Perhaps due to his darker complexion and rough skin texture, Inoue appears slightly older.
Though he's only 31 this year, just past his prime, he looks like an uncle in his forties.
From Inoue's interactions with Zhouzhu, Kondo, Chokata, and others, it's clear—the Kondo family truly treats Inoue like one of their own.
Zhouzhu engages in conversation with Inoue with the enthusiasm one would show to a dear family member.
Abi, who usually wears a stern face, surprisingly softens his usual cold demeanor.
Kondo and Chokata gaze at Inoue with respect and trust.
As an outsider by surname, Inoue holds such an esteemed position within Shiwei Hall and the Kondo family... Aoto fully understands this.
After all, Aoto has heard Inoue's story and holds great admiration for him.
Even before officially meeting Inoue tonight, without knowing what Inoue looked like, Aoto already had immense respect for the elder at Shiwei Hall.
