Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This was a story that Takemichi remembered surprisingly well. It was around the last months of being a freshman, summer hotter in his memories. The school was getting reading for their graduation and to welcome new students. A senior had called out to him; a guy that’s so much taller and had a really serious face. It wasn’t often things like that happen.

At that point, Takemichi thought, “Let’s just get this over with.”

Now he watched the figure writhing on the floor, grabbing at his face and groaning. He could barely register the throbbing sensation in his knuckles from punching the guy’s jaw.

“What the hell? Did a freshman seriously beat a senior?” someone behind him muttered.

“Just who is that guy?” another asked.

“That’s Hanagaki Takemichi. I heard that he might be the strongest in his district.”

Anyways it wasn’t long before stories spread and teachers got hold of it. By the end of the day, Takemichi was staring at the bulletin board where a disciplinary action notice was put up. His full name, printed out in bold words, was declared to be suspended for 1 week. Everyone was staring at it before bursting into whispers of rumors.

Well, what’s a guy gotta do after he’s been told he was in trouble? Go home obviously.

The bike’s pedals rhythmically squeaked below Takemichi as he pedaled. Buildings rose in the distance, the road changing from bumpy gravel to smooth. Tama city, west of Tokyo. It was a boring place with almost nothing but residential areas and its suburban lifestyle; always quiet everywhere he went. Nothing ever goes down in this area.

“What’d I do?” Takemichi said out loud to himself. He watched as the clouds streamed past him. “All I did was knock an upperclassman on his ass when he tried to mess with me.”

He quickened his pace. “Well, it ain’t a big deal. Not like there’s anyone at school that I want to talk to or hang out with.”

Yeah, Takemichi was a lone wolf. It never bothered him that he never had a friend to talk to. Sure he had his cousin, Masaru, but that guy’s a dweeb. Said he was the leader of some gang but turned out he was just their errand boy. Seriously, is there nothing to do? Takemichi could go home now but he’d just stay in bed and read manga.

“Guess downtown is the only place to go,” he muttered before turning around a corner.

Anyways, he hopes to get a motorbike soon. The big and noisy ones all delinquents seemed to use. If he did, maybe the other guys wouldn’t think to mess with him; think that he might be in a gang.

One of the only good things in the district Takemichi lived in was the sole shotengai where all the fun shops and arcades seemed to be. He dropped off his bike back at his house before walking towards the bus stop. The next ride was coming in 10 minutes, and as he was getting closer, his face immediately cringed when he saw the people already waiting there. Before he could run away, they saw him first.

“Well, if it isn’t Hanagaki-kun,” came a laugh. “Heard your ass got suspended today. Guess it’s just another opportunity to avoid me, huh!? But we got unfinished business, you ‘n’ me!”

“Tch,” Takemichi clicked his tongue. Just his luck to run into his school’s third-years here. He looked back to see all of them already walking to him. “Do you guys not have anything better to do?”

“Hanagaki Takemichi! Get ready to eat shit!”

Jeez, did they not hear him? Takemichi thought about showing his middle finger. “Fine, let’s finish this quick.”

In a blink of an eye, a punch went straight at him. It landed on Takemichi’s face and the impact nearly sent him to the ground. His head reeled sickeningly as it slammed into the wall instead. He stumbled from the force. From somewhere inside his head, pain bloomed. His eyesight blurred, colors and lights swimming around. When black dots finally stopped covering his vision, he wheezed, clutching his face, eyes watering.

He felt blood dripping out of his nose.

“Asshole,” he spat, snorting blood out of his nostril.

“Who the-”

The senior never finished his sentence because Takemichi landed a punch on his stomach, forcing him to kneel over. It didn’t take long before the rest of the third-years to charge in altogether. Takemichi knocked one of them right on the head, feeling his own forehead hurt from it.

He grabbed another one by their collar before throwing them over his shoulder. They screamed in pain as they landed on the floor. Then he felt himself go weightless and everything became a blur after that. All he knew was that he was definitely going to have his nose broken. Hell, it’d be a miracle if he could walk after this once he realized how many times he got thrown to the asphalt. He stopped counting at fifteen.

Through his hazed mind, he became dimly aware they were forcing his palm out. He bit on his tongue from cursing out loud when they snubbed a cigarette out on his bare skin.

“We’ll be nice today and let you off the hook,” they said. “Next time we’re not going to be so nice.”

“Not like you’ve ever been nice,” Takemichi snorted.

He should’ve kept his mouth shut because they also took his wallet after that.

Once the third-years went away, Takemichi slumped and fell over to lay on the hard asphalt. When was the last time he got beaten up this badly? He fights everyday and it just becomes more stale with each win or loss. With much difficulty, he forced himself to get up and instantly threatened to fall down again. …That’s not good at all.

“Go to hell, you fuckers,” he muttered to himself. “I’m hurting in places I didn’t know I didn’t even know I had.” Forget Tama’s boorish subculture, there was never a fight that got his heart pumping. Either the brawl is way too one-sided or people chicken out first.

As Takemichi shoved tissues up his nostrils, each step he took was heavy.

“Dammit, I don’t even wanna go to town anymore,” he complained.

At the end he went home, where his mother threatened to throw him out the house the next time he gets suspended. Seriously, every guy he knows wants to be a delinquent. Schools were overtaken by gangs and that’s pretty much old news. His mother acts like it was the most evil thing he could do.

So boring, he muttered to himself.

.

.

.

It was a few days later when Takemichi set off to the nearest market on an errand, which was, of course, located downtown. His mom made a short list of what he needed to get but that wasn’t the point. The place was crazy right now. You couldn’t walk two feet without tipping over a delinquent, much less not getting into a fight. If he was lucky, he could get the stuff quickly, use the back way to leave, and go home in one piece.

Except, things never go his way.

Once Takemichi got his stuff ringed up, he was immediately greeted by a commotion right outside. Shouts and jeers filled the air as gangs started to close in, delinquents ready to fight. He could see the other shopkeepers quickly shutting off their lights to hide. There’s a supposed rule that the shopping district was a “neutral zone”, meaning that no one is allowed to instigate fights. But once in a while, things like this happen.

A scream rang out, and then it was war. Everyone pushed through the wave, eager to beat someone up. Takemichi flinched before getting out of the way. He was an inch away from getting crushed as somebody got thrown at the wall. He felt sweat trickle down his neck.

“You want us to fuck you up first!?” someone in the crowd yelled.

“ Hah! Fucking try it and you’re dead!”

That’s a sign for me to leave, Takemichi thought as he scurried away, feeling someone’s elbow hit him in the stomach. Before the fight gets any worse. There’s too many of them.

As he ran, he passed another group of people. It took him a moment to realize that they weren’t a part of the delinquent war that’s happening and another to see they were ganging up on one guy. Sucks to be him, Takemichi thought absentmindedly. He’s seen too much of the same scene; people picking on the weak like it’s something to be proud of. He was about to leave when he met the eyes of the figure on the floor.

For some reason, it reminded Takemichi of an animal’s eyes, waiting for something.

That was enough to make him stop.

Because it didn’t make any sense. The guy’s eyes were dull black after all.

“What the hell are you looking at?” was the only warning Takemichi got before an arm found itself against his neck. He grunted as he felt his airway get blocked for a second.

Takemichi struggled against the arm as his back hit a wall. Shit. Why was he like this? He could make his life so much easier by acting indifferent. The force wasn’t loosening and he finally pushed at the guy’s chest. He grabbed his throat when he was let go, blinking once hard.

No escapin’ from this, he thought with a scowl.

“Jeez, what did I ever do to you?” he demanded exasperatedly. “You know there’s no fighting in the shopping district, or are you too dumb to even remember that much?”

 “We’re just hunting for outsiders. It ain’t none of your business!” they scoffed, pushing around the guy they were picking on just a second ago. He stumbled as he was shoved towards Takemichi. “It’s open season on all delinquents who hang around here anyways!”

Takemichi mumbled something.

“What was that?”

“I said,” the guy’s figure went flying as Takemichi’s fist met his jaw, “I don’t give a flying fuck!” he snapped.

The delinquent crumpled when he landed on the ground. “I don’t care what you’re all up to, but it’s already dinnertime. I want to go back to eat, you know,” Takemichi continued as he took a stance. The rest of them immediately glowered at him. Well, he’s fucked, both he and the other guy with black hair. But I’m gonna take as many of these guys down with me as I can! he thought as soon as someone came swinging at him.

He easily ducked them, taking a step forward to punch them in the stomach. A force pitted against his ribs and Takemichi staggered. He jumped, hooking whoever was in front of him down with a loud sound. Sweat-soaked hair clung to his hair.

The memories became a blur after that, all he could remember was the feeling of fists meeting flesh, kicks landing with a resounding thud, and the occasional clash of grappling limbs.

“Fuck’s sake.”

Takemichi snapped his head back to see someone behind him with a wooden beam in hand. “I’mma put you down with one shot.”

Then there was a punch that sent him to the floor. “Bad enough you outnumber him. Now you wanna outgun him? That’s just the lamest shit I’ve ever seen.” Black Haired Guy was flexing his fingers before caving in the nearest guy’s face.

Takemichi pulled a face. “Are you crazy? Stay outta this, you’re just gonna get your ass handed back to you.”

Black Haired Guy took a fighting stance. “ ‘Bout 8 for each of us.”

“Uh-huh. Not ideal.”

“You think you’re hot shit, outsider!?”

In the next second Black Haired Guy kicked his leg up. There was a loud thwack! and the force in that was enough to knock out the person. “Piece of cake,” he grinned back.

 “You’re nuts.” Takemichi sighed. “Don’t slow me down.”

“Right back at you.”

It was probably an hour later when it finally felt like there were at least five hands punching him into the very ground. Takemichi groaned, laying on his less sore side, feeling like someone stirred his brains around. At some point in the fight both of his shoes were knocked off, now laying a few feet away from him. He didn’t even have energy to look at it. His feet soles hurt like a bitch and he regretted ever helping Black Haired Guy.

Warm blood dripped out his nose and he wiped at it. I think my eye’s busted, he grumbled.

“H-hey… man… you alive?” Black Haired Guy managed to croak.

Takemichi weakly brought up a shaky peace sign. “Yeah… somehow…” he said before forcing himself to sit up. He felt the taste of copper in his mouth. “Surprisingly…” he added before facing Black Haired Guy, “Why’d you jump in anyway? You literally got knocked out after five seconds, you friggin’ weirdo. You suck at fighting!”

“Haha! I shoulda known 8 v 1 would be impossible!” Black Haired Guy laughed, and that was when Takemichi realized the guy was also shoeless. “Was my fighting that bad?”

The fight the gangs had already calmed down, leaving blood stains and dirt on the floor. It was somehow peaceful.

“But hey, you’re pretty strong. What’s your name?” Black Haired Guy asked.

“I’m, uh… Hanagaki. Hanagaki Takemichi,” Takemichi said. “You?”

“Sano Shinichiro.” Shinichiro offered his hand. “We’re bros now, Hanagaki.”

“Huh?”

“Come on, get up.”

Takemichi took Shinichiro’s hand and was pulled to his feet. With how close he was now, he could see what the guy really looked like; slim with an easy-going face and unkempt black hair. At the back of his head, there was a voice that was just itching his brain. There was something about that name that sounded familiar to Takemichi.

“Let’s go to my place, I’ll patch you up,” Shinichiro continued. “I run a bike shop just around the corner. Let me treat you to dinner after that. As thanks for the assist.”

“A bike shop…?” Takemichi said dumbly. Well, that’s something. “I didn’t know we had one. It must’ve been really new then. Is that why you’re here? You’ve got guts coming here alone.”

“Yeah, I see why now. You should come bike riding at night with me.”

“I’m all fucked up, in case you missed it.”

“It’ll be fiiine.”

Takemichi stopped to look at Shinichiro with a blank look. “Has anyone told you you’re weird?”

“Huh!?”

“No, seriously, people don’t just invite others to their place after a brawl.”

Shinichiro laughed once again, grin full of teeth, and all Takemichi could really do was sigh.

That was the bloody, sweaty, and abrupt story of how Hanagaki Takemichi, a freshman then, met a guy named Sano Shinichiro, who would later turn out to be one of the greatest people he ever met. But for an ordinary guy like Takemichi, it was just another Wednesday night.

Welcome to the year of 2000, where delinquents pretty much ruled and terrorized the streets of Japan.

Chapter Text

There was nobody at the shotengai at that point after the gang war broke out, except for one guy who was probably the cleaner.

Takemichi winced with every step he took, limping at some point and his shoes in hand. At least his groceries were fine, he grumbled to himself. He wondered if his mom forgot about him. Sweat still hung on his collar and he pulled at it. Up ahead Shinichiro was starting to whistle some kind of tune while spinning his keys.

“I’d invite you to my place but I doubt my gramps would even let us in the house if we came back lookin’ like this,” Shinichiro said sheepishly. “Hope you’re fine with my place.”

“Is it messy or something?” Takemichi asked suspiciously.

“Well…” he cringed, “you’ll see.”

The bike shop was definitely humble-looking when they finally arrived. The front wasn’t bigger than Takemichi’s own classroom, the store sign still on. It blared the name “S•S MOTORS” with checkered patterns on either side. The shutters were down but Shinichiro gestured for Takemichi to follow him to the back. The keys jingled loudly as Shinichiro fumbled through the keyring, searching for the right one.

He opened the lock with a soft metallic click and pushed the worn down door with a loud creak. The darkness of the doorway greeted them before Shinichiro reached out to turn the lights on, flooding the place with yellow light. Takemichi followed him in.

The floor felt cold beneath him and the door closed with a sound.

The lights flickered once. 

Takemichi noticed the piled up boxes and newspapers beside him. There were also a lot of jerry cans, and the place smelled like must and gasoline. Then he finally realized that more light was reflected because of the closed shutters, shining over the rows of bikes, neatly organized, making their paint job look even more glossy.

Takemichi whistled appreciatively.

Shinichiro grinned at him before throwing his bag, stepping over nuts and bolts on the ground.

“Cool, isn’t it? This is my favorite place to hang,” he laughed as he picked up a wrench from a table. “Make yourself home and get a drink or something. I haven’t fixed the fridge so all I got are warm cola. There’s a med kit under the sofa by the way.”

“Neat. Are those bikes all yours?”

“No way.” Shinichiro patted one of them. “They’re my friend’s. I’ve always liked working with them, and now I end up being the one who fixes them every time something’s wrong.”

There’s something about the place that made Takemichi not think a second thought as he plopped himself on the still plastic-wrapped sofa. It crumpled under him. He stared at the posters on the wall; full of the latest motorcycle modifications and snippets of delinquent fashion. Then his eye trailed away to the corkboard on the side, spilling with pictures.

They were pretty small but he could see people posing for the photo. There were blobs of black on the other and on one of them he saw a group holding up a flag. There was a logo on it and Takemichi swore he’d seen it somewhere. Before he could ask, Shinichiro coughed.

“Mind if I smoke?” he asked, waving one for Takemichi to see.

“Nah, go ahead. Guess the smoking addiction started early for you, huh?”

“Oh come on, everyone’s doing it at this point.” Shinichiro covered the flames from his lighter as he lit the cigarette up.

“You a delinquent?”

“You and I literally just got into a fight. Does that not say anything?”

Takemichi snorted, bending down to reach for the said med kit. He started to feel around. “Even though you suck at fighting?”

“Would you knock it off? I’m the leader of a gang just so you know,” Shinichiro sniped with no real heat.

A small gang I bet, Takemichi rolled his eyes. He turned and that was when he noticed the sole bike in the middle of the room, its engine torn apart like it was a murder was seeing. It almost looked beyond recognition of being a vehicle, rust chewing it everywhere. Black oil pooled below on a newspaper with a bunch of bolts laying around.

“You curious?” Shinichiro asked with a smile. He blew out smoke from his mouth before switching on the fan.

It turned on with a buzzing sound.

“Kinda, I guess. Not everyday you see someone break a bike this far apart.”

“Well, it’s a funny story.” Shinichiro shrugged on his overalls before taking a seat on the floor, immediately tinkering with it. Takemichi pulled out the med kit when his fingers finally found the cool surface. His fingers felt shaky as he tried to peel a bandaid off.

“I went to the Philippines not too long ago, found ‘em lying in some ruins when I was exploring,” Shinichiro hummed while smacking the side of the bike. “Thought they looked sad and lonely, so I brought them back with me. I’m gonna use them to make a new Babu.”

“Ba— Babu?” Takemichi repeated. God, he feels stupid not knowing any bike terms.

“CB250T, it got its name ‘cause of the sound their engines make,” Shinichiro explained, because he was nice like that, “There were two engines when I found them, like twins, y’know? Once I finish this one, I’ll give it to my brother for his present.”

“You have a brother?”

“Yeah, one. He’s younger by four years.”

“Well, aren’t you a good brother?”

“Tell that to the kid,” Shinichiro gumbled, “You must be an only child. Little siblings always hate you.”

Takemichi laughed and leaned against his hand.

Tama wasn’t that popular. What with the new highways made, hardly anyone passes by the city anymore. Takemichi wondered why Shinichiro chose here out of all places. From the looks of it, the guy actually knows what he’s doing, he thought absentmindedly. He could probably make a better living somewhere else. On a wall, the clock ticked away.

The smell of cigarette smoke was quickly mixing into the air. Takemichi leaned against the sofa, staring at the ceiling where red painted wooden beams were. He relaxed and remembered his mother refused to give him lunch because of his suspension. His stomach threatened to growl but he thought better and started to get up.

“Shin-”

Takemichi stopped as soon as he saw how focused Shinichiro looked. He went back to lying down against the sofa.

Huh, he thought. This is relaxing.

Shinichiro started to tighten bolts into place, the rhythmic clinks and metallic sounds filled in the silence. After a few more minutes of listening to him muttering to himself, Takemichi was asleep.

Takemichi’s dreams made no sense, which was a relief. A flock of ravens circled in the orange haze of the sky, squawking before turning into horses galloping through the surf. He couldn’t move as the stampede approached him, ultimately trampling him. Then he was standing before a pit. Looking down made him dizzy. Gray mist was all around him and there were whispers.

He couldn’t see any further than the yawning chasm.

He was holding something now; something cold. A force made his arm go up and then he drove a knife through an hourglass, but it wasn’t filled with sand. He watched as red slowly dripped onto the white slate below.

And it looked like it was blood he had just spilled.

“ ̸̻̋ ̴̲͛ ̷̧̮̈́̈́ ̸̭̠͊ ̸̯̈́͂ ̸̡̫̅ ̷̸͇̩͔̬͛̋͠ ̸̻̋ ̴̲͛ ̷̧̮̈́̈́ ̸̭̠͊ ̸̯̈́͂ ̸̡̫̅ ̷͇̩͛̋ ”

Someone was shaking Takemichi. He snapped his eyes open, wide-eyed, staring at a blurred face. He flicked his eye to the side. Half of the lights at the place were turned off, and there were a row of black silhouettes across him. None of his usual things were anywhere in sight. His heart was pounding against his ribs. Where the hell was he?

“Woah, Hanagaki, you good?” Shinichiro’s voice broke through his thoughts. “You’re breathing weird.”

Takemichi became aware of the sweat collecting on his collar. He blinked once, and the memories came back. Right, he was at Shinichiro’s place. The guy he saved and got his ass kicked for. He sighed, grabbing the side of his head and felt his hands shaking.

“My bad,” he winced, “Guess I got too tired.”

“Nah, no need to sweat it. I shouldn’t have made you stay this long. Come on, I’m done.” Shinichiro gestured at the door with his chin. “I know someone who runs a good okonomiyaki store. Let’s get some food in you.”

“You don’t have to,” Takemichi muttered. “We’re strangers, we never even talked before today.”

“Then let’s talk. We could eat too.”

“...”

Takemichi sighed loudly before giving in. “Fine,” he said.

When they went out of S•S MOTORS, Shinichiro opened the shutters beside the backdoor. He ducked into the shadows of the room and came out with a motorbike just as fast. “A CB250T, the same one you were looking at earlier,” he smiled as he kicked the metal stand to prop it up. He squatted to lock the shutters, “Pretty cool, isn’t it?”

Takemichi switched his plastic bag of groceries to the other hand. “You sure it’s safe, Sano-kun?”

At that, Shinichiro actually shivered. “Don’t call me that,” he hissed while rubbing his arms. “Just call me Shin. We’re supposed to be friends, aren’t we? First name basis, come on.”

“Shin, do you even have a license?” Takemichi asked flatly.

“No, but it’s fine. I wouldn’t let anything happen to my bike,” Shinichiro grinned merrily.

That’s how Takemichi found himself riding along the empty highway of Tama with his groceries tucked between his legs. The city was dead silent as they passed over it, broken by the noises of the bike’s engines. He absentmindedly fiddled with his helmet strap, trying to tug it looser. Waters in the sewers shimmered from the glow of the bright, yellow streetlamps, flickering past like they were being shot by camera.

For the first time in a while, the air feels refreshing against Takemichi’s face, which was a new one. Shinichiro’s hair ruffled as they rode on, tickling his nose. He unintentionally faced the other way. He stared at the horizon where thin clouds were drifting.

It’s a full moon, he noticed absentmindedly.

 “Anyway, aren’t we minors?” Takemichi asked out loud. “We’re dead as soon as they figure we’re out past curfew.”

Shinichiro’s laugh was almost carried away by the wind. “You’re only asking that now?”

