I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 189: "Hachiko: A Dog's Tale" Released! Ryuichi Koike's Shock! Everyone's Eyes Reddened!

On April 29th, the first day of Golden Week, cherry blossoms fell like snow in the streets and alleys of Tokyo, scattering the last romance of spring.

However, no one in the Tokyo TV production department enjoyed this rare vacation.

Hiroshi Nohara's independent production team, including the lead actors, the distribution team, executives from TV Tokyo, and even members of Nohara's classroom, all gathered together.

Instead of taking a holiday, they jointly booked the largest screening room in Tokyo—the "Hall of Light and Shadow" located in the heart of Ginza.

This screening room is renowned for its magnificent size, which can accommodate a thousand people, and its extremely luxurious interior decoration.

A huge crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, like an inverted galaxy, illuminating the entire space in a magnificent golden light.

The air was filled with a faint blend of sandalwood and fine perfume, and the thick, soft Persian carpet beneath my feet made each step silent.

Hiroshi Nohara stood at the entrance of the screening room, his gaze calmly sweeping across the magnificent space.

He was wearing a well-tailored dark gray suit, which made him look tall and slender, with a calm and composed air about him.

"Spectacular, truly spectacular," Hiroshi Nohara murmured. Even in his previous life, this Hall of Light and Shadow would have been considered an extremely luxurious screening room.

Director Nobuhiko Sakata, standing to the side, beamed with pride. He patted Hiroshi Nohara on the shoulder, his voice steady and firm: "Yes, Hiroshi-kun, this was specially booked for Governor Koike. A few days ago, I received word from Governor Koike's secretary that she plans to bring some civil servants from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office to watch this movie as well. Therefore, we must take this seriously and not be negligent in the slightest."

His words were filled with respect for Governor Koike and also carried a hint of expectation for Hiroshi Nohara.

"It's such an honor that the Governor personally led the team here!" Deputy Director Ming Rihai was standing not far away, wearing a brand-new suit, and adjusting his tie over and over again in front of his secretary.

His face was filled with barely concealed tension and excitement.

"Do you think my tie is not neat enough?" Deputy Director Ming Rihai asked somewhat uneasily, his eyes gleaming with an obsession with a perfect image.

Standing to the side, Executive Deputy Director Toshihide Takada was also adjusting his tie. A slightly stiff smile appeared on his usually gloomy face.

“Mr. Asuka, you’re already quite dashing.” Takada Toshihide coughed lightly, a hint of envy in his voice. “I think my suit is a bit too old-fashioned, considering I’m meeting the Governor today.”

He even took out a small mirror and carefully examined every detail of himself in the mirror, afraid of the slightest flaw.

Seeing their nervous expressions, Nobuhiko Sakata couldn't help but burst into laughter: "You two are quite the dashing ones! The governor isn't here to inspect your appearance; he's here to watch a movie!"

His words, tinged with just the right amount of teasing, instantly drew chuckles from the Tokyo TV executives and members of the independent production department around him.

Everyone smiled kindly at Asumi and Takada Toshihide's "awkward" appearance.

However, on the other side of the screening room, director Eiji Kurosawa appeared unusually calm. Dressed in a dark kimono, he sat upright in his seat, holding a cup of hot tea, his gaze calmly sweeping across the screening room.

Sitting beside him were directors Takashi Ashikaga and Kita Asano. Their expressions, however, were completely different from Eiji Kurosawa's.

Ashikaga Takashi's face was covered with fine beads of sweat. He kept wiping his forehead with a handkerchief, his tension almost bursting out of his body.

Asano Kita was even more so; his chubby face had lost its usual amiability, replaced by an almost stiff seriousness. His hands were clenched into fists and placed on his knees, his body trembling slightly.

Although they are both veteran directors, they mostly interact with people from the film and television industries on a daily basis.

They had never had such close contact with someone as powerful as Governor Koike, who controlled the entire Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

This sense of oppression from the pinnacle of power left them feeling deeply powerless and fearful.

"Ashikaga-kun, Asano-kun, why are you two so nervous?" Kurosawa Eiji said with a light laugh, his tone carrying just the right amount of reassurance: "Relax, relax. Today, we're all here to watch a movie, not to attend some kind of trial."

He paused, a hint of self-deprecation in his voice: "Besides, even if the governor really wanted to speak with us, he would speak with Sakata-kun and Hiroshi-kun. What right do we old bones have to speak with the governor?"

