Chapter 1: Welcome to Kamome Monster Nursery
Chapter Text
Kamome Monster Nursery.
A strange facility that seems to have just appeared one day in the mountains not far from the village. It has a reputation of raising monsters hence its given name. While it baffles people how this institute manages to operate with such a dangerous goal, as time passed, they’ve learned to accept its existence.
Others still fear for the eventual doom of the monsters in the facility to escape and wreak havoc, therefore people have raised strikes to have the facility shut down and the monsters killed. As a compromise, a countermeasure group was created to handle things in case such an incident were to occur.
Obviously, you can’t satisfy everyone so while some were relieved, others were still enraged.
Because there was no way a monster will ever be tamed nor will they be able to live amongst the humans.
It wasn’t all false as most of the monsters raised in the said facility have grown very powerful and very dangerous. That was the common goal from the start. To raise monsters to their best potential, not exactly to turn them into tamed beasts. So it was no surprise that not a single monster raised in that facility was what you would call ‘good’.
After all, there is no such thing as a good monster.
It took years before the times began to change. A breakthrough in research and a change in leadership later and the monster nursery began to look towards a period of diversity. Where monsters no longer needed to be evil. New data has revealed that other means of nurturing monsters that didn’t require them to turn evil have higher chances for stability and a longer lifespan.
It was then that Minamoto Kou decided to enter Kamome Monster Nursery after finding a poster in town that they needed more researchers.
Kou had been curious of this facility and its monsters since he was a child. He’s heard stories, albeit horrible ones, of monsters rampaging and killing people. And to any normal child, that would keep them from coming anywhere close to the large building in the mountains.
However, to Kou, it only piqued his curiosity about the said species. Perhaps in some way, they didn’t want to be raised or seen as dangerous beasts. Perhaps some of them wished for a life amongst the humans.
And so, he tried his best. Doing his own research, studying, reading as many books as he could get his hands on. He wasn’t the smartest tool in the shed so it was difficult and he didn’t know if he’ll ever get accepted to be a Researcher in the facility.
Until one day, he receives the acceptance letter from Kamome Monster Nursery.
“You must be the new researcher, Minamoto Kou?” a beautiful lady with short green hair greets Kou at the lobby of the castle-like structure.
“Ah, yes, Ma’am!” Kou responds, a little stiff from the nerves and excitement.
The lady giggles at him “No need to be so nervous. I won’t bite you as much as the monsters would so you can rest easy around me.” Kou wasn’t sure if she meant that as a joke to lighten the mood or if she was serious.
Well, they are monsters, so technically they could bite.
“My name is Nanamine Sakura, but you may call me ‘Researcher S’ while we’re inside the facility. I’ll be your supervisor so you can treat me as your boss.” she introduces herself.
Kou bows “I’ll be in your care, Researcher S!” then he pauses and raises his head, a question in his mind “Is there a reason for calling you that instead of your name?”
“It’s a safety protocol. Raising monsters isn’t the most noble thing so you could treat it as a way to mask your privacy.” Sakura explains “Well then, let me walk you around the facility.”
Sakura walks ahead and Kou follows after her as she gives him a brief orientation on what they do in the facility.
“It’s no news to you that Kamome Monster Nursery’s goal is to nurture and raise monsters to their best potential. We’ve only recently started to focus more on making sure they grow to be great monsters while being in their best behavior so some of our researchers are still grasping at straws while learning the process. Obviously, that’s not an easy task to do as taming monsters can be even more difficult than raising children. Monsters are different than humans, after all. I do hope you’re aware of the challenges that entails.” Sakura briefly turns to Kou to make sure he was listening.
“Y-Yes, Ma’am. I’m aware.” Kou responds. Although he admits, it still makes him nervous.
“Good. We can’t have you running away in the middle of monster care.” Again, Kou wasn’t sure if she was joking or if she was serious.
“Don’t worry, I may not be the best at the actual research, but I’ll definitely give it my all at raising monsters!” Kou exclaims very determined. He did join this nursery on his own accord with that goal in mind, so it would be cowardly of him to run away when faced with challenges.
Sakura offers him a small smile “Rest assured, as a new researcher, I won’t have you handling monsters immediately.”
Kou pauses in his tracks, a little surprised “Eh? So, I won’t be raising monsters yet?”
Sakura shakes her head, turning to face the blonde “Raising monsters is a learned skill on its own and requires the proper knowledge in monster care. Having a beginner do so unprepared would be dangerous and could result in a failed research.” she casually explains.
“That makes sense.”
The senior researcher nods for him to follow her and the two continue on their small tour of the institute. Sakura introduces the facilities as they reach them one by one; from the cafeteria, the library, a nap room where researchers can take breaks, the dormitories, a general training room for the monsters, and the laboratories where researchers mainly do their work.
Sakura also made the effort to introduce him to some of the researchers they stumble across on their walk. So far, he’s met Researcher T, the younger twin of another researcher who has built quite the reputation of raising strong monsters and earning a valuable profit for the nursery this year—all his other ‘crimes’ in the nursery aside.
He’s met two female researchers who were notable at raising a fine monster that’s been aiding the countermeasure team for handling dangerous monsters. He’s heard this monster is also seen as a role model for the younger generation of monsters that came after him. Kou hopes to meet that monster someday during his stay in the institute.
He also met the senior researcher who simply supervises on the junior researchers’ work.
Sakura introduced him to some of the monsters that were raised in the nursery and were helping around in the facility as well. Meeting them made Kou anticipate the day he, too, would be able to raise such amazing monsters.
“That will be it for our small tour. Do you have any questions?” Sakura asks as they make their stop in front of one of the laboratory rooms.
“Yes, Ma’am. If I’m not going to be handling monsters yet, then what exactly is my job in the meantime?” Kou decides to bring up the question.
“I was just about to get to that, actually.” Sakura replies “For now, you will be assigned as the assistant for one of our most successful researchers in the nursery. I figured you could easily learn the basics of monster care under his wing.” she adds, turning to face the door where they had stopped.
Kou looks at the nameplate on the wall; Researcher A.
He hums, a little enthusiastically “What kind of a researcher is he?” he asks, unable to hide the fondness in his voice at the idea of working closely with one of the best researchers in Kamome Monster Nursery.
“He’s a model student. He’s very diligent with his work and submits a good handful of reports on his studies almost every week. Most of the monsters he’s raised have exhibit good results. Well, there have been some bad ones but you can’t have a rainbow without a little rain. If anything, his work is consistent, and his research has been helpful for the institute.”
“That’s amazing! I can’t wait to learn so much from him.” Kou exclaims, already feeling the excitement running through his system.
“Indeed. He’s also the older twin of Researcher T, but fear not, he’s a lot safer to deal with compared to the other one. He can get a little bit serious from time to time so best not to impede while he’s working.” she adds before knocking on the door to announce their arrival.
No response.
“Is he out?” Kou asks after a minute of silence.
“Researcher A, please excuse us.” Sakura yells before opening the door to Kou’s surprise.
The inside was a large space with what looked to be a small, padded nursery in the middle. Shelves and cabinets that were filled with books and other research materials lined against two walls. The opposite side was a huge window, shining light into the dim room and painting it in an orange hue from the setting sun.
By the left side of the room was the work desk where they find the researcher that was assigned to this laboratory, nose stuck on his book and paper as he’s focused on his work.
Sakura enters the room first and Kou follows after her, a little hesitant seeing the researcher was busy at the moment. She stops by the side of his desk before clearing her throat, loud enough for the boy distracted with his research to hear her.
He finally looks up from his work, golden eyes looking at Sakura as if wondering why she was there before it shifts to Kou “Can I help you?” was the question that comes out of his mouth.
“It seems you’ve forgotten our arrangement for today.” Sakura sighs, as if expecting this predicament.
The researcher blinks at her, shifting his gaze between the two people that arrived in his lab before it finally sinks in what was going on “Ah… was that today?” he asks, a sheepish smile on his face as he scratched one of his cheeks.
“Yes. Now then, let me introduce to you; this is Researcher K. He will be your assistant starting today while he learns the basic of monster care. I trust you can help him with that, Researcher A.” Sakura introduces Kou and the blonde gives a small bow.
“I-I look forward to working with you, sensei!” Kou exclaims, still feeling his nerves shaking from both excitement and nervousness.
“Ah, hello. I’m Researcher A. Nice to meet you.” Researcher A introduces himself, standing from his seat to offer a handshake which Kou takes enthusiastically.
“Well then, since all the introductions are out of the way, I suppose I can leave him in your care now, Researcher A?” Sakura cuts in.
“Eh? Uh, sure.” The younger researcher simply responds.
Sakura bids the two farewell before exiting the room, leaving the pair in a rather awkward silence. The silence was only broken when Researcher A decides to take his seat and go back to his work.
Kou, seeing as the researcher seems to have gone back to his earlier task, shifts a little on his feet, reluctant to disturb him but still manages to find his voice to his ask “U-Uhm…” he receives a hum from the senior researcher “Is there anything I can help you with, sensei?”
Researcher A looks up from his work then to the shelf beside him “We won’t be handling any new monsters until next month, so you can do some reading in the meantime.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll do my best!” Kou responds, not meaning to sound as excited as he was before walking over to the bookshelf.
He carefully goes through the books, hoping to find anything about raising monsters and caring for them. However, to his surprise, most of the books were about childcare. The only monster related books were encyclopedias with more detailed information on the types of monsters, their strengths and weaknesses.
Kou raises a brow, turning to the senior researcher to ask “Are these childcare books?”
“Yes, they are.” Researcher A replies, eyes still stuck on the book he’s reading.
“Childcare books… for human babies?”
“That’s right.”
With how matter-of-fact Researcher A was replying to his questions, it would seem that these books do hold the key to proper monster care in this nursery. Perhaps the way the researchers care and nurture the monsters is no different from how a parent would do so for their human child, Kou could only guess.
Even as he’s a little taken back, he grabs some of the books anyways as well as the encyclopedias to further his knowledge on monsters and caring for them. In any case, this was his first stepping stone towards being a successful researcher in Kamome Monster Nursery so he has to take the opportunity while it’s there. And what better than by reading the books used by one of the most successful researchers in this institute!
“Ah, would you mind if I sit myself in the padded nursery?” Kou decides to ask, a mountain of books already in hand.
“Go ahead.” Researcher A doesn’t turn to look at him as he responds.
Kou makes himself comfortable in the nursery, indulging himself in the books in hand starting with the monster encyclopedias.
As expected, it was a lot more detailed than the ones you can find in the village libraries. Each section explained the different types of monsters and how each monster holds unique skills and capabilities. Not every monster is one and the same despite sharing specific traits such as appearances and what they can and cannot do.
It is common for monsters to evolve from their childlike state and go through huge transformations in the process of their growth. Some monsters grow wings while others change tails. Their horns also differ from monster to monster.
Each monster also develops different skills. On average, majority of monsters can breathe fire. A good few can control lightning and other elements. Shapeshifting isn’t a common skill and there have been much rarer monsters who can do this. There are some who are capable of mimicking human voices as well.
There are also monsters who resemble what people often call vampires in fiction, and while these monsters are capable of drawing blood from a bite, they’re not as harmful nor as sanguivorous as the beasts from the fictional books.
Of course, monsters that show incredible strength are as common as those who breathe fire. Monsters that can crush a human skull with a single snap as long as they’ve been trained properly in that regard.
Another uncommon species of monsters are those with more versatile capabilities both in brains and brawns. It is said that only a few researchers have managed to nurture and raise such monsters but not everyone can easily succeed in doing so.
***
Kou finally finishes and closes the second book he grabbed from the shelf, stretching his neck and his arms out. He checks for the time on his wristwatch; it was already a few minutes past 7:30 PM! He had gotten a little too engrossed reading that he never noticed the time.
He turns to Researcher A’s desk to find him still busy with his work. Deciding that it was time for a break, he gets up and walks over to the senior researcher.
“Researcher A?” he calls. He’s responded by a hum “Uh… it’s already past 7:30PM. I’ll be going to the cafeteria to have some dinner, would you like to join me?”
“You can go on ahead. I still need to finish my work.” was the reply he receives, the researcher once again not bothering to look up from his books.
“O-Okay. Then, I’ll be back later.” Kou excuses himself to leave the other boy to his research.
As he walks towards the cafeteria, his mind goes back to Researcher A, a little curious over him now that he’s got a look at how he is as a researcher.
Frankly, as a senior, he didn’t really meet much of Kou’s expectations seeing as how he seems disinterested in actually teaching Kou anything. It concerns Kou to an extent how he’ll be able to get by and learn if his superior isn’t going to be hands-on with teaching him the basics of being a researcher and nurturing monsters.
While the books are a nice start in getting that knowledge, obviously some experience is always better than just reading words on paper.
Well, it’s only the first day, maybe it’ll be different tomorrow. Kou can only hold onto that thought.
However, seeing him be diligent in his work, barely keeping his eyes off the books and papers on his desk nor allowing himself to get distracted, Kou can’t deny he also admires that. Sakura was right about him being serious and being a model student in the nursery. The way he’s able to focus on his task and is adamant to finishing it is amazing. He can tell Researcher A is very passionate about raising monsters. Now he wonders how he is during the actual monster care.
Considering his reputation, surely he’s just as amazing in that field, too!
“It’d be nice if we could raise some monsters together.” Kou thought out loud, finally reaching the cafeteria.
***
Kou wasn’t exactly expecting the best tasting dinner in the cafeteria, but he also wasn’t expecting whatever he just had. It’s not bad per se and he can’t critic it if the food was meant to be something to help with both the monsters’ and the researchers’ nutrition, but he wished it’d taste a little bit better.
Perhaps he can ask Sakura if he can have a look at the cafeteria’s food someday.
Before leaving the cafeteria, he decides to take a sandwich and a bottle of juice with him, just in case Researcher A hasn’t taken a break yet. Seeing as how he never saw his senior coming to the cafeteria to eat, it’s highly likely that he’s still stuck on his research.
And just as he expected, as soon as he returns to Researcher A’s lab, the lad was still on his desk, writing up his report.
“Have you not taken a break yet, sensei?” Kou asks, approaching the senior researcher.
“I will in a bit. I just need to finish this report.” the dark-haired boy replies and Kou sees him scratching out something he was writing, mumbling to himself that it was wrong.
Kou decides not to pry, walking closer to place the sandwich and juice on the desk “Here, I brought you some snacks.” the blonde mentions before going back to his spot on the nursery,
Kou doesn’t notice Researcher A pausing from his work to stare at the sandwich and bottle of juice on his desk and then moving his attention to the boy, already engrossed on one of the childcare books. Nor does he notice the smile that the senior gives him in thanks before going back to his work.
Another 2 hours passed, and Kou finishes another book in hand. He turns his attention to the researcher who has not moved from his desk, a little concerned about him now.
He stands from his place, picking up the books to put them back on the shelf before walking over to Researcher A “Researcher A?” he calls. He receives another hum in reply “I’ll be retiring for the night now. Thank you having me today.”
“Okay, good work today.” Researcher A simply says, head on his hands as he’s still writing on his report.
Kou opens his mouth to speak, wanting to tell the senior researcher to rest as well, but decides to just stay quiet. Sakura’s warning about interrupting him while he works crosses his mind and he didn’t want to ruin his first day at work.
“Good night, Researcher A. Good luck with your work.” He decides to just say, bowing his head.
As he walks past the desk, his attention turns to where he had left the snacks earlier, and to his surprise, the sandwich was already gone and the bottle was half empty. Kou feels his chest grow a little warm as relief washes over him, a little happy that his senior got to eat what he brought him at least.
Satisfied, he quietly exits the room and heads for the dormitories. That night, his thoughts go back to Researcher A, wondering if he’ll be able to finish his work tonight and hoping he’ll finally get some rest.
Chapter 2: Capable
Summary:
Kou's second day at the nursery becomes eventful as he discovers about Amane's research and encounters some of the monster children for the first time.
Notes:
Hello, world!
I did promise I might update if I manage to finish a chapter or two and I did so here's the second chapter wheeee! this might actually be the longest chapter in the series, i think. Or one of the longest idr ww
As of posting this chapter, I have now written until Chapter 9, actually, so a lot of things have happened that I'm excited to share soon hehe~
If my calculations are correct, this might reach until Ch.11 or Ch.12 but we'll see lmaoI did lowkey proofread this a bit like, some days ago but if there are any mistakes, i might edit them in the future who knows skjdgfks
anywayssss, hope you enjoy this chapter!Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The following day at Researcher A’s lab, Kou is greeted by the senior researcher leaning over his desk, face planted on one of his open books as he’s still on dream land. The blonde couldn’t help the sigh that escapes his lips. He had only known Researcher A for less than a day, but somehow, he already expected this to happen.
He walks over to the sleeping researcher, a little guilty about waking him up, but he believes it’d be better for the lad to move to the dormitories or at least the nap room instead of sleeping here.
“Researcher A? Wake up, sensei.” Kou quietly calls, gently shaking him.
However, it was futile and the senior researcher simply grumbles, swatting his hand away before he continues his slumber.
Kou sighs, seeing as how it seems to be difficult to wake Researcher A up, he decides to surrender and let him rest. He walks around the room, checking the drawers and cabinets until he finds one that had blankets kept inside them. He takes one out, relishing a bit on the softness of the fabric against his skin—this was definitely used for the monster babies. Surely, Researcher A wouldn’t mind if Kou put it on him for now.
He returns to the desk and gently spreads the soft blanket over Researcher A’s slouched body. The senior grumbles again and Kou pauses, afraid he had woken him up. Thankfully, it seems he was still in deep slumber.
Once the blanket was all good, Kou walks over to the shelves to take out some of the childcare books he wasn’t able to read up yesterday. He returns to his old spot on the padded nursery and indulges himself in reading.
It took a few more hours before Kou hears shuffling in the silence of the lab. His attention shifts from the second childcare book he was reading that day to Researcher A’s desk where he saw his senior slowly waking up from his sleep.
Researcher A notices the blanket covering him up, still seeming a little out of it from having just woken up. He slowly sits up, stretching his back a bit before looking around the room until his sleepy eyes land on Kou sitting on his old spot yesterday.
“Good morning, Researcher A.” the blonde smiles in greeting.
“Good morning.” Researcher A yawns in his reply “How long have you been here?”
“About…” he checks his watch “3 hours?”
Researcher A exhales a breath, hands wiping his face in hopes to fully wake himself up. Kou watches him get on his feet, still a little wobbly the blonde worries he’ll topple over. He takes the blanket and folds it neatly in his arms before staring at it for a moment and then turning to Kou again “Did you put this on me?”
“Ah, yes. Sorry if I rummaged through your stuff without permission.” Kou sheepishly apologizes.
Researcher A doesn’t reply, instead he just walks back to the drawer where Kou had taken the blanket from to put it back “I’m going to clean up for a bit.” he calls out before exiting the room, leaving Kou to return to his reading.
But if Kou were to be honest, he had a little difficulty continuing his reading as his mind keeps going back to Researcher A’s obviously half-asleep state earlier. While he didn’t have a strong impression on the researcher as of yet, he’ll admit he was kind of cute just now.
He wonders if that’s Researcher A’s normal routine. Pulling all-nighters until he falls asleep on his desk. Kou was aware he was hardworking and diligent, but it does worry him if that’s how he normally does things.
First, he wouldn’t have taken a break and ate something if Kou didn’t bring him a snack yesterday. And now he’s sleeping on his desk instead of taking a proper rest in the dorms. How does Researcher A survive like this?
Surely this was a once in a blue moon thing, right? Something that happens only when he’s locked in with his research? Though, perhaps that’s more dependent on how frequent Researcher A is working on his research, instead. And aside from raising monsters, that technically is their main focus of work.
This is very worrying indeed.
Researcher A returns a few minutes after, looking a lot more awake than he had previously. Kou had finally managed to get back into his reading, but is then interrupted once he notices the senior researcher approaching him from his peripheral.
“You’re really reading through those books, huh?” he hears the researcher muse.
“Ah, yes. You did tell me to read for the meantime, so…” Kou trails off.
“I guess I did.” Researcher A mumbles, more to himself “Sorry about yesterday. I was preoccupied with my paper that I couldn’t supervise you as much.” he then apologizes.
“No, no, it’s fine! I did enjoy reading some of the books yesterday. It’s interesting to know more about the monsters in this nursery as well as how to take care of them.” Kou immediately says, assuring the senior researcher that he didn’t really mind.
“That’s… good to know, I guess.” Researcher A’s reply was a little quiet, if Kou didn’t know any better, it almost felt a little awkward too “Truth is, this is my first time working with someone so I’m not very familiar with teaching or supervising. You’ll have to excuse my awkwardness.”
At the confession, Kou immediately chirps in “I understand! I’ll try my best to not be a burden especially in your research! And also, please let me know if there’s anything I can help you with!” sitting in seiza as he bows his head slightly.
“Thanks, that should be plenty helpful.” Researcher A smiles at him and Kou never really thought about it but he did look kind of attractive. Even as he’s seen his twin yesterday and they do look very alike, it never really crossed Kou’s mind that he was quite the looker.
Researcher A returns to his desk, massaging his neck a bit before he goes back to reading the already open books on the table. Curiosity gets the best of Kou and he speaks up to ask “Is your research not done yet, sensei?”
“Not yet. I'm still lacking sufficient data to test my theories out. I’ve already gone through every book I could find in the library and my own collection, as well as analyzing and comparing previous research data, but it’s not solid enough.” there was obvious frustration in Researcher A’s voice as he explained his findings to Kou.
“What are you researching about right now, sensei?” Researcher A practically jumps hearing the other’s voice grow closer to his ear. He had been too focused on his research that he hadn’t noticed the blonde standing up and walking over to have a peek at the papers on his desk “Ah, sorry, I didn’t mean to pry!”
“I-It’s fine. I’m just trying to broaden my knowledge on the ways to raise more stable monsters.” Researcher A explains.
Kou asks for permission to have a look at the paper and the senior gestures for him to help himself. Shifting through the pages, Kou couldn’t help but admire the finesse of the information and the data written. Despite the not-very-appealing handwriting, everything was well thought-of and very detailed; from the monsters’ types, their strengths and weaknesses, the variety of results exhibited from different nurturing procedures, which one worked well for which type of monster.
It was a fine report.
And then Kou reaches the last page, where in red ink it was written down: Data for stability inconsistent. Needs more findings. Experimentation might be required if necessary.
“Does this mean some of the monsters raised aren’t stable?” Kou couldn’t hold back the worry in his voice as he asks this.
“Some maintain being stable while others fall apart, causing mental and physical stress to the monsters. We’ve had to take down a few due to this.” there was sorrow in Researcher A’s voice as he mentions this and Kou tries to remove the image out of his head “I’ve been trying to compare and contrast the data of previous monsters raised, but there just isn’t enough.”
Kou raises a brow at this “Not enough? But there’s been a lot of monsters raised in this nursery, right?”
“That’s not what I mean.” Researcher A sighs, leaning against his seat “You should be aware that until recently, the monsters raised here grew up having evil and dangerous characteristics. With nothing but the instincts to kill and survive. While it’s true that raising them that way kept them from internal destruction, it wasn’t safe for both the researchers and the monsters. It didn’t free the monsters from the suffering, instead it made them worse. Their lifespans were shorter since researchers had to take them down before they grew stronger and more dangerous.”
Kou could feel the bile and bitterness in Researcher A’s tone as he gives him the short history of the nursery’s previous purpose. Bit by bit, he was starting to understand what he meant by it wasn’t enough.
“What I strive is to find data that can keep them stable without having to go through those means. And even with the monsters we have now, it doesn’t suffice. There’re too many inconsistencies and too many holes.” Researcher A grits his teeth, biting the tip of his pen.
Kou once again stares at the words scribbled in red ink on the research page “Have you tried talking with the researchers that raised those monsters?”
“Unfortunately, it’s not possible. Researcher M is on sick leave due to her declining health. Some of the monsters in this facility were raised by old researchers that have already retired from this field of work and with the privacy protocols in this facility, getting in touch with them is nigh impossible.”
“Then how about the monsters you’ve raised?”
Researcher A grins at him but it looked awfully more sarcastic than an innocent smile “Why do you think I’m doing this research in the first place?”
Kou feels his stomach sink, realizing his question might’ve been a little insensitive “I… I’m sorry, that wasn’t—”
“It’s fine. Raising exceptional monsters, you would think they would be more stable.” Researcher A cuts in, his voice low and bitter, aware Kou didn’t mean to cross a line.
Silence invades the space between the two researchers. Kou wanted to apologize again but could no longer find his voice after that revelation. His eyes remained stuck on the research page, on those red words glaring back at him as if telling him there was nothing he could help with.
"Sorry. I didn’t mean to make things awkward.” Researcher A finally speaks up, taking the research pages from the blonde’s hands “You can take a break for now, Researcher K.” he adds, most likely noticing Kou’s mood had turned sour after that.
“Ah, okay. I’ll be back later, then.” Kou still offers a smile, bowing his head before leaving the room.
He was a little thankful Researcher A decided to give him the exit after that, unsure if he can just go back to focus on reading. Perhaps it was best to take a small break to clear his head.
Deciding to have a rest, he makes his way to the nap room. He then hears the lively laughter of what sounded like children—monster children Kou would presume considering the place—coming from the next hallway. He turns the corner to the direction of the nap room only to feel something small bump into his legs followed by a thud as the creature falls onto his bottom.
“Ah, s-sorry! Are you okay?” concern fills Kou’s voice, kneeling on one knee as he helps the little monster up on his feet. The monster didn’t speak, but his expression shows how much he was holding back crying.
He had a single horn on his forehead and short black hair neatly combed. His tail resembled that of a dinosaur, a normal trait for baby monsters to have before they develop their actual physical appearances. He wore a blue smock that reached to his knees and white socks to cover his bare feet.
Kou gently places a hand on his shoulder “Does it hurt anywhere?”
“N-No. I’m fine… hic…” the little monster hiccups but Kou notices the way he caresses his tail. He must’ve hurt it during the fall.
“Man, you’re such a klutz and a crybaby!” Kou hears a little girl’s voice beam through the halls, and as he looks up from the little monster in front of him, he sees another one flying over to them.
This one had long brown hair tied in two twin tails with both going over her shoulders, wearing a pink smock and socks just like the little monster in front of Kou right now. She had small bat-like wings, Kou muses how they were able to keep her afloat despite their size, and two small horns on her head.
Kou hears the little monster in front of him hiccup again, actually sounding like he was going to cry now “’m not…” he mumbles between held-back sobs.
“Yes, you are!” the flying monster yells.
“Am not!”
“Yes, you are!”
“Am not!”
“Yes, you are”
“AM NOT! WAAHHHH!” and to Kou’s surprise, the little monster buries itself into Kou’s chest, loud wails muffled by his shirt that he could feel was starting to get wet from the tears.
He instinctively puts his hands on the tiny monster’s back, rubbing it in soothing circles, something he was used to doing when his little sister would cry on him back then “Now, now. Don’t fight.” Kou tries to mediate.
“Look at him crying now. Pretending to be all brave when he’s hurt.” He hears the other monster huff as she lands in front of Kou, arms crossed.
Kou blinks at her, feeling that despite the tiny monster’s argument earlier, she was just trying to get her friend to be honest. He sighs “You just wanted him to let out his feelings, don’t you?”
The brunette monster blushes “O-Of course I do! He keeps saying he’s not hurt whenever he actually is, and holds back crying when he’s actually sad. It’s annoying, you know.” she stutters in her response, looking away slightly displeased at being caught.
Kou chuckles and then notices the little monster’s breathing was starting to go a little erratic “Okay, okay. Deep breaths now. Inhale… exhale…” he hushes to the little monster still crying in his arms.
He does as he’s told, inhaling and then exhaling, following after Kou’s instructions until his hiccups disappear and his breathing turns to normal “Do you feel a little better now?”
He receives a small nod and the tiny monster latches off of him “Thank you.”
“I’m glad.”
“Hmph. You’re such a crybaby.” The other monster huffs.
“Am not!”
“Alright, alright. Don’t fight you two.” Kou mediates between them before they could start arguing again. He then turns to the brunette “You should apologize to him.”
“Why do I have to apologize? I’m not the one who hurt their own tail ‘cause I wasn’t careful.” The brunette insists, clearly too stubborn despite Kou was already aware that she just cares for her friend.
“You still said mean things to him. That’s not nice, okay?” Kou interjects but tone still soft since they are still children.
He sees the little girl glare at him with her blood red eyes and Kou almost worries she was going to bite his head off for making her do something she doesn’t want to do. At that moment it sinks in that these aren’t just normal children he’s handling, they’re monster children! If he does or say anything to cross them, he doesn’t know what they’ll do!
However, despite his fear, she simply turns her head and in barely a whisper, she mutters “I’m sorry.”
Thankfully, the hallways were silent so even with the hushed voice, both he and the little monster in his arms managed to hear her apology.
“That’s a good kid.” Kou couldn’t help the compliment and he could barely make out a blush forming on the tips of her ears; looks like she likes being complimented, Kou muses.
He then turns his attention to the monster in his arms “I’m sorry, too. I should’ve paid attention as well. But next time, you have to be careful when running around, okay?” Kou tells him, gently patting his head.
The little monster nods in reply “You don’t have to spoil him.” he hears the other monster cut in and Kou simply chuckles.
His attention catches the little tail the monster was still holding “Does your tail still hurt? Do you want to go to the infirmary so we can have it taken care of?” he asks.
It took a few seconds before he receives a nod. Kou stands on his feet, but just as he was about to ask to hold his hand, the little monster was reaching up at him, a gesture Kou has seen his little sister do when she wants to be carried.
And so he lifts the little monster up and props him on his arms, careful not to accidentally squeeze on the injured tail “Are you coming with us?” he then asks the brunette.
“Why do I have to go, too?” the little monster huffs.
“Aren’t you worried about your friend?” Kou asks.
“He can handle himself fine.”
Kou hums, turning to other monster in his arms, sad eyes looking at the little girl as if he wanted her to come with them. An idea pops in Kou’s head “Too bad~ I needed a little helper while bandaging him up. I would’ve loved to give that helper a treat too as thanks.” he then exclaims, making sure the brunette heard him properly.
He notices her tail wag a little behind her, turning to Kou.
“I-I’ll do it then!” she exclaims and Kou watches her stretch her wings out, psyching herself up a bit before she starts flapping them and they take her off her feet.
Kou smiles ever so lovingly “Really? That would be great! Now, to the infirmary we go!”
Once they were set, the 3 make their way to the infirmary. Unbeknownst to them, Researcher A was standing by the corner, observing the little scene unfold and he doesn’t hold back the smile on his lips.
***
Having been preoccupied with the two little monsters earlier, Kou doesn’t realize it was already past 1 PM and it had been almost 3 hours since he left Researcher A’s lab to take his break. Once the monsters were already tucked in for their afternoon nap, Kou immediately rushes back to the lab.
He stops abruptly in front of the door, nervous and bracing himself for a scolding. Well, Researcher A didn’t strike him as the super strict kind so maybe he’ll let him off this once. It’s only his second day anyway!
No, it’s precisely because it’s only his second day that he doesn’t want to ruin things and leave a bad impression on his superior!
Kou swallows a lump on his throat, knocks on the door with shaking hands, waits for a few seconds and when there was no answer, he slowly opens the door. He takes a small peek and there on his desk as usual he finds Researcher A, looking to be busy with something.
He finally takes a step inside, closing the door behind him as he does, and then walks over to his superior’s desk to announce his arrival “U-Uhm… I’m sorry for being out for so long.” he decides to start with the apology.
Researcher A turns to him “Oh, welcome back.” he greets, not looking like he was mad at him or anything “I hope you enjoyed your break, Researcher K.”
“I… I did, yes.” Kou shyly replies, still trying to read the room and see if the senior researcher was upset with him for being so late.
It was a few seconds to almost a minute of Kou just awkwardly standing by the desk when Researcher A finally looks up at him, a little confused “What is it?” he asks.
“You’re… not going to scold me?” Kou couldn’t help the question.
“Scold you? Why?”
“Because I took a really long break.” Kou carefully explains.
“Ah, that? Don’t worry about it. It’s not like we have a strict 8-hr shift rule in the facility, so I don’t really mind you taking long breaks.” Researcher A explains and that gets a sigh of relief out of Kou, a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding finally escaping his lips.
“I see. Thank you, sensei.” Kou replies, hand over his own chest to will his nervous heart to calm.
“Besides,” the senior then says, looking up at Kou from what he was doing “dealing with little monsters on your second day of work is hardly considered a break, don’t you agree?”
Kou’s cheeks flush a light pink at the realization of his senior knowing what he was doing while he was on his so-called ‘break’ “Y-You knew?”
“I just so happen to pass by when you were mediating between their fight. Admittedly, I was impressed by your way of handling them. Especially Mika-chan. She’s always a stubborn little monster, I was afraid she was going to bite your head off if you kept telling her to apologize.”
Kou wasn’t sure if he was being complimented or warned, feeling his blood grow a little cold knowing the possibility of the other monster going hostile on him wasn’t off the table. Thankfully, that didn’t turn out to be the case.
“Do you have any experience with kids?” Researcher A suddenly brings up.
“I have a little sister. I was the one who took care of her a lot ever since our mom died.” Kou explains, the senior nods in response.
“That explains things.” and then he gestures for Kou to come closer. The blonde nears the desk, eyes wide in wonder when he recognizes the colorful, rotund shaped things on top of the table.
“Are these… monster eggs?” Kou exclaims and Researcher A isn’t able to miss the gleam in his eyes.
“That’s right. They’ve yet to be incubated, however. Similar to poultry eggs, monster eggs can remain unincubated for 2 weeks before they’re no longer able to develop. These eggs were laid just last week so they won’t be incubated until next week. And then that’s one month of incubation period before they’re distributed to the researchers for nurturing.”
As Researcher A explains the process of incubation to Kou, Kou is still staring at the colorful eggs in fascination. Nobody can blame him when it’s his first time seeing actual monster eggs in person. They were definitely bigger as Kou had expected, and have a more unique appearance compared to normal eggs.
“Why do you need to wait for 2 weeks before incubating them? Wouldn’t incubating them immediately be better to avoid hatch rate failure?” Kou then asks.
“Theoretically, it’s best to incubate them upon laying but there are only very few researchers who can handle nurturing monsters. Not to mention researchers are allowed only one egg to raise at a time. The 2-week window is to space out the time between every monster egg raised.”
Kou hums, amused of the new knowledge gained about the process of caring for the eggs. He reckoned it’d be as meticulous as actual monster caring but he didn’t figure the incubation timeline would be similar to that of normal eggs.
“Do you have any more questions, Researcher K?” the senior brings up.
“How often do we get monster eggs to raise?”
“Just once per year. Monsters grow faster than humans do and they’re calculated to reach maturity by their 6th month. However, monsters’ lifespans are obviously longer than humans.” Then the researcher pauses, Kou could feel the air tense a little and he could already tell what was on his senior’s mind “Well, if they remain stable, that is.”
Kou’s attention returns to the 3 eggs on the table. Someday, one of these eggs will be assigned to Researcher A and he’ll be by his side watching and helping him raise the monster that hatches from it. Excitement bubbles in the pits of Kou’s stomach anticipating that day to come.
“May I hold one?” the questions surprises Researcher A a little, but he catches himself immediately to reply.
“Go ahead.”
With that, Kou carefully takes one in his hands; a light-brown colored egg with yellow spots adorning it. As he carries it in his hand, he gives it a soft caress, already imagining when the time for the egg to hatch comes “This is amazing.”
Researcher A smiles, a little more fondly as he watches the junior researcher holding the egg “It is, isn’t it?”
Kou raises the egg up to level his face as he presses his forehead against it “I hope you grow up to be a good monster in the future.” he whispers under his breath, as if hoping his wish would reach through to the unborn creature.
Researcher A chuckles lightly beside him “It’s not incubated yet so it won’t hear you.” he teases.
A blush creeps up on Kou’s cheeks at the comment realizing what he was doing just now. He may have gotten a little carried away seeing the eggs with the thoughts running through his mind. It doesn’t help that he’s experienced being around the tiny monsters earlier, so perhaps his excitement bled through a bit.
“Ahaha, you’re right. I got a little excited.” Kou chuckles sheepishly, gently placing the egg back on the basket along with the other eggs.
“Glad to see you’re looking forward to the nurturing process, at least. I’m sure you’ll be a fine researcher and raise great monsters someday.” Researcher A remarks and seeing the smile on his face, Kou could tell he wasn’t just buttering him up with pretty compliments—plus ignoring the way his heart skipped a little.
