#lee!itto

Aether hesitated at the entrance of the newly opened Aisa Bathhouse in Inazuma, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his tunic. The warm, inviting glow of lanterns illuminated the wooden interior, the faint scent of herbal steam wafting through the air.

The blonde had been invited by some of his old friends to try out this new establishment and after being away for such a long time, he had happily agreed to join, eager to see all of them again. He had been on his feet all day, traversing from Natlan back to the islands of Inazuma, and the idea of soaking in a hot bath sounded heavenly.

He had only arrived a few hours ago, already having meet with them for a (very) late breakfast in Hanamizaka, to indulge in some Tricolor Dango, much to the joy of Paimon and the detriment of his wallet, and had agreed upon meeting with them in the bath, after checking in in a nearby Inn.

But as he glanced down at his attire and then at the row of lockers before him, a flush of embarrassment crept up his cheeks. With a deep breath, he stepped forward, unbuckling his boots and neatly placing them into an empty locker.

The cool floor against his bare feet sent a small shiver up his spine as he continued, peeling off his clothes, layer by layer, until he was left in nothing but a simple towel wrapped securely around his waist. His hands briefly hovered over the lock on his locker, his stomach twisting with nervousness.

It wasn’t like he was unfamiliar with bathhouses - Liyue had plenty - but being this exposed in the presence of others still made him shy. Taking another breath, he straightened his shoulders and stepped past the entrance curtain into the steamy bathing area.

“Aether, buddy! There you are!” a loud and enthusiastic voice boomed across the bath, making the blonde jump slightly. Itto grinned widely from his spot in the hot water, waving him over eagerly. Next to him, Thoma and Gorou were already settled into the bath, their heads barely visible above the rising steam. “Hey Traveler~” “Aether, glad you could make it.”

The trio looked relaxed, their expressions glowing from the heat of the water and Aether couldn’t help grinning at them. “You took forever! C’mon in, the water’s perfect!” Itto added, slapping the surface of the bath, causing small ripples to form. Aether chuckled sheepishly, stepping towards the edge and carefully dipping a foot into the water.

The heat immediately sent a soothing wave up his body and he exhaled in relief as he slid further in, submerging himself up to his chest. The tension in his muscles began to melt away and he sighed contentedly. “Man, you look so tense and did you get even more skinny!?” Itto commented, tilting his head before he waded towards him.

“You should really loosen up a bit~” Aether raised an eyebrow, but before he could retort, he felt large fingers suddenly squeeze at his sides. A high-pitched squeak slipped from his lips as he jolted, his arms instinctively snapping to his sides in defense. “WaHAh! D-DoOHohn’t!” he laughed, gently pushing his hands off of him. “Oh-ho! What was that?”

Itto smirked, his ruby eyes lighting up with mischief. “Did you just- No way! Traveler, don’t tell me you’re ticklish?” he fake-gasped and Aether could clearly hear Thoma and Gorou giggle at him. “He got you now~” “Itto found his next victim, ehh~” Aether’s face burned instantly, his body stiffening in place and he once again cursed his body for it sensitivity.

“W-Wait, that was just-” he began, instinctively taking a step back from the oni. He was in trouble now. “…Just you being ticklish?” Itto grinned wickedly, eagerly wiggling his fingers at him. Yeah, in a very big trouble. “Oh, this is too good to pass up!” he laughed. He had to get away, like right now, before it was too late.

However, before the blonde could even make a proper escape, Itto lunged, wrapping his strong arms around him in a playful yet secure hold. “C’mere, you squirmy little guy!” he chuckled, not wasting another second as he dug his fingers into his ribs.

Aether immediately burst into uncontrollable giggles, twisting and wriggling as he tried to pry himself free from Itto’s iron grip. “N-Nohoho! I-ItohOho! StoHohop!!” he pleaded, his laughter echoing in the steamy room. He just wanted to relax and spend the afternoon soozing in the water and here he was, in the arms of an excited oni, getting tickled to pieces.

This wasn’t like he expected his afternoon to turn out. His hands grabbed at the white-haired’s arms, his legs were kicking out, splashing water everywhere, but the hero of nations, the conqueror of dragons and Master of the Jinni couldn't break free. Instead, he felt a tingle inside his stomach, creeping up, further and further throughout his body.

“HhahAhHAHa I-IHIhiTOo! IhiHit ehEhhehe it tiHIicklekeles!” He managed to breath out, tears of mirth forming in the corner of his eyes and running down his flustered cheeks as Itto continued to explore the ticklishness of his flanks, even daring to sneak his fingers up into his underarms, wiggling into the sensitive holes with gusto.

“That’s the whole point compadre; nothing beats some good old’ laughing with your bro IttOh~” he teased and to emphasize his statement, he moved on of his strong arms around his midriff, allowing him to tickle the blonde’s stomach, wiggling and sliding his fingers around his navel.

As soon as they made contact with his skin, Aether broke into another wave of contagious chortles and he sucked in his stomach, but neither did it help, nor made it Itto relenting. “AHhhAhahah! YoHou cAhahn’t wehEh’re- ahAhhahah noHoho!” he laughed, trying to reason with his antics, but he wasn't even able to finish his sentence.

“Aw, you sound so adorable!” Itto teased, clearly enjoying to see the youngest member of the Arataki Gang at the loose of his hands. At this point, Aether had given up to try and break free, so he just lends back against the other's chest, letting his laughter out. Seeing this Itto smirked, and he bend his head a bit forward, so that it was now close to his.

"Giving up already? Don't disappoint me now..." he said, blowing in his ear and making him shriek. That was too much for him. In a last attempt, Aether eyed with his other friends who had watched the whole scenario without even lifting a finger to come to his aid.

“WHahAHAhh p-pleHEhehase heEHhelp,” he whined stretching out a hand towards them, taking into account that Itto immediately sneaked a finger into the spot again, well he had to bite the bullet if he wanted to get out of this situation.

…It was Thoma, who had been watching with an amused grin, that finally took pity on Aether and leaned forward. “You do realize this could backfire, right?” he mused, wading closer to the duo before suddenly striking. His fingers poked into Itto’s toned sides, causing the oni to jolt and let out an uncharacteristic yelp.

“HiYaHh…! H-Hey! Thoma! ThaAhaht’s cheap!” Itto barked, his body twitching under the unexpected assault. The moment of inattention allowed Aether to break free and Itto whined when he realized his little toy had escaped. Aether, now freed from Itto’s grasp, gasped for air, his face already flushed both from the tickling and the bath’s heat.

“Thanks T-Thoma, I thought I was gonna die.” He shot Thoma a grateful look, which the housekeeper returned with a knowing smile, having been a victim himself not long ago. “I wasn’t kiIHihll- noHohHOhoho!” Itto wanted to argue but got interpreted by his own laughter as Thoma continued to drag his fingers down his sides.

