Ikoku Nikki • Journal with Witch - Episode 4 discussion

*Ikoku Nikki*, episode 4

**Reminder:** Please do not discuss plot points not yet seen or skipped in the show. Failing to follow the rules may result in a ban.

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* [Official Website](https://ikoku-anime.com/)

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**All discussions**

Episode|Link
:-:|:-:
1|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1q3symw)
2|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1qa2cc5)
3|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1qgbkp5)
4|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1qmm9xx)

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Commentaires

AnimeMod2026-01-25 16:36

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szalhi2026-01-25 16:49

*[Dang business cards in high school.](https://i.imgur.com/0hOoEVx.jpeg)*

Asa trying to get the topic of her dead parents out of the way on the first day of school. It didn't go how she thought it would. Obviously it's because they barely know her, and in a crowd of six it just gets glazed over, which is why she's concerned about standing out. It also doesn't help that she didn't specify it happened recently.

ModieOfTheEast2026-01-25 17:14

I was surprised by Asa even mentioning her dead parents considering what had happened last episode. But I guess that is also why she didn't specify them having died recently. She wanted to use it for attention, but didn't want it to be her defining trait either. There is probably also the fact that Asa isn't even sure herself how she wants people to react to it in the first place. I mean, she doesn't even know how to react to it herself after all.

AceSoldia2026-01-25 17:28

I imagine she wanted to stop any and all questions about parent showing up or wondering why she's alone at events like the first day..and just get it out of the way?

eightcheesepizza2026-01-25 17:35

Yeah. Maybe it was just at the top of her mind, since Emiri's mom voiced surprise that Asa's aunt wasn't there, and the other kids were talking about their parents? I've done that sometimes, saying my version of the topic just to be part of the conversation, and then later regretting it because it wasn't interesting or didn't fit the vibe.

FCT772026-01-25 23:03

I think it's supposed to be contradictory, she is feeling lonely and she thought that by saying her parents are dead she would get attention, but as the metaphor at the end of the episode implies, it's just a short-term thing like an oasis on a desert, her sadness isn't gonna be solved by just making some strangers feel pity for her. That's why she then feels ashamed while walking home and why she expects a response from Makio

Denzel_Potato092026-01-25 17:39

I feel like it's another way of Asa coming to terms that, yes her parents are actually dead so she is trying to socially navigate the topic of it and seeing how she and others around her react to it.

themaninthehightower2026-01-25 17:42

She wasn't upset about people learning about it, she was upset other people were broadcasting it to the whole student body going into graduation. Now, feeling a future of being alone, she's letting everyone know she is trying to be independent - not inviting the aunt, being open about her parents' accident, and so on. This may be the new identity she wants to present in high school.

ModieOfTheEast2026-01-25 17:47

She was upset about the fact that this would have been everything people associate her with: "The girl whose parents died" instead of her being Asa known for whatever she did during these three years. So while I agree that she wants to make others think she is independent, she still would want to avoid that being a thing. She doesn't want everyone in high school to just think of her as the girl who recently lost her parents, so she wouldn't want to go into too much detail about it.

flybypost2026-01-25 20:27

> I was surprised by Asa even mentioning her dead parents considering what had happened last episode.

The last one was graduation, meaning a lot of people who she might not see for a while. In their minds she'd thus always be the girl whose parents died.

Here it's the start of a new school year and she had the agency to decide on what to tell and how to deal with it in the future.

eightcheesepizza2026-01-25 17:09

It's tough when your "fun fact" is that your parents just died. Loneliness doesn't just come from not having people around anymore, it also comes from not having anyone who can relate. So Asa keeps getting sent back to the desert.

I wonder which of the new high school classmates will become important in the story?

StellarStar12026-01-25 17:23

From the opening the two girls she sat next to in the opening ceremony seem like a good guess.

eightcheesepizza2026-01-25 17:30

Oh good eye, and maybe the big soccer guy who sat next to Asa too? I should pay more attention to the uniforms to differentiate between teenage characters from Asa's present and Makio's past.

lemon9000982026-01-25 23:10

Soccer is not the sport big guys are known for (as Asa demonstrated). He had a unique, deep voice that might pair well with falcetto singers.

A death metal band with lots of screaming would be great(but probably unlikely). The shy girl and Asa seem like they could use some angry singing/shouting.

thisisdropd2026-01-25 17:09

To think just last episode she got into a fight with her teacher and Emiri because she didn't want to stand out and now she did the exact opposite. It's a natural part of adolescence. She's in a new place and in the company of new people, and she wanted to make a strong impression.

Loneliness hit Asa hard when she had dinner all by herself as she's not used to the change. That hug hit me in the feels. Makio might not understand Asa's loneliness, but she'd do whatever she could to lessen that feeling.

[deleted]2026-01-25 19:13

[removed]

Earlier-Today2026-01-26 12:35

It's all about choice. If she chooses to reveal the information, that's a very different situation from having it revealed without your involvement.

The choice is what matters.

Nickthenuker2026-01-25 17:11

She's in a hurry.

Huh. Who's that who came over?

She's _sparkling_!

Ok then...

Making a Bento box?

And so back to school.

So, new friends.

That's quite the bombshell to drop on them...

Huh. Is this going to become a band anime lol.

Ok...

Oh, she actually invited a friend over.

What happened to her?

She's crying on the couch?

Lonely?

KumaKumaGambler2026-01-25 17:12

I am starting to be so invested in this title that I need to know why Makio and Kasamachi broke up. More importantly, from the way Kasamachi said it, I believe he is not against rekindling a romantic relationship with Makio. *Asa and our "waku waku" eyes.*

From our perspective as viewers, we can see that Makio is trying to be a good aunt / legal guardian. Her friends, including Nana and Kasamachi, probably know her personality very well. However, I have to admit as strangers or initial acquaintances, Makio can be difficult to get along, as seen from her interaction with Emiri. Even Asa who has started living with Makio is unable to fully understand the latter, although I am sure their relationship will develop as we progress through the season.

