novelraw Chapter 189: "Hachiko Monogatari" Screens! Koike Ryuichi's Shock! Everyone At The Scene With Tears In Their Eyes!
Chapter 189: "Hachiko Monogatari" Screens! Koike Ryuichi's Shock! Everyone At The Scene With Tears In Their Eyes!
April twenty-ninth, the first day of Golden Week, the streets and alleys of Tokyo, cherry blossoms like snow, drifting about the last romance of a spring day.
However, inside the Production Bureau of TV Tokyo, yet no one enjoyed this rare holiday.
Nohara Hiroshi's Independent Production Department, including the leading actor team, distribution team, as well as the higher-ups of TV Tokyo, even the members of the Nohara Section, all gathered together in one hall.
They didn't take a holiday, but jointly chartered the largest screening hall within Tokyo City —— the "Palace of Light and Shadow" located at the core area of Ginza.
This screening hall, is famous for its grand scale capable of accommodating one thousand people and extremely luxurious internal decorations.
From the ceiling hung a massive crystal chandelier, exactly like a galaxy hanging upside down, illuminating the entire space resplendent and magnificent.
The air permeated with a mixed scent of faint sandalwood scent and high-class perfume, beneath the feet were thick and soft Persian carpets, every step stepping silently without sound.
Nohara Hiroshi stood at the entrance of the screening hall, his gaze peacefully sweeping over this grand space.
He was wearing a well-fitting dark gray suit, his entire person appearing slender and tall and straight, between his brows carrying a trace of steadiness and composure.
“Grand, indeed grand.” Nohara Hiroshi softly exclaimed, even if placed in the previous life, this Palace of Light and Shadow could also be considered an extremely luxurious screening hall.
Beside him, Bureau Chief Sakata Nobuhiko, his face overflowing with a proud smile, he patted Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder, voice steady and powerful:
“Yeah, Hiroshi-kun, this was specially chartered for Governor Koike. A few days ago, news transmitted from Governor Koike's secretary's side, Governor Koike plans to bring some civil servants inside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, to also come over together to watch this movie. Therefore, we must highly regard it, cannot have the slightest negligence.”
His words, were full of respect towards Governor Koike, also carried a trace of expectations towards Nohara Hiroshi.
“Governor Excellency personally leading a team to come, this truly is giving too much face!”
Deputy Director Asumi at this moment was exactly standing not far away, he was wearing a brand new suit, exactly facing the secretary beside him, over and over again organizing his necktie.
On his face, was written full of difficult to conceal nervousness and excitement.
“Say, this necktie of mine, is it still not straight enough?”
Deputy Director Asumi asked somewhat uneasily, inside those eyes of his flashing the persistence towards a perfect image.
Beside him, Executive Deputy Director Takada Toshihide, at this moment was also similarly organizing his own necktie. On that face of his that was always gloomy, at this moment also surfaced a trace of slightly stiff smile.
“Asumi-kun, you are already very dashing.”
Takada Toshihide softly coughed a sound, tone carrying a trace of imperceptible envy:
“I conversely feel, this suit of mine, is it somewhat too old-fashioned? After all, today is going to meet Governor Excellency ah.”
He even also took out a small mirror, facing his own self inside the mirror, meticulously checking every single detail, deeply afraid of having the slightest flaw.
Sakata Nobuhiko looking at the nervous appearance of those two, couldn't help but roar with laughter:
“You two ah, are dashing enough already! Governor Excellency isn't here to inspect your grooming and appearance, he is here to watch a movie!”
His words, carried a trace of perfectly appropriate teasing, instantly attracting the light laughter of the surrounding crowd of TV Tokyo higher-ups and Independent Production Department members.
The crowd looking at that "embarrassed" appearance of Asumi and Takada Toshihide, faces all overflowing with kind smiles.
However, at the other side of the screening hall, Director Kurosawa Eiji yet appeared exceptionally peaceful. He wore a dark-colored kimono, sitting properly on a seat, holding a cup of hot tea in his hands, gaze peacefully sweeping over the screening hall.
Sitting beside him were Director Ashikaga Takashi and Director Asano Takata two people. The expressions of those two at this moment, yet were entirely different from Kurosawa Eiji.
On Ashikaga Takashi's face, at this moment was covered with fine beads of sweat, he incessantly used a handkerchief to wipe his forehead, that nervousness, almost about to spurt out from inside his body.