“You really think so, sensei?”
The senior researcher nods “Seeing how you handled the two monsters earlier, I think you’ll do just fine.”
Kou couldn’t help but smile in thanks. He really was excited about raising his own monsters someday. Even if he isn’t sure when that will be yet, so for now, he’ll work hard with assisting Researcher A during his nurturing process and learn from there. He’ll admit he’s also anticipating working with Researcher A in the meantime as they raise a monster together.
He’s seen how diligent the senior researcher is with his paperwork and his studies, so he’s curious about his hands-on process with nurturing the monsters. Researcher A does have a reputation for raising exceptional monsters so it’s natural for Kou to be excited about raising monsters with him.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 3: Two monsters born from the same egg
Summary:
Amane and Kou receive their first monster egg to raise together.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Okay, I wasn't planning to post an update since I've only written probably half of Ch.10 and I said I would update after I finish at least one chapter, but!! Idk, it's 'cause this next chapter had a little more hanakou/amakou stuff compared to the first 2 so i was like, eh why not ww
And then maybe I won't post until I finish a chap or two again hahahahaUhhh, lots of lowkey going with my gut as I tried to write the hatching scene here, even if I did do some research on hatching processes just to get a proper feel of the scene, but i hope it doesn't feel off or anything. the scene looked better in my head, i just don't know if my writing conveyed it properly cries sjkdfgks
I will admit I'm also nervous about posting this chapter so please go easy on me aaaaaaanygaayyss hope you enjoy this chapter still!
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
A good 3 weeks had passed since Kou joined Kamome Monster Nursery. He’s associated with a few other researchers and assisted them in taking care of their own monsters. Sometimes, Kou offers to babysit the little creatures when their respective caretakers are busy. It’s been quite fun, he’ll admit, even if it’s twice as stressful when you have to keep a few of them from burning down the facility.
He’s also met some of the older monsters who have stayed to help around in the facility. One of them seems to have grown just a slightly bit attached to Kou, even the researcher in charge of him already joked that they look like long-lost siblings. In a way, it flatters him considering said monster was one of the most exceptional monsters to ever be raised in Kamome Monster Nursery.
The role model for all younger monsters alike.
If his memory serves him right, the monster’s name is ‘Teru’. Another similarity that they seem to have, it almost scares Kou thinking that they might actually be related.
As for his relationship with Researcher A, he can feel them grow a little bit closer. He’s learned a few things about the senior researcher like how his favorite food is donuts and prefers them homemade. He likes to gaze at the stars hence his laboratory having huge windows where he can have a view of the night sky especially on particularly stressful work days.
On that note, he seems to like space in general. Kou had once received an earful of moon facts from him once when he brought the topic up and the senior researcher very enthusiastically shared with him almost everything he knew. Kou admits it tugged at his heartstrings seeing him so animated as he talked about something he liked.
However, the thing that really set in stone that Researcher A truly trusts him now was during one starry night. A day before the eggs were to be assigned to the researchers.
“Are you excited for tomorrow, Researcher K?” the senior asks, eyes glued to the twinkling lights in the dark sky.
“Yes! Even if I’m not exactly the one raising the monster, but I’m still excited to witness first-hand how it’s done. Of course, I’ll help out with however I can!” Kou very enthusiastically exclaims and Researcher A could swear the blonde looked like he was shining just like the stars above them.
The senior researcher chuckles “I’m glad. It’s going to be tough work but I’m sure you can handle it.”
Kou nods “I’m prepared for anything, sensei!”
There was silence as the two researchers continue to gaze up at the night sky. Kou points out to a constellation Researcher A had told him about the other day, a little too happy he was able to recognize it this time. Researcher A muses that he was like a little kid who had just seen their favorite hero from a TV show but compliments him for finding it on his own, still.
And then, in the tranquil space between them, Researcher A speaks “Amane.”
Kou turns his attention to the senior beside him, slightly confused.
“My name is Yugi Amane.”
Kou blinks at him, wondering why he could feel his heart throbbing loudly against his chest. Joy bubbled in the pits of his stomach over this small bit of information provided to him.
Researcher A just… told him his real name.
“Amane…” Kou echoes the name, liking how it sounds if he’ll be honest.
“Of course, you’ll have to address me as ‘Researcher A’ during work. But…” he pauses, a soft expression on his face “you can call me by my name sometimes, too.” He smiles, warm and wide.
The blonde smiles back at him, a little too overjoyed at being shared this valuable piece of information about his senior. A sign that they’ve really grown closer. That they’ve built a bond where they can truly trust each other.
“Minamoto Kou.” Kou then says “That’s my name. But you can just call me ‘Kou’.”
“Kou…” somehow, hearing Amane say his name made Kou’s heart skip a beat.
Not like he hasn’t heard other people call him by his first name before. But coming from Amane it just felt… different.
“It’s a pretty name. It suits you.” Amane smiles at him and as if hearing him say his name wasn’t enough, now Kou could feel himself blushing and his instinctive reaction was to turn away.
“Th-Thank you… Amane.” Kou says, still getting used to calling the senior researcher by his name. For some reason, the mere thought of doing it makes the butterflies in his stomach go crazy.
In hindsight, it wasn’t like people were forbidden to share each other’s names. Kou had learned Researcher T’s name on the first week when he was assisting him with an experiment. He learned Researcher M’s name on the same week while on a walk with Teru. During the second week, he’s learned the names of 3 other researchers that he had a small chat with during lunch break. He also found out the acting supervisor for all the researchers’ name is Tsuchigomori.
But somehow, learning Researcher A’s name felt a lot more special compared to those moments. Kou could blame it on the ambience and the setting, perhaps it was simply in that moment. However, the following days that passed and Kou has yet to get used to hearing Amane call him by his name or vice versa without feeling just a little bit giddy.
He wonders if there’s something wrong with him. Maybe it’s because their relationship isn’t just co-researchers in the same nursery and they’re actually superior and assistant? Therefore, addressing each other more casually, even if it’s outside of work hours, feels strange.
That’s probably it.
***
Monster Amidakuji.
Frankly, Kou was amused by the system for assigning the eggs to the researchers. Perhaps he was expecting something a little more… professional? Like assigning them based on characteristics found from each egg during incubation.
Not to say this couldn’t be considered a proper way of assigning eggs, but Kou was probably just a little taken back by the process.
Amane let Kou sit in on the egg distribution, even giving him the privilege to carry the egg when it was given to them. He carefully takes the egg in his hands, holding it close and gently as if he were holding a tiny infant.
After Sakura had reminded them of their tasks and the timeline for nurturing, the researchers were dismissed. Each one of them exited the room with their assigned eggs in hand.
“You’re really careful with it, Kou.” Amane muses during their walk back to his lab. Kou was still holding the egg close to him, practically pressed against his chest to make sure it’s safe.
“Of course I am! I don’t want to accidentally drop it.” Kou says, eyes not leaving the egg in his hands as he mumbles that he should have brought a blanket just in case. He hears Amane scoff beside him “What?”
“Sorry, sorry. You have quite the motherly nature to you, Researcher K.” Amane remarks teasingly.
At that, Kou’s cheeks grow warm “Mothe—I-It’s not like that! I just… it’s practically the same as an infant so it’s only natural that I worry about it, right?”
Amane isn’t able to hold back a chuckle “I guess you’re right. And it would be troublesome for our research if an accident were to occur during the nurturing process.” was the senior’s casual response.
Hearing that made Kou remember the reality of their situation; that’s right. At the end of the day, they’re still researchers and their works’ focus are on studies about raising monsters. While the childcare books and the facilities built to cater to caring for these creatures resemble that of caring for a human child, the difference is that it’s still about the research.
“Researcher K?” Kou is snapped out of his thoughts by Amane’s voice “Is something bothering you?”
Kou shakes his head, removing those thoughts from his mind “I’m fine. Alright, let’s work hard to raise the best monster ever!” Kou exclaims, pumping his fist in the air.
Amane blinks at him but decides to smile in reply “You’re right.”
Monster eggs will hatch a day after the full 30-day incubation process. The hatching process takes about 12 to 24 hours until the monsters are ready to fully leave their protective shells. As soon as Amane and Kou return to the lab, a monster tail greets them from the egg they carried back.
It was a good sign, the start of the hatching process. Amane calculates the egg will fully hatch by morning.
“You’re not going back to the dorm yet, Kou?” Amane asks his assistant who was busy arranging the little nest of blankets he and Amane built in the middle of the padded nursery.
Kou shakes his head “I’m excited to see the little guy hatch so I might stay here overnight.” he explains, gently caressing the egg and he sees the tail give a small wag “Oh, if that’s okay with you, Amane.”
Amane smiles “It’s fine. The hatching is also a very crucial process. One miscalculation and the monster could suffocate inside the egg if it isn’t able to get out on its own.” he replies as he walks over to the cabinet where he had hidden some extra blankets.
“So it’s still possible for them to not be able to hatch on their own even after full incubation?” Kou asks curiously.
“Of course. Not all monsters develop the same, some end up being weaker than others and those tend to have difficulty getting out of their shells. That’s why we have to watch over them even in the hatching process.” Kou hums in response.
Amane joins him in the padded nursery, handing him an extra blanket “Here you go.”
“Ah, thank you.” and just as he was about to add it to the nest already covered in several blankets, Amane stops him.
“That’s for you, Kou.”
“Eh? Ah… right, thank you.” Kou sheepishly says, putting the blanket on his lap.
“Are you nervous?” Amane couldn’t help the question, noticing how Kou’s been fidgety since they returned to the lab.
“Maybe. Just a little bit. It’s my first time handling a monster egg, after all. Even if I’m only helping, of course I don’t want to ruin this for you and for the little monster.” Kou admits, scratching his cheek.
Amane nods in response “I understand. I, too, had the same feeling during my first time. It’s only natural.”
“How was your first time raising a monster, Amane?” Kou then asks, now curious about Amane’s first time experience.
Amane hums, trying to remember those moments from quite some time ago “Nerve-wracking. I didn’t know the first thing about childcare and frankly I only came here to study monsters. I was fascinated by their existence, and not just from the ones you read in fictional books. I wanted to know what they were really like. Which is why I decided to join this facility along with my brother.
“When the senior researchers explained to us how the monsters were raised, I was baffled, really. A facility that raises monsters and yet we sound like we were raising children. It was beyond me and I didn’t really care about all that.” he pauses and Kou noticed his expression darken “’As long as I could raise exceptional monsters, that should be enough’ was what I thought back then.”
Kou remains silent, a little surprised of this story since Amane never struck him as that kind of person with his reputation of raising monsters. Not to mention how hard he’s worked so far in trying to find every means to make sure they grow up stable and not fall into destruction. His sorrow at the memory of the monsters he’s raised going through such a fate never left Kou’s mind.
So hearing Amane’s thoughts back then, the blonde would be lying if he didn’t think that was just a little bit annoying.
“And…” Kou raises his voice, hesitating to ask but decides to do so still “do you… still think that way?”
Amane sighs, eyes on the egg safely resting on the mountains of blankets “Would you hit me if I said I did?”
Kou looks at Amane, with eyes as if hoping the senior was lying. But from the silence that followed, it seems that he wasn’t. And that almost broke Kou’s heart just a little bit.
“I see.” was all Kou could reply before he says anything that could offend his senior.
***
Kou wasn’t sure when he had fallen asleep, but he was woken by something bumping into his face. The pain on his nose stung a bit as he sat up, half-awake eyes looking around for the cause.
What greets him was a huge egg writhing in front of him, two tails coming out of two different ends.
Two tails?
That succeeds in waking Kou up, not only noticing the egg had rolled out of its nest of blankets, but there were two tails coming out of it! From what he could remember, there haven’t been any occurrences of baby monsters immediately developing dual tails until they were old enough to develop their original forms.
Which means that this egg having two tails could only be the result of…
“A-Amane! Amane, wake up!” Kou yells but notices his superior was nowhere in the room. He mentally curses as he turns his attention to the still writhing egg.
He carefully carries it back on the nest with shaking hands as his mind tries to race back to the many books he’s read in the past few weeks. None of them have particularly mentioned the possibility of twin monsters born from one egg, so that was useless.
Kou checks his watch; it’s been roughly 22 hours since hatching started. There’s still a window of 2 hours, so it should still be fine, right?
All of a sudden, the writhing stops and Kou almost feels his heart sink. Why did it stop? Was it just tired? Maybe it needed rest. That’s right.
So many questions and thoughts filled Kou’s head, sweat starting to form on his forehead and neck as his nerves went crazy. His heart was so loud he could hear it in his ears.
But what if something went wrong? There’s a chance that there are two monsters inside this egg, would they even fit? What is they suffocated inside from the lack of breathing room?
Kou reaches a hand to gently caress the egg, remembering how the tail wagged when he did so yesterday. There was no response.
Should he wait for Amane to arrive? But what if it’s too late?
Amane’s words rang in his ears about how the hatching process was just as crucial. A miscalculation could lead to devastating results.
Swallowing the nervous lump on his throat, Kou finally decides to attempt to help. With shaking but gentle hands, he tries to take off the shells starting from the cracks already forming by the tails. Very carefully, one small piece after another.
Once the crack was big enough, he could make out a tiny foot and what seems to be small streaks of white hair. It was obvious the foot and the head were from two different monsters. And so Kou continues his work.
Please be alright. Please be alright. Please be alright. His thoughts prayed as he did his work, wanting nothing more than for the little monsters to be safe.
A whole minute later and he’s finally created a crack big enough to be able to carefully pull out one of the monsters. He gently angles the egg so the little monster can slide out with little effort onto the blankets. Once the first monster was out, loud wails filled the lab, a clear indication it was fine. After that, he made work removing more pieces of the shell for the second one.
After another minute of precise cracking, Kou manages to take the second monster out of the half-cracked egg. He gently lays it onto the blanket beside its sibling as he discards the shell to the side for now. Two baby cries were now filling the laboratory and somehow, that just brings relief to Kou’s system.
He wasn’t sure if the same applied for monster babies, but since they were crying, that means their lungs are working properly, thank god. He presses an ear on both of their chests, heartbeats were also normal.
Once Kou was done making sure they’ve hatched successfully, he exhales a long sigh. A breath he had been holding back that whole time escapes his lips.
“Thank goodness, you’re both alright.” Kou exclaims, holding back the tears that dared to spill now that relief was washing over him.
He stands momentarily to grab two new blankets from the cabinet and returns to the crying infants to wrap both of them up from the cold. He wonders for a moment if Amane had any infant clothes hidden anywhere.
Just as he was thinking that, the door of the lab swung open rather violently and there stood a panting Amane “I heard crying, did the egg… hatch…?” Amane’s words trail off once he notices there were two baby cries filling the room.
As he approaches the padded nursery, he’s met with not one, but two little monster babies wrapped carefully in warm blankets.
“Is that…?”
Kou nods “Two monsters born from the same egg.” he smiles, a little tired.
Amane was out of words. He’s read from previous researches about this occurrence, but not once did both monsters survive hatching due to the lack of oxygen inside the egg. Sometimes only one is able to live, other times they both die. Such incidents were immediately filed as a failed research.
But now, in his very laboratory, from the efforts of a newbie researcher, two monster babies have successfully hatched from one egg.
This might as well be called a breakthrough in monster science!
“Ah, do you have baby clothes by any chance?” Kou interrupts the silence to ask.
“Clothes? Right! Clothes.” Amane practically stumbles towards the cabinets where he stores the clothes used for the baby monsters. He takes out two onesies, one light blue and one light red. He grabs two disposable diapers from one of the drawers as well before running back to Kou.
Kou thanks him once the clothes and diapers were handed to him and he takes over with dressing the two little monsters up. Amane simply watches, still in awe over the hatching result but also in fascination as Kou dresses the infants up, talking to them as he does so. A scene you would normally see a parent would do with their child.
Once the little monsters were dressed up and wrapped again in their blankets, the loud crying finally stopped as the two were now deep in slumber. Kou and Amane watch as two small chests rise and fall in even breaths.
Kou leans back on the padded wall of the nursery, starting to feel fatigue take over him now that the adrenaline of the hatching was wearing off. Amane sits beside him, and the first coherent words out of his mouth since coming back were “You’re amazing, Kou.”
Kou turns to him “Am I?”
“Yeah. Staying calm in such a situation despite it’s your first hatching. Not to mention it’s twin monsters, too. That’s amazing.” Amane remarks, eyes glued to the two monsters peacefully sleeping on the nest of blankets.
The blonde feels his cheeks grow warm at the compliment. Though, it wasn’t completely false but he can’t say he wasn’t panicking the whole time “Thanks. I was just… worried, I guess.”
“Worried?”
“I remembered you said how miscalculations could lead to the monsters suffocating and dying. It scared me so I went with my gut even if I honestly didn’t know what I was doing.” Kou admits as he stares at his hands. The tips of his fingers were a little red with visible scratches from having to carefully pull out some of the pieces. Monster eggshells were a lot tougher than normal eggs so it did take a lot of effort.
Seeing the other’s hands, Amane could easily make out what happened during the hatching process “I see. So that’s what happened.” Kou hears him mumble, his tone sounding more relieved.
Once Kou felt his body completely relax, he let the darkness consume his vision and his body fall back into slumber.
***
“What should we name them?”
Kou’s question surprises Amane enough to turn his attention away from his report to the blonde currently bottle-feeding one of the little monsters “Excuse me?”
“I was just thinking, it’s been 3 days and we still haven’t given them names.” Kou thought out loud. However, Amane simply blinks at him, staring as if he had grown 2 heads “What? Isn’t it natural to give them a name?” Kou then asks, bringing up how Teru and the other little monsters he’s babysat before had names.
Amane turns back to his report “Not necessarily.” was the only response Kou receives.
“Researcher A, do you not name your monsters?” Kou couldn’t help the question.
He notices the senior flinch as if he had him cornered for a moment there. Amane sighs “I didn’t see the point of giving them names. While our means of raising them is similar to that of raising kids, it’s not like they’re actually my children so it didn’t really matter. Besides, it wasn’t exactly necessary since they have their monster IDs for identification. Some researchers just decided to be a sentimental.” was his casual reply.
“Isn’t that a little cold, sensei?” Kou couldn’t help but say until he remembered Amane’s initial thought about raising monsters. That’s right, it didn’t matter to him as long as he raised exceptional monsters. Therefore, names were definitely insignificant to him.
“Just to be clear, Researcher K, we’re researchers. We’re not parents and they’re not our children. I would appreciate if you could uphold the mindset of one while we work.”
Those words stung Kou’s heart more than he’ll admit. Amane wasn’t entirely wrong but there was no way he could just accept that. Yes, they’re researchers first and foremost, but no one said it was a crime to be compassionate towards these monsters.
“I guess you’re right.” Kou manages to say after some silence “Still, there’s no rule that says we can’t name them. And it won't kill you to be a little kinder.” the blonde pursues, not letting go of that mindset so easily.
Amane sighs, opening his mouth to speak but is interrupted by a baby’s cry from the cradle in the middle of the padded nursery.
“Ah, yes, yes. Coming!” Kou calls out, rushing towards the cradle to place the monster he was currently carrying down. He takes the one crying into his arms “Aww, looks like someone’s also hungry. Are you hungry, sweetie? Kou will feed you right up.” The blonde sing-songs as he walks over to the small table where the baby formula and other food for the monsters’ nutrients were placed.
Kou puts down the empty bottle in hand on the little box along with previous empty bottles that he has yet to wash. He then grabs a clean bottle, filling it with lukewarm water from the pitcher before adding the powder in and then giving it a good shake. Once Kou was sure it was properly mixed, he angles the bottle towards the little monster’s mouth, letting her suck the formula to feed her hungry stomach.
“Go ahead, then.” Kou’s attention turns from the little monster he’s feeding back to Amane “If you want to name them, I won’t stop you.”
At that, Kou’s eyes grow bright as a wide smile makes it to his lips, maybe a little too happy to be given the opportunity to name the little monsters.
“Then, let me see.” Kou hums, walking back to the cradle where the other monster lay asleep “You both have white hair so maybe something related to white? Shiro? Yuki? Hmm, doesn’t really feel right.” He mumbles, trying to come up with appropriate names for the monster children.
The one in his arms shift a little, looking up at Kou with bright red eyes as if waiting for him to give her a pretty name “Red eyes… Aka… Akari? That doesn’t sound so bad. What do you think?”
The little monster, now named Akari, giggles in reply, seeming to like the name given to her “And this little guy here will be Midori since he has green eyes. Mmhm, not bad.” Kou announces, feeling proud of his naming ideas.
Amane simply shakes his head, unable to hold back the small chuckle at the names Kou provided for the little monsters.
Notes:
Extra note: the two monsters here are inspired by Hanako's tsueshiro, hence there are two monsters. 'Cause i needed a chara to turn into hanakou's pseudo-kid and then i rmbed my friend and i's old hc of the hakujoudai acting like their kids lmao so i went with that
And also, don't question the names, the reason for their names are exactly as Kou says xDD
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 4: Kou was a mystery
Summary:
Amane's thoughts about Kou.
Notes:
Hello, world!
I guess at this point, maybe it's safe for me to update once a day? By the time of this update, I've already written until almost the end of Ch.12 anyways (and they're still not dating btw haha-) so I think it's fine www
I had some fun with this chapter because I like writing Amane as a simp for Kou even when he's unaware of this lmao sjdkgfk much shorter chap than the rest i believe, but i think it's cute
Well, that's all! Hope you enjoy this chap~
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kou was a mystery.
Amane didn’t really thought about it much when Sakura came up to him one day to appoint him to supervise the newbie researcher. He never really agreed to it in the first place, a little annoyed even when Sakura just shoved the task to him knowing he was busy with his own research.
But as long as the kid didn’t bother him while he worked, then he’ll play along. Since he wasn’t exactly on-board with the arrangement, if the newbie cried over to Sakura asking to be assigned to someone else, then that was the best outcome.
Amane wasn’t the most social researcher either so he wasn’t sure why he got appointed to supervise a newbie. While he has the knowledge and reputation of a model researcher, he doesn’t have the social skills to teach.
If the newbie wanted someone more hands-on in guidance, Amane wasn’t going to be that, unfortunately.
Which is why he never bothered to remember when the newbie was coming in, and to Amane’s surprise, a blonde kid with fierce blue eyes greeted him beside Sakura.
He gave off a polite vibe and Amane’s impression on him wasn’t really anything negative. Seeing as he didn’t bother or pester him when he simply told the boy to do some readings while he worked, he figured maybe the newbie wasn’t so bad. Maybe he’ll just keep quiet and do as he’s told.
Was what Amane wished he did.
It was only his second day and here he was putting his nose into other people’s business. Asking questions as if Amane never tried every means necessary to reach a conclusion for his research. Perhaps he was curious, and Amane can’t fault him for being hungry for knowledge especially in a field that wasn’t as common.
He gave it a week. No. Maybe 5 days.
5 days until the new kid stops coming back to his lab because he had been assigned to another researcher. After that awkward conversation earlier, that was the only natural conclusion.
Unable to also get back to focusing on his paper, Amane decides to get himself a quick snack and some coffee. Hopefully a not-empty stomach will help him get back on his groove.
“Alright, alright. Don’t fight you two.”
Amane hears Researcher K’s voice from the next hallway. It seems the newbie might’ve gotten himself into some trouble. Amane hopes he doesn’t have to intervene.
“Why do I have to apologize? I’m not the one who hurt their own tail ‘cause I wasn’t careful.” then he hears a tiny girl’s voice, a familiar one, too. He’s been around Tsukasa’s lab a few times so it’s natural for him to remember that voice.
Did Kou get into trouble with Tsukasa’s monster?
Amane nears the corner but stops to listen in to the conversation.
“You still said mean things to him. That’s not nice, okay?” he hears Researcher K argue and Amane was almost surprised at the guts this newbie had, most likely unaware of the characteristics this tiny monster possesses.
He was expecting a scream to follow after but instead all that was replied was a quiet apology. Amane was surprised. Tsukasa’s monsters are usually very chaotic and stubborn, they never listen to reason no matter how many times they’re scolded. And yet, this newbie kid was able to make her apologize.
Amane hums to himself, slightly amused by Researcher K’s capabilities. Perhaps he has a knack to this line of work than he expected.
As Amane continues to listen in on the conversations in the hallway, he is unable to hold back the smile on his lips. From what exactly? The warmth from witnessing such a scene? The knowledge that this newbie is plenty capable to handle monsters? The thought that he might have gotten himself a helpful assistant?
Amane can only wonder.
And just like that, Amane did wonder.
Wonder what sort of black magic Researcher K had pulled off for him to grow a soft spot on him. He learned he’s quite the chatty type when he’s gotten comfortable, and so when Amane wasn’t busy with work, he would chat up a storm and ask him questions. Questions Amane had no trouble answering.
He might have also grown comfortable in Researcher K’s presence, proven by the fact that when asked about his preferences, he had no problem letting him know—as shy as he was to talk about himself.
In exchange, however, he got to know more about the newbie researcher as well. That he likes sweet potato jelly and loves to cook. He has a little sister that he took care of when their mother passed away and he seems to help out a lot in their village, especially when tutoring children.
He gets scared quite easily, actually, which Amane questions if that applies to monsters too, apparently not.
When Researcher K is not in the lab because he’s taking breaks or running errands for other researchers, Amane supposedly should find it as his time of peace. A time where he can focus on his research in silence. A time where he can continue his work without a bubbly, bright presence invading his space.
Instead he’s out walking. Walking where? He wasn’t sure.
Amane would sometimes find himself where Researcher K is, watching him babysit and play around with the monster children—they all seem to have grown very fond of the new researcher. Sometimes he’s helping out with Tsukasa, to Amane’s surprise. Other times, he sees him hanging around with the other researchers.
Researcher K truly was a social butterfly. Bringing warmth wherever he went and giving off the energy that you could be comfortable around him. That you could trust him.
It wasn’t just with Amane, he did that for everyone else.
Of course, that’s just how he naturally is. What am I thinking?
There was a crushing feeling in his chest as soon as the realization hit him. He decides to go to the infirmary that day to have it checked just in case it was anything dangerous. Thankfully, the nurse didn’t find any abnormalities and his chest seems to be fine.
However, it doesn’t help that the feeling would not go away.
“Researcher A?” he stumbles on the newbie the moment he leaves the infirmary, one of the monster children sat on his shoulders while two others were pulling on his coat.
Seeing the senior researcher, however, they all ran to hide behind the blonde. Amane may have had a reputation of raising exceptional monsters, but he never was good with handling them. He wasn’t natural with children like Researcher K was, so it doesn’t surprise him when the little monsters hide away at the sight of him.
“Are you okay? Do you feel sick?” were the following questions that came out of the blonde, concerned filled his tone.
“No. I’m feeling fine, don’t worry.” Amane casually shrugs off the concern, as much as he feels his chest grow lighter and the heavy feeling from earlier had already dissipated “I see you have your hands full, Researcher K.” Amane jokes, changing the topic.
“Ah, yeah. Sorry, I’ll be coming back late again.” Kou sheepishly apologizes.
Amane nods in understanding “The little monsters need their babysitter after all. It’ll be good training for you.” he simple says before walking away towards the direction of his lab. As soon as he does, he hears the cheery voices of the little monsters, simultaneously asking for Researcher K’s attention.
Perhaps there was something wrong with him.
With the way his heart goes erratic whenever Researcher K smiles or talks to him, or whenever they’re in such close proximity when he’s asking about Amane’s research. The way he feels his cheeks grow warm whenever Researcher K shows any sort of enthusiasm to the things he likes. How he anticipates every morning being greeted by Researcher K with that bright smile that could warm even the coldest seasons.
How his chest tightens seeing any other researcher act a little too familiar with him.
“Aren’t you just jealous?” Tsukasa casually concludes.
Amane had been too distracted lately to focus on his research, so while Researcher K was once again called out to babysit the little monsters, he decides to hang around his twin’s laboratory. Hoping the new environment could give him a small breather.
“Of Researcher K?” Amane asks, confused of his twin’s conclusion.
“No, silly! Of everyone else!” the younger twin clarifies, climbing up the stepladder so he can add another book to the top of his already tall makeshift tower.
“Why would I be jealous of everyone else?” Amane says, disbelief in his tone at the idea of feeling envious of other researchers.
He didn’t care about other people’s works, whether their monsters were more exceptional or more stable than his was not any of Amane’s business. He never really cared about his own reputation either, he just wanted to research about monsters in peace.
“Because Kou’s hanging out with them a lot?”
“Nonsense! Whoever Researcher K socializes or befriends with is not something that should concern me. He is his own person and I am simply his immediate supervisor. The possibility of me being jealous over anyone Researcher K associates with is slim to zero.” Amane immediately denies, appalled by Tsukasa’s claim.
It was a stupid idea. Why would he express such a crude feeling towards his coworkers merely from his assistant being all buddy-buddy with them?
Tsukasa hums, a loud thud following his response as the tower of books loses its balance and topples over, leaving a mess on the floor of the other twin’s lab “Then, if Kou gets assigned to another researcher, you wouldn’t mind?”
Amane falls silent for a moment, trying to come up with a smarter reply than simply repeating his words. Yes, that’s why he’s thinking it over, clearly.
“It would be troublesome for him to get assigned to another supervisor when he’s gotten used to his current routine. Unless he voices out that he wants to be assigned somewhere else, I’m afraid he’s stuck raising monsters with me in the meantime.” Amane finally replies. It was a sound argument.
“You just wanna tie him to you and have him all for yourself, Amane.” Tsukasa whines, already sounding tired of his brother’s excuses.
“Tie him—d-don’t make it sound weird!”
“I’m not the one making it sound weird, Amane just has a dirty mind, hehe~” the younger twin teases.
Seeing as the conversation was bearing no fruit, Amane decides to leave Tsukasa’s lab before his brother could come up with any wilder conclusions.
However, being left with his own thoughts and nothing to distract him or reel him out of it, they immediately go back to the conversation he had with Tsukasa. There was no way for Amane to feel jealousy over his coworkers from the mere act of hanging around Researcher K. It made him sound like the blonde was something he owned. He wasn’t an object that should be owned by anyone, and by that logic Amane doesn’t own him to have any rights to limit who he interacts with.
Only when Researcher K finally returned from his babysitting duties did those thoughts leave Amane’s head. In that meantime, he joins the blonde in reading a book on the padded nursery.
Once the period of incubation was drawing to its end, Amane had instructed Researcher K to limit his babysitting duties so he can read and study up in preparation for the nurturing process. He was glad the blonde made no fuss about these instructions and simply did as he was told.
The final week before they were to be given their respective egg was spent mostly of Amane and Researcher K reading, preparing the padded nursery and stocking up on other supplies they needed for raising their future monster. Those were also the most peaceful Amane’s mind had been compared to the past 2 weeks.
He concludes it’s because of his previous hypothesis that the blonde’s presence is able to bring comfort to anyone he interacts with.
Such a trait would definitely prove beneficial to the monster’s growth and development if Researcher K were to stay around aiding him. Thankfully he is his assistant, so that wouldn’t be much of a problem.
On the night before they were to receive their assigned egg, Researcher K joined him on his evening stargazing. It wasn’t a new thing for them, the blonde has joined him a few times on this activity that Amane so dearly adores doing. It helps clear his mind whenever he feels stressed out and he’s all the more glad his assistant has found enjoyment in the activity.
Amane wasn’t sure if it was the evening sky that made him feel slightly sentimental. Or perhaps because there have been too many anxious thoughts concerning Researcher K that have occupied his mind. That in the silence of the night he ended up telling him his real name.
Amane never tells just anyone his real name. Not that it was forbidden even with the safety protocol, but Amane had always been a stickler to the rules. And so the only people who know his real name are Tsukasa, Tsuchigomori and Sakura. Even then, the other two know of this information because they’re both his acting boss.
If anyone else knew of it that he wasn’t informed of, he can only blame Tsukasa for always addressing him by that name instead of his Researcher ID.
Kou was the first that he actually told his real name to in person.
For what purpose? Amane didn’t know.
“Minamoto Kou. That’s my name. But you can just call me ‘Kou’.”
Amane had already long known his real name. And he was sure Kou was aware of this, especially knowing he and Tsukasa are related. But hearing it directly from Kou made it special, still. It made him finally feel that he was allowed to call him by that name.
Kou.
Even his name was beautiful. It fit his personality so much. Like a light, he provides warmth and comfort to anyone he interacts with. His presence brings joy, his laughter was contagious, his company was entertaining. It was no surprise that everyone just felt a natural gravitational pull towards the blonde.
Someone so bright and so out of reach.
The following day, they received their egg. He asked Kou to sit in during the distribution and he even let the blonde carry the egg until they reach the lab. Frankly, he was amused by how careful Kou was with it. While it was a great example of a becoming monster caretaker, it still pulled at his heartstrings.
Kou was the one who insisted on creating a nest of blankets in the middle of the padded nursery, worrying all the while if the egg were to roll off. Amane was ready to tell him that he normally stores the egg inside a basket he had ready, but seeing the blonde act so diligently and concerned over the egg was quite amusing. And so he went along with the blonde’s gimmicks.
“Wah, the tail! Amane, the tail came out! Look!” Kou exclaims excitedly. Amane turns his attention from setting up the blankets to see the tail of the monster peeking out from the egg in Kou’s hands.
"That's good. It seems there shouldn't be a problem with the hatching then.” Amane remarks, going back to his current task of fixing up the nest.
Once the nest was all set, Kou gently places the egg on it before he starts fidgeting around with the rest of blankets just to make sure everything was safe. It did warm Amane’s heart seeing Kou’s actions. His compassion would be a great asset in nurturing the monster.
But deep inside, Amane also worries.
For a moment, memories of his first raised monster came to mind. It wasn’t smooth-sailing obviously, and he didn’t really join the nursery with the idea of treating the monster as if he were raising an actual child. Still, he tried. Can’t really say he didn’t try.
It was heartbreaking, if he’ll be honest. To watch the creature you raised taken away from you. All because they weren’t stable enough to not give in to the mental and physical stress. Amane didn’t know where it went wrong. All he could remember were the cries, the scars received from trying to solve the problem as their caretaker without the proper knowledge as to how you could, and the numbness of the loss.
It was then that Amane realized there was no point to all the compassion. To get attached was a mistake, and you’ll only have yourself to blame when you get hurt in the end.
Not that it was any better, but it eased the pain when his monsters fall out and turn unstable. Removing any and all such attachments made things just a little bit easier. Tsukasa had always called him the more sensitive type, and his twin was right.
He turns to Kou, deep in his slumber as he rested on the floor of the nursery. Amane crawls over, raising the blanket up to his shoulders to warm him up.
Images of Kou falling into despair when the monster ends up the same way as Amane’s previous ones creep up to his mind. He shakes them away, not liking the way his chest tightens at the thought of seeing the pain in Kou’s eyes. He fears for that day to happen. He doesn’t want Kou to go through the same ordeal he did.
While his compassion was a blessing and a great asset, he knows it’ll also bring him ruin. So he has to nip the bud while it’s still fresh. If he could keep Kou from getting too attached to the monster, he’ll take any risk.
Amane wasn’t able to get any sleep that night. It was a common routine for him, anyway. Especially since he’s monitoring the progress of the hatching. He decides to take a short walk, and maybe a quick breakfast. There was still roughly 3 hours before the full 24-hour window for hatching ends, a break wouldn’t be so bad.
Or so Amane thought.
As soon as he enters the hallway towards his laboratory, he could hear the faint cry of an infant. He felt his heart practically jump out of his chest and his feet immediately carried him to his lab.
As he grew closer, he realizes it wasn’t just one infant cry. What does this mean?
He swings the door open with a little too much force from the adrenaline, and more than one cry filled his eardrums, it was almost deafening. As soon as he enters the room, he’s met with Kou, practically sweaty, greeting him with a tired smile and two crying little monsters wrapped in fresh blankets lying on the nest.
Surprise was an understatement for whatever Amane was feeling at that moment. Overwhelmed, perhaps? Shock? Overjoyed? He wasn’t sure how to put it. Not only did Kou assist in the hatching, but he successfully helped twin monsters born from one egg survive the process.
This was the first Amane’s heard about twin monsters surviving the hatching. It was rare for two monsters to be born from the same egg, and even rarer for them to both survive due to lack of breathing room inside the egg once they’ve both fully developed.
Even as Kou simply shrugs it off as him just following his gut, Amane couldn’t help but admire his quick thinking.
Seconds later, in the tranquil silence of the laboratory after a very stressful event, Amane feels Kou’s weight against him. He turns to the other boy and notices he had fallen back asleep. A natural response once the adrenaline leaves one’s body and they start to relax.
