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Satoru stands before a dark and dreary-looking building. It's so jarring compared to the one he works at. Those who follow under the Dark Zone Branch follow the aesthetic on point. The exterior feels more like an ancient haunted mansion rather than a place to play Vanguard. It's hard to believe that people are willingly walking into the place despite the frights that may come.
His branch is completely different. Dragon Empire was bright, blazing like the sun. A cloudy day never seemed to pass judgment over his facility. While his building was more tame, and basic, the inside held fantastic dragons, those that served underneath the nation. Yet, unlike this haunting place, his own never had this much foot traffic.
As much as he wants to admire the dwellings of the dark, he's here for one purpose. To speak to someone.
Mamoru Anjou, the clan leader of Dark Irregulars and the Dark Zone Branch Chief.
With no hesitation, Satoru makes his way inside. The halls are lit with a dim light, just enough so people can see yet give off an eerie feeling. The walls are dark with ghastly wallpaper. It feels like something, or someone is watching him. It really does feel like he's walking through a haunted house.
Especially when he hears a scream.
But that's shortly followed by a laugh. Curiosity urges him to find the cause, but he has a feeling he knows what happened. Despite the occasional scare, this place was fairly welcoming. Every haunting was a memorable one, whether you were here for Vanguard or not.
The Kagerou Clan Leader eventually makes it to the office portion of the building, one hidden from the view of the cardfighters. This section isn't as dark yet is decorated to match that outside. It almost feels like it's Halloween year-round here.
"Ah, Satoru." A voice calls out. He turns to meet with the piercing red eyes of Mamoru.
The man stands tall, wearing a fine, dark brown suit. He wears a smile to show off his teeth, purposefully showing his sharper canines. With his eyes, it makes him really seem like he's a vampire. If Satoru hadn't caught him in the sun before, he might think he was one.
"Did you have trouble finding your way here? I know the corridors can be a little confusing."
"No." Satoru shakes his head. He's been here once when he first became the Dragon Empire Branch Chief. He was forced to look around everyone's branches to get a feel of how they all ran. It wasn't the most entertaining thing for him to do. "I managed just fine. You know why I'm here."
"Of course," Mamoru replies. Satoru wasn't one to beat around the bush. The Dark Irregulars clan leader ushers Satoru to follow him into his office. A more private setting for the two Branch Chiefs. His office still fits the entire theme of this place. It's like he can't escape this haunted house. Mamoru takes a seat behind his desk and Satoru takes one in front.
"What was it you wanted help with again? All you asked for was a meeting with me."
"Well..." Satoru pauses. He didn't normally like asking for help. But this was something he wasn't used to. People. Sure he could interact with a few here and there, but they were usually thrown off by his blunt and short words. "I want to know how to make the Dragon Empire Branch more inviting."
Now it's Mamoru's turn to pause, his eyes widening a little.
"You command Dark Zone, a terrifying place yet it's filled with many people," Satoru continues. "Meanwhile...I don't know how to get new cardfighters to join us. I want to know." His green eyes meet with red. "Tell me, how do you do it?" It sounded more like a demand rather than a plea for help.
"It's...difficult to find the right balance," Mamoru answers with a hum. His gaze drifts to the side for a moment. "Not everyone enjoys the darkness, but I'm here to show those who fear it that it isn't so bad. It might be scary but a leap of faith might prove worthwhile on their part."
Satoru considers his words. But by the look on his face, he still has trouble trying to figure out what to do. How does one be scary yet inviting at the same time?
"You wield the power of dragons, don't you?" That question snaps him out of his thoughts. "They're not all that bad, right? Most people find them...scary and dangerous, but there are stories of them being allies and friends."
"You're right." That helps. He could make dragons more appealing while keeping their power. As Mamoru said, finding a balance wouldn't be easy, but now he had something to work with.
"If you wish I can assist you." Mamoru offers with a devilish smile. He means well, but the way he does it makes it seem like he's plotting something. Maybe it's just Satoru overthinking it and he's just going along with his vampire look. "You're the youngest Branch Leader with a remarkable track record. But you do lack experience."
Satoru's eyes narrow slightly at his words. "I'd appreciate the help." He replies, deciding not to challenge his words. For now. "I want the Dragon Empire to have more cardfighters. I want it to grow."
To be a place where people can enjoy Vanguard and have fun. No matter who they are or what their past was like. That's all he wanted.
Mamoru can see the determination in his gaze. Those green eyes swirl with a stunning emotion, a fire that has been lit and intent on blazing throughout the darkest of nights.
The sight makes Mamoru smile. He loves seeing the passion ignite in others.
"I will help then. But first...how about a cardfight?"