Oshi no Ko: Aqua and Ruby’s Journey Towards a Happy Ending

The acclaimed manga Oshi no Ko is approaching its much-anticipated conclusion, leaving fans both excited and apprehensive. Readers have speculated extensively about the fate of the main characters, Aqua and Ruby Hoshino, hoping for a satisfactory ending that allows them to lead fulfilling lives. Yet, this prospect now seems increasingly uncertain.

As the final chapter, an ambitious 50 pages in length, draws near, there remains a flicker of hope for a happy resolution. However, should this optimistic outcome materialize, it might lead to some criticism directed at the series’ creator, Aka Akasaka, raising questions about storytelling choices. The outcome is still uncertain, and fans are left in suspense.

Disclaimer: This article reveals spoilers from the Oshi no Ko manga.

The Controversial Dream Sequence Ending Theory

Aqua and Ruby as seen in the manga — Aqua and Ruby – The Best of Aqua and Ruby (Image via Shueisha)

A significant portion of the fanbase appears to agree that a dream sequence conclusion would be one of the least satisfying ways to wrap up the story. This narrative device risks undermining the intricate character development and plotlines established throughout the series. Unfortunately, such an ending could become plausible due to the character, Crow Girl.

According to a popular fan theory suggested by @Bastet_Ao3, Aqua and Ruby might still achieve a happy ending, but only if the tumultuous events leading up to the conclusion are revealed to be merely a dream. This theory has gained traction due to hints dropped throughout the story.

Miyako Saitou as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

In the previous chapters of Oshi no Ko, specifically Chapter 157, viewers saw Aqua and Ruby peacefully sleeping as they awaited their mother, Miyako Saitou. This innocent moment raised speculations about what dreams the siblings might be experiencing.

Subsequently, the narrative shifted towards the B-Komachi live performance tour and their challenges, leading to intense encounters between the characters. What if this entire ordeal from Chapters 158 through 165 was merely a fabrication of Crow Girl, manifesting as a “what if”scenario to complicate Aqua and Ruby’s lives before the story’s actual climax?

Ruby Hoshino as seen in the anime (Image via Doga Kobo)

If Aqua were to awaken from this tumultuous dream, he might realize he is on the cusp of making a disastrous choice. This revelation could prompt him to engage in a heartfelt conversation with Ruby, where she reassures him that her love for him far outweighs her professional ambitions. This newfound clarity may inspire Aqua to act decisively, seeking Akane’s assistance to apprehend Hikaru Kamiki, ultimately avoiding a violent showdown.

Manga enthusiasts would likely resonate with such an ending. However, fans would also grapple with the implications of Aqua’s earlier sacrifice to protect Ruby’s future, leading to potential discontent if the storyline were retroactively altered.

Critics may point out a significant flaw in this theory: if Aqua is dreaming, it raises questions about the validity of an external character like Akane narrating parts of this dream sequence. While unorthodox, given Aka Akasaka’s history of surprising plot twists, it’s not an implausible direction for the story.