The sky is a clear, flawless blue, white clouds drifting lazily across it. A touch of warm golden sunlight makes the late-winter days grow gentler, softer - spring is almost here. Because of that, Takemichi's heart feels lighter, the worries in his chest easing bit by bit. A faint restlessness stirs inside him, and his steps unconsciously quicken, carrying a sense of urgency.

Today, he wants to see that scene.

Taiju, Kokonoi, and Inupee all sense that Takemichi is excited about something. His pace keeps increasing, faster and faster, until - when they are almost there - Takemichi suddenly breaks into a run, surging ahead of them.

A brief wave of unease flickers through Kokonoi's chest when he sees Takemichi's figure pulling away in the distance. He places all the blame for this feeling squarely on Taiju.

Takemichi cannot hold himself back anymore. As he runs, his heartbeat rises in sync with his steps. As long as he crosses this intersection, he can see them.

The scenery rushes past, and then the view opens before his eyes.

Mikey, Izana, and Emma are standing beneath a tree in front of the cemetery, waiting for them. The three of them are talking about something. Takemichi sees Mikey and Izana with furrowed brows, clearly arguing, when suddenly Emma steps up behind them and smacks them on the back, putting on a fierce expression as she scolds them.

Takemichi comes to a complete stop, rooted to the spot as he stares at the scene before him. A flood of emotions surges through his chest - nostalgia, happiness, and the aching pain of the past all tangled together. In that moment, Takemichi truly feels like he might cry.

Everything in front of him feels like a dream.

The three behind him find it strange that Takemichi suddenly runs ahead and then stops like that. When they catch up and see his expression, they freeze slightly. Following his gaze, they also see the Sano family standing there.

Kokonoi and Inupee look at Takemichi. They are already far too familiar with the way his emotions overflow whenever his gaze turns toward Toman - or rather, toward Mikey. Still, if they say they do not feel even a hint of jealousy, it would be a lie. And today, Kokonoi feels even more uneasy than usual. It is all Taiju's fault - because of him, even the smallest gesture from Takemichi makes Kokonoi feel as though Takemichi might leave him at any moment.

Taiju lowers his eyelids slightly. The emotions Takemichi gives so freely to the people around him are something Taiju will never fully understand. Takemichi cherishes even the smallest moments, and he is willing to give everything for the sake of those moments. Perhaps this is the outcome Takemichi once spoke of - the future he longed to witness. What have they given him to receive something like this in return? Or is it simply that Takemichi loves them so deeply that he wants to give everything he has?

If there is a way to make Takemichi give that affection - and that gaze he always turns toward them - to him instead, Taiju is willing to pay any price.

That gaze - the one that makes someone feel as though they are an entire world to another person. He has never once thought of himself as beautiful or precious until he sees his own reflection in those eyes. They always shimmer with a warm affection that makes anyone wish to be the one and only in Takemichi's world.

Please... look my way too.

You do not know how many people silently scream those words in their hearts every time they see your eyes turned toward the ones you love.*

Mikey is the first to notice Takemichi's presence. Just moments ago, he was arguing with Izana about what to buy at the market later to cook - their tastes never match. The argument gets so heated that Emma hits them, declaring that she will decide the menu herself and that neither of them gets a say. Mikey is still sulking over it, but the instant he sees Takemichi, his face lights up with pure joy.

"Takemitchy!"

Mikey calls out loudly, raising his hand and waving enthusiastically. Izana and Emma notice them too, smiles appearing on their faces as they greet them.

"Good morning, Mikey-kun, Izana-kun, Emma-chan. Have you been waiting long?"

"We just got here. Not long at all," Mikey replies.

"These two idiots take forever to get moving every morning. I thought we were late because of them," Emma complains.

"That's Mikey's fault, not mine," Izana argues back.

"Hey, you're the one who started picking a fight with me."

"You two again?" Emma snaps, losing her temper with her brothers once more.

Takemichi cannot hold his emotions back anymore and bursts into laughter, happier than he has ever been.

The two man-children stare at him, momentarily stunned. They wonder - does seeing the two of them together really make him that happy? Happy enough to smile so beautifully like this?

Emma understands. To reach this day, Takemichi has truly worked so hard. She is genuinely grateful to him.

"You two behave yourselves today. If either of you makes Takemichi-kun sad, you're dead," Emma whispers threateningly as she pulls her brothers close.