Upon hearing this, both Ashikaga Takashi and Asano Kita couldn't help but smile wryly.

Eiji Kurosawa was right; they were indeed not qualified to speak with the governor. This difference in status was something they could never bridge.

However, it was precisely this "truth" that made them feel relieved.

They looked at each other and saw the same sense of "relief" in each other's eyes.

"Director Kurosawa is right." Ashikaga Takaji let out a long breath, as if all the tension and fear in his heart had been taken away.

“Yes, we are just small fry. How could we possibly be qualified to speak with His Excellency the Governor?” Asano Kita chimed in, his stiff smile softening slightly.

They know that today, all they need to do is quietly watch the movie and quietly feel the awe-inspiring power of art, and that will be enough.

After all, their efforts were also reflected in "Hachiko Monogatari".

Hiroshi Nohara's gaze calmly swept across the screening room. He saw that everyone was already in their seats, and the atmosphere gradually changed from the initial noise to a mixture of anticipation and tension.

He knew that this grand event, the story of "Hachiko: A Dog's Tale," was about to begin.

Soon, a slight commotion arose at the entrance of the screening room.

All eyes turned to the entrance.

A slender, energetic figure walked in slowly, surrounded by several secretaries. He was dressed in a sharp suit, and his brows exuded an air of quiet authority and composure.

It is none other than the Governor of Tokyo—Ryuichi Koike!

Beside him, the propaganda minister, Tadashi Hattori, followed closely behind, his face bearing just the right amount of respect.

Ryuichi Koike's campaign team was also present, each of them dressed in a suit and tie, looking very energetic, clearly having high hopes for today's screening.

Director Nobuhiko Sakata stepped forward quickly and bowed deeply to Ryuichi Koike, his posture respectful and humble.

"Your Excellency Governor! It is truly an honor for TV Tokyo to have you here to provide guidance!" Nobuhiko Sakata's voice carried a perfectly timed compliment.

Deputy Director Asumi and Executive Deputy Director Toshihide Takada followed closely behind, bowing deeply to Ryuichi Koike, their faces beaming with sincere smiles.

"Greetings, Your Excellency!"

"Governor, Happy New Year!"

Ryuichi Koike smiled and nodded. His gaze swept over the three of them, and a hint of satisfaction flashed in his deep eyes.

He walked up to Hiroshi Nohara, reached out and gently patted Nohara's shoulder, a smile of appreciation appearing on his face: "Nohara-kun, we've all come here today for your movie."

"Thank you, Governor!" Hiroshi Nohara bowed humbly in return.

He knew that Governor Koike's words were giving him "face" and also showing everyone how much he valued "Hachiko: A Dog's Tale".

"Hmm." Koike Ryuichi simply smiled and nodded. He glanced around the screening room, then turned his gaze to Sakata Nobuhiko and Nohara Hiroshi, his tone carrying an unquestionable command: "Sakata-kun, Nohara-kun, you two, sit next to me."

His words were like a thunderclap from a clear sky, instantly exploding throughout the screening room!
All eyes turned to Nobuhiko Sakata and Hiroshi Nohara, their eyes filled with envy and shock.

What an honor it is to be able to sit next to Governor Koike!

This is not only an affirmation of their personal abilities, but also a huge recognition of their political status!

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata and Hiroshi Nohara both lowered their heads in agreement.

Governor Koike is giving them a boost, and also showing everyone how much he values ​​TV Tokyo and Hiroshi Nohara.

At Ryuichi Koike's signal, everyone took their seats.

Nobuhiko Sakata sat to the right of Ryuichi Koike, while Hiroshi Nohara sat to the left of Ryuichi Koike.

This location is undoubtedly the most central and eye-catching spot in the screening room.

"Alright." Nobuhiko Sakata signaled to the projectionist that the screening could begin.

The lights in the screening room slowly dimmed, the huge screen lit up, and the movie was about to begin.

However, just as preparations for the movie screening were underway, Ryuichi Koike suddenly turned his head and looked at Hiroshi Nohara, his tone carrying just the right amount of "curiosity": "Nohara-kun, how much confidence do you have in this movie? Can it really be as good as you say?"

His voice was soft, but it was full of the probing and pressure characteristic of someone in a superior position.

Hiroshi Nohara simply smiled calmly, his clear eyes remaining completely undisturbed.

