Inside a modest animated studio known as Ghibli, three individuals are gathered, each absorbed in thought. The studio, newly established this past July, is humble and unassuming—its walls lined with sketches and storyboards. Despite the earlier success of Hayao Miyazaki's previous films and help from Publisher company Takuma Shoten, the fledgling studio is struggling financially. Their current budget is clearly insufficient to support upcoming projects, let alone cover the significant production and marketing costs required to bring their next vision to life.

Hayao Miyazaki sighed. "We clearly need more budget than this to finish our movie next year—not to mention the production and marketing costs. Takuma Shoten has already been kind enough, but we still need more capital." Isao Takahata shook his head. "Shall we look for investors?" Toshio Suzuki chimed in, "But what could we offer? We need plenty of money, but we don't really have much to give in return…"

Isao Takahata suddenly said, "What if we reach out to Yasu Domachi? His YaDo Animation has been thriving recently, especially with the backing of ZAGE. Maybe we could contact ZAGE through him and let them know that Studio Ghibli is actively seeking investors. It might open up an opportunity to secure the funding we need."

Toshio smiled and nodded. "Well, Isao, if we can secure ZAGE's support, everything will become much more manageable." Hayao Miyazaki sighed, his expression thoughtful. "You're certain ZAGE won't interfere with our work, right? Because no matter what happens, I refuse to let corporate greed taint what I create." Isao smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, Hayao-san. ZAGE isn't that kind of company. They value creative freedom. Atleast that the rumor said.

With confidence in his voice, Isao Takahata picked up the phone and reached out to Yasu Domachi of YaDo. The two had been longtime friends, and Isao knew he could trust Yasu to help. True to expectation, Yasu was quick to respond and immediately reached out to his contact at ZAGE—Zaboru.

Zaboru now sat alongside Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata in the cozy, slightly cluttered Ghibli animation studio, the scent of fresh ink and paper lingering in the air. The reason for the setting was simple: Zaboru had personally requested the meeting take place there.

Tuesday 8 September 1995

Studio Ghibli Tokyo.

Zaboru was thrilled when YaDo mentioned a studio called Studio Ghibli was seeking investors. How could Zaboru not recognize that name? In his previous life, Studio Ghibli was world-renowned for its anime films and emotionally resonant storytelling—movies that Zaboru deeply cherished. "Spirited Away," "Grave of the Fireflies," "My Neighbor Totoro," "Princess Mononoke," and many others were nothing short of masterpieces in his eyes.

Zaboru now sat in front of Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, offering a warm smile. Isao returned the gesture and began the conversation. "Renkonan-san, it's a pleasure to meet you. As you probably know, this is our humble studio—we only officially opened just two months ago."

Zaboru nodded appreciatively. "This studio has a wonderful atmosphere. I really like it."

Hayao Miyazaki remained silent, observing quietly, while Isao continued with a friendly smile. "I'm glad to hear that. I heard you've acquired YaDo Studio from Yasu Donmachi and have turned it into one of Japan's leading animation companies, is that right?"

Zaboru smiled modestly and nodded. "Well, that's more or less the case, Takahata-san also call me Zaboru are fine"

Isao nodded. "It's like this, Zaboru-san... Well, we are in need of an investor, but as you can see, we can't promise much in return. We might need a significant amount of capital to release our next movie next year. And we can't offer a large share in our company either, because we need to retain control."

Zaboru nodded and said, "Well, I'm actually a big fan of your previous film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, so I'm quite confident in your team's ability. Do you still hold 100% of the rights to your studio?"

Isao nodded. "Well, more or less, yes. It's still just us, and we've received some support from Takuma Shoten as well."

Zaboru smiled. "Then let me make an offer—8 billion yen for 30% of your studio's shares."

Isao and Hayao's eyes widened. "8 billion yen!? For only 30%? That's an insane amount!" Isao exclaimed.

"But Zaboru-san, we aren't worth that much—we've just barely started," Isao added, visibly shocked.

Zaboru smiled calmly and replied, "Well, I'm genuinely interested in what you two want to create. Let's just say this is an investment in your vision."

But then Hayao Miyazaki, who had remained silent throughout the conversation, suddenly spoke. "What exactly are your intentions, Renkonan-san? Do you plan to interfere with our story and insert your own ideas? Or are you expecting us to forcefully produce a story of your own creation, even if it's against our will? Please state your reasons for being so generous, because I am not a fool."

Isao's mouth fell open in shock. He thought, "Damn it, Hayao—always so blunt!" He was genuinely worried that Zaboru might be offended by such a direct question. But instead, Zaboru simply chuckled and thought to himself, "Hahaha! The Hayao Miyazaki! Just as pessimistic as he was in my previous world!"

Zaboru smiled and said, "Hayao Miyazaki-san, correct?" Hayao gave a brief nod. Zaboru continued, "It seems there has been a misunderstanding, Miyazaki-san. You know that unmistakable gut feeling when everything just clicks into place? Well, this is one of those rare moments."

I believe investing in Ghibli is the right choice. And not to brag, but for ZAGE, eight billion yen isn't exactly a huge amount. That's why I'm willing to take the chance—because, like I said earlier, I really love your previous films, Miyazaki-san. And don't worry, I won't interfere with your creative process. As for possibly involving Ghibli Studio in one of my future projects—maybe—but only with feedback and consent from both of you."

Isao sighed and smiled. "True, Hayao. Trust me, this is a good deal." Hayao Miyazaki let out a sigh of resignation and said, "Fine. Do as you like."

Zaboru chuckled, and the meetings continued. Soon after, both Studio Ghibli's and ZAGE's legal teams finalized the agreement, making it official—ZAGE now owned 30% of Ghibli, having purchased the stake for 8 billion yen. After the deal was concluded, Zaboru paid another visit to Ghibli. "If you ever need more capital," he said with a warm smile, "just let me know—I'm more than willing to support you." Hayao scoffed at the offer with his usual skepticism, while Isao smiled appreciatively, clearly grateful for Zaboru's continued support.

Zaboru was truly delighted to be a part of Studio Ghibli.

To be continue

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