He takes one of Kou’s hands in his, gently caressing his fingers as he whispers “You did great, Kou. Get some rest.”
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 5: Check-Up
Summary:
The little monsters have their first check-up.
Notes:
Hello, world!
yippeee new chap! another cute one honestly, or at least it tugged at my heartstrings writing it lmao
Update as well on the chaps i'm currently writing, I have reached Ch.14 and I believe it might be the last chap so wheeee it'll be complete soon \o/Not much to say about this chap aside from akari and midori have stolen my heart and i will protect them with my life hh
anywaysss hope you enjoy this chap!
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The month that passed was twice as eventful as Amane had expected it to be. Raising two monsters at the same time proved to be a bigger challenge compared to raising only one. That was an obvious fact, of course. And for the first time since Kou arrived in the facility, he was actually thankful Sakura had appointed him to be his supervisor.
The extra hands were quite helpful in the nurturing process, Amane almost understands why a researcher was only allowed one monster to raise. However, even as Sakura had recommended to assign one of the twins to another researcher to lighten the load on them, Kou had inexplicably declined the suggestion.
Then again, given the blonde’s good nature, it was natural for him to insist the twins to never part. And in a way, Amane could empathize with Kou’s feelings.
As someone who has a twin brother, imagining them being raised apart and growing up in different environments was painful. He loves Tsukasa and cares about him a lot, and a life without Tsukasa by his side as he grew up didn’t feel like a life worth living.
So even as Sakura’s suggestion was sound and more logical, he had to side with Kou in keeping the twins.
He blames Kou’s contagious aura. This wasn’t because of some sort of compassion or attachment he had with the little monsters. But he knew Kou would be upset if he didn’t do anything.
Besides, Kou already promised to help him full-time with watching over the twins, and as long as the blonde kept his word, Amane didn’t mind the extra work.
Sure enough, there have been countless sleepless nights and Kou barely left the lab to rest up in the dorms. If Amane hadn’t reminded him that he was there to switch with him a few times in looking after the monsters, the blonde would’ve never have gotten any proper rest—however, Kou does end up coming back at least 3 hours later and Amane has to argue that he needs more rest.
The only reason the nurturing this time around wasn’t as stressful for Amane was because Kou did most of the work with handling the little monsters. While Amane has told him off that they can split the tasks, Kou just seems to have this natural instinct of being a caretaker and ends up doing more work than what Amane assigns to him.
Amane sometimes mentally jokes that Kou didn’t need to be anyone’s assistant with how he handles taking care of the monsters with ease.
Of course, there were the occasional moments where it got out of hand like when Midori had first learned he could breathe fire and almost burnt a corner of the lab. And when Akari started growing teeth and ended up biting anything she could get her hands on. Kou had also been bitten several times trying to mediate this and Amane had to drag him to the infirmary every time.
While the process was almost the same, raising monsters was definitely more hazardous and prone to danger than raising kids. By this point, Amane was sure Kou was aware of this.
Even so, Kou was diligent in his caretaking. He played with them, read them books, sang songs with them, taught them games even Amane has never heard of. And as he watched Kou do all this, he ends up comparing his previous ways of raising monsters.
He reads them books to nurture their intelligence, of course. He teaches them. Lets them play as it helps with development of their physical capabilities. Feeds them the proper and balanced nutrients so they stay healthy.
Their methods aren’t too different, but the results seem to say otherwise.
“Are you both ready?” Amane asks as he enters the lab coming back from a meeting he had with Tsuchigomori.
“Kou~ tie my hair next! I want a ponytail this time!” Akari’s voice beamed in the four corners of the laboratory.
“Alright, alright, let me just finish drying up Midori, okay?” then the blonde notices Amane’s presence “Ah, welcome back. How was the meeting?” he greets, turning his attention back to his task of drying off little Midori’s hair.
“It was less than an important meeting and more Researcher T asking for updates on our monster caring.” Amane replies as he approaches his desk to grab the little monster’s papers for their check-up today.
He turns his attention back to the scene by the nursery. Akari was still pulling at Kou’s coat, claws already ripping a portion of it from how hard her grip was, as she won’t stop asking him to tie her hair up. Meanwhile, Midori was quietly enjoying the DIY haircare Kou was doing for him.
“Okay, okay. Oh, how about asking Amane to tie your hair up for you?” Kou then suggests, something even Amane was surprised of.
It’s not that Amane has never assisted in looking after the little monsters—wait, this is starting to sound as if he’s the assistant in this situation now—since they do split the tasks during the whole period they’ve been raising them.
However, he doesn’t have the appropriate skill necessary to style hair.
Akari simply looks at Amane, suddenly growing quiet as she held her favorite brush and hair tie. Amane could tell the little monster was hesitating and even the senior researcher wasn’t sure what to say. He looks to Kou for help and he could just see Kou gesturing to him with his eyes to offer the assistance.
Amane inhales a breath. Declining the suggestion would be cowardice of him as a role model researcher. He can’t let Kou do all the hard work around here. Surely, styling hair into a ponytail isn’t that difficult!
“Come here, Akari.” Amane calls for the little monster, gesturing for her to approach him. The smile she gives makes the senior researcher’s heart melt. Was it possible for them to inherit Kou’s traits when they don’t hold any of his genes? Perhaps this could be study for another time.
She runs over to him a little too excitedly, reaching up her tiny arms to give her brush and hair tie to him. Amane does the honor of lifting her up to sit her on his office chair first before taking the brush and hair tie from her hands.
After adjusting the office chair’s height and raising it just a little bit, he goes to work on brushing the little monster’s silky long white hair. Kou really outdid himself when it comes to grooming these little monster’s appearances, Amane muses.
Once he has all of the little monster’s hair in hold, he attempts to tie them up together at a high angle on top of Akari’s head. Pulling the hair through the tie proved to be quite the challenge and he was scared about exerting too much force to hurt.
With great effort, Amane finishes up the styling. It didn’t look too bad, Amane thinks. It was a little lopsided from his pathetic attempts at pulling the rest of the hair through the tie, however.
“Well?” he asks, hoping his voice doesn’t give away how nervous he was of the little girl’s reaction to his hairstyling skill.
Akari feels around her head, not really saying anything but he could feel the little monster wasn’t very satisfied with it.
“Oh, that looks really nice, actually! Hmm, maybe a side ponytail works better for today, don’t you think, Akari?” Kou immediately chirps in, walking over with a mirror in hand big enough for Akari to be able to see her reflection.
Amane notices Akari’s bright red eyes sparkle through her reflection, a light blush adorned her cute cheeks. She then nods “If Kou says so, then Akari’s happy! Thank you, Amane!”
The senior researcher isn’t able to hide the blush that forms on his cheeks, responding with a smile “You’re welcome.”
Once the two little monsters were all dressed up, the two researchers bring them to the nursery’s main laboratory for their first check-up. Well, check-up was what it’s called, but it was more evaluating the monsters’ progress to gather data for research and analysis.
It helps monitor their mental and physical health, if the researchers’ methods were bearing fruit especially in keeping them from going unstable.
“So that’s what the huge tube is for?” Kou asks, both his and the two little monsters’ eyes were glued to the several tubes lining a part of the room where the check-up was being conducted.
“Scary…” Amane hears Midori mumble in Kou’s arms. He’s always been the more reserved and shy one of the twin monsters. Always stuck to Kou and would cry if Kou wasn’t around.
Unlike Akari who was more outgoing and headstrong. She didn’t cry as much as Midori did, but she also hides her true feelings sometimes, Amane could tell. Perhaps she has this sense of responsibility in her that she needs to be strong for her brother.
But as brave as she was, even she was hiding inside Kou’s coat the moment they entered the laboratory.
“Hey, Ama—I mean, Researcher A. Are we sure this is safe?” Kou leans to Amane’s ear to whisper—Amane ignoring the shiver that runs through his spine when he does.
“You have no need to worry about. The devices you see before you are guaranteed to be 100% safe.” A female voice interrupts and the group turn towards the door. There entered Sakura.
“Ah, hello, Researcher S!” Kou bows his head in greeting then tells the two monsters to do the same.
“My, what polite little monsters you’ve raised.” Sakura remarks, crouching down to be eye level with Akari who was still hiding inside Kou’s coat “Hello. I’m Researcher S. And you are?”
“Akari! Ah, no. Hello! I’m Akari!” Akari introduces herself properly, coming out of the coat to give a small bow and then hiding back inside.
Sakura smiles at her then she stands up again “And this one is?” she asks, gesturing to the little monster in Kou’s arms.
“I’m Midori.” Midori replies, voice quiet.
“Akari and Midori. What pretty names your researchers have given you.” Sakura comments, as if she hadn’t known their names already from the reports Amane sends in.
Once the introductions were over, Sakura makes work in setting up the machines. A quiet whirring sound could be heard from the tubes as they were turned on, startling Midori but Amane notices that Akari had moved on from her frightened state just now.
“Okay, before we get started, I need them to change into the lab coats prepared inside the dressing rooms, please.” Sakura instructs.
Kou nods and brings the little monsters to the dressing room to change them out of their clothes and into the small, white coats. Once they were all dressed up, Sakura tells him to guide the monsters into the tubes and Kou does as he’s told.
He helps Akari inside first, the tiny monster was cautious but showed no signs of restraint, at least. However, Kou had difficulty getting Midori inside the other one.
“I-It’s okay, Midori. It’s not scary, see? Akari’s doing just fine on the other tube.” Kou tells him, but the grip on his coat doesn’t loosen and the claws were starting to rip his sleeves apart as well.
“No! Midori scared! Dun wanna!” Midori cries out, even his tail was trying to wrap itself around Kou’s hand just so he won’t let the little monster go.
Seeing as Kou’s gentle coercing wasn’t doing anything, Amane decides to speak up “Monster H-2! Are you going to behave or not?” his voice was stern, clearly not having the patience to deal with disobedient monsters.
Midori’s yelling stops and turns into silent hiccups instead “Researcher A!” Kou snaps at the senior researcher, clearly not impressed by Amane’s method of getting the child to conform.
“What? You can’t expect them to learn to follow orders and do what they must by gentle coercion alone, Researcher K.” Amane simply explains.
“That’s true and all, but…” suddenly, Kou feels Midori’s grip on his coat loosen and the tiny monster voluntarily latches off of Kou’s hold and onto his own feet.
Kou watches him silently enter the tube, although it was obvious that he was trembling in fear of the device. Once the door closes behind him, he immediately turns and runs towards Kou but the glass door had already separated them.
“It’s okay, Midori! It’s all be over soon, okay? We’ll be right here.” Kou yells from outside the tube in assurance, standing a good distance away from the device just to be safe.
“I’ll start the scan now.” Sakura announces, pressing a button on the panel in front of her and the device begins its work.
All three researchers watch as a circular ring wrapping around the glass tubes starts descending from the top. It slowly makes its way down, scanning the subjects inside the devices, checking their vitals and transferring the information into coherent data. All the while, both monsters inside patiently watched the machine do its job.
It took a solid minute with the circular device doing one loop down and then back up before they hear a sound to indicate the scan was completed.
“And we’re done. You may come out now.” as soon as Sakura tells them so, Kou was immediately running to Midori’s tube to help the tiny monster out.
“You did great, Midori. See? It wasn’t so scary, right?” Kou says, carrying the monster up off his feet and propping him on his arms.
Midori shakes his head “No. It was fun.” he mumbles, a small smile on his lips.
“Kou!” they then hear Akari calling out to Kou and the blonde rushes to her tube, holding her hand as he helped her out.
While Kou got the little monsters dressed back into their own clothes, Sakura decides to chat Amane up “Akari and Midori.” she starts, her tone curious “When you submitted your report for the first time, I was surprised to see another name other than the monster IDs written on them.”
Amane doesn’t speak. He didn’t know where his superior was going with bringing this topic up. They were just names, there should be nothing bizarre about it to warrant a conversation.
When she doesn’t receive a response, Sakura continues “They’re nice names. Did you come up with them, Researcher A?”
Amane sighs “Researcher K thought them up.” was his casual response, seeing no need to elaborate on it.
“It would seem Researcher K has grown quite the attachment to the little monsters. I was worried when he insisted to raise both of them and was ready to ignore his request no matter how hard he pleaded due to his lack of experience. However,” she pauses, Amane watches her grab the papers she had printed of the results from the check-up “since you also insisted, I let you two be.”
“And what is the purpose of this topic, Researcher S?” Amane couldn’t help the question.
Sakura starts reading the report and the other researcher doesn’t miss the amused expression on her face as she does so, humming to herself “Interesting.”
“What is it?” he asks, curious of her reaction.
She hands the report to him and Amane didn’t meant to take it so eagerly. As his eyes skimmed through the non-important parts to focus on the data that mattered, even he was somewhat astonished.
“Compared to the data of the other researchers’ monsters, it would seem the twins’ mental and physical well-being are slightly above average. Well done, Researcher A. Congratulations are in order.” Sakura commends him.
All of a sudden, Amane feels himself relax, a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding the whole time escapes his lips seeing the results of the check-up. Truth be told, he had been nervous. Caring for two monsters was obviously not an easy task, and he worried that if the results of this check-up were anything below average, Sakura would separate the twins, concluding that two monsters is just too much even with an assistant present.
But seeing that the results not only were good but above average even, he was just glad Kou’s pleas weren’t in vain.
“Thank goodness.” Amane doesn’t hold back the relieved smile.
“It truly is a result worth noting.” Sakura brings up “I suggest monitoring these monsters more closely. I’m sure you’ve noticed these results are far better than your previous monsters’ initial check-up results.”
“So you’ve noticed as well, Researcher S.” Amane says.
Sakura offers a smile “Of course I did. Raising twin monsters, you and your assistant have been quite the talk in the nursery, you know? A role model researcher and a newbie making history in monster studies. It makes for quite a story, don’t you think?”
Amane returns his attention to the paper, not minding Sakura’s further comment. While he agrees what he and Kou are doing right now does call for unnecessary attention, he hopes it doesn’t pressure Kou or the little monsters.
Not when Amane has yet to find any means to make sure they don’t turn unstable.
“Might I offer some insight as your acting supervisor, Researcher A?” he then hears Sakura speak up.
“Insight?”
“From a fellow researcher to another. Perhaps these results might come in handy for your current research.”
At the given advice, Amane’s eyes widen, realizing what Sakura was hinting at. Does that mean these results could be a stepping stone to the answers he seeks? Whatever means Kou and him are doing right now in raising the twins might be the key to finding the conclusion to his research?
In that case, he just needs to compare his previous nurturing process to the current one in hopes it’ll give him results. Amane could feel his heart thump against his chest in excitement.
They hear the door to the dressing room open and Kou comes out with Midori propped on his arms as he held Akari’s hand, both monsters back in their red and green smocks “So, how was it?” came Kou’s question as he approaches the two.
“Everything’s all good. They’ve grown to be healthy little monsters.” Amane was the one to reply, a little too excitedly. Kou’s reaction to the news was relief, his smile was blinding, unable to hold back crouching down to wrap both monsters into a celebratory hug.
“If you could, please continue what you’ve been doing so far. These results are very extraordinary to have on the first month even for a single monster. You’ve both really outdone yourselves, keep it up.” Sakura remarks. Both Kou and Amane nod in response.
Once all the important conversations were done, the group leave the main laboratory with both monsters crying out that they were hungry. So as a small celebratory, they decided to have lunch together in the cafeteria, a rare occurrence when Amane was usually busy to join them to eat. But this time, he had no reason to refuse the invitation.
On their walk back to the lab, Akari gestures for Kou to crouch down as if wanting to tell him something. With effort, Kou does so, making an ‘oh’ expression when he hears what she wanted to say then standing up to face Amane.
“Akari needs to toilet.” Kou quietly tells him “You can go on ahead.”
“Then, I’ll bring Midori back with me. Must be tiresome carrying him all the time.” Amane offers, reaching out his hands ready to take the little monster off of Kou’s arms.
Both Amane and Kou notices the little monster tense up then wrap his arms around Kou’s neck as he hid away from Amane’s view “Midori?”
It was a curious reaction since Midori usually never shies away from Amane and he never resisted when Amane carries him. So why was he acting this way now?
Oh, perhaps it was because of earlier.
“Are you still upset about earlier?” Amane was the one to ask. There was silence but it was the most obvious reason there was.
“Amane… mad…” they hear Midori’s quiet voice say.
Amane exhales a breath. A natural reaction, he would suppose. But it wasn’t like Amane had no reason to get mad when Midori was having a small tantrum earlier. However, arguing isn’t going to really patch up the rift between them after that.
“I’m sorry, Midori.” Amane apologizes “See? Amane’s not mad anymore.” the senior researcher adds, tone soft in hopes it would come across to the little monster.
Midori slowly peeks out from Kou’s neck and Amane gives him an apologetic smile. Thankfully, it seems that it was enough to convince Midori to move from Kou’s arms to Amane’s. Akari was starting to almost tear Kou’s coat from tugging too hard again and so Kou swoops the other monster into his arms as they rush to the restroom while Amane and Midori make their way back to the lab.
The walk back was silent without Akari’s lively chatter and Kou’s bubbly remarks. It wasn’t too awkward of a silence, however, since Amane wasn’t as outgoing as Kou was and he was sure both Akari and Midori were already aware of this fact. So even when they’re used to Kou playing with them, when it’s Amane’s turn to watch over the monsters, they never really pester him to join them.
In a way, he was glad the monsters have attained the emotional awareness especially when he’s busy with his research. A characteristic that was common in most of the previous monsters Amane’s raised.
However, it could possibly be due to the added variable that is Kou, that for once he felt lonely when the monsters decide not to invite him to play like they would for Kou.
Well, it was natural given Amane’s nature. And he wouldn’t want a new routine in his monster caring ruin his current streak of keeping himself detached to the monsters he raises.
“Midori… sorry…”
Amane was about to reach for the door knob when he pauses, hearing the monster child in his arm mutter the quiet apology “Eh?”
“Midori sorry. So… Amane don’t be mad at Midori, please?” even as the little one had difficulty with his speech—something Amane keeps making note of and tries his best to help him with—the words still reached Amane clearly.
Perhaps he thought Amane was only acting in front of Kou.
The researcher exhales a breath, entering the lab first and carrying Midori to the nursery to put him down on his feet. He then crouches down to be eye level with the little monster “I already told you, didn’t I? Amane’s not mad anymore.” Amane clarifies, tone gentle.
“Really?”
Amane nods “But remember, Midori, being a disobedient little monster is bad. And if you don’t get to do what you want, you shouldn’t yell and cry, okay?” he reminds the child.
Midori nods, playing with his thumbs “Midori was scared. Huge thing, really scary.”
“I understand. But you have to trust us, too, alright? Do you trust Kou?” Midori nods “Do you trust me?” he nods again “That’s good. And we’ll never let you and Akari do anything that could hurt you both, that I promise.” Amane assures him, gently patting the monster’s head.
All of a sudden, Midori launches himself onto Amane, wrapping his arms around his neck into a hug, and he hears his quiet voice mumble “Okay.” beside his ear.
Amane isn’t able to ignore the warm and fuzzy feeling building up in his chest. And while he was scared of this familiar but wonderful feeling, he decides to indulge it for once. He places his hands around the little monster’s form, reciprocating the hug.
Kou and Akari return to the lab not long after the two’s reconciliation and the children begin their afternoon playtime. Amane was about to head to his desk to review the check-up results earlier but he was stopped by a tug to his coat. Midori was inviting him to join them to both Kou’s and Amane’s surprise.
And for once since they started raising these little monsters, Amane wasn’t able to decline the invitation.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 6: Bento
Summary:
Kou is worried that Amane isn't taking enough breaks so he decides to cook a bento for him.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Good news! I just finished writing the last chapter (a very long last chapter actually www) so updates for this is gonna be regularly done everyday! Like I technically have been updating it everyday anyways, but now I can proudly say it will be consistent now hehe
This is actually the sorta 'main' idea my friend and i had for this AU and technically it was supposed to have a bigger thing for this story but as I wrote this fic, a lot of other stuff happened instead lmao dskjfgs but i wanted to add it still cus it's a cute idea lmao
hope you enjoy this chapter! :D
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kou was used to waking up before the sun had even risen. Though, to be honest, ever since they started raising Akari and Midori, Kou’s sleep schedule had been very irregular. Not to mention he’s gotten his body used to functioning with maximum of 5 hours of sleep. Can’t say raising children, monster children to be exact, was easy.
However, today, Kou particularly tried his best to wake up early because he had an important task to do; making a bento for Amane.
Not in a romantic, married couple type of way, of course! It’s not like they were in that kind of relationship!
It’s just that Kou has noticed Amane’s breaks have gotten less frequent. Ever since the first check-up, he’s practically glued his butt to his desk chair and his nose in his papers. While he does join in sometimes when the little monsters ask him to play, a change Kou was very grateful for since it was best for Amane to be more involved and hands-on with their development, it does take away time he usually has for his paperwork.
Which he probably makes up for when the kids take their naps or are playing with the other monster children. And instead of taking a break, Amane decides to use that time to work.
Kou has tried pestering him to take breaks but Amane was stubborn, as expected. To the point, Kou’s temporary compromise for a few days was simply bringing him a sandwich and some juice from the cafeteria like he did on the first day.
However, that wasn’t enough to be considered getting proper nutrition.
And with that in mind, after asking permission from Sakura and the head chef of the cafeteria, he was given the go signal to use the kitchen as he pleases so long as he doesn’t interrupt the other chefs while they cook.
His first bento idea was something more simple; sauced pork katsu and teriyaki chicken topped on scrambled eggs with rice and sliced cabbages. He wasn’t sure if Amane was a picky eater or if there was any food he couldn’t eat so this probably wasn’t a bad first bento choice, maybe. Can’t really go wrong with meat, right?
Using a gray metal lunch box he procured from the nursery’s supply store, he makes work with presenting the bento.
It took him about an hour preparing the bento for Amane plus some extra fried chicken for the little monsters. Checking his watch, it was already quarter to 8 and the monster children should be waking up soon for their breakfast.
As Kou had expected, Amane was once again slouched over his desk, fast asleep after pulling another all-nighter. He quietly enters the lab, placing the wrapped bento on the snack table for now and as if on cue, he hears shuffling from the monsters’ make-shift nests on the padded nursery.
Akari was the first to wake up, a low growl coming from her as she yawned and stretched. The movement beside him was what stirs Midori awake and he does the same.
“Good morning, sweeties.” Kou quietly greets the waking monsters.
“Good morning…” the two monsters greet back in-synch, wiping the sleep from their eyes.
Kou makes work in helping them get ready for the day. He brings them to the nearest bathroom to wash their faces up and brush their teeth. Back in the lab, he prepares their clothing for the day: Akari gets a white long-sleeve blouse and a navy-blue skirt long enough to reach below her knees while Midori’s is a short sleeve button shirt and brown shorts.
The little monsters have already started to learn to dress and groom themselves so Kou didn’t need to assist them as much in that regard. While they got themselves dressed, Kou tidies up in the nursery, picking up toys to put them back in the toy box.
He picks up the book Amane had read to them last night and puts it back on the shelf reserved for children storybooks.
“Kou.” The blonde’s attention turns to Akari who was finished tying her hair up “What’s that?” the little monster asks, pointing to the snack table; she was asking about the bento box.
“Ah, it’s called a bento. A lunchbox. I prepared it for Amane since he doesn’t have time to leave his lab to eat lately.” Kou explains “Oh, I prepared some fried chicken for you two, as well.” He adds then returns to his task of cleaning up the nursery.
The two monsters hum in response, eyes stuck to the bento box then to each other and then back at Kou “Kou, are you and Amane a couple?” was Midori’s question.
“Huh?” Kou’s cheeks immediately grow warm at the children’s assumption “Wh-Wh-What made you think that?” he mentally curses himself for the stutter, his reaction wasn’t helping.
“Because in the books, the mom always cooks food for the dad and the kids. If Kou is cooking food for Amane, that means Kou is the mom and Amane is the dad.” Midori casually explains.
Just as expected that would be the kids’ takeaway from the storybooks they’ve read. Well, Kou couldn’t say they were completely wrong, but he has to clarify to them that it’s not always the case.
“Listen up, okay? Just because someone cooks for other people doesn’t mean they’re immediately the mom. Anyone can cook for people. Do you think the chefs in the cafeteria are moms?” Kou starts to explain as simple as he could.
The two little monsters shake their heads “No.”
“See? People can cook for other people just because they care. Like a friend. Or out of kindness.”
He receives two understanding hums in response “So you and Amane are just friends?” Akari then asks.
“Yes, we are.” somehow, those words stung at Kou’s heart more than he’ll admit. He’s not wrong, they really are just friends, after all. It’s not like he hopes for them to be anything more than that… right?
“Then,” Akari’s voice snaps Kou out of his thoughts “when Akari gets older, she can marry Kou?”
Kou blinks at her, surprised of this claim “Marry?”
“No way! Midori wants to marry Kou!” Midori then cuts in.
“No, Midori can’t ‘cause you’re a guy!”
“But I want to marry Kou too!”
“I said you can’t! I like Kou more!” then Akari wraps her arms around Kou’s right arm.
“No fair, Midori likes Kou!” and Midori does the same to Kou’s left.
Kou chuckles at the children’s argument “Okay, okay. No fighting, you two.” he says to calm them down before the fight got any more serious. It was a little silly but he appreciates that they care about him that way. Even if he’s aware they still don’t understand the concept of that kind of love, it was nice to hear that they like Kou.
“What’s this I hear about marrying Kou?” they then hear Amane’s voice interrupt them.
“Oh, good morning, Amane.” Kou greets him and Amane greets him back with a smile.
“Amane, tell Midori he can’t marry Kou because he’s a guy!” Akari then yells, pointing a finger towards Midori while her other arm still keeps its hold on Kou.
“Yes I can! ‘Cause I like Kou!” Midori argues back.
“Alright, let’s not fight. And Akari,” Kou turns to the little monster on his right arm “just because Midori is a guy doesn’t mean he can’t marry another guy, okay? As long as he likes that person, gender doesn’t matter.” the blonde carefully explains.
Akari pouts, pressing her cheek against Kou’s shoulder “I know… but I still like Kou more!” she still insists.
“Well, too bad for you two.” Amane then cuts in and all three of them turn their attention to him “As Kou’s boss, I can’t let him marry anyone just yet. He still needs to help me with my research.” the senior researcher explains, casually flashing a wide smile at them.
Kou gives a sheepish smile, unable to really say anything back. But for a moment, Kou can’t deny he almost thought Amane was going to say something else.
Or more, maybe he hoped he did?
The two little monsters exclaim in protest but eventually they give up on the topic about marrying Kou when they started hearing their hungry stomachs. The twins finally detach from Kou to start pulling on his hands to drag him to the cafeteria, all the while yelling to get breakfast.
“Aren’t you joining us, Amane?” Kou asks before the two monsters could completely drag him out of the lab.
Amane shakes his head “I’ll clean up first and I might go back to work. Enjoy breakfast.”
Kou’s brows knit together, his expression held worry “Oh. Don’t overwork yourself, okay?” was the last thing Kou could say before he’s completely dragged out of the room and into the hallway.
However, on their way to the cafeteria, Kou is reminded of the bento he had placed on the snacks table and mentally curses himself for forgetting to give it to Amane.
Well, I’ll just give it to him later.
Once breakfast was done, the next on their schedule was physical training. Kou brings the two to the outdoor playground at the courtyard where they meet and play with some of their monster friends. Tsukasa and Natsuhiko greet Kou as they arrive for their own monsters’ physical training.
“Amane isn’t with you again?” Tsukasa is the one to ask, noticing his brother’s absence.
“Yeah. He’s holed up in his lab again working on his research.” Kou explains a little apologetically.
Tsukasa hums "That Amane is always busy with his research.”
“Well, he’s a role model researcher for something, I guess.” Natsuhiko was the one to comment. After some time, the older researcher seems to remember something “Oh right, chibi, how’s Mika-chan, by the way?”
At the mention of this familiar monster, Kou turns to the two researchers, curious. Of course he would be, he had played and babysat Mika before he and Amane got busy raising the twins.
Tsukasa shrugs, crossing his arms “Same as always. I think she’s doing better but I’m not so sure. We’ll see next check-up, I guess.” was the younger twin’s casual response.
Natsuhiko hums “Well, I guess it’s bound to happen.”
Kou decides to cut in, a little concerned over the monster “Uhm, sorry, did something happen to Mika-chan?” he asks, worry filled his tone.
“Nothing serious. It’s just her statistics went down a bit last check-up ‘cause she got a fever.” Tsukasa replies nonchalantly, as if it didn’t really bother him.
“Isn’t that a little serious? How is she now?”
“She seems fine after some rest. She just doesn’t want to talk to people lately.”
“That’s a little concerning.” Kou doesn’t help the mumble, after all, he knows how friendly and outgoing Mika used to be when he looked after her. Something must be seriously wrong.
Not to mention…
“Actually, shouldn’t she be out of your care already, Researcher T?” Kou then asks, remembering that Mika was supposed to be on her 6th month last month. From what Kou remembers, monsters are allowed to part from their caretakers after 6 months since that’s when they reach their maturity and are able to handle themselves.
“Well, normally she should be, but there are factors that happen sometimes that the researcher can still look after their monster after 6 months.” Natsuhiko was the one to explain.
“What kind of factors?”
“For example, the monster decides to stay to help out in the facility, so during training for that they can stay with their caretaker.”
Kou hums in response, does that mean Mika wants to stay in the facility? She must really want to help out a lot, in that case. The blonde couldn’t help but muse.
“Well, there are worse-case scenarios, of course.” Natsuhiko then adds, and somehow Kou feels himself grow nervous.
“Worse-case scenarios?” Kou is unable to keep his voice from shaking as he says this.
“For example—”
“Researcher K.”
Their conversation is interrupted by Amane and the 3 researchers turn their attention to him who was approaching them with a wrapped-up box in hand. Kou immediately recognizes it.
“Amane! You actually came out of your lab!” Tsukasa exclaims very happily as he latches himself onto his brother in a tight hug.
“Y-Yeah. I came to bring this box to Researcher K.” Amane says, gesturing to the box in hand “You left this in the lab. I don’t know if this was for the monsters so I decided not to open it. It feels kind of warm.” the older twin explains.
Kou’s cheeks flush a light pink, and for some reason his heart was throbbing fast against his chest “A-Actually, that’s…”
“Is that a bento?” Natsuhiko was the one who asks, recognizing the way the box was prepared.
“A bento?” both of the Yugi twins ask in unison.
“Yeah. A lunchbox. I’ve had a few when I was still a kid and went to school.” Kou mentally wishes for the senior researcher to stop talking for a moment.
Amane hums “Then, I presume this was supposed to be for the monsters.” he adds, shrugging Tsukasa off of him as he walks over to Kou to hand it to him.
“No, actually, that’s…” Kou tries to find his voice, but perhaps because they had an audience, plus the conversation they had with the kids earlier, that the blonde was having difficulty casually saying that this bento was for Amane.
“Ah, Amane’s here!” two children’s voices yell and before Amane could brace himself, Akari and Midori were launching themselves to the researcher, both little monsters hugging his legs.
Akari smiles up at Amane “Play with us, Amane!” she beams at him and Midori echoes her invitation.
Amane gently pats Akari’s head and then Midori’s “Sorry, you two, I’m only here to deliver this to Researcher K. It seems he forgot about it.” he apologizes.
The two monsters’ attention turn to the box in his hand and they recognize it immediately “But didn’t Kou make that for you?” Midori was the one to ask.
“Eh?” three surprised reactions was the response after hearing the kid’s statement and all three researchers present look to Kou.
Kou scratches his cheek, a little flustered now “Y-Yeah. I… actually cooked that for you, Researcher A.” he sheepishly admits “’Cause you know, you’re always cooped up in your lab and you barely take breaks or even eat for that matter, so I thought I’d make you something you could eat while in your lab, you know?”
The more Kou explained his reason, the more he wanted the ground to consume him. He blames the conversation with the kids earlier that he’s starting to see this situation as something more than a friend cooking something for their friend.
Natsuhiko whistles in amusement and Kou wishes he doesn’t say anything embarrassing, as if already aware what was running on the senior researcher’s mind “That’s kinda romantic, if I do say so myself.” and there he goes.
“I-It’s not! I was just worried, is all.” Kou argues but the look on Natsuhiko’s face proves he doesn’t believe him.
After what seems like the longest silence—for Kou anyways—Amane finally speaks “Thank you, Researcher K.” his tone was gentle and when Kou looks at him, his expression was just as so, and that was enough for Kou to think this whole embarrassing display was worth it.
He really does look cute when he smiles. Kou couldn’t help the thought.
Amane leaves first to return to his lab with the bento box still in hand while the monster children continue their playtime. Once Amane was gone, Tsukasa goes over to Kou’s side, curiosity in his expression.
“Kou, do you like Amane?” the younger twin asks.
“Hm? I do, yeah.” was Kou’s casual response, not really thinking much about it.
Tsukasa hums “Then, you want to date him?” was his follow-up question.
Kou felt like his brain stopped responding for a moment before he realizes what exactly Tsukasa was implying and what Kou just responded. His cheeks immediately turn a darker shade “W-Wait, no, not in that sense! I-I like him as a researcher and as a friend, that’s all!” the blonde immediately clarifies.
“But you made him a bento and all~”
“Like I said, it was just because I was worried since he doesn’t get to eat much when he’s focused on work.” Kou repeats his earlier reasoning.
“You could’ve just brought him a snack from the cafeteria, then.” Tsukasa argues, a sound argument since Kou already did that a few times.
“I know, but a sandwich is barely a meal. He needs to eat a proper meal so he doesn’t pass out from the lack of nutrients.” Kou explains.
That explanation seems to satisfy Tsukasa’s curiosity and he doesn’t pry any further, to Kous’ relief.
As soon as it was 11 AM, they all call for their monsters to rest up in the break room before they head for the cafeteria for lunch. For Kou, he had scheduled that as arts and crafts for the twins and so the two were entertaining themselves by drawing for the meantime.
By 12 PM, everyone simultaneously headed for the cafeteria to have lunch.
After lunch, Kou brought the twins back to the lab for their afternoon nap. The two greeted Amane once they came back and attempted to pry him away from his desk to read them a story before their nap. As per usual, Amane couldn’t refuse, standing from his chair to walk over to the bookshelf.
“What would you like me to read to you today?” Amane asks, eyes roaming the rows of children books.
“Red riding hood! Red riding hood!” Akari yells from their shared nest.
“The boy who cried wolf!” Midori then says.
“Okay we’ll go with Midori’s suggestion this time since we read one from Akari last night.” Amane decides, taking out the storybook titled ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf’ from the shelf then sitting himself beside the nest.
While Amane reads to the twins, Kou excuses himself to have his afternoon nap as well in the nap room. Before exiting the lab, his attention is caught by the unwrapped bento box on Amane’s desk, the lid still in place but the chopsticks on top of it indicated it had been used. Kou doesn’t hold back the smile before he leaves the room.
***
“Thank you for the meal, Kou. That was delicious.” Amane thanks the blonde as he hands the bento back to Kou that evening. By the fact it was a lot lighter than this morning, Kou could tell he finished all of it and he couldn’t be all the more satisfied.
Kou smiles at him “I’m glad. Then, I’ll make you another one tomorrow. Do you have any meal in mind?”
At the offer, Amane’s cheeks flush a bit and he immediately declines “What? No, no. You don’t have to. I don’t want to trouble you.”
“It’s fine! I do enjoy cooking so it kind of brings me a sense of nostalgia.” Kou explains, not taking no for an answer “Besides, if I don’t bring you lunch tomorrow, you’re not going to come out to eat anyway.”
Amane wasn’t able to deny this fact, unfortunately “It’s not like you’re wrong… but really, I don’t want to bother you so much. I already let you do most of the work handling the twins since I’m so busy with my research.”
“I said it’s fine.” Kou insists, then a thought comes to his mind “Or maybe… did you actually not like it, Amane?”
“No, I did! I really did, don’t get me wrong! It was the best thing I’ve had in ages.” Kou didn’t think Amane was going to respond to him so honestly like this and he’d be lying if he didn’t admit that made his heart skip a beat. Realizing his immediate reaction, Amane looks away shyly, but there was an obvious blush at the tips of his ears which Kou found rather cute.
“Well then, I hope you’re prepared to have a taste of my cooking from now on, Amane! And I do not take ‘no’ for an answer.” Kou grins.