“Oh, come on Itto, you can dish it out but can’t take it?” Thoma teased, continuing to tickle the large oni playfully. “Well, this is actually kinda fun. What do you think, Aether?” Aether glanced at Itto, who was flailing in the water like a fish out of water, and couldn’t help but laugh along with him - he looked so hilarious right now.

A mischievous grin crept onto his lips. “I think Itto could use a little payback,” he admitted, “after all ‘nothing beats some good old’ laughing with your bro IttOh’, right?~” he mocked making the oni gulp. Thoma grinned, winking at him. “Then let’s get him!” “…W-WahAhahit, guHuys, cahAn’t we talk- aHAHAHAhhahaH!”

The oni’s loud laughter began to flood the room as soon as the duo launched their combined assault with Thoma continuing to squeeze his sides, while Aether, little as he was, wiggled his fingers down his toned chest, dragging his fingers along the patterns of his tattoos lining his skin, reveling in the way Itto’s booming laughter filled the air.

“WAHAHAHahhAhAhh!” The whole room seemed to shake as Itto’s belly laughter broke out of him, not even trying to hold it back, making Aether wonder if he really wanted them to stop. “You’re so ticklish, it’s kinda adorable~” “NoOHohoo teHEehasing,” Itto whined and hid his face inside his palms. He could never handle verbal teasing.

Aether chuckled and stood on his tiptoes, allowing him to reach his armpits, while Thoma focused on his ribs and stomach, making sure their giant friend was left gasping. “Coochie, coochie coo~” “NOHOHO! Y-YOU GUYS ARE EVIL!!” Itto howled, thrashing in the water, he had created a monster, well two of them, when Thoma joined. “Coochie, coochie, coochie~”

“HAHAHHAVE M-MEHEHEHERCY ON MEHEHEHEHHE!” he cried, seeming to forget that he could just fight them off if he really wanted to, but the tickling made him weak and his legs were giving in, making him sink further to the ground, making it only even easier for the blonde duo to reach all these ticklish spots on his body.

Aether and Thoma exchanged mischievous grins, doubling their efforts as they scribbled their fingers along Itto’s ribs and up to his underarms, making the oni nearly jump out of the water. “HAHAHAHHAHAHAH!!”

“Mercy? From us? Nah, I think you can handle a little more, big guy!” Thoma teased, wiggling his fingers right under Itto’s chin and over his neck, causing him to cackle uncontrollably. “GAHAHA! NOT THEHEHERE! AETHER, BRO, PLEHEHEASE!” Itto pleaded, but Aether only chuckled, dragging his fingertips down to Itto’s sides and squeezing rapidly.

“What was that? I can’t hear you over all this laughing,” he teased playfully, watching as Itto’s face turned a deeper shade of red. Thoma suddenly darted his hands to Itto’s belly, squeezing his lower sides before poking right into Itto’s belly button.

“I always wondered if oni were sensitive here,” he mused, feigning curiosity while Itto’s laughter skyrocketed, “turns out, you’re just as sensitive as anyone else!” “STAHAHAHAP! I’M TOHOHO TIHICKLIHIHISH FOR THIHIHIS!” Itto’s howls echoed through the bathhouse, but his thrashing only encouraged them to keep going.

Gorou, who had been chuckling at the scene, was distracted watching the playful attack unfold, feeling a light sting of jealously in his chest, not sure if he was allowed to join. His hands curled into claws and his tail wagged slightly in the water and he let out a low sigh. “I wanna… tickle too,” he grumbled, the last getting lost in-between the loud laughter.

However, his attention was cut short by a sudden, high-pitched scream of his own when he felt a sudden touch on his spin, catching him completely off guard. Turning his head to the side he gazed into a familiar pair of olive-green eyes. “W-WHAAHAHAHAT?! HEIHOZOU?!”

Heizou had appeared from seemingly nowhere, grinning mischievously as he wiggled his fingers into Gorou’s sides. “Hehe~ You looked a little left out,” the detective teased. “I thought I’d give you some attention.” Gorou’s ears twitched frantically as he squirmed in the water, laughter bubbling past his lips.

“N-NoHOohho! I-I didn’t neHEheed any attention! WHahHAHAHH!” “Liar,” Heizou snickered, slipping his fingers to Gorou’s belly and watching as the poor general dissolved into helpless giggles, his tail thrashing in the water. “I could clearly hear you back there~” he mused and gave his sides another squeeze. “HAHAHahahHAHAhahah!” “AHAHAAHhHAhah noHOhoo!”

The bathhouse was soon filled with overlapping laughter - Itto still suffering under Aether and Thoma’s combined tickling and Gorou barely able to form coherent words between giggles as Heizou tormented his sensitive stomach.

Minutes passed before the tickling finally slowed to a stop. The group, exhausted and overheated, collapsed onto the warm stone floor beside the bath, their chests heaving with residual giggles. The bathhouse’s soothing ambiance finally returned as they all lay sprawled, staring at the ceiling in post-laughter bliss.

“...We’re a mess,” Thoma chuckled breathlessly, running a hand through his damp hair. “No kidding,” Aether sighed, rubbing at his flushed cheeks, exhausted but happy. Their peaceful rest was interrupted by a calm, amused voice. “My, my, what do we have here?”

They all turned their heads sluggishly to see Kamisato Ayato standing over them, his usual elegant smile gracing his lips. “You all look like you’ve just fought a battle,” Ayato mused, raising an eyebrow, “and judging from your expressions, I assume you’ve lost?”

“Ugh,” Itto groaned, throwing an arm over his face, “we weren’t fighting… just… a little too much fun.” Ayato chuckled softly, shaking his head. “You’re all quite silly.” “Yeah, but it was worth it, right~” Heizou smirked, still watching Gorou with amusement as the poor general tried to regain his composure, glaring daggers at him before retuning his smile.

Ah, Fontaine: the region known for its impressive machinery, beautiful ocean, and strict legal system. Some find the laws ridiculous: one of them forbids people from unleashing any flying objects within three months of visiting or something like that, which is so oddly specific it got Itto in trouble.

Unfortunately for him, that wasn’t the only law he broke. His attire was deemed inappropriate, Ushi was considered an exotic animal and therefore illegal to bring without a permit or something (he’s fine, don’t worry), he accidentally vandalized and destroyed property, and got into a fight with a citizen which lead to another fight with an officer, which lead to resisting arrest. He was also charged with disturbing the peace, and was really angry about his other charges as he argued. Wriothesley was almost impressed at the sheer speed in which the oni racked up all that chaos.

Kamisato Ayato and his sister were on a business trip to Fontaine, see. Itto had practically begged to come with them, and Ayato just couldn’t say no to that puppy-eyed face. The Arataki Gang didn’t come along, though, since that would be too many people. Most of them stayed behind to help Granny Oni, so Shinobu could join the trip. She wanted to get to know Ayaka more, but knew she’d have to keep her boss out of trouble as well…

…which she sadly failed to do since Itto appeared to be a magnet for chaos. After his assault charges, he was sent to trial, which was exhausting to go through. The Oratrice Mechanique D’Analyse Cardinale found him guilty of his crimes. Itto felt really overwhelmed and stresed by such a dramatic and public trial, and worried sick over how long his sentence would be. Before being sent to the Fortress of Meropide to atone, he had emotional goodbyes with his friends, and especially with Ayato.

