Rising from the Ashes ‖ Tokyo Revengers

Chapter XXXVIII

After the intense meeting, Takemichi resolved to return to the future, fueled by the persistent hope of altering the unfolding events and saving Toman. The urgency to rescue Mikey propelled him forward.

Despite Baji's intervention sparing Mikey from committing a heinous act, the alliance with Kisaki had shifted the power dynamics within Toman. The looming threat of Kisaki and his allies taking control hung over the gang. Yet, Takemichi clung to the belief that there was still a chance to make a difference, and for that, he needed to confer with Naoto.

Upon shaking hands with Naoto from the past, Takemichi opened his eyes to find himself once again in the future. Checking his phone, he noted the date – Saturday, November 19th, 2017.

Just like the previous returns to the future, he found himself in the familiar rental store with the manager. However, subtle changes in the environment hinted at a shift in the timeline. The manager, usually casual, approached him with an unusual air of politeness.

" Sorry to keep you waiting. The video you're looking for doesn't appear to be in stock at this location". The manager nervously informed him, offering a polite smile.

" Huh ?". Takemichi muttered, bewildered by the manager's uncharacteristic behavior.

Sensing something different about himself, Takemichi excused himself and headed to the restroom. There, he discovered a transformed version of himself – adorned with a luxurious watch, carrying a top-class bag, and with neatly slicked-back hair, a stark contrast to his usual disheveled appearance.

As he mechanically left the shop, the manager bid him a polite farewell, and a voice interrupted his thoughts.

" Please come again !". The manager called out.

Lost in his contemplation, Takemichi barely registered the voice until another interrupted him, making him flinch.

" You're late, Takemichi ! You're really into this rental store, huh ?". The voice belonged to a boy with glasses, tattoos on his chest, long brown hair, and a scar on his forehead, radiating annoyance.

Following the mysterious boy to a luxurious car, Takemichi encountered an uncomfortable silence on the road. Attempting to break it, he inquired about their destination.

" Hey... Where are we going from here ?". Takemichi asked.

" Huh ? The hell do you mean ? We're going to your place". The man replied.

" My place ?". Takemichi raised an eyebrow.

" Just like you ordered. Right, Koji ?". The man confirmed with the driver.

" Yes, sir ! I'm doing just as you asked !". Koji responded.

Feeling a surge of panic at the mention of 'his orders', Takemichi attempted to call Naoto, only to realize he didn't have Naoto's phone number.

" Hey ! Takemichi !". The man called out.

Startled, Takemichi looked up as the car came to a stop, and the driver opened the car door.

" What're you starin' at ? We're here". The man informed him.

" Ah...yeah". Takemichi replied, following the man.

As he entered, Takemichi couldn't shake off the frustration of being unable to contact Naoto. The manager, now accompanied by two men, greeted him.

" Good afternoon, sir !". The men bowed.

Startled, Takemichi looked up to find a sizable group of men before him, led by two individuals—one with long blond hair and the other with shorter dark hair.