In Kamisama Kiss, the moment when Tomoe and Nanami officially become a couple – where their mutual feelings are unequivocally declared and acted upon – occurs in Episode 24 of Season 2, titled “The God Makes a Proposal.” This episode marks the culmination of their slow-burn romance, solidifying their bond and setting the stage for the future of their relationship.
A Journey to Love: Unpacking Tomoe and Nanami’s Relationship
Tomoe and Nanami’s relationship is arguably the heart of Kamisama Kiss. From their initial antagonistic interactions to their eventual, undeniable love, their journey is filled with trials, tribulations, and heartwarming moments. Understanding the nuances of their bond requires more than just identifying the “get together” episode; it necessitates an appreciation of the complex circumstances that shaped their feelings.
Their relationship began with Nanami, a newly minted land god, inheriting Mikage’s shrine and, consequently, his fox familiar, Tomoe. Initially resistant and disdainful towards Nanami, Tomoe gradually comes to respect her resilience, kindness, and genuine desire to protect those around her. Nanami, in turn, softens Tomoe’s cynical exterior and helps him reconnect with his humanity.
The series masterfully depicts the slow-burn development of their feelings. Small acts of kindness, shared experiences, and moments of vulnerability all contribute to the growing affection between them. They face numerous challenges together, from battling vengeful spirits to navigating the complexities of the supernatural world, forging a bond that transcends their differences.
Episode 24: The Proposal and the Confirmed Relationship
While hints of romance are sprinkled throughout both seasons of Kamisama Kiss, Episode 24 of Season 2 is the turning point. After enduring hardships and confronting their deepest fears, both Tomoe and Nanami are ready to acknowledge their feelings openly. The episode culminates in a deeply emotional and heartfelt proposal from Nanami to Tomoe, asking him to stay by her side.
Tomoe, overwhelmed with love and finally able to accept his own feelings, reciprocates, confirming their relationship and solidifying their roles as partners, both in love and in their divine duties. This episode is significant because it moves their relationship from implied feelings to a formally recognized and committed bond. It’s the moment they both actively choose each other, signifying a major turning point in the narrative.
Understanding the Context: Before and After Episode 24
Pre-Episode 24 Dynamics
Before Episode 24, their relationship could be described as a dance of unspoken feelings. Tomoe’s overprotective nature and Nanami’s unwavering trust in him often blurred the lines between master and servant and romantic partners. There were moments of jealousy, possessiveness, and mutual reliance, hinting at the deeper feelings bubbling beneath the surface.
Post-Episode 24 Dynamics
After Episode 24, their relationship enters a new phase of openness and commitment. While the challenges of being a land god and a familiar remain, they face them together as a couple. The dynamic becomes more overtly romantic, with displays of affection and a shared understanding of their future. This episode provides a sense of closure to their initial hesitations and paves the way for exploring the implications of their unconventional relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What events lead up to the proposal in Episode 24?
The events leading up to the proposal are a culmination of trials faced throughout the season. Nanami confronts her past trauma related to her mother’s abandonment and actively works to protect those she cares about. Tomoe, in turn, struggles with his internal conflict of desiring a mortal life with Nanami while being bound to his duties as a familiar. These experiences force them to confront their vulnerabilities and ultimately solidify their feelings for each other.
2. How does Tomoe react to Nanami’s initial presence in the shrine?
Initially, Tomoe is extremely hostile and dismissive towards Nanami. He refuses to acknowledge her as his master and actively tries to drive her away. His loyalty lies with Mikage, and he struggles to accept Nanami’s sudden appearance and her inexperience as a land god.
3. What makes Nanami different from Tomoe’s previous masters?
Nanami stands apart because of her genuine kindness, unwavering optimism, and her willingness to learn and grow. Unlike previous land gods Tomoe served, Nanami actively tries to connect with the human world and genuinely cares for the people and spirits around her. Her vulnerability and determination to protect others resonate deeply with Tomoe, ultimately softening his hardened exterior.
4. Does Tomoe have feelings for Nanami before Episode 24? What are the signs?
Yes, Tomoe shows signs of romantic feelings for Nanami long before Episode 24. His overprotective behavior, jealousy towards other men, and his willingness to sacrifice himself for her safety are all indicators of his growing affection. He often goes to great lengths to protect her and fulfill her wishes, even when it conflicts with his own desires.
5. How does the other characters react to Tomoe and Nanami getting together?
Reactions vary. Some characters, like Mizuki, initially feel a tinge of sadness (due to his own feelings for Nanami) but ultimately support their relationship. Kurama, another prominent character, is generally supportive and often teases Tomoe about his feelings. Other spirits and gods offer varying levels of acceptance and curiosity, reflecting the uniqueness of their situation.
6. Is the anime adaptation faithful to the manga regarding their relationship?
The anime adaptation is largely faithful to the manga regarding Tomoe and Nanami’s relationship. While some minor details might be altered or omitted, the core storyline and the progression of their romance remain consistent with the source material. The anime effectively captures the emotional depth and nuances of their bond.
7. What are some of the major challenges they face as a couple after Episode 24?
Even after becoming a couple, Tomoe and Nanami face ongoing challenges. Nanami still needs to mature as a land god, and Tomoe grapples with the implications of his immortal existence and its impact on their future. External threats from vengeful spirits and power-hungry gods continue to test their resolve and strengthen their bond.
8. How does Nanami’s human nature affect her relationship with Tomoe?
Nanami’s human nature brings both challenges and strengths to their relationship. Her mortality is a constant source of concern for Tomoe, as he fears losing her. However, her humanity also allows her to connect with others on a deeper level and to offer compassion and understanding, qualities that Tomoe admires and learns from.
9. Does Tomoe ever express his feelings for Nanami verbally before Episode 24?
While Tomoe rarely directly expresses his love for Nanami in words before Episode 24, his actions speak volumes. He uses subtle gestures, protective actions, and moments of vulnerability to convey his affection. His feelings are more often implied than explicitly stated.
10. What role does Mikage play in Tomoe and Nanami’s relationship?
Mikage, Nanami’s predecessor as the land god and Tomoe’s former master, plays a pivotal, albeit indirect, role. He is the one who chose Nanami as his successor, believing she possessed the qualities to soften Tomoe’s heart. Mikage’s absence creates the circumstances for Tomoe and Nanami to connect and ultimately fall in love.
11. What are some of the fan-favorite moments showcasing Tomoe and Nanami’s love story?
Fan-favorite moments include the forehead kiss during the festival arc, Tomoe saving Nanami from drowning in the river, their shared moments of vulnerability in the spirit world, and any scene where Tomoe displays his overprotective tendencies towards her. These moments showcase the depth of their feelings and the evolution of their relationship.
12. What happens to Tomoe and Nanami after the Kamisama Kiss series ends?
While the anime doesn’t explicitly show their future, the manga’s epilogue provides a glimpse. They get married, and Tomoe eventually becomes human to live a mortal life with Nanami. They have children, solidifying their bond and demonstrating their commitment to a future together, blending the human and spiritual worlds in their own unique way. The ending emphasizes the power of love to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and create a lasting, fulfilling relationship.