Takemikey

"Takemitchy is my hero."

- Mikey to Takemichi, Chapter 188

Takemikey is the slash ship between Manjiro "Mikey" Sano and Takemichi Hanagaki from the Tokyo Revengers fandom.

Toman Arc
The two initially meet when Takemichi time leaps for the second time into the past and is confronted by a delinquent. He gets attacked until Draken stops the fight and Mikey is seen behind him. When the people surrounding Takemichi notice Mikey, they all bow down and the latter gets shocked when seeing that he is the top guy in Tokyo Manji. Sano walks to him and leans until he falls, asking for his name. Takemichi replies, and Mikey calls him 'Takemitchy' instead. He then crouches to talk to him and asks him if he's in middle school but skips the question and tells him that the two are now pals.

Next chapter and Mikey punches Kiyomasa until he is passed out, and as he leaves, he says farewell to his new friend. After, Takemichi assumes that he is now just Mikey's toy, and calls their friendship hell. His friends then start mocking him and Mikey.

The next day, Takemichi is in school until Mikey and Draken barge in, dragging him out and down the hallway where there are students that Draken beat up. Seeing Takemichi hanging out with the other two, especially Mikey, stir some worried conversations between school students and even Hina, Takemichi's girlfriend, got a wring impression and slapped Mikey, but he didn't hold a grudge after. Takemichi then leaves with Draken and Mikey, and while Takemichi is peddling the bike, Mikey sits behind him. Mikey begins to talk about his older brother and says that Takemichi is just like him. The three of them then go to a riverbank, where Mikey tells Takemichi of his dream - to create a new era of delinquents, and that Takemichi should accompany him in his journey. Takemichi then thinks that Mikey isn't a bad person. After Takemichi travels back to the future, he and Naoto begin talking and Naoto asked Takemichi why he didn't kill Mikey, and Takemichi replies that he's a good guy - much to Naoto's dismay. Naoto then brings up that Mikey killed Hina and even then Takemichi still believes that Mikey is a trustworthy person and wants to go meet him face to face.

Moebius Arc
After Takemichi returns to the past, he finds out that the day Toman is supposed to fight Moebius is the day Draken had died. He goes to Mikey and asks Mikey to stop the fight, but Mikey refuses. Takemichi then pushes on and once again asks Mikey to not let Toman fight Moebius and says that he had just became friends with Mikey and Draken and that he doesn't want Toman to end this way. After Mikey knocks down Osanai, he yells at Takemichi to run.

When Takemichi wakes up in the hospital after fainting, he finds out that Draken and Mikey are fighting. Both Draken and Mikey show up at his house, still arguing. Mikey says he came to see how Takemichi was doing, and Draken and Mikey then begin fighting over who is Takemichi's friend. Mikey and Draken begin throwing things, but in the end Takemichi was able to resolve everything and they all go the park to hang out.

As Takemichi and Draken were the in the ambulance, Draken tells Takemichi to take care of Mikey. A few days later, as Takemichi went to visit Draken, Draken gave him a uniform from Mikey - the very uniform that he first started Toman in. He tells Takemichi that the uniform is very important, and it's even considered "as important as life itself." and that Mikey wants Takemichi to have it. Takemichi then goes to the roof to meet up with Mikey, and Mikey thanks him for saving Draken and they shake hands.

Valhalla Arc
Takemichi returns back to the past once again, and he realizes he's in a bathhouse. Mikey pops up from the water and scares him. It turns out he's hanging out with Draken and Mikey. They then leave to nominate a third division captain, Kisaki, and Takemichi punches him. After Takemichi blacked out, he woke up with Mikey sitting next to him. Mikey begins to talk about his dream and starts reminiscing about his childhood. Mikey asks Takemichi to bring back Baji, and in return Takemichi asks Mikey to get rid of Kisaki. Mikey then puts Takemichi in the third division and tells him that he's an official member of Toman.

As they're visiting the Sano Family Grave, Mikey asks Takemichi why he didn't bring Baji, but instead his vice-captain Chifuyu. Takemichi then states that he wants to be the top guy in Toman, and that he will make Mikey realize that. After Takemichi and Chifuyu leave, Mikey has a soft smile on his face. When Takemichi went back to the future and met up with Draken, he found out that Mikey had killed Kazutora. Takemichi breaks down, saying that Mikey would never kill someone. After him and Naoto leave, he still can't believe it. Takemichi continues to say that he knows and believes that Mikey would never kill anyone, even though he now has new memories of what happened on that day. As Takemichi continues to reminisce over what happened, he says that Mikey looked so sad, and that he has to save him with tears running down his face.

On the day of the fight, Mikey drops to his knees after knocking down Kazutora. Takemichi sees this and starts running toward him, shouting that he needs to save him. As he is making his way there, someone is about to attack him until Kisaki knocks him down, and states that his division will protect Mikey. Draken thanks him, and says he'll leave Mikey to Kisaki, and Takemichi begins to cry saying that he's got it all wrong and Kisaki will end up hurting Mikey and Toman.

Takemichi thinks he's saved Baji from getting stabbed, and Chifuyu and him ask Baji to let them help him, which Baji refuses. Before he leaves, he tells Takemichi to take care of Mikey. Mikey then begins to beat Kazutora up, which Baji intervenes and says that Kazutora was not the one to kill him and stabs himself. Before Baji passes away, he once again tells Takemichi that he's leaving Mikey and Toman in his hands. Mikey then begins to start punching Kazutora, and Takemichi gets between them, shouting at Mikey. Mikey punches him, telling him that he shouldn't be talking, but Takemichi continues to talk, telling Mikey that this wasn't what Baji wanted. Takemichi throws off his jacket, and Baji's charm with all the founding members falls out and Mikey picks it up, asking Takemichi where he got it from - which brought back Mikey to his senses.