And with that, Amane wasn’t able to decline any further. However, if he’ll be a little honest, he did end up anticipating Kou’s personally made bentos.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Next chap we're gonna see the little monsters in action :D
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 7: Monsters will still be monsters
Summary:
Kou finds out what happens to monsters who turn unstable.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Sooooo yeah, this chapter is kind of where a lot of angsty stuff starts so pls be prepared for that skjdgfjks
I had meant for this series to just be a fluffy and maybe funny cute fic but unfort, i ended up giving it more plot after i gave amane trauma so here we are lmao lowkey think it might've derailed a little from canon events as well but ehh shrugs
While I did enjoy the protective amane scene, i am also like a little nervous about this chap 'cause idk i think it's got a lot of serious elements in it soooo yea, do check the tags every update in case stuff get added just in caseStill, i hope you enjoy this chapter, and hope you'll look forward to the future chaps cus the next chaps are gonna be a lot of emotions and longing sdjkfgjkss
that's all! byeee!
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Hey, have you heard?
The original purpose of Kamome Monster Nursery was to raise deadly and dangerous monsters and train them to their strongest potential.
However, after some researchers have complained about the dangers of these methods and this line of work, they banded together to take down the original head of the nursery. After a new head was assigned, some diligent researchers have begun study to create an environment and a purpose where monsters can live amongst the humans.
Of course, there have been several bumps and the journey to a breakthrough in monster studies was not an easy road to take. Monsters will still be monsters, after all. They’re not completely free of their true nature.
And so, when a monster becomes unstable, they end up falling victims to their own demise. The mental stress and existential crisis causes them to submit to their instincts, where their true nature as predators that know nothing but survival surfaces.
***
Ever since the nursery had hired a few new researchers, there have been some who are very privy about the history of the institute. Kou can’t say he wasn’t that curious, and now there have been talks about what happens to the monsters when they grow unstable.
In Kou’s defense, he has heard Amane mention that they get taken down when that happens. Of course, he remembers this very well with how Amane’s expression turned solemn and the light in his eyes seemed to disappear when he told Kou this.
Now with this piece of information being spread around, Kou has to assure the little monsters that it won't happen to them when they cried to him and Amane one night after hearing the ‘rumor’. He and a few other researchers have filed a report on the spreading of this information so casually, especially to tease or scare the little monsters, and the new researchers have been told off.
However, even as Kou has assured Akari and Midori, frankly, he wasn’t sure himself if they’re doing enough to avoid the twins from this destructive fate. And he can’t open it up to Amane as well because not only is there less time for them to talk in private without the monsters hearing them, he also doesn’t want to open any old wounds like last time.
“Ah, hello there, Researcher K. Are you headed back to Amane’s lab?” Kou hears Natsuhiko’s voice calling for him as he left the nap room.
“Hello, Researcher N. I am, why?” Kou asks.
“Good timing. You’ll pass by chibi’s lab on the way, right? Could I bother you to send these papers to him?” was Natsuhiko’s request, handing a bunch of reports to Kou.
Kou had to think for a moment to remember who the older researcher meant “You mean Tsukasa’s lab?”
“Yeah, yeah. His. So, I’ll leave it in your care. Thank you~” and before Kou could say anything or decline, Natsuhiko had shoved the papers to him and walked away.
“Ah, Researcher N!” Kou calls out to him but the other seems to have no plans on listening to him or turning around. Kou sighs, well, he didn’t mind making the extra stop.
It takes a few minutes of walking before Kou reaches his destination, thankfully remembering where the younger twin’s lab was since he has only stopped by here a few times. He knocks on the door to announce his arrival.
There was no response. He knocks again.
“Researcher T! I’ve brought some reports for you!” Kou yells from outside.
A few seconds later and there was still no response. He presses an ear to the door to listen for any activity, however there was none.
“Is he out?” Kou asks to himself.
Kou tries for the door and seeing it was unlocked, he takes a peek. It was dark and there seems to be nobody inside so the blonde concludes Tsukasa might be out somewhere else. He sighs a breath as he looks at the papers in hand. They seemed to be important so he would rather have them delivered to Tsukasa instead of bringing them with him to Amane’s lab for the meantime.
However, Kou had not a single clue where he could find the younger twin.
Thinking that standing around wasn’t going to do him anything, Kou decides to try the library first, maybe he’ll get lucky and bump into him in any of the usual places they would go. Unfortunately, Tsukasa was not there.
He checks the cafeteria, none. He goes back to the nap room, none. He checks the training room, none.
As he was slowly losing ideas for places Tsukasa could have gone to, Kou decides to just ask if anyone’s seen him.
“Excuse me.” He calls for a group of researchers he passes by in the hallway “Do you happen to know where Researcher T is?” the blonde asks.
“Tsukasa? Isn’t he in the containment facility?” the guy in the middle replies.
Hearing the words ‘containment facility’ made Kou slightly nervous “Containment facility?” he asks.
“Yeah. I heard one of his monsters was getting euthanized today. Must be hard.” The same guy replies nonchalantly.
The news hit Kou hard. Tsukasa’s monster was getting euthanized? Who? Why? What happened? So many questions ran through Kou’s mind as he started to feel his chest tighten, his heartbeat rang in his ears.
“If you’re looking for the containment facility, by the way, it’s at the basement.” One of the researchers then says, and that was all Kou needed to know.
He thanked them profusely before running off as fast as his legs could take him. Adrenaline filled his system that he never even noticed how long and how fast he had been running. People he passed by watched him in both confusion and curiosity.
It doesn’t take him long until he’s descending the stairs to the basement which lead to a single door. Kou finally ceased running when he was stopped by a staff member.
“State your name, researcher ID and business.” the staff member asks.
“Minamoto Kou, Researcher K. I came here to deliver papers for Yugi Tsukasa, Researcher T.” Kou explains in detail.
After checking his ID and confirming his identity, the staff member let him inside, telling him to head straight to the office door at the end of the hallway. Kou bowed in thanks before he enters the room.
Inside, there were 5 huge doors lining up one side of the long hallway and a single door at the end just as he was told. However, instead of doing as instructed, Kou decides to approach the first door, the light on the top was lit up as red while the other doors had green lights.
To Kou’s surprise, it was unlocked. He swallows the lump on his throat, not really sure what to expect but since he was here, there was no turning back.
Technically he still could just finish his errand and go back to Amane’s lab after and pretend he never saw or heard anything.
However, curiosity may have gotten the best of him. And so, he pushes the door with little effort and peeks in. And the first thing that catches his eye was a familiar form of a monster, lying in a glass cage at the far end of the room.
Kou immediately sneaks inside the room, quietly closing the door behind him before rushing towards the glass cage “Mika-chan!” the blonde yells.
The monster inside the cage shifts, a low growl muffled by the glass could be heard as she turns to whoever called her. Kou exhales a breath in relief, seeing that she was still alive. However, the relief immediately shifts to fear when he notices Mika glare at him with eyes of a predator that had seen its prey and the monster charges at him.
The action makes Kou jump and almost lose his balance, thankfully the glass cage was there to separate the two before Mika could have her way with him. Not to mention the chains that bound the monster’s neck and feet kept her from going anywhere near.
Kou immediately presses his hands to the glass again, his fear turning into worry “Mika-chan, what happened?! Don’t you recognize me? It’s Kou!” the blonde yells, hoping the monster inside could recognize his voice.
All he receives is a snarl, Mika glaring at him as her body was positioned in a defensive stance.
Kou’s heart broke. So this is what happens when they go unstable.
He presses his forehead against the glass, as if hoping his feelings could get through even if he knows it’s futile “I’m sorry, Mika-chan. I wish I could’ve done more for you.” Kou whispers, a tear falling down his cheek.
After a few seconds of silence, Kou hears the monster shifting and then a clawed hand presses itself against the glass on the other side. Kou lifts his head to look at Mika, while her expression held confusion and her eyes unsure of the person in front her, it would almost seem like she could recognize him a little.
“Mika-chan? Do you remember me? It’s Kou. You’re friend.” Kou tells her.
Mika tilts her head curiously, opening her mouth only for a soft growl to come out. Kou wonders if she could recognize his voice “That’s right. It’s Kou. I’m here.” The blonde assures her, tone as gentle as he could.
Mika stars sniffing, a soft purr coming from her as her face nears the glass, trying to get a scent of the person in front of her.
However, their touching reunion was quickly interrupted as the door slammed open and 3 staff members rush inside “You! What do you think you’re doing!” the one in the middle yells, a man with red hair and square glasses. Kou recognizes him as the head of the countermeasure team, Aoi Akane.
“Ah sorry, I just…” Kou tries to explain but one of the staff members immediately grabs him to pull him away from the glass cage, rather violently.
“This place is dangerous. If the monster charges at you, you would be—”
A roar pierces through the room and everyone’s attention turn to the monster in her cage. She starts moving around, pulling and biting at her restraints in an attempt to free herself.
“Shit, put her down before she escapes again!” Akane commands. The staff nearest to the cage nods and starts opening the door “Idiot, don’t unlock the door!” he immediately yells.
However, it was too late. Mika had already successfully scratched up her restraints enough for her to be able to remove them by brute force and she charges for the door. The staff member on the other side of it is immediately knocked out from the attack.
The second staff member quickly points a tranquilizer gun towards the raging monster but Mika was faster. She bites the gun with her teeth to snatch it away from the member before the said member is also thrown away by the monster, losing conscious.
“Amateurs.” Akane mutters under his breath, taking out what looks to be a whip as he attempts to restrain the monster.
Mika’s skill with fighting even as she only follows her instinct was still above average, being trained by one of the best researchers in the nursery, after all. Thankfully, Akane was just as skilled in battle so he was able to take on the raging beast.
After some time, Akane was able to injure her leg, causing her to lose balance and the redhead takes the opportunity to bound her with his whip. He pushes a button and the said restraint electrifies the monster, disabling her for a bit.
“Wait, no. Mika-chan! Stop that, please!” Kou pleads.
Akane wipes the sweat off his forehead, loosening the tie on his shirt for a bit as he catches his breath “This is way too troublesome.” he groans.
“Mika-chan? Are you okay?” Kou asks, attempting to crawl towards the weakened monster but Akane stops him.
“What do you think you’re doing?” he asks, voice stern and cold.
“M-Mika-chan, she… is she…”
“Mika-chan? Ah, you mean this beast? She’s still alive, unfortunately. But she won’t be by the end of the day.” was Akane’s nonchalant response.
“No way. Why? What happened?”
“What do you mean ‘what happened’? She turned unstable and became like that. A natural thing for monsters. I don’t even know why this facility puts up with this. Raising monsters for a noble purpose, my ass.” Akane curses under his breath.
Kou continues to stare at the bound monster. The monster he once took care of, played with and considered a friend. From the sweet little monster to this raging beast all because she had turned unstable. Where did it all go wrong? Was there really nothing Kou can do? But, earlier…
“No, but she… she recognized me earlier!” Kou then brings up “She was reacting to my voice earlier. Maybe there’s still a way to help her!” he pleads, voice desperate.
Akane scoffs “So you’re one of those types of researchers, huh?”
“Please, if there’s anything I can help w—”
Kou gets cut off as Akane pins him to the ground, arm pressed above his chest “Listen here, newbie. Monsters will be monsters no matter how you raise them. That’s just how they are. It’s in their blood and in their nature. If a monster turns like this, there’s no saving them, you hear me?”
Akane’s voice was sharp, his tone held venom and every word was a blade slicing through Kou’s heart. He tries to struggle out of Akane’s hold but the older male was stronger.
“Unless you want to feed yourself to it before it gets killed. I don’t really care either.” Akane scoffs.
Suddenly, they heard shifting from behind them and Akane is immediately back on his feet “Shit. How are you awake already?” he curses as Mika regains consciousness. Since Akane had already used his weapon to restrain the monster, he had nothing else on him.
Mika attacks Akane, throwing him to a nearby wall. Akane manages to block the attack with his arms to not hurt as much, but the impact from hitting the wall still hurt.
“Aoi-san!” Kou yells, about to stand up to help Akane.
However, Mika pins him to the ground, claws practically digging on his arms and Kou hisses at the pain “M-Mika-chan…” he groans out, still trying to call for her in hopes she’ll recognize him just like earlier.
But it looked like it was no use. Mika pants above him, drool dripping from her mouth and spilling on Kou as her instincts yell at her to satiate her hunger and eat her prey.
“Mika-chan… I’m sorry.” A single tear falls down the side of Kou’s head, closing his eyes as he waits for his demise. Maybe he just feels a little bit or regret that his life ends here without having to see the twins for the last time.
Akari, Midori. He hopes they’ll grow up to be better monsters.
Before Mika could take a bite of Kou’s flesh, a strong kick is what greets the monster and the force throws her away from Kou. Her back meets the glass cage with a loud crack before she falls to the ground.
Kou opens his eyes upon hearing the sound. He carefully props himself up to see what had happened only for his eyes to widen in surprise seeing the familiar form of a tiny monster with long white hair tied in a ponytail standing between him and Mika.
“A… Akari…?” Kou calls in surprise.
“Kou!” he hears Amane’s voice from the door and before Kou could react, arms wrap around him in a warm and protective embrace “Thank goodness you’re safe.” Amane whispers against his ear, voice a little shaky.
However, the short reunion is immediately interrupted when they hear Mika growl. Akari shifts to a fighting stance, ready to battle with the older monster.
“Akari, wait, don’t—” Kou tries to stop her, worried the little monster would get hurt but Akari dares to not listen.
Mika pounces at the group and Akari jumps at her, kicking her again but Mika manages to block the kick, sending the little monster to the other wall while the force of the block also throws Mika to the other side. Akari manages to get back to her feet and she attacks Mika again, clawing at her this time.
Mika roars from the scratch and her reaction is to bite Akari’s arm. The little monster yelps at the feeling of sharp teeth digging on her skin. Mika throws her away, thankfully to the direction of Amane and Kou so Kou was able to catch her and soften her crash.
“Akari! Are you okay? You’re bleeding so much.” Kou starts panicking seeing the amount of blood gushing out of the little monster’s arm “Amane, we need to get her to the infirmary.”
They hear Mika growl and all attention is on her once more. She starts crawling to the group on all fours, ready to make a feast of them. Amane takes out a pocket knife he had been carrying in an attempt to protect them as he pulls Kou closer.
As soon as Mika charges, Midori, who had been hiding behind Amane this whole time runs towards the front “Midori, wait!” Amane yells, unable to stop him. Midori huffs a huge breath before he opens his mouth and large flames start coming out, firing towards the charging monster.
The fire ends up burning Mika a little, her injuries from Akari’s attack starts stinging and that manages to render her immobile for a moment.
Once Midori’s fire runs out, the little monster starts coughing, falling onto his hands and knees as he does so “Midori!” Kou calls for the little monster, arms trying to reach out to him.
“We need to get out of here.” Amane then says, turning to Kou “Can you stand?”
Kou nods, latching off of Amane’s hold as he tries to carry Akari in his arms, with a little bit of difficulty considering he was just as injured. Amane offers to take Akari instead and Kou was about to give her to him when they hear footsteps running at them; Mika was attacking!
Amane prepares his knife, once again wrapping an arm over Kou in an attempt to protect them when a figure jumps in from behind, attacking Mika and sending her flying through the glass cage, breaking it in the process.
“Ah~ what a mess.” the figure that came in whines as he lands in front of the group “I’m very sorry I’m late. How is everyone?”
As soon as he turns around to greet them, everyone immediately recognizes the tall, blonde monster known to be one of the best monsters to be raised in Kamome Monster Nursery.
“Teru!” Kou exclaims, a little relieved seeing the older monster.
“Took you long enough, you useless winged creature.” They hear Akane curse from the side as he leans himself against the wall for support.
“Ah, Aoi’s mad.” Teru grins apologetically at the redhead and then turns to the monster he had just attacked earlier “I guess we can’t really wait until the end of the day, unfortunately.” Teru mumbles.
“Yeah.” Akane replies, getting himself up on his feet once he had his energy back from the attack “I wouldn’t want that thing to keep rampaging any longer.”
Teru sighs, approaching the injured monster and Akane follows behind him. Kou notices Akane taking out what looks to be a syringe and he immediately knows what they’re about to do.
“Wait, no. No! Don’t! You can’t!” Kou yells, pleading them to stop.
Akane pays him no mind while Teru simply looks at the group, an apologetic smile on his face before he turns his attention to the monster below his feet. He holds her down with his hands, making sure she isn’t able to fight back while Akane does his job.
“Don’t look!” Amane yells, pulling Kou to him and burying his face to his chest, keeping him there so he doesn’t have to witness the monster he once cared for meet her demise with his own eyes.
Kou closes his eyes, tears welling up as he pulls his own injured monster close to him. He hears a scream, short but painful.
And then there was silence.
***
Kou was silent as the nurse tended to his injury. His eyes stared blankly at his feet, barely moving. Only when the nurse was done did Kou move to stand, walking over to his little savior laying on one of the beds, resting as one of her arms was bandaged up.
Kou sits himself on the seat beside her bed, hand reaching up to hold her small one in his. He lays his head on the bed just beside her pillow as he closes his eyes, mumbling apologies to the little monster.
This was all his fault.
If he didn’t let his emotions get to him, Akari and Midori wouldn’t feel the need to protect him. Akari wouldn’t have been injured.
And maybe Mika would have met a quieter end instead.
Kou’s eyes start to water again remembering the scene at the confinement facility. How Mika had changed so much from the lively and outgoing little monster, to a beast taken over by her own instincts.
It hurt Kou to think that there was nothing he could do. Or maybe he could’ve done something when he had the chance.
If a monster turns like this, there’s no saving them.
Akane’s words rang in his ears and he can’t help but think about Akari and Midori. Would they end up the same fate as Mika, then? How was Kou supposed to know that they’ll remain stable enough to not have to go through that same end? He wasn’t as smart as Amane. Nor was he as cold-blooded as Akane.
What can he do to save their little monsters?
***
The silence in Sakura’s office was almost deafening. The clock ticking was going to make Amane go insane. It doesn’t help that his nerves were going haywire as he and Kou stood there in front of her desk, waiting for her to speak.
It wasn’t exactly a long silence, but for Amane it was strangely excruciating.
Sakura sighs, finally breaking the silence “I’m sure you’re both aware why I’ve called you here so I won’t be taking up too much of your time.” the lady starts, putting down the report she was reading.
"Researcher S, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause trouble and mess up one of your facilities.” Kou quietly apologizes, meaning to get that out since they entered the office.
“That’s not it. I don’t really care about the facilities or the fact that you stormed in there unsupervised. It’s not like you’re the reason the monster got out and started attacking people.” Sakura explains, once again turning her eyes to the report.
“Due to the negligence of the countermeasure team’s members, we sincerely apologize for the damages this has caused to your facilities and the injuries your researchers have received.” Sakura reads the report out loud to the two of them.
“From what the head of the countermeasure team told me, the reason the monster got out was because instead of putting the monster to sleep via the sleeping gas installed inside the cage, they decided to unlock it in order to get in. This is an obvious mistake from their end and you, Researcher K, just so happen to be present.” the senior researcher continues to clarify just to clear out any other misunderstandings.
“Then, why did you call us here, Researcher S?” Amane was the one to ask.
Sakura once again puts down the report to properly look at the two researchers, especially Kou “How have you been, Researcher K?” she then asks.
Kou is taken back a bit by her question “I’m fine, thank you.” the blonde replies, but Sakura could tell it was more of an instinctive response.
“You don’t look fine to me.” she points out. Kou decides not to argue back “From what I see, Researcher K seems to not be in the correct headspace to continue his job as a researcher in this institute. And for that, I would like to ask you to return home.”
Sakura’s suggestion surprises even Amane, and he opens his mouth to speak but the senior researcher cuts him off “No, this is not a termination. Consider this as a long break from work.” she clarifies.
Amane sighs, not really able to hide the relief from his expression. In contrast, Kou had not reacted or spoken since Sakura had announced this.
“However,” Sakura then adds seeing Kou was not responding “if you think you are no longer fit to work as a researcher, I will not stop you, either. Whether you come back here with the intention to resume your duties or with a resignation letter in hand, that is your decision to make.”
Hearing this, all the relief in Amane’s system seems to have dissipated and he looks to Kou who continues to stare at his feet.
“Have I made myself clear?” Sakura asks.
And only then did Kou respond “Yes, ma’am.”
“Very well. You may both leave.”
Amane and Kou were quiet as they left Sakura’s office, making their way back to the lab. Nobody said a word, and even as Amane wanted to ask Kou what was going on in his mind, he couldn’t find the voice to do so. He was worried about him.
Worried about how he’s taking all this especially after what happened to Mika.
Worried that he’ll never get back the lively and bubbly presence that was Kou’s light.
Worried that he’ll lose Kou altogether if he decides to leave the institute.
And Amane can’t stop him. He has no right to.
“Sorry, Amane.” Kou finally speaks up. Amane turns to him “There’s just so many thoughts going on in my head right now. I can’t really think straight.” Kou’s voice was shaky, trying his best not to break down.
Amane nods “I understand.” He really does. It was never easy.
“I don’t… want Akari and Midori to see me like this.” Kou admits, stopping in his tracks and Amane could hear the sobs coming out.
Amane doesn’t speak, but something in his head was screaming at him to do something. Anything to comfort Kou. And so he does the only thing he could think of; wrapping Kou in a hug.
As soon as Kou was in Amane’s arms, the waterworks broke and Amane feels his shoulder grow wet from the tears “It’s all my fault… And Akari, she—hic—she got hurt because—hic—of me…” Kou continued to sob “And Midori… hic… if Teru didn’t come in time, he—hic—he would’ve also been—”
Amane hushes him. He doesn’t say it’s alright and he knows telling Kou it’s not his fault isn’t going to help either. So he just hushes him, gentle hands rubbing on his back and hoping his sincerity reaches through. That he very badly does not want Kou to feel the burden all alone. That Amane was there to be someone he can lean on.
They stay that way for a moment, just Amane letting Kou cry on him, to let his feelings out.
When Amane feels Kou’s crying was starting to calm down is when he decides to speak “I won’t stop you from taking a break, Kou. And I’m sure Akari and Midori will understand.” he whispers against the blonde’s ear.
Kou’s cries turn to silent hiccups and he nods, face still pressed against Amane’s shoulder, relishing in the warmth of Amane’s embrace.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!The scene in the containment facility is like, semi inspired from mitsuba arc very lowkey lmao
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 8: Absence
Summary:
Amane and the monsters continue their daily routine even after Kou left to go home. However, things just don't feel the same.
Notes:
Hello, world!
More angst and longing for this chap wheeee sdkjfgsk and some cute, feelsy Amane and the monsters scenes o/
Hope you enjooyyy~~Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Grey clouds covered the sky, an indication that it was going to rain again that day. The weather hadn’t been the best for almost a week now, as if it was imitating the atmosphere in Amane’s lab since Kou left to go home.
Kou had only told Akari and Midori that he was going home for a while, but left early the next morning without properly saying goodbye to them. Amane knew he couldn’t handle saying goodbye to them because even he wasn’t sure if it was a temporary goodbye or a permanent one. And maybe he didn’t want to see their sad faces when he did so.
That doesn’t change the fact that the two little monsters haven’t been as lively since Kou took his break. Amane tried to continue Kou’s routine for them as best as he could, however.
He helped get them ready for the day, brought them to the cafeteria to eat breakfast. Due to the rain, the courtyard hasn’t been of use for a while so they decided to continue physical training in the nursery. And by 11 PM, it was arts and crafts time, and then 12 PM is their lunch. After that is their afternoon nap, more playtime, dinner, reading, and then bedtime.
Rinse and repeat.
While he couldn’t be as lively as Kou was, Amane tried his best to distract the little monsters of the glaring hole that was once something important that had been part of their lives. He tried to assure them that Kou would come back whenever they asked, but he can only do so for so long.
Maybe in a way, he was also assuring himself that Kou would come back.
Amane notices the way Sakura’s brows knit together as her expression turned serious looking at the check-up report in front of her. She quietly hands them to Amane, not saying a word but Amane could tell the results were going to be of massive concern.
And they were. It wasn’t just a small decline, it was drastic. From above average, their results were barely below and Amane had to shake away the immediate flashbacks from the previous monsters’ results he had that were similar.
“Are the monsters doing alright, Researcher A?” Sakura finally decides to ask.
Amane smiles wryly at her “To be frank, they’re not.” he admits, his eyes held worry.
“I see. Well, it’s to be expected with the absence of their other caretaker. Not to mention the incident last week.” Sakura casually brings up. Amane knew that, of course.
Silence filled the room while the results of the little monsters’ check-up glared at Amane in red “Hey, Sakura.” the researcher then speaks up.
Sakura was a little taken back by the real name address but decides not to point it out “What is it?"
"Can I ask for advice as a fellow researcher? Is there…” Amane pauses, trying not to choke on his own words “Is there anything I can do to save them?”
Naturally, Amane meant the little monsters, but Sakura could tell there was a third person in mind when he asked her that question. And while she isn’t familiar with whatever relationship or feelings Amane has right now being inexperienced in that field, she couldn’t help but try to provide assistance.
“From a researcher’s point of view who has witnessed both the best and worst outcome, I would advice for you to pay close attention to your monsters and their environment. The results are there in your hands, make what you will with that.” Sakura explains in her usual, nonchalant tone “As for your other concern, well…” she trails off, for the first time since her time as a supervisor she was unsure of what to say “it wouldn’t hurt to see how he’s doing and perhaps you can start from there.”
Amane turns to her, eyes wide, not exactly expecting for her to give him any advice in that regard, nor was he expecting the advice she had given him either. But still, Amane was thankful.
During Akari and Midori’s afternoon nap is the only time Amane is able to do his research. The progress is slow but with Sakura’s advice and the results in his hand, perhaps he’ll reach a conclusion soon enough.
No matter how Amane looks at it, it was clear that the results made a drastic change upon the absence of Kou, so it was obvious Kou was an important variable to the monsters’ growth. But it’s not like he can just input the other researcher’s name in. Obviously, it wasn’t the person itself, but whatever he was doing.
It wasn’t like the difference was in the way they handled the monsters considering Amane continued Kou’s routine as best as he could and yet the results came out as they did. The only stark difference in their caretaking is Kou’s personality is livelier while Amane, well… he wasn’t the most sociable.
It couldn’t have been a matter of personality when you can’t expect researchers to all be bubbly and lively like Kou. Or perhaps it could be a factor since Researcher M also had a lively personality to her and Teru came out as he is.
However, there are also more timid researchers that have raised stable monsters as well, so that hypothesis is out of the table.
Sakura had mentioned the environment, but Akari and Midori grew up in the same environment as Amane’s previous monsters so there isn’t a change there. Again, with the added variable of Kou, however.
It couldn’t be in the nutrients intake because Kou had only started cooking meals for them just recently. At the mention of Kou’s cooking, Amane couldn’t help but feel his mouth water, missing the delicious taste. Clearly, cafeteria food could never compare to Kou’s skills.
Raising methods. Personality. Environment. Nutrients.
None of these factors point out what exactly made the difference no matter how Amane analyzed it. What did Kou do to create such a drastic change to Amane’s caretaking?
Amane sighs, leaning against his chair. He hadn’t hit a wall this hard in ages. While the challenge was welcoming as a researcher, it was still a tad bit frustrating when the results seem close and yet so far.
To clear his mind a bit, he decides to stretch his feet. Getting up from his desk, he walks to the large windows as the rain poured down from the angry skies. He feels something on his foot and as he looks down, he noticed he had stepped on one of the little monsters’ drawings earlier.
He quickly takes his foot off and picks it up, mentally apologizing for stepping on it.
Amane blinks, staring at the childlike drawing in his hands. It was a drawing of 4 stick figures, 2 of them taller than the other 2. One of the figures had spiky blonde hair while the other tall figure had black hair. Meanwhile, the two smaller figures had horns and tails; it was a drawing of the 4 of them.
And on top of the figures were the words ‘FAMILY’ in shaky handwriting.
Family, huh.
And then something seems to click in Amane’s brain as he tries to break it down.
What consists of a family? Naturally, you would consider a mother, a father and children. However, in reality, a family doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be blood-related. Found families have bonds that are just as strong as blood-related families. As long as a person holds strong feelings and consider someone as family, then there’s no argument needed to falsify this claim.
Feelings? Like love?
Familial love.
Yes. Perhaps that’s it!
Kou had always been the sentimental type, Amane knew as much. With how he shows care towards the monsters since they were eggs, going by his instincts since their hatching, nurturing them as if they’re his own offspring, raising them and loving them like a parent would to their child.
Kou provided Akari and Midori that kind of familial love, and in return, the twins loved Kou just as much.
And now that the source of that love wasn’t present in their lives, their mental and emotional state have declined.
Is it possible that love is what keeps the monsters from being unstable?
Does it specifically need to be familial love? Or does romantic love count? Friendly love?
Amane rushes back to his desk with the drawing in hand. He decides to pin it up on his wall for the meantime, consider it as a crucial help to his findings. He can’t confirm this hypothesis as true just yet until he can get Kou back, but it's the strongest conclusion he’s had since starting this research.
So for now, he’ll hold onto it.
The next step, however, is to follow Sakura’s other advice.
***
Amane had suspicions.
Akari and Midori were being oddly lively the whole day. They followed their daily routine as usual, even told Amane they can leave for the cafeteria on their own during lunch which Amane had no reason to not let them do so. After 2 months, they were old enough to walk around the nursery by themselves, of course.
But the change in their demeanor was very strange, and Amane had a hunch as to why.
“Will you be up all night doing research again, Amane?” Akari asks as he’s putting the book he finished reading to them back on the shelf.
Amane hums as he thought before responding “I might head to the dorm to sleep. Will you two be alright on your own?” he turns to the two in their nest.
“Yes, we’ll be fine!” Akari’s response was a little too eager and Midori nods beside her.
They’re trying to drag me out of the lab tonight. Amane deduces.
“Very well, then. I’ll see you two in the morning.” Amane bids them goodnight, turning on the starry nightlight installed on the ceilings of the lab as he switches the main light off. He peeks at them lying on their nest one last time before he leaves the lab.
Amane does go back to his dorm for the meantime but decides not to sleep. Instead, he lay there on his bed, waiting for time to pass.
He checks the time on his watch; just a little past 10 PM. They should be out by now.
Amane gets up from the bed and heads back to the lab to check if his suspicions were right.
They were.
He returns to the lab and is greeted with an empty nest—a makeshift lump of pillows underneath the blankets to mask the absence of the two monsters were what was left.
Amane sighs, he knew the two little monsters were plotting something, and he just hopes he can get to them before they get far.
***
As soon as the coast was clear, Akari and Midori made haste with their plan to sneak out of the institute. With small backpacks filled with snacks and a hooded coat they precured from the storage room, they set forth. Their destination, Kou’s house.
With hands held together, they quietly roamed the dimly lit halls, avoiding any researchers or staff that could catch them, until they manage to make it outside through a back door Akari found. She discovered it during one of their lunchtimes alone and found out they never lock it in the evening; it was the perfect escape route!
While they couldn’t get much about where Kou lived even if they asked Sakura or any of the researchers, it wasn’t enough to keep them from putting their plan into action.
Nobody can really blame the little monsters. They missed Kou. And they could tell Amane missed him just as much. And if Amane wasn’t going to do anything about it, then they’ll do it themselves!
Getting out of the building was easy, however the difficult part was getting over the towering fences that surrounded the nursery.
The two stared at the large steel bars. The only thing separating them from their journey to find Kou.
“Man, I wish I had wings like Teru-nii!” Akari whines, approaching the metal bars.
“Maybe I can melt them with my fire?” Midori suggests.
“And wake everyone up? I don’t think so.” Akari immediately declines. Then a thought comes to mind “Maybe I can pull them apart enough to create a passage?”
“That’s a great idea!” Midori beams, agreeing to the idea and then pausing as he remembers a crucial factor “Ah, but what about your arm? It’s not completely healed yet, right?”
“It’ll be fine! It doesn’t hurt as much anymore, see?” and Akari swings it around to prove her point, only to feel a stinging pain when she does so. She flinches, holding her arm.
Midori is immediately by her side “Don’t move it around too much! Hmm, maybe that isn’t such a good idea then.” the little monster concludes.
“Well, we don’t really have much of a choice, do we? Do you want to see Kou or not?” Akari asks and Midori simply nods in response “I’ll be fine, Midori, okay?”
Midori remains silent but nods in response still, even as he’s worried for his sister’s injury.
Akari rubs her palms together, taking deep breaths to psyche her up. She did have exceptional strength and this has been proven during her fight with Mika last week, so it’s possible she can bend the bars with ease. She’ll just have to not exert too much force on her right arm so it doesn’t open her injury. It’ll be troublesome walking around with a bloody arm, after all.
Just as Akari was about to grab the bars, a voice calls from behind as a lantern shines on the two monsters “What do you think you’re doing?”
The two monsters slowly turn around, meeting the unamused eyes of Amane “A-Amane…” the two say in unison.
Amane raises a brow at them, waiting for their response to his question.
“We, uh… we just wanted to get some fresh air! We haven’t been outside for a while ‘cause of the rain so we thought we’d go out for once, right?” Akari makes up the lie, turning to Midori who simply nods beside her.
However, Amane was clearly not buying it “You were planning to go see Kou, weren’t you?” he says and the reactions on the two little monsters’ faces were enough proof that he was right. Amane sighs.
“Can you blame us? We miss Kou! And we want to see him!” Akari argues.
“And, and we’re worried! He was acting strange before he left. We wanna know if he’s okay!” Midori adds in.
“Amane, please!” the two monsters plead, wide teary eyes staring up at Amane, hoping it’ll get him to give in.
Amane stares at the two in silence before he speaks “Even if you ask me like that, I can’t exactly let you two go on your own. Two monsters walking around the village unsupervised, did you two not even think how dangerous that is? If someone were to recognize you, it won’t be a happy ending, do you hear me?”
As Amane scolded the two, the little monsters simply hung their heads low, feeling bad as Amane pointed out the harsh truth that they never really thought about. It was true, even when they had the means to defend themselves, it wouldn’t be long before they’re captured by some coldhearted human and probably meet an end far worse than Mika’s.
If that were to happen, Kou would be heartbroken.
“We just wanted to see Kou…” the two monsters mumble, holding back tears.
Amane exhales a breath, already feeling guilty for raising his voice at them. But he was just a little scared, really. If they were more careful with their planning and Amane hadn’t noticed they were scheming something, then Amane wouldn’t have caught them in time to stop them.
Amane wouldn’t be able to forgive himself if anything happened to the twins, especially while Kou was gone.
“I’m sorry for raising my voice. I was worried. And I understand how you two feel.” Amane apologizes, his tone turning softer as he crouches down, taking each one of the twins’ hands in his “I also miss Kou.” He whispers.
Hearing that, the little monsters couldn’t hold back their own emotions, launching themselves to Amane in a tight hug as they cried on his shoulders. They’ve never cried, actually, Amane realized that until now.
Even when Kou told them he was going home for a while. Even when they woke up one day without Kou around. Even when they put themselves in danger to save Kou.
They never cried. They tried to stay strong. It was commendable, really.
But now, in Amane’s arms, they finally let out their true feelings.
Once the two had calmed down, Amane decides to tell them his own plans “Actually, I’ve discussed a few things with Sakura before. And I have her permission to take you both out on an excursion.”
The twins lean away from the hug, looking at him with curious eyes “What’s e…excu… excusion?” Midori was the one to ask, Amane chuckles at the little monster’s attempt to repeat the word.
“It means I can take you both out to see Kou.”
At the news, both monsters’ eyes shined, wide smiles on their faces and they start jumping in their place from the excitement. Yells that they get to see Kou and how excited they were filled Amane’s ears.
“But, if Amane already asked, why didn’t you tell us this whole time?” Akari then asks, realizing it just now.
Amane chuckles apologetically “Well, you two didn’t tell me anything about your plans either. And here I thought we wanted to see Kou all the same.” He pouts, an expression the two never see Amane do and so they couldn’t help the giggle, not really able to stay mad at him after that.
“When are we leaving?” Midori asks.
Amane looks up at the sky, the grey clouds seem to have disappeared bit by bit and a few stars were finally peeking through them “Hmm, it’s a little dark right now so I don’t think it’d be safe for travel. So let’s rest up for the night, and we can leave early tomorrow. How’s that sound?”
At the given suggestion, the two monsters reply with a cheerful “Okay!” and Amane brings them back to the lab, each of the monsters’ hands held in his.