Asano Takata then even worse, on that chubby face of his, at this moment also lost its past amicability, replacing it, was a kind of seriousness approaching stiffness. Both his hands tightly gripping into fists, placed on his knees, body slightly trembling.
Those two people, although they were also veteran directors, but the people they came into contact with on ordinary days, were mostly people of the movie circle and television circle.
Like Governor Koike, a big figure controlling the entire Tokyo Metropolis administrative power, they had never had such a close distance contact.
This kind of oppressiveness from the summit of power, made them feel a kind of deep powerlessness and trepidation.
“Ashikaga-kun, Asano-kun, you two, why so nervous ah?”
Kurosawa Eiji lightly smiling opened his mouth, tone carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate comfort:
“Relax, relax. Today, we are all here to watch a movie, not going to participate in some trial convention.”
He paused, tone carrying a trace of self-deprecation:
“Besides, even if Governor Excellency truly wants to look for us to converse, that is also looking for Sakata-kun and Hiroshi-kun. Us old bones, where do we have the qualifications to converse with Governor Excellency ah?”
Ashikaga Takashi and Asano Takata upon hearing this, all couldn't help but bitterly smile.
What Kurosawa Eiji said was right, they indeed didn't have the qualifications to converse with Governor Excellency. This kind of gap in status, was something they regardless of what also couldn't make up for.
However, exactly this "truth", conversely made them feel a burst of relaxation.
They looked at each other, all seeing the identical "relief" in each other's eyes.
“What Director Kurosawa said is right.”
Ashikaga Takashi heavily exhaled a breath of air, within that breath, seemingly taking away all the nervousness and trepidation in his heart.
“Yeah, us small figures, where do we have the qualifications to converse with Governor Excellency ah.”
Asano Takata also followed chiming in, that stiff smile on his face, also became a few degrees softer.
They knew, today, they only needed to quietly watch the movie, quietly feel that shock coming from art, that was enough.
After all, inside 'Hachiko Monogatari', also had several parts of their blood and sweat.
And Nohara Hiroshi's gaze peacefully swept over the screening hall, he saw everyone had already taken their places, the atmosphere also gradually from the initial clamor, transitioned into a mixture of anticipation and nervousness.
He knew, this feast belonging to 'Hachiko Monogatari', was about to raise the curtain.
Very quickly, at the entrance of the screening hall, transmitted a burst of faint commotion.
Everyone's gazes uniformly cast towards the entrance.
A slender and thin, hale and hearty figure, surrounded by several secretaries, slowly walked in. He wore a well-fitting suit, between his brows revealing a trace of majesty and composure not angry but mighty.
Exactly the Tokyo Governor —— Koike Ryuichi!
Beside him, Publicity Manager Hattori Tadashi also followed closely, on his face, carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate respect.
Koike Ryuichi's campaign team, also all arrived, they each and every one in suits and leather shoes, full of energy, clearly towards today's screening, placing high hopes.
Bureau Chief Sakata Nobuhiko took the lead to swiftly step forward, facing Koike Ryuichi heavily bowing, that posture, respectful and also modest.
“Governor Excellency! You gracing us with your presence to guide, is truly the honor of our TV Tokyo!”
Sakata Nobuhiko's voice, carried a trace of perfectly appropriate flattery.
Deputy Director Asumi and Executive Deputy Director Takada Toshihide also followed closely, facing Koike Ryuichi heavily bowing, faces all overflowing with sincere smiles.
“Governor Excellency, hello!”
“Governor Excellency, Happy New Year!”
Koike Ryuichi smilingly nodded his head, his gaze sweeping over the three people, inside those profound eyes of his, flashing a trace of imperceptible satisfaction.
He walked to the front of Nohara Hiroshi, extending a hand, gently patting Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder, on his face surfacing a trace of appreciative smile:
“Nohara-kun, today, we are all here for your movie ah.”
“Many thanks Governor Excellency!”
Nohara Hiroshi modestly bowed in return.
He knew, these words of Governor Koike, were giving him "face", also indicating to everyone, his high regard towards 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
“En.”
Koike Ryuichi merely smilingly nodded, his gaze sweeping over the screening hall, and then, casting his gaze towards Sakata Nobuhiko and Nohara Hiroshi, tone carrying a trace of unquestionable command:
“Sakata-kun, Nohara-kun, you two, just sit beside me.”
His words, exactly like a dry clap of thunder on level ground, instantly resoundingly blasted inside the screening hall!