At the Toman meeting, Chifuyu nominated Takemichi to be first division captain, and Mikey asked for his response. Takemichi accepted, tears running down his face, and Mikey had a soft smile on his face, while saying he raised his head too high. Takemichi then returns to another future where everything went bad, and Kazutora tells him that Toman changed because Mikey changed, and Takemichi doesn't believe it, saying that it had to be someone else must have been behind it.

Black Dragons Arc
Takemichi returns to the past once more, and ends up getting beat up by Shiba Taiju, the leader of the Black Dragons and Hakkai's older brother. There's a Toman meeting, and Takemichi objects Hakkai wanting to leave Toman, and gives Mikey dorayaki so he could agree with him, but Mikey flings it away. After Toman wins the Christmas Conflict, Takemichi passes out and wakes up leaning against Mikey's back. The two of them are riding on a motorcycle together, and Mikey takes Takemichi to meet up with Hina. After Hina and Takemichi make up, Draken and Mikey are talking in the background, saying how Takemichi is just like him - Mikey's older brother Shinichiro. Mikey and Takemichi then leave to go take a ride together.

"Mikey-kun is such a mystery. When he's with the rest of us, he's scary and hard to approach. But when it's just the two of us, it's like .. he's so calm he could tell me anything."

- Takemichi about Mikey, Chapter 109

Mikey begins talking about his childhood, and Shinichiro. He says that there are times when he doesn't know what's going on, and that his brother should be around, but he isn't, and that he doesn't know what that means. Mikey continues to explain that there are times when his mind goes blank, and that he doesn't know what's right or wrong. Takemichi then realizes that Mikey knows about the darkness inside of him, and that he'll lose his mind sooner or later. They stop somewhere and continue talking. Mikey tells Takemichi about Shinichiro, and how even though he was weak everyone idolized him. He says that everyone thought they wouldn't lose as long as Shinichiro had their backs, to which Takemichi responds with "Just like you, Mikey-kun!!".

"I'm just weak. But you're strong, Takemitchy."

- Mikey to Takemichi, Chapter 109

Mikey goes on to tell Takemichi that it doesn't matter about winning fights or not, and that the real thing is not losing against yourself. He tells Takemichi that even though he's weak, he never gives in to anyone. Mikey then goes on to say that if he ever loses himself, he wants Takemichi to scold him, like Shinichiro would have. Takemichi tears up and tells him that he will. "If anyone can create a new age alone, it's you Mikey-kun!!!!"

- Takemichi to Mikey, Chapter 114 Mikey and Draken are seen fixing up a bike for Takemichi because he was the only captain without one, and they surprise Takemichi with it. Mikey explains that Shinichiro had found two engines in the Philippines, and how one of the engines is in his Babu, and that the other is now in Takemichi's bike, which means that it is twins with his. Takemichi and Mikey then go on a practice drive, and Mikey talks about the engines and how Shinichiro felt when he found them. Mikey says that he wants to see the place that Shinichiro found the engines, to which Takemichi responds that they should go together.

Right before Takemichi timeleaps to the future, he meets up with everyone one last time. He tells Mikey that Kisaki is the enemy, and what Baji's last words were. He tells them to stay strong and to not forget about Baji's wish.

Takemichi is back in the future, but time leaps right in the middle of Mitsuya's funeral and finds out that everyone is dead. Naoto tells him that this was the worst future that's happened yet, and proceeds tells him that Mikey was the suspect to all the murders that happened, and Takemichi once again, doesn't believe him. He shouts at Naoto to stop joking with him and that there's no way that Mikey would ever kill anyone. Naoto says he wants to know what really happened as well, and that Takemichi is the only one who could meet up with Mikey.

As Takemichi is wondering if Mikey really did kill everyone, he finds a letter inside the photo he took before time leaping. The letter is from the Philippines, and Takemichi immediately goes to fly over. The letter had told Takemichi at the place he told him about before, and Takemichi immediately knew it was from Mikey. As he enters the building, he starts thinking about Mikey, and how this would be the first time he's ever seen him in one of the futures. He begins to wonder if Mikey really did change, and how he turned out - he even thinks that Mikey called him out just to kill him but continues looking for him. Takemichi then hears his named called and turns and sees Mikey. "There he was ... with the same look in his eyes as ever. Mikey-kun was there."

- Takemichi after seeing Mikey, Chapter 116

Takemichi begins to tear up, trying to ask Mikey how he's been, but not being able to get out a coherent sentence. He wipes his eyes, and Mikey smiles at him fondly, telling him that he's still a crybaby. He tells Takemichi that he called him out here for a favor, and begins talking about all the memories this place brings. He starts reminiscing about when he was younger, and Takemichi thinks that Mikey hasn't changed and that he knows he didn't kill Mitsuya and the others. Mikey then says that Toman changed, interrupting Takemichi's thoughts, confusing him. He asks Takemichi why he left Toman, and that he wanted Takemichi to stay with him.

"Why did you leave Toman? I wanted you to stay with me. I wanted you to scold me, like my big bro would have."

