Takemichi always feels like trouble is coming his way after becoming the leader of Black Dragon. His danger radar keeps warning him. Takemichi feels like someone is watching him.

After a meeting with Black Dragon, when Takemichi returns home, he is suddenly attacked in the dark. A strong punch lands squarely on his face, causing it to swell immediately, and he falls backward.

"You filthy sewer rat leading Black Dragon... feeling pretty pleased with yourself, huh?"

A man with long pink hair, a black mask covering his face, piercing blue eyes, and strikingly long eyelashes stands before him.

"Sanzu... kun?"

Takemichi's eyes widen in shock. This guy - he really didn't want to run into this guy. His impression of Sanzu is terrible. This guy would later join Muchou and side with Tenjiku. Why would Sanzu attack him now? Is he picking a fight?

Wait a second... what did Sanzu just call him? "Filthy sewer rat"? Takemichi's memory kicks in.

Oh, back then, he was too focused on Mikey. This guy is the same one who pointed a gun at his head in the future - a member of Bonten. What does this mean?

Before Takemichi can figure it out, Sanzu grabs him by the collar again.

"How dare a bastard like you get special treatment from Mikey? Demanding favors so blatantly - don't you know your place? Are you acting arrogant just because of Mikey? Or do you want to use that filthy gang of yours to betray him? You filthy bastard, I couldn't stand you from the first time I saw you!"

A stream of hateful words pours out. Takemichi doesn't remember Sanzu talking this much in the past, but combining these words with his future experience, he realizes Sanzu has absolute loyalty - almost worship - for Mikey. So siding with Muchou and Tenjiku... was it all an act?

Takemichi frowns but doesn't have time to respond. Sanzu glares at him as if they were enemies from a previous life and raises his fist again.

Suddenly, a shadow appears behind Sanzu. The sound of metal hitting flesh echoes as Inupee strikes Sanzu with a pipe. Sanzu collapses onto Takemichi.

"Hanagaki, you okay?"

Never mind why Inupee is here. Takemichi thought Inupee only walked him partway home, but this is too close to his house.

Well, whatever. Thankfully, Inupee always shows up with timely sneak attacks, and this time, Takemichi likes it the most. Giving a thumbs-up, he praises Inupee.

Seeing this, the murderous look in Inupee's eyes vanishes, replaced by a cheerful expression.

"Not dead or injured badly, right, Inupee-kun?" Takemichi glances at the unconscious Sanzu lying on top of him, feeling a bit of sympathy.

Buddy, I just took a hit like that myself. Compared to mine, that sound felt much lighter.

"Don't worry, Hanagaki. He's just unconscious and might have a slight headache later."

Well, just a slight headache.

"So, what should we do with this guy now, Hanagaki? Should we take him to Touman or Black Dragon? If it's Black Dragon, I'd like to handle it myself."

Inupee's eyes glint dangerously as he tightens his grip on the pipe. He had gone easy earlier since Sanzu was wearing Touman's uniform, and he knew Takemichi didn't like Touman members getting hurt. But seeing the swelling on Takemichi's face makes him reconsider. He thinks: if I can take him out, I should. No one messes with my leader's face.

Takemichi, seeing Inupee's expression, feels bad for Sanzu.

"No, don't take him anywhere," Takemichi mutters, new ideas forming in his head about what to do with Sanzu.

Pain radiates from the back of Sanzu's neck as he frowns and opens his eyes. Once he fully regains consciousness, a scent - both familiar and infuriating - fills his nose, even stronger than usual.

Damn it, where's my mask? Sanzu hates this smell.

He realizes his hands and feet are tied, and he's lying on the warm bed in Takemichi's room. Sanzu's usually calm face twists in frustration.

The sound of a door opening and a cheerful voice makes his mood worse.

"Sorry, Inupee-kun. First time you come to my house, and I only offer you instant noodles. My parents are out, so I was just planning to eat this tonight."

"It's fine, Hanagaki. I'm okay with this. But you should eat more nutritious food. I'll tell Koko to send over some good dishes, okay?"

Takemichi enters his room and immediately notices Sanzu struggling, glaring at him with hatred.

"Oh, you're awake!" Takemichi exclaims happily.

Inupee, who had been smiling moments ago, instantly changes his expression to one of disgust as he looks at Sanzu.

The sound of slurping noodles fills the room as Takemichi and Inupee enjoy their meal, while Sanzu lies on the bed, visibly annoyed, glaring at the two of them eating.

"Let me go, you jerks," Sanzu growls.

