Aki Akimoto’s manga series, Mairimashita to Iwasetai (I Want You to Say You Lose), is set to conclude in the upcoming April issue of Hakusensha’s LaLa magazine, scheduled for release on March 24th. This announcement, made on Friday, marks the end of the comedic romance centered around an unusual pair.
A Generational Feud Turned Love?
The story revolves around Benio Tsunemori and Nayuta Watanuki, who represent the next generation of two rival yakuza groups, the Tsunemori and Watanuki clans. These families have been locked in a bitter feud for generations, creating a tense backdrop for the unfolding romance.
Plot Overview
Mairimashita to Iwasetai explores the unlikely connection between Benio and Nayuta as they navigate their families’ long-standing conflict. The manga is known for its comedic elements, often stemming from the absurdity of their situation and their attempts to overcome the animosity between their clans. As the heirs to these powerful yakuza groups, they face unique challenges in forging their own path, especially when that path leads them toward each other.
Publication Details
The manga’s final chapter will be published in the April issue of LaLa magazine, a publication of Hakusensha, bringing the series to a close after an unspecified run. Fans have eagerly followed the developing relationship between Benio and Nayuta, and the conclusion promises to deliver a resolution to their intertwined destinies.
Aki Akimoto: The Creator
Aki Akimoto is the creator of Mairimashita to Iwasetai. While specific details regarding Akimoto’s other works are not available in the provided context, the conclusion of this manga marks a significant moment in their career.
Manga’s Themes
The series cleverly blends elements of romance, comedy, and yakuza themes. It explores ideas of:
- Breaking cycles of hatred: Benio and Nayuta’s relationship challenges the ingrained animosity between their families.
- Personal choice vs. family obligation: The characters grapple with the expectations placed upon them as heirs to their respective clans.
- Finding common ground: Despite their backgrounds, Benio and Nayuta discover shared interests and a connection that transcends the feud.
Yakuza in Manga: A Popular Trope
The yakuza, Japanese organized crime syndicates, are a frequent subject in manga and anime. These portrayals range from gritty, realistic depictions to more romanticized and comedic interpretations. Mairimashita to Iwasetai falls into the latter category, using the yakuza setting as a foundation for a lighthearted and engaging love story.
Common Yakuza Tropes in Manga
- Family loyalty: Yakuza organizations are often depicted as tight-knit families with strong codes of honor.
- Violence and power struggles: Conflicts between rival groups are a common plot device.
- Traditional values: Despite their criminal activities, yakuza are sometimes portrayed as upholding traditional Japanese values.
LaLa Magazine: A Platform for Shojo Manga
Mairimashita to Iwasetai is published in LaLa magazine, a publication known for its shojo manga. Shojo manga is generally targeted towards a young female audience, often featuring stories of romance, friendship, and personal growth. LaLa magazine has a long history of publishing popular and influential shojo manga series.
Characteristics of Shojo Manga
- Focus on relationships: Shojo manga often emphasizes the emotional connections between characters.
- Artistic style: The artwork in shojo manga is often characterized by large, expressive eyes and detailed backgrounds.
- Themes of self-discovery: Many shojo manga stories explore themes of identity, self-acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world.
What to Expect from the Ending
As the manga draws to a close, fans are anticipating:
- Resolution of the family feud: Will Benio and Nayuta be able to bridge the gap between their families and end the cycle of violence?
- The future of Benio and Nayuta’s relationship: Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their path and build a lasting relationship?
- A satisfying conclusion to the story: Readers are hoping for an ending that is both emotionally resonant and true to the spirit of the series.
The end of Mairimashita to Iwasetai marks the conclusion of a unique and engaging manga series that has captured the hearts of readers with its blend of romance, comedy, and yakuza themes. The story of Benio and Nayuta serves as a reminder that love can blossom in the most unexpected of circumstances, even amidst generations of conflict.