Takemichi rubbed the back of his head, feeling his face heat up a bit. “I mean, it didn’t occur to me.”

“Well, we just need to avoid the police and we’ll be home free. Anyways, what time is it now?”

Takemichi opened his flip phone. “Like, almost 9.”

“Guess we still have time to take a detour up ahead. They still close in an hour an’ a half.” That was the only warning Takemichi got before Shinichiro sped up with a loud sound and he nearly fell off.

Chapter Text

Shinichiro slowed down the bike as they approached a downhill road. There were shops up ahead, and only one had their lights on. Bulletin boards were still hung outside.

With a loud squeal of tires, they came to a stop near an alleyway; right next to the restaurant. Shinichiro really did take Takemichi to an okonomiyaki store, which somehow came as a surprise to him. The glass doors were plastered with weekly discounts and faded posters of hairdryers and models. The street lights flickered as insects flew around it. Takemichi caught himself staring at them before following Shinichiro inside the restaurant.

As soon as he stepped in, the orange lights nearly blinded him and a blow of cold AC air breezed against his face. “Welcome!” the guy behind the counter loudly said; probably the owner seeing how there were no employees. Takemichi almost felt bad for coming so late.

“Man, this place is deserted!” Shinichiro announced, and it was true. There was no one at the place at all.

The owner looked up and his face broke into an amused expression. “Well, if it ain’t the boy who’s always revving his bike. Look at that mug. You been fightin’ again, Shin?”

“Yeah. Uh, you know how it is…” Shinichiro said, sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck.

Takemichi awkwardly bowed as a greeting. “He- Hello.”

The owner looked at Takemichi for a moment and for a moment he thought he did something wrong. It was a weird kind of look. Like the owner was trying to figure something out from his face. “Welcome,” he said finally. “It’s the first time I’ve seen you so you must be new. Eat up, you hear? I still got so many I could feed a whole class!”

“Hanagaki, you go ahead and take a seat first,” Shinichiro said, gesturing with his chin. “I’ll order. Cola okay?”

“Yeah.”

Takemichi looked around the place as he walked towards the nearest table in the corner. It was a typical, izakaya style restaurant with their menu painted on blocks of woods and hung up, everything almost looking orange-like from the light. The seat paint was peeling off and he picked a patch off. He sat down, Shinichiro appearing not long after.

“Oh right, thanks for lettin’ me on a bike ride.” Takemichi set the groceries on the table. “Really makes me wish I had my own bike. Guess I gotta work on getting a license.”

“You don’t have to,” Shinichiro scoffed, dragging a seat back before sitting down. “I can introduce you to someone who sells second-hand bikes. Once you buy one, I can service it to become a kaizōsha. Modifications, engines, paint job— Seriously, I can make it look like it’s brand-new. Hell, I’ll give you a 30% off cause you’re my friend.”

“...You’re a smooth talker, aren’t ya?” Takemichi leaned against his hand. “It’s weird how much you know about bikes.”

The offer didn’t sound bad at all. He actually considered it for a moment. He imagined what it’s like to ride to school with a motorbike. He’d rev the engine and everyone’s gonna look at him wouldn’t they? The bike’s definitely gotta be red; it’d be more eye-catching.

Before he could say anything, a plate of steaming hot okonomiyaki was placed in front of him.

“Here you go. Two okonomiyaki sets,” the owner said proudly.

It smelled heavenly, probably the freshest food he’s eaten in a week, and he heard his stomach growl. Shinichiro laughed at that before handing Takemichi the wooden chopsticks.

“You’re acting like you haven’t eaten in days, Hanagaki,” he grinned. “Come on, eat up. The okonomiyaki here are a little special. They use sweet sauce and noodles for filling. Not sure if you’ll like it.”

Anyways, Takemichi was already eating it before he heard what Shinichiro said. The other boy shrugged before splitting the chopsticks and finally ate. As Takemichi shoveled the mix of omelet with cabbage, pork, and noodles, he watched as Shinichiro took a cigarette out from his pocket. He flicked his lighter once and lit the end of it.

Something about the way he did it was hypnotizing; like Takemichi was seeing an actor on screen, picture-perfect and all natural at things they do. Takemichi wasn’t blind. He knew that Shinichiro was good-looking — objectively speaking, of course — but he didn’t really read much into it since they just met. He swallowed his dinner.

“How old are you anyway, Shin?” Takemichi asked. Shinichiro didn’t really look like his age.

A year older maybe? he thought to himself. Or just older looking than me.

Shinichiro blew smoke from his mouth, making them ring-shaped. “Hm? Oh, I’m sixteen but my birthday’s in August, so almost seventeen,” he said, taking a bite of the okonomiyaki. “You?”

“Fourteen.” So he is older than me. “My birthday’s in a month.”

“Wait, seriously? You’re younger than me,” Shinichiro muttered.

Takemichi scowled. “What’s that suppos’d to mean?”

Shinichiro waved the question aside. “Nah, just thinking about how the newer generation is kinda scary. You’re fourteen, yet you were able to keep up with seniors in a fight,” he said with a shiver and went back to smoking. “What the hell is your mom feeding you?”

“I’ve been fighting since middle school, idiot. You’re the weirdo for sucking at fighting,” Takemichi sniped with no real heat. He stirred the ice in his cola, causing it to make a ‘clink’ sound as it shifted. “There’s girls in my school, so punishment for any fighting is immediate suspension. The seniors are always pent-up because of that rule so as soon as they’re out, they fight. Hell, I just got suspended today.”

For whatever reason, Shinichiro laughed at that. “Must be nice to have girls. Mine’s banned them from due to cases of rape and prostitution. Sounds like your school ain’t as bad as mine.”

The cup stopped an inch away from Takemichi’s lips. “Shin, what school are you going to where they ban girls?” he asked incredulously.

Shinichiro smiled, cigarette almost finished. “Why don’t you come tomorrow and see for yourself?”

At that point Takemichi was miles away from his home, way past curfew, and full from the okonomiyaki. His mom’s probably furious at this point that she’d yell at him to stay out the house for the whole day tomorrow. Other than his neighbors, he didn’t have any friends. And for some reason, there was something about Shinichiro he can’t say no to.

He swallowed the last bite and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

“Sure,” Takemichi said, “Just tell me where it’s at.”

.

.

.

“Shin really wasn’t joking when he said his school was worse,” Takemichi muttered to himself as the building rose up in view. He stopped in place. “Forget school, this looks like jail!”

The school itself wasn’t bad considering it was a few floors up and possibly twice as big as Takemichi’s own school, but the white walls were covered in a staggering amount of graffiti. Even on the road there was white paint spraying English words and pretty much cussings. Everywhere he looked, there was barbed wire on top of the gates.

He tipped his head up, blinking the sun out of his eyes. Were there seriously wire mesh against the windows?

He didn’t even manage to take another step before a loud honk screamed at him and he was almost run down by a bike.

“Watch it!” someone snapped.

“Ride faster, fatso!” the guy riding behind his friend howled.

“...If this is what outside is like, I don’t wanna imagine how wild the school actually is,” Takemichi muttered.

Inside, he couldn’t reach the second floor without students spilling to the hallway. A door broke down as somebody fell through. He screamed, “I- I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to hit you 3 years ago!” before a guy picked him up and threw him against the wall. It soon spiraled as onlookers joined in, taking sides and adding to the growing brawl. Lockers rattled as students clashed, their shouts echoing through the whole place.

Takemichi stood there almost dumbfounded as he watched the same guy get his ass handed to him with a “What a coincidence, bitch! We’re in the same school now!”. Amidst the crowd, he swore he saw someone tackle another with a flying kick. His eyes darted from one fight to another and cringed when a particular loud sound resonated.

Well, this is a boy’s school, alright. It’s pretty lively out there, but I’ll get used to it, he thought. Tokyo middle school is one of the only schools here that’s available for both girls and boys. Compared to that, Shin’s school is just full of glaring high school delinquents.

A grin found its way to his face. What could be more fun than this?

“Long live the era of delinquency,” he snorted to himself.

Anyways, Takemichi really needed to find Shin soon before people noticed he wasn’t a student there. He opened his flip phone to read the email from last night where Shinichiro said something about finding him on the third floor. Just as he had pressed on it, an arm suddenly wrapped itself around his shoulder. He froze immediately.

In the blink of an eye, his head was forced to smash against the wire mesh of the windows. He grunted.

“What do we have here?”

The hand dragged Takemichi back by his hair to meet a face that looked like a girl’s. He felt a sweat trickle down his neck. A pale purple eye with long lashes stared at him. “Dunno who you are, but you’re not from here. You some kind of rat, kid? The Towada’s sent you?” the person clicked their tongue. They tilted his head, white hair threatening to cover their other eye.

An irritated sigh and Takemichi tried to remove the grip on his hair. It didn’t budge. The other guy wasn’t much taller than him, and definitely didn’t look stronger.

“Take your hands off, asshole,” Takemichi clicked his tongue.

“You’ve got two options, kid. Get outta here before I beat you up half-dead, or go home penniless and half-dead,” the guy said, baring his teeth — fangs. “I’m not giving you more than a minute.”

“You’ve had your chance, bastard.”

Takemichi then grabbed him by the collar, shaking him off of himself. The guy’s eyes widened when he did that. “Fuck you think you’re doing, motherfucker!? You think you get to decide that shit!?” he snapped. “Touch me one more time and I’m ripping your bangs off!”

“Look there,” someone behind them whistled. “A fight, huh?”

“A fight! A fight!” another chanted.

Huh?

Everyone around Takemichi was suddenly taking away the tables. They put them aside in the classroom — since when were they inside one? — and backed up to clear a space. Students from outside started filling in the room, coming in to see what was happening.

Cheers started to rise from the crowd, either yelling at them to start fighting or placing bets.

“Waka’s in action! Get in, you bastards!”

“500 yen on the outsider!”
“Start the fight! Teach that punk a lesson, Wakasa!”

The guy — Wakasa — rolled his eyes before putting a hand on his shoulder and rubbed it like it hurted. His red drop earring shifted as he moved, seemingly glowring at Takemichi for wasting his time. “Man, you’ve got guts picking a fight with me.”

Takemichi got into a stance, hands ready to start punching. “Jeez, what’s up with these guys?” he grumbled.

Before he could launch himself at Wakasa, the crowd suddenly died down. “Hey there, everyone.” Takemichi and Wakasa looked at where the door was. Shinichiro, with his face bruised up and full of bandages, was leaning against the doorframe.

“A match, huh? Mind if I join?” he hummed.

“What the hell is the top dog doing here?” somebody muttered.

“You know this guy, Shinichiro?” another asked.

Takemichi snorted. “Sit down, Shin. I got this. You’d just embarrass yourself for all I know.”

Wakasa seemed to look curious and turned to Takemichi. “You Shin-chan’s friend or something?”

“You can say that. I mean, I saved his ass yesterday.”

Wakasa snickered at that. “No surprise.”

“Doesn’t hurt to keep that to yourself,” Shinichiro mumbled. He shook his head before jabbing a thumb behind him. “Anyways, Waka, how many times did I tell you not to fight? You’re always riling people up and then complain when they do fight you. Forget it, Benkei’s waiting for you downstairs. He’s pissed you’re taking a while.”

“Tch,” Wakasa clicked his tongue and he pulled himself away, “That guy’s always on my ass.”

Shinichiro shrugged, before looking at Takemichi. “Come on, Hanagaki, let’s go back.”

“No fight?” Takemichi rubbed his hair disappointingly. “All right.”

“...” Waka absentmindedly patted Takemichi’s back as he passed. “Mm ‘kay, newbie, ‘till next time or whatever.”

The students awkwardly left the classroom as Takemichi followed Shinichiro out. No one tried to argue with Takemichi after that, which was nice. As the two went to get Shin’s bike, Waka watched them from a distance from a balcony. He rolled the lollipop in his mouth, as if thinking deeply. Benkei appeared behind him with a can of cold beer.

Waka continued to stare as Shin and Takemichi sped off before tilting his head. As Benkei tried to put the beer to his neck, Waka caught it. He opened it with a loud sound and tipped his head back to drink. Bitterness smoothly went down his throat.

“You think the boss found someone new?” Waka asked no one in particular. He took out his lollipop with a pop. “This is the first time I’ve seen Shin-chan invite anyone to school.”

“Blossoms gently bloom, Spring whispers in fragrant hues, Nature whispers life,” Benkei grunted.

“Another haiku, huh?” Waka grinned lazily before taking another sip of his cold beer.

“Isn’t it good that the boss is making new friends?” Benkei dismissed.

“Hm? Yeah, I guess. I’m just worried about… him.”

“I can hear you, you know,” came an annoyed voice. The two looked back to see someone standing up from the sofa. Takeomi, whom everyone knows as Shin’s childhood and best friend, was a lanky figure and had an irritated look on his face. He dropped the cigarette he was smoking, stomping it under his heel. “Why don’t you keep it to yourself?”

“Takeomi, it’s about time you stop being so worried about Shin-chan,” Waka drawled. He didn’t ignore the way Takeomi’s hand tightened into a fist. He pulled a face. “Hah… I’m just saying, there’s a limit to how much you need to get involved, vice-leader or not. Shin’s not so-”

“Shut up.” Takeomi glared at him. “You shut the fuck up. I don’t want to hear it from you.”

“He never changes even after a year,” Benkei said out loud after Takeomi loudly left the room. He waited for another second before continuing. “Always finding reasons why he needs to be by Shin’s side. The guy’s not stupid enough to try something, is he?”

“No.” Waka put the lollipop back in thoughtfully. “Probably not.”

Chapter Text

“Waka… Waka… where have I heard him?” Takemichi repeated to himself. He looked up to the sky before blinking once. “Is that the same guy as White Leopard of Kodo Rengo?”

“Hm? Yeah. We met a year ago.”

“You mentioned Benkei too. That Benkei from Ragnarok?”

Shinichiro looked back, the wind fluttering his hair. “I’m surprised you know them.”

Takemichi audibly clicked his tongue at that. “Tch, the hell you mean you’re surprised? They’re the big guns in the Kanto region and always at each other’s throats. You have to be living under a rock to not hear their name at least once.”

Shinichiro laughed, forcing his bike to go faster. More smoke came out from the engines. “Haha, yeah, they’re known for being deep-throat rivals. Twelve gangs from the East side of Kanto made a union, which made Kondo Rengo. Somehow Benkei’s Ragnarok kept up with Waka, and they’ve always fought anytime possible. Well, until I put a stop to the dispute.”

Beside them, the view of Tokyo skyscrapers and billboards streamed past. They flicker and flash by like a strip of film, just beyond the empty highway they were in.

“Uh-huh,” Takemichi said nonchalantly. He wished that the CB250T wasn’t that loud.

“You don’t believe me, don’t you?” Shinichiro hummed. The sea beside them sparkled as they passed it. “Anyways, there used to be 5 feared gangs all over Kanto, and they were two of them. Since they’ve joined sides, that leaves just 3. It’d be a good idea to not get on their bad side.”

“So you’re saying that all of these gangs are top brass of their districts?”

“Not just the districts, they also control the prefectures they dominate. Planning to take them down or something?”

“No way. I’m just curious, dude.”

“Well, it did seem like you’re new to how gangs actually work. It’s not about winning a fight, it’s about surviving here. If you fight a gang and manage to win, but the next day they might just bring even more members, sometimes double yours, and thrash you up. It’s a different story if you do actually take their whole gang down though.”

Takemichi huffed his hair away from his face. “Other than ya, I got no friends. Guess I should make some.”

“Also, you gotta make sure to not get suspended either,” Shinichiro added. Takemichi met his eyes in the side mirror. “Waka once got suspended for 3 months for pokin’ someone’s eyes out. Anyways, wanna grab a bite? Chilled ramen and katsudon. My treat.”

“Yeah, sure. What’s the deal with Waka earlier?”

Shinichiro gestured at the landscape of Tokyo with his chin. “That’s just him being territorial. Whoever defeats the most gangs will stand on top of the Kanto region. Tama isn’t even a bad place, just that there’s too many hardcore delinquents running about. Tokyo is even worse.”

“Yeah, I’ve heard about it. Tokyo’s like the headquarters for them or something. Kinda makes me wish I lived there.”

“Well, not necessarily. We’ve got history with other schools trying to crush each other in an effort to become the king of the hill. My school’s right smack in the middle of Tokyo, so we got the biggest target on our backs. The only high school boys you’ll come across are ones who love to fight.” Shinichiro grinned. “Just don’t get yourself beaten up too bad. I wouldn’t want to see you on your way to the hospital.”

.

.

.

Takemichi wasn’t sure which one was weirder; the fact that he’s watching Shinichiro buy pastries or somehow he’s been forced to carry a bag full of plushies. He felt a bead of dumbfounded sweat trickle down.

“I’ll have two of the chiffon and a red bean bun,” Shinichiro merrily said, pointing at the display of cakes.

The two of them had waited in line for almost half an hour and Takemichi could only imagine how weird it was to see 2 delinquents in a queue full of women. It was bad enough that he’s carrying pastel-colored bags that people can see came from a toy shop. Freaks, he tells you. They had to look like actual freaks. He does not want to be here anymore.

Shinichiro reached into his wallet as his order was ringed up. “How much?”

“That’ll be 900 yen,” the cashier smiled. She had long brown hair, pushing it behind her shoulder.

“Alright, alright. When are you closing the shop anyways?”

“Oh, in about an hour.”

“Right, uh, thanks for today.”

“Hope you have a good day!” the girl smiled and that was the end of the conversation.

As soon as Shinichiro and Takemichi were far enough from the bakery, Shinichiro suddenly squatted down. Takemichi naturally panicked and was about to ask what the hell happened this time, before Shinichiro muffled his scream by shoving his face into his hands.

“She’s the cutest girl I’ve ever seen,” he mumbled. He looked up and- oh my god he’s actually blushing.

Takemichi stood there with a surprised look as Shinichiro continued to blush.

No friggin’ way… he’s into her? They just met an hour ago! he thought with exasperation.

“S-she was cute, right!?”

Was she? Takemichi tried to conjure her face in his mind. Short, with long hair, and… he can’t remember.

“Uh… yeah, sure.” Because, you know, he wasn’t into love talk. It feels kinda strange, but if he thought about it, Shinichiro is at that age after all. He shouldn’t be surprised that the guy was a dork at it too. Takemichi folded his arms. Feels like he just saw a new side to Shinichiro or something. After all, he came off as a guy that’s got it together and all that.

“Come on, man. Get up, we still haven’t gotten our lunch,” Takemichi then sighed, dragging Shinichiro by the collar. “I’ll listen to your love rambles or whatever after we get some food.”

They didn’t walk far enough when Takemichi suddenly heard sounds of bikes around the place. It wasn’t just a few, it was so loud to the point he swore the ground was vibrating at the sound. Shinichiro, who was spouting love nonsense a second earlier, frowned. He forced Takemichi to stop.

He turned to see what Shinichiro was looking at and- Yeah alright, he’s seeing the problem now. There was a row of bikes in front of them, pretty much blocking their escape. Takemichi made an obnoxiously loud sigh as he saw a bunch of guys in uniforms get down.

“Should I be-”

“No time to explain! Run!”

Shinichiro grabbed Takemichi and started dragging-him-slash-running in the other direction. Takemichi felt his whole body working; his stumbling legs becoming warm and his lungs screaming insults at him. They ran through the crowds, hearing whoever the hell chasing them follow. Sounds of glass broke and followed by several bikes roaring to life somewhere. They wouldn’t use them inside a shotengai would they?

After a second thought Takemichi decided he didn’t want to find out and pushed himself harder. His feet was aching. At this speed he could barely see a few feet ahead of him.

“Shin, why is it when I’m with you, you’re always in some kind of trouble?” he demanded.

“I don’t know!” Shinichiro hissed as they turned around a corner. 

He jumped over a bench as Takemichi nearly kicked down some guy. There were fewer people now that they were out the shotengai and onto the road. “It’s not my fault those guys are stubborn as hell!” Shinichiro said. He looked back and almost tripped.

Takemichi managed to grab him from falling.

“The point is we just need to get away from them!” Shinichiro finished.

Takemichi’s calves burned and he felt a vein pop on his head. “Then run faster, idiot! They’re gonna catch up!”

He shoved his bags to Shinichiro before manhandling him over his shoulder.

Shinichiro’s stomach dropped as he felt his legs lifted off. He immediately scrambled to grab Takemichi’s shirt for balance. “What the hell are you doing!?” he asked shrilly.

“I had no choice, you’re too slow!”

“I’m just gonna slow yo-”

“Shut it, slowpoke!”

The world around them turned into a blur as Takemichi ran, feet flying over leaves and stones. Adrenaline coursed his veins. A thin layer of sweat covered the nape of his neck at that point. For a moment he wondered how it was possible to be this fast.

He looked to the side — to the blur of people and trees and buildings. He kept running despite Shinichiro’s protests, tearing through another street full of people. He swore he saw people starting to record him. He imagined how much attention the video would get if it was posted. And if they did get their ass beaten after this, maybe so spectacularly that news press are involved, he wondered what the headlines would be.

What the hell am I even thinking about? Takemichi snapped his head out of his thoughts. Forget shaking them off us, I don’t even know where to go! I’m lost dammit!

“Shin!” he yelled. “Where do I go?”

“Straight! Just keep running!”

Easy for you to say that, Takemichi wanted to grumble. He ran across roads like there was no tomorrow — only slowing just a little when Shinichiro grunted. They managed to run a bit more before it felt like his lungs collapsed on itselves and he was forced to stop. He slid Shinichiro off, putting a hand over his mouth as soon as he felt like throwing up.