AceSoldia2026-01-25 17:27

Lol when she told the girl to tell her verbatim don't bother with a gift just made me lol..Makio is something else

Mr_Zaroc2026-01-25 22:34

This must have been even weirder for japanese people
Even I felt it was harsh (but I get the sentiment) and I am from a part of europe thats not too big on presents etc.

Earlier-Today2026-01-26 12:32

There's this cultural thing in Japan with gift giving where refusing a gift is seen as you being polite, with the polite response being to offer the gift again. They do that three times and you accept on the third time.

It seems like a waste of everyone's time and nonsensical to me, but I'm sure there's things in my culture that seem that way to others.

Being so blunt about the refusal was probably Makio's way of avoiding the cultural norm.

Ocixo2026-01-25 17:41

Asa’s childlike innocence is honestly adorable. She was totally observing Makio’s behaviour around Kasamachi. They do get along well.

She’s probably rooting for the two of them to get back together. After all, Asa was very happy to have Kasamachi visit some other time again.

good_wolf_19992026-01-25 18:20

>She’s probably rooting for the two of them to get back together.

Can’t help but wonder how much of that is her brain just going full shipping mode or a subconscious desire of wanting to go back to a life similar to the one she had before

>They do get along well

For sure, feel like the kind of couple that realized that they work better as friends. Sure deep down Kasamchi is holding hope about going back together but he won’t force anything

Ocixo2026-01-25 18:26

I’m inclined to go with her mind having gone “full shipping mode” since she’s a fifteen year old teenage girl.

That said, Asa probably longs for a normal family with a mother and father again.

oops_i_made_a_typi2026-01-26 10:14

it's an interesting point that her father has basically been a non-mention so far, wonder if that'll continue to be the case

NanDemoKnaives2026-01-25 19:22

I do wonder how Makio will act when Emiri's mother goes to interact with her, I think she'll be quite an overwhelming person for Makio.

Vkusno-Nutty2026-01-26 00:46

I think Makio will be annoyed by her and unflinchingly honest and I can hardly wait for it. Emiri's mother will be the one overwhelmed, I expect.

flybypost2026-01-25 20:16

> I need to know why Makio and Kasamachi broke up

My theory is about future family plans. He was surprised when she told him that she had taken in Asa and it felt like future children was a big divide in their plans for the future.

mekerpan2026-01-25 21:00

I am betting you are right.

ObvsThrowaway51202026-01-25 17:19

Man, Asa’s mom did a real number on Makio huh? Idk what went down between them but you can kinda get the sense their issues have bled into other aspects of Makio’s life. I wouldn’t be surprised if her relationship with Kasamichi imploded because of it. Although that being said, it seems like they’re on good terms. Maybe one day they’ll try again?

I kinda like how Makio’s making an effort with Asa even if she doesn’t entirely understand her or her emotions just yet. She’s making an effort which for someone like her is kind of huge.

Ocixo2026-01-25 17:57

> I wouldn’t be surprised if her relationship with Kasamachi imploded because of [Makio’s troubled relationship with her sister].

I had a similar thought after having seen that flashback of Kasamachi. Maybe he wanted Makio to start talking with her sister again?

Asa’s words did seem to imply that her mother might’ve softened up after her daughter’s birth. Otherwise she wouldn’t have spoken of “Makio-chan”, right?

gnome-cop2026-01-25 19:55

It’s this kind of thing that yeah, sure, she’s gone but she’s so obviously haunting the narrative and the characters within it still. Popping up every so often to keep you from getting fully comfortable and remind you of how much she’s affecting the MCs.

flybypost2026-01-25 20:30

> Man, Asa’s mom did a real number on Makio huh?

Also on Asa. While Makio worries about Asa maybe being a bit like her mother, Asa kinda expected her mom's usual reactions (don't stand out, do better next time,…) to come from Makio.

Makio didn't do that but her behaviour, while not being judgemental about the incident, felt to Asa like she was keeping a distance between them instead of comforting (what I think Makio intended).

lemon9000982026-01-26 00:08

Kasamichi said they broke up because he got arrogant. Maybe he went to talk to Minori himself because he was sure he could fix the sister's relationship.

If it did involve Minori then I'm guessing he blames either no one or her for it not working out. I doubt Kasamichi and Makio would still be friends otherwise.

zool7142026-01-25 17:23

There’s definitely a clash between introverts and extroverts here. A lot of people think it’s shy, quiet vs loud, outgoing but it’s more feeling at ease when you’re alone vs when around people.

Makio feels uneasy and frustrated and worn out when people are around. Asa is not exactly boisterous but she seems to need people around and attention otherwise she feels worn out. I think there’s the fundamental difference there.

That said, I find Makio really relatable except I don’t get irritable like her, I just kinda shut down. But really it just feels at ease when no one’s around. But I still do want to hang out with my friends but like Makio, I usually just lean back to my closest friends from school

KumaKumaGambler2026-01-25 17:46

>Makio feels uneasy and frustrated and worn out when people are around.

Especially when these people are strangers and in her house. Makio was perfectly comfortable with Nana and Kasamachi dropping by. I am sure Makio does not hate Emiri, but Makio was put off guard by a sudden visitor.

soulruu2026-01-25 18:46

I def felt seen by that. As an introvert, I def need a heads up before someone randomly pops in on me & my recharging time lol

VirtualAbalone55392026-01-26 06:45

I like how Makio said to give her a heads up and Asa shows that she texted her immediately before Emiri came over LOL.

Ocixo2026-01-25 17:50

I always thought of introverts like myself as people who’s “battery” gets drained around people.

