This article is about the story arc. For the delinquent group, see Shishitoren. For the fifth chapter of the WIND BREAKER manga, see Shishitoren (chapter). |
The Shishitoren arc is the second story arc of the Wind Breaker manga series.
Detailed Outline
Initial School Patrol, Encounter with Shishitoren, & Meet-up with Bofurin school rep
- After being called outside, Haruka Sakura and the other 1st years from the same class were assigned to groups of four or five to patrol the town as part of orientation. Akihiko Nirei also provided Sakura with a basic layout on how Bofurin is structured around the chain-of-command. Sakura, Nirei, Hayato Suo, & Sugishita were assigned to the same group under the supervision of Hiragi. While not understanding the point of the patrol, Hiragi stressed the importance of what they're doing and that acts of aggression are meant for protection. Nirei also added that community service is part of what Bofurin participates in as well.[1][2]
- During their patrol, Sakura and the others ended up at the boundary point separating Bofurin from another team's turf, later known as Shishitoren. They then spotted a middle-school boy being chased by 3 members of Shishitoren (i.e., Saruwatari, Arima, & Kanuma) with the Saruwatari (who was up-front) being knocked over simultaneously by both Sakura and Sugishita who stated that their action serves as an appropriate defensive response to protect a local.[1]
- Shishitoren's second-in-command, Togame showed up and aggressively kicked out Saruwatari for the latter's disappointing performance, which shocked and/or angered the others from Bofurn. Sakura reacted by expressing his disappointment in Shishitoren's reputation as "devotees of power." Togame expressed interests in Sakura, as he and the remaining two slowly retreated back into their territory[3][2]
- After the members of Shishitoren left the area, Hiragi apologized to the others for not taking the appropriate actions throughout the whole ordeal and asked the rescued boy (i.e., Sasaki) to accompany the group back to the school and present their report to Umemiya When Sakura finally met the school rep in the flesh for the first time on the rooftop of the school, he was surprised and baffled by the latter's carefree goofy personality.[3][2]
- Sasaki nervously explained the events that lead up to him (i.e., chasing a shoplifter and unintentionally ended up in Shishitoren's territory) being rescued earlier that day. While blaming himself for the incident, Sasaki ended up being comforted by Umemiya, who stated that it was the well-intended conviction that matters and that those from Bofurin would be the ones to resolve the situation. When Sasaki briefly responded to how he was rescued, the attention shifted to Sakura who was once again taken aback by the school rep's positive carefree response.[4][5]
Meeting the leader of Shishitoren + Tournament set-up & preparation
- The meeting was interrupted by an announcement of Shishitoren's leader Tomiyama for Umemiya to come down and face him.[4] When Tomiyama stated that the line of beaten-up Bofurin students leading up to the entrance of the school was in retaliation to the earlier encroachment on their turf, Umemiya suggested that the severity of the retaliation was more than enough and that Tomiyama should simply head back. When the leader of Shishitoren admits the other reason he stopped by, Umemiya responded by stating he can only pity him. When the rest of Shishitoren ended up dropping by next to Tomiyama, Sakura and the others from the same patrol group stood directly by Umemiya.[6][5]
- When Tomiyama complained that his group was interrupting the potential fight between him and Umemiya, Togame stated that it would not be wise to hold the confrontation at that moment as multiple figures from all floors of the school were staring menacingly down on them. Sensing another potential conflict, Umemiya ordered the others to stand down. Prior to Shishitoren returning back to their own territory, a "tournament" (as self-described by Tomiyama) was to take place at a specific location and that it would be held between five fighters from each side:[6][5]
- Hajime Umemiya v. Choji Tomiyama,
- Haruka Sakura v. Jo Togame,
- Toma Hiragi v. Kota Sako,
- Hayato Suo v. Minoru Kanuma,
- Kyotaro Sugishita v. Yukinari Arima,
- The night before the fight, the group & Sasaki gathered at CafƩ Pothos where Kotoha expresses her optimism in an attempt to calm Nirei's panicky reaction to the whole arrangement. Prior to leaving the cafƩ to prepare for the following morning, a number of events have taken place there:[7][5]
- Suo stated that the cafƩ is famous and used to be the usual hangout for Bofurin; another reason was due to the friendly familiarity between Kotoha and Umemiya as they were previously raised in the same orphanage. It is due to this reason that Hiragi previously warned Sakura not to let Umemiya know that Kotoha was in any danger or else.
- While dining, Hiragi expressed his concerns on how the current Shishitoren differs greatly from when Bofurin last officially confronted them a while back, especially with the recent rescue of Sasaki. Umemiya suspects that Tomiyama might be the cause for the change in how the group currently functions.
- Umemiya expressed his opinion to the others (especially to Sakura) that even physical fights serve as a form of communication and that it may bring out a better form of understanding than actual words.
- As they all left for the night, Sakura was the only fighter in the group who was unable to formally react to Sasaki's thanks for going through all this trouble. Kotoha suggested to Sakura that he should simply say (quote): "You can leave it to us", which the latter does utilized much to his own chagrin afterwards.
