# Unveiling the Bond: A Deep Dive into "Tokyo Revengers: A Letter from Keisuke Baji"
For any seasoned fan of Ken Wakui’s magnum opus, *Tokyo Revengers*, the name Keisuke Baji carries a weight of tragic heroism and unwavering loyalty. While the main series focuses on Takemichi Hanagaki’s time-leaping quest to save Hinata Tachibana, the spin-off manga "Tokyo Revengers: A Letter from Keisuke Baji" (*Tokyo Revengers: Baji Keisuke kara no Tegami*) shifts the lens toward the foundational bonds of the Tokyo Manji Gang (Toman). Written and illustrated by Yukinori Natsukawaguchi under the supervision of Ken Wakui, this series is an essential read for those who want to understand the soul of the First Division.
Demographic and Context
Categorized strictly as a Shonen manga, this series is serialized in Kodansha's *Magazine Pocket*. It adheres to the classic tropes of the "Yankee" (delinquent) subgenre—emphasizing brotherhood, physical prowess, and a rigid moral code—while leaning heavily into the emotional drama that made the original series a global phenomenon. It serves as both a prequel and a companion piece, enriching the lore of the Toman universe.
Detailed Plot Synopsis
The story is framed through the perspective of Chifuyu Matsuno, the Vice-Captain of Toman’s First Division. The narrative begins shortly after the tragic events of the "Bloody Halloween" arc. Chifuyu receives a letter written by Baji before his passing, a document that serves as a catalyst for a deep, melancholic journey into their shared past.
The plot transports us back to Chifuyu’s first year of middle school. At the time, Chifuyu was a notorious "lone wolf" delinquent, arrogant and convinced that no one could best him in a fight. His world is turned upside down when he encounters Keisuke Baji. To Chifuyu’s surprise, Baji doesn't look like a fearsome gang captain; he appears as a "poindexter" with slicked-back hair and glasses, struggling to write a simple letter.
However, the facade quickly drops. When Chifuyu finds himself cornered by a massive gang of upperclassmen, Baji intervenes, showcasing the overwhelming strength and ferocity that would eventually make him a legend. This encounter marks the beginning of a legendary partnership. The manga meticulously chronicles their burgeoning friendship, from sharing Peyoung Yakisoba to the formation of the First Division's unique identity.
A pivotal element of this spin-off is the introduction of Ryusei Sato, the former Vice-Captain of the First Division before Chifuyu. Through Ryusei, the story explores the internal politics of Toman and the external threats from rival gangs like "Killer Bee." The narrative delves into how Baji’s philosophy of "one for all, all for one" was tested long before the Valhalla conflict, providing crucial context for Baji’s eventual "betrayal" in the main series.
Main Themes
1. The Weight of Loyalty (Giri):
The central pillar of the story is the concept of *Giri*—the social and moral obligation to one's comrades. The manga explores how Baji’s loyalty wasn't just a personality trait, but a burden he carried to protect the "treasure" he helped create: Toman.
2. The "Found Family" Dynamic:
Like many Shonen masterpieces, this manga emphasizes that blood isn't the only thing that makes a family. For Chifuyu, Baji wasn't just a leader; he was a mentor and a brother. The story highlights the vulnerability behind the tough delinquent exterior, showing how these boys found a sense of belonging in each other.
3. Legacy and Memory:
The "Letter" in the title is symbolic. It represents the legacy Baji left behind. The manga deals with the theme of how we remember those we’ve lost and how their influence continues to shape our actions long after they are gone. Chifuyu’s growth from a reckless brawler to a disciplined leader is a direct result of Baji’s mentorship.
Conclusion
*Tokyo Revengers: A Letter from Keisuke Baji* is more than just a fanservice spin-off; it is a character-driven drama that adds layers of complexity to the most beloved duo in the franchise. It captures the grit of the Tokyo streets while maintaining a heart-wrenching emotional core. For any "Otaku" looking to complete the puzzle of the Tokyo Manji Gang’s history, this manga is a mandatory addition to your collection. It reminds us that behind every scar and every gang uniform, there is a story of a boy who just wanted to protect his friends.
📖 Leer online en Donmanga:
➡️ Tokyo Revengers – A Letter from Keisuke Baji – Leer Manga