This battery only holds a limited amount of energy, and requires recharging after some time. Depending on the person, the size of their battery or expending rate will differ. Makio’s battery seemingly isn’t very energy efficient and/or doesn’t hold a lot of charge.

Extroverts tend to get some energy back from socialising with others, on the other hand, which helps charge their battery a little. However, they will eventually also need a break.

Nachtwandler_FS2026-01-25 18:48

I feel odd in this regard. Normally my battery dries out if I am around other people, but long term I feel really bad if I have noone to talk things with. It was not a problem in the past, but since I moved to a different country and most of people I know are busy with more urgent things to even talk online, it just feels so uncomfortable.

Ocixo2026-01-25 19:01

Introverts can still be lonely. Needing time for oneself on occasion doesn’t mean that you want to be by yourself all the time.

To give an example: Makio generally doesn’t like to have a lot of people around her, yet she made time in this episode to hang out with her friends.

mekerpan2026-01-25 20:50

Even introverts can appreciate having friends. ;-)

Mr_Zaroc2026-01-25 22:29

Especially friends who understand their introvert tendencies

Ocixo2026-01-25 22:50

I’d also like to add that intro- or extraversion isn’t so much a box you check as a sliding scale.

Everyone will find themselves somewhere on that scale. The great majority of people got traits of both. You won’t quickly find someone who’s 100% intro- or extraverted. This isn’t even the case for Makio, I think.

gnome-cop2026-01-25 19:48

I’m pretty introverted but lack of socialization can still be an issue. The Covid lockdown was absolutely miserable and the worst part of school by far. Digital communication just isn’t a working substitute for actually talking to people in real life. Months of not seeing anyone outside of family IRL really got to me eventually. I value being able to have time alone without having to talk but I also value the ability to be part of a conversation if I choose to. I don’t like dealing with large groups of unfamiliar people but I’m more comfortable with smaller groups of people I know. Like, I’m not in the mood for hanging out all the time but and will need to time recharge and I mostly prefer being on the outskirts of conversation but with the ability to say something when I feel like it but I still appreciate having the option to talk. Anyway, I think being around other people at times is still important for mental wellbeing even if it’s a bit of a paradox with how introversion works.

Fools_Requiem2026-01-25 20:29

Rechargeable batteries die off when left unused, too.

Seeker40012026-01-25 19:18

I found another interesting analogy in one of Adachi and Shimamura LN, where the latter compares socializing to deep dive: she can do it for short periods of time, otherwise it becomes increasingly suffocating.

dvdantunes2026-01-25 21:43

Adachi and Shimamura LN mentioned! ❤️

flybypost2026-01-25 20:12

> it’s more feeling at ease when you’re alone vs when around people.

Yup, it's more along the lines of being alone but not lonely.

While Asa is surrounded by Makio, Emiri, and some potential new friends but still lonely because her whole immediate family is gone and her world has changed drastically.

She also feels a distance between Makio, who is now her closest relative, and herself. The whole thing is made even more difficult because Makio hates her mother and doesn't want to (or can't) talk about it, making Asa feel more isolated than she is.

Makio talking to her at the end was really good after how abrupt their "pizza party" lunch ended.

mekerpan2026-01-25 20:56

I get a sense that Makio's sister actually cared for her (and genuinely worried about her) and was proud of her accomplishments -- but had a very poor ability to relate to her.

Makio's neck hold on Asa was awkward but adorable. I expect it was not all that comfortable for Asa -- but was nonetheless quite appreciated.

flybypost2026-01-25 21:56

> I get a sense that Makio's sister actually cared for her (and genuinely worried about her) and was proud of her accomplishments -- but had a very poor ability to relate to her.

Yeah, that's a possibility. But like /u/karer3is said (I also mentioned in previous episode discussions), that would be how this type of conflict is resolved so often that it feels overused.

Instead of "didn't know how to express her worries about her freewheeling/unconventional sister" I'd want her to actually just be at least a bit nasty and judgemental because she didn't approve of Makio's chosen path. A character is allowed to be a piece of work that led to a relationship falling apart without necessarily getting a late flashback induced "correction" about how they "didn't mean it like that" or "just wanted to help".

Asa also initially reacted to Makio's not so strict "parenting" by expecting her to be more judgemental and strict (reactions she seemingly expected from her mother). It feels like her mom was more on the uncompromising side of things when judging people's choices, behaviour, and overall demeanour.

Maybe she changed her mind later. As Asa said, she called Makio a novelist later on and, seemingly, with no nasty undertones (compared to when she talked about it with Makio in her flashbacks). But maybe Asa misinterpreted her mother's demeaning tone more neutrally?

> Makio's neck hold on Asa was awkward but adorable. I expect it was not all that comfortable for Asa -- but was nonetheless quite appreciated.

Yeah, that was a solid "that's about as much human contact as I can stand right now" hug.

DragonPup2026-01-26 00:05

> I get a sense that Makio's sister actually cared for her (and genuinely worried about her) and was proud of her accomplishments -- but had a very poor ability to relate to her.
>
>

My read is after their falling out, Makio's sister may have regretted it and did deep down care for Makio but could never bring herself to apologize. Or maybe she did and Makio wouldn't let herself forgive what happened.

ModieOfTheEast2026-01-25 17:24

First of all, good thing that Emiri went to the same high school and we even got a bit more interaction with her. There might still be a rocky path ahead for them, since they seem to be going into different classes it seems. So we have to see how that affects their relationship.

I did enjoy the way the episode used Asa's mother in this episode. How Asa despite not saying it wants Makio to be like her mother, but that obviously doesn't work. But also with the continued story of Makio slowly realizing that her sister might have changed a lot from the last time they spoke with one another.

