Appropriate Age「適正年齢, Tekisei Nenrei?」 is the thirty-second chapter of the Oshi no Ko manga series. It is written by Aka Akasaka and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari. It was released in Weekly Young Jump on January 28, 2021.[1]
Summary[]
Aqua informs Mem-Cho that the new B-Komachi is currently recruiting new members. Mem-Cho doesn't believe him at first, thinking that Aqua is joking. However noticing his perfectly straight face, she realizes the offer is serious and is left dumbstruck.
Some time later, Aqua brings Mem-Cho to Ichigo Pro to have an interview with Miyako. Miyako comments that she should have hired Aqua as a scout and is surprised to learn about Mem-Cho's desire on becoming an idol. The president then continues by listing her accomplishments and asks about her current contract situation. Mem explains she technically works as a sole proprietor, while there is another agency involved, she is not affiliated with them, and her contract allows her to take any job she wants. Miyako sees no problem with the arrangement but can tell that Mem is hiding something, likely her actual age. Mem reluctantly confesses that she is 25, to Miyako and Aqua's shock.
Mem explains that when she was younger, she always dreamed of becoming an idol but wanted to support her single mother and two brothers by getting a job. Mem's mother encouraged her to follow her dream, but she got hospitalized after overworking. Mem withdrew from her idol audition and school to provide money for her family through several part-time jobs. By the time things got better, Mem was 23 and too old to pursue an idol career. She then went into streaming, presenting herself a high schooler. It turned out be quite popular and that's how it has been two years ever since.
Mem doubts she can become an idol now, but Ruby and Kana come in and encourage her, having heard the story she has been telling. Kana in particular empathizes with Mem-Cho as she has experienced being dumped by agencies due to her age. With no objections from Miyako or Ruby, they welcome her to welcome her into B-Komachi. Aqua asks Kana to look after Ruby and Mem, but Kana is still upset about the LoveforReal finale with him and Akane and ignores him. And with Mem-Cho onboard, the new B-Komachi officially launches.
Characters[]
