Archive of Our Own ^beta

He was so tired of seeing everyone hurt. He badly wants to help everyone. It was supposed to be simple. He was supposed to save Hinata. He was there to save her, but he could not leave these teenagers alone. They are all broken dolls being pulled and swayed by their emotions. He needs to save them; he cannot let them be.

What can he do? It seems that with every timeline, he keeps getting pushed back. This timeline was supposed to be perfect; it was supposed to be simple, so why? Why has everything fallen apart once again?

The boy quivered, his hair messy and wet from the pouring rain. He watched as the paramedics worked on trying to save Draken. He looked pale and sick; the blood kept coming. They tried reciprocating him, but after a while, the paramedics stopped. Takemichi blinked a few times as he watched one of them approach before bowing their head in condolence. "I'm sorry, we couldn't save him." This was like a stab in the heart for Takemichi.

He blinked a few times, eyes wide and mouth hanging open. He couldn't comprehend what they just told him. He was having an out-of-body experience. He was there, but he couldn't hear anyone, his ears ringing as tears fell down his cheeks. He could see Senju moving her mouth; she was yelling, but Takemichi couldn't hear anything she said. He blinked a few times before he got back to the present. He stared, turning his body around, looking at the mess of a timeline once again. The boy watched the other timelines flash before his eyes, his friend's words echoing in his head. Then South and his gang have arrived. Takeomi clenched his fists; he was ready to fight them for what they did to Draken. Takemichi's eyes caught sight of Mikey, his bike roaring as he arrived within the moment, his eyes emotionless, broken. All three gangs present, Takemichi could only blink. "Mikey-kun," Takemichi whispered under his breath. "No, Mikey-kun. You can't fight here, now." However, no matter how much Takemichi wished for everything to stop, nothing did, and he could do nothing about it. The fight began nevertheless. The three Deities' war began.

Everyone was fighting with their might. Brahman for Draken, however, even now, Takemichi could only watch from the sidelines. He was told to protect Senju, Brahman's Princess, but even she is now fighting. She's fighting South all alone. Watching her fight, Takemichi is impressed; her movements and physics are overpowered. As he watches Senju kick South in the face, he is impressed. He could even say that she is on the same level as most of the founding members of Toman. 

On the other side, Kakucho is facing Mikey. Mikey seems bored, with no will to do anything, as he gets punched. Pulling away, Kakucho stared at the other in front of him. Mikey watched Kakucho as his hands trembled. He sighed heavily as he looked down at his hand. "Ken-Chin, I'm empty inside." He clenched his hand to his chest as the darkness slowly crept in from the shadows, consuming its host whole. The darkness surrounded Mikey. Kakucho could only stare in shock as the darkness consumed Mikey whole, his eyes devoted to any emotions as he stared Kakucho down, the killing aura consuming him and rooting him to the ground. Fear was prominent on his face as he was face to face with the Beast. 

Senju was taking another shot at South, who dodged her attack and got hold of her leg. Swinging her across the lot, her body fell to the concrete ground, blood spilling from her mouth. Takemichi shouted her name out in alarm when South placed his arm upon his shoulder, and just then, he saw it, the white flash. A vision. It was South, he was lying on the ground, and he was dead. Takemichi was confused as to how South could be dead. Takemichi didn't get a chance to stop him as South made his way down the lot before he called out, "Kakucho?" The man stared as the emotionless Mikey stood before him, everyone down, beaten by Mikey alone. Takemichi stood between the two men, looking at everything. "Mikey-Kun." The boy could only watch as his former friend glared at South. Everyone else was either beaten or tired.

"Get out of the way, Mikey! South is my opponent!" It got quiet, the dark aura he emitted as he turned his head towards Senju. The way darkness swallowed him whole and everyone around as he glared at her. "Do you wanna die next?" Senju could only stare, her mouth hanging open, the murderous vibe sent chills down her spine. Just then, South smiled and swung at Mikey. They kicked and punched, they were like rabid dogs, angry and murderous. Just then, Takemichi jumped between the two, his hands out, stopping Mikey from attacking South once again. "That's enough, Mikey!" The two stared at the crybaby, his eyes full of tears and determination to stop this fight. "You gotta stop this, or else South will die!" 

"You can't stop destroying things, can you?"

"I'm the same, that's why I'm here to destroy you!" 

Takemichi could only stare, trying to get Mikey to stop this madness. The boy, however, looked at him as an obstacle in his way, making his way over, he grabbed Takemichi's arm and then a crashing pain shot through it. "You are in my way!" The crack made Takemichi yell out, his arm broken, and he fell to his knees screaming in pain as Mikey made his way past him towards South. Staring, South was speechless. Mikey only spoke five words. "Do you want to die?" 

"Don't do it, Mikey-Kun!" Takemichi yelled as tears fell down his face. The boy didn't listen as he swung his fist, and South was on the ground. He beat the man into unconsciousness, and Takemichi could only stare in horror. His vision was coming true. Mikey was the one who would kill South. His face was all bloodied and gory as Mikey kept beating him over and over again, his fists red and bloody. Stopping, Mikey got up and Takemichi ran to South's side, kneeling on the ground, he yelled his name, checking for a pulse. For a sign that the other is alive. "He's not breathing!" Takemichi could only stare. Everyone was in shock at this news. Koko stood up and yelled, "Everyone listen up! Senju has lost to South, and South has lost to Mikey. Hence, it's the Kantou Manji gang's victory! This concludes the conflict! Everyone's dismissed, clear everything up!"

Takeomi could only stare at Mikey. "Mikey, are you even human!? There was no reason for you to go that far, y'know?" Mikey just glared at the man on his knees before he kicked him straight in the face. "You're better off dead, too!" Takemichi panicked, yelling, getting between Mikey and Takeomi. "Stop it, Mikey!" The boy cried, cradling his broken arm. "You can't do this! This is wrong!" "You again?" The other responded with a glare before punching Takemichi in the face. The boy flew across the lot, his body rolling on the concrete floor. "Mikey, that's enough! We're retreating!" Koko called out to Mikey, but the other was lost in his head, making his way towards Takemichi, who lay on the ground, cradling his broken arm.

Mikey moved above Takemichi and stared at him. Takemichi winced in pain before his eyes went wide, staring up at Mikey. "Now then. How do you want to die?"

Mikey grabbed Takemichi's collar, bringing him up. His strength is astonishing. A small memory popped up to Takemichi, but this time, there was no joke behind Mikey's sentence; he meant it. Takemichi could only sob, tears falling down his face. Takemichi cried out when Mikey swung his fists and beat him in the face. Senju stared in shock as Mikey beat Takemichi over and over, lowering him to the ground, and leaning over him as his fists connected with his face over and over again. Nobody moved; they could only stare in shock. "Hanagaki!" Sanju screamed in worry and shock as Mikey kept up his punches. If he doesn't stop now, Takemichi will surely die. "Mikey-kun..." the boy called out as Mikey's fists connected with his face once again, his eyes devoted to any emotion. He looked gone, broken. He was gonna kill Takemichi.

The boy kept up his beating. Takemichi could only stare as Mikey kept his pace up, punch after punch. One would think that they would pass out from all the hits, but not Takemichi; he watched as Mikey swung his fist over and over again. His eyes were dull and swimming with a deathly aura. Takemichi choked on some blood, spitting it out. He tried to speak, tried to get through to Mikey, but he felt numb; he couldn't feel his face anymore. His vision was beginning to fog, black dots swimming around in his vision. "Mikey, stop it, you'll kill him!" Senju yelled from her spot, slowly getting to her knees.

The others could only stare as Mikey beat Takemichi more; nobody moved to stop him, too afraid to face his wrath. Koko could only stare with wide eyes as Takemichi tried to reach out his hand to Mikey, who just looked through him and punched him in the face once more. His eyes went wide. Takemichi spits out more blood as he looks at Mikey, his vision is beginning to fade. He could hear Senju yell at Mikey as others kept looking at the scene before them. Takemichi wanted to laugh. He was so tired. Everything fell apart so quickly. Draken died because of him, Senju was hurt, and South died because of his incompetence. He caused all of this. Looking at Mikey, Takemichi wanted to cry more. His friend was long gone, the darkness that consumed him had struck once again and won. Takemichi cannot save him, even if he tries. 

Takemichi coughed up more blood, his vision now fully fading, seeing small parts of Mikey. Just then, he managed to lock eyes with Mikey, who stared him down, his fist in the air, ready to strike him again without hesitation, and all that Takemichi could do was smile. Everyone was shocked as they stared at Takemichi. He picked up the last strength he had in his body to lift his hand toward Mikey, who stared too. "Mikey-kun... I-I'm s-sorry... I f-failed you o-once again." The boy choked out through his lips, it was soft as a whisper, and could only be heard by Mikey, whose eyes went wide. He stared at Takemichi, whose smile never left his lips, and his hand gave in and fell to his side. Takemichi looked into Mikey's eyes one last time before his vision faded and he fell into pure darkness. His eyes were dulling as the last bit of his soul left his body. His chest stopped rising, and his breathing and heart stopped. He was dead.

Everyone could only stare as Mikey reached down towards Takemichi, his hand pressing to his chest to feel his heartbeat; however, there was none. The boy's eyes went wide before the darkness faded out, and his vision lifted. The boy could only stare at Takemichi's cold body. His lip quivered as he reached his hand to Takemichi's face. He looked so peaceful, a small smile plastering his beat-up and bloodied face. However, even so beat up and bashed. Takemichi looked peaceful, like he was resting. Mikey choked out before tears spilt down his face. "T-Takemichi..." he held Takemichi's face, trying to get the boy to wake up, trying to wake up his crybaby hero, the one who never gave up on him.

