[Spoilers] I My Me! Strawberry Eggs 25th Anniversary Rewatch -- Episode 11
Hello everyone! I am Holofan4life.
Welcome to the I My Me! Strawberry Eggs 25th anniversary rewatch discussion thread!
I hope you all have a lot of fun <3
Episode 11 -- Fragrance Heart to Adulthood
—-
ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
What are your thoughts on everyone being conflicted coming out of episode 10?
What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?
What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?
What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?
—-
##Series information
[MAL](https://myanimelist.net/manga/74513/I_My_Me_Strawberry_Eggs) | [Anilist](https://anilist.co/anime/509/I-My-Me-Strawberry-Eggs) | [AniDB](https://anidb.net/anime/93) | [ANN](https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=396)
—-
Please do not post any untagged spoilers past the current episode or past the LNs or mangas out of respect to the first time watchers and people who have not read the LNs or mangas. If you are discussing something that is ahead of the current episode please use spoiler tags(found on the sidebar). Thank you!
[Untagged Spoilers](#sadholo)
—-
[Previous episode](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/iLtfLqfCpk)
##Ways to watch
Streams – None
##Schedule
Date|Episode|
---|---|---|---
1/1/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 1](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/726za15RZ6)
1/2/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 2](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/ifvslwRKeg)
1/3/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 3](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/yAeahyfzwh)
1/4/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 4](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/zpjut1RrrT)
1/5/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 5](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/N9sIMoZclK)
1/6/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 6](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/838ydo5sXn)
1/7/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 7](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/pvpjq7HTWP)
1/8/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 8](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/bPncB0HF4Q)
1/9/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 9](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/d6opcr4xdP)
1/10/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 10](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/iLtfLqfCpk)
1/11/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 11]()
1/12/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 12]()
1/13/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 13]()
1/14/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Overall Series Discussion Thread]()
Welcome to the I My Me! Strawberry Eggs 25th anniversary rewatch discussion thread!
I hope you all have a lot of fun <3
Episode 11 -- Fragrance Heart to Adulthood
—-
ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
What are your thoughts on everyone being conflicted coming out of episode 10?
What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?
What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?
What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?
—-
##Series information
[MAL](https://myanimelist.net/manga/74513/I_My_Me_Strawberry_Eggs) | [Anilist](https://anilist.co/anime/509/I-My-Me-Strawberry-Eggs) | [AniDB](https://anidb.net/anime/93) | [ANN](https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=396)
—-
Please do not post any untagged spoilers past the current episode or past the LNs or mangas out of respect to the first time watchers and people who have not read the LNs or mangas. If you are discussing something that is ahead of the current episode please use spoiler tags(found on the sidebar). Thank you!
[Untagged Spoilers](#sadholo)
—-
[Previous episode](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/iLtfLqfCpk)
##Ways to watch
Streams – None
##Schedule
Date|Episode|
---|---|---|---
1/1/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 1](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/726za15RZ6)
1/2/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 2](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/ifvslwRKeg)
1/3/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 3](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/yAeahyfzwh)
1/4/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 4](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/zpjut1RrrT)
1/5/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 5](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/N9sIMoZclK)
1/6/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 6](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/838ydo5sXn)
1/7/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 7](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/pvpjq7HTWP)
1/8/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 8](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/bPncB0HF4Q)
1/9/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 9](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/d6opcr4xdP)
1/10/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 10](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/s/iLtfLqfCpk)
1/11/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 11]()
1/12/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 12]()
1/13/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Episode 13]()
1/14/2026|[Strawberry Eggs Overall Series Discussion Thread]()
Commentaires
Welcome to the I My Me! Strawberry Eggs 25th anniversary rewatch!
^Just ^ignore ^the ^25th ^anniversary ^is ^in ^July…
Crossdressing and comedy. It has a long, storied history.
Nowadays, crossdressing in comedy is considered insensitive with accusations of it being transphobic and borderline homophobic. And while there is probably some truth to that, the reality is a lot of times it’s played with sincerity.
Some Like It Hot and Tootsie are two of the greatest comedies of all time. Mrs. Doubtfire is considered iconic and a defining part of Robin Williams legacy. All three movies play the crossdressing up for laughs but there’s quite sincerity about it to where the joke isn’t just “Lol, it’s a guy dressed as a woman”. And I think that sincerity applies to I My Me! Strawberry Eggs.
Strawberry Eggs, which is how I’ll be referring to it going forward, is very much a product of its time. It has that wacky slapstick type of humor common in anime at the time, like with shows such as Ranma and Love Hina. It also has a lot of heart that I think makes it a show worth revisiting.
This is easily the most obscure show I’ve ever hosted. I hope with this rewatch I can introduce people to this series that have never seen it before so they can become fans of it just like me. It’s been over two years since I last saw the show, so will my memory hold up or will it prove to be an outdated relic best forgotten to time? Let’s find out!
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I’m watching the dub, by the way.
Today is the Saturday before Thanksgiving and I'm hoping to watch the remaining three episodes today.
As I've been rewatching thie show, I've found myself taking over the Evangelion rewatch for the Rebuild portion. I already said it, but I really appreciate LittleIslander for coming to me for help. It wasn't a case of me begging and I thought it was very sweet he thought of me first to take over.
I'm also 12 episodes deep in the Toradora rewatch. Of course, by the time you read this it'll all be behind us but I just thought I'd share where I am on my rewatch journey.
I'm hoping Strawberry Eggs can capitalize on the momentum of the last episode. Some of the recent ones have been kinda there for me, but episode 10 was a nice bounce back. It's funny because in real time as of this writing I'm hosting the Shakugan no Shana rewatch. And in my head, I had Strawberry Eggs as a better show than that one. Despite this, though, I find season 2 of Shakugan no Shana to be way more enjoyable than Strawberry Eggs. It has a lot of the humanity of Strawberry Eggs but I feel it's more fully realized.
Anyway, enough dilly-dallying. Time to watch.
What even is strawberry eggs anyhow?
Ooh, different type of intro
Neither Fuko or Hibiki are at the food court
Do schools normally have buffets?
Fujio still reeling over Akira loving Fuko and not her.
And yet Akira knows Fuko has feelings for someone else. Maybe.
"I'll keep waiting until you know for sure. I'm not going to give up until then."
Hibiki meanwhile is confused by what he's feeling.
Hibiki walking with his dog now.
Lulu wondering what's going on.
Meanwhile, Kōji got fired from his job for taking too many days off.
Good
It is kinda cute Tofu vows to help Kōji with his unemployment.
I guess Lulu is gonna work on her motorcycle.
Fuko walking
I like her animal slippers
Gonna run to the store
She herself is conflicted because she may be in love with a girl.
Yeah, about that...
Hey, it's Hibiki not in his female outfit.
He tries to say something, but he walks away because this Hibiki is different than the Hibiki she knows.
"I've got no right to dislike that bra man so much. I'm more twisted than he is."
I get Fuko doesn't know any better, but it's kinda messed up the show is seemingly implying being gay is worse than being a pervert. Again, I know that's not what they're saying, it's just a bit of unfortunate implications.
Miho with Fujio
And there's Akira
Fujio greets him,and then runs away.
Miho now trying to cheer Fujio up.
Gonna take her to see a fortune teller.
Lulu with the two pervs
Kōji is in high spirits
Lulu worries his new job is being a criminal.
Vice principal telling the teachers of a bunch of kidnappings across town.
Gonna utilize some preventative measures.
All students will travel too and from school in groups.
Fuko looking longingly at Hibiki.
Hibiki tries to ignore it, tho
I can't blame Fuko for staring at Hibiki, he has one fat ass.
Fuko wonders if Hibiki really knows how she feels.
Mayhaps
Fuko with her friends
This is the first time we've seen Fujio around Fuko since the incident.
Lucky they got paired up, eh?
Fuko asking Fujio for advice
But then she changes her mind.
Why doesn't she ask Miho? She's supposed to be the relationship expert, no?
