Per wiki policy, Spoilers Off applies here and all spoilers are unmarked. You Have Been Warned.
Being a game about teenagers coming together through music and SEKAI, there are plenty of moments that will touch the player's heart.
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Main Story
- The four Childhood Friends finally reconciling on the rooftop of the School Sekai in Leo/need's main story is a one big heartwarming moment, with Honami crying as she tearfully apologized and asking if the rest of the group can even forgive her and accept her as their friend after what she had done, with the rest affirming that yes, they still think of Honami as their friend with tears in their eyes.
- Naming their band Leo/need based from the Leonids constellation they saw as children, with the slash representing a shooting star, also counts as one.
- MORE MORE JUMP!, being about a girl with a dream and three others who had lost theirs, has quite a few:
- Minori is so sweet, honest, and determined that she managed to remind Airi, Shizuku and Haruka on what it means to be an idol despite not being one herself, giving all of them the hope needed to once again become idols. It is thanks to her that the story can end on such a positive note, and why MMJ is quite an upbeat group.
- The friendship between Airi and Shizuku. Airi is Shizuku's idol, while Shizuku is Airi's idea of what an idol should be like. When Airi heard of what happened with Shizuku and the rest of her Cheerful*Days, she marched on them, scolded them, and nearly got physical for what they did to Shizuku if not for Minori stopping her, showing just how far she's willing to go for her friend.
- Haruka and Mai managed to reconcile without much fuss or drama, understanding that Mai had a very good reason to blew up like she did, even if Haruka tried to downplay how much Mai's words hurt her.
- Minori, with the help of Airi, Shizuku, Miku and Rin, sets up a show to remind Haruka on her feelings of being an idol before helping her get back on stage, successfully bringing her back because she finally realized that she successfully managed to give hope to Minori as an idol. Minori's confession on how much Haruka had inspired her and how much she loves her is so heartfelt it'd bring a tear in your eyes, and when Haruka wobbles and falls on the stage, Shizuku and Airi caught her, telling Haruka that it's okay to lean on the others more if she can't do it alone. The whole thing is just extremely beautiful to see.
- Haruka only wanting to be idols with Airi, Shizuku, and Minori, suggesting to make a group by themselves, is this in spades; as Airi pointed out, Haruka won't have any trouble at all to get into any agency she wanted, but Haruka wants to do it with people who shares a similar goal of being an idol: to inspire and give hope to people. And Minori is included despite never being an idol herself, because she had already given hope to the three of them like a real idol would, which is absolutely heartwarming.
- Wonderlands X Showtime, perhaps because its Denser and Wackier, has plenty of heartwarming moments around:
- Tsukasa's original reason for wanting to become a star is to become someone who can always make Saki smile and happy. While he might have forgotten that in the main story, his love for his sister remains, and it's very wholesome to see him be a good big brother to Saki.
- Conversely, how much Rui cares for Nene and vice-versa. His requirement to join Tsukasa's troupe is for him to accept Nene as well because he knows how much she loves theater; Nene returned the favor later when Rui quits the troupe by trying to convince him to stay because she knows how lonely Rui is, and how much he loves to have friends that goes along with his ideas.
- Emu is basically cuteness and warmness personified, and seeing how hard she tries to make other people be happy will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
- When the group managed to save Wonder Stage from closing down, Emu delivered the news with the softest "Wonderhoy" ever while sporting a relieved smile, thanking Tsukasa and the others for saving it. After the trials that the group had went through, it's relieving to see it all ends well, with the four deciding to stick together and keep on performing on the Wonder Stage.
- While Nightcord at 25:00 has the darkest and heaviest themes, the few heartwarming moments that it does have packs quite the punch:
- When Kanade is depressed from failing to save Mafuyu and went into the Empty SEKAI because she's tired and want to disappear, she heard Miku singing one of her first song - the very same that made Mafuyu thought she had been saved, if only a little. While Kanade is quick to point out that the song didn't actually manage to save Mafuyu, Miku revealed that the song is there from the very beginning - the only thing that exist in the otherwise Empty SEKAI - thus that song has managed to reach Mafuyu's otherwise empty heart. Miku then reassures Kanade that she could save Mafuyu, because Kanade has experienced and felt pain similar to Mafuyu's. This talk managed to convince Kanade to not give up on Mafuyu and try again.
- In the climax of the story, all of the N25's members came to talk Mafuyu out from "disappearing", Even Ena, who dislikes Mafuyu and ops out from joining Kanade and Mizuki at first. While their reasons vary, in the end the whole of N25 are there for Mafuyu, and it undoubtedly plays a part in convincing Mafuyu to back down.
- Kanade's promise to Mafuyu that even if this song cannot save her, she'd keep on composing until Mafuyu can find herself. When Mafuyu points out that she doesn't know when she'd be able to find herself, if ever, and that Kanade might have to keep on composing songs for possibly the rest of her life, Kanade simply affirmed that she knows, and that she'd do it regardless. Hearing that and seeing the rest of the group caring for her in their own way is finally enough to make Mafuyu relent to keep on looking for herself just a little bit more, and it's incredibly heartwarming.Mafuyu: You promise to keep writing music as long as it takes?Kanade: ...Yeah. It's all right, Yuki. I promise I'll save you someday.
- Mafuyu asks how Kanade could keep on composing for her when Kanade herself wants to disappear. Kanade simply replies that should Mafuyu found her in despair and wants to disappear, Mafuyu only has to remind her that she has yet to find herself, and that would be enough for Kanade to keep on going. This is heartwarming because it means this is not a one-way street: Kanade is helping Mafuyu just as much as Mafuyu is helping Kanade to keep on living.
- The group's first offline meeting in a family diner is not only heartwarming as the group finally start acting like friends again, but also because Mafuyu finally introduces herself; throughout the main story, Mafuyu had never introduced her real name, and as such her name in the text box remained as "???", with the others referring to her with her online handle "Yuki". It's at this moment, at the last chapter of the main story, that the rest of the group finally knows her real name and her name in the text box finally shows up as "Mafuyu".
- The final chat between Kanade and Mafuyu, which might be the most heartwarming thing in the entire Nightcord story as it beautifully caps it off:Mafuyu: <Kanade>Mafuyu: <Thank you for finding me.>Kanade: <Mafuyu...>Kanade: <Thank you as well.>
Events (1st Season)
- Imprisoned Marionette:
- Mafuyu had a dream where she turned into a marionette after visiting the doll exhibit. While Ena and Mizuki thought of Mafuyu as only a marionette in the dream, Kanade somehow managed to know that it's Mafuyu and asked her what she's feeling; when Mafuyu insisted that she can't feel and how nobody cares anyway, Kanade denies it. Because this is all happening in Mafuyu's dream, it shows that she had slowly started to see Kanade as someone who will be there for her no matter what, which is really heartwarming.
- The event is also the first time we see Kanade and Honami interacts outside of card stories, and it's really sweet to see Kanade just... asking for advice or share her troubles, while Honami lends an ear and give advice whenever she can. Honami's also the one who give the exhibition tickets to Kanade, and in Kanade's 4* card story, it's confirmed that Honami deliberately gave it so that Kanade will have the chance to get to know Mafuyu better, and despite Honami's fears that Kanade will see her as being meddling, Kanade is instead thankful to her for it. It is perhaps when she's with Kanade that Honami's motherly qualities shine the brightest, and it gives a very warm and fuzzy feeling in the chest.Honami: Then, I hope you don't mind me meddling one more time?Kanade: Okay?Honami: Please don't ever give up on your friend.
- Miku saying that Kanade, Ena and Mizuki are important to Mafuyu because she allowed them into the Empty SEKAI now, and that thanks to them Mafuyu is changing little by little, as seen with the marionette, even if Mafuyu herself might not have realized it. Miku cutting the marionette's strings to play Cat's Cradle also counts.
- In the Run! Sports Festival! event, Emu managed to see through Mafuyu's fake smile with a look, and while she's absolutely terrified of Mafuyu, she's also determined to make her smile for real. It all culminates in the card story 1 of Mafuyu's 3* event card, where Emu's panicked excuse for staring managed to make Mafuyu break into a genuine smile, which is extremely heartwarming.Mafuyu: Is there something on my face again?Emu: Ehehe. Yes. A really beautiful smile!
- In Time to Restart, MMJ is getting rejected by agencies left and right, but the girls didn't give up and stick together, culminating in Airi suggesting for them to go as a freelance group while Minori suggested streaming as a way for them to perform without standing on a stage or being seen on TV. They know that the road ahead isn't easy, especially because aside from singing and dancing they also have to do everything that used to be handled by the staff and managers, but it shows just how much they care for each other and that More More JUMP! must be a group with all four of them that they're willing to take that risk and challenges head-on.
- On This Holy Night, I Sing:
- With Nene in a slump for not singing as good as Sakurako, Emu tries to get to know Nene better by asking how Nene starts to love theater. It ends up with the whole Wonderlands x Showtime cast bonding over their experience on seeing a performance when they were little, and it's heartwarming to see them getting closer; they even just spent the whole day chatting instead of practicing!