Tournament
- The following morning, the five of them entered into Shishitoren's territory and was escorted by Tomiyama to the tournament site. When questioned by Sakura as to why he came with them despite being a non-participant, Nirei stated that: (1) He was already involved since he witnessed the incident the previous day & (2) He wish to use the time he spends witnessing the tournament as a chance to learn something in order to better himself.[8][9]
- The tournament took place at the base of Shishitoren, known as the Orion Stars which is an abandoned theatre and nicknamed the "Ori." Every current member of Shishitoren was in attendance as they eagerly await the start of the tournament. While the fights lasted most of the remaining story arc and each fighter from Bofurin won their respective fights, a number of revelations have also been revealed as well in the process:[10][11]
Kyotaro Sugishita v. Yukinari Arima
- The swiftness of Sugishita's victory over Arima (despite the latter's cheap trick in distracting the former during the initial stage of the fight) shocked most in attendance. Seeing two members of Shishistoren instructed to take Arima's unconscious body off the stage with both ended up taunting the losing participant afterwards, Sakura bluntly told off those two (and the rest of Shshitoren) for being an embarrassment to their own cause. Suo stated to Sakura that it's no use to verbally get that point across their heads. Before tensions escalated any further, Tomiyama ordered the two members to stand down which they then complied out of fear.[12][9]
Hayato Suo v. Minoru Kanuma
ā | Being able to empathize... that's a huge part of becoming a adult. To do that, you need both imagination and experience. Good for you. At the very least, you stepped up a little today | ā |
— Suo summarizing to Kanuma what the latter should have learned from today's match, after the one-sided fight was called off due to the latter's abysmal performance[13] |
- Prior to the fight, Suo admitted to Sakura that the latter's influence since arriving to the school has inspired the former to improve himself to a greater extent. Nirei, Hiragi, & Umemiya admitted that they do not know much about Suo, whether it's his character or any of the previous fights he won in. Kanuma admitted how he felt after Arima's defeat, which Suo pointed out as being hypocritical considering how both of the formers treated another of their fellow comrade the previous day. Suo then called Kanuma out for his child-like attitude and stated that this fight would help improve the latter's perspective in growing up.[14][9]
- While the audience was witnessing a one-sided fight, Sakura became slightly annoyed at Suo for playing around with his opponent. Meanwhile, the non-participating members of Shishitoren were berating Kanuma for his poor performance. Both Hiragi and Umemiya noticed that Suo is performing with more emotion expressed than usual in this fight and noticed Sakura's role in drawing out that side of him. As the fight was drawing out, Kanuma noticed Togame's disapproving expression and that Tomiyama has already fell asleep out of boredom.[15][9]
- Scared of what's going to happen to him as a result of his poor performance and remembering what happened the previous day, Kanuma panicked as he continues the fight out of desperation. Suo noticed the change in both his opponent's demeanor and mental state beforehand and questioned what Kanuma is currently thinking of with the answer already figured out. As Suo progressed towards him with more lessons in store, Togame verbally ended the fight after seeing Kanuma completely waver before his opponent and announced that the loser is being kicked out of the group as well. As Suo walked off stage, he stated that his opponent has learned some valuable lessons (e,g., both imagination and experience are needed to become an adult) today despite the results.[15][9]
- Suffering two consecutive losses from both first-year Bofurin students, the other members of Shishitoren were starting to realize how much more dangerous their opponents have become. When Nirei questioned Suo on his exact fighting style while throwing some possible answers, Suo responded that he was not sure as he learned from a self-taught master who trained in different martial arts. Sakura then advised Suo to get serious should he ever decided to get into a fight against him. While Umemiya happily pointed out the developing bond between Sakura, Nirei, & Suo, a traumatized Karuma pulled Arima to the side with the latter soon waking up and realizing from the former that they both have been kicked out.[16][17]
Toma Hiragi v. Kota Sako
ā | That's not... that's not what I wanted. You have nothing to apologize for... nothing at all. Even then, I felt it. You were trying to look out for me. Regardless (flashback Hiragi: "I don't need you to follow me."), that was the one thing in the world I couldn't hear (flashback Hiragi: "You need a new goal, one that's more about you than me."). I know my dreams for you were selfish, but they don't matter. You're who I always aspire to be. I didn't care where the hell you went or what new clown you decided to put yourself behind. All that I wanted was for you to ask me to follow you... for you to need your right-hand man. | ā |
— Sako, thinking to himself as he's losing consciousness, after hearing Hiragi sincerely apologize for not being what the former wanted him to be[18] |
- The fight between Hiragi and Sako started with those on both sides questioning whether the two know each other personally. When Hiragi greeted Sako and proclaimed that he would be the one to win this fight, the latter charged in and stated that the new him should not be underestimated.[16][17]
- As Hiragi and Sako were exchanging blows, Tomiyama was cheering Sako on and mentioned that the latter's fighting prowess was what makes him one of Shishitoren's "top five" (alongside himself and Togame). Togame also pointed out that this ongoing fight is bringing out Sako's more passionate side ever since the latter first joined the gang. While Hiragi was praising how much Sako has grown since they last met, Sako only expressed disappointment as he knocked out Hiragi and stated that the time at Bofurin has made his opponent soft. Sakura then got up to passionately call on Hiragi to take the fight more seriously and not make their group look bad. As Nirei attempts to restrain him, Suo amusingly stated that Sakura in his own way has developed a sense of camaraderie and care for his fellow schoolmate which caused the latter to become embarrassed.[19][17]
- As Umemiya confidently went over why Hiragi was given a certain nickname as "Tamonten" (i.e., one of the four "Kings of Bofurin"), the latter promptly got up and brush off his injuries as he stated that Sakura's outburst makes him kind of embarrassed him, but also got him psyched up as well.[19] As Hiragi was turning the tide of fight, Sako was recalling a flashback from when they first met:[20][17]
- Several years ago, Hiragi beat up the bullies that were picking on Sako and, after some pleading from the latter, ended up agreeing to train him how to fight. As time passed by, Sako continue to look up to Hiragi and, for the time, followed the group (which would include future Bofurin students, such as Matsumoto, Yanagida, & Kagi) lead by the former wherever they went.
- After Hiragi graduated and was planning to attend Furin High (which has not been united at the time), Sako expressed his intention that after he himself has graduate next year, he wishes to attend the same school and assist Hiragi in any way possible with reaching the top of the school. Hiragi calmly shot down the idea and expressed his own intention to back Umemiya in reaching that position when the time comes. As he stated to Sako that things would not turn out as the latter might hope for in the near future, Hiragi suggested to the latter to pursue a different path.
- Upset at what he just heard, Sako ventured out and physically defeated a group of guys all by himself. Tomiyama and Togame happened to stop by the area at the time and invited Sako over to Shishitoren by promising him strong fighters, as well as reiterating the gang's devotion to power/strength. Sako swears to eventually prove his strength to Hiragi and defeat his former mentor/friend and make the latter regret his past decision.