Everyone's gazes uniformly cast towards Sakata Nobuhiko and Nohara Hiroshi, eyes full of envy and shock.
Being able to sit beside Governor Koike, what kind of honor is this ah!
This isn't only an affirmation towards their personal abilities, it is even more a massive recognition towards their political status!
Sakata Nobuhiko and Nohara Hiroshi upon hearing this, all lowered their heads saying yes.
This was Governor Koike "carrying the sedan chair (supporting/promoting)" for them, also indicating to everyone, his high regard towards TV Tokyo, towards Nohara Hiroshi.
Under Koike Ryuichi's signaling, everyone one after another took their seats.
Sakata Nobuhiko sat on Koike Ryuichi's right side, Nohara Hiroshi then sat on Koike Ryuichi's left side.
This position, was undoubtedly the most core, most anticipated position inside the screening hall.
“Alright.”
Sakata Nobuhiko signaled to the projectionist, can begin screening.
The light inside the screening hall slowly dimmed, the massive silver screen lit up, the movie was about to begin playing.
However, right during the preparation process of the movie screening, Koike Ryuichi yet suddenly turned his head, gaze casting towards Nohara Hiroshi, tone carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate "curiosity":
“Nohara-kun, towards this movie, exactly how much confidence do you have ah? Can it really be as good as you said?”
His voice was very light, but yet was full of probing and pressure unique to a higher-up.
Nohara Hiroshi merely peacefully smiled, inside those clear eyes of his, not even the slightest ripple arose.
He knew, Governor Koike was testing him, also giving him an opportunity, to display his "strength" once again.
“Governor Excellency, please rest assured.”
Nohara Hiroshi softly opened his mouth, tone peaceful and firm:
“This movie, it isn't only good, it is... it is even more perfect than what I anticipated.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Koike Ryuichi, eyes flashing with the light of confidence:
“I dare to assert, this 'Hachiko Monogatari', will absolutely become the top of the box office this year, even, will become an immortal legend capable of being written into the annals of Nippon movie history!”
Koike Ryuichi upon hearing this, his eyebrows slightly raised. He looked at that young and also confident face of Nohara Hiroshi, a trace of appreciation flashing in his eyes.
He nodded, his gaze again turning to Sakata Nobuhiko:
“Sakata-kun, you have to remember, this time, I have placed a portion of the main campaign forces, all onto this movie. I hope, it won't disappoint me.”
He paused, his tone becoming solemn:
“If this movie can explode in popularity, then, I can then because of binding with this movie, obtain more attention and the citizens' fondness and votes. But, if it fails...”
Koike Ryuichi didn't continue speaking, but the threat contained within that tone, yet made Sakata Nobuhiko's heart fiercely tremble.
Sakata Nobuhiko hastily respectfully responded:
“Governor Excellency, please believe in Hiroshi-kun. He, absolutely won't disappoint you.”
Koike Ryuichi merely smilingly nodded his head, not saying anything more.
Right at this moment, on the silver screen, the image flashed.
The movie 'Hachiko Monogatari', finally officially began playing.
The light inside the screening hall thoroughly dimmed, the massive silver screen lit up, attracting everyone's gazes over.
The air permeated with an atmosphere of interweaving nervousness and anticipation, only the slight humming sound emitted by the projector, as well as the rustling sound of the film rolling, echoing in this enclosed space.
Governor Koike Ryuichi sat properly in the center, on that face of his that was always serious, at this moment was also stretched tightly, between his brows carrying a trace of imperceptible solemnity.
His slender fingers lightly rested on his knees, body sitting perfectly straight, as if not watching a movie, but reviewing an extremely important political report.
Sakata Nobuhiko and Nohara Hiroshi beside him, also maintained quietness, gazes cast towards the silver screen.
The movie opening, the visual was the countryside of Akita in 1924, snow-capped, a patch of tranquility.
An abandoned small Akita Inu, eyes helpless and also full of curiosity.
Following that, the lens turned, arriving at Tokyo's Shibuya Station, pedestrian tide surging, heavy traffic, University Professor Ueno appeared in the image.
Professor Ueno and that small Akita Inu met, the small dog's wet eyes, were full of ignorance and longing towards the new world.
“Oh? Such a cute small dog, such a heartwarming encounter.”
Koike Ryuichi's brow slightly moved, the corners of his mouth that were originally stretched tight, seemingly also slightly relaxed a few degrees.
