One thing that this volume does well is showcasing in how important is to start when it comes to Ice Skating. Tsukasa notices the disadvantage he has when starting later than everyone else. Inori's mom brings up the point of how Inori's sister started before Inori's current age. At the same time, noting how much time she had to spend. It is a good contrast from the bad parent trope that clashes with child's dreams. Her mom's concerns have merit even after they see Inori skating. Though Inori passion for it really comes out well. She has the talents, but given she has the drive that Tsukasa could relate to, it seems like a no-brainer. There are 7 stages until Inori can compete in All-Japan and Top World Events.
As we continue, we expand the cast. The first being Hikaru Kamisaki, who is quite famous, but Inori comes to acknowledge her as a friend. She gives Inori a great motivation as someone to catchup too. Hikaru is kind at getting Inori's confidence back up by saying not to mind what the mean comments from the adults. The art of the magic shines as it focuses on Hikaru dancing. As Inori gets her first badge, she realizes it will be awhile until she catches up to Hikaru, but that only leaves Tsukasa impressed by Inori's motivation. Meanwhile, Rio Sonidori is an acquaintance of Hikaru. Who comes off as disrespectful to Hikaru. Showing that not everyone will be friendly to Inori.
There is the issue that Inori's mother says she will only let Inori skate up through middle school. Makes sense for a parent to still have doubts after it failed with her first child. Tsukasa's plan seems solid to get the mom invested again. As the pressure has been getting to Inori, Tsukasa skating helps alms her down. In which we next meet Ryoka Miketa, who has a fiery personality and rebels against her coach, Mario Nachi. Initially, Ryoka takes a liking to Inori as a friend, but Ryoka has trust issues when it comes with adults. Which makes you wonder why especially considering her age. Obviously, Inori doesn't want to disrespect Tsukasa who gave her this opportunity. Which creates an interesting rivalry which Ryoka creates.
For Inori the two approaches are the slow and building a great foundation or going for a more results strategy. A great moment which Tsukasa mentions to Inori you need to be able to make your own decisions. Which is important as Inori has had difficulty standing up for herself. Still, I do love you see the frustration from Tsukasa because he knows the best decision, but he puts her in the best position while respecting her wishes.
The extra chapters were nice. You see that overtime the old man got invested in Inori being able to Ice Skate. Makes for a sweet relationship that I would like to see build upon more. Meanwhile, Tsukasa's past is one that I am intrigued by. Was Meiko the mother and wife of the family Tsukasa was living with? It is nice he is back living with good people which are like family to him.
. But it did seem like the enemies are gonna be a lot stronger to matchat least. It just seems impossible to keep side characters relevant in a world where no one else can grow, and he's flying up the charts. I'll probably enjoy it off nostalgia, even if it's got issues...I'm just about caught up on Hardcore Leveling Warrior and every time they bring back a character from Part One, I geek out heavy.
