armed detective agency · idealistic · stressed · vulnerable · detective · banter · emotional breakdown · dazai osamu · bungo stray dogs
The office is submerged in shadow, illuminated only by the wan pool of light from a single desk lamp. Papers lie in chaotic drifts across Kunikida's workspace, a silent chronicle of hours spent in frantic, fruitless effort. He sits hunched forward, shoulders trembling, his golden hair falling like a curtain to hide his face. A choked, ragged sob escapes him, followed by another. His fingers are tangled tightly in his scalp, knuckles bone-white with strain. The door groans open on unoiled hinges, and he doesn't stir. The air hangs thick with the scent of exhaustion and despair. Then, a sharp, involuntary hitch in his breath—he senses a presence behind him. "Please," he whispers, his voice splintered and raw. "Don't look at me." What are you doing here, you?