hands in exasperation. "And yer paying extra for this bloody mess!"

"GO!!!" Chuuya roared, practically spitting fire. The other quickly quit his griping and scurried back to the bar.

"Chuuya! The fucks wrong with you?"

The dragon quickly spun around, his hands growing into long, sharp claws. Dozens of people were moving around the tavern, but only two were walking in Chuuya's direction: a harpy with messy blonde hair, and a tall figure in black and white.

"Why the hell are you here!? Come to gawk at the terrifying dragon, have you!?! Where's the rest of the circus?!" Chuuya roared, scales rippling across his skin as he grew taller, his draconic features emerging. Why can't everyone just leave me alone?!?!

"Woah, hey, calm down... we just want to know what's wrong," Pianoman said, his fluffy ears lowering as he took a cautious step forward.

"I'M A DRAGON, THAT'S WHAT'S WRONG!!!!!"

Chuuya's tail lashed from side to side, knocking over plates, cups, and chairs. Chaos erupted through the common room, and people began pushing and shoving each other in their haste to get out.

"I just wanna get wasted in peace!!! Go away, you stupid adventurers!!!! EVERYONE LEAVE!!!!!!"

Chuuya spun, and spotted Tachihara. He grabbed the cup from his hands and downed it in one gulp, then banged it on the counter, demanding another.

"Hey!" Albatross fluttered over Chuuya's swinging tail, landing on top of the mantlepiece and shaking out his feathers. "You don't get to go all dragon-y and throw a temper tantrum here!"

"We're your friends, we want to know what's wrong!" Pianoman added.

"NOTHING'S WRONG! LEAVE ME THE FUCK ALONE!!!" Chuuya grew even larger, snorting steam and snapping his teeth. Pianoman stumbled backwards, his hand going to the garrote at his side.

"That's what I fucking thought. Run away, you pussycat!" Chuuya growled, snatching another cup from the counter and downing it in one gulp.

"Who'd want... a dragon for a friend, huh? No one loves monsters, anyway! ...Shouldn't ev'n try!!!" Chuuya swayed on his feet, the cup falling to the floor. Everything was spinning, and suddenly, the room was growing dim and dark...

Chuuya fell forward with a resounding crash, his clawed paws twitching as he let out a low growl. Then, he went still, and silence descended on the room.

"My, my, what a mess."

The door to the kitchens opened, and Hirotsu stepped out to survey the scene. Nearly every table and chair was upended, their contents strewn across the floor in a mess of wood, broken glass, and pungent alcohol. Chuuya lay in the very center of the chaos, his long body stretched across most of the room. He'd partly transformed, and looked more dragon than human. Hirotsu tsked, looking between Pianoman, Albatross, and Tachihara in turn.

"So? What's this all about? You should know better than to make Chuuya angry," He said, shooting an accusatory glance at the harpy.

"I didn't do anything!" Albatross squawked indignantly. He glided down from his perch and settled on Chuuya's horns.

"I don't know, he came here upset," Pianoman shrugged. He looked at the unconscious dragon curiously, then at Tachihara. "What did you give him?"

"Dream wine. Wish it'd kicked in sooner," the serving boy groaned, looking at the wreckage. He'd have to clean most of it up himself. "Guess we'll be closin' early; can't really run things with a bloody dragon sleepin' on the floor."

Hirotsu nodded, though he looked far from happy. This wasn't the first time Chuuya had scared off all his customers, but he'd never caused this much damage before. "He'll be paying for the repairs when he wakes up. Then, I'm getting to the bottom of this whole thing."

 

"Damn nosy assholes," Chuuya grumbled to himself as he flew home. Hirotsu had forced the whole story out of him, and then had given him a healthy dose of what he called 'good advice.' "Old coot, thinks he's so much smarter than me cause he's seen a few centuries. I can handle this just fine on my own."

Yeah, by running away and yelling at your friends. Nice going, Chuuya... He felt like crap for what he'd done, and he knew that he'd feel even worse after talking with Dazai.

As soon as Chuuya got to the cave, he knew that something was wrong. Everything was quiet, and Dazai's boots and cloak were gone. He must be avoiding me... I don't blame him, I don't want to face him either, Chuuya thought, sniffing around the cave. The scent was a few hours old, but he wasn't too worried. The sun shone brightly outside, and there was no trace of monsters or vampires anywhere. I'll give him space. When he's ready, he'll come back and talk to me.

He shifted to human form, walking to Dazai's small bedroom. Everything here smelled like him, bringing up memories of their time together. His pillow had a salty tang, reminding him of the tears he'd shed as he pushed Chuuya away.

"You're a dragon."

Stop it!

Chuuya collapsed on the bed, putting his head in his hands. He didn't understand how things could have gone so wrong.

A glint of red caught his eye, and he turned quickly, half expecting to see Dazai beside him. He wasn't there, but he'd left a note on the desk, and Chuuya's heart ached anew as he saw what was used as a paperweight. It was his gift to Dazai, his most beautiful gemstone.

Carefully, he set the ruby aside and unfolded the paper.

 

Chuuya;

I'm so sorry for everything. I never wanted to hurt you, especially after all you've done for me. I do want to be your mate, but that's just impossible. We are just too different.

You once told me that dragons mate for life, and mine will be so much shorter than yours. If I said yes, I would be dooming you to hundreds of years of loneliness. Someday, you'll find a very special dragon to give this ruby to, I know it. You'll love again, and you will move on. I want you to live a full, happy life, and forget about me.

Even though we can't be together, I need you to know how much you matter to me. You are my life, Chuuya. You took me in when I'd given up all hope. You were there for me when no one else was. You made me feel happy and loved for the first time in my life.

You are good, you are kind, and you are not the monster people say you are. You aren't like me; cursed to bring death and misery wherever I go. Dark magic flows through my veins, and nothing you can do will change that. You've been so good to me, and you've done nothing wrong. It's not your fault that you can't fix me. None of this was ever your fault. It is because I love you that I have to leave.

-Osamu Dazai

 

It felt like a vice was squeezing Chuuya's heart and lungs, choking him with sobs and squeezing tears out of his eyes. 

"That bastard..." he growled, crumpling the letter up in his fist. After everything we've been through, this is all I get? A note?!? I'm not letting him leave like this; this is not how this ends!

With newfound determination, Chuuya vowed to get his lover back.

Notes:

Well... I know a lot of you are gonna be really upset at me for this, but HEAR ME OUT! Dazai is traumatized and believes that he doesn't deserve love, and the idea of a permanent attachment terrifies him. In No Longer Human, Dazai actually says that he's afraid of happiness, so it would have been out of character for him to say yes right away. He also doesn't understand what he is, only that he's not human. He's been treated like either a monster or a tool his whole life, and his toxic environment growing up led to a really negative self image. Good thing that Chuuya doesn't give up easy, and is not gonna put up with Dazai's self pity bullshit!
I don't usually give spoilers, but I will tell you that Chuuya is gonna track him down in the next chapter and give him a piece of his mind. Thanks for reading, everybody!

Chapter 20: Stay With Me

It was still dark when Dazai left the cave, his cloak pulled tightly around himself to keep out the chill. The moon was waxing towards the full, casting the mountain landscape in shades of silver and blue. Even still, it was hard to see through his stinging eyes. Dazai sniffled as he traversed the steep and rocky descent. He kept glancing back, wondering if he was making the right choice. It hurts now, but if I waited longer, it would be even worse. Stay strong, you're doing this for him.

It took a few hours for Dazai to reach the valley. He was desperately tired, but he knew that he couldn't rest yet. He still had a long journey ahead, and he needed to find a way to disguise his scent. He'd only met a few minor monsters on his road, and he prayed that he would be able to get away before worse found him. He quickly set to gathering dead branches and reeds, lashing them together into a makeshift raft. Dazai had almost finished when he heard the sound he'd been dreading; the rustling of something large moving through the undergrowth.

"Are you lossst?" A raspy, hissing voice called from the darkness. Dazai hurriedly tied on the last bundle, his hands shaking as he fumbled with the twine. He could hear the figure approaching, its steps soft and careful. "Come closer, let me take a look at you..."

Dazai drew his sword, straining to see through the shadows of the trees. "Stay back, or I'll cut your head off!"

A rattling chuckle came from the darkness, the silhouette of something not quite human slowly approaching. "Surrender now, tainted one, and I'll show mercy..."

A beam of moonlight found its way through the clouds, illuminating a flash of pale skin and a dark, gaping mouth. What is that thing?! Should I risk fighting it, or try to flee? Dazai only had a moment to consider before he heard a splash behind him, and the tall, pale creature let out a high pitched shriek.

"NOOOO!!!!!! HE'S MINEEEE!!!!!!" it screeched, racing forward on horrible, elongated limbs. Dazai dove out of the way, but the creature wasn't going for him. It charged into the water, flinging itself bodily at another monster that had crept up behind. In an instant, the night was filled with howls, snarling, and the sound of tearing flesh.

Dazai wasted no time and pushed the raft into the water, his heart beating a mile a minute. A furious scream rang out behind him, then the splashing sound of footsteps, but the current had already caught his little vessel, the spring melt carrying him swiftly away from the shore.

The river churned and bubbled, and soon the sounds of pursuit were drowned out in the roaring water. Dazai huddled in the middle of his raft, shivering as the spray hit his body. The sky was beginning to turn grey, but Dazai didn't relax until the sun peeked out from behind the mountains and banished his fear of the vampires. The river was beginning to broaden and slow down, but he was still travelling fast, leaving the Emerald Mountains behind. All in all, Dazai decided that his escape was a success.

 

"Stupid mackerel, when I get my claws on him..." Chuuya grumbled, nose to the ground. It didn't take him long to get to the river, and the end of the scent trail. He sniffed around the riverbank for a long time, worry twisting in his gut. The soft mud had preserved the footprints of all the creatures that had passed through, including human boot prints. The whole place reeked of blood, but none of it was Dazai's. He got away unhurt, that's good. He's got another thing coming if he thinks that this river will cover his tracks. Every monster can sense him for miles around, including me.

 

Thunk... thunk... thunk...

Dazai's raft bobbed in the shallows, bouncing off of an old, dead log. The wind whistled through the tall grass on the shore, and the clouds hung heavy overhead, promising rain. I fell asleep... I wasn't supposed to do that. He forced himself into a sitting position, his muscles protesting after being still so long. He shivered and pulled his cloak closer around himself, only to find that it was damp.

Chuuya will be looking for me. That thought motivated him to get up and push his makeshift craft back into the current. As he watched it float away, a gleam of white caught his eye. Dazai reached into the icy water and pulled out a small rock. Its surface was rubbed smooth from the river's current, and faint bands of red stood in contrast to its milky white base. It's probably worthless, but it's beautiful. It looks like Chuuya's scales, Dazai thought, putting it in his backpack. It also reminded him painfully of another gemstone, though that one was red as blood.

With a sigh, he slung his backpack over his shoulder and began to trek through the countryside, keeping the mountains to his back. He left the river, as he knew that he would be looked for there. Dazai kept glancing over his shoulder as he travelled, and eventually, he saw what he had been dreading. He could just make out Chuuya's form against the clouds as he flew over the river. At this distance, he looked like a tiny snake. Just keep going, follow the river, he urged silently, watching with baited breath.

"Shit." Chuuya had landed, disappearing from his sight. So he caught my scent, despite all I did to throw him off. Damn him and his stupid, unnatural senses! Dazai quickly turned around and picked up his pace, though he knew that he'd already failed. Chuuya was coming, and unlike him, he could fly.

There he is! Ha, think you can escape so easily? Think again! Chuuya's ears perked up proudly as he landed on the same shore Dazai had only a few hours before. He didn't even need to follow the footprints; he could smell him on the breeze and feel his presence nearby. Chuuya took to the skies again, flying after his runaway lover.

Dazai heard a triumphant roar behind him, and he groaned. "You idiot! Just let me go! I told you, we can't be together!"

Chuuya didn't respond, his eyes locked on Dazai. Dazai stumbled backwards as Chuuya rocketed towards him, his eyes fierce and maw gaping. He's not slowing down! He's gonna crash into me!

Chuuya swooped down upon Dazai like a bird of prey, grabbing him in his jaws and flying off again in one fluid motion. He felt a grim satisfaction as Dazai kicked and squirmed, knowing that he couldn't escape.

"Ugh- why???" Dazai spluttered, spitting out a mouthful of dragon drool. His head was near the back of Chuuya's throat, meaning he was getting a healthy dose of musty wine breath. He was left reeling at the sudden change of surroundings, and the sheer absurdity of the situation.

"Come on, let me go already! you've made your point, now spit me out!"

Not a chance, Chuuya thought grimly as he turned around to fly back to the cave. He had him right where he wanted him, and as a bonus, he had an excuse not to talk yet.

Dazai squirmed a bit, trying to get more air, but he could hardly move. His entire upper body was squished between Chuuya's tongue and the roof of his mouth, his legs sticking out and kicking uselessly.

"Your breath stinks by the way." He whined, giving up the struggle.

"Grrrrgh!"

"Well excuse me!" Dazai grumbled and shifted, trying to get comfortable. That was a rather difficult task when he was crammed headfirst in a dragons mouth. "Did you even read my note? I told you I'm leaving! Don't you understand? We're just-"

"GRRR!"

"We're too dif-"

"GRRRR!" Chuuya's loud growl cut him off again, and Dazai scoffed in annoyance.

"Can you not?! I'm trying to explain myself! Listen, I care about you, but-"

"GRRRRR!"

"How petty can you get? I broke up with you, can't you just let it go!?"

"Nrgh. Ihgm mrrd!" Chuuya tried to speak, smooshing Dazai with his tongue and making him even more uncomfortable. Maybe he was being a bit petty, but the bastard deserved it. You can't just run off on me and expect me to be alright with it! I gave you my heart, and you act like it's nothing! Anger surged in Chuuya's chest, and he subconsciously began to bite down.

"Ah- ow! What are you doing?!?" Panic clouded Dazai's mind, and he squirmed and thrashed, Fyodor's words coming back to him. All the other monsters want to eat me, why not Chuuya?! I'm already in his mouth; one bite and I'm done!!!

The pressure released as quickly as it came, Chuuya's jaw going slack as he realized what he was doing. Dazai whimpered and curled up into a ball, and the dragon felt a pang of guilt for causing him fear. He let out a low rumble and opened his mouth wider, trying to soothe his nerves. Damn, I was trying to get a little payback with this, not make him scared of me!

Dazai shuddered slightly, then looked around at the rows of sharp teeth surrounding him. Chuuya could easily have killed me at any point, but he hasn't. He remembered the comfort he'd felt the night he'd escaped from the vampires, the trust he'd placed in the dragon to carry him home safely. He will never harm me, even when I hurt him. Dazai's heart ached.

Chuuya landed back in his cave, his chest tight with fear and sadness. Alright, Chuuya, let him out. You need to talk to him, you can't avoid this forever, he thought, but his jaws remained clamped shut. He curled up on his hoard, his ears drooping in shame. He couldn't do it; he couldn't face Dazai and the reality of the situation. He had him back, but he had no idea what to say or how to fix this fucked up situation.

Dazai shifted impatiently. "Well, are you going to let me out so that we can talk about this?"

Chuuya didn't move. He didn't want to let Dazai go; didn't want to express his own feelings, didn't want to be vulnerable. He was afraid that if he started talking, he would scream or cry. Maybe both.

Dazai pushed on the roof of Chuuya's mouth, but the dragon didn't move. "...well, if you're going to keep me here, I might as well get comfortable~" Dazai said with a sarcastic huff. He stretched out, kicking Chuuya hard in the back of the throat.

"GAH-!!!" Chuuya gagged violently, sending Dazai flying out of his mouth. He hit the ground several feet away, grunting in pain as a small avalanche of gold slid loose and landed on his head.

"Ghg- hkk, hkk," Chuuya coughed, massaging his throat as he glared at Dazai. "You absolute bastard! I was about to let you out!"

Dazai straightened, glaring daggers at Chuuya. "You shouldn't have put me in there in the first place! You should have let me leave!" He was all covered in drool, and he scowled, trying to wipe it off.

"Run away, you mean? After leading me on for so long, you just disappeared into the night!"

"You found me soon enough, wyrm. Do I need to repeat myself? I'm a BAD PERSON! You can do better than me!"

 Chuuya growled, struggling to keep himself under control. "That isn't a decision you can just make by yourself! I don't want someone better, I want you!

Dazai's temper rose as well, and he clenched his fists. "You don't understand, and you never will! If you knew about my past, what I am, what I've done-"

"THEN TELL ME!!! Tell me every terrible thing you've ever done, and I will love you anyway!"

"Telling you won't change anything; I'll still be the same monster I was before!"

"A monster?!?"

Chuuya shot a burst of flame at the ceiling, tears streaming down his scaly face. He gnashed his teeth and roared, his tail writhing wildly, knocking over heaps of treasure and shaking the cave around them. "I'M A MONSTER TOO, LOOK AT ME!!! LOOK AT ME, DAZAI, AND TELL ME I'M UNWORTHY OF LOVE!!!!"

Chuuya bore down on him, pinning him down with a paw. He leaned in close, meeting Dazai's deep red eyes. "Tell me you hate me. Tell me I'm a horrible, scaly beast; that monsters don't deserve to be happy."

"That- that's not true! I would never-"

"So what makes you so different? You're not human, so what? I don't care what you are, Dazai. You don't have to be my mate, you don't have to be anything you don't want to be. All you have to do is stay with me."

Dazai went silent, simply gaping at Chuuya. He had no idea what to say or even think, his mind a maelstrom of emotion.

"Alright, he finally said, letting his own tears fall. "I'll stay."

Chapter 21: Coming Around

Chuuya lay near the edge of the bed, facing away with the blanket pulled tight around himself. Dazai stared at the back of his head, looking at the ginger hair that fanned out across the pillow- a different pillow than the one he was using.

"I'M A MONSTER TOO, LOOK AT ME!!! LOOK AT ME, DAZAI, AND TELL ME I'M UNWORTHY OF LOVE!!!!" Chuuya's anguished roars echoed in his ears. As the silence stretched between them, guilt gnawed at Dazai's heart. Eventually, he couldn't bear it any longer.

