My Name is Hiroshi Nohara, Star of Neon Film and Television!

Chapter 234: The Dilemma of Kanto TV! Senior Suzuki Kiyoto's Introduction! Nohara Hiroshi's Unbridled Ambitions!

As Nohara Hiroshi's figure vanished past the elevator doors, the lively atmosphere in the office instantly dissipated.

Asumi sat back down on the sofa, his gaze landing on the koi fish swimming leisurely in the tank. His fingertips unconsciously rubbed against the cold surface of his cup, and the brow that had held a smile just moments ago was now tightly knitted.

Seeing Asumi in such a state, Takada Toshihide also withdrew his previous enthusiasm. He picked up his teacup and took a sip, the warm matcha failing to dispel the gravity in his eyes. "What's wrong? Still worrying about the Kanto Station situation?"

Asumi sighed softly, his voice carrying unmistakable exhaustion—a weariness accumulated from spending every day at Kanto Station over the past half-year. "Bureau Chief Takada, you haven't been to the current Kanto Station Production Bureau. When I went there last month, half of the workstations in the director's office on the third floor were empty, and those remaining were either white-haired veteran employees or fresh graduates with zero experience. Do you know? When we acquired Kanto Station last year, their most presentable 'Golden Production Team' was reduced to just Team Leader Suzuki. Out of the remaining five core directors, three were transferred to Tokyo Station's Variety Department, and two were poached by Tokyo City TV. Even the 'Kanto Food Chronicles' they were prepping ended up abandoned."

He paused, tapping his fingers lightly on the coffee table as if enumerating Kanto Station's messes.

His tone grew even more fatigued: "Presently, the average age in Kanto Station's production teams is nearing fifty. Last week, when I held a topic selection meeting with them, a veteran director was still proposing 'shooting a sequel to a local drama', claiming that since 'Kanto Family Story' was a hit ten years ago, a sequel now would certainly attract viewers. But he forgot that the sequel shot last year only had a viewership rating of 3.2%—not even half of Tokyo Station's late-night programming. The younger directors do have ideas;

a young woman named Honda wanted to do a documentary called 'Kanto Old Street Visit', filming traditional craft workshops that are on the verge of disappearing. But the veteran Chief of the production department rejected it, saying 'nobody wants to watch shabby old things', and added 'we might as well rebroadcast a few more episodes of Tokyo Station's Kasou Taishou;

it saves trouble and guarantees ratings.'"

Takada Toshihide's brows also furrowed. He set down his teacup and tapped the coffee table lightly, producing a dull thud. "I knew Kanto Station was struggling right now, but I didn't expect it to be this dire. Station Chief Sakata merely told me last time that 'Kanto Station's original programming ratio is too low';

he never mentioned the talent drain was so severe."

"He was afraid you'd panic."

Asumi offered a wry smile, pulling another thin report from his briefcase and sliding it toward Takada. "This is Kanto Station's schedule from last month, take a look. Aside from the Prime Time slot between 7 PM and 9 PM where they broadcast two episodes of their own local news and old local dramas, the remaining twelve hours are entirely filled with rebroadcasts of our Tokyo Station programs. From the Morning Drama to late-night anime reruns, even the commercials are leftovers from Tokyo Station. Once, when I was drinking with the Station Chief of Kanto TV, he complained to me that viewers in the Kanto region have almost forgotten that Kanto Station is a local channel. Young people would rather watch Tokyo City TV's talent shows than Kanto Station's rebroadcast of Tales of the Unusual."

Recalling an incident from last month at Kanto Station, his tone dropped further: "There's a young video editor who joined half a year ago. He told me he came to Kanto Station wanting to make his own programs, but ended up cutting rebroadcast footage for Tokyo Station every day. He submitted his resignation last month, stating he 'couldn't see a future here.' When I tried to retain him, he asked me, 'Executive Director, do you think our Kanto Station will eventually be swallowed whole by Tokyo Station until not even its name remains?' Tell me, how was I supposed to answer that? I couldn't possibly tell him that right now, we're even struggling to preserve Kanto Station's production qualifications."Takada Toshihide picked up the schedule. As his finger traced over the dense clusters of the word "Rebroadcast," his expression worsened considerably.

Having worked in the television industry for thirty years and witnessed the rise and fall of many stations, he had never seen a formerly dominant regional station reduced to surviving solely by rebroadcasting others' programs.

Although in the past, Takada Toshihide had been quite happy to see Kanto TV's decline.

But now that he was the Bureau Chief of the Production Bureau for Kanto TV, his perspective had broadened, and he knew he had to utilize every available resource to alleviate the burdens of the current Tokyo Station.

Now looking at the dismal state of Kanto TV, he truly felt a sense of helplessness.

These messes were now his to manage.

Thus, Takada Toshihide also sighed, looking at Asumi and asking helplessly: "Do those veteran employees have absolutely no sense of crisis? Are they simply content to watch Kanto Station become Tokyo Station's 'relay station'?"

