I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 177 Governor Koike's Meeting! Director Sakata and Hiroshi Nohara shine together!
Inside the banquet hall, dazzling crystal chandeliers, like an inverted galaxy, illuminated the entire space with a golden glow. The air was filled with the rich aroma of champagne and the murmurs of celebrities, creating an atmosphere that was both refined and aloof.

"Distinguished guests, honored leaders, ladies and gentlemen!"

The host's impassioned voice, like a clarion call to open the curtain, instantly drew everyone's attention to the center of the stage.

A female host, dressed in a gorgeous kimono and with exquisite makeup, stood smiling under the spotlight, the microphone in her hand seemingly holding the rhythm of the entire banquet.

"Welcome everyone to the New Year's Eve dinner hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government tonight! Tonight, we gather together to look forward to a brilliant new year and celebrate the prosperity and development of the Greater Tokyo Area!"

Amidst enthusiastic applause, the opening ceremony officially commenced.

One by one, leaders of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, dressed in sharp suits or elegant kimonos, walked onto the stage. Whether in charge of the economy, transportation, or people's livelihood, each delivered a formal address with a perfectly measured smile.

Their voices were steady and powerful, and their words were filled with a bright vision for the future and a grand blueprint for the development of the Greater Tokyo Metropolitan Area.

Hiroshi Nohara stood beside Nobuhiko Sakata and Hideaki Fujiwara, his gaze calmly sweeping across the stage.

He looked at the leaders speaking eloquently on the stage, but couldn't help but mutter to himself.

Knowing so many leaders can certainly enhance one's status, but in terms of actual work, the leaders in specific vertical fields are the most crucial and effective.

After all, everyone has their own expertise, and there's a world of difference between different fields; not everyone can make a decision based on a single statement.

He subconsciously glanced at Director Sakata and Mr. Fujiwara beside him, then at the civil servants in the private room who were also listening quietly, and at the Minister of Public Relations who was giving a speech on stage.

They are the true helmsmen who can influence the course of his career.

Soon, the Minister of Propaganda finished his speech, and amidst another round of enthusiastic applause, he walked off the stage with a smile.

Nobuhiko Sakata and Hideaki Fujiwara exchanged a glance, both seeing a mixture of seriousness and anticipation in each other's eyes.

"The most important thing is coming," Nobuhiko Sakata whispered to Hiroshi Nohara.

Upon hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara felt a slight chill run down his spine. He raised his head and turned his gaze back to the stage.

Just then, an elderly man in his sixties, thin yet vigorous, slowly walked onto the stage. He wore no fancy clothes, nor did he make any exaggerated expressions; he simply smiled and nodded gently to the audience.

The host's impassioned voice once again resounded throughout the venue: "Now, let us welcome with the warmest applause His Excellency Ryuichi Koike, the highest administrative official of Tokyo!"

Wow!
The entire hall erupted in thunderous applause!
Everyone stood up in unison, their faces filled with respect and reverence. Their heartfelt respect was even more enthusiastic than the applause they had given to the Minister of Propaganda earlier.

Hiroshi Nohara also stood up and applauded along with everyone else, his gaze calmly fixed on the old man on the stage.

“This Governor Koike is a legendary figure.” Nobuhiko Sakata’s voice rang in Hiroshi Nohara’s ears, tinged with a touch of emotion and respect: “He served as the director of our TV Tokyo from 75 to 85. It can be said that TV Tokyo’s current glory owes much to him.”

"In 86, he resigned from his position as station director and ran for governor of Tokyo. He was elected with an overwhelming majority and has been in office for five years. He is a long-time leader of our TV Tokyo and a role model for all of us."

Hiroshi Nohara raised an eyebrow upon hearing this.

Only then did he realize that Governor Koike had such a profound background and extensive experience.

He nodded subconsciously, his gaze returning to Governor Koike on the stage, now filled with a hint of respect.

"Yes, old leader, old station director, you are truly admirable." Fujiwara Hideaki said with a light laugh, his gaze falling on Sakata Nobuhiko, his tone carrying a just-right hint of teasing: "However, Governor Koike will be running for election again in the middle of this year, and then we will have to trouble TV Tokyo to help with publicity."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata immediately smiled sincerely: "Mr. Fujiwara is right. Governor Koike is our former station director, and he has made tremendous contributions to TV Tokyo. Of course, TV Tokyo will fully support his election! It is our bounden duty!"