- As Sako was fighting desperately to regain ground and stating how hard he worked towards refining his fighting prowess on his own ever since, Hiragi eventually defeated him, but not before sadly apologizing for not becoming what his opponent has hoped for. As he struggled to maintain consciousness, Sako reached out to Hiragi and thought to himself that: (1) Hiragi did not need to apologize for anything as the latter has meant well back then and (2) Even if it was selfish desire, he always viewed Hiragi as a "guiding light" and hoped to have personally heard from the latter the need to accompany him no matter the circumstances.[20][17]
- As most of Shishitoren expressed shock over Sako's loss, Hiragi volunteered to carry his opponent off the stage after Togame ordered someone from the gang to do so. As Hiragi lay him down gently near where Tomiyama and Togame sat, he stated to Togame that anything to do with Sako would have to wait until his own personal match is over. As Hiragi got back to his group, he was surprised that Umemiya was not asking about his history with Sako. Umemiya stated that he wants to provide Hiragi some personal space until the latter is ready to tell his story.[21][17]
Haruka Sakura v. Jo Togame
ā | This is what it means to push your will through in a fight, isn't it?! With me, no matter how strong my opponent is, even if he saved my life, I won't look away or distort who I am ever!
|
ā |
— Haruka Sakura to Jo Togame, regarding the former's personal belief in the face of adversity[22] |
- Prior to the start of the fight, Umemiya reminded Sakura to have a "proper conversation" with his opponent while the others in the group (except for Sugishita) wished him well. While Sakura was remembering the words he said to Sasaki the night before, Togame admitted that he would like to keep the fight at a pace that would allow him to play with his opponent slowly as he charges towards his opponent.[21][23]
- As Togame continue to advance at Sakura in an attempt to get ahold of him, the latter was surprised at the persistent stamina that the former was exerting and attempted to act accordingly by either dodging or knocking him aside. Umemiya mentions to his schoolmates that Togame was "on a whole different level" from the previous three opponents. Togame admitted to Sakura that he was actually annoyed at the latter's personal name-calling from yesterday's incident as he forces Sakura on the defensive. He also admitted that he was also annoyed at how Sakura conducts verbally communicates as a whole and that the latter appears unable to back up his words in a fight without assistance from others. As Sakura was able to launch a successful counterattack, he admitted his agreement with Togame's sentiment, but that victory would be his no matter what.[24][23]
- As Sakura went on the offensive, most of the audience was shocked at the quick turnaround. Sakura flipped the script on Togame by exclaiming that his opponent's current performance does not match either the rhetoric the latter was spouting throughout the fight or the philosophy on the importance of power that Shishitoren devotedly follows. As Togame was eventually able to pin Sakura face-flat on the ground, he angrily exclaimed that the strength of Shishitoren's devotion to their mission outweighs those of Bofurin's.[25][23]
- As Sakura struggles to keep himself in the fight, he exclaimed that Shishitoren should not be proud of their alternate moniker as "devotees of power" by directly bringing up yesterday's incident where Sasaki was being chased by members of Shishitoren. Togame then piece together the events that transpired the day before and went off stage to question both Arima and Kanuma, who admitted that they were just teasing the younger boy and that it was Saruwatari who initially suggested it. Without saying another word, Togame beat them both to a pulp and took off both their jersey jackets to the shock of everyone in the audience except Tomiyama (who shouted at Togame to get back on stage) and Umemiya (who just stared without uttering a word). Togame apologized for the delay and asked a shocked Sakura if they could "continue where they have left off."[25][23]
- As the fight continues, Togame (through flashbacks) explained how he ended up where he is now[26][23]:
- A few year ago, Togame (who was not a member of Shishitoren at the time) took down a number of them in hand-to-hand combat. Witnessing the fight, Tomiyama (who was recently made a member) jumped in to congratulate Togame (this was how they first met) and decided to include the latter into the group at the gang's hangout, while handling the introductions. Afterwards, Tomiyama personally gave Togame a tour of the surrounding area. (Anime-only scenes)
- One day, Tomiyama found Togame on the rooftop of the "Ori" and started to reiterate the philosophy of Shishistoren's devotion to power: (1) Never succumb/yield to anyone, (2) Push oneself & persevere (even in the face of adversity), and (3) Power serves as the key to attain freedom.
- After defeating a whole gang by themselves (which became widespread news across the whole gang), Tomiyama and Togame came back with a souvenir as a consolation prize for one of their own. Tomiyama then proudly declared his intention to becoming the "freest person" in the group and decided to make it a personal race between him and Togame to see who reaches the top first. Togame admitted that he never saw it as a competition and the former was simply enjoying being a part of the group (despite his more reserved personality) and that the future would continue to shine bright for all of them if Tomiyama attain the top spot.
- After Tomiyama eventually achieved the goal of reaching the top, he admitted to Togame that he was not as excited as he thought it would be. Tomiyama then suggested the solution was "to make the whole team as strong" as him, which Togame heard it as an idea to train the whole gang. While Togame suggested to let everyone else know about the idea, fellow members came back with at least one of them badly beaten.
- After hearing what happened, Tomiyama jumped down and coldly knocked out the injured member, suggesting that it was shameful for the member to come back after being defeated in a fight. Suggesting that what the member did would not match his own vision for Shishitoren, Tomiyama took off the member's jersey jacket as a way of officially kicking that person out of the gang. When frantically questioning why Tomiyama has taken such drastic action, Togame was shocked to hear Tomiyama's threatening boastful response. With a sad regretful look on his face, Togame approached Tomiyama and stated that he would be the one to drop the news of the latter's plan. He also volunteered to be the one to kick out members who simply do not make the cut to remain in the gang, as long as Tomiyama retain his smile and cheerful demeanor with everyone in hopes that the latter would eventually regain his old self again.