***
Amane could tell the little monsters didn’t really sleep that night due to the excitement. He decided to rest up on the padded nursery so they can leave by sunrise and he was immediately woken up by Akari frantically shaking him awake, yelling that it was morning.
He was never really a morning person hence it was Kou who usually woke up early to tend to the monsters and so the twins have been dragging him around while he got ready.
While the little monsters’ backpacks were still filled with snacks and refreshments they had packed for their journey last night, Amane decides to fill his own with other necessities such as extra clothes, first-aid kit, flashlights with extra batteries, a two-way radio in case of emergencies and his pocket knife.
Once they were all set, he puts on his own hooded coat, reminding the two to never take theirs off while they’re outside so they can hide their monster attributes. And the three set off to the village.
Sakura had only confirmed that Kou lived in the village below the mountain but not exactly where his house is located. Amane concludes they’ll need to ask around and hope Kou’s family name would be somewhat recognized. Kou did tell him he helped around town before working as a researcher so his hopes were high.
They followed the trail down the mountain, Amane holding the two monsters close by their hands so they don’t wander off. Frankly, Amane was also a little nervous since he hasn’t left the institute since he and Tsukasa joined in. And that was already quite some time ago.
But he’ll swallow down the nerves. It shouldn’t be so hard. Just down the mountain, to the village, ask for directions and everything should be good.
However, since it’s also the little monsters’ first time outside, their curiosities were very obviously piqued as they pointed at things and asked Amane about them. And even as Amane held their hands tightly, they still managed to latch off of his hold to derail off the path when they find something interesting in the woods.
Thankfully, the forest wasn’t exactly a danger and they didn’t run off too far so Amane didn’t mind some impromptu learning during this excursion.
After about half a day trek down the mountain, they finally reach the bottom and just a few steps ahead was the entrance to the village. Both monsters’ eyes gleamed seeing the nearby houses and the people walking around.
“Is that…” Akari starts
“…the village?” Midori finishes.
Amane nods, grabbing hold of the two’s hands before they could run off again “That’s right. That’s where Kou lives.” He confirms to them. He’ll admit, the nerves from earlier were slowly starting to be replaced by excitement. He didn’t think he’d be just as eager to see the blonde again soon.
The two monsters hurriedly pull Amane as they rush towards the entrance, Amane having to pull them back to fix their cloaks when their hoods were coming off from all the running.
“Remember, I need you two to stay close to me. Don’t ever let go of my hand and don’t run off. Keep hold on your hoods so they don’t come off of your head. Alright?” Amane reminds the two.
Akari and Midori nod in unison. Once he’s sure the two understood their assignment, he begins walking again until they pass through the entrance and into the busy streets of the village.
As expected, the village was rather loud and lively. People roamed the streets, mothers shopping for food, kids playing together, workers doing their daily labor; everywhere you look there was a crowd. Amane worries a little if the change in environment was overwhelming to the monsters, but as he sees the fascination in their eyes, he knows there was nothing to be of concern.
They continue walking around until they reach a huge fountain, Amane concludes this must be the plaza area. There seemed to be more houses beyond this place so he assumes they could start asking there.
He approaches an elderly woman running a fruit stall to ask for directions “Hello, Ma’am. Is it okay if I ask you some questions?” he greets her.
“Yes, sonny, what is it?” she replies, smiling fondly at the group.
“Do you happen to know someone by the name ‘Minamoto Kou’?”
The woman hums in thought “Can’t say it rings a bell, I’m sorry.” she apologizes.
“I see. Thank you for your time.” Amane says but just as he was about to leave, he feels Akari tugging at his coat “What is it?” he looks down to her.
“Can we get an apple, Amane? Akari’s hungry.” The little monster cries.
“Ah, right. Sure.” He replies, remembering they haven’t stopped to eat since they left the nursery. He looks back to the elderly woman “Can I buy three apples please?” he asks, letting go of the monsters’ hands for a moment to take out his purse so he could pay.
The woman nods, taking out a paper bag and carefully stuffing 3 apples inside. He hands the bag to Amane as Amane gives her the payment, bowing his head in thanks.
“Okay, here’s one for you, Akari.” Amane takes out one apple from the bag and gives it to Akari who excitedly takes the fruit and gives it a bite, relishing in the juicy taste. Amane smiles, then turns to Midori to give him his apple, however, the little monster was nowhere to be seen “Midori?”
Fear rushes through Amane’s system as he hastily looks around for the little monster in a brown cloak, calling for his name. But there was no familiar monster in sight, not even a response to his calls.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 9: Monsters in the House
Summary:
Amane and Kou have a good talk to help sort out Kou's feelings.
Notes:
Hello, world!
More emotional stuff but the good kind this time~
and yes, i left the last chapter on an evil cliffhanger cus why not wahahaha but things are all good i promise skdjgfsk
also yes, the chap title is taken from 'Mokke in the House' spin-off chap lmaowell, hope you enjoy this chapter! ^^
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Monsters have more heightened senses compared to humans. If they focus hard enough, they’re able to track down anything using sound or scent. While it doesn’t get fully developed until they reach maturity, it’s still a skill obtained since their infancy.
Which is why they’re able to quickly discern who their caretakers are even without the bond a normal mother and child would have.
Midori, who has memorized Kou’s scent and voice since he was a baby, manages to recognize the faint but familiar sound through the loud and crowded streets of the village. A sound he hasn’t heard in days but he will never ever forget no matter how long it’s been.
He follows the sound, his tiny legs taking him where his instincts lead. He tries to focus, keep that voice in the center of his attention as he walks past the crowd. He loses it for a moment and the little monster worries but then it comes back again and he continues tracking the source.
Finally, after what seemed like forever of walking through the plaza, he finally sees him.
Kou. His Kou. The familiar blonde spiky hair, the bright blue eyes that look at him with so much love and fondness, the smile that gives him warmth and comfort. He could see him again.
“Kou—” as he was about to call for the blonde, he gets bumped from behind by someone and the little monster loses his balance. His little body falls forward, meeting the cold stoned ground.
As he does so, his hood comes off and his horns meet the sight of those around him.
He could hear the gasps and whispers of the onlookers. He sits up, trying to find the direction where he last saw Kou but is immediately picked up by the arm as he faces a complete stranger.
“You… are you a monster?!” the man asks, his voice accusatory and his eyes were dark.
Fear rushes through Midori’s system as he tries to struggle out of the man’s hold. Unfortunately, he wasn’t as strong as Akari and the grip on his arm just tightens.
“Trying to run away, are ya! Looks like we got ourselves a real monster here! Did ya escape from that blasted place up there?!” the man continues to yell at the tiny monster, but Midori refuses to say anything.
His instincts were telling him to attack. To use his claws or breathe fire. But he tries to hold back, remembering Amane’s words that they shouldn’t be found out. He can’t use his monster skills here, he doesn’t want to hurt people!
In his head, he continues to scream for Kou’s and Amane’s names. Praying they’ll save him.
“Excuse me!” as if his prayers were heard, that same familiar voice he was following earlier yells through the crowd.
“Ha?” the man looks to whoever called him, Midori follows his gaze and there stood Kou “Ye’r that Minamoto’s son, aren’t ya? Is this monster yours?” he asks the blonde.
“Yes, he is.” Midori is surprised by the blonde’s blunt response.
“Ha! I knew it! You and ye’r crazy family of monster-loving peeps bringing these beasts in our village! I should have you and this runt thrown in dem cages!” the man yells, his tone was harsh as he spit out curses at the blonde.
Kou approaches the man, trying to remain calm and amicable “Can you let him go, please? Don’t you see he’s scared?” the blonde asks.
However, instead of doing so, the man tightens his grip and Midori cries in pain. Kou’s expression darkens, seeing as the man wouldn’t listen to a calm interrogation, he was left with no choice.
But instead of charging at the man or to pull Midori away from him, aware doing so would just hurt the little monster more, he strides beside him in quick footwork. Not even the onlookers were able to catch him until the next thing they see, Kou strikes the man’s wrist in a hand chop.
That succeeds in making him release his grip on the monster. As if that wasn’t enough, Kou grabs the man’s said arm to twist it behind him, his other hand placed firmly on the other shoulder to keep him in place. The man yells in pain.
“Let me remind you just in case you’ve forgotten; it’s our job as Minamotos to keep the peace between monsters and humans in this village. I won’t stand for anyone disturbing that peace. Do I make myself clear, Joel-san?” Kou warned, voice low and cold that even Midori couldn’t help but shiver at the unfamiliar tone.
The man named ‘Joel’ curses under his breath before struggling out of Kou’s hold. Kou lets him go, of course, and the man runs away. He walks over to Midori who sat frozen on the ground watching the scene before him.
When Kou approaches him, he flinches, arms covering his head as the fear from the unfamiliar nature Kou had displayed earlier hasn’t left his system. Was this how Kou really acted? Was this his true nature? It was scary.
“Midori.” And then he hears his voice turn gentle. That makes Midori look up at him from hiding “It’s okay now, Midori. I’m sorry if I scared you.” Kou apologizes, his expression warm and tender. The same expression Midori had always seen from Kou whenever he looked at the little monster.
Yes, this was still Kou.
Unable to contain his emotions any longer, Midori gets up and runs to Kou, burying his face in the blonde’s chest as he wraps his tiny arms around him. Kou reciprocates the hug, and only after feeling this warmth again since being away did the blonde realize how much he missed it. He holds back crying, but god did he miss his little Midori.
“There, there. It’s okay. I’m here.” Kou hushes as he rubs the monster’s back soothingly to calm him down “Did you come here alone?” he then asks.
“Midori!” as if on cue, Kou hears a faint voice not far from where they were and he turns his head just in time for his eyes to lock with familiar golden ones.
A sense of longing Kou didn’t realize he had been feeling since coming home has made itself known. It was present when he saw Midori earlier. And now it’s just as obvious seeing Amane again. Right there. In front of him.
“Kou.” Amane breathes, approaching the blonde in slow steps. Akari runs ahead of him, joining Midori in embracing Kou.
“Kou! We missed you!” Akari cries as she buries her face in the blonde’s shoulder. Kou gently pats her head, pressing a kiss by her temple.
“I missed you, too, Akari.” Kou tells the monster.
As he looks up at Amane, he could tell the senior researcher was holding himself back. But seeing where they are right now, it was obvious he didn’t want to add to the touching but rather embarrassing display in public.
“Wanna stay over at my house for the night? I’m sure my family would love to meet you all.”
***
“I’m home!” Kou announces his arrival as he opens the door to his house.
A little girl with familiar facial features but with longer hair comes running to the front door from the living room “Welcome back, Kou-oniichan!” and then she pauses when she notices he wasn’t alone.
“Hello, Tiara. I brought some guests.” Kou explains. He gestures to Amane who stood beside him “This is Amane, a fellow researcher from Kamome Monster Nursery.”
“Hello.” Amane greets after the introduction, bowing his head.
“And as for these two here. This little guy is Midori, and the girl right here is Akari. They’re siblings.” Kou introduces the little monsters as he gestures to them respectively “Also… they’re monsters.” he adds and Amane was a little taken back at how casually Kou announced the two’s true identity.
Tiara blinks curiously, switching her attention between the two monsters present. Kou gestures for them to remove their hoods and they did as they’re told, revealing the horns on their heads.
At this reveal, Tiara’s expression grows into a welcoming smile, her eyes sparkled “Actual monsters?! Waahh, that’s so cool!” she exclaims, giggling at the excitement of meeting real monsters.
The two wave their hands in greeting. Kou was a little amused that even Akari was acting a little shy right now. But he can’t blame her, they haven’t interacted with other humans since hatching.
Huffing her chest proudly, Tiara then introduces herself “Hello! I am the eldest daughter of the honorable Minamoto family, Minamoto Tiara! Five years old!” she exclaims, raising four fingers.
Akari and Midori blink at her then look at their own fingers, raising the same amount in confusion. Realizing her mistake, Tiara immediately raises another finger “Five years old.”
Both Amane and Kou chuckle at the cute interaction.
Kou guides his guests in so they can rest in the living room. Amane sat himself down on the long sofa and Akari sits beside him, both exhaling tired breaths from the exhausting journey. Kou puts Midori down on the sofa as well beside his sister.
“Are they Tiara’s new friends?” Tiara then asks, tailing after them.
“Well, if the twins don’t mind, of course.” Kou turns his attention to the little monsters “Do you want to be friends with my sister?”
“I do! I do! Akari will be friends with Tiara!” Akari exclaims, the tiredness seemingly going away at the idea of making a new friend.
Midori also chirps in “Midori too!”
Tiara cheers, clapping her hands as she jumps in her place at the exhilarating news that she has two new friends “Then, then, since you’re both monsters, what can you do?” she starts to ask, curiosity piqued.
“I have super strength! I can fight even huge monsters!” Akari proudly proclaims, fist pumping her chest.
“Midori can breathe fire!”
Tiara’s eyes gleamed “Breathe fire?! Show me, show me!”
Before Midori could showcase his talent, Kou stops the little monster “Uh uh, none of that. We’re not in the lab right now so it’s dangerous to use your skills, okay?” he reminds the two.
“Ah, okay.” the two little monsters reply with an apologetic smile.
“How about you three play with Tiara’s toys instead?” Kou then suggests and all three little kids grow excited at this.
“Come to Tiara’s room, I have a looooot of toys we can play with!” Tiara exclaims, running over to grab both of Akari’s and Midori’s hands and drag them to her room so they can play.
“Be careful now, okay?” Kou calls to them as they run off and he’s received by a loud ‘We will!’ from all three of them. Kou smiles, delighted to see that the twins have made themselves a new, human friend.
He then turns his attention to Amane who simply followed the three little kids disappear into the hall with his eyes before they shift to Kou “Uh, do I need to provide an explanation?” Amane smiles sheepishly at the blonde, feeling as if he was in for a scolding.
Kou exhales a breath “Do you want coffee?” he then asks, to Amane’s surprise.
Amane nods and watches as Kou leaves the living room to head to the kitchen. As Kou was busy preparing some refreshments for him, Amane and the 3 children for later, Amane tours the cozy living room for a bit.
A huge shelf stood by the wall behind the sofa where lines of books were kept. Amane recognizes some to be about monsters, assuming immediately that they were Kou’s. Another shelf with a glass case stood beside it, filled with trinkets, ornaments and some framed pictures.
Amane walks over to look at the row of pictures. Some of them he assumes were pictures of Kou’s parents. One from when they were still teens and another during their marriage. The next picture was of a tiny Kou, smiling that beautiful bright smile as he held a ball in his hands. The next one was a family picture of the three of them, Kou seeming to have grown a bit. Then the next was a picture of baby Tiara in her cradle, then a family picture of the 4 of them.
The next picture was just a solo picture of their mom.
Amane keeps his eyes on this last picture, remembering what Kou mentioned about his Mom passing away. He mentally notes how beautiful the woman was, Kou definitely got a lot of her pretty features.
“I see you’ve met my mom.” Kou’s voice interrupts Amane. He turns to see Kou placing a tray down on the living room table.
“She’s beautiful.” Amane couldn’t help the comment.
“She is, isn’t she? She’s also really kind. She actually has a fascination for monsters.” Kou explains as he sat down on the armchair across the long sofa. Amane returns to his previous place on the sofa.
“She does?” Amane asks, curious.
Kou nods “She once worked at Kamome Monster Nursery during its early years as a normal staff member. She wasn’t into research but she was curious about the monsters. While they were dangerous, she could feel there was kindness hidden beneath some of them.” The blonde explains, expression and voice fond as he remembers the memory of his mother.
“I guess she wasn’t wrong.” was Amane’s remark, taking a sip of his coffee.
“Yeah. To be honest, I thought she was kind of crazy to think that way.” Kou admits and this confession surprises Amane a little “’Monsters being kind? They’re monsters. There was no way they could be good.’ I always thought that way before.” The blonde makes it out to be more jokingly so the topic doesn’t get too heavy.
“If my kid self were to see me right now, he’d probably curse at me.” Kou scoffs.
“What made you change your mind?” the question came out before Amane could think about it. He was a little curious.
Kou was silent for a bit, sips on his own coffee before giving his response “Mom died. And I think deep down, I regretted not seeing eye-to-eye with her perception of monsters. So I decided to study hard until I could be old enough to get into Kamome Monster Nursery. It was good timing, too, when the news spread about the change in the nursery’s purpose. I thought it was probably fate.”
Amane doesn’t hold back the smile, even as he didn’t have strong opinions on something as superficial as fate, but part of him wants to agree. And that same fate is what brought Kou to his lab to be his assistant and raise the two beautiful monsters they have right now.
“So, enough about me.” Kou then says, changing the topic and focusing on the situation they were in right now “What prompted this surprise visit from my immediate supervisor and his monsters?” came the million-dollar question.
‘Our’ monsters. Amane corrects but decides not to voice it out.
Amane puts down his half empty cup “They missed you.” he casually says. No lie, no excuse. Just the truth, plain and simple.
He doesn’t miss the blush on Kou’s cheeks when he hears the senior researcher’s response “I see.” was all Kou could say before silence envelops the room, simply the ticking clock and the faint voices of the children playing could be heard.
“How have you been, Kou?” Amane finally says, a question he’d been wanting to ask since seeing Kou. While it would seem that Kou has been looking a lot better since they last saw each other, he still wants to confirm how he’s really feeling.
Kou takes in a breath, as if trying to keep his emotions in check “I guess I’ve been better after being away for a while.” he replies. Amane doesn’t miss the way he bites his lip, obviously holding back.
“Are you really?” Amane asks, needing the truth from the blonde.
Kou scoffs, his voice turning shaky “Who am I kidding?” he gives a wry laugh “I did feel a little better a day after coming home. But… I missed them, too.” the blonde finally admits.
“Frankly, I tried not to think about it. I tried not to think about them. But the harder I tried, the emptier I felt. I distracted myself by helping out in the village like I usually did, but nothing was working.” Kou explains, keeping his eyes on the coffee cup in his hands.
“It’s kind of pathetic, isn’t it? They’re not even my kids. Heck, I’m not even their official caretaker. But here I am being sad over not seeing them when I chose to do so because I was such a coward.” Kou’s voice turns shaky, his vision beginning to blur as the tears started to well up.
He angrily wipes them away, annoyed that he was getting emotional again.
“You’re not a coward.” Amane decides to say, not wanting to hear Kou berate himself and his feelings any longer.
“Huh?”
“You’re sad because you missed them. Because you care about them. Isn’t that only natural?” Amane points out.
“Well, yeah. But they’re not even—”
“But you raised them with me. Is that not enough reason for your feelings to be valid?”
Kou grows silent, unable to argue with Amane’s point “I… guess so.”
Amane exhales a breath, aware of what’s keeping Kou from acknowledging his feelings towards the little monsters he raised. He knows it all too well. That’s exactly what he did after the first time he experienced losing the first monster he raised.
“You’re scared, aren’t you?” the senior researcher finally says, and the way Kou flinches was enough proof that he was right “After what happened with Mika, it’s natural for you to think if Akari and Midori will meet the same fate. So you decide to try and sever your ties, your feelings with them, that way it’ll hurt less.”
Kou doesn’t respond and Amane takes that as indication to continue “I’ve been in your shoes before, Kou. The fear of feeling the same loss over and over again. So you shut those feelings out in hopes it’ll hurt less. I understand that feeling all too well.”
Then, Amane looks up at Kou, determination in his eyes “But, I won’t allow that to happen to you.”
Kou is surprised by this claim, wide eyes look up to see the resolve in Amane’s expression “What do you mean?” he asks.
“You remember what I was researching, right?” Amane then brings up.
The memory of the research papers Kou once read comes to mind and the blonde nods “It was about methods to keep the monsters stable.”
Amane nods, and without breaking eye contact, he says “And I think I’ve found the answer.”
Kou stares at him with wide surprised eyes, but Amane could also see the hint of hope in them after hearing the senior researcher’s words.
“You did?”
“Yes. It took a while because it was something I wouldn’t have realized on my own. Something that wouldn’t have happened in my vicinity if you weren’t around, Kou.”
At the mention of Kou, the blonde blinks in surprise “Me?” he asks.
“Yes. You were an important variable to the research. Because while our methods were hardly any different on surface level, deep down, there was something you provided the two that I lacked; and that was love.”
Amane studies Kou’s expression as he revealed his hypothesis. He knew it sounded silly, even he would probably think it was crazy if someone told him this without the findings he had at the moment. And as he expected, Kou was knitting his brows in confusion.
“What are you talking about?” Kou asks, disbelief in his tone “Isn’t that a little too vague?”
“I know. It’s vague and hardly holds any substantial or corporeal proof. But it’s the best conclusion I’ve had so far that actually makes sense. And if I’ll be honest, I only need one more check-up result to prove this hypothesis true.” Amane argues, then he turns to Kou, his eyes pleading “And I can’t do that without you, Kou.”
Kou looks down as he thought, fidgeting with the cup in his hands. Amane was hoping for him to say anything but the blonde doesn’t reply. Perhaps still finding it hard to believe that Kou’s love for the twins really was an important asset that helped Amane reach this conclusion.
“I’m aware it just sounds like I’m asking you to come back because I need you for my research. But it’s more than that, Kou. This isn’t for me or for my research. This is for Akari and Midori. I…” Amane pauses for a bit before he finally lets out the words he had been trying to hide in the deepest parts of his heart “I’m scared to lose them now.”
With this, Kou finally looks back at Amane “You are?”
Amane nods “When we got the egg, I was ready to let the monster go if it didn’t turn stable again like last time. If I wasn’t able to reach a conclusion for my research this time around, I can treat it as any other monster I’ve raised. I avoided getting attached for this specific reason.
“But seeing you raise them. Seeing how you cared for them and turned them into the monsters they are now. How your love molded them into the Akari and Midori we have right now. I found myself giving in. There were times I felt lonely when the two only looked to you for help or comfort. Times I wish they could rely on me, too. I was their official caretaker, after all.
“However, in truth, it wasn’t about the title. It was about who actually cared for them and provided them that love and comfort. Surely enough, that wasn’t me. That was all you.”
“That’s not true!” Kou cuts in to Amane’s shock “Akari and Midori care about you just as much! You say you didn’t love them like I did, but isn’t your sleepless nights as you work on this research enough proof that you also cared for them? Because you didn’t want to lose them too?”
Amane blinks at Kou, not really expecting to hear the blonde’s argument about his own feelings towards the little monsters. However, in a way, maybe he needed that validation, as well. He already knew in his heart that he cares about the monsters more than he’ll admit. But hearing Kou tell him that still felt right.
“You’re right, Kou. Well, I did already tell you that.” Amane chuckles in response “But my love for them isn’t enough right now. They need you, too.” he adds.
Kou remains silent again, inhaling a breath and to Amane’s surprise, he finishes his coffee in a single gulp before placing the cup down on the table “Alright.”
“Eh?”
“I won’t go back right away. I’ll need some more time, probably but…” Kou trails off, looking at the hallway where the faint laughter of the children could still be heard “I’ll definitely come back. For Akari and Midori.”
Hearing Kou’s resolve right now, Amane doesn’t hold back the smile. Relief washes over him as he could only think about how the little monsters would be thrilled to hear this news.
To Amane’s surprise, Kou stands from his seat to walk over to his side, sitting by the sofa to wrap his arms around the senior researcher. Amane stiffens, trying to will his heart to calm down.
“K-Kou?” Amane calls for the blonde, confused by the action.
“Thank you, Amane. For coming here to help me sort my feelings.” Kou says against Amane’s ear.
Amane smiles, reciprocating the hug, not really intending to tighten his hold on Kou but oh god everything in his system was just yelling at him to do so. To indulge in the feel of Kou’s warmth. Something he didn’t realize he also missed just as much.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Next chapter we get to meet Minamoto papa this time hehe
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 10: At the Minamotos
Summary:
Amane and the monsters spend the evening at the Minamoto House.
Notes:
Hello, world!
We get to meet Minamoto papa in this chap yaayyy!
My perception of his personality is he's kinda the nice uncle kinda vibe? not too strict or anything so i tried to write him with that image in mind dkjfgksd
thank u as always to kei for helping me think of a name for Minamoto papa for this chap!
Gave him the name 'Raika' (雷夏) because i wanted him to keep the character for 'lightning', as for the 'summer' character, that was a personal preference of me and my friend from our hc name for their mom lmaoAs for the name explanation scene, ngl i dug my own grave with that convo because yea i did not have any deeper reason for the names aside from 'aka/red' and 'midori/green' so i had to bullshit smth with midori and holy shit the way i lowkey died when i saw two names in the site for jp baby names i was looking at that had the character for 'midori' but was read as 'tsukasa' (緑冴 and 緑沙 i haven't scrolled far enough to check if there were others but yea) so i ran with that kjsdgfs
it was a stretch but eh shrugs skjdfgsk
anywayssss hope you enjoy this chap! ngl i just wanted to write amane having The Talk with kou's dad lmao sjkdgfsk
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The Minamoto house was very lively that evening. Kou had prepared curry rice, more than enough to feed a family of three and their guests. Needless to say, the twins and Amane had looked forward to having a taste of Kou’s homemade cooking again.
As Kou cooked their meal, he asked Tiara to set the table. Akari and Midori offered to help as well and Tiara taught them what to do.
Amane, on the other hand, couldn’t sit idly as everyone else got busy so he decides to ask if he could offer some assistance. Kou could tell he got fidgety sitting around so he asked him to help in taking out the extra sheets from the storage room to bring to his room.
Once the dinner table was set and the food was done, everyone started eating.
“Should we be eating without your dad?” Amane was the one to ask after they’ve said their graces.
“Yeah. He usually comes home late from patrol so it’s fine.” Kou says.
As if on cue, however, the door to the living room swung open then shut close and they heard the voice of a man announce his arrival. Footsteps approached the dining area and a tall blonde man in a black shirt, brown jacket and dark blue jeans came into view.
“Mmm, I smell delicious cur—” the man is cut off as soon as he notices the extra people sitting by the dining table.
“Dad! Welcome home!” Tiara greets, jumping off her chair to run to her father. The man snaps out of the shock to carry his daughter up into his arms and give her a long kiss on cheek.
“Welcome back, dad. You’re home early.” Kou muses.
“Yeah. I could smell the delicious cooking of my eldest son all the way from the station so I asked to end shift early.” The man jokes, earning a scowl from Kou as he tells him off. He laughs in response “Actually, got news that Joel was causing a ruckus again with a monster and I heard the one who dealt with that was Kou.” He then turns his attention to the little monsters sitting on each side of Kou “Not to mention people said you brought those monsters home with you.”
Akari and Midori seem to sink into their seats from the man’s stare and Kou tells him to not scare the two. The man laughs, putting his daughter down on her seat.
“Sorry, sorry. I was just teasing.” He says, sitting himself down on the empty seat by the end of the table “I was curious when I heard you brought them home so I asked to end shift early.”
“Uhm,” Amane then speaks up and everyone’s attention turn to him “I apologize for our unannounced visit. My name is Yugi Amane, I am a researcher at Kamome Monster Nursery. Kou is my assistant.” he says.
The man hums “Assistant, huh?” he mumbles as he eyes the two monsters who continued to eat their plate of curry “My name is Minamoto Raika, Kou’s father. I work with the countermeasure team specializing in keeping an eye on violence towards monsters.” Kou’s father, Raika, introduces himself.
Amane isn’t able to hide his surprise hearing his line of work “The countermeasure team has something like that?”
“Yeah. It was only established some years ago ever since monsters started living amongst humans. My wife was adamant in making sure things stay peaceful as the village transitioned into a place that welcomes monsters. I joined the team on her behalf when she passed. Feels like I’m continuing her legacy somehow.” Raika explains.
Amane smiles, relief and a strange sense of warmth filling his chest, both from the news that the village has become more accepting of monsters living amongst humans and the fact Kou and his dad were similar in the sense that they wish to uphold the memory of someone they both loved.
Kou really was raised by good parents.
“So does that mean there are monsters living in this village?” Amane asks curiously.
“There are. Quite a few of them run some of the shops, too, like the nice fox lady working at the clothes shop in the plaza.” Kou replies before turning his attention to Akari who was tugging at his sleeve asking for more curry.
“That’s amazing.” Amane couldn’t help but muse “I suppose I haven’t really left the nursery since I joined so I didn’t think there were few places that accepted monsters now.” he jokes, scratching cheek.
Raika laughs in response “You and your monsters are always welcome to come down and play.” He offers and Amane thanks him for the warm invitation. Then the man perks up as he remembers something “Speaking of monsters, I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting these tiny angels.” He points out, turning to the two little monsters present.
“I’m Akari! Pleased to meet you!” Akari exclaims, bowing her head a little.
“I’m Midori. Nice to meet you.” Midori follows after, a little shyly.
“Akari and Midori, what nice names. Did you know Kou’s grandma’s name is ‘Akari’?” Raika then says and Akari’s eyes widen in surprise, overjoyed at this new piece of information.
“Really?” Raika nods “Kou, did you name me after your grandma?” Akari then turns to Kou as she asks this.
“Eh? Ah, more or less. I didn’t think about it much, I just thought of something red and I liked how ‘Akari’ sounded.” Kou explains sheepishly, adding that it wasn’t exactly written the same as his grandma’s but the sentiment was there.
“Then, what about Midori?” Midori chimes in.
Kou feels a wave of guilt as Midori asks this since he really did only think of ‘Midori’ due to the little monster’s eye color—technically it’s the same with Akari and the similarity to his grandma’s name was a mere coincidence.
“Do you remember my brother’s name?” Amane then speaks up.
“Tsukasa?” Midori answers.
Amane nods “Actually, there’s a way to write the name ‘Tsukasa’ where you use the character for ‘Midori’. So since you have green eyes, we decided on that.” Kou simply stares as he listened to Amane’s explanation. It was obviously something he made up on the spot since he knew Tsukasa’s name wasn’t written that way, but Kou appreciates the way he saved him there.
“So, my name is related to Tsukasa?” Midori then asks, eyes wide.
“That’s right! Like how Akari’s name sounds like Kou’s grandma’s, Midori’s name is related to Tsukasa’s.”
With that, the two little monsters giggle in joy. While Kou still feels guilty over not thinking over their names in that sense, as long as the little ones were happy, then the impromptu naming history isn’t so bad.
Kou gives Amane a look, mouthing a ‘thank you’ for picking up after him and Amane winks in reply. The action surprises Kou and he’s thankful Midori was calling for him to ask for more curry as well so he was able to ignore the way his heart skipped a beat.
***
“Amane, are you going to take a bath?” Kou asks, peeking out from the bathroom where he was helping the little monsters out of their clothes to wash them up.
Amane who was leaning by the wall watching them replies “Yeah. I’ll go after them”
“Okay. I’ll bring you some clothes to wear once I’m done giving these two a bath. Though, they might be a little big for you.” Kou sheepishly comments.
“It’s fine, it’s fine! I can just recycle these clothes for the night.” Amane declines, unable to hide the way his cheeks grew warm at the thought of wearing any of Kou’s clothing.
Kou looks at him unamused “No can do. They’ve absorbed all your sweat from the whole day, it’s disgusting. I’ll let you borrow some of mine.” Amane winces at the blonde’s blunt comment but isn’t able to refute any longer.
Akari squeals as she gets in the bath, splashing water over the tub and at Kou who was crouching close by. Midori was laughing when he got splashed on then hurries to join his sister in the water. Meanwhile, Kou tells the two to not splash water too much so they don’t flood the bathroom.
A smile is carved on Amane’s lips watching the adorable scene.
“Amane, was it?” he then hears Raika’s voice calling for him. When he turns around, the man gestures for Amane to follow him to the living room and Amane does so. He takes one last peek at Kou and the little monsters before running after Raika.
In the living room, two cups of coffee lay on top of table. Raika sits himself on the armchair and then gestures for Amane to have a seat in the sofa. Amane nods and accepts the invitation, sitting on the sofa in front of Raika.
Honestly, he was a little nervous. The man doesn’t strike him as a strict or too serious person, but there was something about this situation that was making Amane’s nerves go haywire.
“You don’t have to be so tense, Amane, I just wanted to talk to you.” The man chirps, most definitely noticing Amane was nervous.
“Yes, sorry.” Amane sheepishly apologizes.
Raika exhales a breath through his nose before talking “I just wanted to thank you for looking out for Kou.”
Hearing Raika’s words surprises Amane a little “Thank… me?”
The older male nods “I was happy when he got into Kamome Monster Nursery since he worked so hard to achieve that. But I was also a little worried. I am his father, after all. And having your kid away from you, doing research about monsters, even, it wasn’t easy.” he starts, taking a sip from his cup of coffee before gesturing for Amane that the other cup was his.
Amane lowers his head in thanks before taking the cup in his hands and having a sip.
“So you can probably tell how I felt when he came back home a week ago.” at those words, Amane tenses. He could only imagine how Raika must’ve felt, seeing your son injured, sad, as if for a moment he had lost his light.
Amane pictured the image in his head and he remembers how he felt seeing Kou in that state.
"I told him to resign from the nursery, actually. Said he’d probably be better off helping out here than working up there. Of course, it’s not like he won’t be dealing with monsters, still, but at least I’ll be there to protect him if anything happens.”
Amane swallows, it was a natural reaction for Raika to say that to Kou, of course. Even if he doesn’t agree with it, but he’s Kou’s father. And all he wants is for Kou to be safe.
He hears Raika scoff “You know what he said?” he asks. Amane carefully looks at Raika and he had this soft smile on him as he remembered Kou’s words “He said he didn’t want to. He wouldn’t give me a reason, but the resolve in his eyes as he told me off for telling him what to do was intense. I couldn’t understand it at first but,” then he turns to the hallway where the voices of Kou and the little monsters echoed from the bathroom “seeing how he is with those little rascals, I can see why now.”
“You do?” Amane asks.
“Of course I do!” Raika chuckles, loud and hearty “Like I said, I’m a father. So I know what it’s like to be away from your kids.”
Amane hums, understanding what Raika means, but deciding to speak just to clarify “Uhm, just to be clear, Raika-san, it’s not like those monsters are his children. They’re born from a monster egg provided to us as research material. Kou and I just raised them.”
“Monster egg or whatever. It doesn’t change the fact that Kou sees them as his own.” Amane nods, aware of this fact but he’s glad Raika understands the situation.
“Thank you for telling me this, Raika-san.” Amane then says, grateful for this conversation “The truth is, I came down here with the monsters because I wanted to convince him to stay at the nursery. Because his kindness was an important asset especially for the monsters’ growth. It would have been a waste if he left the nursery when there’s so much he can still do.”
It wasn’t completely false, but he wasn’t sure if he can expose the more emotional part of his reasoning to convince Kou to continue his work as a researcher.
Raika raises a brow at him “An important asset, huh?”
“Yes, sir. Ah, and of course the monsters missed him, too.” he adds in.
He receives a hum in response. Raika leans forward, propping his elbows on his knees “And you?”
“Me?”
“Did you miss him too?”
The question catches Amane off-guard and he debates in his head if it’s the right thing to admit that he did or would he just be digging his own grave if he does. Theoretically speaking, there’s no harm in Amane admitting that he missed Kou’s presence in the lab, nor is there any harm in implying that he cares for his assistant.
But for some reason, Amane is nervous about admitting all this to Raika. To Kou’s father.
“I… can’t exactly deny the fact.” Amane carefully says instead.
“Well, it’s only natural, don’t you think?” Raika casually responds.
“Is it?”
“Yeah. After all, you like him, don’t you?”
And then Amane’s world stops in motion. It was a simple sentence. It was factual even. Because he does care about Kou. And there was no reason for him to dislike anything about Kou. So by process of elimination, the answer should be ‘yes’. He does like Kou.
He likes Kou.
That’s strange. Why does that make him feel a lot giddier than usual?
“I… do. I see no reason to dislike Kou, sir. So, it’s natural that I like him.” Amane explains, a lot more cautious with his words than he intended.
Raika laughs after hearing Amane’s reply, clearly impressed by his reasoning “You really are smart, aren’t you?” he beams in the middle of his laughter. Amane awkwardly chuckles along, unsure if the reaction given to him was good or bad.
“Thank you, I guess.” was the researcher’s sheepish reply.
Raika had laughed too hard he was wiping tears at the corner of his eyes, Amane was sure Kou could hear him from the bathroom. Once Raika had calmed down, he smiles at Amane “I guess you do have a point there, Amane. There’s nothing to dislike about Kou.”
Amane nods “Yes, sir. He’s diligent in his work even when it’s his first time handling monsters. He’s very approachable and has no problem communicating and being acquainted with other people. Even the other monsters in the institute grew to adore him. His lively personality and good nature could easily make one feel at ease around him. I’ve personally enjoyed his company more than I can count. And let’s not forget his fine skill in the field of cooking.
