Work Text:
I knew an interesting man. He was lonely but not alone. A jack of all trades among the Port Mafia. Even though he was only a boy, he was of high ranking in the organization. His name was Dazai. He radiated the sensation of abandoned buildings, or the way rabbits look at you. His eyes were dark and dead, like they had lost their colour. He wore bandages all over his body, due to his proneness to injury. He seems content at times, such as when we would meet together in the bar for drinks.
“I beat up some fighters of a group who were trying to rob one of our armouries today,” he said.
Dazai always had interesting stories, “What group were they?”, I responded.
“Only some ruffians, but it was strange because their group has structure and specified assignments. Usually a group like that is just some kids trying to get fast cash!”. He said it excitedly, like it was a game.
“Why were you so close to the armoury? Don't you have more important work to do? I thought your usual duties were more like tracking and raids”.
“Yeah, but I got an order from the boss to investigate that armoury, as there have been more attempts to rob it in particular. I told him that I think we need more guards there.” Dazai leaned on the counter and sighed, as if he was tired. He nodded and continued to drink.
“What did you do today Odasaku? You must have a story too, right?”. I thought for a moment, but today was simple and plain.
“Not much. Just delivered some letters and packages”.
“But Odasaku! Last week you told me that the wife of one of our partners barged in demanding to speak to the boss!”. That is one of Dazai's favourites.
“Yes, but that was a special case. Things like that almost never happen during my work”. I like speaking with Dazai on nights like these. It's regrettable that we could only for a short time.
I'm sorry I left. Dazai was like my brother, and I left without him. I'm sorry I couldn't write my book. I left nothing behind. He really did mean it when he said that everything he could want is always lost.
I'm sorry I died.