Chapter 61 - 329 to 348

Hearing the voice behind him, Hayashida Megumi's tall frame suddenly stiffened, and he stopped in his tracks.

Although he had only heard this man's voice a few times, it was etched into his memory.

After all, this was the only man who had ever defeated him fair and square—Ryuzaki Shin.

How could he possibly forget that voice?

All this time, Hayashida Megumi had been like a janitor monk in Suzuran, detached from everything.

He looked down on the so-called strong individuals in the school, watching them fight tooth and nail for a "summit," his heart filled with disdain.

At his core, Hayashida Megumi was extremely arrogant.

He looked down on these Suzuran crows who spent their days brawling.

Precisely because of this, his feelings towards Ryuzaki Shin, who had once defeated him head-on, were complex.

Hayashida Megumi's steps only paused briefly; he didn't turn around, but continued to walk forward.

He was unaccustomed to, even repulsed by, such an enthusiastic way of addressing friends.

Ryuzaki Shin's familiar words made him feel an inexplicable discomfort.

Ryuzaki Shin watched Hayashida Megumi's retreating back and didn't get angry; he had long understood this big guy's reclusive temperament.

However, he still leaned against his harley, and called out lazily to that solitary figure.

"Hey, big guy, if you take another step forward, I'm going to beat you up…"

…Night deepened, and moonlight, like water, spilled onto the empty sports field.

Ryuzaki Shin and Hayashida Megumi sat on the ground, a bottle of shochu and two cups placed between them.

"Ah, this liquor is so damn spicy!"

Ryuzaki Shin tilted his head back and took a big gulp of shochu; the spicy liquid burned all the way down his throat to his stomach, making him grimace and let out a sigh of satisfaction.

Hayashida Megumi silently glanced at him, then also quietly raised his cup, and as if in a fit of pique, fiercely downed the liquor in it.

However, his current state looked a bit rough.

His right eye socket was distinctly bruised purple, and a faint trace of blood still clung to his prominent nose bridge, clearly indicating he had just gone through a "friendly spar."

Hmph, I'm not sitting here drinking with him because this man beat me up.

He thought to himself.

After all, since he brought the liquor, it would be too pathetic to let him drink alone here.

Yes, that's it.

Damn it!

This man… how did he get stronger again!

It's infuriating!

Hayashida Megumi was a proud person at heart, and being defeated twice by the same person, not to mention this time he hadn't even touched a corner of the opponent's clothing from beginning to end, made the frustration in his heart almost overflow.

He poured himself another full cup of liquor and then gulped it down again, seemingly trying to numb his bruised ego with alcohol.

Ryuzaki Shin looked at Hayashida Megumi's sullen expression, knowing clearly that this kid's ego was probably hurt.

Although Hayashida Megumi looked tall and big, like an adult, he wasn't necessarily that mature, after all, he was still just a student.

Thinking of this, Ryuzaki Shin suddenly slapped his forehead.

"Oh! That's right! Look at my brain!"

Hayashida Megumi looked on in confusion as Ryuzaki Shin suddenly stood up, walked to his harley, rummaged through the bag on the back seat, and then returned with two large plastic bags.

Ryuzaki Shin placed the two bags on the ground and opened them, and a rich aroma of meat instantly filled the air.

It was sizzling yakitori skewers and fragrant braised pig trotters.

Ryuzaki Shin sat back down and pushed the food towards Hayashida Megumi.

"How can you just drink without eating meat? On my way here, I bought two packs of cooked food. Come on, eat meat heartily and drink heartily!"

After saying that, he tore open a pack of disposable gloves and tossed them to Hayashida Megumi.

Hayashida Megumi silently looked at the alluringly fragrant food in front of him, and after a while, he mumbled.

"I'm not eating."

As soon as he finished speaking.

"Grumble… grumble grumble…"

A clear and unmistakable gurgling sound came from his stomach, exceptionally loud in the quiet night.

Ryuzaki Shin glanced at Hayashida Megumi's flushed face, just smiled, and said nothing… Hayashida Megumi hastily wiped the grease from the corners of his mouth with a tissue, let out a satisfied sigh, and then finished the last sip of shochu in his glass.

By this time, the alcohol had kicked in, and two flushes appeared on his cheeks, and his inhibitions seemed to have loosened a bit more than usual.

"Ryuzaki Shin, I'm not interested in your True Dragon Society, whatever it is, and I don't like getting involved with social groups. If you came here today to talk to me about that, I'm afraid you'll be disappointed."

Ryuzaki Shin also put down his glass, looked at him, and shook his head.

"You're overthinking it. Don't I know your temperament? I just… opened a boxing gym, and I'm short-staffed right now. I wanted to ask if you have time to come be a coach."

Coach?

Hayashida Megumi's eyes visibly shifted.

For him, boxing was the only thing he loved and was good at.

However, he still shook his head warily.

"I told you, I don't want to be involved with any social organizations. If you want me to teach your True Dragon Society members how to box, then forget it."

Clearly, his first thought was, of course, that Ryuzaki Shin wanted him to train members of the True Dragon Society.

Ryuzaki Shin heard this and chuckled.

"Big guy, you're thinking too much. My boxing gym is full of kids, no True Dragon Society members. You should also know that I'm not short on money right now, and the compensation will definitely satisfy you."

He could tell that Hayashida Megumi had already been swayed when he heard about the job of "boxing coach."

This tactic of "catering to his preferences" had actually been set in motion long before he planned to come find Hayashida Megumi.

That was, he had rented a storefront around Nameless Street and opened a boxing gym.

This boxing gym was not for profit; in fact, it could be called a public welfare organization.

The public announcement stated that it would select some talented young prospects from the homeless children of Nameless Street and train them to become future professional boxers.

Children who came to the gym for training would receive three meals a day and an additional living allowance each month.

During this time, he had paid a little attention and noticed that many children from Nameless Street had already signed up.

He did these things, first, to build a good reputation for himself when he stepped into the public eye in the future.

And the most important point was to win over Hayashida Megumi.

In his opinion, Hayashida Megumi was also a legendary figure.

As he was about to face greater pressure, this was a powerful ally that he absolutely had to win over.

Everyone has their weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

And establishing this boxing gym was his way of "catering to Hayashida Megumi's preferences."

After all, after Hayashida Megumi graduated and traveled around Sakura, he became a professional boxer.

Hayashida Megumi's essence was that of a kind person.

Once he accepted this job, a bond would inevitably form between him and the poor children of Nameless Street.

Once a person has concerns and bonds, everything changes.

Nameless Street was a chaotic place, full of mixed elements.

He estimated that the Iemura-kai would soon make a comeback, and by then, Nameless Street would inevitably become a hotbed of trouble.

At that time, Hayashida Megumi, because of his connection with the children, would definitely no longer choose to remain aloof.

So, the bonds between people are both a blessing and a poison.

Some things are best left unsaid.

Just then, Ryuzaki Shin's phone rang.

In Hayashida Megumi's eyes, the moment Ryuzaki Shin answered the phone, the lazy and casual expression on his face vanished, replaced by a tenderness he had never seen before.

"Asuka… Hmm, I'll be back tonight."

"Mm-hmm, I didn't eat too much. Could you make me some soup?"

"Got it, I'll be careful. See you in a bit."

After Ryuzaki Shin hung up the phone, he stood up and stretched.

He walked over to Hayashida Megumi and patted him on the shoulder.

"Big guy, humans are social animals after all; you can't go far alone."

Ryuzaki Shin pulled out a beautifully made card from his pocket and slipped it into Hayashida Megumi's hand.

"This is the address of the boxing gym. The kids officially start classes tomorrow, so make sure to come."

With that, Ryuzaki Shin said no more, turned, and straddled his brand-new harley motorcycle, roaring away with a burst of engine noise.

Hayashida Megumi stood there in a daze for a long time before slowly pulling the card from his hand.

The card was black, with several lines of text printed in gold foil.

Hayashida Megumi read it word by word.

"Nameless Street, True Dragon Boxing Gym."

At the bottom of the card, there was another line of smaller text.

"Head Coach: Hayashida Megumi…"

After seeing his name, Hayashida Megumi took a deep breath, then slowly exhaled.

He stood up, bent down, and silently started cleaning up the empty liquor bottles and trash on the ground.

"Ryuzaki Shin… he really has no public etiquette."

He muttered to himself as he cleaned.

"Someone like him… he's definitely going to lead those kids astray, isn't he…"

Night, Matsukazetai.

With a deep, rhythmic rumble of an engine, Ryuzaki Shin returned to the villa area on his harley.

After parking his vehicle in its designated spot, he pushed open the heavy, carved wooden door and stepped inside.

The living room was brightly lit. Nanako was curled up on the large leather sofa, dressed in casual loungewear.

Her white short-sleeved T-shirt outlined the youthful, beautiful curves of the young girl, while her denim shorts fully exposed her long, fair legs to the air, her skin gleaming enticingly under the lights.

Ryuzaki Shin changed into his slippers in the entryway and walked in.

A faint sound came from the kitchen, as if Asuka had heard the commotion. A slender figure in an apron peeked out from the kitchen and, upon seeing Ryuzaki Shin, immediately broke into a gentle smile.

