Story 210: I Just Wanted Her to Smile
Kitabaraki strikes again. That principle of attentiveness really gives every performance a certain dimension. Akane's Shinigami was intense and serious. In order to re-prime the audience, Kaisei had to bring a more relaxing atmosphere. The first thing he did was changing the main character, which draws your attention, but the incorporation of a child's innocence is what is bringing the whole story together.
I liked that once Kaisei changed his face, the whole audience's faces changed to match 😆 They were all waiting to see what kind of story he would tell, and the switch up felt so sudden it took everyone off guard. Slowly, but surely, Kaisei brought them all in.
Haru-kun was such a sweet child 🥺💜 His mom is his only family member, and he did what he could to make sure she was ok, and let her know that he is fine. He had to grow up fast, so seeing the more childish side of Kaisei on stage feels melancholic.
He knows how to cheer people up, but knowing that he acts cheerful for the sake of others instead of being a genuine emotion he feels himself makes me really sad for him. It makes me wonder how much of the Kaisei we have seen is actually him, and how much is a mask he wears.
I feel like Kaichi embodies what most of the readers are feeling. This "Duel Duet" isn't really a competition of Akane vs. Kaisei, it's more like what they need to face in themselves. Akane wanting to move closer torward Shiguma's Art, and Kaisei facing his failed promotion exam and Issho's expectations, and finding out what Kaisei wants for himself. The most important part is that neither of them feel like they failed.
Also loved this page of Kaisei exorcising Akane's Shinigami. The stage is his now!!! How will the boy use his newfound powers in the rest of the story? Maybe he will get revenge on his dad? Maybe he will meet a different doctor (cough Issho cough) 👀
