Ep 21. Counter-attacking Hanai! / Shining Karen! / We Meet Again, Sister

Counter-attacking Hanai! / Shining Karen! / We Meet Again, Sister is the 21st episode of School Rumble season 1. It showcases the story of Hanai, Karen, and their respective struggles.

The first part of the episode features Hanai's disappointment in his baseball skills. He becomes jealous of Harima, who is a natural at the sport, and decides to take matters into his own hands by training harder. His training results in his physical exhaustion, which prompts his friends to tell him that he needs to balance hard work with rest. Additionally, Hanai realizes that he likes Tenma and acknowledges his feelings which is revealed to the audience as a big surprise.

The second part of the episode focuses on Karen, a foreign exchange student from Germany who has a crush on Imadori. Karen wants to give Imadori a present but does not have the courage to do so. Her Japanese friends offer her advice on how to give the present subtly, but it ends up backfiring. Karen eventually confronts Imadori, but her efforts are in vain as Imadori is not interested in her romantically.

The final part of the episode reveals the backstory of Eri Sawachika and her estranged sister, Yakumo. Yakumo and Eri haven't seen each other for years and are not on good terms, but Yakumo wants to reconcile with her sister. She starts a plan to meet Eri, but her efforts are impeded by Tenma, who unknowingly thwarts Yakumo's attempts. Eventually, Yakumo meets Eri, and their reunion is emotional and heartwarming.

Overall, Counter-attacking Hanai! / Shining Karen! / We Meet Again, Sister is an emotional episode that deals with themes of jealousy, unrequited love, and sibling relationships. The struggles that the characters face are relatable, and the resolution for each character's problems is satisfying. The episode sets up for future character developments and plotlines, making it an exciting watch for fans of School Rumble.