He knew that Governor Koike was testing him and giving him an opportunity to demonstrate his "strength" once again.

“Your Excellency, please rest assured.” Hiroshi Nohara spoke softly, his tone calm yet firm: “This film is not just good, it is… it is even more perfect than I expected.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping over Ryuichi Koike, a confident glint in his eyes: "I dare say that this film, 'Hachiko Monogatari,' will definitely top the box office this year, and may even become an immortal legend that will be recorded in the annals of Japanese film history!"

Upon hearing this, Ryuichi Koike raised an eyebrow slightly. He looked at Hiroshi Nohara's young and confident face, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes.

He nodded, then turned his gaze to Nobuhiko Sakata: "Sakata-kun, you must remember, this time I've put a significant portion of my campaign efforts into this movie. I hope it won't disappoint me."

He paused, his tone becoming serious: "If this movie becomes a huge hit, then I can gain more attention and public favor and votes by being associated with it. But if it fails..."

Ryuichi Koike didn't finish his sentence, but the threat in his tone sent a shiver down Nobuhiko Sakata's spine.

Nobuhiko Sakata quickly and respectfully replied, "Your Excellency, please trust Hiroshi-kun. He will never let you down."

Ryuichi Koike simply smiled and nodded, without saying anything more.

Just then, the image on the screen flashed.

The movie "Hachiko Monogatari" has finally started airing.

The lights in the screening room went completely dark, and the huge screen lit up, drawing everyone's attention.

An atmosphere of tension and anticipation filled the air, with only the soft hum of the projector and the hissing of the film reel echoing in the enclosed space.

Governor Ryuichi Koike sat upright in the center, his usually serious face tense, with a hint of imperceptible solemnity between his brows.

His long, slender fingers rested lightly on his knees, and he sat upright, as if he were not watching a movie, but examining an extremely important political report.

Nobuhiko Sakata and Hiroshi Nohara, who were standing beside him, also remained silent, their eyes fixed on the screen.

The film opens with a scene of the Akita countryside in 1924, where everything is covered in snow and the atmosphere is serene.

An abandoned Akita puppy, its eyes filled with helplessness and curiosity.

The camera then shifts to Shibuya Station in Tokyo, where crowds and traffic are bustling, and university professor Hidesaburo Ueno appears in the frame.

Professor Ueno met the little Akita dog, whose wet eyes were filled with confusion and longing for the new world.

"Oh? What an adorable puppy, what a heartwarming encounter." Ryuichi Koike's brow twitched slightly, and his previously tense lips seemed to relax a little.

He glanced at the adorable little dog on the screen, a barely perceptible hint of tenderness flashing in his eyes.

In the first scene of the film, a small Akita dog is taken home by the professor and named "Hachiko". Hachiko's life in the professor's home is depicted as warm and full of fun.

In the early morning, Hachiko saw the professor off at Shibuya Station. In the evening, when the professor returned from get off work, Hachiko was there to greet him at the station entrance on time.

These everyday scenes, like a gentle stream, slowly nourish the hearts of the audience.

"How heartwarming..." Ryuichi Koike's expression softened, and his long fingers unconsciously began to tap his knees gently, the rhythm seemingly synchronized with Hachiko's swaying tail in the movie.

He even couldn't help but chuckle softly, a sound carrying a long-lost sense of relaxation.

In the second act of the film, Hachiko's daily life with the professor becomes even more touching. Regardless of wind or rain, regardless of the scorching heat or freezing cold, Hachiko is always there to greet him.

"The way you filmed such a heartwarming and tender story is truly amazing. Even I feel a warmth in my heart." A glimmer of light also appeared in Ryuichi Koike's eyes at this moment.

His originally gentle expression now became somewhat solemn, yet tinged with a hint of surprise.

He recalled the old dog he used to have, the companionship, the unspoken understanding—all of which surged into his heart like a tide.

He sighed softly, leaning forward slightly, clearly engrossed in the movie.

In the third act of the film, tragedy quietly descends. On an ordinary morning, Hachiko sees the professor off as usual, but it turns out to be their last farewell.

"How... how could this be a tragedy?" Ryuichi Koike's expression instantly turned serious, and a barely perceptible sadness flashed in his deep eyes.

His long, slender fingers unconsciously clenched into fists, as if he were heartbroken by Hachiko's sudden loss.

He glanced at Hiroshi Nohara beside him, his eyes filled with inquiry, as if asking, "Is...is this really going to happen?"

