Episode five of DANDADAN plunges right into the quirky, awkward charm between Momo Ayase and Okarun. Following their harrowing encounter with the terrifying Turbo Granny, Okarun finds himself navigating new territory—not just with supernatural foes, but with friendship and perhaps even budding romance. This episode humorously explores the evolving dynamic between the two main characters while hinting at deeper supernatural twists that lie ahead.

An Awkward School Reunion

The episode opens with Okarun walking to school, mentally preparing to greet Ayase for the first time as a true friend. In his usual overthinking fashion, he’s worried about coming across as too eager, especially since he’s never had a friend to say “good morning” to before. When he finally spots Ayase at the school gate, Okarun panics and decides it might be best to ignore her altogether. But Ayase, catching onto his nervousness, playfully bumps into him, breaking the ice. Their banter is filled with blushing and shy smiles, hinting at a connection that goes beyond mere friendship.

As they part ways to head to their respective classrooms, it becomes clear that neither can concentrate on anything but the desire to talk more about aliens and ghosts. Both characters are absorbed in their thoughts about each other, yet unable to bridge the gap they feel. Their mutual yearning to reconnect is palpable, especially when they both run into each other in the hallway during lunch, only to miss each other in the crowd. This continued miscommunication leads to a comedic but slightly painful encounter where they finally bump into each other, knocking heads and creating more confusion.

Misunderstandings and Embarrassing Moments

Their classmates observe the awkward tension and immediately jump to conclusions, teasing them about their supposed romance. Embarrassed, Ayase vehemently denies any romantic involvement, but her friends refuse to believe her. This only fuels Okarun’s insecurities, and the two end up having another small spat, vowing not to speak again, which only heightens the unspoken feelings and unresolved tension between them.

Later, Okarun finds himself in the school bathroom, wrestling with more than just his emotions—he’s horrified to discover yet another “important” body part has vanished, a side effect from his encounter with Turbo Granny. This realization adds a layer of dread to his day, but he’s distracted when he bumps into a new, mysterious girl with short pink hair. Her flirtatious comments leave Okarun flustered and Ayase furious when she overhears, interpreting the girl’s actions as an insult to Okarun. Her protective instincts kick in, leading to a hilarious and satisfying moment where Ayase uses her powers to slam a washbasin on the girl’s head.

Supernatural Hijinks with the Lucky Cat

At Ayase’s home, the mood shifts to the supernatural when her grandmother, Seiko, suspects that Okarun may still be possessed. Using a talisman and a lucky cat doll, Seiko begins a humorous and slightly bizarre ritual to cleanse Okarun. She insists Okarun sit with his feet in water while she slaps him with a paper fan, a process that causes a suspicious aura to emerge. Ayase manages to extract the ghostly energy, which immediately attaches itself to the lucky cat doll, bringing it to life. The doll starts darting around the house, with Okarun, Ayase, and Seiko chasing after it in chaotic but hilarious fashion.

Using her growing spiritual powers, Ayase senses the doll hiding and traps it in a closet. But upon opening the door, she finds the doll huddled in a defensive posture. Just as they think they’ve captured it, the doll begins squirming and escapes yet again, setting the stage for more otherworldly adventures.

Themes and Teasers

Episode five masterfully blends humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, further developing the friendship—and potential romance—between Ayase and Okarun. Their struggle with miscommunication and their mutual embarrassment highlights the innocence of young friendships and budding relationships. The episode also teases at deeper supernatural mysteries, as the recurring loss of Okarun’s body parts suggests lingering effects from his possession that may continue to haunt him.

As Ayase and Okarun bond over shared battles and chase down mischievous spirits, the groundwork for future supernatural conflicts and emotional revelations is clear. The episode closes with hints that the duo’s journey with spiritual mediums and malevolent entities is far from over.