Senju cried out as she watched Takemichi's limp body lying on the ground, startled by Mikey's cry of frustration, anger and sadness. He killed Takemichi. He killed his hero, no, he killed their hero. She lowered herself to the ground, screaming, crying her heart out as Takeomi made his way over, stroking her back to comfort her. He was speechless. Everyone was. Koko couldn't move. Mikey has killed Takemichi. He was dead. There was no other sound apart from the screams of Mikey and Senju. Mikey held Takemichi's body to his chest as he cried. 

Takemichi had no idea what death would feel like; he didn't know how to feel when he opened his eyes, and he was surrounded by a wasteland of nothingness. It was empty and dark. Takemichi slowly stood up, the void surrounding him. His body shook as he scanned his surroundings. He never knew what the afterlife would be like, but this wasn't what he'd thought it would be.

He didn't know how long he had been there, so he decided to walk around, but everything was the same, nothing new, nothing changed; he was all alone. Giving up, the boy slumped down to the floor, bringing his knees to his chest. He laid his head on his knees and stayed put. He had no idea what was going on, if he was dead or alive, he hated that he was alone. He wanted to leave, and he wanted to see his friends; he hadn't saved them all, and he had to save Mikey and change his future. His friend's future. So, how come he is dead? He needs to save them; he promised them he would. He choked on a sob which ripped through him. It hurt; he wanted to do so much more, to save them all, but here he was, all alone in this wasteland of nothingness.

Takemichi had no way of knowing how much time had passed or how time worked here, but he didn't even care anymore. Tears kept falling down his face, and he let them. He didn't know what else to do; he was stuck, and this was game over. "I failed you all, I'm so, so sorry, everyone, I failed once again!" He could only yell, grabbing his blonde hair in frustration. He was about to pull on his hair when he heard a voice. 

"Do you wish to save them all, child?" 

The boy froze as he looked up. Before he stood a giant thing, it was surrounded by shadows and had many eyes and faces. It was creepy, and Takemichi was frozen to his spot. It took him a few seconds to compose himself before looking up, his lip quivering. "I do! I would do anything to protect them and save their lives and future!"

"Anything?" 

The blonde boy looked at the thing and smiled, his lip quivering as more tears fell down his cheeks. "Anything."

The giant creature smiled before gently moving towards Takemichi. Once close, it smiled and leaned down to his level. It was way creepier up close, but Takemichi was determined, and it smiled in mischief. "What if I could help you save them all, everyone?" Takemichi stared wide-eyed at the creature before he bit his lip. "What's the catch?" The creature laughed before smiling once more. "Everyone will live, but..." "But?" The boy said, eyeing the creature with caution. "You will be forgotten by all those you have met while time-travelling, the rest will stay."

Takemichi took in a deep breath. He didn't know what to say.

For a while, he was quietly looking at his hands before he looked up at the creature. "I have to do this, this is my only chance to save their futures, no matter what might happen to me, if they all can be happy and live their lives freely, then I will give up everything I have." He put his hand out, and the creature's smile widened before it took Takemichi's hand and shook it, smiling like a Cheshire cat before the world started spinning. "Hope you won't regret this, Hanagaki Takemichi!"

Takemichi woke up with a yell. He was in his old apartment. It was full of rubbish, dust and smelled bad. He shot up from his spot before he grabbed his phone. Looking at the year, he smiled widely, his eyes watering. He's back. Right after the initial excitement, the boy made his way to his contacts, ready to call Naoto, but his number was no longer there. To be frank, he had no contacts whatsoever. Biting his lip, he remembered what the creature said, and Takemichi sighed. "If they're safe, then that's all that matters.

How wrong was Takemichi to think that this was going to be fine?

He was alone. He had nobody. He worked at the same CD rental store as he did before time-travelling. He thought he could live his life like before, but how could he? How could he live his life without being able to contact his "friends"? They are all alive and well, but he cannot contact them. They don't remember him whatsoever; his point was proven two weeks ago when he bumped into none other than Chifuyu and Kazutora. He was so glad to see them, he was going to talk to them, but they only apologised and got on with their lives; they ignored Takemichi, he was a nobody in their lives. He no longer existed. He was just a background character living his life, being the only one who remembers everything. It hurt, it hurt so much.

Takemichi cried himself to sleep most days. He cleaned up his apartment and tried to distract himself, but since he lived in the same area as they did, it was common to run into them, be it someone from Toman, Braham or even Taijiku. It hurt. Nobody knew him; he was all alone. Once again, Takemichi was alone. Why was he so angry? Why? He knew what he was getting into, so why did he wish it could be different? If he didn't make that deal, would he have met the others in the afterlife? Why did it hurt? Why couldn't he be selfish and talk to them, explain everything? He couldn't. They would think he's crazy.

The days morphed into weeks, and weeks morphed into months. 

In just four months, Takemichi has lost everything. His whole life felt dead. His body was on autopilot. Wake up in the morning to go to work, get home from work and then stay up late to fall asleep with nightmares and then do it all once again. His life felt meaningless. Takemichi lost his meaning in life the day he got back to the perfect future. It was perfect, everyone was alive and well, and they were all happy.

Hinata was getting married to Kisaki. Emma and Draken got married a year prior and were expecting a child. Shinichiro is alive and well, running an S.S. motorbike with Wakasa. Mitsuya became a fashion designer, and Pa-chin, too, got married and had three kids. Chifuyu, Baji and Kazutora opened a cat café. Koko became a businessman alongside Inui, who also worked with Shinichiro. Akkun opened a hair salon. His other friends all moved on with their lives. Senju went abroad to Brazil with Takeomi. Izana and Kakucho opened up a business with the Haitani brothers. Hakkai became a nursery teacher, while his sister started an acting career, and their brother opened a Karate class with South, of all people. The Kawata twins opened up a ramen store. Sanzu became a model. Mikey owns his business and became a motorcyclist, the most popular one in Tokyo.

So why did Takemichi feel so down and broken? It's because he no longer has any meaning in his life. 

His powers were the only factor that made Takemichi, Takemichi. He was able to go back and forth, trying to save his friends, but now that they were happy and safe without him, he had no meaning in his life. What is he supposed to do? Move on. As if! How can he move on when his friends are just within his reach, yet so far? He could try and befriend them once again, but his emotions would get in the way, and he wouldn't be able to contain himself around them; they are his friends. No, they used to be his friends, but now they are strangers. 

Another month goes by, and the boy has shabby, long hair. His clothes are baggy on him as he has lost a lot of weight, and his eating habits are weak. He keeps getting flashbacks and nightmares of past timelines. He sees his friends dying, begging to save them, to save Mikey, to save them all. In some nightmares, his friends mock him, they yell and curse at Takemichi for letting them die, for betraying them and not saving them. He has lost a lot of sleep, and his insomnia is getting worse by the day. He looked like a walking corpse. He was just a shell whose host no longer cared about anything.

To cope with all the guilt, Takemichi turned to self-harm, then to substances such as drinking, smoking and even drugs as his mental health declined. He started cutting - just trying to please the voices, to ease them down, it worked but after a while, he got so used to it that it no longer had any effect so he turned to drinking, smoking and taking drugs which helped lock his worries away, which worked alongside self-harming, his demons were kept at bay and he was glad.

Then one day he got a letter in his post. Takemichi was confused; he didn't know anyone, so he had no idea who sent him a letter. Sitting down, he opened it and froze. It was an invitation. A wedding invitation for Hinata Tachibana's and Kisaki Tetta's wedding. At first, Takemichi had no idea what to do or say, sitting on his wooden floor before he broke down. He broke down in tears, not from sadness but joy, someone remembered him, and Hinata remembered him. He was happy and for the next two weeks up to their wedding, Takemichi stopped his self-harming, stopped drinking and smoking and saved up to buy a suit for their wedding. For once in the last five months, Takemichi was happy.

The two weeks flew by, and just like that, Takemichi stood nervously before the Shinto. Hinata has always wanted a traditional wedding, and now she is getting married to Kisaki. He was nervous. He wore a deep blue suit with a black butterfly. He was just about ready to leave when he felt someone put a hand on his shoulder. Face to face was Takemichi with Naoto. He bit his lip to keep his cry of joy at bay. The boy looked the same as before, all grown up, but this time he wore glasses. Takemichi felt like crying, but didn't. He turned around and smiled at Naoto. He had no idea how everyone perceived Takemichi, Naoto may as well hate him in this timeline. The boy smiled at Takemichi. 

"Takemichi, long time no see." Takemichi nodded, not trusting his voice. Naoto could see that Takemichi had changed a lot since high school. He remembered him as Hinata's boyfriend; he was in a small gang, but it wasn't much of a gang, as they got beaten up all the time. He remembers that he would come around a few times, but back then, he was a prick. He wanted to hate him, but this Takemichi was an adult now, and from what he could see, he was skittish, scrawny and looked sickly. It made Naoto worry. "Hinata would love to see you, so come on." He grabbed his arm, and the man flinched before composing himself.

Naoto pulled Takemichi along until they stood at a door. He knocked twice. "Hinata, I have a surprise for you. Can I come in?" Takemichi was nervous; he hadn't seen Hina for twelve years, well, more like a few months, but in this timeline, it's over twelve years, and he was afraid. "Come in!" Naoto grabbed the hand and pulled Takemichi inside the room. Takemichi was stunned. There was Hina in all her glory, her traditional kimono was beautiful, and her back was turned to them, but even from back here, Takemichi felt like crying. Hinata turned around, and their eyes met. She looked at Takemichi with shock before she ran to him, and then they hugged. "Takemichi-Kun!" He hugged the girl, keeping his sob inside; he didn't want to ruin her beautiful kimono. They pulled apart after a while. Hina looked stunning, her kimono, hair and makeup were gorgeous. She grew into a beautiful woman, she looked happy, and she was alive; that's enough for Takemichi. 

