Re: Mari

I know I've made like a dozen of paragraphs-long comments here but I don't think I've ever talked about Mari's arc and I feel the need to write one because of the hate she's receiving from many platforms.

I believe kimiyoko handles the teacher-student relationship well unlike most mangas. Her attraction towards him is an extention of her struggles and coping with extreme anxiety. So the narrative question really isn't about the clichéd "will they-won't they student-relationship" but moreso on how will this feeling affect/help her with her struggles. I think the manga made it abundantly clear with the teacher already setting boundaries, and the constant reminders of his existing romantic relationship. (And honestly tho, I feel like unlike the other protagonists, she's already on the "moving on from her unrequited love" stage)

I understand that there are many readers who will find her attraction to be uncomfortable. I did too. But just to put things on perspective. She's a teenager with severe social anxiety and selective mutism. So I find it understable or in-character since those who struggle with it tend to easily form attachment towards people they find comfortable to be with. And that's exactly what the teacher provided her with: patience, a safe space, and an encouragement. And like Asagiri who has a newly-reignited desire to continue diving, her feelings motivated her to pursue the things she like (writing) and actually go out and form bonds with people.