For over ten years, Maid Sama! has captured the hearts of fans through the story of Misaki Ayuzawa. This beloved rom-com chronicles her evolution from a strict student council president to a young woman in love with Takumi Usui. Originally serialized from 2005 to 2013, the manga skillfully intertwined humor and romance with profound character development, leaving a lasting impression. Now, after a 12-year hiatus, fans have been treated to an unexpected reunion as a new chapter appears in LaLa DX issue 3/2025, reintroducing readers to Misaki and her ensemble of friends.
As reported by @MangaMoguraRE on X, this special chapter features Misaki and her companions embarking on a quest to locate a missing cat. While this storyline takes a lighter tone compared to the romantic escapades that characterized the original series, it aligns beautifully with the core themes of friendship and resilience that made Maid Sama! a classic. Interestingly, this release coincides with the debut of Hiro Fujiwara’s new manga, Selfish to a Cat – Neko ni Wagamama, serving as a charming homage to the author’s more recent endeavors.
A Nostalgic Yet Refreshing Return
The Unexpected but Perfect Maid Sama! Comeback
Defined as a pivotal shoujo manga of the 2000s, Maid Sama! effectively amalgamated a strong female protagonist with a mix of romance and humor. Misaki’s challenging journey in balancing her stern student council persona and her secret employment at a maid café, coupled with her complex relationship with Usui, kept readers riveted. However, this new chapter offers a refreshing pivot, focusing more on themes of camaraderie rather than the romantic tension that fans adored.
The simple yet sweet premise of searching for a missing cat transforms into an endearing slice-of-life adventure, illuminating Misaki’s nurturing side. This narrative shift invites fans to appreciate her character depth beyond her romance with Usui, providing a wholesome reflection on friendship and community.
Hiro Fujiwara’s New Direction for the Manga
How Maid Sama! Sets the Stage for Fujiwara’s Next Work
Beyond the nostalgia, the release of this chapter aligns neatly with the premiere of Fujiwara’s latest project, Selfish to a Cat – Neko ni Wagamama, featured in the same issue. This new series introduces an innovative romantic angle, exploring relationships characterized by feline behaviors, thematically resonating with the elements present in the comeback chapter of Maid Sama!.
As fans dive into this delightful new installment, they can embrace the nostalgia of earlier adventures while eagerly anticipating Fujiwara’s future romance narratives. Though it remains uncertain whether additional chapters will be released, this special edition serves as a delightful reminder of why Maid Sama! continues to be revered as one of the most beloved shoujo manga of its time.
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