- Taking Rui's advice that she might find the hint she needs from her past performance, Nene asked her mom for recordings of her past performances. She ends up seeing one when she was still little, with a lot of bad singing and acting, and yet strangely it feels uplifting. And then, the little Nene in the recording said this line, as if to encourage her future self:Little Nene's Voice: Don't be afraid. Believe in yourself!
- When the day of the play finally comes, Nene is singing wonderfully, and as if in response to that singing it suddenly starts to snow, with a beautiful CG of Nene singing and a unique music
playing for the scene (fittingly titled "Holy Night's Gift"). - At the end, Nene thanked the others for making her remember how to sing the way she used to, and even Sakurako admits that it was a great performance and that Wonder Stage is a worthy rival to Phoenix Stage (though only if they can keep the act up, of course).
- SEKAI Happy New Year!:
- N25 decided to celebrate the new years in the Empty SEKAI not only because it's a place where they all can meet without going out of their home, but also to celebrate it with Miku. Miku for her part doesn't ask for anything despite feeling lonely that N25 haven't been visiting the SEKAI recently, believing that it's for the best and that they're having a good time outside the SEKAI, which shows just how much she wants them to be happy. The moment the N25 members came into the SEKAI to celebrate it with her is very heartwarming, and Miku's thoughts and response even more so.Miku: (This used to be such a lonely place that only Mafuyu visited sometimes, but now it's much more lively thanks to everyone here. Anything can happen from here on out... But I won't be pessimistic... I'll be waiting for them. Always.)Miku: Let's have a wonderful year, everyone.
- MMJ decided to hold a livestream of them celebrating New Year, and do a test run in the Stage SEKAI with the help of Miku and Rin. Seeing them play games together and having fun even in front of the camera, and that it's okay to deviate from the script for such occasions, is nice.
- Leo/need have a sleepover at Ichika's house, and after counting down to New Year, decided to go to the Shrine with Miku and Luka joining in through their phone. Seeing the Leo/need members offer Miku and Luka to buy them snacks to be brought to the SEKAI later, and even drawing some fortune slips, is really sweet, showing just how close all of them had gotten.
- N25 decided to celebrate the new years in the Empty SEKAI not only because it's a place where they all can meet without going out of their home, but also to celebrate it with Miku. Miku for her part doesn't ask for anything despite feeling lonely that N25 haven't been visiting the SEKAI recently, believing that it's for the best and that they're having a good time outside the SEKAI, which shows just how much she wants them to be happy. The moment the N25 members came into the SEKAI to celebrate it with her is very heartwarming, and Miku's thoughts and response even more so.
- Insatiable Pale Color:
- Despite often bickering and fighting with each other, this event shows that Ena and Akito both care for each other, especially Akito: he advised Ena not to give up art when she's at her lowest because she'll regret it, takes her anger in stride, and even told their father that while he understands what he's trying to say, he should be gentler with Ena and tone down the Brutal Honesty. Meanwhile, Ena for her part properly apologizes to Akito after she's cooled down, realizing that she's in the wrong for lashing out at him.
- When Ena disappears into the Empty SEKAI just like Mafuyu did, the rest of N25 promptly came over to give their support, even Mafuyu who at first ponders whether she should come because she doesn't understand Ena's feelings. After meeting Miku and the newly-arrived Rin and realizing that Ena wants to be alone for now, they largely respects her wishes, entrusting Miku and Rin to make Ena opens up with a song Kanade compose just for her while they wait in the real world until she's ready to talk, which shows just how considerate and supportive everyone is. Miku and Rin managing to gently coax Ena into talking with the others and reminding her that they care also counts.
- When Ena finally reveals her insecurities about how talentless she is and how ashamed she feels for not being able to do art when no one looks and recognizes her for it, Mizuki reassures her that they like her art despite what everyone else think, while Kanade says that if Ena needs acknowledgement, then she'd do just that, because N25 needs her art and isn't complete without her. Mafuyu finishes it off by saying that there's nothing wrong with wanting to be appreciated, and that Ena merely needs to keep trying until someone does, showing that everyone is there for Ena and appreciates her for what she does.
- Ena's latest piece manages to gain the approval of not only Kanade and Mizuki (both of whom loves her art), but also Mafuyu and her father, showing that neither are malicious when giving their thoughts and criticism and can acknowledge her work if it's truly good.
- Smile of a Dreamer:
- When the rest of WxS saw Emu arguing with her brothers to the point that Shosuke is shouting at her, they immediately rushed to her side and practically take turns in defending her: The shy and timid Nene was the first to step up, raising her voice and asking who they are to shout at Emu; Tsukasa steps up next when Wonderstage is mocked, saying that while he admits the stage is small and run-down, it is nevertheless the stage for Wonderlands x Showtime, and as troupe leader he won't let an insult to the stage pass; and finally when Shosuke insults Emu and to keep her dreams to herself, Rui delivers one hell of a comeback before politely asking Shosuke to stop insulting his friends. It's absolutely heartwarming and awesome how they all stands up for Emu, even against the people who actually employed them in the first place.Rui: Indeed, believing in a dream can be a rather perilous endeavor. But fear not. Your younger sister is a renowned master of this art. She is able to believe in something that all others have long since given up on... Which is why I sincerely hope that you will stop insulting my friends like this.
- As Emu keeps avoiding the rest of the troupe, Nene wished that she could be there for Emu just like how Emu was there for her during the Christmas show. Nene-robo recorded that and took off to Emu, and managed to play the recording; the embarrassed Nene acknowledged what Emu just heard as her feelings on the matter before asking Emu to tell them her troubles when she's ready to talk.
- In a Call-Back to chapter 15 of the main story, Tsukasa and Emu are once again riding the ferris wheel and had a heart-to-heart; however, Rui and Nene (and Nene-robo) are also with them this time, and Tsukasa reminds her that just like how Emu wants everyone to smile, they also want Emu to smile, thus asking her what took her smile away so that they can tackle them together. Faced with such kindness and support, Emu finally breaks down crying and tells them the entire story, thanking them for being there for her.
- Even after hearing the problem and acknowledging how difficult it is to reverse the decision, Tsukasa, Nene and Rui don't give up, promising Emu that they'd try their best to help her (the details of which will be tackled on in the next WxS event "Wonder Magical Showtime!"), and it is such an excellent display of camaraderie and friendship.
- When the rest of WxS saw Emu arguing with her brothers to the point that Shosuke is shouting at her, they immediately rushed to her side and practically take turns in defending her: The shy and timid Nene was the first to step up, raising her voice and asking who they are to shout at Emu; Tsukasa steps up next when Wonderstage is mocked, saying that while he admits the stage is small and run-down, it is nevertheless the stage for Wonderlands x Showtime, and as troupe leader he won't let an insult to the stage pass; and finally when Shosuke insults Emu and to keep her dreams to herself, Rui delivers one hell of a comeback before politely asking Shosuke to stop insulting his friends. It's absolutely heartwarming and awesome how they all stands up for Emu, even against the people who actually employed them in the first place.
- Hear Me! Hopeful Show:
- Minori meeting her first fan after being forgotten, dismissed or even hated by MMJ's fans is a big one. It's heartwarming to see that all of her efforts were not in vain, that it has reached at least a single person, and when the girl said that she admires Minori for working hard despite being surrounded by such amazing people while she believes that she couldn't do the same for herself, Minori does what she does best: asking the girl to watch the next livestream, to show her first fan that even normal people like them can succeed and convince her not to quit her club. And indeed, Minori aced the show during the livestream, and at the end she took the time to address her first fan. Minori's heartfelt speech - coupled with The Reveal that the untrained art for Minori's 4* card in this event shows her first fan watching the livestream, listening to what Minori has to say - is so heartwarming and inspiring it can drive you to tears.Minori: I'm still just starting out as an idol, I may still end up holding back my friends a little and make them worry... But...! Even someone like me was able to stand up here and put on a show! We all took a big step forward! So it's okay! This means you can do it too! If I can do it, so can you! Let's keep trying, together!
- Nanamin, despite being a much bigger and well-known streamer than MMJ with 800,000 subscribers, has been nothing but kind and supportive to the group; even more notable is that unlike so many other people, she's explicitly interested in Minori and tries to prop the girl up, encouraging her and trying to make other people to see her worth. Even when Minori screwed up, she apologizes for asking Minori to dance on the rug instead of getting angry or disappointed, and it's sweet to see someone outside the group not dismiss Minori and see her for what she is: as an integral part of MMJ.
- Minori meeting her first fan after being forgotten, dismissed or even hated by MMJ's fans is a big one. It's heartwarming to see that all of her efforts were not in vain, that it has reached at least a single person, and when the girl said that she admires Minori for working hard despite being surrounded by such amazing people while she believes that she couldn't do the same for herself, Minori does what she does best: asking the girl to watch the next livestream, to show her first fan that even normal people like them can succeed and convince her not to quit her club. And indeed, Minori aced the show during the livestream, and at the end she took the time to address her first fan. Minori's heartfelt speech - coupled with The Reveal that the untrained art for Minori's 4* card in this event shows her first fan watching the livestream, listening to what Minori has to say - is so heartwarming and inspiring it can drive you to tears.
- Singing Among the Cherry Blossom:
- Seeing Ichika and Miku bonding throughout the event is incredibly sweet, especially when Ichika decided to show Miku the blooming cherry blossoms as she plays a song for her. The CG of Miku as a hologram listening as Ichika sings and plays her guitar - smiling as she reminisce on what they had gone through together - is beautiful.