"Thanks for chasing after me. It's a good thing you came, or I might have ended up in some other creature's mouth," Dazai teased, trying to break the tension.

"Yeah, good thing..." Chuuya replied halfheartedly, keeping his head turned firmly away.

"...are you doing alright?"

Chuuya just grunted in reply. His grief was palpable, and knowing that he was the cause of it made Dazai's heart twist. Why does Chuuya care so much about me? I don't care about myself at all!

"Please don't hate me, Chuuya. You're my best friend, and I just want things to go back to the way they were."

"Friend." The word was like a knife to the heart. Kisses, tender touches, heartfelt words; they all flashed through Chuuya's mind in a heartbeat.

"...we can do that. No commitment, but we're still here for each other." The words felt bitter in his mouth. He had been so sure that the man would say yes to his proposal, but now he was left confused and hurt. Why can't he just let me in? I know that we could be happy together, cursed blood be damned!

Dazai sighed in relief. "That's good. Thanks, Chibi." He lay back in bed, but his eyes kept being drawn to Chuuya. His back was to him, and the space between them felt like an infinite void. Dazai's bed had never felt so cold.

Days passed, but they felt empty. Chuuya no longer sought Dazai out: he no longer wrapped him up with his tail and nuzzled him, and no longer kissed him or demanded to be pet. He stayed in dragon form all the time, and was always making excuses to leave the cave. 'I'm going drinking with the flags, I'm going to hunt monsters, I'm going to look for more treasure, I'm going, I'm going, I'm going!'

Dazai was alone most of the time now, but he wasn't idle. Chuuya had acquired a few spell books for him, and he was steadily slogging his way through to learn the protective charms he would need if the vampires ever returned. He spent long hours reading and practicing spells, with frustratingly little progress. If I'm such a 'powerful, magical being,' why do I struggle at conjuring a simple flame? Why does my power feel so diluted?

Progress was slow, but Dazai dutifully memorized the runes and incantations. It helped to take his mind off of how much he missed his dragon. He took the rock he'd found out from under his bed, running his fingers over the smooth surface. It was no longer wet, and now the white and red looked dull and unlovely. It was nothing like the gorgeous ruby Chuuya had offered him... and he'd declined.

Dazai quickly hid the rock in his pocket as he heard footsteps from deeper in the cave.

"I'm gonna go drinking," Chuuya announced as he walked by. Suddenly, he felt a little tug at the end of his tail.

"Can I come?" Dazai didn't know why he asked, but for some reason he really didn't want to be left behind tonight.

Chuuya's ears perked up, but he hid his surprise and responded in his usual gruff tone. "It's with the flags. You don't like how noisy and chaotic they get."

"I'll be alright, I'm really craving some alcohol. I don't have to sit with you if you don't want me too," Dazai said with a shrug.

"No, no, that's fine... I'm just surprised. Ready to go, then?"

When Dazai nodded, Chuuya lifted him up with his tail and gently set him down on his back. Tingles ran from snout to tail tip as he felt the mans hands gripping his mane, and his legs pressed against his sides. It was so simple, but the contact brought on a wave of suppressed emotion. How long has it been since he's ridden on me? Hell, how long since we've even touched? They'd grown apart lately, and Chuuya knew that Dazai wasn't the only one to blame.

"Hold on, little mackerel," Chuuya muttered, then took to the skies.

They didn't talk much on the journey, but the dragon felt comfort in Dazai's presence. Maybe he flew a bit slower than usual on his way to the Black Lizard Inn...

The pair stepped inside the big wooden building, the friendly interior of the inn welcoming and familiar. Chuuya took a deep breath and smiled as he took in all the interesting sights and smells. A bard was entertaining a small crowd, and people of all kinds and races were talking and laughing together. The firelight lit everything up with a warm, cheery glow, and the delicious aroma of roast boar mixed with the fragrance of pine wood smoke.

Dazai hung back, his ears ringing with all the noise. It was really crowded today, and he suddenly wished to be back in the cave. He stuck close to Chuuya as they made their way to the front counter.

"How good of you to join us today! Will you be having the usual?" Hirotsu asked, looking at the two and smiling. Dazai didn't return the smile; he didn't like the knowing gleam in the old drow's eye.

"Yup," Chuuya said, pushing a few copper coins forward. "Good business, huh? I haven't scared off all your customers yet?" he teased, though inwardly, he was glad. He'd paid for all the damages he'd caused of course, but he was worried that the place's reputation would take a blow from his actions.

Hirotsu nodded, then began to pour their drinks. "Everything is well, though I would prefer not to repeat a similar scene again."

"Wha-" Dazai began to ask, but Chuuya stepped on his foot, and he quickly closed his mouth.

"I have a letter for you, Master Dazai. I was to give it to you at our next meeting." Hirotsu reached beneath the desk, then pulled out an old, yellow envelope sealed with a glob of red wax. As soon as he held it out, Chuuya began to growl.

"Vampire! I smell vampire on that letter!" He stepped back, eyeing the envelope like a coiled snake. Dazai's hand was already outstretched, but he paused, looking between Chuuya and the inconspicuous piece of paper. Finally, he grabbed it and began to read.

 

To Dazai,

I hope that this letter finds you well, and that everything is alright with you and Chuuya.

I understand if you don't want to hear from me after what happened, but I just wanted to check in and let you know that Nikolai and I are alright. We fled to Castle Dracula to get Lord Stoker's protection from Fyodor. It looks like you won't have to worry about him anymore, since apparently he's a traitor! He was trying to use you for a ritual that would have made him the new vampire lord! Pretty bad, and trying to usurp the lord is kinda high treason, so if he's got any sense, he's far away by now.

Oh, by the way, Fyodor never got those bottles of your blood. We took them to the castle for safe keeping. Lord Stoker says that it can be used for some really bad magic, so I'm glad that they're now safely locked away. Sorry again for taking so much of your blood, I feel guilty about it all the time.

On a brighter note, it's really nice here! There are a few villages around the castle, and I think that I might be able to make some friends and even find a home of my own. I was really surprised to see vampires and humans coexisting, but it works just fine here! Bram Stoker guards and protects them, and in return, the villagers give the vampires the blood they need to survive. I think that Nikolai and I can be happy here.

<==3

Sorry about that, Nikolai just drew on my paper. He's such a child, even though he's almost two hundred. I still love him, despite all that. That's another thing I have to thank you for, Dazai. Seeing how much you cared about Chuuya helped me realize my own feelings, and that it's okay to love someone who's not human.

:) N+S :D (he did it again)

Best wishes, and I hope to hear back from you soon!

-Sigma.

 

Dazai gave the note to Chuuya, who looked it over carefully, then gave it a thorough sniff.

"Yeah, it's from that human and the weaker vampire. I don't smell the other one at all, so they might be telling the truth." He grumbled, but he still didn't like it. Why were Dazai's kidnappers talking to him like friends? His blood boiled just thinking about what they'd done to him.

Chuuya began to walk off in search of the flags, but Dazai stayed standing where he was, lost in thought. The dragon doubled back and pushed his glass into his hand.

"Come on, Dazai, quit daydreaming. My friends are waiting."

The flags were already a few drinks in, and they eagerly beckoned Chuuya to join them. He sighed and shook his head, but he couldn't hide his smile. He sat between Lippman and Doc, effortlessly joining in on the stream of conversation and laughter. Dazai hesitated, feeling the sudden urge to flee, but he forced a smile of his own as he sat on the only empty seat- between Iceman and Albatross. I wanted to sit by Chuuya! I don't feel comfortable with these people; I want my dragon close! He didn't let his feelings show, and turned to his neighbors, attempting to start polite conversation.

"It's good to see you again, Albatross. Chuuya says that you're adventurers; have you visited anywhere interesting lately?" A little stiff, perhaps, but Dazai was nervous.

"Yeah, we've been around. Mostly just to different villages," Albatross replied shortly, not meeting Dazai's eyes. Chuuya's bright laughter rang out as Lippman told a joke, but to Dazai, the atmosphere felt anything but lighthearted. He caught Doc staring, though as soon as he looked at him, his eyes flitted away. No one, not even the chatty Albatross, seemed to want to talk to him or even acknowledge his existence. He looked up at Iceman and realized that he was staring at him, his bright yellow eye as cold as his name. Dazai shuddered and sank down in his chair, having suddenly developed a keen interest in the wood grains on the table. So they know... Chuuya must have told them, and now they despise me.

Dazai forced himself to finish his whiskey, then discreetly excused himself from the group. He returned his empty glass to Tachihara and looked around the common room.

"Where's Hirotsu?"

"He's on break. Do you need somethin'?"

"I need to talk to him about something important. Can I see him?" Dazai asked, one hand fiddling with the rock in his pocket. Tachihara shrugged, then gave him directions to his study.

Hirotsu didn't seem at all surprised to see him when he knocked. "Ah, Master Dazai! Come on in and make yourself comfortable," he said amiably, stepping back and gesturing to an armchair.

Does he know too? Does everyone? Dazai wondered as he took a seat, his fingers tapping lightly on the soft leather.

"Did you want to talk to me about something?"

"Yeah..." Dazai hesitated, unsure of his own words. "You know how dragons kinda... propose with a treasure from their hoard?"

The innkeeper nodded. "Master Chuuya told me about that; a very regrettable business. Are you having second thoughts?"

"Well, uh..." Dazai stammered, picking at a loose thread. He hadn't expected Hirotsu to read the situation so well. "Yes, I guess. I thought that turning him down would be the best choice, but now I'm not so sure. We've really fallen apart, and I- you're his oldest friend, I was hoping you could help."

Hirotsu just smiled. "Do you want to be in a relationship?"

"Yes, but I'm not good enough for him! I'm worried that once he gets to know the real me, he'll be disappointed."

"Don't push Chuuya away because you feel unworthy of him. Change yourself instead; improve until you can be proud of who you are."

"...I see what you're saying, but that's not the only thing I'm worried about. What about our difference in life span? He's going to outlive me by hundreds of years, so I shouldn't get too close, right?"

"He knows that as well as you do, I'm sure. It is the burden of such creatures to watch all things wither and die while they alone remain unchanged..." Hirotsu's eyes were distant, and for a moment Dazai glimpsed the weight of the ages; the loneliness of immortality.

"So I should run away again? Spare Chuuya from feeling those things?"

"That's not what I'm trying to say, Master Dazai." Hirotsu ran a hand through his silver hair, wondering why the boy was making things so difficult. "Look, when you rejected Chuuya's proposal, he went to pieces and tried to drown himself in alcohol. When the vampires took you, he hardly ate or slept, all his thoughts consumed in finding you. It's too late to leave without hurting him, so live a long, happy life together instead."

Dazai opened his mouth to argue, but hesitated as Hirotsu's words sank in. Is it possible that Chuuya and I can... be together? That I can become worthy to be his mate? "Are you saying I should s-stay with him? How do you know he won't regret it?"

"I think I would know best. I've witnessed o'er five centuries, yet I do not curse the passage of time. Just because something ends doesn't make it any less beautiful." He leaned forward, meeting Dazai's eyes with a penetrating gaze. "Your time together may only be as a passing season for the dragon, but he will treasure it for the rest of his life"

"I guess living for five centuries comes with it's perks, huh? That was some fucking deep advice you just gave me." Apprehension still filled Dazai, but it was overshadowed by an overwhelming feeling of relief.

"Glad to help," Hirotsu replied. "Now, is there anything else you need?"

Dazai didn't speak at once, and instead drew the rock out of his pocket. He felt stupid and ashamed as he held it up for the drow to see.

"Chuuya gave me a ruby, the finest in his hoard, but I don't have any treasure of my own. All I have is this rock I found... is it worth anything?"

Hirotsu took the smooth stone and held it up to the light, examining it with a critical eye. "Ah, a red agate! It's not a rare gemstone, but it's quite pretty, and symbolizes passion and courage." He gave Dazai a knowing look. "You want to use it to propose to Chuuya, don't you? But you need it cut and polished?"

"Yeah, if you can find someone. I'd like... it cut in a heart shape, if that's alright," Dazai mumbled, looking at his shoes.

Hirotsu squeezed Dazai's shoulder, giving him a reassuring smile. "I'll get the gem finished by next week. I'll be waiting anxiously to hear how it goes."

Notes:

I haven't done much editing yet so I might go back and fix some things

Chapter 22: The Other Half

"Chuuya!"

"..."

"CHUUYA!!!"

"Whaddaya want?" came the faint reply from somewhere in the cave.

"I'm bored! Lets go to town and hang out!"

A long sigh could be heard, then the lumbering footsteps of the dragon approaching his room. Chuuya stuck his head in, looking sleepy and disgruntled. "You woke me up from my nap, ya jerk."

Dazai stuck out his tongue at him, so Chuuya bumped him with his snout, making him stumble backwards. He huffed out a cloud of smoke, then spoke in fond annoyance. "Fine, but you're buying the drinks."

Soon, both Dazai and Chuuya were enjoying a nice lunch at the Black Lizard Inn, just the two of them at a table by the window. Dazai used most of the little money he had left to pay for their food, but Chuuya didn't offer to pitch in. Greedy dragon, Dazai thought, blowing a loose strand of hair out of his face.

The pair kept up a steady conversation, though Dazai couldn't recall what they had talked about. He was so anxious, and kept glancing around the inn, waiting...

Suddenly, the door banged open, and Albatross strutted in like he owned the place.

"Chuuya, my man! What's up?"

Chuuya's face lit up when he saw him, and he waved him over with a smile. "Not much, bird brain, just entertaining this loser. Where's the rest of the gang?"

"They're getting ready for a little quest," he said slyly, taking a seat beside Chuuya. "We got a tip about some buried treasure, and we're gonna check it out."

Chuuya's eyes widened comically at the mention of treasure, and if he'd been in dragon form, his tail would have been wagging madly. "Can I come? I'm really good at sniffing out gold! Where is it, I can fly you there now!"

He sounds like an excited puppy! Dazai thought, hiding his smile behind his cup. Albatross's lip's quirked a bit as he tried to hold in a laugh. "I don't know if we'll need your help; Lippman can probably use a spell to find it just as easy as you-"

"NO WAY!!! No one's better at finding gold than dragons!!! I'm coming, so deal with it!!!" Chuuya practically roared, jumping to his feet and heading towards the door. Just the thought of adding more gold to his hoard made him giddy with excitement.

"I guess you can come, as long as you don't hog all the loot," Albatross replied. He gave Dazai a wink, then started for the door as well.

"I won't, but I still get a bigger share than the rest of you plebes!"

"Hey! Equal portions for all of us!"

The door shut, cutting off their voices. Finally, Dazai allowed himself a smile of triumph. Diversion successful.

 

It was late afternoon by the time Chuuya got back. He stomped inside, a scowl on his face and a bag of candy jewels swinging from his hand. Stupid jerks, pranking me like that! I wanted real treasure, not candy!

"Dazai! You here?" He called, popping one of the sugar crystals into his mouth. It did taste good, but he was still a bit pissed at his friends. He looked around, then gave the air a good sniff, but he couldn't find him anywhere.

"He got bored waiting for you. I think he said something about going fishing," Tachihara said with a shrug.

"That damn mackerel... he shouldn't be alone, what if more monsters attack him?" Chuuya grumbled, going off to look for the man.

Okay, Dazai, you got this. Whatever you do, don't freak out. Dazai fidgeted with the gemstone in his pocket as he watched Chuuya approach, running his fingers over the smooth surface.

Chuuya landed a few paces away, his eyes narrowed in suspicion as he took in the scene. Dazai smelled like soap and flowers, and he was dressed oddly... fancy. Was that a silk vest?

"What's all this? You cut your hair, didn't you? And you washed off my scent!"

"I'm sure you'll fix that in no time. I just wanted to look nice tonight, cause, well..." Dazai looked down at his shoes. "I wanted to take you on a date."

"A date, huh?" Chuuya felt his heart soar. He closed the distance between them and began to nuzzle and lick Dazai's face, showing affection and scent marking him at the same time. Then, he shifted into human form and kicked Dazai in the ankles.

"Ow! What was that for?" Dazai whined, dropping to his knees dramatically.

"You set me up, didn't you? Conspired with my friends and sent me on a fake treasure hunt, just so you could do all this..." Chuuya grabbed him by the collar of his shirt, then pulled him up for a kiss.

Dazai blinked in surprise at the sudden kiss, then shook his head. "I hope I can make tonight worth the trouble~"

"I'll hold you to that, you little bandaged bastard~"

"Says the guy who's still shorter than me, even with his horns!"

Chuuya gave him a playful slap, then looked around at the scenery. A small boat was docked nearby, and from it he caught the aroma of meat, fresh bread, and could it be...? his favorite red wine?!

"We're having dinner on the lake, huh? Soooo original," Chuuya chuckled. He pulled Dazai to his feet, then led the way to the boat and got in first.

"I'm supposed to be the one taking you on this date," the brunet grumbled, but nevertheless, he took Chuuya's hand.

The reeds rustled gently as they cast off, the cool breeze of evening rolling down to them from the mountains. A heron croaked mournfully in the distance, and a sudden splash disturbed the waters; a fish leaping up to catch a moth. The symphony of nature surrounded them, and without conscious decision, both Dazai and Chuuya had fallen silent.

They rowed out to the middle of the lake to escape the bugs, and Dazai poured each of them a glass of wine. In his heart, he thanked Tachihara, Hirotsu, and all the flags for making this possible. They did all this for Chuuya's sake, not mine. There's something special about him. He genuinely cares about people; he brings them together.

Dazai stared deeply into Chuuya's eyes, enchanted by the stunning creature he so desperately loved. Human or dragon, Chuuya was always beautiful to him.

"Thank you for all this," Chuuya said softly, taking Dazai's hand. The brunet let out a pleased hum and pulled him closer. The sun was sinking below the horizon now, setting the water aflame with red and copper hues.

"Reminds me of your hair," Dazai murmured.

