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Episode 12, "My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong As Expected."
The episode opens in the hallway in front of the Service Department. It begins with Hachiman standing nervously at the door. However, despite being mentally prepared to enter, the door is locked. The awkward and cheesy conversation when Yukino arrives, with her saying "I didn't just arrive," is incredibly sweet. Then, Hachiman takes the key from Yukino. She's the only one who has ever touched this key. She's always been the one locking it, both the classroom door and her heart. This is the first time Hachiman has touched the key. He unlocks it and enters the clubroom, where only the two of them are. Hmm! What's with this distance between them?! Yukino is even wearing the blue-light glasses Hachiman gave her as a gift! Although it's said to be a necessary part of their work, the two make a promise for tomorrow. This innocent and carefree moment is almost comical. Especially Yukino's whispered "tomorrow..." at the end—it's destructive enough to destroy the earth five times over! Haha, you're probably thinking the following plot is a romantic comedy, right? Well, you guessed it.
As a gift for those who guessed correctly, here's a romantic comedy! And so, while they went to fulfill their promise, Yukino's fashion sense...! Just seeing the initial scene made me shout and dance on the sofa. Yukino has many different hairstyles in the series: long straight hair, twin tails, a single ponytail, and so on. I really hope to see her with other different hairstyles sometime in the future.
The two, walking side-by-side in the park, arrived at a trendy café. Naturally, they ordered trendy drinks, which meant they had to adhere to the social norms of uploading photos and threatening others with likes. After some twists and turns, they finally took the picture. Yukino's actions here make one think, "This is a bit...!" Yukino's selfie skills are influenced by Yui and Iroha. Especially when taking pictures with Yui, she thinks, "This is how it should look." Speaking of which, the phrase "This is how it should look" is super, super good. So cute... I promise I was shaking with excitement while holding my head in my hands. Needless to say, Yukino's excited expression was great, but Hachiman was also quite something. His misunderstanding upon seeing the chapel is the best example of this. You could say Hachiman's feigned composure was also terrible. Anyway, this inspection was worthwhile, and the location for the ball was decided. Now, all that's left is work, but I naturally love the two from the Zaimokuza and the Game Club working hard. In the part where they talk to the three of them here, you can vaguely sense Hachiman's feelings for them. Next, Ichigo and the student council members arrived at the clubroom. I especially loved Ichigo's nonchalant "It's nothing" when she looked at Hachiman and Yukino. Then, seeing the reactions of the two from the games club and Zaimokuza, she responded with "Ah, hello," her nonchalant attitude was truly addictive. Then, led by Ichigo and the student council members, everyone related to the Service Club gradually arrived at the classroom. Thinking about Hachiman's reasons for asking Totsuka to come, and the deep feelings hidden within, it was quite endearing. Totsuka's acceptance of the invitation, with his question "Including me?", firmly solidified their relationship, and he seemed genuinely happy. Even before this scene, I couldn't help but chuckle. Also, the scene unfolding with the accompanying music was incredibly soothing. The sequence of shots—the stairs, the clubroom, the corridor, and then the "Ya-ha-lo!"—could easily bring tears to your eyes. Speaking of which, I already cried.
So, everyone was gathered, and the work officially began. As things reached their peak, Yukino's fatigue subtly revealed her concern. Then, Hachiman suggested going out to buy things and eat, and the exchange of glances between him and Iroha, who were essentially forcing everyone to rest, revealed the trust they had built up over time. That said, what was the point of this passionate sauna speech...?
However, Hachiman's words were born of necessity. The sauna scene with the boys was fantastic, wasn't it? It was so cute when Hachiman and Yukino's relationship was questioned about Tokiyama. And Hayama and Totsuka's deep understanding of Hachiman is evident here, which is heartwarming. Hayama's "Don't ask" tone here is not only cheerful but also perfectly captures his style—it's truly wonderful. But speaking of which, the way Totsuka wraps himself in that towel...