"I'm so glad you could make it!" Takemichi smiled, pulling away from Hinata. He chuckled. "Yeah, I wouldn't miss it, oh, also, congratulations, Hina, I'm happy for you!" She smiled, wiping a tear quickly away before she ruined her makeup. The room fell into silence, and Takemichi kept avoiding their gaze. Hina could see, no one could probably see that Takemichi didn't look so well; he looked sick, he was scrawny and thin, his once shining ocean eyes now dulled over into a dark blizzard. She wanted to reach out to him and ask if all was fine, but she could see that he was getting uncomfortable, so she let it go. Grabbing his hand, she smiled as their eyes met once more. "Thanks for coming to Takemichi-Kun." He smiled at her, and she felt at ease. She finally felt calm, just seeing Takemichi made her happy. 

She was sad when they broke up twelve years ago, but now she's in a loving relationship with Kisaki, and she's in love. In just a few hours, she'll be married to the man of her dreams. "I'm happy that you're happy, Hina-Chan." She smiled and then looked over at Naoto. They both could see that Takemichi wasn't well, but they agreed that they'd talk to him after the wedding. Smiling, she kissed his cheek. Pulling away, there was a knock on the door, and then it opened. Takemichi breathed in deeply when he saw Emma walk into the room with a wide smile on her face, pulling Draken along. She wore a yellow kimono, her hair in a braid. Takemichi stood away from Hina so the woman could hug her. They hugged and giggled. 

Takemichi had no idea how these two met, but he was glad that even in this timeline, they were friends, and he smiled. Standing next to Naoto, he let a tear fall down his cheek before he quickly wiped it away. There was a loud sigh, and Takemichi turned his head, and there stood Draken. Takemichi quickly looked away. He didn't know what to do; he wanted to cry, not long ago he saw Draken die for him, and he died even though Takemichi was supposed to save him. The boy bit his lip in frustration, his nails digging into his arm, before it was grabbed, and he was face to face with Naoto. He blinked a few times at the boy's worried face, looking down, he saw his hand was bleeding, and he sighed, bowing his head. "I'm sorry, Naoto." The man quickly reassured him and helped him fix his hand. Hina and Naoto looked at each other worried. 

"Who's he, Hina-Chan?" The girl looked at Emma and smiled. "That's Takemichi-Kun, I told you about him, remember?" The girl gasped, shocked, she wiped her head to look at Takemichi, Hina, Takemichi, and then back at Hina. "That's him?" Hina nodded and chuckled a little. "Didn't you say he used to be this big nosy boy who played to be a gangster even though he wasn't?" She nodded, smiling, before it dropped. She looked once again at Takemichi, who was apologising to Naoto for bothering him. She sighed and then looked at Emma with a worried face. "He's changed, it's..." She was lost for words.

"Do you see him, Emma-Chan? Is it just me who sees it because I know him?" She tried to explain, and before Emma could comment, Draken spoke up. "I see what you mean." She looked at Draken and smiled a little. They looked at the black-haired boy. "He's scrawny, he looks sickly as if he is about to drop dead any minute, he looks thin, and the way he acts, as if he is afraid. He looks like he wants to curl up and cry." She nodded and looked down. "Yeah..."

Saying goodbye, Naoto, Emma, Draken, and Takemichi left the room first and were now standing by the Shinto. Draken looked at Takemichi, smiling before he and Emma made their way to a group of people. Takemichi bit his lip. He was quivering and shaking. He knew those people. It was the former members of Toman, his friends. He shook some more before he was brought out of his head by Naoto. Looking at the boy, he chuckled. "Ah, Naoto, do you need something?" The boy looked at Takemichi before sighing and adjusting his glasses. "Come on, let's go wait over there." Takemichi nodded. They stood at the side talking before both Hinata and Kisaki made their way towards the Shinto. Bowing their heads, they stepped up, taking off their shoes.

Making their way into the Shinto, just as everyone else followed behind. Takemichi felt anxious. Once inside, Takemichi stopped and stood at the back, moving to the side out of people's way. Naoto looked back at Takemichi and raised a brow. "Takemichi?" The boy looked at Naoto. "Sorry, I'm not sure where to sit, so I'll stand. I don't want to be in the way." Naoto quivered at this. It was as if Takemichi didn't care about himself or his feelings; he was letting people step on him. Naoto made his way over, grabbed his arm, and led him to the right-hand side - the Tachibana's family side.

Some people looked at the duo, and Takemichi bit his lip, looking away. This was too much; he knew no one, and no one knew him. He was so out of place. Naoto dragged him to the front two rows of seats. He pulled Takemichi and sat him down in the chair. Sitting down, the boy sits anxiously, Naoto in front of him. He wanted to leave but didn't, keeping quiet. 

They first had the ceremony of San-san-kudo, where they were both poured saké, then came the double ring ceremony, where Hina and Kisaki exchanged their rings, and then Kisaki made his vows. Then the two of them offered Tamagushi before the Gods, bowing their heads in respect three times, clapping twice, and then bowing once more. Then both Hinata's and Kisaki's fathers paid their Tamagushi before the Gods. Then saké was poured for all, and they gave a toast to the families and the couple. Then both families bowed in respect to each other, and then the rest of the family followed. In the end, everyone bowed their head in respect before the Gods. 

The ceremony went by swiftly, and before Takemichi knew it, they were making their way outside, putting on their shoes, and then making their way to take group photos. Takemichi was very anxious, trying to stand out from most of them and out of everyone's way as they congratulated Kisaki and Hina. Takemichi was nervously standing at the side when Hina approached him with Kisaki. He didn't know what to do, say, or feel. This was Kisaki, the man who killed his friends and Hina over and over again, but Takemichi won't ruin this for them; he is happy for them. Anxiously, he moved from one foot to the other. "Takemichi-Kun, come take a photo with the two of us." He was nervous, he had no idea how Kisaki felt about him, and he was gonna reject the offer when Kisaki offered. "Come on, crybaby hero, at least a few." Takemichi nodded, and they took multiple photos, just the three of them and then group photos. 

Later, Hinata left to change into another Kimono, so Kisaki came up to talk to him. He didn't know what to say to him. "So, how's it going, crybaby hero?" Takemichi smiled a little. "Well, all good, how about you? I'm happy for you and Hina, you make a lovely couple." Kisaki genuinely smiled at Takemichi before hugging him. "Thanks for coming." He nodded and smiled. "Yeah, I'm glad I did." They talked a few more minutes, and then Hinata came out in a beautiful pink floral kimono, which matched the cherry blossom season well. Kisaki excused himself to join Hina for their photo shoot.

Takemichi stood alone. He bit his lip anxiously. He then looked up and was met with black eyes. He froze in his spot. He knew those eyes; his lip quivered, and he took a few steps back. The man raised a brow. "Who are you?" Takemichi was dumbfounded and couldn't form a sentence. "Mikey, stop it, you're scaring him." Emma's voice rose as she scolded her brother. Takemichi kept moving backwards and then slipped. He was sure he was gonna hit the floor, but never did. Looking up, he was met with another set of black eyes, which were so similar to those of Mikey but different. "You alright?" He nodded and stood up straight. "Shinichiro!" Emma smiled, hugging the man. Takemichi blinked a few times, looking at the man.

So this is Shinichiro Sano, Mikey's older brother. Looking at him, Takemichi could see the resemblance between the two of them. He was gonna move away, but was stopped by an arm. Looking back, it was Emma. "Where are you going, Takemichi?" He jolted and hissed in pain from the grip, and Emma quickly let go, apologising. He looked at the group and apologised for inconveniencing them all. "I think I should be heading out now." They looked at him with raised brows. They were about to speak up when Naoto butted in. "Nope, you're staying for the after-party ceremony, Hina's request, you don't wanna make her sad, do you?" Takemichi bit his lip and sighed. He nodded his head and moved away. "Alright, I'll wait over there." Naoto nodded, and when Takemichi left, Mikey spoke up.

"Who's he?" Naoto looked at Mikey and smiled. "Hina's ex-boyfriend, Takemichi Hanagaki." They all stood shocked, except Emma, who chuckled. "Her ex? Why's he here?" Naoto smiled and then looked back in Takemichi's direction. "Well, both Kisaki and Hinata wanted him here. They used to be childhood friends. He dated Hina in high school but then broke up with her and left. They haven't spoken since." Everyone was shocked. "What an asshole! Why'd he leave Hina?" Emma asked. Naoto looked at her, biting his lip. "Who knows, he acted weird apparently. You know he used to be this egoistic big guy with piss-dyed blonde hair who acted big and selfishly, but look at him now..." Everyone could see it; the boy looked like a mess. "He wasn't like that when he broke up with Hina, so broken." Everyone was quiet.

After both Hinata and Kisaki arrived, everyone made their way to the party hall and sat down. Takemichi sat down at Hina's side of the family, sitting near Naoto, who told him it was fine. He greeted Hina's parents, who were both happy to see him again. They watched as Hina and Kisaki opened a barrel of saké, and then the food was served, and everyone dug in. Hina and Kisaki ensured to talk to everyone present, their family and friends. Both of their fathers made toasts and speeches for the newlywed couple, and everyone shared some special moments with the bride and groom. After that, they cut open their wedding cake, they had some fun games and then made a speech together. In the end, they spent time together as friends ate, drank, and played games. Takemichi felt so out of place, so while Naoto was distracted, he made his way out for fresh air and then let the tears fall. He sat down as he watched the sunset over the horizon. He felt so out of place among people he knew, it's just that most don't know him. He was startled when someone sat next to him, glancing for a bit, he shivered. It's Mikey. 