- Mikey to Takemichi, Chapter 117

Mikey proceeds to say that he was somehow able to keep going on his own, but that he couldn't hold back, and how he began to lose himself. He tried to keep Takemichi from leaving Toman, but Draken and Mitsuya stopped him, which he got mad at - and then confirmed that he killed everyone. Mikey tells Takemichi that Toman isn't like how it used to be and asks him to kill him. He continues and tells Takemichi that he wants to end everything here, and that he wants Takemichi to end his dream. At this point, Takemichi is full on crying and confused, and says that he doesn't get anything, and he just wanted to see him again. Mikey says Hakkai said the same thing and talks about how he felt nothing when he killed for the first time; that he thought any problems in the world could be fixed with murder. Takemichi puts his hands on Mikey, and tells him that he's wrong, and that he's still the same Mikey from before. He repeats that Mikey hasn't changed at all and tells him to stop saying stuff like that.

Mikey flips them over and puts a gun to Takemichi's cheek. He looks at Takemichi's eyes, and thinks back to before he killed Chifuyu, and what Chifuyu said about Takemichi. He tells Takemichi to stop looking at him with those eyes, and to pick up the gun and kill him, otherwise it would be the other way around. Mikey begins crying, and a teardrop hits Takemichi's cheek. Mikey then gets shot by Naoto and starts bleeding out. Takemichi immediately grabs him and holds him in his arms, shouting his name. Naoto then realizes that the gun Mikey was holding wasn't loaded, which means that Mikey never intended to kill him.

Meanwhile, Takemichi is still holding Mikey in his arms, screaming his name while crying. Mikey thanks Naoto for shooting him, saying that Takemichi wouldn't have been able to do it. Mikey says that all his life he's been suffering, and that he's glad it's finally over. Takemichi tells him to stop saying that, and that he will change things. "Don't say that, Mikey-kun. I'll .. I'll change things. I'll go back to the past. I'll do it over. I'll do everything I can to make sure this future doesn't happen. I swear... I swear I'll never give up! So please. Don't say something so depressing!"

- Takemichi to Mikey, Chapter 119

Mikey chuckles, and thanks Takemichi for trying to comfort him, and that those words made him feel happy, even if he was lying. Mikey then says that Takemichi's hand is really warm, which ends up being his last words. Takemichi calls out his name multiple times, telling Mikey to answer him, and that this was all a big lie. The last thing we see is Takemichi holding Mikey close, with a determined look on his face.

Tenjiku Arc
Takemichi is seen hitting a tire, with bloody fists. It's revealed that he's been hitting it for a while, and Chifuyu knocks him down. Takemichi then breaks down crying, saying it's too hard, and that he's pitiful. He mentions how Mikey died in his arms, and that he could still feel his warmth in his hands. Takemichi calms down after a little bit, and says that Mikey did indeed change, but that he's still his friend. Takemichi tells Chifuyu what Mikey said, and says that if Mikey was hurting, he will do everything he can to support him because he wants to be with Mikey.

Draken takes Takemichi to Mikey's room, and Takemichi is amazed, but Mikey is cranky and tells him to be quiet. There, they find out that Izana Kurokawa is Mikey's older brother, and that he's out for Mikey. Later on, Takemichi tells Chifuyu how Mikey will somehow fall into Kisaki and Izana's arms - and remembers what Mikey said about his life being nothing but pain. Takemichi then says that he's going to stop them, and that he's going to kill Izana and Kisaki.

Takemichi then gets kidnapped by Mucho, who turns out to be betraying Toman, and wants Koko to join Tenjiku. Takemichi says that he won't let Mucho take him, because Koko's apart of his division. Mucho then says Takemichi can't win against him, to which Takemichi says that it's not about whether he can win or not, which is what Mikey told him.

It later shows a flashback from after Christmas of Inui talking to Mikey about Takemichi. Inui says that he nominates Takemichi to be the next leader of the black dragons because he reminds him of Shinichiro, and that he has lots of potential. Mikey then responds and says no, but Inui continues to try and convince him to let Takemichi lead the black dragons. Mikey gets up in Inui's face, annoyed, and tells Inui that he wasn't the first one to find Takemichi, it was he himself who did.

"Who are you to say he’s like my brother?! First of all, Takemichi is not yours!"

- Mikey to Inui about Takemichi, Chapter 144

After Emma is hit by Kisaki, Takemichi lifts Emma onto Mikey, Mikey begins talking about a future that he wanted, and mentions Takemichi being in the future he envisioned, even though he has only known him for a few months. Emma then tells Takemichi to take care of Mikey, before passing away. Draken arrives and sees Emma's body, and starts getting mad at Mikey, yelling and hitting him. Takemichi then tells Draken that it's his fault, and the one he should be beating up is himself, and not Mikey. Later, Mikey is unresponsive, and Takemichi tells him that Kisaki killed Emma, and that he will fight Tenjiku alone.

As Toman and Tenjiku fight, it's clear that Tenjiku was winning the fight - 400 vs 50. Even then, Takemichi was still pushing through, even when he was all beaten and bloody. Chifuyu tries to stop him, but he tells him that as long as he's there, Toman will never lose. Kisaki then steps up and points a gun to Takemichi's head, yet Takemichi isn't scared. Instead, Kisaki shoots his foot, and Takemichi thinks about all the reasons why he can't lose - Mikey being the biggest in his thoughts. Takemichi then punches Kisaki, saying there's no more use in making peace now, because of everything he's done. Izana shields Kisaki, and Takemichi rushes at both of them. Takemichi is just about to punch Izana until he stops and raises his fist in the air. Behind him is Mikey who finally arrived at the scene. "You guys fucked up Mikey! And I'll protect Mikey from that!!!"