He glanced at that adorkably silly small dog on the silver screen, a trace of imperceptible softness flashing in his eyes.
First act of the movie, the small Akita Inu was brought home by the professor, named "Hachiko". Hachiko's life inside the professor's home was depicted as heartwarming and full of interest.
Early morning, Hachiko sent the professor to Shibuya Station. Evening, when the professor returned from work, Hachiko punctually appeared at the station entrance to welcome him.
These daily scenes one after another, exactly like a trickling stream, slowly moistened the audience's hearts.
“It truly is heartwarming ah...”
Koike Ryuichi's expression gradually became soft, his slender fingers, unconsciously began lightly tapping on his knees, that rhythm, as if synchronizing with Hachiko's wagging tail in the movie.
He even also couldn't help but lightly laugh a sound, that sound, carried a trace of long-lost relaxation.
Second act of the movie, the daily life of Hachiko and the professor became even more deeply rooted in the people's hearts. Regardless of wind and rain, regardless of severe cold and intense heat, Hachiko never absent from welcoming him.
“Filming this kind of heartwarming and tender plot, is truly amazing, even I feel my heart is warm.”
Inside Koike Ryuichi's eyes, at this moment also flashed a trace of faint light.
That originally soft expression of his, at this moment became somewhat solemn, yet also carrying a trace of pleasant surprise.
He recalled that old dog he himself once raised, that companionship, that tacit mutual understanding, at this moment all surged into his heart exactly like a tide.
He softly sighed a breath of air, body slightly leaning forward, clearly already deeply attracted by the movie.
Third act of the movie, tragedy quietly descended. An ordinary early morning, Hachiko exactly like usual sent the professor out the door, yet it became a final parting.
“This... how is it a tragedy?”
Koike Ryuichi's complexion instantly became solemn, inside those profound eyes of his, flashed a trace of imperceptible sadness.
His slender fingers, unconsciously gripped into fists, as if feeling heartache for that sudden loss of Hachiko.
He glanced at Nohara Hiroshi beside him, his eyes carrying a trace of probing, seemingly asking:
“This... is this really going to happen?”
Fourth act of the movie, the professor's funeral, as well as Hachiko's day after day waiting.
Inside the screening hall, sobbing sounds rose and fell in overlapping waves.
Many people already couldn't help but sob in low voices, that sadness, exactly like a plague, spread out inside the screening hall.
“To actually... actually be like this? This kind of emotion, is indeed the intuition-like instinct of animals, to be able to embody such precious loyalty!”
On Koike Ryuichi's face, at this moment was also covered with tear stains.
Inside those profound eyes of his, were full of difficult to conceal sadness and being moved.
His slender fingers, unconsciously wiped the tears at the corners of his eyes, that shock coming from the bottom of his heart, made this political figure who had weathered many storms, also thoroughly sink into the movie.
Movie climax, Hachiko was already old and senile, it laid in the corner of Shibuya Station, body weak, but its gaze still stubbornly looked towards the station entrance.
It seemingly saw, in the crowd, that familiar figure, exactly smiling, walking towards it. The professor returned.
Hachiko struggled to stand up, wagging its tail, heading towards the professor's direction, walking step by step. It fell. It was in a dream, reuniting with the professor.
The image was the initial scene of Hachiko and the professor encountering at the station, the professor crouched down, tightly hugging Hachiko, one person one dog, under the setting sun, looking at each other and smiling.
Then, the image gradually blurred, ultimately, freezing in front of Shibuya Station, on that bronze statue symbolizing Hachiko's loyalty.
Movie ending.
Governor Koike Ryuichi slowly stood up from his seat, on his face, tear stains hadn't dried, eyes slightly red, but inside his eyes yet was full of indescribable shock and fanaticism.
He didn't speak, just raised his hands, using trembling hands, clapping.
“Pa! Pa! Pa!”
Applause, exactly like raindrops, rang out inside the screening hall.
Sakata Nobuhiko, Asumi, Takada Toshihide, as well as all TV Tokyo higher-ups and Independent Production Department members, all practically uniformly stood up, facing the direction of the silver screen, clapping.
The applause became more and more enthusiastic, more and more resounding, exactly like a dry clap of thunder, echoing in the entire screening hall.
This applause, wasn't only praise towards the movie, it was even more respect towards that talent of Nohara Hiroshi, a salute towards that loyalty of Hachiko, even more singing the praises towards that pure emotion between human and dog.
