Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Oh? Well, this is certainly an interesting theory of yours, Dazai-kun.” Mori looks over at the boy sitting across a few feet away. He can’t help the amused smile on his face as he thinks over the information given to him. 

Time manipulation. The idea isn’t exactly far-fetched. There are plenty of time-based abilities that Mori is aware of. They have their own in the form of Oda Sakunosuke. But this is something much greater than that. A phenomenon that the Port Mafia boss has never dealt with before. Something that seems on par with Project Arahabaki, the Seven Calamities, and likely even the Book. The worldwide scale of what Dazai is describing certainly fills him with intrigue. 

“And you’re sure that this actually happened?” He continues, “If the event affected you too, then how are you so sure it even took place?”

Dazai’s eyes narrow, not appreciating being questioned, “Don’t be stupid, Mori-san. Have you not experienced déjà vu more often in the past few months for no apparent reason? Or vivid dreams of events that seem real, but haven’t happened yet?” 

Mori pauses for a moment. He certainly didn’t expect Dazai to mention such sensations so suddenly. He has noticed an increase in the number of times he’s experienced these phenomena. Something which, as a doctor, he took notice of. But he assumed it was an individual experience. It seems like Dazai has had these sensations himself. Interesting.

“I have,” He confirms with a hint of thought, “But is that truly the only evidence you have? You’ve made quite the claim, Dazai-kun. You’re suggesting that someone is powerful enough to reset an entire year for who knows how long. Doing so with something bigger than an ability, as you weren’t able to nullify it.”

Dazai knows his claim is an extravagant one. One that not many people would easily accept, even with all the evidence in the world. How can the human mind comprehend that the entire world has been stuck in a time loop for an unknown amount of time? 

But he knows something is wrong here. And he’ll sound as crazy as he needs to if it means investigating the situation. He isn’t fond of the idea of letting something this powerful go without explanation. Especially if it can bypass his nullification.

The teen sighs and reaches into his pocket. He takes out a photograph and places it on Mori’s desk. The former doctor glances at the image and raises a brow. It’s of three of his members. Oda Sakunosuke, Ango Sakaguchi, and Dazai himself. They’re at a bar he recognizes as the Lupin Bar. A small business nearby. The owner allows mafia members to drink there without reporting them to authorities. It’s an average-looking photo. Nothing that looks particularly out of the ordinary.

“And what exactly am I looking at, Dazai-kun?” He looks up at Dazai with a raised brow and confused smile. 

“I found this photo in my shipping container two days ago.”

Mori tilts his head, unsure of where his prodigy is heading with this little antidote, “Okay?”

“But I don’t remember ever taking it.” He declares firmly, “We never take pictures at the bar. Turn the picture over.”

Mori’s expression sharpens. This situation is starting to become quite fascinating if he’s being honest. The idea that Dazai found a picture in his home that he doesn’t remember taking certainly adds a new layer of mystery. He reaches out and picks up the picture, flipping it over like he was told to.

The second he does, he smirks widely. Oh?

“The numbers are undeniably a date.” 

Mori can’t exactly argue with that analysis of the six numbers separated by slashes. Yet the fact that it is a date only adds far more questions than it could answer. Because according to the date on the back of the photograph, the photo was taken 3 months from now. He doubts Dazai would fake this and approach him so seriously about it.

“I’m assuming you’ve been investigating this theoretical phenomenon of yours for a while?”

Dazai nods as he stands up, “I have been looking into possible candidates that could be capable of looping the time of the entire world. And I believe I may know where this person could be located.”

Mori hums, “And that would be?”

“Hidari Wakibara. There are stories of odd instances happening there. Especially in the nearby school, PK Academy.”

“PK Academy?” Mori repeats, he knows of the school. But he never paid it much thought. However, if Dazai believes that there are possible answers to hold there, then it could be worth looking into. Especially if it could mean possibly gaining a powerful new member.

“Dazai-kun. Go get Chuuya. I have a new mission for you both.”

Saiki stares straight ahead as the morning bell rings, indicating the start of the school day. This is the first time in four years that he isn’t fully sure of how the day will play out. It’s an odd feeling. But he doesn’t pay too much thought to it, knowing that no day is ever ordinary in his life. There would be nothing entertaining if that were the case.

The teacher walks in and sets his bag down near his desk before addressing the class, “Everyone, listen up! We have two new students!”

The announcement only makes Saiki mentally sigh. Again ? This is ridiculous. Just how many transfer students does their class need? Isn’t it already torturous enough with the classmates he already has? 

Two students walk in after the teacher gives them the signal to do so. Mhm ? Saiki stares at the two boys. A short ginger with different colored eyes and a taller brunet with brown eyes. Something about them sets off an alarm in Saiki’s head. Ignoring his classmate’s overlapping thoughts as the two make their first impressions.  He doesn’t know why, but he has a really bad feeling about this.

“My name is Nakahara Chuuya,” The ginger speaks first. His tone was blunt and his expression sharp.

Shit ton of students. Dazai better not mess this up.

Mess up? Saiki repeats to himself, recognizing how odd and suspicious such a thought sounds without context. Well, that doesn’t matter to me. I would say they seem normal. But that’s never the case, is it?

“Hello, everyone!” The brunet’s voice is more upbeat, yet there’s a hint of laziness in it: “My name is Dazai Osamu.”

Saiki’s eyes widen in alarm as he turns his attention to Dazai. 

What?

Dazai’s entire demeanor seems so relaxed. Unbothered. Showing no real signs of being a threat. Yet, even then, Saiki's brows furrow. He brings one hand up to his mouth as he assesses the situation and attempts to make sense of his revelation. 

His mind is quiet. I can hear Chuuya, but Dazai… 

He looks back at the brunet, watching as he waves lazily and adds a “Nice to meet you” to his introduction. 

I… I can’t hear his thoughts. 

He can’t help but tense as a wave of dread washes over him, as a single, terrifying possibility pops into his head. 

Another Nendou??

The thought doesn’t linger. His expression immediately sharpens as his senses scream at him to examine the other closer. The heavy air around Dazai immediately debunks the idea that he is anything close to ordinary. The dark, empty eyes staring back at him seem to analyze him just as critically as he analyzes them. 

Or not…

This isn’t a Nendou situation. That much is clear to Saiki. Whoever this new kid is, it seems he’ll have to keep an eye on him.

Chuuya reaches out and grabs Dazai’s shoulder, “Let’s sit down.”

Saiki’s eyes follow Dazai as the two walk past his desk to the empty seats near the back. A slight tension in his usual flat expression.

Man. What a pain.

Chapter Text

The second class ends, Dazai and Chuuya are surrounded. Saiki stands by the door as he overhears the numerous questions the two new students are asked. Though his attention is diverted when he hears a new headache quickly approaching the classroom.

“Saiki! This is bad! Like really, really bad!”

"Oh, it’s you."

He turns to look at the doorway as the door is slammed open by Toritsuka. Great. Looks like this day is destined to get worse and worse.

“Saiki!” He continues in his usual over-the-top voice, “There’s a problem!”

"I know."  He looks back at the circle of students. There’s two actually.

Dazai doesn’t mind the attention currently on him and Chuuya, nor the curiosity of their new classmates. They’re both well prepared. He thought up a backstory for them to make sure any information they do give out is consistent. As long as his dog doesn’t go off the rails, they’ll be fine.

“Yeah. We come from overseas. We got here a while ago, but we’re still relatively new to the area,” Dazai answers casually to one of their classmates inquiring about where they transferred from. It’s a vague answer, but it does the job as he is hit with a following question.

This is ridiculous. Chuuya can’t believe he is wasting his time talking to some kids. He glances over at Dazai and holds back a scoff. Of course, that stupid mackerel is eating up this attention. Always getting distracted and slacking off like an idiot. I swear, I’m going to strangle him for dragging me to this stupid school.

Mackerel? Well, that’s an interesting insult. Saiki can’t make out if this is a tsundere trope or an angry bad boy trope. Then again, he isn’t sure if he actually wants to know. He has enough idiots to handle.

“Hey, you and your buddy should come hang with us!” 

Chuuya looks over as one of their classmates makes the suggestion, stopping himself from making a disgusted expression. Buddy? That prick will never be my friend. He can’t say that out loud, however. After all, their backstory for this mission includes them being friends. 

So, he simply crosses his arms and hums, “Yeah, we can go over later.”

Ah. So, he is a tsundere. Saiki’s interest in the relationship between the two new students is certainly growing. Especially since he can only hear half of the duo’s thoughts. He can tell that something is odd about their decisions to transfer to PK Academy. It seems purposeful. As if the two are here for a particular reason. What that reason might be? Saiki isn’t sure yet.