- Minori and Kohane catching Ichika singing and joining her, while a passing by Kanade stops and quietly listens to the three singing together before leaving with a smile, is also this.
- Secret Distance:
- After consecutive depressing stories and events, N25 finally gets a much-needed relatively lighthearted event, courtesy of Mizuki. Seeing the four going on a trip together and having a good time (even if some involves Kanade and Ena getting scared) is just heartwarming; Mafuyu admitting that she had a good time and wouldn't mind going on another trip together again, and Mizuki realizing they're fond of N25 enough to want to do this again next year, is the icing on the cake.
- Ena noticed Mizuki is hiding something and proceeds to try to make sure Mizuki is alright, down to her event card stories. Even when Mizuki seems fine after talking and going out shopping with her, Ena remains unsure if that's really the case and worries regardless, showing how much she cares about her friend.
- Mafuyu's 2* card story, "Encounter at a Closed School", shows why she went missing for a while in the abandoned school: Mafuyu met the ghost of a little girl who asked her for help. Mafuyu being Mafuyu, she isn't fazed and proceeds to help the ghost by untying an old shoe tied to a tree, and as thanks the ghost then shows Mafuyu the big Sakura Tree that the rest of N25 would later find her staring at. It's sweet to see that even when she's not donning her "good girl" persona, Mafuyu is still kind enough to help those who asked her for help, even if that someone is a ghost.
- Resonating With You:
- Ichika, Saki and Honami wanting Shiho to stay with them in Leo/need and the lengths they go to is incredibly heartwarming. While they waver at first because Shiho wants to go pro and they're all unsure if they want to or even can, in the end all three affirms their resolve that they want to stay together as Leo/need and thus go pro together with Shiho, with all the caveats that it entails, and to prove their determination they perform as the opening act of STANDOUT. Keep in mind that this is the first time Ichika, Saki and Honami perform in front of a live audience (even if Ichika now has some street experience) - let alone in something as big as STANDOUT's concert - and while they began somewhat weakly, their bond with Shiho and each other managed to push them to perform admirably, even gaining applause and Iori's approval at the end, and seeing it first-hand finally end Shiho's conflicted feelings as she tearfully accept her friends' resolve to go pro together as Leo/need.
- Mio showing up for the big day at the end, overcoming her fears and insecurities to perform with Iori, and Iori herself accepting her back into the band with only one condition: that Mio shows her resolve by performing well in the concert.
- What's on Your Mind? Exciting Picnic!:
- Ena continuing to worry enough about Mizuki that she invites them to a picnic with Airi and Shizuku so she could know what's wrong, even if Mizuki might not confide in her specifically, showing just how much she cares. Even more heartwarming is how Airi said that it's rare for Ena to be so openly worried and concerned for someone else like she does for Mizuki.Ena: (I get that I might start being a nuisance... But I can't ignore this anymore. Because Mizuki's my friend... Because Mizuki's someone I really care about.)
- Airi and Shizuku fully supporting Ena's idea is also this, being very welcoming and nice to Mizuki and generally being a good friend. Thanks to their efforts, Mizuki was able to be happy and have a good time for the first time in a while.
- Mizuki trying their hardest to get help for Ena and Airi, running on an advanced hiking course in the middle of heavy rain to get help as quickly as possible, is very heartwarming as it shows just how much Mizuki had come to care for Ena. Even when Ena apologizes that Mizuki's favorite outfit is now ruined to help her, Mizuki waved it aside and offered Ena a handkerchief instead with a smile.Mizuki: You're safe now, and that's what matters most.
- Ena continuing to worry enough about Mizuki that she invites them to a picnic with Airi and Shizuku so she could know what's wrong, even if Mizuki might not confide in her specifically, showing just how much she cares. Even more heartwarming is how Airi said that it's rare for Ena to be so openly worried and concerned for someone else like she does for Mizuki.
- Wonder Magical Showtime!, the arc-ender for Wonderlands x Showtime, is both amazing and heartwarming in spades:
- Seeing Tsukasa's Character Development from being a Glory Hound to someone willing to throw away their chance of winning the contest to help Emu is very heartwarming. He's also honest about it, saying that while a part of him is sad and disappointed, what Emu's trying to do is much more important than winning a contest, and that chances for that could come again in the future. Extra points because it's clear how touched Emu is by the gesture.
- In order for their plan of involving every stage and using every attraction to succeed, Wonderlands x Showtime need to convince everyone to join them, because it's impossible to do with only 4 people + a robot; however, they couldn't convince anybody to help because as employees of Phoenix Wonderland, that means going against their bosses, risking their pay or even employment even if they also don't want the theme park to change. Just when it seems that all hope is lost, Seiryuin Sakurako, the Diva of Phoenix Stage, reveals that she saw their efforts and is willing to listen to what they have to say; after confirming that WxS have both the plan and the resolve to possibly change the management's decision, she agreed to help, and with the help of Sakurako and Phoenix Stage, they managed to convince everyone to help because turns out everyone had fond memories of the park and wants it to stay as a place where everyone can smile. It's both heartwarming and amazing to see so many people coming together, united by their love for the place.
- Tsukasa's Rousing Speech to everyone is both amazing and heartwarming at the same time:Tsukasa: (...) I understand that a proper business plan is still necessary for this park to stay afloat. However, shows are also elixirs for making people grin from ear to ear...! Age and gender do not matter. It doesn't matter if you're an alien from outer space who speaks an incomprehensible language! At the very least, I want my show to make everybody smile!! And this park is a place that made so many people smile. It's a place that's full of precious memories. A place that can make everyone smile. That is why so many people used to visit! That is what everybody loved about Phoenix Wonderland! That is why I'm doing this show! To prove that this park is still just that! We don't have to choose between this park being loved and this park attracting as many guests as it can! If we can put on a show that makes absolutely everyone smile, then more people will surely come and visit! As long as we don't forget that... Phoenix Wonderland will never die. It will always be able to rise from the ashes!!
- The show that they put on is about a sorcerer named Miles (played by Tsukasa) and his apprentice, Shao (played by Emu). As a sorcerer, Miles created a lot of things to make people happy with his magic, but on his deathbed Shao is afraid of what will happen to the place once he's gone, as her magic is not strong enough to support the place by herself. Miles then reveals that everything he did, he did for Shao because he wants her to smile and be happy, and that it is not magic that creates joy, but the other way around; he believes that she'd be fine because she's been immersed in joy, laughter and smiles for so long, and that not only her, but everyone is a sorcerer in their own right. When he dies, true to Shao's fears the whole place went dark and everything stopped; but with the help of everyone in the audience, Shao managed to revive the place and made everyone smile by the sight, a truly beautiful show to behold that even her brothers and father were captivated.
- Making this extra heartwarming is that the show is a clear parallel to Emu (Shao) and her grandfather (Miles), which her brothers and father clearly understood. And if Shao was an accurate portrayal of little Emu, then the fact that her grandfather managed to turn her from a sour, impatient girl to the Emu we know today is nothing short of amazing.
- The fact that the ending for the show involves The Virtual Singers holding a show for the park. Seeing them holding a show in the real world, with no one batting an eye because they're holograms and thought that it's all part of the show, is sweet because everyone in the SEKAI had expressed the desire to both see the show and perform themselves.
- The show was such a huge success that it shows Keisuke and Shousuke that Emu's approach can work, but what makes it better is that the brothers' effort didn't go to waste; Mr. Riley, the owner of Riley Entertainment from America that they invited to see the park and their renovation plans, was so moved and happy from the show that he suggested to merely incorporates his characters into the park rather than changing the park to suit his characters, with a discounted price to boot. Just like Tsukasa said, in the end both Emu and her brothers got what they wanted.
- Emu's father admitting that he's happy to see his father's park to stay and not changed beyond recognition is also this.
- To show just how close they've become, all four members of WxS (and Nene-Robo) said "Wonderhoy!" without hesitation or embarrassment to celebrate their success. Heck, they even managed to make Keisuke said it with them as well!
- Wonderlands x Showtime being made an official ambassador for Phoenix Wonderland, thus ending the first arc of their story. Seeing them starting from performing on a run-down stage while bickering and fighting each other to this point is absolutely amazing and heartwarming.
- Carnation Recollection:
- Seeing just how much Mizuki cares for Kanade, taking her around the town in order to take her mind off things and offering to help her search for the place her family used to visit in the past, is this. Mizuki would later admit that despite trying to keep their distance, they like Kanade, Mafuyu and Ena too much to leave them alone if they look sad and need some help.
- The flashback to little Kanade visiting the park with her parents. Seeing just how warm and happy she was back then is extremely heartwarming, even if we know how Kanade's family would eventually end up; it was this memory that finally made Kanade realize that she wants to make Mafuyu genuinely smile, to make her feel the same warmth and happiness that she felt back then.
- Seeing Mafuyu finally giving a genuine smile is this in spades. It was a brief and fleeting thing - Mafuyu herself didn't realize that she had smiled - but even if Kanade hasn't managed to save Mafuyu yet, it's a step in the right direction, a much-needed victory after everything that she'd been through.
