In Another Life (Tokyo Revengers: Chifuyu's fanfic)

Part 5: Toman vs Moebius

The atmosphere was alive with festivity as you, Baji, and Chifuyu decided to spend the day together at the festival, a tradition you cherished. Donning your adorable light blue yukata, perfectly accentuating your complexion, you stole a moment to admire yourself in the mirror. Anticipation bubbled within you as you looked forward to showcasing your attire to the guys, especially Baji, though his obliviousness to your subtle gestures left a pang in your heart. It seemed he was completely unaware of your feelings.

Suddenly, an urgent, frantic knocking at the door shattered the tranquil moment, sending your heart racing with alarm. The persistent banging, so unlike anything you'd heard before, hinted at something serious. As you swung the door open, your eyes widened in surprise, almost stumbling over the carpet in your haste. Standing before you were Baji and Chifuyu, dressed not in their usual casual attire, but in Toman's uniform—a stark departure from the norm that signaled trouble.

Chifuyu's jaw dropped as he took in your charming appearance in the yukata, but any admiration was short-lived. You felt compelled to inquire about the sudden change in their attire, but before you could utter a word, Baji spoke up, his tone urgent and clipped. "Sorry. Change out of that. We'll explain everything later."

***

As Chifuyu calmly relayed the unsettling news of Moebius' surprise attack and Peh's unexpected alliance with them, your stomach churned with apprehension. The revelation that someone from Toman had spotted them near the festival's parking lot only intensified your unease. Despite the initial settling of tensions, it seemed conflict was once again brewing, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous occasion.

Since the first day, you had always opted to ride on Chifuyu's bike instead of Baji's, sensing his reluctance and attributing it to his personal reasons. Though you harbored deep affection for Baji, you respected his boundaries, refraining from pushing the issue further. It was a small sacrifice for the sake of preserving the camaraderie you cherished within Toman.

"I thought things had settled?" you murmured, the nervous tremor in your voice betraying your anxiety. This impending battle would mark your first real test as a member of Toman, a prospect that both thrilled and terrified you. Despite occasional lessons from Baji and Chifuyu, nothing could fully prepare you for the reality of combat.

"Peh didn't like how things progressed," Chifuyu explained, his tone tinged with concern. "Actually, I didn't want to bring you along, but Baji insisted since you're technically part of Toman. Just... don't get too reckless, okay?" His words carried a weight of caution, a reminder of the dangers that lay ahead.

You nodded silently, though Chifuyu's focus remained fixed on the slick, rain-soaked road ahead. As the rain pattered against the pavement, you couldn't help but lament the ruined opportunity to showcase your cute yukata. The anticipation of the festival had quickly given way to a somber realization of the harsh realities of gang life.

Despite initially joining Toman for the thrill of adventure and camaraderie, your perspective had shifted over time. You had come to admire their code of conduct, their reluctance to engage in violence unless provoked. It was a principle you deeply respected, even as the allure of Toman made it increasingly difficult to consider walking away.

***

"Y/N!" Chifuyu's urgent shout jolted you into action. Spinning around, your eyes widened in horror as a Moebius assailant lunged towards you. Instinct kicked in, and with a speed that surprised even yourself, you deftly evaded his attack, darting around him before delivering a swift kick to the back of his knee. His balance shattered, he crumpled to the ground, vulnerable.

While the assailant struggled to regain his footing, Chifuyu wasted no time, delivering a decisive blow that rendered the attacker unconscious. It was a familiar sequence—Chifuyu always had your back, ensuring the job was finished efficiently and swiftly. Despite the chaos surrounding you, you couldn't help but feel a pang of disbelief at the situation unfolding before your eyes.

Amidst the chaos and danger, you found yourself relying on Chifuyu's guidance, his steady presence offering a semblance of reassurance in the tumultuous night. The rain-soaked streets became a battleground, your uniform stained with a grim mixture of toxic rain and blood—a stark reminder of the harsh reality of gang warfare.

Though Baji forged ahead alone, a testament to his leadership and strength, you found solace in the partnership you shared with Chifuyu. Despite not possessing Baji's raw power, your teamwork with Chifuyu was seamless, a testament to the chemistry between you. Together, you navigated the chaos, a formidable duo against the onslaught of adversaries.

As bruises blossomed on Chifuyu's face and body, his concern for your well-being remained unwavering. You couldn't help but reciprocate, brushing away the beginnings of a bruise forming on his cheekbone with a touch that surprised both of you. In that fleeting moment, instinct overruled reason, and Chifuyu's face warmed under your touch.

"Don't worry, I'm stronger than you think," he assured, though his attempt at bravado couldn't fully mask the vulnerability beneath. With a roll of your eyes, you turned away, resuming your vigilant stance at his side. Throughout the long night, you fought side by side, each relying on the other for support and protection in the face of adversity.

***

Returning home after the harrowing ordeal, a heavy sigh escaped your lips, the weight of the night's events lingering in the air. The memory of Draken's stabbing and the agonizing wait at the hospital replayed in your mind, tears flowing freely as you recalled the collective relief when news of his recovery spread. Mikey's anguish was palpable, a testament to the deep bonds within Toman that transcended mere loyalty.

As you ascended the stairs to your apartment, Chifuyu trailed behind like a devoted guardian, his unwavering presence a comfort amidst the lingering tension. Despite your protests, he remained steadfast, his concern for your safety overriding any notion of personal inconvenience.

"Toman lives in a dangerous world, but you decided to join nonetheless," Baji remarked, his frustration evident. Despite the severity of the situation, you managed a weak smile, acknowledging the truth in his words. The risks were undeniable, but the camaraderie and sense of purpose within Toman outweighed the dangers.

Chifuyu's concerned gaze bore into yours, his voice tinged with apprehension. "Are you sure you still want to continue in Toman? You can quit anytime." His words carried a weight of caution, a reminder of the dangers that lay ahead.

With a determined nod, you reaffirmed your commitment, acknowledging the importance of protecting your comrades, even at the risk of your own safety. The fluttering sensation in Chifuyu's stomach betrayed his emotions, a silent acknowledgment of the bond that had formed between you.

"Tch, you should protect Chifuyu and not me. I'm alright alone," Baji interjected with a smirk, pointing teasingly at Chifuyu. Flustered, Chifuyu protested, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. The lighthearted banter brought a welcome moment of levity amidst the somber atmosphere, reminding you of the enduring bond shared between the three of you.

As you bid farewell for the night, little did you know that this moment marked the beginning of a profound shift in Baji's demeanor, signaling changes that would alter the dynamics of your relationship forever.