“Hey! You with the bandages!!” 

Yare, yare. Here we go.

Dazai and Chuuya are both caught off guard by the sudden yell for their attention. The two turn to where the voice is coming from. Both of them confused as they see a boy with light blue hair pointing at them. His pose is exaggerated and over the top.

“What's up with those?” He asks as he points to the bandages on Dazai’s body. 

Is he part of Dark Reunion? Please don’t be.

Saiki isn’t shocked at the stark contrast between Kaidou’s “confident” voice and his pathetic thoughts. I highly doubt that they’re a part of your made-up evil organization. 

Dazai stares at the boy in confusion for a moment before narrowing his eyes, deciding he’ll have a bit of fun, “Why? You got a problem?”

Kaidou’s bravado immediately wavers as he is met with a confrontational tone and glare, “W-What? Um- No… Not at all.”

Dazai holds back a smirk when he sees how quickly the blue-haired boy crumbles. He can immediately tell what type of person Kaido is. A coward trying to act tough. Something he can easily exploit and have some fun with. He loves to poke after all, and he has found that those attempting to act like something they aren't are always the most entertaining to mock. 

“These bandages,” Dazai starts as he strikes a dramatic pose, one hand reaching up to his bandaged eye, “Are in order to keep my powers under wraps!”

“Powers?!” Kaidou’s eyes widen and light up, an excited smile appearing on his face, “You’re not joking?! Believe it or not, but so do I!”

That’s so cool! I can make him my sidekick!

Saiki doesn’t even have to read Dazai’s mind to tell that the brunet is lying. It’s honestly impressive how often he falls for these types of lies. But it’s even more expressive that he’s managed to survive this long.

Seriously? Chuuya lets out an unamused sigh. Dazai can never stop messing with people, can he? What the fuck? What is wrong with this school?

Dazai fights back his laugh at how easily the other boy falls for his ridiculous lie. Ignoring the annoyed glance Chuuya throws his way. He doubts Kaidou has any type of powers. He doesn’t seem like an ability user. If he is one, that would be the biggest shock he's ever had in his life.

Toritsuka leans into Saiki with furrowed brows, “Great. They’re weirdos.”

"And you aren’t?" Saiki glances over his shoulder at the other. I prefer two idiots over a pervert.

“Hey? Where are you going?” The purple-haired boy asks as he watches Saiki turn away and start to walk away, pointing back at the two newbies, “You haven’t talked to them yet.”

"I don’t need to."  

Toritsuka lowers his hand. How are you always so uninterested? He glances back at the new students. Noticing how the circle of classmates around them is starting to scatter. Getting a clearer view of the two. Maybe he should peek at their guardian spirits?

Huh? Toritsuka’s eyes narrow as he looks at Dazai. That’s odd. I can’t see this dude’s guardian spirit. Does he not have one? But that doesn’t make any sense. I’ve never met anyone without one.

Saiki stops walking as he hears those thoughts. He has no guardian spirit? So I’m not the only one whose psychic abilities are acting up with Dazai. What exactly is happening?

The medium decides to turn his attention to the ginger. Surely, he has a guardian spirit, rig-?

“AAAAAAHHHH!!!”

Yare, yare. Saiki turns back to Toritsuka. Staring at him blankly as he’s now on his knees, his forehead touching the ground. A puddle of tears forming around his shaking body. "What did you see to react this dramatically? It can’t be that bad. This isn’t a horror story."

Saiki obviously gets no response, however. Toritsuka simply continues with his dramatics. So, he turns his attention back to the idiocy on the other side of the room. I really can never get some peace, can I?

“That’s right!” Dazai smirks mischievously as he wraps his arm around Chuuya’s shoulder, “We were sent by Dark Reunion.”

Seriously? This nonsense again? How long do they plan to mess with him? I promise you it isn’t that entertaining. All you’re going to do is make him cry. Saiki watches as Dazai and Chuuya continue to pick on Kaidou. Not even attempting to be subtle. Anyone but the delusional victim can see through it.

Chuuya simply lets Dazai drag him into this stupid game. He doesn’t care enough to push the other away at the moment. It’s not like there’s any point in doing so anyway. The brunet will never stop messing with people. I guess I’m playing along. This is so stupid.

“Oh…” Kaidou feels his heart drop as sweat drips down the side of his face, a nervous smile appearing on his face, “That’s interesting. Sadly, I have to go now! I have very important issues to deal with!”

No way I can fight them… Not today. I have to get my sidekick, Saiki, first! Can’t steal all the glory for myself!

Yeah, you’re on your own. Saiki’s eyes follow the blue-haired coward as he shuffles away pathetically. That’s an extremely embarrassing way to cover up your cowardice. How is someone that delusional and good at gaslighting themselves?

Kaidou crumbles on the floor next to Toritsuka. Sprawling himself out on the floor in an even more pathetic position. His puddle of tears somehow larger than the purple-haired’s.

And just like that, there were two. At least they’re both equally as pathetic.

“So, what have you figured out, bastard?” 

Dazai smirks as he looks over at Chuuya, who is leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, “Mhm? Oh, the slug is asking for my thoughts so nicely? Is this a dream or did my dog finally learned how to behave?”

Chuuya clenches his jaw as he smiles in annoyance, pushing off the wall as he glares at the other on the bench, “Shut your mouth, asshole. I’m not interested in your bullshit. I know you’ve got something. So stop fucking around and just tell me already. We’re not here for your games; the boss expects us to finish this mission as soon as possible.”

“Ah, boo,” Dazai’s shoulders slump as his teasing doesn’t get the reaction he desired, “You’re so boring, hatrack. Can’t you loosen up once in a while?"

“I’ll loosen up when you finally drop dead, and I don’t have to deal with a headache like you.” There is a clear tension in Chuuya's tone as he puts on a fake happy voice. One of his eyes twitching in annoyance.

Dazai knows he could continue teasing the ginger. But despite how amusing and tempting the idea is, he stops himself from doing so. He would rather not be attacked by his rabies-ridden dog at the moment. So he sighs and decides to cooperate.

“Fine, fine. No need to be so mean.” He complains before his expression sharpens, “I know who is behind the time loop.”

“Ha? You seriously already know who it is?” 

The skepticism in the shorter’s voice isn’t lost on Dazai, making him tilt his head to the side lazily, “Don’t be ridiculous, Chuuya. It’s obvious. It’s Saiki Kusuo.”

Chuuya’s face scrunches in disbelief, “What? Pinkie? He’s who you think is behind all this? He seemed like the only normal one in that idiotic classroom. Aside from looking like he has a stick up his ass 24/7. He didn’t even speak to us.”

The bandaged teen isn’t surprised as Chuuya continues to question him. The shorter teen always finds a way to doubt him. Despite the fact that they’ve worked together for 2 years now and he’s proven that he’s rarely wrong, especially when it comes to missions. While he enjoys annoying Mori, failing missions creates too much paperwork, and he prefers not to be scolded by an old man.

“Why do you always doubt me, hatrack? It hurts my feelings, you know?”

Chuuya cringes in agitation at the other’s whiny tone, “Fuck off. I don’t give a damn about your stupid feelings, wimp. Maybe I wouldn’t doubt you if you weren’t always saying a bunch of nonsense.”

Dazai pouts, “Excuse you, I’ll have you know that nothing I say is nonsensical. Your brain is just too small to comprehend what I am saying most of the time. But it’s okay. I understand. A dog will never be as smart as their master.”

“I’m going to shove my foot up your ass.” The ginger wastes no time snapping back with a threat, gripping Dazai’s school tie.

“Ah-ha,” The younger raises his hands with a smile on his face, not exactly worried by the bark and even the bite, “So snappy. But I’m being serious, Chuuya. I think it is pink hair. He was staring at us very intently, yet he never tried to speak to us. He seemed wary of us. Why do you think that would be if we appeared to be regular students? No one else was suspicious.”

Chuuya narrows his eyes as he lets go of Dazai, “Maybe it’s because you’re covered in bandages and creepy as shit, asshole. Maybe he has a brain unlike the other idiots in that class.”

“You’re never short of insults, huh?” He pats his collar down back into place, “You know I’m never wrong, simple boy. Besides, what would be the issue with investigating the kid? Even if I happen to be wrong, which I doubt, it means we would be 100% sure he isn’t the threat.”

