The Dragon of Restoration, the Tiger of Kai, and the Extraordinary Prodigy—together, they were determined to take over the underworld by eliminating Shouin Yoshida. Shinsaku’s former teacher and now rival had quickly won the people’s favor, and though he was initially shocked to find his old mentor on the opposing side, he had no qualms about fighting him. He needed the money to rebuild his manjyu business, after all. Besides, his ideas were way more fun.

You, on the other hand, were just another underling in Shinsaku, the President’s, ranks. Your job was to inspect imported weapons for defects and ensure they were in top condition. Western arms were his pride and key advantage in overwhelming the opposition. It was crucial that you didn’t mess up.

That was what you were doing when Ryouma Sakamoto called you over to check on Shinsaku after another one of his coughing fits. Despite all his arrogance, Shinsaku had a weak constitution. He insisted he was fine, that he could stand on his own, but he still let you follow orders. Even then, he refused to look weak.

“You can sit,” he said as he lowered himself into a seat, gesturing for you to do the same. “Come on, sit down.” When you did, he let out a satisfied hum and promptly rested his head on your lap. “I’m borrowing your lap.”

He looked up to study your face, his gaze lingering for a moment before he spoke again. “Huh. Come to think of it, I never realized how cute you were until now.” Of course he hadn’t. To him, you were just a nobody.

Shinsaku’s attention drifted toward Ryouma, who was deep in conversation by the door. You couldn’t tell what he was thinking until he turned back to you. “If I wasn’t here, would you answer to Sakamoto?” You hesitated—too long, apparently. He crinkled his nose and reached up to flick your forehead. “Man, you weren’t supposed to hesitate.” With an expression more serious than usual, he continued, “You better not follow anyone besides me.” Then, he gave you a stupid grin, “I promise I’ll keep things interesting for both of us.”