“You’ll get through this,” he’d said to Itto. “We’ll make sure of it. Don’t worry.” But it was easier said than done, and Itto had only spent a bit more than a week there before having an overstimulated meltdown caused by all the built-up stress. Wriothesley decided enough was enough and brought the oni into his office to calm him down. He knew better than to leave a strong and overwhelmed oni alone in an unfamiliar place such as the Fortress; especially one as emotionally unstable as this one.

Over the week, Wriothesley had tried to make accommodations suitable for Itto, such as letting him swap any lunchbox with beans in to one without for free and giving him an extra pillow for his cell, but the overall environment and uncertainty still lead him to a violent meltdown. Other inmates were mean, his cell smelt weird, the blanket felt scratchy, his new uniform was uncomfortable, he missed his friends; all the little things built up over time just to break him. So, Wriothesley thought a smaller, more controlled area like his office would be the perfect place for Itto to de-stress.

He figured Itto would feel safe there since they knew each other by now, and he hoped the oni would trust him enough to relax. But to say Itto was pissed was an understatement, and also not entirely accurate. He angrily vented his frustrations about wanting to go home, how Fontaine’s laws can kiss his ass, and how he felt lonely and confused. Wriothesley sipped some tea, letting the oni vent and pace around the office, occassionally nodding and responding to show he was listening.

“I just-! I-… I wanna go home…” he said eventually, his anger turning into sadness as his rage faded. Wriothesley sighed slightly and got up from his seat to offer Itto a hug, which wasn’t something he usually did. However, the duke figured Itto needed one by now and liked his vibe, so he didn’t mind. Perhaps they could officially become friends.

Itto burst into tears once he accepted the hug, sniffling and sobbing in the man’s arms. On one hand he felt ashamed to cry so much with someone that wasn’t Ayato, but on the other hand he’d trust Wriothesley with his life if he needed to. Though he kept complaining, gradually calming down from his distress as the two hugged tight. He was always quick to trust people like that, often befriending them earlier than they did him. Most of the time it was awkward, but this time it seemed reciprocated.

Once Itto had stopped sobbing and gotten quieter, Wriothesley spoke up again. “Listen, I can tell you’re not a bad guy. Cus if you were, you wouldn’t feel even an ounce of remorse.” he said.

“I don’t mean to break laws all the time…” Itto mumbled, sniffling while resting his chin on the other’s shoulder.

“Even so, I can’t free you yet even if I wanted to. That’d be an illegal abuse of power, and it’d hurt the trust people have in our law enforcement.”

“Your law enforcement is stupid.” Itto huffed without missing a beat, making Wriothesley chuckle as he patted the other’s back.

“Pff… That may very well be the case. Our system is different to that of Inazuma.”

“Mm…” Itto sniffled and pulled away, wiping his eyes. “I know, but still. It’s stupid… I hate it.”

“Mhm. Now, unfortuantely I can’t tell you when you’ll be freed exactly. Despite your crimes, you’ll be here for less than a year total.”

“Why? I mean, why would it not be more? I thought Fontaine was strict like that.” Itto seemed much calmer now, thankfully…

“It is, but right now we’re having some complications with your cases. It would seem your travel companions want you out as quick as possible, and they’re working on bail negotiations with Monsieur Neuvillette as we speak.” Wriothesley went over to his desk as he spoke, sitting back down to sip his tea.

“Wha- Really?! Why didn’t you just say so??” Bro was positively flabbergasted to say the least, getting excited at the idea of an early release. Shinobu would usually bail him out in Inazuma, but maybe he’d have to rely on Ayato this time…

“I tried to, but you were in the middle of a rant, so it would’ve been rude of me to interrupt.” Wriothesley smirked a little, somewhat amused by the other’s reaction despite everything.

“Oh, ha ha, very funny. Hmph…” Itto sulked, crossing his arms with a glare on his face. Though it didn’t last long since he couldn’t help but smirk as well.

“Haha, I’m serious~! You would’ve only gotten angrier if I had tried to butt in.”

Itto chuckled and rolled his eyes in respone, not wanting to admit the other was right.

“Heh, now come on, take a seat so we can discuss all this properly.”

“Ah, fine, whatever.” Itto huffed and sat down with the man, arms still crossed stubbornly.

Since Itto was mostly calmed, Wriothesley decided to give him a thorough explanation of why he’s in jail and what he should expect from it. He tried his best to answer any questions the oni had, hoping to completely calm his worries and help him understand. None of Itto’s crimes were intentionally harmful or pre-meditated, he’s just very good at getting into trouble.

“Now, are you still worried about how long your sentence will be?”

“Yeah… Didn’t you say some people stay here forever? What’s up with that? I don’t wannaaaa…!” Itto flopped back on his chair like a disgruntled teenager, which made Wriothesley chuckle.

“Pfft, heheh, you don’t have to, y’know. That part is usually optional.”

“Hey! It’s not funny!”

Wriothesley cleared his throat. “Mph- s-sorry, I don’t mean to laugh. It’s been ages since someone with your mannerisms talked to me so casually. It’s refreshing.

“Hmph…” Itto crossed his arms.

“Anyway, like I said, your friends on the surface are negotiating with Monsieur Neuvillette, which will determine whether or not we transfer you from Fontaine to Inazuma.” Wriothesley explained. “Turns out the Kamisatos are willing to pay your bail and whatnot, but you still have to serve time for your crimes regardless. Just less. Perhaps with good behavior you could get out early.” he added, chuckling to himself.

“Tch, you’re not getting any good behavior outta me!” Itto argued stubbornly.

“Oh really now? What a shame~” Wriotheslay teased, chuckling at the other’s reactions.

“Don’t look at me like that! I’m not changing my mind.”

“Hahaha, sure you aren’t…” Wriothesley was amused by Itto’s attitude. He found him rather charming. “Anyway, hm…”

“Yeah?”

“I believe you mentioned sensory issues during your rant earlier. Am I right?”

“Yeah..? What about them?”

“You know you’re free to retreat back to your cell to rest your head, right? I got a document from that shinobi girl that states you’re neurodivergent.”

“Huh?? Shinobu? When did she give you that??”

“What’s more important is letting you know you can rest in your cell, or in my office, when things get too noisy for you. And that includes all senses, ya get it?”

“I think…? But won’t I get in trouble if I’m in the middle of work?”

“Hm, you might, but I could try getting you some noise cancellers to decrease that risk.”

“Is that allowed…?”

“For disabled inmates, all accommodations are allowed. So, yes. I definitely should’ve gotten you more of those earlier…”

Itto looked grumpy instead of responding to that.

“Speaking of which, about your uniform…”

“I hate it. It’s too tight and scratchy and hot and stupid, I can barely breathe!”