"How could they be content?"

Asumi shook his head, his tone laced with complex emotions: "The last time I argued with the veteran Chief of the production department, he told me, 'Kanto Station originally built its foundation on local dramas. If young people today don't like watching them, it's not our fault;

it's the times that have changed.' Listen to that—what kind of reasoning is that? The times changed, they didn't, and they blame the times? And there are some veteran employees who view our Tokyo Station as 'outsiders' and guard against us at every turn. Last time I wanted to send some young directors from Tokyo Station over to mentor the newcomers, they said, 'Outsiders don't understand Kanto Station's rules', and forcefully turned them away."

He rubbed his throbbing temples and continued:

"Currently, Kanto Station's viewership relies entirely on older viewers holding the fort. The 7 PM local news can reach 5.8%, but the moment 9 PM passes, ratings plummet straight to 1.1%, worse than late-night anime. According to the report from Finance last month, Kanto Station's advertising revenue dropped by 40% compared to last year. Many local businesses have defected to cooperate with Tokyo City TV, claiming, 'City TV's programs are watched largely by young people, we need to target our ads at the youth.' If this continues, Kanto Station won't even need Station Chief Sakata to lose his temper;

it will collapse on its own."

Takada Toshihide remained silent for a moment.

He tapped heavily on the schedule, his tone turning resolute: "That's exactly why we absolutely must send Hiroshi. Kanto Station cannot be allowed to crumble just like this. It is not merely Tokyo Station's 'right arm';

it is our 'shield' against Tokyo City TV! Do you know? Last week, Takahashi Kazuo called me and said their City TV is launching a program called 'Tokyo Suburbs Visit' next month, specifically filming tourist spots in the Kanto region, and they've even hired Kamiki Shunsuke as the host. It's blatantly an attempt to snatch Kanto Station's local demographic."

Asumi's eyes instantly turned frigid. The name Kamiki Shunsuke invoked thoughts of the Kirin Group, and of Sato Tokugawa, who was extremely close to Tanaka Mikami. "They are using the guise of a 'visit' to steal all the viewers in the Kanto region! After all, Tanaka Mikami's approval ratings in Kanto aren't low right now, and many businesses want to ride his momentum and build good relations with City TV."

"And that's not all," Takada Toshihide's voice dropped even lower, as if sharing classified intel. "Station Chief Sakata revealed to me last week that Tanaka Mikami recently approved a 'Development Fund' of one billion yen for Tokyo City TV, claiming it's to 'create programs with local characteristics'. In reality, he just wants City TV to steal market share from us. Think about it: if we lose Kanto Station now, it's equivalent to losing the thirty million viewers in the Kanto region. When City TV subsequently comes to poach Tokyo's viewers, we'll be attacked from both sides."

He took a sip from his teacup and continued his analysis: "Moreover, the upper management within our station isn't peaceful right now either. A few Deputy Station Chiefs are close with Tanaka Mikami. During the last meeting, they even said, 'Kanto Station is a burden;

it would be better to abandon it early.' It's obvious they want to use Kanto Station's problems to pressure us. Although President Shimazu fully supports us, he's currently busy with his mayoral campaign, so his energy is limited, and the help he can provide is meager. If we can't revitalize Kanto Station within three months, not only will we have to turn in our resignations, but Station Chief Sakata's days at the conglomerate will also become exceedingly difficult."

Asumi felt his heart sink upon hearing this. Previously, he had only focused on the internal issues of Kanto Station and hadn't realized the external situation had grown so precarious. "So, you're saying we have absolutely no way out now?"

"There is no retreat."

Takada Toshihide nodded, but his tone suddenly softened a bit, his gaze falling onto the sofa where Nohara Hiroshi had sat just moments prior: "But thankfully, we still have Hiroshi. Think about it, what was the situation when Yamishibai started? Nobody optimistic about it, budget only half that of other anime, yet he forcibly molded it into the standard-bearer for 'urban legends' with viewership breaking 10%. And Seven Samurai—how many people said 'samurai films are obsolete'? Yet the film he directed didn't just smash an 8.9 billion box office;

it also won the Best Director award at the Tokyo International Film Festival."

He recalled attending the station's celebration banquet with Nohara Hiroshi last year. When the young man spoke on stage, he didn't utter a single grandiose declaration, just stating he "wanted to shoot stories the audience wants to watch." Yet, it was this exact grounded approach that allowed him to produce one masterpiece after another.

Thus, Takada Toshihide stated solemnly: "Hiroshi is different from those young people with their heads in the clouds but lack the skills. He understands what it means to 'adapt to local conditions'. In Kumamoto, he could create an IP like 'Kumamon' that took the entire nation by storm;

I'm certain he can find content suited for local audiences at Kanto Station as well. Didn't you hear the idea he proposed earlier, 'Kanto's Midnight Diner'? It's a fantastic idea! Utilizing our Tokyo Station's successful model while integrating the local characteristics of Kanto—it's profoundly superior to those forcefully transplanted programs."

