As Kenji and Yasu arrived at the small company, Kenji couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over him. He had fond memories of Kazuki's friend, who had always been kind to him. The secretary, Yasu, seemed curious about their connection, and Kenji was happy to share the story.
"We met through Kazuki, of course," Kenji began. "They were close friends and business associates. He would often come to our company, and we would talk about business and life in general. He was always very friendly and supportive."
Yasu's eyes widened with interest. "I see. I didn't know that. How come I've never met him before?"
Kenji shrugged. "He stopped coming to the company a few years ago. I'm not really sure why."
The secretary nodded thoughtfully. "I see. Well, it's nice that he's willing to help us now."
As they entered the small company, Kenji was struck by its modest size. It was indeed smaller than their own company, but he could sense the warmth and welcoming atmosphere that permeated the space.
Suzuki, Kazuki's friend and the manager of the company, greeted them with a wide smile. "Ah, Kenji! You've grown so big! And you must be Yasu. Please, have a seat."
Kenji felt a surge of gratitude towards Suzuki, who had always been kind to him. He was glad to see that Suzuki still remembered him fondly.
As they sat down, Yasu spoke up. "Sir, may I ask how you knew my name?"
Suzuki chuckled. "Ah, Kazuki used to tell me about you all the time. You were like a daughter to him, Yasu. He was very proud of you."
Yasu's eyes misted over, and Kenji could sense her emotions. He knew that she had been deeply affected by Kazuki's passing.
Kenji cleared his throat, trying to composed himself. "Sir, we actually need your help with something."
Suzuki's expression turned serious. "What is it, Kenji? You know I'll do whatever I can to help."
Kenji took a deep breath. "We would like to join your company, sir."
Suzuki's eyes widened in surprise. "What? That's great! I never thought you'd want to join us."
Kenji smiled. "We need your help, sir. And we're willing to do whatever it takes to make it work."
Suzuki nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Well, the company is practically yours anyway. Kazuki built two small companies instead of one big one, and gave me one of them to run as if it were mine. So, you see what I mean now."
Kenji's eyes widened in surprise. He had never known that Kazuki had done that for Suzuki.
Yasu spoke up, her voice soft. "Yes, sir. We know. And we're grateful for your help."
Suzuki smiled. "The pleasure is mine, and welcome to the company. You can resume next week, take some time to settle down."
Kenji nodded, his mind racing with thoughts of the Battle Grid Championship. "If it's okay with you, sir, we would like to resume tomorrow."
Suzuki raised an eyebrow. "Okay then, but why the rush? If you don't mind me asking."
Kenji took a deep breath. "We've heard about the Battle Grid Championship, sir. And we want to participate."
Suzuki's eyes lit up. "Ah, yes! I tried to register the company, but we didn't have a fighter who could qualify the screening, and we didn't have enough funds. So, we had to back down."
Kenji's determination surged forward. "Then I'll fight for this company!!"