The two exchanged a smile, and a tacit understanding flowed silently in the air.

However, amidst this atmosphere filled with political clashes and interpersonal relationships, Fujiwara Hideaki suddenly frowned, and his tone became serious: "Speaking of which, Sakata-kun, how is the current health of Director Shimazu? When I visited him last time, he looked very unwell."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata's smile instantly faded, replaced by an undisguised worry and sigh.

"Sigh..." He sighed deeply, his tone filled with helplessness: "It's still not good. At the last checkup, the doctor said his body wouldn't last much longer."

Hiroshi Nohara, who was standing to the side, looked over curiously when he heard this.

Only then did he realize that the current head of TV Tokyo, the director named Shimazu Itsuki, was so seriously ill.

He recalled that when he was at TV Tokyo, whenever he asked about Shimazu's situation, his colleagues would always stammer and not dare to speak openly, only saying that Director Sakata, as the executive vice president, was acting as the president.

Now everything seems clear.

It turns out that the director of the Shimazu station had already semi-retired due to health reasons.

Fujiwara Hideaki, smelling Sakata Nobuhiko's breath, also had a hint of regret in his eyes: "Yes, Director Shimazu, he was such a wasted talent. If he hadn't lost that Tokyo mayoral election, he wouldn't have suffered such a heavy blow, become so depressed, and even had health problems."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata nodded heavily, but his refined face now revealed an undisguised anger and resentment.

He subconsciously clenched his teeth, his sharp gaze sweeping over the burly, domineering businessmen in the construction industry and the officials in charge of construction and housing not far away, his eyes flashing with a cold light.

"It's all those guys' fault!" Nobuhiko Sakata sneered in a low voice, his tone filled with disdain and anger: "For their own benefit, they didn't hesitate to slander Director Shimazu and spread rumors, which prevented Director Shimazu from being elected! These bloodsuckers who manipulate housing prices are simply... simply parasites on society!"

Fujiwara Hideaki patted Sakata Nobuhiko on the shoulder, his tone carrying a hint of comfort: "Sakata-kun, you don't need to get too excited. At that time, Tokyo's real estate development was still at its peak, and the whole society was filled with a restless atmosphere of 'money is everything.' Even the higher-ups hoped that officials who were familiar with real estate projects would be elected to promote economic development and increase tax revenue."

He sighed deeply, his tone filled with helplessness: "Although Director Shimazu is of a high rank, he is, after all, an administrative officer, not a political officer. His superiors still prefer tangible tax revenue and real estate development, which bring in money quickly and yield quick results. Therefore, Director Shimazu's failure is... also an inevitable consequence of the times."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata's anger and resentment turned into a helpless sigh.

"Alas... what a pity for Director Shimazu." He murmured to himself, his eyes filled with regret.

However, Fujiwara Hideaki shook his head, a faint smile appearing on his face: "Sakata-kun, you don't need to be too pessimistic. The higher-ups don't entirely value real estate. The fact that Governor Koike was elected Governor of Tokyo speaks volumes."

He paused, his gaze falling on Hiroshi Nohara, a hint of expectation in his eyes: "The higher-ups still hope that culture and technology can revitalize Japan's future, not just money. Culture and propaganda must also keep up. We still have many opportunities, and there will be many more opportunities in the future."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata's face showed a thoughtful expression. He nodded and looked at Hiroshi Nohara with expectation in his eyes.

Hiroshi Nohara simply listened quietly to all of this.

As he watched Governor Koike speaking eloquently on stage, and observed the politically astute dialogue between the two leaders beside him, he felt as if he were in the middle of a grand game of chess, where every word, action, and glance held profound meaning and could potentially influence the course of the entire game.

He knew that this dinner was not just a simple social occasion, but also an excellent opportunity for him to understand Tokyo's political circles and the future direction of Japan.

He silently and meticulously collected all this information in his heart.