"So, your name is Takemitchy." Takemichi's eyes widened, and he wanted to cry. Mikey always used to call him by this stupid nickname, and hearing it again after months, he started crying. "Yeah, that's me." Mikey looked at Takemichi. He didn't question his crying at all; he just observed him. Takemichi reached up to wipe his tears, and his sleeve fell a little. Mikey looked at his hand covered with cuts, and when Takemichi caught his gaze, he quickly fixed it and held his arms close to himself. He chuckled. They sat in quiet for a while, and it was calming, that was until more voices joined, and then all of Toman's members joined Mikey. Takemichi quickly moved up and away. "It was nice meeting you, stranger," Takemichi said before moving away. Mikey got up and shouted after Takemichi. "It's Manjiro, but you can call me Mikey!" Takemichi chuckled but kept going. After he was out of reach, Mikey looked at the floor. He bit his lip. Draken put a hand on his shoulder, and Mikey looked up at him. "Doesn't Takemitchy feel familiar?" He questioned, and Draken looked at Mikey before nodding. "Yeah, it's weird, I get this weird feeling in my gut, but I have no idea what it is." Mikey nodded. "Me too."

Takemichi made his way back inside and was met by Kisaki and Hina. He bowed his head before them and their parents before looking back up. "It was an honour to join you on this special day. Once again, I wish the two of you a lovely marriage; however, I will be departing, but first." He took out two boxes and handed each of them one. They smiled and unboxed them. The two of them smiled when they saw the two identical necklaces; it was a four-leaf clover. "It's amazing, thanks Takemichi-Kun." He nodded and smiled. They exchanged numbers and then Takemichi bid his goodbye and left.

When Takemichi made his way home, it was already dark. What he didn't expect was to be robbed and beaten by some young thugs. He leaned against the wall, sighing. It was already dark, and there were only a few people out and about. Making his way to his apartment, Takemichi was tired, yawning, and he limped his way home. They hurt his foot pretty badly; it's not broken, but for sure it's strained. 

Once he got inside his home, he shut his door and locked it. Sitting down on his couch, he sighed heavily. Today was so long and tiring, but he was happy. He got to see Hina and Kisaki and then met Mikey once again. It felt weird since they didn't know him, and that is exactly why he had to leave; the longer he stays, the longer he'll be attached. Mikey already saw him crying; he might think he's in love with Hina still. Some would think he is, but he's not; he hasn't been for a while, even during the three deities' war and before that. He just stopped loving her. He loved her platonically; he would kill for her.

Sighing, he pinched his nose. He was going to go to sleep, but then the voices came back. He internally screamed as they laughed at him, as they made fun of him, and as they mocked him, he started hitting his head, trying to shut them up. It wasn't working, so Takemichi was back to square one just like he was two weeks ago. Here he was once again on the bathroom floor, blade in his hand and cutting his scarred arms, the blood dripping down his arm, it wasn't deep, he wouldn't die, but it stung. However, to Takemichi, it was mild; he got so used to it that it didn't hurt anymore. He sighed, pulling on his hair, he stood up, reached into the medical cabinet, and pulled out some pills, which were to relax him and get him to stop thinking. They work, but his memory is hazy for a while after they lose their effect. He pulled out two and downed them, drinking some tap water. Sighing, he leaned against the tub. "What am I doing? What is my purpose in life?" Just as he thought of anything like this, his mind became blank, and then the voices came in full force.

Yeah, what is your purpose? You're useless! Crybaby Mitchy can't save anyone! You're such a joke, a loser! You really should kill yourself, you know! You're worthless! Come on, why bother living? You're alone. You chose this, so why are you complaining?! It would be such a better place without you! You killed them all! You killed Baji! You killed Emma! You killed Draken! You killed Chifuyu! You killed Kisaki! You killed Izana! You killed South! You killed Mikey! Your fault! All your fault! Die! Die! DIE!!!

Takemichi screamed, trying to shut up the voices in his head. They kept haunting him; he was so tired, and he just wanted to rest. Screaming, he hit his head over and over again until the voices stopped and he leaned over in relief. Sighing, Takemichi took out his phone and checked the time. Sighing, he made his way into his bedroom and flopped onto his bed, and not before long, he was asleep.

Waking up in the morning, Takemichi made his way into the bathroom, sighing when he saw his reflection. His hair was messy, and he had eye bags. Looking down at his arms, Takemichi sighed once more, running a tissue under the water, he wiped away the dried blood. It didn't hurt, just stung, but nothing that Takemichi wasn't used to. He took off his clothes and made his way into the shower. He washed his hair, pulling on his knots as his body relaxed under the water. He sighed as he washed his face, trying to wake himself up fully. Looking at his body, Takemichi winced. He knew he looked thin; he could put his thumb and pointer finger around his wrist, and he even had more space. He knew it wasn't healthy, but he didn't feel like doing anything about it. What was the point? Before Takemichi could spiral into more self-doubt, he washed his body and turned off the water, wiping his body and hair, he put on his new set of clothes. 

After his shower, Takemichi made his way into the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water. He looked at his clock and sighed internally. "Time to go, I guess." Picking up his bag, keys, and wallet, Takemichi locked up his place and made his way out of the apartment. 

Making his way down the street, Takemichi walked like a corpse. He didn't have any energy after yesterday; he just felt off. It hurt because he saw his friends, he saw his girlfriend, no, his ex-girlfriend, who is now married to Kisaki. That man has caused Takemichi so much trouble just because he loved Hinata, but he, too, deserved happiness, so Takemichi wished them well. It didn't hurt as much; he was glad that some people knew him at least, that he wasn't fully forgotten, and he was still remembered. It made him happy to know but on the other hand, it hurt, he knew them all but the only ones who remembered him were Hina, Naoto, and Kisaki, the others didn't know him at all when he saw Mikey he could only stare and panic, it was the same Mikey he knew from his first-time travel, outgoing and happy, it was a sight to see but he has nothing to do with him, they're strangers. Sighing, Takemichi made his way inside the CD rental store.

Takemichi's day went slow, he unpacked and packed CDs, placed the old ones back in their place on shelves, he helped others find and pick CDs and overall he had no energy, at least his manager wasn't up his throat, she used to always complain at Takemichi but ever since he returned, he changed, she could see it, she even send him some worried glances and made sure to check up on Takemichi which he always brushed off with, "I'm fine." 

Takemichi was unpacking another box of CDs when the bell rang in the store. He didn't pay attention to it and kept doing his work, getting up, he started placing CDs on the shelves when he heard someone come his way and ask him something. Standing up, he looked behind and froze, his hold on the CD faltering, and it fell to the floor. He quickly composed himself and picked the CD up, putting on a fake smile. "Hi, how can I help you?" The person smirked. "Come on, Takemichi, don't tell me you forgot about little old me?" Kiyomasa smirked when Takemichi's lip quivered a bit, for once, Takemichi wished that someone had forgotten about him, of course, that wasn't an option since Kiyomasa had known Takemichi since high school. "What do you need help with?" He said, trying to be as polite as can be, he wished that this man would go away, but he was a customer, so Takemichi couldn't kick him out for nothing. He looked at the man before him, he didn't change whatsoever and still had the same haircut as he did years ago, he was just older and taller. "You know, you're still the same weakling as years ago. Nothing changed, you're still as pathetic as before." Takemichi bit his lip. He was annoyed, but he knew Kiyomasa was trying to rile him up, but he wouldn't give him the satisfaction. "I'm sorry, but what do you need help with? If nothing, then please don't bother me, I'm trying to work."

The older man scoffed and spat at his shoes. Takemichi kept his smile even though he was done with this man. However, what he didn't expect was for the said man to charge towards him and swing his fists at him. Takemichi just barely dodged, and Kiyomasa's hand collided with the shelf, and he scoffed. He glared at Takemichi, who looked wide-eyed. He hadn't moved or been doing much fighting lately, so he was surprised he could still dodge. "Hanagaki, I'll kill you!" Takemichi, wide-eyed, stared at the man before running for it, the man right on his tail. He had no idea what his problem was with Takemichi; he hadn't seen him in years, so why the hell was he attacking him? Takemichi avoided another hit from the man, running behind a shelf, just then his manager walked out and yelled. "What the hell, Hanagaki, are you alright?" Takemichi hissed. He needed to get out. "Call the police!" He then ran out of the CD rental store with Kiyomasa on his tail. He was short on the dodge, so the older got a hit on him.

"What the hell are you doing? What did I do to you, Kiyomasa? I haven't seen you in years! Years!" He yelled when he grabbed his cheek. The older spit at his feet. "You don't remember, do you!?" He yelled, stomping his way over to Takemichi. "No, I don't, what the hell!" He grabbed Takemichi by his hair, and he hissed when it was pulled. His face was turned, and he was face to face with Kiyomasa, his gaze angry. Said the man spitting in Takemichi's face, he closed his eyes, and he felt disgusted. The older than punched him in the face, and Takemichi hissed out in pain, as his nose started bleeding. He got a sort of Deja Vu, and his lip quivered, tears forming in the corner of his eye. "Your bastard friend stabbed me! I was hospitalised for two weeks, does that ring a bell?" Takemichi shot open his eyes. He was shocked at this news. That's right in the original timeline, Takemichi didn't meet Mikey at the time, and he didn't help Takemichi, so Akkun stabbed him. That's right, but in this timeline, Kiyomasa didn't die. He's still holding a grudge. 

"What does that have to do with me? I didn't stab you!" The older scoffed and hit Takemichi again, who hissed in pain, eyes watering more. "Shut up!" He raised his fist, ready to strike again, when his arm was grabbed. He glared behind. He let go of Takemichi's shirt, and the younger fell holding his cheek. "What the hell do you want?!" Kiyomasa yelled at the man, ready to swing his fists, but before he could even land a hit, he was punched in the face and tumbled to the ground, knocked out. Takemichi held his cheek, looking down to stop his nose bleeding, sighing. He knew his day couldn't get any worse. "Are you alright?" A hand was held out to him, and Takemichi looked up. When their eyes met, Takemichi froze. Looking into the person's eyes, Takemichi felt his water, right in front of him, stood Kakucho. "Takemichi?" The man exclaimed, crouching down. Takemichi was out of words. In the last few weeks, so much had happened; he had met so many people he knew, and it was taking a toll on him. Seeing Kakucho made tears spill down Takemichi's face, and a small sob ripped out of his throat. 