"Shin, you're back! Wait a moment, the soup will be ready soon."

Ryuzaki Shin looked at her busy figure, his heart warmed, and he said with a smile, "Asuka, you've worked hard. I'm sorry to make you worry about me so late."

Upon hearing this, Asuka's pretty face flushed slightly, and she said a little shyly, "Oh, Shin, you're saying that again. It's no trouble at all for me to do these things for you."

With that, she retreated back into the kitchen to continue her work.

Ryuzaki Shin walked over to the sofa and, without ceremony, plopped down right next to Nanako, his gaze casually flicking to the TV screen.

Sure enough, it was another one of those melodramatic romance dramas with idiotic dialogue.

Before Ryuzaki Shin could even complain, Nanako, beside him, reacted like a startled cat. Her first instinct was to clutch the remote control tightly to her chest, then glare at Ryuzaki Shin with a wary expression, afraid he would try to change the channel.

Ryuzaki Shin was a bit speechless.

"Why are you so tense? Don't worry, I'm not watching the news today."

Nanako eyed Ryuzaki Shin suspiciously, scanning him up and down. Only after confirming he wasn't lying did she relax her guard slightly.

But then, she did something that Ryuzaki Shin hadn't expected.

She suddenly leaned closer, her small nose sniffing left and right on Ryuzaki Shin's body, like a little puppy inspecting its territory.

Before Ryuzaki Shin could react to what this little girl was up to now, Nanako had already straightened up, nodded sagely, and spoke first.

"Hmm, very good behavior. No other woman's scent on you."

Ryuzaki Shin chuckled to himself.

Every day before he came home, he would deliberately change into clean clothes and meticulously check himself for any unwanted traces.

There was no other way; he had too much on his plate these days and didn't want any more headaches because of women.

But... this little girl, when did she start trying to discipline him?

No, he had to cure her of this habit.

Thinking this, Ryuzaki Shin deliberately let out a long sigh, a world-weary, helpless expression on his face.

"Ah, Nanako, you must understand, a promising young man like me faces far too many temptations out there."

As soon as Nanako heard this, she instantly became alert, tightening her grip on the remote control and fixing him with a sharp gaze.

"You... what do you mean?"

Ryuzaki Shin shook his head and continued in a heavy tone, "You see, when I don't come home at night, I'm usually out socializing. You know what kind of places those are—bright lights, flowing wine, a life of debauchery... Sometimes... sometimes I'm really afraid I'll get confused and make a mistake."

Nanako became anxious upon hearing this.

"Auntie loves you so much, how could you... how could you even think that! No! You can't make a mistake!"

Ryuzaki Shin secretly chuckled.

Little girl, let's see if I can't handle you.

He continued to coax her, "Actually... actually, it's quite simple to keep me from making mistakes. That is, if I can be 'satisfied' at home."

Nanako froze at his words.

Satisfied?

What did he mean by satisfied?

She asked, somewhat confused, "Satisfied with what?"

Just then, Ryuzaki Shin suddenly reached out and gently placed his hand on Nanako's smooth, delicate thigh. The warmth of his palm radiated through the thin fabric, making Nanako tremble.

"What do you think?" Ryuzaki Shin leaned close to her ear and slowly said in a low, magnetic voice, "You're grown up now, don't you understand what that means?"

Nanako felt a jolt of electricity instantly spread from her thigh throughout her body, and goosebumps rose all over her skin.

She recoiled as if burned, sharply pulling away Ryuzaki Shin's hand. Then she nervously glanced towards the kitchen, and only after confirming that Auntie hadn't come out, did she lower her voice, both shy and annoyed, and said to Ryuzaki Shin,

"You... you scoundrel! I knew you've always been after me! Could it be... could it be that Auntie, as beautiful as she is, isn't enough to satisfy you?!"

Ah? This... a flock of crows seemed to caw and fly through Ryuzaki Shin's mind.

I... I just wanted to tease you, to scare you a little!

I didn't expect... this woman actually thinks that of me?

And... and she says I'm after her?

Do I look like that kind of person?

Ryuzaki Shin looked at Nanako, who was a mix of shyness, anger, and a bit of self-imagination, and his playful mood surged. He decided to continue the act.

He withdrew his hand, leaned back on the sofa, and slowly said in a tone tinged with a bit of distress and tenderness,

"Nanako, some things... let's just say, Asuka's endurance... is a bit weak. You know, every time I'm actually not fully satisfied, but when I see her like that, I can't bear it, so I can only... sigh, I always feel bad for her... I won't be too explicit, but you should understand, right...?"

Ryuzaki Shin's words were half-truths, his tone perfectly calibrated, conveying both a man's helplessness and tenderness towards his beloved.

Upon hearing Ryuzaki Shin's words, Nanako's previously angry face flushed crimson in an instant.

She uncontrollably recalled some of the sounds she had vaguely overheard when she eavesdropped at night before... Auntie seemed to... sometimes indeed cry out things like "No more... yamete..."

Could it be... could it be that Auntie really wasn't good in that aspect?

Oh dear, what should she do?

If this man really went astray because he wasn't satisfied by Auntie, then Auntie would be too pitiful... Could it be... could it be that she really had to... help Auntie share the burden?

But... oh no, how could that be!

She knew this man had always had ill intentions towards her!

But... but she seemed to have been touched all over by him before... except for the final step, everything that should... and shouldn't be done, seemed to have been done... Oh dear, oh dear!

What should she do!

Ryuzaki Shin watched Nanako sitting there, sometimes biting her lip, sometimes tugging at her clothes, her small face filled with struggle, shyness, and internal conflict, and his heart suddenly jumped.

Holy moly!

She... she wouldn't actually be seriously considering it, would she?!

This joke has gone too far!

Ryuzaki Shin was about to speak, to tell her that he was just joking and teasing her.

Just then, the kitchen door opened, and Asuka came out carrying a steaming pot of soup, calling out to Ryuzaki Shin as she walked,

"Shin, stop bothering Nanako, come and drink your soup. It won't taste good if it gets cold."

Hearing Asuka's voice, Nanako, who was caught in an internal struggle, sprang up from the sofa like a cat whose tail had been stepped on. She ran up to the second floor without looking back, burst into her room, and then slammed the door shut with a "bang."

Ryuzaki Shin watched her fleeing back and was utterly speechless.

This... the misunderstanding hasn't even been cleared up, and she ran away?

Oh well, oh well. Looking at her, there's no way to explain tonight.

Sigh, he'll just have to find some time to talk to her properly.

Ryuzaki Shin shook his head, stood up from the sofa, and walked towards the dining table.

Just as Asuka had set down the soup pot and was about to get bowls and chopsticks, Ryuzaki Shin suddenly reached out his arms from behind her. Amidst her surprised cry, he scooped her up by the waist, and then they both sat down on the stool, with Asuka settling firmly on his lap.

Ryuzaki Shin buried his head in Asuka's neck, taking a deep breath of her pleasant scent, then whispered into her ear,

"Feed me soup."

Asuka's body trembled slightly, and a captivating blush quickly spread from her earlobes to her neck.

She struggled gently but couldn't break free. She could only obediently pick up the soup spoon, ladle out a spoonful of clear, rich chicken soup, blow on it carefully until the temperature was just right, and then bring it to Ryuzaki Shin's mouth.

However, Ryuzaki Shin shook his head.

"I want you to feed me with your mouth."

Asuka's cheeks flushed even redder at his words. She lightly punched Ryuzaki Shin's chest and said coquettishly,

"...You bad boy."

Although she said that, she still obediently took the spoonful of soup into her own mouth, savoring the warm and delicious broth. Then she tilted her head slightly and met Ryuzaki Shin's lips...

Asuka spoon-fed the warm chicken soup into Ryuzaki Shin's mouth. After the last spoonful, she gently pushed Ryuzaki Shin away, preparing to get up and clear the dishes.

However, the rising temperature between them had already made the atmosphere in the entire room ambiguously intimate.

Ryuzaki Shin wasn't just drinking soup; his restless hands were already roaming her body, igniting a fire.

At this moment, Asuka felt her whole body turn as soft as water, almost losing the strength to stand up.

Her face was flushed, and she said with a slight gasp,

"A-Zhen... I... I'll go clean up first. You go back to the room and wait for me..."

Before she finished speaking, Ryuzaki Shin suddenly scooped her up into his arms.

He had already had a few drinks outside today, and he was in high spirits. How could he wait?

"We'll clean up tomorrow." Ryuzaki Shin looked down at the shy woman in his arms, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "A moment of spring night is worth a thousand pieces of gold. We can't waste it."

Asuka didn't say anything more, tacitly agreeing, only burying her head deep in Ryuzaki Shin's embrace, not daring to look into his burning eyes.

Ryuzaki Shin carried Asuka and strode upstairs, directly entering their bedroom.

After gently placing Asuka on the soft, large bed, he didn't immediately pounce on her, but stood by the bed, a meaningful, mischievous smile on his face.

"Asuka, let's play something fun today." He unbuttoned the first button of his shirt and slowly said, "You play a beautiful investigator captured by a villain, and I'll be the evil villain. How about it?"