Soon, all the leaders finished speaking, and the banquet officially entered the free exchange session.

The atmosphere in the hall instantly became lively, with people gathering in twos and threes, holding champagne and chatting quietly.

Looking at the bustling scene before him, Hiroshi Nohara had only two words in his mind—"delicious food".

He knew that in this kind of situation, he, as a "minor figure," did not need to take on too many social tasks for the time being.

All he needed to do was quietly enjoy this rare culinary feast.

He quietly slipped over to the buffet table, his gaze calmly sweeping over the dazzling array of food.

The Japanese cuisine section features exquisite sushi, sashimi, and tempura, arranged as enticingly as works of art.

The French cuisine section, with its foie gras, snails, and caviar, exudes an enticing aroma.

The American food section, with its grilled meats, burgers, and pizzas, is full of rugged allure.

Hiroshi Nohara's lips unconsciously curved into a satisfied smile.

He picked up his plate and began to eat heartily.

He first picked up a few pieces of fatty but not greasy grilled Wagyu beef, then tasted a few slices of melt-in-your-mouth tuna belly, and then paired it with a glass of mellow red wine.

That exquisite flavor exploded in his mouth in an instant, making him so happy that even his toes curled up.

As he ate, he listened to the idle chatter of the celebrities and dignitaries around him, about politics, economics, and gossip.

He felt as if he were in a vast ocean of information, where seemingly casual words contained countless business opportunities and political trends.

He savored this moment of peace and contentment.

He knew the banquet offered a variety of delicious Japanese, French, and American cuisine. Everyone was busy chatting and no one paid attention to him, so he enjoyed the food to his heart's content.

He even saw that not far away, that old man Sato Tokugawa was holding a wine glass and talking obsequiously with several officials in the construction field.

Hiroshi Nohara just curled his lip in disdain.

He knew that guy would only ever wallow in the mire of money and power. After all, the construction industry was one that could only thrive by relying entirely on the government.

Hiroshi Nohara, however, chose a different path.

A brand new path leading to cultural pinnacle and epochal change.

……

The banquet, like flowing sake, quietly passed three hours amidst clinking glasses and whispered conversations.

The hall was still bustling with people, but the initial enthusiasm in the air had gradually been replaced by a kind of weariness that came with the approach of night.

Hiroshi Nohara followed Nobuhiko Sakata back to the area where the Minister of Public Relations and Hideaki Fujiwara were.

They were preparing to bid farewell to His Excellency the Minister, concluding this long social gathering.

The Minister of Publicity, with a gentle smile on his face, was speaking quietly with Hideaki Fujiwara, his brows revealing a hint of admiration for Hiroshi Nohara.

"Minister, Fujiwara, thank you for your hospitality tonight. We'll take our leave now." Nobuhiko Sakata bowed first, his tone respectful.

Hiroshi Nohara followed suit, bowing deeply to the two elders with just the right amount of humility and composure.

"Yes, Sakata-kun, Nohara-kun, you've worked hard tonight." The Public Relations Director smiled and nodded, his gaze lingering on Hiroshi Nohara for a moment, a hint of expectation in his eyes. "Nohara-kun, I look forward to your work in the new year. Keep up the good work."

“Yes, Minister, I understand,” Hiroshi Nohara replied respectfully.

Just as they were about to turn and leave, a figure darted towards them like an arrow breaking through the water.

He was a man in his thirties, dressed in a sharp suit. He walked with a brisk pace, his eyes sharp and intelligent, each step measured and rhythmic, as if carrying some urgent and important mission. Upon seeing him approach, the Minister of Propaganda's gentle smile vanished instantly, replaced by an imposing solemnity. His gaze fell upon the young man, a barely perceptible hint of respect in his eyes.

This made Hiroshi Nohara feel a chill; he knew that someone who could be valued so highly by this powerful figure was no ordinary person.

The young man approached, bowed deeply to the Minister of Propaganda, and then whispered a few words in his ear.

His voice was soft and drowned out by the surrounding noise, so Hiroshi Nohara couldn't hear what he said, but judging from the sudden brightness in the Minister of Public Relations' eyes and the satisfied smile that followed, it was clearly good news.

