Hanger is an ongoing manga written and illustrated by Hirotaka Kisaragi. First released in 2013, it has been serialized by RuTile. Publishing was done by Gentosha and the manga has been licensed in English by Tokyopop.

Synopsis

In Neo-Tokyo, crime is rising rapidly in the wake of a new generation of super-drugs capable of enhancing the user's physical and mental abilities. Hajime Tsukomo is a new recruit on a federal task force trained to go after these powered-up criminals. Now he must team up with Zeroichi, a so-called Hanger looking to reduce his own jail sentence in exchange for helping to take down these chemically-boosted bad guys.

Characters

Hajime Tsukomo

Hearing someone speak for the special unit to be called, Hajime announces not to worry, he is already here. Sharing his name, Hajime adds he and Zeroichi are from the security service bureau. Questioning what the situation is, he also asks whether the hostage is safe. In helping her, Hajime stands defensively with his sword drawn and assures her it is okay. Calling to Zeroichi to say he has secured the hostage, Hajime guides him to apprehend the suspect. Seeing the drugger point his gun, Hajime shouts for Zeroichi to not kill him. Ignoring disparaging comments directed at them, Hajime speaks for Zeroichi to not walk so far ahead of him, if he steps out of range of a lock he has, his brain will be fried. Regardless of the warning, Hajime thinks Zeroichi should at least learn his name then wonders why he had to be assigned to him. Cooking for Zeroichi after considering the strength he must have exerted, Hajime states he shouldn't be eating that store bought food all the time, and sometimes it is good to have a home-cooked meal. Interested in Zeroichi getting his memories back, he also trusts him with plans concerning apprehending criminals. Unable to believe that Zeroichi let the criminals go, and not absorbing that he was being carried to safety instead as his head was hurt, Hajime is sorry to Onukita that he could not catch the criminals. Told he was just a human, Hajime feels downtrodden at him and Zeroichi being in different worlds where he thought they might come to understand one another. Hearing about his background from Onukita, while the impression given was that Zeroichi is tough but also alone, Hajime considers it seems more like he chooses to be alone. Encouraging Zeroichi to clear the time off his debt, Hajime heads right into dealing with higher bounties. Taking circumstances into account, Hajime feels he does not know how well Zeroichi will get along with other Hangers when meeting Mashima and Hibiki. While thinking another Keeper would be better to help reduce Zeroichi's sentence, and skeptical at what he could do, more so since he is only assigned to him for a year, and has debts to focus on, Hajime grapples with such thoughts. All the while, Hajime is aware Zeroichi had a previous partner, and that Hibiki is sacrificing himself to reduce Hashima's sentence, where they live in a world where they only have each other to think about, whereas Hajime does not even know the first thing about Zeroichi.

Character Article: Hajime Tsukomo

Zeroichi

Stating that his job as a Hanger is to pick up the druggers and earn his reward, Zeroichi adds that he does not care about anything else. Addressing rudeness from officers, Zeroichi says for all the wastes of space to just sit back quietly and to not interfere, they will just get in the way. Capable of leaping into the air some distance, Zeroichi locates the drugger and can kick him into the wall to save the woman taken hostage. Guided to apprehend the suspect, Zeroichi tells Hajime to shut up, he does not need his watchdog bossing him around. With the drugger pointing his rifle at him, Zeroichi slices both his arms off. Answering Hajime, he also does not need him to order not to kill the drugger, if that was done they would reduce his reward. Unconcerned at his brain being fried, Zeroichi states it is not like he has any important memories to lose. More importantly, Zeroichi continues that he is hungry so addressing Hajime as his Keeper he says to get him something to eat. When imprisoned, Zeroichi became a Hanger, someone who assisted the security service with capturing other druggers. Nano machines planted in Zeroichi's brain are programmed to take control of him, and he only has memories of the past year. Presently, an ungratefulness for food brought and prepared for him changes after speaking with Hajime. While tasked with catching thieves, Zeroichi allows them to escape after Hajime is injured. While he does carry him to safety, Zeroichi feels he is limited as a human and should resign if he cannot keep an eye on him. Reporting his own actions, and confined back to prison with his sentence increased, Zeroichi does not share details about the loss of a previous Keeper. Then, while he can be persuaded to deal with larger bounties to help clear his sentence, Zeroichi finds other Keepers doing similar to be a pain.