"Don't be a sap."

Dazai frowned, putting his head on Chuuya's shoulder and looking up at him with a plaintive expression. "C'mon, Chuuya, take the compliment! Don't dodge it like I always do~ you're a very handsome dragon!"

Chuuya rolled his eyes, then burst out laughing. "What's gotten into you, huh? Have you had too much to drink?"

"Nah, just enough to give me some courage. I wanna ask you something."

Chuuya schooled his face into a neutral expression, trying to stamp out the growing feelings in his chest. He reminded himself of how Dazai had rejected him, and how he never wanted to feel that pain again. He didn't want to get his hopes up, he couldn't be vulnerable again-"

"I've been thinking about this for a long time, and I think that I'm ready."

Chuuya snapped back to attention, wondering if he'd heard right. Is he being sincere? He desperately wanted to believe it was true.

Dazai had his right hand in his pocket, turning the small, heart shaped gemstone over and over in his hand. You're not good enough for him! Back off now, throw it in the lake! Throw yourself in and drown! You don't deserve love! You're a monster, a demon, a curse!

"I have a very important question to ask you," Dazai said as he slowly took his hand out of his pocket. "Will you be my mate?"

"W-what...?" Chuuya's hand trembled as he took the small, heart shaped stone, his eyes drawn by the intricate bands of red, orange, and white. It was a simple, common rock, one Chuuya usually wouldn't bother to stash in hoard, but this gift... it was beyond price to him.

"I know that we're very different, and I'm still amazed that a dragon like you could love me, but... well, I'm willing to give it a shot if you are," Dazai said shyly, running a hand through his hair.

Chuuya looked up, hardly daring to believe his ears. Dazai really does love me! He's gonna be my mate!! We're going to be together forever!!!

"Yes, yes, of course my answer is yes!!!" Chuuya glowed with happiness as he threw his arms around Dazai and kissed him. "About fucking time too," he added with a smirk, giving a playful bite.

The brunet closed his eyes and returned the kiss, letting Chuuya's warmth chase away all his doubts. This was right. They were meant to be together.

"Oh, Chuuya," Dazai groaned, looking up at the dragon with half lidded eyes. "I'm so happy. I love you, and I'm sorry-"

All of Dazai's thoughts melted away when he felt Chuuya's lips against his.

"Don't ruin the moment with apologies, stupid mackerel. I'm just glad you finally came around." Chuuya was smiling, his gaze soft and full of love. He began trailing kisses and bites along Dazai's neck and shoulders, nipping playfully at the bandages around his neck. 

"Don't take off my bandages, alright?"

Chuuya felt a pang of disappointment, but nodded his head. Even though we're mates, he still wants to hide from me? he scolded himself for thinking such a thing. He has already given me so much, and he's come so far. He began to carefully undo Dazai's fancy clothes, marking the bare skin as it was revealed. 

Dazai tensed up as his clothes were removed, exposing his lean, wiry build. He ran his hands over his wrists just to remind himself that they still were covered in cloth. 

"You can bite harder, if you want," Dazai muttered, and Chuuya's heart leapt with excitement. I can mark and claim him as I please! Chuuya greedily sunk his teeth into Dazai's shoulder, licking and sucking on the skin with a hum of delight. He tastes so damn good! I just wanna eat him up! Chuuya ripped off his own shirt and tossed it aside, pressing his bare skin against Dazai's chest.

"Idiot," Dazai murmured affectionately. "You just tossed your shirt into the lake..."

"Shaddup, it was in the way!"

Chuuya nibbled at his ear, cute, tiny human ear, and pulled at his hair with his teeth, so soft and silky... He could feel Dazai's hands trailing along his back, tracing delicate patterns against his skin. Dazai's scent filled his mind with a giddy haze: that bewitching mix of arousal, excitement, and magical aura that drove every monster crazy.

"You're being so good for me, my precious jewel... just tell me if I get too rough."

"No, you're perfect. I love this feeling," Dazai said with a shiver of delight. He pressed a kiss to Chuuya's neck, feeling the warm, living pulse beneath his lips. He's alive, and so am I... if I'd killed myself before, I'd never get to experience this... maybe my life is worth something after all. 

It was full dark when Chuuya finally pulled away, breathless and flushed. He sat back on Dazai's hips, leaning against the little bulge he felt there. Dazai lay limp and compliant beneath him, his eyes closed and a satisfied grin on his face. That felt sooo good! Definitely gonna have bruises tomorrow, but it's so worth it!

Chuuya ran his fingers lightly over Dazai's skin, feeling the fresh, swollen marks his teeth had made. "Now everyone will know that you're mine. So, are you ready?"

Chuuya's voice made Dazai shiver with delight. It was so different from his usual tones: hoarse and breathy, and so full of hunger.

"For what?" 

Chuuya snorted, giving his idiot partner a bite on the nose. "You're my mate, what do you think?"

Oh! 

Dazai's breath caught, his thoughts scattering like a flutter of butterflies. "I- I don't know how, I've never done that before..." 

Chuuya laughed and shook his head. "Oh, darling, what am I gonna do with you? I haven't either, but that's alright. We'll just do what feels good, yeah?"

Dazai nodded, not trusting himself to speak. His breathing grew shallow and rapid, and he felt his skin burning despite the chill of the air. We're really gonna do this? Did I agree to this when I asked to be his mate? What if I don't want to? What if I don't like it?" 

Chuuya smelled Dazai's wariness and uncertainty, so he hesitated, looking into his lovers eyes with a small frown. "I want to strengthen our bond even farther and really make you mine. Don't you want that?"

He'll be disappointed if I say no! What do I do, I'm scared, I don't want him to see me! 

 "Don't be afraid, it's my first time as well. ...Can I at least take a look?"

Slowly, Dazai nodded. His body was tense as a bowstring, as if it was preparing to attack or flee, but he forced himself to hold still as Chuuya undid his belt and slid his pants off. The brunet's eyes were wide and uncertain as he lay exposed in the chill night air. I'm really small, Chuuya might be disappointed! Does he want me to do something first? He's sitting on top of me, there's not much I can do from here! 

"You still smell scared, love. What are you afraid of?" Chuuya asked, his voice wavering just a bit. We need to mate to seal our partnership, but what if Dazai doesn't want to? What if we don't do it tonight, and he changes his mind? What if he decides to leave me again? 

Dazai turned his head away, crossing his legs in shame. "I don't know, I'm just scared! I know that I'll mess this up like everything else!" 

"Hey, hey," Chuuya breathed softly, turning Dazai's head to face him. "It's just me, you aren't afraid of me, are you?" Please, please don't be afraid of me... I'm scared too, Dazai, but for a different reason. I don't want to be alone again. 

Chuuya looked down at the moonlight reflecting in the water, a painful ache in his chest. "...I shouldn't have pushed this on you so fast. Lets just head back to the cave."

He sounds so sad! Dazai felt terrified, but the thought of cutting the night short made him feel hollow inside. 

"N-no, I'm ready now, only... I'm worried I'll do something wrong." Dazai looked back up at Chuuya with a nervous smile. 

"You can't lay eggs, can you Dazai? You can't give me little dragon babies, so stop worrying about doing something wrong! I'll guide you, and if you want me to stop, I will."

Dazai couldn't help himself- he dissolved into a fit of giggles at the thought of laying eggs. He couldn't deny it, though, the notion of bearing Chuuya's children was strangely appealing... "Okay, okay, I'll try not to worry so much," he laughed. Don't you want this? Don't you love him? Dazai took a deep breath, then spread his legs.

Dazai was still shaking a bit, but Chuuya calmed him with a smile. He traced the outline of his bony hips, and, with baited breath, reached out and touched his cock. Look who's chibi now, he almost wanted to say, but he held back. He was still terrified of Dazai backing out, and he wasn't about to test his luck.

Chuuya was slow and gentle, exploring Dazai with a sense of wonder and amazement. He'd never done anything like this before, and the sight alone made his heart race. He ran his fingers through the sparse brown hair around his balls, then, tentatively, felt the edges of his hole. 

"Ngh- that- that feels good," Dazai stammered, closing his eyes and gripping the edges of the boat tightly. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he fought between the powerful instinct to close his legs, and the insatiable desire to let these strange, ticklish sensations continue.

"Mhm, for me too. So... interesting. I just wanna keep touching you..." 

Dazai's dick was beginning to harden, and Chuuya helped it along with a few curious strokes. Dazai didn't resist as the redhead played with his bits. He still was just using his hands, his touches gentle. Even still, it felt like his veins were coursing with fire instead of blood. 

Chuuya let out a happy growl, taking encouragement from Dazai's positive reaction. After all this time, he's finally mine! My Dazai, my treasure, my mate! Something in Chuuya was stirring; a primal, animalistic desire to just take Dazai as fast and hard as he could, but he restrained his dragon self and focused on enjoying the moment. He didn't want to move to fast. 

"You like this, huh?" he purred. "Wanna see mine next?" 

"Y-yeah," Dazai said breathlessly, an eager glint in his eyes. He took a moment to pull himself together, then sat up next to the redhead. He didn't have the dragons night eyes, so he lit a lamp before cautiously unfastening Chuuya's belt. 

Oh, wow...

Dazai's eyes darted between Chuuya's dick and his smug expression, then down at his own. "No fair," He whined, a pout forming on his face. 

"What's the matter, Dazai~? Not what you expected?" Chuuya asked, pulling off his pants. He started to stand up, planning on showing off, and accidentally rocked the boat. Chuuya stumbled forward and landed on top of Dazai, and both of them fell to the deck. 

"You're the stupidest person I've ever seen!" Dazai chuckled. Chuuya laughed as well, finding himself lying directly on top of the other again. He started to sit up, but Dazai wrapped his arms and legs around him, refusing to let go. Heat rushed through Chuuya as their bare skin rubbed together, and he was starting to get hard in his turn. 

"Oh, I am? Try looking in the mirror!" 

"Why, cause you're too short to see your own reflection?" Dazai quipped back, grinning as he held Chuuya close.

"Not short where it counts~"

Dazai opened his mouth, but for once, words failed him. His mind was too occupied with other things at the moment to form a snappy retort. Instead, he took Chuuya's hands and guided them back between his legs, silently asking him to continue. Damn, he's so hot... I want him inside me, I want to be bitten, I want him to claim me forever...

"Oh, you want more so soon?" Chuuya crooned. He eagerly continued his ministrations, his own excitement and possessive instincts taking over his rational mind.

"Y-yeah... keep going, just... ah~" Dazai's voice faded to a needy moan as Chuuya teased his hole, the heat in his abdomen only increasing. The smell of Dazai's arousal only grew stronger, and it was driving Chuuya absolutely mad. This is it, we're going to do it, then we'll be partners for life!

His instincts were taking over, telling him to mate, to breed, to make Dazai his! He didn't even have to think about what to do next; he knew. Chuuya growled deep in his throat, bringing his hips towards Dazai's. He held him still with one hand, then slowly eased himself inside.

"Ah- mhhhnggh!!!"  Dazai's back arched as Chuuya entered him, his mind flooded with a mixture of pain and ecstasy. He clawed at Chuuya's back, his nails digging into the skin as the boat swayed from side to side. It was too overwhelming for words; he'd never felt anything like this before!

"All good, darling~? Think you can tame this dragon?" 

"Yeah... so good..." Dazai managed to gasp. His breathing was quick and shallow as he struggled to maintain some semblance of control, but low moans and whimpers kept slipping from his lips. 

Dazai felt tight and wet around his cock, and the dragon let out a pleased rumble, sliding it further in. The noises Dazai made was music to his ears, and he wanted him to make more. Chuuya was lost in bliss as he pushed himself in all the way and began rocking his hips.

A shrill scream cut through the sound of the sloshing water as the boat rocked faster and harder, nearly capsizing a few times. 

"That's it, Dazai... scream my name, tell me you're mine!" 

Tears were streaming down Dazai's face as he writhed beneath the dragon, and he let out a pathetic moan. "I- I'm yours, only yours... oh, oh, CHUUYA!!!!" 

Dazai threw back his head and screamed, and at the same time, Chuuya came, letting out a resounding roar. Their combined cry echoed across the lake, and dozens of birds took flight, startled out of sleep by the clamor. 

 

Pianoman's keen ears suddenly turned to the side, and his steps faltered for a moment.

"What is it?" Lippman asked, raising an eyebrow. 

The tall fey shook his head and kept walking, though a small, private smile now adorned his face, and his ears kept flicking towards the lake.

"Oh, it's nothing... I just have a feeling that Chuuya's date is going very well."

Notes:

I got some good advice and edited the spicy scene to be a bit more realistic. At first, I had them moving too fast, but I fixed it to reflect their inexperience and Dazai's shyness better. I was gonna just add a little, but I got carried away and wrote like 1,000 more words... this might be my longest chapter, but I'm sure that you guys won't complain! ;)

Chapter 23: Princess Dazai

Notes:

Dazai's so baby and so brutal at the same time! I love his duality :3

The smell of eggs and bacon permeated the cave, and Dazai could hear Chuuya busying himself in their makeshift kitchen, stoking the coals as the meat sizzled and popped.

"Breakfast is ready!" He called cheerfully, the echoes of his voice magnified in the caverns of his home.

Does he expect me to get up? Ugh, there's no way. I feel like I've been hit by a wagon... Dazai groaned loudly, expressing his reluctance to get out of bed.

"Come on, Dazai, it'll get cold." Chuuya peeked around the corner, rolling his eyes as he saw that his mate was still buried in blankets and pillows. He came over and sat on the edge of the bed, tugging back the blankets in an effort to wake him up. He could see Dazai's bare chest and shoulders, his skin marked with teeth marks and darkening bruises. Now everyone can see who he belongs too...

"Hey, cut it out!" Dazai whined, snatching them back and pulling them up to his chin. "I'm comfy... don't wanna get up!"

"Really? You've slept all morning, and the suns near its peak! Get your lazy ass out of bed and eat the food I made for you!"

"Can you bring it here? I don't think I can stand up... I hurt all over! It feels like you shoved a sword up my ass!"

Chuuya chuckled fondly, meeting Dazai's wide, plaintive eyes. "Alright, princess, I guess you can have breakfast in bed~" He couldn't help but feel pleased that his 'sword' had such an effect on Dazai...

Chuuya fed Dazai like a good mate, sitting beside his lazy lover. He grew his tail out so that he could wrap it around Dazai's waist in a familiar embrace. I could get used to this... quiet days in bed, unafraid to hide our love. This is perfect.

When breakfast was all cleaned up, Chuuya shifted to dragon form and rested his huge head on the bed, his tail wagging excitedly behind him. "I'm gonna go tell all my friends the good news! Wanna come along?"

Dazai gave him a pointed look, then pulled the blanket over his head. Chuuya couldn't help but find his wimpy behavior endearing.

"I'll be back soon, then. I'll pick you up something strong! What do you want?"

"Mhn. Whiskey." Dazai grunted from under the covers.

"Of course... still have no taste," Chuuya muttered to himself, but he was smiling as he took to the skies. The summer sun gleamed off his scales, a pleasant warmth as the wind whipped through his mane. He grinned as he looked below, watching the mountain valley shrink below him, spreading out like a map as he climbed higher. Chuuya loved to fly.

Everything seemed normal: the river rushed on below, the grass was green, and sheep were grazing in the foothills of the mountains. That is, until Chuuya saw a black shape out of the corner of his eye. A black sheep? I haven't seen one in these mountains before, he thought, gliding lower to see what it was. Not a sheep... a horseman? What's he doing here?

A strange man was riding through the green fields, his mount as black as his raiment. He was riding slow with his head lowered, the glaring sun obviously draining both horse and rider. Chuuya didn't like the look of him, and wondered what his business was, so far out in the wilderness. Despite his doubts, he decided to greet the traveler.

The horse reared with a frightened whinny as Chuuya landed before them, and the man finally looked up, his eyes widening in surprise and fear.

"Relax, I'm not gonna hurt ya," Chuuya said, stepping closer to get a good look at the stranger.

"Stay back, dragon!" The man cried, fumbling with a sword while he struggled to control his horse. He looked up at the dragon with big, grey eyes, and suddenly, Chuuya realized that he wasn't a man at all, but a young boy! His voice was raspy, yet juvenile, and his face still showed the softness of youth.

Chuuya sighed as he looked at the longsword in the boy's hand, its blade as black as the rest of his gear. Another 'hero' come to slay me... but this boy is even younger than Dazai! He can't be more than fourteen or fifteen! I don't want to hurt him if I don't have to.

Chuuya sat back on his haunches and lowered his head, trying to look less intimidating. "Hey, take it easy. Put that away and lets talk like civilized creatures."

"Don't try and trick me with your games, dragon! I've come to slay you, and I won't leave until my quest is fulfilled!" The boy cried, trying his best to sound brave and intimidating. Chuuya just sighed.

"That so, huh?"

This all reminded him of his first meeting with Dazai, except this time, it didn't feel like a real challenge. Dazai had kept him on his toes with his witty banter and swordsmanship, and even before the fight, he could sense the easy power and grace that came with exceptional skill. This young knight didn't have that. He was like a kitten picking a fight with a big dog.

Chuuya gave a long suffering sigh. "What's your name, brave knight, and why do you want to slay me?"

He could feel the thrum of magic activating as the boy spoke, his voice angry and determined. "My name is Ryunosuke Akutagawa, and I've come for revenge! Your reign of terror ends right here!!!"

"What have I done to you?" Chuuya asked, taken aback by Akutagawa's anger. What's got this guy so worked up? I usually leave humans alone; I can't think of anything I've done worth avenging. Does he just want my treasure?

"Don't play coy with me, dragon! You murdered Sir Dazai, the greatest warrior Yokohama Kingdom has ever known!!!!"

 

Dazai had made the arduous journey from the bed to the couch, and was now reading a spell book about defensive magic. He'd piled plenty of pillows around himself, still keeping his weight off of his sensitive rear. He suspected that it would hurt for most of the day.

Dazai looked up as he heard claws clacking against stone. Why is he back already? It's been less than an hour, he can't possibly have made it to the inn and back...