The idea of potentially wasting time investigating a boy who could have nothing to do with their mission is annoying to Chuuya. Not only because it will drag this job on for longer than necessary, but because he hates wasting time with idiots. But it’s not like they have any other theories to investigate yet. And as much as he hates to admit it, Dazai is smart. He has good intuition.

“Fine,” He begrudgingly concedes, “How do you want to start investigating him?”

Dazai thinks for a moment, humming as the gears in his brain get to work. What would be the best way to approach someone who likely has a time-based ability without knowing how strong they are? If they do it wrong, it could lead to a drawn-out battle. He’ll have to take advantage of his nullification while also making sure not to give away too much information about their abilities. They have to use the element of surprise.

“Oh! I know! We could follow him home today to see what we are dealing with. Then we can decide how we’ll take him down,” Dazai lays out the plan.

Chuuya sighs as he runs a hand through his hair, “Sure. Whatever. That works. Let's just head back to that stupid ass classroom. The break is about to end. I don’t know how school works, but I am not about to get in trouble for being late.”

Dazai chuckles and stands up, “Alright. Let’s head back, hatrack.”

Chapter Text

Saiki walks down the forest path. His expression is calm. Every step he takes lets out a small crunch as his shoes make contact with the pebbles. It's dark out. Half of the sun already hiding behind the horizon as the moon begins to take its place in the sky. 

Allow me to set the record straight. I am not on an afternoon walk or attempting to be rebellious by refusing to go home. I went home. But they followed me. After school got out and he began to make his way home, he has been forced to hear an unbelievable amount of curse words in between complaints. It truly amazes him how colorful Chuuya Nakahara's language has proven to be. 

However, aside from the headache the other's thoughts bring him, Saiki isn't worried about Chuuya. He knows exactly where the ginger is. He is aware of and prepared for his presence. No. His slight unease stems from the bigger unknown.

They're proving to be worse than Nendou or roaches. I can't detect Dazai. He is doing his best to hear the footsteps around him. Yet he can only seem to hear one set. He isn't sure if they belong to Chuuya or Dazai. He knows the two are following him. Even if he has no clear confirmation that Chuuya isn't trailing him alone, there is a feeling in his gut that tells him Dazai is with him. 

How troublesome.

Saiki isn't exactly worried about potentially having to deal with and take on the pair. He is sure he can overpower them easily. But that doesn't make it any more annoying. Especially since he has to do it alone.

If you're wondering why Toritsuka isn't here… Saiki feels his fatigue only grow as he remembers the medium cowardly yells of how he is insane for suggesting that he baits the two new students into an isolated spot. Declaring that he isn't crazy enough to go along with such a plan.

Let's just say he wasn't too eager to go into the woods with those two after seeing their spirits. Anyway, they're here.

Saiki's eyes dart to the side when he hears the rustling of someone stepping out from behind a tree. Coming into the clearing a good distance away from him. His eyes narrow as he watches the short ginger outstretch one of his hands in front of him, the other buried in his hoodie pocket. Large rocks, surrounded by a dark red light that's also visible around Chuuya's body, begin to fly towards Saiki.

What a pain. 

Saiki raises a hand as well. A grand piano appears in the space in front of him, covering his entire body and working as a shield. Holding the large instrument in place with his telekinesis. It seems like Toritsuka does have some valuable items in his room. I do not want to imagine what he owns that is of equivalent value to a grand piano. It was likely something perverted. 

“Where the hell did he get a damn piano?!” Saiki can hear Chuuya exclaim as the sounds of the rocks and piano colliding ring through the air. The rocks land by his feet with a thump.

“Pfft!” Dazai clutches his stomach as he laughs, stepping out from his hiding spot as well. His tone mocking as an entertained smirk spreads on his face. “You were blocked by a piano! How embarrassing! His power is just like yours, slug!

Dazai's laughter cuts off when he feels a hand slap down on his shoulder. His smirk falls as he looks over at Chuuya. Before he can finish his next thought or wonder what the ginger is up to, he is roughly tugged.

His body is involuntarily jerked to the side in front of Chuuya. Only able to let out a small, unsure “huh” at the act. The reason behind the other's actions and smug look immediately becomes clear to Dazai as he looks ahead of them. His initial reaction is one of shock and worry as he watches the large black piano that Saiki summoned out of thin air barreling straight towards him. 

For a split second as he watches the object quickly approaching, he contemplates moving away. Feeling Chuuya's hand let go of his shoulder, the ginger likely using his ability to move back and avoid getting injured. But that idea is quickly replaced by another.

Instead of making any attempts to dodge the attack, he raises his arms, exposing his full chest. His eyes close in as an out-of-place sense of peace washes over him. Any initial worry dissipates. His feet planted firmly on the ground. He takes a deep breath as his mind goes blank. Accepting his fate and only hoping that the attack will actually kill him instead of only hurting him. Perhaps this will finally be his quick and painless death. Hoping that the weight of the piano and the speed at which it is approaching him will mean certain death.

The piano strikes Dazai directly. A wave of sharp pain immediately spreads through his entire body. He can almost feel the individual bones in his ribs and arms break. A piece of the piano hits him on his forehead, busting the skin open and causing it to start profusely bleeding. A pained wheeze escapes his mouth.

Before the piano can hit the ground once more, Chuuya touches it and uses his ability to throw it off to the side. He then looks down at Dazai, who is face down on the floor, a pool of blood starting to form around him. His hair, face, and shirt start to get soaked with blood. He is unmoving and has gone quiet.

“Hey! Stop being dramatic!” Chuuya harshly remarks as he walks over to his work partner. He leans down and grips the back of Dazai’s shirt with two hands. He bends his knees and, with little ease, he picks up the taller teen as if he were a sack of potatoes. “How about making yourself useful for once?!”

He throws Dazai as if he were a spear, unconcerned with how much it may hurt the other. After all, that guy is like a cockroach; he never dies. 

Saiki watches as Dazai’s limp body flies through the air. His jaw falls open, and his brows crease in complete disbelief. He has seen a lot of lunacy in his life, but this is certainly one of the most dumbfounding things he’s been forced to witness. You’re kidding. He knew that the two have an odd relationship, but he never thought he would see one of them use the other like a weapon. 

Dazai lands on the floor with a pathetic splat. Landing face-first on the gravel. A new puddle of blood appears around his head and chest. He misses Saiki by a significant amount, making him wonder if Chuuya missed on purpose. Saiki simply standing there in disbelief and confusion.

“Tell me, what the hell is your ability!” Chuuya yells at Saiki, “If it has to do with time, where the hell did you get that stupid piano?! Are you working with someone?!”

Saiki only blinks, his mouth hanging partially open. He’s not even going to acknowledge him? When the ginger’s words actually click in his mind, though, his confusion only increases. Ability? Is he referring to being a psychic? How did he find out? Or was it Dazai?

It isn’t often that Saiki feels like he is in the dark. Yet at the moment, he certainly isn't sure what to think or feel. The idea of even more people finding out about his powers isn’t exactly one that brings him comfort. Toritsuka and Auira both knowing and attending the same school as him is already a big enough inconvenience for him. But at the very least, with those two, he can read their thoughts and ensure that they have no intentions of spreading his secret. But that isn’t the case with Chuuya and Dazai.

Chuuya seems confrontational and suspicious. Not just about him having powers, but what he can do with his powers, too. Saiki doesn’t miss the way the ginger had mentioned time, alluding that they know he can manipulate time. Saiki doubts he could easily convince the ginger to be on his side and keep his powers a secret.

Meanwhile, Dazai is a complete wild card to him. Saiki can’t read his thoughts. His strange aura evokes a sense of distrust and danger. He doesn’t need to know much about the boy wrapped in bandages to know that something is off about him. Something he can’t quite pinpoint, which makes him even more terrifying.

“Hey! I’m talking to you! Answer my questions!” Chuuya can feel his irritation fester as Saiki only stands there silently. Ignoring him. 

Saiki sighs as his eyes narrow. "I don’t know what you are talking about." 

That response only seems to agitate the short teen further as he grits his teeth, “Fine, if you won’t give us the information we need willingly, we’ll have to do this the hard way.”

Suddenly, Saiki feels a hand wrap around his left ankle. He looks down to see Dazai now clinging onto him with a slightly shaky hand. His face still buried in the dirt. He’s awake? And he can move? What type of plot armor is this?

Saiki isn’t going to wait around and see what the other two teens are planning to do with him. He doesn’t doubt that he can handle two of them in a fight, but he would prefer to avoid a full-on battle. Not only because it is late, but because it is too much of a headache. Especially if he doesn’t know their intentions and the full extent of their skills. 