He promised himself he wouldn't cry anymore, that he would be stronger and not show so many emotions, but here he is, on the floor, crying like a child just by seeing Kakucho. He just saw Hinata, Kisaki, Mikey, Naoto, Draken, Emma, and the others, and this is the icing on the cake. He sobbed, trying to wipe his face, while his nose kept bleeding. Kakucho was shocked. He knew Takemichi as a strong person, someone who helped him, his hero, and seeing him so down and broken, he didn't know what to do. This Takemichi was different; he could tell, he was fragile, and it made Kakucho worry. He reached the pit and brought Takemichi into a hug, who sobbed harder, clinging to him as if he would disappear. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry!" Kakucho didn't know what the boy was apologising for, but just seeing him break down hurt him. He rubbed the younger's back and tried to soothe him. "It's okay, just breathe, Takemichi, what happened?" 

"I'm sorry!" 

Takemichi kept apologising, and Kakucho tried to calm him down. After a few minutes, the police arrived, and Takemichi's manager made her way out. She was worried when she saw Takemichi crying into a man's chest, and the other guy was knocked out on the ground. She told the police about the man who attacked them, and they checked to see if he was alive. "I had to knock him out; he was beating Takemichi." He explained the situation to the police and gave his statement; they then took Kiyomasa away. Some people looked at the scene, but mostly didn't care. After a while, Takemichi slowed down his breathing and wiped his face. "I'm so sorry you had to see that." He said, pulling away from Kakucho's side. The man just smiled and rubbed Takemichi's hair. "It's alright, how about you come with me, we can talk." Takemichi smiled. "I have work left to" He was cut off when his manager joined in, "You're free to go, just make sure you take care of yourself, Hanagaki-Kun, okay?" He looked at his manager and smiled before nodding. She bowed her head and then went back inside the store. Kakucho helped Takemichi to his feet, and the boy once again apologised for the inconvenience. "Takemichi, it's alright, now come on."

Kakucho took him to the parking lot nearby and then opened his car door for Takemichi. "I was supposed to meet up with Izana, he's my friend, you wouldn't mind him being there, would you? I already told him about you." Takemichi smiled. "It's fine." He handed Takemichi a tissue, and the boy thanked him. The older person smiled and started up the car. The ride was mostly silent with the music on the radio playing, but other than that, it felt calming. Takemichi felt a bit embarrassed about sobbing in front of Kakucho, but it seemed like the man didn't mind much. After a fifteen-minute ride, they made it to a famous restaurant, and Takemichi bit his lip. He wore his shabby baseball shirt, some trousers with sneakers, and a hoodie to top it off. He looked so out of place that he just now saw that Kakucho was wearing a suit. "Is this alright? I don't have the right attire." Kakucho just smiled. "It's fine." He then made his way to the entrance with Takemichi following on his trail, but keeping his distance. 

Kakucho made his way inside, but when Takemichi tried following, he was stopped by the bouncer. Takemichi smiled at the man, confused. "Move along, this is a private hour, no entry for people like you." Takemichi was dumbfounded, but he didn't say anything. Kakucho was already inside, and he didn't want to make this man angry, so he bowed his head and apologised. "Sorry, I'll be on my way then, sir." Takemichi was about to move away when his hand was grabbed. Looking behind, he saw Kakucho and behind him stood no other than Izana. He still had his white hair and his purple eyes glared at the bouncer. Takemichi bit his lip. "I'm sorry." He felt like he needed to apologise. Kakucho sighed, pulled him closer and then hugged him. "Why are you apologising, Takemichi?" He asked, and he just shrugged, looking down. He was going to apologise once more when he heard a chuckle. "So you're Hanagaki?" He looked up and met eyes with Izana, who chuckled. He nodded his head, and the older chuckled before ruffling Takemichi's black hair. "Come on, let's go eat." Takemichi bit his lip, looking down. "I'm not allowed inside." Kakucho and Izana stopped looking at the black-haired boy who looked like a kicked puppy, and then they glared at the bouncer, who looked pale. "You're fired!" Izana whispered, yelling under his breath, glaring at the man. "You're fine, come on," Kakucho said, pulling him inside. The place was empty, and Takemichi sighed as they made their way to a booth by the window. Sitting down at the booth, he sat between the two of them.

"So Takemichi, how have you been?" The boy didn't know what to say. He is doing shitty, that's the truth, but he's not going to bother Kakucho with any of this; this is his business. He smiled. "Fine, I went to Hina's wedding yesterday, how about you, Kaku-Kun?" He smiled at Takemichi. He could tell that something was bothering the blue-eyed man, but he didn't want to pry into his life; he could see that he looked sick and thin. Anyone could see it just by looking at the man. "Good, and Izana opened up a business, so we're doing well, oh my, I forgot to introduce you. Takemichi, this is Izana and Izana, this is Takemichi." The blue-eyed man smiled at Izana. "Nice to meet you." The older smiled too. "Yeah, the pleasure is mine. I heard about you from Kakucho before." Takemichi looked at Kakucho, who smiled at him, and he smiled too. Maybe just maybe he could start over, from scratch. He had Hinata and Naoto, who knew him, and so did Kakucho. Maybe he can start fresh; it might be hard, but it's better than being alone. 

You'll ruin their lives again! Don't even try, they all hate you! You ruined their lives, you killed them all, and you are selfish! 

His hands were shaking, and his eyes were looking straight through everything. He only got back to reality when Kakucho placed his hand on his shoulder, and he flinched with a yell. He looked at the man, who looked worried and then bit his lip before apologising quickly; his whole body trembled. Kakucho sighed and reassured the boy while stroking his back in comfort. He moved closer and pulled the boy into a hug, and Takemichi wanted to cry again. He hadn't been embraced for ages, it felt so nice, so unreal, he didn't want to pull away, he didn't want to be alone again. He doesn't want to be alone. "Don't leave me, I can't!" He sobbed into Kakucho's chest and looked over at Izana, who looked worried. This boy, before them, was hanging by a thread; he was like glass, cracked, trying to hold together before he fell apart. Seeing Takemichi this way made Kakucho perplexed. This is Takemichi. When they were younger, he was brave and strong; he didn't care if he got hurt, but this Takemichi was far from what he used to be; he was broken beyond repair, and Kakucho wants to break anything or anyone that made his hero this hurt. He wants to take away all his troubles and let him rely on him.

He kept stroking the boy's back, and after a while, his breathing softened and he was asleep. He ensured to move a little and let the boy lean his weight on him before looking at Izana. He took a deep breath, and his lip quivered. "He needs help," Izana spoke up softly, trying not to wake the boy up. Kakucho looked at Takemichi and nodded. "Yeah, this is so troubling." Izana sighed and sipped his wine, massaging his temple. He looked at Takemichi and then at Kakucho, who looked drained. He didn't know what to say. This was Kakucho's friend, even before he met him, he talked about the black-haired and blue-eyed boy all the time, and seeing him now, compared to how Kakucho described him, was troubling for sure. He looks so broken. It makes him wonder what could have happened to break such a soul. 

Kakucho stroked the boy's hair with a soft smile as the younger slept peacefully. He looked up and sighed. They order some food for the three of them, something light for Takemichi when he wakes up. Kakucho ate his stake while Izana got some seafood, they kept their conversation light and talked quietly to not wake the boy up but not before long Kakucho felt the boy tremble and then start shaking, he was worried and then Takemichi started mumbling under his breath, he couldn't tell what he said but he sounded distressed and then he started screaming and Kakucho had to shake the boy awake. "Takemichi, it's alright, I'm here, wake up, Takemichi." The boy shook and then his eyes through open, he was breathing heavily and tears ran down his face, he was shaking and it took a few seconds for him to start looking around his surroundings, Kakucho brought his chin up and stroked his cheek. The boy stared into Kakucho's eyes and sobbed. Kakucho pulled him into a tight hug. "I'm sorry, so sorry!" Seeing Takemichi so distressed made Kakucho and Izana uneasy, and some of the waiters looked only for a split second before doing their business. Kakucho soothed the boy. "It's alright, I'm here. Shh, it's okay." 

Getting Takemichi to calm down was hard. It took about twenty minutes, and then he kept looking away. He felt so numb and embarrassed. Kakucho held his hand, drawing circles to soothe him, which helped. "I'm sorry." He said lightly, barely a whisper, but the two of them caught it, and Kakucho smiled. "It's alright, you didn't do anything, it's alright." Takemichi bit his lip once more. He was anxious, and he once again ruined everything. Kakucho grabbed his chin, and their eyes met once more. "Takemichi, you can talk to me, to us. Is something bothering you?" The boy shook a little, the kind eyes made the boy emotional, he wanted to cry, but breathed in deeply to stop a cry from coming out before nodding, not trusting his voice at the moment. Kakucho smiled and hugged the boy once more. Izana watched their interaction and also smiled. "Hey, Takemichi, how about you stay the night with us?" Takemichi looked behind at Izana as Kakucho mouthed him a small 'thanks' and Takemichi blinked. "I don't wanna be a bother." The older shook his head. "You're not, so?" Takemichi looked at Kakucho, who moved a strand of his hair from his face and smiled at him. Looking back at Izana, he nodded, "Okay." They exchanged numbers so they wouldn't forget.

After dinner, they made their way out to the car. The car ride went by fast, Takemichi slept through most of it and woke up when they got there. They made their way inside the huge house, and he was shown to the guest room. It was huge; the room alone was as big as his apartment. He was given some spare clothes, and then they left him to change. Sitting on the soft bed, Takemichi didn't move. He looked at the clothes they gave him and bit his lip. It was a short-sleeved shirt and some joggers. He took off his clothes and changed, but put his hoodie back on. He bit his lip before making his way out of the room and towards the living room. On the couch sat Izana. Takemichi didn't know much about the man. He knows he was Tenjiku's leader; he was the one who planned Emma's death and worked with Kisaki. It was weird, but Takemichi knew this Izana was different. He must have stood there for a bit too long as he looked up, Izana was looking at him, he apologised and made his way over, sitting on the other couch. They sat in silence for a few more seconds before Kakucho walked to the living room with tea and some snacks. Sitting next to Izana, they looked at Takemichi, who looked uncomfortable, and Kakucho spoke up.