The four walking together
A mysterious man a black van following them.
Well, that was ominous
Hibiki home
All they've got is rice and what looks like banana chips.
Kōji seems awfully concerned about uniforms.
What else is new?
At school now
Fuko isn't here
Akira seems in deep contemplation.
Fuko still not here
Could she have been kidnapped?
Akira still thinking
Now word of Fuko missing is spreading.
Akira on the move, as is Fujio.
Hibiki says they've got the situation under control.
After some back and forth, the three agree to work together to try and find her.
Suddenly, a candle
A bunch of them, in fact
A black cloaked figure is in front of Fuko.
It's like the reverse KKK, which means he's a friend to all.
Hibiki has found Fuko's keychain
And now he informs Lulu he needs her help.
Fujio telling Akira of the minivan.
Hibiki with a green car
But no Lulu, only dog
Hibiki gets his dog to smell the keychain.
Hey, there's the van
The black cloaked figure putting the candle in front of Fuko.
Kōji and Tofu are in the van. But no Fuko.
Hibiki still trying to find Fuko.
And he does
Hibiki accuses him of being a kidnapper.
"He's just a fortune teller!"
Oh...
She came here herself
What about the candle the fortune teller dropped on the floor?
Oh, there it is. A fire.
This is looking grim
**Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.**
Hibiki and Fuko are having trouble escaping.
And Hibiki passes out
Fuko carrying Hibiki
As Hibiki comes to, he's bleeding from the forehead.
"I won't leave you behind, sensei!"
Fujio and Akira scolding Kōji and Tofu.
They were looking for good looking uniforms.
The dog is trying to let Fujio and Akira know where Fuko and Hibiki are.
"This time, I'll protect you."
Akira and Fujio at the fire now
"I don't care if you're a woman. Or what anyone else thinks. Even if you think I'm twisted, even then, even if you do, I love you, sensei!"
Lulu driving her vehicle
She's going inside
HOLY SHIT HER MOTORCYCLE TURNED INTO A MECH
What the fuck this is awesome
And now she's putting the fire out.
I love landlord lady
Fuko and Hibiki coming out of the fire.
Fuko is carrying an unconscious Hibiki.
Akira wonders if this is who Fuko is in love with.
Akira it appears is on the verge of tears.
At least Fuko feels optimistic
Overall, this is an episode that started slow but was made by the last couple minutes. I like Fuko learning to accept her feelings, and Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech is probably the funniest moment of the series. It really is a big deal that Fuko accepts that she is in love with a girl. It feels very progressive, especially for 2001. I liked the impetus for her coming to this conclusion as a result of her and Hibiki being caught in a fire. It really helped add a sense of urgency to things.
I'd have this episode in like the upper half of Strawberry Eggs episodes. Probably top 5. The episode from the fire onward was exciting and extremely memorable. And I'll never forget Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech, that was tremendous.
It'll be curious to see what happens going forward now that Fuko has accepted her feelings for Hibiki. I'm glad at the very least we had an episode where she reflected on her feelings, and that in the same episode it would seem we got some meaningful development.
I thought it really helped make things feel moody and angsty.
>What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?
One of the best scenes of the entire series.
>What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?
This show is pro LGBT and I love it [](#mayushii)
What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?
It made for a very powerful moment. Too bad she's probably setting herself up for heartbreak.
>What are your thoughts on everyone being conflicted coming out of episode 10?
Shit hit the fan on multiple fronts, I was waiting to see how Fujio would react in front of Fuko, we still haven't seen that. We know Akira already realized Hibiki is the one she's in love with... Although realizing it just from that scene didn't make a lot of sense, but I guess we're gonna roll with it.
>What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?
Very silly. Fuko was either gonna be a blood sacrifice by some new cult with a candle fetish that was indeed a fortune teller. I think the fire just added unnecessary drama. Yes, it helped open her eyes, realize she's really in love with Hibiki... But she already knew that much.
>What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?
Very progressive for an early 2000s anime, but the problem should be that Hibiki's her teacher and the whole age gap thing.
>What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?
Could've been done a lot better if the scenario had been different. Maybe Hibiki finally got caught for being a man, and Fuko could've stood out for him instead.
On to the episode!
Looks like we're getting another drama heavy episode. I wonder if Fujio will be mad at Fuko...
Poor pervert is now unemployed. Oh well, more time to be a creep around the girls.
Of course Fuko had to run into bra-man while they're both out on a "thinking" night walk.
And now things are all awkward between Fujio and Akira. And probably Fuko and Akira. And Fuko and Fujio.
There's a kidnapper on the loose. Looks like Fuko's fate is sealed.
There's a dark van following after the girls... Definitely not suspicious.
Aaaand Fuko's gone.
Yes, Hibiki, allow the 2 children to go look for the girl you suspect just got kidnapped.
Is Fuko gonna be used as some sort of sacrifice? Wait... Don't tell me this is the fortune teller...
Good thing Hibiki had a police dog all along!
Looks like the perverts were the ones on the van lol.
Yup, it's the fortune teller. Good job on setting his shop on fire though.
Holy shit, Granny has a Mobile Suit Gundam! Or a transformer, I guess.
Yeah, no way was a skinny 14 year old girl gonna support a grown ass man like that.
Hard to take this episode seriously because of all the absurdity, but we keep moving forward!
>As I've been rewatching thie show, I've found myself taking over the Evangelion rewatch for the Rebuild portion. I already said it, but I really appreciate LittleIslander for coming to me for help. It wasn't a case of me begging and I thought it was very sweet he thought of me first to take over.
>I'm also 12 episodes deep in the Toradora rewatch. Of course, by the time you read this it'll all be behind us but I just thought I'd share where I am on my rewatch journey.
Yeah, really don't know how you do all that, goddamn.
>I'm hoping Strawberry Eggs can capitalize on the momentum of the last episode. Some of the recent ones have been kinda there for me, but episode 10 was a nice bounce back. It's funny because in real time as of this writing I'm hosting the Shakugan no Shana rewatch. And in my head, I had Strawberry Eggs as a better show than that one. Despite this, though, I find season 2 of Shakugan no Shana to be way more enjoyable than Strawberry Eggs. It has a lot of the humanity of Strawberry Eggs but I feel it's more fully realized.
While I am enjoying the show for what it is, I found the first half to be a lot better. It could've been a much better show without the romance portion of it.
>Overall, this is an episode that started slow but was made by the last couple minutes. I like Fuko learning to accept her feelings, and Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech is probably the funniest moment of the series. It really is a big deal that Fuko accepts that she is in love with a girl. It feels very progressive, especially for 2001. I liked the impetus for her coming to this conclusion as a result of her and Hibiki being caught in a fire. It really helped add a sense of urgency to things.
The mech part was awesome! The fire, not so much. I agree on the progressiveness of the whole thing, just wish Hibiki was another school kid rather than a teacher...
>I'd have this episode in like the upper half of Strawberry Eggs episodes. Probably top 5. The episode from the fire onward was exciting and extremely memorable. And I'll never forget Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech, that was tremendous.
I'm gonna have to disagree once more. I felt the fire was pretty needless, except for the cool mech.
>It'll be curious to see what happens going forward now that Fuko has accepted her feelings for Hibiki. I'm glad at the very least we had an episode where she reflected on her feelings, and that in the same episode it would seem we got some meaningful development.
With just 2 episodes to go, I don't think things will go my way, but I hoped there would be more focus on the male-pretending-to-be-a-female-teacher drama rather than the age gap romance drama...
>Shit hit the fan on multiple fronts, I was waiting to see how Fujio would react in front of Fuko, we still haven't seen that. We know Akira already realized Hibiki is the one she's in love with... Although realizing it just from that scene didn't make a lot of sense, but I guess we're gonna roll with it.
It's one thing to assume it's the case, it's another thing to see it with your own eyes.
[Toradora] >!It's like Minori thinking Taiga has feelings for Ryuuji only for it to get confirmed when Taiga was calling out for him.!<
>>What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?