Character Article: Zeroichi

Drugger

After firing a machine gun at helicopters above while keeping his hostage close, this man announces for others to pipe down. Stating if they want him, to come at him, the drugger continues he is not going to lose to some weak-ass coppers. Remarking that ordinary humans cannot even make good hostages, the drugger tells the woman he has kidnapped to say good night before aiming his gun at her. Kicked away by Zeroichi, gathering from his strength the drugger judges he is one too. Questioning why he is working with the fuzz, without waiting for a response, the drugger orders Zeroichi to go to hell while raising his gun. After his arms are sliced off by Zeroichi he is bounded and taken away by police.

Hostage

Unable to run anymore when being pulled by the drugger she has been taken hostage by, the woman is then more startled at her would be murderer being struck away by Zeroichi. Asked by Hajime if she is fine, the woman answers yes.

Officer

Feeling those gathered are insufficient to deal with the drugger, at noticing Hajime and Zeroichi he knows them as squad 4, and states they must be the special unit he has heard so much about. Answering somewhat flippantly that the hostage is fine, and they will take care of that, the officer does not care what Hajime and Zeroichi do, just to get rid of that freak and quick. He then opines that taking out freaks is the work of freaks. Never mind that they helped apprehend the drugger, and saved the woman, he remarks to another officer how Zeroichi tore that man's arms off in one strike, before commenting he knew they were freaks.

Yoko Onukita

The commander who informed Hajime that as of today he will begin his new assignment as an investigator with the security service bureau's special unit, squad 4. Adding that of course Hajime will be handsomely compensated as well, Onukita said he would be counting on him. Sure that Hajime would be surprised by this sudden transfer, the truth is they suddenly found themselves short an officer. In showing Hajime the station, Onukita continues that it would be a waste to bury a person of such talent in the traffic division. Having heard about Hajime's mother, Onukita states it is a real shame. Addressing whether he heard right, Onukita asks whether she had a condition that made her ill-suited to receive medical treatment from nano machines. In this day and age, he cannot imagine being treated by anything but nano machines, and speaks further it must have been hell not having health insurance either. Aware that nano machines are able to improve physical and mental states, where the production of them led to high-drug, Onukita explains how squad 4 specializes in dealing with acts committed by them. Introducing Hajime to Zeroichi he explained a Hanger as someone who helps capture other druggers. Further, they form partnerships with these criminals using Locks to keep a close and personal eye on them, that is the primary function of the Keepers in squad 4. Introducing him as 01-Zeroichi, from now on, Onukita stated that he will be the Hanger that Hajime is in charge of. Evidently noticing his expression, Onukita told Hajime as a Keeper he just had to be patient for one year then would be able to transfer to any department he wants. Pleased to hear of Hajime's report on Zeroichi, he cautions him to be careful out in the field. Visiting Hajime in hospital, Onukita speaks how striking a deal with a criminal and letting him go is a serious transgression. Affirming if Zeroichi were on the force he would be dismissed, Onukita adds a Hanger is only dismissed upon the time of death. Revealing that most other Keepers used the mind lock to control Zeroichi like an animal, in the end they could not catch up to him due to their physical limitations so all quit. Out of all of them, there was just one Keeper who tried to get to know Zeroichi in the hopes of understanding him as a legitimate partner. Stating that he got killed, Onukita describes him as a veteran in the security service and an outstanding member. Conceding it is difficult for an ordinary human to keep up with Zeroichi, he adds Hajime is lucky he did not meet the same fate.

Criminal 1

Having hijacked a medical transport vehicle, he mentions to another criminal for them to get the nano machine samples to their client as soon as possible. Attempting to sneak away with boxes, he is apprehended by Hajime. Directed to come quietly, he replies okay and to just not kill him. With Hajime knocked away, he suggests to Zeroichi how about they make a deal together. Offering the valuable nano machine samples, he also drops some money too. In exchange, he asks Zeroichi to just turn his back while they make their escape.

Criminal 2

Acting to steal nano machine parts he asks the other criminal he is with whether what they are stealing will make them rich. Seeing Hajime and Zeroichi arrive, a Hanger is recognized. Seen as a traitor, he injects himself in the arm. Roaring for them to shut the hell up, he tells them to just die already.

Shoto

Number 15 on Japan's most wanted list, Shoto is a name this man goes by. He is a drugger responsible for countless terrorist bombings who was holed up in an abandoned building. Having been captured by Mashima and Hibiki it is detailed how Shoto was the head of an anti-government terrorist organization that has managed to elude the investigation network for years. Where Shoto was also sharing information through a systemic electronic brain thanks to his nano machines he could give pursuers the slip.