“Right. I assume it’s a size too small for you, is that right?”

“Dude, yes! I’ve been trying to tell you over the week, but you’re too damn hard to get a hold of!”

“Hah, sorry about that. Being the admin of this place is a lot of work, you know.”

“Being in this dumb stupid outfit is also a lot of work. These suspenders are shit, the collar is itchy, the sleeves are stupid-”

“Yes yes, I know. Your uniform isn’t the right size, so we’ll simply have to get you a new one.” Wriothesley tried not to laugh at the other’s “work” claim.

“Hmph… Do you even have my size?”

“Boy I sure hope so. Though, I’ll have to take your measurements to be sure.” Wriothesley reached into one of his desk drawers and pulled out a tailor’s measuring tape.

“Huh? How convenient…” Itto wasn’t expecting the duke of all people to have one of those laying around.

“I know, right? Now, first and foremost, you must consent to me touching you for this, alright? I’ll have to wrap it around you and whatnot.” Wriothesley explained as he stood up from his chair, followed by Itto doing the same thing.

“Sure, man! I consent. It can’t be that bad.” he said confidently.

“Right, spread your arms real quick. I’m gonna need to measure around your waist and chest. Probably your hips…” Wriothesley explained, mildly surprised when Itto did as he was told without protest.

“Okay, what else?” he asked.

“Well, you’re a pretty big guy. If you’re too large, you might have to get a custom uniform.” Wriothesley said while he moved to wrap the measuring tape around the other, surprised at the slight jump he got.

“Hmph-! I-Is that so?” Itto jolted a little at the brush against his side and tried to play it off cool, hoping his reaction went unnoticed.

“Mhm. Hold still.” Wriothesley took note of the measurement before moving the tape down to the other’s waist and so on. Itto struggled to stay still though, growing tense. “Heh. Are you ticklish or something? How convenient.” Wriothesley joked, giving Itto a playful poke.

“Pfft- naha-! Sh-Shut up… I’m not ticklish, you just surprised me!” Itto stifled a chuckle and tried to be still. “I’m not used to getting measured, okay??” he said defensively.

“Mhm? I can see that.” Wriothesley chuckled at the other while measuring. He couldn’t help himself noticing the struggle when he measured from Itto’s waist up to his armpit. Itto snickered and yanked his arm down at a mischievous poke to the pit.

“Oops. Hold still now.” Wriothesley could’ve just measured on his back instead since the uniform isn’t supposed to be a tight fit, but he chose that previous area on purpose just to tickle the other.

“Heh! Stop tickling me then!” Itto gave up on T-posing to at least keep his armpits safe.

“Haha, I’m trying!” Wriothesley said, poking the other repeatedly to tickle him.

“Ahaha! No you aren’t!” Itto replied, giggling himself silly while trying to cover himself with his arms.

“Just relax, and let me measure you.” he said, wrapping the tape around his waist again while tickling him all the way around.

“Ahahahahahahaha!!” Itto jumped and laughed, trying to wriggle away to escape.

“I thought you said you weren’t ticklish?” Wriothesley teased, tickling the other’s side for a moment.

“Pfft, hahahaha! Staaahp! You’re doing all that on purpose!” Itto protested with a playful smack to the other’s hand.

“Hm, doing what? I’m just trying to get your measurements.” He rubbed his hand a little before chuckling.

“Like hell you are! Liar…” Itto crossed his arms and scoffed, making Wriotheslay laugh. “It’s not funny! You ass.” Itto turned around and pretended to hit him on the shoulder for the funny.

“Ahaha, sorry! Sorry…” Wriothesley chuckled and composed himself before speaking again. “Now, you did mention the sleeves were too tight and “stupid,” am I right?”

“Yeah, they suck.” Itto nodded.

“What length would you like them to be?” Wriothesley asked while he measured the length Itto’s arms.

“Uh, I dunno? Short? Can’t long sleeves be separate? I really hate how these are- like- half long, half short. It’s so uncomfortable!” Itto responded, having no trouble standing still now. He was very compliant, lifting his arms when needed as the tape was wrapped around his bicep and whatnot.

“Perhaps. Cold inmates usually get an outer shirt so they don’t get sick and such. It might be a little scratchy for you, though. I dunno what fabrics you like.”

“Oh boy, I dunno either… Ask Ayato.”

Wriothesley chuckled at Itto’s response and continued measuring until he was done with the oni’s upper body. “Now, are your pants fitting alright?”

“Eh, not really... Why do I have to wear suspenders? The waist feels weird and these- these *things* are too small.” he said, fidgeting with the suspenders.

“Hm. Eh, we could probably just pick a pair that’s one or two sizes bigger. Might have to cuff the legs though...”

“Huh? Whaddya mean by that?” Itto looked confused while processing what the duke just said.

“Eh, if they’re too long we’ll have to fold the legs up a bit… eh, the fold *is* the cuff, see.”

“Ohh, yeah, that makes more sense! I thought you meant, like, handcuffs?” His misunderstanding made Wriothesley laugh out loud in astonishment.

“Did you really think I’d be cruel enough to cuff your ankles?” Wriothesley asked, in disbelief after such a ridiculous assumption.

“Can you blame me?? It’s been a long day, bro! That’s why I was confused!” Itto replied, laughing as well.

After the two of them had finished laughing and calmed down, they could resume their conversation. Wriothesley noticed Itto seemed a lot happier than when he first came in, so he assumed he’d be fine to return to his cell.

“So, new uniform, noise cancellers, and um… huh, was that all?” he asked.

“I think so? I forgor.” Itto replied.

“Hah, time sure does fly. You should get back to your cell.” Wriothesley tried to usher him to the door.

“Ugh. Do I have to?” Itto huffed and crossed his arms. He didn’t want to leave yet.

“Yes, assuming you’ve recovered. You seem fine, so move along.” Wriothesley tried to coax the oni to follow him, but he refused.

“And what if I don’t wanna, huh? What then, big guy? Gonna toss me out yourself? Ha! I doubt it.” Itto instigated, grinning with mischief.

“That’s-… not a bad idea, actually.” Wriothesley’s expression matched that of Itto as he approached.

“H-Hey, wait! I was kidding~! C’mon, man!” It was at this moment that he knew he’d fucked up.

“Tsk tsk tsk. C’mere, you.” Wriothesley chuckled and made a playful effort to capture the oni, even though he tried to keep the office’s desk and chair between himself and the duke. However, Itto made one small misstep that landed him right in Wriothesley’s grip.

“Ack-! Hey! Let me go!” Having his Vision confiscated had made him weaker (unless that’s not a thing in Fontaine, idk), so wriggling free didn’t work very well.

“Nope. Hold still.” Wriothesley smirked, held him tighter and started tickling his sides, keeping him trapped in a tickle-hug from behind, which instantly made him laugh from surprise.

“Pfft, hahahahahahaha! HehEHEhey!! Whahat gihihives?!” Itto wasn’t expecting tickling, that’s for sure.