Koike Ryuichi walked to the front of Nohara Hiroshi, on his face tear stains hadn't dried, but his eyes yet were full of appreciation and expectations. He extended his hand, tightly gripping Nohara Hiroshi's hand, that excitement, made this political figure who had weathered many storms, also somewhat unable to control himself.
“Nohara-kun, you did very well.”
Koike Ryuichi's voice carried a trace of hoarseness, yet was full of sincerity and sighing:
“You did... excellently! This movie, it isn't only good, it is... it touched the depths of the soul!”
He paused, his gaze casting towards Sakata Nobuhiko beside him, tone becoming exceptionally solemn:
“Sakata-kun, you have to remember, a genius like Nohara-kun, is a treasure of our Nippon! He isn't only the future of TV Tokyo, he is even more the hope of our Tokyo Metropolis, and even the entire Nippon!”
“Therefore, you absolutely must seriously cultivate him, give him the best resources, the best platform! Absolutely cannot let him suffer the slightest grievance! He, is our Tokyo Metropolis, the best helper for future governance!”
Sakata Nobuhiko upon hearing this, his body fiercely trembled, those eyes instantly widening, his face written full of disbelief!
He blankly looked at Koike Ryuichi, yet his mind was a patch of chaos.
He had never thought, Governor Koike actually would give such an extremely high evaluation towards Nohara Hiroshi!
Even, still said he was "Tokyo Metropolis future governance, the best helper"?!
This... this is simply, an unprecedented honor!
Sakata Nobuhiko hastily respectfully responded:
“Hai! Governor Excellency! Please rest assured! I Sakata Nobuhiko, will definitely go all out, seriously cultivating Hiroshi-kun! Absolutely won't disappoint the expectations of you and Tokyo Metropolis towards him!”
He paused, his tone becoming even more firm:
“I guarantee, Nohara Hiroshi, will definitely make even greater contributions, for Governor Excellency, for the future of Tokyo Metropolis!”
Koike Ryuichi satisfiedly nodded his head, his slender fingers, once again gently patted Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder, gaze profound and also full of expectations.
“Nohara-kun, you have to remember, your talent, your works, isn't only for movie art, it is even more for the future of our Nippon.”
Koike Ryuichi's voice carried sighing:
“Not just Tokyo Metropolis, if there is a chance, I believe the party leader of the Liberal Public Opinion Party, will also be very happy, engaging in in-depth exchanges with a talented young person like you.”
Boom——!
Asumi, Takada Toshihide, Kurosawa Eiji, as well as all present TV Tokyo higher-ups and civil servants of the Government Office, at this moment all blankly stood in place, faces written full of disbelieving shock!
Party leader of the Liberal Public Opinion Party?!
That's a "big boss" of Nippon's political arena! Is the true core of power, controlling the lifelines of the entire country!
Governor Koike actually hinted, Nohara Hiroshi, had a chance to engage in "in-depth exchanges" with that party leader?!
This... this is simply, an unprecedented honor! This represents, Nohara Hiroshi, is already no longer just a cultural creator, he has already, step by step walked towards the center of Nippon's political stage!
Koike Ryuichi didn't say anything more, he just softly sighed a breath of air, his gaze once again casting towards that massive silver screen, his eyes full of emotional sighing:
“This movie, it made me rethink many things. It made me understand, in this world, the purest love, often exists exactly in those most inconspicuous places.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over Nohara Hiroshi, on his face revealing a loving smile:
“Nohara-kun, anticipating your future works. You, are the hope of our Nippon.”
As he said, he then once again patted Nohara Hiroshi's shoulder, and then, surrounded by Publicity Manager Hattori Tadashi and several secretaries, striding with a composed pace, walking out of the screening hall.
Inside the screening hall, once again only leaving Nohara Hiroshi's group, as well as those TV Tokyo higher-ups and civil servants who were still immersed in the massive shock.
Bureau Chief Sakata Nobuhiko looking at that gradually receding figure of Governor Koike, again looking at that young and also confident face of Nohara Hiroshi, his face overflowing with difficult to suppress ecstasy.
He fiercely turned around, his gaze sweeping over every single person present, his tone becoming impassioned:
“Everyone! Today, we witnessed a miracle! We witnessed Nohara Hiroshi-kun, once again creating a miracle capable of shocking the entire Nippon!”
“'Hachiko Monogatari', it isn't only a movie, it is even more a cultural symbol, a great work capable of influencing the era, changing the world!”
