When it comes to romance manga, there’s got to be something juicy or head-turning to keep one’s interest. Author Luka Kobachi originally had an issue with this when she started the yuri series Rainbows After Storms. In the beginning, there was no drama or things at stake, despite the story being about a relationship that isn’t 100% accepted in real-life Japan. But as time went on, Rainbows After Storms was able to throw some curveballs, and even add some tension to the lives of Nanoha and Chidori.

However, in its ninth volume, Rainbows After Storms appears to have gone back to a safer route in its narrative pathway. In some cases, that can be a good thing, as having a break from the tension gives the reader a breather of sorts. But man, I can’t help but feel like there was very little progress made between Nanoha and Chidori’s relationship. With that being said, it’s not all boring or time-consuming.

I did enjoy reading through Chidori and Nanoha’s Christmas fun, as it starts with their friends coming over to do some cooking and partying. It has both of our main girls swooning over how cute and beautiful they look, to the point where they basically ruin the cake they’re baking. Chidori and the friends play a game of LIFE whilst Nanoha takes care of the dishes, with Chidori’s progress in the game mirroring exactly what her girlfriend may want in real life.

Then there is the snowy walk to a nearby temple. It’s a moment that gives Nanoha and Chidori a bit of romantic fun during the Christmas season. The lipstick, the kiss, and the end result are very cute to watch unfold. Their hopes for the New Year are also on display later on, with both girls hoping to make some solid progress in their coupling.

But then, the brakes are put on for a bit with a few throwaway stories. A stained school uniform, a case of the hiccups, and a chat about sweets are a tiny bit entertaining, but they do nothing to add substance to the narrative. They feel like fillers for whenever the time comes to bring the story back on track, something that kind of happens when Mai returns to the picture.

Mai’s time fawning over Nanoha has come and gone, with the basketball player now having feelings for another girl. It’s a nice moment between the three friends, as this sort of thing can only be discussed with Chidori and Nanoha. On top of that, it shows a bit of maturity for both parties. Not only has Mai accepted that Chidori is Nanoha’s girlfriend, but they can still be close friends despite the past romantic emotional baggage. (Plus, it seems like the new girl Mai is crushing on may be feeling the same thing for her!)

Volume Nine of Rainbows After Storms is simply good. There isn’t anything game-changing with the narrative, nor does every chapter in the volume deliver nonstop entertainment. But when it does offer something cute or endearing, one can’t help but feel their heart melt with happiness. Rainbows After Storms may not be the juiciest or most thought-provoking yuri out there, but like a bowl of whipped cream, it’s got enough sweetness to put a smile on anyone’s face.

Promotional consideration provided by Chantelle Sturt of VIZ Media.