The fourth act of the film depicts the professor's funeral and Hachiko's daily wait.

The sound of weeping rose and fell throughout the screening room.

Many people couldn't help but sob softly; the sorrow spread through the screening room like a plague. "Is...is it really like this? This kind of emotion, it is indeed an animal's instinctive feeling, that can demonstrate such precious loyalty!" Koike Ryuichi's face was also covered with tears.

His deep eyes were filled with an unconcealable sadness and emotion.

His slender fingers unconsciously wiped away the tears from the corners of his eyes. The shock from the bottom of his heart completely immersed this seasoned politician in the film.

In the climax of the movie, Hachiko, now old and frail, lies in a corner of Shibuya Station, his body weak, yet his eyes still stubbornly gaze toward the station entrance.

It seemed to see that familiar figure in the crowd, smiling, walking towards it. The professor was back.

Hachiko struggled to his feet, wagging his tail, and walked step by step toward the professor. Then he collapsed. In his dream, he reunited with the professor.

The scene depicts Hachiko and the professor's initial encounter at the train station. The professor crouches down and hugs Hachiko tightly. The two, one human and one dog, smile at each other in the sunset.

Then, the image gradually blurred, and finally, it settled on the bronze statue in front of Shibuya Station, which symbolized Hachiko's loyalty.

The movie ends.

Governor Ryuichi Koike slowly stood up from his seat. His face was still wet with tears, and his eyes were slightly red, but his eyes were filled with indescribable shock and fervor.

He didn't speak, but simply raised his hands and clapped with trembling hands.

"Clap! Clap! Clap!"

Applause, like raindrops, filled the screening room.

Nobuhiko Sakata, Asumi, Toshihide Takada, and all the executives and independent production staff of TV Tokyo stood up and applauded in front of the screen.

The applause grew louder and louder, like thunder, echoing throughout the entire screening room.

This applause is not only a praise for the film, but also a tribute to Hiroshi Nohara's talent, a salute to Hachiko's loyalty, and an ode to the pure affection between humans and dogs.

Ryuichi Koike walked up to Hiroshi Nohara, his face still wet with tears, but his eyes were full of admiration and expectation. He reached out and grasped Hiroshi Nohara's hand tightly, his excitement making even this seasoned politician somewhat unable to control himself.

"Nohara-kun, you did a great job." Ryuichi Koike's voice was slightly hoarse, but full of sincerity and emotion: "You did... wonderfully! This film, it's not just good, it's... it touches the depths of the soul!"

He paused, then turned his gaze to Nobuhiko Sakata beside him, his tone becoming unusually serious: "Sakata-kun, you must remember this: a genius like Nohara-kun is a treasure of Japan! He is not only the future of TV Tokyo, but also the hope of Tokyo and even the entire nation!"

"Therefore, you must nurture him diligently, providing him with the best resources and the best platform! You must never let him suffer the slightest injustice! He is the best assistant for the future governance of Tokyo!"

Upon hearing this, Nobuhiko Sakata trembled violently, his eyes widened instantly, and his face was filled with disbelief!

He stared blankly at Ryuichi Koike, his mind a complete mess.

He never imagined that Governor Koike would give Hiroshi Nohara such high praise!

They even called him "the best assistant for the future governance of Tokyo"?!

This...this is simply an unprecedented honor!
Nobuhiko Sakata quickly and respectfully replied, "Yes, Governor! Please rest assured! I, Nobuhiko Sakata, will do my utmost to nurture Hiroshi-kun! I will not let you and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government down!"

He paused, then his tone became even more resolute: "I assure you, Hiroshi Nohara, that I will make an even greater contribution to the Governor and to the future of Tokyo!"

Ryuichi Koike nodded in satisfaction, his long fingers gently patting Hiroshi Nohara's shoulder again, his gaze deep and full of expectation.

"Nohara-kun, you must remember that your talent and your works are not only for the art of film, but also for the future of Japan."

Ryuichi Koike's voice was filled with emotion: "Not just in Tokyo, but if given the opportunity, I believe the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party would also be very willing to have an in-depth exchange with a talented young person like you."

boom--!
Asumi, Toshihide Takada, Eiji Kurosawa, and all the high-ranking officials of TV Tokyo and civil servants from the Government Affairs Agency present stood there dumbfounded, their faces filled with disbelief and horror!