Asuka was startled by his words. Immediately, the shyness and gentleness on her face vanished, replaced by a cold gloom.

Ryuzaki Shin was a bit confused. What was going on?

Was she unwilling?

Just as he was wondering, Asuka suddenly leaped up from the bed, pointed at Ryuzaki Shin's nose, and sternly rebuked him in a tone full of righteousness.

"Ryuzaki Shin! I warn you! You'd better let me go immediately! I'm telling you, I've been missing for over twenty-four hours, and my colleagues will definitely find this place! When they do, you won't get off easy!"

Ryuzaki Shin raised an eyebrow at this.

It really is you, Asuka!

The speed at which she got into character was too fast!

Since that's the case... Ryuzaki Shin's actor-level acting skills instantly activated!

His demeanor suddenly changed. His eyes, which had been somewhat gentle, instantly became sinister and aggressive. His entire being exuded a dangerous and evil aura.

As he slowly unbuttoned his shirt, revealing his strong, muscular chest, he steadily advanced towards Asuka on the bed.

"Investigator, I advise you to save your strength. This is my secret base, and no one knows about it. Even if you scream until your throat is hoarse, no one will come to save you..."

Asuka seemed to be frightened by the aura he emitted. Her body involuntarily recoiled, and a terrified expression appeared on her face, her voice laced with a whimper.

"Yamete... Don't come closer..."

...Nanako's room door slowly opened a crack.

A pair of beautiful eyes peeked out from the crack, darting around slyly. After confirming no one was in the hallway, she tiptoed out barefoot.

She walked step by step, slowly approaching Ryuzaki Shin and Asuka's bedroom door, then carefully pressed her ear against it.

Immediately, a suppressed, whimpering female voice intermittently came through.

"Please... let me go... I... I really don't want to anymore..."

Nanako's face suddenly changed.

Auntie really can't do it... The next day, 8 AM.

Near Nameless Street, True Dragon Boxing Gym.

Over thirty children, whose clothes were worn but clean, were chattering excitedly, surrounding a tall, pretty girl.

"La La sis, you don't have to worry. This boxing gym looks pretty legitimate; they shouldn't be bad people."

"Yes, yes, the boxing gym even gave each of us a month's subsidy in advance, a whole 30,000 yen!"

La La was especially kind to all the children on Nameless Street. She was like an angel to these street children.

After finishing her work outside, she would always bring back some food or small toys to share with these homeless children.

La La reached out and stroked the head of a small boy closest to her. Although she had a gentle smile on her face, a hint of worry was hidden in her eyes.

"Alright, alright, I know, sis. From now on, if I'm free, I'll pick you up and drop you off for classes."

La La still felt a little uneasy in her heart.

Nameless Street, due to its mixed population and diverse characters, saw a large number of missing women and children every month, most of whom were trafficked by external criminal organizations.

Although RUDE BOYS were nominally the guardians of Nameless Street, they couldn't control every corner of such a vast and chaotic area.

La La was worried that this suddenly appearing "charity boxing gym" was also a trap disguised by human traffickers.

Just then, a black sedan slowly pulled up in front of the boxing gym.

The car door opened, and a man in a sharp suit with immaculately combed hair stepped out of the car.

It was Kirisawa Jin.

He saw the group of children at the entrance and a kind smile appeared on his face.

"You must be the first group of children to come for class."

La La saw the newcomer and immediately guarded the children behind her, stepping forward to ask,

"May I ask who you are?"

Kirisawa Jin smiled and nodded at her.

"Hello, I am the person in charge of this boxing gym, Kirisawa. You must be Ms. La La, right?"

La La was startled by his words, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes.

"You... you know me?"

Kirisawa Jin, while pulling keys from his pocket, explained in a gentle tone,

"Ms. La La is beautiful and kind-hearted, and she's quite famous in this area. When we came to this region to do charity work, of course, we inquired beforehand. You don't need to overthink it; we mean no harm."

Kirisawa Jin opened the heavy door of the boxing gym, then turned sideways and greeted the children.

"Children, come on in. We've prepared brand new training uniforms for everyone inside. Please go to the changing rooms and put on your clothes first."

"After you've changed, our delicious breakfast should be arriving soon."

After speaking, he led the still somewhat reserved children into the boxing gym. La La hesitated for a moment, then followed them in.

As soon as she entered, half of La La's worries dissipated.

The entire boxing gym was very spacious, with professional anti-slip flooring.

To the left was a row of gleaming new punching bags and speed bags, and to the right was a standard boxing ring enclosed by ropes.

Various sizes of boxing gloves and protective gear hung on the walls, and jump ropes, dumbbells, and other auxiliary training equipment were stacked in the corners.

Everything exuded two words—professionalism.

Passing through the training area, there were spacious and bright changing rooms and showers behind it. Further inside, there was even a separate dining area and a lounge equipped with sofas and a television.

La La thought to herself that the investment in this boxing gym was definitely not small.

If it were for child trafficking, there would be no need for such a grand setup.

Once all the children had changed into their uniform white training outfits, a clean white food truck pulled up outside.

Several people in chef uniforms got out of the truck and pushed in several steaming food carts.

As the lids of the food carts were lifted, the rich aroma of milk, the wheaty scent of bread, and the savory smell of fried eggs and bacon instantly filled the air.

These children, who had been hungry for so long, had never smelled such enticing aromas. Each of them couldn't help but swallow, but because they had just arrived, they were still a bit uneasy, only looking at Kirisawa Jin with longing eyes.

Kirisawa Jin looked at the children's eyes and felt a surge of emotion.

He himself was an orphan as a child and could particularly understand these children's craving for food.

He smiled and said softly,

"Children, what are you waiting for? Go eat quickly; you'll need energy to train after you're full."

Hearing Kirisawa Jin's words, the children erupted in cheers, then joyfully rushed towards the food carts.

What pleased La La was that despite their excitement, the children were very polite. They didn't scramble but consciously lined up, one by one, to receive their breakfast.

The breakfast prepared on the food carts was extremely rich, including not only hot milk, juice, and toast, but also fried eggs, bacon, sausages, and various fresh fruit salads.

The children, carrying full plates, devoured their food, their mouths greasy, their faces beaming with happy smiles.

"Wow! So delicious! I've never had this sausage before!"

"The milk is hot too, so warm..."

"Will I get to eat such delicious food every day from now on?"

La La watched this scene, listening to the children's innocent conversations, and her last trace of doubt completely vanished.

She thought, how long... how long had it been since she had seen these children with such pure smiles?

Just then, Kirisawa Jin glanced at his watch, his brow slightly furrowed.

It was almost nine o'clock, but the coach they had arranged still hadn't arrived?

Just as he was considering whether to call Ryuzaki Shin to inquire, two figures, one tall and one short, appeared at the entrance of the boxing gym...

The figures appearing at the door, one tall and one short, presented a striking contrast.

The exceptionally tall man was none other than Hayashida Megumi.

Compared to him, the slightly "shorter" one was Oya High's Boss, Murayama Yoshiki, with a hint of reluctance on his face.

Murayama was very annoyed at the moment.

He hated brats the most!

They were noisy and troublesome to death.

But he couldn't help it; after all, that man was his master.

His master had told him a few days ago that something big might happen in Nameless Street recently, and he should come here to stay, which would help and also allow him to lie low.

Then, his master had also cryptically told him, "Practicing boxing is also practicing the heart."

He said that Murayama's own hostility was too strong, and in the process of teaching these children, he could temper his character and settle his impetuosity.

Murayama felt that Ryuzaki Shin's explanation had a slight hint of coaxing a child, but he couldn't help it; after all, that was his master.

No matter how absurd his master's words were, he had to listen.

As Murayama walked, he subtly glanced at the taciturn giant beside him.

This person should be the Hayashida Megumi his master spoke of.

His master said he had the combat power of a legendary figure. Was it true or false?

He looked… aside from being a bit sturdier than average, there was nothing special about him.

He needed to find an opportunity to properly test his mettle.

Seeing that the two had finally arrived, Kirisawa Jin's heart finally relaxed; thankfully, they had made it just in time and weren't late.

He quickly stepped forward to greet them.

He ignored Murayama and walked directly to Hayashida Megumi.

Murayama pouted and walked straight to the changing room, ready to change his clothes.

The two had actually met a few times in private.

After all, Kirisawa Jin was responsible for the development of shops in the streets near Oya High, so they were not strangers after a few encounters.

Since they were all on the same side, there was no need for so much formality.

Kirisawa Jin stood in front of Hayashida Megumi, with a professional smile on his face, and extended his hand, saying,

"You must be Coach Hayashi, I am the person in charge here, Kirisawa Jin."

Hayashida Megumi looked at his outstretched hand, hesitated for a moment, but still extended his hand to shake it, then gave a muffled "Hm" from his throat as a reply.

Kirisawa Jin had other things to attend to today; his presence here was just to show his face on the opening day of the boxing gym, a mere formality.

Now that the coach had arrived, he planned to convey Ryuzaki Shin's instructions and then leave quickly.

