C51 Between

The meeting hall had emptied, the low table now cleared of sake cups and ashtrays. The night air outside was thick with cigarette smoke and the low growl of engines as black cars pulled away one by one.

Riku remained seated a moment longer, adjusting the cuff of his shirt with precise calm. Keiji hovered nearby, ever watchful.

Then a voice cut through the night.

“Riku-san