- Back in the present, Sakura is noticing Togame's growing lackluster performance and verbally questioned the latter's current intentions. Togame himself is wondering the same thing as well.[26][23] When asked by Sakura for a reason for what he did off-stage, Togame indirectly stated that the punishment was just action for a gang that prioritize strength in its members above all else. He then added his own personal sadness over gradually kicking out members, as well as how Tomiyama's obsession with fighting Bofurin not only did not help Tomiyama with finding his old self as the former would have hoped, but eventually ended up in this tournament that serves no true purpose and is dragging the whole of Shishitoren down. Togame expresses regret for the decision he made to assist Tomiyama that faithful day, but claims he reached a point of no return.[27][28]
- Sakura declared that he wants to make Togame a more respectable opponent worthy of fighting, by first defeating the latter in this battle. Togame reacted by laughing it off and claiming that Sakura's declaration was a selfish one, citing the difference in their fighting prowess. Sakura stated that he did not care about any of that, while openly proclaiming that he would always remain true to himself and not look away no matter the odds. This open proclamation caught Togame off guard and reminded him once more of the day he decided to work alongside Tomiyama to help accomplish the latter's vision for Shishitoren.[27][28]
- After getting knocked around, Togame quickly stood his ground and prepped himself to finally take the fight more seriously as he called Sakura by his actual name for the first time since they first met.[27] The atmosphere then changed as the Shishitoren audience the Shishistoren group became surprised to see both fighters smiling and enjoying themselves. With the exception of Sugishita, the others in Bofurin group were impressed by how far Sakura has come since coming to their town with Nirei tearing up as he admits how moved he was by the fight at this point. Meanwhile, Tomiyama remained silent as he continues to stare at the ongoing fight.[29][28]
- As Sakura felt good about how far the fight has progressed to this point along with being ecstatic about having an opponent actually call out his name for the first time, Togame became impressed at how nimble and swift his opponent has become. Believing that his opponent would both only grow in fighting prowess over time and remain resolute regardless of adversity, Togame hopes that Sakura never changes in those regards. After two rounds of head-to-head attacks on each other (first by a flying kick and second by a direct punch, both times to the face), Togame relented in the second round with Sakura being shocked at what he just saw at the last moment.[29][30][28]
- During the last moments of the fight, Togame then thought to himself that he should have directly confronted Tomiyama that day, even if it would have meant getting into a fight with the leader of the gang. As that last punch made contact with his face, Togame mentally thanked Sakura as he finally understands. Togame fell backwards, but remained fully conscious as he conceded the fight.[30][28]
- Bewildered by his victory, Sakura demanded why Togame conceded the way he did. However, Tomiyama quickly jumped on stage as he was impressed by Sakura's victory and hope for a fight with the latter some day. As Tomiyama repeatedly called on Umemiya to get on stage for their fight, Togame pleaded with the former to drop the tournament and that their group was in the wrong. Without warning, Tomiyama swiftly kicked Togame to the back of the stage and declared the latter was in no position to tell him what to do. Umemiya intervened before an angry Sakura was about to punch Tomiyama, stating Sakura was able to have a "proper conversation" with Togame. He then turned to a recovering Togame and confidently promised to handle the rest.[30][28]
- As both an emotional Sakura and a smiling Togame got off stage, the former warned Umemiya not to lose (or else) as the latter hoped for him to survive the ordeal. Sakura began pondering over what Umemiya said to him after the latter intervened, and questoned why he acted the way he did when he saw what Tomiyama did to Togame. While Nirei tearfully welcomed him back as he caught the falling Sakura, Hiragi stated that what Togame did at the end of the fight was a matter of redemption.[30][28]
Hajime Umemiya v. Choji Tomiyama
ā | It's ok. Look inside, the answer is there written on your heart... You remember? When Shishitoren and us had our beef... eventually, we found out... it was all a misunderstanding. Back in those days, your fists felt heavier... I would know. You were something dazzling like a ray of sunlight... a lot brighter than you are now. Ask yourself... what did you have back then? What was your original vision? Think back, Tomiyama... what you saw long ago... that's what you need... for yourself and to be at the top. Remember what it's like... that feeling!! | ā |
— Hajime Umemiya to Choji Tomiyama in assisting the latter to finding his old self again, before banging his head against the other to end the fight[31] |
- As the last fight between the leaders of Bofurin and Shishitoren was about to begin, Umemiya asked Tomiyama if the latter felt anything from witnessing the previous fight. When Umemiya received a puzzled response, he looked at his opponent with calm upset eyes.[30][28]
- Tomiyama turned to the audience and stated how jealous he was of both Umemiya and the prevailing fighters from Bofurin, while expressing his disappointment at his own and how it is ruining his own vision of how things were supposed to occur. While the Shishitoren audience Shishitoren (excluding Togame, who felt silent and disappointed) was baffled by Tomiyama views them, the latter went on to state that if he wins, he would gain ownership over both Bofurin and its current leader which would then bring more satisfaction into his "boring life." He then turned towards Umemiya and charged at him with no hesitation.[32][28]
- As the battle commenced, the audience watched in awe as Tomiyama utilized his short stature and nearly endless stamina to nimbly jumped around the stage and try to strike at his opponent from any angle. Watching the battle unfold and remembering the recent events that occurred since his own fight, Sakura felt inadequate and swore to himself to become stronger. While fending off Tomiyama swift strikes, Umemiya told his opponent that if one wants life to change, then he would need to start by changing himself as well. Not understanding what was meant by that, Tomiyama angrily stated as such and that there was no time for chit-chat. Stating disappointingly that it was a shame to not being able to understand a simple concept, Umemiya confidently declared that there was no chance that he's going to lose this fight.[32][28]
- As the fight continued on, Umemiya stood his ground despite receiving multiple direct hits at different points from the ever evasive Tomiyama. While the Shishitoren audience was wondering why Umemiya seems unfazed by all the hits, Tomiyama suddenly stopped to wonder why his attacks do not feel as if they pack as much punch as they used to even if they were connecting. Umemiya responded by stating that the reason is due to Tomiyama's lack of conviction in what he's fighting for. Scratching his head over what that response means, Tomiyama disregarded it entirely as the fight resumes. When asked to explain his own personal conviction, Tomiyama responded that fighting strong opponents is what brings him satisfaction. Umemiya replied that based on his opponent's facial expression and body language, that response does not appear to hold much weight.[33][34]
- Umemiya then scolded Tomiyama for not understanding anything about himself and feeling empty and obsessive as a result. Umemiya admits once more that he pities him, but that he pities the rest of Shishitoren more for having Tomiyama as their leader and that any expressions currently worn by them would be the fault of the latter. In the audience, Nirei admitted that he's truly grateful to be part of the group with Umemiya as their school rep. As he is recalling the expressions that were worn by the rest of Shishitoren before and after his decision to take it in a new direction, Tomiyama began to break down in confusion and frustration. After screaming at the top of his lungs, Tomiyama looked at Umemiya with empty eyes and coldly declared indifference to his own predicament.[33][34]