"Why're you back so soon? did something happen?"

"Mhm nm." Chuuya shook his head, facing away as he tried to hurry past him and head deeper into the cave. Dazai narrowed his eyes in suspicion.

"Hey, come here. I wanna talk to you for a minute!"

The dragon stopped in his tracks, then slowly walked over to Dazai, doing his best to keep his mouth hidden and not meet his mate's eye. He was acting just like a guilty dog, and Dazai immediately knew that he was hiding something.

"Do you have something in your mouth?" Dazai asked, his hands on his hips and a smirk on his face.

"Nhhm..." Chuuya mumbled, turning his head even farther to the side.

"Whatever it is, I wanna see. Drop it."

"Hmph!" Chuuya covered his mouth with a paw, but he knew that he was caught. He'd hoped to sneak past Dazai, but to his shame, he was being told to 'drop it' like a pet dog!

Dazai crossed his arms, feeling curious and amused by the dragon's shifty behavior. "Chuuya, I said drop it!"

With a resigned huff, Chuuya opened his mouth. Dazai had been expecting a lot of things: a dead animal, a shiny rock, a bone to gnaw on, but not a fucking human!

The boy slid out limply, his face pale and body completely soaked with dragon drool. He lay motionless for a moment, then suddenly seemed to realize that he was still alive. He then began coughing violently, his small body shaking as he struggled for breath. A flash of recognition crossed Dazai's face, and his jaw dropped.

"Wait... Akutagawa?! What are you doing here?!?!" Dazai rounded on Chuuya. "And why did you put him in your mouth?! I thought that was reserved exclusively for me!!!"

"He wanted to kill me! Even after I disarmed him, he kept trying to get me with this 'Rashomon' spell!" Chuuya held out his paw, showing a bright red gash along his palm. "He got me there after I won and spared his life! I had no choice but to immobilize him in my jaws!"

"Dazai- augckh-kkhk- you're alive!?!" Akutagawa managed to choke out, his eyes wide with shock and joy. He made for a pathetic sight: coughing his lungs out while soaked in dragon drool.

Dazai looked back up at Chuuya, a scowl on his face. "Nice plan, genius, just suffocate him with your tongue. Now I've gotta hear that fucking awful noise."

Chuuya shifted his weight from one paw to the other, looking at the floor. "I was trying to make him pass out... then I was gonna ask you who he was and why he's so interested in you..."

"Obsessed is a better word," Dazai grit out, kicking Akutagawa in the side. "Get ahold of yourself, cur!"

"Dazai!" Chuuya exclaimed, pushing his mate away with the end of his tail. "What's wrong with you? He hasn't even done anything!"

"Don't touch my master! Rashomon!" 

Chuuya leapt away in surprise as the sharp claws of the spell leapt towards him, coiling his tail around Dazai in a protective shield. Akutagawa staggered to his feet, having finally regained his breath. His eyes glinted angrily as he saw the way Chuuya was holding Dazai, his power flaring out from his cloak like jagged tentacles.

Dazai sighed heavily as he addressed his old subordinate. "Idiot, what makes you think that you can take on a dragon? You already lost, remember?"

"I'm not defeated yet; I've grown much stronger since we parted ways! Now, beyond hope, I have a chance to rescue you from the clutches of this vile beast!! I'll make him pay for what he's done!!!"

"Oh shut up, I'm not some damsel in distress," Dazai groaned, rolling his eyes. "I don't need rescuing, and I don't need your help."

Chuuya growled at Akutagawa's words, not liking what he was implying. Who does this runt take me to be? I'm not some evil monster who kidnaps people just for the sake of it! I'm Dazai's mate, his partner for life!

"Dazai's not my prisoner, if that's what you mean. I treat him well, and we are very happy together."

"Oh yeah!?" Akutagawa shot back defiantly. "Then why is he covered in bite and claw marks?!?!"

Well, this is awkward... Dazai suddenly realized that he was still shirtless, the evidence of Chuuya's affection still on full display. Chuuya wrapped a coil of his tail around Dazai's chest, trying to hide the hickeys and scratches from the unwanted visitor. It was obvious that the truth wouldn't do at all, so he let his partner do the talking.

"Uh... I was attacked by some monsters! Everything is fine, so stop trying to fight the dragon!"

"B-but I trained for a whole year! Every day since you vanished-"

"Yet you were still defeated in mere minutes because you let your emotions dictate your actions. Your stamina is low, and you're too dependent on Rashomon. Go home, Akutagawa. Your quest has failed."

Akutagawa simply nodded, looking exhausted and weak. He coughed again. "You aren't coming back, are you, Dazai?"

"No." Dazai's expression softened just a bit. "I want everyone to believe that I'm dead... except Odasaku. Tell him that I send my regards."

"Alright..." Akutagawa sighed, but when he looked up again, his eyes were filled with determination. "I will continue to fight and train, and defend the realm from monsters. I'll become stronger than anyone, and make you proud someday."

Dazai nodded, a small smile on his face as he took in Akutagawa's wet, bedraggled appearance. He knew that the boy had the potential to someday become a great warrior, but today was most certainly not that day.

Chapter 24: Shadows Beneath The Tower

The damp smell of moss and mold crept between the stones as Dazai sat at his desk, flipping through the pages of The Complete Guide to Suicide. He ignored the cold, frightened men standing around him as he turned another page, re-reading the section about deadly poisons.

"Only five of you left... I sent eight on this expedition, did I not?" Dazai's voice was soft and level, but it made the others squirm.

"We were lucky to escape with our lives, sir," one of them replied, looking down at his muddy boots.

"Lucky? Craven, I would say. Did you even try to save your brothers, or did you run at the first sign of danger?"

The rain poured outside, its doleful melody the only sound for several long seconds. Finally, one soldier spoke. He was twice Dazai's age, yet his voice was timid as he replied. "I be as bold as any man, so longs there's a certain foe to face, but this place... it be haunted!"

A general murmur of agreement went through the group at his words, but it was quickly silenced as Dazai finally looked up, his exposed eye gleaming. "Haunted or not, you abandoned your mission, and you disobeyed orders. You're all on night patrol until further notice. Now go!"

He watched in satisfaction as the men paled, and one even began murmuring a prayer. They quickly filed out, leaving him alone again.

The rain had stopped by morning, and a mist hung heavily over the low shrubs and stagnant pools of water. Dazai's boots sank several inches with each step, squelching in the mud as he left the beaten path to join a group of soldiers and villagers. They were all milling around a naked corpse, talking to each other in low, frightened voices.

"We found her lying 'neath the water, just over yonder," one of the soldiers said nervously, his eyes flitting away from the body. Dazai looked at the pond, then at the girl. The surface of the water was covered with green slime, and some of it still clung to the victims skin and hair, along with dead leaves and the ends of twigs. Her skin was puffy and waterlogged, but Dazai could see no other damage to her besides some faint bruises around her neck.

Strange, no bite marks or other sign of a struggle... can't have been a strangler or kappa... 

"Who was this girl? Are there any that would wish her dead?" Dazai asked, looking around at the villagers gathered nearby. They shook their heads or averted their eyes, no one daring to speak up. Dazai sighed and stood up, addressing the common folk again.

"People of Morwood! Spread the word, no one must leave their houses after nightfall! Bar your doors and light your candles, don't let any strangers in! The soldiers of Yokohama will deal with the monster that did this, and liberate your village!"

His words were met with a dutiful murmur of agreement, but it was enough. Most of the villagers were superstitious folk, and would stay inside without his urging. He turned away and began to trek back to base, leaving the others to bury the corpse.

Dazai groaned with annoyance as a huge snake monster suddenly lunged at him from the underbrush, its venomous fangs gleaming. He drew his dagger and decapitated it in one swift motion, then continued on his way. Soon, he spotted the old tower, crooked and leaning from the damp. What a wretched sight... no one with my talent should be stationed in this stinking marsh, chasing rumors with a gaggle of half trained men...

The guards at the gate sprang to attention as soon as they saw him approaching.

"Summon the head swordsman!" he ordered, then stepped past them, going back to his study to continue his favorite book. 

It wasn't long before he heard a knock on the door, then the creak of rusty hinges.

"Sir Dazai? You summoned me?" The smell of wet fur proceeded the soldier as he stepped inside, crossing his large, hairy arms over his chest.

"Bronn, isn't it? You're the leader of this company?" Well, until I got here. hopefully he'll have the wits to carry out my plan.

"Yes sir. How may I be of service?" he replied in a low, gruff voice.

"I have a simple task for you and your men, though it must remain a secret from the townsfolk. I need you to patrol the village tonight, and bring me anyone who leaves their house after nightfall."

"Ay, we can do that. The men will be happy ter be outa the swamp. Many o' them are green as summer grass, an haven't the courage to face evn' a lone ghoul."

"But you do, is what you're saying," Dazai replied with a hint of a smirk. "Where were you transferred from, soldier?"

Bronn grinned, showing several missing teeth. "The north pass, milord."

Dazai eyed him, taking in his scraggly beard and the scars along his forearms. Uncouth, but experienced in the field... he will come in handy.

"Then I can rely on your success. Finish this job quickly, and I may consider promoting you to sergeant... dismissed, soldier!"

The man bowed low and left, his head held high. Dazai remained behind, his mind wandering around the strange mysteries of the case. Two stabbed, four missing, and one drowned. The method and timing are inconsistent, and most monsters eat their victims... There was something strange about these deaths, and he planned to get to the bottom of it.

 

"Sir!" The door to the tower banged open. Several soldiers filed inside, dragging one of the villagers behind them.

"What is this? I've done nothin wrong! Untie me at once!" He cried in a thin, reedy voice, struggling against the soldiers that held him.

"We found 'im wandering outa doors. Makin' fer the swamp, I reckon. He was carrying this," Bronn announced, tossing a leather pouch into the middle of the room. It clattered as it hit the stone floor, and several small gemstones spilled from its open lip.

"Those are mine! Tis no crime to have a bit of wealth! What do ye want with me?!"

Dazai leaned down and picked up the pouch, feeling the weight in his hand. He pocketed it, then stepped closer to the captive, his nose wrinkling in distaste.

"You reek of filth and manure. How did a swine herd like you come across this treasure? Where were you taking it?"

The man spat, his expression just as condescending. "What I do with me own things is none of your concern. Ya ought to respect your elders, kid-"

Kerunch!!!

Dazai's boot came down hard on his hand, cracking the bones beneath the steel studded sole. He grinned, scooting his foot back and forth as the man screamed in agony. 

"Now, how about the truth. Where did you get these, and who were you giving them to?"

"Mother, have mercy!" the man cried, clutching his broken hand to his chest. "Twas my fathers inheritance, if ye must know! I keep it with me so it carn't fall into the wrong hands!"

"You lie," Dazai's boot collided with the peasants stomach, knocking him backwards. With his hands bound, the captive was unable to break his fall, and ended up cracking his head on the cobblestones. 

"Let me go, I haven't done naught to you! If you want the money, keep it!! Keep it, and let me go!!!"

Dazai grabbed him roughly by the chin, his voice dangerously soft. "You haven't answered my question. Where did you get this, and where were you taking it?"

The captive's eyes were wide and full of tears, but he pressed his lips in a tight line, refusing to speak. This is going to be fun... Dazai drew his dagger, spinning it lazily in one hand. "Nothing to say~?"

"I've n-naught to tell you!" He cried, his voice rising an octave as he watched Dazai play with the knife.

"What a shame... you're ugly enough as it is."

A bloodcurdling shriek echoed in the circular chamber as Dazai hacked down with his dagger, cutting the mans ear clean off. "You've killed me! You've killed me!!!" he wailed over and over. What annoying screeching, Dazai thought, kicking him again. 

"Fine, I confess! They aren't me own, but I didn't steal em, promise!" The man sobbed, tears and snot dribbling down his face. "There's a secret operation; thieves an' brigands- I didn't steal nothing though, I swear on me mother! I'm just a runner, I nev'r harmed no one! Please, by all the gods, don't hurt me!!!"

"Now we're getting somewhere~" Dazai's lips turned up in a smirk. "Fetch him a bandage and some wine, it looks like our rat is ready to talk."

 

The sooner I get this done, the sooner I can return to proper civilization, Dazai thought as he walked through the empty streets of Morwood. Candles still flickered in a few of the windows, but most were dark, the townsfolk retiring with the sun. The old wooden buildings seemed to lean forward, their shadows hiding the many pot holes and piles of horse dung in the road. Dazai cursed as he tripped over a rut, the hardened mud bruising his toe. 

A rat scurried across his path and a cow mooed in the distance, but otherwise, there was no sound besides his own footsteps.

Then, the screaming began.

Dazai's hand automatically went to the pommel of his sword. He recognized the sound at once: children's screams, high pitched and full of terror. He ran towards the sound as fast as he could, but before he could get close, the screaming had stopped. It had only taken moments, but every single voice had been silenced. Dazai crept forward slowly now, keeping to the darkest shadows as he approached the site. 

The road ended in front of a decrepit old barn, termite riddled and collapsed on one side. A small fire burned within, illuminating several small figures huddled around it. At first he thought that they might be sleeping, but as he approached, he noticed the details: the smell of blood and piss, the dark stains in the hay... I'm too late, they were dead. They went after kids this time... why? Until now, they've only killed adults! 

Dazai was about to turn away and pursue the murderers when he heard the soft patting of bare feet. He watched as a little girl ran to the bodies, shaking them and whispering soft words he assumed were their names. She sniffled, but quickly pressed a hand to her mouth to muffle the sobs.

So small, so young... probably an orphan like the rest. She'd be a valuable witness, Dazai thought, stepping into the light of the dying fire.

"What happened here?"

The child looked up with a gasp when she heard his voice, then ran and hid behind the remnants of a plow. "Stay back!" she squeaked, her voice just as small as the rest of her.

"Hey, shhh... I'm not gonna hurt you," Dazai said, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. "I'm with the king's army. I'm here to protect you."

Cautiously, the little girl looked out from her hiding place, her face half covered in messy black hair. "You're not one of them? The ones who killed my friends?"

"No, I hunt criminals like them and bring them to justice. Come on out, I won't hurt you."

She considered Dazai's words for a moment, her expression full of doubt. Then, suddenly, she ran out into the open and threw her arms around him, clinging to his waist as she shook with sobs. Dazai stiffened, his hand going to push her away, but she clung to him tightly, her thin arms much stronger than they looked. What is this child doing, seeking comfort from the likes of me? I've done terrible things, I'm the last person she should go to...

Dazai looked down at the small figure, frozen as she hugged him tightly. Her sobs were shrill and grating, but they also stirred something deep inside him, a spark of pity. Slowly, he reached down and pat her head in an awkward attempt at comfort. His movements carried a stiffness and uncertainty he never had with fighting or torture.

"It's alright, don't cry... I'll avenge your friends, but first I need to know what happened," he soothed, surprised at the warmth and gentleness in his own voice.

The girl sniffled. "R-Rin found it... a diamond, just lying on the road! Then, the bad men found us! ...S-stabbed... him and Shinya, Katsumi... Yuuji... and- and Sayaka.... all my friends..." she said, then dissolved into a fresh wave of sobs.

"Yes? What did they look like? How many were there? Can you describe them?" Dazai asked, but the little girl just kept crying, holding onto to him like a child seeking out a parents embrace. He patted her again, looking around the barn anxiously. We need to hurry this up, or they'll get away! How do I make her stop crying?

Finally, after what felt like hours, but couldn't have been more than a minute, the child managed a few words. "Please... help us!"

"I will, but first, you have to tell me what happened!"

"My brother..." she gasped, her words barely intelligible. "I tried to stop him, but he- he went after them... he can't... please, he's all I have left!"

"Which way did they go?" Dazai asked urgently, adrenaline coursing through his veins. 

The little girl pointed east, towards the place where all the bodies had been found.

"Save my brother... bring him back to me," she whispered. Her simple plea cut Dazai to the heart. That boy is gonna get himself killed! There's no way he'll beat them!

"I will. Stay here, I'll do what I can." He pulled away from the girl, then turned to go, his black cloak fluttering like a shadow as he ran. He didn't want to let another child die this night.

Notes:

I was originally gonna have this flashback scene last only one chapter, but it ended up really long so I'm dividing it into two! Can you guess who the little girl and her brother are? I also hid in a few Game of Thrones references :3

Chapter 25: Shadows Beneath The Tower Part II

A lone bullfrog croaked a melody, harmonizing with the buzzing and fluttering of countless insects. They gathered thickly around a group of outlaws, drawn to the flickering light of their torches.

"-haven't seen him all day. I think he took it and ran."

"Yeah? We's bout to look pretty stupid if we don't get the goods!"

"Imbeciles! Do ya mean all we have is that diamond we nabbed of o' them kids?!?" piped in another, his shrill voice like the squawking of a magpie.

The first voice spoke again, the clear tones contrasting with the thick eastern accents of the others. "Patience, there's still some time left before the transaction. He'll be here, or we'll have his head on a pike."

Dazai crept forward slowly, until he was just outside of the ring of torchlight. He could see six men standing in a clearing, bickering with each other and pointing fingers. As he watched, one of then tapped another on the shoulder, and pointed. They all quieted down, and stared in surprise as a child stumbled out of the trees.

"H-help... please, help me!"

Is he the brother? What is he doing? Dazai wondered, peering out from behind a fallen tree. The outlaws were murmuring quietly among themselves, and some of them even put their hands on their weapons. One leaned down, his piggy face split with a crooked grin.

"What is it, kid? What are ya doing out here all alone?"

The boy winced, clutching at his arm as if it pained him. "I was with my dad, but we were attacked by monsters... They scared our horse, and it dragged the wagon into a mud hole! Please help, I'm lost, and they'll come after me next!"

"What were you carrying in that wagon, anything valuable?" the one with the shrill voice asked, rubbing his hands together excitedly.

"Yeah, and what kinda monsters do ye be talking about?"

"Uh, cough- potions and alchemy supplies, but the monsters will get it! They're small and green and slimy, but there's a lot of them! They got my dad... he told me to run..." The boy swayed then, but he didn't fall.