He pulled a thick envelope from the inside pocket of his suit and handed it to Hayashida Megumi.

"Coach Hayashi, this is your first month's salary. Our Boss specifically instructed that it be given to you in advance."

Upon hearing this, Hayashida Megumi waved his hands repeatedly and took a step back.

"For something like salary, it's better to give it to me after I've taught for the first month."

Kirisawa Jin, however, did not allow him to refuse, stepping forward directly and tucking the envelope into Hayashida Megumi's arms, while also handing him the keys to the gym.

"This is what our Boss instructed, Coach Hayashi, please don't make it difficult for us subordinates."

After saying this, Kirisawa Jin bowed slightly to him, then did not linger, turned around, walked straight out of the gym, got into his car, and left.

Hayashida Megumi looked down at the bulging envelope in his arms, squeezed it, felt the substantial thickness inside, and sighed helplessly.

He took the envelope and also walked into the changing room marked "Coaches Only," ready to change his clothes.

In the changing room, Murayama had already changed into a sharp black tracksuit and was leaning against a locker, watching Hayashida Megumi with a playful look in his eyes as he walked in.

Hayashida Megumi thought for a moment and decided to greet the other party proactively, as they would be working together in the future.

"You are the assistant coach, Murayama, right?"

On the business card Ryuzaki Shin gave him yesterday, the name of the assistant coach was also written as Murayama Yoshiki.

Murayama sized up the tall man from top to bottom. Aside from being indeed a bit sturdy, he really didn't seem to have any other special qualities.

He didn't even have the oppressive aura that a master should possess.

This person… is he really a legendary figure?

Murayama was just unwilling to deal with those strength-lacking, boisterous little brats.

But for the so-called "legendary figure" mentioned by Ryuzaki Shin, he still had a competitive spirit.

It was also a good opportunity to test the results of his recent training.

Thinking of this, Murayama smiled, straightened up from the locker, and slowly walked to Hayashida Megumi.

"You are the head coach, Hayashida Megumi, right?" His tone carried a hint of flippancy, "However, I think… perhaps we could consider swapping our positions?"

"How about you become the assistant coach?"

Hearing Murayama's clearly provocative words, Hayashida Megumi's action of taking off his jacket did not stop, as if he hadn't heard anything.

Murayama was not in a hurry, he just stood there with his arms crossed, watching Hayashida Megumi change his clothes with a relaxed air.

Finally, Hayashida Megumi changed into a black tracksuit, the same style as Murayama's.

He slowly turned around, his original calm expression instantly darkened at this moment, and a dangerous aura emanated from his eyes.

"Are you sure you want to swap with me?"

At this instant, Murayama felt a palpable pressure rushing towards him!

His heart tensed, but the smile on his face became even more brazen.

He wasn't someone who was easily scared!

Recently, whenever he had free time, he would go to Housen High to beat up that guy named Bito Tatsuya; he was getting bored of beating up weaklings.

Indeed, it would be much more interesting to "spar" with this tall guy in front of him!

The position of head coach, of course, could only be held by the strongest!

Murayama slowly walked to the empty area in the center of the changing room and beckoned to Hayashida Megumi.

"That's right, in this boxing gym, whoever has the hardest punch is the Boss."

"So before giving the first lesson to those little brats out there, I've decided… to give you a lesson first!"

Hayashida Megumi looked at the man in front of him, who was a head shorter but incredibly arrogant, with an unperturbed gaze.

He merely glanced at the children outside the changing room, laughing and playing in the dining area, then slowly spoke.

"Since that's the case, I'll make this quick. The children are still waiting outside."

After saying this, Hayashida Megumi wasted no more words. His tall frame sank slightly, and he raised his arms, crossing them in front of his chest, one in front of the other, adopting an incredibly standard and professional boxing defensive stance.

This man in front of him was the assistant coach Ryuzaki Shin had brought.

He still vividly remembered Ryuzaki Shin's terrifying and despair-inducing combat power.

He believed that anyone chosen by such a man and entrusted with an important task would definitely not be an unknown.

Therefore, Hayashida Megumi did not underestimate him in the slightest, despite the significant difference in their physiques.

From the very beginning, he adopted the most cautious attitude.

Murayama's smile widened when he saw Hayashida Megumi take his stance.

He also stopped wasting words, stomped his foot, and lunged forward!

Murayama's left foot was forward, his right foot back, and his body slid sideways in an extremely coordinated posture, instantly closing the distance to Hayashida Megumi.

Immediately following, a swift straight finger thrust aimed directly at Hayashida Megumi's eyes!

Jeet Kune Do, On-Guard Position!

Straight Finger Thrust!

Facing this sudden, tricky, and vicious attack, Hayashida Megumi merely tilted his head slightly, and the fingertip, capable of blinding a person, grazed past his temple.

Murayama's attack missed, but his offensive did not diminish in the slightest!

The moment the straight finger thrust missed, his left arm naturally dropped, his palm opened, transforming into a fierce downward hammer strike, smashing down towards Hayashida Megumi's collarbone!

This move was extremely fast and the angle was bizarre!

Hayashida Megumi, however, seemed to have anticipated it, and his right arm blocked upwards with incredible precision.

"Bang!"

A muffled thud was heard as Murayama's downward hammer strike was steadily parried.

However, Murayama's true killing move only revealed itself at this moment!

The instant the downward hammer strike was blocked, he used the recoil from the block to suddenly lower his body, and his right foot transformed into an incredibly sharp side kick, fiercely striking Hayashida Megumi's undefended abdomen!

Jeet Kune Do, Three-Punch Combo!

"Bang!"

This time, it was a solid, muffled thud!

Hayashida Megumi's body, like an iron tower, was kicked back a large step with a "thump, thump" before he barely managed to stabilize himself.

A burning pain shot through his abdomen.

He looked down at the spot where he was hit, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.

This guy's attacking style... it's just like Ryuzaki Shin's!

It seems he must have received personal instruction from Ryuzaki Shin.

After landing a hit, Murayama did not continue his pursuit. Instead, he took half a step back, steadied himself, and looked at Hayashida Megumi, shaking his head with a somewhat disappointed expression.

"This... this can't be your full strength, can it? If it's only this much, it's quite disappointing."

Hearing this, Hayashida Megumi slowly twisted his neck, making crisp "crack, crack" sounds from his bones.

He's being underestimated... It seems he needs to get a little serious.

Hayashida Megumi said nothing, merely taking heavy steps, slowly closing in on Murayama, one step at a time.

Watching Hayashida Megumi approach like a pressing mountain, Murayama's gaze also became solemn.

He no longer rushed to attack, but patiently waited for the right moment.

The instant Hayashida Megumi entered his attack range, Murayama moved again!

This time, his moves became even more concise and sharper!

A simple, unadorned straight punch, aimed directly at Hayashida Megumi's face!

Facing this punch, Hayashida Megumi simply raised his left arm, using his forearm to steadily block it.

The moment of the block, Murayama engaged his core, twisting his body sharply, and his right arm whipped out like a lash, a fiercely aggressive hook punch, whistling through the air, smashing towards Hayashida Megumi's temple!

However, this time, facing Murayama's seemingly certain strike, Hayashida Megumi acted as if he hadn't seen it at all, making no defensive moves!

He simply unleashed a straight punch!

The target of this punch was equally simple and unadorned: Murayama's chest.

Trading blows!

Seeing Hayashida Megumi's extremely simple, even clumsy, punch, an alarm instantly blared in Murayama's mind!

A powerful gust of wind rushed towards him, making his scalp tingle!

Without time to think, he made a decisive decision, forcefully retracting the hook punch that was about to hit its target, and abruptly crossed his arms in front of his chest!

The next second, Hayashida Megumi's fist arrived!

"Boom!!!"

An incredibly heavy thud echoed throughout the entire changing room!

A terrifying force instantly struck!

Murayama felt as if he had been hit head-on by a charging rhino. The intense pain in his arms instantly made him lose consciousness!

He flew backward uncontrollably, smashing heavily into the row of metal lockers behind him!

"Clang—!"

Amidst the huge impact, the sturdy locker was forcefully dented with a clear human-shaped impression!

Murayama slid down the deformed locker door to the ground, a sweetness in his throat, and a mouthful of fresh blood almost sprayed out.

Such... such terrifying strength!

Hayashida Megumi saw him fall and was about to step forward, but Murayama quickly waved his hand, grimacing as he spoke.

"Alright, alright! Hayashida Megumi, no more fighting! You can be the head coach for now; I'll just be the assistant, it's quite leisurely."

Murayama propped himself up, slowly stood, and stretched his somewhat numb arms.

After that round of probing, he had completely understood.

This man in front of him, compared to top experts, was indeed too slow.

To put it bluntly, he was a bit clumsy.

However, this person's defense and strength were absolutely top-tier!

It seemed like he had gained the upper hand in several rounds of offense, even landing a kick on the opponent.

But in reality, the small amount of damage he caused was completely negligible for this monster.

There was no point in continuing the fight; knowing that the other party had this strength was enough.

Master... I don't know where he found such a monster.

However, it shouldn't be boring anymore.

With such a person around, he could spar and improve his own strength.

