Brothas

New Beginnings

The Year: 2019

[New City: Salem, Illinois, at 05:46 A.M.]

[New location: Kebo's penthouse apartment]

Kebo and Ichiban's Perspectives:

In the vibrant city of Salem, Illinois, the year is 2019, and a new day dawns as the sun peeks over the horizon, filling the sky with a warm glow. 

The streets are still quiet, the only sounds being the gentle rustle of leaves in the morning breeze and the distant chirping of birds welcoming the day. 

I roll out of bed, the soft sheets slipping away as I kick off my morning routine, a series of small rituals that help me ease into the day. 

After a quick shower, I make my way to the kitchen, the familiar scent of coffee brewing in the air, promising a rich and invigorating start to my morning. 

As I pour myself a steaming cup of the dark brew, I glance out the window, taking in the picturesque view of our neighborhood bathed in the soft, golden sunlight. 

A grin spreads across my face as I take a sip, the warmth of the coffee matching the warmth of the sun.

 "Good morning, world!" I said, my voice echoing slightly in the stillness of the house, "I'm eager to see what today has in store. Here's hoping for a smooth week, free of any bumps." 

The morning feels peaceful, wrapped in the soft embrace of sunlight, a perfect backdrop for the adventures that lie ahead.

Just then, my new roommate, Ichiban Kasuga, stirred awake in his room. 

The sound of his door creaking open draws my attention, and I can't help but chuckle as I see him shuffle into the kitchen. 

His wild dark brown afro is a tangled mess, a testament to his deep slumber, and he rubs sleep from his gray eyes as he searches for breakfast. 

The aroma of hot chocolate fills the dining area, and I'm taken aback to realize Ichiban is my first-ever roommate. 

It's a strange yet exciting thought, sharing my space with someone who has such a colorful past.

 We crossed paths at the Survive Bar in Isezaki Ijincho, a chance meeting that turned into a friendship thanks to his Kasuga Party friends who thought we'd hit it off. 

They were right; our connection was instant, and now here we are, embarking on this new chapter of our lives together.

As he steps out of his bedroom, he lets out a massive yawn, stretches his arms wide, and gears up for the first day of our life together. 

The sunlight filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room, and I can't help but feel a rush of excitement at the thought of what lies ahead. 

 A bright smile spreads across his face as he exclaims, "Let's kick off our first year living together!" 

His enthusiasm is infectious, and I can't help but mirror his grin. It's a new chapter for both of us, and the possibilities seem endless.

 Even though he's an ex-yakuza who spent 18 years behind bars for a wrongful conviction, he's got a heart of gold, an unwavering loyalty, and he proudly carries the title of 'Hero of Yokohama'.

 His past is a tapestry of struggles and triumphs, but it's his resilience and kindness that truly define him. 

He's determined to make the most of this new beginning, feeling thankful for the opportunity to start fresh and build a life that reflects who he really is.