- Takemichi to Izana and Kisaki, Chapter 168

Takemichi says that he told Mikey he wouldn't lose, and his eyes gleam with tears. Mikey then says thank you, and walks past both Izana and Kisaki, telling them that he's going to talk to Takemichi first. He goes over to Takemichi, and hugs him, with one hand in his hair. Takemichi is crying, asking why Mikey's there, because he's not in the right headspace to fight. It later shows a flashback to the hospital, where Hina is talking to Mikey and Draken, and reveals that Takemichi is a time leaper, and is trying to save everyone because he knows everyone's future - which brought back a little light in Mikey's eyes and was able to snap him back to his senses. Mikey tells Tenjiku that he can take down 20,000 men, to which Takemichi cries out his name, tears forming his eyes.

A few days after the battle is concluded, Mikey meets up with Takemichi, where there he tells Mikey about the time leaping. Mikey quietly listens to everything Takemichi says. Takemichi then starts crying, apologizing for not being able to save Baji and Emma. Mikey begins saying how during the day he first met him, his back was bigger than anyones, and how it was as if Takemichi was carrying many burdens. Mikey then tells Takemichi that he's really cool, and how he is his hero. "It's your era."

- Mikey to Takemichi, Chapter 188

After Mikey disbands Toman, Chifuyu asks Takemichi what he's going to do now. Takemichi says how he wants to go back to the future as soon as possible, but he also won't be able to meet them again in the time period, which really sucks. Mikey overhears, and says that they should make a time capsule, and that they can open it up 12 years later - just in time for when Takemichi returns to the future. After they bury the time capsule, Mikey and Takemichi are riding on Mikey's bike, and Mikey says how everyone has a place there, but Takemichi's place is in the future. He promises Takemichi that they will meet again in the future and that he will protect everyone in order for it to happen. Takemichi starts tearing up, and Mikey says to not be sad about parting ways.

Bonten Arc
Takemichi finally reaches the best future yet, with everyone alive. They're all at Pah-chin's wedding, except for Mikey. Takemichi then asks Draken and Chifuyu where Mikey is, and they both respond saying that he runs a restaurant overseas. Takemichi believes it and is relieved that nothing bad happened to Mikey. A few days later, he's watching the news and sees a familiar tattoo design on a white-haired man. Takemichi continues wondering where he's seen it before.

Takemichi and Hina are eating at the Twins' restaurant when he sees a picture of Toman, and then asks if Mikey is doing good, to which Smiley says that he doesn't know. Angry then reveals no one else besides Draken has "seen" Mikey in over 10 years. Takemichi then leaves the ramen shop, and runs over to Draken's shop, asking why he lied. He asks Draken if Mikey was alive, and Draken reveals that Mikey left them 12 years ago and that nobody knows how he's doing. He tells Takemichi to let it go, and to stop looking for Mikey because he isn't the same person he used to be. Takemichi goes to meet up with Naoto, who reveals that the white-haired man is indeed Mikey. Takemichi doesn't believe it and tells Naoto that he's lying because there's no way Mikey turned out like this. Naoto then asks Takemichi if his information is wrong, and how Takemichi is supposed to prove that Mikey isn't the leader of Bonten. Takemichi says that there's just no way, and he hasn't met Mikey. Takemichi tells Naoto to shake hands with him, so he can return back to the past so he could meet up with Mikey. Naoto tries to convince him to get ahold of himself, and that he's already fulfilled his mission of saving Hina, so there's no reason to go back again.

When Naoto and Takemichi shake hands, nothing ends up happening because only one wants to change the past. Takemichi goes to talk to Chifuyu about how badly he wants to see Mikey and talk to him, and Chifuyu then tells Takemichi how he also tried to look for Mikey but found nothing, and how that's the reason he's there now. He says how Mikey is probably walking the path he wanted, and that Takemichi should worry about the path he's walking with Hina. Takemichi starts thinking about how if Mikey is living in the path, he chose for himself, he shouldn't have any objections, but then thinks of Mikey smiling. Kazutora then tells Takemichi that he doesn't believe that Mikey chose the path for himself, and that he has Takemichi's back. The two of them start looking around for clues.

2 months have passed, and Takemichi still hasn't gotten any clues on Mikey's whereabouts. He tells Akkun to tell the Mizo Middle 5 to stop looking, and Akkun asks him if he's giving up, but Takemichi says that no matter how long it takes, he will definitely find Mikey. They all go to open the time capsule, but Mikey never shows up. Takemichi ends up finding a video tape under Mikey's letter and plays it. In the video, Mikey tells Takemichi about his dark impulsivity, and how he wants Takemichi to stay away from him, and to not go back to the past to save him. Mikey then smiles and tells Takemichi to live a happy life, and how this is the path he chose to take. Takemichi then thinks that he can't do anything about it and tells Kazutora he's going to stop looking for Mikey. A few days later, Takemichi is with everyone while Hina gets her dress fitted. When Hina comes out in her dress, Takemichi starts tearing up, saying that whenever he's happy Mikey's smile would appear in his thoughts. Takemichi then remembers what Mikey had said on Christmas - that Takemichi should scold him when he loses himself and starts thinking about Mikey. "He's always been like that. During hard times, you'd always smile. Mikey-kun ... I'm sorry ... but I can't keep that promise!"

- Takemichi about Mikey, Chapter 200

Next, we see Takemichi looking around for Mikey and getting beaten up. Kazutora asks him why he's in such a rush, and Takemichi says that the place he was at was the fourth place Kazutora suggested, and there's still no clues about Mikey, so there's no way he could ever take it easy. Kazutora tells him he's stopping this, because Takemichi's wedding is in three days, and he wouldn't know what to do with himself if anything happened to Takemichi.