The two of them accept it - reluctantly, but willingly - because they want to keep seeing that smile on Takemichi's face. They exchange a look that clearly says: today, you and I are calling a temporary truce. Without a word, they bump fists, sealing the deal. They may hate each other, but somehow, they are always on the same wavelength, syncing up frighteningly fast.

All six of them light incense in reverence at Shinichiro's grave. Kokonoi and Taiju do not feel any special attachment to or admiration for Shinichiro, but they still hold deep respect for this legendary former leader.

Takemichi can tell that the three Sano siblings must have many things they want to say to their older brother. Inupi as well - Shinichiro is the person he admires most. He probably tells Shin about the current state of Black Dragon, and about everything he wants to do with Black Dragon in the future.

I hope I truly save Mikey. I don't want him to suffer anymore. I also hope I help Izana open his heart to others. Shinichiro-san... this time, do I succeed? Everyone has reached their own happiness already, right?

A gentle winter breeze brushes past Takemichi, carrying his wishes toward the one he speaks to in his heart.

"You're really not coming with us, Takemitchy?" Mikey says. "Come on. Emma is going to cook a lot of good food. You haven't come over for dinner in forever."

"Yeah, I really think you're coming too," Izana adds. "Come with us. It'll be more fun."

Mikey and Izana both put on pitiful expressions, desperately trying to persuade Takemichi when they hear that he isn't coming to their house. Emma looks at her two brothers, completely speechless, and lets out a long sigh. Just look at them tugging at his sleeves - those two sound like they're coaxing an innocent kid into something.

Takemichi keeps shaking his head and refusing. He doesn't go because he thinks this is a family meal, meant to bring the three siblings closer together. Grandpa Sano is there too. He's an outsider - how can he intrude on their family time?

What he doesn't know is that Mikey has just told Shinichiro, "I bring my wife to meet you," without missing a beat. The guy has already gotten bold enough to claim him as family.

"I really can't make it. I still have to go to Black Dragon to take care of some things. When everyone has time, why don't we invite both Tenjiku and Toman and throw a BBQ party together? That sounds way more fun."

Kokonoi and Inupi think to themselves that a party like that would shake the entire delinquent world. And bringing both sides together - isn't that the same as gathering a pack of wolves eyeing their own leader? Can they take Takemichi's words back, please? How can someone offer themselves straight into a wolf's mouth like that? Taiju just looks at Takemichi in silence.

"That works," Izana says. "I'll ask them."

Izana looks more satisfied after hearing that. This is also a chance for him to grow closer to Takemichi. Mikey isn't very enthusiastic, but since the suggestion comes from Takemichi, he agrees to go along with it.

"Can you tell me why we're even here?"

Draken sticks his head out from behind the wall. Below him, Baji, Mitsuya, and Hakkai are lined up, all peeking at Takemichi's group.

"I just don't feel at ease, so I come to take a look."

Who knows if a fight is about to break out, or if Takemichi is about to get snatched away by that guy again. Last time, that bastard literally tried to take Takemichi with him, so Baji can't just sit still. Seriously, Draken - there's a hungry wolf eyeing someone from their own pack, and he stays this calm. At least Mitsuya and Hakkai know how to worry instead of putting all their faith in that chibi commander.

"That really is my brother... damn, he's been acting weird lately, hasn't he?"

Seeing his brother appear, Hakkai genuinely sighs.

"Your brother has been weird forever, Hakkai."

Mitsuya shakes his head. This idiot has no idea when his brother already turns into a fish caught in Takemichi's net. He's still surprised that Taiju keeps sticking so close to Takemichi.

They're still whispering and shuffling around when a sudden noise comes from the wall across the street.

"Kakucho, you're worrying way too much. They just visit a grave and then go home to eat together. There's no fighting, no killing - relax."

Ran honestly doesn't know whether to fear or admire the babysitter instinct running through Kakucho's veins. Izana comes over just to have a meal, yet it feels like going to war. Kakucho has been tailing them this whole time.

"Then why are you two following me?"

"Because we know Takemitchy is gonna be here, duh?" Rindou answers casually.

"If either of you bothers him, don't blame me."

"You're already Izana's babysitter, Kakucho. You don't need to add Takemitchy to the list," Rindou says.

"Where the hell do you even get that nickname from? Why do you keep calling him that?"