The leader of the Liberal Democratic Party?!
That's a "big shot" in Japanese politics! He's the true power core, controlling the lifeline of the entire country!
Governor Koike has actually hinted that Hiroshi Nohara might have the opportunity to have an "in-depth exchange" with that party leader?!

This...this is simply an unprecedented honor! This means that Hiroshi Nohara is no longer just a cultural creator; he has gradually moved to the center of the Japanese political stage!

Ryuichi Koike didn't say anything more. He just sighed softly, his gaze returning to the huge screen, his eyes filled with emotion: "This movie made me rethink many things. It made me realize that in this world, the purest love often exists in the most inconspicuous places."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over Hiroshi Nohara, a kind smile spreading across his face: "Nohara-kun, I look forward to your future works. You are the hope of Japan."

As he spoke, he patted Hiroshi Nohara on the shoulder again, and then, surrounded by publicity manager Tadashi Hattori and several secretaries, he walked out of the screening room with composed steps.

Inside the screening room, only Hiroshi Nohara and his group remained, along with the Tokyo TV executives and civil servants who were still deeply shocked.

Director Nobuhiko Sakata watched Governor Koike's figure gradually disappear into the distance, then looked at Hiroshi Nohara's young and confident face, his own face radiating uncontrollable elation.

He whirled around, his gaze sweeping over everyone present, his voice rising with fervor: "Ladies and gentlemen! Today, we have witnessed a miracle! We have witnessed Hiroshi Nohara create yet another miracle that will shake the entire nation!"

"Hachiko Monogatari is not just a movie; it is a cultural symbol, a great work that can influence the times and change the world!"

He paused, his tone resolute: "Therefore, I announce! Tonight, our Tokyo TV will book the most exclusive club in Ginza—'Kinkaku'! We will hold an unprecedented celebration banquet there for Hiroshi Nohara and for 'Hachiko Monogatari'!"

"All employees of TV Tokyo, all members of the independent production department, and everyone involved in the production of 'Hachi: A Dog's Tale' will be able to attend for free! We're going to have a blast and celebrate to the fullest! Because we know that this movie will absolutely be a huge hit! It will definitely top the box office this year, and it might even become an immortal legend that will be recorded in the history of Japanese cinema!"

boom--!
Nobuhiko Sakata's words were like a thunderclap from a clear sky, instantly creating a deafening roar in the screening room!
"oh--!"

"Great!"

"Long live Chief Sakata!"

"Long live Minister Nohara!"

After a brief moment of deathly silence, the scene instantly erupted into a huge uproar and revelry!
Everyone was so excited they were incoherent. They cheered, jumped for joy, and hugged each other. Their ecstasy almost lifted the entire theater upside down.

They knew that Director Sakata was right.

"Hachiko Monogatari" is definitely going to be a huge hit!

They will personally witness the transformation of an era, a brand new cultural era pioneered by Hiroshi Nohara, which has arrived with a bang!
……

The black Toyota limousine smoothly drove away from the "Hall of Light and Shadow" and into the bustling streets of central Tokyo.

Outside the train window, cherry blossom petals twirled and danced in the spring breeze, adding a touch of poetry to the bustling city. However, a deep silence permeated the carriage, forming a stark contrast to the vibrancy outside.

Governor Ryuichi Koike was leaning wearily against the back seat of his official car. His usually dignified and refined face was flushed, his eyes were red-rimmed, and his gaze was somewhat unfocused, as if he was still immersed in the immense emotional impact of the movie "Hachiko Monogatari".

His fingers rested lightly on his knees, his fingertips still trembling slightly, revealing the deep, unsettling turmoil within him.

Having weathered many political storms, he had long since developed a calm and composed demeanor, unmoved even by the collapse of Mount Tai. However, this film, like the sharpest blade, precisely dissected the softest corner of his heart, making this old-fashioned politician cry like a child.

That pure loyalty, that silent waiting, that bond that transcends life and death, washed over his soul like a tide, again and again, giving him an unprecedented sense of awe and emotion.

After all, he was an old man, yet he had never received the loyalty of such a devoted Akita dog as the protagonist, Professor Ueno.

Ryuichi Koike resonated with this, but also felt regret because of it.

The secretary, sitting in the passenger seat, keenly noticed Governor Koike's "distraught" appearance through the rearview mirror. He felt a chill and knew that the governor's emotions at this moment were anything but ordinary.