“Easy there, you got us away enough,” Shinichiro said, pushing back Takemichi’s sweaty bangs. His hands were cool against Takemichi’s skin. “Sit down, you did good.”

Takemichi shook his head but he closed his eyes when his stomach did a backflip. Shinichiro kept his hands on his forehead, fingers carding his hair. Heart beated in Takemichi’s ears as he tried to catch his breath. Everything felt like it was burning so he focused on how seemingly icy Shinichiro’s fingers felt.

Shinichiro slowly removed his hands after what felt like a minute. “I’ll get water for yo-”

“Boss! Over here!”

The two of them snapped their heads to see people appearing around the parking lot they were in. Takemichi got to his feet but his legs immediately threatened to give out. He used the wall to support himself, heaving heavily. Shinichiro gently pushed him back as the people made way for their leader to walk towards them.

The guy was a whole head taller than Shinichiro, and had a piercing on his brow. Shinichiro took a step back as they came face to face. The crowd behind them started jeering.

“Ey, Sano, must be nice to be walking around freely, huh?” Piercings grinned.

There it was again; that annoying itch at Takemichi’s brain. He definitely has heard that name somewhere.

“What?” Shinichiro asked, “Still mad about the time my gang took over your territory?”

“It’s been months but that’s unfinished business between you and me.” The guy started cracking his knuckles. “Who said you can beat my underlings anyhow you want, huh?”

“I’m telling you, man. That ain’t me.”

The person snorted and you know it’s bad when it was Takemichi who felt the urge to punch him. “The White Leopard’s your follower isn’t he?” the guy continued, resting a bat on his shoulder, “He’s stubborn; doesn’t wanna listen shit. You go and tell your dog to bac-”

Before he could finish, Shinichiro already buried his elbow into the guy’s stomach. A second passed and he punched him again in the face.

The man made a sound and fell down on his knees. Takemichi blinked, to make sure he actually saw him take out someone in one hit. He can’t see what face Shinichiro is making but it must’ve been pretty bad because the other guys started nervously shifting their feet.

“All you’ve been doing this time is bitch, bitch, and bitch,” Shinichiro started, picking up a glass bottle by his feet. He brought it up and smashed it against a railing. A loud sound rang out followed by broken glass dropping to the ground, causing everyone to flinch.

“You want people to stop taking your things? Settle it like a man. Right now, I’m really pissed off.” The jagged end of the bottle glinted. “Get lost. Or I’ll kill you all,” he said.

Wow, Takemichi was impressed. He got to his feet, beside Shinichiro. Guess Shin’s got some guts despite his looks.

Before anyone could think to move, several of them charged at him. The first guy lunged forward and Shinichiro easily blocked his punch. He responded with a punch strong enough to send him staggering back. Meanwhile, the other two, closed in from different angles, attempting to corner Shinichiro. With another kick, he knocked them down.

Takemichi hoped Shinichiro knew how to defend because he himself jumped at the nearest person, sending them down. They fell down with a sound that probably was a nose breaking but Takemichi didn’t bother to check. Over the last few months, he had fought way more than he could count, but he forgot how good it felt.

For the first time in a while, he was actually enjoying it.

In the midst of the chaos, he managed to vault off the nearest crate and sweep a leg at their heads.

Shinichiro fought out of his mind too — spinning a kick before parrying a swinging punch. He yelled as he tossed someone out the way. Takmemichi chased down the rest who were starting to run away. His knuckles throbbed from how much he punched but he kept going. He swore he was grinning as he weaved through the crowd, ducking and dodging.

Then he looked across the lot, his eyes widening. Takemichi started running and time seemed to slow down. Just before the metal pipe could hit Shinichiro, he went under it. Takemichi saw bright flashes of light, and then his head was ringing. He staggered, breathing with difficulty.

“Bad enough you outnumber him. Now you wanna outgun him too?” he muttered. He touched his head, and felt blood flowing freely. “That’s just the lamest shit I’ve ever seen.”

“H- huh?”

“Well, that’s what he said.”

Shinichiro’s scream sounded distant. Takemichi felt like his body was submerged under water — his body weightless, his head swaying. Shinichiro grabbed his shoulders as he began to fall sideways. Before he could start mumbling gibberish, sounds of motorcycles filled the place again.

Great, their buddies are here.

“Nah,” Shinichiro said, as if he read his mind. He had a nasty cut on his cheek and grime all over his face. He pulled Takemichi’s arm around his shoulders. “That’s our guys now.”

People started screaming as someone forced their way through, sending people flying. Someone else with a motorcycle started riding over them while cackling. Takemichi watched in disbelief as a single guy came out, almost unscathed, with unconscious bodies around him. They glared at him and he felt a sweat trickle down the back of his neck.

“Oi, Benkei! Don’t hog all the fight to yourself!” Wakasa complained, stepping over the fallen bodies unsteadily. “I wanna have some fun too!”

“You’re drunk, idiot!” Benkei deadpanned.

Someone ran past them and was immediately by Shinichiro’s side. “Shin!” they exclaimed, grabbing his shoulders. “Are you okay!? I tried to come as soon as possible after your-”

“It’s alright, Takeomi. I knew I could count on you,” Shinichiro laughed. “Anyway, Hanagaki here helped.”

“Oh.” Something in Takeomi’s eyes changed, glinting almost dangerously. “Is that so?”

“Uh… hi?” Takemichi tried with a wince.

“Shit!” Shinichiro suddenly exclaimed. Takemichi felt a cloth being pressed against his head where he was hit. “We gotta get to the hospital! He’s bleeding from the head!”

Takeomi whacked Shinichiro on the head. “Idiot, he’s just bleeding a little, no need for that.”

As they made their way back to the motorbikes, Takemichi caught a look of Benkei’s back. Against the black uniform, the letters “B” and “D” were stark white. Underneath it there were wavy lines that resembled a dragon. Something in his stomach dropped.

There was only one gang who had that symbol. They were also currently the biggest gang in control of Kanto.

“Hey,” he started, swallowing once, “It can’t that you’re-”

“The Black Dragon? Yup. That we are.” Wakasa looked back with a dopey grin. His face was slightly pink and his words were slightly slurred. God, is he drunk? “Took you a while to realize, but the Black Dragon owes you a favor for saving our leader’s ass.”

Huh?

“Leader?” Takemichi repeated dumbly.

“Wait, you seriously didn’t know?” Waka snickered. “Shin-chan’s the Black Dragon’s leader.”

Somehow Takemichi’s head was spinning more than it already could. Well, ain’t that a twist, he grumbled.

Chapter Text

Black Dragon was Takeomi’s pride. Everyone knows that.

He wasn’t sure when the talk of forming a gang happened, but it was Shinichiro — Shin — who started it. Takeomi’s dazzling and charismatic of a childhood friend.

Takeomi thought if it was him, it’d be possible. Of course, it was he himself who organized things so that the birth of Black Dragon would go smoothly. Takeomi was the one that started recruiting members, promising them that they’ll rise to the top. It’ll only take time before people start flocking to Shinichiro themselves, which was no surprise when it did.

Everything was going great; Shin appointed him to Black Dragon’s vice-captain even though he sucked at fighting, people looked up to him, and no one dared to go against him.

It’s better than anything he imagined of course, but Takeomi felt like those people are getting too comfortable.

Especially Waka and Benkei. He doesn’t get what Shin sees in them. The fact that they’re strong fighters is fine, but if anything they’d just bring problems in the long run — always getting into trouble and ruining Black Dragon’s image. What a pair of assholes. They’d just destroy every progress he made.

He also knew they looked down on him. Which was ironic, because it was Takeomi who found Shin first anyway. They wouldn’t have met Shinichiro without him.

He squinted slightly, like he was deep in thought.

He’s pissed.

Takeomi bit down on his cigarette, gnawing on it until he tasted paper and bitterness spread across his tongue. Even among the crowd, Shinichiro stood out. He watched as Shin and another guy walked around, talking about whatever the hell they were.

Now, there was another problem: Takemichi Hanagaki, the blue-eyed stray Shin picked up out of nowhere.

He’s feeling irritated, and that’s an understatement. Who does that Hanagaki brat think he was, coddling up Shin like that? Just because he saved Shin once, he thinks he gets to walk next to him all the time. Takeomi took the cigarette away to blow smoke out.

‘What’s so wrong about me making new friends?” Shin shrugged when Takeomi had asked.

‘You never brought anyone outside the gang to our hideout,’ Takeomi tried.

‘It’s a whim,’ Shin dismissed.

There was just something off about this whole situation. They never held a secret from each other, much less someone Takeomi didn’t know about. Since when did his childhood friend ever be this friendly with strangers? Shin would’ve told him first; that’s what he always did. The conversation was dropped after that, and it ended with his mood fouler.

“Tch,” he audibly clicked his tongue before immediately putting a hand over his mouth.

Shit, he shouldn’t let his inner feelings leak out that easily. He’d put himself to shame if he did it again.

The chatterings of the Black Dragon became a buzz as he ignored them. He looked up to the ceiling, feeling the fire burning the cigarette to almost nothing. A person suddenly joined Takeomi, also leaning against the wall. He raised a brow and made space.

“Not joining the others, Hanagaki?” he asked, dropping his cigarette before stomping it out with the heel of his boot. “Or is the crowd too much for you?” he joked.

“I guess so,” Takemichi said sheepishly, “I’m not used to so many people.”

“Well, I guess I can relate. Sometimes I wish people wouldn’t tire me out so easily.” Takeomi tapped his forehead as he took a new cigarette from the box. He held it between his teeth. “Anyways, how’s your head?”

“It’s better now. One of the guys helped patch me up but they left before I could thank them.” Takemichi rubbed the back of his hair where there were now bandages wrapped. Blood stains seeped through but he seemed to be okay. Bruises were starting to appear. “Surprisingly it wasn’t anything bad. With how hard I got hit, I thought I needed stitches or something.”

Takeomi hummed, covering the flames of the lighter with a hand. “You’re lucky they didn’t do worse. Those guys who you just fought are always trying to get even with us. A grudge probably.”

“Yeah, heard it from Shin. You guys busted down their warehouse or something. What a bunch of losers.”

It took every fiber of Takeomi’s body to not make a disgusted face. Don’t say Shin’s name anyhow, asshole. Who the fuck do you think you are? If it wasn’t for the crowd, I would’ve-

He pretended to hum in agreement. “You got that right. How’d you know Shin anyway? Plannin’ to join the Black Dragon?”

Because that’s what everyone is here for. Everyone — and Takeomi means everyone — always approaches Shin to join their gang. He gets it; Shinichiro’s nice and would let anyone in if they asked nice enough. It’s not just the occasional favor; it’s this constant requests and demands, and it’s like everyone around them has caught onto that fact.

And what gets Takeomi boiling is the sheer audacity of it all. These people, they don’t even bother with reciprocity or gratitude. Black Dragon was Takeomi’s pride, after all.

It’d be the last thing for him to let a random stray taint it.

He hasn’t finished getting rid of the other problems, and he’d be damned if Hanagaki-

“Me? In a gang?” Takemichi snorted. He puts a hand up. “No thanks, that sounds depressing after Shin explained it. You’re always fighting for dominance or whatever and that’s just not for me. Hell, I don’t even know how Shin managed to become a leader with how bad he is at fighting.”

Huh?

Takeomi was stunned.

That was the first anybody ever rejected the offer. Anyone else would’ve jumped at the offer as soon as they heard it. Not that Takeomi had ever let them in easily anyway.

“Oh right, I almost forgot,” Takemichi suddenly said, facing Takeomi. “Thanks for saving our asses. I would’ve needed more than this if you and the others hadn’t.”

“It’s no big deal.” Takeomi blinks. “Shin’s friends are my friends too.”

The thing that was gnawing in his chest has disappeared and turned to relief. Takeomi was more than happy to have one less problem to deal with. But if he thought about it, that meant nothing. Takemichi might change his mind anytime. If that happens—

No, Takeomi was not letting it happen; he will protect his place as Shinichiro’s best friend. The one who knows everything and the one Shinichiro likes the most.

He thought about the trust that was given to him. It’s a fragile thing, he knows. But at some point he decided he will be the one to protect Black Dragon. It was the same thing as protecting his pride. No one else could do it. They’re all too busy getting into fights, ruining Black Dragon’s name.

Takeomi never thought he’d find himself entertaining those thoughts. Guess times have changed.

Just then, he met Takemichi’s eyes.

Green against blue.

Blond against black.

Yeah, he thinks. They were never meant to be the same.

A realization, almost chilling, and Takeomi smiled. He reached an arm out to put it around Takemichi’s shoulders.

“You’re not wrong about that. People are always going on about how they’d make gangs or run down the others, but never always run away as soon as they see more than one guy to fight.”

He released a long exhale, the smoke hanging in the stillness of the air before disappearing. “You stayed your ground, so you must be rather strong. I like that, a lot.”

Takemichi blinked, and then he coughed from the smoke. “Well, you’re the first to say I’m not stupid.”

“ Really now?” Takeomi absentmindedly tapped the ash to the ground before taking another drag. “You’re pretty popular, you know? I’ve heard stories ‘bout you — good ones.”

“Huh?” The tips of Takemichi’s ears flushed pink. “Wait, seriously? You know me?”

“Of course I do,” Takeomi almost laughed. Flattery really does get you far. “Hanagaki Takemichi, from Tama ain’t it? Probably the best freshman fighter out there, I’d be honored if you ever thought about joining us. The Black Dragon will welcome you with open arms.”

“R- Really? I mean, well, I’m not trying to be rude but-”

“Seriously, don’t sweat it.”

Takeomi was now aware that Shin was staring at them. He pretended not to notice. “If you’re ever in trouble, just give a call. The Black Dragons are gonna come to help.”

Out of the corners of his eyes, he sees Shin coming over. He made a crooked smile before easily pulling away from Takemichi.

“Nice to meet you by the way, I’m Akashi Takeomi. Black Dragon’s vice-leader, and Shin’s best friend. You can ask me anything if you’ve got questions, yeah?” he introduced himself, offering a hand. When Takemichi shook it, his hands felt almost like fire against him. Just then, Shin arrived and Takeomi let go before he felt arms wrap around his shoulders.

“What are you two talking about?” Shin pouted, resting his chin on Takeomi’s shoulder.

Takeomi jokingly pushed him away. “That’s none of your business, Shin,” he joked. But really, it was.

He feels a finger of Shin playfully flicking at his chest. “Fine, gimme a cig then.”

A laugh, and Takeomi was already taking another one out. “Jealous much? You’re so easy to read, Shin.”

“Nah, you just know how to read me.”

As Shin blew out smoke that curled coyly around him, Takeomi knew that the road ahead just got a bit more riskier. But he’s fine with that because he’s done this before. People around Shin never knew how to appreciate him; how to appreciate Takeomi for showing the world Shin. Without Takeomi, all of them would never know someone so nice.

His nails dug into the palm of his hands, burning almost just as hot as Shin against him. He and Takemichi were starting to talk again. Takeomi’s jealous. Of course he was.

When has Shin even prioritized him? He used to. Not anymore, and Takeomi knows exactly why.

If that’s the case, he’s going to get rid of Takemichi.

What’s so wrong with doing it one more time, among the hundred times it happened?

Chapter Text

“Hanagaki-kun.”

Takemichi stopped his puzzle to answer Hinata, “Yeah?”

“I don’t understand this one,” she said.

Takemichi shuffled to Hinata’s side, peering at the paper. One look at the equations and he was already giving up. “Sorry Hinata but I can’t help you with this one,” he winced. He turned to Naoto who was sitting on the desk, raising a brow at him.

“I’m stupid, alright?” he winced.

Naoto didn’t seem to disagree.

“Aw,” Hinata huffed, continuing to write. “I thought Hanagaki-kun would at least know something.”

“Hehe, sorry.”

Takemichi returned to his unfinished puzzle. He picked up a piece and tried to match. The box said that the picture was supposed to make a landscape of a river. It was halfway finished already. He set the piece aside in hand since it looked like the meadow part. Today was the weekend. Hinata had asked him to come over for a study session. Takemichi had finished his homework by bullshitting and hoping it was the right answers.

Now he passed time by solving the game.

A piece of the puzzle was nearly thrown when he jerked. His phone had buzzed, which was usually not often. He only had Hinata, Shinichiro, and several spam coming in.

Shinichiro’s messages were replied to last night. Maybe it was him? Takemichi’s hand shook as he reached for his phone. Once in its 5 centimeters of radius, he yanked back his limb as if burned. No, no, no! It’s too awkward! I don’t wanna face him yet! he freaked out. His other brain — the more rational one — said something useful for once: Either go big or go home . It sounded similar to someone he knew.

Go home, go home! Takemichi sobbed into his hands.

Hinata and Naoto watched in silence as he groaned. In the end, his rational part won. With a whimper, he forced himself to open the mail. He closed his eyes when he clicked on it.

‘There’s a meeting . ’

‘Come to the warehouse at XX . ’

‘Now.’

Takemichi was so surprised he couldn’t make a face. It was from Takeomi. How did he get his email address? Probably from Aozora-kun, he shrugged. A meeting, huh…? Wait .

He reread the mail again.

Takeomi had said for him to come ‘now’. Takemichi shuffled to run out of Hinata’s room. “I’m sorry! I promise I’ll be back!” he said to her. Hinata could only watch in mild surprise. Takemichi grabbed his trusty bag. On the way, he encountered Naota who was getting water. “Take care of your sister! I need to go!” Takemichi said.

Then he was running down the stairs in two steps. He reached the ground and grabbed his bicycle, Hayate. The warehouse wasn't too far. He threw his leg over and started pedaling.

卍

Takemichi was out of breath and his thighs were sore when he arrived. He stumbled off. The warehouse was a place he passed almost everyday. He didn’t know it was the Black Dragons’ hideout. “Hayate… I’ll put you here,” he mumbled, pulling his bike to park it behind. He was surprised to see several motorbikes already there.

After making sure his bike wouldn’t fall over, he quickly went to the entrance. There were voices inside. Takemichi’s heart was pounding so loud he could hear it in his ears.

From the slit of the metal sheet door, he peeked inside.

Takeomi, Waka, and Arashi were standing next to Shinichiro who had taken a seat on a broken sofa in the center. Light came from several broken windows. There were also other members, chatting among themselves. Silently, Takemichi sneaked in. He spotted Aozora but didn’t call out to him. He continued tiptoeing until the front to where Shinichiro was.

Takemichi winced as he came closer. He had been intentionally skipping classes to avoid Shinichiro. It wouldn’t come as a surprise if Shinichiro gets angry at him. Takemichi gulped. If he does, he’ll probably leave and I guess I’ll be alone again.

He walked behind Waka and Arashi.

“Shinichiro-san.”

Shinichiro screamed as Takemichi whispered it into his ear.

Arashi and Waka instantly got into a stance, halting when they saw it was just Takemichi. The Black Dragon members also calmed down, shoulders relaxed. Takemichi shyly waved at them.

“Idiot, don’t scare me like that!” Shinichiro snorted, jokingly hitting Takemichi’s head.

“Sorry!” Takemichi laughed.

“It’s fine, it’s fine! You’re right on time!”

Takemichi then took notice of Takeomi’s knuckles. It was full of scabs. One of them had opened. Takemichi dug into his bag and offered a pack of bandaids along with antibiotic cream. “Use it,” he said. “You too, Waka-san.” He opened it, taking several out for him. They blinked, looking at it like they didn’t know what to do with it. After gesturing it at them, the two took it. Shinichiro was starting to bring the members closer.

“Since everyone’s here, let’s start the meeting!” Arashi bellowed. Aozora and the others formed rows and bowed low. “Good work, president!” they all said at the same time.

Woah, the atmosphere changed…

Takemichi was about to get up when Shinichiro put a hand before him.

He sat back down.

Shinichiro raised his chin a little higher. He has a small smile playing on his lips. “We’re gathered here today because of the “underground fights” that have been appearing in our turf. We have yet to find out who is behind them,” he announced. “If we find them or vice versa, we’ll clash. No underground fights are allowed in our territory so they must be angry. ” He gazed around the room. “Now then, let’s hear what everyone thinks.”

A person stepped forward. She was tall, and had long light blue hair tied into a ponytail. “President, I think the best choice is to beat them up and get intel from them,” she said.

“Mayura Kiruki. She’s a capable fighter,” Takeomi grunted. He hissed as he smeared the antibiotic cream.

“I agree with Mayura for once.” An average height guy grinned. He had a slightly altered uniform — a belt chain on his side . “Just bash their heads in with a hammer. They’ll talk.”

“Rinji Kamoto,” Wakasa murmured. “He’s pretty morbid so you might have to get used to it.”

Takemichi gulped.

Arashi grunted disapprovingly.

“Moron, if we did, it’ll just bring a bad name for us,” Mayura snorted. It was rare to see a girl in a gang. She rolled her eyes. “Then other gangs would target our leader more.”

Rinji flipped her off. “So Miss Four-Eyes got a solution?”

“Probably better than yours,” Mayura stuck her tongue out at him.

“What’s it to you?”

“Wanna fight, bastard?”

As the two glared at each other, Takemichi glanced at Shinichiro. His gaze went down to his hands. Whatever was said afterwards came in one ear and out the other. In his defense, he was bored and wasn’t thinking straight. He didn’t bother to listen to the meeting either. Without thinking, he gently took Shinichiro’s hand. He traced the lines on his palm idly.

