Otogizoushi: Episode 20

I simply adore this episode. It’s neither riveting nor ground-breaking but the easy camaraderie of the gang and the lovely little scene between Hikaru and Tsuna ease my post-exam anxieties. And yes, it has such a lovely final scene.

Although a Sai-less episode can be a bummer, his lack of visibility for the moment is fairly appropriate. The act opens to the gang sans Tsuna bonding under the stars with their casual conversations and teasing banter. The light-hearted atmosphere sets the tone for the evening.

The episode hints of another piece of the Raikou puzzle. Tsuna even acknowledges an emerging pattern involving his senpai’s supposed sightings. Since he dislikes causing unnecessary distress, he withholds this newly-formed theory from Hikaru. Unbeknownst to his knowledge, Hikaru herself is deeply connected to the recent paranormal activities around the city.

As I mentioned, I am absolutely entertained by this twentieth installment. Predictable as it is, I can’t deny my enjoyment seeing the friendship between Hikaru, Tsuna, Urabe, Kintarou, and Sadamitsu. Not to mention, the Ibaraki cameo definitely adds a nice plot device. The once tragic figure now spurs a misunderstanding which leads to a series of humorous scenes.

Needless to say, the final minutes tickle my fancy. For lack of a better word, it’s just…cute. And to heighten the mood, the producers opt to play the first ED as the background music. Highly manipulative? Yes. Am I annoyed? Not really. In fact, it encourages me to support the HikaruxTsuna club. Well, for today at least…