He quickly poured a cup of hot tea from the thermos beside him, unscrewed the lid, and handed it to Governor Koike, his voice respectful yet perfectly gentle: "Governor, please have a cup of hot tea to ease your mind."

Ryuichi Koike was slightly taken aback before he came to his senses.

He took the hot tea from his secretary, the warmth of the cup against his fingertips seeming to bring a touch of earthly comfort. He unscrewed the lid, took a small sip, and the tea, with its subtle bitterness and sweet aftertaste, gradually pulled his thoughts away from the sadness of the movie.

Just then, the official car stopped slightly, and several people got out of the business car following behind.

The car door was opened, and publicity minister Hattori Tadashi and several key members of the campaign team got into the car one after another.

They stayed behind to deal with the media, so they arrived just in time to meet up and report to Ryuichi Koike.

However, once they sat down in the car, each of them still had tear stains on their faces and their eyes were red and swollen, but their eyes were filled with uncontrollable excitement and fervor.

Ryuichi Koike's gaze swept over the crowd, and a meaningful smile appeared on his usually serious face.

He looked at Hattori Tadashi, then at the key members of the campaign team. His voice, though slightly hoarse, still carried the composure and authority of a superior: "Gentlemen, what do you think of 'Hachiko Monogatari'?"

Upon hearing this, Hattori Tadashi smiled knowingly. He didn't rush to speak, but calmly looked at the key members of the campaign team, his eyes carrying a perfectly measured hint of smug satisfaction, as if to say, "I knew it all along."

The key members of the campaign teams, not bothering to wipe the tears and sweat from their faces, spoke one after another, their voices filled with barely suppressed excitement and emotion.

"Your Excellency! This...this is simply a masterpiece!" A campaign advisor who looked to be in his forties, shrewd and capable, waved the documents in his hand excitedly, his voice trembling slightly: "I never imagined that a movie about dogs could be made so...so touching! It made even a hard-hearted guy like me cry buckets!"

“Yes, Your Excellency!” Another older campaign manager echoed, his usually serious face now streaked with tears. “I’ve been in politics for thirty years and have seen countless sentimental propaganda films, but none have moved me as much as this ‘Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale’! It’s… an emotional nuclear bomb!”

“A nuclear bomb? No, it’s an emotional tsunami!” a young campaign strategist exclaimed excitedly, his bright eyes still glistening with tears. “Your Excellency, you have no idea! When the movie was playing, I saw my colleagues around me, including even the most composed and rational analysts, crying their eyes out! They all said that this movie will definitely ignite the entire nation and become the most tear-jerking and socially impactful work of the year!”

“Most importantly, the message of this film is absolutely brilliant!” The campaign consultant became excited again, his shrewd eyes gleaming with fervor: “It uses the pure loyalty of dogs to highlight the complexity and preciousness of human emotions, awakening our deepest longings for warmth, connection, and loyalty! This…this is practically a campaign film tailor-made for your campaign!”

"Yes, Your Excellency! This film is not only moving, but it also has profound social significance! It will have an extremely positive publicity effect on the people of Tokyo and the nation of Japan!" The campaign manager echoed, his tear-streaked face now filled with boundless hope for the future: "It will make more people rethink the relationships between people, the emotions between humans and animals, and how our nation should inherit and promote the spirit of 'loyalty' in modern society!"

Ryuichi Koike listened quietly to their praise, and the meaningful smile on his face gradually became genuine.

His long, slender fingers gently stroked his beard again, his gaze falling on Hattori Tadashi, his eyes carrying a perfectly measured hint of self-deprecation and helplessness.

"Minister Hattori, you're right." Ryuichi Koike spoke softly, his tone full of emotion: "I did think you were exaggerating before. A movie about dogs could make you, the Minister of Public Relations, so excited and so certain. I was even thinking that you've been working too hard lately and your mind is a little unclear."

He paused, a wry smile appearing on his face: "But after watching this movie today, I realized that what you said wasn't an exaggeration at all! In fact, I even feel that what you said wasn't enough!"

Hattori Tadashi smiled knowingly upon hearing this. He knew that the governor was flattering him and admitting his mistake.

He simply nodded slightly, his tone calm yet firm: "Hi, Your Excellency. This film is indeed excellent. Although it's my first time seeing it, that's the feedback I've received from Yinglun. They all say that this film is a rare gem in recent years, a great work worthy of being recorded in history. Therefore, I choose to trust the professional evaluation."