Seeing the trust in Takada Toshihide's eyes, Asumi felt his worries gradually recede.

He remembered reviewing the footage for Midnight Diner alongside Nohara Hiroshi last year. The young man noticed details like "pork cutlet needs to be paired with Kanto soy sauce," and patiently explained to the actors "the mindset of an ordinary salaryman eating at a diner." This dedication to detail and respect for the audience was indeed exactly what the current Kanto Station desperately lacked.

Asumi nodded in agreement: "Now that you mention it, I do feel a glimmer of hope. Last time, Matsumoto Keiko told me Hiroshi is the 'young director who understands audiences best' she has ever met. Even Senior Kurosawa Eiji is willing to collaborate with him, praising him for being able to 'capture the soul of a samurai'."

"Isn't that the truth."

Takada Toshihide chuckled, his tone harboring a sense of relief: "So going forward, the reform of Kanto Station rests entirely on your shoulders."

He leaned forward slightly, his gaze turning exceptionally serious: "Station Chief Sakata and I have already discussed it. From today onward, you are fully in charge of Kanto Station's content reform. Whatever resources Hiroshi needs, you approve directly. Whatever programs he wishes to make, he doesn't need to report to the station first;

just bring the pilot episode over for review when it's done. I've already spoken with Finance. As for Kanto Station's production budget, outside of the 500 million added previously, if it's still insufficient, you can apply for another 300 million. We absolutely cannot allow Hiroshi to be constrained by financial matters."

Asumi was stunned, not expecting Takada to grant him such immense authority. It must be known that previously, any budget alteration for Kanto Station required the signatures of three or four station executives. Now, not only was he given full authority, but he could "produce first, report later."

Looking at Takada Toshihide's sincere eyes, a wave of warmth surged through Asumi's heart, seemingly alleviating the fatigue he had accumulated. "Bureau Chief Takada, thank you. Actually, I know you've always worried that my 'Kanto Faction' identity might make me partial toward Kanto Station. For you to trust me this much now, I..."

"What Kanto Faction, Tokyo Faction... that's all in the past," Takada Toshihide interrupted, his tone tinged with emotion. "Station Chief Sakata was right. The current Tokyo Station should aiming to be the 'Greater Tokyo Area' television network, not a series of small, internally divided cliques. You emerged from Kanto Station, you understand Kanto viewers better than we do, so making you responsible for the reform is perfectly fitting."

He picked up the file folder from the desk, flipped to the page outlining the "Kanto Station Reform Plan," and tapped heavily on the "Objectives" column: "Our goal is not to turn Kanto Station into a second Tokyo Station, but to forge it into the 'fist' of Tokyo Station! Tokyo Station possesses Kasou Taishou and Tales of the Unusual;

Kanto Station must likewise boast flagship programs capable of captivating local viewers, ensuring that when Kanto audiences think of a television station, they instinctively think of 'Tokyo Station's Kanto Station,' rather than Tokyo City TV."

Asumi nodded solemnly, the fighting spirit reignited within his eyes.

He recalled Nohara Hiroshi's phrase "content with warmth," remembered the young directors at Kanto Station who were still persevering, and recollected his original intention when he first joined Kanto Station. Back then, he too was a young man yearning to create "good programs" and disseminate Kanto's stories to a wider audience.

"Bureau Chief Takada, rest assured."

Asumi's voice was firm and powerful: "For the next three months, I will practically live at Kanto Station, meticulously reviewing every program proposal and every pilot edit alongside Hiroshi. Even if it costs me my old bones, I will shape Kanto Station's reform into something presentable. I absolutely will not allow it to become a burden to Tokyo Station, nor will I allow Tokyo City TV to make a laughingstock out of us."

Watching the light returning to Asumi's eyes, Takada Toshihide smiled in satisfaction.

He raised his teacup, gesturing toward Asumi: "Excellent! With that word from you, I'm relieved. Come, let substitute tea for wine. Here's to the success of Kanto Station's reform, and to our Tokyo Station securing its hold throughout this incoming storm."

Asumi mirrored his action, raising his teacup and gently clinking it against Takada's.

The crisp sound of clinking porcelain resonated within the serene office, seemingly tolling the bell of departure for this intrinsically arduous reform.

The koi in the fish tank continued their unhurried swims. Sunlight filtered through the windows, casting fragmented specks of light across the coffee table.

As Takada Toshihide watched the sky gradually darkening outside, he abruptly remembered Nohara Hiroshi's silhouette as he departed earlier—that youthful figure, upright and resolute, resembling a resilient sapling capable of holding its ground amidst wind and rain.

He suddenly harbored the belief that perhaps this time, they genuinely could win.

After all, Nohara Hiroshi had never disappointed them.