The evening scene after their bath is also very memorable. The different expressions of the three waiting for Hachiman perfectly reflect their individual personalities. Their actions as they get up and leave also reveal their individual feelings. Then, Hachiman's gesture of reaching out to Yukino can be seen as the stance of this work. Standing alone, clearly alone. Even so... and this is the answer they have given themselves.
The final celebration finally began, and Komachi's uniform was revealed. At this point, Komachi, still an outsider, deliberately wore her uniform, showing she truly is the world's little sister. This encounter between the world's little sister and the world's cutest bad girl is not to be missed. Their conversation is something you'd want to hear forever… but putting that aside, Iroha here is incredibly cool. Regardless of the true meaning of those words, they certainly propelled Yui forward.
Furthermore, the conversation between Yukino and her mother was also very pleasant. It's precisely this method of using oppression to combat oppression that's how this mother and daughter interact. The unsettling fear in her voice when her mother smiled at Hachiman at the end was also endearing. The chilling quality in Haruno's whispered words was almost unbearable. And so, Hachiman worked diligently. Yui's cheerful demeanor as she spoke to him, and their usual conversation, was reassuring; the subsequent "Good luck!" always makes our hearts tighten... Therefore, watching this process, the knowing nods between Iroha and Komachi made us anticipate what would happen next. By the way, you two have a really good relationship.
The final celebration finally came to an end, and it was time for Hiratsuka and Hachiman to part ways. Hiratsuka spoke of an essay Hachiman had written in the past. Everything started with this essay. However, rather than Hachiman's shame at this moment stemming from the content of the essay, it was more like a feeling of shame for what he had written in the past—an emotion akin to covering up one's shame. Looking back at what one wrote in one's youth often brings embarrassment. I really liked the composure of adults shown from their dance without music to the moment when they "got it for free." Then, it was time for the final answer. She directly expressed his overflowing feelings, which couldn't be contained in a single sentence, with the statement, "A simple 'I like you' is definitely not enough."
Hiratsuka reached out, but Hachiman refused, standing up on his own. This scene symbolizes the entire work. And it's also a story about Hachiman and Hiratsuka. The line, "Thank you for taking care of me all this time," carries a powerful sense of finally growing into a decent man. The final line, "Get out of here, you social butterfly!" written in the first volume, is particularly poignant, as ten years have passed since then.
The scene shifts, and Hachiman and Yukino are on the balcony. I'm speechless here. Although I'm known for my commentary, I'm still incredibly nervous. But honestly, I hope you can forgive me for having to beg you to watch this part. That said, inserting "Yukitoki" here is really unfair, isn't it? But I really like this kind of thing.
Then, the last spring of their college life began, a verdant spring visiting once more. How they and she would spend their time afterward remained to be seen. New relationships, new environments, and new feelings could be glimpsed in this part, and where these budding shoots would lead was also unknown. But, when he looked back on that youth, he would surely say this.
My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong As Expected.
That concludes my presentation of the parts of "Oregairu Complete" that I particularly enjoyed.
The following is my acknowledgment.
Ponkan8-sama. So, the work on "Oregairu" is finally finished... Thank you. Thank you for your help. Did you think I'd say that? I won't let you escape, you know? You'll stay with me forever, even into hell. Anyway, I still have to say thank you for your hard work! Thank you so much.
Editor Hoshino-sama. Hahaha! I handled it all with ease this time, hahaha! It must be tough dealing with your "hahaha" laughs every time, writer. But next time, I'll definitely handle it with ease too, hahaha! I'm never flustered, hahaha! Please continue to support me in the future! Thank you very much.
Director Oikawa and all the staff, *My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU* is the best anime ever. It's rare for a work to be so fortunate as to be adapted into an anime, isn't it? This is one of the greatest joys of my life as a writer. My deepest gratitude is to you all. I hope we can work together again someday. Thank you for your continued support.
