Episode 11 of Witch Watch has arrived, and it’s a game-changer! Titled “Dogs and Raindrops – Part 1,” this episode marks a significant shift in tone, blending the series’ signature humor with a darker, more serious plotline. The prophecy surrounding Nico, which has been subtly brewing in the background, takes center stage, and new threats emerge, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
A Storm is Brewing
The episode opens with an ominous atmosphere as rain falls, triggering Kanshi’s heightened awareness. This seemingly innocuous weather detail is the first clue that connects to Mizabuki’s prophecy about dogs, raindrops, and school, hinting at the danger lurking within the educational institution.
Drops of Deception
We’re introduced to a disturbing phenomenon spreading through the school: mysterious candies called “Drops.” These candies are rumored to remove inhibitions, but instead, they turn people into stronger, more aggressive versions of themselves when they see crescent shapes. It’s revealed that someone known only as “Wolf” is distributing the Drops, and those who consume them and go berserk are called “Dogs.”
A New Witch Enters the Scene
The episode takes a significant turn with the introduction of Nemu Miyao, a witch from another prestigious family. While she appears to be meeting Nico and Morihito for the first time, a delightful revelation shows that she’s actually been around them before as a cat. Nemu’s arrival brings crucial information: a warlock is targeting Nico, and Nemu’s alert spell has confirmed this threat.
Warlocks and the Witch of Thousands
Through Nemu’s explanations, viewers gain valuable insight into the magical world. Witches use magic for the benefit of others, while warlocks are willing to use their magic without restrictions. Warlocks have been largely driven out of existence by other witches, but some still lurk in the shadows. The only thing preventing a normal witch from becoming a warlock is being able to control their emotions, as too much anxiety can corrupt a witch’s magic. We also learn that Nico is no ordinary witch; she’s the “Witch of Thousands,” destined to save a thousand people. This revelation explains why the warlock is targeting her.
Keigo’s Secret
As everyone tries to track Wolf down, Keigo decides to lend some assistance. We discover that he wasn’t always the loser hipster we know and cringe at. He used to be a figure skater until an accident damaged his leg and prevented him from skating. Feeling isolated after retiring from competition, he expresses gratitude for their friendship and offers to help gather intelligence about Wolf. This vulnerability makes his eventual betrayal all the more shocking.
The Prophecy Unveiled
The episode masterfully connects the mysterious prophecy hinted at in previous episodes. The rain, the dogs, and the school all come together to create a perfect storm of revelations and supernatural conspiracies. The prophecy, Nico’s special status as the Witch of Thousands, and the various supernatural beings’ histories all converge in this pivotal installment.
A Heartbreaking Betrayal
The episode’s climactic twist comes as the group heads toward their confrontation with the warlock. Keigo deliberately separates Morihito from the others, revealing himself to be a werewolf in league with the warlock! His betrayal is explained through flashbacks, showing he made a contract with the warlock in exchange for a special cure-all medicine made from a witch’s umbilical cord. This medicine is his one wish, suggesting he may want to heal his old skating injury. The contract binds him to the warlock, forcing him to act as his familiar.
Cliffhanger Ending
As the episode ends, Keigo fully transforms into his werewolf state to confront Morihito, while Nico remains elsewhere, unaware of her friend’s betrayal and the danger rapidly closing in.
Key Takeaways and Analysis
- Tonal Shift: Episode 11 marks a significant tonal shift for Witch Watch. While the series has always had comedic elements, this episode delves into a darker, more serious plotline, balancing the humor with higher stakes and emotional depth.
- Prophecy and Lore: The episode expands on the series’ lore, providing more information about witches, warlocks, and the prophecy surrounding Nico. This adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more engaging for viewers.
- Character Development: Episode 11 delves into Keigo’s backstory, revealing his past as a figure skater and the injury that ended his career. This adds depth to his character and makes his betrayal all the more shocking.
- Emotional Stakes: The episode raises the emotional stakes for all involved. Morihito is forced to confront a friend turned enemy, while Nico remains unaware of the danger she’s in. This creates a sense of tension and anticipation for the next episode.
- Wordplay and Symbolism: The episode uses wordplay and symbolism to enhance the story. The “Dogs and Raindrops” prophecy is a clever example of this, with the word for rain sounding like the word for candy in Japanese.
Final Thoughts
“Dogs and Raindrops – Part 1” is a game-changing episode of Witch Watch. It successfully blends the series’ signature humor with a darker, more serious plotline, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The episode’s revelations, betrayals, and cliffhanger ending make it a must-watch for fans of the series. With its perfect blend of supernatural lore, character development, and genuinely surprising twists, Episode 11 sets up what promises to be an action-packed conclusion while raising the emotional stakes for all involved. The rain has indeed brought trouble, just as the prophecy foretold.