Inupee remains indifferent, ignoring him completely, while Takemichi looks at him with his wide, 'innocent' eyes.

"I don't want to get punched by you, Sanzu-kun. Sit still and cool your head. I need to talk to you later," Takemichi says.

"Do whatever the hell you want, idiot. This is annoying," Sanzu snaps back.

Sanzu rarely lets his anger show so openly. He considers himself a composed person - except when it comes to matters involving his king. That's exactly why he came here to vent his frustration on the sewer rat in front of him. But now, that rat is making him even angrier.

The slurping noises continue. Takemichi finishes the broth with satisfaction, easing his hunger, while Inupee quietly observes him. Occasionally, Inupee glances around Takemichi's room.

The room, for a boy, is surprisingly tidy. On the wall, two paintings stand out: one of a serene beach with a clear blue sky, exuding a sense of peace. Inupee likes that painting because it reminds him of Takemichi's eye color. The other depicts a dreamy field of flowers. The room also carries a pleasant scent, similar to Takemichi's own smell.

"Inupee, can you take these two noodle cups to the kitchen? You can grab some fruit from the fridge. Wait for me downstairs, okay?" Takemichi says as he finishes eating.

Inupee understands the hint - Takemichi wants him to leave for a while. Without complaining, though still irritated by the person lying on Takemichi's bed, Inupee heads out, and the sound of the door closing echoes in the room.

Takemichi then turns to Sanzu.

"Alright, Sanzu-kun. I think we need to have a talk," he says.

"Not happening. Let me go before I kill you," Sanzu growls, his hostility palpable.

This guy must really hate me, Takemichi thinks, sighing internally. Based on Sanzu's earlier words, his anger might stem from jealousy over how Mikey treats Takemichi so specially.

"Sanzu-kun, what kind of king do you want to serve? Or rather, what kind of Mikey do you want to follow?" Takemichi suddenly asks.

The question catches Sanzu off guard for a moment, but he quickly frowns, refusing to answer.

"If you don't answer, I'm more than happy to let you stay at my house for the night."

A clicking sound of annoyance escapes Sanzu. "Mikey is the only king in my heart. No matter what Mikey becomes, I will serve him."

Hmph. Sanzu really is a completely loyal dog. This is the difference between the loyalty of a subordinate and that of a friend. People in Toman, like Baji or Draken, would tell Mikey when he's wrong and guide him back to the right path. But Sanzu? He obeys orders without caring about right or wrong. If he remains the madman who believes his actions are righteous and beneficial for Mikey, then it's no wonder Mikey falls into the depths of his dark self in the future.

Though Draken and Baji, two of Mikey's guiding lights, are safe now, Sanzu's presence cannot be underestimated. Yet, Sanzu somehow stirs an anger within Takemichi - anger at both himself and Sanzu.

Mikey has borne the weight of protecting everyone's future all alone because of the promise he made to Takemichi. Carrying that burden, surrounded by "subordinates" instead of "friends," who could Mikey share it with? When his mind eventually breaks and he chooses to end his own life, there will be no one to hear his silent cries for help.

Takemichi suddenly pushes him down and punches Sanzu. First, there's a feeling of shock, followed by a burning sensation all over, as if the veins on his forehead are about to burst.

"You bastard, damn it," Sanzu growls. This gutter rat dared to hit him.

"Wrong answer."

For the first time, Sanzu hears Takemichi's voice as cold as ice, but his eyes burn like a raging fire.

"It's not 'no matter what'. It must be a king who belongs to the light, a valiant, strong king who gives his all for his friends, a king who creates a kingdom to protect others, and a king who finds happiness."

"What the hell are you talking about? Get off me."

Takemichi leans closer to Sanzu.

"Sanzu-kun, remember the image of Mikey-kun now and carve it into your mind. This is the king you need to serve. If one day your king falls into darkness, you must bring him back. Blindly following him no matter what will only lead to losing him sooner or later. By then, even dying with him won't be enough."

The words are distant and strange, but Sanzu feels an overwhelming wave of emotions - anger, sorrow, and sincere affection. Even though he despises Takemichi and doesn't want to listen, the blue eyes staring at him as if to devour him make it impossible to ignore the words. Yet, he refuses to respond.

Seeing this, Takemichi lets out a deep sigh. Still pinning Sanzu beneath him, he leans closer, holding Sanzu's face as he tries to turn away to avoid his gaze.

Sanzu bites his lip so hard it's almost bleeding, his face contorted as if he's enduring torture.

"I need your help, Sanzu-kun. This is about Mikey-kun."

Hearing Mikey's name, Sanzu's face relaxes slightly.