Meanwhile, Asumi retrieved his phone and dialed the office director of Kanto Station, his voice ringing with a zeal unseen for an extended period: "Hello, it's me. Tomorrow morning at 9:00 AM, have all directors from the Production Bureau assemble in the meeting room;

an important announcement will be made. Additionally, organize all of Kanto Station's program records and viewership feedback from the past three years. I expect to review them first thing tomorrow morning."

Ending the call, his gaze drifted toward the file folder on the desk, his fingertip resting gently upon the name "Nohara Hiroshi."

Perhaps... this young man truly could deliver an unparalleled future for Kanto TV.

...

With a 'ding,' the elevator doors opened on the 12th floor. The moment Nohara Hiroshi stepped out, he was swarmed by a group of people.

Kitagawa Yao stood at the forefront, cradling a freshly compiled stack of submission summaries for Yamishibai. A faint ink stain marred the collar of her light gray suits, evidently acquired while organizing documents just prior, her expression a mix of urgency and curiosity:

"Manager, you're back from Bureau Chief Takada's office! Is there a new assignment? I heard from Secretary Miyazawa that you conversed with Executive Director Asumi for an extensive period. Could it pertain to Kanto Station?"

Hashishita Ichiro forced his way through, his hand gripping the polished pencil so tightly his knuckles turned white. Having caught wind of Kanto Station's impending reform, he had been preoccupied harboring hopes that their Special Production Department might assist. After all, Yamishibai's ascent owed significant gratitude to Hiroshi.

His tone held a hint of circumspection: "Manager, if Kanto Station requires personnel from the animation division, just say the word. Our scripts for Yamishibai Season 6 are adequately stockpiled;

we possess the bandwidth to deploy personnel for assistance."

Tanaka Kei patted Hashishita's shoulder, assuming the dialogue with a smile: "Hashishita, you're excessively eager. The Manager barely returned and hasn't even caught his breath yet. But conversely, Manager, I heard from the Variety Department that Tokyo City TV is launching a 'Tokyo Suburbs Visit' variety show next month and even hired Kamiki Shunsuke as the host. It's overtly aiming to poach viewers in the Kanto region. Is our station formulating a counter-offensive?"

Surveying the crowd, noting the concern and anticipation etched into every gaze, Hiroshi permitted a wave of warmth to wash over him.

He raised his hand in a pressing gesture, signaling for silence, his tone steady and mild: "I appreciate everyone's sentiments. However, the juncture to bother you all has not yet materialized. Bureau Chief Takada and Executive Director Asumi indeed summoned me concerning matters referencing Kanto Station, but concrete strategies remain unfinalized. Once my investigative visit to Kanto Station concludes next week, I will update everyone."

He swept his gaze across the gathering, finally halting on Hashishita: "Hashishita, the call for Yamishibai submissions must be unequivocally published in the cultural section of Asahi Shimbun tomorrow. I have coordinated with Finance;

the budget is non-issue. Yamamoto, I expect the 'Old Postman' script twist revision tomorrow. Tanaka, deliver the preliminary roster for the Kasou Taishou resurrection match judges to me preceding your shift's conclusion today. Ito, inspect Owner Mizukami Sho's diner renovations tomorrow morning. Photograph the set pieces requiring replication and present me a report upon your return. Ensure subsequent Midnight Diner filming remains unhindered."

"Consider it done, Manager!" The quartet responded in unison. Kitagawa Yao instantaneously produced her notebook to document Hiroshi's directives. In the hallway, the scratching of pen upon paper sounded decidedly crisp.

Hiroshi afforded a nod, abandoning further discourse, and pivoted toward his office.

Observing his reticence, the staff members abstained from pressing further inquiries, retreating to their respective stations to recommence their duties. They had long adapted to Hiroshi's methodology—eschewing frivolous promises, yet consistently executing tasks impeccably. Assuming he stated things hinged upon post-investigative findings, the reasoning was unassailable.

Pushing the office door open, a subtle aroma of coffee assailed him. Kitagawa Yao, cognizant of his preference for black coffee, had preemptively brewed a cup that morning, which remained emanating steam.

Hiroshi approached his desk and seated himself. Lightly touching the coffee cup, the heat transmitting through his fingertips marginally slackened his tense nerves.

Splayed across the desk were several documents, the uppermost being the "Kanto TV Operations Report" supplied by Asumi. The three characters "Kanto Station" emblazoned in crimson ink on the cover were remarkably conspicuous.

Retrieving the report, Hiroshi flipped to the "Historical Evolution" section. His fingertip traced the text stating, "In 1975, utilizing 'Kanto Landscapes', Kanto Station seized the Annual Best Regional Program Award, briefly eclipsing Tokyo Station in viewership ratings." A complicated array of emotions surfaced within his eyes.