- This would also be the first time that Mafuyu felt warmth, which would become the catalyst for many, many things later down the line, but this was where Mafuyu first began to realize that she felt warm around the members of N25, and how much she actually likes to be with them; in "Break into a Smile" side story, Mafuyu admits to Miku that despite not liking it when people are being loud, she doesn't mind it when Kanade, Ena, Mizuki or the Virtual Singers were the one to make the noise. Coming from Mafuyu, that is very sweet.
- The Sound of a Summer Festival:
- Back when Akito had just quit soccer and was lost on what he wants to do with his life, Ena dragged him to see a concert in a summer festival after having him bring her sneakers. She then off-handedly suggested Akito to try dabbling in music, convincing him to at least try it out to see if he likes it; this leads to him seeing RAD WEEKEND, and thus setting his path down as a street performer, showing that Ena could be a good older sister to Akito when it matters.
- Ena successfully asking N25 out to see the summer festival together, even though Mizuki was hesitant at first before relenting after Kanade and Mafuyu actually agreeing to the idea. Seeing them having fun at the festival together is just sweet.
- The intricate chain of events in the festival that leads to everyone helping each other out: Airi and Shizuku found Mizuki's missing keychain, while Ena and Mizuki found Akito's missing shoes. The event ends with the six spending some time in the festival together.
- Mirage of Lights:
- Kanade taking a sick Mafuyu to her home before she starts taking care of her is this in spades. being a shut-in and having little idea on how to take care of a sick person, Kanade nevertheless did her best; getting a wet towel for Mafuyu despite having difficulty in squeezing it, going to the supermarket to buy some apples, cutting said apples while hurting her fingers, and finally staying by Mafuyu's side and holding her hand until they both fall asleep. It's so, so heartwarming to see Mafuyu being shown genuine care and affection, especially because she no longer receives it from her parents, and it leaves enough of an impression that the lyrics Mafuyu wrote for the song Kanade made in "Carnation Recollection" is very warm and thoughtful, in contrast with the lyrics she usually wrote.
- Later on in "Awkward Tea Time", Mafuyu pays Kanade a visit because she left her student ID there, but she also brought Kanade some cup noodles and apples as thanks for taking care of her the other day. The two then proceeds to have tea time together, with Mafuyu instructing Kanade on how to make a good tea, and while it's somewhat awkward it's also sweet to see them spend time together and interact so normally, with no mention of music or saving the other throughout the entire thing.
- Despite being somewhat bittersweet with how she treats Mafuyu in the present, Mafuyu's memory of how her mother used to take care of her when she was sick also counts. Mafuyu's mother explicitly skips the neighborhood association meeting to take care of her, cuts the apples into bunny-shapes at Mafuyu's request, and even stays by her side until she fell asleep, not unlike what Kanade is doing to her in the present.
- At the end of the event, all of her experiences with N25 has finally affirmed Mafuyu's desire to keep on living, showing the positive influence the group has on her mental well-being.Mafuyu: (I still don't know what to call what I felt back then...)Mafuyu: But I think I can keep moving forward. Right, Kanade...?
- Kanade taking a sick Mafuyu to her home before she starts taking care of her is this in spades. being a shut-in and having little idea on how to take care of a sick person, Kanade nevertheless did her best; getting a wet towel for Mafuyu despite having difficulty in squeezing it, going to the supermarket to buy some apples, cutting said apples while hurting her fingers, and finally staying by Mafuyu's side and holding her hand until they both fall asleep. It's so, so heartwarming to see Mafuyu being shown genuine care and affection, especially because she no longer receives it from her parents, and it leaves enough of an impression that the lyrics Mafuyu wrote for the song Kanade made in "Carnation Recollection" is very warm and thoughtful, in contrast with the lyrics she usually wrote.
- Revival My Dream:
- This event gives insight on how Rui and Nene became childhood friends and why Rui wanted to make shows, and it is heartwarming:
- Since he was little, Rui had always been alone; while he was able to built a moving robot since elementary school and was always praised by his teachers, other children avoids him because Rui has genius-level intellect, has weird hobbies and is just so different from them. A distraught Rui then asked his mother whether he is different from other people, to which his mother said yes... but also that it's okay for him to be different. His mother then told him that she, too, used to be alone for being interested in biology since she was little, but because she never gave up on it, she eventually met Rui's father - who's interested in robotics - and became close and eventually married each other. She then assures Rui that as long as he keeps on doing what he loves and never give up on it, he'd eventually find people who can appreciate him for who he is.
- Immediately after the scene above, the doorbell rings, and it's revealed that the Kamishiro got a new neighbor next-door: the Kusanagi, and it was here that Nene's mother introduced her daughter to Rui. The two struggled to bond at first - not only does their interest seemingly doesn't align, Nene's crippling shyness means she avoids talking to Rui whenever possible and prefers to read alone in silence. This, however, changed when Nene's mother invited Rui and his mother to watch The Little Mermaid - a show which amazes both Rui and Nene - and from that point on the two shared a common interest and starts doing shows together, to the point that Nene could speak loudly and confidently to reassure Rui's mother that she wants to do shows with Rui and that they are having fun together, cementing their friendship.
- A director that Rui followed said that the reason he keep on creating shows is because he believes that every human experience emotions - be it happiness, anger or sadness - and that these emotions that people felt after seeing a show can connect them together, no matter who they are. Rui, who had experienced firsthand of what the director said, was greatly inspired, marking the moment when his dream was born and eventually leads him to Wonderlands x Showtime.
- When his first attempt to do a show with his classmates failed, a downtrodden Rui met with Nene and told her of what happened, and after hearing that, Nene immediately said that she loves his shows. Her faith and trust in him convinced Rui not to give up, believing that one day he'd meet people just like Nene who can appreciate the shows he's trying to make.
- It's heartwarming just how much trust Tsukasa and Emu puts in Rui, with both saying that it is precisely because Rui loves to make unorthodox shows that most people deems as "dangerous" or "impossible" that they are so fun and enchanting to do and see. Rui, for his part, makes sure to install safety measures so that even if something did go wrong with the jump, Emu can safely land without hurting herself; when it happened during a rehearsal, Emu and Tsukasa enthusiastically repeated the jump because they had seen Rui's safety measure working despite Rui himself giving Emu the time to rest or catch her breath from the ordeal, which clearly made him happy. As Rui himself said, safety measures are meaningless if nobody put their trust in it, and unlike his former classmates, both Tsukasa and Emu clearly put a lot of trust and faith in Rui's abilities.
- Finally, while the show went perfectly, Rui didn't behave like he normally did after a successful show, which worried Emu and Tsukasa; while Rui was initially cagey and secretive when asked, a push from Nene finally convinced him to tell Emu and Tsukasa why he's acting so differently: he's so happy that he doesn't know how to really express it, because his childhood dream had finally come true: the first show he ever created was performed with people who were willing to take risks and appreciates him for who he is, and managed to make the audience smile.Rui: To put it simply, after watching today's show... I thought to myself, "what a fortunate person I am". (...) It's a happiness like I've never felt before, to the point that I don't know how to express it.
- And of course, everyone confirming that they couldn't wait to perform more shows with Rui is the perfect icing on the cake that Rui had truly find the place where he belongs.
- This event gives insight on how Rui and Nene became childhood friends and why Rui wanted to make shows, and it is heartwarming:
- Scramble Fan Festival!:
- When the rest of WxS finds out that Nene will attend the event, they immediately promise to watch and support her in their typical over-the-top fashion (especially Tsukasa and Emu), with Nene treating them like her Amazingly Embarrassing Parents that she's nevertheless grateful to be around, showing just how close their bond as a group is.
- During the event, Mafuyu bumped into Shizuku, Airi and Haruka, which leads into N25 and MMJ (sans Minori) meeting each other. However, despite Ena and Mizuki being friends with Shizuku and Airi they decline the invitation to enjoy the event together, as they both knew that if they accept Mafuyu will be forced to maintain her "good girl" persona on a day where she's supposed to relax and have fun.
- Tsukasa giving Minori a pep talk when she's having a stage fright for having to go on a stage alone counts too. He barely knows her, and yet he managed to boost her confidence in a really precise manner, showing how friendly and considerate he is, and that his talk of being the world's future star now holds more weight than ever.
- The Warmth of Intersecting Melodies is basically wholesomeness, the event:
- Kanade giving the CD that she'd wanted to buy (and the last in-stock) to Ichika, a stranger, just because she saw Ichika really wanting the CD. Even though she felt somewhat disappointed, Kanade is genuinely happy that by doing so, someone else is now listening to the (rather obscure) artist's songs. Ichika would later return the favor by lending her the CD.
- When Honami mentioned that Ichika wanted to meet her as a fellow composer and Miku fan, Kanade internally admitted that she actually never felt particularly invested at Miku's songs... until she remembered N25 Miku and readily agrees to meet Ichika with a smile.
- Kanade hanging out with Ichika, Honami and Mafuyu definitely counts. Kanade admitting that she had forgotten how nice it is to hang out with friends, and thanking Mafuyu for helping her meet Ichika, is really heartwarming.
- Similarly, Kanade reassuring Honami that while she loves ramen, she'd always make sure to eat whatever Honami had made for her first, is a really sweet gesture.