To Takuya Eguchi, who voices Hachiman Hikigaya, and to all the respected voice actors: It's been 10 years since the CD of the audio drama was released, and I'm truly grateful for your continued support. This work is a story that transcends dialogue and text, exploring rhythm, atmosphere, and communication through words and non-words. The ability to achieve all of these is undoubtedly due to your acting skills and understanding of the work. Seeing and hearing your performances and dialogue, though it's just my personal interpretation, I felt your love for the work and the characters. Thank you so much. I will continue to pray that someday, somewhere, I will have the opportunity to hear your voices again.
Finally, to all my esteemed readers and viewers, thank you for your continued support of *My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU*. The anime's successful conclusion is all thanks to your support. This story exists because of you. Therefore, I believe that as long as you are here, this story will continue to exist. I would be very happy if *My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU* continued to receive your support in the future. I am who I am today because of you! (Translator's note: This is a pun. The original text is "君がいるから俺ガイル," which can also be interpreted as "My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU exists because of you.")
Well then, let's end our conversation here. See you sometime, somewhere!
One day in February, I was heading towards the brand new "Oregairu" (Spring Romance) while drinking MAX coffee.
Travel
DB Bonus: High School Grade 3 New Chapter 6 Illustrations
Volume 14.5 ① No matter what, Komachi Hikigaya always wanted a sister-in-law.
Taiwanese version from Angel Anime Forum
Light Bookshelf × Angel Anime Entry Team
Scan: The Bird Bullet That Turns Gray
Input: Agnus
Photo editing: XUII
The first month of the lunar calendar is a milestone on the way to the other world. I remember this was said by Ikkyu Sojun.
A profound saying. Truly a profound saying. Even the name Ikkyu itself is a profound saying.
The rest was wonderful. With such a beautiful name, Go-Daigo will probably sing "Beautiful Name" (Note: a Japanese rock band; "Beautiful Name" is a song they wrote).
Not just New Year's, but also birthdays and graduations, these special events where someone says "Congratulations!" mostly pass with the years and are not really worth celebrating.
In the end, all the congratulations in the world eventually feel like an ending. Each additional year of age symbolizes a year less of life, and celebrating graduation is, in a sense, an exile. These days, even idol groups disband using "graduation" as a euphemism, a pretty facade. Thinking about this, I feel there's nothing to celebrate; the only happy and lucky one is probably my head. Wow—! I'm so lucky—! (Note: A catchphrase of Himeishi Raiki, the protagonist of *Aikatsu On Parade!*) Let's just have an ordinary year!
That's it. This year, I'm going to be like Ikkyu Sojun, taking my time and resting for a day... I was initially motivated and decided to sleep through the New Year, but the Japanese blood inside me can't help but celebrate the New Year's Ceremony on its own. Ugh, I'm such a typical Japanese person... I can spell English words but can't speak English at all, which is so typical of Japanese people.
As a result, Komachi dragged me to a New Year's shrine visit.
We met up with Yukinoshita and Yui at Asama Shrine and did all the things we do for New Year's celebrations, like drawing fortune slips. We also bumped into the Miura Group along the way, so Yui went to join them. Komachi said she forgot to buy amulets and turned back...
Yukino and I, who were left behind, chose to head straight home.
Even though it was only a few stops, didn't take much time, and wasn't very long, every moment is vividly etched in my memory. The sudden, gentle tug on my sleeve, and the little hand waving goodbye from a not-too-high, not-too-low position—these are things I can't easily forget.
And so, my New Year finally came to an end.
Unaffected by the flow of pilgrims and gradually changed, and without being occasionally blamed by you from afar (Note: lyrics from Japanese singer Yumi Arai's song "Graduation Photo"), I peacefully spent a New Year with a festive atmosphere this year, returning to my empty home.
My parents probably went out together. While waiting for Komachi to come home, I stayed in the kotatsu (heated table) and dozed off while hugging the cat.
This is it... this is the correct way to celebrate the New Year...
There's no need to run into a girl on the first day of the new year; it's making me restless. At least my heart needs a rest during the holidays! It'll die if it doesn't...