Thinking of this, Murayama grinned.

The grim expression on Hayashida Megumi's face had also faded, returning to his usual expressionless demeanor. He extended his hand towards Murayama.

Murayama smiled at this, took his hand, and used the leverage to stand up.

"Hey, Hayashida Megumi, I'm telling you, this locker should be considered broken by you. You'll have to pay to fix it..."

...Night falls.

Inside a very secluded underground mine in Nameless Street.

Smoky looked at the diamonds his companions had just mined, grabbed a handful, and tightly clenched them in his palm, feeling their cold and hard texture.

After a while, he slowly opened his hand and carefully placed the diamonds back into the box.

"Remember, these... are our hope to help the people of Nameless Street rebuild their homes. When everyone acts, you must proceed with caution and absolutely not make any mistakes."

His companions around him all nodded solemnly.

Just then, Smoky suddenly coughed violently twice. He quickly covered his mouth with a handkerchief.

A companion nearby, seeing this, said worriedly,

"Leader, your health..."

Smoky waved his hand, said nothing, and simply opened the door and left the mine.

As soon as he stepped out, he ran into La La, who had just returned.

La La's face broke into a happy smile when she saw her brother.

"Brother, I just finished taking the children to practice boxing and came back."

Smoky nodded. He had long heard about the boxing gym's free enrollment program.

Today, when La La took the children there, he had even sent a few people to follow secretly to ensure their safety.

"How was it? Did the children enjoy their practice?"

At the mention of this, La La became animated.

"The children loved it! They kept telling me on the way back how good breakfast was today, and how nice the coach was. Plus, they even got to take a hot shower after training! Brother, tell me... when will we be able to let everyone in Nameless Street live like that?"

Hearing this, the smile on Smoky's face instantly froze.

La La seemed to realize she had said something wrong and quickly explained.

"Brother, I didn't mean it that way. I meant, our Nameless Street... one day, it will also..."

Smoky tiredly waved his hand, interrupting her.

"La La, I'm tired. Get some rest early."

After saying this, he moved past La La and left directly, leaving behind only a lonely figure.

La La watched her brother's receding figure, softly murmuring to herself.

"Brother..."

...Smoky walked alone on the dilapidated roads of Nameless Street. The night wind blew, and he couldn't help but cough violently a few more times.

He opened his palm and, by the faint moonlight, saw the shocking bloodstains on his handkerchief.

A look of sorrow flashed in Smoky's eyes.

Will I... ever see the day when everyone in Nameless Street is filled with happy smiles?

Just then.

"Clap, clap."

Two crisp snapping sounds abruptly echoed on the empty, silent street.

Smoky suddenly looked up, following the sound.

He saw a figure flash across the rooftop of an abandoned building nearby, illuminated by the moonlight.

Smoky's gaze deepened. He pondered for a moment, then began to walk towards the rooftop of that building...

On the abandoned rooftop, a cold moon hung high, its clear light spilling like mercury, outlining the scars of the city, Nameless Street, making it appear even more dilapidated and desolate.

Smoky climbed up the rusty fire escape and immediately saw the man.

He stood silently at the edge of the rooftop, hands in his pockets, his back to Smoky, overlooking the entire sleeping city.

Smoky took a silent step, walked over, and stood shoulder to shoulder with that figure, his gaze fixed on the distance.

"Coming so late, is there something wrong?"

Ryuzaki Shin slowly turned his head and glanced at Smoky beside him.

In just a few days, the man's hair seemed to have gained a touch more white, and his cheeks were slightly sunken from the torment of illness, making him look considerably older than when they last met.

Ryuzaki Shin sighed softly, his tone flat, yet stating an undeniable fact.

"You don't have much time left."

Upon hearing this, Smoky's body didn't tremble in the slightest.

He turned his head, meeting Ryuzaki Shin's gaze.

In the other man's deep eyes, Smoky saw a hint of sympathy, a trace of pity.

His voice was devoid of surprise or joy, as if he were discussing something unrelated to himself.

"I know that."

Ryuzaki Shin looked at him and continued.

"The air in Nameless Street is too poor, and the environment is too bad. If you're willing to leave here and go to a clean place to recuperate properly, you might live a few more years. After all, what tuberculosis needs most is a clean environment and sufficient nutrition."

Smoky knew all these truths.

However, he grew up in Nameless Street; this was his root, and protecting Nameless Street was his only mission in this life.

The outside world... those places were too unfamiliar to him, full of deceit and danger.

If he truly had to die, then dying in Nameless Street meant his soul would transform into a star in the sky, continuing to watch over this land, watching over his family.

"You know I won't leave here."

After he said that, both fell silent, with only the howling of the night wind across the rooftop.

After a while, Ryuzaki Shin pulled a cigarette from his pocket, about to light it, but glanced at Smoky beside him and silently put the cigarette and lighter back.

Smoky noticed his subtle movement.

"I'm not that delicate; I won't pass out from a few whiffs of smoke. Just smoke if you want to."

Ryuzaki Shin smiled, said nothing, and simply walked to Smoky's other side, positioning himself downwind.

This way, the wind would carry the smoke in another direction, not affecting him.

He re-lit his cigarette, took a deep drag, and felt the momentary peace brought by the circulating nicotine in his lungs.

"Don't these people from S.W.O.R.D. always talk about bonds and ideals all the time?"

"How about we talk about your ideals today? After all, this might be the last time I see you standing and talking to me... who knows, next time we meet, I might have to send you a wreath."

Smoky glanced at the man beside him.

He didn't know why, but he felt that when facing this person, his always-tense heart would inexplicably relax, making him willing to say more than he would usually tell anyone.

Perhaps it was because... the burdens he carried were simply too many, too heavy.

He just needed someone to confide in.

It shouldn't matter if he told an outsider, right?

"My ideal?" Smoky's voice was distant. "My ideal is actually very simple: to let everyone in Nameless Street live ordinary lives, have clean houses to live in, hot meals to eat, and for the children to be able to go to school and play like children outside, without having to live in fear."

Ryuzaki Shin looked deeply at Smoky, then shook his head and said.

"Actually, there has always been one person hindering the realization of your ideal."

Smoky was stunned by the remark, his brows slightly furrowed.

"Who are you talking about?"

Ryuzaki Shin smiled, exhaling a puff of smoke.

"That person is you, Smoky."

After Ryuzaki Shin said that, he ignored Smoky's instantly sharp gaze and continued.

"You've always naively believed that with the power of you RUDE BOYS, you could definitely change the fate of Nameless Street, but you are too naive. Can a mere few dozen of you change the lives of tens of thousands of displaced people?"

"Or are you saying, with just your bare hands, digging for a pitiful amount of diamonds every day in that damned underground mine?"

Upon hearing the words "diamonds," Smoky's pupils suddenly constricted, and an astonishing killing intent instantly erupted from his entire body!

How did he know... How did he know that secret?!

Ryuzaki Shin saw Smoky's body instantly tense up, and he merely sneered with disdain.

"What? With your body, which is almost dead from illness, do you still want to fight me? Just save your energy."

"I'm telling you, if I had any hostility towards you, do you think... you would still have the chance to stand here and talk to me right now?"

"After all, in a place like Nameless Street, if dozens of people died overnight, I'm afraid... no one would even care."

Hearing Ryuzaki Shin's words, Smoky's clenched fist slowly relaxed.

This man was right.

This place was a place abandoned by the entire world.

A strong sense of powerlessness and irritation welled up in his heart.

"What... what exactly do you want to say?"

Ryuzaki Shin finished the last drag of his cigarette, flicked the butt to the ground, and crushed it with his foot.

"Look into the distance." He pointed to the brightly lit urban area far away. "What do you see?"

Smoky didn't answer, just watched in silence.

Ryuzaki Shin didn't mind and continued speaking to himself.

"In your eyes, you might only see the exhaust fumes from those factories, only the red-light district of the wealthy, only... another world completely out of sync with this one."

"But what I see is the rapidly turning wheel of time."

"Japan's economy is currently soaring, and you all have always prevented any external forces from setting foot in Nameless Street, trying to isolate it from the world. However, you cannot change the land beneath your feet; your scope is too small, and your capabilities are too weak."

Hearing Ryuzaki Shin so disparage his and RUDE BOYS' long-standing persistence, Smoky could no longer hold back.

"Hmph! We can't do it, so should we just let those unscrupulous developers and gangs plunder Nameless Street at will? Or are you saying, since we can't do it, you... can you do it?!"

Ryuzaki Shin saw the other party's agitated expression and knew that half the battle was won.

"You actually got one thing right." He turned around, looking at Smoky, a look of absolute confidence on his face. "I, indeed, can do it."

Smoky looked as if he had heard the biggest joke.

"Haha, what a joke! Are you going to be like others, wanting to turn this place into a red-light district or a casino, to trample on our last dignity in Nameless Street? If so, we would just be jumping from one fire pit into another hell!"

Ryuzaki Shin reached out and patted Smoky's shoulder, signaling him to calm down.

"Calm down; how about you listen to my plan first?"

