Oreco Tachibana’s popular historical romance manga, Firefly Wedding (Hotaru no Yomeiri), officially began its final arc with the chapter released on October 20. The announcement, made on October 6 via Shogakukan’s MangaONE app, signals the impending conclusion of the beloved series that has captivated readers with its unique blend of suspense and heartfelt romance.
The Road to the Climax: What Readers Can Expect
The move into the “final arc” means fans will soon see the resolution of the intricate relationship between the sickly Meiji-era noblewoman Satoko Kirigaya and the enigmatic assassin Shinpei Goto. The series, known for its dramatic twists and compelling character development, is expected to deliver a powerful conclusion to their unusual contract marriage. Readers have been eagerly discussing potential endings, grappling with whether a tragic or hopeful fate awaits the protagonists.
A Brief History of Firefly Wedding
Written and illustrated by Oreco Tachibana, Firefly Wedding launched its serialization on Shogakukan’s Ura Sunday manga website and MangaONE app in January 2023. The story introduces Satoko, who, afflicted with a heart condition, is determined to secure a marriage beneficial to her family before her untimely death. However, her plans are complicated when she becomes the target of an assassin, Shinpei. In a desperate bid for survival, Satoko proposes marriage to her would-be killer, setting the stage for a tense yet passionate romance where Shinpei’s intense devotion mirrors his deadly profession.
The manga quickly garnered a dedicated following for its unique premise and engaging narrative, exploring themes of duty, survival, and unexpected love. As of September 2025, the series has collected nine tankōbon volumes.
Critical Acclaim and International Reach
Firefly Wedding has not only achieved significant popularity but has also received critical recognition within the manga industry. The series boasts over 3 million copies in circulation by September 2025 and has earned several accolades, including ranking first in the Nationwide Bookstore Employees’ Recommended Comics list of 2024 and winning the grand prize at NTT Solmare’s “Minna ga Erabu!! Denshi Comic Taishō 2024” competition. It was also nominated for the 48th Kodansha Manga Award in the shōjo category. The manga further secured a spot in Takarajimasha’s Kono Manga ga Sugoi! 2024 guidebook, ranking ninth for best manga for female readers.
For English-speaking audiences, Firefly Wedding is licensed digitally by Comikey and Viz Media. Viz Media also handles the physical release of the volumes, with the fourth volume having been released on Tuesday. This broad availability has contributed to its global fanbase, eagerly anticipating each new chapter and volume.
What’s Next for the Series?
As Firefly Wedding enters its concluding phase, fans are anticipating how Oreco Tachibana will bring Satoko and Shinpei’s dramatic saga to a close. The series’ consistent quality and intricate plot promise an impactful resolution for one of the most talked-about historical romance manga in recent years. While the exact length of the final arc remains to be seen, speculation suggests it could span several more volumes before the ultimate conclusion.
