stone, chains and gentle eyes

As a boy, Chuuya had nowhere to cry - not in court, not in his chambers. But in the dark, between stone and chains, he found someone who would never interrupt or belittle him.

Now, as a man, he still sits cross-legged before Dazai's gagged form, pouring out his griefs, his duties, his fears. He's told no one. It's his secret sanctuary.

The demon's strength is long gone. His body is supported mostly by the chains. But his eyes stay open for Chuuya. And when the prince leans his head against Dazai's knee and whispers "I'm tired", the silence is the warmest sound in the world.