Speaking from a bit outside the general character dynamics here, I do feel that Makio should look for a bigger flat for them to live in. It's not like it doesn't have some advantages. As it forces them closer together even if they are kind of avoiding it (mostly from Makio's side). But Asa kind of needs her own room to be able to withdraw or just get friends at home. I mean, Emiri gets the situation, but I assume for her highschool debut, it would be a bit small for inviting over more friends.

Also, considering the ending, if Makio decides to get more help from her old boyfriend (haven't remembered his name yet) and he would start living there as well, it is definitely too small for the three of them. Though, I also think that Makio would need to be careful as the whole situation could result in a bigger split at the end, if her old boyfriend gets the feeling he is just there to help her care for Asa.

reddit_is_tarded2026-01-25 17:24

one of my favorite shows this season. Was this a popular manga?

normalMonsterChika2026-01-25 17:37

It won a bunch of awards in Japan and sold pretty decently for a Josei title IIRC. Got a live action adaptation as well.

fetusnecrophagist2026-01-26 13:01

I still can't believe the manga's not officially licensed in English, but I guess that's just josei for you. Hopefully the anime helps and a publisher picks it up.

Magnafeana2026-01-25 17:25

The voice acting direction sounds ridiculously natural at some points. Like if I close my eyes in some parts, I’m listening to people next to me rather than the more emphasized way anime dialogue can come across.

I get Mama Emiri’s concern but kinda weird to assert that. I’m hoping she’s more fleshed out as we progress.

I love the representation of Asa’s mental state. So, so many times I’ve been completely fine, but it’s like this weird dissociating moment where even I’m confused what triggered it because I was fine and joking along.

Eek. What a difficult relationship to navigate.

Oh dear. Makio is becoming overstimulated.

Aw 🥹

ED really is so soothing.

***

I wish more people had the perspective that you don’t have to completely empathize with someone or wholly love someone to accept that what they feel and experience is what they feel and experience. You can still offer communication and comfort without comprehending every little thing of the situation. Some people really just need someone who is accepting about how they feel and that’s it.

A bit quick with Makio’s ex. By the end of the episode, I’d forgotten he was even in the episode. I’m very curious about their previous relationship.

flybypost2026-01-25 20:24

> I get Mama Emiri’s concern but kinda weird to assert that. I’m hoping she’s more fleshed out as we progress.

I think she's just very "generic traditional family structure" minded and expected Makio to be there as the guardian/parent nothing more. She was worried about Asa, and she kinda did intuit that Asa didn't ask Makio to come along for the ceremony.

That conversation did seem to make Asa wonder about their closeness of their relationship. She was the one declined Makio's offer to tag along. Probably to not burden her with this stuff because she's not her mom and didn't want to push that on her.

But it added to Asa's feeling of loneliness (especially at home) despite being in company of quite a few people. The talk at the end probably helped mend some of her worries even if it didn't clear up everything and it still leaves space between them that needs some work/understanding.

mekerpan2026-01-25 21:02

I actually got the sense that Makio WOULD have come to the high school matriculation ceremony if Asa had asked her to do so (even if it would have made her antsy) -- but Asa quite definitively made it clear that she did not need to do so.

flybypost2026-01-25 21:42

Yeah, Makio explicitly asked but Asa declined the offer. She was trying to do it despite not liking crowds.

It felt like Asa didn't want to burden Makio with another "mother duty" but then over the episode these small "distances" (heightened by Makio's overall bluntness) added up to Asa feeling more isolated instead of "not controlled by her guardian" (what Makio probably intended).

fatalystic2026-01-26 00:58

Asa *really* should have explained to Emiri's mom that she asked Makio not to come though, because from Emiri's mom's perspective Makio currently looks neglectful at best. She clearly intends to pay her a visit to talk about this later, hence sending Emiri to ask what gift would be appropriate. I really can't see that ending well given Makio's blunt reply, at least in the short term.

AceSoldia2026-01-25 17:26

Mn what a great series....just the dialogue...the characters...man it's something else.

oneshotrabbit2026-01-25 17:27

I can’t get over the fact how good this anime is. It might be the best one I’ve ever seen, in terms of conveying the feelings of the characters so beautifully, it feels so relatable at so many points. You cant help yourself but get invested in every second of it.

I wouldnt think I’d say this because im a huge Frieren fan, but this one is definitely my favorite this season.

KumaKumaGambler2026-01-25 17:50

Already emerging as a surprise dark horse debut for this season!

wrc-wolf2026-01-26 03:21

For the year

AccusingGojo2026-01-25 19:27

I feel the same. I really like how Makio is accepting her loneliness even though she doesn't understand it, this moved me. This is gonna stay with me for long.

Mr_Zaroc2026-01-25 22:30

I loved her awkward hug she gave Asa
Perfectly conveyed the I accept it but I dont understand it

mekerpan2026-01-25 20:58

Started out as my likely #1 new show (by the middle of ep 1) and has not lost a step since. I can put Frieren and this in different boxes because one is a continuation and the other isn't (so need to pick one over the other).

AttorneyOfThanos252026-01-25 22:24

That’s exactly where I’m at. Frieren is still #1 for me, but this thing came out of the gate like a rocket ship.

Ok_Law2192026-01-25 22:36

Having read the manga and seen the trailer, I wasn't surprised.

VirtualAbalone55392026-01-26 06:56

ME TOO! Out of all the anime that I'm currently watching, including anticipated sequels like JJK S3 and Frieren S2, THIS is the anime I'm always looking forward to watching and analyzing. Yeah, animated fight scenes are absolute spectacles and get me all hyped up, but this show has hit different.

Speaking of Frieren: I can't lie, it's difficult for me to grasp exactly why I think it's such an excellent series, yet I keep coming back to it. A rewatch is necessary for this investigation 🧐

goddessofthewinds2026-01-26 06:59

For real, this show is conveying what it wants to convey so well. Character design and writing is 11/10. Honestly, I'm really impressed by the characters and writing that gives this show such a unique feeling. You can totally relate to the characters and see where this show is going, because the characters feel very human.

