"Fortune" is a force of nature, like lightning or gravitation, which brings about "perfect happiness." The "Fortune" he summoned could only grant a singular wish - removing his heart; but not completely, just hiding it away. You were right, Odaskau, to just have it hidden is just to be awaiting its return...

[ Dazai nods, certain of this. It must be correct, as the story itself promises that no living being can exist without a heart.

But that does not define what the sage was looking for. It does not speak of the Fortune that he wished for. Nor should it. It's a fairy tale with a simple moral. No one ought to look that deeply into it, and no one does, and Dazai does not either - rather, he searches for something in speaking of it, something that which cannot be found, ]

The age despaired after despairing at the state of the world, and after losing his father... He was just in a state of a despair...

[ Despair of a world that showed him only beggars, widowers, and orphans. Despair of a world that only left him digging his father's grave. Does that touch him? Does it matter? There's not a single thing that hints at is, for Dazai remains with his hand held up to his chin, thoughtful.

Then, suddenly, his shoulders shake and he covers his mouth to stifle a laugh, ]

Yes... I understand. I know what "Fortune" is...

[ A single glance at Odasaku, that slight opportunity to offer his opinion, though Dazai is ever happy enough to go on without. ]