× × ×
The cold, thumping sound woke me up.
It seems I fell asleep while lounging around in the kotatsu. I sat up abruptly. Komachi, sitting diagonally in front of me, looked at me sullenly and pushed one of the mugs on the table toward me. I gratefully accepted it.
"...Oh, thanks...You're back! How come you're back so soon?"
"That's what Komachi should be asking..."
Komachi gave a hollow smile, leaned back on the kotatsu table while sipping her coffee, and asked:
"...So, brother, how are you?"
"It's nothing. Just ordinary."
I didn't know what she was asking, so I answered casually, and Komachi waved her hands frantically.
"What do you mean by 'ordinary'? You're not a rebellious middle school student."
"Oh, oh... that's not like something a rebellious middle school student would say..."
Just as I was thinking, "How come Komachi, who is my sister, is so inexplicably open-minded, or rather, mature?", she leaned out and said the kind of things that relatives and aunts would say.
"Didn't you go home with Yukino-neechan? Nothing happened?"
"It's just that something happened while we were walking home together, which is actually quite dangerous... Otherwise, why do schools now require elementary school students to leave school together? You lack a sense of crisis."
"Wow, it's here. No need to lecture Komachi anymore."
Komachi sighed, her expression one of genuine impatience, and shifted her gaze from me to the New Year's program playing on television.
The annual New Year's special program is largely the same, featuring joyful scenes that fit the New Year's atmosphere, such as couples getting married on New Year's Day and babies being born on New Year's Day.
"I was hoping to deal with it last year... but it seems there's no hope this year either..."
"What? A spring cleaning?"
"Yes, we need to get rid of Trash Brother."
"In this day and age, we value environmental protection and recyclables. We can't just throw things away carelessly."
I casually joked back, "How dare you..." Komachi uttered those terrifying mutterings, just like a certain environmental activist. Ugh, saying such horrible things... Have you gone astray? (Note: This refers to Greta Thunberg's famous quote, "How dare you." "Greta" is a homophone for "going astray" in Japanese.)
I watched Komachi with trepidation; I wondered what she was worrying about all by herself.
"Ah... but my brother is such a loser. Even if Komachi tries to help him get married, he'll always make a mistake and make her run back to her parents' house. That would just make things more complicated..."
Compared to her prioritizing her brother's marriage, Komachi's brother complex is beyond saving. Or rather, it's that making her worry about her own marriage shows my authority as the older brother is beyond redemption. I think the happiest ending for this hopeless sibling duo would be for us to just get married, but considering our country's laws, that might be the most hopeless choice, so we have to give up. Damn it! This damned rule of law in this country!
I was filled with the fighting spirit of a solo revolution, and it seemed that Komachi was also burning with passion.
"From Komachi's perspective, there are potential candidates for her sister-in-law..."
"Can you please not do this? Please don't put people on such a private list without their permission!"
"Komachi thinks that the most promising candidate for sister-in-law is...it's definitely Yukino-neechan."
She wasn't listening at all. Continuing to chat with her about this nonsense was a waste of a precious New Year's holiday. I turned to the TV to break the conversation.
Komachi poked my side from the side and I heard her complain, "Brother, did you hear that? Komachi is talking to you about a very serious topic." My brotherly instinct kicked in, and I automatically switched to listening to her.
"If Yukino-neechan is Komachi's sister-in-law, then my brother can be a stay-at-home dad. Considering his total career income..."
"Don't so easily declare my life a failure based on my total career earnings. Let's still hold onto a little hope for my brother's bright future."
"It's so dazzling! But it's too dazzling, I can't see anything at all. It's like the Solar Flare (a technique used by Tien Shinhan in Dragon Ball that emits a bright light that temporarily blinds people), it's like there's nothing at all."
I think I unknowingly borrowed a move from Tianjin cuisine.
Really... I can't see anything... I secretly lowered my shoulders, while Komachi raised her fist high, creating a contrast with me.