"Sakata-kun, Nohara-kun, please come with me." The Minister of Public Relations straightened up, a hint of undisguised joy on his face. He beckoned to Nobuhiko Sakata and Hiroshi Nohara, his tone carrying a touch of solemnity: "Governor Koike wants to see you."

"Oh?!" Nobuhiko Sakata's body trembled violently, his shrewd eyes widened instantly, and his face was filled with unbelievable ecstasy!

He abruptly turned to look at Hiroshi Nohara, his eyes filled with unprecedented seriousness and excitement. "Hiroshi! Be serious! This is a unique honor for our TV Tokyo! There can be no mistakes!"

Hiroshi Nohara was also slightly taken aback.

Governor Koike, the legendary figure who controls the entire Tokyo Metropolitan Government's administration and was once the former director of TV Tokyo, actually wanted to meet with them personally.

This honor is truly extraordinary.

He took a deep breath, suppressing all his surprise, and his face regained its composure and calmness.

Led by the young man, they walked through the crowd, around several quiet corridors, and finally arrived at the door of a heavy private room carved from golden nanmu wood.

Far from the hustle and bustle of the main hall, the air is filled with a faint scent of sandalwood, creating a serene and solemn atmosphere.

The servant gently pushed open the door, and the scene inside the private room came into view.

There were no other guests in the room except Governor Koike, who was sitting at the coffee table, smiling as he sipped a cup of tea.

He was slender and vigorous. Although he was already in his sixties, the air of strategic planning between his brows was more authoritative than that of any young man.

The moment Nobuhiko Sakata saw Governor Koike, all expression vanished from his face, leaving only a deep, almost reverent respect.

He strode forward and bowed deeply to Governor Koike, his posture even more humble than when facing the Minister of Public Relations.

"Your Excellency Governor, Nobuhiko Sakata sends his greetings." His voice was solemn.

Governor Koike slowly set down her teacup, smiled and nodded, her gaze lingering on Nobuhiko Sakata for a moment, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes: "Nobuhiko, it's been a long time. Since you took over as director of production, it's been several years since we had a proper chat. How's TV Tokyo doing lately? Is everything alright?"

"Thanks to Your Excellency the Governor, everything is going well at TV Tokyo."

A genuine smile appeared on Nobuhiko Sakata's face. He knew that Governor Koike was both reminiscing with him and giving him an opportunity to prove himself.

He immediately steered the conversation toward work, “Your Excellency, since you left TV Tokyo, we have been upholding your teachings and striving to provide the people with the highest quality cultural products. In particular, recently, under the leadership of Hiroshi Nohara, our production department has launched several phenomenal works, achieving unprecedented breakthroughs in viewership and box office revenue!”

As Nobuhiko Sakata spoke, he turned his gaze to Hiroshi Nohara, his tone filled with undisguised praise:
"Especially Hiroshi Nohara, he is not only the producer of national-level programs such as 'Super Transformation,' 'Tales of the Unusual,' and 'Yamishibai,' but also the author of phenomenal manga such as 'Yu Yu Hakusho,' 'Doraemon,' and 'Midnight Diner.' Recently, he independently directed and wrote the screenplay for the movie 'Seven Samurai,' which grossed over 3.9 billion yen in just over 20 days after its release and received rave reviews nationwide, being hailed as an 'epic that transcends its time!'"

Governor Koike listened quietly to Nobuhiko Sakata's report, a faint smile always on her face.

When he heard about Hiroshi Nohara's astonishing series of achievements, a subtle hint of approval flickered in his deep eyes.

His gaze fell on Hiroshi Nohara, his eyes filled with admiration: "Nohara-kun, I've heard of your name before. I've read all your works. Whether it's the pure joy of 'Super Transformation' or the profound meaning of 'Seven Samurai,' I, an old man, am truly impressed. You've done a very good job."

"You flatter me, Governor. It's all I should do." Hiroshi Nohara bowed humbly in return. His composure, neither humble nor arrogant, deepened Governor Koike's admiration.

Governor Koike slowly stood up from his seat and walked calmly to Hiroshi Nohara. He reached out and gently patted Hiroshi Nohara's shoulder.

"Nohara-kun, keep up the good work."