“Since you won’t co-operate, I thought of a way to convince you otherwise.” Wriothesley said, also hoping the tickles would calm him like Monsieur Neuv- I mean, uh, whaaaat?

“Thahat- that’s not fair!! Stohohop~! Ahahahahaha!!” Itto wiggled and giggled, protesting playfully every now and then while trying to push the other’s arms away.

“Only if you surrender. Hm, it kinda looks like you’re resisting arrest~” the human teased, poking in different spots whilst holding the oni firmly in place.

“Nohoho! I- heheh- I’m ahalready in jahahail!” Itto snickered, trying to not give away any of his weaker spots.

“Ah, that’s what they all say.” Wriothesley noticed every twitch, smiling as he poked at the other’s ribs repeatedly, earning himself a lot more giggles and playful protests.

“Whohoho do you thihink you ahahahare?!?” Itto was flabbergasted to feel the other already finding out his weakness.

“Oh, I dunno, the duke? Your arresting officer? I’m the boss around here, you know.” Wriothesley chuckled with amusement as he bullied the other.

“Uhunhahahand mehehehe!!” Itto protested, giggling his head off whilst trying to swat the evil pokes away.

“Mm? No, I don’t think I will.” Wriothesley found the situation very funny. He quickly transitioned his pokes to playful flutters and scritches, revoking his office’s status as a quiet place.

“Whaha! WahahaHAHAIT-!!” Itto nearly squaked at the sudden change of pace, his giggles getting louder and more uncontrolled.

“Ticklish, are we?” Wriothesley’s fingers were quick and skillful as if he’d done this regularly, tickling the other’s sensitive ribs despite all the thrashing.

“WAHAHAHAHAHA!! L-LEHEHET GOHOHOHOHO!!” Itto yelped, trying very hard to escape the other’s grip while he laughed helplessly.

“Say “mercy” and I’ll stop.” Wriothesley said, slowing down his tickling to make sure Itto heard him, giving him an easy way out.

“Pfft, never!” Itto retorted, feeling silly having that sensory need fulfilled by the dude that arrested him. He never would’ve guessed…

“Ah, suit yourself, then.” Wriothesley chuckled at the other’s boldness and resumed the quicker tickling, finding the other’s laughter somewhat contagious.

“Pfft! Wahahait! PlehehehEHEHEASE!!” Itto nearly squealed, laughing his ass off once again as he squirmed in the other’s grip. Alas, the tickles had weakened him also; he wasn’t going anywhere.

“Begging already? Oh dear.” Wriothesley chuckled and switched to vibrating his fingers into the other’s ribcage, nearly sending the poor oni to the floor.

“BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!” He was laughing too hard to protest, wriggling and thrashing so much Wriothesley nearly lost his grip.

“Wow, you’re really freakin’ out, huh?” He joked, continuing to tickle the other.

“SHUHUHUT IHIHIHIT!!” Itto replied (barely), indeed flipping his shit over how badly it tickled.

“You ready to give up yet?” Those damn vibrations… How did Wriothesley know to do that? So unfair!

“STAHAHAHAP!! Rehelehehehease mehehehehehe!!” Itto squealed before he wheezed and struggled to breathe. “I’ll take that as a yes.” the other commented, chuckling at the other as he stopped tickling. “Heh, you okay?” He asked, chuckling as the other pretended to go limp in his arms.

“Ehehe… heheh…! You’re evil…” Itto said, giggling while catching his breath.

“I know, but that doesn’t answer my question. Are you okay? … and stand up, you’re not a ragdoll.” Itto chuckled with amusement before a short tickle attack to his armpit jumpstarted him again.

“GAHAHA-!! Gods, don’t do that! Heheh…! I’m fine!” he said, standing normally whilst keeping his arms down to protect himself, giggling slightly between breaths.

Wriothesley was surprised, letting the other catch his breath before he spoke again. “Really? You’re “fine” after all that?” He asked, letting go of him.

“Tch, yeah, it’s not like I’ve never been tickled before!” Itto boasted confidently, throwing shame out the window for a moment.

“Is that so?” Wriothesley chuckled at his admission, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah? I’ve-… I mean-… I guess I’m used to it?” Itto tried to hide his embarrassment, but his ears were slowly turning red despite his efforts. He tended to blush that far when he felt shy and whatnot.

“Right, I’m not surprised considering how goofy you can be. It’s not every day I get to tickle an inmate, haha!” Wriothesley joked, giving Itto a ticklish poke.

“Pff- hey! Hahaha…! I guess you’re lucky?” Itto added, chuckling with the other.

“Heh, I suppose. So are you gonna leave my office and behave yourself, or am I gonna have to start round two?” Wriothesley threatened playfully, making sure to keep a lighthearted expression as he crossed his arms.

“Oh I bet I can take you down this time! Everyone’s ticklish somewhere, ya know!” Itto retorted with equal silliness, cracking his knuckles in an overconfident stance.

“So you’re-?”

“I’m gonna fuck around and find out!” The oni interrupted, knowing there would be consequences, but that he could at least survive them.

“Hm. Try me, you won’t.” Wriothesley challenged, getting ready to wrestle the oni down if he had to.

“You’re gonna get it!” Itto taunted before he made his approach. Wriothesley chuckled and attempted the same desk-between-them strategy Itto had used before when trying go escape him, which proved to be a rather fun game. Eventually, however, the duke got distracted once he bumped his hip into the corner of the desk, wincing slightly in pain before Itto managed to catch him.

“Ah, damn…” he muttered briefly, held like a grumpy cat as Itto lifted him from behind for a moment to celebrate his victory. “Still got some strength left in ya, huh?” he said. It seemed Itto didn’t notice he got hurt.

“Dude, of course! Vision or no, I’m still an oni!” Itto said proudly before setting the man down. “Looks like I win!” he added, keeping the other hugged.

“And who said I gave up?” Wriothesley asked, chuckling to himself. The situation was so unusual and amusing he couldn’t help himself.

“I did, cus I’m about to defeat you!” Itto replied, initiating his silly attack without further warning. With his arms wrapped around the other’s middle, Itto tickled his sides, which caused him to jolt and snicker slightly.

“Mpfft-! A-As if I’ll- *snrk* g-go down so easily…” Wriothesley said, hoping to keep his composure as he tried to break free, but that only caused Itto’s hands to slip a little bit as his grip loosened slightly. “AhahAH-!” The tickles hadn’t stopped, and the slip caused them to move to the sides of Wriothesley’s ribcage instead, which made him jump and laugh with surprise.

“Oh? What was that?” Itto chuckled and kept going, giggling along with amusement.

“Shihihit-! Hahahahahah!” Wriothesley had forgotten how ticklish he could be, and he certainly didn’t expect Itto to find a good spot so quickly.

“Ooh, is the boss a little sensitive there~? Hahahaha! Oh poor you.” Itto teased, mischievous as ever. Wriothesley wheezed and bucked, trying to break free from the ticklish grip.