- As he continue to mentally break down in a existential crisis, Tomiyama declared that he could not care much about anything anymore as he became more aggressive and pummels Umemiya in the face as the latter fell to the ground. As the Shishitoren audience became more concerned and wonder whether a direct intervention is needed, Sakura screamed at Umemiya for simply lying down and taking the beating. As Nirei became increasingly worried about the well-being of their school rep, Sugishita told them to simply observe the fight.[35][34]
- Unfazed by this turn of events, Umemiya quietly apologized to Tomiyama for pushing the latter this far and admitted that it was not his intention to do so. He then warned his opponent though that there is a danger of heading to a point of no return and that his life would not get any better soon afterwards. Tomiyama angrily told Umemiya to stop talking as he bit down on the latter's neck.[35][34]
- With his own eyes closed and acting in a calm matter, Umemiya place his left hand on Tomiyama's head and calmly stated that all is well and that the answer lies deep within the latter. Startled by this unexpected reaction, Tomiyama jumped some distance away but not before hitting Umemiya once more and stating that he does not understand what that's supposed to mean. Umemiya slowly got back up and asked Tomiyama if he remembered how the latter felt during and after their groups' one (and only) all-out confrontation with each other some time ago. Umemiya stated that the confrontation was the result of a misunderstanding. A flashback then played out showing the following:[35][34]
- Shishitoren began a slow retreat after losing the confrontation. As the rest of Bofurin were recovering from their injuries, a younger Umemiya looked on as he saw select members of Shishitoren converging around Tomiyama and congratulating him for his battle prowess and saving them during their times of need.
- As Tomiyama was smiling and happily accepting their remarks with gratitude, Tomiyama (and a number of other Shishitoren members) turned around and wavied back to Umemiya, as he thanked the latter for this occasion and hoped to take part in another soon. Umemiya responded with a smile of his own.
- As the flashback ends, Umemiya reminded Tomiyama of the feelings that the former personally felt at the time and asked the latter to truly remember for his own sake. Still unsure of what to actually feel at the moment, Tomiyama try to knock Umemiya aside and told him to stay away. Unnfazed once more, Umemiya got close enough to Tomiyama with pleading eyes. With tears pouring, Tomiyama became scared and closed his eyes as he took a defensive stance. As Umemiya gently place his hands on both sides of Tomiyama's face, the latter mentally admitted that he is feeling a sense of warmth.[35][34]
- As Tomiyama opens back his eyes (with them showing their full color for the first time in the present time since his initial appearance in the series) and looked up, Umemiya asked the former once more to remember and stated that the answer is what a true leader needs. In the audience, Togame quietly thanked Umemiya, as the latter banged his head against Tomiyama's. As Tomiyama slowly fell to the ground, he remembers seeing happy smiling faces from members of his own gang. As that image slowly fades, he admitted to himself that he feels jealous and wishes to become a part of that, as he fell unconscious on stage.[35][34]
- In Tomiyama's mind, he recalls being called by Arima as the former was preoccupied with petting a cat. As he rejoined select members of his gang (which included Arima, Kanuma, & Togame), Tomiyama was informed that they are all heading into a fight and was also advised that if he wants to be the next leader, he should get his act together. When Tomiyama innocently asked who their opponents were, the rest of the group laughed with Arima confidently stating that Tomiyama would make a great leader one day. As the group walked ahead, Tomiyama was hoping for more days like this and turned around to call out for Togame, only to see that the environment has slowly turned pitch black and everyone else has already disappeared.[36][34]
- As he opens his eyes once more, Tomiyama saw a sad Togame kneeling over him and, as far as his eye could look around, noticed that audience has gone completely silent with either anxious or straight faces from both Shishitoren and Bofurin respectively. Realizing that he officially lost, Tomiyama admitted to Togame that he had a dream where the group were all smiles and that the dream helped him remember the importance of enjoying the good times together. After Tomiyama asked him to smile once more, Togame apologized for not understanding what the former was going through back then and, remembering Sakura's words of determination in the face of adversity, admitted that he should have taken a stand for what he believed in. Togame also admitted that by isolating Tomiyama from the rest of the gang by serving out the beatings instead of them being conductd by the former, so that: (1) Tomiyama would not need to physically hurt any of the others anymore & (2) The others would continue to look up to their current leader rather than with disdain.[36][34]
- Togame added that he envisioned a brighter future for Shishitoren under Tomiyama's leadership and apologized once more for failing Tomiyama by not providing him the help that was needed at the time, as he started tearing up in his eyes. Tomiyama looked up at the ceiling as he admitted that he believed that if he was able to make it to the top, he would feel the most satisfaction and freedom. Instead, he ended up feeling empty, scared, confused, and lost. Tomiyama added that he became blinded in seeking a solution to his problems and directing blame to everyone else as a way not to appear weak. He consoled Togame by stating that the latter should not blame himself for what has transpired and admitted that he himself was the one who broke what was not actually broken this whole time.[36][34]
- Tomiyama thanked Togame for both keeping him and the group together the whole time. As he began to tear up and reached for Togame's face, Tomiyama profusely apologized for both hurting him and causing the latter great suffering in the process.[36]As the other members of Shishitoren were trying to process everything that was said by their leader, Tomiyama finally got up and confessed to Togame (who was still kneeling at the time) that he needed to do one more thing to set things right. Tomiyama walked over to Umemiya and slowly took of his gang's jersey jacket, as the rest of his gang looked on in shock. Admitting his loss to Umemiya and handing over the jacket to him, Tomiyama stated that he intends to leave the group in the hands of someone the latter hopes can treat better. As Togame began slowly taking off his jersey jacket as well, Umemiya respectfully decline Tomiyama's offer, stating that ownership of any one group was only at stake in the mind of the latter and he does not seek to add any more members than he already has.[37][34]
- When asked what's going to happen next, Umemiya confidently states that members of both groups would become friends/buddies instead. He added that today's tournament was just another occasion for both sides to get to know each other better before turning to the audience and happily thanking everyone for attending. Tomiyama happily laughed stating that Umemiya is still the same as always. Umemiya asked Togame if there were good places around this part of town to pick up some good take-out food. Togame answered in the affirmative and politely asked the reason for the question. Umemiya responded by openly declaring an "after-party."[37][34][38]
Aftermath of Tournament
After-party and Bofurin heads back home
ā | Oh no, I sure didn't climb... The people let me be here... You can't do it by myself, you know...I was able to become the top because everyone carried me up. Folks related to my goals and help push me out into the spotlight. When I made it, my wishes were no longer solely my own. They were all of ours and it was up to me to make them come true. That's why I'm willing to do whatever it takes... no matter what I face or how silly it seems or how irrational it is... I won't lose because I can't lose.