"What do you mean?"

Takemichi releases Sanzu's face and sits upright.

"The captain of the Fifth Division, Mucho, will betray Mikey-kun and Touman. Kurokawa Izana is Mucho's true king. Soon, Mucho will return to his king. Oh, I bet you're wondering how you've been under Mucho's command for so long without knowing this, right? The Fifth Division, tasked with secretly investigating traitors in Touman, ends up betraying Touman itself."

Sanzu stays silent, his face showing disbelief. After a while, he finally speaks.

"Why should I trust you? If we're talking about traitors, you're the most suspicious one."

"You're so stubborn," Takemichi sighs in frustration, getting off Sanzu. Only then does Sanzu's face soften, the anguish lessening.

"Sanzu-kun, you'll find out soon enough. When that happens, don't regret it. I want to work with you to protect Mikey-kun more effectively. I already have my own plans."

Takemichi's confident expression strikes Sanzu as almost arrogant, a look he has never seen Takemichi show to anyone in Touman. This makes Sanzu hesitate over Takemichi's words. For the sake of his king, Sanzu considers his options.

Takemichi waits patiently for Sanzu's response. After a long silence, Sanzu finally speaks, "I need to know more."

Takemichi explains to Sanzu that Izana's plan is to create Tenjiku, gradually destroy Touman, and target Mikey with the intent of making him suffer.

"If Izana succeeds, believe me, neither you, I, nor anyone in Touman will survive to stay by Mikey-kun's side."

Sanzu's face, which had just relaxed slightly, now turns extremely grim. His eyes flash with intense anger. Takemichi worries that this maniac might lose control and try to kill Izana, which is definitely not the point of his explanation.

"But Izana is also Mikey-kun's family. If you're loyal to Mikey-kun, you know how much he loves his family. Don't even think about killing Izana."

Sanzu's voice carries his displeasure and anger. "Then what do you want me to do? Let him do whatever he wants to Mikey?"

"This is Mikey's family matter. Mikey will find a way to bring his brother back. What I want is to ensure Touman's safety before the battle and make sure Mikey suffers no emotional harm. Izana isn't planning to form an ordinary gang; he wants to create a criminal organization. Only Mikey can stop a dangerous group like that."

Sanzu's face still holds onto its angry expression. "The leader will obviously defeat them all. The leader is invincible." Takemichi sighs inwardly - classic Mikey fanboy.

"So, your plan is to have me join the gang Izana forms with Mucho and act as a spy for you?"

"Exactly! You catch on fast. I need you to report Tenjiku's plans targeting Touman."

"Fine!" Sanzu agrees at lightning speed.

Takemichi's face lights up with delight.

"Great! You're not as bad as I thought. Haha."

Faced with Takemichi's bright, cheerful smile, Sanzu's expression quickly becomes irritated, and his tone grows harsh.

"Let me go, you filthy sewer rat. How long do you plan to keep me tied up?"

"As long as you don't try to attack me."

"Hurry up before I kill you."

Takemichi unties Sanzu while muttering, "Oh yeah, like you could kill me. Every word out of your mouth is about killing."

As soon as he's untied, Sanzu leaps off Takemichi's bed, stretching his limbs. He's disgusted by the lingering smell of Takemichi all over him. Seeing Takemichi's cheerful face makes Sanzu want to punch him, but Takemichi's danger radar seems to kick in, and he raises his hands defensively.

"Bro, can you stop trying to hit me? We just became allies."

"Shut up! I'm not your ally. I'm doing this for the leader."

"Well, I'm doing it for him too. Same goal."

Sanzu narrows his eyes at Takemichi before speaking again.

"You became the leader of Black Dragons for this? You're using Black Dragons to protect Touman?"

Takemichi answers naturally, "There are many reasons, but that's the main one."

"Hard to believe."

Though Sanzu is genuinely surprised by Takemichi, he refuses to admit it or show it. However, his gaze toward Takemichi has subtly changed.

Takemichi smiles gently, his expression filled with warm affection as he envisions a bright future for everyone. The blue in his eyes seems to shine even brighter with rays of hope, but it also carries a distant feeling - too far to grasp. His gaze shifts once again to Sanzu, enveloping him entirely.

"Mikey is your king, but he's also my hero. I'll do everything for Mikey and Touman."

For some reason, Takemichi's eyes and voice make Sanzu feel uneasy and annoyed.

With a sharp smack to Takemichi's head, Sanzu snaps, "Don't give me that look! Talking big - can you even do anything? You're the most useless guy I've ever met."