>Very silly. Fuko was either gonna be a blood sacrifice by some new cult with a candle fetish that was indeed a fortune teller. I think the fire just added unnecessary drama. Yes, it helped open her eyes, realize she's really in love with Hibiki... But she already knew that much.
I thought it was cool though to see her accept being a lesbian. Like, it felt very forward thinking especially for a show from 2001.
[Toradora] >!Fuko saving Hiniki from the fire reminded me of Ryuuji saving Taiga from the snowstorm.!<
>>What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?
>Very progressive for an early 2000s anime, but the problem should be that Hibiki's her teacher and the whole age gap thing.
I think that's kinda the point of it all, tho. Like, Fuko is focused on the wrong thing. It's similar to Hibiki focusing on Fuko and helping her out not realizing she sees it as much than just him helping her.
>>What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?
>Could've been done a lot better if the scenario had been different. Maybe Hibiki finally got caught for being a man, and Fuko could've stood out for him instead.
I feel like they needed something dramatic for something like this, though. Something that truly proves they're on equal footing. It continues the downslope of their relationship that like continues to descend into madness.
I really like the fire stuff more than you, it seems.
>On to the episode!
[](#jibrilaww)
>Looks like we're getting another drama heavy episode. I wonder if Fujio will be mad at Fuko...
She's more mad at herself, it seems
>Poor pervert is now unemployed. Oh well, more time to be a creep around the girls.
You see to hate it
>Of course Fuko had to run into bra-man while they're both out on a "thinking" night walk.
Gee, I wonder what's on bra man's plight...
>And now things are all awkward between Fujio and Akira. And probably Fuko and Akira. And Fuko and Fujio.
I like how it's done believably. They're not mad at each other, but they're stewing in their hurt feelings.
>There's a kidnapper on the loose. Looks like Fuko's fate is sealed.
RIP Fuko
>There's a dark van following after the girls... Definitely not suspicious.
Normally it would be a white van, I feel like
>Aaaand Fuko's gone.
Damn
>Yes, Hibiki, allow the 2 children to go look for the girl you suspect just got kidnapped.
At least he's going with them. Kinda.
>Is Fuko gonna be used as some sort of sacrifice? Wait... Don't tell me this is the fortune teller...
It id
>Good thing Hibiki had a police dog all along!
Isn't that just his dog?
>Looks like the perverts were the ones on the van lol.
What were they even doing, honestly?
>Yup, it's the fortune teller. Good job on setting his shop on fire though.
In fairness, the fortune teller shouldn't have left the candles out in the open like that.
>Holy shit, Granny has a Mobile Suit Gundam! Or a transformer, I guess.
I love that joke so much. It made me laugh so hard.
>Yeah, no way was a skinny 14 year old girl gonna support a grown ass man like that.
You never know, Fuko may have the gains [](#mugistronk)
That, or Hibiki is incredibly lighy
>Hard to take this episode seriously because of all the absurdity, but we keep moving forward!
I thought at the very least the heart continues to shine through. It was nice to see Fuko not play the damsel in distress like she was in the earlier episodes.
>>As I've been rewatching thie show, I've found myself taking over the Evangelion rewatch for the Rebuild portion. I already said it, but I really appreciate LittleIslander for coming to me for help. It wasn't a case of me begging and I thought it was very sweet he thought of me first to take over.
>>I'm also 12 episodes deep in the Toradora rewatch. Of course, by the time you read this it'll all be behind us but I just thought I'd share where I am on my rewatch journey.
>Yeah, really don't know how you do all that, goddamn.
I have a lot of time on my hands. And a lot of hands in my time.
>>I'm hoping Strawberry Eggs can capitalize on the momentum of the last episode. Some of the recent ones have been kinda there for me, but episode 10 was a nice bounce back. It's funny because in real time as of this writing I'm hosting the Shakugan no Shana rewatch. And in my head, I had Strawberry Eggs as a better show than that one. Despite this, though, I find season 2 of Shakugan no Shana to be way more enjoyable than Strawberry Eggs. It has a lot of the humanity of Strawberry Eggs but I feel it's more fully realized.
>While I am enjoying the show for what it is, I found the first half to be a lot better. It could've been a much better show without the romance portion of it.
I actually really like how the show has handled the romance the last couple episodes. This to me is the most inspired the show has been since episode 5. I like all the characters kinda being put in this position where they're all suffering and they don't know what to do but they still really care about one another. It feels very human.
>>Overall, this is an episode that started slow but was made by the last couple minutes. I like Fuko learning to accept her feelings, and Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech is probably the funniest moment of the series. It really is a big deal that Fuko accepts that she is in love with a girl. It feels very progressive, especially for 2001. I liked the impetus for her coming to this conclusion as a result of her and Hibiki being caught in a fire. It really helped add a sense of urgency to things.
>The mech part was awesome! The fire, not so much. I agree on the progressiveness of the whole thing, just wish Hibiki was another school kid rather than a teacher...
This is probably one of those things we'll have to agree to disagree, but I like that Hibiki is like solely focused on the age thing being the issue whereas Fuko is focused on them in her mind being the same gender. I think this is a microcosm of how far apart they truly are and why something between them is doomed to blossom.
**Ran out of space. Part two down below.**
>>I'd have this episode in like the upper half of Strawberry Eggs episodes. Probably top 5. The episode from the fire onward was exciting and extremely memorable. And I'll never forget Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech, that was tremendous.
>I'm gonna have to disagree once more. I felt the fire was pretty needless, except for the cool mech.
It was important as a means to have Fuko become more comfortable with her feelings which underlying one of the inherent flaws with how she feels. The fact she doubles down on feeling she stands a chance is like a parallel to Hibiki doubling down on helping others when he could've and should've cut back.
>>It'll be curious to see what happens going forward now that Fuko has accepted her feelings for Hibiki. I'm glad at the very least we had an episode where she reflected on her feelings, and that in the same episode it would seem we got some meaningful development.
>With just 2 episodes to go, I don't think things will go my way, but I hoped there would be more focus on the male-pretending-to-be-a-female-teacher drama rather than the age gap romance drama...
I think the show has done a good job balancing the two. The male-pretending-to-be-a-female-teacher drama has kinda taken a backseat to the age gap romance drama, but I feel like for a while there one didn't overshadow the other.
And in a way, Hibiki being a female teacher is kinda what led to the mess between Hibiki and Fuko in the first place. I don't think Fuko would've put the level of trust she has in Hibiki if he wasn't pretending to be a woman.
>[Toradora] >!Fuko saving Hiniki from the fire reminded me of Ryuuji saving Taiga from the snowstorm.!<
You know, overall I just don't like it in these high school anime when kids save others from pretty much anything. If it's a fantasy anime, I'm totally fine with it, but when it's a mostly grounded setting, it bothers me, probably more than it should, but what can I do about it?
>I feel like they needed something dramatic for something like this, though. Something that truly proves they're on equal footing. It continues the downslope of their relationship that like continues to descend into madness.
>I really like the fire stuff more than you, it seems.
None of this proved they were on equal footing, though. It proved Fuko was willing to die for him, nothing else. Granny was the one who saved the day.
>I like how it's done believably. They're not mad at each other, but they're stewing in their hurt feelings.
Yeah, I didn't think they'd be mad, I was just curious to see if Fujio would be mad at Fuko, but I guess we'll find out next episode!
>Normally it would be a white van, I feel like
That's true lol, but being black kinda makes it more suspicious, seeing as it blends better in the night.
>At least he's going with them. Kinda.
Not really, he sent them out on their own and went on a separate path. But yeah at least there were 2 of them, so I guess they wouldn't die alone!
>Isn't that just his dog?
Yeah, but regular dogs can't just track smell like that, it needs some crazy training! I have a German Shepherd and let me tell you, she would not be finding anything besides the closest butcher shop.
