Journal with Witch Episode 9: Intersect

The episode opens on a domestic scene, a quiche, then four friends gathered around a table. Makio, Asa, Shima, and Akimoto share food and conversation, a familiar comfort. The lighthearted chatter about eating the quiche quickly gives way to the ritual of opening champagne, a small, shared moment of anticipation.

A sudden shift to a stark white screen, announcing '5 years ago, New Year's Day.' The transition is abrupt, signaling a significant flashback without preamble.

The earlier gathering of Makio, Asa, Shima, and Akimoto is less celebratory than the present one. Hands rest on a wooden table, champagne bubbles gently in a glass. They speak of family gatherings, of weariness and shared understanding, moving quickly onto their second drink. There is a sense of resignation, but also comfort in their collective experience.

The conversation turns personal. Akimoto remarks on Makio's habit of avoiding New Year's, leading to a casual inquiry about his relationship. Makio delivers the news of his breakup with Kasemachi, a revelation that genuinely surprises his friends. His reason, that her "perfection" made him feel "stupid" and utterly exhausted, puzzles them but resonates with Akimoto. Shima then declares she will "not date anymore," a resolute statement.

Back in the present, Masaaki is on the phone in his living room, a visible sense of relief in his voice. He expresses renewed motivation, a stark contrast to the earlier mood. He acknowledges causing concern, implying a previous period of struggle.

Another textual interlude, this time 'Currently, November.' This brings us to a slightly later present, focusing the timeline with precision.

Masaaki sits alone under a tree in a school courtyard, his posture suggesting quiet contemplation. A female student approaches, speaking gently. She offers him comfort, cradling his head on her shoulder in an embrace that speaks volumes of quiet support. Her words about "slowly watching over him" and him needing to "figure it out himself" offer a tender wisdom.

The episode shifts to a glimpse of Masaaki at his apparent limit, lying upside down on a sofa. Text bubbles convey his overwhelmed state: "I'm at my limit, I can't do anything more." There is a touch of humor, too, with a second bubble about deciding the meat. Despite the exhaustion, a flicker of determination crosses Masaaki's face.

Masaaki walks with Junna, engrossed in his phone. Junna observes that Makio is apathetic and complains about work, a character detail that surprises Masaaki. She then shows him a text message from Makio, revealing his desire for "a colorful daily life" while feeling alone in a desert. Junna suggests Makio might have a talent for writing, a notion Masaaki seems to consider thoughtfully.

Masaaki nervously presents a written sheet to Makio. Makio reads it, his expression thoughtful, then a blush creeps onto his cheeks. He says the text is "young and energetic," and when Masaaki admits it is his first poem, Makio clarifies it is "black history," an embarrassing past. He advises Masaaki to create "many 'black histories' now."

Masaaki is frustrated, wanting a "hint" from Makio. Makio, exasperated, advises him to clarify his subject and make his descriptions more dramatic. He points out the ambiguity, suggesting Masaaki needs to write with an intensity, almost "killing or dying." Masaaki feels misunderstood, lamenting that Makio speaks in "words he doesn't understand."

Makio holds Masaaki's sheet of writing, stating he needs it to edit. Masaaki is shocked, asking "why." Makio counters that he found something "interesting" in it, something that gives *him* inspiration. This declaration leaves Masaaki visibly stunned, his anger and disbelief rising to the surface as he calls Makio "unfair."

Masaaki shouts in disbelief and anger at Makio's actions. Despite his frustration, Makio assures him he will "continue to watch over" his progress, an unexpected form of encouragement. Masaaki's face reddens, a mix of anger and embarrassment, but then he declares his understanding, stating he wants to "become the person he wants to be." Makio smiles, a can of beer in hand, acknowledging Masaaki's renewed determination.

The episode closes with Masaaki walking alone in a desert landscape, cactuses dotting the barren ground. He appears sad, lost, his footsteps marking the sand. This imagery reinforces the theme of his internal struggle and his solitary search for identity. He looks contemplative, still navigating his path.