Hashima

Exploding his way out of a building having captured Shoto, he greets Zeroichi upon seeing him. Claiming to have forgot that this area is under Zeroichi's jurisdiction, Hashima says sorry about that. Questioning who the cutie with him is in reference to Hajime he addresses him as Zeroichi's new Keeper. Speaking to Hibiki, he mentions Shoto was not coming along nicely so sort of got carried away on him and might have busted some of his organs. Seeing Hajime again, Mashima thanks him for earlier and is glad his name was remembered. On what Hibiki said about criminals being killed, Hashima explains what he says does not come from a place of ill will. Knowing that people can get the wrong first impression, Hashima continues that Hibiki is just really serious about his job. Warmly placing his arm around Hajime while stating enough of the stiff formalities, Hashima adds it is not his thing. Keen for himself and Hajime to get along, Hashima asks what the little lady says. Learning he was mistaken, Hashima assumed as Hajime has such an adorable face, Feeling it is okay as he likes getting to know both girls and guys, Hashima leans closer to raise how Hajime must have lots of questions too, such as what Zeroichi was like with his previous Keeper.

Masato Hibiki

Knowing it is the first time meeting one another, Hibiki remarks to Hajime and Zeroichi they do not have time for introductions. With Hashima who he is a Keeper of, Hibiki explains if they fail to turn in the suspect while Shoto is still alive then he will be of no value to them. Unconcerned with Shoto's state so long as he is technically alive, Hibiki tells Mashima it is no problem before announcing mission complete. Heading into Onukita's office, Hibiki informs him all follow-up protocol has been dealt with so he is ready to give his report. Noticing Hajime he candidly shares his name and gives him his best regards. Aware of his name, Hibiki also knows Hajime's background such as how he transferred from the traffic division three weeks ago. Citing Hajime's recent background, Hibiki states he basically knows all about him so there is no need for his introduction. If he may, Hibiki would like to continue his report to the commander. As it is because he has no time to waste, Hibiki reveals the image data taken from the criminal's brain has been completed and the body has been sent to processing. Asked if he is dead, Hibiki responds the criminal put up a futile struggle to allow his companions to escape. In order to avoid an extended fight, they were forced to inflict fatal injuries. While he was effectively dead before arriving at the station, Hibiki states as they managed to keep him technically alive for data to be collected from the brain, they will be accepting the corresponding ten years shaved off of Hashima's sentence. Unconcerned at being targeted by other criminals, Hibiki affirms it will save him time by having the prey come to him. The more of them he gets in the least amount of time, the better for him.

Byakuran

Wondering what has come over Zeroichi having never seen him so dedicated to his work, when asked what she is doing here, Byakuran deems Zeroichi as cold as ever. Here Byakuran thought she would brighten up this dull cafeteria for him. Noting how he eats, Byakuran states usually Zeroichi looks like he is chewing on sand. Having not seen him look this way in a long time, she adds perhaps that feeling is exactly what he has been needing. Noticing that Hajime was eavesdropping, Byakuran smirks at him where her Hanger lock is glimpsed. Called for when a request for back-up is made, Byakuran was all excited only to find the show already over. Remarking that Hibiki has become quite the handsome young man, Byakuran then states she will just be borrowing Hashima. Able to restore all nano machines, causing cells to regenerate, Byakuran's contact can heal physical injuries. After using high-drug for so long, her body cannot naturally die and has been remade so many hundreds of times. Feeling there is nothing left for her to enjoy, Byakuran comments that all Hangers are more or less trying to find a way to die. Able to physically alter her appearance, Byakuran shares who she is where her look was changed for the next job.

Zemu

A Keeper and partner of Byakuran, he often accompanies her. When Hajime was confused regarding Byakuran's changed appearance, Zemu explains the criminals they are going after are very cautious, and there is no guarantee they would not recognize their faces. Looking forward to working with Hajime and sharing he is a newbie, Zemu states no matter what happens after this, he is to not look shocked.

Akisato

The Keeper who was partnered with Zeroichi before his passing.

Story

More than one hundred years have passed since the end of the calendar era Anno Domini and the beginning of the new age - Anno Scientia. Following the devastating pandemic that took countless lives, humanity abandoned the concept of religion. The remaining population, hoping to rise above the fear that such a tragedy could strike again, embraced a new era of scientific advancement focused on strengthening the human race against illness and disease. After years of research, scientists finally developed super-cells for physical enhancement in the form of implantable nano machines that work to fortify every function of the human body. However, an unfortunate side effect of this advancement has also become prevalent: there are those who become obsessed with augmenting themselves endlessly, which eventually drives them to go berserk.