“Hahahahaha!! Fuhuhuck- stohohohop!” Wriothesley felt embarrassed to make such a fool of himself.

“You givin’ up already?” Itto asked, giggling while he kept tickling, switching spots to the other’s abdomen.

“HahahAHAHAHA!! NOHOHOHO-!!” Wriothesley laughed louder despite his best efforts, his cheeks turning red with embarrassment. He could barely believe he’d gotten himself so ticklish with an inmate of all people.

“Tickle tickle tickle~” Itto teased, tickling the other’s tummy. As luck would have it, Wriothesley finally to break free from Itto’s grasp. He’d love swiftly turn the tables, but he had to breathe first.

“Ah- shit- wait, wahahait! We can talk about this!” Wriothesley glared at him, intimidating the other. Itto tried to bargain his way out, but the duke was having none of it once he approached.

“Oho, I think we’ve talked plenty. Get over here.” Wriothesley replied bluntly, ready for revenge. Itto tried to back away, but Wrio caught him before he could try to escape. “Not so fast.” he said.

“But-! Please! Ihi-!”

“Nope.”

“Ahahahahaha!! Nooo!”

Wriothesley interrupted Itto and tickled him again before he could finish speaking, this time managing to wrestle the other to the floor to really wreck him. Or, well, to defeat him at least. Despite everything, Wriothesley knew better than to overstimulate the oni himself.

“NahAHAHAHahah-!! C’mohohon~!! Ihi was just plahayihihing!!” Itto kept laughing and squirming on the floor, his legs kicking as Wriothesley held his wrists with one hand while tickling him silly with the other.

“I’d have cuffed you for real if I wasn’t feeling merciful…” Wriothesley muttered, acting all grumpy after the tickles he’d faced just moments ago. “You surrendering yet?” he asked.

“NEVERR!!” Itto shook his head.

“You sure about that?” Wriothesley smirked and tickled his way up to Itto’s armpits, switching between them with his one hand.

“Pfft~ ahahAAH!! NAHAHAHAHAHA!!” Itto screeched and tried to get away somehow, making the other chuckle.

“Heh. Didn’t know you could sound like that.” Wriothesley commented. Itto managed to free his arms, but at the cost of his ribs as Wriothesley switched spots, once again tickling his ribcage with vibrating fingers like he had done before. “Do you yield?”

“FFAHAHAHAHAHA!! FIHIHINE-!! YOHOHOU WIHIHIN!!” With his head thrown back, the poor, ticklish oni didn’t last very long before surrendering. Wriothesley finally stopped and pulled his hands away.

“Heheh, you sure put up quite the fight.” Wriothesley was sort of impressed with the other’s endurance.

“Hah… eheh… hehe *hic* heh…! I hate you~ haha…!” Itto struggled to reply while catching his breath, still covering his ribs with his arms just in case.

“Heh, hate’s a strong word. I didn’t kill ya, did I?” Wriothesley joked, reaching out to help Itto get up with him.

“Hahah…! You almost did…” Itto replied, still giggly while he was helped up.

“I didn’t think you could handle all that. I’m impressed.” Wriothesley admitted, smiling at the other.

“Heheh, shut up! You’re cruel!” Itto gently punched him in the shoulder as a playful gesture.

“Hahahaha! I know I am. Still, you’re quite the fighter, huh? Have I told you about the pankration ring yet?” he asked, crossing his arms as he spoke.

“Heheh… huh? The whuh?” Itto chuckled, finally recovered from their tickle fight.

“I’m sure I showed you the area when you got here. Didn’t I?”

Itto lagged for a moment while his brain processed before he remembered. “Oh! Yeah the uh, that boxing arena thingy, right?”

“Yes, that one.”

“What about it?”

“Heh, you could be a pretty good fighter in there y’know. It’s a great way for energetic inmates to blow off steam.”

“Is that so?” Itto was interested already.

“Yes. You should check it out sometime… after your accommodations and whatnot, of course. Just be sure not to hit your opponents too hard, alright?”

“Right, yeah…! I’ll kick your ass for sure!”

“Oh? Is that a challenge?”

“You bet it is!!”

“Haha, I’ll let you know when my schedule’s free for that. You’d best not underestimate me.”

“And you’d better not tickle me! I’d rather lose in real combat than be humiliated like that!”

“Hahahaha! Fine, no dirty tricks from me.”

Although Itto was confused by how quickly their tickle war had ended and how casual conversation had started again, he stuck around to keep discussing with Wriothesley before he felt satisfied enough to return to his cell. He hoped he’d be able to get out soon, but he also wanted to spar with the duke someday.

With that, he drilled right into the center of Kazuha’s hollows, igniting his skin with ticklishness that went straight to his brain.

Kazuha’s eyes shot open and he let out a shriek of laughter.

“IHIHI- AHAHAHAHA! NO NO NOHOHOHOHO! GAHAHAHA! IHIHIHITOHOHOHO!” His legs finally gave out and he slumped against Itto’s chest.

“Haha! Now there's your laughter!” Itto laughed. “The One and Oni strikes again! Laugh me your praises!”

Suddenly, two figures rush through the open doorway. A flash of teal catches Itto’s eye before he feels a large weight impact him from behind and hang on to him.

“Oof!”

Kazuha slipped from his grasp and fell right into Xiao's waiting arms.

“Xiao!?” Itto yelped in surprise. “Wait, then who is behIND MEHEHE?! GAHAHAHAHA! NOHOHOHO!”

“Woah!” His tickler exclaimed, excitedly. “I didn't know that you of all people would be ticklish!”

“GAHAHAHAMIHIHING!?” Itto laughed, recognizing the voice. “AHAHAHAHA!”

“That's me!” He chuckled, digging between Itto's armpit and upper ribs. “You need something?”

“GEHEHE- GAHAHAHA! NO NOHOHOHO! AHAHAHA! GEHET OHOFF OF MEHEHEHE! NAHAHAHA!”

While Itto laughed and danced around goofily, Xiao laid Kazuha down on the carpeted floor and checked on him.

“Hey, are you okay?” Xiao asked.

Kazuha tiredly grinned, “Never better. Kick Itto’s ass would you?”

Xiao let out a deep chuckle, “Was planning on i-”

“Aah, oof!”

Gaming landed beside them rubbing his back.

“Ow… that was a wild ride,” he groaned, his eyes widening when he saw Itto approaching.

“Wait! Wait!” He tried to scramble to his feet. “D-dohon’t come any clohoser! AAH!”

Itto grabbed his legs and pulled him towards himself, smirking down at him as he tried to crawl away.

“Where are you going buddy?~” Itto teased, spidering his fingers under Gaming's knees.

“HEHEHEHAHAHA! NOHOHO!” Gaming shrieked, trying to kick out of Itto's grip to no avail. “IHIHITOHOHO!”

“That was a bold move you pulled on me, but it's going to take more than that to bring this Oni down!” Itto boisterously laughed.