“What the hell? Chuuya’s eyes widen as Saiki disappears right in front of his eyes. He rushes over to Dazai, “Did that bastard teleport?! I thought you were holding onto him!”

Dazai groans as he slowly lifts his head, his face covered in blood, “I was, you dumbass. I grabbed his ankle. Use your brain. He’s obviously not an ability user.”

Now that certainly wasn’t a revelation he was expecting. “What are you yapping about? Did that damn piano make you stupid or something? We saw him pull a piano out of nowhere and then teleport! He obviously has an ability!”

Dazai stands up from the floor, pushing past the wave of dizziness that the act brings. His clothes are sticky and uncomfortable from the mud and blood on them. The ache in his entire body makes him tremble. Yet the pain is irrelevant to him at this moment. A smirk appears on his face as he looks at Chuuya.

“We need to get in contact with Mori. It seems there’s more going on here than just an ability user.”

Saiki stands in the middle of his room. What was that? Who really are those two? What did Nakahara mean by ability? How was he able to make those rocks float? Is he also a psychic? But then what type of psychic would he be? He didn’t give me the sense that he would be a psychic.

Yare, yare. This is worse than the other inconveniences I've dealt with so far. Saiki walks to his bed and sits down. He can feel his head throbbing as he scowls. 

Just what are they up to?

“Ugh, I swear, you idiot. This is your fault.” 

Dazai rolls his eyes at Chuuya’s grumbling, “Hey, you’re the one who used me as a shield and then threw me! You bad dog! Who treats their owner like that! I should have you put down for being so aggressive!”

Chuuya can feel his veins close to bursting as he smiles angrily, “Shut your stupid ass up before I drop you and leave you here alone.”

“Hmph. Always such a brute,” Dazai mutters under his breath as he tightens his legs around Chuuya’s waist, “Drop me and I’ll tell Mori that my injuries weren’t accidental and you purposely tried sabotaging our mission.”

“Tch,” The shorter teen rolls his eyes, “Of course, you threaten to snitch on me to the boss.”

Chuuya continues carrying Dazai on his back as he makes his way out of the tree-filled area. He really can’t believe that Saiki managed to escape them. It’s beyond aggravating to him. He doesn’t understand the other’s powers at all. Especially with Dazai’s determination that it isn’t an ability at all. How annoying. This mission is proving to be an even bigger inconvenience than he was anticipating.

“I hope the boss will have an idea of what the hell is going on.”

Dazai sighs at his partner’s mumbling, “So annoying. I can’t believe we have to call him so early into the mission! Ew!”

“Oh, shut up and stop complaining,” Chuuya sighs as he finally makes his way out of the small forest and starts walking to their apartment. “Let’s just hope we’ll be lucky enough to avoid a scolding.”

Chapter Text

“Ah, Dazai-kun, I certainly didn’t expect a phone call from you so early into your mission.”

Dazai groans the second he hears Mori’s aggravating voice through the phone. His finger twitches as he is hit with an instinct to hang up. But he knows he can’t do that at the moment. They have a lot to talk about regarding their first confrontation with Saiki and what they have discovered about him.

“Yeah, yeah,” He dismissively replies, “We have a lot to report, so you better listen. I won’t be repeating anything.”

Chuuya scoffs as he smacks Dazai’s arm, “Watch it, you bastard. Where’s your respect?”

“Hey! You damn slug! You’re such a bitch! Mori doesn’t care how I talk to him!” His tone is bratty as he shoves the other, throwing him off the bed.

Chuuya quickly stands up with a clenched fist, “Fuck you, you asshole! What is your damn problem?! Who the hell do you think you’re shoving?! I’ll kill you, dammit!”

Mori chuckles as he hears the familiar bickering through the phone. Those two sure do fight like they are cats and dogs. Even during missions, they continue to bud heads. He can’t help but find it endearing, even if it is tiring at times. But as entertaining as it is for him, he doesn’t particularly enjoy his time being wasted in instances like this.

“Now, now you two,” Mori interrupts their bickering, “I hope you two didn’t call me to hear you two argue. I suggest that you both begin your mission report now. Especially if you have a lot to report. I have”

Dazai and Chuuya stop their bickering. Both of them mutter out their begrudged apologies. Both of them slightly annoyed at their arguing being sternly cut off by their boss. They both know better than to disobey Mori’s words or waste his time any further. 

Dazai lets out a tch as he rests his elbow on his knee, “Anyway, we know who is at the center of the time loops. But it seems it will be more difficult to deal with them than we initially anticipated.”

“Oh? You two struggling on a mission?” The mocking tone in Mori’s voice makes the brunet roll his eyes, “That is certainly new. What exactly is the problem?”

“He isn’t an ability user.”

There is a beat of silence on the other end of the phone before Mori speaks again, his tone much more serious this time, “Is that so? Are you insinuating that he can manipulate time through means other than an ability? I hope you both understand how absurd that sounds.” 

Chuuya sighs as he crosses his arms and leans back against the wall behind him. Though he makes sure to speak loud enough for Mori to hear him clearly, “Yes, boss. We know it sounds unbelievable. But our first clash with him didn’t go as expected. Not only was Dazai unable to nullify his powers, but he seemed to have multiple.”

“Multiple powers?”

“Yup,” Dazai glances over at Chuuya for a second before looking back at the phone, “So far, we have seen that he can control time, summon items, and teleport. I have a feeling there is more we still don’t know about. In particular, I believe he has a way of sensing people. He seemed hyper-aware of Chuuya’s location.”

Mori takes a moment to think, noticing something interesting in Dazai’s final sentence, “Only Chuuya-kun’s location?”

Dazai smirks, “Only Chuuya’s location. He seems to be more cautious about me. As well as less able to pinpoint my location. Though I’m not exactly sure why.”

“I see,” the former doctor lets out a breath, “What troublesome missions you always manage to get yourself entangled with, Dazai-kun.”

The brunet only cringes, able to easily hear the dumb smile on Mori’s face, “Don’t start. Just tell us how you want us to proceed with this mission already.  Do you want us to abort or continue as is and bring the suspect back to the Port Mafia?”

“Yes.” Mori’s words are absolute and definitive, holding no hesitation or doubt. “My interest in this mysterious danger only seems to grow. I do hope you two will be capable of bringing this new power back to our organization, even if he is more powerful than initially thought.”

“Understood, boss.” Chuuya tries to ignore the growing headache and defiance inside him. He hadn’t signed up for such an annoying mission. He thought it would be a quick and easy one. But it seems there is nothing he can do but comply and continue the job until it is either complete or Mori decides to end it.

Dazai sighs and, in a bored tone, adds, “Anything else you want to tell us?”

“Just one last thing,” The two teens can hear a slight shift through the phone, presumably the sounds of the older man adjusting the way he is sitting. “If you are unable to capture the target and bring them back without unnecessary risk, abandon the initial objective.”

There is a brief pause. Chuyya and Dazai can almost feel Mori’s presence even if they are in completely different parts of Japan. 

“Go for the kill, instead.”

Smirks appear on both of the mafiosos' faces. Go for the kill. It is an order they have heard countless of times. Well, that’s always a sure way to create a fun escape route to fall back on when things get out of hand.

“Yes, sir.”

“Good. Continue investigating for now and avoid any unnecessary risks or injuries. If at any time you need back-up, I have a unit ready at a moment’s notice. Is there anything else that you two need to report to me?”

Chuuya and Dazai look at each other, silently making sure that they’ve said everything they needed to. A moment later, the older speaks up.

“No, sir. That is all.”

“Ow!” Dazai cries out loudly as he pouts, “That hurts, you stupid brute!”

Chuuya rolls his eyes as he continues icing Dazai’s bare chest, “Shut it, you damn crybaby! I’m not even pressing that hard! All you know how to do is bitch and whine!”

Dazai huffs as he tries to ignore the waves of unbearable pain that hit him every second, “You’re so mean to me. It’s your fault that I’m hurt, you know? I think like all my ribs are broken! It hurts to breathe!”

The ginger sighs as he pulls the ice pack back to look at the sore and bruised skin under it. He presses his lips together at the undeniable damage. The slight tears and discoloration on the skin spark an odd feeling in his chest. One he isn’t fond of and even agitates him slightly. Especially because it is directed towards Dazai of all people.

“I’m sorry.”

The sudden apology catches Dazai off guard. He often calls Chuuya predictable and easy to read. But right now, a sorry was the last thing he was expecting the other to mutter out. He was expecting more insults and snarky remarks.

He quickly wipes his shock off his face and replaces it with a smirk instead, “Oh-ho? What was that? Is that an apology that just fell out of my dog’s mouth? Could it be that you actually feel worried about me?”