The leader turned to the others, a greedy glint in his eyes. "It looks like there's a way to make up for our lost merchandise after all, and all we have to do is kill a couple of kappa's! Come on, kid, show us where you crashed!" He reached out to pat the boy on the shoulder. At the exact moment his hand made contact, his head went flying.

Dazai blinked, wondering if he was seeing this right. Blades seemed to spring out of the boys raggedy clothing, and he'd attacked another before the first body had even hit the ground. He managed to gut one more in a surprise attack, but by then the others were regrouping, drawing their weapons and spreading out.

"This brat is a magic user! Get 'im, stab him dead!!!"

They surrounded the boy; three armed men against one child. With a feral ferocity, the boy launched himself at the one in front of him, his blades ripping out his entrails in an explosion of gore. At the same time, another struck from behind. He rolled away a moment too late, and the tip of the sword sliced a deep gash in his shoulder. He put a hand to the wound, but didn't cry out in pain. Instead, he smiled and licked the blood from his fingers.

"What- what is this brat?!?" the swordsman cried, raising his weapon in a trembling hand. "Do want to die? Just what do you think your life is worth?!?"

"My life...? It's worth?" The boy staggered to his feet, eyes gleaming with bloodlust. "I was just about to find that out... from you!"

Reckless, he's only attacking, sparing no thought for defense. He isn't planning on surviving this fight, is he?

The boy threw himself at the man with the sword. He let out a piercing shriek as the child bit his neck, ripping out the flesh like a rabid dog.

"How many years has it been since I've had fresh meat?" he mused, swallowing the bit of flesh as his victim collapsed. He rounded on the crossbowman, a murderous gleam in his eyes. "One left."

"Stop! Stop! Stay away!!!" He screamed, aiming his crossbow with trembling hands. He actually took a step back as he fired, but his target didn't turn to the right or left, and just charged straight forward with reckless hatred.

The bolt punched straight through the child's torso and out the other side. What a disappointment, Dazai thought as he watched him fall to the ground, defeated.

"D... Dead...? Is... he... dead?" The outlaw fitted another bolt to his crossbow, approaching the body cautiously. He kicked it, and sighed in relief, lowering his weapon. Then, he screamed. A bloody hand clutched his ankle; small, but filled with unnatural strength.

"I thought I killed enough, but... now I'm up for some more..." The boy raised his head from the ground as his power sprang back to life. "Let's take a sixth soul, after all!"

"NOOOOO!!!!" The outlaw screamed in agony as the blades sliced through his legs and torso, reducing them to mincemeat. He fell heavily to the ground, took a few shaky breaths, then went still.

He killed them all, with no thought for himself or the consequences. Dazai slowly stood up, leaving the hiding place where he'd watched the events unfold. He sat down on a rotted stump, watching the pool of blood spread beneath the boy. What a reckless child. He could be a valuable tool, but his rage... it's dangerous.

"Hah... hah... hah..." The boy let out a raspy, gurgling chuckle as he lay amidst the carnage he had created. Blood and gore stained the grass and ferns of the clearing, but in the moonlight, it looked black.

"...Why do I have to die?"

"Now, that's because you are not living out of your own will."

The boy looked over at him with a start, propping himself up on his elbows as he glared at Dazai with suspicion.

"You... what in the world? ...are you... with them?" he croaked, his voice laced with pain.

"No, I'm far worse than an outlaw," Dazai smiled, crossing one leg over the other. "I came here to stop the 'monsters' that have been terrorizing your village, but it seems you've done the dirty work for me. Someone with your power could become a great knight..."

Dazai paused, considering him carefully. He had the same grey eyes and black hair as his sister, but the tips of his hair were frosted with white.

"If you wield violence out of your own will, no matter how brutal, it's still one aspect of being human. But if you reflexively hurt other people as a function of your surroundings, then that simply makes you an unintelligent animal. Would such a creature be fit to serve the king? To serve me?"

"You call me a dangerous animal... what does that make you, then?" The boy was shaking from blood loss, but he managed to get to his feet. "The violence that trash like you commit... are you saying it's justified? I recognize your seal... soldiers like you murder and rape without any consequences..."

The corner of Dazai's mouth twitched- almost a smile. "Are you planning on killing me? If you do, that'll make you the most foolish person in the world today."

"I don't mind being foolish. My only wish is to make you the second most foolish person!"

"You really are hopeless. Revenge, is it? That's what you would die for?" Dazai stood up and walked forward until he was face to face with the boy. "How do you think your little sister would fare, if she were left alone in a place like this? You haven't even thought of that, have you?"

Those grey eyes suddenly shone with a murderous fire. "You son of a bitch... how do you know about my sister?! You bastard, you bastard, you bastard!!! Are ya planning to lay hand's on my sister?! I won't forgive you!!! I won't!!!! RASHOUMON!!!!!"

A huge, dragon like construct suddenly erupted from his clothes, eyes glowing red and mouth full of needle sharp teeth. "DIE!!!!!" He screamed the word like a battle cry.

"How dull." Dazai sighed heavily as the construct lunged forward, jaws opening wide enough to swallow him whole. As soon as it touched him, however, it shattered into a million magical shards.

"...what...?" The boy's eyes widened in horror as Dazai walked right through his power unharmed. Before he could try anything else, Dazai kicked him square in the stomach, sending him flying. The arrow wound spurted blood as he collapsed, gasping and wheezing for breath.

"You can't kill me. Not like at, at least." Dazai had expected this, and had prepared his signature nullification spell in the back of his mind. He acts just like a wild animal; an injured wolf with nothing to lose... but any animal can be tamed with a firm enough hand.

Dazai smiled widely, clapping his hands together as he made up his mind. "Well then, I'll take both of you back with me. Once you figure out the essence of your own weakness, perhaps I'll make you a knight."

 

Chuuya listened, open mouthed, as Dazai finished his tale. "...So that's how you met Akutagawa?!? And his sister, what happened to her?"

"Gin?" Dazai smiled, recalling fond memories. "She's one of the Port City's top assassins, though she had to cross dress to get there, of course. If anyone found out that she was really a girl..." He whistled, pointing his thumb down.

"Ah. Humans don't like it when their women are better than them at something. Our girls are usually bigger than us, to better defend our nests and treasure!"

A flash of jealousy crossed Dazai's face. "Female... dragons? You don't know any, do you?"

Chuuya laughed, nuzzling him and mussing his already disheveled hair. "No I don't, silly~ I've only seen one once, and she hissed at me. Not my type."

Dazai relaxed into his coils, feeling relieved. Chuuya's breath tickled a bit, but in a good way.

"I feel kinda bad for the Akutagawa's, you know? Had a pretty rough childhood, and then they had to deal with you~"

"Hey, I'm a delight!" Dazai retorted in mock offense, booping his scaly snout.

"Of course you are, my little treasure~" Chuuya crooned. He gave him a lick on the face before lifting his head up, soft eyes fixed on his mate. His story had given him more questions than answers, and a glimpse into the dark life he used to lead. Humans can be so horribly violent and cruel, and Dazai was part of that... but it's in the past now. "What happened when you took them home? Did you seriously put children in the army?" 

"You say that like it doesn't happen all the time," Dazai said with a dismissive shrug. "If you can be of service to King Mori, he uses you, no matter your age. I was younger than them when I joined."

"Why did you join?"

Dazai pressed his lips together, looking away from Chuuya's curious expression. "You're sure asking a lot of questions today... I think I've already told you enough for now, don't you?"

Chuuya grumbled in frustration, but he recognized this mood. Dazai wasn't gonna say another word, and if he pressed it, the man would get sulky and leave. 

"Fine, I guess that's enough. For now." He uncoiled his tail and stretched his long body, raising his tail to show off what was underneath. "I'm gonna go find that Akutagawa kid, help him find his horse. I'll be back soon, alright?"

"You mean you didn't eat the horse this time?" Dazai teased, glancing discreetly at his dragon balls. 

"No! I know that I'm not supposed to... and I already ate a whole deer today." Chuuya shuffled his paws. "Anyway, I wanna make sure he gets home safely. Bye, babe!"

Babe, huh? Dazai grinned as he watched the dragon leave in a hurry. It's got a nice ring to it.

Notes:

Finishing up the flashback scene! I added some of the dialogue directly from the Beast manga, but I adapted a lot of it slightly to fit this story.
It was fun to write from past Dazai's POV. We get a lot of worldbuilding we wouldn't otherwise see! I'm working on a map, and when I get it done, I'll link it here:

Chapter 26: A Warm Reception

Notes:

I'm back from Japan, and the chapter is finally done! Thanks for your patience, now go enjoy your fluff!

Akutagawa hadn't gone far by the time Chuuya found him. He was sitting with is feet in a stream, his clothes laid out on some nearby rocks to dry. Without his armor and cloak, he looked much smaller and thinner than he had before; almost sickly. As Chuuya approached, he noticed a small, star shaped scar on his back. Is that where the crossbow bolt hit him?

"Hey! What are you doing here?!?" Akutagawa rounded on Chuuya, reaching for a weapon. He was wearing nothing but his small clothes, though, and his hand came up empty.

"Relax, little human. I'm just tryna help you out," Chuuya said with an exasperated eye roll. "Did Dazai teach you to be so wary?"

The boy narrowed his eyes, then nodded slowly. "Dazai is wise, and a good master." He paused, looking up at the dragon with suspicion. "He said creatures like you are treacherous and mean... but then, why didn't he slay you? What went wrong?"

"We came to an understanding. I'll explain some things while we look for your horse."

"We?" Akutagawa looked taken aback. "You're coming?"

"I can fly, you can't," Chuuya shrugged, then took a step forward.

"Wait, now hold on a second!" Akutagawa cried, taking a step back. "I don't need your help! Don't you dare put me in your mouth again!!!"

Chuuya burst out laughing, much to Akutagawa's bewilderment. "D-don't worry, I won't! As long as y-you don't stab me again!" He chuckled, clutching his side. Chuuya finally stopped laughing, and held out his paws. "Come on, it'll save time."

Akutagawa glanced at the cut on Chuuya's palm, then looked up into his eyes. Their shades of sapphire and deep mahogany were strangely entrancing... Chuuya gazed gently back into Akutagawa's wary eyes, exerting a small amount of power to calm and soothe him. He could hear his heartbeat slow, and finally, the boy relented. He gathered up his things and stepped forward, allowing Chuuya to pick him up.

"See, I'm not that scary," Chuuya teased as he took off flying. Akutagawa just nodded, holding onto his paw tightly. He felt more nervous of the height than the dragon carrying him, if he was being honest.

"Dazai seems to trust you, so I will too."

"You look up to him a lot, huh?"

"Yes. He saved me, and taught me to fight." Akutagawa stirred in Chuuya's grasp, looking up at the scaly giant that held him. "I still don't understand, though... why is he living with you? Did you become friends somehow?"

"A little more than friends by now, I hope~" Chuuya replied, trying valiantly to hold in his laughter. He failed, and let out a loud snort at Akutagawa's next question.

"So... are you his pet?"

"Something like that," he wheezed, his chest aching with suppressed laughter. "Don't worry about it, we look after each other."

It didn't take long for Chuuya to spot the black horse, grazing in a meadow amidst a herd of wild sheep. He landed a small distance away so that he wouldn't scare it off, then set Akutagawa down in the grass. He brushed himself off, gave Chuuya a nod of thanks, then trudged off after his horse.

As Akutagawa turned to go, a pang of pity went through Chuuya's heart. He's just a little boy, full of hopes and dreams. Dazai's right though, he's sloppy and predictable. He stood no chance against me.

"Hey, you did good, kid. You're only the second human to ever draw my blood."

"...thanks?" he replied, glancing over his shoulder before walking off again. Chuuya trotted after, looping his long neck around to look at him.

"You've still got a bit of a ride ahead, don't you? It takes a long time to get places when you can't fly."

"Uh huh." Akutagawa kept walking.

"I can fly you back to civilization, if you want."

"Why would you do that?"

"Cause it'll take you forever on horseback, dumbass. I wanna make sure you get back safely."

"But I tried to kill you. You should want to kill me."

"So did Dazai, but look how close we are now!"

"You want me to do something for you, huh? Or else you wouldn't be so nice to me."

He's just like Dazai, through and through. Why do I even bother...?

"Yeah, I do want something. I wanna be friends with someone who's known Dazai so long. Is that so hard to believe?"

Akutagawa looked down at his shoes, his mind racing. The thought of being friends with a dragon was completely mind boggling to him. Chuuya rolled his eyes, then picked the boy up again. He grunted in surprise as he was pressed against the dragons scaly chest, then let out a cry of alarm as Chuuya suddenly dashed forward on three legs, his gait clumsy, but fast. He heard his horse whinny, then suddenly, they were in the air again!

Chuuya had Akutagawa tucked under one arm, his horse under the other. The black mare bucked and tossed its head in fright, but he held onto it tightly.

"So, what do you think? Am I the monster you thought I was?"

Akutagawa shook his head, holding on tight as they soared through the sky. "Not at all. I see why Dazai likes you so much." 

 

A few days after Akutagawa went home, Chuuya began acting restless. He kept walking outside and looking up at the sun, almost like he was checking the time. When Dazai asked what he was doing, though, he deflected. The redhead wasn't as sneaky as he thought, however. Dazai knew that he was up to something. 

"So, Chibi," he began, lazily running his finger over his partners scales. "When's the date?"

"Haaah? What are you talking about?" Chuuya answered a little too quickly, his twitching ears betraying his emotions. 

"You're terrible at keeping secrets, you know? You've been acting weird all day, like you're waiting for something."

Chuuya's ears flattened, and his tail began to sway from side to side. "Damnit, it was supposed to be a surprise..." 

Dazai scoffed at that, then grabbed the end of his tail, halting its motion. Oh, we're doing this, are we? With a jerk, Chuuya freed his tail and began tickling Dazai's face with the fluffy tip. A burst of giggles followed as he tried to push it away, but Chuuya was relentless. 

"You're so mean to me~!" Dazai whined, trying and failing to wrestle the tail to the ground. 

"You started it, bastard. Don't come crying to me if you can't handle the consequences!" 

Chuuya found himself laughing along as he played with Dazai. Eventually, he let his little mate pin his tail to the ground. Dazai sat on top of it proudly, like it was a fearsome beast he'd vanquished. He's so freaking cute, I can't even take it!!! Chuuya thought, his heart soft. He nuzzled Dazai, and couldn't resist giving him a little kiss. 

Dazai kissed the dragon on the nose as he was nuzzled. "So, what are we doing tonight? Don't think you can distract me so easily!" 

"I already told you, it's a surprise. I did get you something, I'll go grab it-" 

"No need, I already found the box! Next time, hide it somewhere I can't reach, stupid slug~"

Chuuya groaned, both at the nickname and at Dazai's unquenchable curiosity. "Of course you did. Go on, then, see how it fits." 

Once Dazai had left to get his present, Chuuya changed to human form and began to dress himself. Did I overdo it? This is pretty damn fancy, he thought, running his fingers over the smooth lace. He grabbed his special gemstone too, kissing the heart shaped agate before slipping it in his pocket. He could still hardly believe that Dazai was his mate.

"Y'know, my usual color to is black..."

Dazai stepped into the room, standing awkwardly in the clothes Chuuya had chosen for him. Chuuya's jaw dropped, and he stared at Dazai, his eyes drinking in every aspect of his appearance. The white suit hugged his slim form, the sapphire accents contrasting beautifully with his eyes. He looked like a prince from a fairytale, ready to lead him to a land of dreams. 

"Matching outfits, huh? Your belt is undone, by the way."

"Oh..." Chuuya snapped out of his daze and quickly fixed his problem. "Well, lets go..."

Dazai's mind raced as they flew through the sky, leaving the mountains behind. Chuuya still refused to tell him what was going on, and the anticipation was killing him. When he saw the lake town ahead, he expected Chuuya to take him to the Black Lizard Inn. He kept flying, however, and set down on the outskirts of the town. 

Chuuya transformed back into a human, his expression both nervous and excited as he took Dazai's hand. "Alright, close your eyes and follow me!" 

Dazai closed his eyes... well, most of the way. Chuuya snorted, and put a hand over his eyes to stop him peeking. 

"Your surprises are the worst," he grumbled, but followed along anyway. 

Dazai listened intently for any clues as Chuuya led him along. He heard the piping of birds and the burbling of a stream, and suddenly, he felt wood underneath his boots instead of grass. The and rush of the water was all around, and he heard the overlapping sound of chatter growing louder. He stumbled as they suddenly left what must have been a bridge, and continued through the tall grass. Are we going to a party? The voices were closer now, and the delicious scent of grilling meat wafted towards him through the hot summer air. 

Chuuya uncovered Dazai's eyes, revealing the banquet laid out before them. Magical lights floated like fireflies over a long wooden table, its surface covered in a dozen delicious looking dishes. White ribbons had even been hung in the nearby trees. 

"So, Lippman told me about this thing humans do once they're married," 

"You did not!" Dazai stared at Chuuya incredulously, then back at the table. "So this is what you were planning?"

"Yup, we're having a special party!"

The smell of spices and fresh bread made his mouth water, but he quickly reminded himself that he was supposed to be mad. "You seriously threw a wedding feast?!? We're mated, not married!!!" 

Pianoman overheard their conversation, and grinned playfully, gesturing them over. "Eh, it's close enough! Come on, don't keep us waiting!"

"Yeah, I'm starving to death over here!" Albatross called loudly. 

Chuuya shot him a grin, then dragged Dazai along behind him. He took his seat at the head of the table and looked over all the guests. All of them were Chuuya's friends, and none of his own. Oda and Ango were left far behind, and they didn't even know that he was alive. Dazai felt a pang of loneliness, and longed to see their faces again. At least Akutagawa isn't here. He might just have a heart attack, if he isn't too busy coughing like he's got the plague.

"So... what do you think?" Chuuya asked, expecting praise. 

"Damn it, you spoil me way too much." Dazai grumbled and crossed his arms. "I don't even want to know how much you spent on this." 