Takemichi goes to a bowling alley and starts thinking back to how Mikey doesn't want to meet, knowing that it would be lonely for Mikey. A gun is then pointed at his head, and Mikey sits behind him, asking him if it's the best future. Takemichi begins to tear up, and Mikey asks if Takemichi has any questions. Takemichi tells Mikey about everyone, and how they're all doing well except for him. Sanzu tells Takemichi to shut up, but Mikey tells him to leave, that he wants to talk to Takemichi alone. Takemichi asks Mikey what his dark impulsivity is and asks what the reason for it is. He tells Mikey how he couldn't go back to the past because he already saved Hina, and how it's all thanks to Mikey. Takemichi continues and says that Mikey doesn't have to say anything, and he knows that Mikey protected everyone, therefore it's Takemichi's turn to save Mikey. Without Takemichi realizing at first, Mikey shoots him, and proceeds to shoot 2 more times.

Mikey tells Takemichi that he didn't want to meet because he knew this was going to happen. He tells Takemichi that his journey ends here, but Takemichi continues to tell Mikey that he will save him. "... Save ... you .... I will save you ... no matter what ... for you ... I'll do it as many times as I can."

- Takemichi to Mikey, Chapter 203

Mikey's eyes widen, and he says that he will end everything here. He goes up the roof, and jumps. Before he could hit the ground, Takemichi was able to grab ahold of him, and shouted that he wasn't going to let Mikey die. Takemichi shouts for Mikey to grab his hand, to which Mikey tells him that this is stupid because he just tried to kill him. Takemichi ignores him and tells him that he doesn't have much time left because he's losing his conciseness. Mikey still tells Takemichi to let go of his hand, and that he wants to end everything now. Takemichi tells him that he's going to regret that, and once again tells Mikey to grab his hand. He tells Mikey that he will definitely save him, and that no matter what happens, he'll go back to the past as many times, as much as he needs to - to which Mikey says that he can't even time travel, and says that he didn't want to meet him, and that he didn't want this to happen. Mikey tells Takemichi to put him in peace, and Takemichi finally snaps. He yells and tells him to shut up, surprising Mikey. "Why are you always like this? Always and always, you always put the burden on yourself! Oi Manjirou!!! Just say it once, just say "please help me" damnit!! And I'll definitely come to save you! Manjirou!!!!!"

- Takemichi to Mikey, Chapter 204

Mikey's eyes widen, and his eyes light up. He begins to cry, and finally grabs onto Takemichi's hand, asking for Takemichi to save him.

Three Deities Arc
Instead of time leaping to 12 years ago, Takemichi time leaped only 10 years, Takemichi runs to find Chifuyu, and starts crying while telling him what happened. As he looks down at his hands, he says that he would save him. At the same time, Mikey, who just got done beating up another gang, looks down at his hand, and knows that Takemichi is back from the future.

In hopes of finding out what Mikey is doing and where he is, Takemichi and Chifuyu consult Yamagishi for knowledge of delinquent gangs. They discover that after Toman disbanded Mikey created a new gang, the Kanto Manji Gang, one of the three gangs running Tokyo. After Chifuyu reminds Takemichi he has someone to apologize to for running out and dying before their wedding, Takemichi finds Hina. They stand overlooking the water while Takemichi tells her none of his missions will be complete until he saves Mikey. Hina tells him that even if he makes a mistake and creates another bad future, she will cheer him on.

After seeing where his friends have ended up and made lives for themselves two years ago, He realizes this is the future Mikey had worked so hard to protect. Takemichi resolves to himself to take on Mikey alone and not involve the others. Later, after receiving a call from Draken, Takemichi goes to D&D Motorcycle shop, run by Draken and Inui. Takemichi discovers Draken has been fixing up the twin bike Mikey had gifted him. On a test drive Takemichi reveals to Draken that he intends to save Mikey. Draken expresses doubt, telling Takemichi that Mikey chose darkness of his own will. He tells Takemichi that Mikey has changed and will not show him mercy if Takemichi confronts him. Takemichi agrees, thinking about how Mikey shot him in the most recent future timeline.

Their drive is interrupted by the leader of one of the three major delinquent gangs in Tokyo. One of Mikey’s rivals. This confrontation becomes a stand-off as the other rival gang arrives. Takeomi Akashi, the vice-commander of Brahman, has arrived to recruit Takemichi before Kanto Manji Gang may show up, rather than to fight Terano South. Draken tells Brahman that he and Takemichi cannot be recruited. Remembering his promise to save Mikey, Takemichi declares that he is uninterested in joining either gang as his only objective is to defeat Mikey. The crowd, apart from those who witnessed the Tenjiku conflict, appear shocked.

On the ride back Draken confesses he already pledged to join Brahman in secret.

Later, outside D&D Motorcycle Shop, Takemichi witnesses a confrontation between Draken and Brahman’s Vice-commander. Draken tells Akashi that Takemichi is not to be recruited, nor are any other previous Toman members. Senju explains to Takemichi that Draken joined Brahman to bring Mikey back, and they believe Brahman can do so as long as they have both Draken and Takemichi with them.

Takemichi says he will join Brahman.

Takemichi then begins to have visions of future events, realizing that he is gaining a new ability.

Later, at a Brahman meeting, Takemichi is introduced as a new member alongside his accomplishments in Toman and as the leader of the Black Dragons. Senju declares they intend to fight Kanto Manji Gang and Rokuhara Tandai in a battle of the “three deities”. Takemichi thinks about how he will be seeing Mikey then.

The battle of the Three Deities comes sooner than expected, triggered by an attack on Senju and Takemichi from Rokuhara Tandai underlings. Draken arrives just in time to take the bullets aimed for them. Draken’s death kickstarts the resulting conflict.