This is hands down my #1 favorite so far for 2026. Yes, it's even above Yuusha-kei ni Shosu and all the other popular ones for me. This is such a gem.

Primary-Paint-17162026-01-26 14:40

this show reminds me of 3-gatsu no lion in that regards.

Ocixo2026-01-25 17:27

I hadn’t considered the technicalities of Makio’s relationship with Asa before. Is she even her legal guardian? I did see Makio signing up for this on Asa’s entry form to attend high school.

I’d like to see Makio officially adopt her, but I don’t believe that Asa is ready for this yet. Note how she stated that Makio isn’t her “mother” at the entrance ceremony.

It would be sad if Makio could never grow to love Asa. However, I don’t think it will come to this. For example: she was trying to understand Asa’s loneliness with her question to Kasamachi on the phone.

DocMcCoy2026-01-25 20:38

>Is she even her legal guardian?

Dunno how it works in Japan, but at least here in Germany, Makio wouldn't have been able to sign Asa up for school without. Among all the other things related to her

mekerpan2026-01-25 21:05

Makio ***did*** make it clear that she was at least "fond" of Asa (even if she did not really understand her yet).

Ocixo2026-01-25 21:49

Asa didn’t want to hear that Makio was merely “fond” of her, of course, but it *is* definitely a start for someone who’s a bit awkward like Makio.

I was glad that Makio made sure to talk through Asa’s worries after picking up on her mistake. I’m hopeful that they’ll able to work things out if they continue sharing their honest feelings like this.

PowerSamurai2026-01-25 22:12

"a bit" might be underselling her awkwardness, though it is what makes her such an interesting character, especially in the position she is in.

lemon9000982026-01-25 23:54

Unfortunately understanding something doesnt mean you can fix something.

Like the hug. She understood the correct thing to do in that situation was to hug Asa, so she did. But if you asked Asa or Emiri to console someone with a hug it would look way different (and probably work way better).

That said, I think she might already love Asa but for some reason has to tell herself it's fondness, not love.

mysterybiscuitsoyeah2026-01-25 17:27

[Poor Asa waited a full hour \(and a bit\) for Makio to join her for dinner](https://imgur.com/a/pWCGh8U). The loneliness just got too much for her.

Its comforting that, at least in the screentime we get to see, that Asa is still willing to be at her most vulnerable around Makio (and to some extent Emiri), and how she did accept her loneliness, a running theme throughout the school sequence.

Ocixo2026-01-25 17:59

> The loneliness just got too much for her.

I think Asa realised after an hour that Makio wouldn’t be joining her anytime soon, so she reluctantly started eating by herself.

Mr_Zaroc2026-01-25 22:32

What I do love the most though is that they were able to talk about it
No stepping around the other trying to please them before it inevitably crashed

shinkiro72026-01-25 23:45

I'm glad Asa had the self-confidence to be straight with Makio and simply tell her that she didn't like eating alone; it can be difficult to assert yourself over things like that which seem kind of petty in the grand scheme but still mean a lot to you or affect you maybe more than they should.

trambe2026-01-26 05:59

Man I didn’t even notice that detail. That’s heartbreaking.

I’m glad these two finally talked it out and managed to find some common ground, at least being able to communicate their feelings.

goddessofthewinds2026-01-26 07:01

Oh wow, I didn't notice that detail, well spotted! That adds even more to the story. I will honestly probably rewatch all episodes back-to-back after I'm done just to see if I missed more stuff and have an uninterrupted flow of the story. This show is that good.

IsoAi2026-01-25 17:31

I like how they present Maiko's introversion and social anxiety. When Asa and Emiri were having their girly conversation, you could see how Makio is uncomfortable- and so in her head that she made another coffee involuntarily.

She's uncomfortable around casual conversation and formalities, but she isn't generally alone. She has close friends and kasamachi that we see this ep that she is comfortable around and can be her normal self. That's how a lot of people, including myself, like to interact- in a close knit circle.

Part of Makio's journey with Asa is letting her be vulnerable around her. She's still formal around her. Her walls are still up, and that one moment of the past with her sister sits so clearly in her mind that she can't separate Asa from it.

Expert_Potential48392026-01-26 21:04

>and so in her head that she made another coffee involuntarily.

Oh interesting. I rather read this as her having forgotten to take the used cup to the sink but now that a visitor was there she was uncomfortable to leave her room again when I watched the episode; I haven't even thought of your interpretation!

pinkielovespokemon2026-01-27 01:20

I have vivd, uncomfortable memories of desperately trying to avoid visitors when I was a kid. Getting to and back from the bathroom without being spotted was terrifying.

Denzel_Potato092026-01-25 17:32

Dammn it, I didn't want to cry at the couch scene but boy am I in tears after that scene.

mokrath2026-01-25 19:08

They really hit ya right in the feels with that scene. The VA's and direction of the show are doing an amazing job conveying these kinds of emotions.

SA0902026-01-25 17:40

How different Makio and Asa are personality wise, when they’re talking about their experiences and such, continues to be on the amusing side to me. But it’s also a further showcase how much healing needs to happen to both of them, before they can reach some sort of equilibrium.

As expected of course.

A try is definitely there, and Makio being as blunt as she is can be seen as both cruel or just who she is, depending on perspective. But I can’t say I dislike it either way, it’s making it a more raw (and truer) journey. And I definitely can’t wait to see its continuation.

PotatoJim922026-01-25 17:43

Yeah this is probably gonna be my top new anime of the season, and it doesn’t look like it’ll be close.

This show is so good dude.

mekerpan2026-01-25 21:05

Welcome to the club!

all_usernames_r_used2026-01-25 17:53

The bit towards the end with the oasis analogy…I get that an oasis is a provision that can help you keep going in a desert…but what does this part mean? (I paraphrase) “you cannot become one with the oasis, like you cannot become one with any other human” …is it basically about how no one will every truly understand you and there will always be parts of us that feel foreign to others?