The cloth wrapped around it and his fingers were terrible. It was messy. Judging from how loose it was tied, moisture would be lost and the healing process would slow. Takemichi winced. He doesn’t know which one was worse: the fact that Shinichiro had fought or that he was reckless. Fortunately, he brought his bag full of medical stuff for this.

He started snipping off the old bandages. He ripped open an alcohol-free wipe and started cleaning the wound. It looked like it came from scraping it against concrete.

Shinichiro jolted at the touch. Takemichi went gentler.

After cleaning, he wiped it dry with a pad of tissues. Cotton ball stands may get stuck on it.

He applied a non-adhesive pad over the wound and pressed it down. Unwrapping the gauze, he wrapped the bandage around the wrist twice. Bring the bandage around to the back of the hand and wrap it diagonally across so it passed the base of the pinky finger. He continued to wrap the bandage around all fingers except for the thumb.

Lastly, from the thumb, wrap the bandage diagonally across the palm of the hand back toward the wrist to complete the figure eight. He did it easily with a few moves and let go, slumping back to the couch. He was met with several curious eyes.

“Then it’s decided,” Shinichiro said. “We will make daily patrols of the school in Shinjuku. Takeomi, Arashi, Mayura, and Waka will lead the groups. Oh, thank you, Takemichi.”

Takemichi covered half of his face. He felt it heating up.

“I-it’s nothing. Try not to touch water.”

“Will do. It’s amazing though.” Shinichiro flexed his hand. He turned to Takeomi and then the rest. “You guys see it? It’s so neat. The one who’s the best at this thing is Himeno. And Takemichi did it in a short time,” he said. The others looked at it in awe.

Mayura nodded appreciatively.

Takemichi shrunk lower. He tried to hide his evident grin. He didn’t do it often so his cheek hurted.

“Takemichi, that reminds me. I heard that you saved Yukihisa from fighting in a ring a few days ago,” Shinichiro suddenly diverted. He gestured at Waka. “ Wakasa happened to see your full fight. Takeomi and Arashi are interested in seeing you fight.

Takemichi immediately panicked. Once he calmed down (a little bit), Aozora explained that it was something similar to an entrance test to enter the Black Dragons. It was to see if the person had an affinity towards fighting or they could do something else. Shinichiro reassured Takemichi that he himself couldn’t fight. Takemichi knew that. Since the meeting was finished, members were starting to chat about mundane things, obvious to what they were talking. Outside, Rinji’s voice was heard as he fought Mayura.

Takemichi took one look at the gang and shuddered.

Some of them didn’t even appear like someone who was in high school. There were one or two that were absolutely ripped, like they could hurl Takemichi into the sun.

Mayura stepped into the warehouse, rolling her neck. A battered but grinning Rinji followed shortly.

He proceeded to throw himself at someone while yelling.

“Mayura! Good timing!” Shinichiro called out. “Be Takemichi’s sparring partner.”

Mayura pushed up her glasses.

“Hm? Sure.”

Takemichi felt like screaming. Mayura didn’t look weak by any means. She was much taller than him and her build was muscular. His eyes bulged at the sight of the arms exposed from rolled sleeves.

“Don’t worry, we won’t go full out on you,” Shinichiro said. “Just enough to make you get into it.”

“How nice,” Takemichi muttered.

With one more look at Mayura and Rinji, he felt the tears threaten to come into his eyes. Anyhow, he managed to calm down. At the sideline, he started stretching, pulling his hands above his head. Mayura cracked her fingers. It was intimidating needless to say.

Takemichi turned to Shinichiro. “To- to be honest, I’m not great at fighting…”

“That’s fine. We just want to see how good you are or do you really not know how to fight,” Shinichiro said.

 “You don’t have to if you don’t want to,” he corrected .

“ No, it’s just that…” Takemichi shook his head. “I only have to bring down Mayura-san, right?

“More or less.”

“Okay.”

Takemichi took a deep breath.

Before he went into the center, he slipped in a roll of tissue. His opponent, Mayura, was retying her hair. Some strands were caught in her forehead. “Relax, Takemichi, I won’t break a bone,” she said.

“Maybe,” she added.

Takemichi shot a concerned look at Aozora. He gave a thumbs-up and a smile in reply.

That didn’t help.

Arashi gave the signal and the fight started. Mayura didn’t wait, sprinting at Takemichi. He managed to block the fist hit. His arm stung as Mayura spun and threw a kick at him. The second attack came next, Takemichi falling to the ground. He rolled to the side when she stomped at him. S-Scary! What the hell!? Takemichi cursed, rising to fight her.

Mayura zeroed in and the next thing he knew was that the world was spinning. He was knocked back.

“Tsk!” Takemichi twisted his body, landing near the spectators. He touched his chin. So that’s her power… even though she’s holding back, she’s strong… He barely ran out of the way when Mayura launched a kick. She turned, leg aiming at Takemichi’s face.

He dropped down to a split.

Ow fuck!

Gasps rose from the crowd. He pushed his head away. The foot missed his ear by an inch. Mayura kept shooting her limb, stubborn. Takemichi also continued evading all of them.

Mayura’s fist came at him but he was prepared. He bent back, his hands touching the ground and pushing off. His body flipped back. A hand made a wild grab for his shoulder. Takemichi tackled Mayura. It caught her off guard and she fell. They started shuffling, a tangle of arms and legs out to get the other at the bottom.

Takemichi — with his weak strength — was naturally pushed down. His throat was constricted as Mayura put strength around it. His head felt light-headed. He grunted and coughed before knocking her stomach above him. She landed on the soil with a muffled profanity. This is so not good… he muttered. I gotta end this somehow. His hand went to where his pocket was but decided not to. When they were close again, Mayura suddenly snapped her head to the right. The emotion on her face was fear.

Bullseye. Taking that chance, Takemichi grabbed her collar and whacked her head. He poked her forehead. “If I had a knife, you would’ve died,” he mentioned casually.

Everyone was silent.

“Though I have to thank you for holding back. If you hadn’t, I wouldn’t have survived,” he added.

None of them had expected for him to actually land a hit, much less defeat her. Mayura put her hands up in surrender.

“You win.”

Takemichi let go of her.

He was about to let out a relieved sigh when another voice spoke up, “I’m curious how Mayura-san lost the fight.” They all turned to see Shinichiro, stumping out his cigarette bud.

Takemichi froze.

“Takemichi, do I have the permission to spar with you?” Shinichiro asked. Takeomi and Waka made a ‘go ahead’ gesture. Takemichi opened his mouth in protest. But he was ignored. He had no choice other than to take his place again. The crowd bustled with excitement. Though Takemichi wondered if they knew that Shinichiro couldn’t fight. Shinichiro still had a peaceful expression like he wasn’t about to fight.

“Please go easy on me,” he smiled.

Takemichi wanted to say that no matter what wrong deed he did, he would never be harsh on him.

He settled with a silent nod.

As soon as Arashi announced “Start!”, Takemichi clapped his hands in front of Shinichiro’s face. The loud sound forced him to close his eyes. Takemichi did a leg sweep and hit the back of his knee. In less than a minute, Takemichi won the fight with a pen over Shinichiro’s head.

“You’re pretty talented,” Shinichiro breathed, laughing.

“No offense but it’s because Shinichiro-san is weak,” Takemichi huffed.

“That’s fair.”

They laughed together, Takemichi bringing Shinichiro to his feet. Afterwards, the Black Dragon members flocked around Takemichi, asking how he did that.

Chapter Text

Takeomi did one more punch before deciding it was good enough. He released his grip on the shirt.

“Oi, Shin! You doing okay?” he yelled.

From the ground, Shinichiro struggled to push off a big build.

“Yup! How about you all?” he asked, his left eye swelling. Waka and Arashi grunted in affirmation, along with several other members. The Black Dragon had been challenged to fight by a neighboring gang. Naturally they won. Now they were riding back to their hideout.

Takeomi bit on the cigarette as drove beside Shinichiro. The sky was turning dark blue as the sun went down. He shook his head to get rid of the bang in front of his face.

Takemichi Hanagaki.

The newest gang member.

He was this pretty short, shy kid with tousled black hair and blue eyes. He reminded Takeomi of a golden retriever. Always smiling, somehow a golden aura around him. It wasn’t that Takeomi had something against him. He wasn’t the type to care much but one has to admit it was odd for Shinichiro to ask him to invite Takemichi in.

‘He asked for it, and he’s my friend,’ Shinichiro shrugged when Takeomi had asked.

‘All this for him?’ Takeomi raised a brow.

‘It’s a whim probably.’

Yeah. This was something surprising.

Takemichi was a crybaby, crying anytime something slightly bad happened or a fight. He waved his arms when trying to talk, evidently nervous. He wasn’t a great fighter either. In fact, he seemed to hate fighting. He kept letting his opponent chase him before attacking.

But that was what Takeomi wondered about. He leaned back, thinking if he would be okay.

卍

When they arrived, Takemichi was there. He had two cooler boxes and a folding table laid out. “Good work, everyone!” he greeted them with a smile. “I brought Pocari Sweat and yakisoba! Ah! Don’t force yourselves!”

He high-fived Shinichiro and grinned together. Takeomi and Waka squinted at the sight.

Too bright , they agreed silently.

Takeomi took a Pocari Sweat. He dropped his cigarette, opening the drink. He watched as Shinichiro and Takemichi — who were the least injured — went to every member. The two asked if they were alright or needed anything else. Himeno was busy giving out badanges. Going to the hospital was too troublesome with that many people after all.

“Hello, do you need help, Himeno-san?” Takemichi asked. Himeno nodded and welcomed his presence. Takeomi glanced at Shinichiro, Waka, and Benkei trying to comfort a crying kid. After an hour, everyone was sitting on the ground, laughter and chattering droned on as cars passed the warehouse. The atmosphere was in a good mood after their victory and the early lunch. Even the usually at-each-other’s-neck duo Rinji and Mayura were talking just fine. (Well, if one ignores the casual threats in their sentences.)

A person suddenly joined Takeomi, leaning against the wall. “Hm? Not joining the rest, Takemichi-kun?” Takeomi asked, opening one eye. Takemichi brushed his nose sheepishly.

“Haha, nah. They’re all tired. I didn’t do much so it’s best to let them be,” he said.

Takeomi raised an eyebrow.

He stayed quiet however and returned to gaze at the gang.

“That reminds me, Akashi-san. Do you like smoking?” Takemichi gestured at his lips. Takeomi had the weirdest urge to run a thumb along them. “Since I always see you doing it and all.”

It was already the fifth smoke Takeomi had.

“Mn, it calms me.”

“I see. You look pretty badass with it. I’ve only smoked twice,” Takemichi admitted. From his pocket, he produced a cigarette pack. He plucked one and stuck it to his lips.

“Want to?”

“There’s no fire though,” Takemichi chuckled. Takeomi had one but he didn’t offer. Instead, he pulled Takemichi near by his head and connected the ends of their cigarettes. He lit Takemichi’s with his own, feeling Takemichi’s struggle stop as the seconds passed by, shoulders relaxing. It was like they were in a bubble — a world perfectly crafted for them only. The chattering in the background seemed to slow down as they waited for it.

Benkei and Wakasa eyed them with bugged out eyes.

Shinichiro and Takeomi did that stunt often, yet this was the first time they saw Takeomi with another.

Then Takeomi separated, exhaling smoke from his mouth. It vanished. Takemichi made a small sneeze. Shinichiro would probably tease Takeomi but he would deal with it. Just like how the paper caught fire, he had a suspicion that his heart was.

.

.

.

“Hey… don’t you think Takemichi is going along too well with the others?” Takeomi asked, squinting.

Takemichi was in a dilemma. On one hand, he was being pulled around by the younger ones. He promised them that he would take them out to eat lunch that day. But at the same time, the seniors were stubborn about getting to know him and training.

“Eh, it’ll be fine,” Shinichiro grinned before running to join them. “Oi! Don’t hog him for yourself!”

“You’re coming with us, leader!”

“Sure!”

“You’re paying though.”

“Heh!?”

“It’s either you hand over the wallet or that!”

“I’m your captain dammit!”

“Shinichiro-san! You do owe them though!”

“Oh god I do.”

Takemichi’s presence may be a disturbance, Takeomi decided.

Chapter Text

Hello~

Sorry it's not a fic today. I've came back from the States so I'll post in a week or so. Though I apologize for keeping you waiting

Although I've made an announcement (though it's not seen by much), I know this is still quite sudden but I've been thinking about this for a while and I want to rewrite the whole thing. Several manga chapters have been published since I started and there's so many things I learned and wanted to change about this.

I'm not so sure about the choice yet since that means I'll have to re plan everything so I wanted to ask you all. If I I rewrite, I'll be able to have more Black Dragon interactions and actually give them more place to shine

But no worries, I'll still post some stuff on the story here until I get enough stuff to post for a newer version.

That's all for now. If you have any ideas you would like to see, don't hesitate to write it! I welcome plot ideas of how it could change in canon or whatever prompt you want. It could also ships scenarios if you like.

If you have something you wanted to change from my previous storyline, please do comment! I won't be offended. 

No need to hold back, write as long as you want, I enjoy reading them :)))

Sorry if I'm asking too much

Chapter Text

It has been a few days since Takemichi was welcomed into the Black Dragon. He had befriended most of them. Ever since the very short fight that day, he seemed to be more… looked up to? The younger members asked him to come see their fights. Their eyes gleamed everytime. Aozora joked that they saw him as cool since he “defeated” Mayura.

Takemichi laughed, waving it aside.

“I bet Rinji can do even better,” he had said.

The older and scary members, too, seemed interested in him. They tried to talk to him about school. Some of them even offered if he wanted to train with them — or maybe exchange some hits. Takemichi kindly refused, making excuses that he couldn’t fight nor dare to.

Shinichiro came to his defense, chidding that they shouldn’t bully the newcomer.

Just like that, they treated Takemichi less overbearing. Mayura and Rinji fought over who got to speak to Shinichiro and Takemichi first. Then there were the founding members. Wakasa, Takeomi, and Benkei always regarded him from the corner of his eye, their gazes as intense as thousands of sun each time.

Takemichi was too scared out of his mind to ask them what they were doing this for. He panicked more when one of them clicked their tongue. God, what have I done for you to give me this punishment? he cried silently. Tears almost spilled over. Thankfully, Shinichiro dismissed them. Takemichi clung to his side until they were all gone. It was only then he released the unknown held back breath, falling to his knees.

“Takemichi! Are you alright?” Shinichiro asked.

“Yeah!” Takemichi winced at his voice crack. He doesn’t want to leave Shinichiro yet. “A-also, your hands are injured so I think it’s safer for me to send you back.”

“Sure. Thanks, Takemichi!”

“Mn.”

For some unknown reason, the Black Dragon gave them a look of surprise. Anyhow, Takemichi pedaled with Shinichiro at the back to return to the usual motorbike shop. (“Shinichiro, don’t you have a home?” “I do but I don’t wanna be scolded by my old man.” “Huh.”)

The evening air was more than comfortable as Takemichi listened to Shinichiro’s chatter of delinquency and bikes. Takemichi kept a small secret; which was that he liked hearing Shinichiro talk. He liked his voice and the waving hand gestures made to explain things that excited him. His laugh as well smile was pleasing to hear. Although silent, he made a sound of acknowledgement to indicate that he was listening.

Now Takemichi was back at school. Students and teachers so far still ignored him. However without them whispering about him being officially in the Black Dragon gang.

He felt proud, knowing that his uniform was being made as he spoke. The sun was bright, he noted as he looked outside.

The classroom was noisy, students talking with their friends. Takemichi watched them. He started to get ready when squeals sounded outside the classroom door. He looked up to see a group of girls talking to someone and that someone was Shinichiro. In terms of height, it was obvious that he towered over most of the students.

“Good morning. Is Takemichi here?” he asked. No sooner did he do so, he met Takemichi’s eyes.

He grinned, arm waving at him. “Michi-kun!”

Takemichi internally screamed. How the hell did Takemichi go to Michi-kun so fast!?

Shinichiro started running toward him. Everyone parted a way. Takemichi fumbled to set down the bag of chips. “Shinichiro-senpai no! I won’t be able to catch you!” he said in panic.

This wasn’t the first time Shinichiro did it. And he sure as hell wouldn’t fail. With a squawk, he caught Shinichiro. Takemichi quickly shuffled so he held him better and went out of the classroom. As much as he liked Shinichiro, he wished that he would shut his mouth and see his surroundings. Students were staring at them now — and not in a good way. He took one look at his classmates and yeah. They definitely looked like they wanted to kill him. He panicked more when one of them clicked their tongue.

As if to make matters worse, Shincihiro said, “Michi-kun. Let’s skip school!”

“Heh!?”

“Come on, just the two of us.”

Shinichiro! People’s gonna get the wrong idea! Takemichi cried. Yet they went anyway. Takemichi rode the bicycle with Shinichiro at the behind as usual. He passed the river near the school. Shinichiro leaned back, using his body for support. They were silent the whole trip, enjoying the air and view of the glittering sun on the river.

“Um…” Takemichi started, already regretting it. “Why did Shinichiro-senpai let me join the Black Dragon?”

“Hah! Omi asked the same thing actually,” Shinichiro laughed.

“Oh, s-sorry.”

“There’s no reason for you to.” The bike wheels creaked under. “I have a brother as you know. He’s six years younger than me. He told me that I suck at fighting, rejected nineteen times from my confessions, and am not good with girls, yet why is it that people still want to follow me? I replied that he wouldn’t get it since he’s still a kid.”

Takemichi blinked. Where is this going?

“I… see.”

“I think he’ll like you even more than me, Michi-kun.”

“Huh!?”

The bike wobbled as Takemichi choked. “I ain’t that cool as you, Shinichiro no matter how you look at it!”

“Not at all. You’re plenty cool yourself.”

They arrived at a vacant field and got off. Shinichiro sat at one of the stone steps overlooking the river, and Takemichi soon followed. Shinichieo closed his eyes as he basked in the sunset.

“This is an era of delinquents. Everyone acts big and always gets into fights,” he resumed. “Black Dragon has plenty of guys who’re good at fighting. But there aren’t many like you that would go against guys stronger than them if it was for something they couldn’t “give up”. You were pretty badass from what Omi told me. That’s why I recruited you.”

“Is that so…?”

Takemichi felt a grin creeping to his face. He forced it down. It was ridiculous for him to feel so happy from hearing that. He wasn’t anyone special — he wasn’t meant to be noticed.

“Plus, birds of the same feather tend to flock together.”

Shinichiro smiled and Takemichi gave in.

“Though I think my brother would call you a “crybaby” with the amount of crying you do.”

“Not you too, Shinichiro-san!”

“But to me, you’re still a hero. That day, your tears were like a sign that you are still fighting. Maybe I was also inspired by that.” Another laugh and Takemichi swore he was seeing an angel. “Actually I don’t know what I was saying. So do your best, crybaby hero!”

Takemichi couldn’t stop his tears. This time it was from happiness.

“That’s such a bad nickname…”

I like it .

“But if you say so, Shinichiro, I can’t say no to it,” he sighed.

They laughed a little bit more and then were back on the road to Mizo Middle School. A warm feeling of Shinichiro rested against Takemichi’s back and he looked back. “Next time, I’ll teach you how to use a motorbike! You’re the only member who doesn’t have one yet! Even Aozora knows!” Shinichiro exclaimed. “Look forward to it!”

Takemichi felt his heart skip a beat.

“I will!” he said.

On the way, they were confronted by several delinquent students looking for a fight. The two tried to fight at first but then realized they probably wouldn;t survive and ran away. Takemichi laughed loudly as he pulled Shinichiro along to the alleyways. Despite being bruised and bloodied, he thought that it was fun running like this.

Even when they got scolded by the teachers and Black Dragon members, Takemichi and Shinichiro shared a suppressed snicker like they were kids sharing a secret.

Chapter Text

“Michi-kun, sorry for being late!” Shinichiro exclaimed. “I had to run away from my gramps.”

Takemichi sighed. “I think you should stop skipping practice, Shinichiro. It’ll help you with your fighting prowess.” He made a motion towards his eye, mirroring where Shinichiro had bruises and cuts blossoming under it. It came from a fight a few days ago.

“I’m confident in my running skills but when it comes to you, I can’t keep putting aloe vera and ice everytime.”

Shinichiro grinned, parking his motorbike. The lot was somewhere hidden behind a building. “You and Omi said the same thing, you know. It’s fine, I’ll survive the fights somehow.”

“Say that when you come back unscathe,” Takemichi snorted.

“Haha, that’s pretty hard to do.”

“Then stop breaking the law!”

“I’m a delinquent, what else am I supposed to do!?”

Well, he got him there.

The two of them started walking towards the plaza. Wanting to be more comfortable, Takemichi put on a dress shirt (which was from his school uniform but no one had to know), black varsity jacket and joggers. He opted to brush his hair and use the ear cuffs. When Shinichiro complimented him, Takemichi was given an extra confidence boost. But honestly, Shinichiro was the type to look good in any clothes he wore. One could dress him in a potato sack and Takemichi would be none the wiser.

Shinichiro was wearing loose pants, a long sleeve shirt with some kind of band picture printed on the front. The silver chain necklace glinted on his neck. His hair was tousled; pushed down and as if ruffled. Like last time, he was wearing liquid eyeliner that was as sharp as knives. Takemichi was obsessed with how he looked overall.

However he quickly batted those thoughts away. A crush was something he could handle but obsession wasn’t.