"Who knows? It sounds cute, so I use it."

(Draken, from the other side: Hey - hello? That nickname is copyrighted, you know? You just call him whatever you like now?)

"Bakamichi sounds cuter. But if you dare call him that, I will twist your head off."

"Since when do you get this damn stubborn, huh, kid?"

After all the chaos, both sides suddenly notice the others' presence.

Seven pairs of eyes stare at each other in shock. A strange silence spreads through the air. Now what sounds cool to say?

Seriously - how do you sneak around spying on people and still end up moving as a whole group like this?

"What are you guys even doing here?"

Takemichi just parts ways with Mikey and the others and happens to pass by this direction, only to notice a noisy commotion up ahead.

While they are still startled by one another, Takemichi's appearance shocks them even more. He squints his eyes, studying the two suspicious, restless groups in front of him.

"Yo, Takemichi," Baji greets him with an awkward grin.

"We just... have something going on nearby," Draken quickly covers it up.

"Bakamichi, you're here too? We also have some business nearby, so we overhear a bit," Kakucho adds.

But Kakucho is way too honest - his tone and acting come off painfully fake. Ran and Rindou can only shake their heads. This guy seriously needs training. Acting like that, how is he supposed to fool anyone?

Who would believe that? Takemichi isn't stupid enough for that.

"Hakkai, what kind of sneaky crap are you pulling now?"

Taiju's voice rings out, making Hakkai flinch hard.

"Your arm's broken, but you're still so damn nosy, huh, Ran?" Kokonoi immediately throws a jab the moment he sees Ran. After all, he has held a grudge ever since the day he finds out Ran dares to steal Takemichi's first kiss.

"Well, some people still have to work hard for the commander. Not everyone gets to hide behind their commander's back, you know. So I guess we just endure it. It hurts, you know?"

Ran doesn't back down at all. He instantly puts on an act, pretending to wipe away tears, looking deeply wounded. Kokonoi nearly snaps.

Ran's words sound exactly like he's mocking Kokonoi for being weak - someone who should be protecting Takemichi, yet instead ends up being the one Takemichi protects the most during the last incident. No one dares to lay a hand on him.

But Kokonoi doesn't let himself lose that easily. He lifts his chin, curls his lips into a smug grin.

"People with important positions get treated differently."

I'm important to the commander, so of course I get protected. Someone's jealous, aren't they? Kokonoi's gaze locks straight onto Ran, making that meaning painfully clear.

No punches are thrown, yet Takemichi feels the air thick with gunpowder. Still... it all feels strangely childish. He lets out a helpless smile. No matter how he imagines it, he never expects to see Toman and Tenjiku like this one day.

Just a bunch of ordinary teenage boys, bickering and trading petty jabs, instead of fighting like it's a matter of life and death.

Seeing them like this feels warmer. Softer. Almost... cute.

If only things could stay like this forever...

"Baji-kun, where is Chifuyu?"

Normally, Chifuyu sticks to Baji like glue, so it feels strange not to see him today.

"I don't even get a chance to see him this morning. He just disappears out of nowhere. I don't know either."

"Takemichi, are you heading home now or going somewhere else? Let's hang out."

Baji quickly invites him. It has been a long time since the two of them went out together - Takemichi is always busy. Draken, Mitsuya, and Hakkai want the same thing.

Ran and Rindou, on the other hand, frown in irritation. Touman already gets the upper hand again before anything even starts.

"I need to go over to Black Dragon for something now. We'll talk tomorrow, okay?"

Black Dragon again. Ever since Takemichi takes over Black Dragon, almost all of his time goes there. Everyone knows he does it for Touman, but still, the feeling of not having him around as often as before leaves an empty, uncomfortable ache in their chests. Besides, Takemichi's health is not as good as it used to be. He is dealing with depression - so why is he still being made to work like this?

"Takemichi, you should rest. You're not fully recovered yet." Mitsuya looks worried.

"I rest for the past few days, so I feel better now. You guys don't need to worry."

"Oh right - Kaku-chan, Ran-kun, Rindou-kun. I just told Izana earlier that when Tenjiku and Touman both have free time, we should hold a BBQ party together. You guys will come, right?"

"NO!!!"

Draken, Baji, Mitsuya, and Hakkai shout at the same time, loud enough to make Takemichi jump.

