Summary
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Dandadanfeatures the twomain characters of Momo Ayaseand Okarun, two teenagers who believe in spirits and aliens and face them together. Their relationship is not without its many obstacles, as the two are different in many ways, but also quite similar.
The two main characters ofDandadanare the heart and soul of the series, and their relationship is one of the most important aspects of the plot. As the two begin to spend more and more time together, eventually meeting up almost every day, their relationship develops significantly until they form a bond that is incredibly strong.
This feature includes spoilers for theDandadananime, as well as the manga.
Momo Ayase and Okarun’s First Meeting
They Butt Heads… A Lot
When Momo Ayase and Okarun first meet inDandadan, they seem to come from two completely different worlds. Okarun is an introverted otaku who doesn’t have many friends, whilleMomo is incredibly popularand well-liked by most students. It’s a surprise when he approaches her to talk about aliens, to which she wants to discuss spirits. The two of them then begin a journey to uncover the truth about both of their interests, and soon are spending a majority of their time together going on adventures.
But Miss Ayase, she was the only one who stood up for me. — Okarun
The beginning of their friendship is not without its roadblocks, of course, despiteOkarun sharing a name with Momo’s favorite actor. There are many misunderstandings between the two, with Okarun often thinking that Momo doesn’t actually like him and wants to avoid him when they are at school. However, since fans get to see Momo’s perspective as well, she expresses that she enjoys spending time with him and talking about spirits and aliens. Though some might think that even at the beginning of their relationship, Okarun must have had romantic feelings for Momo, it is clear that he just wanted a friend to spend time with. However, this changes over time as they get to know one another.
How Much Has Their Relationship Developed?
Their Friendship Becomes Unbreakable
Momo and Okarun’s friendshipswiftly blooms in the anime due to their passionate shared interests. It is clear that both Momo and Okarun want to be with each other as frequently as possible, which is especially visible in season 1, episode 5, “The Haunted Past”. Throughout the school day, viewers will notice both Momo and Okarun in agony as they aren’t able to spend time together and talk about their interests. However, when they finally run into each other, a fight ensues.
Miss Ayase has so many friends, so I guess I’m just a friend candidate. — Okarun
Despite having a fight, it can be interpreted that this action is actually the two of them growing closer and becoming more comfortable with each other. Fighting actually shows they are not afraid to be honest with each other, and they can express their true selves to one another. The two of them almost always make up afterward as well, with Momo apologizing for makingOkarun feel as if she is embarrassed to be seen with him.
Momo is incredibly protective of Okarun as well,especially after Aira makes fun of himfor being flustered by her. The same goes for Okarun, who defends Momo after nasty rumors are spread about her in season 1, episode 6, “The Final Showdown”. Though the two of them don’t often express it, it is obvious that they prioritize each other above anything else and will defend them when needed.
Romantic Undertones and Support
Is There Something More To Their Relationship?
In the first season ofDandadan, fans can easily infer that Momo and Okarun have formed a strong friendship within just a few episodes. However, many might wonder if it’s possible that there is aromantic undertone there as well. In season 1, episode 6, “The Final Showdown”, after Okarun defends Momo against rumors, he starts to recognize just how cute she is. One of Okarun’s classmates points this out, and he finally recognizes this fact, hinting at some underlying feelings from Okarun’s side.
Miss Ayase is… cute? I never even considered that. I was just happy that I made my first friend. — Okarun
While there are fewer romantic hints coming from Momo’s side, there are still plenty of moments inDandadanthat show her deep care for Okarun, which eventually could form into something stronger. If theanime chooses to follow the route of the manga, the two of them will eventually express their romantic feelings for each other, after avoiding it for some time. Their actions, at the moment, are what clearly show their care for one another, as either would go through great lengths to protect the other.