“How’s the gang? Sorry for not joining the meetings,” he apologized as they got on the lift. He had to give himself credit for asking to go early where there were rarely any people.

“Same old, same old,” Shinichiro shrugged. “Rinji and Tsuchiya got into a fight with a gang. Waka and Benkei made a name for themselves. Takeomi… he’s been recently called the god of war. Pretty cool, right? It looks like Black Dragon is gaining popularity.”

“Well, that’s good isn’t it?”

“Yeah. The numbers are growing. Don’t worry about the meetings, you come to help us patch up after all.”

“Hehe…”

Though, I do feel bad about it.

The elevator stopped and they got off. When Shinichiro had initiated the invitation, Takemichi didn’t ask where they went. He was happy enough with being brought along.

“Is there any particular place we’re going?” he asked, looking around the mall.

Most of the stores were just opened. The shutters lifted up and workers were getting into position. Now that Takemichi was looking properly, it was mostly clothing brands. He remembered vaguely of Shinichiro liking fashion and peeked at his face.

Yeah, Shinichiro looks so happy now , he chuckled to himself. There was an imaginary tail and ears on him.

“O-oh! Uhhh,” Shinichiro snapped his attention back. “Sorry, I wanted to test some new clothes since I’m getting taller now. Manjiro and Emma would also need bigger clothes…”

“Emma?” Takemichi repeated. Manjiro must be the famous “younger brother”.

“She’s my younger sister, you see. Just recently- well, an adoptive one,” Shinichiro explained.

“I see.”

“Emma is still nervous around us and her big brother’s gotta make her feel at home, right?”

“Mn.”

How nice, Takemichi thought. He wondered if he was in the way. Inside the nearest store, he finally had the courage to ask: “Shinichiro, where is Takeomi-san and the others?”

“They’re taking their tests.”

“Huh?”

“Surprising, right? I reacted the same the first time,” Shinichiro grinned. He picked a shirt to see. “They’re actually two years older than me. Waka wants to get into a university so I didn’t disturb his study time. Benkei was caught up with something like that too and Omi? I think he said something about his siblings going rogue.”

Takemichi nodded. This was a first of hearing something about the founding members’ life outside Black Dragon. Everyone appeared to have a sibling of some sort. Maybe that was why they had the aura of someone… mature? Shinichiro has that feeling to him, too.

A shirt suddenly was given to him. “Michi-kun try this on. I think you’ll look good in it.”

Takemichi looked at it in bewilderment.

“W-wait a sec…”

“It’s no fun if you’re just following me,” Shinichiro said, picking one or two pants and jackets. Then he looked at shirts, taking one. “Plus, I promised you to go shopping together previously.” Once again, Takemichi was too shy to say anything and went along. Shinichiro gave him the clothes and pushed him into the changing room.

“Just try it, you’ll probably fit in that style,” he said when Takemichi started to protest. He was ushered into the changing room and had no choice but to try them on.

After a few seconds, he came out.

Shinichiro looked up as Takemichi rubbed his head embarrassingly.

The outfit chosen was fitted. The shirt had a picture of something he didn’t really see. Over it was a jacket with a tall collar. Since it stuck to him, Takemichi appeared a little taller. He looked at himself in the mirror. He knew he wasn’t the best looking but he didn’t seem too bad either.

“You and I are similar in height and body,” Shinichiro continued. He patted Takemichi down. “So I thought something like this would work. Actually, I think you’ll look great in others.”

“No way! I- I won’t look good.”

“Bah, nonsense. Let’s have fun with all this.”

They walked around the place choosing clothes. Manjiro, or now known as Mikey, liked comfortable clothes. Takemichi saw a picture of him and agreed that he looked like the type to like them. It was nearly an hour before they left the shop with a happy looking cashier. Takemichi and Shinichiro now have a bag full of new clothes.

“I’m not too sure what Emma would like but I hope these are good enough,” Shinichiro mumbled.

They had talked to the staff to buy the outfits little girls would like. They got plenty, and the staff was more than happy to help them get the best choices. The wardrobe would be filled to its full capacity and still have clothes with the amount bought.

Takemichi huffed, knocking Shinichiro’s shoulder playfully. “Idiot, she’ll definitely be happy when her big brother goes out of his way to buy her nice things,” he said.

“Don’t worry much about it,” he added.

Shinichiro exhaled deeply and his eyes looked determined. “Right.”

Yeah, he doesn’t need to worry.

They walked to the cafe to get an early lunch. As Takemichi waited in line, he saw Shinichiro going up to someone. He squinted at them. It was a girl. Takemichi nearly made a questionable noise before calming himself down. He remembered the disastrous confession Shinichiro made and realized he probably was trying to hit on her.

Uwoooh! Shinichiro-san is going for it! he internally cheered as he stared at them. You can do it!

He watched as Shinichiro turned shy as he said something to the girl. A bit later and she left. Shinichiro stayed frozen. Then he stiffly turned to Takemichi’s direction with a frozen face.

Shinichiro-saaannn! Takemichi cried silently. Wait for me!

He quickly took their orders and ran towards the dejected and soulless figure on the bench.

“What happened!?” he asked.

“I failed for the twentieth time in a row…”

Takemichi’s face winced.

“What did you even say to her?” he sobbed. At that moment, he felt so bad for Shinichiro.

“A-ah well…” Shincihiro looked the other way. “ ‘I seem to have lost my phone number. Can I have yours?’ ”

That’s so lame! Takemichi internally cried out but didn’t dare say it. Though it seemed like Shinichiro was able to read his mind.

“Shut up! That was my best shot!” he tried to defend himself. His face was rapidly going redder as he ate the sandwich with a huff. “Jeez, just when I thought I could finally do it…”

“It’s fine, it’s fine, I won’t tell anyone,” Takemichi smiled.

Shinichiro exhaled through his nose.

“...You can laugh.”

“I won’t.”

But it soon proved wrong as a snort escaped Takemichi’s lips.

“Hey!” Shinichiro exclaimed.

“Sorry, sorry!”

As they ate, Shinichiro and Takemichi walked around the place again. People were starting to come in. Takemichi walked inside, nearer to the shop windows, listening to Shinichiro talking about this new show that was airing. Mikey loved it and had tried to get Emma to watch it together. Takemichi hummed once in a while to show that he was listening. But it was quite difficult to focus on his voice when he was staring at something else.

Don’t get Takemichi wrong, he didn’t mean any harm, it was just that he was fascinated by the shoes Shinichiro was wearing. Heels. It was something similar to a sandal with the front open and strapped on with buckles. The added inch made Shinichiro appear taller. He had always been tall, however Takemichi now felt like a dwarf next to him.

His eyes trailed down to his own body.

“What’s wrong, Michi-kun?” Shinichiro asked. “Are my shoes weird?”

Takemichi snapped his head up.

“No I-”

“Kidding,” Shinichiro chuckled. “You want to buy them for your girlfriend?” he joked.

“Ha-haha… no…” An awkward look glazed over Takemichi’s face as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Shinichiro, do you think I’ll look good in it?” he asked quietly. “I want to get taller.”

Shinichiro’s next reaction was not what he expected.

He laughed, but not in a mean way. He sounded happy for him.

“Absolutely,” he grinned, eyes crinkling. “Let’s search for one that fits you. I know a place; they won’t judge.”

.

.

.

Takemichi fidgeted in place. He nervously looked around. Right now, he and Shinichiro were in this little shop pushed back from most views. Hell, he wouldn’t even know there was a place if not for Shinichiro. Since before he had only shown positivity and nothing else.

“Okay so what type do you want?” Shinichiro asked. “What color?”

“I want it to match the Black Dragon uniforms,” Takemichi said. I wonder if he thinks I’m weird.

“Alright.” Shinichiro turned to the cashier and started doing vague hand gestures. “So white it is then. Oh and something easy to slip in and out. For the sake of fighting, you know?”

The cashier — who also happened to be the salesperson and the only worker in the store — nodded. She went to the back. Shinichiro explained that she was the one who suggested the type of shoes for the gang. Yanai was her name. She had helped out with the attire chosen. Yanai came back shortly to beckon them to the back of the shop.

Takemichi looked around as they walked.

The shop was pretty nice. It was small and well lit. They passed several more shelves of shoes. They arrive at some kind of room with mirrors and a lone cushion in the center. Yanai stepped up on the stool and reached for the upper cupboard. She got back down with three boxes in hand. Takemichi has no idea how she was able to balance that well.

“Here’s the ones I got. If you need more or like different sizes just ring for me,” Yanai said as she passed the boxes to Shinichiro. “I’m gonna leave you to lovebirds alone.”

“Sure- wait huh?” Shinichiro realized.

But Yanai was already gone.

Takemichi and Shinichiro exchanged a glance before shrugging.

Takemichi sat down on the cushion. He took one of the boxes and opened it hesitantly. When he did, the sight of pure white shoes greeted him. It’s really good quality, he noticed. He excitedly pulled down the zip on the side. The shoes were made out of leather he finally noticed. Smooth and shining, he rubbed a thumb along the surface.

Once he put them on, Takemichi admired them. He got up, doing a little spin. Shinichiro held out a hand for him. Takemichi could walk normally but he still took it.

“Your balance’s really good,” Shinichiro noticed with a grin.

Takemichi laughed.

“When you have to dodge attacks in the weirdest ways, your leg strength gets super strong.”

They exchanged glances and giggled.

After a while of looking through the boxes of similar shoes, Takemichi found the one. It was boots with heels that were not too tall and made from lace. Flowers and little swirls of patterns ran across the shoe, ribbons fluttering. He tried them, and it felt perfect.

Like it was made just for him. He jumped in place. He saw Shinichiro raising a brow at him.

“Easy there.”

Takemichi smiled sheepishly.

“How’s your first experience in heels? Pretty great isn’t it?” Shinichiro asked.

“Yeah.”

Shinichiro walked over and rested a hand on Takemichi’s back. The latter tensed. Shinichiro pressed it, causing Takemichi to jolt. “Straighten your back. The more you hunch, the harder it is to walk in them. Plus you’ll look confident, “ he commented, “Okay good.”

Takemichi did feel better after doing it. He smiled. The two then paid for the shoes (though Shinichiro stepped on Takemichi’s foot as a distraction and paid for it).

Takemichi walked out with the heels, feeling excited.

“Yeah, you look really good in them.” Shinichiro nodded at them. “Aozora and Wakasa are gonna love it.”

“You think Himeno’s gonna like them?”

“Absolutely.”

That hangout was one of Takemichi’s best days of his life.

Chapter Text

Takemichi frowned.

He had a problem in his hands.

“Hm.”

The mirror followed him as he did a twirl. The heels were taller than the one he tried with Shinichiro. He swayed unsteadily on his feet. Bending down, he zipped up the boots.

He straightened his back again.

Causing that nearly made him fall again and his nose still stung. He wondered just what made him be so good at walking in heels the first time he was in the shoe shop. Maybe he was so nervous around Shinichiro he just could all of a sudden. He snorted at the idea.

“Uwaa… I give up,” he said as he laid on the floor. He stayed like that for a good minute.

He raised his feet up, staring at the lace material.

It looked delicate, curling around in a web-like pattern. The color was white, with some kind of very light grey color. Now that he had his feet upwards, the ribbons on the side hung down. It was definitely weird for a guy to wear heels, even that much he knew. If he were to go out with them then he would definitely be seen as weird.

He didn’t want that. He didn’t want to be seen as weird.

Then the memory of black heels flashed before his eyes. He remembered seeing Shinichiro wearing them the other day and how happy he looked when talking about them.

Takemichi’s lips parted a little.

Huh.

Maybe he should stop caring what people think of every little thing of him. He was delinquent after all.

What was the difference of him and weirdos?

With that in mind, he resolved himself and got up again. He won;t stop. At the end of the day he was rewarded with small bruises on his legs and stining pain on his face.

Chapter Text

Takemichi tapped his foot against the ground, waiting for two particular people in mind. The sky was turning red as school finished. Chattering students trickled out of the gate. Some of them caught sight of Takemichi. When they did they glanced at him, pointing at his shoes.

And like he was prone to, Takemichi puffed out his chest a little. He looked down. The white heels he bought the other week shone. He spent nearly the whole day cleaning it.

He was happy naturally. But he couldn’t help feeling a little nervous.

If Hinata and Naoto were to be seen together with an eccentric guy like him, they might get judged.

Takemichi wondered when the habit came to be. It felt like it was just yesterday he was still walking home alone. Maybe it was around a month ago. Hinata once came out late at the same time as Takemichi and they talked about many things until they returned home. After that Takemichi waited for Hinata after school, then also Naoto. Speaking of the Tachibana siblings, Takemichi perked up when he spotted the two walking out the gate. He pushed himself off the wall and jogged up to them.

“Hey,” he greeted, walking by their side.

“Ah Hanagaki-kun,” Hinata smiled. “Good evening.”

“How’s school today? I saw there’s a… science quiz today?” Takemichi said quizzically.

“Yup, I got a full score!” Hinata grinned, giving a peace sign.

“Good job! Congrats, Hina-chan!” Takemichi laughed. He ruffled her hair, earning giggles. “As expected! What is it about? I kinda remember failing it when I saw your grade.”

“Can’t be surprised,” Naoto mumbled.

“Hah!? You cheeky brat! I heard that!” Takemichi exclaimed, pointing at Naoto.

“But I do admit that I’m rather a bad student,” he relented. He looked over his shoulder. “You two better listen well to the class. Unless you wanna be delinquents, aim high. Naoto-kun, what’s your average score? If it’s you, it’s probably seventy like Hina-chan.”

“Eighty actually,” Naoto corrected.

A pause.

“I can’t believe a kid is better than me,” Takemichi muttered.

“You should join our cram school then,” Hinata said. “It’s pretty fun learning, you know.”

“No thanks. I gave up on those stuff,” Takemichi huffed with a shake of his head.

Hinata pouted. She was about to pinch his ear when they saw a person just walking a little ahead of them. They were hunched and had messy black hair. They turned, glasses shining in the sunlight. Takemichi recognized him first and called out: “Kisaki!”

Kisaki jolted when he heard his name and squeaked when Takemichi slapped his back jokingly.

“Been a while, Tetta!” he said.

Kisaki blinked, baffled. “Uh… hello, Takemichi-kun…”

“Oh! It really is Kisaki,” Hinata followed. “How have you been?”

“P-pretty good,” Kisaki nodded. He awkwardly fiddled with his glasses and licked his lips.

No sooner had he said that a guy suddenly barrelled at them. More specifically: Takemichi. He cursed and jumped back. He stumbled once, glaring at the figure.

“Takemichi, you’re here” they said, golden yellow eyes slitted in amusement.

Takemichi avoided their sticky arms greedily reaching for him. He stepped in front of Hinata and Naoto. “Jeez… How many times do I have to tell you to greet me normally, Hanma?” he sighed as he slapped the hands away. “You’re gonna scare my friends off.”

Kisaki then also hid behind him.

“How dull. It’s boring like you, you know. It’s funner this way,” Hanma said, sticking his tongue out.

“Tch! You brat! I’ll teach you a lesson-” Takemichi stopped from taking another step and frowned. Hanma smiled innocently to which Takemichi was sure that he was plotting something downright evil instead. “Wait, what are you doing here anyway?”

“Hm?”

Hanma snapped his fingers as if his brain clicked. “Right. I wanted to get Kisaki-kun.”

Kisaki looked panicked as Hanma dragged him away. Takemichi tried to grab him but failed. He accepted that and cupped his mouth. “Contact me when you’re home, Kisaki!” he yelled.

Kisaki looked ready to cry.

“Oh nice shoes by the way!” Hanma complimented before disappearing around a corner.

“That idiot,” Takemichi sighed.

Silence settled between the three as he moved away scratching his head.

“Who… was that?” Hinata gulped.

Takemichi ran a hand over his face before ushering the siblings from their spot quickly. “Hanma Shuji, he’s a delinquent like me,” he muttered, “Don’t get involved with him. He may not look like it but he’s as old as you, Naoto. He’s just ridiculously tall.

“Huh?”

“Yeah.”

“Your shoes are really nice, Hanagaki-kun,” Hinata nodded, unfazed.

They crossed the road.

“Aw thanks,” Takemichi blushed, rubbing his nose.

“Did you get it last week?”

“Yup! A friend of mine picked it for me.”

“Heh? You didn’t think to invite me with you?”

“Next time I promise!”

“Yay!”

Naoto stuck his tongue out in disgust. “Yuck. Do it when I’m not here.”

“We’re not even dating, you know. By the way, how’s the history assignment I helped you on last month?” Takemichi asked while rubbing Naoto’s head in rough affection. “What did you get?”

“It was really good. Even the teacher praised me,” Naoto beamed. “Your idea actually worked!”

“See? Your senpai’s pretty good isn’t he?” Takemichi grinned.

“Then what’s your score on English?” Hinata asked.

Takemichi laughed nervously. “About that… uh, I think I failed-”

“No way!”

Takemichi wondered what Hanma was doing near there anyway. The kid was an adrenaline freak. The first they met though, he remembered it. It was around two months ago and he hadn’t expected to be pickpocketed. He cried out, whipping his head in anger.

Then there he was; the perpetrator. Hanma — though Takemichi didn’t know his name that time — laughed.

He tossed the wallet up and caught it. Takemichi’s face turned surprised.

“Aw come on. It’s not even heavy,” the boy sighed.

“Then don’t go stealing people’s wallets!” Takemichi yelled. “Give it back you little thief!”

“No thanks♡” the boy hummed.

What happened after that felt like a fever dream. Takemichi spent nearly an hour running around the whole block after the kid. Not only that, it was clear the thief was making fun of him. He leered like a Cheshire cat when Takemichi thought he caught him only to slip like a fish.

Pissed off, Takemichi took off his shoe to throw it. If it was because his aim was indeed good or God was pitying him, he wasn’t sure but anyhow the shoe found its mark.

The kid fell with a yelp and Takemichi snatched his wallet back.

He booked it out of there but somehow the same kid found him again near the school.

“Yo,” the thief grinned.

Takemichi screamed when he recognized him.

“You sound like a girl. At least try to fight me,” he laughed.

Then it became a part of Takemichi’s life. He learned that the boy’s name was Shuji Hanma. After a few weeks of being pranked, shocked, Hanma developed a liking for him. For whatever reason he would like him for, that was something Takemichi didn’t want to know. No matter how much he tried to sneak to places or hide, the boy always found him.

It wasn’t too bad, he supposed. He had company when he ate dinner alone outside something. Hanma’s amused yet creepy expressions often intimidate people approaching them. Takemichi also thought that it was good since he didn;t want to be disturbed.

He quickly found out that Hanma was a talkative person. He would ramble about weird facts about the stars or sometimes insects even. Takemichi grunted to show he was listening.

“Did you know that stars don’t twinkle?” Hanma once asked.

“For real?”

“Yeah. It’s ‘cause of Earth’s turbulent atmosphere. As the light from a star passes through the atmosphere, especially when it’s near the horizon, it has to like, pass through many layers of rapidly differing density. In result it has the effect of deflecting light.”

“Huh. That’s pretty cool.”

“Right?”

“Anyways give me back my cigarette, don’t think I didn’t see that. God do you have sticky fingers.”

“Bleh!” Hanma said, sticking his tongue out.

Well he was an okay kid if one ignored the fact that he might just be a kleptomaniac and could fight.

He remembered having a small heart attack when the other took out the people that ganged up on them under five minutes. They all laid groaning as he sat down, smiling.

One day, when he was going home, he bumped into Kisaki. They used to be neighbors so they talked for a bit before separating ways. A rustle. Takemichi didn’t have to look back to know that Hanma was the one that was hanging his arm around his neck.

“Who was that?”

“A friend.”

“He looks gloomy.”

“Yeah I get what you mean. But he’s a pretty interesting guy.”

“Oh?”

That was probably Takemichi’s mistake.

“This is the first time I saw you talk outside that girl. Perhaps I should make myself known♡” Hanma hummed.

“Wait, you might just scare him off.”

But that didn’t stop Hanma so he should have seen it coming. A week later when Takemichi saw him again, he was with Kisaki. Hanma had stuck to him for some reason. He saw that the two were enjoying themselves, and even Kisaki had a nervous but smiling look.

Takemichi wasn’t that worried. Kisaki was someone independent despite his looks. He wasn’t stupid.

Kisaki is a good kid, he agreed.

It’s just that it’s easy for him to be influenced.

Once again he wondered if it was a mistake.

Takemichi, Hinata, and Naoto walked to the cram school talking about homework and things that happened at that school. Once in a while the three would burst into laughter when one of them said something funny. When they reached the entrance, Takemichi sent the siblings off with one more ruffle to their hair. Hinata giggled while Naoto cringed.

“Good job today, you two. Keep it up and I might treat you guys!”

“Serious?”

“Yup.”

“No take backs, you hear?”

“Now hold on-”

Laughing, Takemichi gave Hinata one more wave. He watched as she disappeared before dropping his gaze. He shoved his hands into his pocket and started walking away. The wind slapped against his face. His heels clicked against the concrete.

Jeez, I wish someone would praise me too, he thought. I want to brag about getting friends to someone.

He slowed down.

Someone…

He clenched his fist.

I want someone to tell me “You did great!”. I want them to give me a pat on the head too.

I want to be supported.

In the spur of the moment he patted himself on the shoulder. It felt ridiculous and for someone as miserable as he was, he was about to burst into tears instead. He went home with a stiff face, walking up the staircase faster than he had this morning. It looked like he was getting used to the heels. His chest puffed out in pride a little.