"Takemichi, stay away from these guys. Don't you remember the last time they tried to kidnap you?" Baji immediately grabs his hand and pulls him back toward them.

"But we're making peace with each other now, aren't we?"

"Peace, my ass. They're dangerous as hell. Who knows what kind of dirty tricks they'll pull," Draken refuses outright.

"That's right, Takemichi. They're Tenjiku. You say it yourself before - they want to take us over. They even plan to ambush us. If it's not for you, who knows what would happen to us? They always play dirty," Mitsuya adds, backing Draken up.

"I really don't feel safe with them, Takemichi," Hakkai also tries to stop him.

Hey, they hear all of that, you know. Talking trash right in front of them like this. They don't even get the chance to be happy about Takemichi's invitation. Before they can say anything, Touman already steps in to block it.

The Haitani brothers still think the best option is to find a way to bring Takemichi over to their side. At this rate, they can't even stay close to him - so what else can they possibly do?

"Izana and Mikey are family now. You can't keep hating each other forever, can you? Let's use this chance to make peace, okay? We don't have to be close, but having a peaceful relationship is better for everyone."

Takemichi quickly tries to persuade them, but it clearly doesn't work on those four stiff, unhappy faces.

It's not like they want to hold a grudge forever - they're just afraid the other side still hasn't given up on stealing Takemichi away. And their own Takemichi is way too friendly, way too naïve. What if he really gets taken again?

"Come on. Just think of it as a celebration for me getting discharged from the hospital, okay? I just want everyone to have a good time together."

Out of options, Takemichi softens his voice and starts pleading. Lately, he notices how much Touman spoils him. As long as he acts a little clingy, they give in immediately. It feels kind of like how girls act cute with their boyfriends - but it works, so he lets it slide.

"Please? Say yes for me."

Takemichi looks up at them with sparkling eyes, cheeks puffed in a small pout. He tugs at Draken's and Baji's sleeves, pulling them closer. Everyone melts instantly. All the irritation disappears.

Lately, Takemichi keeps getting better at making it impossible for them to refuse any of his requests. They indulge him so much it becomes a habit - at this rate, he's going to get whatever he wants.

"Fine. If that's what you want, then we'll do it."

Kokonoi and Inupee secretly think Touman lacks willpower. They expect these guys to firmly shut down the party idea - but after just a few soft words from Takemichi, they already surrender. Completely unreliable. Well then, now they start thinking about how to keep those people away from Takemichi during the party - especially the Haitani brothers.

Knowing he successfully persuades Touman, Takemichi beams with a bright, satisfied smile.

"It's definitely going to be fun. I haven't hung out with everyone in a long time, and I honestly miss the feeling of Touman being together. Let me finish taking care of some business first, then we'll all go out and have fun, okay? Oh - and lately, thanks to Taiju-kun, I've improved a lot. This time, I'll definitely knock Baji-kun down. Just wait and see."

Hearing him chirp away like a little bird, Touman can't help but laugh. No matter what, Takemichi really is their small sun. With him around, any worries can simply melt away.

"Oh wow, so confident now? Name the time, and I'll show you who you're dealing with."

"Just you wait there, Baji-kun."

"By the way, Draken-kun, my bike doesn't run very smoothly these days. Sometimes it even stalls halfway, and I have to step on the gear over and over before it works again. When you've got time, can you take a look at it for me?"

"I'm free anytime. Just finish your business and bring it to my place - I'll fix it for you." Draken looks at Takemichi indulgently. Something he helps give him, of course he's the one who fixes it too.

"Alright then."

After making sure Touman is all settled, Takemichi walks over to the Haitani brothers and Kakucho, who are still waiting for him.

"Then that day, you guys should come together with Izana. My mom will definitely be really happy to see you, Kaku-chan."

"We'll definitely come," Kakucho says gently with a smile.

"If Takemichi invites us, then of course we'll be there," Ran adds right after Kakucho.

Then he looks at Takemichi again. Takemichi isn't sure if he's imagining it, but the look in Ran's eyes seems a little... sad. Ran presses his lips together for a moment before calling out softly.

"Takemichi..."

"Is... something wrong?"

There's something about Ran's expression that makes Takemichi uneasy. He still finds it hard to completely let go of his guard around Ran.

"About what happened before... I'm sorry. I scared you back then. I won't be like that again in the future. At that time, I didn't know you already had a girlfriend, Takemichi... so... even if you reject my feelings, can I still be your friend?"