“And the way he—” the researcher stops himself as he notices the way Raika’s eyes look at him. Gentle and fond, as he listened to Amane ramble about the many things to like about Kou.
Wait, was he just rambling about Kou?
“Ah, I apologize. I might have gotten carried away.” Amane says a little embarrassed.
Raika shakes his head “No need. You’re not exactly wrong. But,” he then inhales a breath “I think you have a lot to learn about how you perceive your ‘like’ for Kou.”
“Pardon?” the older male chuckles lowly but he doesn’t elaborate.
“It’s fine. Take your time to think about it, kid. You still have a long life ahead of you.” Raika chirps, a wide smile on his face “But when you finally do, I want you to heed this little warning of mine:” Amane gulps, feeling the air grow more serious “If the next time he comes home crying is because of you, I won’t be so forgiving.”
Amane’s body stiffens, growing nervous from this said warning even as he’s still unsure why Kou’s father would be giving him such a warning. He had no intentions of ever making Kou cry, that he can be sure of.
“Y-Yes, sir.” was Amane’s reply, feeling that he had to say this.
“I’m glad you understand. Well then, I won’t be taking up too much of your time, Amane.” Raika gets up on his feet, walking over to Amane’s side to pat his head. The gesture felt nice, Amane muses “Thanks for having this talk with me. Rest up, okay?”
Amane nods, thanking him for the coffee and the honor of having this conversation with him.
***
The full moon shone bright above the night sky. Its light passing through the glass windows, illuminating the room enough to still be able to see with the lights off. The night was finally quiet as the two little monsters, already tired from the travel and from playing around, were finally fast asleep on Kou’s bed, wearing some of Kou’s old shirts as make-shift sleepwear.
Amane mused how adorable they were with the shirts looking oversized on them. But the little monsters were delighted to be wearing something of Kou’s.
Since the bed was only big enough for the two little monsters already, Kou had to lay down two futons on the floor for him and Amane.
“This is probably the first time we’re sleeping together in the same room. Kinda feels like a sleepover, don’t you think?” Kou jokes as he sits on top of his own futon after lulling the monsters to sleep.
“If you don’t count staying the night at my lab during the hatching, yes.” Amane reminds Kou.
“That’s hardly the same, you know. I was the only one who actually slept back then.” Kou then argues.
Amane chuckles in response as he recalls how fast Kou had fallen asleep that day.
“When are you going back to the nursery?” came Kou’s question after a few seconds of silence.
Amane hums in thought “I was thinking tomorrow. Unless you have plans, maybe?” he turns to Kou with an expression as if letting him know they can extend their stay if he so wishes.
Kou smiles at him, bright and bubbly “Yeah. I wanna take the twins out to walk around the village. So they can experience being in a new environment.”
“I’m sure they’d love that.” Amane agrees.
After going over their plans for taking the little monsters out to tour the village tomorrow, Kou slowly starts feeling sleep taking over. And so he tucks himself in for the night with a sleepy “Good night.” to Amane.
As for Amane, however, he decides to simply lay there, staring at the ceiling. It could very well be his body clock being used to the irregular sleeping schedule so he isn’t able to fall asleep so easily. Which probably explains how he isn’t quite a morning person.
There wasn’t much he can do right now nor does he have the energy to leave the room anyway, so he decides to just lay there. As he did, his thoughts go back to his conversation with Raika earlier.
He had been nervous the whole time they were talking, to be honest, but he could tell Raika meant well when he invited Amane to chat. Perhaps he was curious about Kou’s lifestyle in the nursery while working under Amane’s wing. Can’t say he doesn’t blame him especially after Kou abruptly came home feeling worse than usual.
However, he was curious about what Raika meant when he mentioned that Amane has yet to realize what his ‘like’ for Kou really was. Though come to think of it, Amane does have the most unusual reaction whenever he thinks about Kou. Especially with how he reacted from Raika pointing that out to him earlier.
It’s a given fact that he doesn’t dislike Kou, therefore, he likes him. It was simple as that. There shouldn’t be any hidden meaning behind it. And yet, anytime he thinks about it, his heart grows erratic and his stomach churns from the giddy feeling.
How is it possible to have such a peculiar reaction from the thought of liking a person? How is it different from the way he admits he likes Tsukasa or the twins?
Kou was someone he cared about all the same. But somehow, saying he likes Kou felt different.
This is the first time he’s had such a reaction to something that should have been a given to him. It wasn’t adverse per se, but it was strange. He wasn’t positive it could be anything good either. He needs more data on this. He needs to know why Kou could make him feel like this.
He turns to his side to stare at Kou, deep in slumber, still beautiful even in his sleep. Amane smiles, unable to hold back reaching a hand out to move away some of the strands obstructing his face. The action seems to stir Kou, unfortunately, and the blonde turns to the other side so now he was facing the back of his head instead.
Amane mentally apologizes for his action. But he doesn’t take his eyes away from Kou.
Amane enjoyed looking at him. Another strange reaction he gets around Kou. While he had once hypothesized that Kou’s presence brought comfort and happiness to those around him, categorizing this feeling alongside how Kou made everyone else feels around him didn’t sit well with Amane.
Yes, Kou made him happy. Yes, Kou gave him comfort. He adored Kou’s bubbly personality as much as anyone else—maybe even more considering he’s the one who’s often around Kou.
To compare these feelings as something similar to everyone else’s, Amane felt it was wrong.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Next chap we got a family date~ yippeeee
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 11: (Not Really) Family Outing
Summary:
Amane, Kou and the monsters spend time around the village.
Notes:
Hello, world!
And we are back to our regularly scheduled family fluff yippeeee~
wanted to put in my friend's and i's hc of yako being a neesan figure to kou so took the opportunity while it's there hehe
(ignore the fact she was in the kamome monster nursery shikishi art, let's just say she visits the nursery sometimes in her fox form-)my inspo for Akari's dress is the frilly dress Hanako wore in the houkago shounen ep where he got turned into a girl (cus he had no right to look pretty in it sjkdfgks), and for Midori i tried looking through some ouji fits for ideas aaaaa
had to rewrite some bits in this chap especially the end where the monsters saved a kid while i was proofreading this, i'm wondering if i shld put an extra chap for some outtakes of some parts cus i have a whole notepad filled scenes i had to rewrite/remove www big thonk
anyways, hope you enjoy this chap! another long chap too but yea skjdfgsk
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Akari and Midori were squealing in excitement when Kou told them his plans to take them around the village. They eagerly got themselves dressed into the spare clothes Amane brought with him. Akari tied her own hair up into her favorite high ponytail and Midori neatly combed his own.
Seeing as how Amane only brought spare clothes enough for one day, Kou mentally notes to buy them new clothes that they can use in case they decide to extend their stay.
“Are you not coming, Amane?” the blonde asks, noticing Amane was still in his sleepwear—which were technically some of Kou’s clothes.
Kou snaps away the weird thoughts that had been bugging him since last night seeing Amane wearing his clothes. They were just clothes; he didn’t have to think too much about it!
However, the way they do look slightly oversize on him was oddly adorable.
Stop it, Kou. Stop! You’re getting weird ideas again!
“I’m good. Enjoy your little date with the twins.” Amane replies.
Akari and Midori look at him with pleading sad eyes “You’re not coming?” they say in unison. Something sharp seems to have stuck itself on Amane’s chest seeing their sad reactions and he clutches it on instinct.
“Go on, Amane. How can you say ‘no’ to those adorable little faces?” Raika chimes in, patting Amane in the back although a little too hard the shorter male almost toppled over from the force.
“Well, I…” he turns back to the twins, red and green sad eyes continue to plead at him and Amane sighs in defeat “Alright. Give me a moment to get dressed.”
Hearing that, the two little monsters cheer in success, high-fiving each other and Kou seeing their way of persuasion worked. Once Amane was all set, the group left the Minamoto house, with Amane holding Akari’s hand and Midori held Kou’s.
Similar to the day they arrived at the village, the streets were bustling as usual. Everywhere you looked, there were people busy with something. Children ran around playing, bards sang songs attracting crowds, even the twins got curious about it.
“Kou, why are they giving him money?” Akari asks as she notices others were putting coins in the man’s hat lying on the ground.
“It’s called a donation. Some street performers ask for donations when they perform. If you enjoyed it, you have the option to offer them coins as a donation. Kind of a way of showing your appreciation.” Kou explains to them.
Akari and Midori hum in response “Can I give him a donation? I liked his song!” Akari then chirps.
“Sure. Here you go.” Kou gives her a coin and the little monster eagerly runs to the bard’s hat to put her coin in.
“My, is that a little monster I see?” the bard speaks up as he notices Akari approaching.
“Ah, hello! I liked your song very much!” she exclaims, eyes gleaming in delight at being noticed by the man.
“Thank you, little princess. Your kindness is appreciated.” he winks at the little monster and Akari blushes. She responds with a wide smile before she rushes back to Amane and Kou.
“What’s he being all cheeky for? Is he trying to woo Akari or something?” Kou hears Amane mumble beside him, unamused of the affectionate gesture towards his little monster.
“Let it be. Akari seems to enjoy the attention.” Kou tells him.
Their next stop was the clothes store Kou had mentioned the previous evening. He had known the monster who ran this shop since he was a small child. While he didn’t have the best opinions on monsters in general back then, he did like her company especially seeing how close she was with his mother. As long as they were someone his mother trusted, then Kou didn’t really care what they were.
“Wow! So many pretty dresses!” Akari exclaims as they enter the store, letting go of her hold on Amane’s hand as she rushes to a frilly red dress that was on display to adore it closer.
“Oh, welcome! How may I help you?” an assistant is who greets them.
“Hello. Is Yako-nee around?” Kou asks her.
“I see my favorite patron has arrived to visit the best seamstress in the village!” a high-pitched, cheery voice could be heard from the door at the far-end of the store.
Everyone’s attentions turn to that direction and there came out a gorgeous lady with luscious blonde, wavy hair tied in a neat bun adorned with beautiful head accessories. She wore a fancy, long-sleeve white top with a red cravat by the neck and a maroon colored pencil skirt. Aside from her beautiful humanoid form, however, the most noticeable features are her huge, white fox ears and the 3 fluffy white tails behind her.
“Yako-nee! Hello!” Kou greets her with a bow.
“Kou, sweetheart! I’ve missed you so!” she cries, her heels clacking on the wooden floor as she approached the blonde, wrapping him into a hug “I heard you came home a week ago but you never bothered to pay me a visit.”
Kou chuckles at her pout “Sorry, I had a lot of things going on so I only had time to visit now.”
Suddenly, Yako reaches a hand to his cheek, surprising Kou a little as she looked at him with concerned eyes. As a monster, Yako was very perceptive to people’s feelings. Kou knew as much, which was another reason he didn’t visit her when he wasn’t feeling so good yet. He didn’t want to worry her, but it seems she was still able to see right through him.
After some time, her worried expression shifts to a smile “I’m glad you’re feeling better now.” she tells him, tone just as gentle.
“Thank you. Oh, by the way,” Kou then says, remembering he wasn’t alone “Yako-nee, I brought some guests with me. This is Amane. He’s a fellow researcher at Kamome Monster Nursery.”
“Pleased to meet you.” Amane bows his head in greeting. Yako reciprocates with a bow as well.
“Fellow researcher, huh?” she mumbles, squinting at Amane with suspicious eyes, making the senior researcher a little uneasy. It felt as though she was reading his mind even when Amane was aware monsters didn’t have that capability.
“And these two—oh, where’d they go?” Kou looks around the store until he sees the two little monsters who had their eyes glued to a glass case that displayed a navy-blue ballroom gown and a black suit “Akari! Midori! Come here for a second!” he calls for the two.
The little monsters rush to his side when they were called and Yako’s eyes immediately sparkle at the sight of them “Are these your tiny monsters? My, such adorable little things! What’s your name?” she leans down on Akari.
“Hello, I’m Akari! Pleased to meet you!” Akari introduces herself with a bow.
“Akari, a very lovely name. And this young monster is?” she turns to Midori.
“I’m Midori! Nice to meet you!” Midori replies with a bow as well.
“Such polite little monsters. I haven’t seen monster children in so long!” Yako chirps, hugging the little monsters a little too excitedly. Kou could hear the twins groaning from the hug.
“Yako-nee, you’re crushing them.” Kou tells her.
“Oh, excuse me. I got a little too ahead of myself.” The older monster apologizes, clearing her throat. Then a thought comes to her mind and she holds each of the little monsters’ hand “Would you like for Yako-nee to dress you two up?”
The two monster children’s eyes sparkle at the suggestion then they turn to Kou “Can we? Can we?” they both ask.
Unable to really decline the offer, Kou simply agrees, receiving a cheer from the little monsters. Yako takes hold of their hands and excuses herself as she drags the little monsters to the dressing room at the back, telling her two guests to stay put and wait.
“She seems really nice.” Amane finally comments, amused by the showcase this whole time.
“Yeah. She and mom got along well. I think Yako-nee just enjoys dressing people up since I’ve been victim to her dress-up shenanigans ever since I was a child,” Kou remarks, remembering those days when he was the one dragged to the dressing room at the back and being put in fancy clothing.
“That’s sweet. So I presume you have quite a few fancy suits in your possession?” Amane asks a little curious.
“Just a few. Oh, that reminds me, we should go shopping for new clothes for them.” Kou then brings up, adding that there’s a nearby store with children’s clothes they can go to next “And we should also get you some extra clothes while you’re here.”
“Ah, good point.” Amane remarks. However, from the way Kou pointed that out, it would seem the blonde doesn’t plan to let them stay for only one more day.
After quite some time of waiting, Yako finally exits the room at the back “And they are ready! Come on out, you two.”
At Yako’s cue, the two little monsters walk out of the door, both the researchers watch them arrive in awe.
Akari wore a frilly long dress reaching just around her ankles. The skirt had layers and layers of frills and fabric in different shades of white, pink and red. The top was a long-sleeve, white blouse with buttons on the front. Over it was a red capelet with pink frills at the hem and a circular green gem. For her feet, she wore long white socks and red shoes adorned with a pink ribbon.
Midori’s outfit was a dark green shirt with bishop sleeves and cuffs, a black vest on top of it with gold buttons and a black ribbon adorned around his collar. He wore black shorts reaching to his knees, garter belt, black socks and shoes.
“Wow.” was all Kou could say, speechless at the sight of the little monsters in fancy, beautiful clothing.
“How do we look?” Akari chimes in, giggling as she twirled around, enjoying how her skirt moved as she did.
“You both look amazing.” Amane smiles, turning to Kou “Right? Hmm, Kou?”
And then they all notice Kou was tearing up “Kou?!” both Midori and Akari were alarmed seeing the blonde’s reaction.
“Sorry… it’s just… you both look so good in them… I can’t help but tear up.” Kou says between sobs, aggressively wiping away his tears with his sleeves. The monster children giggled while Amane gave him comforting pats in the back.
Yako offered to have the clothes remade once the monsters reach their adulthood as a gift to the two even as Kou insisted he’ll pay for them, but the monster lady refused any form of payment from the blonde “If you wish to pay me back, just remember to visit me when you have the chance, okay? I would like to have a cup of tea with you next time.”
She then turns her attention to Amane who once again feels scrutinized under her gaze “Especially with your ‘fellow researcher’ here.” she adds, emphasizing on the words as if she meant it as something else.
Kou was a little confused with this condition, but he accepts it either way and promises he’ll visit again soon. After the two little monsters got changed, the group leave her store.
Their next stop was a clothes store nearby as planned and Kou let the little monsters roam around to find anything they wanted to buy. Amane was a little concerned, however, since they only sold human clothes but Kou assured him he can have them adjusted for tails and such if needed.
They left the store with three bags full of clothes for Akari, Midori and Amane in hand.
By the time they finished clothes shopping, it was lunchtime. Kou brought them to a family restaurant he and his family frequented. They sold a variety of cuisines inspired from different continents and cultures so Kou figured it would be a nice place for the monsters to experience new flavors of food.
That day, they learned Midori seemed to enjoy really spicy food as he’s able to consume a dish called ‘Devil’s Curry’ with ease even as Amane and Kou were barely able to enjoy a bite. Meanwhile, Akari had an absolute sweet tooth, ordering a deluxe version of a honey toast as dessert and managing to eat everything on her own.
Once lunch was done, they continued their walk around the plaza. A used bookstore caught Amane’s attention and he asked to visit it next. The little monsters were also curious as they looked around the shop.
“Amane! Amane! Can we buy this book? I wanna read this!” Akari asks, running to the researcher with a book titled ‘The Little Mermaid’ in hand.
“This one, too! Can we? Can we?” Midori chimes in, holding up a book with the title ‘The Nightmare before Christmas’.
“Midori always likes the scary ones.” Akari complains seeing her brother’s book.
“It’s interesting.” was Midori’s casual reply.
Kou muses a bit how Midori’s interests seem to align with more daring and thrilling flavors. It amazes him a little when he remembers how the little monster back then could be easily terrified of anything that he’s always stuck around Kou. But now, he seems to be growing a lot braver and it touches Kou’s heart a little.
“Very well, we’ll buy both of them so you can have new books to read back at the lab, alright? You can choose another book to purchase along with it.” Amane tells the two.
At this, they both smile before running off to find 2 more books that they can buy.
While the two children were busy, Kou notices Amane had been eye-ing a book in his hand the whole time they were there “What’s that?” Kou asks.
“Oh. It’s a story inspired from a work called ‘Phantom of the Opera’. But the plot was changed entirely where the main character is an investigator trying to solve the mystery of an actor’s missing voice. I got interested in the twist, especially since the phantom here and the supposed love rival seemed to have a deeper connection.” Amane explains, eyes glued to the cover of the book.
Kou hums, slightly interested “Oh, is the twist that they’re the ones who get together? Haha, just kidding.” The blonde teases, peeking over Amane’s shoulder to also look at the cover “Oh, don’t you think this blonde dude looks like me?”
Amane nervously chuckles “You think so? I think one of you looks more attractive. I’m not gonna say who, though.” he decides to tease, earning a scowl from the blonde as he kicks his leg playfully. Amane simply laughs.
By the time the sun was setting and evening approached, lanterns and streetlights were already illuminating the village. The scene gave an almost fantastical atmosphere especially around the plaza area as even the fountain was lit up.
“This is amazing. You can even see the nursery from here.” Amane exclaims, watching the scenery of the plaza lit up while the nursery could be seen in perfect view in the background.
“Right? I always sit on this bench around this time just to see this view.” Kou brings up. After some time, he then stands from his seat “I’ll go get us some drinks. What would you like?” he asks.
“Orange juice!” Akari and Midori yell in unison, Kou giggles at that.
“Then, I’ll just have the same.” Amane replies “Would you be fine on your own? I can come with you.”
“I’ll be fine, just rest up. I know your legs are probably killing you anyway.” Kou jokes and Amane couldn’t find it in him to refute to the comment.
As the blonde makes his leave, Midori hears the faint sound of someone crying for help. Worried, the little monster hops off his seat to rush to wherever the sound may be from.
By an alleyway not far from where they were rested, Midori catches sight of three kids kicking another one who was curled up in a ball, trying to protect himself. Something in him couldn’t accept just ignoring the act so even as he was nervous, he decides to intervene.
But before he could approach the scene, he feels a hand grab him by the shoulder. As he turns, he’s met with Akari’s concerned expression “Midori, stop running off again! Amane and Kou are gonna be worried.” she scolds the other monster.
“But, Akari, someone’s asking for help.” Midori simply argues, turning his attention back to the kids. Akari follows his gaze, eyes wide as she witnesses the scene in front of her. The kids currently busy with their assault seem to have not noticed they had an audience yet.
Akari knits her brows in worry, arguing with herself about what to do as Midori looks at her with pleading eyes. Obviously, the safest thing to do is to call an adult for help.
“We should get Amane to help.” she finally replies.
However, before Akari could pull Midori back with her to call for Amane, one of the kids land a stronger kick onto the injured one and he lets out a painful cry before his body falls back onto the ground with a thud. Unable to stand around and watch the assault any longer, Midori runs in, hearing Akari calling for him.
“What are you doing?! Stop that!” he yells at the group.
The kids turn their attention to him and Midori could feel the hostility their glares held at being interrupted “Ha?! You tryin’ to pick a fight, pipsqueak?” one of the kids yell back, walking over to him with a fist held up.
Before the attack could land, Akari is immediately blocking the attack with her own palm. Having super strength, the punch barely did much for her. She keeps her hold on the kid’s fist, not letting go even as the kid tries to pull his fist away from her hold.
“Oi, what do you think you’re doin’?!” another kid asks, running over to punch Akari as well but Akari stops him with her other hand, also grabbing hold of it so they won’t do anything more.
Even as her instincts want to retaliate over them trying to hurt her and her brother, she’s aware they’re humans and if she did anything to harm any of them with her skills, not only will it possibly be deadly, Amane and Kou will be in trouble as their caretakers. They’ve only managed to get Kou back, they can’t afford to disappoint him for being reckless. So for now, she opts to hold them back until they can make sure the other kid was safe.
“A-A monster?!” the third kid gasps, his voice shaky as he backs himself into a wall in fear.
Midori immediately runs to the injured kid, crouching down to check on him “Are you okay?” he asks, concern in his voice. Thankfully he was still conscious.
The injured kid looks up, his eyes widen in fear for a moment seeing who his savior was “A… A monster…” he voices out, scared.
“Don’t worry, we won’t hurt you. We’re here to help you.” Midori assures him.
The fear in the injured kid’s expression disappears hearing Midori’s words. Then something catches his attention: one of the kids was attacking!
“Behind you!” he yells.
Midori turns from the call and he sees the third kid running to him with a wooden stick in hand. He faintly hears Akari yell after him. However, Midori wasn’t sure if it was due to his heightened senses or the kid’s movements were really slow, but the monster could see the attack vividly.
He raises his arm to block the attack in time and the wood breaks from the impact. It hurt a bit, but Midori wasn’t harmed. The attacker pauses in shock as he eyes the now broken stick in his hand. And then in swift motion, Midori grabs one of his hands, pulling it behind the kid as his other hand grabbed the other shoulder to keep him in place; similar to what he saw Kou had done to save him yesterday.
The kid struggles in his hold, yelling for him to let go but he keeps him in place. Akari sighs a breath of relief, thankful her brother didn’t get hurt.
“What’s going on here?” they hear a familiar voice ask and all kids turn their attention to a tall blonde man standing by the entrance of the alleyway; it was Raika!
“Raika-san! These monsters attacked us! Help!” the kid in Midori’s hold immediately cries.
Raika walks over with a brow raised “Let them go.” he tells the little monsters and both Akari and Midori does so. He switches his attention between the three kids on one side, the injured kid still on the ground and then the two monsters, immediately able to discern what was going on.
Raika sighs “I’ll handle these monsters here, you three go back home.” he tells the other kids.
The three kids’ faces light up at Raika before grinning at the monsters as they ran off. Once the three kids were gone, the blonde turns back to the other three left behind. Akari backs away to Midori’s side, keeping him behind her in a protective stance as Midori shies away from his gaze, both monsters were scared of what Raika might do to them.
“U-Uhm, you got it all wrong! They came to save me!” the injured kid finally speaks up.
Raika walks over to them, crouching down to give both monsters a pat on the head “Don’t worry, I know. Those three kids always cause trouble around here. It’s time somebody stepped up and gave them a taste of their own medicine.” he assures them, winking at Akari and Midori.
The fear in the twins’ eyes disappear and their expressions turn into relieved smiles. Midori then turns to the injured kid, walking over to help him up “Are you okay?” he asks.
As soon as the injured kid was back on his feet, he hugs Midori, mumbling a ‘Thank you’ as he does so. Midori feels his shoulder grow wet; the kid had started crying. He could tell he was scared earlier. The little monster reciprocates the hug, rubbing the kid’s back soothingly like how Kou would usually do when he cried.
“Alright, let’s get you two back. I’m sure Kou and Amane are worried sick looking for you two.” Raika tells them.
And sure enough, when Raika brings Akari and Midori back to the bench where they last remembered they left Amane, the researcher was still there, now on his feet as he was anxiously looking around. When he catches sight of Raika approaching with Akari and Midori in hand, he immediately runs to them.
“Akari! Midori!” Amane wraps them both into a hug, relief washing over him “I’m glad you’re both okay. Stop running off on your own, alright? You keep making me worried!” Amane isn’t able to hold back his voice.
Midori flinches at the volume and the two monsters held their head in apology “Sorry…” they both say in quiet, shaky voices.
“Ah, sorry, sorry. I didn’t mean to raise my voice. I was just…” Amane exhales a breath, calming his nerves from the fear he had felt earlier “I was scared something had happened to you two.” he says, voice much gentler now.
“Akari! Midori!” they then hear Kou’s voice who had left to look for the two. Kou rushes over and Amane moves to the side to give the blonde space to wrap the little monsters in a hug “Thank goodness. I was so worried.” Kou exclaims, his hold on the monsters tightening.
“Where did you two run off to?” Amane finally decides to ask.
“They went to become heroes.” Raika was the one to reply.
Both researchers turn their attention to him with raised brows “Heroes?” Kou asks.
Raika then explains the situation that happened in the alleyway, or at least the parts he could figure out from the scene he just witnessed. Both Amane and Kou held amused expressions as they listened to Raika’s story, visibly impressed of the bravery Akari and Midori had showcased.
“You both did that?” Kou asks the two, amazed after hearing Raika’s story.
Akari and Midori nod in reponse “And… I saw what Kou did yesterday to save me so I tried to do the same.” Midori then adds, a little excitedly this time once the anxiety had left his system.
“What I did…? Ah, that!” Kou exclaims, remembering what he did to Joel yesterday when he wouldn’t release his hold on Midori “You did that?”
Midori nods, a little pleased with himself. Kou is unable to hold back tears, once again hugging the little monster from the joy he was feeling “I’m so proud of you, Midori.” the blonde says.
Kou had long figured ever since he saw Akari and Midori again a week after he left the nursery to go home, they were growing fast. Too fast that they’ve started to turn independent, and sooner or later they’ll no longer need Kou or Amane’s help or protection.
Of course, he was aware monsters’ growth speed were faster than that of humans given they were already the size of toddlers on their 2nd month. And while part of him was scared of parting with them so soon, it was just how the nature of things work.
Kou was still proud of them, nonetheless. This was a good sign that they’ll grow up to be great monsters.
***
Kou stares at the towering, castle-like structure in front of him. The sign above the gate reads ‘Kamome Monster Nursery’. He takes in a few breaths, gripping his bag tight as he takes the few remaining steps, past the huge gate and to the giant doors.
He presses a hand against the door, pushing it with effort as it opens, giving way for him to enter the building. Once inside, he closes the door, attempting to make it gentler but the thud still echoes throughout the large halls of the lobby.
“Kou!!” familiar voices yell out his name and as soon as he turns around, two little monsters crash into him in a tight hug. With the sudden weight on him, Kou loses balance and falls on the ground, one arm helping him brace the impact while the other instinctively wrap around the two monsters so they wouldn’t get hurt from the fall.
Despite the rough welcome, Kou simply laughs “Hello, Akari, Midori.” Kou greets the two monsters looming over him.
The little ones smile at him, joyous giggles ring in his ears before they get off of Kou, offering a hand each to help him up his feet.
“They hardly slept at all last night from the excitement.” He hears Amane say and he turns his attention from the two monsters to the researcher approaching them “Welcome back, Kou.” Amane greets.
Kou smiles back at him “Thanks.”
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!and yes, the book amane found in the bookstore is Hanako of the Opera xDDD
only 4 chaps left, and next chap we deal with some feelings talk, especially for amane \o/Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 12: Feelings
Summary:
Since Amane's research seems to be finding its conclusion, he finally gets time to consider his own feelings, especially towards Kou.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Finally getting into the chaps that focus more on AmaKou yippeee~
i had a difficult time trying to come up with a moment for amane to realize his feelings lmao skfgjdsk i hope the scene i came up with is fine wwwwell, hope you enjoy this chapter~ ^^
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kou hadn’t thought the whirring sound from the scanning machine would make him feel anxious, but his palms were sweaty and his heart raced against his chest as he watches the machine do its work. Part of him wonders how Amane can remain calm during these check-ups, especially now when the results for this will determine the direction of his current research.
Then again, Amane has experienced this more than Kou has. And remembering Sakura’s words on the first results of the check-up, that might have been the first Amane’s had results that exceeded his expectations.
He wonders now how Amane felt during the previous times. Watching his monsters get scanned, anxiously hoping each result becomes better than the last one only to be disappointed.
Kou couldn’t help but muse how strong Amane was. Even as he knows this strength was honed by many bumps and challenges, he still thinks he’s amazing for staying strong.
Kou practically jumps when the machine stops with a sound. Sakura instructs the monsters to get changed now and they do so on their own while the two researchers anxiously wait for the results.
They patiently watched Sakura print out the results and examine them. She hums, but her expression shows no sign to indicate if it was a good hum or a bad hum. Kou swallows a lump in his throat “Well?” he couldn’t help but voice out.
Sakura eyes the two who continued to anxiously stare at her before she handed them the results. Amane almost eagerly takes it from her hands and the two researchers skim through the paper.
Blue and gold eyes widen reading the results.
“Congratulations, you two. The results have returned to their initial state of being above average, even going beyond that. It seems whatever changed over the course of the previous week worked in the improvement for your monsters. Do keep it up.” Sakura commends the two.
Kou and Amane look at each other, wide, relieved smiles on their faces as they aren’t able to hold back wrapping each other in a tight, celebratory hug. Sakura is surprised by this action but smiles nonetheless.
“We did it, Amane! We did it!” Kou exclaims, leaning away from the hug yet his arms still find themselves linked around Amane’s shoulder as the other’s hands remain on his waist.
“We certainly did. All thanks to you, Kou.” Amane remarks smiling up at Kou.
Sakura clears her throat to remind them of her presence and that snaps the two from their little world, realizing their position. Kou quickly latches himself off of Amane, both researchers’ faces were beet red from embarrassment.
“I’m glad you two are happy about the results.” Sakura decides to say “And I hope this data will prove helpful to your research, Researcher A.”
Amane finally gets his composure back “Yes. If we can maintain these results or even improve them, then that’ll be enough to prove my hypothesis correct.” he brings up, eyes on the paper in his hand.
As soon as the little monsters came out of the dressing room, they rush to the two researchers, eagerly asking for the results. Amane and Kou tell them the good news and the two cheer in delight.
Kou doesn’t hold himself back, wrapping the two little monsters in a tight hug as he’s overwhelmed with emotions. If this keeps up, then the risk of them going unstable will be slim to zero. They won’t have to meet the same fate as Mika did. They’ll grow up to be great monsters and do amazing things!
As the sweet scene with Kou and the monsters unfold, Amane turns to Sakura “You knew about this, didn’t you, Researcher S?” he inquires.
Sakura shrugs in response, but the smile on her face told Amane everything “Who knows. As I’ve said, I have witnessed more monsters raised than you have, Researcher A. Including ones that have grown to be exceptional until this day. I might have learned a thing or two, perhaps?”
Amane returns her smile. Whether Sakura knew the answer already or not, he can only be thankful to her for giving him guidance.
***
“Please teach me, Researcher K!”
Kou blinks at Amane, surprised of his sudden request. When he came up to him asking to talk about something important, frankly, he expected something else. Perhaps it was something about his research, or maybe a more personal thing, maybe he and his brother had a fight?
Not… to teach him how to raise monsters.
“Isn’t it a little weird for you to be asking me that, Researcher A? I mean… you already know how to raise monsters, right?” Kou sheepishly asks.
“Yes. But according to my research, despite the similarities in our methods of raising Akari and Midori, your way of doing so is more effective for their stability. Which is why I need to ask you,” and he takes Kou’s hands in his, the action surprises Kou, for a moment his heart may have skipped a beat “please teach me how you raise monsters!”
Kou is unsure how to respond to this. It wasn’t like there was anything different in the way he did things. And if he’ll be honest, he doesn’t know what exactly he did that made their methods seem different despite being the same.
Amane has mentioned before that it was Kou’s love for the twins that helped significantly in their development, therefore, making them more stable. And the results from the latest check-up seem to prove this to be true.
In that case, isn’t the answer not the method Kou used but simply the feelings he poured into doing them?
“Listen, Amane,” Kou starts, removing one of his hands from Amane’s hold so he can put it on top of the other’s hand “I think you’re approaching this the wrong way.”
Amane blinks at him “Am I?”
Kou nods “You said it yourself: our methods weren’t different so I don’t think it’s in the actual rearing process. Your hypothesis was if the love I poured into raising the monsters helped in maintaining their stability. So I’m sure you know already that it isn’t in how I raised them but what else I provided while doing so.” The blonde further explains.
Amane looks down, releasing his hold of Kou’s hands and his expression told Kou that he was right. Amane definitely knew it was never in the method of how he helped raise the monsters. It was just because Kou provided them the love a parent would to their child.
“You know, Amane,” Kou then speaks up “I remember how you told me that the monsters were not our kids, so giving them names wasn’t important. I thought you just didn’t care about them, and all that mattered was your stupid research. I was really mad at you that time, you know?”
He hears Amane scoff at this “I could tell.”
Kou chuckles “But the truth was you were just looking out for me, weren’t you?”
Amane tenses, the tightening grip the researcher had on his own sleeve was enough of a response Kou needed.
“I only realized this after what happened with Mika. And at that moment I considered that maybe you were right. Maybe it was better for me to not care, to not get attached. That’s why I ran away.
“But you and the little monsters chased after me. You told me my feelings weren’t insignificant and that they held the key to keeping the monsters stable. I didn’t want to believe you that time because why would you of all people, who told me to not care in the first place, say that to me then? The hypocrisy, you know.” Kou scoffs, but it wasn’t meant to insult Amane.
“However, I’ll admit it also felt good to be right. While a part of me was annoyed, the other part of me was happy.”
Amane squints as he finally looks up at him “Are you just bragging now, Kou?” he pouts.
That earns a chuckle from Kou “Maybe a little.”
“Fine. I’ll let you brag.” Amane rolls his eyes.
“Now, my point is, while you told me my love helped the twins, do you remember what I told you then?”
Amane thought back to that conversation back at Kou’s house until he remembered the blonde’s words to him “That I also cared about the monsters.” he says.
Kou nods “And your research is proof of that. So, Amane, there’s nothing for me to teach you. You’re already headed on the correct direction; you just need to be more open with your feelings.”
“I… guess so.” Amane turns away, staring at the view of the setting sun outside the huge glass windows of his lab “It’s just… I’m worried if I’m doing it right.” he finally admits.
“Doing it right?”
“You’re already aware of this, Kou, I’ve experienced heartache over heartache. I’ve steeled my heart for too long that… I’m not sure if I can provide the same amount of love that you can.” Amane explains, his voice sounded broken.
“Someday, you’ll be promoted as an actual researcher and you’ll handle raising monsters on your own. I’ll return to my solitary work and… I’m afraid to admit but… I’m actually scared.”
Kou notices the way Amane’s shoulders trembled as he held back his emotions from spilling. In a way, Kou is starting to understand Amane’s feelings. If he ends up attached to his next monster but things don’t go well, it’ll only hurt more.
“Then, don’t be.” Kou decides to say.
Amane looks up at Kou, a little surprised of his response “Huh?”
“Don’t doubt your feelings, Amane. If you care about your monsters, then show them. Tell them that you love them. Make them feel that they’re loved, that they’re never alone. That you’ll always be there for them. Don’t hold back just because you’re scared of the risks. Instead, be proud that no matter what happens, you still loved them with every ounce of your being.”
Kou’s azure eyes held resolve as he tells Amane this, hoping his words are able to reach him. To let him feel that what he’s doing is right. As someone who’s worked by his side this whole time, Kou knows more than anyone that Amane loves his monsters, all he needs is to be able to convey those feelings.
A tear falls down Amane’s cheek, followed by another, and then another, until Amane was crying. He wipes them off with his hands but they continued to spill.
“I believe in your capability to convey your own feelings, Amane. I know that you know how to do it. It’s just your fear of getting hurt is what locked those feelings away.” Kou takes Amane’s hands in his “But we can change that. We can unlock those feelings again and set them free.”
Amane blinks through his tears, smiling at Kou “Yeah. You’re right.”
Suddenly, they hear the door slam open, followed by a thud. The two turn to the door where two little monsters were splayed on the floor, looking at them with apologetic expressions. Kou could immediately tell the two had been spying on them this whole time and they had just exposed themselves by accident.