>You never know, Fuko may have the gains
>That, or Hibiki is incredibly lighy
He's a PE teacher, he would definitely be lean, but probably have a solid amount of muscle... And Fuko is like the smallest girl in her class... It wasn't gonna happen!
>I thought at the very least the heart continues to shine through. It was nice to see Fuko not play the damsel in distress like she was in the earlier episodes.
Yeah, but in order to do that, they had to come up with the most absurd plot line imaginable. Kidnapper on the loose, everyone assume she's been kidnapped, it was actually the weirdest fortune teller to ever exist, his entire store consists of lit candles, Hibiki fucks up and sets the whole thing on fire and nobody notices until it's too late, Hibiki goes unconscious, and Fuko gets a massive power-up out of nowhere...
>I actually really like how the show has handled the romance the last couple episodes. This to me is the most inspired the show has been since episode 5. I like all the characters kinda being put in this position where they're all suffering and they don't know what to do but they still really care about one another. It feels very human.
Like I said before, I would've probably enjoyed it more if I didn't dislike Akira so much, and if the main couple wasn't a 14 year old and her teacher :|
>This is probably one of those things we'll have to agree to disagree, but I like that Hibiki is like solely focused on the age thing being the issue whereas Fuko is focused on them in her mind being the same gender. I think this is a microcosm of how far apart they truly are and why something between them is doomed to blossom.
Well, that makes sense though. Hibiki knows he's a man, the only issue to him is the age gap, Fuko probably isn't even considering the age difference because she suddenly thinks she's a lesbian. That last part does seem believable at least.
>It was important as a means to have Fuko become more comfortable with her feelings which underlying one of the inherent flaws with how she feels. The fact she doubles down on feeling she stands a chance is like a parallel to Hibiki doubling down on helping others when he could've and should've cut back.
But that could've been done in any number of ways that would be better than the fire... It's not necessarily the feelings I have a problem with.
>I think the show has done a good job balancing the two. The male-pretending-to-be-a-female-teacher drama has kinda taken a backseat to the age gap romance drama, but I feel like for a while there one didn't overshadow the other.
True, but I would've still preferred a much bigger focus on the vice principal going after him. Maybe even falling in love and changing her ways!
>And in a way, Hibiki being a female teacher is kinda what led to the mess between Hibiki and Fuko in the first place. I don't think Fuko would've put the level of trust she has in Hibiki if he wasn't pretending to be a woman.
But the cross-dressing part was the whole point of the anime :P
EDIT: If you see a bunch of deleted messages or something, I just triple posted this somehow.
There's nothing wrong with having different tastes. I'll just explain why I feel it works and is good storytelling.
>None of this proved they were on equal footing, though. It proved Fuko was willing to die for him, nothing else. Granny was the one who saved the day.
I would say it showed that Fuko can be there for Hibiki like Hibiki is for her. Up until now, it seemed like Hibiki is the one doing all the saving.
It's actually brilliant writing how with the kidnapping you'd thought it was going to be another plot where Hibiki has to save Fuko. Only for it to turn into a bait and switch and Fuko ends up saving Hibiki.
>Yeah, I didn't think they'd be mad, I was just curious to see if Fujio would be mad at Fuko, but I guess we'll find out next episode!
At this point, it would be weird if Fujio was mad at Fuko. She doesn't actively blame her, she just sees things changing and doesn't know what to do about it.
I guess Fujio could blame Fuko for breaking Akira's heart, feeling Akira and Fuko should be together, but that to me is the only way Fujio holding animosity towards Fuko would make sense.
>That's true lol, but being black kinda makes it more suspicious, seeing as it blends better in the night.
It reminds me of me wearing a black jacket at night and the bus drivers having trouble seeing me.
>Not really, he sent them out on their own and went on a separate path. But yeah at least there were 2 of them, so I guess they wouldn't die alone!
They split up to go looking for someone, like Scooby-Doo.
>Yeah, but regular dogs can't just track smell like that, it needs some crazy training! I have a German Shepherd and let me tell you, she would not be finding anything besides the closest butcher shop.
Maybe the dog has some backstory we don't know about.
>He's a PE teacher, he would definitely be lean, but probably have a solid amount of muscle... And Fuko is like the smallest girl in her class... It wasn't gonna happen!
Maybe the idea is Fuko’s love for Hibiki is so strong it increased her power. Cheesy, but this is fiction.
It's like how The Grinch in How The Grinch Stole Christmas was able to lift up a sled with presents on it after his heart grew three sizes.
>Yeah, but in order to do that, they had to come up with the most absurd plot line imaginable. Kidnapper on the loose, everyone assume she's been kidnapped, it was actually the weirdest fortune teller to ever exist, his entire store consists of lit candles, Hibiki fucks up and sets the whole thing on fire and nobody notices until it's too late, Hibiki goes unconscious, and Fuko gets a massive power-up out of nowhere...
I think they did the kidnapping to make you think the plot was going one way when really it was going another. It was sort of a red herring, as I mentioned earlier.
>Like I said before, I would've probably enjoyed it more if I didn't dislike Akira so much, and if the main couple wasn't a 14 year old and her teacher :|
I get that. But I like how Akira has been written the last couple episodes where he gets rejected and he remains committed to Fuko. And Hibiki like talking about how wrong this is leads to some moral ambiguity. You truly don't know what's coming next with them.
I think the thing I really like about this writing is how Fuko is being written. As she commits to her feelings, it's like she's becoming less weak and more sure of herself. And as she becomes sure of herself, it's like everyone else is floundering.
It reminds me of an inverse of the third arc of Spice and Wolf where Lawrence finds himself at his lowest point with no one it feels like he can really turn to. And as this is going on, there's a massive parade going on and everyone is having fun. Fuko is the only one who feels strengthened since the events of episode 10.
And then of course there's Fujio who you can tell doesn't want to blame Fuko for what happened but she can't separate the fact she's the reason Akira turned her down. How she will respond over Akira having her heart broken when Fuko seems clueless she's responsible for that, who's to say.
>Well, that makes sense though. Hibiki knows he's a man, the only issue to him is the age gap, Fuko probably isn't even considering the age difference because she suddenly thinks she's a lesbian. That last part does seem believable at least.
And again, it highlights why this relationship probably would never work. The problems they see in the relationship are like different stratospheres.
>But that could've been done in any number of ways that would be better than the fire... It's not necessarily the feelings I have a problem with.
I think the fire was done because it would be very dramatic. And it was, I feel like. You can argue it was forced, but I think it works in terms of furthering Hibiki and Fuko's relationship.
>True, but I would've still preferred a much bigger focus on the vice principal going after him. Maybe even falling in love and changing her ways!
Who, Hibiki falling in love with the vice principal? That could be interesting. But then the show would be radically different. They've been teasing the age difference romance since the very first episode.
Also, vice principal didn't really get focused on until episode 4.
I'm fine with the vice principal pursuing Hibiki being like this backdrop for other events. I think the reason it wasn't focused on more is similar to how the show moved on from Lulu thwarting Kōji and Tofu's plans to see the uniforms: There was only so much they could do and they probably ran out of ideas.
The anime was always more about Hibiki crossdressing and the fallout that came from this decision. The vice principal being on his tail is one of many plot points.
>But the cross-dressing part was the whole point of the anime :P
It was, and it's the reason he got the job. And if he hadn't gotten the job, Fuko probably wouldn't fall in love with him. You take the good with the bad.
>EDIT: If you see a bunch of deleted messages or something, I just triple posted this somehow.
No worries. Appreciate the clarification.
I'll give you the other points, and she's there for him like he's there for her, but I wouldn't say she saved him... Granny did.
>At this point, it would be weird if Fujio was mad at Fuko. She doesn't actively blame her, she just sees things changing and doesn't know what to do about it.
It would, but they're teenagers, teenagers do and feel dumb things!
>Maybe the dog has some backstory we don't know about.
Maybe the final episode is all about the dog!
>Maybe the idea is Fuko’s love for Hibiki is so strong it increased her power. Cheesy, but this is fiction.