He paused, his tone full of decisiveness:
“Therefore, I announce! Tonight, our TV Tokyo, will charter Ginza's most top-tier club —— 'Kinkaku'! We want to hold an unprecedented celebration banquet there, for Nohara Hiroshi-kun, for 'Hachiko Monogatari'!”
“All employees of TV Tokyo, all members of the Independent Production Department, all personnel who participated in the production of 'Hachiko Monogatari', will all participate for free! We want to revel to our heart's content, celebrate to our heart's content! Because, we know, this movie, it will absolutely explode in popularity! It will absolutely become the top of the box office this year, even, will become an immortal legend capable of being written into the annals of Nippon movie history!”
Boom——!
Sakata Nobuhiko's words, exactly like a dry clap of thunder on level ground, instantly resoundingly blasted inside the screening hall!
“Oh——!”
“太好了！ (Fantastic!)”
“Long live Bureau Chief Sakata!”
“Long live Department Manager Nohara!”
After a short dead silence, the scene instantly descended into a patch of massive clamor and revelry!
Everyone was excited to the point of speaking incoherently, they jumped for joy, hugging each other, that ecstasy, almost about to flip the entire screening hall over.
They knew, what Bureau Chief Sakata said was right.
『Hachiko Monogatari』, it will absolutely explode in popularity!
And they will personally witness a transformation of an era, a brand new cultural era initiated by Nohara Hiroshi, resoundingly descending!
......
The black Toyota official vehicle steadily drove away from the "Palace of Light and Shadow", driving into the continuous stream of streets in Tokyo city center.
Outside the car window, cherry blossom petals rotated and danced in the spring breeze, adding a few degrees of poetry for this clamorous metropolis. However, inside the car cabin yet permeated a patch of profound silence, forming a sharp contrast with the prosperity outside.
Governor Koike Ryuichi, at this moment was exactly exhaustedly leaning against the back seat of the official vehicle, on that face of his that was always majestic and hale and hearty on ordinary days, at this moment yet carried a trace of undissipated flush, eyes slightly red, gaze somewhat blurry, as if his entire person was still immersed in the massive emotional impact brought by the movie 'Hachiko Monogatari'.
His fingers lightly rested on his knees, fingertips still slightly trembling, displaying that difficult to calm agitation in the depths of his heart.
He had weathered many political storms, long ago forging a steady disposition of remaining unflinching even when a great mountain collapses in front of him, however, this movie yet exactly like the sharpest blade, precisely dissecting the softest corner in the depths of his heart, making this old-school politician, also cry like a child.
That pure loyalty, that silent waiting, that bond transcending life and death, exactly like a tide time and time again washing over his soul, making him feel a kind of unprecedented shock and being moved.
After all he was also an elder, yet never had capable of obtaining a considerate Akita Inu's loyalty like protagonist Professor Ueno.
Koike Ryuichi had resonance, but also regretted because of this.
The secretary sitting in the front passenger seat, through the rearview mirror keenly capturing that "lost one's soul in disappointment" appearance of Governor Koike, his heart trembled, knowing Governor Excellency's emotions at this moment were absolutely extraordinary.
He hastily poured a cup of hot tea from the thermos bottle at the side thoughtfully, twisting open the cup lid, passing it in front of Governor Koike, voice respectful and also perfectly appropriately gentle:
“Governor Excellency, please drink a cup of hot tea, to ease your mood.”
Koike Ryuichi slightly blanked, only then snapping back to reality.
He took the hot tea passed by the secretary, fingertips touching the warmth of the cup wall, as if also bringing a trace of mundane comfort. He twisted open the cup lid, lightly sipping a mouthful, tea water entering the throat, carrying a faint bitterness and sweet aftertaste, also letting his train of thought gradually withdraw from the sadness of the movie.
Right at this moment, this official vehicle slightly stopped, several people alighted from the commercial vehicle following behind.
The car door was pulled open, Publicity Manager Hattori Tadashi as well as several backbone members of the campaign team, also successively sat into the car.
They previously stayed behind to deal with the media outside for a bit, so at this time just happened to catch up to merge, simultaneously conducting a report towards Koike Ryuichi.
However arriving on the car and sitting down, on each of their faces similarly also still carried undissipated tear stains, eyes red and swollen, but inside their eyes yet were full of difficult to suppress excitement and fanaticism.
Koike Ryuichi's gaze swept over the crowd, on that face of his that was always serious on ordinary days, at this moment also surfaced a trace of smile carrying deep meaning.
