Chainsaw Man fans already know what the Aki and Power flashback's focus is

Modified Nov 08, 2024 01:30 GMT

The Hayakawa family in Chainsaw Man (Image via MAPPA)

Chainsaw Man chapter 182 teased the return of two characters who fans have been begging to see - Power and Aki Hayakawa. The pair became Denji's family when he was first recruited by Public Safety at the beginning of the manga. Introduced to Aki first, Makima added Power to the mix and tasked Aki with caring for them both, hence leading to the formation of the new Hayakawa family.

Now, the final panel of chapter 182 depicted Aki and Power on what looks to be a ship/cruise. It was snowing as well, which could be tied to Denji throwing up Snow Devil's head. In any case, the Aki-Power seems familiar and fans may be already aware of what might come next.

Disclaimer: This article is speculative in nature.

Chainsaw Man: The focus of Aki and Power's flashback might already be known

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As mentioned, Chainsaw Man chapter 182 ended with a glimpse of Aki and Power. Given the current scenario, the following few chapter or chapters will likely feature a flashback. Judging by the scenery, it looks to be very similar to the brief Hokkaido trip shown in chapter 72. It was the minibreak Aki, Denji and Power took to visit the Hayakawa family grave.

When looked at closely, Aki and Power are clad in the exact same clothes as they are in chapter 72. Moreover, their journey was by ship, which is the same in chapter 182. This flashback might be the enlightening moment Denji needs to get back on his horse. Previously, chapter 72 depicted the trip from a comedic angle, with Denji and Power causing a ruckus as usual and Aki trying to control them.

However, this time, returning in the form of a flashback, it will likely feature an important conversation between Aki and Denji. Power might or might not be involved, given that at the time she was heavily affected by the prior incident with the Darkness Devil. Moreover, it will draw upon Denji and Asa's discussion about continuing to live and their current mental states.

The trip to Hokkaido was pivotal for both Aki's character and Denji’s understanding of family and resilience. Presently, he struggles to understand himself, the direction of his life, and the relationships he has forged. This flashback will tease the lasting impact Aki and Power had on him. Their bond with him was a testament to the strength they built together - an unshakeable bond that exceeds blood.

The flashback of Denji's recalled memories should remind him of the solace he found in Aki and Power. Through them, he found a family to protect, love, and care for. It will likely emphasize that Denji, like Aki, must keep moving forward regardless of what stands in his way, until he builds something meaningful again. This is what Asa refers to when she speaks of dealing with her mother's passing.

The reminder that Aki stood firm and resilient in the face of loss will reverberate through Denji. Aki and Power are now gone and hence, Denji must persevere and seek people who will become for him what Aki and Power were: his anchor, his reason to go on living, and his strength. Such a flashback will remind Denji that despite suffering intense loss, his bonds with others can strengthen him and keep moving forward.

Final Thoughts

To conclude, Denji desperately needs to get back to his feet if he wants to escape the Aging Devil's world. While Asa/Yoru will definitely provide him with some inspiration, he must dig deep as well. This digging deep bit will be the flashback that is spoken about.

At the time, creator Tatsuki Fujimoto likely chose not to reveal any important parts of the Hokkaido trip due to future planning. Now, the time seems to have arrived when the pieces of the puzzle fit together. Aki and Power were an integral part of his life and it is from them that he will draw strength and overcome these odds.