"If I take over Nameless Street, I will first flatten all the abandoned factories and dangerous buildings here, thoroughly improve the living environment, and then I will build a large number of affordable housing units here, renting them to the residents of Nameless Street at the lowest possible prices, so that everyone has a warm home."

"Then, I will establish public welfare schools and hospitals here, with all education from elementary to middle school being free, so that every child has books to read and illnesses to treat."

Upon hearing this, Smoky's eyes flickered, but he still retorted.

"It's easy for you to say; building houses and schools all require money. People here still don't have jobs. Are you going to be kind enough to keep helping so many people?"

Ryuzaki Shin shook his head.

"Of course not. You see, Nameless Street is located at the very center of the entire S.W.O.R.D. Area, and it's the largest in size. I will leverage this geographical advantage to build a brand new, massive commercial district here."

"Of course, not casinos or red-light districts, but a modern commercial hub integrating shopping, dining, and entertainment. By then, it's expected to provide tens of thousands of jobs. Nameless Street, frankly, only has about ten thousand people, so everyone will have the opportunity for work and a stable income."

After Ryuzaki Shin finished speaking, Smoky's pupils suddenly constricted.

In his mind, the scene Ryuzaki Shin described involuntarily emerged... Wasn't that the utopia he had been tirelessly seeking all along?

But the next moment, he shook his head again, reason overcoming impulse.

"I... I don't even know who you are. How can you prove that you have the ability to do all this?"

Ryuzaki Shin laughed at this.

He slowly turned around, facing Smoky, and gently took off his mask.

Under the moonlight, a young, handsome face with a hint of wickedness appeared before Smoky.

"Let's reintroduce ourselves."

"True Dragon Society President, Ryuzaki Shin..."

Smoky's pupils sharply contracted, and an undisguised look of shock appeared on his face.

The True Dragon Society… President!

He had countless conjectures about Mr. Z, who had always maintained an air of mystery.

He had thought that the other party might be a representative of a hidden financial group, or a hostile force, or even a member of a mysterious organization from overseas.

But he never imagined that the other party was actually Ryuzaki Shin, the leader of the True Dragon Society, which was currently the most prominent and powerful force in the entire S.W.O.R.D. Area!

However, after the initial shock, a sense of relief welled up in Smoky's heart.

Everything seemed to make sense again.

Only such a powerful, mysterious, and unfathomable person would be qualified to lead the True Dragon Society, which had almost integrated half of S.W.O.R.D. in such a short time.

Why say that the True Dragon Society is currently at its peak?

The reason is simple.

The intelligence network of Nameless Street is considered the most comprehensive and well-informed in this chaotic area.

Just recently, the landscape of S.W.O.R.D. has undergone earth-shattering changes.

Sannoh Street, the headquarters of Sannoh Rengokai, was completely adorned with the black banners of the True Dragon Society overnight, signaling the arrival of a new ruler.

The White Rascals' base, the bar named "HEAVEN," was also "transferred" to the True Dragon Society by its original owner recently.

Why say that?

Because the name of the bar has already been changed to something that sounds very vulgar, "Heaven on Earth," but the True Dragon Society's banner still flies high at the entrance.

There's even less need to mention those delinquents from Oya High.

Their boss, that guy named Murayama Yoshiki, openly declared that Oya High would be directly connected to the True Dragon Society from now on.

And the most bizarre was the avenging devils—Daruma Ikka.

Almost within a day, the people of Daruma Ikka completely disappeared.

Now, on the dilapidated ruins where Daruma Ikka once stood, the black banner of the True Dragon Society is also planted, and recently, it seems that a construction team has already gone there to start some kind of development.

Of the five major organizations, only Nameless Street, where the RUDE BOYS are located, remains outside.

Therefore, during this period, Smoky had always maintained a high degree of vigilance, constantly reminding his brothers to act carefully and guard against the unknown enemy who was about to arrive.

He had calculated everything, but he never expected that the biggest "enemy" was actually already standing before him.

Ryuzaki Shin ignored Smoky, who was still in shock, and simply put his mask back on and said to himself,

"Now, do you believe I have the ability to change Nameless Street?"

Hearing this, Smoky finally recovered from his shock.

He took a deep breath of the cold night wind, forcing himself to calm his turbulent emotions.

"What you say sounds good, but how do I know you'll do what you say?"

Ryuzaki Shin looked at his still wary eyes, and a warm smile suddenly appeared on his face.

"Didn't I just say?" His voice was gentle, "Smoky, you must live well, only by living can you personally see the future I envision, isn't that right?"

Looking at Ryuzaki Shin's gentle smile, Smoky's expression froze.

In a trance, he seemed to truly see the future of Nameless Street he spoke of through those deep eyes… If… if he could live well… then he could also personally supervise his every move.

With his prestige in Nameless Street, if he really did something that violated his promise and harmed the interests of Nameless Street, he could also rally everyone to resist him… At this thought, Smoky's heart wavered.

He looked up at Ryuzaki Shin and suddenly asked, "That… 'True Dragon Dojo' must also be your work, right?"

Ryuzaki Shin did not deny it, but merely shrugged and said frankly,

"Yes, is there a problem? I will eventually have to step onto the stage openly, and before that, doing some charity work to build up a good reputation for myself, isn't that very normal?"

Hearing this undisguised answer, Smoky sighed softly in his heart.

A gentleman judges by actions, not by intentions.

He could clearly see the naked ambition and desire in Ryuzaki Shin's heart, but the future he depicted for Nameless Street was simply too tempting.

So tempting that he was somewhat unable to refuse it for a moment.

"I… I'll think about it again."

After all, strictly speaking, he and Ryuzaki Shin had only met for the second time.

To have him so hastily entrust the future of the entire Nameless Street to this man, he truly could not make that decision immediately.

Ryuzaki Shin seemed to have anticipated this outcome long ago; he had not expected to completely persuade the other party in one go.

He stepped forward and reached out to pat Smoky's somewhat thin shoulder, which was frail from illness.

"Oh, by the way, you have a companion under you named Shion, right?" Ryuzaki Shin slowly said, "He chose to collude with the Iemura-kai because he wanted to earn money to treat your illness. A few days ago, wasn't he sent to prison?"

"If you've thought it over and agree to my conditions, I will immediately arrange for his innocent release and have him return to your side."

After saying this, Ryuzaki Shin said no more, turned, and left the rooftop.

Smoky is the soul of the RUDE BOYS and the spiritual pillar of the entire Nameless Street.

If he were truly eliminated, there would be countless miscellaneous troubles when it came time to develop this area.

So, until the last moment, Ryuzaki Shin would not consider using violent means.

After all, as long as Smoky was subdued and had his support, there would be no problems with the development of this area.

And Shion was, of course, an important bargaining chip he threw out.

Smoky stared blankly at Ryuzaki Shin's disappearing back at the stairwell, wanting to raise his hand to call him back and ask about Shion's situation, but in the end, his raised hand fell weakly.

His face was filled with deep self-reproach and pain.

"Shion… how could you… be so foolish…"

...At the same time, in Toyaru City, on the rooftop of an unknown building.

Amber

A man in a black leather jacket sat listlessly, his eyes filled with endless emptiness and confusion.

Suddenly, a light drizzle began to fall from the sky, and the cold raindrops struck his face, but he seemed to feel nothing.

Just then, a steady sound of footsteps came from behind him.

A man in a black suit, holding a black umbrella, appeared on the rooftop.

This man with the umbrella glanced at the sitting figure, and a playful smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.

"You must be Amber…"

Amber slowly turned his head, glanced at the uninvited man behind him, then tilted his head to the side again, his eyes still vacant, as if he had lost interest in everything in the world.

"Who... are you?"

His voice was weak, filled with a deep weariness and hoarseness, like a machine about to break down.

The man with striking white hair gently placed the black umbrella in his hand on the wet ground, letting the cold rain soak his expensive suit.

He raised his head, revealing a handsome yet somewhat wicked face, a faint smile playing on his lips, and said airily,

"Who I am isn't important. What's important is... I have the information you most want to know."

Over the years, Amber's heart had been filled with endless regret and self-blame, and his temper had long become erratic.

At this moment, seeing the man before him speak with such an enigmatic attitude, the anger he had suppressed for so long ignited instantly.

He suddenly stood up from the edge of the rooftop, his movements so fast they almost left afterimages!

The next second, he had appeared in front of the white-haired man, his rough fingers, like iron tongs, gripping the other's chin tightly, his bloodshot eyes glaring fiercely at him.

"What... do you want?!"

The white-haired man looked at the frenzied and violent expression on Amber's face, yet his own expression remained unchanged, not even a flicker in his eyes.

However, at this moment, Amber felt something cold and hard silently pressing against his waist.

He looked down, his pupils suddenly constricting.

It was a dagger glinting with a cold light!

Amber's eyes instantly became even more crazed. He didn't dodge or evade, but instead suddenly reached out his other hand and grabbed the sharp blade of the dagger, letting the sharp edge cut his palm, blood gushing from between his fingers, yet he seemed to feel no pain at all.

The white-haired man sensed the almost insane mental state of Amber, frowned slightly, then flicked his wrist, exerting a clever force, and pushed Amber away.