107 A.S. Neo-Tokyo, a bank robber showing signs of being a high-drug abuser, who shot and killed five people is reported as still being on the run with his hostage in tow. With officers feeling they do not have the manpower for this, the special unit being called in is asked for. Hajime Tsukomo and Zeroichi have already arrived, and disregarding impoliteness they move out to handle the situation. Before the drugger can shoot the woman he has taken, he is kicked into a wall by Zeroichi. As Hajime defends the woman, Zeroichi cuts the drugger's arms off after he raised his gun. Officers note the suspect was apprehended at 24.43. As an officer reiterates how they are freaks, Hajime reminds Zeroichi to not go too far ahead or the lock would fry his brain. Uncaring, Zeroichi asks Hajime to get him something to eat.

Remembering how he was transferred, Hajime discussed the passing of his mother with Yoko Onukita. Where Hajime's mother's illness was nano machine resistant, it was also hereditary. Besides providing medical treatment, nano machines improved one's physical and mental states, which is also what prompted the rampant production of more nefarious nano machine pharmaceuticals like high-drugs. Every year, high-drug gets stronger and now junkies on that are downright beasts. Squad 4 specializes in dealing with criminal acts committed by such druggers.

Taking Hajime to see Zeroichi, it was explained that convicted druggers can assist the security service with capturing other druggers to reduce their sentence, which is what a Hanger is called. While Hajime wondered how he was supposed to work with Zeroichi who was deemed like an animal, he was told by Onukita to be his Keeper for one year then he could transfer to any department he wanted. Where Zeroichi mentioned how others assigned to him left before two months, Hajime shouted that he will follow whatever task he is given.

Presently, with Hajime having brought food for Zeroichi, he also has to bring him to his residence due to being unable to transport him to HQ. Where Zeroichi is still hungry, Hajime cooks for him. After Zeroichi expresses a deep dissatisfaction with the cooking and declares he is walking back to HQ, Hajime takes ahold of his face and directs him to apologize as not everyone has food. After doing so, Zeroichi elects to eat it.

When Hajime is reporting on last night to Onukita, an intercom alerts there has been a heist in Zone 4. Two men have hijacked a medical transport vehicle and are making off with nano machine samples as well as specimens for study. The criminals show signs of being high-drug abusers and squad 4 is being asked to mobilize. As the criminals gather samples, Hajime and Zeroichi find them. Going with Zeroichi's plan, he deals with a high-drug user who charges at them, but in bashing him away he knocks into Hajime who was dealing with the other criminal. The criminal uses the opportunity to offer the nano machines, and money as well to Zeroichi if he lets them escape. While Hajime nearby thinks there is no way that Zeroichi would listen to that, he turns and the criminals thank him as they leave. After Hajime is picked up and carried by Zeroichi he questions why he would do that.^[1]

While Zeroichi is within his cell, Hajime awakens in hospital where Onukita has heard of what transpired. Consequently, Zeroichi has had another ten years added to his sentence. Told that Zeroichi said those guys were not worth his time, and that he did not need a weak partner, Hajime feels that makes sense. Where Zeroichi is a tough criminal without any memories, Hajime feels a rookie investigator where they are in two different worlds. Onukita details how most other Keepers used the mind lock to control Zeroichi, yet quit in disappointment when their physical limitations prevented them from catching up to him.

Detailing how another Keeper tried to get to know Zeroichi but was killed in the line of duty, Onukita says Hajime is lucky he did not meet the same fate. Remembering Zeroichi's facial expression, Hajime wonders whether he was remembering what happened. Reflecting on behaviour, Hajime considers Zeroichi does not want him to die like the other Keeper did. Not intending to have Zeroichi resign himself to despair, Hajime means to reach the station. Outside the hospital, Hajime is kidnapped by the thugs who escaped previously.

Having been administered sedatives, Hajime wakes on a bed to find his blood is being drained through medical tubes. The criminals are stealing Hajime's blood which nano machines have no effect on. Striking Hajime, the criminals intend to administer further sedative to put him to sleep. Breaking through to wall, Zeroichi announces that Hajime is his and to let him go. Since he freed them before, the criminals offer a share of the profits from Hajime's blood, only for one to be punched away. Firing at him, Zeroichi punches them down. One criminal grabs Hajime and breaks his lock to cause the nano machines to affect Zeroichi's brain.

Taking ahold of the thug, Hajime's blood renders him unable to move due to affecting the nano machines. With Zeroichi in a rampage, Hajime transfers his blood through his mouth to Zeroichi's to nullify the nano machines driving him to that state.^[2]

Images

References

Wiki Link

• An overview article on the entire series, Create the Hanger Wiki! for total coverage details!