Governor Koike said gently, "I've also heard your story about dogs and loyalty; it's very interesting. I have high hopes for your 'Hachiko: A Dog's Tale,' and I hope you can promote Tokyo and the excellent culture of Japan, passing on these wonderful spirits to more people."

"Yes, Governor, I understand." Hiroshi Nohara nodded emphatically, a warm feeling welling up inside him. This direct recognition from the highest administrative official was undoubtedly the greatest support for his future career.

Governor Koike withdrew her hand with satisfaction, then turned her gaze to Nobuhiko Sakata. The smile on her face faded, replaced by an undisguised worry.

"Nobuhiko," Governor Koike sighed softly, her tone heavy, "Is Director Shimazu's health still not good?"

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata's smile vanished instantly. He sighed deeply, his tone filled with helplessness: "Alas, Governor, it's still not working. During the last checkup, the doctor said his body wouldn't last much longer. Moreover, he's very listless and has become quite depressed."

Governor Koike pursed his lips, a hint of self-reproach flashing in his eyes. He slowly shook his head, his tone tinged with emotion: "Yes, it was indeed a mistake of mine to risk letting Shimazu run for mayor of Tokyo. At the time, I thought he could succeed in one fell swoop with his reputation at TV Tokyo and my support for him. I never expected that it would cause him such a heavy blow."

He paused, then looked at Nobuhiko Sakata again, his eyes filled with trust and expectation: "However, Nobuhiko, you've done very well lately. You must keep up with the daily work at TV Tokyo; you can't let it fall apart. You are the backbone of TV Tokyo, and the person I trust most."

"Yes, Your Excellency, please rest assured, I understand." Nobuhiko Sakata bowed respectfully again, his tone firm.

Governor Koike patted him on the shoulder, a faint smile returning to her face: "Yes, very good. By the way, Nobuhiko, I'll be running for election again in the middle of this year. I hope TV Tokyo can help me with the publicity then."

"Rest assured, Governor!" A righteous smile immediately appeared on Nobuhiko Sakata's face. He straightened his back and spoke with a firm tone, "Governor Koike is our former station director. He has made tremendous contributions to TV Tokyo. Of course, TV Tokyo will fully support his election! This is our inescapable responsibility!"

Upon hearing this, Governor Koike finally showed a satisfied smile.

He knew that Nobuhiko Sakata's promise was far more sincere and powerful than any empty slogan.

He chatted briefly with Nobuhiko Sakata, then smiled and stood up to see them off, his tone tinged with apology: "I still need to entertain other people; otherwise, I would have liked to chat more with my colleagues at TV Tokyo."

"It is an honor for us that you have received us. We are the ones who have troubled you," Nobuhiko Sakata replied politely.

Then they said goodbye again and left with Nohara.

However, after leaving, Nobuhiko Sakata's previously calm face now wore a smile of extreme excitement and pleasure.

He was in a really good mood.

……

The soft lighting in the corridor elongated the two figures, casting them onto the mirror-like floor, making them appear calm and composed.

Hiroshi Nohara let out a long breath, as if that breath had taken away all the tension and repression in his heart.

He turned his head and looked at the face of Nobuhiko Sakata beside him, which was filled with joy and satisfaction. A trace of fatigue flashed in his eyes, but with a hint of sincere helplessness: "Chief, I've seen too many people tonight. My brain can hardly keep up."

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata chuckled and shook his head. His genuine joy brought a rare touch of ease to his usually serious face.

"Hahahaha! Hiroshi-kun, you little rascal, you really don't know how lucky you are!"

Nobuhiko Sakata said, his tone full of admiration and teasing: "Do you know what an honor it is to be received by Governor Koike alone tonight? So many people would kill for such an opportunity!"

Hiroshi Nohara just rubbed his temples with a wry smile. The weariness from the bottom of his heart made him just want to find a place to lie down quietly and get a good night's sleep.

“I understand, Director.” Hiroshi Nohara said softly, with a touch of just the right amount of humility in his tone: “I just feel that tonight’s socializing is much more tiring than making a movie.”