“Uh… we didn’t mean to… interrupt.” Akari sheepishly says as they get up on their feet.
“It’s alright. Come here, you two.” Kou gestures for them to come closer and the two run to Kou’s side.
“Why is Amane crying?” Midori was the one to ask, worry in his tone.
Amane chokes on a laugh “I’m fine, Midori. Just… something caught in my eye.” he jokes, wiping the tears.
“Akari, Midori,” Kou speaks up, turning his attention between the two “do you love Amane?”
“Akari does very much!”
“Midori does too!”
Kou giggles at their responses then he looks up at Amane “Amane,” he calls for the researcher this time "do you love Akari and Midori?"
Amane, who had already almost stopped his tears, had started crying again. He crouches to his knees and hugs both of the monsters tight in a loving embrace “Of course I do.”
Even as the monsters were confused of Amane’s reaction, they still reciprocated the hug, conveying their love for the researcher who had raised them.
***
Over 2 months has passed in a blink of an eye and the two monsters are reaching their 6th month very soon. As the monsters’ physical and mental growth are more rapid than that of humans, Akari and Midori have grown from the little monsters who would ask either of Kou and Amane for upsies to the teen monsters they have right now.
Akari was slowly growing into a fine, headstrong woman who would brave any risks for the sake of the people she loved. And underneath all that is still a sweet and caring girl with dreams that she wishes to fulfill. She had once told the two researchers that she wants to be a teacher in the village and help children learn.
Midori, while still upholding his timid and quiet personality, has grown to be as courageous as his sister. He isn’t the most sociable but he won’t back down from a challenge. Apparently, he’s developed a sense of responsibility to protect people and he’s mentioned wanting to join the countermeasure team when he’s old enough to.
Both Amane and Kou couldn’t be any prouder seeing how the twins grew up to be.
Their check-up data continued to exceed expectations, and with these developments, Amane safely concludes that he sees no reason for them to turn unstable. Kou is relieved about this.
As for Amane’s research, while his hypothesis right now rings true, he says he wishes to gather more data from the next nurturing first before he can finalize anything as of yet. Kou told him that he’ll be happy to assist in any way he can, even as he’s not sure if he’ll still be raising monsters together with Amane or on his own by then, but he wants to help, still.
According to the timeline Sakura had brought up before, monsters have the option to part from their researchers starting from their 6th month until when they wish to do so. Which means by then, they’re free to walk their own path and decide what they want to do moving forward.
Since Akari had mentioned wanting to teach, Amane offered to enroll her to an educational program conducted by a school affiliated with Kamome Monster Nursery. It was far, however, and while it pains Akari to part from her pseudo parents, she also wants to fulfill her dreams. Both Amane and Kou support her decision, of course.
Thanks to Teru’s help and connection with Akane, they’re also able to enroll Midori into a training class for the countermeasure team. The place where the training was done wasn’t as far as where Akari’s school is, thankfully, but Midori will have to be away as well. Kou was a little scared being the worrywart that he is towards Midori, but the teen monster assures him he’ll be fine.
For the first time since he became a researcher in the nursery, Amane looks at his lab and felt that it was starting to get lonely. Both Akari and Midori will be leaving to walk their own paths tomorrow, and the senior researcher couldn’t help but feel a little melancholic.
Even for Kou’s case, while they haven’t heard news about when he’ll be promoted as a solo researcher, Amane can’t help but think about the day it happens. And then it’ll just be Amane again.
He partially blames Kou for bringing this warmth into his life that he has a difficult time letting go now. It was a good warmth, though. Even if the time was short, it was fun. And in the future, they’ll all see each other again. That’s what’s important.
“A! Ma! Ne!” Amane hears a familiar voice chime, and he feels hands blocking his line of sight.
“Ah! Akari, don’t surprise me like that.” Amane scolds, taking the monster’s hands off his face.
Akari giggles beside him “You were looking too serious just now, so I thought I’d tease you a bit.” the young lady says.
“You always tease Amane, though.” Midori was the one to point out and Akari huffs at him.
Amane giggles at the siblings’ interaction before looking back out at the evening sky. It was clear, not a cloud in sight. Just the twinkling stars and the beautiful bright moon.
“Have you told him yet?” Akari then speaks up, the question confusing Amane a bit.
“Told who yet?” he asks, turning to the teen monster.
“Who else? Kou!” she says, as a matter of fact.
“Eh? What haven’t I told him yet?” Amane continues to look at her with confusion, unsure where the girl was going with her interrogation.
“Man, you’re always so dense, Amane.” Akari huffs, unamused.
Amane looks to Midori asking for help “She means you haven’t told him your feelings yet.”
“My fee—” Amane’s face turns beet red, finally realizing where this was going “Wh-What do you mean by that?” he turns his attention back to Akari.
“What else do I mean? You like him, don’t you?” Akari clarifies.
Suddenly, Amane’s mind goes back to that conversation with Raika; he had asked him the same thing back then. And yet, until now, he can’t fathom what exactly Kou’s father meant by that.
“Yeah, I do—”
“Not that kind of ‘like’!” Akari cuts in, starting to get a little annoyed “We’ve seen how you look at Kou with those gross, dreamy eyes of yours. Like you see him and he’s the most beautiful person to ever exist on the planet. So it can’t be just the simple kind of ‘like’.” The young lady explains.
“Really? Also, what do you mean by ‘gross, dreamy eyes’?” Amane asks.
Akari ignores the latter question “Yes. Listen, Amane, Midori and I are leaving tomorrow, so there won’t be any more play house with you and Kou. Since it’ll be just the two of you from now on, please start considering your own feelings.” Amane’s a little taken back by the way Akari grew serious.
From the way she started the conversation, Amane had thought they only came to tease him as a farewell, but perhaps they were considering his feelings more than Amane did.
His feelings for Kou.
It’s been months since these thoughts have returned to his mind. Because he and Kou were so focused on the twins’ growth, he’s never had the opportunity to really consider what the ‘like’ he has for Kou really is.
If both the twins are conversing with him about this, then that means even they’re aware that these feelings are different. Somehow, it relieves Amane a little that he isn’t the only one who notices it. Inexperienced as he is with handling something as abstract as emotions, he might really need all the insight he can get.
***
When Amane returns to his lab after an afternoon nap, he isn’t exactly surprised to see Kou present in the room. The blonde was standing by the shelves, an open album in hand. He carefully approaches him, trying not to interrupt his silent viewing.
As Amane had expected, Kou was looking through the album where they stored the twins’ drawings from all the arts and crafts activity they did. It’s been a week since the two monsters left the nursery, slowly and slowly, Kou was getting used to it. But he figured the blonde was the more sentimental type, so it’s natural for him to still be hung up about their absence.
Kou notices Amane approaching from his peripheral and he smiles to him in greeting “Oh, welcome back, Amane.” he says before closing the album and putting it back on the shelf.
“Still missing them I see.” Amane brings up, hands stuffed in his pockets.
“Of course I am. No matter how long they’re gone, I’ll always miss them, of course.” Kou exclaims.
Amane chuckles in response before taking out another album from the shelf which also stored some of the twins’ drawings. He flips through the pages until he lands on a familiar drawing of 4 stickmen figures and the word ‘FAMILY’ written on it in shaky handwriting.
It was the exact drawing that helped him reach the answer to his research and what motivated him to convince Kou to come back.
“Family, huh?” he hears Kou mumble beside him “Have you ever considered building your own family in the future, Amane?” the question surprises Amane a little.
He hums as he thought “I’ve been focused on my research that it’s never really crossed my mind.” Amane explains, eyes still stuck on the drawing. Then he turns to Kou “In the first place, I don’t think I’ve ever considered the first step to creating a family.” He adds, albeit more jokingly.
“Really? You mean you haven’t had a crush on someone before?” Kou asks, disbelief in his expression.
“Probably not.”
“Probably?”
Amane shrugs “You’ve seen how I am with handling feelings, Kou. If I did have a crush, I wouldn’t know…” he trails off, a thought forming in his head.
It wasn’t a thought to be exact, it was an answer.
He stares at Kou, the light of the setting sun coursing through the huge windows behind him framed the blonde in a way that he looked ethereal in Amane’s eyes. It’s been a fact in Amane’s mind that Kou was beautiful.
But now that he’s realized something important, he now knew why he viewed Kou as such. Why his heart goes crazy at the mere thought of him. Why his stomach churns from the warmth anytime they’re in close proximity. Why his mind was always filled with thoughts of Kou.
You like him, don’t you?
Yes. He did.
In fact, he loves Kou.
That was why it was different. It really was a special kind of ‘like’.
Kou was his crush. His first love.
“Amane?” Kou’s sweet voice snaps Amane back to reality, but now that he’s found an answer to his own feelings, his mind, heart and body were starting to feel overwhelmed.
Oh heavens, now he wants to touch Kou. He wants to wrap him in his arms and never let go. He wants to hold him like he’s the most valuable treasure in the world. He wants to tell him how much he loves him, to whisper in his ears until Kou’s nothing but a flustered mess.
He wants to kiss him.
“Oi, are you okay?” He feels himself getting shaken and Amane blinks. A hand meets his forehead “You seem a little warm. Maybe you should rest. Ah, but there’s still the meeting with Researcher S later. I could ask her to postpone it for some other day.”
Amane shakes his head, reeling his thoughts in before they got out of hand. He needed to focus, right, there’s still the meeting with Sakura later. He needs to get his composure back.
“I-I’m fine, Kou. Just… I just remembered something. Uh… I’ll, I’ll head out for a bit. I need to do something first. I’ll meet you at Researcher S’ office, okay? Bye.” Amane curses himself for his obviously awkward and out-of-character response.
But his brain was going above the speed limit right now, he could care less about composure at the moment. He runs off before Kou could say anything else.
Amane continued running, not really sure where to, but he kept running wherever his legs could take him. It takes him to Tsukasa’s lab instead. He was thankful Tsukasa never locks his lab for once, and he storms in. He closes the door before pressing his back to it, sliding down until he’s sitting on the floor, panting for air from all the running.
He covers his face with his hands, feeling his cheeks were still warm and that giddy feeling has not left his system. He had to get away from Kou before he ended up following his instincts and doing something to the blonde that he’ll regret.
But now it all made sense. Amane has never experienced feeling any romantic or intimate feelings towards anyone in all his life. Growing up, he only had his brother and he loved him dearly as his sibling. Even as they joined the nursery and associated with other people, Amane has never strongly felt for anyone other than his love for his brother.
Which explains why he couldn’t find any answers within his knowledge about the strange feelings he had for Kou.
He was never interested in fictional books containing themes related to romance, either. While he’s read some as a past time, it was never enough to pique his curiosity and find similar experiences in his life.
Now that he’s aware of what these feelings are, Amane isn’t sure what to do.
How exactly do you handle being in love with someone?
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Excited for the next update since it's gonna be a lot of AmaKou galore now lmao sjkgfjsk and misunderstandings cus we love stupid misunderstands-
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 13: How things should be
Summary:
As misunderstandings start brewing between Amane and Kou, they also begin to grow apart, especially after Kou's promotion as a sole researcher.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Ahh yes we have reached the beautiful misunderstandings arc that we oh so love lmao skjgfks
ngl i loved writing the scene with twins here, it was kinda funny to imagine lmaowell, hope you enjoy this chapter, still~
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kou watches Amane as he runs off, a little too eager to leave the room, if he’ll be honest. It worried him a bit, especially since he did so after Kou brought up the question about Amane crushing on someone. Did it bother him that much that he wanted to get away from Kou so quickly?
Guilt starts to form in Kou’s chest as he thinks this. He considers apologizing to Amane later if the topic bothered him.
He was just curious, really, but he never considered if such conversations would make Amane feel uneasy. Kou hopes Amane isn’t upset with him if it seemed insensitive.
But now, given Amane’s reaction to the topic, Kou isn’t sure what to do with his feelings.
If Amane wasn’t interested in stuff like that, then would that count as an immediate rejection?
Kou absentmindedly clutches his chest, feeling it tighten from the thought. It hurt to think that his first experience being in love and it ends here before it could even start. Perhaps it was wishful thinking of him to assume anything could develop between him and Amane after their experience raising monsters together. He only has himself to blame, really.
Well, he also blames Amane a little.
Amane had the ability to woo people even without him knowing. After all he did for Kou when he was at his worst, all those sweet words he told him, the caring gestures; who could blame Kou for falling in love with him?
Kou slaps both of his cheeks with his hands in an attempt to get his composure back. No, he can’t be having these negative thoughts right now. If Amane doesn’t like him back, then that's fine! It’s not the end of the world yet!
It still hurts like hell, but Kou’ll get over it eventually.
***
By the time the schedule for the meeting came, Kou was able to get his composure back after looking through the albums again. Seeing the twins’ adorable drawings helped ease his heart and mind, thankfully. And when he saw Amane again at Sakura’s office, everything seemed alright again.
Everything was back to normal.
“Come in.” Sakura calls from inside after hearing the knock. Amane opens the door and gestures for Kou to enter first before he followed after, closing the door behind him.
“Hello, Researcher S.” Kou greets the senior researcher with a bow. Sakura bows her head as well in greeting.
“Thank you for coming here on short notice. I won’t take up too much of your time. I just have some important things I would like to discuss with you.” Sakura brings up. Kou would be lying if he said he didn’t feel a little nervous and excited at the same time.
They see Sakura open a drawer from her desk, taking out what seems to be two envelopes and handing it to her two guests “First of all, these arrived in the mail this morning.” she states.
Amane takes the envelopes from her hands and checks the details in the back. A smile spreads on his face “It’s from the twins!” he exclaims to Kou, handing the envelopes to him.
Kou eagerly accepts them, reading the names on the back. One of them had Akari’s name written on it with the address of the school she was studying from. The other one had Midori’s name and it was sent from the countermeasure team’s main office.
The blonde doesn’t hold back the smile. He couldn’t wait to read these letters later when they get back to Amane’s lab.
“As for the main reason I called you two here,” Sakura then speaks up and the two return their attention to her “Minamoto Kou, Researcher K.” she starts “After your exceptional performance raising twin monsters under Researcher A’s supervision, Researcher T and I have considered promoting you as an official researcher in Kamome Monster University. I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations.”
Kou’s eyes widen, his lips forming the brightest smile from the joyous news “Really? I’m an official researcher now?”
Sakura nods “You’ll be assigned to your own laboratory by next week once preparations are finished. By the following month, you’ll be handling raising a monster on your own. Are you prepared, Researcher K?”
“Yes, ma’am! I’m prepared for anything! Thank you so much!” Kou is unable to hold back the overwhelming joy and excitement he was feeling right now.
He’s finally an official researcher in Kamome Monster Nursery!
“Congratulations, Researcher K. You deserved it.” Amane finally congratulates him after they left Sakura’s office. The senior researcher had been noticeably quiet after Sakura brought up the promotion.
“All thanks to you, Researcher A.” Kou smiles.
Amane shakes his head “That’s all you. I only offered some assistance. You probably didn’t need my help, now that I think about it.” He says, more jokingly.
“That’s not true. You helped me back on my feet when I was feeling down. If you weren’t there, I wouldn’t be here again in the nursery. So don’t belittle your involvement, Amane.” Kou says, elbowing the researcher playfully. Amane chuckles.
“Alright, alright. I just did what I could as your supervisor, that’s all.”
Somehow, those words stung Kou more than it should have. Perhaps he was still hung up about the talk earlier and the way Amane reacted to it. He convinced him to return because it was necessary for the monsters’ growth. Because he needed Kou for his research. Because Kou was his assistant.
That was all it was.
When they return to the lab, Kou eagerly sits himself down on the padded nursery, excited to read the letters they received from Akari and Midori. In a way, maybe reading the letters would get his mind off of these troublesome feelings of his.
“Okay, let’s see. We’ll start with Akari’s letter. Oh, her handwriting’s improved so fast. It’s so elegant.” Kou remarks as he opens up the paper inside the envelope to read the letter.
Akari’s letter consisted of her letting them know how lively her school life has been thus far. Her class consisted of mostly humans but there were some fellow monsters as well. Her teachers and schoolmates have commended her for her intelligence, but of course, it wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies.
It seems Akari had experienced some backlash from other students as well. Reading that worried Kou a bit, but she follows up that she’s able to handle herself thanks to her new friends and with support from the teachers.
Overall, Akari was doing splendid, and it eases both Kou and Amane to know she’s doing great so far.
“Akari really is amazing.” Kou muses after reading her letter out loud.
“Indeed, she is.” Kou hears Amane agree as the researcher sits himself down beside Kou. Maybe a little too close as Kou could feel his arm and a portion of his back almost pressing on Amane’s chest while Amane peeked at the letter from over his shoulder.
The position was convenient enough for Amane to be able to rest his chin on Kou’s shoulder, even.
Kou wills his heart to calm down. He was hoping to get his mind off of his feelings by reading the twins’ letters, but in their position right now, it was starting to get difficult to do so.
“How about Midori’s letter?” Amane speaks up to ask. That succeeds in snapping Kou out of his thoughts.
“Ah, r-right. Midori’s letter. Let’s see.” Kou mumbles, putting down Akari’s letter before opening the envelope containing Midori’s letter with shaky hands. He prays Amane doesn’t notice how nervous he is right now or how loud his heart is beating against his chest.
Midori’s letter starts with asking how the two were doing before he goes over the details of his time in training. As of now, they’ve only been conducting classes that will go on for a month before they get to the physical training process. Like Akari’s case, Midori has also encountered a mix of humans and monsters, most of them being very sociable and friendly. That eases Kou a little, he had been worried if Midori would feel lonely while at training, but he’s glad he’s able to make friends.
“I’m glad they’re both doing well.” Amane remarks once they were done reading the letters, head fully resting on Kou’s shoulder now and he swears their bodies are pressed much closer than they were earlier.
"Yeah. As you’d expect from monsters raised by a role model researcher.” Kou chuckles a little jokingly.
He feels Amane raise his head, Kou assumed he was going to stand up and he was starting to feel relieved, but instead he feels Amane press his face on the back of Kou’s neck. The sensation jolts Kou and he instinctively moves away.
“A-Ah, right. It’s getting late I should… get dinner. Uh,” he says, voice sounding a little more nervous than he intended “I’ll go on ahead, Amane. See ya.” The blonde hurries off, not even finding it in him to look back at Amane as he haphazardly collects the letters when he leaves.
As soon as he was outside, he turns to the nearest corner, pressing his back against the wall as he clutched the letters in his hands. He felt stupid. He didn’t mean to take the letters with him but his mind was all jumbled up especially after what Amane did.
Why would Amane do that? Was he just teasing him? Did Amane even know how intimate the action felt? Not to mention, the proximity in their bodies was too close. It wasn’t as if they haven’t been almost pressed against each other before, but in that setting, it just felt… different.
Kou scratches his head in frustration.
Perhaps it was good timing that he’ll be assigned to his own lab next week. And then he’ll stop being Amane’s assistant. He’ll have no reason to be spending time around Amane anymore unless it was related to work.
This was for the best.
***
“Ah~ Amane’s all gloomy again.” Tsukasa sing-songs, finding his brother splayed on his laboratory floor with a book covering his face.
“Leave me alone, Tsukasa.” Amane whines, muffled by the book.
“I would if you weren’t in my lab.” Tsukasa points out and Amane isn’t able to refute this “Is it about Kou again?”
Amane isn’t sure why Tsukasa’s immediate conclusion to his brother’s mood swings is that it must be in relation to Kou. Surely enough, he’s only recently found out his feelings for the blonde, but was he that obvious even while he was oblivious of the fact?
He remembers when he told Tsukasa this and his twin responded so casually, as if it was the most apparent thing in the world.
“I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.” Tsukasa simply concludes, sitting himself down on the floor, elbows propped on his knees as he stares at Amane “Haven’t you told him yet?”
“Kou has been avoiding me all week.” was Amane’s deadpan reply, still unmoving from his spot.
The day after Sakura announced Kou’s promotion, very slowly, it was like Kou had started removing himself from Amane’s life. He barely came to his lab, only when he asks if he can bring some albums and books to bring to his own lab. He does still prepare him a bento, and Amane is thankful for that nor does he wish for this one routine to change between them when he’s gotten accustomed to the blonde’s cooking.
But he always just leaves it on his desk, and because Amane finds it difficult to wake up early, he isn’t able to catch him when he does so.
While Amane wishes to look for him, he also can’t find a solid reason for him to do so that isn’t just an embarrassing ‘I want to see Kou’. He worries if he forces himself in Kou’s life when they have nothing to do with each other anymore, it’ll only make Kou hate him.
“Ooohhh, looks like you did something, Amane~” he hears his brother tease.
Amane lifts up the book to eye his brother “Why do you assume that I’ve done something?” he asks.
“Well, he wouldn’t be avoiding you if he wasn’t upset with you, right?”
Amane presses his lips together, putting the book back over his face as he laments his feelings and decisions in life "Why is love so hard? Why must feelings be so complex and difficult to grasp even for one who has the IQ level of above average to the normal human?” he continues to mumble against the book.
“Maybe if you tried doing those things in books where the guy captures the person of their interest, ties them up to make them talk?” Tsukasa suggests.
Amane wonders what kind of fictional books his brother has been reading in his free time “If I did something as barbaric as that, Kou would probably stop talking to me altogether. Or worse, have me locked up for illegal confinement.”
Tsukasa laughs, agreeing with the sentiment “Have you actually tried talking to him?” the younger twin then asks.
Amane doesn’t reply, and that was all Tsukasa needed to know.
“Look, Amane, if you don’t go and talk to him to ask what’s going on, you’ll never get anywhere, you know?”
The older twin exhales a long breath “I know.” he says, removing the book from his face as he sat up “But what do I even say?”
“Just ask him what’s troubling him. He just got promoted, didn’t he? Maybe he’s just busy and you’re only overthinking things.” Tsukasa casually replies, propping his chin on his palms.
Tsukasa had a point. Naturally, if you want to know what the other person was feeling, you’d go up and talk to them to clear any misunderstandings. But Amane, being the non-sociable hermit that he is, can’t find the courage in him to do so.
Admittedly, he was a little scared of Kou’s response. If he told Amane that he hated him, Amane wouldn’t know what to do. Kou is his first love, and knowing the person you love is upset with you, or worse, doesn’t want anything to do with you, it pains him.
Where had it all gone wrong, he wonders. It feels as though just last week they were doing swell, even reading the twins’ letters together on the padded nursery in his lab. Then the next thing Amane knew, Kou was being cold to him. He can’t find the point where things started to change.
He can’t think of what he could have done wrong.
Perhaps it was best if he asked Kou for answers instead of dwelling on it on his own.
Or so he says.
Anytime Amane decides it was time to talk to Kou and address the obvious elephant in the room, the blonde is always busy with something. Granted he was new to being a sole researcher so there was a lot of work to be done, which Amane wishes Kou would ask him for help with.
But even in his free time, he was around other people if he wasn’t resting in the nap room. Obviously, Amane wouldn’t be able to find it in him to interrupt his slumber.
Amane was this close to believing Kou was deliberately making it difficult for him. In a way, it was starting to get annoying.
He’s considered just giving up. Perhaps if he waits on it for long enough, his feelings will eventually die down. Maybe it was best if they carry on with their lives like this. Amane never had the strongest opinion on superficial stuff such as fate, but perhaps they were bound to grow apart.
Like nothing went on between them as they raised wonderful monsters together. And those happy days will now only be memories to look back on.
And just like that, weeks had passed.
Amane hasn’t interacted with Kou since the last time. He simply distracts himself with his own work, and thankfully, it was working. They’ll be receiving new eggs soon, so it was the perfect opportunity for him to focus on something else. He had to prepare the nursery and stock up on supplies.
In the span of time that he stopped forcing himself in Kou’s life, the feelings did seem to disappear eventually. Maybe he had thought it all wrong. Maybe he didn’t really consider Kou that way and was only caught in the moment. He was only caught up in Kou’s warmth. And now that his warmth was gone, he took Amane’s feelings along with it.
Kou’s bento eventually stopped coming, as well. And while it pained him the first time he came to his lab without the warm prepared food on his desk, he figured it was for the best. He can’t expect Kou to continue looking out for his well-being when he isn’t his assistant anymore.
Can’t say he won’t miss Kou’s cooking, though, and the cafeteria food could never compare to the delicious taste. But Amane had to accept it.
Everything was back to how things should be.
***
The time for egg distribution has come. All three researchers that were assigned for this nurturing season gather at the egg storage room. The moment Amane enters the door, his eyes immediately caught sight of familiar spiky blonde hair, having a conversation with his twin who sat next to him.
Amane quietly walks past them, taking his seat beside his twin.
“Ah, Amane, you’re here!” Tsukasa exclaims, waving to his brother in greeting.
Amane smiles at Tsukasa then turns his attention to Kou who waves at him when they lock eyes for a moment “Hello, Researcher K. How have you been?” he decides to ask.
“Doing great, thanks. I hope things are going well for you, too, Researcher A.” Kou replies, and Amane hates how their conversation right now feels so unfamiliar. It was as if they were strangers again.
Amane nods in response but doesn’t say more.
The new manager walks in with Sakura by their tail and they begin the distribution process via Monster Amidakuji.
Tsukasa had been assigned the egg with the ID number 8, Kou had egg ID M and Amane received the egg with ID number 3. After the usual reminders from Sakura, the three researchers left the room with their eggs in hand.
Conveniently, all their labs were stationed in the same area of the building so they ended up walking the way together. Until Tsukasa arrived at his and bid the two ‘goodbye’ very cheerfully before storming into his lab.
And then it was just him and Kou. Walking side by side in silence.
Amane notices the way Kou carries the egg, similar to how he did the first time. Like a small infant, he held it close to his chest, afraid it would fall if he wasn’t careful. Amane couldn’t hold back the smile as the memory flashes in his mind.
“What is it?” he hears Kou ask, noticing the other researcher smile.
“Nothing. This just felt somewhat nostalgic. How we walked this path together with an egg in hand.” Amane simply recalls.
Kou smiles, also remembering that day very vividly “Yeah. I was really nervous back then.” he chuckles.
Amane laughs in reply “You really were. Making a whole nest, too. And then helping the twins hatch the following day.” he mumbles, the memory making him feel a little sentimental now “I wish you luck on your monster rearing, Researcher K. I know you’ll do just as amazing.”
Kou nods, that beautiful smile never leaving his face “Thanks. Good luck with yours, too, Researcher A. I’m sure everything will be just fine.” the blonde assures him.
Only when Kou entered the room did Amane realize they had reached the blonde’s lab. He watches as the door closed, turning into a barricade between him and Kou.
Amane thought he had lost his feelings. He thought they were only significant in that moment while he and Kou raised Akari and Midori. But as he made conversation with him just now for the first time in the longest while, Amane’s heart started racing again.
He wishes he had called out to Kou before he shut the door behind him, never to be seen by Amane again. He had his chance and he wasted the opportunity.
After taking one last glance at the door to Kou’s lab, Amane makes his way to his own.
He was greeted by silence when he entered his lab. Nothing but the birds chirping outside as the morning sun shone from the window. He approaches his desk where the basket he usually put his monster eggs in lay atop.
He stares at it for a moment before turning his attention to the padded nursery. A memory once again playing in his head when Kou created the nest of blankets for the egg before. Amane thought for a moment before gently placing the egg in the basket then rushing to his cabinet where he stored the blankets.
Amane took out a few, placing them on the middle of the padded nursery then he went to work to create the nest of blankets. By the time he was done, a tail was greeting him as he approached the basket to grab the egg.
Amane smiles, gently picking it up in his hands and rubbing the shell. The tail wagged a bit as he does so “Hello, there.” he whispers to the egg.
He walks over to the nest he built and gently placed the egg on top of it, securing the nest a little bit more so he was sure it won’t roll off.
“I wonder what kind of monster you’ll be. I can’t wait to see you hatch.” Amane says, gentle eyes on the egg resting on top of the blankets.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Next chap is gonna be a lot of silly amane with his feelings moments hehe ^^
alsooo mitsuba, nene and the mokke appearance finally! we have reached the timeline in the event yippeeeLots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 14: Amane was so in love with Kou
Summary:
The misadventures of Amane being completely in love with Kou and not sure what to do about it.
Notes:
Hello, world!
Very excited to share this chapter cus i love amane being disaster over kou and i thought this chap was kinda cute and funny lmao skjdfgsk
Mitsuba and the mokke appearance in this chap too~ yippeee! nene too but she's more or less just a mention lol
I decided to use Fairy for the Mokke cus it makes sense u know www and using 'Fairy' as the name for the mokke instead of just, 'Mokke' sounds better sdkjfgksanygaayyss hope y'all enjoy this chap!
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Amane was so in love with Kou.
And here the researcher thought their ties would end when Kou becomes a solo researcher and moves out of his lab. It did for a moment. It was a few weeks of solitude and lingering loss of a love he never had.
But after that one conversation with Kou for the first time in so long, all those feelings he hid in the deepest part of his heart immediately resurfaced and they refuse to be forgotten again.
Even as he’s prioritized taking care of his monster—who he named Mitsuba—and using that as a distraction to not dwell on his unrequited feelings, it seems fate decides it is not done playing with him.
About a few weeks after the hatching and Amane decided it was fine for Mitsuba to be babysat by someone else so he can focus on work, he decides to ask his twin to do so. While the best option for the job would be Kou, Amane, unfortunately, could not find it in him to even knock on the blonde’s door after standing in front of it for literal minutes before walking away.
“You want me to babysit Mitsuba?” Tsukasa asks, a little surprised of this request.
Amane eyes the monster laying on top of his twin’s head who looked at him with wide curious eyes. For a moment, Amane was reconsidering his decision but convinces himself that a few hours wouldn’t be so bad.
“Yeah. I just need to get back to work on my research again. It’ll only be for a few hours.” he assures his twin, but it sounded more like he was reassuring himself.
“Okay~ I’ll take care of him for now!” Tsukasa replies, taking Mitsuba off of his brother’s arms.
The little monster doesn’t resist when he was taken from Amane’s arms even as he curiously stares at the researcher who took him. At the very least, Tsukasa was being gentle with him so that eases Amane’s worries a little.
He waves goodbye to Mitsuba, telling him he’ll be back soon before he walks back to his lab.
Amane thought he wouldn’t be able to focus on his work again worrying about Mitsuba, but thankfully, he got back to his groove the moment he sat on his desk. He had set an alarm of 3 hours before he can pick Mitsuba up from Tsukasa’s lab and as soon as it rang, Amane was up on his feet and headed to his twin’s lab.
However, as he got there, Tsukasa and the monsters were nowhere to be found.
Amane wondered where he could be so he starts looking at the usual places where Tsukasa would go; the library, the cafeteria, the nap room. He finds him in the nap room, thankfully, sleeping.
And alone.
Worry fills Amane’s system seeing Mitsuba wasn’t with Tsukasa and he approaches his twin, not really caring if he had to disturb his slumber.
“Tsukasa! Tsukasa!” he calls for the other researcher and Tsukasa stirs awake.
“Ah, Amane… what is it?” Tsukasa asks between a yawn, still half-asleep.
“Where’s Mitsuba?” Amane immediately asks, worry in his tone..
“Ah… I left them with Kou ‘cause I got sleepy.” Tsukasa casually replies.
Amane felt his heart race hearing his twin’s response. Tsukasa immediately goes back to sleep after that and Amane decides not to bother him any longer. He heaves a sigh, unsure if his twin had done it on purpose knowing Amane’s situation or if this was a mere coincidence.
Deciding not to dwell on it any longer, he heads for Kou’s lab. If anything, he at least felt at ease knowing Mitsuba was in good hands. It only took him a few minutes to arrive to his destination, and yet the time it’s taken for him to simply stand there, trying to find the courage to knock was much longer.
Amane inhales a deep breath “You can do this, Amane. You just came here to pick Mitsuba up, that’s all.” he mumbles, psyching himself up.
After what felt like forever, Amane finally lifts his hand up to knock on the door. He hears Kou yell from inside and the researcher feels his palms start sweating. Why was he so nervous? It wasn’t as if he and Kou had never interacted before. They’ve raised monsters together already, for christ’s sake!
The door finally opens and there revealed Kou with a sleeping Mitsuba in his arms.
Amane finds himself staring, not sure as to why, but seeing the blonde carrying his monster who slept peacefully in his arms brought a fuzzy feeling to his stomach. Oh he just looked so perfect!
“Amane?” he hears Kou call to him and Amane blinks, snapping himself back to reality.
“H-Hi! Uhm, I came to pick up Mitsuba.” Amane says, pointing to the monster in Kou’s arms.
“Ah, right. Mitsuba. Yes.” Kou stutters on his response, walking over to carefully transfer the sleeping monster to Amane’s arms.
Amane raises his arms up a little awkwardly, unsure how to properly take his monster in fear he’ll wake Mitsuba up. Kou seems to notice his dilemma so he decides to guide him in what to do. And with Kou’s careful instructions, Mitsuba is successfully transferred to Amane’s arms, still sound asleep with a thumb in his mouth.
“Thank you, Researcher K. I’ll be going now.” Amane says with a small bow before heading to his own lab.
Once back in his lab, he gently puts Mitsuba back in his crib, glad that he didn’t wake up in the process either, before he crouches on the floor. He rests his head on his arms, lamenting himself for the pathetic and awkward interaction he had with Kou.
The scene of Kou carrying Mitsuba was now etched in his memory and he doesn’t even understand why that of all things made him feel so giddy. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t seen Kou carrying monster children before and looking absolutely perfect while doing so! He’s seen him carry Akari and Midori too many times in the past.
But this one time made Amane feel weak, somehow. It was odd.
Was it because of his new-found feelings for Kou that anything Kou does will make Amane feel like some lovestruck maiden?
Probably.
***
Amane decided to make a trip to the library, hoping to find any new books to read as a past time. He heard the nursery received a shipment of new books just last week so he was hoping to see if anything would pique his interest. Perhaps there were some that could be helpful with his research.
Deciding not to ask Tsukasa to babysit Mitsuba again today, Amane decides to bring the little monster with him. He procured a baby carrier from the supply store and while he was a little embarrassed about using it, he didn’t really have a choice. Carrying an infant monster wouldn’t be the most convenient when he also has to carry back a mountain of books to his lab.
So with Mitsuba securely strapped on his back, Amane makes his way to the library.
Amane makes a beeline to the section where the new books were placed before they could be categorized along with the older books. Surely enough, there were a few that caught his attention.
To his surprise, there were also new children books and he eagerly grabs one that was about constellations. He silently flips through the pages, concluding it would be perfect material for Mitsuba’s reading time.
“Excuse me.” he feels his body stiffen hearing the call from a familiar voice behind him.
And before Amane could turn around to check, he notices Kou leaning in through his peripheral, their faces practically inches apart. Amane feels his breath hitch, his heart pounded loudly against his chest. The only thing keeping their bodies from pressing so close is the fact Mitsuba was strapped on Amane’s back and Kou was careful not to crush the little monster.
He only manages to gather himself again when Kou finally leans away and Amane is staring at a gap on the shelf in front of him where a book should have been. Oh, Kou had taken a book from there. That was what happened.
“Hello, Mitsuba, how are you?” he hears Kou coo and Mitsuba giggles in response from behind him.
When Amane finally finds the courage to look at Kou, golden eyes lock into azure ones and Kou smiles in greeting. He bows his head momentarily before making his leave with a book in hand.
Once the blonde was nowhere in sight, Amane leans his forehead on the rows of books, a deep sigh escaping his lips. His heart still hadn’t calmed from their sudden proximity earlier.
He felt slightly pathetic, that simply being centimeters away from Kou would rile him up so much. Just being in his proximity would make Amane’s heart race and his stomach do somersaults. How hearing his voice would make his mind go blank simply to focus on that one, oh-so beautiful sound.
How could being in love change him so quickly? He could usually maintain his composure even when he was anxious or stressed, but somehow, Kou could easily break his façade.
It was unfair.
While Kou seemed to be doing alright, Amane was here having the worst crisis of his life.
***
A deep sigh leaves Amane’s lips and Mitsuba, sitting on his high chair, stares at his caretaker who had stopped his movements of feeding the little monster. He leans in, tugging at the bowl of baby food in Amane’s hand in an attempt to get the researcher’s attention.
“What do I do, Mitsuba?” Amane cries, taking a spoonful of food and raising it towards Mitsuba.
Mitsuba simply opens his mouth, consuming the food provided to him, not really minding his caretaker’s woes as he’s being fed.
“Do you think I should just confess already? I’m not sure how much longer I’ll be able to contain my feelings without going just a little bit insane.” he continues to complain.