- And of course, Mafuyu feeling warm in her chest whenever she saw Kanade being happy in the event shows her starting to genuinely care and cherish Kanade as a person, and not just someone she stuck with because Kanade made a promise to save her. At the end of the event, "A Faint Warmth Under the Snow" played for the first time in the story as Mafuyu smiles gently, alone in a crowd while snow falls around her, excellently conveying the "warmth" that Mafuyu felt to the players.Mafuyu: (All I did was tell Hoshino about her and bring that CD to her. A simple gesture like that ended up helping Kanade... It's making my chest feel so warm. But why...? I don't understand what I'm feeling...)Mafuyu: But it feels... Nice...
- Both Mafuyu and Miku's respective 4* card stories illustrates just how close they are to each other, and they are very heartwarming:
- in Under the First Snow, after listening to Ichika gushing about Miku and how Miku is her role model and savior, Mafuyu wonders what does Miku mean to her. Because she might be able to find the words easier by writing them, Mafuyu then asks Miku to sing all the songs that she made with Kanade in order, and when she couldn't find the words even after all that, Mafuyu asks Miku to sing again, though this time she'd just listen. Miku's response is so heartwarming that it made Mafuyu genuinely smile as she thanked the Virtual Singer.
- in Straightforward Lyrics, Miku wants to see snow not only because she had never seen one, but because Mafuyu felt warmth in her chest when it was snowing in the event story. Despite telling Miku not to expect much as it rarely snows, Mafuyu would proceed to monitor the weather forecast for the next several days, even telling Miku 2 days in advance when the forecast finally said that it'd snow. When the day arrives, Miku was a bit disappointed because as a hologram she couldn't touch the snow, nor could she feel the cold or warmth that Mafuyu felt when it snowed in the event story; in response, Mafuyu would catch the falling snow in her stead, and when the snow quickly melts in her hands, she would repeatedly catch more and more snow despite the cold until Miku is satisfied. It was seeing this simple yet selfless gesture that made Miku finally feel the same warmth that Mafuyu felt in the event story.
- MORE MORE Making Christmas, MMJ's first arc-ender, is filled to the brim with heartwarming moments:
- MMJ wants to finally hold their first event for their fans, but as an independent idol group, securing a good venue and hiring staffs are understandably rather difficult; the fact that Christmas is near also means most venues are already booked, and the cost of hiring staffs are also much higher. Thankfully, there are many people who are willing to help:
- Nanamin, once again proving herself as a true friend and supporter of MMJ, managed to secure them a venue through her agency on Christmas day.
- Ayaka Saito, a fan of MMJ, emailed them offering her help to organize the event as she worked part-time as a staff member and knows many freelance staffers. While Haruka was unsure at first, as hiring fans as their staff members mean said fans couldn't enjoy the event because they're working, Minori believes that a true fan would want to help their idol to succeed through thick and thin, convincing Haruka, Airi and Shizuku to accept Ayaka's proposal.
- On the day of the event, things are going behind schedule as most of the staffs are volunteers who's doing this for the first time, and some of them are on the verge of tears as they feel like they're only slowing things down instead of helping. Just as Minori started to see Haruka's point in being reluctant to hire their fans as volunteer staffs, a familiar face showed up as a last-minute volunteer: it's Minori's first fan who she met back in Hear Me! Hopeful Show event, now with a sprite, voice and name: Yuina. Bolstered by this, Minori proceeds to give an impromptu heartfelt speech to all the volunteers, successfully restoring morale and making the event a success.
- During the meet and greet section, Minori finally gets her own set of fans lining up to meet her; while obviously less than Haruka, Airi and Shizuku, seeing Minori finally experience what being an idol is like will bring a smile to your face.
- As the cherry on top, both MMJ and the volunteer staffs have prepared each other a gift: MMJ knitted each volunteers a handkerchief with their initials along with handmade snacks, while the volunteers brought the four of them a bouquet to congratulate MMJ on their first successful event. It's very heartwarming to see that despite the difficulty MMJ is experiencing in being an independent idol group, it also seems to bring both the idols and fans closer as they have to work together to succeed.
- MMJ wants to finally hold their first event for their fans, but as an independent idol group, securing a good venue and hiring staffs are understandably rather difficult; the fact that Christmas is near also means most venues are already booked, and the cost of hiring staffs are also much higher. Thankfully, there are many people who are willing to help:
- An NPC labeled "Sexy Older Sister" was introduced in the event The Vivid Old Tale, where Nagi tells a young An about her training to become a kindergarten teacher. Come five events later, the NPC returns in Paint What You Love ♪ Rainbow Canvas now called "Sexy Kindergarten Teacher", revealing that her dream of becoming a kindergarten teacher came true.
- Guiding a Lost Child to What Lies Beyond:
- Ena getting angry when Mafuyu told N25 what happened with her mother is this. Seeing Ena grows from envying and disliking Mafuyu to becoming protective and angry at her behalf shows her Character Development well.
- Mafuyu instinctively going to Phoenix Wonderland to meet up with N25 when she was borderline having a panic attack also counts, as it shows that Mafuyu considers N25 people she could trust and feel safe around with. Making this even more heartwarming is the fact that Mafuyu skips her mock exam to be with N25.
- Kanade finding Mafuyu when she got lost in Phoenix Wonderland is very heartwarming, especially after seeing how her mother reacts when Mafuyu got lost as a child: Kanade expressed relief when finding her, apologizes for leaving her alone (instead of guilt-tripping her for getting lost), and then she gently holds her hand and guides her away (instead of practically dragging her away). The sheer contrast is astounding, and seeing how Mafuyu reacts to receiving unconditional care and affection can be tearfully heartwarming.
- Let's Enjoy Together! Spojoy Park!:
- Minori not only remembers Kanade despite only meeting her twice (and briefly, at that), she immediately offers to help Kanade bring her luggage to the hospital. Kanade in turn praises Minori for her strength and kindness, and in the event's 4koma◊ she even equates Minori to the sun, showing how far Minori has come as an idol.
- Seeing how supportive everyone is on Kanade trying to exercise is very wholesome; Seeing Kanade just having fun for once by exercising and playing with Ena, Minori and Ichika is really nice.
- Ena, in particular, fusses over Kanade like a concerned mother, making sure she isn't pushing herself too far and reassuring her whenever she fails.
- Minori for once is the most experienced member in this impromptu group, being the best out of the four in both roller skates and bubble sumo, and it's a nice change of pace from her usually being the Butt-Monkey (though she still has her clumsy moments).
- Minori's talk with Kanade in chapter 6 is a particular highlight of just how sweet and understanding Minori is. Despite having fun exercising with everyone, Kanade felt that she doesn't deserve to feel happy, and that she's wasting her time instead of composing a song that can save her father and Mafuyu; Minori, in turn, offers her support so that Kanade can lean on her whenever she feels overwhelmed or tired. When Kanade asks her why she is willing to do so much for her, Minori answers that it's because Kanade is working so hard for someone else's sake that she at least wants to see her smile, echoing how Kanade wants to see Mafuyu smile back in Carnation Recollection; their exchange afterwards is extremely heartwarming:Kanade: Ah... I'm sorry. I never thought someone else would say that to me.Minori: Eh, why? I think everybody would want their friends to smile.Kanade: (Friends...)Minori: That's why, I'm sure it's not just me alone. Ena-chan, Ichika-chan, and all of your circle friends must also think that way.
- Kanade accepting Minori's advice and allowing herself to have fun, before finally scoring in Struck Out and winnning the bingo after remembering how her father taught her to throw the ball, feels like a small personal triumph for Kanade in many ways, and seeing the rest celebrating her achievement (with Minori even hugging Kanade from sheer pride and happiness) will make you smile.
- Finally, Kanade saying that she'd be able to do her best tomorrow thanks to Minori shows just how much of a positive influence Minori is that she manages to bring hope to Kanade in just a single outing. They even agreed to do it again, next time bringing the rest of their friends together, and seeing Kanade actually smiling, making friends and having fun outside of her room is really heartwarming; not only because this marks a moment of personal growth for Kanade, that it's okay for her to have fun and be happy like everyone else, but she also realizes that she has people that support and care for her.Kanade: Today, Hanasato-san told me that she wanted to see me smile. She's sure that everyone in N25 also wishes the same. It's the first time someone said something like that to me, so it's kinda surprising, but... If it's possible that... Everyone in N25 also thought the same as her... I'll do like what you told me, Luka. I think I'll try to cherish my own feelings a bit more.
- Minori not only remembers Kanade despite only meeting her twice (and briefly, at that), she immediately offers to help Kanade bring her luggage to the hospital. Kanade in turn praises Minori for her strength and kindness, and in the event's 4koma
- The Twilight Color on this Festival:
- Mafuyu being able to become a volunteer at first-aid in Shibuya Fes, thus in practice living her dream of becoming a nurse even if only for a short while, is this in spades. Mafuyu might have forgotten her dream, but this shows that deep down she seems to subconsciously remember and gravitates towards nursing.
- Having all the groups meet and support each other is this in spades. There is something very heartwarming on seeing everyone meeting each other, no longer thinly separated by One Degree of Separation, and it makes it feels like they are one big group of friends now.
