Cultural Exchange (
Summary
Usami and Mino learn that the Simurians spaceship is powered by cursed energy, raising concerns that Japanese people could once again become a target for hunting if this information were to leak. Meanwhile, Tsurugi and Maru are assigned a mission to acquire high-quality octopus for the upcoming takoyaki party.
Plot Details
After learning that the Naunax is powered by cursed energy, Usami and Mino discuss the potential consequences if this information becomes public, particularly the risk that the demand for cursed energy could reignite the kidnapping of Japanese people. Usami decides to keep the discovery confidential and hopes the upcoming cultural exchange will strengthen relations enough for the Simurians to sign a non-disclosure agreement. Mino jokingly suggests arranging a political marriage between a Japanese and a Simurian before receiving a call from Yuka, who informs him that the dinner event will be a takoyaki party and requests help securing high-quality octopus. Usami quickly finds a supplier.
At a beachside house, Tsurugi and Maru meet the vendor, who introduces them to the "wancha octopus," a mutated species with a single tentacle said to contain the flavor of all eight. Tsurugi dives first and encounters a reef swarming with jellyfish that blocks the path to the octopi. Meanwhile, Yuka takes medicine for her brain tumor, which Cross notices and asks why she hides her illness from Tsurugi, and she explains that she wants their relationship to stay unchanged.
Tsurugi eventually surfaces with a wancha octopus, covered in jellyfish stings, and warns Maru to wear a rash guard. Determined to prove himself, Maru refuses and dives in, emerging later with an even larger octopus and equally covered in stings. As they compare their catches, Tsurugi asks what a "warrior" is in Rumelian culture. Maru explains that warriors are their equivalent of jujutsu sorcerers, though only men can wield rolloluca. When asked about gender roles, he elaborates on the Rumelians' belief that their jujutsu was a gift from the Kalyans. Men were granted power to protect women and children, who cannot use rolloluca. Tsurugi questions how non-warriors and women who cannot bear children are treated, and Maru clarifies that anyone who protects Rumel is respected, citing Jabaloma as an example. The boys agree their cultures' protectiveness toward women comes from concern rather than condescension, even if it borders on patriarchy.
Later, at Kyoto Jujutsu High, nutritionist Kyoko Tomoe is surprised to learn she will not be preparing the main course, as the representatives plan to cook their own takoyaki party-style. Tsurugi presents a wancha octopus for the Simurians' dish, leaving Kyoko baffled despite Maru's explanation. Meanwhile, Jabaloma informs Usami that the Deskunte chieftain placed a curse on Dabura's sister that will kill her if the chief dies or Dabura betrays him, though they may now be beyond its effective range. Usami tells them about the Black Rope, a cursed tool capable of nullifying cursed techniques, and promises to obtain it, earning Dabura's gratitude.
As Dabura leaves, he encounters Yuka and Kyoko arriving with the equipment and ingredients. Kyoko becomes instantly flustered around him, prompting Usami to realize that Mino's "political marriage" idea might not be entirely far-fetched. Later, as the takoyaki finishes cooking, the Japanese and Simurian representatives enjoy the meal together, and Cross looks forward to future exchanges. Back on the Naunax, Osuki refuses his friends' request to attend the next exchange. Suddenly a Simurian rushes in, reporting an incident involving Elder Boro. Osuki hurries over to find Boro weeping from his third eye. Grabbing Osuki, the elder exclaims that he has witnessed the Japanese killing a Kalyan.
Locations
- Kyoto
Character in Order of Appearances
- Usami
- Mino
- Yuka Okkotsu
- Cross Val Vol Yelvori
- Marulu Val Vol Yelvori
- Tsurugi Okkotsu
- Kyoko Tomoe
- Jabaloma
- Dabura
- Osuki
- Boro
Author's Comment
| Author's Comment | |
 |
Yuji Iwasaki |
Octopi are cute, aren’t they? I’m nostalgic for the project on Shirushiru Mishiru to care for an octopus. | |