There was rarely anything exciting in his life so he nearly missed the envelopes sticking out of the mailbox. He picked them out and opened the one that caught his eye. Messy handwriting greeted him. Takemichi read through it as he went inside, smiling when he finished.

He took off his shoes and went straight for his desk.

There was an open pen which he picked up as he thought about what to write. It has been a while since he heard of the sender. An idea popped in his head. He snatched a piece of paper.

Well it certainly is a surprise to hear from you… he trailed off, writing them down.

Chapter Text

It was March.

A lot of plants and trees are growing, bright green leaves appearing on them. It has been pretty cold for a few months now so Takemichi was thankful for the warmth of the new season.

When he woke up that morning, it was drizzling. The room felt smaller than usual. There was something trying to come in from outside, insistent to come in. Maybe it was the noise. It probably was the noise. He felt drowsy and wanted to go back to his slumber. But he forced himself to get out, before promptly sliding to the floor.

Tap.

Tap.

Tap.

Patter, patter, patter.

A thousand, millions rain at once.

The komainu statue near a park was a popular place to meet up. Kazutora, to his credit, came fifteen minutes earlier. It was only a twenty minute walk from where he was.

He took a deep breath of the air. It smelled of rain and fresh leaves as he stretched his arms over his head.

“Hanagaki-kun!”

Takemichi stopped his yawn to look to the side.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, I had to do something,” Aozora explained as he jogged up to him.

“It’s fine, I just came here myself.”

 “You seem to be comfortable with the komainu there . Hoping that it’ll ward off your bad luck?”

“Idiot. I already failed more than half of my tests, what’s one more bad thing?” Takemichi snorted. He pushed himself off the wall, putting his hands into his pockets. “You really surprised me when you asked me to meet up with you two nights ago.”

The two of them started walking.

“Sorry about that,” Aozora said as he rubbed his head sheepishly. “My brother wanted to buy a book for school but he was too lazy to go out so here I am on an errand.”

“You have a brother?”

“Yeah. You don’t, senpai?”

“Nah. I mean, I’m an only child.”

“I see. Once again sorry for calling you out on weekends,” Aozora continued, “I’ll treat you later.”

“I guess I can take up on it,” Takemichi joked. “Where are we going?”

“Shinjuku. Let’s go to the city.”

The train station was crowded when they got there. Takemichi grimaced at the thought of having to walk through the dense crowd. As he had feared, the shops and restaurants, with its wide variety, were packed enough to overwhelm someone who was uncomfortable with crowds. He glanced to the side where Aozora was and saw that he was smiling, unbothered by it. He silently wished to have that talent.

I don’t belong here, he thought irritatedly, when they got on the train.

Some stranger’s briefcase was prodding him uncomfortably on his leg. He could smell mothballs and detergent on someone's suit in front of him. A lock of hair tickled his ear.

“Sorry for this,” Aozora mumbled.

He was squished against the window.

“It’s fine,” Takemichi tried to casually assure.

It didn;t take long for the train to arrive at the station and They were ejected to the platform.

Then the two were soon on their way to the city. They exited the turnstiles, and though the crowd grew thicker, Aozora pressed on without hesitance. The sight of Shinjuku greeted them when they came out of the station. Takemichi’s mouth opened.

Looming above them were skyscrapers, so tall that they reached the clouds. People came in and out the entrance. Cars whizzed past, engines roaring as they showed off.

It was only then — finally — Aozora announced what they would do first.

“Let’s get yakiniku!” he grinned.

“Seriously? I thought you were on a mission for your brother,” Takemichi said lightheartedly.

“It’s revenge from me. Might as well have fun,” Aozora reasoned.

Takemichi pictured the smoky air of the place with oil sputtering, the fire cooking the meat, and a faint savory smell passed through his nose . His stomach growled, though thankfully it didn;t seem like the other heard it. The next thing he knew he was seated across the table from Aozorra, with the standard charcoal grill between them .

It was a pretty cozy place. The lighting was low. However there was a yellow light above them and they could see the other fine. Before long a waitress came by their table to take orders.

Takemichi’s heart nearly jumped out of his chest. After getting shocked, he took a sip of his drink in hopes of calming his nerves. Aozora remained cheerful and opened the menu, reciting orders like a student answering mathematical questions.

“We’ll get this course,” he was saying, “The set A and along with three plates of this cut.”

“Hold up, don’t buy too much,” Takemichi interjected. “We don’t have much.”

“It’s fine,” Aozora waved aside . “It’s my treat this time, senpai. Oolong tea should be okay right?”

Takemichi nodded dumbfoundedly.

The waitress quickly took note and repeated the order before ducking back to the kitchen. Now alone, Takemichi turned to Aozora who was bouncing his leg and looking at the table.

tHe boy drank his water.

“So, uh, senpai…” Aozora started.

“Just call me Hanagaki,” Takemichi laughed softly.

“Ah, sure, of course. How have you been holding up, Hanagaki-kun?” Aozora asked again.

“School or gang?” Takemichi winced.

“Gang-wise.”

“Not too good.” He sighed before putting his face into his hands. “You know how scary it was when they started appearing to meet me after school?” he groaned. “Keep this a secret. I thought I was going to die! They looked so scary and it didn’t help that other students were staring at me.”

“Was that the commotion the other day? I heard that someone with connections to the yakuza had appeared or something,” Aozora recalled. “Never expected it was you.”

“Yes it was me!” Takmeichi nearly wailed.

“But isn’t that good in a way? Since no one would carelessly dare to approach you anymore.”

“Well, that’s one thing and it’s not good enough. I can’t even talk to my juniors without scaring them away.” Takemichi paused. “Do you get along well with your classmates, Aozora-kun?”

Aozora made a small laugh. “I wouldn;t really say so.”

“Eh? Seriously?”

“What’s up?”

“No it’s just-” Takemcihi made a vague hand gesture. “You seem to be such an easy to talk to person.”

“Bahaha! You’re too kind, Hanagaki-kun!” Aozora laughed.

“I am serious, you know!?”

As if on cue, the waitress appeared, saying, “The two oolong teas.”

After the tea came tall plates of thinly sliced meat. It was bright red and even had a slight marbling. The patterns looked so good that Takemichi almost wanted to eat it raw. He doubted that his stomach and the people there would appreciate it though.

The wire mesh grill seemed to be heated up enough and he put his first slice of meat on it. A pleasant sizzle sounded from it. From it a savory aroma rose up, making his stomach growl.

Aozora excitedly chose a cut of meat and placed it on the grill next to Takemichi’s. The meat cooked quickly above the hot coals and they quickly put it on their bowls. Takemichi out it over the whote rice while Aozora dipped it in sauce of white radish and spring onions.

Takemichi hadn;t thought they were that hungry, but soon the plates for two were empty.

The other boy swooped in to cook the last piece as Takemichi picked up to see the menu again. Without a word he raised his hand, and the waitress appeared almost instantly. He took one look at the menu and started rattling off the order. He tapped on a picture.

“I’ll take offal and sweetbread,” he decided. “Just one order each, thanks.”

The waitress nodded and left.

He turned to see Aozora staring at him. “You like eating cow organs?” he asked.

That nearly gave Takemichi a stroke.

“I suppose,” he shrugged, “ It’s good, you know .”

Aozora gave him a reluctant look that said he didn;t believe it.

Finally their plates were cleaned. Not bothering to see the check, Aozora called over the waitress to pay. He gave the money needed, ignoring Takemichi’s voice of protests which didn’t sound serious. As much as he didn;t want to admit he was glad since his wallet was thinner than a leaf. Full-bellied, they went out of the yakiniku place.

Aozora and Takemichi started walking. The streets were packed with people . They got inside the nearest building. Somewhere above them music played. The bookstore was on the second floor and almost no one was there except for a couple and several families .

“Oh.”

Aozora took notice of something and Takemichi followed him .

There was a section selling ropes.

Takemichi marveled at it. “Wow, the quality’s good.”

“Isn’t it? And it’s so cheap too. Too bad The only people who would buy ropes in this day and year were probably contractors, cowboys, and people looking to die,” Aozora joked.

Takemichi laughed with him too.

It was outrageous for kids like them today but nobody seemed to have the slightest interest in what they were saying . Well maybe except for the staff nearby. She had a bewildered look. Takemichi found that the situation was a little funny.

“Don’t worry about it,” he said to her . “We’re a little,” he tapped his head, “weird in the head .”

Whether the staff decided to believe them or was plainly scared, she turned away pretty quickly and returned to her duties .

“I think she was about to show us the right one,” Aozora said. “ Why did you have to ruin it?”

His yellow eyes twinkled.

“ We can find it ourselves if we have to,” Takemichi reasoned.

For whatever reason they actually did buy the rope as some kind of joke. They also purchased a tote bag to put it in which has a small simple outline of a cat sleeping.

Aozora took out all his belongings from his pocket to put them inside. He swung it as they went out and caught several puzzled looks from the shoppers around them, seemingly — and mistakenly — wondering just how much fun could a store be, anyway?

Takemichi then remembered something.

“In the mood for sweets?” he asked the other, “There’s an ice cream store here.”

“Seriously?” Aozora laughed.

“Your answer?”

He shrugged. “Sure, why not after all.”

The two of them got into line. As they waited, Takemichi began to comment about the posters or things he could see. Aozora pointed at a cat that was trying to climb the gate and they laughed.

When the two finally got their treat, a surprise awaited them.

“Oh! If it isn;t the scaredy cat,” a familiar voice said.

“Oi, watch your mouth,” a girl’s voice hissed. “That’s the leader’s kohai, you know?”

Aozora and Takemichi turned to see a bit more of a surprising sight: Rinji and Mayura together without being on the other’s throat. Both of them were in casual wear and carrying bags. Rinji was in his usual punk look of using a lot of metal accessories along with glasses today. His combat boots glinted in the sun as he walked towards them.

Mayura had her hair tied into two buns.

“Kamoto-kun… Krikuki-chan,” Takemichi blinked.

“K-Kamoto,” Aozora also greeted.

Rinji had a weird crazy look on him as usual and Takemichi was worried if he was going to be used as a punching bag next.

Then the boy grinned.

“What’s up with those stiff formalities?” the boy said, patting their backs. “It sounds stupid!”

Fuck, Takemichi internally cursed as he was nearly sent falling.

“Ahaha-! Sorry,” Aozora grimaced with a stumble.

“Just call me Rinji, it’s fine. Oh! Let me have a taste!”

The two of them started going ahead as Takemichi was stuck with Mayura. She pushed up her glasses. Although Takemichi had noticed several times that she was tall, it did not reassure him.

Uwah… this is gonna be awkward, he thought as they walked.

“So what are you here for today?” Mayura suddenly asked.

Takemichi bit his tongue from screaming. “O-oh nothing much! Just… accompanying Aozora,” he said.

Green eyes flicked down to him. “That’s reassuring to hear. I thought you had bullied him to get him to do you favors. Sorry for that,” she said, offering a small smile.

“Is that so…?” Takemichi laughed nervously. It- it can’t be she was about to beat me up right!?

“He’s always been alone so I got a bit worried.”

That made Takemichi frown a little.

“Alone?’

“Yeah.” Mayura gestured at the two who were now fighting over the ice cream cone. “He’s a good kid for sure but you can’t help feeling like there’s a wall between you two.”

I didn’t feel like that though, Takemichi wanted to say but kept silent.

“You’re a keen person for noticing that,” he said instead.

“Well, we do look out for each other.”

“So why are you here then, Mayura-chan?”

She blinked like it surprised her.

“Oh me? I have to make sure the dumbass doesn’t get in trouble,” she said exasperatedly like it wasn’t her first time. “I’m older than him so it’s somewhat my responsibility. Can’t have another incident of being banned from a district again after all.”

“I’m sorry- what?” Takemichi deadpanned.

“Plus we’re childhood friends, we’ve been together as long as I can remember.” Mayura waved her hand aside. “Don’t sweat the details. I’m the only one who knows what he’s thinking anyway.”

The ice cream was starting to melt so Takemichi took a big bite out of it. The taste of vanilla went down his throat smoothly and he licked his lips. “Is that why you’re in Black Dragon?” he quizzed. “I’ve been wondering about that for a while now.”

“How I’m allowed in?” Mayura repeated. She made a hum.

“To be honest I actually dressed up as a guy at first,” she admitted almost immediately.

“Wait, seriously?” Takemichi asked incredulously.

“Seriously,” she nodded.

I do have to admit she does look a little androgynous… Takemichi thought.

“It shouldn’t be surprising that the gig was found out a month later. I mean, how often do you see someone with this kind of hair color?” A hand went up to brush her bangs aside. “Rinji tried to lie that I was a twin but that didn’t work out, you see.”

“Then what happened?”

“It was Shin-san that found out, but he only laughed and said it would be a waste if I was kicked out.” Mayura grinned at that. “He’s seriously a nice guy isn’t he?”

Takemichi opened his mouth to say something when he was interrupted.

“Oi, you two! Let’s go to the arcade!” Rinji called out.

“Please help me…” Aozora sobbed as he held the finished ice cream cone.

“We can’t leave them alone for sure,” Mayura snorted, switching the bangs to the other hand.

“Indeed,” Takemichi agreed solemnly.

The four entered the door. Inside, there were many other people playing and screaming as they won or lost. Familiar bright flashing lights of machines greeted them. Takemichi wasn;t much fan of games so he watched as Aozora and RInji screamed they would play the game first. Mayura shook her head at the sight before taking a seat nearby. She told Rinji that if he wins three times against her, she would treat him to lunch.

Rinji looked away from wrestling Aozora for the seat and grinned.

“You’re on!”

That left Aozora and Takemichi to play racing games on the other side of the arcade. It was very fun. Takemichi laughed when Aozora screamed when he crashed before wailing when he did too. He wasn’t sure how long they played but when they finally stopped, his eyes brined and his stomach hurted from yelling and laughing too much.

When he stood up to stretch, his limbs felt heavy and his spine cracked. He winced.

The arcade place was more crowded than the first time they came. Rinji and Mayura were already exchanging their tickets at the counter when they met up again. In the end, it was Mayura’s win.

“How is it that you’re winning every time?” Rinji was saying, “It just doesn’t make any sense.”

“Well, you know, instead of just wildly throwing things around, you could develop a plan,” Mayura snorted.

“That sounds boring,” Rinji scoffed without real heat. He slung an arm around Takemichi who made an ungodly sound. “I bet that this guy is funner to play with than you.”

“Oh yeah?” Mayura raised her brow.

Takemichi whipped his head at Aozora, eyes clearing about to pop out of his sockets, but it appear that Aozora had a sudden interest with his nonexistent nailes. That was when Takemichi realized he had lost hope. He internally wailed ad he was dragged along.

“Where should we go-” Rinji started when he stopped.

Blue eyes trailed to where instead of people were supposed to be, uniformed people were sitting everywhere, watching as if on guard. Mayura instantly was in an odd stance.

Aozora hid behind Takemichi.

“Well, looks like we’ll have to put that plan of visiting the manga store later,” Matura sighed.

Rinji hummed in agreement.

“New plan!” he yelled as he turned, “Fucking run!”

As soon as those people caught sight of them, the person who Takemichi assumed was to be the leader, yelled something that suspiciously sounded like to get them alive if possible. They made a dash towards them. It all happened so fast Takemichi was frozen until Aozora pulled him.

As if they were a well-oiled machine, the four of them started running inside the building again.

Chapter Text

Mayura didn’t waste time hurling her empty cup of coffee at the person grabbing her first. “Little shit- hold on! What’s the plan now!?” she demanded, pushing someone out of her way.

“I call it the running away tactic!” Rinji answered.

“Shut it!”

Takemichi stepped up on the chair that was on his way and nearly fell when he landed. His head hurted, his crown throbbing. Loud upbeat music played from the arcade games mingled with the chaotic sound of the unknown gang members trying to get to them. He prayed that he would get out of there fine. “Where did we go wrong!?” he then yelled over the voices of other people who got shoved off their seats.

“We fucked up big time!” Rinji answered unhelpfully.

Amidst the chaos, Takemichi heard Aozora scream. “What the hell?” he muttered to himself.

Yeah no, he decided. He had to get out.

A member of the other gang suddenly sprung from the rows of arcade games and he also screamed. His legs froze, forcing him to watch everything in slow motion. Then, a blur of blue knocked them aside into the machine. A loud bang followed while Mayura wiped her chin.

“There’s a back door somewhere,” she said, cracking her neck. She caught another punch and flipped the person over her shoulder. “Get out of here and split up!” she ordered.

Takemichi didn’t need to be told twice.

As Rinji hurled himself at the opposing gang members, Takemichi ducked and burst through the door into the lobby. There were a lot of people staring in his direction but he quickly spotted the exit. Cursing, he threw himself against the door. Just as he was about to go out, he saw Aozora and urged the other to run out with him. Soon he realized that Mayura and Rinji were still inside somewhere, with no sign of coming.

“Don’t worry about them! They aren’t division captains for nothing!” Aozora said, massaging his arm.

“A- alright…”

Takemichi hoped he could trust those words as they sprinted without looking back. There were even more people at the back but since it was becoming evening, more people were there. Aozora squeezed along the walls and Takemichi followed him. Unfortunately someone spotted them and alerted the others. They started running again.

He knew it wasn’t the right time but he couldn’t help thanking the heavens that he decided not to wear his heels. If he was he was sure that he would be saying goodbye to his spine and feet. The street suddenly curved left and Aozora ducked inside an alleyway.

“There’s a bit more until the train station!” he announced.

“We’ll be dragging bystanders into this!” Takemichi sputtered. “What if they got hurt because of us!?”

Aozora whipped back at him like he had gone insane.

“That’s what you’re focusing on!? It’s not like we have much choice!”

“Sorry!”

“Just keep running!”

They were almost by the gate leading down when Takemichi stumbled over a slightly elevated tile. He remembered something about that bad luck of his as he fell down hard.

Well fuck, he thought.

When he laid there groaning, the enemy made a grab for him. Out of reflex he instantly threw his foot up, knocking them aside hard. He scrambled to get to his feet. The person howled but Takemichi continued running. There was another person in front of him and he ducked to avoid their swinging hands aimed at him. Then something happened.

“Don’t touch him!” Aozora roared.

Takemichi turned to see the other launching a side kick at the enemy. The person flew back almost a meter.

His eyes bugged out.

Then he felt himself go light.

“Move!” Aozora yelled, bodying Takemichi away. In a blink of an eye he slugged a person across their face. He went back fighting the gang members, cursing loudly. He unceremoniously launched his leg to a person’s side and made them keel over.

Takemichi snapped his head before grabbing a nearby empty glass bottle. With a loud shatter, he broke it on the ground.

Gang members snapped their attention to him. He dropped into a split and knocked down a row of guys. They toppled while the others were surprised, Takemichi using that as a chance. He grabbed their shirts and pulled them down while avoiding blows. Stepping away, he felt his teeth shake when he was nearly blown down by a hook.

But he got to his feet just as fast, blocking the next strike with a squeal. Another one tried to grab him. He reached into his pocket and threw the candy wrapper at them.

They relfexively ducked when it came their way.

“Gah-!”

Takemichi’s foot found its way to their chin.

He screamed again when three ran after him. “What the hell did I do to you!?” he sobbed.

“Fuck off! Don’t touch me!”

Across Takemichi, his blue irises shrunk when he saw Aozora fall down.

The silhouette was holding a brick.

“Ao… zora?” Takemichi asked softly, lips trembling. He watched as blood steadily oozed out.

“Die!” some yelled behind him.

Crack!

Takemichi had their face pushed down into the ground. He grabbed the nearest person and nearly snapped their neck, abruptly pulling their head in the wrong way. They fell down shrieking in pain. A second ran at him only to miss as Takemichi fell into a split. Another scream was heard when he punched their face, probably breaking their nose.

Someone tried to throw him off but he easily maneuvered, legs going around their waist and arms around their head. Hands flailed to grab him but Takemichi choked the person. They spun around, accidentally smacking their comrades which kept them at bay.

“Don’t fucking mess with me,” he mumbled. The grip tightened.

“Die, you bastard.”

The person slacked and dropped.

With speed too fast to see Takemichi jumped off to grabbed the nearby pipe as a weapon. His eyes were zeroed on Aozora’s unmoving body. A vein popped on his forehead.

He screamed as he plunged the rod into a stomach.

“I’ll kill you!” he growled.

He swung his weapon when a blur of black and yellow obstructed his view. The next he knew was the hold on his hip and he was in someone’s arms; hovering in a princess carry. He blinked and looked up to see Wakasa.

“Hold on to him.”

Wakasa gave him aside.

“Waka!” Beinkei yelled as he held Takemichi, “Leave some for me!”

It was almost only a flurry of white and black. It seemed like Wakasa jumped, spun midair before landing on someone’s shoulder on his hands. With a loud sound, he shoved them to knock down someone else. He proceeded to land down gracefully with only a grunt.

“Shut up,” he muttered, muffled from biting on a stick.

“Asshole!”

Beinkei looked one step away from murder.

After being put down, Takemichi watched Benkei slam himself and nearly sent the person flying. The two of them moved perfectly, avoiding the other as they exchanged kicks and blows. It was a sight for Takemichi as he sat there staring. No wonder they were called the best duo in Black Dragon. But he soon remembered what he needed to do. Aozora’s breathing was still labored when he ran to his side.