"Of course I spoil you, you're my special treasure!" Chuuya huffed, kicking Dazai beneath the table. "Besides, I've got mountains of gold at home, so don't worry about costs."

Dazai tried to pout, but his will was broken as soon as the first dish was set before him. The sweet, buttery scent of candied vegetables made his stomach rumble, and he greedily scooped up a heaping spoonful. As he put it onto his plate, he realized for the first time that there was only one for the both of them. Is it a custom to share? He'd never been to a wedding feast before, and definitely not one this nice.

"Careful, you'll fill yourself up before the main course!" Chuuya laughed. He speared a carrot with the end of his knife and ate it. Dazai opted for a fork, taking a big bite out of a sweet potato. A bit of the sauce dripped down his chin, but before he could grab a napkin, he felt a wet touch on his face. 

"Can you not? We're in public," he whispered, face going red.

"What's the big deal?" 

"Licking me makes you look like a dog-"

"I am not a dog, I'm a DRAGON!" Chuuya protested so loud, half the table stared at him. Albatross and Doc began to snicker. 

"Yeah, well, don't do it. It's bad manners," Dazai whispered sharply. Chuuya grumbled and impaled another vegetable with his knife. His table manners were... questionable, at best. 

Dazai forgot his annoyance as the next dishes were served: stewed rabbit, roasted boar, and a delicious cheese bread. They had plenty to drink as well: pale, bubbly wine followed by a rich dark purple and an earthy red. They shared a cup as well, and despite its size, they emptied it several times. Dazai felt full and content, and didn't want to eat another bite... until he saw what was on the next platter. He was pretty drunk at this point, and actually got a little teary eyed at the thoughtfulness.

"Y-you remembered my favorite food?"

Chuuya nodded proudly. He'd flown for hours to reach the ocean, but it was worth it to see the excitement on Dazai's face. He cracked the shell and took a big bite, the tender meat melting in his mouth. He sighed happily and dug in with both hands.

"So good! I gotta do something for you now... you spoil me, I wanna, wanna pay back the dept!" 

"Hehe, how's this for a start?" Chuuya grabbed Dazai's face and leaned in for a kiss. He missed, and they bashed their foreheads together instead. They got it on the second try, though! The night was filled with cheering and laughter as they began making out shamelessly, and Dazai actually climbed into Chuuya's lap. 

They talked and laughed with everyone, and even climbed up onto the table to share a dance. Chuuya set his wine on fire, then drunk it down to a chorus of shouts and cheers. Everything after that was a hazy blur... 

 

Dazai woke up much later with a throbbing headache. A grey morning had dawned, but even that dim light hurt his eyes. He groaned and stirred, feeling the soft grass cling to his skin as he rolled onto his side. How the hell did I end up here? What happened last night?

He was lying under the table, half naked and covered in several fresh bite marks. Chuuya was snoring nearby, face down on the ground and still clutching their golden goblet. Dazai groaned, feeling the hangover hit him hard.

Damn, we both had way too much to drink. 

Notes:

Sugar daddy Chuuya, anyone? (he's got the money, that's for sure)

Also, that was a wedding reception, idgaf if they aren't technically married

Chapter 27: Planning for Adventure

Dazai and Chuuya felt absolutely miserable. Hirotsu gave them plenty tonics and potions, but still, they spent most of their time in bed, nursing their hangovers. It was a long time before either had the motivation to do anything.

Back at their cave, Chuuya began to really think about their relationship. He'd celebrated with all of his friends, but there was still one person he hadn't told; someone so close to him, she was practically family. She'll be so happy for us once she hears the news. I hope that she likes Dazai.

Chuuya went to go look for his mate. He was reclining on the couch, reading a book with a dragon on the cover. When he looked over his shoulder, Chuuya saw an illustration of two dragons locked in battle: one was long and serpentine like himself, and the other had batlike wings and a spade tail. The text read:

Dragons come in a variety of shapes and sizes but they can be divided into two main categories: elemental and spirit. Elemental dragons can breathe either fire, ice, or poison, and are hostile towards all other creatures, including their own kind.

Unlike their winged cousins, spirit dragons have been known to interact peaceably with other races, and even guard mortals from harm. They are highly intelligent and intensely magical, but little is known about them since there are so few left.

"Whatcha reading?"

Dazai dropped the book in surprise when he heard Chuuya's voice. It fell to the ground with a loud thud, opening to a bookmarked page. Chuuya chuckled when he saw the... detailed illustrations.

"Catching up on dragon biology, huh? I can give you a more detailed lesson," he teased as Dazai fumbled to close the book.

"I- I was- I just- uh, curious..." Dazai stammered, his face going red as a beet.

Chuuya flopped onto the couch and put his head on Dazai's thighs, a smug look on his freckled face. "If you're so curious, go ahead and feel between my legs when I'm a dragon. You already climb on me enough-"

"Shut up!" Dazai somehow went even redder, and the scent of embarrassment was radiating off of him in waves. He smacked the redhead right in the face with a pillow, but that only made him laugh.

"You're such an idiot, 'zai..." Chuuya nuzzled his head into Dazai's lap, a playful growl rumbling in his chest. His eyes drifted closed as Dazai ran his fingers through his hair, stroking and scratching just the way he liked. He'd almost forgotten what he'd originally come to say, but the relaxing head scratches brought it back to his mind. How do I even begin? If I talk about her, he'll probably ask about my past... He didn't want to bring up those memories... or lack thereof.

"So, now that we're together, I'd like you to meet someone. She's very important to me, and I want her blessing for our relationship."

Who could this be? He hasn't ever talked about this girl before, so there must be a reason! "Someone really important to you? You didn't have any feelings towards her at all, did you?" Dazai asked suspiciously, wondering just how close this mystery girl was to him.

Chuuya wrinkled his nose at the thought. "That's so weird! Kouyou's like, thousands of years older than me, and just- no!"

"Okay... wait, thousands of years old? What exactly is she?"

"A nature goddess of some kind. She's got a younger sister named Kyouka too. You'll meet them soon, lets get ready to go." Chuuya started to get up, only to feel Dazai pull him back down onto the couch.

"I'm gonna need a bit more than that, slug. How the hell did you meet a fucking goddess, and why's she so important to you?"

Chuuya grit his teeth, but still tried to speak in a neutral tone. "She's kinda like the sister I never had, you know? I lived with her for a long time, and she taught me a lot of things."

"Really?" Dazai was intrigued. He'd figured that Chuuya had always lived alone, but this revelation got him thinking. "What about your real family? Why didn't you just live with them?"

"Why do you always wear those bandages? Tell me that first, Dazai." Chuuya snapped with sudden venom. Dazai shrunk back, rubbing the bandages over his wrist nervously. 

The redhead huffed and turned away, hands balling into fists at his sides. "That's what I thought. Maybe I should just go by myself, then." He stood up quickly and walked away without a backwards glance.

Dazai bit his lip to hold back an angry retort. I'm not the only one with secrets, it seems. What isn't he telling me?

 

Chuuya leaned against a boulder near the entrance to his cave, watching storm clouds gather in the west. A chill wind blew past, its scent promising rain. He sat there for a while, wondering if he should leave now, or swallow his pride and apologize to Dazai. Their argument had been brief, but it left a bad taste in his mouth. I shouldn't have snapped at him like that. He doesn't know, doesn't understand what its like not to have a past...

"It's getting cold,"

Chuuya started in surprise as he felt the weight of a thick blanket being wrapped around his shoulders. The musky scent of tanned hide and caribou fur filled his senses, all of it laced with tones of Dazai. He could feel his warmth beside him; not quite touching, but still close.

"Thanks," he replied gruffly, pulling the fur blanket tighter around himself.

"So, this Kouyou... you wanna take me to meet her?"

"Yeah."

A fork of lightning flashed across the sky, followed by a loud boom of thunder. The rain started a moment later, pattering out a melody as it hit the rocky ground.

"If you didn't want to tell me about your past, you could have just said so. I would have respected your space."

"Alright..." 

Dazai continued to stare off into the distance, one hand absentmindedly rubbing his bandaged arm. For a long time, neither spoke.

"You already know why I wear my bandages," he said at length.

Chuuya nodded. He'd caught a glimpse of what was underneath after saving Dazai from the vampires: a patchwork of thin white scars. What he didn't understand was why his beloved mate always hid them behind layers of fabric.

"I've always worn these, you know. They make me feel safe." Dazai tugged gently at the end of one of his bandages.

Chuuya's expression turned sad. "I want you to feel safe around me, with or without them." He looked like he wanted to say more, but he held it back.

Dazai pulled the blanket tighter around himself, hiding his bandaged arms completely. "It's nothing you've done wrong. I'll take them off for you someday, but I'm not ready yet."

"I understand," Chuuya replied, even though he didn't really. I already know about his scars, so why is he still scared of showing them? He wanted to ask more questions, but he held his tongue. Even if he didn't understand the reasons, Dazai didn't want to take off his bandages. Even so, he still had one question left.

"Are you willing to come with me?"

"Yeah, count me in."

 

The clouds broke the next morning, and the bright summer sun shone into the cave. Dazai woke late as usual, and found that Chuuya had already made breakfast and packed their bags.

"How far are we going, exactly?" Dazai asked, raising an eyebrow when he saw how much stuff the dragon had packed. Two large packs were filled to the brim, each with a pillow and bedroll lashed to the top.

"The middle of the Dead Kingdom. It takes me less than a day flying by myself, but since you can't go as high or fast, it'll take a little longer," Chuuya said smugly. "But that's not the only place we're going. If you're up for it, we should go exploring together! I've got enough supplies for a two week adventure! What do you say?"

"Uh, wow... that's quite a lot," Dazai replied apprehensively. This was a lot thrown at him all at once, but the look in Chuuya's eyes made it impossible to say no. With a sigh, he reluctantly agreed. "Fine, we can do some exploring, but if I wanna go home early, you're gonna take me back."

"Deal! We're gonna have a lot of fun, trust me!"

"I guess..."

With Dazai's help, Chuuya tied the bags securely to his back to make travel easier. By mid morning, they were ready to go.

Dazai always loved flying with Chuuya. At first, he stared out at the scenery below, watching it pass by in blurs of green, grey, and brown. As time went on, though, his hands and face began to go numb from the wind chill. He hunkered down, burying his face in Chuuya's mane. The thick ginger locks provided a decent shield from the cold, but little in the aspect of entertainment.

"How much farther?"

"We aren't even halfway there. What's wrong, saddle sore already?"

"Mph," Dazai grunted, nuzzling further into Chuuya's mane. "The wind's cold and I can't feel my butt..."

Chuuya rolled his eyes in fond amusement. "Alright, princess, we can stop for a break."

Dazai eagerly slid off his back when they landed. I've gotta keep riding him all day, too! Damn, it's been a long time since I've ridden a horse, I'm not used to this! He wiped his nose with his sleeve, reflecting to himself that horse rides weren't quite so windy or high in the sky.

As Dazai stretched his legs, Chuuya relaxed on the grass, basking in the warm sunshine. A few small, puffy clouds chased each other across the sky, and the air was still and calm. The weather was perfect for a nap, but they still had a long road ahead.

Dazai immediately pouted when Chuuya told him to get on his back. "I don't wanna, it's not a comfortable ride! I'm sore already, and I'm getting sleepy! What if I fall off and die, huh?"

He's so dramatic sometimes... "I can tie a rope around you so you don't fall off. Come on, you're fine." Chuuya bumped Dazai's chest with his snout to encourage him to get up, but the brunet wasn't having it.

"Can't you just carry me in here, where its cozy and warm?"

The dragon reeled back in surprise when Dazai suddenly slipped his hands into his mouth. "What the hell- Dazai! No way, we're going somewhere nice! You can't just-"

"But Chuuya~"

"No! You'll get all wet and... slimy! You're not meeting Kouyou and Kyouka like that!" He cleared his throat and fought back a blush, trying his best to regain his composure. Images of the last time Dazai had been in his mouth flashed through his mind's eye, but he quickly tried to stamp them out.

"Well then, I'd love to hear a better plan, since I sure as hell am not getting on your back," Dazai shot back, his hands on his hips. Chuuya gave him a stern look, and was met with an unyielding ruby glare. He held his gaze for a few seconds before finally looking away with a frustrated huff. Damn it, why does he have to be so stubborn?

In the end, Dazai rode in luxury. He reclined in a blanket hammock held by Chuuya as he flew, warm, comfy, and content. He eventually fell asleep, leaving his disgruntled partner to do all the work.

 

The first thing Dazai noticed was how warm he was. He was wrapped in a blanket, resting on something soft and scaly. He rose and fell slowly, the soft, breathy sounds of Chuuya's snores filling his ears. He opened his eyes to find that he was lying right on top of the dragons belly, which had served as his bed all night. Leaves rustled overhead, but it was only a squirrel hopping from branch to branch. The trees around him were mainly maple and beech, though he could see the occasional darker green of a pine. The forest looked ancient, veiled in shadows by the dense canopy above and thick foliage beneath.

"Snrk-!"

Chuuya let out a particularly loud snore, drawing Dazai's attention back to him. He's so cute, passed out like a sleepy puppy. Better wake the big guy up. He found a long blade of grass, and began to tickle Chuuya's nose with it.

At first nothing happened, and then suddenly, the dragon awoke with an explosive, fiery sneeze! Dazai just barely managed to jump away, but he still felt the heat from the blast. Dead leaves kindled, and soon, a small fire blazed in the underbrush.

"Chuuya!" he exclaimed in distress, backing away from the leaping flames.

"Damn it, mackerel!" The dragon jumped to his feet and stamped out the fire. Then, he turned to Dazai with a grumpy huff of smoke. "Be careful, you could have gotten hurt!"

"Sorry, I was just tryna mess with you..." Dazai replied, looking up at Chuuya innocently. 

Chuuya rolled his eyes and transformed, reaching up to pinch his cheek. "Idiot," he muttered softly, then began to button up Dazai's shirt. He straightened out his bedhead and disheveled appearance, muttering about his partners stupidity the whole time.

"There, now you look presentable. Ready to go?"

Dazai shrugged. "It's close, right?"

"Yep, the gate's just a bit deeper in this forest. Come on, follow me."

Leaves crunched underfoot as they walked through the dense undergrowth. Chuuya led the way with Dazai following close behind. It grew darker as they walked, the trees growing taller and closer together. Their thick trunks stood like pillars beneath a green roof of leaves, ivy climbing up their twisted, gnarled bark.

"Ow!" Dazai suddenly cried, stepping backwards with a curse.

"What is it? Did something bite you?" 

"Just some damn thorns," he grumbled, gingerly dislodging the branch from his pant leg. A sharp bloom of blood had appeared on the brown cotton, and Chuuya began to salivate. Smells so good.... No! I'm not gonna go licking his wounds like a damn dog!

"How much farther do we have to go? My ankle hurts now!" Dazai whined, playing up the situation as usual.

"We're almost there," Chuuya replied, quelling the urge to taste Dazai's blood. "You see that tower? The valley is just beyond it."

Dazai squinted, but he couldn't make out anything through the thick trees. "It's impossible to see through all this leafy shit! If I step on another thorn bush, I swear-"

"You'll be fine, come on." Chuuya began walking again, leaving him no choice but to follow.

It wasn't long before they made it to the tower, though Dazai might have missed it if Chuuya hadn't pointed it out. Only the base remained, and the tumbled stones of the upper stories lay scattered nearby, overgrown with moss and clinging vines. More rose bushes grew here as well, but these were unlike any he had ever seen before. The flowers were a rich golden color, like the coins in Chuuya's hoard. They seemed to spring up everywhere, growing thicker as they went along.

He was about to ask Chuuya about the roses when he noticed a huge shadow looming before them, stretching nearly to the treetops. A strange feeling stirred in Dazai's chest, almost a sense of reverence as he realized that it was a massive hedge of thorns, stretching as far as the eye could see. More of the golden roses bloomed, offset by smaller vines with delicate white flowers.

"She lives through there? How do we get past?"

As he spoke, the thick vines began to move and shift, slithering backwards like snakes. A small doorway appeared, and a soft, sweet smelling breeze rushed through, bringing with it a thousand white petals.

"Ah, it's Kyouka!" 

"Wait, what?" Dazai looked on in bewilderment, then wonder as the petals danced and swirled, coming together to form a human silhouette. Then, the breeze carried them away, and a young girl stood before them. Dazai blinked, wondering if he was seeing things. She was just flower petals a moment ago- what sorcery is this?

"Big brother! It's so good of you to come home," the girl exclaimed, her voice as soft and sweet as a flower.

"Hey, little one," Chuuya gave her a hug, banishing Dazai's misgivings that the child was just an illusion. Big brother? What's going on here, they aren't even the same species!

Dazai was snapped out of his thoughts when the girl turned her attention to him, blue eyes as cold as glacial ice. The look she gave was suspicious, almost hostile, like she was looking into his very soul.

"This human has eyes of blood. Why have you brought it here?"

Chuuya's expression hardened. He stepped closer to Dazai and laced their fingers together, his protective instincts flaring. "This is my mated partner, Dazai, and there's nothing wrong with his eyes."

Her expression didn't change. "It's not the color that troubles me, but the darkness it forbodes."

Cursed blood... she can sense it, can't she? What now? Dazai shivered. Kyouka didn't look older than thirteen or fourteen, yet he had no doubt that she could kill him if she wanted to.

"Stupid superstition! Come on, you should be happy for us! Just- let us in, alright?"

Kyouka considered Dazai carefully, then bowed her head a fraction. "My master will judge what to do with you. Come, she awaits you."

Notes:

My chapters have been getting longer! I hope that's a good thing, but I'm also worried I won't get anywhere lol. I could have made this shorter, but I got lost in exploring their relationship dynamic in everyday life. Dazai's really turned into a bossy little princess! Chuuya may be stronger and a top, but they both know who's really in charge...

Chapter 28: In the Valley of Thorns and Roses

Dazai held Chuuya's hand tightly as they walked through the doorway, the vines closing behind them in an impenetrable wall of thorns. We're locked inside... the thought made him shiver.