Mitsuba roars at him in reply, small and quiet still given his age.
“You’re right. Who am I kidding? He’ll reject me if I do.” he says as if his monster had given him an actual coherent response to his complaints.
Amane takes another spoonful of food before putting the bowl down on the high-chair’s table so he can remove Mitsuba’s hand from his mouth. Seeing the spoon of food approaching him, Mitsuba opens his mouth again to eat it.
The researcher hums “I suppose it’s also worth a try. Instead of dwelling on it and overthinking things.” he starts considering.
He hears Mitsuba giggle, coughing a bit before a line of saliva spills from the infant monster’s mouth. Amane reaches over to wipe it off with the monster’s bib.
“That’s not very encouraging, Mitsuba.” the little monster giggles again.
Amane continues his task of feeding Mitsuba. A few spoons later, his thoughts come back to haunt him “Ugh, but what do I do if he rejects me? I’m not sure if I’m ready to experience a life knowing Kou doesn’t like me back.” he groans.
Mitsuba, who manages to steal the spoon from Amane’s hold, started gnawing at the object. His teeth had already developed a bit to be able to leave scratches on the plastic material.
“You don’t know either, huh?” he sighs again.
In response to his caretaker’s woes, Mitsuba ends up throwing the spoon to his face. Amane squints from the action as the tip hits him on the forehead before it falls to the floor.
“That doesn’t make me feel better, but thanks.” he mumbles, watching the little monster giggle in his seat as he clapped his hands.
***
When Fairy, Kou’s monster, came rushing towards Amane while he was walking the halls back to his lab, Amane wasn’t sure what to expect. But the fear and anxiety that rushed through him wasn’t easy to ignore.
Not only was Fairy flying towards him at the monster’s full speed, he was panicking! Tears were welling up on his eyes while his ears flailed around.
“What is it, Fairy?” Amane wasn’t able to hide the worry in his tone.
“Kou help!” was all Amane needed to hear before he’s swooping the little monster into his arms and rushing to where he saw Fairy came from.
“Where is he?” he asks as they ran.
“Training! Training!” Fairy yells from his arms. Amane assumes he must mean the training grounds in the courtyard. He checks his watch; if Kou kept his previous schedule for the twins, it should be time for physical training in the courtyard.
Amane heads to the courtyard and the first thing he notices was the group of monsters huddling over one of the trees. Fairy struggles out of his hold, flying over to them and Amane tails after.
And there he sees Kou, leaning against the tree as he massages his ankle.
“Kou!” Amane wasn’t able to hold back his voice as he calls for the blonde, crouching down by his side.
“Researcher A? Fairy!” there was relief in Kou’s tone when he catches sight of his monster. Fairy was immediately by his side, snuggling close to him as he cried “You worried me there, where did you run off to?” Kou asks as he gently pats the monster’s back.
“He came flying to me. He said you needed help.” Amane was the one to reply then his attention turns to Kou’s leg “What happened?” he asks, noticing how his ankle seemed bruised.
"Kou fell off the tree!" one of the monsters exclaim, pointing up towards the tree’s branches.
“You what?” Amane turns to Kou, his expression held dread over the news.
“I’m fine, I’m fine. One of the monsters’ toys got caught in the tree so I decided to help get it down. But…” Kou trails off, looking away “I might have… lost my footing on the way down.”
Their attention is caught by another monster’s sobs as she held her frisbee in her hand “I’m sorry… it’s all my fault…” she apologizes between her tears.
“It’s not, okay? I wasn’t being careful so it’s my fault. Don’t cry, sweetie.” Kou hushes the little monster.
Amane doesn’t hold back the sigh “Let’s get you to the infirmary.” he tells the blonde.
“Right.”
As Kou was about to get on his feet, Amane crawls over to him and before Kou could say anything else, the researcher was placing one arm below his knees and the other on his back. Amane struggles for a bit, not really being the strongest of the two, but with effort, he manages to carry Kou in his arms.
The blonde yelps as he’s lifted up from the ground “Wait, Amane! What are you—”
“Getting you to the infirmary, what else?” Amane replies, making his way to the infirmary. Fairy flew not too far behind.
“Wait, put me down, I can walk just fine.” Kou insists, a visible blush on his face.
Amane plays deaf as he continues walking. Seeing as there was no talking Amane out into putting him down, Kou just decides to keep quiet until they reach their destination.
Even as Amane could very well leave since he was done with his task of helping Kou, he decides to stay for a bit. He watches as the nurse carefully tended to his injured ankle, giving him reminders to not stress the injury so it will heal faster.
Kou thanks her once she was done and he examines his ankle. He wiggles it a bit only to find himself wincing when he feels pain. A sigh escapes his lips.
“She said not to stress the injury, you know.” Amane reminds him.
Kou chuckles in response “Right. Thanks for carrying me here, Amane.” the blonde smiles at him. Fairy sits himself on Kou’s lap, snuggling into Kou’s tummy and the blonde giggles as he pats the little monster “And thank you, too, Fairy. You did great.”
Amane couldn’t help the smile watching the adorable scene. His eyes then shift to the blonde’s injured ankle and he ends up voicing a suggestion before his brain could comprehend it “I can bring you to your lab if you need help.”
Kou blinks up at Amane “Oh no, I’m fine. I’ll just borrow a crutch for the meantime.”
Right. A crutch. There was that option.
Amane clears his throat “I-I see. Alright then. Uhm… I’ll, uh, I’ll take my leave.”
Kou nods “Okay. Thanks again for the help.”
Amane bows in response before he leaves the infirmary, immediately rushing back to his lab so he can crash out over what he just did in private.
***
The afternoon sun shines bright outside the huge glass windows of Amane’s lab. The room is basked in its warm light as a lone monster with bright pink hair and eyes, two horns and the normal monster tail was sprawled on his stomach in the padded nursery.
With a crayon in hand, he sketches in his paper. Two figures, a tall man with black hair and a small monster with pink hair, as they stand in what seems to be a garden of flowers.
When he was done with his creation, he eagerly stands from his place, tiny legs rushing over to his caretaker.
Amane quietly sits on his desk. Opened books scatter on top of the table but his attention was in a single picture he had stored hidden quite some time ago.
“Amane, Amane!” he hears the soft voice of his monster call for him, taking his attention away from the photo in his hand.
When Amane looks down to his side, Mitsuba is holding up the drawing he made very proudly. Amane smiles as he looks at the picture “Is this for me?” he asks, patting the little monster on the head.
The monster nods in response and Amane puts down the picture to take the drawing from his hands “Thank you, Mitsuba. This looks wonderful.” Amane remarks, eyes on the little monster’s creation.
As he shifted to place the drawing atop the pile of Mitsuba’s previous works—he notes to procure a new album from the supply store to put them in some time soon—the movement causes the photo on his desk to slide off.
Mitsuba notices the photo flying off and so he gives chase until it lands on the ground not far from the desk. He picks it up, curious of the image.
It was of 4 people. He immediately recognizes his caretaker, Amane, smiling to the camera. Beside him were two monsters Mitsuba had never seen before, a girl and a boy who looked very alike. And beside them was…
“Amane.” Mitsuba calls for Amane, holding up the picture and pointing to the blonde in it “Is this Kou?” he asks.
Amane is a little surprised seeing Mitsuba holding the photo he was looking at, not realizing it had fallen earlier. He nods in reply “That’s right.” carrying the little monster up to sit him on his lap.
He takes the photo from his hands and holds it up in front of them so they can both have a better look “This was taken as a commemorative photo during the previous nurturing.” Amane explains.
Mitsuba hums “Then, is this your monster?” he asks, pointing to the little girl monster beside Amane.
“That’s right. Actually, they’re both my monsters.” Amane clarifies to Mitsuba’s confusion.
“Then, where Kou monster?” came Mitsuba’s question.
“Kou was just my assistant when this was taken. He helped me raise these monsters, so you could say they’re both his monsters too.”
Mitsuba’s eyes seem to gleam at this knowledge “That so cool.” he muses, looking back at the photo.
Amane hums in agreement, once again looking at the photo, or to be exact, at the blonde in that photo with a gentle expression “He really was amazing back then.” he couldn’t help the comment.
Mitsuba, while he finds difficulty in expressing his own emotions so freely, is still a lot more perceptive to other people’s feelings. And as he stares up at Amane who was focused on the photo in hand, Mitsuba could discern the longing his caretaker was feeling.
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated!Omg final chapter tomorrow wooohhh and most definitely gonna be the longest chapter lmao
Lots of luv,
Jullia
Chapter 15: The Confession
Summary:
Nene, Mitsuba and Fairy figure out a way to get Amane and Kou to confess their feelings!
Notes:
Hello, world!
Waaahhh we've finally reached the final chapter woohhh longest chapter in this fic too cus that whole confession scene took me 5ever to figure out how to make it happen that i just let my hands write it as it happens in my head lmao sjkdfgks
anygaayyss i hope y'all enjoy this chapter and this whole fic in general! thank you so much for joining me for my very first (finished) longest multichap fic~ \o/
Lots of luv,
Jullia
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
“Hey, Mitsuba.” Nene, the monster under Tsukasa’s care, calls out to her friend who was reading a book in the nap room. Currently, they were supposed to be babysat by Natsuhiko, but after finding Kou asleep in the nap room, the monsters left their assigned babysitter to huddle around the researcher in slumber.
It was already a known fact that Kou was the monsters’ favorite babysitter. While they care for their researchers-in-charge all the same, when it comes to who they wish to look after them when their caretakers are busy, they would always choose Kou.
“What?” Mitsuba asks, looking up at her from his book.
“Do you think Amane and Kou like each other?” the little monster asks.
Mitsuba hums “Probably. Amane was looking at a picture of Kou the other day.” he adds and Nene covers her mouth to avoid squealing.
“Should we bring them together?” she then asks, wide excited eyes staring at Mitsuba as she leans into the other monster’s personal space.
“But how?” Mitsuba blinks at her, wondering what the other monster had in mind.
Nene giggles, standing up as she huffed her chest proudly “Leave i’ to me! I read a lot of love stories so I know what to do.”
Mitsuba feels a little anxious, aware the books Tsukasa lets her read aren’t exactly the most… child-friendly types. He wonders if it’ll be safe letting her handle planning what they’ll do to get Amane and Kou together.
“What do you plan to do?” Mitsuba couldn’t help asking.
“Easy.” she leans closer to Mitsuba’s ear to tell him her plan “We lock them inside a room until they say they like each other.”
Mitsuba’s eyes widen, he was right to be anxious about Nene’s ideas “Isn’t that too much?” he asks, concerned in his tone.
“It fine! We bring Kou to Amane’s lab and then lock them there.” she elaborates.
“But you can’t lock the labs from the outside.” Mitsuba points out.
“Ah, you’re right.” Nene hums, eyes closed and brows knit together as she thought of a different plan. Then an idea comes to mind “We can hold the door closed.” she exclaims.
“Will that work?”
Nene nods, confident in her plan’s success rate “With all three of our strength combined, we can keep it closed until they confess.” she says.
“Three? Is Fairy joining us?” Mitsuba asks, turning to the sleeping monster beside Kou.
“Of course. I know Fairy wants Kou and Amane to get together, too.” Nene brings up.
“But how do we bring Kou to Amane’s lab?” was Mitsuba’s next question, somehow turning a little invested in Nene’s plan now.
Nene smiles at him and for some reason, the expression brings a shiver down his spine. He assumes he’s not going to like what was on the other monster’s mind “Just leave it to me. Now, turn around.”
Mitsuba blinks, a little confused of the instruction, but complies nonetheless. All of a sudden, he feels sharp teeth sink into the flesh of his tail and the monster yelps in pain. The sound was loud enough to stir both Kou and Fairy awake.
Fairy, immediately sensing the danger, flies over to the two little monsters to stand between them, its wings spread out as a way of protecting the injured monster. Nene simply giggles as Mitsuba cries out in pain, holding his bitten tail.
“Mitsuba! Are you okay? What happened?” came Kou’s questions as he rushes to the crying monster. Mitsuba releases his hold on his tail to raise his hands up at Kou, asking to be carried.
Kou complies, carrying the little monster in his arms “Did Nene bite your tail?” he asks, carefully caressing the monster’s tail and he sees the obvious bite mark on the tip.
Mitsuba nods, sniffing between his quiet sobs.
“Nene, why would you do that?” Kou turns to Nene to ask, rubbing Mitsuba’s back to calm his cries.
“We were just playing.” Nene replies, wide innocent eyes looking up at him “I didn’t mean to.”
Kou sighs, aware the little monster can get out of hand sometimes while playing but he can’t really stay mad at her for long “What do you say when you hurt someone?” he asks her.
“Sorry.” Nene says, head hung low in apology.
“Good girl. Now,” he then turns to the monster in his arms “let’s get you treated in the infirmary.” Kou tells him.
Suddenly, Mitsuba starts shaking his head, refusing to be taken to the infirmary it would seem “Amane.” he says to the blonde with wide pleading eyes.
“Ah, you want me to take you to Amane? Okay.” as he was just wondering what to do about the two little monsters he’ll have to leave in the nap room, he sees Tsukasa walk by “Ah, Researcher T!”
Tsukasa stops in his tracks, walking back to peek in the nap room as he was called “What is it?” he smiles.
“Can I ask you to look after Fairy and Nene for a bit?” he asks the younger twin.
“Sure thing.” Tsukasa replies and Kou thanks him with a bow before he begins his walk to Amane’s lab.
Mitsuba can only mentally curse Nene in his head for her brutal and painful attempt at getting Kou to go to Amane’s lab. The least he wishes the other monster could have done was told him. Luckily, Mitsuba had surprisingly above average IQ due to Amane’s rearing methods, otherwise he wouldn’t have figured her out.
***
Shock and anxiety filled Amane’s system seeing Kou arrive at his lab with Mitsuba in his arms. He immediately runs to the pair, worried something had happened “What happened?” he asks.
“Nene bit his tail.” hearing Kou’s reply brought ease to Amane knowing it wasn’t anything serious “I was going to bring him to the infirmary, but he said he wanted to come here instead.” the blonde adds.
“I see. Thank you for bringing him, Researcher K.” Amane says as he takes Mitsuba from Kou’s hold “Let’s get you patched up.” he then tells Mitsuba, voice gentle and reassuring.
“I’ll take my leave then.” before Kou could walk away, he feels something grab his coat and the two researchers turn their attention to Mitsuba.
The little monster looks up at Kou with pleading eyes as he shook his head “Mitsuba?” Amane was the one to speak, curious of his monster’s action.
“You don’t want me to leave?” Kou then asks. That receives a nod from Mitsuba.
“Kou, stay.” the kid demands in his quiet voice.
“No, Mitsuba. Researcher K is busy, we can’t bother him.” Amane tells Mitsuba, trying to pull Mitsuba’s hand away from Kou’s hold but the monster only tightens it.
“Ah, it’s fine, Researcher A. I don’t mind.” Kou says.
“But what about Fairy?” the other researcher asks, concerned for the blonde’s monster seeing as he didn’t bring him along with him.
“I asked Researcher T to look after him with Nene for a moment. It... should be fine. Probably.” even as Kou tries to assure Amane he didn’t mind, Amane could tell he was a little concerned about leaving Fairy with his younger twin.
“Well, if you insist then.” Amane doesn’t argue further. That succeeds in Mitsuba removing his hold from Kou.
Amane brings Mitsuba to the closest bathroom to carefully wash the bite wound on his tail. It didn’t seem to be deep enough to bleed, thankfully, so just a simple treatment would suffice. Once done, all three return to Amane’s lab so they can finish treating the little monster’s injury.
As they enter Amane’s lab, the researcher turns to Kou “Could you grab me the first-aid kit?” he says, albeit unconsciously, as he approaches the padded nursery.
Kou does as he’s told, going to the shelf where he remembered Amane kept the first-aid kit, and sure enough it was still there. He takes the small box and walks over to the pair. He sits himself down, opening the box to hand the tube of antibacterial ointment to Amane.
Amane takes it and applies it to Mitsuba’s tail. He feels the little monster wince, the hold on his sleeve tightening a bit but Amane hushes him, assuring him he’s alright. Afterwards, he returns the tube to Kou as Kou gives him the bandage so he can wrap Mitsuba’s injury.
“There we go. Feeling better?” Amane asks.
Mitsuba moves his tail for a bit, offering a smile as he nods. He hops off of Amane’s lap and runs off. The two researchers stand on their feet, Kou going back to the shelf to return the first-aid kit.
“I’m surprised you still remember where I kept that.” Amane muses a bit.
“You say that like I wasn’t your assistant for more than 6 months.” Kou jokes and Amane chuckles at that, the blonde had a point “Well, I should be off, then. Fairy might be looking for me.”
Just as Kou says that, they hear the laboratory door slam shut with a loud thud—was it open before?—and upon closer inspection, Mitsuba had disappeared from the room.
“What?” Amane speaks as the two approach the door. From the other side, they could hear the giggles of the monster children “Mitsuba?” the researcher calls, making an attempt to open the door but the knob would not budge.
He keeps trying but it was no use. Amane can only assume the monster kids were holding the knob from the other side.
“Are we locked in?” Kou asks, concern in his tone.
“More or less. But, it’s impossible to lock the laboratories from the outside, which could only mean…” Amane trails off, unsure what prompted this little prank from the monsters so he can only hazard a guess “The monsters are teaming up to keep us inside.”
Kou’s eyes widen, confused about Amane’s speculation “What? Why would they?” the blonde asks, approaching the door to give it a try, himself.
Amane moves away so Kou could attempt opening the door, and as expected, even with Kou’s strength, the knob was not budging “Like I said, it’s not locked. Someone’s holding the knob from the other side to keep us from opening the door.” the senior researcher points out once more.
Kou presses his ear against the door, and as Amane had said, he could make out the giggles of the little monsters from outside. He starts knocking as if the action would make them open the door “Fairy! Mitsuba! Nene! Open the door!” the blonde yells.
“No can do!” they hear Nene yell from the other side.
“The door is cursed now! You need to fulfill a condition to open it!” Mitsuba then explains.
Both researchers look at each other, expressions confused “A condition?” Amane asks.
“That’s right! You need to tell each other your feelings!” Fairy was the one to respond.
“Our…” Amane trails off.
“…feelings?” Kou finishes.
Amane and Kou fall silent, both of them seeming to have an idea about the ‘feelings’ they need to convey in order to unlock the door. How the little monsters figured such a thing could be brewing between the two researchers was beyond them.
However, it was a given fact that some monsters are more perceptive to others’ feelings. Perhaps it was that or both Amane and Kou simply wore their hearts on their sleeves too much ever since they started working apart.
Who can really tell?
“What should we do?” Kou turns to Amane but the senior researcher had already walked away from the door.
Amane sits himself down on the nursery “There’s no point asking them to open the door for us. So for the meantime, why don’t we sit ourselves down and wait? They’ll get tired eventually.” the researcher suggests.
Kou takes one more look at the door before taking up Amane’s suggestion. He approaches the padded nursery and sits himself down, a considerable distance away from Amane’s place.
“I apologize for troubling you, Researcher K. It would seem the injury act was all a part of the monsters’ schemes.” Amane brings up, already deducing why Mitsuba had acted the way he did, asking to be taken to Amane’s lab and telling Kou not to leave.
“It’s no trouble at all, really. Can’t say my own monster isn’t as guilty.” Kou sheepishly points out.
Silence envelops the room for a moment. It wasn’t awkward, but it also felt unnatural. Having no contact with each other for over 2 months seemed to have largen the gap between them, as Amane had suspected.
Before Akari and Midori came into their lives, Amane never felt this glaring distance between him and Kou. Even as they sat in silence in Amane’s lab back then, with Amane working on his research and Kou reading books in silence, he felt no need to create a connection.
But now, everything in his system was screaming. His mind raced, wondering what he should do. Should he talk? Should he offer him something? Should he suggest an activity they can do to past the time?
“How have you been?” when Amane finally finds his voice again, that was the first thing he manages to say.
Kou turns to him, a little surprised “Doing well. And you?”
There it was again. The instinctive, polite response. It just felt so wrong hearing Kou reply to him as if they never had a connection from all those months ago.
“Fine,” Amane says before inhaling a breath “is what I wish I could say. In reality, while it’s been great having Mitsuba around, something else has been bothering me.” The researcher admits.
“Really? What is it?” Kou ends up asking before he could think about it. Amane notices him catch himself and adds “If-If you don’t mind me asking.”
Amane crosses his feet, propping his elbows on his legs as he looks at Kou, gathering all the courage he can in order to get the feeling off of his chest—since the monsters have given him this opportunity, he might as well make the most of it.
“I mean this with no offense, Kou, but I just wanted to ask,” he starts “are you mad at me?”
The question seems to startle Kou and he blinks at Amane, confusion in his eyes “Why would I be mad at you?” the blonde asks.
“Well… it’s just…” Amane trails off a bit, trying to find the proper words to say “I feel you’ve been deliberately avoiding me since you moved out of my lab to your own. I figured you were just busy, being a solo researcher doesn’t start off easy, after all. But…”
You wouldn’t talk to me and you stopped preparing bentos for me. Amane shakes those thoughts out of his head, finding it weird to voice them out.
“As expected, it’s nothing. I was probably overthinking things. You had your own work to do and I can’t expect you to have the time for me.” Amane says with a chuckle, deciding to brush it off as he realizes how selfish he was being for bringing this up.
Because no matter how he tried to rephrase his concerns, it all just sounds like Amane was only thinking about his selfish desires. Yes, he misses Kou’s company, but he can’t monopolize his time nor expect him to make time to come to Amane’s lab and visit him.
While he misses the days when Kou would be by his side every day, that isn’t possible anymore since Kou isn’t is his assistant. And he has no reason to be taking away his time only to satisfy Amane’s needs.
“I’m not mad at you, Amane.” he then hears Kou speak “It’s true I was busy during the move so I couldn’t find the time to visit you. Though, I also had my own stupid reasons for distracting myself.”
Hearing the blonde’s response surprises Amane a little “Stupid reasons?” he isn’t able to keep himself from asking.
Kou nods “To be honest, you weren’t just overthinking things; I was avoiding you that whole time. And I was thankful for the convenient timing that I could move out of your lab soon. I just couldn’t handle being around you any longer than I had to.”
Amane was feeling conflicted over Kou’s explanation. While he was glad that Kou wasn’t upset with him, however, it sounded as if he actually was cross with Amane. And it admittedly stung hearing him say that he couldn’t handle being around him anymore.
“That just sounds like you were ma—”
“No! I had my reasons. Well, they’re stupid reasons, but it wasn’t because I was mad at you, Amane, don’t get me wrong.” Kou immediately clarifies, adamant to clear that misunderstanding out.
“O-Okay, okay. I get it.” Amane simply says “Then, are you willing to share those ‘stupid reasons’ with me, or do you want me to speculate a guess?” the researcher decides to tease.
He sees Kou pout and he had to mentally stop himself from showing any reaction because he just looked so adorable doing that. After a few seconds of silence, Kou finally speaks, but the question surprises Amane instead “How about you, Amane? Did I ever upset you?”
Amane blinks at him “Not that I recall. Why would you assume that?” he admits.
“Really? Not even when I made you uncomfortable about that talk?”
The vagueness got Amane slightly confused “What talk? I need you to stop speaking in riddles, Kou.”
“The…” Kou trails off, trying to find the proper words “When I asked you… if you ever… crushed on someone." his voice grows quieter by the end of the sentence but Amane was still able to pick it up.
The memory comes to Amane almost immediately. How can he forget when that was the conversation that made him realize his true feelings for Kou? He remembers that day as vividly as ever.
Though now that makes Amane curious “Why would I be upset with you over that? It wasn’t as if the topic bothered me or anything.” he clarifies.
“It didn’t?” Kou looks at him with wide surprised eyes. Amane shakes his head and that receives a sigh of relief from the blonde “I’m glad. I really thought you got mad at me. You just stormed out of the room all of a sudden so I figured maybe the topic bothered you.”
That succeeds in making Amane blush from the embarrassment, mentally cursing his past self—not that he can fully blame himself, however, when his feelings started spilling the moment he realized he loved Kou.
God, just the thought of saying he loves Kou was making him giddy.
“Was that why you were avoiding me, then?” Amane then asks.
Kou scratches his cheek sheepishly “Kinda.” he admits and Amane has to agree that it sounded stupid, indeed “Well, it’s not the entire reason. But I’m not sure if I can say it right now.” Kou adds with an apologetic smile.
Amane exhales a breath, at the very least, he was relieved that some misunderstandings were being cleared “In that case, I don’t mind waiting until you’re comfortable enough to tell me. Whether it’s tomorrow, or the day after or even the following month. When you’re ready to tell me, I’ll listen.” he says, the tone of his voice reassuring.
Kou smiles at him, nodding in response “Thank you, Amane.”
Amane inhales deeply and exhales slowly, psyching himself up and gathering the courage. He needs to get his feelings out now or he’ll never know when the next opportunity could be.
Then he speaks up “I never actually got to answer your question back then.” he says. Kou looks at him curiously but he can tell his interest was piqued “Like I’ve said, I was horrible with handling feelings before. So if I ever had a crush on someone, I wouldn’t exactly know. And it was true. I did have a crush and I never knew until that conversation happened.”
Upon hearing this, Kou’s eyes widen “Really?” he then pauses, looking down at his hands as if trying to find the strength to follow-up his question “Do you… still like them now?”
Amane smiles at Kou, ever so lovingly “I do.”
He doesn’t miss the way Kou’s hand twitches, and Amane grows curious of the blonde’s reaction to this. He can only speculate but he doesn’t want to raise his hopes up.
“I see. Are they working here? Or are they from your hometown?” Kou ends up asking.
“They work here, actually. I only met them just some months ago.” Amane replies, trying to be vague but also obvious enough that he hopes Kou can make a guess.
Kou hums, fingers to his chin as he tries to think of who the person could be “Are they a researcher then?” Amane nods “They must be really great, then.”
“How so?” Amane asks, curious of Kou’s impression.
“Well, you aren’t exactly the most sociable person and you don’t seem to be easily interested in other people. So I figured that person must be really amazing to be able to catch your attention.” Kou simply deduces.
Amane chuckles, deciding to ignore the extra comment “Well, you’re not exactly wrong. They really are an amazing researcher.” he admits.
“Ah! Is it Mei-san?” Kou then says, surprising Amane.
“Nope.” the other researcher chuckles.
“Then… Shijima-san?” Amane shakes his head “Sakura-san, then?”
Amane laughs “Researcher N would murder me if I did. But no.” as if already guessing what Kou was going to say next, Amane decides to cut in “And no, it is not Researcher N, either.”
Kou knits his brows and it amuses Amane a little that he was taking this so seriously. He admits, his curiosity tugs at his heartstrings.
“Can you give me a hint?” Kou then asks.
Amane hums in thought “I don’t mind. But why are you curious to know who this person is?” the senior researcher decides to say.
The question seems to catch Kou off-guard and he stutters a little before he could make out a response “I was just… curious, that’s all. Ah, but if I’m being annoying, please tell me.” Kou exclaims.
“It’s fine, I don’t mind.” Amane smiles then goes back to giving his hint “Let’s see… they’re actually a new researcher but they’re surprisingly really great with handling monsters. Their hometown is the village below the mountains. They’re diligent, hardworking, and very compassionate. They also have quite the skill in cooking, nothing compares to the food they make.”
As Amane continues to cite his ‘hints’ about this person, he notices Kou slowly connecting the pieces as the blush on his cheeks grow more visible hearing every word Amane says.
“They’re quite the social butterfly, and everyone else seems to appreciate their presence, too. This person taught me that I should never doubt my feelings. They helped me a lot during my research. You could say, they were the key to the answers I couldn’t find.”
And then he turns to Kou who continues to stare at him, disbelief in his expression.
“They’re name means ‘light’. And it couldn’t be the most appropriate name for someone who’s brought light upon my world.” he adds, his tone gentle as he says those words with all the love he had for the blonde.
“Amane… you mean…” Kou couldn’t find the words but Amane nods to him in response.
“Kou,” he calls for the other researcher, looking at him with the gentlest expression “I love you.”
Kou’s reaction was to raise his hands up to hide his face, unable to contain the emotions he was feeling at that moment. He doesn’t respond, and for a moment, the fear and anxiety Amane felt at the thought of telling Kou his true feelings returned all at once. But there was no going back now.
Either everything ends here; his friendship, his connection, his life with Kou.
Or this becomes the beginning of a beautiful chapter in Amane’s life.
It all depends on Kou’s response.
“What the hell…” he finally hears the blonde speak, and Amane’s heart pounded hard against his chest for a second “How can you just say that, Amane?” Kou’s voice was shaky and Amane could tell he was crying.
“Kou…?” concern fills Amane’s system. Why was he crying? Was he mad now?
Kou haphazardly wipes his tears with his sleeves. Amane manages to take a peek of the blonde’s face, unable to keep himself from thinking that he still looked pretty when crying.
Through his tears, Kou makes out a broken laugh “Man… after you told me you’d wait for me until I can say my ‘stupid reason’ to you.” he finally looks up at Amane “How am I supposed to make you wait now?”
Amane blinks at him, wondering if he was assuming correctly “Don’t tell me your other reason is…”
Kou nods, now smiling through his tears “I love you, too, Amane.”
Hearing those words, Amane finds himself getting up on his feet until he could close the distance between them. He wraps Kou in his arms, a warm embrace expressing all of Amane’s feelings as he holds the person he loves close.
Kou reciprocates the hug and the feelings Amane was pouring onto him. Finally, everything felt right. Everything was as it should be.
Amane leans away from the hug, his hand gently caressing Kou’s cheek “Can I kiss you?”
Kou’s cheeks turn a shade darker, not expecting the question from Amane “You don’t… have to ask, you k—"
Amane eats his words as he eagerly presses his lips against Kou’s. The past few weeks, he could only just imagine what kissing Kou was like. Could only think how his lips would feel against Amane’s. What he would taste like. What expressions or sounds he would make.
And now, Amane can test his hypothesis. In his arms, he can figure all those questions out.
And he does so.
The kiss deepens, even as inexperienced as the two were, their emotions start to take over. Lips danced against each other in a rhythm of their own. Even as they part for only mere millimeters to gasp for air, Amane’s immediately crashing his lips back into Kou’s.
He hears him moan against the kiss the longer they went on. And Amane was getting addicted to it.
“Amane, wait—” Kou tries to say but Amane ignores his plea. He’s waited for too long and all that was on his mind was how much he wanted to express his love for Kou.
His hands find their way to Kou’s back, trying to press their bodies closer but their position on the padded nursery wasn’t the most convenient. He feels Kou’s hands on the back of his head, caught between caressing and pulling on the strands. Kou’s touch was electrifying and it only fueled the desire in Amane more.
Only when he feels those hands pull him hard enough for him to lean away from Kou did Amane snap out of it. Meanwhile, Kou leans his forehead on Amane’s chest as the two panted, getting the air back in their lungs.
“God…” he hears Kou groan “are you… trying to… suck the life out of me?” Kou says between pants.
Amane chuckles, pressing his lips on Kou’s head “Sorry. I got ahead of myself.” he whispers.
He hears Kou chuckle, still, leaning back to look at Amane, arms still over his shoulders as the other’s hands rested on his waist “Guess the little monsters’ plan worked, huh?” he then says.
“Yeah. I’m glad it did.” Amane agrees, leaning in to give Kou a quick kiss. Kou presses a hand over Amane’s mouth afterwards.
“That’s enough already, Amane. Jeez.” Kou sighs.
Amane giggles, taking Kou’s hand and then pressing a soft kiss on his palm “Okay. I’ll stop for now.” he grins at the blonde, succeeding in making him blush from the action.
All of a sudden, they hear the door open and the little monsters appear before them “Alright! Time’s up…” their words trail off as they notice the position the two researchers were in; they sat between each other’s legs, Kou’s own going over Amane’s upper thigh as one of his arms were still around the other’s shoulders, one of Amane’s hands kept their place on Kou’s waist while the other held Kou’s wrist.
Mitsuba’s expression showed slight disgust while Nene and Fairy’s eyes lit up at the intimacy of their bodies.
“Looks like the plan worked!” they hear Tsukasa exclaim, only noticing then that the younger twin was standing behind the little monsters this whole time.
Realizing their embarrassing display, Kou immediately gets up on his feet, a visible blush still on his face as he straightens his clothing “I-Is the curse over?” he clears his throat to ask.
Nene grins at him “Of course it is! Amane and Kou are a couple now, yayy!” she cheers, hugging Mitsuba as she jumped in joy. Fairy and Tsukasa join in the celebratory hug.
Kou simply smiles at the adorable scene. Amane stands beside him “That’s right. We are.” he says, taking Kou’s hand and entwining their fingers.
The action surprises Kou and the blush on his cheeks grow redder, but he decides to indulge him as he tightens his hold, squeezing the other’s hand in his.
***
The halls of Kamome Monster Nursery were painted in an orange hue as the light of the setting sun courses through the windows. Children’s voices could be faintly heard from one of the laboratories along with joyous giggles.
Kou knocks on the laboratory’s door to announce his arrival before opening it. The scene that greeted him was of Amane having Nene sitting on his shoulders as they ran around the padded nursery. Fairy flew close by as Mitsuba chased after them, imitating fake monster roars.
“Quick, Amane, it’s time for the super powered laser attack!” Nene yells.
Amane turns around to face Mitsuba, raising his open palms up and makes what seems to be laser noises as he does so. Mitsuba and Fairy pretend to be hit and they dramatically fall to the ground with a yell, pretending to be dead.
“We’ve done it, Princess Nene! The kingdom is saved!” Amane exclaims and the monster child on his shoulders giggle in glee.
They hear Kou clap and all attention turns to the researcher who arrived “Great job! Congratulations for saving the kingdom." he cheers.
“Kou!” all three monsters yell, each of them running to hug Kou.
“Looks like you all had fun.” Kou points out, carrying Fairy into his arms “Unfortunately, it is time for me to take Fairy to prepare for dinner so playtime is over.” he adds and the monsters whined in protest. Kou simply laughs at their reactions.
“Oh, Researcher K, I should return this before I forget.” Amane speaks up.
Kou watches him walk over to his desk to grab the wrapped bento box he had given him this morning “Thank you. It was delicious, as always.” Amane says as he hands the box to Kou.
“I’m glad. Do you have anything you want to eat for tomorrow?” Kou then asks.
Amane hums as he thought “Surprise me?” he replies with a grin.
Kou chuckles “Alright then.”
And then Amane leans in to give Kou a quick kiss on the lips “I’ll look forward to it.”
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading!
Kudos and comments are very much appreciated! I would love to know if y'all enjoyed this fic as much as i enjoyed writing it~ ^^
I love this AU very much and I love HanaKou/AmaKou so who knows, maybe i'll write more stuff in the future (with more established AmaKou), there are a few ideas my friend and I have thrown at each other that I kinda wanna write so :DDWell, that is all from meee~ byeeee!!
Lots of luv,
Jullia
HarunP on Chapter 1 Fri 08 Aug 2025 11:11PM UTC
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prettypurplegirl08 on Chapter 1 Sat 09 Aug 2025 04:29AM UTC
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Saigranolala on Chapter 1 Sat 09 Aug 2025 12:16AM UTC
Last Edited Sat 09 Aug 2025 12:16AM UTC
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prettypurplegirl08 on Chapter 1 Sat 09 Aug 2025 04:29AM UTC
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starglazed_donut on Chapter 4 Mon 11 Aug 2025 11:35PM UTC
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Saigranolala on Chapter 4 Tue 12 Aug 2025 03:05AM UTC
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prettypurplegirl08 on Chapter 4 Tue 12 Aug 2025 04:48PM UTC
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La_Katsukouwu on Chapter 5 Wed 13 Aug 2025 03:12AM UTC
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prettypurplegirl08 on Chapter 5 Wed 13 Aug 2025 03:58PM UTC
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starglazed_donut on Chapter 5 Thu 14 Aug 2025 10:38PM UTC
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starglazed_donut on Chapter 7 Thu 14 Aug 2025 11:00PM UTC
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whiteandgreenfish on Chapter 11 Tue 19 Aug 2025 12:23AM UTC
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starglazed_donut on Chapter 15 Fri 22 Aug 2025 03:55PM UTC
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Saigranolala on Chapter 15 Sat 23 Aug 2025 01:25AM UTC
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prettypurplegirl08 on Chapter 15 Mon 25 Aug 2025 11:33AM UTC
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awsillywilly on Chapter 15 Wed 27 Aug 2025 04:18AM UTC
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