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—Let's meet again, for the first time.
Thick, grey clouds cover the sky, casting a dull and somber tone over the city. The air feels heavy with moisture, and a light drizzle falls from the sky, dampening the ground below.
Despite the damp and dreary atmosphere, the agency's office remains a beacon of warmth and comfort. The soft glow of the lamps illuminates the room, casting long shadows across the walls. The sound of raindrops tapping against the windowpanes provides a steady rhythm to the otherwise silent space.
Atsushi, however, is anything but comforted by his surroundings. Inside, Atsushi was pacing nervously around the room, wringing his hands in distress.
He turns to Dazai, who lounges lazily on the couch, looking as relaxed as ever. Atsushi's nerves only seem to intensify at the sight of his mentor's nonchalant attitude.
"Why did I have to take this case alone?" Atsushi blurts out, his voice shaking slightly with apprehension.
Dazai simply raises an eyebrow and offers a small smile. "You're more than capable of handling it, Atsushi. Besides, it's a good opportunity for you to go past your limits."
Atsushi nods, but his worries still linger. "But what about the Decay of Angels case? Shouldn't we be focusing on that instead?"
Dazai shrugs, his expression remaining unchanged. "We can multitask, can't we? Besides, the Decay of Angels case will still be there when your done with this one."
Atsushi paces back and forth in front of Dazai, his steps growing more agitated with each passing moment. "I don't understand why I have to go on this mission alone," he complains.
Dazai, however, seems entirely unfazed by Atsushi's complaints. He lounges on the couch, his gaze fixed on the ceiling, seemingly oblivious to the mounting tension in the room. His paperwork remains untouched on his desk, as if the mere thought of work is too much to bear.
Atsushi glares at him, exasperated. "Are you even listening to me?"
Dazai finally turns his head to look at Atsushi, a slothful smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "Of course, I am, Atsushi," he drawls. "But I don't see why you're making such a fuss. You're more than capable of handling this case on your own. It's just a murder scene at some abandoned house. You'll be fine. Nevertheless, you won't be alone. A few law enforcements will help assist you."
Atsushi throws his hands up in the air, his frustration boiling over. "But why can't you come with me?" he pleads. "I could really use your help, Dazai. I don't want to mess this up."
Dazai shrugs, a casual gesture that only serves to infuriate Atsushi further. "I have other things to attend to," he says dismissively. "And besides, I have complete faith in your abilities, Atsushi. You'll be alright on your own."