Chuuya, however, felt a sense of peace as he stepped into the realm of the goddess. The world came alive with light and color, the swaying of the trees welcoming him in. They weren't twisted and bunched together as in the rest of the forest, letting the sunlight stream through their jade leaves. A good magic flowed through root and bough, and the innumerable flowers that dotted the grass filled the air with a pleasant aroma. He breathed in deeply, feeling like he had finally come home.

"She awaits us at the south shrine. Come, it is not too far from this place," Kyouka said, gesturing them forwards.

"It's always beautiful here in summer," 

She nodded. "Yes, but I like spring best."

"Ah, cause of the new blossoms?"

"And less bugs."

Chuuya glanced over at Dazai, who didn't seem to be paying attention to the conversation. He was uncharacteristically silent, perhaps to make up for Chuuya's own racing thoughts. Why was Kyouka so hostile towards Dazai? There's nothing wrong with him. His scent is unique and he does attract monsters and such, but that's not his fault!

Kyouka led them deeper into the valley, flowers blooming in her wake. They were mostly white blossoms, though a few had petals as red as her dress. Dazai had never seen a garment quite like it before: it had long, flowing sleeves and a layered sash around the waist. The cut and pattern were alien to him, but they were beautiful.

Gradually, the ground began to slope downwards. The terrain grew rockier, and the trees gave way to tall grasses and shrubs. Dazai kept his grip on Chuuya's hand firm, feeling out of place and unwelcome in this beautiful wilderness. The cries of birds sounded like warning bells, and the faces of the flowers seemed to be turned towards him in judgement.

"Look, Dazai. Can you see the heart of the forest?"

Chuuya's voice was light, a stark contrast to Dazai's own unease. He'd been watching his feet, but when he looked up, he was stunned by the view. A lush, green valley lay beneath them, full of meadows and small groves of trees. At the very center, an emerald forest grew.

"I see it," he breathed. Even from here, he could feel the power radiating from the valley, more intense and potent than the slight twinge he'd felt at the gate.

"Look at the castle too! It's pretty cool, isn't it?"

Dazai looked up at the far peak, eyes widening as he saw the weathered remains of a huge stone castle. He'd thought that the lofty black towers of Mori's castle were great, yet its entirety would have fit within the courtyard.

"I'd love to explore those ruins," he murmured, trying to picture what the castle looked like in its prime. It was only a shell, yet the crumbling stone towers still clung defiantly to the mountainside, whispering tales of ancient battles and forgotten kings.

"I already did, there's not much to see. Besides, lots of nasty monsters live there now, so best to stay away," Chuuya said with a shrug. Wouldn't want to take Dazai there, he's like bait for anything with teeth.

"Oh, alright." Dazai did his best to cover his disappointment, but he couldn't hide its scent from the dragon.

"We'll explore lots of cool places together, don't worry! Maybe we can visit the castle too, if you promise to stay close to me," Chuuya said reluctantly. Dazai's small and vulnerable, but I'm not. If I protect him- its still risky, but we should be fine.

"Stay close behind me, lest you cut yourself on thorns," Kyouka said, and glanced back to see if her guests were following. Chuuya came quickly behind, but his partner was busy looking at the scenery and had to be dragged along.

"Look, Chuuya, its you!" he exclaimed suddenly, pointing as they passed beneath a stone statue of a dragon. Its horns and front leg were broken off, and the years of weathering had softened its features. It looked more like a worm than a wyrm. 

"Very clever. And that looks like you," Chuuya replied, pointing to a stick on the ground. Dazai snickered.

They both noticed more ruins as they walked along, and the golden roses springing up among the foliage. There were just a few at first, but eventually, the entire forest was filled with their golden flowers. With the roses, Dazai began to feel an unearthly presence as well. It must be Kouyou... the name sounded like a spell. Every step Dazai took was more reluctant than the first, wariness and fear filling him at the thought of meeting a goddess. He could feel the power of her spirit growing stronger as he advanced, its subtle magic like the vibrations of a sound outside of human hearing.

Chuuya recognized Kouyou's familiar presence, and his steps quickened in anticipation. He couldn't wait to tell her everything! He pushed through a veil of leaves, and there she was. She stood before a towering monolith, her long sleeves flowing gracefully as she painted a careful stroke.

"Big sis!"

The goddess turned around, a warm smile on her lips. Chuuya ran to her, throwing his arms around her waist and hugging tightly. He buried his face into the front of her kimono, drinking in her scent. It was a sweet fragrance, with undercurrents of both decay and new growth. It was comforting, familiar, right.

"I missed you, my little dragon," she crooned, returning the embrace with loving warmth.

For now, Dazai stood to the side, forgotten. He didn't speak, but his heart was full of awe as Kouyou's presence washed over him. She felt like the golden roses in a way; soft and beautiful, yet still bristling with thorns. Seeing Chuuya embrace her like that made him feel... strange. It was like he was meeting his family for the first time. He distracted himself by looking at her painting. Two dragons were entwined over a field of grain, one blue, the other gold. Faint carvings beneath the paint and weathered inscriptions implied the age of the monolith. She's restoring the picture, not creating it. This was made a long time ago.

Kyouka's soft, stolid voice brought him back to the present, and filled him with shame. "A stranger has been brought. He bears the demon's mark, yet Chuuya claims him."

"This is Dazai, my mate." Chuuya hurried to clarify. He cast an apologetic look at Dazai, sensing his unease. He took his hand, both to comfort him and show his devotion to the others.

Kouyou studied him intently, but eventually nodded and bowed. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Dazai. My name is Kouyou Ozaki. What twist of fortune brought you two together, hm? Come, you must tell me all."

 

Dazai was quiet as Chuuya told their story, only chiming in occasionally to correct certain points or comment on an event. Kouyou made him feel uneasy, even though her expression was warm and kind. She spoke to him courteously, yet he couldn't shake a nagging suspicion that she didn't approve of him. She probably thinks that I'm not good enough for Chuuya. She's right about that, at least."

"I don't think I've ever seen your soul shine so brightly," Kouyou said as Chuuya wrapped up the tale. "I hope that you will find happiness with your new partner."

"I already have! Dazai is the only one I'll ever love!" He grew out his tail and wrapped it around Dazai, giving him a possessive squeeze. Feeling like he was expected to say something, Dazai stammered something out as well.

"Y-yeah, I really do love him, m'lady... your majesty?"

"Just Kouyou will serve," she replied with a smile. "You're family now, don't stand on honorifics."

"Alright, ...Kouyou," Dazai replied uncertainly. I've been kidnapped by vampires and fallen for a dragon. Why not get on a first name basis with a goddess too?

Chuuya felt very proud. I knew she would accept him! It seems like she likes Dazai, that's so good! He subconsciously tightened his tail, pulling his mate even closer. Kyouka still looked skeptical, but he knew that she'd come around.

"You make a very charming couple indeed. You want my blessing, hm? It would be my pleasure, but first, I would like to speak to each of you alone."

Dazai and Chuuya exchanged glances. They hadn't expected this, and Dazai's doubts began to resurface in his mind. What if she tells me I'm not good enough for Chuuya? Is she just being polite right now to spare his feelings? She is a goddess, though... could she fix me? Remove whatever corruption flows through my veins?

"Whatever you want," Chuuya said, hiding his own misgivings with a shrug. Probably just wants to get to know her new brother in law. It has nothing to do with his red eyes, does it? No, can't be. Even if Kyouka was worried, Kouyou's much older and wiser. She won't reject him just for that!

"Wonderful. Kyouka, please show Dazai around the gardens. I'll send for you when I'm done talking to Chuuya."

The brunet cast one last longing glance at Chuuya before he stood up and followed Kyouka back into the woods. 

Chapter 29: Blessings and Curses

"My little dragon feels so grown up now~"

"Stop that!" Chuuya protested, blushing beneath his freckles. "Just cause you're old as dirt, that doesn't make me young. Or little!"

Kouyou's lips turned upward, magenta eyes shining with silent laughter. "Of course, apologies~ You have your own lair and hoard like a proper dragon."

"That's right!" Chuuya deliberately ignored the teasing tone in her voice. "And I've got a mate of my own, too!"

"A mortal."

The word hangs in the air, charged with tension. Chuuya knows it, by the gods he does, but he just doesn't want to think about Dazai dying. 

"I know that already, and I don't care!" he replied sharply- too sharply, betraying the uncertainty beneath. 

Kouyou put her hand over Chuuya's, stroking his clenched fists with her delicate fingers. His shoulders slumped, and he let out a long sigh. "You're probably gonna say I'm an idiot for binding myself to him, but I knew the risks. I just want to enjoy it while it lasts." He looked up, gemstone eyes begging for approval.

"Love makes fools of us all. I won't tell you whether your choice was good or ill, but I must warn you about that man."

"Warn me?" Chuuya laughed. "He's a human and I'm a dragon! He's not gonna hurt me."

"Come, Chuuya, you aren't so blind as that. You can sense it, can't you?"

"Maybe I can, but what does it matter? I'm not human either," he shot back, deliberately ignoring what she was getting at. Of course I can feel that magical undertone and smell the slight difference between him and a normal human. That strange gleam in his eye is what first entranced me...

Kouyou's voice was kind, even as she delivered news she knew that the dragon would not wish to hear. "You misunderstand me. If he were an elf or dwarf, I would not caution you so. I worry because even I don't know what he is."

"What do you mean? You're a goddess, aren't ya? Haven't you seen anyone like him before?"

She shook her head. "Human souls are soft prisms of light, but Dazai is void. His soul bleeds black and red- it is not a human soul, but something unnatural and dangerous."

Chuuya's face darkened with fury. "Is that all you wanted to tell me? What about my soul huh? What do you see there?!?!"

"Leaping flames, as you have always had." Kouyou didn't mention the writhing void buried in the heart of the fire, or its unsettling similarities to what she'd glimpsed within Dazai. Instead, she leaned back against the monolith, feeling more uncertain than she had in two hundred years. Silence fell, each second as long as a lifetime.

"...I'd hoped you'd be happy for me." 

Chuuya was staring straight ahead, eyes beginning to blur as they filled with tears. They ran down his face in warm, heavy drops, but he refused to blink or wipe them. He didn't resist as gentle arms pulled him closer, though. He leaned against Kouyou's chest, letting himself get lost in the feeling of soft silk and the scent of roses.

"I am happy for you, Chuuya, and I'm very proud of the person you've become. Don't think my caution unkind; I worry because I love you."

Chuuya sniffled, holding onto Kouyou's kimono like he was just a little dragon again. "Dazai's gonna be ok, right? Even if he's different, he can still be good. He can be good for me."

"Of course he can be. Nothing is wholly good or evil, my dear child." The goddess ran a comforting hand through Chuuya's hair. Swallowing her own misgivings, she gave Chuuya the words he needed to hear. "Dazai may have the potential for great harm, but I also believe that he could do great good with the correct guidance. The way he makes your soul blaze is proof of that."

Chuuya looked up, eyes red from crying. "You really think so? Does that mean you'll give us your blessing?"

"Perhaps. First, I must speak with him."

 

Kyouka's silence wasn't making things any better for Dazai's anxiety. He tried to focus on the cool statues and ruins, but his mind inevitably wandered back to the goddess. She's been talking to Chuuya for a long time...

Kyouka suddenly stopped walking, head raised to a voice Dazai couldn't hear. "My master is ready for you now," she said, black pigtails swinging as she turned back south. Dazai was silent as they walked back, but his mind was anything but. It whirled with a chaotic mix of doubts and misgivings, and a half formed script of things to say.

Chuuya had already left by the time he got back to the shrine, leaving him alone with the goddess. The roses in her hair were like a golden crown, and her beautiful garments flowed softly in the breeze.

"Come, sit with me. There is much I would like to discuss."

Dazai walked forward slowly, each step more reluctant than the last. He bowed low, feeling like a commoner approaching the throne of a great and terrible queen. Would she deal out justice, or have mercy on him? He stopped a few feet in front of her, too ashamed to lift his head. She's gonna tell me why I'm not good enough. I already know that I don't deserve Chuuya's hand...

"Dazai... do you know what you are?"

His father, Fyodor, and countless other voices answered for him, all clamoring in his head. Monster, demon, fiend! A freak unfit to walk among humans!

"...no."

"Mhm," Kouyou hummed thoughtfully, then reached forward and cupped Dazai's face. The brunet let out a startled gasp as she tilted his head upwards, their eyes meeting for the first time. Pink irises held his gaze with a power like the dragon's spell, only much stronger. Dazai couldn't look away no matter how hard he tried, even as he felt the goddess staring into his very soul. He made a strangled noise in his throat, unable to endure her scrutiny, yet forced to remain absolutely still. Finally, Kouyou let go.

"I think I understand things better, now."

"W-what do you understand? What was that?" Dazai staggered backwards, his breathing heavy as if he'd just fought a battle. 

"Are you religious, Dazai?"

The question caught him off guard. "No, I'm not. The gods don't give a fuck about me, so why waste my time-" Dazai cut himself off, glancing nervously up at the goddess before him. To his surprise, she didn't look angry or offended. 

"No matter, you can be taught. You must understand the arcane and the nature of the soul if you are ever to live a normal life. You have no choice, for I see what is inside you." 

Dazai's breath caught in his throat. What does she see? He needed to know; oh, so desperately craved the knowledge, and yet dreaded what he might hear. He stood atop the gallows, waiting for the floor to disappear beneath his feet. 

"I do not understand how this is possible, for I have never heard tell of such a thing. Listen very carefully, Dazai. Your body is mortal, but your soul is something else entirely; a force strange and powerful. That combination seems to have a peculiar effect, making you a living conduit between the mortal realm and the aether."

Dazai's head was spinning. Kouyou's explanation didn't seem to explain! A conduit? What the hell is the aether, what's wrong with my soul? 

A cloud passed over the sun, cloaking the shrine in shadow. The twin dragons seemed to be glaring down at him, their painted eyes full of condemnation. For a long while, there was no sound besides the rustle of wind through the branches.

"You don't have to say anything, I saw it all in your eyes." She reached out a hand, brushing Dazai's hair out of his face. "You've always been alone, for the world wasn't made for the likes of you. That is why you long for death, isn't it, child?"

Those words hit too close to home. Dazai jerked away, glaring daggers at the goddess who saw too much. How does she know? Did Chuuya tell her, or can she see into my memories?! Anger flared in his chest, and he clenched his fists, digging his nails into his palms. 

"You know nothing about me!!!"

Despite his outburst, Kouyou's expression remained unchanged. "I know that fate hasn't been kind to you, but there is hope still." She sighed, voice full of all the tones of a concerned mother- not that Dazai would know. "Open your eyes, Dazai. You are alone no longer. Will you take the curse the world has laid upon you, or will you forge your own path with Chuuya by your side?"

Thump... thump... thump...

Dazai's heartbeat echoed in his ears. He slowly sank to the ground, his fingers gripping the grass beneath him like an anchor. Open your eyes, Dazai. The words of the goddess played again and again in his head. The world wasn't made for you... forge your own path... you are alone no longer...

Dazai's voice was caught in his throat, and when he managed to speak, it was a strangled croak. "I... I don't want to be alone anymore..."

"You will be faithful to Chuuya?" 

When he nodded, the sun passed from behind the cloud, washing the world in light again. Kouyou rose to her feet, a kind smile on her face. Her eyes were distant though, as if she was remembering something from long, long ago.

"Tell Chuuya that I will give you my blessing. I shall await you in the heart of the forest."

"Wait! I don't understand! What am I?!?!" Dazai jumped to his feet, but Kouyou was already gone, vanished into a shower of rose petals. 

 

"So, what'd she say?" 

"Some cryptic bullshit, but she'll give us her blessing," Dazai replied with a shrug. 

"That's so good! We're going to the main shrine then, right?" 

"She said the heart of the forest, so I guess...?" He leaned back against the monolith and continued to stroke Chuuya's tail, which had somehow ended up on his lap. "What's the big deal with this blessing, anyway?" 

"You'll see~" Chuuya ruffled Dazai's hair, playfully tugging at the wavy strands. "Kouyou isn't some human auntie; she's gonna give us an actual blessing. With how troublesome you are, we're definitely gonna need it!"

Dazai's expression darkened for a moment, but it quickly passed, and he was smiling brightly again. "Yeah, I'm a disaster~ which way do we go?" Lets get this over with as soon as possible so we can leave. 

"Just down the hill and through a bit of forest. Wanna ride?"

The brunet smirked. "What do you think?"

Chuuya began to transform, only this time, he stopped before he reached his full size. His body wasn't quite so long and snakelike, retaining a small resemblance to his human form. His muzzle was shorter, for one, and faint freckles dotted his scaly skin. 

"What a cute chibi dragon~" Dazai cooed, reaching out to pat his nose. The dragon huffed, then deftly scooped Dazai up with his tail and deposited him on his back. Once he'd straightened himself out, Dazai chuckled and drove his heels into Chuuya's sides to get him to move forward. 

"Giddyap, horsie! I've got places to be!" 

"You're insufferable. One of these days I'm gonna bite you in the ass," he griped, but started walking forward anyway. He'd kept himself smaller to traverse the forest more easily, but it came at the cost of Dazai's teasing.

Dazai felt a growing sense of unease as he rode along. The trees grew thicker and taller, and the air felt charged with magic. He distracted himself by teasing the dragon, 'steering' him and acting like he was a horse. 

All playfulness died away when he saw a huge stone gateway ahead. There was no living thing in sight, but Dazai got the uneasy feeling that he was being watched. The statues at its base seemed to glare down at him from their high pedestals, silently warning him to keep out. Chuuya bowed his head a fraction, then trotted past them hardly a glance. Dazai turned back to stare. It was the same two dragons he'd seen on the monolith: one with antlers and a thick mane, the other with curved horns and spines... or were they feathers? It was hard to tell beneath the clinging vines. 

The inside of the shrine didn't look any different than the rest of the forest, but the air was completely different. Both fell silent, and a chill crept up Dazai's spine. 

"We're here," Chuuya announced, helping Dazai off his back. 