“Damn it, what do I do?” Takemichi muttered to himself. He took off the scarf around himself.

Somehow he managed to make a makeshift bandage wrap crefully around the wound. Eyebrows scrunched up as Aozora groaned in pain. That made Takemichi panicked even more.

That was his mistake for being too focused because someone had snuck up on him.

Takemichi himself was about to get the same fate as Aozora when a shadow flew above him. Then the next second there was a foot in the guy’s face, pushing him backward as the attacker got down with him. It all happened so fast that Tale,ichi was confused until he saw the figure. It didn’t take a second for his face to turn perplexed.

A kid!? He thought in shock. He looked up and down.

And he isn’t half of my height!

“Oi, are you an idiot?” the said kid asked.

A vein popped on Takemichi’s head and he was about to throw hands with his savior.

Blonde hair ruffled in the wind as the kid went ahead to join the fight. Takemichi could only watch in bewilderment. It was later after the gang was defeated and they sent Aozora to the hospital that he was startled to see pure black eyes staring through him.

He looks like Shinichiro, was his second impression of the kid.

They all went back to where the Black Dragon was with bikes. Takemichi’s hair whipped back and forth in the wind. On the horizon he saw the golden sun dipping down as night creeped in the sky canvas. From what he had heard, Mayura and Rinji had gone back earlier since they were first found. The hideout was silent when they arrived.

“Waka! Benkei! Are you okay- Takemichi!” Shinichiro exclaimed in panic when he saw them. He got up from the floor to run up to them. Rinji was muttering something foul as Honami worked on his nose and split lip. Mayura was leaning back in her seat with a black eye.

“Michi-kun! Are you okay?” Shinichiro asked, touching Takemichi’s face.

“Yep!” he grinned. “You should be more worried about Aozora, he got his head knocked by a brick.”

“He’s in the hospital right?”

“Yeah.”

“Then that’s good. I’m really sorry that you’re involved with our rivalry,” Shincihiro sighed.

“No, no, it’s fine. Speaking of which,” Takemichi pointed at the kid sucking a lollipop. “Who is he?”

Shinichiro blinked. “Ah. That’s Manjiro, my younger brother.”

Everyone snapped their heads to them when Takemichi shrieked. Shinichiro had a confused, dumbfounded look as he was dragged into a more private corner of the warehouse.

“How old is Manjiro?” Takemichi deadpanned.

“Ten,” Shinichiro replied with the same seriousness.

“What.”

“He is a karate prodigy I mean.”

A pause. Takemichi leaned in to whisper in Shinichiro’s ear as the other slightly stooped down. “Hey, what does your brother like to eat? He saved me so I wanted to thank him.”

“Ah, sweet things. Dorayaki with red bean paste especially.”

With that Takemichi told Shinichiro to keep Manjiro where he was and ran to the nearest Lawson to purchase one.

He returned out of breath and saw a mop of light blonde hair now on the other side of Black Dragon’s hideout. Takemichi squatted in front of Manjiro. “Here.” He gave it to him. “I heard from your brother that you liked eating this. Let’s get along, yeah?”

“No way. You’re lame.”

Manjiro didn’t even hesitate to say that.

An imaginary knife stabbed Takemichi and he spat blood out.

“Michi-kuunnn!” Shinichiro wailed.

Chapter Text

It's me again, I know you guys are probably waiting, or just here to see the ride, or whatever but there's no update this month unfortunately. Since last August I actually have written nearly thought about 15 chapters of the story but I'm busy with something so I didn't have time to write them yet. For that  I apologize for taking twice as usual

I'll try my best to write the next chapter and post it as soon as possible. I've been facing writer's block too these days

Well with whatever comes I still hope you guys will be here to see it. Once again I'm sorry in advance and I hope you guys understand

Chapter Text

Takemichi’s boring Thursday was interrupted when a scream rang out behind a bookshelf.

Up until then, he was having a great afternoon. Technically he wasn;t supposed to be doing any part-time work until he was sixteen for a year or so, but the manager at the DVD store downtown was desperate for someone to fill in the empty and well, Takemichi would be a bad person for not helping. Okay fine that was a lie. He needed money.

At some point he realized that the notes in his wallet weren’t looking too good and the next thing he knew he was eating instant meals. Now, Takemichi knows what people were thinking, Wow, that was really irresponsible of you, blah, blah, blah, but both he and the manager were totally broke. Who honestly doesn’t like money? Takemichi works for him and maybe the sad shop may flourish and it would be a win-win situation for them. Plus Takemichi was in a gang that fights people on a daily basis with a pretty high chance of getting stabbed, he figured that the possibility of being overworked wasn’t exactly the most dangerous thing he’s done.

Anyway it was the first week of Takemichi finally doing his first job and it was going better than expected.

“Manager-san, where should I put this?”

“Oh that.” He waved a hand somewhere without looking up. “Just put it on the rack over there.”

“Yes~”

Takemichi whistled a tune as he put the DVD case to the slot in front of his face. He stepped to the side and cleared a space before putting in another. It was a hot March day where the sun was really hot even in the evenings. He picked up the basket from the floor and walked around to see where he could return them. On his way, he checked out other shelves of other genres. He was pleased to see that the new series was neatly arranged.

His job was paid by the hour so he was pretty much taking his time. There weren’t many people anyway. But he had had to be careful not to arrive late since it would deduct his pay. Sometimes kids get lost and he was put in charge to help them find their parents.

A jar filled with candies and stickers were put on his desk precisely for that reason. Once in a while he also would make origami animals to make the kids stop crying. The candies were also there to keep Takemichi from committing murder on the loud students who came there after school and mess up the shelves. It was ridiculous, he knew. But he was long gone past the phase of caring if his thoughts were wrong or right.

Overall though, the place wasn’t too bad in its job and pay.

After a devastating blow of the day being full of surprise quizzes, Tkamiehci was finally able to catch a break to work. There was a worker when he arrived earlier. He bowed at them quickly before walking past. Right now he was into four hours of being bored after helping a kid find their way back and eating his late lunch when that frightened scream rang out.

Terrified shitless, his eyebrows shot up. It didn’t sound like it was too far away. And what kind of horrendous sight did the person see for them to start screaming like that!?

“Damn it,” Takemichi muttered.

In the spot he was glancing at, there was no manager. She must have left for her break.

Well it technically will be my responsibility, he sighed as he got up.

There were five columns in the shop, containing about seven shelfs per row. It surprisingly didn;t take long for Takemichi to find the place. His head popped around the corner.

“Are you alright- woah!” he exclaimed midway, jolting.

Waka looked up from whatever he was looking at with a “hm?”, blinking slowly once. Benkei beside him had a rather scary yet focused face, almost glaring at the CD as if it owed him money. It suspiciously looked like a romance film. To Takemichi personally it was a funny sight. His friends, said to be the strongest duo, were shopping for CDs. Though together they do look like a duo of troublemakers if not some kind of delinquents.

It also did not help that Takeomi’s height was looming. He earned a scar across his eye from a fight the other week which only made his vibes more intimidating. He noticed Takemichi and gave a nod. No wonder the worker got scared. Speaking of them —

“Don’t worry, they’re… my friends,” Takemichi winced at the one shaking in their shoes.

But they were already gone like the wind, running towards the back.

“What’s up with her?” Waka muttered around the dango stick in his mouth.

“Beats me,” Takeomi shrugged, exhaling from his nose. He leaned against the shelf as he took another drag.

Takemichi was about to tell him that the shop didn’t allow the activity but decided to ignore the rule this time. He noticed that the three of them were still wearing the Black Dragon uniform. So maybe the reason why his coworker ran away when they saw Takemichi was not just because of Benkei, Takeomi, and Waka. They must’ve thought he was involved with yakuzas.

He watched Waka and Benkei curse at the other playfully, though it sounded like they were fighting for real.

Yeah, they look scary, he admitted with a sigh.

Then he made a surprised face.

“Wait, what are you guys doing here?”

“Eh, we heard that you were working,” Takeomi said.

“We decided to check it out. The idea was of course by none other than Shin-chan,” Waka chimed out.

Almost as if on cue the three of them pointed to a direction. Takemichi followed their line of sight to the window and lo and behold there was Shinichiro indeed outside. There was a crowd around him. After a moment of looking he came to the realization that he was playing the guitar like some kind of entertainer. That greatly confused Takemichi. He slowly turned to the other Black Dragon members for an answer.

“What…” Takemichi helplessly moved his hands around. “Why is Shinichiro playing the guitar? Is he trying to earn money?”

Just as he said that, someone walked forward to drop a coin in the box Shinichiro had on the ground and received a smile in return. Takemichi almost wailed out loud at that. He pressed himself against the window to see that he wasn’t hallucinating. Why was the leader of the Black Dragon doing that? Has Shinichiro gone mad?

“Shin-chan’s got another crush. I heard they got a thing for people who play guitar or something. He’s practicing,” Waka said, shrugging. He rolled the lollipop in his mouth. “Don’t mind him. Finish your work.”

Takemichi stared at him, face asking Waka how he thought that was enough for an answer.

Takeomi scrunched his eyebrows. “I’ll go check on him.”

He patted Takemichi’s shoulder as he walked out with his hands in pocket. “I know you’re worried but make sure you finish properly, okay? We’ll go somewhere after this together.”

“Uh, sure,” Takemichi said dumbly.

The door’s bell rang loudly as Takeomi left, leaving the three alone, and he went back shelving the disks beside Waka and Benkei. At some point, Tkameichi didn’t question when the two followed him everywhere he went. Except the staff rooms. He shooed them away when they tried to since traumatizing the staff sounded like  a bad idea. And at some point they even offered to carry his box of CDs to which he refused.

Seated behind the counter, the manager was pretending to read a magazine to ignore them. Takemichi also pretended he was watching. But then when he had to reach for the uppermost shelf of it, Waka easily picked him up on his shoulders before Takemichi could even react.

There was a rush of wind and the next thing he saw was his feet dangling over Waka’s frame.

Takemichi felt like a clown — slow, dumb, and bright red. “Uhm…”

“There, much better,” Waka hummed.

Among the Black Dragon members, Waka was probably a bit easier to be around than ... well, than some other guys like Rinji and Aozora even. He didn’t have a strong or intimidating presence like Benkei or Shinichiro sometimes. In fact you sometimes can;t feel him. But it wasn’t easy to understand him or any of them. Unless it was Takeomi. Takemichi didn’t have to work hard, or watch what he said, or rack his brain trying to figure out what the man was thinking. Takeomi didn’t hide much.

He let you know how he felt.

Waka seemed to notice the squeak Takemichi had tried to hide and smirked. “Oh my, you’re quite the maiden.”

“No I’m not!” Takemichi snapped without real heat.

“Sure, sure,” Benkei joined the tease.

“Not you too,” Takemichi groaned. He was thankful that the manager was too engrossed with the magazine to hear.

Afterwards, once he was finished putting away all the CDs, Takemichi was finally allowed to go. He left the store from the back, where the ground was littered with flattened soda cans and fast-food wrappers. Across the place Shinichiro was tidying up the guitar case he put down as a place for people to toss in money in his temporary job as an entertainer. Takeomi helped carry his coat solemnly.

Perched on top of a bench, Waka quickly got down when he saw Tkameichi walking towards them. The five of them spent an hour talking as they walked. It wasn’t that they were in a rush anyway. In fact they hopped into a train to go to another city.

Takemichi tried to keep a low profile since he might encounter someone from school on the way. But Shinichiro and the rest seemed to be relaxed. In the end he did too.

Outside the train window, partially blocked by heads, the city streamed past.

The landscape was dulled with thick gray clouds, probably raining heavily in some parts already. Out of the corner of his eyes sharp lights and colors flickered past him — reflection of an advertisement on a billboard, posters of beers, cars on highways, people with umbrellas running across the zebra lines and children holding hands with their parents.

Takemichi watched all of them with a slight interest, trying to see if there was anything particularly to take note of.

“See anything interesting?” Shinichiro suddenly asked.

Takemichi violently jolted.

He had forgotten they got seperated earlier since the train was too packed, meaning that the two of them were alone.

He pretended to look back. “No, I don’t think so.”

“I see.”

Shinichiro leaned in from above Takemichi, also staring out the window. Takemichi suddenly felt his face burn. He hugged his bag closer. As much as he appreciated Shinichiro trying his best to not stand too close, there wasn’t much choice either, so the fact that there was barely any space between them was a nightmare on its own.

The train suddenly moved in a rather sudden turn and the crowd inside was lurched against the window. Takemichi bit on his tongue from cursing, pole digging into his arm as he stood his ground. Shinichiro wasn’t so lucky to be leaning against anything so when the crowd pushed him, he nearly fell down. Reacting with speed almost too fast for a human, he grabbed the ceiling straps and planted his foot down. Takemichi’s eyes widened in panic, watching as Shinichiro swayed once and redid his hold.

Veins appeared on his hand as he let out a sigh.

Now that their positions have slightly changed, Shinichiro and Takemichi are closer than before. So close that they could feel their breath mingling. Takemcihi could only pray that his ears weren’t glaringly red.

“Um, how is the guitar coming along?” Takemichi asked awkwardly. “I heard from Waka about, uh-”

Shinichiro blinked before remembering the case on his back and gestured at it with his chin. “Oh this little thing. Guess I don’t need to explain to you then huh. It’s going well, though I’ll stop after a week I think.” He glanced down at Takemichi. He smiled a little. “It’s just a crush. I’ll get over it once I get rejected anyways.”

“Don’t say it like that-” Takemichi exclaimed.

“It’s fine, I know they don’t like me,” Shinichiro hummed.

That only made Takemichi confused. “Then… Why do you, you know, still learn how to play the guitar?”

“Well, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t hoping I had a chance. That rumor was all I had that I could use.” Shinichiro made a sheepish laugh. “But I never have luck when it comes to romance. I know this sounds sad, the fact that I tried my best yet the person I love won’t even look or remember me. Even so I think it was fun when the ride lasted. I love them and I’m fine with a one-sided one because, well, I love them.”

Black eyes that seem almost too intelligent for a fifteen year old sparkled in amusement.

“Maybe you’ve had that feeling too, Michi-kun?”

Takemichi’s mouth was suddenly dry. He tried to gulp.

Once upon a time he believed that being in love and love was the same thing. It was, wasn’t it? They were the same word. But sometimes when he found himself staring, or glancing, at Shinichiro, sometimes in the sunlight where his black hair turned golden and his skin became sun-kissed in color, Takemichi realized that it was not the same.

Shinichiro was in love with someone now. He fell in love too easily. That was why he learned to play guitar to make them love him back. However love wasn’t so easy to fool for it to work like that.

He probably learned it the hard way too many times and now tried to have fun with it.

Takemichi understood the feeling to a certain extent.

He loved Shinichiro. He probably wasn’t the only one either, so he won’t fall in love any further than this.

“I think I do.”

The confession was barely above a whisper.

“We can only hope we’ll get there somewhere don’t we?” Shinichiro laughed.

It felt too soft for the words Takemichi wanted to say so he only nodded.

卍

The park they wanted to go to was about a mile from the train station. Late in the day the lines to get in weren’t that long. They threaded our way through the featured museum, looking at animals inside glass cases and other things from the 1800s. It wasn’t all that thrilling, but Waka and Benkei kept cracking jokes with Shinichiro, and Takeomi kept passing Takemichi snuck in candies form who knows where, so Takemichi was fine.

Maybe that was a lie because he almost mastered his jumpy nerves when he saw the tiny little elevator car we were going to ride to the ground floor. He hated confined places. They made him go nuts.

Takemichi almost shed real tears when he felt the floor stable beneath him again.

It was almost nighttime by then.

Benkei, Waka, Shinichro, Takeomi, and Takemichi spotted a van selling onigiri, snacks and some drinks. They all got something before finding a place to sit down in the park. Midway during their meal, Shinichiro suddenly got to his feet. The rest watched as he looked through his case.

“Here you go.”

He handed a folded uniform to Takemcihi. “Sorry for the delay.”

A river of adrenaline bubbled through his veins and flushing his face from the sudden excitement. He felt like the blood in his brain woke him up. He unceremoniously shoved the remaining onigiri in his mouth and gently took the uniform. It was rather heavy with white embroidery across the breast pockets. Unsure, Takemichi took a glance around him. The Black Dragon members gave him a reassured nod.

Slowly and surely he opened the uniform and raised it up to see it in its full glory.

It was a black tokkō-fuku, made from something light and held in place by shining gold buttons. Its sleeves bore the division number with the gang's manifesto embroidered on the upper section. Takemichi turned it around and was greeted by Black Dragon’s symbol on the back.

He felt like a child when he giggled, thumbing the hem of the uniform.

There was probably something magical about becoming a delinquent when just yesterday he was still a normal boy. However, that moment was broken when Waka nudged him.

“Hey, why don’t you try it on?”

“Now!?” Takemichi yelped, face pink.

“I don’t see why not,” Benkei shrugged. “We gotta make sure if it fits anyways.”

That’s true, but it’s still embarrassing to have your friends watch you right!? Takemichi asked himself.

In the end he did it after a second. He decided to double it, layering the uniform over his shirt. Finished buttoning, Takemichi fastened the belt to hold the shirt in place. He spread his arms to show off the sleeves. He was pleasantly surprised to find that it was easy to move in it despite the extra layer. Paired with the white heels he had it would be complete. Takemichi noticed Shinichiro looking at him intently.

“Is it weird?” he asked immediately.

“Huh? Oh no, no, no,” Shinichro said just as fast, “I was seeing if it’s a match or not. Can you turn around?”

Takemichi did.

“Yeah there doesn’t seem to be any problem.”

“Hm, it looks good on you if I have to say so.” Takeomi bit on the cigarette end as he patted down Takemichi. He pinched the sleeve, peering closely to inspect. “I think you’ll be fine.”

“Now we all match,” Beneki grinned.

They all merrily continued their early dinner after that. It was the first time Takemichi had laughed so hard. He didn’t even remember what they were talking about. They were together, he forgot the rest. That day was a Friday night — and the park area was more crowded than ever. The air was positively alive with sudden chatter from other booths and lights inside the trees. The ambience was nice and after a bit of waiting he managed to slip away.

Takemichi hummed as he walked around, sipping on something sweet he got for free as a sample.

A lot of other people were floating aimlessly around also looking for a spot to sit down. Maybe he should’ve paid more attention because a person moved backwards too fast for Takemichi to realize he had to get out of the way, forcing the drink in his hold to splash on his face and shirt. The first thing he noticed was that it was cold.

Cold and sticky, it dripped slowly from his cheeks and down to his collarbones. Takemcihi felt something gather in his stomach. He nearly threw a punch but stopped himself at the nick of time.

“Sorry!” the person said.

“It’s fine,” he brushed aside with a forced smile.

Takemichi briskly dropped the cup inside the trash can before making his way to the restroom. As always the light was dim and there was a musty smell in the air. Thankfully there was no one there as he took off the shirt and run it under the lukewarm water in the sink. As he let it soak, he began wiping off the juice on his skin.

“Fuck,” he grumbled while scrubbing at the parts with a tissue.

“It was new too.”

He was so absorbed in cleaning the Black Dragon uniform that he didn’t hear a person coming in.

“Oh my, if it isn’t Hanagaki ♡”

Recognizing the voice, Takemichi’s whole body froze. He stopped what he was doing, eyes wide. Terror washed over him, raising the fine hairs on the back of his neck. He tried to shake it off but when an arm wrapped around his shoulders, he knew he was doomed.

“Kiyo… masa,” Takemichi greeted fearfully.

“It’s been a while,” Kiyomasa reciprocated in a not-so-nice way.

Takemichi steadid his breath and tried to calm down. The sound of water still continued in the background and it filled in the tense silence. He wanted to run for safety, but his feet would not allow him to do so. He was paralyzed to the spot, the menacing aura and arm holding him in a tightening grip. Pulse beating in his ears, blocking out all other sound, sweat pouring down his forehead as cold settled in his toes.

The worst part of the whole thing was that Kiyomasa wasn’t alone. Takemichi recognized his goons starting to file in, laughing. He shouldn’t have come out with his friends today.

In that split second he tried to scream but as if he expected it, Kiyomasa clamped a hand over his mouth.

He and his friends started laughing.

Their voices bounced off the walls, making it sound more sinister.

“Now, now, we’re old buddies. Let’s be civil.”

Chapter Text

Takemichi would love to tell the audience if he ever told anyone about this that he had some deep revelation when Kiyomasa dragged him out by his hair, that he came to terms with his own mortality, laughed in their faces, and threw a mean punch before making his glorious escape.

The truth? He couldn’t even do anything but be still as a rock as it happened.

Kiyomasa had him in a steel grip so he couldn’t even think of trying to escape. Then Takemcihi felt pain in his scalp as he saw himself being dragged outside, the other people howling when he stumbled. He felt like a clown but also couldn’t help smiling in fear. Recently he realized that he had a fear of being different; a chance for him to be abandoned. Maybe that was why he had to be the same. The ground raced toward him at the speed of a truck as they stepped out and Kiyomasa threw him down.

Wind ripped the breath from his lungs. Trees and buildings tumbled in and out of his vision, spinning his head more.

When he stopped rolling, Takemichi tried to get up. However as soon as he got to his knees Kiyomasa kicked him. Pain flared in his stomach. He instantly curled into a fetal position.

“Watch out!”

He looked up and a kick stomped him backwards. His head hit the ground with a sickening sound.