"And you're the most annoying guy I've ever met!"

Takemichi winces, holding his head. He didn't expect to get hit so suddenly.

"Anyway, why do you know so much about Mikey and that Izana guy? It's like you already know everything. Are you a spy from their side?"

"Can you stop doubting me for no reason? It doesn't matter why I know. Just focus on caring about Mikey."

Sanzu still frowns in displeasure, his eyes clearly saying, "I don't trust you."

Takemichi decides to leave it at that. He figures Sanzu will understand eventually and doesn't bother explaining further.

"Phone." Takemichi holds out his hand in front of Sanzu.

"What?"

"Your phone number. How else are we supposed to stay in touch?"

"I don't want to."

"Stop being stubborn. Hand it over."

After some arguing, Takemichi finally gets Sanzu's phone.

"Here, call me so I can save your number."

Unwillingly, Sanzu complies. He glances over and sees that Takemichi has saved his contact as "Annoying Guy." With a huff, Sanzu retaliates by saving Takemichi's number as "Sewer Rat."

Suddenly, the sound of Sanzu's growling stomach breaks the silence in the room.

"Muhahaha!"

Takemichi bursts into laughter. This moment is priceless. This guy always acts so calm, cold, and cool - way too cool for Takemichi's liking. He's still bitter about the time Sanzu and Mucho kidnapped him from his house and beat him up pretty badly. But now? Humiliated, huh? Takemichi silently vows to remember this moment forever. Meanwhile, Sanzu's face turns crimson as he grabs Takemichi by the collar.

"Shut up before I kill you."

His fist is already in the air, ready to strike.

"Sorry, sorry!" Takemichi shields his face, tears forming in the corners of his eyes from laughing so hard.

"Alright, my bad. It's your fault for messing with me, so I caught you, which made you miss dinner, right? How about some instant noodles? That's all I have."

"Damn it! I'm not eating the garbage food from your disgusting house."

But after 15 minutes, Sanzu sits in Takemichi's kitchen, slurping noodles while Inupee, sitting across from him, looks very annoyed but tries to stay calm. Next to them, Takemichi grins widely.

"Here's your mask." Takemichi slides it across the table to Sanzu mid-bite.

Sanzu snatches it rudely, making Takemichi click his tongue. But he doesn't take offense and continues watching Sanzu eat with his chin propped on his hand.

Feeling Takemichi's eyes on him, Sanzu frowns and snaps, "What the hell are you staring at?"

"Your face is really handsome, Sanzu-kun. Especially your eyes and eyelashes - they're so long. Even those scars at the corners of your mouth are unique. With a face that good, why do you always wear a mask? Not that you don't look good with it, but still. It's so unfair that people I dislike always have such good looks."

Takemichi speaks earnestly, his tone innocent. He genuinely feels it's unfair that everyone around him, from his friends to people he dislikes, looks so attractive while he's just average.

Sanzu freezes, unable to swallow his noodles. His whole body stiffens with anger - or maybe something else. His face flushes, though it's unclear if it's from rage or embarrassment.

"Shut up!"

It takes him a moment to growl out the words, his eyes blazing as if he wants to devour Takemichi whole. Seeing this, Takemichi raises his hands defensively, half-expecting Sanzu to throw the bowl of noodles at him.

Suddenly, Takemichi feels his wrist being gripped tightly. When he turns, he sees Inupee with a slightly pouty face, his eyes sparkling with an almost puppy-like anticipation. His lips are pressed tightly together, and he looks oddly... upset. Takemichi is stunned for a moment. Could it be that Inupee wants a compliment?

"Inupee-kun, you're also super handsome! I really like your face. Both of you have really beautiful features."

"Hanagaki, to me, you're very beautiful too," Inupee says.

Takemichi bursts out laughing. Being praised like that is a bit embarrassing, but Inupee is really kind. Takemichi seems to think it is just a polite compliment and does not notice the affectionate look Inupee gives him.

A loud scraping sound suddenly breaks the moment as Sanzu shoves his chair back. Having finished his noodles, he stands up and glares at both of them with an expression full of disdain.

Meanwhile, Inupee glances back at Sanzu with a smug look, even giving him a slight smirk. Takemichi, too focused on Sanzu, doesn't catch the way his usually well-behaved Inupee is intentionally provoking the other man.

Sanzu storms out of the house in one swift motion. When he closes the door, he slams it with so much force that it makes a loud bang, causing Takemichi to jump. For a moment, he's genuinely worried the door might break.

"What's with that crazy guy?" Takemichi mutters, pouting as he stares at the shaking door.