|
ā |
— Hajime Umemiya, explaining his personal belief in how he made it to where he is in life (directed especially towards Sakura & Tomiyama) [39] |
- As all 6 attendees from Bofurin joined in with Tomiyama and Togame on top of the roof of one of the buildings next to the Ori, Sakura couldn't help but feel awkward and confused as to why this luncheon is even taking place despite all that has happened earlier in the day. Sakura became even more curious as to the improved relationship between the leaders of both Bofuin and Shishitoren despite how events went down between them during their respective fight and felt that he himself would have acted differently if he had been Umemiya's situation at the time.[37][38]
- When Umemiya asked Togame why he's not eating, Togame bent down on all fours and, with his head facing downward as well, pleaded everyone to accept his deepest apologies for instigating the events that have to the tournament in the first place. Tomiyama later joined in by kneeling and bowing his head down in solitary. When Umemiya left it to Sakura to personally decide how to handle this situation, Sakura was confused and unsure at first. After remembering what Togame has done since they first met the previous day, Sakura got up and openly declared that the former should change his disposition to ensure that similar events from the past would not happen again. Togame, with eyes filled with relief, promised to do exactly that. With great satisfaction, Umemiya declared that situation to be fully resolved and continue to praise the food as he eats them. Tomiyama then curiously asked Umemiya about how the latter could attained satisfaction as the leader of Bofurin.[37][38]
- When Umemiya's initial answer was his personal enjoyment of eating, Tomiyama asked what type of food is his favorite while openly declaring his as curry. Umemiya's favorite is omelet rice. He added that times where people could having fun and enjoying a meal with others is what makes him happy although these moments does not necessarily revolve being at the top. At that moment, Tomiyama understood what Umemiya meant and felt ashamed for not noticing what he had before becoming the leader of Shishitoren. Umemiya responded by stating that it's human nature for taking things for granted until they're no longer there and expressed his relief for Tomiyama being able to understand the concept in time to not fall into the point of no return.[40][38]
- When Tomiyama asked Umemiya still aimed to be at the top, Umemiya stated that by doing so would help him make his dream become a reality by ensuring happiness and coexistence among those he come across. Umemiya added that, even if there were other paths he could have pursued to reach the same goal, he was glad to have chosen this one because it has given him the chance to be part of this current moment with everyone else. When complimented by Tomiyama for his success in obtaining the position as leader, Umemiya responded by admitting that it was actually those around him (including both the townspeople and the other members of Bofurin) who "given" the status and stressed the importance that solidarity towards achieving the same dream played in the process.[40][38]
- While Umemiya was declaring his determination to never lose in his path towards making his dream a reality no matter what, Sakura realized with surprise that Umemiya was staring at him confidently when that response was made. Tomiyama then realized why he was not able to effectively alter the course of the earlier fight against Umemiya due to the former's lack of true conviction at the time[40] As the day was drawing to a close, Umemiya thanked Tomiyama and Togame for the food and suggested that they should come over to try theirs. Umemiya then provided Tomiyama a red bean sweet bread that he carried with him the whole time. After Tomiyama thanked him for the bread, Umemiya and the other members of Bofurin started to walk back home.[41][38]
- After no longer seeing them within view, Tomiyama asked Togame what he should (or can) do to redeem himself, stated that he understood that a simple apology would not simply cut it, and added that he really needs them. Togame admitted that he's in the same boat and added that both of them should seek the answer together "this time." As both Tomiyama and Togame were eating half of the bread, Tomiyama laughed and happily admitted that, despite the condition it was before, the bread is still tasty. As Tomiyama wondered out loud what the bread would have tasted like had it been fresh, Togame silently cried and did not admit doing so when Tomiyama questioned whether it is starting to rain again after seeing moisture hit the ground. Togame went along with the presumption, but stated that he was happy that the old Tomiyama that he previously knew is back again.[41][38]
Discussion at CafƩ Pothos
ā | Sakura, if you want to fight to be a "convo," there are steps... first, when you confront someone, you have to want to know them. You did a good job of that... it's why you could converse with Togame. I'm not saying you should let anyone and everyone get close, but if you want allies, you'll have to drop the tough-guy act and face them in earnest. You just prove you're capable of that and it looks to me you're willing to let people in... and if you can accept others, you can do anything. You can even make it all the way to the top, yeah? | ā |
— Hajime Umemiya, providing guidance to Sakura on how to converse with others (and smiling to him at the end)[42] |