He looked at Hattori Tadashi, again looking at those campaign team backbones, voice although slightly hoarse, yet still carried the composure and majesty of a higher-up:
“Everyone, after finishing watching this 'Hachiko Monogatari', how does it feel ah?”
Hattori Tadashi upon hearing this, a smile exactly within expectations revealed on his face, he didn't rush to open his mouth, only peacefully looking at those campaign team backbones, his eyes carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate faint smugness of "I already knew it".
And those campaign team backbones, at this moment all couldn't care less about wiping the wretchedness of mixed tears and sweat on their faces, they strove to be the first to open their mouths, their tones full of difficult to suppress excitement and sighing.
“Governor Excellency! This... this is simply a divine work ah!”
A campaign advisor looking around forty-something years old, appearing astute and capable, excitedly waved the document in his hands, that voice carrying a trace of trembling:
“I never thought, a movie about a dog, actually could be filmed so... so directly reaching people's hearts! It made this iron-hearted fellow of me, also cry a total mess!”
“Yeah! Governor Excellency!”
Another elderly campaign manager also followed chiming in, on that always serious face of his, at this moment was also covered with tear stains:
“I have engaged in political work for thirty years, seen countless inciting promotional videos, but not a single one, could be like this 'Hachiko Monogatari', making me feel so shocked, so moved! It's simply... is an emotional nuclear bomb ah!”
“Nuclear bomb? No, it's an emotional tsunami!”
A young campaign planner also excitedly said, inside those bright eyes of his, at this moment still flashing tears:
“Governor Excellency, you don't know! When the movie screened, I saw the colleagues around, including those analysts who are usually the calmest, the most rational, all crying a total mess! They all said, this movie, will inevitably detonate the entire Nippon, becoming the most tear-jerking, and also most socially influential work of this year!”
“The most important thing is, the conception of this movie, is simply superb!”
The campaign advisor once again became excited, inside those astute eyes of his, flashing the light of fanaticism:
“It used a dog's pure loyalty, to foil against the complexity and preciousness of human emotions, awakening the depths of our hearts, the longing towards warmth, towards connection, towards loyalty! This... this is simply a promotional video tailor-made for your campaign ah!”
“Yeah, Governor Excellency! This movie, it isn't only moving, it even more possesses profound social significance! It will towards the populace of our Tokyo Metropolis, towards the citizens of our Nippon, produce extremely good promotional effects!”
The campaign manager also followed chiming in, on that face of his covered with tear stains, at this moment written full of infinite longing towards the future:
“It will let more people, rethink the relationship between humans, the emotion between humans and animals, as well as, how our nation, should inherit and carry forward the spirit of 'loyalty' in modern society!”
Koike Ryuichi quietly listened to their praises, that smile with deep meaning on his face, also gradually became real.
His slender fingers, once again lightly rubbed the beard under his jaw, gaze cast towards Hattori Tadashi, eyes carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate self-deprecation and helplessness.
“Manager Hattori Tadashi, what you said is right.”
Koike Ryuichi softly opened his mouth, tone full of sighing:
“I previously, indeed thought you were exaggerating somewhat. A movie regarding a dog, actually could make a Publicity Manager like you so excited, so certain. I at that time was still thinking, were you too tired from work recently, brain all somewhat unclear.”
He paused, on his face surfacing a trace of bitter smile:
“However, today after finishing watching this movie, I just discovered, what you said, fundamentally wasn't exaggerated at all! Even, I even feel, what you said, is still not enough!”
Hattori Tadashi upon hearing this, a smile exactly within expectations revealed on his face. He knew Governor Excellency was giving him a "high hat (flattery)", also admitting his own "mistake".
He merely lightly nodded his head, tone peaceful and firm:
“Hai, Governor Excellency. This movie, is indeed very wonderful. Although I am watching it for the first time, but the feedback Eirin gave me is exactly like this. They all said, this movie, is a rare boutique product in recent years, is a great work sufficient to be written into the annals of history. Therefore, I chose to believe their professional evaluation.”
Koike Ryuichi upon hearing this, instantly roared with laughter, that sound, exactly like the ice surface broken in winter days, full of hearty satisfaction.
“Good! Exactly a 'believe professional evaluation'!”
