Jan 07, 2026
I loved watching the human and Neko students navigate that awkward party. The initial tension felt so real, making that moment when Koori and Kuroha crashed into the food table, and everyone laughed, a turning point. It was a tiny, perfect fracture in the prejudice dividing them. Torao's leadership here was fantastic.
Hale's entire subplot had me smiling the whole time. His terrible Santa disguise, his spiraling worries, and his final, quiet realization on the bench was a vulnerable and honest moment. He's someone who deeply, personally cares for her, and he's finally admitting it to himself.
But the ending... oh, the ending. Koori giving him a pendant made from the volcanic stone of Fuji, infused with her own power? It's a piece of her home, her essence, and her heart. It’s the most tangible symbol of their bond yet.
This special chapter gave us breathing room, deepened character relationships, and filled us with a sense of hope and warmth, all while staying true to the story's soul. An absolutely beautiful, festive installment. 
