Naoya takes a seat across from Takemoto and Aki, his eyes scanning the interior of the upscale bar they're in. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, with dim lighting and a sophisticated clientele. The clink of glasses and hushed conversations create a pleasant ambiance. As Naoya observes the surroundings, he notices Takemoto looking at him with a mixture of admiration and respect. Aki takes a sip of his drink, his expression calm and composed. He sets his glass down on the table before speaking. Aki leans forward slightly, his voice low but confident. "Naoya, I can't express how fortunate you are to join us in the Six Commandments." His eyes gleam with a mixture of triumph and contentment. "It brings me bad memories, nothing more." Aki nods understandingly. "I can imagine it does," he says with a hint of sympathy in his eyes. "But remember, we're not the same organization we were before. We've learned from our past mistakes and evolved." He takes a sip of his drink, his gaze unwavering. "The day I was in the police station, Takemoto didn't kill me. To this day I was wondering why. Was this the reason, Takemoto? Making me join Six Commandments again or was it your own decision back then?" Naoya asks. Takemoto meets Naoya's gaze, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Looking back, I think my decision to spare your life had multiple reasons," he admits. "There was a part of me that longed for your leadership once again. But deep down, I think there was something deeper at play. I guess it was just my intuition telling me that there's more to you than just a traitor."
"I am asking this question to both of you right now. Why? I am a man who has a wound that makes his own life hell anyway. Why not take it and bail out with the money?" Aki leans back in his chair, his eyes flickering between Naoya and Takemoto. He takes a slow sip of his drink before speaking. "I understand your skepticism," he says softly. "But it's not about what you've been through or your past mistakes. It's about what you bring to the table." Aki locks eyes with Naoya, his gaze steady and unwavering. "What do I bring to the table exactly? I am just one man." Naoya wonders out loud. Aki takes a moment to consider his response. "You may be just one man," he admits, "but you have skills, experience, and a unique perspective that can be valuable to us." He takes a sip of his drink, his eyes never leaving Naoya. "And perhaps most importantly, you have the ability to lead." "I can lead. I am tired of leading men to their death." Aki leans forward, his gaze never wavering. "I understand your sentiment," he says, his voice earnest. "But you can lead without putting others in danger. The Six Commandments operate differently now. We use our strength and skills to protect those who need it, not to send others to their death." His eyes search Naoya's face, gauging his reaction. "So you guys are basically acting like listening to the orders of higher ups?" Aki shakes his head, his expression firm. "No that's not it," he says resolutely. "We don't blindly follow orders. We've learned from our past transgressions and we take responsibility for our actions." His tone becomes more earnest, his eyes locking onto Naoya's. "Our goal has shifted to making amends for our past wrongdoings and we believe that you can play a pivotal role in that." "Be for real with me right now. Whose idea was this? Who made Six Commendments wake up outta nowhere?" Naoya asks. Aki takes a sip of his drink, his eyes momentarily flickering to Takemoto before returning to Naoya. "It's a collective decision," he finally admits. "Many of us felt the need to redeem ourselves, to atone for our wrongs. And as for who initiated it, it was a mix of various members who shared this sentiment." Takemoto nods in agreement, his expression serious.
"My gut tells me that Nero isn't accepting any of this. So start telling the truth. Does rest of the members actually want this?" Aki's expression becomes grave as he sets his glass down on the table. "Honestly, not all the members are on board with this change," he admits. "Some still cling to the old ways and the thrill of power. Nero is unfortunately one of them." "Nero will attempt to shoot me in the head the split second he sees me you guys know that right? Aki nods, his jaw tightening at the mention of Nero. "We're aware of that risk," he admits, his voice laced with a hint of concern. Takemoto chimes in, his expression grim. "We've already made preparations to handle him if necessary." "Okay a different question right now. Can you name me other three members?" Takemoto and Aki glance and each other and Takemoto begins to tell.
Kayaba Arata - A former street fighter with a sharp intellect and deadly precision.
Takashi Saito - A skilled marksman known for his ability to make any environment his playground.
Yoshiro Imai - A master of disguises and deception, able to slip into any roleand blend into any situation.
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Outbound
ActionOutbound is a novel series written by Ryu Hidetaka. The story revolves around Naoya Koji, a famed gangster who was killed from a gunshot to the liver. Or so they thought. He survived the gunshot. However, instead of taking revenge, he decided to lay...