“Yes, Hiroshi-kun, you’re right.” Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata’s smile faded slightly, replaced by a knowing look: “These kinds of occasions are not just about eating, drinking, and having fun. They are stages where power and wealth intertwine, and webs woven from human relationships and worldly wisdom. Here, every glance and every word can influence your future.”

"You should know that it took me twenty-four years to get here. You are only twenty-three years old and you have already arrived here. That's already very fast."

He paused, then looked at Hiroshi Nohara, his eyes filled with expectation:

"However, judging from your performance, you really impressed me. You weren't nervous or flustered; you spoke fluently and effectively, deeply embedding your ideas into the hearts of every listener. You did a great job, really a great job."

"You flatter me, Director." Hiroshi Nohara bowed his head modestly, his tone sincere.

“No, that’s not an exaggeration at all.” Nobuhiko Sakata shook his head, his tone becoming more earnest: “I often think that you were born for this job. You have keen insight, clear logical thinking, and that charisma that can win people’s hearts. These are all essential qualities for an excellent politician.”

He looked at Hiroshi Nohara, his eyes filled with admiration and expectation: "So, Hiroshi-kun, you don't need to feel tired. Because everything you do today is paving a path to a higher place for your future."

Upon hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara felt a slight chill run down his spine.

He knew that Nobuhiko Sakata's words were not just a compliment, but also a clear "signal" from someone in a higher position.

"Chief, I understand." Hiroshi Nohara nodded heavily, his tone firm.

“Yes, very good.” Nobuhiko Sakata nodded in satisfaction. He patted Hiroshi Nohara on the shoulder again, a gentle smile returning to his face. “However, Hiroshi-kun, you don’t need to worry too much. The people you met tonight are all ‘old friends’ of our TV Tokyo.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the brightly lit hall ahead, his eyes deep and thoughtful: "Whether it's the Minister of Publicity or Mr. Fujiwara, they were both once members of our TV Tokyo team. Even Governor Koike was a former director of TV Tokyo. So, you don't need to feel constrained or unfamiliar. Because we are all 'TV Tokyo faction'."

Upon hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara's face showed a look of understanding.

He then realized that Nobuhiko Sakata's words were not only meant to reassure him, but also to show him the deep and secretive "background" of TV Tokyo.

“So, Hiroshi-kun,” Nobuhiko Sakata chuckled, his tone full of expectation, “what you’re doing now isn’t just for yourself, but also for TV Tokyo, for the future of our ‘Tokyo School.’ So you must continue to work hard, continue to create, and bring more and better works to TV Tokyo. Because the stage of TV Tokyo will need you to take over in the future.”

"Director, you flatter me." Hiroshi Nohara bowed his head humbly, his tone sincere. "I'm just a newcomer, and there's still a lot I need to learn. However, I will definitely work hard and will not let you and TV Tokyo down."

“Very good.” Nobuhiko Sakata nodded in satisfaction. He glanced at the time on his watch, a hint of fatigue on his face. “Alright, it’s getting late. You’ve had a long day, go home and get some rest.”

He paused, then looked at Hiroshi Nohara, his eyes filled with anticipation: "However, while you're resting, you can't neglect your work. I have high hopes for your 'Hachiko Monogatari' project. I hope you can bring it to the screen soon and bring more and better works to Japan."

"Yes, Chief, I understand." Hiroshi Nohara nodded heavily, his tone firm: "I will definitely make it well and will not let you down."

The two exchanged a smile, and a tacit understanding flowed silently in the air.

As they stepped out of the "Golden Pavilion" club, night had fallen. The neon lights of Tokyo, like stars fallen to earth, shimmered with captivating brilliance.

The black minivan, like a ghost, silently glided into Tokyo's never-ending traffic.

Hiroshi Nohara sat in the car, his gaze calmly sweeping over the dazzling cityscape outside the window.

He knew that tonight's dinner was not only an expansion of his social circle, but also the starting point for his future career.

He knew that what awaited him ahead was not only new challenges, but also new opportunities.

He took a deep breath, transforming all the weariness and pressure in his heart into a firm response.

He wanted to make that Akita dog named "Hachiko" an eternal cultural totem for this city, and even for all of Japan.

And all of this has already begun!

(End of this chapter)