- Seeing Tsukasa crying his eyes out as he watches Leo/need perform definitely counts. He must be so happy seeing Saki on the stage and having fun with her friends after being bedridden for most of her life!
- While Mafuyu opening up a little to Rui and Emu counts as a Tear Jerker, their response and support definitely counts. Rui shares his experiences a little to reassure Mafuyu that finding something that one is passionate about isn't easy, that she merely has yet to find it, before inviting her to see their show because she might relate to it and understand his points better.
- Mafuyu finding a child scrapping her knee and treating her is notable because she did it without assuming her good girl facade, but despite that Mafuyu treats the girl gently, even saying "Pain, pain fly away" at the last step of the treatment despite not having to, and as the girl happily thanked her and went on her away, Mafuyu waved back with a small, genuine smile on her face, and seeing someone as lost and depressed as Mafuyu slowly healing and be happy will make you happy too.
- And at the very end of the event, when Kanade asked her if she wants to play a street piano as she was staring at it so intently, Mafuyu said yes without hesitation; not "I don't know" or "if you insist", but "I want to play a little", excellently showing the culmination of her Character Development as Mafuyu slowly but surely regains her sense of self. Mafuyu then proceeds to beautifully play Kanade's song that managed to make her smile in "Carnation Recollection", and before long Kanade joins her as they play a duet, impressing the other group members who were passing by, and the event ends with this exchange:Kanade: ...Mafuyu. Right now, are you having fun?Mafuyu: ...I'm not sure, but... I want to stay like this, just a little longer.Kanade: ...I see. Then, let's play a little longer.Mafuyu: Okay.
- It's very touching to see Wonderlands X Showtime come full circle in A Brand New Year! Lion Dance Robot's New Year's Show! where they go to help Tsukasa as he’s being chased by the Lion Robot as opposed to the very first new years event where they basically ignore his pleas.
- Someday, This Wish Will Transcend the Morning Sky:
- After Mafuyu's mother looked at Mafuyu's computer without her permission the previous day, Mafuyu was hesitant to go home after her cram school; she was then found by a passing-by Ena, and when it suddenly rains, Ena proceeds to bring Mafuyu to her home not only to shelter her from the rain, but also to give her a much-needed break and distance from her mother.
- When Mafuyu's mother gave a sudden call which leaves Mafuyu a stuttering mess, Ena took the phone from her and speaks to Mafuyu's mother directly. It is an extremely tense call, with the BGM completely fading out the moment Mafuyu's phone rings and Mafuyu's mother subtly interrogating Ena whether she's the one who made Mafuyu become interested in music, but not only did Ena lied that she doesn't know anything about music, she proceeds to use her father's fame as leverage by introducing herself as his daughter before asking Mafuyu's mother to allow Mafuyu to stay over the night because she needs Mafuyu to be the model for her art project. And the best part of it all? It worked, Mafuyu's mother actually allows Mafuyu to stay the night at Ena's house, and she accomplished this without losing her temper or raising her voice like usual. Even Mafuyu is impressed and thanked her afterwards.
- Mafuyu having dinner with Ena, Akito and their mother also counts because it's the first time she saw a good-natured banter and a family dynamic that's different from her own, even if she couldn't really understand why she feels lighter here compared to dinner at her own home. It also helps that Ena's mother is the exact Foil to her own mother, including her view on education and style of parenting, leaving Mafuyu with a lot to think about.
- Towards the Phoenix at the Sky's Edge has plenty of heartwrenching moments, but out of every WxS event this one may also have some of the peak heartwarming moments as it shows just how far they've come as a troupe. Compared to their beginning where they basically treated Tsukasa as nothing more than a nuisance or the butt of jokes and didn't take him seriously, this event really shows the depths of how much they care about him as they take on a more active role in helping him understand the role he's auditioning for Phoenix Wonderland's 30th Anniversary show. As a bonus and tearjerker of a different kind, Tsukasa realizes he’s not alone and that his friends will go the extra mile to help him when he needs it.
- Immiscible Discord:
- The reason why Kanade decided to meet with Mafuyu's mother on her own despite Ena and Mizuki offering to go with her definitely counts: just in case the meeting turn south and she could no longer see Mafuyu, Ena and Mizuki would still be able to stay by Mafuyu's side and keep her company because Mafuyu's mother would only know her face.
- It might be minor, but Ena and Mizuki inviting Mafuyu to their usual diner to help take her mind off from recent events is nice to see. Mizuki even managed to make Mafuyu think about the four of them going out to shop for clothes together in the future.
- It is extremely heartwarming to see just how much Kanade cares about Mafuyu. When Kanade finally realized that Mafuyu's mother does not care about Mafuyu's feelings at all, Kanade stands up to Mafuyu's mother, declaring that not only does she not trust the woman, but also how she'd never leave Mafuyu's side no matter what Mafuyu's mother says. Keep in mind that Kanade is a Hikkikomori who has difficulty in talking with people she just met, but because she cares about Mafuyu and knows that she might relapse into suicidal depression if left alone with her mother, she could stand her ground and say those things to Mafuyu's mother face without any hesitation whatsoever, showing her rarely-seen Determinator side that Ena and Mizuki admires so much.
- The fact that the reason Kanade managed to realize that Mafuyu's mother doesn't actually care about Mafuyu at all is because she had such loving parents to compare her to. Kanade knew what unconditional love felt like, and thus no matter how pleasant and nice Mafuyu's mother talks and acts, she knew that it lacked a certain warmth that should be present if the woman actually cares.
- Hell, Kanade getting visibly angry and frustrated at Mafuyu's mother because she expects her to do all these things out of worry, that she's genuinely looking out for Mafuyu in her own way, also counts. Kanade tried so hard trying to make Mafuyu's mother understand what Mafuyu is going through because she desperately wants to believe that all parents would naturally love and care for their children, that she'd understand if given enough context. But when it became clear that she doesn't, Kanade decides then and there to make a stand because she truly, genuinely cares about Mafuyu, unlike Mafuyu's mother.
- Our Escape for Survival:
- Seeing just how much everyone in N25 cares about Mafuyu can brought you to tears from just how heartfelt they are; from brainstorming a way for Mafuyu to be able to connect with them after her laptop was broken and her mother starts to randomly monitor her at night, to changing their meeting schedule in Nightcord from 1 AM to afternoon break so Mafuyu could join, and even finding a way for Mafuyu to participate discreetly in school, it truly shows that N25 is practically her real family at this point, people who she feels comfortable and safe to be around with who genuinely loves and care for her. the 4-koma for the event depict this really well.
- Mizuki's advice and suggestion to Mafuyu also counts: if she couldn't stand still but couldn't muster the courage to stand up against her mother, then it's okay for her to run away. It won't fully solve the problem, but Mizuki points out that both standing still and standing up requires massive amount of energy and effort; thus, if Mafuyu feels like she couldn't take it anymore, it's better for her to just run and recharge in a safe place rather than letting herself be completely spent and thus "disappear". To see Mizuki's past experiences being helpful for Mafuyu is heartwarming, as does the fact that Mizuki actually opens up a little to Mafuyu to convey this.
- Seeing just how much everyone in N25 cares about Mafuyu can brought you to tears from just how heartfelt they are; from brainstorming a way for Mafuyu to be able to connect with them after her laptop was broken and her mother starts to randomly monitor her at night, to changing their meeting schedule in Nightcord from 1 AM to afternoon break so Mafuyu could join, and even finding a way for Mafuyu to participate discreetly in school, it truly shows that N25 is practically her real family at this point, people who she feels comfortable and safe to be around with who genuinely loves and care for her. the 4-koma for the event
- Standing Next to the Kind and Gentle You:
- In the event story, Honami becomes worried that Kanade is overworking herself, and invites her to a bridal festival that she has tickets for so that she can take a break.
- Going to the event made Kanade realize that she had never really shown her gratitude for Honami aside from simple words of thanks despite the fact that Honami had been taking care of her for two years. Kanade then decided to give her a suitable present to convey her feelings, and with Mizuki and Emu's help, she ends up making a bouquet for Honami; she gives it at the end of the event along with this very heartfelt gratitude, and it is beautiful.Kanade: At home, sometimes when I start creating music, I get lost in my head. But when that happens, you call out to me. And not only that, but the food you cook, the scent of the laundry you do for me, those little unnoticeable things. They make me feel safe. I think it's because you've always been here that I've been able to keep creating music. That's why... thank you, for everything.
- It's also extra heartwarming because Honami had always wondered whether her cooking and cleaning for Kanade had actually been helpful at all, and she often feels like she's not doing enough to support her; Kanade's gratitude proves her wrong, and seeing Honami just beams from receiving the gift and gratitude before she reaffirms her desire to keep helping Kanade will make you smile.
- After that, Kanade offers to help Honami cook for the first time; they end up making dinner together, with Honami gently guiding Kanade on what to do and how, and the CG accompanying the scene◊ is extremely warm.
- Even though Farewell to My Persona is one giant Tear Jerker, the heartwarming moments that could be found in the story are equally powerful:
- When Mafuyu didn't contact N25 like usual, Mizuki and Ena fears that Mafuyu's mother had finally taken her phone away from her, with Kanade trying to calm them down because Miku is trying to check on Mafuyu... only for Miku to came back and tell them that she couldn't enter Mafuyu's phone. Now realizing that the situation might be even worse than expected, Kanade, Ena and Mizuki immediately sets out to find Mafuyu in the city, hoping to find her on her way home because they don't know where her house is, hammering it home just how much N25 cares for Mafuyu.