>It's like how The Grinch in How The Grinch Stole Christmas was able to lift up a sled with presents on it after his heart grew three sizes.
Of course, in fiction anything is possible! But this is mostly grounded fiction (minus Granny), so that's why I don't like it :P
>I think they did the kidnapping to make you think the plot was going one way when really it was going another. It was sort of a red herring, as I mentioned earlier.
Well, it was a solid red herring to be honest. It never occurred to me it would've been the fortune teller until they showed the weird guy and the candles lol, and even then I was in disbelief!
>I get that. But I like how Akira has been written the last couple episodes where he gets rejected and he remains committed to Fuko. And Hibiki like talking about how wrong this is leads to some moral ambiguity. You truly don't know what's coming next with them.
>I think the thing I really like about this writing is how Fuko is being written. As she commits to her feelings, it's like she's becoming less weak and more sure of herself. And as she becomes sure of herself, it's like everyone else is floundering.
I really think Fuko is the best character (minus Granny, she's forever #1). The way she fell for Hibiki and has been confused about it has been very innocent and realistic, and there's nothing wrong with it.
I don't have a lot to say about Akira because there's really nothing objectively wrong with him as a character, I'm just being an asshole and I simply dislike him because I dislike him.
Hibiki is the only character that truly disappointed me. He started out well (minus that episode 2 scene that I initially gave the benefit of the doubt) and with good intentions, but eventually became a bit of a bitch, giving away his salary (or multiple) to cover up for the boys, which wasn't even a cover up since the principal knew, then falling for a very vulnerable, young teenage girl... You don't fall in love with someone in that situation just because you help them out and feel sorry for them. You'll say it's good writing, and it can happen, yada yada, but it won't change my feelings about it. What started as a seemingly guy, ended up as a pedo.
>It reminds me of an inverse of the third arc of Spice and Wolf where Lawrence finds himself at his lowest point with no one it feels like he can really turn to. And as this is going on, there's a massive parade going on and everyone is having fun. Fuko is the only one who feels strengthened since the events of episode 10.
Hey come on now, let's not compare this to Spice and Wolf!
>And then of course there's Fujio who you can tell doesn't want to blame Fuko for what happened but she can't separate the fact she's the reason Akira turned her down. How she will respond over Akira having her heart broken when Fuko seems clueless she's responsible for that, who's to say.
I don't have anythinig against Fujio, and I would understand why a teenage girl could harbor negative feelings towards another in this situation, doesn't mean I'll have to enjoy that outcome :P
>Who, Hibiki falling in love with the vice principal? That could be interesting. But then the show would be radically different. They've been teasing the age difference romance since the very first episode.
I meant the vice principal falling for Hibiki! And yeah, I know. But they could've easily played both sides. There could've been a one sided love between Fuko and Hibiki.
>I'm fine with the vice principal pursuing Hibiki being like this backdrop for other events. I think the reason it wasn't focused on more is similar to how the show moved on from Lulu thwarting Kōji and Tofu's plans to see the uniforms: There was only so much they could do and they probably ran out of ideas.
>The anime was always more about Hibiki crossdressing and the fallout that came from this decision. The vice principal being on his tail is one of many plot points.
The crossdressing fallout could've still been there, just instead of being about the teenage girl alone, it could've been with her **and** the vice principal. Or any other number of ideas, I'm just using her as an alternative for Hibiki not to be i love with Fuko.
>It was, and it's the reason he got the job. And if he hadn't gotten the job, Fuko probably wouldn't fall in love with him. You take the good with the bad.
Could've taken the good without the bad :P
Well, Granny put out the fire. Fuko carried him out of the burning building.
>It would, but they're teenagers, teenagers do and feel dumb things!
It's something I definitely could see happening if it was a longer show. But I like how they've written Fujio so far.
>Maybe the final episode is all about the dog!
What the dog doing?
>Of course, in fiction anything is possible! But this is mostly grounded fiction (minus Granny), so that's why I don't like it :P
I mean, it's grounded fiction surrounded by a lot of absurdism. That's my favorite type of show, honestly. Spice and Wolf is pretty absurd by combining supernatural with European esthetic.
>Well, it was a solid red herring to be honest. It never occurred to me it would've been the fortune teller until they showed the weird guy and the candles lol, and even then I was in disbelief!
Yeah, I thought it was effective. And the fortune teller was foreshadowed by Miho mentioning to Fujio her wanting to take her to see one.
>I really think Fuko is the best character (minus Granny, she's forever #1). The way she fell for Hibiki and has been confused about it has been very innocent and realistic, and there's nothing wrong with it.
Yeah, Fuko is really the heart and soul of this show. Hibiki as well, but Fuko has this Nagisa from Clannad quality to her where she's a pure snowflake that is trying her best even if her best is at the detriment to everything else.
>I don't have a lot to say about Akira because there's really nothing objectively wrong with him as a character, I'm just being an asshole and I simply dislike him because I dislike him.
And that's fine. I do think he maybe should be less dense around Fujio.
>Hibiki is the only character that truly disappointed me. He started out well (minus that episode 2 scene that I initially gave the benefit of the doubt) and with good intentions, but eventually became a bit of a bitch, giving away his salary (or multiple) to cover up for the boys, which wasn't even a cover up since the principal knew, then falling for a very vulnerable, young teenage girl... You don't fall in love with someone in that situation just because you help them out and feel sorry for them. You'll say it's good writing, and it can happen, yada yada, but it won't change my feelings about it. What started as a seemingly guy, ended up as a pedo.
I really like Hibiki because I love main characters who are good people at heart who screw up. Ryuuji, Lawrence, and Edward from Toradora, Spice and Wolf, and Fullmetal Alchemist are all like this and they are probably three of my favorite anime protagonists of all time. I consider Hibiki in the same mold as them.
>Hey come on now, let's not compare this to Spice and Wolf!
You mean the show where the character centuries years old is in a relationship with a 23-year-old? :P
Yes, I know 23 is different from 15...
Oh, don't get me wrong. Spice and Wolf is a better show. But I think there's some similarity between both shows in the sense that the main character is running away from their problems. Both Hibiki and Lawrence are like trying to not find a solution to their problems.
>I don't have anythinig against Fujio, and I would understand why a teenage girl could harbor negative feelings towards another in this situation, doesn't mean I'll have to enjoy that outcome :P
The funny thing is I think Akira needs a girl more like Fujio than Fuko.
>I meant the vice principal falling for Hibiki!
Gotcha
>And yeah, I know. But they could've easily played both sides. There could've been a one sided love between Fuko and Hibiki.
Yeah, you probably could've told the same story with the love triangle without Hibiki having feelings for Fuko. Make it to where Hibiki knows what's going on but doesn't know how to address it because he's too good-natured to talk badly about Fuko
>The crossdressing fallout could've still been there, just instead of being about the teenage girl alone, it could've been with her **and** the vice principal. Or any other number of ideas, I'm just using her as an alternative for Hibiki not to be i love with Fuko.
Or the students could've been college aged.
I think part of what the show is going for which I don’t necessarily agree with is that men are almost always a handful even if they have good intentions. Girls by comparison are more innocent and doe eyed.
>Could've taken the good without the bad :P
Well, what can you do at this point?
Without putting out the fire, they'd both died. And she could've gone in and saved them both too!
>What the dog doing?
He's secretly a spy for the police, and he'll bust Hibiki.
>I mean, it's grounded fiction surrounded by a lot of absurdism. That's my favorite type of show, honestly. Spice and Wolf is pretty absurd by combining supernatural with European esthetic.
Spice and Wolf is ser in a fictional world with Gods and other fantastical things, it's very much not grounded, unless you compare it with a high fantasy show.
>Yeah, Fuko is really the heart and soul of this show. Hibiki as well, but Fuko has this Nagisa from Clannad quality to her where she's a pure snowflake that is trying her best even if her best is at the detriment to everything else.
