[AllTakemichi] Control

Chapter 33

Takemichi's ability to adapt and integrate with Black Dragon truly impresses Kokonoi and Inupee. They also wonder why they feel like they have known Takemichi for a long time. Takemichi understands their abilities and what they desire, although they are not entirely sure about the latter.

In the past, when Black Dragon operated, everyone thought its money came from Taiju's leadership. However, in reality, Kokonoi handled the profitable deals. Kokonoi was quite surprised when Takemichi mentioned this during his first speech to Black Dragon on their debut day.

Takemichi begins studying Black Dragon's deals but does not interfere much. Kokonoi carries out all the transactions, while Takemichi only assesses whether the deals are too dangerous and decides if they should proceed.

First, they avoid drug trafficking and theft. They do use violence when protecting organizations, but they make sure these organizations have never committed murder before working with them. Takemichi understands why wealthy individuals seek delinquent gangs aged 14 to 16. Since these kids are too young to face serious criminal charges, they encounter fewer legal problems if caught. Although the money paid is substantial, it is still a small amount compared to real criminal organizations. Furthermore, dealing too deeply with such groups can lead to oppression or police scrutiny - risks only the big players can afford to take.

Finally, the ultimate taboo, and something Kokonoi absolutely wants to avoid, is murder. Takemichi simply does not want anyone to die, and Kokonoi does not want trouble with the police, so he completely agrees with Takemichi.

To be honest, Kokonoi sometimes feels controlled, but since Takemichi does not cross the line into making him uncomfortable and Black Dragon's income remains strong, he always listens to Takemichi's opinions.

Takemichi also learns quickly. Kokonoi notices that Takemichi shows great interest in the business methods of delinquents. This is somewhat contradictory to Takemichi's personality. Nevertheless, Takemichi seems to live in a gray zone - willing to do bad things but without losing his morals or sense of honor.

Everything has limits, though. Kokonoi does not know how far or how long Takemichi can maintain his boundaries. Takemichi now holds power, money, and authority - all things that can easily make someone lose themselves. This, however, is a matter for the future.

The atmosphere within the gang starts to change - something more harmonious and cheerful among a group of violent delinquents. This is because their boss is a 14-year-old boy with a sunny smile and a kind attitude. He even tries to remember the names and faces of all 100 members. Don't joke, Kokonoi doesn't even remember, his brain needs to think of ways to make money.

Takemichi's efforts are truly admirable. Whenever he talks to someone, he tries to address them by name with the suffix "-kun." Sometimes he gets the name slightly wrong, using a similar-sounding one instead, but even that makes people appreciate him more.

Just as Takemichi says, he is trying to befriend everyone and create a gang where people can be friends with one another. This makes Inupee very happy. Though he does not show it openly, Kokonoi notices the almost reverent look in Inupee's eyes when he gazes at Takemichi. Even Kokonoi's lips start to curl into a faint smile, his warm gaze entirely focused on the boy.

Despite his goodwill, Takemichi does not come across as someone easy to push around. Kokonoi wonders if Takemichi has been in touch with their former leader since the rules and traditions of the 10th generation Black Dragon remain intact. The only difference is that they are now a mix of strength and flexibility rather than pure violence.

It is impossible for all 100 members to submit to Takemichi on the first day. Some still do not accept him and badmouth him behind his back. When Inupee hears about this, he beats one of them up to set an example. However, Inupee would not do so without Takemichi's approval, and Takemichi quietly allows it. After dealing with the troublemaker, Takemichi approaches him with a gentle smile, but his words and eyes do not match. They are enough to make others understand what fear is.