In Draken’s final moments he tells Takemichi that Mikey has never seen the sky of defeat. Draken asks Takemichi to take care of Mikey, to which Takemichi agrees. Soon after, all three Deity gangs arrive. Including a solemn Mikey. Takemichi, stunned, and still in shock from Draken’s death, quietly says Mikey’s name while staring at him from afar.

Mikey does not join in the fight, standing back with Koko, who questions Mikey’s apathetic demeanor.

Kakucho, after fighting his way to Mikey, yells at Mikey for his lack of fighting back. He compares Mikey to a ghost. Mikey says he feels empty inside. Mikey then let’s his dark impulses take over in order to fight South.

Takemichi hurries to stand between them, telling Mikey if he doesn’t stop then he will kill South. Mikey tells South he will destroy him, only addressing Takemichi to tell him he is in the way. He then breaks Takemichi’s arm over his knee. He continues on toward South while Takemichi falls to the ground, pleading Mikey to stop.

Mikey ignores Takemichi. He only steps away from South’s body when South has stopped breathing. Takemichi begins to cry again as he realizes Mikey has now killed someone. Everybody stares on in horror. Koko announces the battle as over, the Kanto Manji Gang’s win, and orders everyone to retreat immediately. Akashi does not listen, and instead goes to reprimand Mikey. Takemichi, holding his injured arm, rushes between Mikey and Akashi before Mikey can kill Akashi as well. Mikey is unfazed, showing no emotion or reaction. He punches Takemichi. Koko begs Mikey to stop, but soon realizes it is useless as Mikey stands atop Takemichi, asking him how he wants to die.

Takemichi recalls those words from their second meeting, and how they were said in a joking manner. He cries, even as Mikey continues his merciless punches, realizing just how far-gone Mikey is. "He's not..kidding this time."

- Takemichi, chapter 233

Takemichi says Mikey’s name once more as Mikey delivers the blow that knocks him out.

Kanto Manji arc
Takemichi wakes up in the hospital with casts around his arm and neck as well as bandages over his head and eye and an oxygen mask. Koko, who sits at his bedside, tells him he has been out for three days. Koko informs him that after he had gone unconcious Senju bowed to Mikey in order to protect him, vowing to disband Brahman. The conflict ended in Rokuhara Tandai merging into Kanto Manji Gang.

Takemichi wonders why he even came to the past. He vows to not get anyone else involved in his goal to save Mikey. He spirals into depression, even as friends and Hina come to visit him and keep him company. He tells them all he is fine and for Hina to go home so he can push forward alone. Hina sees through him and he breaks down sobbing in her arms.

Later, on the hospital rooftop, Takemichi and Hina watch fireworks. Hina recalls their relationship over the years. Takemichi tells her that although his original goal was to save her, he has found many people he wishes to protect along the way. He says that Mikey saved everyone for him when he sacrificed himself to his dark path.

Takemichi asks Hina if she remembers what she told him at Musashi Shrine years ago, that he isn’t Mikey or Draken, but he is Takemichi. He declares that he will ask for help, and he will gather as many people as he can in order to bring Mikey back. Takemichi then gathers all remaining former Toman members, as well as other friends he has made, telling them his plan. During his recruiting of Senju, she expresses to him the extent of Mikey’s dark impulses, dating back to his childhood when he scarred Sanzu’s face.

Takemichi sits alone, recalling two gifts Mikey had given him previously. The bike and his original Toman Jacket. Takemichi stares in silence at the two items while a short montage of panels is shown. Speaking to himself, he tells Mikey they have formed a new gang, and are naming it Tokyo Manji gang.

Later, Takemichi stands before the second generation of Toman as the new commander, declaring the gang’s sole goal as getting Mikey back. He tells them he plans to do so by challenging and winning a fight against Kanto Manji, and then rescue Mikey.

Mikey receives the challenge from the new Tokyo Manji Gang and accepts, muttering to himself that he knows Takemichi is the one behind it. Mikey announces the time and location of the final battle.

Takemichi has one last talk with Hina, where she tells him to let out his fears. Takemichi shouts that he is afraid to die over the railing of the building. He then promises Hina he will return.

Both gangs are shown on their way to the battle. Takemichi, speaking to himself, tells Mikey that it’s time to settle this. As they begin the fight Takemichi charges right for Mikey, who asks why he would rush into battle as the weakest fighter of the gang. He adds that the gang loses if their leader goes down. Takemichi fights through Kakucho to get to Mikey, recalling how strong and brave he used to be as a child. He thinks to the resolve that led him to make those first-time leaps. He lands a hit to Kakucho, knocking him out and stunning those around him. Takemichi declares that with this same resolve, he’ll get to Mikey. "And now, with that same resolution, I'll get to Mikey!"

- Takemichi, chapter 245

Later in the battle, after Takemichi has successfully stopped the train and has been saved by Taiju’s appearance, Taiju tells him to go to Mikey. Takemichi makes his way to the bottom of the freight box Mikey stands upon overlooking the battle and tells him to come down.

Once Mikey reaches the ground they are at last face to face. Mikey asks Takemichi why he came back to the past. Takemichi recounts to him the events of the Bonten arc, as well as his promise to save Mikey. Sanzu interrupts them, telling Takemichi that Mikey’s fate has already been sealed since he was a child.

Toman rises to rally behind Takemichi, prompted by Chifuyu swearing his life. Their chanting seems to bring forth Mikey’s dark impulses, calling it annoying. Takemichi turns to look at him, noting that his eyes look different. Mikey punches Chifuyu, knocking him away. Mikey then kicks Sanzu, seemingly attacking anyone who approaches regardless of their gang allegiance.