Chuuya’s face turns a deep red at the mocking and poking, “Fuck off!! You always have to ruin everything! Can’t you just stop being a smartass prick for once?!”

Dazai only laughs at the flustered yelling, his smirk turning into a more genuine smile. “Ah, there is the slug I’m familiar with. That’s better.”

That stupid grin only causes Chuuya to roll his eyes as he presses the ice pack back on Dazai’s chest. He can’t believe he just wasted his breath apologizing to this idiot, who only took it as one of his stupid opportunities to tease him. He really doesn’t know why he bothers trying to be genuine with the other sometimes. He is so.. Idiotic. 

“Thank you.”

The words cut through the air so suddenly that they make Chuuya freeze. His face is one of pure shock as he looks up at Dazai. Being met with those usual empty and wide eyes that, for some reason, seem to hold what looks like actual life in them for once. Or is Chuuya’s brain just imagining things?

After a moment, he forces his shock back to find his voice. 

“Whatever. It’s the least I can do. It is my fault you got hurt in the first place after all,” He pauses for a second before adding, “Are you sure you don’t want me to tell Mori that you’re injured? We don’t know the extent of the damage that stupid piano did to you.”

Dazai can’t help but let out another chuckle at the hint of concern in his partner’s tone. He knew Chuuya was a big ole softie deep down. He is tempted to tease the other again. But he knows that it likely isn’t the right time to do so. Besides, maybe he can just lay off the other for a few minutes.

“Nah. I’ll be fine. I would rather not have to deal with that annoying old man nagging me about some injuries,” He dismisses the idea as he puts his hands behind his head, opening his chest up more as Chuuya starts to bandage him up.

“Besides, it isn’t like we’ll be confronting Saiki again soon. It’s better if we lie low and figure out as much information as we can about him first before trying to challenge him a second time. That way, he won’t catch us off guard and escape again.”

Chuuya raises a brow, “Ha? And how do you know he won’t come after us?”

Dazai smirks as he shrugs, “Isn’t it obvious?”

Another predictable statement from Dazai. Of course, the other is so cocky about his predictions.  It never fails to get under Chuuya’s skin how the world always seems to make sure that Dazai is right. It only ever fuels the other’s arrogance.

“Is it?” He asks unamused.

“Of course it is!” Dazai quickly argues before he finally decides to explain, “Judging from how all of our classmates seem to treat Saiki like a regular person, despite how weird they all are, it's obvious they don’t know of his powers. He likely hides them. So, if we continue to only interact with him at school, I doubt he would go after us and cause a scene.”

Chuuya considers Dazai’s words for a moment. They certainly make sense. He can’t really find a way to argue against his logic, even if he wanted to. So, once again, all he can do is swallow his pride and reluctantly concede.

“Fine, whatever. I guess you have a point. How are we going to find out more about him?”

Dazai doesn’t waste much time replying. “I’ll handle that for the most part.”

“Oh?” Chuuya raises a brow, “You’re actually taking up some responsibility and work? I guess that piano really did fuck you up.”

“Ha, ha, really funny,” Dazai replies with a scowl. “Just pay attention to him, but don’t get too close. It’s clear he can somehow sense you. So it’s best if you take a backseat for now.”

Chuuya hums as he finishes bandaging Dazai’s chest, “Okay, sure. Now shut up and let me wrap up your big head.”

Chapter Text

“Hey, buddy! We should go get ramen!”

Saiki sighs as he walks through the halls. His expression as deadpan as ever. Trying to ignore the two relentless headaches following him. He’s tempted to try and get away, but he doubts the attempt would even succeed. Luck rarely ever seems to be on his side.

“You and your ramen. Seriously. Is that all you eat? How has your stomach not exploded?”

He tries to tune out the loud bickering around him. He should be used to this by now, yet it never fails to make his temple throb. Yare, yare. These two always have to find something to bother him and yell about. Do they never get tired of being so energetic?

“Well, isn’t that interesting?”

Dazai leans against the wall. Speaking to himself once the trio is out of view and hearing range. An unsettling smirk plastered on his face. He takes his phone out of his pocket and opens the notes app. 

Nendou Riki and Kaidou Shun. 

Two people who seem to be the closest to Saiki in their school. Yet even they seem oblivious to their friend’s powers. There are no hints that they know what Saiki is and the full extent of his strength. Just like Dazai suspected. The entire school is oblivious to the superhuman walking among them.

It seems Saiki is determined to keep his secrets close to his chest. 

Chuuya raises a brow as he takes in Dazai’s plan, “You’re seriously going to spend your whole day stalking that brat?”

Dazai chuckles at Chuuya’s incredulous tone, “Well, of course. How else do you think we’ll get information about him? He isn’t going to tell us anything. Kidnapping him and forcing answers out of him isn’t an option until we know just how many powers he has. And asking around in school likely won’t get us anywhere. Like I said earlier, I doubt most of our classmates know anything useful.”

“So, you’re just going to be a creep and watch him behind corners?” Chuuya asks with a hint of concern on his face, finding the idea of the other being a stalker unsettling. Especially with how unhinged he is.

“Yeah, and?” Dazai responds dismissively as he shrugs, “We’re mafiosos. We have to do what is necessary to get the information we want.”

Chuuya lets out an unimpressed grunt, “Of course, that’s your stupid argument. Whatever. Just don’t do anything stupid and get yourself hurt. I won’t save you if that bastard finds you out and beats your ass or whatever.”

“Oh, please. My dog will always save me.”

“Fuck off. Like hell I will.”

“Ten, huh?” Dazai mutters to himself as he looks at the list of names he’s compiled while spending all day following Saiki. Letting out a taunting whistle, “How fascinating. You sure have a lot of friends, huh, Saiki?”

It’s odd. Dazai would have assumed that someone as cold and distant as Saiki would only have a couple of friends. He certainly wasn’t expecting to write a list of ten whole names down. Ten names of people who follow the pink-haired boy around school. Constantly attempting to get his attention. It’s a slight inconvenience, but also a huge advantage.

If there is one thing the Port Mafia has taught him is that attachments are weaknesses. 

Dazai wasn’t expecting Saiki to have so many weaknesses. But he won’t complain. He’s ready to exploit it as need be. The more advantages he has in this mission, the better. Even if they lack information, they hold sentimental value, which makes them far more valuable.

Something is wrong.

Saiki sits in his chair. His hands under his chin as his elbows rest on the wood of his desk. His face tense with contemplation. It doesn’t make sense. Nakahara and Dazai didn’t bother me again today. That never happens. The world is never generous enough to take my headaches away this quickly.

It would be impossible for him not to notice the sudden change in attitude towards him that the two new students are displaying. One day, they’re trying to fight him and yelling at him about what they call abilities. The next they avoid him completely and act as if nothing happened. He can’t understand them. 

Is this a part of a plan? Or are they backing off because of Dazai’s injuries? He sits up. Dazai… How was he even at school today? I know stories like to take creative liberties when depicting injuries, but this is ridiculous. He got hit by a piano. He sighs as he stands up.

I don’t know why I bother trying to make sense of anything anymore.

He walks to his bed, yet he doesn’t sit down or lie down. It’s late. He should be heading to bed. He has school tomorrow. But no matter how much he tries to ignore it, his gut keeps telling him something is wrong. That he has to do something about those two. Whatever their play is, he can’t underestimate it.

Yare, yare. I guess those two will be useful for once.

“Seriously? Did you have to invite him too?” Aiura asks in an annoyed voice as she points to Toritsuka, who is standing beside her.

 Toritsuka lets out an offended gasp, “Excuse you! Of course, he did! I’m a psychic too!”

“You’re a pervert,” She retaliated with little hesitation, “That’s it. You only ever use your stupid ghosts to harass women. What would he need your help for?”

“I didn’t call you two here to argue.” Saiki interrupts their childish antics before they can continue any further. He isn’t interested in standing there and watching them fight. They have bigger and far more important things to discuss. “Don’t make me regret asking you two for help.”

Toritsuka and Aiura both go quiet. They glance at one another before they both let out their own apologies. They know better than to keep pushing Saiki’s button or annoy him. So they focus back on what they’re actually here to do. It’s not often the three of them meet up like this to discuss something serious, after all.

“Right. What did you need to tell us?” 

Saiki lets out a sigh. “It’s about those two new students.”

“Oh, you mean Nakahara and Dazai, right?” Aiura asks as she tilts her head slightly, “They caught your attention? That’s new. You usually claim not to care about anything. Now you want to gossip about the new kids? I never thought the day would see the day!”