Upon hearing this, Ryuichi Koike burst into laughter, his voice like the breaking of ice in winter, filled with unbridled joy.

"Good! What a great 'trust in professional evaluation'!" Koike Ryuichi said with a smile, patting Hattori Tadashi on the shoulder, his tone carrying just the right amount of teasing: "Captain Hattori Tadashi, you really are... too good at 'leveraging resources'! But I like it!"

He paused, his gaze sweeping over everyone present, and the ease and joy on his face infected everyone.

“Your Excellency, since this film is so brilliant and so socially significant,” the campaign advisor suddenly thought of something, his shrewd eyes flashing with fervent light, “didn’t we previously erect a Hachiko statue at Shibuya Station? Now that the film is being released, it will inevitably ignite public opinion, and Shibuya Station will definitely become a popular tourist attraction!”

He leaned forward slightly, his voice filled with anticipation: "Therefore, Your Excellency, we can take advantage of this momentum and hold another round of outreach events at Shibuya Station! You can personally attend, interact with the public, take photos with the Hachiko statue, tell Hachiko's story, and share your understanding of loyalty! This will greatly enhance your approachable image, your sense of responsibility, and your commitment!"

The campaign advisor's words were like a thunderclap from a clear sky, instantly exploding throughout the train carriage!
Everyone stared in disbelief at the campaign advisor, their faces a mixture of shock and elation.

They never imagined that the campaign consultant could combine the film's promotion with Governor Koike's campaign so perfectly and so cleverly!

This is simply... a brilliant idea!

Ryuichi Koike listened quietly to the campaign advisor's suggestions, his deep eyes flashing with the keen and decisive light of a politician.

His long, slender fingers gently stroked his beard again, his mind constantly considering the feasibility of the plan.

Shibuya Station, the Hachiko statue, the popularity of the movie, public sentiment... everything fits together perfectly, like carefully calculated gears.

"Great! What a brilliant idea!" Ryuichi Koike slapped his thigh, his voice filled with undisguised admiration. "I approve of this plan! We'll now fully align ourselves with 'Hachiko: The Tale of a Loyal Dog'! We'll perfectly combine Hachiko's spirit of loyalty with my campaign platform!"

He paused, his gaze sweeping over everyone present, his eyes filled with command: "At the same time, Minister Hattori, immediately inform the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office to make sure that the Eight-Bamboo Scepter is well taken care of! From now on, I will bring it with me to every campaign event I attend!"

"We want the Eight of Bamboo to be not only the protagonist of the movie, but also the 'mascot' for the future governance of Tokyo! It will become the closest and warmest connection between me and the people!"

Ryuichi Koike's words were resounding and powerful, each syllable brimming with strength.

Everyone's face was filled with ecstasy.

They knew that Governor Koike was going to thoroughly integrate the movie "Hachiko Monogatari" and the cultural symbol of the eight-bamboo symbol into his campaign strategy!
This will be an unprecedented attempt, and a "miracle" destined to be recorded in the annals of Japanese politics!
"Yes, Your Excellency! We understand!" All the key members of the campaign team responded in unison, their voices filled with fighting spirit and passion.

Hattori Tadaya quickly and respectfully replied, "Yes, Your Excellency! Please rest assured! I will do my utmost to take good care of the Eight of Bamboo and to make your campaign publicity the best it can be!"

The carriage was instantly filled with a joyful atmosphere.

Everyone stared at Ryuichi Koike's confident face and his deep eyes, a strong premonition rising in their hearts.

They knew that with the combined efforts of Governor Koike and the monster Hiroshi Nohara, this election was bound to be an unprecedented success!

And they will witness firsthand the transformation of an era, the arrival of a brand new political and cultural era pioneered by Ryuichi Koike and Hiroshi Nohara!

Ryuichi Koike simply smiled, his gaze fixed on the vast Tokyo Bay outside the window.

Outside the car, the cherry blossoms were still in full bloom, but in Koike Ryuichi's eyes, there was no longer the tenderness of spring, but the joy of autumn harvest and the profoundness of winter's layout.

He knew that an unprecedented political and cultural feast was about to begin.

"I really didn't expect this movie to exceed my expectations; it's so wonderful!" Ryuichi Koike clenched his fist, his eyes gleaming with increasing pride. "TV Tokyo, it really is my lucky place!"

(End of this chapter)