He was hardly a stranger to Kanto Station. Upon transmigrating to this world and integrating into Tokyo Station, veteran employees frequently recounted Kanto Station's glory days. Spanning the late '70s to early '80s, leveraging a sequence of resonant local dramas and regional news programs, Kanto Station's viewership persistently dominated the Kanto region. The adage "Watch Tokyo Station for entertainment, watch Kanto Station for life" even circulated.

During that epoch, Kanto Station operated harmoniously toe-to-toe with Tokyo Station, even cultivating Level 1 Directors the likes of Kurosawa Eiji, clutching substantial high-grade local resources within their grasp.

However, commencing the mid-80s, Kanto Station initiated a downward spiral.

The era's station leadership elected to imitate the "urban idol drama" trend, forsaking their mastery over regional themes. Predictably, the idol dramas flopped spectacularly, alienating legacy viewers, precipitating a catastrophic collapse in ratings.

Traversing survival mode, Kanto Station commenced aggressively rebroadcasting alternative networks' programs. The original programming quotient plummeted from a robust 60% down to roughly 10%, instigating profound talent hemorrhaging. Numerous individuals were poached by Tokyo Station, while a substantial faction of young directors migrated toward ascendant private networks. The remaining contingent consisted strictly of veteran employees content strictly with preserving the status quo, alongside novices harboring negligible experience.

Four years prior, capitalizing upon an exploded capital chain, Tokyo Station acquired Kanto Station at bargain prices, initially aspiring to leverage its regional resources to proliferate their market share. The reality degenerated into the quagmire of "factional warfare."

Tokyo Faction employees classified Kanto Station a "liability," resisting resource sharing. Veteran Kanto Faction employees designated Tokyo Station "outsiders," erecting defenses everywhere. Skirmishes persisted unabated until Sakata Nobuhiko ascended to Station Chief, ruthlessly implementing the "Greater Tokyo Area Integration Policy." Removing multiple instigating mid-level managers while personally overseeing factional integration allowed the hostilities to steadily subside.

"Reflecting upon it presently, Station Chief Sakata assigning me Kanto Station's reform probably isn't exclusively anchored upon my program capabilities."

Leaning into his chair, Hiroshi rhythmically drummed the desktop, his logical frameworks progressively solidifying.

Tokyo City TV, bolstered by Tanaka Mikami, relentlessly applied pressure—not merely poaching personnel, but surgically structuring programming tailored for the Kanto populace, lusting after Tokyo Station's regional market share.

Shimazu Yoshihiro, actively campaigning for mayoral office, necessitated Tokyo Station's local backing. As Tokyo Station's "window" within the Kanto region, successfully revitalizing Kanto Station would secure colossal regional voter support for Shimazu.

Significantly, Sakata Nobuhiko projected eliminating the chasm bridging the Tokyo Faction and the Kanto Faction utilizing this reform, genuinely fusing both stations into a unified "family"—an objective Hiroshi was distinctly situated for. Aligned neither with the Tokyo Faction nor the Kanto Faction, further elevated unilaterally by Sakata, he exemplified the paramount "intermediary."

Yet... could reform truly be accomplished so effortlessly?

Asumi declared Kanto Station currently subsisted exclusively upon rebroadcasts. Previously, Suzuki Kiyoto also apprised him concerning Kanto Station's established personnel obstinately clinging to archaic philosophies, an exodus of younger personnel, and catastrophic self-generating capabilities. If relying completely upon injecting a few virgin programs, mutating the reality would prove tremendously tricky. He required profound apprehension of Kanto Station's concrete situations—distinguishing deployable individuals, extractable resources, and chronic diseases—prior to fashioning a robust counter-strategy.

Hiroshi plucked the landline receiver from his desk, his finger hovering momentarily over the dialing pad—he pondered Suzuki Kiyoto.

Suzuki Kiyoto functioned as his guiding beacon upon initial induction at Tokyo Station. Then merely a newly graduated novice, Hiroshi shadowed Suzuki Kiyoto functioning as an assistant director.

A man of placid temper yet formidable talent, Suzuki not merely instructed him on venue selections and navigating interviewee communications, but physically inserted himself to articulate for Hiroshi whilst 岩田正男 instituted malicious obstructions.

Subsequently ascending to Executive Deputy Bureau Chief of the Production Bureau and evolving into a Level 2 Director, Suzuki Kiyoto persistently monitored Hiroshi's status.

Crucially, Suzuki Kiyoto spent over two decades entrenched at Kanto Station, commanding unparalleled familiarity concerning its personnel and affairs. Concessions garnered from him would yield tremendous instrumental value.

The rotary dial completed three revolutions, securing connection. Suzuki Kiyoto's temperate voice sounded, punctuated by fatigued hoarseness—it currently approached post-five PM, entirely rational considering Suzuki Kiyoto was definitively exhausted: "Hello, Suzuki Kiyoto's office."

"Senior Suzuki, it's Nohara Hiroshi," Hiroshi attenuated his tone significantly gentler, exuding the deference synonymous with a junior interacting with his elder.