Ran speaks slowly, every word gentle and sincere, full of genuine remorse. The honest attitude makes Takemichi, who was on guard just moments ago, soften a little.

"That's already in the past. Let's just let it go. I'd be happy to be friends with you too, Ran-kun."

Takemichi smiles gently. Seeing that, Ran's gloomy expression brightens instantly, like a weight has finally been lifted from his heart. It makes Takemichi feel more at ease facing Ran. The awkwardness is still there, but it's no longer so strong that he can't even look at him like before.

"So Takemitchy is only friends with my big brother now? What about me? I met Takemitchy first, you know."

Rindou pouts and cuts in between the two.

"I remember, okay? Friends in the same gang, in the same boat - does that count as going through life and death together? Just don't mess with me anymore. Even when I'm sick, you never let me off."

"Ahh, sorry, sorry, let's call it even. I swear from now on I won't mess with you anymore, Takemitchy." Rindou raises his hand as if making an oath, but seeing that, Takemichi just clicks his tongue.

"Yeah right. Like I'd believe that."

Seeing the cheerful atmosphere between Takemichi and the Haitani brothers, those who know the whole story - Baji, Kokonoi, and Inupee - feel like rolling up their sleeves and snapping Ran's arms again. They want to shout at Takemichi not to believe a single word from those sly brothers. There's no way that guy gives up so easily - this has to be an act.

As for those who don't know the situation, like Draken, Mitsuya, and Hakkai, their faces are filled with confusion as they try to piece together what Ran just said.

An apology? What did he do that scared Takemichi? Didn't know Takemichi had a girlfriend? Rejecting his feelings? What the hell is going on here?

"Takemichi, let's go. We're running late. Finish the work quickly - you still have to eat lunch on time and take your medicine. We have to meet a client this afternoon too. If we handle this fast, you can go back and rest."

Taiju checks his watch and then walks over to remind Takemichi, acting no differently from a personal secretary - reminding him about work, and even worrying about his meals and medication. Hakkai is so shocked he can't say a word.

Anyone paying attention can tell that Taiju deliberately says these things in front of everyone. It is his way of showing that everything in Takemichi's life - big or small, even eating and taking medicine - is all taken care of by him.

"Shit, I forgot my medicine at home."

Taiju sighs. "I brought it for you already. You always forget things."

"Hehe, Taiju-kun is the best. I'll remember next time, I promise."

Takemichi smiles ingratiatingly at Taiju. Anyone can clearly see the harmony between the two of them. Nine pairs of eyes are fixed on Taiju - even now, they still don't know just how close this guy and Takemichi have become.

"Well then, see you all later."

Takemichi says goodbye to everyone and leaves together with Taiju, Inupee, and Kokonoi. Inupee, who has been silent this whole time, casually slips an arm around Takemichi's shoulder and leans in to whisper something into his ear - right in front of everyone. He doesn't forget to throw them a sidelong glance and a smile, clearly saying: Takemichi belongs to us all day today.

"This bastard is getting more and more out of line. He really likes provoking people, doesn't he?"

Baji grits his teeth, cracking his knuckles loudly. Touman watches Takemichi walk away with Black Dragon and suddenly feels an inexplicable emptiness. Without realizing it, they start longing for the past - when Takemichi's time belongs to them alone.

Ran notices Touman's reaction and chuckles quietly to himself. If one day Black Dragon and Touman clash, the only side that benefits is Tenjiku. For now, there is no need to do anything. Just wait. As for them, slowly approaching Takemichi is enough.

How foolish it is to think that hurting him will make him fall into your arms. Borrowing someone else's hand - isn't that much easier?

All they need to do is approach Takemichi little by little. The plan has to change. They can't rush him like before. The harder the method, the more fiercely Takemichi will resist. His heart is strong, but it is also incredibly kind. If one appears pitiful enough, it might soften his heart... as for what comes after - we'll see whether the hearts of the people here are generous enough to share.

Is there any love in this world that isn't selfish?

Selfishness is a vicious monster that slowly corrodes people. When you finally turn into something that ugly, will Takemichi still treasure you as something precious? This situation... will probably reveal its answer soon enough.

"Takemichi, you don't plan this party with both Toman and Tenjiku just for fun, do you?"