If it wasn’t for his reflexes, he might’ve bitten his tongue. The familiar feeling of warm blood trickled out his nose and his head seemed to rattle from getting punched and kicked down at the same time. The feet hadn;t left him and only dug its heel in deeper. Takemichi’s eyes watered, but it lifted off of him after a second and he gingerly sat up. The person who had just kicked was Akaishi, another third-year student.

“Haha! Look at him! He still got hit even with a warning!” he guffawed.

The corners of Takemichi’s lips twitched. “Haha…” he tried to join, but no one was looking at him.

“Hey Hanagaki!” Kiyomasa shouted.

Takemichi flinched.

“It’s been pretty lonely without you as our lackey. Why don’t you come back to us? That motherfucker Aozora had the nerve to disappear on us like that so we’ve been pretty tired from going to a lot of places.” That was when Takemichi nearly saw red. He opened his mouth to defend his friend when Kiyomasa sneered, “Hey, buy me juice.”

The people behind him snickered.

“Oh and get me a coke too,” he added.

It has been nearly two months since Takemcihi saw Kiyomasa, and Akaishi, or any of the second and third-years who made his life a living hell. The words were right on the tip of his tongue; to tell them no. But for some reason when he got the resolve to say it, he hesitated.

Huh?

The words died in his throat. Before Takemichi knew it, he was frozen in place again.

My body… is shaking.

Akaishi stepped forward and slapped him across the face. “Get me coffee!” he ordered.

The area where Takemichi was slapped stung. Of course it did. For a second he thought he remembered something he had forgotten and then the sensation brought him back to reality — to skinned elbows and bloody nose and aching teeth, and that was when he wished he was dead. This was his biggest mistake. Another person kicked him and Takemichi stopped himself from hitting his chin by using his hands, scraping against the rough asphalt.

More blood dripped from his nose, splashing onto the ground. His arms were shaking as he stayed there, staring down. He couldn’t dare to look up to see what Kiyomasa’s face was.

“Answer bitch!” the person said.

“Sorry.”

Seriously? Takemichi was apologizing now? It wasn’t his fault, his seniors were assholes. He didn’t do anything to deserve it. But it couldn’t be helped. That was what he thought during all those times he was serving under Kiyomasa not too long ago. He wasn’t strong so that was why he couldn’t go against them. Even if he did he would only be given so many punishments he probably broke a bone or got beaten half to death.

He was lucky that they weren’t doing that to him now.

“You don’t have the luxury of running away like that, slave. You were ours from the start, to hell what that Takeomi dude said,” Kiyomasa continued, “Gotta train you so you won’t misunderstand.”

Then he threw his head back and let out a loud laugh which echoed in the lot they were in.

Others soon joined in howling hysterically, with tears running down their faces. Kiyomasa’s laugh has always been contagious, and sounded more like an evil cackle than an expression of amusement. Takemichi was very familiar with it since it was what accompanied him when he was beaten up.

“Eat this!’

That was the only warning Takemichi got before feets and punches tried to destroy every expanse of him.

One some days, it wasn’t too bad. He could take a kick to his stomach, even if it made him vomit, or a hit to his head to the point that it might’ve been broken. Being treated like that almost everyday made Takemichi used to it. But this time everything hurt so much. Takemichi thought that every fiber and muscle of his body was being torn apart. Bile threatened to raise in his throat and when it did, he swallowed it back in.

Saliva coated his mouth as he panted, unable to keep it in when his stomach kept being forced to take beatings. His shirt was now dirtied with soil and grime from the soles of shoes.

That’s right. I misunderstood.

Not once had Takemichi become stronger. That was the thing about him. He knew that he wasn’t anyone special. So anytime he was treated slightly special, just like when Shinichiro took him out to eat ramen that day or when the other black Dragon members saved him and the fact that he befriended Aozora, he deluded himself into thinking he was changing. By hanging out with the Black Dragon founding members, Takemichi believed he was capable of change. But reality wasn’t like that at all.

Everyone around him was special. It’s just that he wasn’t the same.

He was still the same guy who gets picked on because he wasn’t strong enough to fight back. Even at school everyone except Aozora and Hinata never tried talking to him, whether it be because of the rumors or he was still unlikable. Takemichi didn’t change.

It was an all too familiar feeling when he sat where he was, on his knees, burning as the stones dug into his skin. His head was ringing and he wasn’t sure what everyone was saying anymore.

“I- I’m sorry,” he mumbled and bowed down low.

Touching the back of his hands, his forehead felt hot.

This is how I am.

A sad, miserable person who couldn’t do anything. That was the part he hated about himself the most.

People around him were so talented. They could solve their own problems and live independently. He was jealous of them. But he didn’t deserve to feel envy when all he did was nothing. Anger boiled in his stomach, hot and sticky. Takemichi felt like he wanted to scream.

 He clenched his knuckles so hard it turned white. Yeah, he was angry.

Then, the world dimmed.

.

.

.

It has been a rainy season for a while now in Tokyo. There was a certain cloud of fog hovering above the city. When they were in the rain before, they noticed that it was already drizzling in some parts. Now there was a heavy rain in the park Shinichiro and the others were eating at. Wind was violently blowing against the trees and stalls with all its might, as if trying to rip them off. People were running to safety, covering their heads with something.

“This is pretty bad!” Benkei yelled through the sound, “It might be a typhoon for all we know!”

“It probably is!” Shinichro yelled back. No sooner he said that, a board sign came hurling at him. Waka, already alert, knocked it aside with an arm. More rain poured down.

“But Takemichi still isn’t back!” Shinichiro continued.

Now wet black hair was stuck on the side of his face, eyes wide with panic.

As much as Takeomi admired that part of his leader, no sane person would be standing in a possible typhoon storm waiting for someone. There was a chance — a big one — that Hanagaki had gone back home . But there was also a chance that he didn’t since the train wouldn’t be working.

Even so, Takeomi wasn’t that cruel to leave the boy behind. He pushed back his long hair and squinted through the haze of storm. “We’ll split up then!” he said loudly for the others to hear, “As soon as one of us finds him, we’ll tell the others through the phone!”

“That’s a great plan! See you, Omi!” Shinichiro called out.

“Stay safe,” Benkei muttered.

Like a well-oiled machine, they all split up by the intersection. It was a better idea to go separate ways. If a staff caught them together they might be forced to evacuate. Cold and wet air bit into Takeomi’s lungs. His shoes felt heavy as it stepped into another puddle. At this speed and storm, he could barely make a few feet ahead of him. Through the years he had been in a gang, he had fought in different circumstances and places like in the rain, ambushed on the streets, near a parking lot of a mall where police were rather thick, or even on abandoned train tracks.

Takeomi cupped his mouth and inhaled. “Hanagaki!”

He doubted his voice could get far but it was worth trying. The soles of his feet felt like it was slowly numbing. He might have gotten into near-death fights, but this was the first time he tried to go through such extreme weather without even an umbrella.

Gritting his teeth, he pushed harder.

“Hanagaki!” he continued to call out through the sound of water hitting the pavement. His uniform was thoroughly drenched, from his head to his toe, though he dismissed it.

“Takemichi!” Takeomi tried again as he passed trees. The soil was wet and he nearly slipped in the dark. He cursed.

Where the hell is he? he wondered incredulously.

The boy shouldn’t have gone that far. It wasn’t a big park anyway. Along the way as Takeomi ran through the whole place, meeting Waka and Beinkei once, the storm lightened up. The typhoon turned into a slightly heavy rain. It was almost 10 o’clock by then, the sky lit with lamps. He slowed down as he reached an alleyway. Takeomi stopped in place, bending down to throw the water out of his shoes when he spotted someone.

He froze out of reflex before realizing they looks familiar. His eyes widened when he recognized them.

“Takemichi!?” he exclaimed. Takeomi left his shoes alone and quickly walked to the fallen figure before breaking into a run.

“Where have you been-” he started but faltered.

To say that Takemichi was in terrible shape was an understatement. He looked like he had gone through hell and back. His shirt was dirted from soil, a bit from the bloody nose, and wounds on his arms. He had a nasty looking bruise above his eye, making it swell. His gaze didn’t move from the wall when the other approached him, like he was in a trance.

He had something in his arms. It took a long second for Takeomi to register that it was the Black Dragon uniform he was trying on. Takemichi was hugging it close to his chest, legs tucked to his chest.

“Take… michi?” Takeomi asked uncertainly.

That got his attention.

Water from the rain had washed most of Takemichi’s bloody nose away, though some still trickled out. Takeomi couldn’t help making a slight frown at the sight.

Fearful blue eyes slowly turned to him before turning relieved. The area around it was a pale red.

It couldn’t be that he cried, did he?

“Are you okay?” he blurted out. He instantly realized his mistake. Of course he wasn’t okay.

However Takemichi didn’t seem to really pay attention to his words, eyes glazed over.

There was no way he was fine. Takeomi bit his bottom lip. He, for one, was not an empathetic person. His parents left him to take care of his two younger siblings by himself. Even though he tried his best to be a good brother, never once was he confident at his job. This was the same situation when Senju and Haruchiyo, his siblings got into a fight.

He couldn’t stop it and only ended up snapping at them in the end. They said they didn’t mind it later but Takeomi still felt terrible. What if he said something wrong to Takemichi? What if he made the situation worse? He couldn’t bear to mess up anymore.

“Excuse me.”

With one swift movement, Takeomi took off his uniform and placed it on top of Takemichi’s head.

“Sorry, this is the best I can do,” he said.

For a moment, Takemichi stayed quiet and Takeomi wondered if he did mess up. But then the other snorted, hand coming up to cover his mouth. “You’re such a nice person, Akaishi-san,” Takemichi laughed.

There it was again. Anytime Takemichi said something, Takeomi had the strangest feeling in his chest after that; like there was something squeezing his heart. The boy was always saying something wonderful about people. That was probably what caught Shinichiro’s attention. It wasn’t that weird for him to befriend someone like that. Though back then Takeomi wondered if Takemichi ever got tired of it. He almost did ask but stopped, because why did Takemichi sound a little sad anytime he praised people?

For some reason Takeomi remembered the first time Haruchiyo cried to him when he himself was still confused. The weirdest thing was that he knew what to do next. He reached out a hand, paused midway, then patted Takemichi’s head softly. It has been a while since but Takeomi was once a child. That was enough for him to understand some people.

“You don’t- you don’t have to force yourself,” he said, tongue heavy in his mouth, forcing him to stumble over his words. “I don’t know what happened but you’ll be fine. You’ll… you’ll be fine at the end of the day.”

Takeomi didn’t know why said that after doing so. It just seemed right.

“I’m sorry.”

“You don’t have any reason to-”

Takeomi bit his tongue to stop. Takemichi was shaking, small sobs escaping him like hiccups.

He looked away.

“It’s fine. Take your time. If you think crying will help, cry all you want.”

It took a while after that. As Takemichi let out his emotions, Takeomi texted the others that he had found him. Shinichiro replied instantly, asking where they were. Takeomi texted back that they would find him instead. It was still raining so when Takemichi wiped at his face, he didn’t look that much of a sorry mess. Not anymore at least.

The corners of his eyes and nose were redder. Takeomi pushed his uniform lower in an attempt to hide them.

“Let’s go find the others.”

“ ‘Kay.”

If Takeomi noticed the arm lightly gripping the hem of his shirt, he didn’t ask or say anything.

Earlier he had warned Shinichiro not to comment on anything. As the two approached Shinichiro, who was under a gazebo, he lit up but then looked concerned when he saw Takemichi. Takeomi gave him a warning glance; a reminder to what he sent in prior.

Shinichiro pursed his lips, and nodded.

He pretended to not have noticed them and sat down on the bench. Takeomi led Takemichi to where he was. Takemichi seated himself next to Shinichiro before Takeomi stepped to the ground again.

“I’ll go first,” he awkwardly said, walking towards the exit in the rain.

Takemichi and Shinichiro sat in silence, watching the raindrops pitter-patter along the pavement in front of them, splashing near their feet. It was probably 1 o’clock in the morning now, but neither of them were tired. Puddles began plinking as the beads of water became heavier for a second. The roofs of sheds danced with spray and Shinichiro paid close attention to the murmuring of rain. It sounded like the buzzing of angry bees.

In the distance, there was a flash of lightning, followed by the booming of thunder rolling over the whole place. The gazebo seemed to shake from the sound itself. Shinichiro pressed his arm closer to Takemcihi’s. The world was smaller than usual. Colder.

It must be the noise that was everywhere.

Takemichi closed his eyes. He wanted to crawl into a hole and sleep for eternity. He felt a little too tired.

“Hey, let’s play in the rain for a bit,” Shinichiro suddenly said.

Blinking, Takemichi turned to look at him.

The man was still looking in front of them. Somehow Takemichi knew that Shinichiro was making up an excuse for him not to admit he was crying. He furrowed his eyebrows and buried his face into his hands. It felt warm. It made him want to cry all over again.

Shinichiro met his eyes and something in Takemichi’s throat burned hot. He was close; they were close.

“...We’re gonna get sick,” he mumbled.

“You and I are drenched either way, it isn’t so bad.”

That made Takemichi crack a smile.

The feeling of rain on his skin was not unfamiliar, if anything it has become familiar over the months. He and Shinichiro played in the storm, pushing each other and screaming like little kids. Once in a while a car passed by the edge of the street, dousing their pants in dirty water but they didn’t care. In the time of whatever the hell they were doing, the rain stopped completely, leaving droplets to fall from the gazebo and leaves.

For the first time in a few months Takemichi didn’t feel as tired. Even when they chased the other until they were out of breath and they laughed so much they felt like dying, the two of them bumped their shoulders together and it all felt okay again.

This was almost ridiculous if Takemcihi thought about it. But he didn’t, so it was more than fine.

“Wait, I got an idea.”

Shinichiro pulled out his guitar and started playing a tune on it, reassuring Takemichi it was waterproof so it would be fine. They sang songs as they went back home.

On the way, people look at them weirdly. But some drunk people happily joined them in their shitty karaoke sessions.

When the two finally reached Shinichiro’s bike shop, they immediately collapsed on the floor, not caring how could they were in their soaked clothes, or the fact that were terrorizing the floor with water. The place was dark, with a bit of yellow haze from the street lights outside. Takemichi stared at the ceiling and faced the side.

Shinichiro gave him a grin.

“Sorry,” Takemichi couldn’t help saying, all the dread falling on him again, because Shinichiro was such an amazing person and Takemichi caused him problems today.

“For troubling me? It’s alright. You’re my friend,” Shinichiro said without hesitation, like there wasn’t anything wrong.

“We are?”

Takemichi was searching to rectify the wrongness that came out of his mouth, because he never expected this, he’s only ever prepared himself to say those words and think of the worst. He overlooked the possibility that maybe Shinichiro, just like he always did, was someone that people look up to for the right reasons. He had always been kind.

From the beginning to the end Shinichiro invited Takemichi into the gang out of his own choice.

Takemichi felt his mouth form words when —

“We are.”

And then something inside Takemichi cracks.

Around Shinichiro, people felt safe, that was the kind of person he was. Takemichi was sure that there were a lot of people who have a crush on him. He was one of them. He could live his life. He could move on with his interests and passions and be well if he tried.

But he’d rather do all that and be with Shinichiro.

“I’m sorry,” he said again, covering his stinging eyes with his palms, “I just wanted to hear you say it.”

“It’s fine.”

It wasn’t. Only if he knew what Takemichi really was saying sorry for, he probably wouldn’t be that kind. But the moment was too beautiful to be ruined yet and they both laughed at it like it was a joke.

As Takemichi waited for the water to warm up, he stood by the sink. His face was the worst state he had ever seen since the start of the year. There was blood everywhere, dried up and some still wet. If he swallowed harder, sometimes he could still taste the bile and blood mixing in his throat. The acidic taste in his mouth didn’t seem to leave yet.

“Shit,” he mumbled.

He ducked his head down to drink some tap water to gargle it out.

There was bruises blooming  across the expanse of his skin. His chest, which wasn’t muscular or anything, had spreading nasty purple and green marks in the shape of his ribcage. Splotches of the bruises went up to his neck, to his arms, and even to his hips.

His lips were split open, stinging as water touched it when Takemichi spat it into the sink. He wiped them off before going inside the bath.

“Takemichi, there’s clothes outside for you to use!” Shinichiro’s voice yelled through the door just as Takemichi finished. “I also made some tea for you! It’s on the table.”

“Sorry for troubling you!” Takemichi shouted back. He quickly dried himself, stuck his hand out to take the clothes, and dressed himself . He opened the door. For someone like Takemcihi who was used to seeing an empty room and hearing silent air every morning, he felt weird seeing Shinichiro just there . In fact the man was already tinkering with a bike again.

Takemichi silently sat on the bed behind him. As said earlier there was indeed hot tea on the table.

He blew on it before taking a sip, feeling the warmth spread through him.

“There’s some manga beside you, on the shelf. That’s if you still haven;t plan to sleep yet,” Shinichiro said out of the blue. He moved a little to the right to grab a wrench from the table before going back to the engine. Metal clinking sounded again as he tightened a screw on the front. Takemichi nodded. He closed his eyes, feeling the water drip from his hair down to his collarbones. It felt icy cold and he wiped them off again.

Sometimes, after a fight, the Black Dragon would swing by Shincihrio’s garage. Takeomi said that over the summer the Sano family finally allowed him to get a place to work on bikes. Everyone would sit behind Shinichiro as he checked their bikes.

They’d always look at his back like that, like he was someone like a hero.

Takemichi liked staring at him just as he was right now. He trained his ears to hear Shinichiro’s held breath, watch as a tongue came out of his mouth to lick his lips, and follow the way the other played around with the engine. Everything was comfortable. He picked up a random volume of manga before turning it around to read the synopsis. When he deemed it interesting enough, he started reading as he sunk deeper into the mattress.

He must have fallen asleep right then and there to the sound of Shinichiro working because the next time he woke up, there was sunlight casting through the window. The place was a bit dim since the curtains were drawn. Takemichi blinked slowly, eyelids heavy with sleepiness.

If he was being honest right now, he still felt like shit. The sleep barely did anything.

Though he did feel more like a cleaned trash so that was great.

He lumbered out of bed across the room, looking around where his savior could be. The clock on the wall showed that it was only 10 in the morning, not as long as he thought.

Takemcihi did find Shinichiro outside the place, sitting on a crate.

For a minute Takemcihi stayed by the doorway quietly observing the way the sunlight hit Shincihiro’s face. It made his skin look golden and he seemed content with it, munching on a sandwich. He was dressed in a shirt and jeans with a leather jacket wrapped around him. A car whizzed by suddenly, splashing a puddle over the curb. Shinichiro made an alarmed sound and scrambled backward to where it was safer.

At that Takemihi couldn’t help letting a giggle slip out.

“Oh, Michi-kun,” Shinichiro noticed instantly, “You’re awake!”

After all what happened the other, Takemcichi had fully expected for the man to be at least weirded out. He had gone too far anyhow. It wasn’t a weird reaction even if the other said it was fine. He clenched the collar of the shirt, pursing his lips.

Takemichi opened his mouth, ready to apologize but stopped.

“Come join me for breakfast!”

And Shincihrio was still smiling at him, all open, all honest, and Takemcihi felt himself tipping over the edge.

He’s laughing, laughing until his stomach hurts, because of course, of course Shinchiro beat him to it. Of course he’d be okay with it, easy like breathing, spoke it into existence before Takemcihi could ever say it.

“Sano-kun,” Takemcihi gasped, “Shinichiro. I like you. I like you a lot. You — you’re just insufferable, you know that?”

As anyone would, Shinchiro’s mouth dropped open at his sudden confession. It wasn’t anything grand, Takemcihi had yelled it out on a Tuesday morning outside a garage. There was no one else but them there for the moment. The air was slightly cold, a certain humidity still hanging one from the other night. Then a shade of pink appeared on Shinichiro.

“A-” he covered his mouth in embarrassment.

“I like you,” Takemcihi repeated, a bit more remorseful this time. “I’m sorry.”

Shinichiro looked almost heartbroken after hearing him say that.

“I- is that so? I… I see,” he mumbled.

“It’s okay, you don’t have to return my feelings. Thank you for everything,” Takemcihi grinned.

“Jeez, don’t ever do that again,” Shinichiro sighed. He placed down his sandwich before covering his whole face. “You’re still young,” he continued after putting away his hands, “I was worried that you’re going to force me or something. That was my bad. I’m glad you got the words out.”

He offered a smile. “Michi-kun, one day you’ll find a better person. I’m flattered though.”

At that moment, Takemichi thought that Shinichiro was the greatest person anyone could meet.

Things continued as usual after that. The two of them talked and talked and walked around the neighborhood until it was evening and even then they still went to eat early dinner. There was nothing awkward despite the sudden confession from him.

And when Takemichi managed to catch a train ride back home, he waved outside the window, where Shinichiro was there to see him off. Now that was supposed to be the end of the story of movies. The main character confesses to their romantic interest and they get together to have their happy ever after. If they don’t, they find another way to be happy. Takemichi was supposed to get a revelation that day after confessing his feelings.

He did feel lighter when he walked down the familiar narrow road leading to his neighborhood. He even caught himself humming a tune, which he hadn’t done in a while. If that was the case…

How the hell did he get stuck in babysitting duty!?

Chapter Text

Unfortunate news everyone, school has started again, I saw God ready to square up with me, and there's a math teacher terrorizing me so now I'll be going into a genuine hiatus

Until two months later

To all my readers, thanks for being patient. I hope you'll still be with me