The opposite line paused momentarily, succeeded by Suzuki Kiyoto's resonant laughter: "Hiroshi-kun? A rare guest! You rascal, since conversing about Seven Samurai's post-production two months ago, you vanished. Busy dating Misae-san and conveniently neglecting an old fossil like me?"

Hiroshi chuckled involuntarily, casually scratching his chin: "Senior Suzuki, you fabricate jokes masterfully. I undertook a business excursion to Kumamoto previously, aiding Misae's comic club interface managing Kumamon's IP deployment. Barely arriving, Bureau Chief Takada hauled me into a meeting, preventing me from placing a call preliminary to this. How is your health holding? Last time you mentioned experiencing lower back pain;

any developments?"

"Exceedingly superior. Vast improvement," Suzuki Kiyoto's voice broadcast unmitigated comfort, "You truly boast a meticulous nature, archiving my back pain. I engaged in physiotherapy at the hospital last month;

I'm completely rejuvenated. Proficient enough to play go with that fossil Kurosawa Eiji. Regarding your previous comment, Bureau Chief Takada lassoed you into a meeting? Regarding Kanto Station undoubtedly?"

Hiroshi momentarily faltered—Suzuki Kiyoto’s intelligence gathering was unquestionably sharp.

Abstaining from concealment, he bluntly disclosed: "Affirmative. Bureau Chief Takada and Executive Director Asumi requested I occupy Kanto Station's Content Director billet concurrently, spearheading program reform spanning their territories. Possessing restricted comprehension governing Kanto Station's authentic ecosystem, I wish to seek your counsel."

A silence engulfed the telephone for several seconds, substituted by Suzuki Kiyoto's faint sigh: "Just as I predicted... When Asumi conversed with me last month concerning Kanto Station, expressing a desire to procure a competent actor to conduct reform, I instantly hypothesized you. Hiroshi-kun, this isn't me extinguishing your zeal, but Kanto Station's current iteration demonstrates exponentially higher difficulties than your imagination accommodates."

His voice metamorphosed toward solemnity, sprinkled with palpable helplessness: "The previous Kanto Station, despite sliding downhill, retained a couple passable original programs, specifically 'Kanto Food Chronicles', generating viewership traversing roughly 7%. Examining current conditions? Scrutinize Kanto Station's scheduling. Barring the 7 PM to 9 PM local news and two venerable local drama episodes, the entire remainder broadcasts Tokyo Station programming. From the morning drama 'Sakura Story' bridging toward midnight's Yamishibai rebroadcast, explicitly down to the leftover commercials Tokyo Station discharges. Corporate sponsors vehemently prefer overspending acquiring City TV real estate rather than acknowledging Kanto Station."

Gripping the receiver, Hiroshi's fingers compressed marginally—Asumi detailed identical parameters, yet their delivery via Suzuki Kiyoto proved overwhelmingly heavier.

"Furthermore, the talent."

Suzuki Kiyoto forged ahead, his tone colored by profound lament: "Five years ago, Kanto Station's production department retained upward of a dozen directors proficient in standalone program engineering. Currently? Surviving entities classify categorically as practically retired veterans or utterly inexperienced novices. City TV poached three core directors last year—each fully capable of engineering original programming. A young individual named Sato informed me it proved 'impossible to visualize a horizon' at Kanto Station. City TV offered doubled compensation and authorized standalone program control. Generating justifications for declining proved nonexistent."

"And the veteran employees?" Hiroshi inquired softly. "Do they truly possess zero proactive ambitions?"

"Ambitions? Absolutely," Suzuki Kiyoto furnished a wry chuckle. "An aged director named Matsui constructed 'Kanto Landscapes' magnificently in prior epochs. Resolving to reboot the program to document shifting modernities across the Kanto territories, he encountered immediate rejection birthed by the department's antiquated director, announcing 'Today's youth possesses zero fascination inspecting these issues. Rebroadcasting Kasou Taishou constitutes higher efficiency.' Matsui phoned me directly afterward, remarking his daily obligations involved blindly slicing rebroadcast materials, likening his existence toward a 'mechanism rather than a director.' Exacerbated by specific elderly employees defining Tokyo Station as 'invaders,' rendering overwhelming resistance combatting reform. When Asumi attempted introducing youthful directors supplying aid previously, they rebuffed citing 'outsiders possess negligible comprehension defining Kanto Station protocol', physically constructing a barricade barring entry."

Hiroshi lingered in silence briefly, gently tracing circles alongside the desktop—this ecosystem materialized infinitely more convoluted than hypothesized. Obstinate veterans fiercely defending old guard ideals, catastrophic talent hemorrhaging, near non-existent original creation faculties, coupled with predatory City TV operations. Summarizing these abominations appropriately validated Asumi's monumental migraines.

"Senior Suzuki, visualizing these metrics, do you honestly believe Kanto Station possesses salvageable potential?" Hiroshi probed gently, adopting a starkly earnest tone.