"So, Takemichi. I know this might be straightforward, but what's going on?" The boy looked down and fiddled with his fingers. He doesn't know what to say. He can't tell them he used to be a time traveller, they would think he's crazy. Looking up, he smiled. "Nothing much, I'm fine." They were expecting this answer, and Kakucho sighed. He knew that Takemichi was not alright, far from it, but he couldn't force him to tell them. This needs time, but by the way, Takemichi acts, things look bad. He looked over at Takemichi. He wore the clothes they gave him, but kept his hoodie on. Kakucho bit his lip. "Are you cold, Takemichi?" The other shook his head. "I'm fine." Kakucho nodded. 

Izana could see that Kakucho was hesitant, so he spoke up. "Takemichi, I can see that you're not doing well, I'm not going to force you to tell me what's up as I don't know you, however, I can see that it's affecting you greatly, it's a burden to keep it to yourself, so at least think about it, sharing some weight off your chest might help you." Takemichi stared at Izana, and tears started falling down his cheeks. He sobbed, breaking down, his shoulders shaking as he sobbed. "I can't! It makes me sound crazy! You wouldn't believe me! I'm not even sure if it was all real, it felt real! Was any of it real? Am I going crazy?" He yelled through sobs. The more Takemichi thought about it, it sounded like he was making things up, like it was all a dream. What if it was a dream? He might have made all of those scenarios up in his head. What if he's crazy?

He was brought out of his thoughts when hands pulled him into a hug, and he cried as he pressed himself closer. He felt like he was going crazy. "You're not crazy, Mitchy, you're not." He sobbed into Kakucho's hold; this was the third time today. He just can't help himself. It's been so long since someone cared about him, he needs someone to tell him it's going to be okay. He wants to spend time with his friends; he wants to do everything they did before, but he can't; they don't know him, and it's making him go crazy. "I want things to go back to how they were!" He sobbed, clenching onto Kakucho's shirt, and the man let him. He sat down next to Takemichi and pulled him into a hug. "I want everyone back, I don't wanna be alone anymore, I can't do this anymore. I want to go back!" Kakucho and Izana have no idea what Takemichi means, but it makes him distressed; it must be really important to him. He is radiating so much sadness and fear, it's unreal. He sobbed and sobbed. "Why can't I move on? Everyone is happy!" Kakucho sighed and stroked his back as Izana approached. He leaned down and looked at Takemichi. "Are you happy?" This question made Takemichi freeze. He got a flashback to the time when he made the deal to save everyone. He then smiled and started laughing. He finally understood the dilemma. He was always set to lose. He cannot be happy. He looked into Izana's violet eyes, his eyes even darker and cloudier, making the man before him freeze. Takemichi looked at him with pure numbness.

"Yeah, I'm happy!" He said, smiling. He was. Everyone was alive and well, and he was dwelling on the fact that he was alone. Mikey had to suffer all alone, but he finally got his happy ending. He saved everyone, Izana is alive and well, and he died, but he's here all because he never gave up. He reached the perfect future, and if it means leaving all of his past life behind, then so be it. He contemplated what the reason was for everything, and to be frank, he was the problem. Without him, in the picture, everyone is happy and alive. If he gets involved and attached, there is a huge chance that someone will get hurt or, worse, die again. Takemichi cannot let that happen. He smiled at Izana. "I'm happy."

Softly pushing against Kakucho, the man let him go. Takemichi wiped his tears away and smiled. "I'm going to go rest now. I'll be leaving early for work, so I'll see myself out. Thanks for everything, you guys." He then left the living room and made his way towards the guest room. Once the doors closed, Izana and Kakucho looked at each other. "Did you see his eyes?" Kakucho nodded. "He looked determined, something I haven't seen since we were children, but behind it was numbness as if he had lost any feelings he had left." Izana nodded, sitting down, and he ran a hand through his hair. Sighing, he looked at the ceiling. Kakucho sat next to him and crossed his arms. "I hope he's fine." Izana leaned his head on Kakucho's shoulder and smiled. "Yeah."

The next morning, Takemichi left at six a.m. He took a bus back to his neighbourhood and then walked the rest of the way home. He got home around seven-thirty. He unlocked his apartment door and shut it. He still had another hour till he had to get to work, so he sighed, sitting down on his couch. He took off his hoodie and looked at his arms. They were both covered with cuts and scars, either old or new. He even had some scars from his time leaping. He had his hand scar, his gunshot wounds, and even some scars from the beating he received. He hated them; they were so ugly and contrasted against his pale skin. They made him shiver and feel revolted. He clutched his hair and sighed. He kept looking at his arms, and the more his eyes scanned every little detail, the more his mind went haywire. He started breathing heavier by the second. He then closed his eyes, trying to calm himself down, but once he closed his eyes, the memories came back to haunt him once again. He saw Mikey, Emma, Draken, Izana, Baji, and everyone begging him to save them. They were getting louder and louder by the second, and Takemichi opened his eyes, but they still wouldn't go away. Their voices, their screams made his head hurt, his ears ringing. Takemichi shot up from the couch and ran into the kitchen, splashing cold water on his face - he thought it would calm him down, but it didn't. The voice was still there, and they were getting louder. "Shut up!" They cried and yelled, they laughed and mocked him. They made him want to die. "Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! I did all I could do! I saved you all, what else do you want from me!!!" He was now bending down, yelling at the top of his lungs, his tears were running like faucets, his face red and puffy. His fingernails dug into his skin, breaking and blood dripping down.

You have to die! Repent for your sins! You're the reason they died in the first place. You were selfish, you kept coming back and making things worse! You made everyone suffer; you didn't help one bit! They trusted you to help them, but every time you messed up, someone got hurt or died. Hinata died so many times because you were selfish! Chifuyu died because you were stupid! South died because you were weak! Izana died because you were incompetent to stop Kisaki! You could have prevented so many deaths! Emma! Draken! Baji! Chifuyu! Izana! They all died because of you! It's all your fault! So now repent! Repent, Hanagaki Takemichi!

The boy cried. He tried to ignore the voices and lies, but they were right. He caused all of this. He did this to everyone. He made them suffer. If he had never got involved, many would still be here. If he let it go, if he wasn't so selfish, so many wouldn't have died. Some would be, but he killed more than would have. So much blood is on his hands. He killed Hinata, he killed Chifuyu, he killed Draken! He killed South. He deserved death! Mikey was right to kill him; he always got in the way! He was the problem; it's all his fault, he needs to stop getting involved. He will only ruin their lives more. They are happy and alive because he isn't with them. If he gets attached, they will die, everyone will get hurt once again, and it will be his fault! All his fault. Looking up, he stared at the knife lying on the kitchen counter before getting up. Wiping the tears from his face, he turned around and made his way into his room. He changes into new clothes and puts Kakucho into the wash. Sighing, he made his way into the kitchen and made some coffee. Looking down, he bites his lip. "I need to let go of the past. It's for the best." He smiled as he drank the coffee. It might hurt, but it has to be done. If he wants everyone to be happy, he has to let go. Just then, his phone rang. Picking it up, he sighed. "Hello?" "Hi, Takemichi-Kun. I was wondering if you'd like to go out for some lunch today?" It was Hinata. Takemichi's lip wavered, but he remembered what he promised himself and sighed. He took a deep breath. "I want you to stop contacting me, Hina, do you understand? I want you and everyone else to leave me alone! Do you hear me? Leave me alone!" Before she could answer he hung up and blocked her number before she could answer, and a tear fell on his face. 

He remembered he had given Hinata his number, but sighed, he looked through his contacts and noticed that he now had Kakucho's and Izana's numbers too. Sighing, he called Kakucho. It rang for only a few seconds before the man picked up. "Hey, Takemi-" Before he could continue, Takemichi cut in. "Listen, Kakucho, I want you to leave me alone, you and Izana too, do you understand me? Leave me the hell alone! Don't call me, don't come to me! Leave me be! It's for the best!" He then hung up and blocked both of their numbers. Leaning over, he cried out. It hurt! He told the only people who remembered or even cared to leave him be. It's for the best, it has to be. "I won't soil your perfect future anymore." He whispered under his breath. 

Standing up, he grabbed his bag, keys, and phone and made his way out of the apartment. He locked it up and was off to his work. He wiped his face to ensure he looked presentable and was on his way. He drifted towards the CD rental store. Just when he rounded the corner, he froze. There stood Kiyomasa in his glory, and he was yelling at his manager. Takemichi, without hesitation, made a run towards them and just as Kiyomasa was about to hit the manager, Takemichi rammed into him and kicked him. Kiyomasa stumbled and then glared. He smirked when he saw Takemichi and then grabbed him by the hair. Takemichi looked at his manager and whispered, 'Run. ' He was now alone with Kiyomasa, who grabbed him by the collar of his hoodie and dragged him towards the alley in the back. Once out of sight of others, he swung his fists at Takemichi and knocked him against the wall. Takemichi yelled as his head connected with the concrete wall. He glared up at Kiyomasa, who came closer and swung at him. He hit him in the face a few times before Takemichi's knees buckled, and he fell to the ground. The man laughed above him. He grabbed his hair and made him look up. "From now on, you serve me! Whenever I tell you to do something, you do it! Do you get it!" He grabbed his hair tighter, and Takemichi winced. "Fuck off!" he spits in his face. Kiyomasa glared and then smacked his head against the concrete wall. Takemichi saw black dots appear in his vision, and before long, he was knocked out.

