Ch. 681When No One Around Could Answer, Only I Could Answer!
Summary of Chapter: "When No One Around Could Answer, Only I Could Answer!"
1. Key Plot Points & Events
Messages from Kondo Miyuki & Miki
- Miyuki congratulates Chikage on his literary success and offers to host him at her place due to fan harassment. Chikage politely declines, explaining he’s saving to buy back his old family home.
- Miki messages Chikage, revealing she’s long wondered why he was so capable as a child but never showed it. Chikage admits he intentionally hid his talents to maintain a carefree childhood, only developing responsibility after his family’s tragedy. Miki is deeply moved, realizing his maturity surpasses peers like Yamaguchi Hirota.
- Miki requests an in-person meeting to discuss something important.
Collection Club Plans
- Chikage announces a swimming trip to a water park the next day. The girls (Aoi, Nanase, Suzune) protest they need new swimsuits, while Akita Sana (who already has one) confirms going with Chikage. The girls tease Sana for "abandoning" them but agree to buy swimsuits together later.
Tsukishima Rin’s Reminder
- Rin confirms their swimming plans, reminding Chikage to wear the sunglasses she bought to avoid recognition.
Ending
- Chikage falls asleep after replying to everyone, while others (likely Miki) struggle to sleep, reflecting on their conversations.
2. Character Developments
Natsume Chikage
- Vulnerability: Briefly opens up to Miki about his past, revealing his deliberate choice to suppress his abilities to protect his childhood. This shows emotional growth—acknowledging the weight of his family’s expectations and his own responsibility.
- Maturity: Contrasts with his past "foolish" self, now taking initiative in adulthood (e.g., handling fan harassment, saving for his home).
- Confusion: Briefly puzzled by Miki’s request but accepts it without overthinking.
Kondo Miki
- Realization: Her long-held dislike for Chikage’s "off-putting" intelligence fades as she understands his childhood perspective. She admires his maturity and even reconsiders her stance on games (realizing she never truly disliked them).
- Emotional Shift: Feels "ripples" in her heart, comparing Chikage favorably to Hirota, hinting at deeper feelings or admiration.
Kondo Miyuki
- Concern: Offers practical support (housing) but respects Chikage’s independence. Her praise ("more impressive than your father") underscores her pride in his achievements.
Collection Club Girls
- Aoi/Nanase/Suzune: Playful but organized, highlighting their dynamic (e.g., teasing Sana, planning swimsuits).
- Akita Sana: Confident and straightforward, confirming her bond with Chikage (e.g., "I already told Chikage"). Her teasing of the others adds humor.
Tsukishima Rin
- Supportive: Ensures Chikage’s safety (sunglasses) and maintains their routine, reinforcing their close relationship.
3. Significant Themes
Identity & Responsibility
- Chikage’s revelation about suppressing his talents to preserve his childhood contrasts with his current burden of responsibility (e.g., saving for his home, handling fame). Themes of self-sacrifice and growing up are central.
- Miki’s question forces Chikage to confront how his past shaped his present.
Maturity vs. Childhood
- Chikage’s mature decisions (e.g., declining Miyuki’s offer, handling fan threats) are juxtaposed with his past carefree nature. Miki’s shift in perception reflects how others see his growth.
- The girls’ impulsive but affectionate reactions (e.g., swimsuits) highlight youthful dynamics vs. Chikage’s more calculated approach.
Bonds & Trust
- Miki’s Confession: Her vulnerability in messaging Chikage suggests deepening trust, hinting at a potential emotional connection.
- Collection Club Loyalty: Their group chat dynamics show camaraderie (e.g., Sana’s teasing, the girls’ teamwork on swimsuits).
- Rin’s Care: Her proactive measures (sunglasses) reflect her protective role.
Fame & Privacy
- Chikage’s fan harassment forces him to