Before Saiki can respond and give more details, Toritsuka adds his own comment. “Jeez. I knew those two were bad news. You’re obsessing over them. First, you want to lure them out, and now you want to have a meeting about them? Great. Look, whatever you are planning with them, leave me out of it. There’s something seriously wrong with those two.”

Aiura raises a brow, confused as to what Toritsuka is on about, “Huh? Saiki wanted to lure them out? What are you talking about? Have they been causing trouble?”

Great. Of course, this idiot is already backing off. Seriously, what did he see when he checked Chuuya’s guardian spirit? Why is he so determined to stay away from them? Saiki thinks to himself before shaking his head.

“Can you two just listen?” He crosses his arms. “Those two… They seem to be targeting me. I had a confrontation with them. They were following, so I led them to the woods to try and figure out what they wanted. They started asking me about something called abilities. They seem to know that I can manipulate time too.”

Both of the other two psychics grow more and more shocked as they listen to Saiki explain what happened between him, Chuuya, and Dazai. It’s the last piece of information that really makes them both tense, however.

Aiura frowns deeply, “They know about your powers? But how? They only just transferred here. Are they also psychics? They didn’t feel like psychics.”

Saiki shakes his head. “No. I don’t think they’re psychics. But Nakahara does seem to have some sort of powers. I also can’t read Dazai’s thoughts. Something else seems to be happening here. I have a feeling it has something to do with whatever they meant by ‘ability’.”

“Hey, wait! I think I’ve heard about what they might be talking about before!” Toritsuka suddenly reveals, as a flash of recognition appears in his eyes.

 “Huh, you do?” Aiura asks with a hint of skepticism.

The medium nods, “I think so. I think I heard a spirit mention something about abilities once.”

So, it does seem to be something different than just psychic powers. A spirit knows about it? So is it something several people have? Saiki takes a moment to try and figure out what all of this could mean. “We should investigate and try to find information on what an ability is. If we understand what it is, we might be able to figure out their plan. Or at least understand how much they know about me.”

“Do you think they’re actually out to get you?” The soothsayer asks with a hint of nervousness in her tone. She can’t understand why the two new kids would be after Saiki, especially without knowing their motives.

Saiki stays quiet for a moment before uncrossing his arms. Yes. The real questions are why and what they’re planning on doing once they do get what they want.

“Hey! Your name is Kaidou, right?

Kaidou looks up from his notebook when his name is called out. A wave of nervousness sparks in his chest when he sees Dazai start walking up to him. The carefree smile on the brunet’s face puts him on edge for a reason he can’t truly explain.

“Oh, uh, yes?” He does his best to sound confident and collected, a shaky smile on his face.

Dazai stops in front of the other teen, his hands in his pockets, “Hey, can I talk to you for a moment if you’re not busy?”

Kaidou raises a brow, wondering what the other wants to talk to him about. He hopes it has nothing to do with Dark Reunion. He isn’t in the right state to fight at the moment. Nor does he want to humiliate the new kid. “Sure, what is it?”

“Remember how I told you I was a part of,” Dazai pauses. He leans forward, his smile gone as he whispers. “Dark Reunion?”

Kaidou’s eyes widen as his biggest fears come true. His anxiety growing further. Yet he continues trying his best to play it cool. “O-Oh, yes! You… You mentioned being a part of them, right?”

Dazai nods slowly, his expression becoming solemn and nervous. “Yes. I’ve been with them for a few weeks now and um… I want to escape it! I didn’t realize how awful it would be when I joined! Could you help me, please? Everyone I try to ask for help from just calls me crazy and ignores me!”

The second Dazai finishes his story, Kaido’s expression becomes serious. “Hey, you’re not crazy! Don’t worry! I believe you! I’ll help you, and you can become one of my sidekicks! I can assure you I’ll keep you protected!”

Dazai lets out a relieved, shaky breath, “Really?! Thank you! Thank you so much, Kaidou! I’m honored to take the role of your sidekick!

“Of course!” 

Kaido proudly declares, his face now full of pride as he relishes the feeling of saving a weaker newbie. He is also quite glad to have a new sidekick. Maybe this new kid isn’t as bad as he originally feared.

Chapter Text

Dazai certainly has never met someone as eccentric as Kaidou. The kid sure can ramble for hours on end. Most of his ideas are nonsensical. Nothing short of paranoid and delusional. He seems to live in his own grandiose world. It is both annoying but also amusing.

It certainly makes things a bit more fun.

Dazai calls out to the other as they walk through the school hallways, his arms behind his head. “Hey, Kaidou?”

Kaidou looks over at his new sidekick with a friendly smile, “Yeah?”

“You’re friends with Saiki, right?”

The mention of Saiki makes Kaidou raise a brow. It seems so random after all. Sure, Saiki does have this strange allure to him. But he didn’t think Dazai, of all people, would be asking about Saiki. He doesn’t seem like the type to want to be friends with someone so quiet and stoic. Especially when he has friends like Nakahara, who seems so confident and outgoing.

“Oh, uh, yeah, I am,” He quickly responds after realizing he spaced out a bit, “He’s my other sidekick! Why do you ask?”

Dazai smiles and shrugs lightly, “Ah, he just caught my attention these past few days. I’ve noticed that he’s usually pretty quiet in class. Yet a lot of you seem to hang out with him a lot. I guess I’m just being a bit nosy, but it made me curious about what type of person he is.”

Kaidou stops walking for a second. He thinks back to the time he’s spent with Saiki and the rest of their friends. Smiling softly as he glances down at the floor, “He’s a great guy. He can look a bit scary at first, but he always looks out for us. He’s motivated me to become a better person. I’m grateful for all the memories I’ve made with him.”

Dazai stops next to the other teen as he speaks. His eyes narrow a bit. It’s quite a sappy response. Sincerely and cheesy. It almost makes the brunet scoff. Yet he stops himself from doing so. He has an act to keep up for now.

“Ah, I see. Well, that certainly wasn’t the response I was expecting! I thought he was more reserved and distant!”

Kaidou chuckles as he rubs the back of his neck, “Well, he can be pretty quiet. But I don’t mind! He’s still awesome even if he is shy!”

The idea of someone as powerful as Saiki being shy makes Dazai smirk. He finds it almost ridiculous. “What about the rest of your friend group? What are they like? You guys have a pretty big group, huh?”

“Oh, I guess we do!” The two start walking again, “They’re all pretty great though. Mera and Yumehara are both super chill and nice. Hairo is really energetic and easy to get along with. Nendou is kinda dumb, but I think his heart is in the right spot. Saiko is an asshole most of the time, yet he always sticks around. So, I think he likes us to some extent. And Teruhashi.”

He cuts himself off for a second, Dazai quickly noticing the blush that appears on his face.

“Well, she’s just perfect. She’s super kind and patient. Despite how popular she is, she never seems to mind going along with our antics. She’s great.”

The bandaged teen chuckles, “Oh? Teruhashi. She’s that girl with the blue hair, right? She seems to be quite the big deal in this school. Especially with the guys. I think I saw that she has a whole fan club and stuff?”

Kaidou nods, “Yeah. She’s the most desired girl in school, probably the whole town, honestly.”

Well, that’s certainly something. Dazai can’t say he’s too surprised at that information. He’s noticed the insane level of attention that girl gets. He understands she’s pretty, but he certainly didn’t think she was that big of a deal. She’s nothing special in his opinion. But if people really are that obsessed with her, then using her as a bargaining chip doesn’t seem like a viable play. After all, kidnapping her or putting her in harm’s way would cause too much unwanted attention. That’s one unnecessary pawn.

“Oh, there’s also Aren!” Kaidou continues, “He used to be a delinquent, so he can be pretty scary too. But he usually won’t do something for no reason. He’s cool. Maybe we can meet up with him later!”

“Sure. I wound’t mind. I’m always up for making friends!” Dazai replies in an overly enthusiastic tone, “Hey, what about that one guy with light purple and the girl with green hair that I’ve seen around? They seem interesting too.”

Kaidou thinks for a second, “Oh, you mean Toritsuka and Aiura? I’m not surprised they stick out to you. They’re actually psychics.”

“Psychics?” Dazai repeats, his interest sparked. Yet there is also a hint of skepticism in his tone. After all, he doesn’t know if this is another one of Kaidou’s fantasy ramblings.

