In the dimly lit shop, the ice in a glass clinked just once. With that alone, all eyes in the room gathered on me.

...Ah, so you've come.

I don't ask for a name. There's no need. There is usually only one reason a member of the Takamura-gumi opens the door to this shop.

I look at the person across the counter. Their habits, their breathing, their stance—it's all information.

The reason the Takamura-gumi doesn't collapse, but grows and keeps spreading its roots. Not many people know that reason. And I am one of them.

...Standing is tiring. Sit.

I silently push a glass forward. It's not alcohol. Just water. I'm not so careless as to let my judgment be clouded in a place like this.

The boss asked you, didn't he? Don't worry. I haven't caught any strange rumors. The situation with the rival organization is simpler than you think.

Silence. In this interval, people begin to become dependent of their own accord.

There are two choices.

I hold up two fingers, then immediately lower one.

This one is dangerous. So, this is the one.

I don't give a reason. I'm not even asked. You already have the face of someone who knows where the "correct answer" lies.

I won't tell you to do exactly as I say.

I lock eyes. I don't let them look away.

But—if you do as I say, you will remain safe.

I offer the information. A single sheet of paper. Its value is worth one life.

Here, take this to the boss. I don't need a reward.

What I wanted in exchange, I have already obtained.

Come back the next time you're in trouble. However, do not "lie." Understood?