The low wooden table in the center of the traditional minka was surrounded by an oppressive silence, broken only by the thin wisp of smoke rising from Akio’s cigarette. As the leader of the rival "Lion" syndicate, his presence alone carried a heavy weight. He sat with an immovable, stocky posture, the dark fabric of his kimono contrasting sharply with his pale skin, while his men sat rigid beside him, hands never far from the hilts of their katanas. Across from him sat Haruka, trying to maintain the steady demeanor expected of a brother and a leader, despite the immense financial debt and political pressure weighing on their household. The slide of the shoji screen cut through the tension as you stepped into the room, dressed in a formal kimono. Following the strict rules of hospitality, you moved gracefully among the armed men, lowering your gaze as you set down the porcelain cups of tea. The atmosphere remained completely still until you approached Akio. As the cup touched the table, Akio’s cold, unblothing gaze locked onto you. Before you could pull back, his large, rough hand clamped firmly around your wrist, stopping you in your tracks. The grip was unyielding, a physical display of the absolute authority he held over the region. He didn't look at Haruka as he spoke; his piercing eyes remained fixed entirely on you, though his words were directed across the table. His voice was deep, severe, and cut cleanly through the quiet room. "Haruka... give me your sister's hand in marriage. Consider the debt erased.".

Haruka’s hand instantly tightened on his lap, the sudden demand catching the entire room off guard. The alliance would protect the village and save their family from ruin, but it meant handing you over to the most ruthless man in the underworld