The phone line paused, superseded by Suzuki Kiyoto's unequivocally adamant voice: "Salvageable! Completely salvageable! Kanto Station possesses exclusive advantages unavailable elsewhere—operating as a 'local station' governing the Kanto region, viewer allegiance exists. During 'Kanto Landscapes' peak influence, the legions tuning in weekly defied counting. Although the youthful demographics migrated, abundant older viewers persevere, generating 5.8% for 7 PM regional news. That specifically symbolizes the foundational bedrock. The decisive factor requires individuals successfully locating 'breakthroughs', engineering original programs capturing audience adulation, authorizing youth toward visualizing a horizon, and coaxing older personnel toward welcoming mutation."

His inflection seamlessly pivoted toward benevolence, charged with visible expectations: "Hiroshi-kun, evaluating these specifics, you identify explicitly as that definitive 'breakthrough'. Witnessing Yamishibai's inauguration, I recognized your absolute divergence—people labeled 'urban legends' utterly untethered from viewership metrics, yet you weaponized it toward virality. People insisted 'samurai films are obsolete', yet your orchestration encompassing Seven Samurai crystallized it as the annual box office runner-up. The populace characterized Midnight Diner excessively 'lethargic', you sculpted it securing pole position occupying the sub-prime time slot. Consistently achieving impossibilities signifies your calling card. Rectifying Kanto Station's unmitigated disasters undeniably falls exclusively inside your jurisdiction."

Processing these assertions, an insurgent tide of warmth surged spanning Hiroshi's heart.

Suzuki Kiyoto's faith delivered superior efficacy eclipsing any generic encouragement. Extracting a profound breath, his articulation morphed entirely resolute: "Senior Suzuki, thank you. Setting coordinates toward Kanto Station tomorrow inaugurates my reconnaissance maneuvers, allowing empirical data aggregation prior toward constructing any masterplan. Are you possessing idle hours this evening? Supplying drinks combined alongside comprehensive discussions decoding Kanto Station's anatomy is my ambition."

"Idle hours! Absolutely!" Suzuki Kiyoto rapidly accepted, his sonorous voice cascading with laughter. "Designate 'Sakurasaki Izakaya'. Their grilled mackerel transcends exemplary. Discussing details accompanying a spectacular meal sounds magnificent. 7 PM, acceptable?"

"Affirmative! Engaging coordinate exactly traversing 7 PM," Hiroshi agreed affirmatively. "I'll instruct Kitagawa Yao to generate reservations immediately."

Hanging up, Hiroshi leaned against his chair's backrest, surveying the skies outside steadily dimming.

The sunset colored the clouds a tangerine hue, permeating beyond the window pane, splashing fragmented patterns spanning the desk surface.

The "Kanto TV Operations Report" remained open atop the desk. The "Problem Analysis" segment comprehensively enumerated boundless complications, yet Hiroshi's internal payload felt considerably lighter.

Acknowledging reform never paralleled simplicity, encountering innumerable barricades guaranteed—veteran employee repulsion, orchestrating novice recruitment, innovating original programs, locking horns combatting City TV competition... yet his confidence persisted.

Replicating Suzuki Kiyoto's testament, Kanto Station possessed foundational bedrocks, spectator loyalties, solely demanding orientation aligning correctly upon target trajectories, capable of absolute revitalization.

"Knock, knock, knock—" Following the knocks, Kitagawa Yao transported a freshly prepared coffee cup internally. Her gray suit bore microscopic coffee specking, generated presumably brewing the fresh coffee.

Detailing the coffee resting anterior to Hiroshi, she queried gently: "Manager, concerning your preceding telephone interaction interfacing Bureau Chief Suzuki? Constructing izakaya reservations?"

Hiroshi nodded, extracting a measured sip absorbing the liquid traversing his throat. A muted bitterness supplied an immediate caffeine rush: "Affirmative, construct reservations targeting 'Sakurasaki Izakaya', specifically requesting window positioning. 7 PM, aligning me alongside Senior Suzuki. Additionally, formulate an aggregate catalog indexing Kanto Station's original programs encompassing the prior three years, integrating active personnel rosters. Transport these matrices directly into my possession tomorrow morning upon arrival."

"Understood, Manager!" Kitagawa Yao vigorously articulated conformity, generating notebook documentation instantly. "Executing processing parameters immediately, ensuring submission tomorrow. Tangentially, Section Chief Hashishita queried whether Yamishibai submission notices necessitate identical postings populating the station website?"

"Website?" Hiroshi paused, instantly negating the proposal via head shakes. "Negative. Web audiences represent marginal demographics currently, newspaper deployment maximizes returns exclusively. Inform Hashishita authorizing deployment of twi meticulous junior members populating the animation group shadowing me navigating Kanto Station next week, streamlining animation documentation archiving."

