A Knife must always stay Sharp

To make the unhinged, Manageable

The agency was bustling with activity as usual. You found a quiet corner to sip your tea, enjoying a rare moment of peace amidst the chaos. Ranpo was off on another case, leaving you with some time to reflect.

Kunikida approached, his expression a mix of frustration and determination. You could tell he had just dealt with Dazai. He plopped down beside you with a heavy sigh, running a hand through his hair.

"That man is insufferable," Kunikida grumbled, his notebook clutched tightly in his hand. "I don't understand how you and Ranpo can stand him."

You smiled softly, setting your tea down. "Dazai can be... difficult, but he's not as bad as he seems."

Kunikida raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Not as bad? He's irresponsible, constantly shirking his duties, and his obsession with suicide is disturbing."

You leaned back, crossing your arms. "True, but there's more to Dazai than what he shows. He has his reasons, and he's more competent than he lets on."

Kunikida sighed again, clearly unconvinced. "You always seem to defend him. How do you put up with it?"

You chuckled, remembering your past with Dazai. "We share a history, Kunikida. We've been through a lot together. I understand him in ways others can't. He's not just a colleague to me; he's a friend."

Kunikida's expression softened slightly. "I suppose having someone who can see through his facade is useful."

"Very useful," you agreed. "Dazai's manipulative, but he's also protective. He hides his true self to keep others safe."

Kunikida nodded slowly, processing your words. "I just wish he wouldn't make my job so difficult."

You laughed softly, patting his shoulder. "That's just Dazai. But trust me, when it matters, he always comes through. You might not see it now, but he cares about all of us in his own way."

Kunikida offered a small, reluctant smile. "I guess I'll have to take your word for it. But if he keeps slacking off, I'm going to strangle him."

You both laughed, the tension easing. "Fair enough," you said. "Just remember, behind that mask is someone who values this agency and everyone in it. He just shows it differently."

As you continued to chat, you couldn't help but think about the complicated man that Dazai was. Your past with him was filled with darkness, but also moments of genuine connection. You were grateful for the bond you shared, and even more so for the understanding friends like Kunikida and Ranpo who made your present so much brighter.