With the introduction of some new characters, Challe Fen Challe may not be Anne Halford’s only potential love interest in Sugar Apple Fairy Tale.
As one of the newest shojo series in the Winter 2023 anime season, Sugar Apple Fairy Tale seems to promise a romance between a bubbly yet determined aspiring confectioner and a dark and mysterious warrior fairy. However, Episode 2 hints that Anne Halford may have a few more love interests to contend with.
Even with its darker undertones, shojo fans can look forward to the series’ cute characters and the interesting dynamic between Anne Halford and Challe Fen Challe. Their vastly different personalities and severely strained relationship between humans and fairies set up tension between the two, which could lead to an intriguing romance as their relationship develops. Because a romantic relationship between Anne and Challe would need plenty of time to come to fruition, the presence of other male characters could lead to a subtle reverse-harem dynamic similar to that of Fruits Basket.
Jonas Is a Likely Competitor as Romance Develops Between Anne and Challe
Episode 1 introduces Jonas as a friend of Anne who is reluctant to see her set out on her journey alone. However, his concern goes beyond that of a friend, as he openly and unabashedly declares his love for her. Anne quickly sets off and leaves him behind while he is distracted by his marriage proposal, but Jonas’ appearance in the series is not confined to the premiere. After Challe’s defeat of the bandits from the previous episode, Anne notices that Jonas has been following them, and he joins their traveling party.
Though Anne clearly doesn’t return his feelings, Jonas’ continued presence in the series sets him up as a secondary love interest. Given the tension between Anne and Challe, Sugar Apple Fairy Tale will likely explore romantic feelings between the aspiring Silver Sugar Master and the brooding warrior fairy. With Jonas’ feelings so apparent, his presence as a secondary love interest could either prompt Anne to explore her own romantic feelings or lead to a conflict that will push Anne and Challe closer, depending on how the series develops Jonas’ character.
Could Sugar Apple Fairy Tale Have a Reverse Harem Structure Similar to Fruits Basket?
Jonas may not be the only romantic competitor in Sugar Apple Fairy Tale. Episode 2 concludes with the band of travelers settling at a doctor’s inn for the night, and they come across a new character. Though his appearance only lasts a handful of seconds, his presence in the OP and ED indicates that he will play a significant role in the story. However, he is not the only male in the opening and ending credits, suggesting that Anne will meet several men along her journey. Though it is not clear if these men will actually play a romantic role in the series, their prominence in the OP and ED could indicate a dynamic similar to that found in Fruits Basket.
Fruits Basket may not be a reverse harem in the strictest sense, but it does involve a cast of male characters who form a bond with Tohru, some of them either falling in love with her or being openly flirtatious. As Anne encounters the various male characters featured in the OP and ED, they will likely serve a similar role, playing a part in Anne’s journey and forming a bond with her, whether it be platonic or romantic.
Viewers will have to continue watching to find out who the mysterious new character is and what role he will play in the series. As Anne continues her journey to become a Silver Sugar Master, viewers can look forward to watching her character develop as she gets closer to Challe, comes to terms with Jonas’ feelings and meets a variety of characters on her way.