- Back at CafƩ Pothos, Sasaki was sitting by the entrance when he noticed the group coming back and Kotoha got a glimpse of the former as he ran towards them. While Umemiya was surprised that the middle-school student was waiting for them the whole time, he assured Sasaki that everything was handled as promised with the latter tearing up in relief to hear the news. As the group walked into the cafƩ, Kotoha welcomed them back and was surprised to not see them in worse shape as most of the participating fighters were already patched up. As Kotoha dodged Umemiya as the latter happily rushed over in an attempt to embrace her, she noticed how much of a beating that Sakura received while Suo had basically none.[41][38]
- Remembering the times when Kotoha told him he would not be able to get far in life due to his isolation and when Umemiya was responding to Tomiyama's question about reaching the top during the rooftop luncheon, a confused and frustrated Sakura turned to leave before a jubilant Umemiya picked him up and stated that today was a day to celebrate. Asking Kotoha to brew some "special coffee," Umemiya threw Sakura down with the former being annoyed and asked what was going on. Umemiya stated that this sit-in is to celebrate Sakura's first "conversation with his fists." As Nirei was questioning what the occasion meant and Suo teased what it possibly involves, Sakura still plans to walk out when Umemiya, in a more calm subdued tone, stated that he truly wish to speak with him.[41][38]
- As the group & Sasaki were sitting at different table sipping coffee, a number of discussion topics took place:[43][38]
- When Umemiya asked about the conversation with Togame, Sakura denies hearing anything of the sort from his fists during the occasion. Umemiya laughed at Sakura's literal interpretation of the phrase with both Suo and Nirei teasing Sakura's response, and Hiragi snickering in the process. As Sakura grew embarrassingly angry, Umemiya apologized for the lack of clarity and explained that this particular form of speech was basically a primitive way of communicating certain forms of emotions compared to actual speech. When Sakura asked about those emotions, Umemiya stated it could communicate "love and hate," in which a surprised Sakura spit out the coffee at Umemiya's face to the shock and/or amusement of everyone present.
- As Umemiya was trying to recover from the scalding liquid sprayed on his eyes, Hiragi calmly asked Sugishita to stand down as the latter stood up in annoyance. Kotoha told both Sakura and Umemiya to clean up the mess from the coffee and tossed a pair of towels at them. As Umemiya was wiping his face and Sakura was wiping the table, Umemiya added that Sakura's reaction to Tomiyama knocking Togame aside serves as proof of Sakura growing to like Togame as a person after having their personal dialogue. When asked why a celebration is needed, a smiling Umemiya stated that this development made him personally happy. Umemiya then admitted that he was curious when hearing that Sakura was coming to town, but was relieved and happy to know that someone like him has joined the local community.
- Hiragi then briefly intervened as he suggested to Umemiya that this occasion should simply be marked as a "welcome party" with Nirei smiled and nodded in agreement. Umemiya accepted this idea and laughed at how he should have been calling this occasion that the whole time. Sakura looked down and banged his fists on the table as he questioned why he has been receiving warm receptions the whole time by the locals and students from Bofurin ever since he came to the town. He then reminded everyone that he came to claim the top spot of Bofurin from Umemiya.
- Sakura admitted he has trouble accepting people in general, how he trained to become stronger on his own, and that, remembering what Umemiya was explaining how he personally reached the top through solidarity, he was having doubts on his own potential of achieving his own goals due to trouble with accepting others. Nirei then jumped in, reminding how Sakura saved him on their first day of school and that the latter saw potential in the former by stating that he was not as pathetic/lame as once thought. Nirei added how much that event meant to him personally, but then had trouble with finishing the rest of his sentence as an embarrassed Sakura looked on. Suo calmly assured Nirei that the latter was able to get his point across to Sakura.
- Looking back to Sakura, Umemiya explained that the steps to holding a "proper conversation" (whether by fist or through dialogue) is to face the person (as explained by Kotoha after being saved by Sakura for a second time on his first day in town) directly and have a desire to truly understand them. Umemiya stated to Sakura that, while it is not necessary to accept anyone and everyone he comes across, it is still important to be open to those that he wish to be on (at least) friendly terms with. While reiterating that these steps was how Sakura was able to leave on friendly terms with Togame, Umemiya added that by going further and continuing to follow these steps, Sakura could eventually be able to achieve his dream one day of being on top.
- As Umemiya and the others were smiling at Sakura with confidence (with the exception of Sugishita, who still appears annoyed), the latter once again developed a red face from embarrassment due to difficulty of fully processing everything that was being said tonight. When Sakura angrily reminded Umemiya that him being on top of the school means kicking the latter off the post, Umemiya laughed it off as he briefly forgot about that and stated that they'll "cross the bridge when they get to it." Sugishita could not tolerate Sakura's antics anymore, got up to lift up his chair, and threaten to crush the latter. Sakura was ready to take Sugishita once more, but Hiragi was holding onto the edge of the chair to prevent it from being tossed. While Nirei calls for calm heads, Suo mentioned that Sugishita was holding back his violent urges up to this point. Kotoha yelled at both Sugishita and Sakura for being pig-headed, and told them to take the fight outside instead.
