Douseiai
(Love of the Mates)

In modern life, cities, not country side, is the source of our myth and miracles. We are forever fascinated by the seemingly unorchestrated combination of daily routine and random chance, the entanglement of lives and fortunes, the effect a single chance encounter on a street corner could have on so many different people. Friendship and relationships are formed over a bowl of noodle, and you never know if the next person you run into can change the course of your life. In Tokyo, therefor, we meet five boys, newly come into their adulthood, and watch their life unfold. 

Chibaki could never escape the feeling of inadequacy he had since childhood. His parents both wanted a girl, and were sorely disappointed when they had a boy. In high school he finally seem to have found a friend in Kaora, another boy who shared his experience. But when he was moved to an impromptu declaration of love, he was rejected by Kaora, leaving him confused and heartbroken. Turning to his teacher for comfort, he found himself sinking deeper and deeper into a relationship that is at once repulsive and necessary to him. When their relationship was revealed to his parents after they broke up, Chibaki left for Tokyo, escaping from his feelings once more. 

Koutaro was the perfect student, and perfect son, and the perfect brother. But Koutaro admitted to himself that he did it all for his older brother, who was both father and friend ot him. But when his brother brought home a wife, Koutaro's world fell apart. He sought comfort in sex, refusing to allow anyone to come close to his heart. 

Kaoro - Outgoing and charming, he was once Chibaki's best friend. he did not realize how much he had hurt Chibaki by his rejections. Now they have met again in Tokyo, dare he reach out again? 

Chisato - Young, full of enthusiasm and energy, he is set on winning Koutaro's well-protected heart, and if there is anyone who could, Chisato could. But before that, he has to learn that youth and enthuasim is not a guarantee of success. 

Douseiai is a beautiful coming of age story that manages to capture the heartbreak and the joy of these years.