Mikey has a flashback, recalling what he can of his parents. His father having died when he was very young and his mother being sick for most of his childhood. He thinks about how he had decided he hated weak people, hated people who cried easily. He recalls the way he looked forward to seeing his mother every week to recount stories of how he beat other kids in fights. His mother tells him how his father used to cry easily. His mother reminisces, calling him a hopeless man with a fond smile on her face. Mikey notes that whenever she spoke about his father her smile was slightly different. The panel of her smile is remarkably similar to Mikey’s smile when he speaks of Takemichi.

When his mother goes into critical condition Mikey promises her, he will be strong and won’t cry so he can protect her. She tells him that not crying does not mean strength, and that he used to be a crybaby as a younger child. When she died Mikey hid in the hallway away from his siblings and grandfather to cry alone, saying “Please don’t leave.”

As an older child Mikey carried on with his hatred of weak people, beating up anybody he deemed weaker than him. As he meets Draken and begins to find the future founding Toman members, he declares to himself that he loves strong guys.

Later, after Shinichiro’s death, Mikey stands in front of the bathroom mirror begging his tears not to come out. He continues on, putting up a strong front for his friends and decides to grow Toman into a bigger gang. His goal being to become to top syndicate in Japan. He then says, within the flashback, that he would then meet the two men who would change his life. Takemichi and Kisaki.

Mikey asked Kisaki to guide his dark impulses and garner him more power, but Kisaki’s plans in the fight against Valhalla are unknowingly thwarted by Takemichi. A montage of Takemichi is shown, from their first meeting to the Valhalla fight, and to the Tenjiku conflict where Takemichi stood waiting for Mikey’s arrival. "Hanagaki Takemichi. He's not strong. He's a guy who will stand up no matter what. Despite losing, despite crying...he always finds himself at the center. Takemichi, why are you..."

- Mikey, chapter 266

Back in the present we see Takemichi struggling to hold his own in a fight against Mikey. Mikey taunts him before Takemichi reminds him of the promise he made to Baji, Emma, and Draken to take care of Mikey. Takemichi charges and is knocked away with a kick. On the ground, Takemichi recalls his earlier conversation with Hina about how he was afraid to die. He resolves to move past that fear for the sake of his ideal future. He charges at Mikey once more, declaring that he is the only one who can save Mikey. "I've thrown away all my fear. Only I am able to save you from that darkness. I've seen many futures. Only I can save you from this."

- Takemichi, chapter 266

They continue to fight as Takemichi begins to lose his vision and hearing from head trauma. Takemichi is struck with a vision of the near future where Mikey kicks him and is too slow to react as it happens in the present.

Takemichi stands up from the kick, undeterred. Mikey falters, giving Takemichi a look of concern and the first emotion he has shown since the conflict began, telling Takemichi if he continues on like this he will die.

Mikey comes at him, but Takemichi is able to block his kick with the help of his near-future visions. Everyone around them comes to, watching in awe as Takemichi fights Mikey, successfully blocking each other’s kicks and punches.

Mikey pauses to ask if Takemichi is seeing his next moves in the future, but Takemichi doesn’t respond. Mikey continues his kicks after a moment, now holding back a bit. With a lucky opening, Takemichi lands a hit, knocking Mikey to the ground.

Toman cheers while Mikey stands back up, now angry as he comes back at Takemichi. He berated Takemichi for coming back to the past and abandoning all of Mikey’s efforts to save their futures. Both of Toman members and Hina and Takemichi’s future. Takemichi lands another hit and tells him he came back to the past for Mikey, and to save him from his suffering. This angers Mikey, who reveals that he has been contemplating the origin of his dark impulses and has finally found answers. "The dark impulse. Born out of love."

- Mikey, chapter 268

Mikey reveals that the second timeleaper was Shinichiro Sano.

In a flashback it is revealed that the original timeline was not the first one Takemichi himself remembers, but one before that in which Mikey hit his head as a child and went into a vegetative state. Mikey’s family spirals, leaving only Shinichiro remaining by his side to his death.

Shinichiro finds a rumored time leaper, demanding to know how he can timeleap himself. The man tells Shinichiro that one way is to kill a time leaper, which leads to his immediate death at Shinichiro’s hands. The next day Shinichiro stands at the edge of a bridge on the river, intending to jump. Sanzu attempts to reason with him, but Shinichiro says he wants to go back to “that day” as it was the anniversary of Mikey’s accident.

When Shinichiro hits the water, he awakes to see Mikey jumping at him, grinning. He finds himself back to the day of the accident. With his attempt to save Mikey successful, the price turns out to be Mikey’s dark impulses, manifesting on the day he was meant to have his accident. Mikey tells Shinichiro later that he doesn’t know what came over him or what he was doing. After apologizing to Sanzu on Mikey’s behalf, Shinichiro shakes his hand and finds himself back in 2003 where Mikey is still alive and well.

Shortly later Shinichiro witnesses a group of children threatening a young girl. He watches as a young boy, revealed as Takemichi, jumps in to save her, even if he loses the fight. Shinichiro steps in, scaring them off. After hearing Takemichi claim he wants to be a hero like Shinichiro, he takes his hand and gives Takemichi the timeleaping ability, telling him to use it when he finds someone he wants to save.

Back in the present the dark impulses begin to take over Mikey once more. Takemichi tells him the only reason the new generation of Tokyo Manji came to be for his sake. Takemichi tells Mikey to let go and let the dark impulses take over, declaring that he will be able to stop it. Mikey unleashes the full extent of his dark impulses. His demeanor changes entirely as he runs at Takemichi, grabbing Sanzu’s katana on his way. He laughs to himself as Takemichi barely misses blows with the sword, inflicting new injuries with every swing. Takemichi lunges at Mikey and is stabbed through the stomach. He impales himself further to get closer to Mikey, pulling him into a hug.