“XIAHAHAO! HEHEHELP MEHEHEHE!” Gaming called out, laughing uncontrollably when Itto went after his hips.

Xiao, who was amused at the scene before him, decided to take pity on Gaming and went to squeeze Itto’s sides.

“Ahahaha! Xiahahao!” Itto doubled over in laughter, letting go of Gaming in favor of shielding himself and rushing to the other side of the room.

“Ushi, protect me!”

He brought Ushi out and Ushi went in between Itto and the other two. When Xiao or Gaming made a move toward Itto, Ushi was always there blocking their path.

“If I teleport or you jump over, Ushi will be after one of us and we don't know what Ushi might do to us,” Xiao pondered in thought. “And Itto is too much to handle for one of us only.”

“Hmm,” Gaming thought. “Ooh! I have an idea! Man Chai can lure Ushi away!”

“Man who?” Itto asked, confused.

Gaming didn't give a response and instead brought Man Chai out.

“Man Chai, take care of Ushi for us?”

Man Chai moved around enthusiastically before getting Ushi’s attention and flying across the room, Ushi chasing after him.

Itto panicked as his last line of defense disappeared and ran towards the door as both Gaming and Xiao came at him. Anticipating this, Gaming jumped towards the door and blocked it, making Itto skid to a stop.

“Where are you going buddy?~” Gaming teased, copying him from before.

“Ack! A-Away from you!” Itto squeaked.

“Are you sure about that?” A deep voice rumbled behind him, making goosebumps rise along his skin.

“L-Little Dude. I- WHA!”

Xiao grabbed both Itto and Gaming and teleported them next to Kazuha who was still down for the count.

“I will never get used to thaHAHAT!”

Itto barked out a laugh as he was brought down by Xiao and Gaming. Gaming raises his arms and sits on them and Xiao straddles his hips.

“How many times do I have to tell you not to call me ‘Little Dude’?” Xiao grumbled, going straight towards Itto’s ribs.

“AHAHAHA! LIHIHI- GAHAHAHA! OKAY, OKAHAHAY! XIAO! XIAHAHAO! THAHAHAT’S MYHYHY WOHOHORST SPOHOT!”

“I chose it for a reason,” a small mischievous grin made its way to Xiao’s face as he wiggled his fingers in between the ticklish bones.

“I wonder,” Gaming started. “Are your horns ticklish too, Itto?”

He was idly gliding his fingers along Itto's shoulder, but slowly moving them up towards his horns. Xiao toned down his tickling, also curious if Itto's horns were ticklish.

The Oni shook his head wildly. Whether it was to answer Gaming's question or because of the ticklish sensations running across his body, Gaming didn't wait for a verbal answer and instead went to rub them.

“Hehehey ihihi ahahaham nohohot a pehet thahat neheheheeds RUHUHUBS! AHAHAHAHA! NOHOHOHOHO! OHOHOHO GOHOHOD! GAHAHA- AHAHAHA! GAHAHAHAMIHIHING! GAHAHAHAMI- AHAHAHA!” Itto squealed. He frantically tried to free his arms to cover his face and smother the ticklish sparks but they didn't budge.

“Jackpot!” Gaming grinned, with sparkles in his eyes. Enthusiastically, he also added little scratches, nothing that would leave marks or pain.

“MPHAHAHAHAHA! AHAHAHAHAHA! IHIHIT’S BAHAHAHAD! BAHAHAHAD! AHAHA-! NO! NOHOHOHO! EHEHEHEHAHAHA! HAHAHAHA! XIAHAHAHAO! EHEHAHAHA!” Itto hid his face in his shoulder to muffle his laughs, but Xiao scritched under his chin and went after his neck causing him to sway his neck from side to side.

“You are quite the ticklish Oni,” Xiao observed. “I thought your ribs were your most ticklish spot, but it's actually your horns.”

Kazuha, who has mostly recovered, slowly crawled over towards Itto's hips, nudging Xiao’s legs for him to move. Xiao obliged, moving off to Itto's side, spidering his fingers along the Oni’s armpits.

A tired smirk crossed Kazuha's face as he put his chin on his stomach and looked at Itto.

“Itto!~” Kazuha called out over his laughter. “Revenge is sweet.”

Kazuha planted his lips right on top of his navel and blew.

“BWAHAHAHAHAHA! PLEHEHEHEASE AHAHAHAHA! NOHOHOHOHO! NAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” Itto was a goner, shaking his head and laughing hysterically. The teasing touches zapping ticklish sensations through his body.

“HEHEHEHAHAHA! WAHAHAHAHAIT WAHAHAI- AHAHAHAHA! GAHAHAHAHA! IHIHIHITS TOHOHOHOHO MUHUHUCH! GUYS! GUHUHUYS! HAHAHAHAHA!” Itto couldn't concentrate on trying to escape. His three skilled opponents were driving him crazy. Xiao scribbled his armpits, Gaming rubbed along his horns, and Kazuha blew maddening raspberries. They all turned him into a puddle of hysterical laughter.

“MERCY! MEHEHERCY! IHIHI GIHIHIVE!” The mighty Oni surrendered. “YOUHUHU GUHUHUYS WIHIHIN! AHAHAHA! PLEHEHEHEASE! NOHOHO MOHOHORE!”

They let up, satisfied smiles etched on their faces as Itto gulped in some needed air and giggled at the ghost sensations.

“So,” Gaming started. “Should we call you ‘The One and Ticklish Oni’?”

Kazuha laughed and Xiao let out a small chuckle, while Itto groaned.

“I knew you guys would say something like that.” He pouted, bringing a hand to his face.

“Though,” Itto smirked, letting his hand fall from his face, revealing mischief running through his eyes. “The fight is not over yet. One of us hasn't been tickled yet.”

He glanced over at Xiao who felt goosebumps rise along his skin and a wobbly grin taking shape on his face as he crawled backward.

“I-I need to- nohoho! Dohohon't dohoho thiHIHIHIS! GAHAHAHA!”

The tickle fight continued, all of them getting their fair share of tickles as their laughs resonated around the room.

And away from the chaos was Ushi and Man Chai just vibing together.

—

Not that Itto realized Gorou was actually the writer behind those advices, which was something Gorou would never admit to him either. After having mentioned that Gorou did look like Ms. Hina -- which sparked their meeting in the first place, Itto seemed to be more keen about bothering Gorou with the very own advices he had written.

Gorou groaned. "I'm not rushing, I am just busy.” 

“It's also not good to just be too busy all the time! You should take a break, I can join you!” Itto said, chasing after him for absolutely no reason at all.

“No! No need,” Gorou said. Still, somehow he did end up taking a break with Itto by his side, after failing to shrug him off even as he exited the city. The two of them sat on the beach near the water, and he sighed, accepting the lollipop that Itto had fetched on their way, and he tasted it. Hm. Not bad.

“Heh! Feels nice to take a break, doesn’t it?” Itto sighed. Gorou rolled his eyes.