- Seeing KAITO getting better at expressing his worry and care for Mafuyu despite remaining as blunt as ever also counts; he knew that Mafuyu and Miku are very close with each other, so the first thing he did after confirming that he managed to get into her broken phone is to call out to Miku to join him. He even allowed them a moment to reunite before asking what happened, which was nice because Mafuyu is clearly relieved to be able to see Miku again.Mafuyu: Miku... I thought I would never see you anymore...
- There's also the fact that it was KAITO who managed to get both Miku and himself into Mafuyu's broken phone, because him achieving something that Miku struggles to do shows just how much he really cares.
- Miku herself deserves a mention here; Mafuyu always struggles to accept blunt opinions from people like KAITO and Ena because she loves her mother, and couldn't bring herself to hurt her. Miku, being as innocent and kind as one could get, manages to make Mafuyu listen and consider those blunt advice by phrasing it in a different, more gentle manner: by focusing on the importance of protecting her own heart and how she doesn't want to see it break, and not to snap or fight back against her mother, but to talk to her about her true feelings. This not only shows just how much Miku understands Mafuyu's feelings and why the two are so close, but also ends up being the last push needed for Mafuyu to finally agree to confront her mother about how she really feels.Miku: ...If you tell her your feelings... she may be saddened. But... at this rate, your heart will break. I... don't want it to break. That's why, I want you to try talking with her. Because... we will support you.
- In her card's second side story, on her way home to confront her mother, Miku and KAITO is suddenly cut off from her phone because it's taking them a lot of effort to remain connected through a broken phone, which is enough for Mafuyu to experience a panic attack as she begs them not to leave her alone to face her mother. Thankfully, the two were able to reconnect themselves just a moment later, with KAITO saying that there's no way he's backing down now until it's over, while Miku went to Mafuyu's side to reassure and comfort her that she's staying with her until the very end. Seeing these two polar opposites Virtual Singers working together to support Mafuyu is not only heartwarming because it shows just how much the Virtual Singers care, but it also shows that Miku and KAITO's relationship is definitely much better now than when he first appeared in the Empty SEKAI.Mafuyu: ...Sorry. I'm fine now...KAITO: ...You look terrible. Take a deep breath, and raise your head.(Mafuyu nods and takes a deep breath)KAITO: —Let's go.Mafuyu: ...Yeah.
- The sheer amount of Call-Back to heartwarming moments of previous events - which gives Mafuyu the necessary strength and courage to stand her ground against her mother - is tearfully beautiful, showing just how much the presence of N25 and the Virtual Singers had done for Mafuyu and how much she treasures them that Mafuyu now consider them equal to her mother, that they are the one and only thing she couldn't give up and would never let her mother take away from her: Ena saying that the only one who could protect Mafuyu is herself, so she should make it clear when she doesn't like something from Someday, This Wish Will Transcend the Morning Sky, helps Mafuyu to make her feelings clear to her mother; Mizuki saying that it's okay for her to run away when things become too much from Our Escape for Survival gives her an option when it's clear her mother would never accept her feelings; and Kanade's words that she wants to see Mafuyu genuinely smile during Carnation Recollection, and how she'd always stay by Mafuyu's side in Mirage of Lights, made Mafuyu realize just what unconditional love and care really means, and where she should go when she finally runs away from home.
- Miku and KAITO giving their support numerous times during Mafuyu's talk with her mother, from reminding her to not get taken in by her mother's sweet yet empty promise to Miku singing Kanade's first song to remind Mafuyu of the warmth that she feels whenever she is with N25, also needs a mention because they help Mafuyu to stay firm and resist her mother's control and manipulation.
- The final words at the end of the arc-ender video at the end of the event beautifully summarizes N25 and Mafuyu's story as a whole: that chasing after their own happiness is worth it, no matter how dark and bleak the situation might seem.
- On Your Feet:
- The story follows after where Light up My Fire left off, and ends with Ken deciding to take over mentoring the team now that Taiga returned to America and make clear that he is willing to be Passing the Torch to Vivid Bad Squad and see their potential to surpass RADDERS in their prime. Vivid Bad Squad might have learned that they still have much to go, but they're going to try again.
Events (2nd Season)
- Searching for a Reflection Beneath the Waters:
- We got more details on what happened after Mafuyu ran away from her home to Kanade's place, and many of them are heartwarming:
- It's revealed that Mafuyu's father came to try to coax her back home and talk things out with her mother a few days after the fact, but when Mafuyu said that she couldn't and he saw just how scared she is, he relents and allow Mafuyu to stay in Kanade's house; not only that, he also promised to send Mafuyu her luggage and living expenses, expressed regret on not being there for Mafuyu and missing the signs of what she's truly feeling, and asked Kanade to take care of his daughter. He might often be absent, arguably even neglectful, but it's nice to see Mafuyu's father at least trying to see things from Mafuyu's perspective unlike his wife.
- Mafuyu's card story and Kanade's chapter showed that while Kanade initially tried to hide the fact that Mafuyu is staying with her from Honami, Honami eventually find out; however, Mafuyu trusts Honami enough to drop her mask off and tell her the truth, and Honami not only took The Reveal well, she also kept the secret, and from that point on she made sure to buy enough groceries to cook for two people. Kanade eventually said that she's glad Honami found out after the fact, and it's heartwarming to see Honami being the first person outside of N25 to be trusted with the situation because she's one of the few people who could really help Kanade and Mafuyu's situation, even if only by cleaning the place and cooking them some good meals; in fact, whenever Kanade and Mafuyu eats or drink tea together, it's mentioned that both the pre-made food and tea were from Honami.
- Kanade and Mafuyu living together pushed them both to actually do better with their lives. For example, Mafuyu will notice when she's getting hungry and remind her to eat; Kanade, in turn, asks Mafuyu to join her because her father would be worried if she doesn't eat. Another example is Kanade waking up earlier to see Mafuyu off to school and having some breakfast with her; Mafuyu, in turn, suggests Kanade to take a proper rest on her bed afterwards instead of dozing off when she's working like usual. In other words, Mafuyu's presence helps Kanade to live better, while Kanade's presence helps Mafuyu to experience living in a warm and loving home.
- At the end of Kanade's card story, Kanade didn't hear Mafuyu ringing the bell and made her wait for a while before she noticed. Kanade, feeling bad, suggests Mafuyu to take the key so she wouldn't be locked out ever again; when Mafuyu said that it wasn't necessary because it's not her home, Kanade said that she wants Mafuyu to think of it like her own home, before finally suggesting to make a duplicate key so both Mafuyu and herself have a key each. It's a really sweet and thoughtful gesture that shows just how much Kanade cares for Mafuyu.
- The event's 4-koma aptly summarizes how Kanade and Mafuyu interact when they're living together, and it's heartwarming to see.
- In Kanade's chapter, she found a little girl in the Empty SEKAI who lost her bunny plushie. Kanade promised to help the girl find it, and as they explore together they arrived at the newly-created lake in the SEKAI. Seeing the plushie beneath the lake, Kanade tried to get it, only to nearly fell into the water if the girl hadn't caught her; the girl then proceeds to say that Kanade shouldn't risk herself so much to get it, and when Kanade promised to be more careful, the girl said that there's no way to get the plushie back now if it's in the lake anyway. Reminded of Mafuyu back in the main story, Kanade refutes the girl's statements, saying that while they don't know how to get it back yet and it might be difficult, the girl shouldn't say something like it's impossible to get it back, ending with Kanade promising to always look for it together with the girl while patting her head with a gentle smile. With The Reveal that the little girl was Mafuyu when she was little, Kanade's interaction with her became something like a mirror to their situation: Kanade tried to help Mafuyu even at the cost of her own health and safety at first, then Mafuyu stopped her before asking her to give up, and finally Kanade promising to help Mafuyu look for it together while she stops being so reckless as a result.
- With everyone's support, Mafuyu finally braved the lake again and took out more things from it: the sketch of herself that Ena drew, N25's music sheet, and finally, an apple. Apples have been a consistent theme for Mafuyu as far back as Mirage of Lights, and in Saying Goodbye to My Persona, it represents Mafuyu's heart. Finding the apple reminded Mafuyu of her mother, back when she was filled with warmth, and of the dream her mother had inadvertently given her, and it was a bittersweet thing; because just as Mafuyu had finally acknowledged that her mother had taken away so much from her, she must also acknowledge that her mother was also the one who had given her her heart, and Mafuyu needs to acknowledge both sides of her mother if she were to move forward. And while Kanade acknowledged that change is scary, she reminds Mafuyu that she's no longer alone, and that they can all change together with her; this triggered a change in the SEKAI, with a door appearing in the middle of the lake and a bud sprouting at its edge. While the door is still locked and the bud had yet to grow, there's no doubt that with everyone's support, the door will eventually be unlocked and the bud will grow in the future.