He woke up in a hospital room. His breathing was harsh, and his vision was blurry. For a while, Takemichi tried to get his thoughts straight. He tried to understand what had happened when memories came back to him. Sighing, he reached up and ran a hand through his hair. After a few minutes, a doctor came into the room. "It's good to see you awake. Can you tell me your name?" He nodded and, for some time, answered any questions the doctor had. "You had a minor concussion, your left hand is broken, and so are two ribs. Other than that, you're fine. You'll have to stay here for a few days; however, we have to talk." He looked at the doctor.

"We have your health results. You are underweight and need supplements since you're not getting the right amount of nutrients and vitamins into your body. As well as this, a therapist will come to talk about your scars and self-harm scars in a few minutes. We also noticed multiple old scars, such as knife cuts and gunshot wounds, which aren't on your record. Can I ask when you got them?" Takemichi sighed and slowly sat up. He looked at the doctor. "They're from my teenage years." The doctor nodded and wrote something down. There was a knock on the door, and then a woman walked inside. "Doctor Hirashima." The woman bowed her head, and the doctor got up. "Alright, Takemichi, this is Doctor Sato. She will be taking care of you from now on. She will be asking you some questions. Everything you share is confidential information, so no one else will know about it unless you are deemed a danger to yourself or others. I wish you a good rest of the day." He then left, closing the door behind him. Doctor Sato sat down; she was a lean woman with black hair tied into a bun with dark brown eyes. She looked at Takemichi with a smile. "It's nice to meet you, Takemichi. Now, anything you share with me is up to you. I will listen no matter what; you can take as long as you want. No need to rush." She smiled, and Takemichi broke down. In just a few minutes, he told her everything from losing all his friends to his thoughts and voices to self-harming and suicidal tendencies and attempts. Doctor Sato listened and reassured him through it all, writing down and answering his questions. By the end of the hour, Doctor Sato and Takemichi parted ways. "I'll be back later after I discuss something with Doctor Hirashima." With that, she left, and Takemichi was all alone. It felt nice to get things off his chest; he felt as though some weight was lifted off his shoulders, he felt as though he could be free, but then the voices came back and knocked him down, and he sat there, drowning in his thoughts. After a while, Takemichi drifted back to sleep.

Takemichi has stayed at the hospital for five days. He was prescribed medication for pain as well as given antidepressants. He was given the option to meet up with a local therapist every Saturday. Once he was out of the hospital, he had a cast on his arm. He looked tired, and he wanted to go home. Taking a train was annoying, but it was the fastest way back home. He left the hospital around noon and got home at three p.m. He was tired, so he flopped down on his couch and sighed heavily. He was on some pain medication, so he was pretty tired. He was going to laze around; his boss gave him two months off work, so he had nothing to do. 

Takemichi was dozing off when there was a knock on the door. Tired, the boy got off the couch and made his way to the door. He opened it and was greeted by Kakucho. He stared at the man in shock. He had no idea how Kakucho found out where he lived. It's been a week since he told him to never talk to him, but here he is. Taking a gulp, the boy was tired, so he let Kakucho in. He sat down on the couch, and Kakucho stared at him. He looked worried, and after a while, he sat down next to Takemichi. He took a breath in and then looked at him. "Your manager gave me your address. She contacted me about you being attacked. How are you doing?" Takemichi looked at Kakucho and sighed. "I told you to leave me alone. It's none of your business." It hurt to say it, but it had to be done to protect them all. Kakucho scoffed. "Takemichi, I know you don't mean it! I can see it in your eyes, let me help you!" He was determined, but so was Takemichi, so with all the strength he had in him, he slapped Kakucho across the face. "I don't need your pity or help. You can fuck off, you're nothing to me! We used to be friends over twenty years ago, so we grew up." Kakucho was stunned and, after a while, got off the couch. He looked hurt but mostly angry. "No wonder you're alone, Hanagaki! You are useless! A cold-hearted bastard!" He quickly covered his mouth. He didn't mean to say any of that; he was angry. "I'm sorry, Mitchy." The boy just smiled. "Yeah, I am pretty useless. Always have been. Now, please leave!" Kakucho was going to say more; he wanted to apologise so much more, but he could see that Takemichi needed some space. Sighing, he moved to the door. "Please don't be like this, you can rely on me, Mitchy! I'm sorry again, please call me if you need something." He opened the door, and then Takemichi was alone again. Once he was sure Kakucho was out of sight, he burst out crying. It hurt, yeah, he knew it was for the best that everyone he knew should hate him, but he wanted to see them, be their friend. Is it a good idea to push them all away?

Of course, it's for the better. You heard Kakucho, you're useless! A cold-blooded murderer. Leave them alone! You deserve no one. You should die! Repent for what you did to them. Even now, you're hurting them, just by being alive, you're ruining their perfect future. You probably made Hinata cry, so rude when you yelled at her and Kakucho, despite you pushing him away, he came, and you showed your true colours, you're a bad friend. Just disappear! Nobody will care! Come on, die!

Takemichi let the tears fall down his face. He was so tired that another sob broke through. He inhaled loudly, got up, threw his sneakers on, and then ran out the door. It had started raining, but Takemichi didn't care; he ran and ran, letting the tears fall. Some people gave him weird looks, but he didn't care; he needed to leave. He was so mad at himself. His phone was clutched tightly in his hand as he kept running. He had no idea how long he had been running, but by the time he stopped, he was exhausted. He was standing on a bridge. There was no one around, and for a moment, Takemichi thought about ending it. Moving closer to the middle of the bridge, he stood at the railing. He then smiled and pulled himself to the other side. Standing over one hundred feet above the water, Takemichi smiled. He let tears fall down his face. The thought of letting go and leaving this miserable world had crossed his mind many times these past five months. Even when he was able to time travel, he felt so useless many times that he just wished he could rest. "They don't need me anyway, they're all alive and well, they have each other. It's time, Hanagaki." He muttered to himself. "There is no more left for me to do." His voice was soft, and a sob broke out through him. The realisation that even if he died, nobody would care. Not Mikey, not Draken, not Mitsuya. Hinata might be sad, but she'd get over it; she doesn't need him anymore. She's happily married, she'll have beautiful children and grow old. They all will grow old and happy, and that is enough. 

Takemichi unlocked his phone and looked at the contacts. Maybe, just maybe, he could say goodbye. So, taking the courage, he dialled Hinata's number. It rang for a bit, after another few seconds, Takemichi thought she wouldn't pick up, but she did. "Takemichi!" She sounded relieved. Takemichi kept quiet as more tears fell down his cheeks. "I'm so sorry, Hina, I am. I will no longer hurt you or anyone else. I won't let you get hurt, ever! I'm so sorry that it took me so long, but I'm glad you're safe and happy!" The girl was confused. She could hear the rain and grew worried. "Are you outside? The rain is pouring out there." He chuckled and wiped some tears, his hair and clothes soaking through. "Yeah, I just wanted to call and say I'm glad I met you. I'm sorry, but this will be the last time I call. I'm sorry, Hina, but it's for the best." At this, the girl grew worried, and she started questioning. "Takemichi! Takemichi, where are you? Mitchy!" The boy sighed. "I love you, Hina, you're my best friend, but now I have to go!" She sounded panicked as tears fell down her face. She could be heard running, and then another voice was there. "Takemichi-Kun, where are you? Don't do anything stupid! Do you hear me? Mitchy! Please!" She was sobbing, and so was Takemichi. I'm sorry, Hina, but I need to go." He was about to hang up when Naoto's voice called out. "Takemichi, please, whatever you're thinking right now, don't do it! We're worried, please, talk to us! We can help you!" The boy chuckled. "That's what Kakucho said, too, but I'm protecting you, from me. No more will any of you get hurt or killed, no more Naoto. You won't have to see your sister die. With me gone, she'll be safe, and everyone will be safe. Mikey-Kun, Draken, Mitsuya, Hakkai, Izana, Kakucho, Koko, Inui, Chifuyu, everyone. I'm going to save them from me!" 

Naoto was confused. Whatever Takemichi was saying made no sense to him, and Takemichi was okay with that. He choked on a sob that tore through him as the rain grew heavier by the second. He was scared, his body shaking. He knew it was for the best, but he was still scared; he never wanted to die. Sobbing, the boy pressed the phone closer to his ear, and he then smiled. "Hey, Naoto-Kun! You'll take care of your sister for me, won't you?" This made the boy freeze. "Takemichi, stop! Don't make me promise this! You should protect her, too. Come on, stop it! Takemichi, you there?!" Naoto was panicking, and so was Hinata. He was stalling for time; he had started tracking Takemichi's phone. "I'm sorry, Naoto-Kun, please take care of Hina and kill Kisaki if he ever breaks her heart." He then smiled, hanging up. 

Naoto was panicking; he gave Hina back her phone and cursed. She was crying her eyes out. She looked at Naoto, worried, and it broke his heart. "Hey, Hina, do you have Kakucho's number? Takemichi mentioned Kakucho, call him!" She got to it quickly. She quickly dialled his number, and it took a few seconds before he picked up. He was confused, but quickly his face dropped. "It's Takemichi-Kun! He just called, and I think he's gonna hurt himself! He was apologising, and then he hung up. Naoto and I are going to the place where we thought he might be! Did Takemichi say anything? Do you think you can look for him?" She was panicked, and so was Kakucho. He was at the Sano household with Izana, and they were having dinner when his phone rang. He quickly ran into the room, startling everyone. He looked at Izana as tears fell down his face. Izana grew worried and made it to his side. Everyone was worried; they hadn't seen Kakucho so distressed. He looked at Izana with worry, his lip quivering. "Kakucho?" Izana asked worriedly. He looked at him and sobbed. He thought this was all his fault. He said all those horrible things to Takemichi, and now he's missing, and from the looks of it, he's trying to hurt himself. Izana cooed to his cheek, and Kakucho sobbed harder. Everyone was now worried. The boy then heard his phone ring, and he quickly answered. It was Takemichi. "Kakuchan... hey, I'm sorry about earlier. You're an amazing friend, I love you, and you were my first friend. I know this might be stupid to say, but I miss the old times before everything went downhill, but this is my decision. To keep you all safe, I must go. I hope you live your life to the fullest, Kakuchan and tell everyone that I wish them well. They might not know me, but I know them. All of them tell Mikey and the rest of Toman that I'm sorry. Sorry that it took me this long to reach a perfect future, but everything is perfect now. The only factor is me; once I'm gone, it will be perfect. I'm sorry, Kakuchan, can you take care of Hina and Naoto for me, too? I know it's too much to ask, but please, they mean the world to me. So I'm sorry for everything." The boy was sobbing, and Kakucho was too. 

