Creative Staff
Story/Art: Io Sakisaka
Translation: JN Productions
English Adaptation: Ysabet MacFarlane
What They Say
A big change occurs in Ren and Mayuka’s relationship, leaving Ninako wondering what she should do with this news. Just as things seem to be moving forward, Ando confronts Ren about a past transgression. Will these two former friends be able to mend their rift?
Content: (please note that content portions of a review may contain spoilers):
After Daiki and Ren clear the air regarding what happened with Mayuka, Daiki tells Tsukasa who in turn unintentionally blabs to the whole school that Ren’s relationship is over. With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, the girls whip themselves into a frenzy but Ninako remains conflicted, and is mostly worried for Ren. Due to some unfortunate hair tangling, Ninako ends up eavesdropping while Ren turns down one of these hopefuls, and as a result of the ensuing awkwardness after he finds her, she decides to not give out any chocolate for Valentine’s Day. Apparently, she would have to give some to Ren, but she’d know in her heart that it wouldn’t just be out of “obligation.” However, through some unlikely misunderstandings, she somehow ends up giving Ren chocolate anyway.
Meanwhile, Ando tries to pick up his “game,” realizing that Ren becoming available really screws up his chances with Ninako. However, while trying to show off during gym, he ends up overexerting himself and passes out. When he wakes up in the health room, Ren’s the one watching over him, and he ends up snapping at his former friend. Interestingly enough, Ninako ends up pushing the two back towards one another without even knowing what she’s doing. Fortunately, they manage to repair their bonds, and the new school year starts with everyone (except Daiki) finding out that they’re still together. Will this new year prove fruitful for our young lovebirds, or does more heartbreak await them?
The bonus story tells the tale of two lovers, a young woman who can never hold down a job, and a man who wants to make it big as a musician. Will poverty break their relationship apart, or help bring them closer together?
In Summary
Interestingly enough, the main focus of this volume is the relationship between Ando and Ren. It actually makes for a refreshing change of pace, as the two haven’t had a huge deal of interaction in the past, and it helps to really define their characters in contrast to one another. And of course, it’s nice to get a focal point that isn’t the pain of unrequited love. Of course, there are also some interesting shake-ups on the romantic front as well, which is certainly appreciated. Hopefully the series will keep trying to explore these underdeveloped relationships in the future, as doing so really helped to spice things up and give this volume a fresh feeling.
Content Grade: A-
Art Grade: B+
Package Rating: B+
Text/Translation Rating: B
Age Rating: 13+
Released by: Viz Media
Release Date: September 3rd, 2013
MSRP: $9.99