“Just why are you following me around anyway?” he asked, enjoying the lollipop. Itto looked at him and shrugged.

“I don’t know. You’re nice company! I like you,” Itto said bluntly, causing Gorou to almost choke, and he coughed softly. 

“I see... I see,” he muttered shyly, wondering why those silly words made him feel like this. Itto chuckled and sucked on his lollipop, looking dreamily ahead of him. 

“I know you said you don’t know her, but I can’t stop thinking about Ms. Hina and the words she wrote to me. Ever since I started writing to That’s Life, and heard her words of advice and encouragement, I’ve become a better man,” he said, chomping off the final bits of his lollipop. 

Gorou wanted to groan. Why again Ms. Hina talk! This had to be his curse for fooling people like this with a false persona, a curse directed at the wrong person because this wouldn’t be happening if it wasn’t for Yae Miko!

It all started with her forcing him into this situation, where under the alias of Ms. Hina - an alias that was not even created with his approval, he would run a column for her popular magazine, in which he would offer advice and support to readers, helping them in their times of need.

How could he have known the columns would gain so much popularity, and attract so many fans? With gang leader Arataki Itto being his biggest fan? Gorou could. not. believe. it. And he was already thankful that Itto did not seem to suspect anything about his identity, but it seemed that there were other ways to be punished and tortured, such as Itto following him around and reciting every bit of advice Gorou himself had written for him. Talk about embarrassing.

“What are you frowning for? Hey, cheer up! Today is a sunny day!” Itto said, suddenly poking Gorou’s side, making him shriek like a cat whose tail got stepped on. 

“Ho! Ticklish? Heehee, Sorry. Oh but that’s good! Ms. Hina also says you should laugh out loud at least once a day! I am ticklish too, we can make each other laugh! I can go first?” Itto said, spreading his arms. Gorou was too busy being flustered though, bending forward and hugging his tail defensively.

“I’m not ticklish, and I don’t wanna lau-GHhAHhahah!” he giggled when he could feel how thick fingers started to poke his sides. 

“Oh alright then. I don’t mind if you want to go first! Laughing is healthy. Even if there’s nothing to laugh about, it’s good to let it all go,” Itto lectured, and suddenly he was all over Gorou, his fingers wiggling against his sides. Worst of all was that Gorou remembered writing all these exact same words. This really was his way of getting cursed! 

“Pfffahahah! Hehehey!” Gorou laughed, and he tried to jump away in surprise, but Itto held him tightly and pinned him down in the sand. 

“Theeeere is that laugh! This is nice. Ticklish people are made to get tickled,” Itto said matter-of-factly. 

“You’re crahahahazehehe-aahahha!” 

Gorou couldn’t remember the last time he got tickled like this, but definitely didn’t remember it could make him cackle and snort like he was doing right now. His own lollipop lay miserably to the side where he had dropped it in the sand, and he still had his arms wrapped around his middle which was his automatic reflex that did not help him at all.

“Heehehehee Ittahaha! Waha-wai-wahahait!” He kicked his legs and shook his head hysterically, and he howled when Itto started to pull at his arms, trying to uncover his tummy.

“Plehehease not thehehere!” Gorou giggled. Itto had only tickled his sides so far and he did not want to know what it was going to be like if his tummy would get the same treatment. Itto was too excited though, and he continued to try to pry Gorou’s arms away.

“Just for a little! I promise that after I’m done, you can tickle me!” It did not make things better, but Gorou’s strength failed him too as Itto finally managed to break through his barrier to tickle his stomach. The ticklishness he felt was absolutely insane, and truly he couldn’t remember ever laughing this loud.

“AHahah! Hahahang on nahahaah! Wahahah!” His hands desperately chased after Itto’s fingers, but the ticklish shocks surged through his body and in the end all he could do was laugh. 

“Whew! That was so cute,” Itto said when he finally lifted his wiggly fingers off Gorou’s shuddering body. Gasping for breath, Gorou clutched his chest and couldn’t help but still giggle.

“Y-you’re ー uneblievable,” he panted.

Itto took it as a compliment and said, “I know right? Feels good right? You know, you actually have Ms. Hina to thank for this. She is right. It’s good to laugh everyday, so even if nothing funny is happening, it can be done through tickling. We are blessed to be ticklish, it is a like a gift from the Archons,” Itto said. Gorou blushed and clutched his chest tighter, trying to calm down his racing heart. 

“Well? Are you not going to tickle me?” Itto said, spreading his arms. Gorou blushed. How was he supposed to...? All his eyes could focus on was that bare skin he was too shy to touch. 

“I surely can’t tickle myself,” Itto said impatiently. Gorou knew that. He shyly reached out and started to poke Itto’s lower side.

“Heehee!” That was fast. Gorou hesitated and looked at Itto who was smiling like an idiot.

“Do it again,” Itto encouraged. Gorou rolled his eyes and started to tickle him with more determination. It was hilarious how Itto flopped back, laughing like a child. 

“That tihihihickleeees!” It felt as if he was exaggerating, but the moment Gorou started to feel less shy and actually dared to climb on top of him so he could attack him with fierce tickles as a payback for all that nonsense, it sounded absolutely genuine. Itto was indeed very ticklish.

“Hahahahaha! Ohohoho feheheels gohoood to lahahaugh!” Fortunately no one was out fishing today or hanging around at the same place, because it must’ve been the strangest sight.

“Yeah? Ready to give up yet?” Gorou asked, wishing to tickle Itto at least until he would surrender, but seemed like this ridiculous oni had no such plans. He shook his head and laughed freely.

 “Keeeheheeep goiihihing!” he laughed. Gorou couldn’t believe it when in the end, he was the first one to stop the tickle attack, he was too flustered to continue. Luckily Itto didn’t persuade him to tickle him further, and he rolled onto his side and watched him with a smile.

“Thank you, Ms. Hina,” he sighed with a smile. Gorou blushed and gasped. “Wha?!” he yelped. 

Itto shook his head. “I was just feeling thankful towards Ms. Hina. Thanks to her advice, I got to have this tickle fight with you. Who would’ve thought? It’s crazy,” Itto said dreamily. 

It was indeed crazy, Gorou thought.

“So, tomorrow again?” Itto suggested. Gorou frowned, but Itto continued: “Like Ms. Hina said, laughter is good for you at least once a day. I think this is my favorite way to laugh. Just a good old tickle fight, and I can do it to you as well,” Itto said, poking Gorou’s side and making him squeak.

“J-just... no! Ms. Hina is wrong,” Gorou protested with a blush on his face, but this earned him to have a vengeful oni pounce on him.

“Whaaat did you say?!” Itto roared as he started tickling Gorou again. 

“NAhaahah I sahahaid she’s wrohohong! GAahahah!” And thus continued Gorou’s apparent mission to dig his own grave. 

Then again, something inside him told him he didn’t mind that much to spend so much time with Itto, and now that he seemed to have this new mission to include lots of laughter in their meetings, he couldn’t help but feel warm and fuzzy.