Koike Ryuichi smilingly said, he patted Hattori Tadashi's shoulder, tone carrying a trace of perfectly appropriate teasing:
“Manager Hattori Tadashi, this fellow of you, is truly... too good at 'borrowing strength' ah! However, I like it!”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over every single person present, that relaxation and joy on his face, also infected everyone.
“Governor Excellency, since this movie is so wonderful, and also possesses such social significance.”
The campaign advisor suddenly thought of something, inside those astute eyes of his, instantly flashing the light of fanaticism:
“Didn't we previously establish a Hachiko statue at Shibuya Station? Now the movie screens, will inevitably detonate public opinion, when the time comes, Shibuya Station, will definitely become a popular attraction!”
He excitedly leaned his body slightly forward, tone full of expectations:
“Therefore, Governor Excellency, we absolutely can ride this heat wave, at Shibuya Station, continue to conduct a wave of public speaking activities! You personally arriving at the scene, interacting with the populace, taking photos with the Hachiko statue, narrating the story of Hachiko, narrating your understanding towards loyalty! Thus coming, your affable image, your sense of responsibility, your shouldering burdens, will all obtain enormous elevation!”
The campaign advisor's words, exactly like a dry clap of thunder on level ground, instantly resoundingly blasted inside the car cabin!
Everyone blankly looked at the campaign advisor, faces written full of shock and ecstasy.
They never thought, the campaign advisor actually could perfectly combine the promotion of the movie, with Governor Koike's campaign, so perfectly, so ingeniously!
This is simply... a brilliant creative idea!
Koike Ryuichi quietly listened to the campaign advisor's proposal, inside those profound eyes of his, at this moment flashing a kind of sharp and also decisive light belonging to a politician.
His slender fingers, once again lightly rubbed the beard under his jaw, in his mind continuously calculating the feasibility of this plan.
Shibuya Station, Hachiko statue, movie popularity, populace's emotions... all things, all exactly like carefully calculated gears, perfectly slotting together.
“Good! Exactly a 'brilliant creative idea'!”
Koike Ryuichi fiercely slapped his thigh, tone full of undisguised admiration:
“This plan, I've agreed! We now, comprehensively draw close towards 'Hachiko Monogatari'! Must perfectly combine Hachiko's loyalty spirit, with my campaign philosophy!”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over every single person present, inside his eyes full of command:
“Simultaneously, Manager Hattori Tadashi, you immediately notify the side of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, absolutely must have someone properly take care of Hachitsutsu! In the future, every single campaign activity I attend, must bring it along!”
“We want to let Hachitsutsu, not only be the main character of the movie, but even more our Tokyo Metropolis, future governance 'mascot'! It will become the closest, warmest connection, between me and the populace!”
Koike Ryuichi's words, resonated forcefully, every single word, all full of power.
Written full of ecstasy on everyone's faces.
They knew, Governor Koike is going to thoroughly integrate this movie 'Hachiko Monogatari', as well as this cultural symbol Hachitsutsu, into his campaign strategy!
This will be an unprecedented attempt, also will be a "miracle" destined to be written into the annals of Nippon political history!
“Hai! Governor Excellency! We understand!”
All campaign team backbones responded in unison, inside that sound, full of fighting spirit and passion.
Hattori Tadashi also hastily respectfully responded:
“Hai! Governor Excellency! Please rest assured! I will definitely go all out, properly taking care of Hachitsutsu, doing your campaign promotion, to the best!”
Inside the car cabin, instantly full of a beamingly joyful atmosphere.
Everyone looking at that face of Koike Ryuichi full of confidence, looking at those profound eyes of his, a burst of intense premonition surged in their hearts.
They knew, under the joint hands of Governor Koike and this monster Nohara Hiroshi, this time's campaign, inevitably will obtain unprecedented success!
And they, will personally witness, a transformation of an era, a brand new political and cultural era initiated by Koike Ryuichi and Nohara Hiroshi, resoundingly descending!
Koike Ryuichi merely smiled, gaze casting towards that vast Tokyo Bay out the window.
Outside the car, cherry blossoms still brilliant, but inside Koike Ryuichi's eyes, yet already no longer the tenderness of spring days, but the joy of a bountiful harvest in autumn days, as well as the profundity of layout in winter days.
He knew, an unprecedented political and cultural feast, was about to raise the curtain.
“Truly never thought, this movie actually would exceed my expectations, actually would be so wonderful.”
Koike Ryuichi tightened his fist, his eyes increasingly becoming more and more smug:
“TV Tokyo, as expected is my blessed land ah!”
(End of Chapter)