"No! Stop it, Bakemichi! Don't you dare do anything rash, you hear me! I need you! Please! You can't go!" Izana grew worried when Kakucho mentioned Takemichi. His hands were shaking. Takemichi laughed. "For the perfect future, Kakucho, we need to make some sacrifices!" Kakucho screamed, worried. "It's not a good future if you're gone! Come on, Takemichi! Let us help you! Let me take away your worries, you can tell me anything!" He was sobbing hard, and everyone was worried. They could tell what type of phone call this was. "Takemichi, please..." 

Mikey just walked into the room when he heard Kakucho yell Takemichi's name. He grew unstable and flopped against the door, head dizzy and spinning. He blinked a few times, and Emma was by his side quickly, holding him up. He blinked. Takemichi? He saw images flash before his eyes.

'Hey, what's your name?' The beat-up boy looked at Mikey with worry. "H-Hanagaki Takemichi." Mikey smiled. 'I see. Takemitchy!' 

'Come out and play Takemitchy.' Takemichi stared at the duo at his classroom door. He was shocked and nervous.

'What's important... isn't whether you can win fights. It's not losing... against yourself.' The boy looked at Mikey with a soft smile.

'The boy listened as Mikey spoke. 'When I seem to falter, and I don't act like who I should be. Take Mitchy, scold me, okay? Just like my brother would.' He looked determined.

'You gotta stop this, or else South will die!' Takemichi could only stare, trying to get Mikey to stop this madness.

'Mikey-Kun...' the boy called out at Mikey as his fists connected with his face once again, his eyes devoted to any emotion.

'Mikey-Kun... I-I'm s-sorry... I f-failed you o-once again.' The boy choked out through his lips, it was soft as a whisper, and could only be heard by Mikey, whose eyes went wide.

Snapping back to reality, Manjiro had tears slipping down his face. He was breathing heavily, and both Emma and Shinichiro looked at him with worry. The boy quickly ran towards Kakucho and snatched his phone. "Takemitchy!" He yelled, and the boy on the other line froze. This voice. It was Mikey. He called out to him. He shook. "Takemitchy, I remember! I remember, please don't leave me! Please! Where are you!" The boy was shocked. Mikey remembers him. He called out to him. He sobbed harder and clutched the phone. "I can't, Mikey-Kun! Without me, your future will be perfect!" Mikey was angry, and he yelled as tears fell down his face. "Stupid Takemichi! What's the point if you're not here!? How is this future perfect when you want to leave? Tell me, where are you? Let me save you this time, Mitchy! Please!" Hearing Mikey so desperate and crying broke Takemichi, and he sobbed. He couldn't do this to Mikey. Sobbing, the boy told him his location, and then the group set off to find him. Mikey stayed on the phone with Takemichi, reassuring him as the boy cried. 

From a distance, Takemichi could hear a motorcycle. He sobbed and looked ahead. He could still let go, leave this world behind, and save all of them from himself. "Takemitchy!" He snapped his head as he heard the voice. It was Mikey he was running towards, his face was red and his clothes soaked through, not too far behind him were Izana and Kakucho, who were getting out of their car. Takemichi sobbed and closed his phone, letting it fall below. He looked away from Mikey, looking at the water stream. "I can't..." he mumbled as he took a step, just as he was about to fall, a hand grabbed him. He started as Mikey held his arm. He kept hold of Takemichi. "Please, let go..." Takemichi yelled at the boy. However, Mikey kept his grip tight and cried. "I won't let you go! This time, I'll save you. Just let me do this for you! Let me be the one you can rely on! It's my turn now, Mitchy! So say it! Say you want me to save you!"

Takemichi cried hard at Mikey's words. He sobbed, looking up at him. His eyes were puffy and red. "Please, Manjiro, help me!" The boy grabbed Takemichi and started pulling him up his weight was easy to pull, and once he did, he brought Takemichi safe behind the rails. The boy sobbed into Mikey's chest, and just then, both Izana and Kakucho stopped before them. Mikey stroked the boy's back, trying to soothe him. "It's okay, Mithchy! I won't leave you ever again. I will keep you safe!" He hugged the boy closer, and Takemichi could only sob. "I'm s-sorry! I... it took me so long to... save you!" The blue-eyed boy sobbed as his eyes met black ones. Mikey's heart broke at this. If he were any second later, Mitchy would be gone, and Takemichi would be gone forever. He let tears fall down his cheeks and kissed Takemichi's forehead. "You've done enough, Mitchy! Now it's our turn to help you. I'm so sorry, Takemichi, I will keep you safe from now on." Takemichi sobbed until he wore himself out, and he passed out in Mikey's hug. The older got up, carrying Takemichi in a bridal hold. He looked at the boy and then at his brother. He smiled at him. Takemichi gave everything up to save himself, to save his friends and family. It means a lot to him; he will cherish it till he dies. He will protect Takemichi from now on. 

"Let's get him home. He might catch a cold." He then made his way over to his motorcycle. He could see Hinata and Naoto in their car, waiting anxiously. When they spotted the duo with Takemichi, they sighed in relief. He gave Naoto a nod and then made his way on the bike. He put a helmet on Takemichi and set him before him. He got on and made his way back to the Sano household. 

When he got back, his family was confused and worried as Mikey brought a black-haired boy to the house. Mikey brought him to his room, and he took off his old clothes and dried his body before putting on his clothes again. He saw the many scars that littered Takemichi's body, and a tear fell down his cheek. He dried Takemichi's hair and then laid the boy on his bed. Covering him with the sheets, the boy snuggled into them. Manjiro kissed the boy on the forehead, chuckling and then turned off the lights and made his way into the living room. His family waited for him. He looked at everyone in the room. These are all the people Takemichi saved. Everyone in here was saved by Takemichi, and Mikey broke down, sobbing. Emma was in tears; she had rarely seen her brother cry, and she could tell he was sad. She made her way over and hugged her brother. He cried harder, hugging her. She hugged him back, rubbing his back. "It's okay, Mikey..." the boy just cried. They made their way to the couch, and Mikey tried composing himself. His friends and family were looking at him with worry. He smiled. 

"I'm sorry, everyone... this might be weird to say, but I'm so thankful for Takemichi." Everyone looked at Mikey. They knew he was referring to the black-haired boy, but why? He looked around the room and smiled as a tear fell down his cheek. He looked at Emma, then Izana, Kakucho, Shinichiro and Draken. He smiled. "He saved us all. He did this all for us. He has reached the perfect future. He saved us all." They were all confused by what Mikey was saying. "It might be hard to understand, and what I might say will sound crazy, but it's the truth. We all know Takemichi. We knew him in the past." Draken looked at Mikey and sat down next to him. He listened to what  Mikey was saying. Everyone was. He looked around the room and smiled. "We met Takemichi in 2005. I and Draken did, he was fighting Kiyomasa in his illegal battles." Draken was confused. He looked at Mikey. "I don't remember that, Mikey." Mikey just nodded, he smiled and continued, "On July 7, 2008, during the Three Deities war, I was taken over by what's called a Dark Impulse, I killed South, also known as Minami Terano. Takemichi tried to stop me, and in the end, I killed him too. Draken, you too died that night. You were killed by the South." Everyone was shocked; they had no idea what Mikey was saying. "Takemichi was a time traveller. He went through multiple timelines, trying to save us all, and in the end, the one who needed saving was him." When Mikey finished, everyone was quiet. There was a sound of the door opening, and Takemichi walked into the room. Everyone turned their head to him. He looked at them all with tears in his eyes. "Takemichi..." Mikey called out, patting the seat next to him. The boy looked around the room, making his way to Mikey, sitting down. 

The boy kept his gaze down. He could feel the tension in the air. "Takemichi, I want you to meet my brother Shinichiro." Takemichi looked up at Mikey and then at the man before him. He had black hair with black eyes, and he wore a white shirt with some trousers. The man looked over at Takemichi, and the boy did the same. The atmosphere changed when Takemichi chuckled. Mikey looked at him, and Takemichi smiled. "You were right, Mikey-Kun, I do look like Shinichiro-Kun." Mikey laughed too and ruffled his black hair. "I told you, you even acted like him. He too had that shitty gelled haircut like you did, Takemitchy, he was bad at fighting too." Shinichiro scoffed and rolled his eyes. "No, I was not!" Shinichiro defended himself, but everyone else laughed. "Yes, you were," Izana said, and everyone laughed. Mikey smiled and looked at Takemichi, who was smiling, his eyes sparkled, and it made Mikey want to cry. "Thank you, Takemichi," Mikey whispered to the boy. 

"From now on, I'll keep you safe, Mitchy." Takemichi looked at him and smiled. He leaned his head on his shoulder and closed his eyes. Mikey smiled and ran his hand through his hair. "Thank you, Manjiro." The boy smiled. He ran his hand through Takemichi's hair and kept his gaze on him, his attention fully on his hero. His crybaby hero. Everyone looked at the two of them. They might not understand anything, and they might be confused, but one thing is for sure: Mikey and Takemichi have each other now and seeing Manjiro so happy makes them happy. The black-haired and blue-eyed boy is special, and they will do anything to make sure that these two are happy. Anything.

"I will keep you safe from now on."