He tells Mikey that he will carry the burden of Mikey’s dark impulses, telling him that they are friends for life. This brings Mikey back to himself, shocked at the scene before him.

Takemichi tells him to take his hand, saying he will timeleap over and over until Mikey and the rest of their friends can smile and live happy lives. They fall to the ground together as Takemichi loses blood, Mikey telling him to stay awake. Mikey calls out Takemichi’s name as he slumps over, taking Takemichi’s hand. When he receives no response he screams in agony, realizing Takemichi is dead. He leans over Takemichi’s body, tearfully explaining he had only pushed Takemichi away so this wouldn’t happen. He begs Takemichi to wake up, telling him everything is meaningless if he dies. The rest of their friends look on in painful states of grief.

A tear from Mikey falls on Takemichi’s hand, seeming to trigger a time leap. Takemichi awakes in 1998 as a 7-year-old version of himself. He runs to the mirror, realizing what had happened. He rushes out of his house, ignoring his mother asking if he wants breakfast, and runs to Mikey’s house. When he realizes that Baji, Emma, and Sanzu all do not know him, yet he remembers this was before they had met to begin with. Takemichi accepts as he sees Mikey that Mikey doesn’t know who he is. To his surprise, after looking at his tear-filled eyes, Mikey utters his nickname “Takemitchy”.

The two rejoice to the confusion of Mikey's siblings and childhood friends. They take off running down the street, shouting to each other that they don't know what happened, but it must have been a miracle.

"I don't know! But the moment you died, I kept on wishing that you would open your eyes and then next thing I know, I'm here!"

- Mikey to Takemichi, chapter 277 "What does this even mean?! I felt your tears falling as I died and suddenly now I'm here!"

- Takemichi to Mikey, chapter 277

Later that day, they stand on a rooftop overlooking the sunset. They discuss how the time leaping could have happened for both of them, concluding that neither knows, but it must have been when they held hands. They agree to work together to make sure this timeline is the best possible future for them and their friends.

Later that day, they stand on a rooftop overlooking the sunset. They discuss how the time leaping could have happened for both of them, concluding that neither knows, but it must have been when they held hands. They agree to work together to make sure this timeline is the best possible future for them and their friends.

"I've...always fought this battle on my own. But! Now I have you."

- Takemichi to Mikey, chapter 277 "Well then, let's do it together, shall we?"

- Mikey to Takemichi, chapter 277

In a montage Mikey and Takemichi run side by side, gathering their friends from previous timelines to craft a new era of Toman. They succeed in bringing everybody together before finally disbanding Toman, just as Mikey's brother had disbanded the Black Dragons. They do it side by side as co-presidents of the gang. At the end of the montage, they stand atop the same rooftop as before, contrastingly watching the sun rise as they conclude that their mission is over, and they have succeeded.

In a montage Mikey and Takemichi run side by side, gathering their friends from previous timelines to craft a new era of Toman. They succeed in bringing everybody together before finally disbanding Toman, just as Mikey's brother had disbanded the Black Dragons. They do it side by side as co-presidents of the gang. At the end of the montage, they stand atop the same rooftop as before, contrastingly watching the sun rise as they conclude that their mission is over, and they have succeeded.

"Takemitchy. With this, we've conquered the whole country."

- Mikey to Takemichi, chapter 277 The last chapter cuts to Takemichi and Hinata's wedding. Mikey stands in Takemichi's dressing room, staring out the window. He sighs and expresses that they can't do anything rash together anymore. He turns with a sad smile to face Takemichi, who is fidgeting with his tie, to tell Takemichi he'll be lonely. There is no response shown.

Later Draken scolds Mikey and tells him to keep it together. Mikey replies saying he just wanted a peek at the groom.

Fanon
This is the most popular ship for both Takemichi and Mikey under both anime and manga Tokyo Revengers tags on AO3 and is the most written ship overall. Despite the fact that Takemichi already has a girlfriend, Takemikey remains his most popular ship.

They have a canon animated music video set to Stay by The Kid LAROI. It was overseen by Wakui, the author, who also drew two original illustrations for the video. The video goes through the lyrics alongside scenes from the manga, edited and colored, this includes a fan-favorite shot of Takemichi's face imposed into Mikey's eye. Wakui later stated that he believes the song describes them and their dynamic well, and sometimes listens to it while writing.

A second canon animated video was released an hour before the official release of the last chapter. It is set to gentle piano music and displays Takemichi thinking about all of the times Mikey would smile through his hardships, ending in the time Mikey cried and asked for help.

Takemichi and Mikey have several direct parallels to canon pairings, including but not limited to Takemichi and his girlfriend. This is sometimes seen in the actual technical shot of the panels or in the content itself.

Mikey has gifted Takemichi a twin bike to his, both of them constructed from engines his late older brother found in the ruins of the building they later meet at in Manila. They are commonly referred to as "Destiny engines" due to Mikey's statement saying his brother found a sense of destiny in them.

When Mikey and Takemichi meet Mikey speaks to him with heart emoticons at the end of his sentences until he finds out Takemichi has a girlfriend.

Trivia

 * The expression "take the mickey" means to make fun of someone.
 * Whenever someone close to Mikey dies/is about to die, they always tell Takemichi to take care of him.
 * Takemichi is the only other person besides Shinichiro to call Mikey "Manjirou".
 * Takemichi's astrological sign is a Cancer, and Mikey's is a Leo. These signs represent the Moon and Sun.
 * The characters Mikey uses while in the ruins in Manila to say "stay together" in the original text can also be used to say "get married" or "become one"

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