"And Yukino-neechan would probably be willing to raise Komachi too, so Komachi can do the housework for brother! That's great, brother! Finally, you can live the NEET life you've always dreamed of!"
"Then what's the point of my existence...? Why don't you two just get married...? That would be quite a good deal, and my brother would stay obediently in our hometown..."
Upon hearing this, Komachi smiled gently and then said in a soft tone:
"It's okay, brother. As long as you're here, that's all that matters..."
What is this line that is overflowing with loving kindness?
I'm being treated like a pet, and I'm not happy at all... It seems I'd better start eating cat food with Xiaoxue from tomorrow and get used to pet life.
Facing the impending doomsday battle for minced meat, Xiaoxue and I glared at each other, and Komachi picked Xiaoxue up.
She touched Xiaoxue, who was purring on her thigh, and uttered a terrifying statement.
"If I had to say, Haruno-neechan's criteria are quite applicable."
"Hey, that's scary. It's terrifying to imagine that person becoming your sister-in-law."
Even someone as prone to daydreaming as me would never imagine something like that happening! This guy is way too reckless... Do you have ninety-nine green mushrooms? (Note: A power-up in the Super Mario series of games; one green mushroom grants an extra life.)
Komachi sipped her coffee, letting her imagination run wild.
"There's also the possibility that Sister Saki is the sister-in-law."
"Impossible, just as impossible."
"But Saki's younger sister will definitely come along too. I heard she's very cute."
Komachi smiled smugly, placing one of the strongest cards in the Kawasaki family's deck—Kyoka—face-down on the table, ending the turn (Note: a parody of Yu-Gi-Oh!). I don't know if Kyoka and Komachi have ever met, but whether it's Kawasaki's classmates or Taishi, they would probably want to share her cuteness with others. Kyoka is just that lovable.
"…Let me think about it. Luckily, this is close! Dazhi will probably come along too. Who wants him? Nobody needs him. It's unlikely he'll be unable to accept it."
However, even a duelist of my caliber is highly sensitive to trap cards, and I managed to dodge one at the last second. Personally, I have no grudge against Kawa or anything like that; it's just that, as the older brother, I can't let Taishi get close to Komachi.
However, Komachi probably realized that Kyoka's presence had shaken my resolve, and crossed her arms to play her next card.
"I see... My brother gets along quite well with girls younger than him... Oh, what about Rumiko?"
"Liu Liu is my idol... Rather than that kind of person, I would rather engage in passionate idol activities with her... I simply want to support her."
"Hmm—my brother is so serious, it's disgusting... He sounds serious about that, and Komachi is genuinely terrified..."
I explained sincerely and earnestly, but it frightened Komachi. Not long after, she seemed to give up and sighed deeply.
"Younger ones won't work... How about we try a different approach... Hiratsuka-sensei?"
The moment those words left my mouth, I felt the air between us drop rapidly.
Unlike our previous joking conversations, this time I couldn't help but think about real-world responsibilities. Or rather, there was a kind of "pressure" that made it impossible to joke about it.
Komachi seemed to sense this deeply as well. Her face showed sadness, and she silently lowered her head.
"I'm sorry. Komachi seems to have brought up a topic that shouldn't have been discussed..."
"Hmm. Let's just pretend this never happened. Someday, Hiratsuka-sensei will definitely find happiness. I guess so."
I gazed into the distance and prayed. Hurry…! Quickly find someone to marry her! As soon as possible! Otherwise, I might accidentally end up marrying her myself!
During this period, the only sound in the quiet living room was the empty echo of the television.
We took a sip of coffee and sighed.
Halfway through watching TV, Komachi suddenly spoke up.
"Ah, Komachi just wants her brother to be happy. Ah, I think that sentence got a pretty high score from her."
Seeing her smile, I slightly lowered my chin, responding silently.
Volume 14.5② Even so, Komachi Hikigaya still doesn't give up on having a sister-in-law.
It was still the dead of winter.
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