Episode 4 of Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus, titled “Champion of Justice,” aired on July 26, 2025, marking the official start of the Nightingale Arc. This installment reintroduces Touko Kirishima, a mysterious “miniskirt Santa” who claims to be distributing Adolescence Syndrome as “gifts” to millions of people, including Sakuta’s former middle school classmate, Ikumi Akagi. The episode also highlights a new, widespread social media phenomenon called “Dreaming,” where posts with the hashtag are said to manifest as prophecies, hinting at complex supernatural developments.
Touko Kirishima’s Reintroduction and the Spreading Syndrome
The episode picks up with Touko Kirishima appearing before Sakuta, revealing her role in spreading Puberty Syndromes to approximately 10 million individuals, referring to them as “presents.” This claim, while initially met with skepticism by Sakuta and his friends, suggests a new, potentially far-reaching form of Adolescence Syndrome. Touko, voiced by Reina Ueda, is presented as a key figure in this latest supernatural phenomenon.
The Viral “Dreaming” Trend
A significant plot point introduced in Episode 4 is the “Dreaming” trend, where messages posted on social media with the hashtag #Dreaming seemingly come true. These predictions range from everyday occurrences to more dramatic events, such as a girl being hit by a lantern. This viral trend intertwines with the manifestation of Adolescence Syndrome, adding a layer of prophetic abilities to the series’ supernatural elements.
Sakuta’s Encounter with Ikumi Akagi
Sakuta’s path crosses with Ikumi Akagi, a former middle school classmate now studying nursing at the same university. Ikumi, who was part of Sakuta’s life in a “perfect timeline” he experienced in a previous film, is clearly affected by a Puberty Syndrome related to the “Dreaming” trend. Sakuta attends a matchmaking party, invited by a friend, where he and Takumi meet Ryohei, an International Commerce student. It is at this party that discussions about Touko Kirishima’s songs eventually shift to the mysterious “Dreaming” trend. During a Halloween walk after the party, Sakuta observes Ikumi preventing an accident that was foretold by a “Dreaming” post, deepening his curiosity about her condition and motivations.
Sakuta’s Role as a “Great Detective”
The episode subtly emphasizes Sakuta’s established role as a resolver of Adolescence Syndrome cases. Rio Futaba, a recurring character, notes that Sakuta seems to “always run into a murder case no matter where he goes,” highlighting his consistent involvement in supernatural phenomena. This reinforces the understanding that while Sakuta may appear aloof, he is driven to solve these mysteries, and those around him, including Mai, have come to accept and support this aspect of his life. The continued maturity and trust in the relationship between Sakuta and Mai are also subtly displayed, with Mai showing understanding and support for Sakuta’s endeavors.
What’s Next in the Nightingale Arc
Episode 4 serves as a foundational episode for the Nightingale Arc, adapting Volume 11 of the light novel series. While not the most action-packed installment, it effectively sets the stage by introducing new characters, themes, and a fresh twist on the concept of Puberty Syndrome through Touko Kirishima’s ability to bestow it upon others. The unanswered questions surrounding Touko’s true nature and Ikumi Akagi’s specific Puberty Syndrome are poised to drive the narrative forward in subsequent episodes.
