Kurisu paused for a moment, then finally sighed. "I... I personally have no problem with it. However, I'm not sure about the others. The women work for me at the Brothel because they have nowhere else to go. But I can't decide for them. Only they have the right to determine what they want."
"That's fine!" Aoki said, nodding firmly. "I'll talk to them. If they're willing, then we can all embark on this journey together."
...
...
...
Some time later, news that Aoki had regained consciousness spread quickly among the women working under Kurisu. In no time, they began to come one by one to see Aoki.
They had spent several months with Aoki, sharing dangers and tensions that made them feel close to him. Although their initial relationship was merely one of respect for their group leader, Aoki's sacrifice in saving them from the Black Market had changed everything.
Now, they saw Aoki not just as a protector, but also as part of the small family they had built.
As they entered the room, Aoki looked at them with a small smile, even though his body still felt weak. The women smiled in relief, some even unable to hide their emotions.
...
...
...
That day, they all gathered to celebrate their survival. Despite losing many comrades on their perilous journey, their spirits remained high. They chose to look forward with a positive attitude, believing that the future still held hope for them.
That night, amidst the flickering campfire illuminating Hell Valley, laughter and conversation filled the air. They held a simple feast, enjoying grilled meat prepared together. The aroma of the food mingled with the warmth of brotherhood that felt so strong among them.
Aoki, who had now partially recovered, sat with them, observing the smiling faces. Although tired, Aoki felt happy to see them able to momentarily forget the fear and sadness that had long overshadowed their lives.
After a while, Aoki stood up, clapping his hands to get their attention. The chatter began to fade, and all eyes turned to Aoki.
"I want to say something," Aoki began with a firm yet warm voice. "I am very proud of all of you. We have been through a lot, and even though we have lost so much, we are still here. We are still standing."
They listened attentively, some nodding slowly, while others looked at Aoki with deep respect.
"I also want to tell you about my plan. I will start forming a mercenary group," Aoki continued, his eyes sharply focused on them.
"This group will be a place where we can all become stronger. However, I will not force you. If anyone does not want to join, that's fine. You can stay here in Hell Valley, or go to start a new life in the Shinobi world."
Aoki paused for a moment, giving them time to digest his words. He did not expect to receive such an overwhelming reaction.
One by one, the women raised their hands. Most of them did so without any hesitation. Aoki was stunned, not expecting that they would all choose to join.
"Do... Do you all want to join?" Aoki asked, his eyes widening in surprise.
"Yes," one of the women said firmly. "Some of us don't know where to go. This place is our home now. And for others... We have long followed Miss Kurisu. Miss Kurisu has helped us a lot. If Miss Kurisu chooses to join, then we will follow Miss Kurisu as well."
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