Close

The chapter’s legacy is immense. For over two decades, it has been held up as a gold standard for “dark drama” manga. It does not hand you hope. It forces you to dig for it, with bleeding fingernails, in the mud.

: Despite the brutal beating, Sakuragi shows no fear or resentment toward the newcomers. When he regains consciousness, he accepts a smuggled cigarette from Joe and shares it with the rest of the boys. This selfless act in such a "rotten world" serves as the foundation for their legendary bond of brotherhood. Chapter 1 Character Overview

After you finish Chapter 1, clear your schedule. Because you will need to read Chapter 2 immediately.

The chapter highlights the transition from individual despair to a shared bond.