Okay, I wouldn't go as far as to compare her to Nagisa. Big, big stretch there.
>I really like Hibiki because I love main characters who are good people at heart who screw up. Ryuuji, Lawrence, and Edward from Toradora, Spice and Wolf, and Fullmetal Alchemist are all like this and they are probably three of my favorite anime protagonists of all time. I consider Hibiki in the same mold as them.
We keep coming back to this, but being a pedo isn't just screwing up. It's just like Rudeus, he didn't just fuck up, he was a horrible human being. You might like flawed characters (I do, Goku is my favorite character of all time, I also like Rudeus in spite of being a fuck up), but they doesn't change things.
>You mean the show where the character centuries years old is in a relationship with a 23-year-old? :P
>Yes, I know 23 is different from 15...
Yes it is, the 23 year old is a grown ass man! I wouldn't have been okay with it if he was 15! And also, had she been 18, although still technically illegal, I wouldn't have a problem with it. Also, Fuko is 14!
>Oh, don't get me wrong. Spice and Wolf is a better show. But I think there's some similarity between both shows in the sense that the main character is running away from their problems. Both Hibiki and Lawrence are like trying to not find a solution to their problems.
I think you're trying too hard to find similarities between shows/characters, you end up making comparisons where similarities are too high level to really matter. It's like saying I'm similar to Henry Cavill because we both happen to be nerds who enjoy PC gaming, but our similarities stop there...
>The funny thing is I think Akira needs a girl more like Fujio than Fuko.
But he likes Fuko, though. People don't always need to be in a relationship. Why do you think he would be better if he has a girlfriend like Fujio? I dated a doctor for several years, she worried a lot about my mental health and other aspects of my life I'm gonna keep to myself... Funny enough, it wasn't until we broke up and I was single for a while that I really improved in many aspects of my life.
>Yeah, you probably could've told the same story with the love triangle without Hibiki having feelings for Fuko. Make it to where Hibiki knows what's going on but doesn't know how to address it because he's too good-natured to talk badly about Fuko
Yeah, that's what I hoped for from the start I knew it wasn't gonna happen, but it's what I really wanted.
>Or the students could've been college aged.
That too, yeah. Although still morally ambiguous, I would've been fine with it.
>I think part of what the show is going for which I don’t necessarily agree with is that men are almost always a handful even if they have good intentions. Girls by comparison are more innocent and doe eyed.
Yup, seems to be the message they're sending, even though I don't think that's their intention with Hibiki... I think the whole teacher - student thing was kinda prominent back in the day.
>Well, what can you do at this point?
Wake up from a bad dream?
If some of this sounded a little aggressive, please don't take it in a negative way! Sometimes I get really into these arguments :P
True, but the point still is Fuko saved Hibiki. This isn't arguable lol
>He's secretly a spy for the police, and he'll bust Hibiki.
He was in cahoots the whole time when Lulu threatened to unalive him.
>Spice and Wolf is ser in a fictional world with Gods and other fantastical things, it's very much not grounded, unless you compare it with a high fantasy show.
I would say Holo and Lawrence's relationship is grounded. It's two enablers enabling each other and trying to live out a fantasy in a fantasy world.
>Okay, I wouldn't go as far as to compare her to Nagisa. Big, big stretch there.
Look, I like the show, but I can't help myself but to compare it to better shows lol
Clannad is actually a rare anime where I was okay with the tsundere losing.
>We keep coming back to this, but being a pedo isn't just screwing up. It's just like Rudeus, he didn't just fuck up, he was a horrible human being. You might like flawed characters (I do, Goku is my favorite character of all time, I also like Rudeus in spite of being a fuck up), but they doesn't change things.
I still really like Hibiki as a character. That doesn't mean I like everything he does.
>Yes it is, the 23 year old is a grown ass man! I wouldn't have been okay with it if he was 15! And also, had she been 18, although still technically illegal, I wouldn't have a problem with it. Also, Fuko is 14!
14 does make it worse...
>I think you're trying too hard to find similarities between shows/characters, you end up making comparisons where similarities are too high level to really matter. It's like saying I'm similar to Henry Cavill because we both happen to be nerds who enjoy PC gaming, but our similarities stop there...
Fair enough. I also am being a bit defensive of Hibiki because when I think of pedos I think of characters like Minoru Kobayakawa from My First Girlfriend Is a Gal. I don't think I'd ever consider Hibiki a pedo no matter how hard you tell me he is unless he like actually gets with Fuko or something.
>But he likes Fuko, though. People don't always need to be in a relationship. Why do you think he would be better if he has a girlfriend like Fujio? I dated a doctor for several years, she worried a lot about my mental health and other aspects of my life I'm gonna keep to myself... Funny enough, it wasn't until we broke up and I was single for a while that I really improved in many aspects of my life.
I think Akira needs someone to be hard on him so that he can get his head out of his ass. If he ended up with Fuko, I don't know if he would have the right mindset to be there for her. Fuko ironically enough needs someone like a Hibiki, just her own age.
>Yeah, that's what I hoped for from the start I knew it wasn't gonna happen, but it's what I really wanted.
I don't think what we got has been bad, though. In fact, I think it's led to some good drama. The parts that exist are basically the same.
>That too, yeah. Although still morally ambiguous, I would've been fine with it.
If Hibiki was in love with a college aged Fuko and he was conflicted because he's supposed to be his superior and that's a conflict of interest, I don't think we would be having this conversation.
>Yup, seems to be the message they're sending, even though I don't think that's their intention with Hibiki...
I think what they're intending with Hibiki is what I've been sounding the drum on since the very beginning where Hibiki’s kindness worked the other way. By being there for Fuko, she ended up falling in love with him and Hibiki ended up confused because now it's like why is he helping her so much.
The scenario I just laid out is not actually a bad idea for a show. And you add Akira and Fujio into the mix, I think it really pops. I think though it's easy to misconstrue Hibiki being conflicted to him being no better than the male students we've seen and his roommates. I think Hibiki is still a good person at heart, he just by being so heavily involved lost his way.
>I think the whole teacher - student thing was kinda prominent back in the day.
I think, it's still fantasized even to this day. Miru Tights plays out this exact scenario. And Domestic Girlfriend was all about this as well, and that had an anime only 6 years ago.
I think what makes Strawberry Eggs stand out to me is that it's not focused on a high school student being in love with a teacher. It's the teacher being in love with a high school student, and the fallout that comes from that. And through that lens, it deconstructs the male wish fulfillment that exists from said fantasy.
>Wake up from a bad dream?
More like a nightmare at this point
>If some of this sounded a little aggressive, please don't take it in a negative way! Sometimes I get really into these arguments :P
No, I really appreciate it. It allows me to apply critical thinking and think about this show to a degree I've never thought about it before.
The only thing I disagree with you on vehemently is Hibiki being a pedophile. That's like the Eva fans who say Misato is a pedophile: It feels to me that opinion lacks nuance.
Fine, but I'm not happy about it!
>I would say Holo and Lawrence's relationship is grounded. It's two enablers enabling each other and trying to live out a fantasy in a fantasy world.
Pretty accurate I'd say.
>Fair enough. I also am being a bit defensive of Hibiki because when I think of pedos I think of characters like Minoru Kobayakawa from My First Girlfriend Is a Gal. I don't think I'd ever consider Hibiki a pedo no matter how hard you tell me he is unless he like actually gets with Fuko or something.
I get what you're saying, he's different from what you'd consider a pedo... But yeah, facts speak louder than emotions!
>I think Akira needs someone to be hard on him so that he can get his head out of his ass. If he ended up with Fuko, I don't know if he would have the right mindset to be there for her. Fuko ironically enough needs someone like a Hibiki, just her own age.
You're probably thinking too hard about this. They're 14, most 14 year olds have their heads up their own asses and will get it out on their own by the time they mature, they don't *need* anyone.
>I don't think what we got has been bad, though. In fact, I think it's led to some good drama. The parts that exist are basically the same.