[deleted]2026-01-25 19:02

[deleted]

ExpertCaterpillar22026-01-25 18:00

Is this going to be a full adaptation?

StegosaurusGrape2026-01-25 22:19

There’s 54 chapters. The anime ended at chapter 13.

CerberusZX2026-01-25 18:01

I've seen a few memes about introverts getting figuratively "adopted." It's nice seeing a series where an introvert does the adopting.

MeatballZeitgeist2026-01-25 18:05

If those psychologist youtubers are still around they could make *so much* content from this show. I can't recall watching a show with such multifaceted characters before.

Mr_Zaroc2026-01-25 22:38

Brb gonna recommend the show to my friend
Cant wait for their PoV

fatalystic2026-01-26 01:05

I've recommended it to Psyculturists on a youtube community post specifically pointing out that there's a wealth of content he can dig out of it, but I don't know if he's seen my comment yet.

MidOceanRidgeBasalts2026-01-25 18:09

This show makes me cry every week. I love how they showed Asa’s loneliness, not just that she misses her parents but that she feels lonely because no one around her has gone through what she has. And I love that Makio called Kasamichi at the end and asked him about loneliness, maybe to try and better understand Asa’s loneliness.

LeonKevlar2026-01-25 18:10

[Makio's friend group is a lot bigger than I expected.](https://i.imgur.com/O25TjtL.jpeg) I thought she was only close with Daigo, but it looks [they have two more close friends from their high school group.](https://i.imgur.com/EoV8zUD.jpeg) I can't wait for Asa to meet the other two in the future. They seem to be very interested in her.

[Watching Makio and Kasamachi interact in the kitchen](https://i.imgur.com/OxTjirx.jpeg) is really giving me some strong newlywed vibes. They have such great chemistry together that [even Asa thinks they're dating.](https://i.imgur.com/PMBtc2R.jpeg) Hopefully, we'll see them rekindle their love in the future [since Kasamachi clearly still wants to get back together with Makio.](https://i.imgur.com/O5kksEZ.jpeg)

So it looks like [Makio gets to learn something new about Minori today.](https://i.imgur.com/QoURJTk.jpeg) From what Asa is saying, Minori would affectionately call her Makio-chan, and it sounds like she's proud that her sister is a novelist. Pretty interesting shift considering [it sounds like Minori looked down on Makio for trying to become a novelist.](https://i.imgur.com/0O4SLFm.jpeg)

[Glad to see Asa and Emiri are friends again](https://i.imgur.com/QrDkfo6.jpeg), but I can't help but worry about Emiri's mom. [With the way she reacted to Asa](https://i.imgur.com/DL9BgHS.jpeg), saying that she's fine not having Makio attend the entrance ceremony, I'm afraid that she might overreach again and do something unnecessary.

[Makio's entrance ceremony was looking great so far](https://i.imgur.com/oUkiVDE.jpeg) until she decided to [bring up her parents.](https://i.imgur.com/quGHn9D.jpeg) I genuinely had to pause the episode there and yell at my monitor, **WHAT THE FUCK, ASA?!** That's not something you bring out so casually. I didn't think she'd want people to know about that. I can understand [wanting to stand out](https://i.imgur.com/Xjxkvon.jpeg), but casually mentioning that your parents died from a car crash is definitely not a good idea.

[You can really see Makio's energy draining when Emiri arrived at their place.](https://i.imgur.com/Ie81lup.jpeg) Asa really should've given her an earlier heads up. Thank goodness [she's all dressed up nicely](https://i.imgur.com/XQYopcr.jpeg) and not in her usual messy writer mode. After that encounter, [I do wonder what Emiri thinks of Makio.](https://i.imgur.com/Dc5bZnB.jpeg)

[This might be the first time we actually see Asa express her loneliness.](https://i.imgur.com/j72ZLi8.jpeg) While Makio struggles to understand her, I'm glad she's making an effort to at least comfort her niece. [That hug was definitely a great start](https://i.imgur.com/Oj01JUe.jpeg), and promising to eat together was also good. I do like that [she calls Kasamachi after that, tho.](https://i.imgur.com/Ea1l9Y2.jpeg) They may have broken up, but it sounds like he's still her emotional support.

rewp2342026-01-25 18:14

This felt like the weakest episode so far but the ending was really good

IudexJari2026-01-25 18:15

It's really difficult for Makio to understand Asa completly but i like how she really tries to understand her. She doesn't completly ignore her crying but tried to give her comfort, the sidehug was akward but helped i guess. Very interesting episode again and I'm really interessted to see how Asa's mother was, she seemed to think about her sister more than Makio expected her, calling her Makio-Chan and buying similiar styled clothing.

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-25 18:19

- [That’s a thought for the future, isn’t it…](https://i.imgur.com/TV6u603.png)

- I did like that one part during Makio’s dinner with her friends where it showed each of them as they were back in high school before flashing back to the present with them in the same positions. This show does have some nice transitions.

- [Well they *did* date, so Asa isn’t entirely wrong?](https://i.imgur.com/QHvsmQh.png) [](#etotamadunno)

- [Pretty solid lunch.](https://i.imgur.com/UL6drQ3.png)

- [Ooh, Makio “sore demo”!](https://files.catbox.moe/uy2bdc.mp4)

- [Interesting detail about Asa’s mom…](https://i.imgur.com/4bQI1ta.png) [](#sakurathink)

- [Wild that one of Asa’s new classmates has a business card?](https://i.imgur.com/fJNa9gL.png)

- [She revealed that so casually after how big of a deal it was for her before middle school graduation, huh.](https://i.imgur.com/Poi7zwW.png)

- [Teenager logic.](https://i.imgur.com/xuz6ZWy.png) [](#kukuku2)

- [Awkward, but good.](https://i.imgur.com/5uK4qBc.png)

flybypost2026-01-25 20:34

> Interesting detail about Asa’s mom…

Yup, with Makio she seemed didmissive of her future career but one and a half decades (or so) later she seems much more neutral and, from Asa's tone, maybe even a bit… proud of her sister?