A playful smile reappeared on his face.

"Why the man-eating scowl? Don't be nervous, I mean no harm. I just... know who killed your closest friend."

Upon hearing the words "closest friend," Amber's body trembled, and the madness on his face visibly paused, but the next moment, he slowly turned around again, walked back to the edge of the rooftop, and stood with his back to the white-haired man.

"That matter... is over."

Amber had two partners in MUGEN who could be called closest friends.

One was named Tatsuya, Naomi's brother from the ITOKAN Restaurant.

(To clarify here, the one from Housen is Bitou Tatsuya. Naomi's brother here is Tatsuya. In the future, the two names will be distinguished. When referring to the one from Housen, I will call him Bitou Tatsuya. If I just say Tatsuya, it refers to the Tatsuya from MUGEN, until this part of the storyline passes.)

The other was Tsukumo, who is still lying unconscious in the hospital to this day.

MUGEN was originally founded by him and Tatsuya.

Their original intention was actually very simple: just two lonely people who hoped to have a group of partners who would never betray each other, to warm each other in this cold world.

If Amber was the symbol of MUGEN's wild, uncontrolled power,

then Tatsuya was the only "brake" that controlled this power.

His personality was calm, mature, and far-sighted.

Tatsuya's dream was simply to open his own small restaurant in Sannoh Shopping Street and live a peaceful and stable life with his partners.

As MUGEN's reputation grew, attracting a large number of young people eager for power and a sense of belonging, the organization gradually expanded, eventually becoming a behemoth that dominated the area.

But as the organization grew larger, so did the problems.

More and more people began to act recklessly and bully others in the area, using MUGEN's name.

Tatsuya realized in time that the MUGEN group had degenerated from its original simple motorcycle club into a notorious delinquent group feared by everyone.

When MUGEN's scale completely spiraled out of control, transforming from a simple motorcycle gang into a massive violent organization, only Tatsuya recognized the immense hidden danger and tried to persuade Amber to disband MUGEN, to return everything to its original intention.

But back then, the ambitious Amber felt that Tatsuya was betraying them, abandoning their initial ideals.

Thus, a fierce conflict arose between him and Tatsuya.

Tatsuya once told him, "Amber, remember, even if I'm not in MUGEN anymore, our friendship will never change."

Moreover, even after leaving MUGEN, Tatsuya did not give up on Amber, his closest friend who had gradually lost his true self. Instead, he sought opportunities again and again to persuade him to disband MUGEN.

But Amber did not agree.

Because at that time, MUGEN was his everything.

It wasn't until later, when MUGEN members caused trouble outside, that they finally provoked the Amamiya Brothers.

This led to the legendary battle that shocked the entire S.W.O.R.D. district, where the Amamiya Brothers fought MUGEN alone.

It was also after the battle with the Amamiya Brothers that Amber suddenly awakened.

He finally understood that everything Tatsuya had said earlier was correct.

Amber wanted to find Tatsuya, wanting to return to their carefree past.

And Tatsuya, at that time, happened to be with Tsukumo.

Just as he had just met Tatsuya and Tsukumo and was about to apologize, an out-of-control car, like an unbridled wild horse, violently crashed into his two closest friends... Tatsuya died.

Tsukumo was critically injured and fell into a coma, still in the hospital, his fate unknown.

This incident filled him with immense self-blame and pain; he could never escape the shadow of his closest friend's death.

Afterward, he frantically investigated and finally discovered that the person who drove and killed Tatsuya was actually a subordinate within MUGEN who held a grudge against him.

This result deepened his sense of guilt, and his entire inner self became extremely twisted and paranoid.

Over the years, he kept thinking, if... if he had listened to Tatsuya back then and disbanded MUGEN earlier, would Tatsuya... not have died?

Would Tsukumo also not be in a coma?

So MUGEN was not disbanded because of the Amamiya Brothers.

After all, it was just a draw back then.

Instead, MUGEN was disbanded because of Amber's intense guilt over his closest friend.

Therefore, after hearing the white-haired man's words, he said that the matter was over.

After all, the suspect who drove the car and caused the accident that year had already been arrested by the police; he was one of their subordinates from MUGEN back then.

That person had already paid the price for it and gone to prison.

What else... did he need to pursue?

The white-haired man looked at Amber's lonely and pained back, smiled, and his voice carried a hint of seduction.

"Amber, do you really... not want to know who the 'real culprit' is who killed your closest friend?"

Upon hearing the words "real culprit," Amber suddenly turned his head and stared fixedly at him.

"What do you mean?"

"Could it be... that there was more to that car accident back then?"

The white-haired man saw the shocked and disbelieving expression on Amber's face and knew that his plan had succeeded.

He slowly walked in front of Amber, leaned close to his ear, and whispered in a voice only the two of them could hear,

"Amber, the one who killed your friend is..."

The ones who killed your friend were from the Kowloon Group!"

The white-haired man stared at Amber's instantly constricted pupils, his tone filled with certainty.

The madness and obsession on Amber's face faded at this moment, replaced by endless astonishment and disbelief.

He mumbled to himself, as if asking himself, and also as if asking the man who had suddenly appeared.

"The Kowloon Group... people?"

Seeing his reaction, the white-haired man shrugged dismissively and continued.

"From what I understand, after completely dominating the entire east side of the city, the Kowloon Group has been eyeing the S.W.O.R.D. Area for several years now."

"Think about it carefully. Back then, the Hyuga Syndicate, that disorganized bunch, if they hadn't received instructions from the Kowloon Group, how would they have dared to have such a large-scale conflict with the then-flourishing MUGEN? Isn't that right?"

Amber carefully pondered the white-haired man's words, and long-sealed memories flooded his mind like a tide.

It seemed… it seemed everything made sense!

Back then, the Hyuga Syndicate, affiliated with the Kowloon Group, indeed had a tragic large-scale conflict with their MUGEN.

But in the end, they were still forcefully repelled by MUGEN, led by him.

And Tatsuya and Tsukumo's accidents happened shortly after the Hyuga Syndicate's defeat!

Amber suddenly looked up, staring intently at the white-haired man, his voice trembling slightly.

"Are you saying…"

The white-haired man looked at his crumbling expression, a cruel arc forming at the corner of his mouth.

"That's right, the Kowloon Group deliberately provoked the conflict back then, with the aim of disbanding MUGEN. Only then could they invade the S.W.O.R.D. Area without hindrance."

After saying this, the white-haired man took out a kraft paper file bag from the inner pocket of his suit and gently shook it in front of Amber.

"Inside, you'll find everything you want to know."

Amber almost instinctively snatched the file bag from the white-haired man's hand.

He tore open the seal with trembling hands.

The first page was a photo.

The person in the photo was none other than the culprit who had driven the car that killed Tatsuya and injured Tsukumo back then—a MUGEN subordinate he once considered a brother.

His fingers continued to turn the pages. When he saw the content of the second page, his pupils suddenly constricted!

Above it, there was also a photo.

In the photo, the culprit who had already been sentenced to prison was standing with a man in a black suit, and the two seemed to be plotting something.

And next to the photo, the information clearly stated that the other man's name was—Nikaido!

He was a confidant of Iemura-kai's Ryumi, under the Kowloon Group!

The white-haired man looked at the complex expression on Amber's face, a mix of shock, anger, and regret, and seized the opportunity to say meaningfully,

"Amber, you should know what a colossal organization the Kowloon Group is. If you want revenge, then… I can help you…"

...Inside a brightly lit, luxuriously decorated private clubhouse.

The white-haired man walked in front, leading the numb-faced Amber inside.

In the clubhouse lobby, a well-dressed, distinguished middle-aged man stood with his back to them.

After the white-haired man walked in, the middle-aged man didn't speak, but simply and naturally reached out and put his arm around his shoulder, the two appearing very close.

Only then did the white-haired man turn around and make a formal introduction to Amber.

"Allow me to formally introduce myself. My name is Li. And this is my father."

"Mr. Amber, as long as you can help us completely occupy the S.W.O.R.D. Area, then in the next step, we can help you fight the entire Kowloon Group."

After saying this, Li walked up to Amber, his sinister eyes staring at him like a venomous snake.

"In other words, our interests align."

Amber slowly raised his head, glanced at the man in front of him, who was younger than himself but whose eyes were colder, and after a moment of silence, he asked in a hoarse voice,

"Just me alone?"

Li smiled and then gently clapped his hands.

Instantly, the lights in the entire clubhouse lobby suddenly brightened, illuminating every corner as if it were daytime.

In front of the bar, a row of people in strange clothes and with different auras had, at some point, taken seats.

They were the Century Warriors, all core members of Mighty Warriors.

The Century Warriors (work for money)

Li pointed to those people and said to Amber, "From now on, they are your subordinates."

And on the other side of the lobby, at some point, it was also filled with dense rows of men in uniform black clothing, their expressions cold and their gazes fierce.

DOUBT (This organization will be elaborated on later)

Li's face showed an even more arrogant smile.

"This group is called DOUBT. Every single person here is at your command."

After introducing all of this, Li stood in front of the still silent Amber again and leaned close to his ear.