The other doesn’t seem to notice the doubt in Dazai’s tone as he simply nods. “Yeah. Aiura can see auras and do fortune-telling. She does it a lot at school. Toritsuka can apparently see ghosts and guardian spirits or something. I don’t know. I don’t really believe him. He said my guardian spirit was a chihuahua! There’s absolutely no way that’s true! So, take his claims with a grain of salt!”

Dazai chuckles softly, “I see. Well, I’ll keep that in mind then. I certainly can’t imagine your guardian spirit being a chihuahua. You’re too cool for such a lame guardian spirit. He was probably just grifting you.”

“Yeah! You’re right! Thanks!”

“God, where the hell is that idiot?” Chuuya mutters to himself.

He has been looking for Dazai since the break started. That idiot ran off without even telling him where he was going. If he’s getting himself into trouble, Chuuya swears he’ll lose his mind. They don’t need more obstacles or setbacks in this mission.

As he walks through the school, he suddenly bumps shoulders with another student. Grunting as he looks back to see who the hell just brushed into him.

“Ha? Watch where you’re going, punk.” He looks at the other boy in front of him. He recognizes him as one of the kids in his class. His name is Aren, if he remembers correctly. He’s one of the brats Dazai has mentioned to him. Something about him being close to pink hair or whatever.

Aren lets out an angry scoff, “Huh?! Who are you speaking to like that?! Are you looking for problems?!”

Chuuya grits his teeth as he glares at the other teen. He’s annoyed as it is. He doesn’t need some brat mouthing off to him. “And if I do?! What are you going to do, huh?! Because we can fight right here, right now! I’ll wipe the damn floor with you!”

“If you want a fight, I’ll show you what’s up! I don’t hold back when someone picks a fight with me or one of my friends!” Aren raises a fist without any hesitation. He isn’t about to back down to this kid just because he’s new. If he’s going to start trouble, then he’s more than willing to put the other in his place.

Chuuya smirks, “Yeah?! Let’s go then!”

The ginger wastes no time to throw the first blow. His kick connects with Aren’s stomach, making him groan and stumble back. Much to Chuuya’s surprise, however, the boy doesn’t go down. Instead, he recovers and retaliates. The movement isn’t quick enough, though, as Chuuya quickly raises his arm, blocking the punch with it.

He lets out a light whistle, “Huh. You can actually pack a punch. What a surprise.”

Aren smirks, “You’re strong too. That was an impressive kick. I’m assuming you’re a martial artist?”

Chuuya chuckles and nods, “Yeah. Been training for years now. You?”

“I was a delinquent,” He reveals casually with a shrug, “You’ve earned my respect. I thought you were just an overconfident prick. But I was wrong.”

“I guess you’re not that bad either,” Chuuya replies with an amused hum.

Chuuya sighs as he enters the apartment, setting his bookbag down before calling out, “Hey, you wimp! Are you here already?”

Dazai walks out of his bedroom and into the main area. Smirking when he sees his partner. Going to the counter and leaning against it, “Ah! You’re finally here! I was starting to think that my dog had run off and gotten lost!”

Chuuya rolls his eyes as he sits down on a chair, leaning back on it. “Shut up. Just hurry up and tell me what progress you made today. I would rather not waste the rest of my day listening to your ridiculous comments.”

“Fine, fine. You’re always so impatient,” He sighs before sitting down as well. “Anyway, I learned some interesting things today. Tell me, do you believe in psychics, Chuuya?”

“What the hell are you on about?” Chuuya can’t help but find that question completely ridiculous. “Psychics? Why are you bringing up something so stupid? Did you hit your damn head or something?”

Dazai chuckles as he starts tracing light patterns onto the surface of the counter, “No. I didn’t hit my head. But I appreciate the worry! I’m asking that because, apparently, there’s a psychic or two in our school! Isn’t that fascinating?!”

The ginger doesn’t seem at all entertained by where Dazai appears to be going with this, “Seriously? Psychics? You really believe in that stupid shit?”

“Hey, now, don’t be like that.” Dazai reaches out and pats Chuuya’s shoulder, “I heard it from one of our classmates. I think we should look into it! I mean, is it really that far-fetched? I mean, if you tell the average person about abilities, they wouldn’t believe it if they’ve never seen it before. So maybe psychics are real?”

Chuuya contemplates that logic for a second. It makes sense. He can’t really deny that. Abilities are supernatural powers. Given their rarity, most people would never believe that they exist. Yet they clearly do. It could be the same with something like psychics. Yet it honestly sounds ridiculous in general. But dammit, he can already tell that Dazai will likely look into it no matter what he says.

“Fine. Whatever. Who the hell are these so-called psychics? I’m assuming you have names already?”

Dazai nods with a smile, “Of course I do! Apparently, it’s Mikoto Auira from our class and Reita Toritsuka from class 2. Auira is supposedly a soothsayer, while Toritsuka is a medium. Interesting, right?”

The second Dazai mentions those names, Chuuya raises a brow. “Huh? Aren’t those the same ones in that list you made when you were being a stalker?”

“Yup.” The brunet rests his elbow on the counter, “Isn’t that something, huh? Two alleged psychics are close to our target. Something tells me that isn’t a coincidence. What do you think, Chibiko?”

Chuuya lets out a small tch, “I swear, this stupid pink hair better not be a damn psychic. This is ridiculous. One of these days, I’ll kill you for constantly dragging me into your ridiculous missions. You can never just pick the easy jobs, can you?"

“Nope! Because that’s boring!” Dazai simply stands up with a wink, ignoring the groan it gets in response.

Saiki stares at his computer with a bored expression. I bet you’ll be extremely grateful to know that you don’t have to know about the ridiculous amount of reading I’ve done for the past two hours. Unfortunately, this is the situation I’ve been stuck in with these two.

Aiura and Torisuka are sitting behind him. Torituska is on the floor while Aiura is on the bed. The two are scrolling through their phones, doing the same research Saiki is. All of them trying to find whatever they can about abilities. Reading through any articles they can get their hands on that could contain the information they need.

“Uuggghhh! This is so boring!” Aiura drops her phone onto her lap as she runs a hand through his hair, “How many more news articles do I need to read?”

Saiki sighs as he turns his chair to look at them. “We don’t need to continue reading for now. What have you both found?”

Toritsuka lowers his phone as he leans against the bed frame behind him, “Well, everything I found is pretty vague. Just a bunch of reports about odd, supernatural events happening here and there. It honestly sounds like what I would imagine someone making a news report after seeing you use your powers.”

Saiki’s expression tightens the slightest bit. He understands what Toritsuka means. There are many reports of unexplained phenomena happening in several different places around the world. All of which seemed to be caused by supernatural forces that the average person seems unable to properly explain. It doesn’t exactly give any clear information that they can use.

“Did you find anything?” He turns to Aiura, who rubs the back of her neck lightly.

“Mhm. I’m not really sure. I didn’t find anything with any real details either. But I did notice that many of the articles I did find seem to come from Yokohama. I also saw a brief mentions of a weird new detective that has been solving a bunch of cases saying he uses an ability. That’s all I really found.”

Yokohama? Saiki thinks back about the articles that he read and realizes that a lot of them were from Yokohama as well. “I noticed that too. I doubt it is a coincidence. Maybe Yokohama has a high concentration of abilities? It could pay off to investigate that place?”

“Huh? Yokohama? I always knew that place was weird.” Toritsuka remarks as he puts his phone away and crossing his arms. “What, are we going to take a trip there or something? I doubt we’ll find anything else online.”

Saiki sighs as he presses his lips together. The idea of having to travel to another part of Japan for the sake of hopefully finding something they might find useful is certainly not something he is really looking forward to. But he knows this is the best option they have for now. 

“I guess we are taking a trip.”

Chapter Text

“Are you sure this will be a smart idea, Saiki?” Aiura rests an arm on her hip as she tightens the hold on her purse. “We are going to a city that could be full of superpowered people that we don’t even understand. This could end really badly, you know? Just because you have like a million abilities doesn’t mean we do.”

Toritsuka nods nervously. “For once, I agree with her. I was just joking when I made that suggestion, dude. We could end up dead or something.” 

Saiki sighs at Toritsuka’s and Aiura’s worries. Their concerns aren’t fully invalid for once. They are far weaker than me. I doubt talking to ghosts or seeing the future will do much against abilities if they’re all similar to Nakahara’s. But this is the only way the plot will let us learn more about abilities. So, there’s not much else we can do about it.

“It will be fine. If anything happens, I will simply teleport us back. The faster we get this over with, the better.” He puts a hand on both of their shoulders. “Let’s just get going. All of this is tiring enough as it is without prolonging it.”