Darthrix12026-01-25 18:29

i think Makio’s statement “i’ll never love you” is not about Asa but about her sister. i think Makio cant love Asa as her sister’s daughter but will eventually love Asa as Asa.

Hiryu2point02026-01-25 18:57

That hug...

"I looked it up on the internet, it's a good thing to do in this situation, but I've never tried it..."

mekerpan2026-01-25 21:08

Awkward in the extreme -- but sweet (and seemingly appreciated by its "victim").

NanDemoKnaives2026-01-25 19:19

I liked watching Asa watching Kasamachi and Makio, it was amusing how excited she got asking him if they were dating. I like that Kasamachi is open to the idea of getting back together with Makio but I am curious as to why they broke up from that little flashback. Hopefully that gets explored this season.

It was nice to see Asa finally make her high school debut, I'm curious when Emiri's mother will speak to Makio. I think Makio might be able to learn a few things from how to deal with a teenager from her, but I also think she's going to get overwhelmed. I am also surprised Asa just revealed that her parents died so casually like that without being prompted, but I can understand why she did. It's a learning experience for her.

Emiri's such a sweetheart, I'm glad Asa has her.

I also liked the sofa scene, Makio is trying in her own way and being honest about what Asa can expect. I think it's good for both of them to be able to be that open with one another.

Queue_Jumping_Quack2026-01-25 19:20

Mostly just domestic chilling, though we also get the high school debut of Asa. Her friend's mother might be well meaning, but she's instantly jumping in to judge Makio. A bit of a meddler perhaps?

I wonder how prominent characters her classmates will be? More realistic range of character design than the typical anime. The class primus looks like a young Makio...

Poor Makio immediately reaches her limit by having two lively teen age girls at her house. There is something in the past also that broke her relationship with her sister, and it is a topic she doesn't allow Asa to even begin to approach. But she tries to comfort Asa, with the most awkward hug in anime history lol.

A nice episode with a look into the friends of both Asa and Makio. I hope we see more of all these charcters.

CommunistPuppy2026-01-25 19:25

It's insane how good this show is. It does such a good job of showing rather than telling. You can feel Makio's aversion to people just by seeing her old coffee cup and her turning around and sighing. You can feel how Asa wants to be as little of a bother to Makio by her turning on the TV and immediately lowering the volume. I haven't been this impressed by an anime's direction and storytelling in a while.

lemon9000982026-01-26 00:24

She just wanted a break from work to talk with Asa for a bit, and got ambushed. Then she found a new excuse for leaving her room that would let her escape quickly without being too rude.

Pretty classic introvert behavior that Asa didnt realize was an escape mechanism. Or, to put it another way: showing how introverts and extroverts dont always understand each other.

I think Emiri realized it though. I think thats why she said she would be back to "check on", rather than to visit, Asa.

cleaulem2026-01-25 19:39

The clash between introvert and extrovert hits me from two sides, because I myself am kind of between Makio and Asa.

I enjoy being with others, and not being able to connect to others makes me feel lonely to the point that it is unbearable.

Then on the other side I'm also an introvert loner. Being too much around people drains my energy. Then I need time just for myself.

I can both understand Asa's loneliness and Makio being overwhelmed. It might sound weird, but that's how I feel about this episode.

I also think that Makio doesn't feel alone because she has her friends who keep her company. So I wonder how she would feel without them.

[deleted]2026-01-25 20:09

[removed]

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-25 20:10

Sorry, your comment has been removed.

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Fools_Requiem2026-01-25 20:27

Makio went from having a home all to herself to having someone living with her every single day and potentially bringing visitors on occasion. As an introvert, hanging out with a person or couple people for a little bit is fine, but when you have to do it all the time with little hope for alone time, it can feel suffocating and frustrating. ESPECIALLY, if you like to let loose a little more in private instead of constantly holding back.

N0rTh3Fi5t2026-01-25 20:32

The chatting between Asa and Emiri has got to be the most natural dialogue I've ever heard in anime. It's extremely rare that 2 people are talking and it sounds like 2 actual teenagers having an actual conversation, but they nailed it here.

zeltheturtl2026-01-25 20:39

Yea I'm still thinking there's a good chance Makio and Shingo will get back together. Asa seems to be shipping them as well!

The tension between Asa's loneliness and Makio sudden lack thereof properly boiled over for the first time today (nice metaphor with the boiling kettle btw).

I feel like Makio will need to give up her barriers somewhat and share with Asa more about herself, so that she can better understand her feeling of suffocation. And in turn it would help Asa not feel so lonely as well.

But in the end, Makio did come to try and talk to Asa, in her own way at least haha. And then when she asked Shingo about when does he feel lonely, yeah I have no worries about it working out eventually, so sweet.

anonyfool2026-01-25 21:18

How big a deal is having your lunch in Tupperware instead of a bento box - is it just uncool or would other students think you were poor and bully you?

tripleaamin2026-01-25 21:49

Maiko identifying herself as her legal guardian only is interesting. Not a surprise that it comes from the fact that Maiko's relationship with Minori was beyond rough, to say the least. Of course she doesn't want to talk about how she feels about Minori in front of Asa, but clearly it will be an obstacle in their relationship going forward. It will be curious as this continues to be played out.

Asa's loneliness is a key aspect in this episode. Everyone has their parents in attendance, and Asa is alone. She tries to mention how her parents died, and her aunt is busy. There is no doubt she is in pain. Which is why Emiri's mom is concerned about who is taking care of Asa. She seems like a good mother, and her concerns are valid.