"Amber, you must understand one principle."

"What is the difference between unpunished evil and so-called justice?!"

...At the same time, Toyaru Central Hospital.

Ryuzaki Shin walked into the hospital building alone.

This was a high-end private hospital, and under Kirisawa Jin's series of capital operations, the True Dragon Society now fully controlled this hospital.

Of course, during the process of recalling the equity, there were a few minor hitches.

However, since it was a gang, there were naturally gang methods. Although the process was somewhat convoluted, the outcome was ultimately relatively smooth.

Why go to such great lengths to control one's own hospital?

The reason is simple.

In the future, his subordinates would inevitably get into fights. Once injured, if they went to regular public hospitals, it could lead to unnecessary trouble, even police questioning.

But if it was their own hospital, everything would be much easier.

As soon as Ryuzaki Shin walked into the hospital lobby, a man in a white coat and gold-rimmed glasses came forward, his face beaming with respectful smiles.

"Mr. Ryuzaki, your esteemed presence is an honor! Everyone in our hospital extends the warmest welcome to your arrival."

Ryuzaki Shin looked at the newly appointed hospital director in front of him, a kind smile also appearing on his face.

"Director Nakata, you're too kind. I'm just an outsider. I'm just here to casually look around today, no need to make such a fuss. Oh, by the way, wasn't there a critically ill coma patient sent in last time? How is he doing? Take me to see him."

Upon hearing this, the director quickly led the way.

"Mr. Ryuzaki, please come this way."

The two got into the elevator together. As the elevator ascended, the director began to report on the situation.

"The patient named Tsukumo, whom you sent over last time, we didn't dare to delay for a moment. We immediately organized the top experts in the entire hospital to conduct a comprehensive physical examination for him. We found that although the patient's physical functions have somewhat declined due to long-term bed rest, his brainwaves have always been very active…"

Hearing this, Ryuzaki Shin's eyes flickered.

"Are you saying… Tsukumo is about to wake up?"

Upon hearing this, the director pondered for a moment and cautiously said,

"Uh… we can't guarantee that one hundred percent. After all, this patient suffered very severe brain trauma before. His survival itself is a miracle. We can only say that there is a possibility of him waking up, and the probability is quite high, but we can't guarantee exactly when he will wake up. Please forgive us, Mr. Ryuzaki."

Ryuzaki Shin waved his hand, indicating that he didn't mind.

The elevator quickly reached the floor where the intensive care unit was located.

At the entrance of the ICU, Ryuzaki Shin said to the director, "Alright, I'll go in and see him alone. Director Nakata, you can go about your business."

Entering the ICU, Ryuzaki Shin came to Tsukumo's bedside and quietly looked at the man on the bed, who was on a ventilator and had various tubes inserted into him.

His breathing was steady, and his complexion was still ruddy. He looked as if he were just sleeping.

Tsukumo in a coma

Tsukumo is also an out-and-out legendary figure.

This guy's ability to take a beating is truly in a league of its own; there's simply no one like him.

Simply put, Tsukumo is like a boss who can infinitely regenerate health.

As long as you don't completely kill him in an instant, he can fully revive after a short rest.

This incredibly abnormal recovery ability is almost on par with his current Undying Fighting Spirit.

Moreover, as a legendary figure, Tsukumo's strength value is definitely not low. He once kicked a car so hard that it shifted position. Imagine how terrifying that strength must be.

What's even rarer is that this person is also deeply loyal and righteous.

Amber must be brought under his command.

This man is not inherently bad; it's just that his past experiences have made him somewhat childish and obsessive.

And the key to truly winning Amber's allegiance is Tsukumo, who is lying in this hospital bed.

Once he could have both of these men, then it would be time for him to launch a full-scale counterattack against the Kowloon Group!

Ryuzaki Shin looked at the sleeping Tsukumo and softly said,

"Tsukumo, you have to wake up soon. Your good big brother… is still waiting for you outside."

After speaking, he turned and left the ICU.

The moment he turned around, the eyeballs under Tsukumo's tightly closed eyelids on the hospital bed seemed to… gently move…

Downstairs at Li's private club, members of DOUBT and the Century Warriors left their contact information for Amber.

When everything was over, he turned and disappeared into the vast night alone.

The members of the Century Warriors also came downstairs one after another.

Century Warriors

Parked neatly along the street downstairs were their respective vehicles—a row of sports cars with various designs and highly personalized modifications.

Ice took a few bottles of chilled beer from his car and tossed them to his companions.

He raised the bottle in his hand high, a look of excited and wild joy on his face, and shouted to the crowd.

Ice

"Brothers! Our dream is about to take its most important step! To that, cheers!"

"Cheers!"

Everyone simultaneously raised their bottles, which clinked crisply in the night.

Then, they tilted their heads back and guzzled the cold beer, letting out a series of joyous cheers.

However, amidst this atmosphere of revelry, only one person seemed out of place.

Sara leaned alone against her sports car, arms crossed, watching her companions drinking and celebrating, her delicate brows slightly furrowed.

Sara

Ice noticed this. He took his bottle and slowly walked over.

"Sara? Why the unhappy face?"

Sara looked up at Ice, then shifted her gaze to Zhen Zhu and Bernie, who were laughing loudly with the others not far away.

"No problem, Zhen Zhu and Bernie just suffered such serious injuries. Is it really okay for them to drink like this now?"

Ice looked back at the two lively guys, smiled, and said in a relaxed tone.

"Don't worry, it's fine. When we were mercenaries abroad, we suffered worse injuries than this. A few broken bones are nothing to them."

Hearing this, Sara sighed softly and said nothing more.

She turned her head and looked at Ice with her languid eyes.

"Ice... are we... really going to accept Li's dirty money?"

Hearing Sara describe their choice as "dirty money," Ice's smile faltered slightly, and a hint of discomfort rose in his heart.

Strictly speaking, Sara was "picked up" by them.

At that time, this woman was being traded like goods by a group of human traffickers in the Bayshore Area.

And what the Century Warriors usually did was rob these criminal gangs.

That day, they happened to pass by and rescued her.

During the fight with the human traffickers, Sara also displayed astonishing combat power.

So, Ice, who appreciated talent, recruited her into the Century Warriors, making her one of them.

However, Sara was, after all, a direct victim of criminal activity.

Regarding the Century Warriors' philosophy of "fighting evil with evil" and "money above all else," she couldn't say she completely disagreed, but rather that she never quite understood it.

Ice and his brothers grew up in sunless slums.

They endured hunger and starvation, and witnessed too much of the world's filth and darkness.

In their world, money was the only pass.

Everyone's growth trajectory is different, so their views and understanding of the world naturally vary greatly.

But Sara was, after all, a companion Ice recognized, a family member he personally brought back.

So, he patiently explained.

"Sara, you have to remember, money itself isn't dirty, the key is how you use it."

After saying this, Ice also leaned against Sara's car, turned to look at her, and his eyes became serious.

"Look at us. Do you think there's any place in this world that can truly accept us?"

"Before you came to us, did you have a place of your own?"

Ice's tone began to grow heavy.

"So, I genuinely want to realize that dream, to create a true utopia for those of us abandoned by the world. The Century Warriors have been fighting for this dream until now."

Speaking of this, Ice remembered those unbearable childhood memories again. He picked up his bottle and took a big gulp.

"Sara... I... I don't want to go back to the past anymore."

Sara quietly looked at Ice beside her. She understood his thoughts and his persistence.

But...

"I... I just want to live a normal life, without having to fight and kill all day long."

Hearing Sara's words, Ice fell silent for a moment.

"Sara, I understand." He said slowly, "When we save enough money, we can open the coolest nightclub in the world, and then we won't have to take on those dangerous missions anymore."

Then, he looked earnestly at his companions who were still drinking and having fun not far away, and finally fixed his gaze on Sara's face, saying word by word.

"We... we will always, always be together..."

...The next day, at noon.

Amber came alone to the hospital where Tsukumo had been before.

He walked through the familiar corridor with ease, arriving at the door of the ward he had visited countless times.

Amber stood at the door, took a deep breath, and then gently pushed open the ward door.

However, as soon as the door opened, the expression on his face instantly froze.

He saw that on the bed where Tsukumo should have been lying, there was now a person half-reclining, leisurely reading a newspaper!

Because the bed curtain was half-drawn, he couldn't clearly see the person's face.

Could it be... Tsukumo woke up?!

As soon as this thought emerged, Amber felt flustered, and a strong sense of guilt welled up in his heart.

He felt that he no longer had the face to see Tsukumo.

Amber instinctively wanted to turn and leave.

But he thought about it and stopped.

Just... just one more look.

As long as I can see Tsukumo safe and sound, I... I can let go of everything and do what I need to do.

Amber, like a thief, tiptoed, slowly moving his steps, inching towards the bedside.

When he finally saw the face of the person on the bed, his pupils suddenly constricted, and the expression on his face instantly became incredibly panicked and angry!

That wasn't Tsukumo!

That was a complete stranger!

He lunged at the bed, grabbed the collar of the person who was still leisurely reading a newspaper on the bed, and roared.

"Who the hell are you???!!!"