I do. I've already watched the 12th episode, and with just one episode to go, I can say that overall I did enjoy the anime, but I liked the first half a lot better than the second. I really came in totally blind into this, besides the MC being a cross-dresser. I had not expected it to be an age gap romance. For the most part, I think the drama was very silly (after a certain episode). I liked the comedic moments a lot better.
>If Hibiki was in love with a college aged Fuko and he was conflicted because he's supposed to be his superior and that's a conflict of interest, I don't think we would be having this conversation.
Very true, my biggest issue really is that she's 14 and he's a grown ass man.
>I think what they're intending with Hibiki is what I've been sounding the drum on since the very beginning where Hibiki’s kindness worked the other way. By being there for Fuko, she ended up falling in love with him and Hibiki ended up confused because now it's like why is he helping her so much.
>The scenario I just laid out is not actually a bad idea for a show. And you add Akira and Fujio into the mix, I think it really pops. I think though it's easy to misconstrue Hibiki being conflicted to him being no better than the male students we've seen and his roommates. I think Hibiki is still a good person at heart, he just by being so heavily involved lost his way.
That would've worked better had he not been in love/confused about a 14 year old. I think you're really underplaying the pedo thing. I understand it doesn't fit the usual pedo role, but again, facts.
>I think, it's still fantasized even to this day. Miru Tights plays out this exact scenario. And Domestic Girlfriend was all about this as well, and that had an anime only 6 years ago.
Yup.
>I think what makes Strawberry Eggs stand out to me is that it's not focused on a high school student being in love with a teacher. It's the teacher being in love with a high school student, and the fallout that comes from that. And through that lens, it deconstructs the male wish fulfillment that exists from said fantasy.
At 14 years old, they're in middle school, not even high school... But yeah, at least the fact that it's just emotional and not physical does make it less bad.
>No, I really appreciate it. It allows me to apply critical thinking and think about this show to a degree I've never thought about it before.
[](#brothersinarms)
>The only thing I disagree with you on vehemently is Hibiki being a pedophile. That's like the Eva fans who say Misato is a pedophile: It feels to me that opinion lacks nuance.
There's no nuance needed here, imo. A grown adult has fallen in love, and tried to get physical with a 14 year old student. Ask anyone in the world (maybe avoid the middle east and other fucked up places), and regardless of context, they'll tell you the teacher is a pedophile. Obviously this is an anime, but since it's mostly a grounded, I'm gonna go with the real world rules.
I kinda like the slow melancholic feel of the start of the episode.
It is definitely not surprising that Mori lost his job considering how little we actually see him doing that job.
It’s interesting that the show is addressing Fuko’s conflicted inner feelings about being attracted to a woman. Surprised that hasn’t happened before now.
Apparently the area has a kidnapping problem now. That’s very dark and out of nowhere.
I don’t get why the show is acting like the Vice Principal is overreacting again. This seems like a serious problem to be concerned about.
This kidnapping subplot feels pretty out of nowhere as a way to introduce conflict. We already had enough pre-established conflict with all the love stuff going on.
Okay so this kidnapper isn’t just a creep but he’s also some kind of crazy cultist? This episode has truly gone off the rails.
Alright, I guess they brought things back around with the fortune teller reveal. They did foreshadow that.
Even if he’s not a kidnapper, he’s still the shadiest looking fortune teller I’ve ever seen. I would not give that man my money.
See, that’s way too many candles. I had a feeling something like this was gonna happen at the end.
Lulu building a mecha suit out of her motorcycle is the most unhinged way we could have resolved this plot.
It’s so weird to me that the most serious episode of the series is followed by one of the most ridiculous.
Anyway now that the day is saved I guess we’ll continue this love plot next time.
**Questions:**
**What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?**
Like I said, I wasn't expecting the bonkers way they resolved it.
**What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?**
I just hope they don't back out on the end and have Fuko say she realizes she was just confused and doesn't actually like women once she realizes Hibiki is actually a guy.
**What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?**
I think that's sweet.
It reminds me of Toradora episode 20
>It is definitely not surprising that Mori lost his job considering how little we actually see him doing that job.
Yeah, for real.
It serves him right for using his time off being a nuisance.
>It’s interesting that the show is addressing Fuko’s conflicted inner feelings about being attracted to a woman. Surprised that hasn’t happened before now.
And she's focused on that while Hibiki is hung up on the age difference. It's like both know this relationship is wrong, but have different answers as to why it is.
>Apparently the area has a kidnapping problem now. That’s very dark and out of nowhere.
At least it was followed up on unlike that weird scene with the girls saying they were groped.
>I don’t get why the show is acting like the Vice Principal is overreacting again. This seems like a serious problem to be concerned about.
My feeling is the students feel grouping everyone together won't solve anything.
>This kidnapping subplot feels pretty out of nowhere as a way to introduce conflict. We already had enough pre-established conflict with all the love stuff going on.
I think it was done as a way to get Fujio and Fuko hanging out again while building on the tension that exists between them. The tension in Fujio's mind, anyhow.
>Okay so this kidnapper isn’t just a creep but he’s also some kind of crazy cultist? This episode has truly gone off the rails.
Syke!
>Alright, I guess they brought things back around with the fortune teller reveal. They did foreshadow that.
That they did
>Even if he’s not a kidnapper, he’s still the shadiest looking fortune teller I’ve ever seen. I would not give that man my money.
He looks like a Klansman if they were black hoods.
Actually, I don't believe we ever reveal the identity of the fortune teller, do we?
>See, that’s way too many candles. I had a feeling something like this was gonna happen at the end.
This episode really has the most wildest twists.
>Lulu building a mecha suit out of her motorcycle is the most unhinged way we could have resolved this plot.
I like though that they tied the fire into Hibiki and Fuko's relationship. It was a good emotional beat to have Fuko realize her feelings, and that she shouldn't be ashamed of loving a woman.
That doesn't mean I'm saying I'm in favor of this relationship, mind you.
And yeah, it's crazy we went from the beginning with everyone sulking to a kidnapping plot to Lulu putting out a fire by a mech. But in the heart of it all is still the relationship drama which ties it all together.
>It’s so weird to me that the most serious episode of the series is followed by one of the most ridiculous.
But it works, weirdly enough. Like, that moment of Fuko carrying Hibiki as Akira looks on is like the perfect mirror of Fujio seeing Akira confess to Fuko, or Hibiki seeing Fuko reject Akira.
>Anyway now that the day is saved I guess we’ll continue this love plot next time.
Hibiki is going to have to do something sooner or later. As he remains conflicted, Fuko's feelings are only getting stronger and more etched in stone.
>**Questions:**
>**What are your thoughts on the fire scene and how that played out?**
>Like I said, I wasn't expecting the bonkers way they resolved it.
Lulu's motorcycle turning into a mech is probably one of the most memorable moments of the series. And that's on top of everything else that makes that scene memorable.
>**What are your thoughts on Fuko realizing she shouldn't feel ashamed for loving another woman?**
>I just hope they don't back out on the end and have Fuko say she realizes she was just confused and doesn't actually like women once she realizes Hibiki is actually a guy.
See, I don't think Fuko is suddenly a lesbian. I think she just likes Hibiki. That's like saying Hibiki is a pedo because he feels conflicted about an underaged girl. You can say that, but he really likes Fuko and who she is as a person.
What Hibiki is saying ultimately is that she would love Hibiki regardless of if he's male or female. Her love for him transcends gender. Of course, what she doesn't know is the girl she thinks she loves is actually the guy she thinks very little of: The bra man.
>**What are your thoughts on Fuko being there for Hibiki like how he's been there for Fuko in past episodes?**
>I think that's sweet.
It shows that in a different timeline, Hibiki and Fuko probably would be a good pairing. They seem made for each other. It just sucks that they are at different points in their lives and it isn't sustainable, which I feel is part of Hibiki's frustrations.
He's just some random fortune teller who works nearby and is shady as fuck.