Chapters
- Chapter 5: "Shishitoren"
- Chapter 6: "Spark"
- Chapter 7: "Hajime Umemiya"
- Chapter 8: "Clash"
- Chapter 9: "Eve of the Fight"
- Chapter 10: "Kyotaro Sugishita vs Yukinari Arima"
- Chapter 11: "A Gentleman"
- Chapter 12: "Step On Up"
- Chapter 13: "Fate"
- Chapter 14: "God of War"
- Chapter 15: "Vow to Follow"
- Chapter 16: "The Opponent's True Power"
- Chapter 17: "Fight to Win"
- Chapter 18: "Moment of Flux"
- Chapter 19: "The Setting Sun"
- Chapter 20: "Wake Up"
- Chapter 21: "The Battle Concludes"
- Chapter 22: "Shared Beliefs"
- Chapter 23: "The Top vs The Top"
- Chapter 24: "The Takedown"
- Chapter 25: "Roar"
- Chapter 26: "Good Old Days"
- Chapter 27: "Setting the Score"
- Chapter 28: "Umemiya's Style"
- Chapter 29: "The Sun Rises Again"
- Chapter 30: "Dialogue"
Anime Episodes
- Episode 3: "The Man Who Stands at the Top"
- Episode 4: "Clash"
- Episode 5: "A Gentleman"
- Episode 6: "Vow to Follow"
- Episode 7: "Fight to Win"
- Episode 8: "Succeeding the Past"
- Episode 9: "Umemiya's Style"
- Episode 10: "Dialogue"
New Characters Introduced
(In order of appearance and/or by whose initial lines were first spoken (if applicable)):
- Sasaki (Chapter 5 + Episode 3),
- Saruwatari (Chapter 5 + Episode 3),
- Yukinari Arima (Chapter 6 + Episode 3),
- Minoru Kanuma (Chapter 6 + Episode 3),
- Jo Togame (Chapter 6 + Episode 3),
- Choji Tomiyama (Chapter 7 + Episode 4),
- Kota Sako (Chapter 7 + Episode 4),
- Other members of Shishitoren (Chapter 10 + Episode 5),
Recurring Characters Formally Introduced
- Takeshi Enomoto (by name) (Chapter 5 + Episode 12),
- Toma Hiragi (by name) (Chapter 5 + Episode 3),
- Hajime Umemiya (by full facial reveal) (Chapter 5 + Episode 3),
Recurring Characters Re-Appearance
- Kyotaro Sugishita (Chapter 5 + Episode 3) (last seen in Chapter 4 + Episode 2),
- Yodai Matsumoto (cameo; no lines) (Chapter 5 + Episode 3) (last seen in Chapter 1 + Episode 1),
- Jien Yanagida (cameo; no lines) (Chapter 5 + Episode 3) (last seen in Chapter 1 + Episode 1),
- Ren Kaji (cameo; no lines) (Chapter 5 + Episode 3) (last seen in Chapter 1 + Episode 1),
- Kotoha Tachibana (Chapter 9 + Episode 4) (last seen in Chapter 2 + Episode 2),
References
- ā 1.0 1.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Shishitoren (chapter) (Ch. 5)
- ā 2.0 2.1 2.2 Wind Breaker (anime): The Man Who Stands at the Top (episode) (Ep. 3)
- ā 3.0 3.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Spark (Ch. 6)
- ā 4.0 4.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Hajime Umemiya (chapter) (Ch. 7)
- ā 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Wind Breaker (anime): Clash (episode) (Ep. 4)
- ā 6.0 6.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Clash (chapter) (Ch. 8)
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Eve of the Fight (Ch. 9)
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Kyotaro Sugishita vs Yukinari Arima (chapter)
- ā 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 Wind Breaker (anime): A Gentleman (episode) (Ep. 5)
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Chapters 10 to 27
- ā Wind Breaker (anime): Episode 5 to 9
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Chapters 10 & 11
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 5
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): A Gentleman (chapter) (Ch. 11)
- ā 15.0 15.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Step On Up (Ch. 12)
- ā 16.0 16.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Fate (Ch. 13)
- ā 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 17.5 Wind Breaker (anime): Vow to Follow (episode) (Ep. 6)
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 6
- ā 19.0 19.1 Wind Breaker (manga): God of War (Ch. 14)
- ā 20.0 20.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Vow to Follow (chapter) (Ch. 15)
- ā 21.0 21.1 Wind Breaker (manga): The Opponent's True Power (Ch. 16)
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 8
- ā 23.0 23.1 23.2 23.3 23.4 23.5 Wind Breaker (anime): Fight to Win (episode) (Ep. 7)
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Fight to Win (chapter) (Ch. 17)
- ā 25.0 25.1 Wind Breaker (manga): Moment of Flux (Ch. 18)
- ā 26.0 26.1 Wind Breaker (manga): The Setting Sun (Ch. 19)
- ā 27.0 27.1 27.2 Wind Breaker (manga): Wake Up (Ch. 20)
- ā 28.0 28.1 28.2 28.3 28.4 28.5 28.6 28.7 28.8 28.9 Wind Breaker (anime): Succeeding the Past (Ep. 8)
- ā 29.0 29.1 Wind Breaker (manga): The Battle Concludes(Ch. 21)
- ā 30.0 30.1 30.2 30.3 30.4 Wind Breaker (manga): Shared Beliefs (Ch. 22)
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 9
- ā 32.0 32.1 Wind Breaker (manga): The Top vs The Top (Ch. 23)
- ā 33.0 33.1 Wind Breaker (manga): The Takedown (Ch. 24)
- ā 34.00 34.01 34.02 34.03 34.04 34.05 34.06 34.07 34.08 34.09 34.10 34.11 Wind Breaker (anime): Umemiya's Style (episode) (Ep. 9)
- ā 35.0 35.1 35.2 35.3 35.4 Wind Breaker (manga): Roar(Ch. 25)
- ā 36.0 36.1 36.2 36.3 Wind Breaker (manga): Good Old Days (Ch. 26)
- ā 37.0 37.1 37.2 37.3 Wind Breaker (manga): Setting the Score (Ch. 27)
- ā 38.0 38.1 38.2 38.3 38.4 38.5 38.6 38.7 38.8 38.9 Wind Breaker (anime): Dialogue (episode) (Ep. 10)
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 10
- ā 40.0 40.1 40.2 Wind Breaker (manga): Umemiya's Style (chapter) (Ch. 28)
- ā 41.0 41.1 41.2 41.3 Wind Breaker (manga): The Sun Rises Again (Ch. 29)
- ā WIND BREAKER anime: Episode 10
- ā Wind Breaker (manga): Dialogue (chapter) (Ch. 30)
Story arcs |
---|
Introduction arc Ā· Shishitoren arc Ā· KEEL arc Ā· Sakura / Tsubakino arc Ā· Roppo-Ichiza / Gravel arc Ā· Umemiya's Backstory arc Ā· Noroshi arc |