Chapter 27

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It seems Takemichi's patience with the two personalities inside him shows some progress. For the second time, he gives control of his body to the two kids. The next morning, he wakes up to a small joy - this time, Take appears and answers some of his questions. Takemichi realizes the brutal personality within him has one good trait: following rules and keeping promises. That kid might always seem threatening, but unlike Michi, he doesn't cause unnecessary chaos.

After the "Bloody Halloween" event ends, Takemichi starts worrying about the "Christmas Eve Showdown." He needs to free Hakkai and his sister Yuzuha from Taiju's violence and make Taiju realize that his way of protecting and loving his siblings is wrong.

Another issue is Kokonoi Hajime. To become the largest criminal gang in Japan, they need this "moneybag." Kokonoi's abilities are amazing, but they also pose a danger to others and even himself. Currently, Taiju overshadows his talents, but sooner or later, they will surface. This time, Takemichi needs to ensure both Inupee and Kokonoi come under his leadership again. Partly because he needs Kokonoi's skills right now, but also because he wants to protect them - they are his friends. To do that, he must reclaim Black Dragon.

However, Takemichi can't just suddenly say, "Hakkai, I know about your family. Let me help you." He needs to let things unfold naturally, like in the past, and make Hakkai approach him first. Only then can he take over Black Dragon.

As for Kisaki, he's probably keeping an eye on Takemichi now. Does he want to deal with Takemichi after those two battles? The answer is definitely yes. So Takemichi thinks he should give Kisaki a hint. It turns out his previous conflict with Black Dragon might be useful after all.

The weather in December grows colder, but these days are peaceful and happy for Takemichi. Recently, every time he parts ways with Kazutora, Takemichi goes alone to his favorite riverside spot. However, his visits are not for sightseeing or relaxing - he is waiting.

What he waits for finally happens. People walking along the riverside now look terrified at the sight of a group wearing white uniforms with the Black Dragon emblem on their backs. A gang of delinquents with an intimidating aura surrounds the spot where Takemichi sits.

"Well, well, the little mouse is here again, huh? This time, you're not getting away!"

Takemichi sees Kokonoi and Inupee leading the Black Dragon gang. Instead of showing fear, he smiles and greets them like old friends.

"Hello, Koko-kun, Inupee-kun."

His calm and friendly attitude confuses them - shouldn't he be scared? Takemichi stands up, dusting off his pants with a leisurely manner, even though the people in front of him are clearly dangerous.

"Well, since this is Touman's territory, if you plan to deal with me here, it means starting a war with Touman."

He knows this statement won't help much. The fact they're here means they've already decided to ignore Touman.

Kokonoi smirks mockingly. "You're the one who messed with Black Dragon first, Hanagaki Takemichi. You interfered with our business and caused financial losses. So today, we have a valid reason to come for you. It doesn't matter if this is Touman's turf."

This catches Takemichi off guard. Interfering with their business? Are they referring to when he helped Haitani Rindou?

Takemichi recalls that Black Dragon operates as a gang-for-hire for the wealthy. So, attacking Rindou wasn't personal - it was business. Black Dragon really does anything for money, even messing with the Haitani brothers. What an ironic twist - they started the conflict, yet now he's painted as the one who provoked them first.

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