The other two psychics share a glance before simply relenting. Understanding that this is necessary if they want to find out more about those new students, and that Saiki will go alone if need be. Which neither wants, considering he is the main target at the moment.

You better not end up letting me die, Saiki…

Idiot. Saiki glances at Toritsuka. Of course, I won’t let anyone die. Stop being so dramatic. 

“Ah, so this is Yokohama.” Aiura looks around as their surroundings change in an instant. “It really doesn’t look any more interesting than it did in those articles I read.” How disappointing. I was hoping that there would be some cool places to take some pictures.

“We’re not here to sightsee.” Saiki starts to walk down the busy streets, the other two following close behind.

The afternoon streets are full of people walking about. Children playing, families on a day out, some even heading to work despite it being the weekend. Not much stands out. No one seems out of the ordinary. For a city that seems to have so many accidents and be under constant conflict, it is surprisingly pretty and well-maintained. No building seems noticeably destroyed or damaged. It looks like any other regular city.

Toritsuka puts his hands in his pockets as he looks around, “So… How exactly are we supposed to find information anyway? Do we just go around asking random people if they know what an ability is? Or do we just hope we see somebody doing something supernatural and interrogate them?”

Huh. He can actually use his brain sometimes and ask a decent question. Saiki looks behind him. “Let’s just walk around for now. See if anything looks out of place. If we don’t find anything that way, we can start asking around.” With my luck, something tells me we’ll find these abilities no matter what.

Aiura keeps her gaze on the passing buildings and people. Everyone looks so normal here. It looks a lot calmer here than where we live. I’m sure Saiki would probably prefer living here.

Saiki raises his eyebrows at that thought. Huh? Live here? Well, it does seem a lot quieter and calmer here at first glance. But it’s obvious that isn’t the case. If those articles were anything to go off on, this place is likely just as chaotic or even worse. I would rather be stuck with those idiots at school than deal with a city always full of conflict.

The three walk for about 30 minutes without noticing anything remarkable. They walk past several stores and offices, even entering a few to ensure they aren’t missing anything important. Yet all they really see are people shopping, eating, and talking among each other. Toritsuka and Aiura try to run off at times. Toritsuka, in particular, tries to chase after some of the women they walk by, forcing Aiura to constantly smack him and rail him back in.

“You’re such a creep! How hard is it to just control yourself, you loser!” Aiura scolds Toritsuka as she drags him away from yet another poor woman he was harassing. 

The medium only scoffs and rolls his eyes, “Hey! Let go! It’s none of your business! I’m just trying to appreciate how beautiful all these ladies are! Why do you always have to get in my way! You and Saiki are so boring!”

Aiura rolls her eyes as she lets go of the other, pausing her walking for a second to put a hand on her hips, “Just shut up already. We’re here to help Saiki, not for you to desperately fail at getting laid.”

“We’re not even finding anything!” He complains before turning to look over at Saiki, “Have you fo-” He cuts himself off, blinking with confusion. “Huh? Saiki?”

The other psychic looks over as well, quickly becoming just as confused when she sees that Saiki is nowhere to be seen. “Ha?! Where is he?! Was he attacked?! Saiki?!” She looks around frantically as she tries to figure out where the other could have gone. He wouldn’t have just walked off without them, right?

Ah, I can hear their panic all the way from here. Saiki’s pace is swift as he walks through the building he entered a few seconds ago. I’ll teleport back to them in a minute. They’ll be fine. This is more important.

He comes to a stop when he reaches the goal of his side guest. His stare focused and serious. So I did see it right. I knew I was right. It looks like this city isn’t as awful as I thought it was. Perhaps I should move here.

He reaches out to go and pick up the sole reason for why he entered this store. The delicious coffee jelly cup that caught his attention as he walked past the convenience store. Yet before he can truly pick it up and buy it, another hand grips the dessert at the same time. His gaze quickly moves to see who the person he has to compete with for this dessert. 

It is a young man who looks to be around late teens to mid twenties. He is wearing black dress pants, a white long-sleeved dress shirt, and a patterned tie. His eyes are closed as he tilts his head towards Saiki. He looks like a kid trying to dress up like an adult. Great. Something tells me he will be a pain.

“Excuse me, pink hair, can you let go? I don’t have all the time in the day to stand here.” The man blurts out in a loud tone. 

His knee-jerk reaction is to refuse to do so. Yet Saiki realizes that there are more coffee jellies available. So, he decides to back off this time. He doesn’t want to use his powers or start any trouble and cause any unnecessary scenes when he is the center of attention.

The man smirks as he picks up the cup, “Thanks. You know, you have good taste. The coffee jellies in this store are the best. The right amount of bitter and sweet. Plus, they’re not super expensive.”

Saiki raises a brow. “Have you tried many different coffee jellies? This is my first time trying some from this place in particular.”

“Ah! I see! Well, I can assure you you’ll love the type they have here!” The man grins widely, “I have tried coffee jellies from several places, and these are my favorite so far! I’m a snack connoisseur, so I can assure you I’m right!”

Snack connoisseur? Is that just another way of saying he eats a lot? Before Saiki can respond, the store doors suddenly fly open. Followed by two aggravating, loud voices that he can immediately recognize.

“Saiki!! There you are!! We thought you got kidnapped!!” 

Saiki sighs deeply as Toritsuka and Aiura rush over to him and bombard him. Both are talking over one another and speaking far too loudly. Obviously disturbing the previous calm and quiet environment in the store. Other customers turn to look towards them, most of their stares full of annoyance.

“You can’t just walk off like that!! Just because you are crazy strong doesn’t mean you can just do whatever you want!! We have no information on abilities yet!! What if there is an ability that is even stronger than your powers?! We need to stay together!”

“Both of you stop yelling already.” He can feel his eyes twitch with annoyance. “I’m fine. You’re causing a scene and annoying others. Lower your voices. You’re compromising us more than I am by yelling out why we’re here for everyone to hear. You’ll make the target on us worse.”

Toritsuka and Aiura both go fully quiet as they realize how irresponsible they are being. Which only becomes even clearer when the brunet standing near them speaks up again.

“Abilities? You guys are trying to know more about abilities?” He asks with a cocky smirk.

Toritsuka raises a brow as he looks at the unknown young man up and down. “Huh? Who are you?”

The smugness in the man’s entire demeanor is impossible to miss. “I am Ranpo Edogawa! You poor idiots are lucky! I am the greatest detective with the best ability in the world! If you want to witness how great abilities are, then you’ve bumped into the correct person! I can bless your small brains with my amazing ability!”

Ah, I see. So he’s overconfident and cocky. Another Saiko. Great. Now they have to deal with his grandiose rants. Just how he wanted to spend his time. Saiki looks over at Aiura and Toritsuka. Hoping that, for once, one of those idiots will be able to cut this dude off.

“Hey, that’s cool and all, dude,” Toritsuka actually does interrupt, “But can you tell us what even is an ability and stuff?”

“Hey! Hey! Don’t interrupt me! If you want me to tell you idiots whatever information you want, then listen up! My ultra deduction ability is the only ability your simple minds need to know about to understand what an ability is! I can figure out any case or mystery in a matter of seconds!” Ranpo quickly retaliates, talking over Toritsuka’s attempts to stop his ramblings.

“Uh-hu, right,” Aiura responds dismissively as she crosses his arms. What is this dude on about? Finding out information in a matter of seconds? Yeah right. That sounds ridiculous.

Seriously? You’re skeptical about that? When you’re the one who looks into a ball to see the future? Saiki only looks back at Ranpo and waits for him to use his ability. Even if this man is overconfident, if he truly has an ability, then getting to see it could be very beneficial.

“I can tell you don’t believe me, gyaru girl! But just you wait! The second I put my glasses on, I’ll disprove all your doubts!” Ranpo remarks as he takes out a pair of glasses. Quickly putting them on and opening his eyes, his ego now higher than before as he pushes the accessory up with two fingers and..

Just stands there. Hey, I think you’re forgetting the special effects. I think this is supposed to be showy and bright. Saiki exchanges some looks with his classmates.

What the hell is this guy doing? For once, Saiki agrees with Toritsuka’s thoughts.

There is a moment of silence between the four of them as Ranpo simply stands there. His eyes narrow, and his smirk drops. His expression is now serious as he looks directly at Saiki. “You’ve made some bad enemies by controlling time, Mr.Alien.”

The three psychics immediately tense and freeze. Shocked to hear those words. Controlling time… Made enemies… Mr.Alien… 

Holy shit. Is this guy actually the real deal?!

“Follow me,” Ranpo demands without even bothering to wait for a response. “You have a lot to learn.”