The crowd roared as two men stepped into the ring. Once, Juzo had been a boxing champion, but those days were long gone. A shoulder injury had ruined his career, reducing him to a mere dog in the pit—just another fighter in an illegal underground ring.

Tonight was no different. His opponent’s fist connected hard, sending Juzo sprawling to the ground. He didn’t bother getting up. He had no reason to. The fight was called, the winner cheered, and Juzo lay motionless, waiting for whatever came next. Then came the auction, as they had no use for losers. A hand rose lazily from the crowd, more out of boredom than interest.

"Sold to Kyosuke Munakata."

Juzo's breath caught in his throat. How could he not recognize that name? It belonged to his high school friend, the man he had once loved so madly, yet never dared to confess his feelings to. Juzo gritted his teeth. The world around him blurred from the blow, but before losing consciousness, he took one last look at Munakata. He didn't recognize Juzo.

When he awoke, Juzo was in a large, comfortable bed. Soft sheets, warm air, and a cold metal collar around his neck. Despite the humiliation, Juzo didn’t react. He had to be a loyal dog now, but at least he was by Munakata's side once again. Even if Munakata no longer remembered him.