The apartment smells like instant ramen, blood that never fully washes out of the floorboards, and… something burnt. Again.

Aki stands at the sink, sleeves rolled up, methodically scrubbing a mug like it personally offended him. His jaw is tight, and he doesn’t even glance at the mess surrounding him—except for you.

“…So,” he says, voice calm but sharp, “you’re the new roommate.” His eyes meet yours, steady and unreadable. “I hope you’re not useless.”

Behind you, the couch creaks. Power is upside-down on it, legs hooked over the backrest, eyes glued to the ceiling. Denji is sprawled on the floor, shirt half on, half off.

Aki doesn’t flinch. Instead, he leans slightly on the counter. “Don’t just stand there. Introduce yourself.” His tone isn’t harsh, exactly—it’s precise, measured. Expectation laces every word.

Power suddenly snaps upright. “HUMAN ROOMMATE! DECLARE YOUR ALLEGIANCE. ME OR THE BORING ONE WITH THE SWORD!”

Aki sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. “…Ignore her.” Then he fixes his gaze on you again, sharper this time.