Here? I don't see anything but those damn roses- 

The building was made entirely of rose bushes. The interwoven branches and stems formed intricate patterns, and the roof was a canopy of leaves. He'd expected something carved of stone, something ancient and proud like the statues, but not this. He could feel the power emanating from the temple, filling him with a sense of horrible reverence. He felt ashamed to enter such a beautiful place, as if he might taint it with his mere presence. 

"Welcome to Bara to Toge no Jinja, the shrine of my master. Take off your shoes and put these on before you enter the Haiden."

Where the hell did she come from?!?! Dazai whirled around to see Kyouka standing behind them, holding up two bundles of fabric. One was red with blue flowers, and the other a dull green and brown. She handed one to each of them, inclining her head in a slight bow. 

Dazai's lips turned downward in a pout. "Of course you get the pretty one, you damn slug. What's up with all of this?"  

"This is called a kimono, its what the people of this land used to wear," Chuuya explained as he shrugged off his shirt, exposing his toned back. Dazai watched raptly, until he noticed Kyouka staring at him. He then quickly busied himself with his own 'boring' kimono. In the end, it was harder to put on than he thought, and Chuuya had to come to his rescue. 

"Pst, mackerel. Take off your shoes."

"What?"

"Just do it," Chuuya said, kicking off his own boots. "There's lots of ceremony stuff involved with shrines, ya know? Just follow my lead and you'll be fine." 

Dazai nodded and took off his shoes. Luckily, the ground was covered in soft moss, so his feet didn't hurt as he followed the others inside. 

Kyouka seems to be warming up to Dazai! Chuuya thought happily as he followed behind the girl, his tail swishing back and forth. The smell of sandalwood incense was welcome and familiar, as was the rustle of his kimono as he walked. Kouyou always liked the old way best. I used to wear these all the time. 

Dazai watched Chuuya's tail flick happily, the tip lifting up his kimono a bit. He wished that he could be as relaxed and content as his mate. To be honest, his heart was pounding a million miles an hour as they walked though the strange hall of vines. This place is too damn holy... I don't belong here, what am I doing?

He followed the others through a curtain of leaves and into a surprisingly simple room. There were four clay bowls set out on the floor, which was covered in rectangular straw mats. At the far end of the room, Kouyou sat, tending a small brasier and a... kettle? She bowed when they entered, her forehead almost touching the ground.

"Please, have a seat." When she saw the puzzled look on Dazai's face, she smiled. "This is a tea ceremony, child. Is it not customary in your land?" 

Dazai shook his head. 

"Ah, I see. Much can change in a few hundred years," she sighed softly, recalling the distant past. "It is a way to welcome guests, or a new member of the family. With this, I show my favor and welcome you into my heart."

So this is the blessing? He'd expected some elaborate ritual or powerful spell, but once again he was surprised by... what? The simplicity of it all? The peaceful way this goddess practiced magic? 

"Oh, I've done this before!" Chuuya exclaimed, his whole face lighting up. He knelt down behind one of the bowls, then patted the spot beside him. He could still smell Dazai's nervousness, but he sat down beside him anyway. The tea ceremony was familiar, and brought comfort to him. When Kouyou handed him a plate with a dainty little wagashi, he eagerly popped it into his mouth. The red bean paste and rice dough melted in his mouth, a delicious treat for the dragon. Dazai, however, ate his with small bites. He doesn't like it... ha! What a picky eater~  

When they'd all finished the food, Dazai doing so with a bit of effort, Kyouka got up and retrieved a small, wooden box. Kouyou carefully removed the lid, then took the kettle off the brasier.

"I have a unique tea for you, today. I chose the ingredients to reflect the blessings I wish to bestow upon you."

Chuuya raised his head in interest. He'd seen her use plants and powders in simple spells, but this felt different. The tip of his tail twitched as he focused on the ritual, trying to identify every flower and herb used. 

"Chūya no gādian to shite, Dazai o kazoku ni mukaeiremasu. Kōunwoinoru minto to, wazawai kara miwomamoru shōga o soete.  Koko ni wa kenkyo-sa o motomeru matsu to chie o motomeru kenja ga imasu. Anata no kenshin o tsuyomeru tame ni rabendā o okurimasu." the goddess chanted, taking different powders and leaves from the box and adding them to the kettle. 

"Soshite saigo ni bara o okurimasu..." Kouyou paused, then held out her hand. A vine coiled from under her sleeve, and within seconds, a golden rose bloomed in her palm. Reverently, she plucked a single petal and added it to the tea. "Kore wa watashi no shukufukudesu. Anata no ai ga kesshite kiemasen yō ni"

Dazai couldn't understand the tongue she was using, but it sounded as ancient and beautiful as she was. Chuuya sat silently beside him, his swishing tail finally stilled. His mind felt... calm, his fear and doubt pushed to the background. For now, he was content. 

Kouyou poured the tea into each of their cups, then set the kettle back on the brasier. 

"It may not taste good, but that is not why I chose this mix. Drink, and you will be blessed and strengthened by the virtues of the plants."

Dazai and Chuuya took a hesitant sip, and realized that she was right. The combination of flavors was a bit odd, yet it still had a certain savor. Chuuya let out a heavy breath, recognizing Kouyou's subtle magic in the tea. It washed over him like the soft ripples in a stream, filling him with a familiar, comforting warmth. 

"Thank you, sister. Thanks for accepting us," he said softly, taking another sip of his tea. 

"It's nothing, little dragon."

 

 

 

Notes:

I think this is my longest chapter yet! I actually got to go to a tea ceremony while I visited Japan. Man, I love that country! I stayed up late finishing this chapter, so there might be some mistakes. I'll try to get back and edit soon.

Chapter 30: Breaking Down Barriers

"Well, that was interesting. Tea tasted like shit, though," Dazai commented as he walked through the forest, hand in hand with Chuuya.

"It's about the symbolism, not the taste," the other replied, his tail flicking out mischievously to smack the brunet's ass. "So, what'd you think of them?"

"They seem pretty nice," they terrify me.

"Good," Chuuya grunted. "So you won't mind staying for a few days? Kouyou wants to get to know you and help you out with your magic."

Dazai's steps faltered for a moment. Oh, fuck that! Get me outta here!!!

"Y-yeah, that's fine," he cleared his throat. "So you know about my... situation?"

"That you're some kinda fucked up combination of human and who-knows-what? Yeah, I heard. Did she say anything else?"

"No, that about sums it up."

Chuuya glanced over at Dazai, noting that his already pale skin had gone whiter. His soul bleeds black and red- it is not a human soul, but something unnatural and dangerous. Kouyou's words repeated in his head, and he wondered what it meant for them. Surely, they could live a normal life together... couldn't they?

Dazai cleared his throat, eager to change the subject. "So, where are we staying? That place up ahead?"

"Yeah, actually. That's where I used to live!"

"Lovely," he replied sarcastically, eyeing up the old ruin. It had probably once been a luxurious mansion, but now it was barely held together by vines and roots. The front door had long rotted away, and a curtain of leaves hung in its place instead. Dazai stepped inside with low expectations, and was surprised to find a comfortable and clean room.

"Oh, looks like they cleaned this place up!" Chuuya said happily as he surveyed the surroundings. A low table sat on one end, set with a delicious smelling meal. The far wall was open to the courtyard, which boasted a beautiful and well maintained garden. He kicked his shoes off and eagerly sat down at the table, admiring the floral centerpiece. "Red camellias, how romantic!"

"You really know your flowers," Dazai said, following his example and taking off his shoes. "I didn't think a dragon would be interested in something like that."

Chuuya stiffened, the tips of his ears going red. "I-It's not like I was ever interested, I just picked up a thing or two from the girls!"

"Ah, I see," Dazai replied, a sly grin on his face. He was definitely going to tease Chuuya about this later.

Chuuya took a long swig of tea, then banged his empty cup down on the table. Dazai imitated him, and immediately burnt his tongue on the first sip. He glared over at the redhead for having mislead him into thinking it wasn't that hot, but he was too busy piling his plate with rice and grilled fish to notice. With a sigh, Dazai reached for his own plate. He looked around for a knife and fork, but there weren't any. All he saw was two carved sticks that looked kind of like skewers. With no other cutlery available, he took one and stabbed a piece of meat.

Chuuya, meanwhile, was shamelessly stuffing his face, not bothering with manners or utensils. Heh, Kouyou's not here to make me use my chopsticks, Chuuya thought as he licked his fingers. He could see that Dazai didn't know how to use them, but he wasn't going to help him. It was too funny to watch him struggle to figure it out. He managed to skewer the fish good enough, but when it came to the rice, he gave up and ate with his hands as well.

 

When they were done, Chuuya walked out to the courtyard and transformed, sprawling out on the soft grass. He looked over at Dazai, the end of his tail wagging in anticipation.

"Oh, you want me to pet you, huh? Damn dog," the brunet scoffed lightly, but his feet were already carrying him towards the big dragon. He sat down beside him and began rubbing his belly with both hands. The scales felt nice and smooth, the texture helping him relax after the days events.

"Mrrrr~" Chuuya growled, his eyes half lidded. He nuzzled against Dazai, giving him an affectionate nip. "You're a good mate. Happy you're here."

"So are you. I can't believe how lucky I am."

"Dazai... do you know what you are?" Kouyou's words, a question that had repeated in his mind over and over again. Dazai began scratching Chuuya's belly more vigorously, trying to drive out the unwelcome thoughts, yet his inner voices wouldn't be silenced. "You're no son of mine, you're not even human! Cursed blood flows through your veins! You should never have been born!"

The usual voices chorused a familiar symphony. Now, though, another voice spoke as well. "This is my mated partner, Dazai, and there's nothing wrong with him!"

Dazai looked up, meeting Chuuya's tender gaze. His mismatched eyes were so expressive, and he could feel his love like a physical force. The clamor in his head died down until only Chuuya's voice remained. "You're not a human, so what? I'm not either. I don't want someone better, I want you."

Chuuya's tail swished anxiously when he felt Dazai suddenly start shaking in his grasp, and he let out a low, concerned whine. He picked him up gently, nudging him with his nose to ask what was wrong.

"I'm okay, I just... I can't believe this is real. That you really care about me so much," Dazai whispered against his scales.

Chuuya cocked his head to the side, his ears perking up as he watched Dazai cling to his paws. "So these are happy tears?" he asked hopefully. That would be much better than his mate being sad.

"Yeah, happy tears..." Dazai sat back with a sniffle, and wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his kimono. He thought back to the time before he'd met Chuuya, and how lost he'd felt then. He'd been nothing more than a sad, pathetic shell of a man, searching for a way to end his miserable existence. Was that only last year? It felt like a lifetime ago.

Dazai let out a shaky laugh when he felt a hot blast against his face, then the pressure and slight tugging of Chuuya nibbling his hair. He could feel the vibrations of his growl through the touch. He hummed softly in response, reaching up to stroke Chuuya's muzzle. A stranger might have balked at the sound of that growl, but for Dazai, it was comforting. The tones of his voice were low and protective, a promise to keep him safe and close.

"I never thought I'd get this either, you know? Not when I look like this..." Chuuya admitted softly.

Dazai took in his glimmering scales, curved horns, and the vulnerable expression on his reptilian face. Does my baby feel insecure about his species!? Poor guy, he's probably gotten a lot of hate just for being a dragon! Pity welled up in his heart, and he knew that he had to reassure his mate. He didn't want Chuuya to see himself like that!

"I guess being a dragon scares off most people... not me though! I know that you're just a big softie under all those scales~"

"I know you're not scared of me, its just-" Chuuya looked away, fighting with himself. He was afraid of how Dazai might reply, but he forced himself to keep talking. "Do you think I look better when I'm in human form? I know you like the real me too, but probably not in the same way-"

Dazai looked confused. "What do you mean? I love your dragon self!"

"Yeah, yeah, but I mean- is it... attractive to you?" Chuuya's voice was uncharacteristically insecure, and his ears lay flat against his head.

"You're seriously worried about that? Chuuya, you're gorgeous either way! I love both sides of you!" Dazai replied hotly, an incredulous scowl on his face. I fell for his dragon form first! How can he think I'm not into it?

"You really mean it?"

"Of course I do, stupid wyrm! Now come here and kiss me!"

Chuuya stood frozen, just staring at the little brunet as he reached out impatiently. Dazai had just banished one of his deepest insecurities with just a few words! Slowly, as if in a dream, he raised Dazai up to eye level. Right away, he felt him grab his muzzle and pepper it with kisses. The size difference between them would have been comical if the gesture wasn't so sweet. He nearly slipped past the dragons lips and into his mouth a few times, but he was unphased.

I've been worried about this for so long, but he loves me just the same? Even though I'm so big and monstrous? It was like a weight had been removed from his shoulders, and each little kiss left his heart feeling lighter. He nuzzled against Dazai with a purring growl. The faint sweetness on his skin smelled so good, so comforting. It was the smell of affection, and that affection was all for him.

"There you go, sniffing me like a dog again. You like my smell that much~?"

Chuuya responded with his signature puppy lick. Holding his lover close, exchanging kisses and kind words, it just felt right. Chuuya's heart felt full and happy as he held Dazai up, cradling him in his paws like a precious treasure.

"You like being held like this, don't you?"

"Of course I do! I love being close to my Chuu~ya~" Dazai crooned, booping his nose.

Chuuya's insecurity about his draconic form resonated within Dazai, and he began to think of himself, and his bandages. Would he have the courage to show Chuuya tonight? A part of him wanted to take them off now, to break down the barriers completely, but the greater part was still unwilling. No, I'll keep them on for now... but I'll give the rest to him.

Dazai untied his belt, and let his kimono slip down to show his bare shoulders and chest.

The dragon inhaled sharply as the fabric fell away, pooling around Dazai's slender hips. Those familiar bandages wound around his arms and neck, the white fabric matching the lines of scar tissue that crisscrossed his chest. Some of it looked like injuries sustained in battles, but more were so obviously intentional. His heart ached at the display of trust and vulnerability; Dazai didn't show his skin often, even to him. Chuuya practically melted when Dazai wrapped his arms around his muzzle and hugged it tight. His swishing tail knocked over a flower pot, but he didn't even notice.

Dazai stroked his muzzle, gazing deeply into his eyes. He felt so vulnerable, yet so warm and content at the same time. I don't want there to be anything between us... someday, the bandages will be gone, too.

"I want to be closer to you..."

Closer? How? He's practically glued to my face! Chuuya was about to ask, but the words died on his tongue. Dazai was pushing on his jaw, trying to get him to open his mouth. This bastards crazy! Is he really trying to do what I think he is? He resisted for a moment, then cautiously opened it up a crack. He felt an arm reach inside, and the brush of his fingers against his lips and teeth made him shiver.

"whatr you doin'?" Chuuya mumbled around his hands, careful not to bite.

"I wanna take a look."

Chuuya resisted for a moment, then cautiously opened his jaws wider.

Hah, this is it! I'll prove how much I love his dragon form, and make him so happy! Dazai thought as he eagerly reached into the dragons maw. The soft tongue squished beneath his hands and knees as he crawled inside, careful not to cut himself on the fangs.

"Hmrph!" The dragon protested helplessly, unable to talk with his mouth so full. He just sat there, heart beating a mile a minute. He looked down at Dazai's discarded kimono in his paws, and his scales flushed a vibrant red. He'd had him in his mouth a few times before, but never in this context, never without clothes...

"Heh, it's so cool in here," Dazai breathed as he looked around, taking in the sharp teeth on either side of him. It felt like he'd just crawled into a small, warm cave.

I could bite down now and eat him, but the damn idiot doesn't seem scared! Why does he still smell so damn aroused and excited? He inhaled sharply, his tail lashing from side to side as Dazai curled up like a content cat. I should discourage this, right? His lover was so small and vulnerable, yet here he was, using his tongue as a cushion! It wasn't normal, it wasn't natural! So why did it feel so right?

"Mrrmphr..." Chuuya prodded Dazai with his claw, but the man only giggled.

Oh fuck, that was adorable! He was helpless to stop the affectionate rumble in his chest, or the protective instincts that surged to life within him. His jaws drifted closed just a little bit more, to better hold the precious treasure inside.

"Your teeth are really pretty~" he said as he reached out to touch them, stretching out comfortably. His long legs poked back out of Chuuya's mouth, and the dragon found himself instinctively wrapping his tongue around them to keep him secure.

Dazai felt very proud of himself, and could tell that his plan was working perfectly. He chatted happily, even though his partner could only respond in grunts and growls. He kept up the one sided conversation until a drop of saliva landed directly on his face, cutting him off mid sentence. The dragon sighed heavily as he spluttered and giggled. I fell in love with an idiot, didn't I?

"Oh, don't give me that attitude, you like this too, don't you~? And it just proves that I love your dragon body just as much as your human one!"

Yeah, I guess you've proved your point... no sane person would do this, that's for sure, Chuuya thought as he soaked in Dazai's taste. He did like this, damn it, and the trust Dazai was putting in him made him feel all warm inside. With a resigned huff, he laid down on the ground and let the man have free reign of his mouth.

"It's so soft and warm in here. Can I stay for a while?"

I guess there's no harm in keeping him in here. After all, it's kinda cute.

So Chuuya curled up on the ground and gave Dazai a gentle lick, letting him know that he could stay just a little longer...

Notes:

Writers block this month has been BAD, but hopefully, this chapter was at least kinda good. I'll try to not have such a big gap between posting chapters anymore.

Notes:

Here's some art I've done for this fanfic!
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/comments/1g3hw7c/fantasy_soukoku/
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/comments/1gcur7a/chapter_3_is_out/
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStrayDogs/comments/1g93iui/knight_dazai_vs_dragon_chuuya/
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/comments/1g3vra6/more_fantasy_soukoku/
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/s/uT36Piy2Tm
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStrayDogs/comments/1h4oxta/dragon_chuuya_gets_drunk_from_the_fanfic_a/
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/s/ysLy892UpF
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStaryDrawers/s/gQNoX1sILj
https://www.reddit.com/r/BungouStrayDogsFanfic/s/ZXSCvWj0mP