>See, I don't think Fuko is suddenly a lesbian. I think she just likes Hibiki. That's like saying Hibiki is a pedo because he feels conflicted about an underaged girl. You can say that, but he really likes Fuko and who she is as a person.
>What Hibiki is saying ultimately is that she would love Hibiki regardless of if he's male or female. Her love for him transcends gender. Of course, what she doesn't know is the girl she thinks she loves is actually the guy she thinks very little of: The bra man.
I'm fine with that in theory, I just think there's definitely the potential to botch the execution of this.
Doesn't seem like a good way to make money.
>I'm fine with that in theory, I just think there's definitely the potential to botch the execution of this.
I think Fuko if she moves on from Hibiki deciding she likes women would be an interesting direction for the show to go in. But I still feel that the end game is Fuko and Akira.
Thoughts on Fuko and Hibiki not showing up to school?
Thoughts on Fujio being beside herself over being rejected?
Thoughts on Akira not giving up hope on ending up with Fuko?
Thoughts on Kōji being fired from his job for taking too many days off?
What are your thoughts on Fuko being conflicted because in her mind, girls can't love girls?
What are your thoughts on Fuko saying she's more sick in the head than bra man?
Thoughts on Miho planning on taking Fujio to see a fortune teller?
Thoughts on there being a bunch if kidnappings across town?
Thoughts on Fujio not knowing how to talk to Fuko in light of recent events?
What are your thoughts on Fuko going missing?
Thoughts on Akira, Fujio, and Hibiki all looking for Fuko?
What are your thoughts on Hibiki discovering that Fuko is just getting her fortune told?
What are your thoughts on a fire breaking out due to one of the candles falling over?
What are your thoughts on Hibiki passing out?
What are your thoughts on Fuko saving both herself and Hibiki?
What are your thoughts on Lulu's motorcycle turning into A MOTHERFUCKING ROBOT?
What are your thoughts on Lulu putting out the fire?
What are your thoughts on Akira on the verge of tears as he realizes Fuko’s heart does indeed belong to someone else?
>Thoughts on Akira not giving up hope on ending up with Fuko?
I feel like that'll probably happen at the end
>Thoughts on Kōji being fired from his job for taking too many days off?
Again, surprised this hadn't happened sooner.
>What are your thoughts on Fuko being conflicted because in her mind, girls can't love girls?
Your phrasing of that question reminds me of that one girl from Madoka Magica.
>Thoughts on Miho planning on taking Fujio to see a fortune teller?
It is kind of funny how they brought that back around
>Thoughts on there being a bunch if kidnappings across town?
I guess we never find out what was going on with that. This city seems dangerous.
>What are your thoughts on Fuko going missing?
Good misdirect with the kidnapping stuff being set up
>Thoughts on Akira, Fujio, and Hibiki all looking for Fuko?
They're good friends.
>What are your thoughts on Hibiki discovering that Fuko is just getting her fortune told?
Again, that was set up
>What are your thoughts on Fuko saving both herself and Hibiki?
Good for her
>What are your thoughts on Lulu's motorcycle turning into A MOTHERFUCKING ROBOT?
Probably the craziest part of the show
Fair enough. I respect the honesty.
>I feel like that'll probably happen at the end
Maybe
>Again, surprised this hadn't happened sooner.
No kidding
>Your phrasing of that question reminds me of that one girl from Madoka Magica.
[](#forbiddenlove)
Gotta use the comment face :P
>It is kind of funny how they brought that back around
And how it led to a lot of drama
>I guess we never find out what was going on with that. This city seems dangerous.
People get groped all the time, people are regularly getting kidnapped. Yeah, I wouldn't want to live there.
>Good misdirect with the kidnapping stuff being set up
What I love about this is that the way it's set up makes it seem like Hibiki is going to rescue Fuko. But in the end, it was Fuko that rescued Hibiki. That's pretty clever.
>They're good friends.
I like that Fujio put her bruised ego aside to help her friend out.
>Again, that was set up
Hibiki thought Fuko was in danger but she was only in danger once Hibiki showed up.
>Good for her
Fuko is deceptively strong apparently. I'd like to think she was able to carry Hibiki without tripping because of Hibiki sensei's help.
>Probably the craziest part of the show
It's the craziest thing we've seen since the Kamen Rider parody.
I kinda feel like it somewhat takes away from the emotion of Fuko rescuing Hibiki, but at the same time it's Lulu. If anyone would randomly have a mech on her, it would be her. And they brought things back in focus with Akira looking on despondently.
**First Timer Late to the Party, Dubbed**
**Episode 11**
Leave the mirror, good lord 😭
Why does everyone look like a zombie now
*He’s* a fortune teller??? Not like a Catholic on that one holiday where they go out in those costumes?
So Lulu is has mobile armor. Of course she does. That looks like the one suits from I think the second or third “arc” of Robotech, where there was Rand and Scott? (I know Robotech was basically stitched together mecha shows but I forget the actual name of the arc’s franchise).
***
**QotD**
1. I hadn’t anticipated the cold open, but I was glad for it. I like seeing the weight of all the that happened is still burdening everyone.
2. It was so strange 😭 Why were there that many candles in the first place? Why was a fortune telling wearing all that? How flammable was this place? Why did everyone look like a zombie? But when that first candle fell, I went “Oh no”.
3. This is her sapphic awakening. Honestly, good for her. Ignoring everything else, she shouldn’t feel shame for loving another woman. That is very great for her at her age to understand.
4. …I’m very worried for how this will end.
Mirror is love, mirror is life
>Why does everyone look like a zombie now
Because love hurts
>*He’s* a fortune teller??? Not like a Catholic on that one holiday where they go out in those costumes?
Yeah, what's that about?
>So Lulu is has mobile armor. Of course she does. That looks like the one suits from I think the second or third “arc” of Robotech, where there was Rand and Scott? (I know Robotech was basically stitched together mecha shows but I forget the actual name of the arc’s franchise).
Lulu is so cool
>***
>**QotD**
>1. I hadn’t anticipated the cold open, but I was glad for it. I like seeing the weight of all the that happened is still burdening everyone.
Same here. It gives things this extra sense of gravitas.
>2. It was so strange 😭 Why were there that many candles in the first place? Why was a fortune telling wearing all that? How flammable was this place? Why did everyone look like a zombie? But when that first candle fell, I went “Oh no”.
I liked that Hibiki who has been saving Fuko kinda put themselves in that position. I think it reflects how their relationship has evolved. Or devolved, rather.
>3. This is her sapphic awakening. Honestly, good for her. Ignoring everything else, she shouldn’t feel shame for loving another woman. That is very great for her at her age to understand.
I thought it was a very positive message for the show to preach.
>4. …I’m very worried for how this will end.
I really can't see everyone ending happy.
Thoughts on Fuko and Hibiki not showing up to school?
Thoughts on Fujio being beside herself over being rejected?
Thoughts on Akira not giving up hope on ending up with Fuko?
Thoughts on Kōji being fired from his job for taking too many days off?
What are your thoughts on Fuko being conflicted because in her mind, girls can't love girls?
What are your thoughts on Fuko saying she's more sick in the head than bra man?
Thoughts on Miho planning on taking Fujio to see a fortune teller?
Thoughts on there being a bunch if kidnappings across town?
Thoughts on Fujio not knowing how to talk to Fuko in light of recent events?
What are your thoughts on Fuko going missing?
Thoughts on Akira, Fujio, and Hibiki all looking for Fuko?
What are your thoughts on Hibiki discovering that Fuko is just getting her fortune told?
What are your thoughts on a fire breaking out due to one of the candles falling over?
What are your thoughts on Hibiki passing out?
What are your thoughts on Fuko saving both herself and Hibiki?
What are your thoughts on Lulu's motorcycle turning into A MOTHERFUCKING ROBOT?
What are your thoughts on Lulu putting out the fire?
What are your thoughts on Akira on the verge of tears as he realizes Fuko’s heart does indeed belong to someone else?