- We got more details on what happened after Mafuyu ran away from her home to Kanade's place, and many of them are heartwarming:
- Next to the Unchanging Warmth:
- The event focuses on the Akiyama siblings relationship with each other and how much Mizuki cherishes their sister. The event reveals that their sister is Mizuki's inspiration for their love of cute things and fashion. When they were later poked fun of by their peers and called weird for wearing cute things, their sister instead comforted and encouraged Mizuki to Be Yourself.
April Fools
- 2022 April Fools
- Seeing all the Virtual Singers of each SEKAI meeting each other in the real world is incredibly heartwarming, with so many wholesome interactions between them. This is especially true for the Empty SEKAI Virtual Singers, who got dragged into doing many different things when they usually have nothing to do.
- Seeing the other Miku treating N25 Miku like their little sister definitely counts. WxS Miku surprise hugging N25 Miku, and then teaching her how to Wonderhoy, is particularly diabetes-inducing.
- WxS KAITO and MEIKO meeting N25 Rin, leading to KAITO giving Rin a headpat. This makes Rin actually wonders about how the KAITO of the Empty SEKAI will be like.
- In this parallel Shibuya, Kanade joins YUME YUME JUMP! as both an idol and songwriter. Seeing everyone being so supportive of her, and Kanade herself doing the training to the point of being able to perform 1 song on-stage in order to deliver hope directly, is quite nice to see.
- Mafuyu being on the troupe with Emu, Kohane and Haruka. Because they're doing a show and needs an antagonist, Mafuyu volunteers to have her character, Goodness Smile, secretly be the evil Darkness Smile that must be defeated - reflecting her double persona - but Emu, bless her heart, says that as their show is done to make everyone smile, she wants Darkness Smile to smile as well. Kohane then suggests Darkness Smile to do a Heel–Face Turn, and the show ends up doing exactly that; it's nice to see Mafuyu being able to channel some of her real self through the show, and for Emu and the others to help her genuinely smile.
- Seeing all the Virtual Singers of each SEKAI meeting each other in the real world is incredibly heartwarming, with so many wholesome interactions between them. This is especially true for the Empty SEKAI Virtual Singers, who got dragged into doing many different things when they usually have nothing to do.
- 2023 April Fools
- The Pure Heart Class, full stop. Having Kanade, N25 Miku, Shizuku, Toya, Ichika and Emu in one class practically breaks the wholesome meter; they're so wholesome that another class, Solid Heart, have all of its members have someone they're concerned for in that class!
- Seeing Kanade and N25 Miku together in school, for that matter; having the two quietest and introverted girls to be in a school and enjoy themselves is enough to give you diabetes.
- N25 Miku once again being Everyone's Baby Sister; not only is she the only Miku that doesn't act as a secret mentor for the students, everyone in the class adores her; from Shizuku and Toya bringing her picture books to read and play with, to Emu inviting her to watch anime in her house, to Ichika feeling warmth whenever she sees N25 Miku smile, by graduation day N25 Miku has smiled a lot and clearly enjoyed her time there.
- The Passionate Heart class managing to make both Rui and Mizuki looks forward to school and interact with their classmates is this in spades. Having Minori, An and Saki as classmates definitely does wonders to both of them for a conductive school environment.
- Having everyone sing together in the song released for the occasion, Be the MUSIC! / All Music MIKUdemy by kinoshita, can make you cry from just wholesome the whole thing is.
- The Pure Heart Class, full stop. Having Kanade, N25 Miku, Shizuku, Toya, Ichika and Emu in one class practically breaks the wholesome meter; they're so wholesome that another class, Solid Heart, have all of its members have someone they're concerned for in that class!
Other/Misc
- Nightcord Miku in general just brings the fuzzy feeling. Despite looking very different from her usual appearance and seemingly being an Emotionless Girl, this Miku is very gentle and caring, being Mafuyu's only friend before she finally opens up to the rest of the group, and when she realizes that her presence alone cannot save Mafuyu from disappearing, she enlists the help of the other members of Nightcord despite Mafuyu's wish to be left alone; the fact that she's very innocent and even naive only makes her all the more endearing. It's also clear that this goes both ways: Everyone in N25 love and care for Miku, bringing her items so she won't be bored, giving her clothes to keep her warm, and visiting the SEKAI just to keep her company.Miku: The blanket Mizuki gave me. The muffler Ena gave me. The socks Kanade gave me. And... The gloves Mafuyu gave me... This is warmth. Warmth is good... I like it.
- Mafuyu's 2021 birthday. While Mafuyu herself forgot about it, Mizuki didn't, and told the others so they can throw a party for Mafuyu in the Empty SEKAI. In the Virtual Live, Kanade also said a very heartwarming thing to Mafuyu:Kanade: I do know that I'm grateful you were born into this world, and that we're making songs together now.
- In an official 4-koma, Miku also sees celebrating Mafuyu's birthday as a way to thank her, because both she and the Empty SEKAI was born from Mafuyu's feelings.
- In an official 4-koma
- In Mafuyu's 2022 birthday card story, her mother forbids her from receiving homemade sweets and games as her present, putting her in a dilemma when Ichika and Honami gifted her homemade cookies. Before she could reject the offer, Honami reveals that the cookie is Miku-shaped and that Ichika worked hard on it, causing Mafuyu to relent and accept it. Because she couldn't bring it back home, Mafuyu ends up going into the Empty SEKAI during her lunch break to give the cookies as a gift to Miku and the others.
- Despite still not knowing how to feel about her own birthday, after receiving so many well-wishes and having a celebration with the rest of N25, Mafuyu said that she'll remember this day.
- In Mafuyu's 2023 birthday card story, Honami and Ichika got her an ocean-themed snow globe; the 4-koma shows that Mafuyu would later bring it to the Empty SEKAI so that a curious Miku and Len could inspect it to their heart's content.
- The fact that Kanade advised Ichika and Honami to give Mafuyu something other than confectionaries as present because she knew Mafuyu couldn't really enjoy them shows just how considerate she is; Kanade even apologizes to Mafuyu afterwards because she feared she might have told them too much. Thankfully both Ichika and Honami thought that Mafuyu is just trying to keep her body in shape, and Mafuyu herself ends up liking the snow globe.
- Everything in Kanade's 2022 birthday card story. From her grandmother sending ingredients so Kanade can ask Honami to cook anything for her, Mizuki and Ena working harder than usual so they can celebrate Kanade's birthday, the party in the Empty SEKAI, Kanade remembering the "special plate" her mother cook for her for her birthday from celebrating with everyone, Ichika sending her a really rare CD, and Kanade finally asking Honami to recreate the "special plate" for her birthday dinner... everything will warm your heart and make you go "HNGGGGGGG" at how wholesome the birthday is.
- The 4koma for her birthday is also incredibly sweet, showing just how much Kanade appreciates Honami that she wants her to be happy too by allowing Honami to make apple pies for her birthday.
- The 4koma
- The last episode of Petit Sekai is incredibly sweet; what what started out as Mizuki and Ena debating on the best cup ramen flavor turns into a sudden camping/picnic in the Empty SEKAI - all because Miku doesn't know what cup ramen is - and both Mizuki and Ena decides to put aside their differences in order for Miku to try one with Kanade and Mafuyu's help. The shot of all of them sitting together enjoying some hot cup ramen together is both adorable and sweet.Miku: It's warm... Delicious...
- The 100th chapter/episode of the official 4-koma shows how Nightcord Miku and the Empty SEKAI has developed over time, and it's adorable to see just how much Miku treasures everyone in N25. Bonus points for the last panel of the 4-koma (which references this 1-koma◊ that can be seen in the game's loading screen) for showing the warmth that the SEKAI now has compared to how it was in the beginning.
- An area conversation reveals that because she had lost her sense of taste, Mafuyu occasionally hosts a tea party with Miku so Miku can help her remember how food and drink taste like by describing it to her. This affirms just how close Mafuyu is with Miku, and their bond is incredibly sweet.
- In the N25 portion of Miku's 2022 birthday live, Mizuki asks Miku if there's anything she wants for her birthday, with Kanade adding that alternatively Miku could also ask them to do something for her. Miku's response is so wholesome that you could get diabetes from it.
- Furthermore, Miku acknowledges that her wish won't come easily, but affirms nonetheless that it has always been what she wanted. She also adds that everyone don't have to push themselves just to fulfill her wish, because she'll patiently waits for it to come true.
- While he’s usually the butt of jokes, Tsukasa's 2022 birthday card story does a good job at reminding us just how much he’s respected and cared about by many members of the cast and it will leave a smile on your face and tears in your eyes. Rui, Emu, Nene, Vivid BAD SQUAD, Mizuki, Leo/need and even Sakurako Seiryuin team up to make and issue Tsukasa a series of challenges for him to complete. Not only does he complete them perfectly and have a blast while doing so, but the end prize was a surprise party held by everyone involved (minus Leo/need who had a concert that day). Tsukasa was so overwhelmed by the birthday wishes, that he was moved to tears!Tsukasa: “Wha…! I… I’m….! I’m so happy to have such good friends and juniors like you all—!”
- The 4-koma for Miku's Day has N25 Miku spending some time with Mafuyu, asking her to play a two-person cat's cradle with her. Just the way Miku asked Mafuyu to play together is already adorable enough, but Mafuyu topped it off by immediately agreeing to Miku's request.
