On the basketball court, the air seemed to have frozen.
Shirakawa watched with interest as these four delinquent boys suddenly appeared before him and paid him such a grand salute. He then glanced at Hanamichi Sakuragi, who was still doing a handstand with half a pineapple bun stuffed in his mouth, looking utterly bewildered. The corner of Shirakawa's lips curled up slightly.
Things seemed to be getting more and more interesting.
"Who are you?" he asked calmly. His voice was not loud, yet it carried an unmistakable presence.
Yohei Mito straightened up and replied neither humbly nor arrogantly, "We're Hanamichi's friends. My name is Yohei Mito. Since Hanamichi has taken you as his master, you're naturally our boss as well. From now on, whatever orders you have, we'll go through fire and water without hesitation!"
His words were impeccable. He had both stated their identities and expressed their loyalty.
Shirakawa's gaze lingered on his face for several seconds.
He could tell that this Yohei Mito was the brains of the group. Unlike Sakuragi, who was practically single-celled, Yohei's decision to submit had clearly been carefully considered. He had seen something in Shirakawa that could bring them enormous benefits, which was why he had surrendered so decisively.
"Oh? What can I give you?" Shirakawa was intrigued.
Yohei Mito smiled, his expression carrying a maturity uncommon for someone his age. "We don't want anything. We just feel that following a strong person like you will let us see more interesting sights."
"Interesting sights..." Shirakawa savored those words, and the smile on his face deepened.
He liked dealing with smart people.
"Fine." He waved a hand indifferently. "If you want to follow me, then follow me. But I don't keep useless people around."
He pointed at Sakuragi, who was still upside down. "See