Tokyo, Japan – Episode 9 of “The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity,” titled “Blonde and Piercings,” which aired on Sunday, August 31, 2025, delved deeper into protagonist Rintaro Tsumugi’s emotional state and uncovered significant details about his past. The episode saw Rintaro grappling with his burgeoning feelings for Kaoruko Waguri, leading to a pivotal gathering at his family’s patisserie that revealed the heartfelt reasons behind his distinctive appearance.
The latest installment, directed by Makoto Kato and scripted by Honoka Kato, was released in Japan on August 31, 2025, and subsequently became available on Netflix for international audiences starting September 7, 2025.
Rintaro’s Internal Conflict and Unexpected Gathering
The episode opens with Rintaro experiencing significant inner turmoil following his recent date with Kaoruko. His normally stoic demeanor is replaced with a clumsy and unusually intense look, as he struggles to process his undeniable feelings of love for Kaoruko. This internal conflict leaves him restless and visibly distracted, causing concern among his friends.
Noticing his unusual behavior, Rintaro’s friends, Shohei Usami, Saku Natsusawa, and Ayato Yorita, suggest a get-together at Rintaro’s house, a place they have never visited. Rintaro initially hesitates, remembering past bullying he endured for living above a cake shop. However, he eventually agrees, leading to a surprise for his friends who are astonished to discover his family’s patisserie.
The gathering takes an even more unexpected turn when Kaoruko Waguri and Subaru Hoshina arrive, having stopped by the patisserie to buy cake. Rintaro’s mother, thrilled to see her son bringing friends home, invites them all to stay for lunch, creating a lively atmosphere filled with genuine camaraderie.
The Story Behind “Blonde and Piercings”
During the casual lunch, the conversation naturally turns to Rintaro’s unique appearance—his blonde hair and piercings. Ayato recalls a picture of Rintaro’s mother with black hair, prompting her to initially suggest she dyed it on a whim. However, the true, more profound reason is soon revealed.
Rintaro’s mother shares the emotional story of his childhood struggles. He was often bullied for his “scary” appearance and for not fitting the stereotype of someone whose family ran a cake shop. This led him to a point of profound sadness where he gave up on making friends.
His decision to dye his hair blonde and get piercings wasn’t an act of rebellion or an embrace of a “scary” image. Instead, it was inspired by a foreign pastry chef Rintaro admired, who seemed genuinely happy while making cakes, despite having a “scary looking” or “foreign” appearance. This chef represented someone who didn’t care about others’ opinions and found joy in his craft. Rintaro’s mother, noticing the spark in his eyes when he expressed this desire, supported him wholeheartedly, even dyeing her own hair and getting piercings in solidarity to make him feel less alone.
A Mother’s Love and Growing Friendships
The episode beautifully highlights the unconditional love of Rintaro’s mother, who, listening from the kitchen, becomes emotional as she witnesses her son finally making genuine connections. Her actions throughout his childhood, and even in the present by inviting Kaoruko and Subaru upstairs, demonstrate her deep pride and desire for Rintaro’s happiness.
Rintaro’s friends, upon hearing his story, reaffirm their acceptance and admiration for him, with Usami notably stating that Rintaro’s past bullies “must’ve been blind.” Kaoruko, in particular, expresses her happiness in being friends with such a kind person. This marks a significant moment for Rintaro, as he realizes the loneliness he had long felt is finally being filled by supportive friends.
The episode concludes with the group planning their summer break activities, with Kaoruko inviting everyone to study together, further solidifying the growing bonds between the Chidori and Kikyo students.