Taiju asks him that question as they arrive at the Black Dragon base - more accurately, Black Dragon's new office in Shibuya. Kokonoi has been busy lately because of this place. With Black Dragon's growing numbers and reputation, more major clients start seeking them out, so Kokonoi decides to rent a proper office space for Black Dragon.

Takemichi takes a slow look around. The office is not very big, and the building itself is old, but after renovation, it actually looks pretty decent. For someone who works part-time at a video rental shop and lives in a tiny apartment like him, this place feels more than good enough. He even feels a small sense of accomplishment.

"So far, we still have no news about Kisaki. Not even his shadow. Our network can't track down a single lead - it's really pathetic."

"Black Dragon's territory is only expanding in Shibuya, and the foothold in Ginza is still just a small part of Chuo Ward. There are places we haven't truly reached yet."

"Yeah. Like Yokohama - when they say they don't see Kisaki, we can't just accuse them of lying. We also can't keep our people hanging around there. This fragile peace will break the moment we show distrust."

"So... what are you getting at?"

Takemichi lets out a soft laugh. Taiju can see the light in his eyes - an eerie glow, impossible to read, as if something is quietly being calculated behind them.

If Toman sees Takemichi as the sun, then Taiju has seen something far deeper than that.

"I believe Izana wants a family," Takemichi says. "But I also believe in Izana's ambition. Kisaki's brain is like Koko-kun's money - those aren't things you give up easily. Still, I want to see how much trust Kisaki and Izana really place in each other during this time in hiding. I wonder if Kisaki feels abandoned... scared... watching the people he wants to manipulate laugh and enjoy a cozy party with his enemy. Do you think he can still sit still like he does now?"

Takemichi turns his back to Taiju and looks out the window. The office is on the third floor, and the view outside is surprisingly nice. Kokonoi must have put a lot of thought into choosing a location like this. Then Takemichi suddenly walks over to the desk Kokonoi calls the commander's seat in the far corner of the room. He sits down, props his chin on his hand, and stares straight at Taiju, who is working seriously at a nearby desk.

"Anyway, I also want to throw this party just to gather everyone together," Takemichi adds lightly. "I want to take a day off, you know. Taiju-kun, you should come too."

In an instant, the sharp edge fades away, and he turns back into his usual cheerful self, grinning mischievously as he tries to coax Taiju.

"Let me see if I'm busy or not."

Taiju keeps reading the documents without looking up.

"Come on, this is an invitation from the commander. If the commander isn't busy, why is the advisor working so hard?"

"With a commander who either wanders off the streets or ends up in the hospital all the time, being an advisor is way busier than being a commander ever was."

"Aww, Taiju-senpai," Takemichi whines. "You're so capable, that's why I trust everything to you. Do your best, okay? I'm just a figurehead commander."

Taiju looks up and shoots him a glare. He genuinely has no idea where Takemichi learns to call him that. Back then, when he teaches Takemichi how to fight and shares some management experience for Black Dragon, Takemichi gets too excited and blurts out "Taiju-senpai" while thanking him. Taiju freezes on the spot, and Takemichi nearly dies of fear and never dares to call him that again. And now here he is, saying it so smoothly and sweetly.

Taiju can't exactly admit that the way Takemichi calls him doesn't sound bad at all.

He clears his throat. "You really know how to create work for me."

Takemichi beams, clearly pleased. Lately, he feels like talking to Taiju comes more naturally, more closely than before. This guy actually knows how to deal with people - he's not that hard to approach. Sure, Takemichi is still a little scared, but his courage keeps growing. If he can push his luck once, then there will be a second time... a third time.

After all, it's because the other person allows him to push.

A knock echoes at the door. Kokonoi and Inupi step in, with Kimura following behind them. Takemichi looks straight at him.

His gaze turns icy in an instant. The corner of his lips curves slightly upward, his posture relaxed, giving no hint of what he is truly thinking. The aura Takemichi carries now grows increasingly oppressive.

"Well now, our big guest - Kimura Kenji-kun," Takemichi says calmly. "I have a feeling today is going to be a very long conversation, don't you think?"

___

*In this part, Taiju's inner monologue shifts to using 'tôi' and 'em' when referring to Takemichi. Like I explained before, this way of addressing carries a sacred undertone in emotional contexts, while also conveying something precious - distant, restrained, and difficult to reach