The “Rascal Does Not Dream” series has long captivated audiences with its blend of grounded psychological drama and supernatural phenomena, famously known as Puberty Syndrome. As the narrative progresses into protagonist Sakuta Azusagawa’s university life, the latest installment, “Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus,” introduces new mysteries and challenges. Episode 10, titled “Holy Night,” delves deeper into these enigmatic occurrences, bringing Sakuta closer to understanding the latest manifestation of Puberty Syndrome and the mysterious “Miniskirt Santa.”
The Continuing Enigma of Puberty Syndrome
At its core, the “Rascal Does Not Dream” franchise explores the bizarre and often painful manifestations of Puberty Syndrome—a collection of supernatural phenomena linked to adolescent anxieties and emotional turmoil. From literal invisibility to body swapping, these syndromes force Sakuta to confront the hidden struggles of those around him. In the “Santa Claus” arc, the stakes are raised as Sakuta, now a university student, encounters Touko Kirishima, a girl who claims responsibility for distributing Puberty Syndrome and appears as a “Miniskirt Santa”.
“Holy Night” – Episode 10 Plot Summary
Episode 10, “Holy Night,” which premiered on September 6, 2025, sees Sakuta intensifying his investigation into Touko Kirishima and receiving unexpected assistance.
Sakuta’s Investigation into Touko Kirishima
The episode opens with Sakuta making a significant breakthrough in his search for the elusive “Miniskirt Santa.” While looking at a beauty pageant website with his friend Takumi Fukuyama, Sakuta recognizes the Miniskirt Santa, but her name is listed as Nene Iwamizawa, not Touko Kirishima. This discrepancy adds another layer of mystery to Touko’s true identity, suggesting a potential alias or a deeper, more complex manifestation of Puberty Syndrome at play.
Sara Himeji’s Revelation and Assistance
As Sakuta continues to pursue leads, he receives an offer of cooperation from Sara Himeji, a new character in this arc. Sara’s own Puberty Syndrome is revealed to be a form of clairvoyance: she can perceive a person’s thoughts and inner feelings upon colliding with them. This unique ability makes her an invaluable, albeit complicated, ally in Sakuta’s quest. Sara deduced Sakuta’s objective of finding Touko Kirishima through her syndrome, leading her to offer her help.
The episode also sheds light on Sara’s past, revealing her prior relationship with Kasai, a childhood friend who eventually realized he didn’t love her. This experience was a profound shock for Sara, who had a self-centered worldview that assumed love was a natural consequence for her. Her inability to comprehend Kasai’s perspective directly led to the manifestation of her Puberty Syndrome. Initially, she misused this power to validate her self-worth by seducing various men, including teachers, desperate to prove that she could have any man she desired.
The Christmas Eve Plan
With Sara’s newfound ability, Sakuta devises a plan. Given that the Miniskirt Santa (Nene Iwamizawa) is scheduled to perform her new song live on Christmas Eve, Sakuta proposes that Sara use her powers at the venue to read the Miniskirt Santa’s mind and uncover the truth behind Touko Kirishima’s identity and her connection to Puberty Syndrome. This plan hinges on Sara’s abilities providing direct insight that traditional investigative methods cannot.
Sakuta’s Unwavering Commitment
Despite Sara’s attempts to use her charms and even her Puberty Syndrome to sway Sakuta, her efforts prove futile. Sakuta’s steadfast loyalty to his girlfriend, Mai Sakurajima, is a recurring theme and a testament to his character. Sara quickly realizes that Sakuta is not easily swayed by her tricks, nor is there any room in his heart for anyone but Mai. His deep, committed love for Mai acts as a shield against Sara’s seductive tactics, highlighting his unwavering devotion.
Broader Implications for the “Santa Claus” Arc
“Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus” adapts the “University Student Arc” of Hajime Kamoshida’s light novel series, continuing Sakuta’s journey after high school. This arc shifts the setting to Yokohama and introduces a new cast of characters alongside familiar faces, focusing on the continued spread of Puberty Syndrome and Sakuta’s efforts to protect Mai from its effects. Episode 10 significantly advances this plotline by providing crucial information about Touko Kirishima’s potential real identity and introducing a powerful new ally in Sara Himeji, whose unique Puberty Syndrome adds a new dimension to the investigative process. The unfolding mystery promises to challenge Sakuta’s understanding of Puberty Syndrome and the human heart even further.
Where to Watch
“Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus” Episode 10, “Holy Night,” along with other episodes of the series, is available for streaming on Crunchyroll in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, CIS, India, and Southeast Asia.