Suffocation vs. loneliness: what Maiko & Asa feel at this present moment. Maiko clearly isn't good around people and would rather be by herself. At the same time, the loneliness Asa feels is very real too. I do like how they communicated at the end of the episode. Granted, there are hurdles because Maiko has trouble understanding the loneliness that Asa feels. It does feel like the key will be Maiko opening up to Asa, but it seems the only way for that to happen is to be more upfront with Asa about her relationship with her mom. The topic is tricky, so I wonder how the show will proceed.

Kasamachi's line of adults are more sensitive than teenagers think they are. As adults are forced to "grow up" to face the world, at the same time, they have their own issues. In fact, a lot of Asa's expectations of adults stem from her mother. Though Maiko doesn't act like a typical adult like Minori or Emiri's mom as she reacts to Asa's first day. I am curious how Asa herself will start to adjust to how Maiko is as an adult. Meanwhile, Maiko is trying to do her best in her own way to be there for Asa. As it is a learning experience for both of them.

RainyMystery2026-01-25 21:57

At this rate I'm going to cry every episode of this series.

AttorneyOfThanos252026-01-25 22:20

If not for Frieren, this is my anime of the season. It is absolutely fantastic and I relate so heavily to the little things. I’m tempted to purchase the manga, just to have it. In a stacked season, it has shocked the heck outta me. Next Sunday is too far away.

Ok_Law2192026-01-25 22:34

If Shakespeare wrote slice of life ....

CrimsonGear802026-01-25 23:21

more of a headlock than a helping arm around the shoulder, but the sentiment is nice.

DaysAreTimeless2026-01-26 00:33

As a bit of a follow-up to the comment from last ep. Jfc this show is making me introspective. Skip and Loafer made me nostalgic about all those school and family connections I once had but this one is making me regret destroying all of them. Loneliness can be a calming thing but it gets increasingly maddening in the long term. That last conversation about opening up and Makio telling Asa to talk to her if anything happened made me weirdly emotional. I guess it made me wonder about having someone to talk to and rely on even in the most minimal of occasions.

ebongreen2026-01-26 00:39

Show gives me at least one good startle-scare with SisterMom every episode. Very rude, but I love you despite your rudeness.

Makio is doing her level best to live her own authentic life, much of which involves giving her middle fingers to the all-but-mandatory social conventions of Japan. “Yes, I’m a woman in my thirties, I’m not married and I don’t have children.” “No, I’m not trying to climb the social status ladder for wealth and/or fame. I’m a writer. Deal with it.” “No, I don’t want omiyages when you come to visit. No, I’m not saying that to be polite - I REALLY DO NOT WANT THEM.” “I’m an introvert and I find people exhausting. Please give me lots of advance warning before coming to visit, especially if I’ve never met you before.” I do not live in Japan and I’m no cultural expert, but from what I understand, she is [The Nail that Will Not Be Hammered](https://blog.tokyoroomfinder.com/insider-stories/does-the-infamous-proverb-the-nail-that-sticks-out-must-be-hammered-down-speak-true-of-japanese-society/), mostly because she tries to stay away from the hammer-ers (like her sister). My perspective remains that Makio is a semi-feral introvert: she has her personal pod of besties and her ex, and that’s all she wanted.

NOW she has Asa, plus the complications of social expectations that come with Asa. On the one hand, she’s having to re-fight battles she thought she’s left behind, especially the ones symbolized by her sister. On the other hand, she’s offering a wildly new perspective on parenting to Asa: “If you say you don’t want me to come to the high school entrance ceremony, I’m not coming.” This blew Emiri’s mom’s mind, y’all. Makio _does not do things for the sake of social convention_ (which is also very autistic of her). Also Makio: “If you have feelings, or you’re upset with me, I need you to use words and we will talk through it. I will support you as best I can, and I’m not going to control or shame you for having emotions.” She’s teaching Asa authenticity.

I love this show. The characters are perfectly imperfect, are true to themselves, and exist in a realistic setting/world/context. The writing has a deep emotional resonance and it cares about communication. The relationships are real. It started as a gem, and the shine is only getting brighter with each episode.

djthomp2026-01-26 01:00

Kasamachi the goat. Makio is kind of a difficult woman but he's trying his best even just as friends.

I think we're going to find out her sister was really proud of Makio's successful career as a novelist but knew she burnt the bridge on that too thoroughly to reconcile.

I'm surprised they didn't get me with the ninja tears again during Asa and Makio's conversation on the couch at the end.

fuzzynavel342026-01-26 03:20

Man, it's just the best show of the season

VirtualAbalone55392026-01-26 06:43

Ended another episode with the same exact thought as the previous episode: This is fantastic. Some pointers:

* The oasis was a such powerful analogy to Makio's acceptance of Asa's loneliness. Although Asa's feeling was validated, it was missing the emotional understanding that underlies the sensation of being cared for.
* I think it's admirable that Makio is aware of her flaws as a guardian, specifically her inability to understand Asa's loneliness, but she offers her what she can: a friendly arm around the neck (honestly looked like a chokehold LOL).
* I love how the episode highlighted that Asa and Makio are polar opposites to each other when it comes to connectedness: Asa longs to fit in with her classmates and relate to them while Makio is easily drained by having people around her and, therefore, desires to be alone.
* I appreciate how well Asa and Makio communicate with each other. Makio realized her lack of response to Asa's lonely experience at school hurt Asa's feelings and apologized for it. They're two completely different people, like Makio says, but they're trying their best to connect with each other while still staying true to themselves.
* I liked how the tea was brewing during the scene where Makio was reaching her limit. Nice correspondence there.

Already excited for next Sunday.

Vinon2026-01-26 11:42

This show is quickly becoming my anime of the season. Its so good.