"Understood, relaying parameters interfacing Section Chief Hashishita uniformly," Kitagawa Yao accepted. Initiating her departure sequence reaching the door, she abruptly froze, shifting sightlines toward Hiroshi. Sustaining a minor hesitation, she vocalized softly: "Manager, navigating bandwidth limitations unilaterally, please inform us, your department uniformly stands ready. Acknowledging Kanto Station complexities, our collective trust rests intrinsically anchored defining your command."

Encountering Kitagawa Yao's profound sincerity, Hiroshi's internal matrix flooded alongside warmth. Generating a smile, he afforded an affirmative nod: "Acknowledged, I comprehend. Return navigating your assignments, prioritize clocking out punctually."

Kitagawa Yao echoed affirmation, gently securing the office door sequentially.

Serenity reclaimed the office, fractured merely capturing occasional vehicle resonances radiating outside.

Hoisting the "Kanto TV Operations Report", Hiroshi flipped navigating "Local Resources"—stating Kanto regions harbored abundant undeveloped localized culture, for instance, traditional "Kanto Festivals", alongside legions showcasing legacy shops. These formulated spectacular functional assets.

"Theoretically, penetrating utilizing 'locality' formats." Hiroshi softly vocalized internally. His fingertips tapped three distinct beats defining "Kanto Festival".

Kanto Station's supremacy anchored defining "locality", creating program algorithms directly mapping neighboring demographics. Eschewing chasing urban idol dramas, abandoning simulating City TV talent competitions, focusing exclusively upon Kanto-centric individuals mapping modern wrappers mapping concepts. Incorporating "Kanto's Midnight Diner" or "Tales from Kanto Festivals", displaying local viewership their exclusive universe, establishing fundamental magnetism.

Extracting his pen, Hiroshi formulated "Preliminary Strategies" populating his notebook:

Scrutinize Kanto Station's persistent team, nominate 10 youthful directors undertaking trisemester internships entering Tokyo Station;

Excavate Kanto localized resources, blueprint 2-3 original programs mapping "Regional Culture", "Local Culinary Arts", "Ordinary Citizen Sagas";

Reboot distinct classic legacy programs analogous defining "Kanto Landscapes" leveraging modern vantage points;

Diminish rebroadcast aggregates, incrementally escalating original programming aggregates, aiming achieving 30% original content penetration traversing trimesters.

Finalizing the script, Hiroshi relinquished his pen, scrutinizing the descending nightfall.

Streetlamps illuminated violently, amber lighting penetrating windows mapping upon his notebook, accentuating his handwriting impeccably.

He comprehended these merely formulated foundational abstractions. Tangible progression demanded analyzing investigation metrics, consulting Asumi accompanied alongside Suzuki Kiyoto, braving manifold opposition. His apprehensions zeroed—analogous mapping Yamishibai and Seven Samurai creations, orienting correct trajectories, pouring forth Herculean determination rendered impossibilities completely obsolete.

Approaching 6:30 PM, Hiroshi mobilized his equipment, assuming jacket configuration exiting his office.

The 12th-floor operations unit essentially abandoned. Hashishita exclusively persevered populating the animation group cluster, interfacing computer protocols updating Yamishibai storyboard frameworks. Beneath desktop illumination, his lateral profile projected supreme focus.

"Hashishita, execute clocking out protocols promptly, bypass exhausting procedures unilaterally," Hiroshi approached, patting Hashishita's shoulder definitively.

Elevating his gaze acknowledging Hiroshi, Hashishita produced an immediate grin: "Manager, initiating departure sequence? Finalizing storyboard modification completes my cycle immediately."

"Affirmative," Hiroshi nodded, pivoting navigating the elevator module.

Elevator mechanism generating descent sequence, Hiroshi leaned traversing the metallic cabin paneling, monitoring descending numeral readouts.

Resurrecting Misae's morning proposal navigating pork bone ramen consumption, fulfilling parameters demanded canceling currently.

Excavating his pager, he broadcast messaging mapping Misae: "Misae-san, executing business consultation interfacing Senior Suzuki tonight, canceling ramen logistics regrettably, apologies. Financing Ginza teppanyaki precisely tomorrow night constituting absolute compensation."

Misae's counter-transmission materialized rapidly: "Unquestionably acceptable Hiroshi-kun! Professional obligations prioritize! Requiring cheese omelets tomorrow night categorically! Requesting Musae's documented strawberry cake retrieval subsequently integrating execution mapping!"

Analyzing pager text matrix, Hiroshi's lips uncontrollably ascended upwards.

Possessing an unyielding phalanx rendering support, regardless of confronting insurmountable obstacles, his confidence combatting obliteration remained absolute.

Elevator doors parted natively. Hiroshi exited the commercial structure, initiating the Toyota Crown, navigating vectors approaching "Sakurasaki Izakaya".

Nightfall intensified drastically. Tokyo streetscapes exploded manifesting neon illumination, vehicle traffic streaming relentlessly constructing majestic commotion.

(Chapter Ends)