I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 223 A resounding success! Kumamon's viewership ratings soar! Governor Masakuma Muto's reflections!

In the statistics office of the Kumamoto Prefectural Government, as the morning light pierced through the blinds and cast shimmering lines on the floor, an irrepressible excitement already filled the air.

Akira Takahashi, who was in charge of ratings statistics, slammed the report in his hand on the table, his voice trembling slightly—not from nervousness, but from excitement that made him lose his composure.

"Everyone! Look at these numbers!" He pointed to the numbers circled in red on the report, his fingertips trembling. "Last night during the news segment, our station's ratings soared to 18.7%! That's more than double the same period last week! The morning news was even more outrageous, at 15.3%! This is the highest record for our county station in the past five years!"

The office erupted in chaos. The employees who had been busy organizing data rushed over, crowding around Takahashi Akira's desk, their eyes glued to the printed paper, as if trying to decipher every single number on it.

"Really?" Tanaka Saori, who was in charge of data entry, rubbed her eyes and looked closer. "When I was compiling the data last week, the morning news was only 6.8%. It's only been a few days and it's increased so much?"

"Can we still have a holiday?"

Takahashi Akira handed her the report, his tone full of certainty: "I checked it three times with the technical department last night, and the viewership curves for every time slot are all correct. Look here—" He pointed to a peak in the report: "At 7:10 last night, right when the short clip of Kumamon helping the old lady pick up oranges was shown, the viewership jumped from 12% to 18.7%, like a rocket!"

"It's Kumamon! It must be Kumamon's doing!" Watanabe Tetsuya, who was sitting in the corner, suddenly stood up, still clutching the tape of the short film he had recorded yesterday. "When I got home yesterday, the neighbor's kid was glued to the TV watching this little bear, and he didn't even have time to eat dinner. His mother told me that these past two days, after finishing his homework, the kid has been watching TV, just waiting for Kumamon to come out!"

"Absolutely!" Tanaka Saori put down the report, her voice full of emotion. "My sister is a kindergarten teacher. She called me yesterday and said that during nap time, the children were imitating Kumamon's walk. Some even cut red paper into blush shapes and stuck them on their faces, and they were begging the teacher to show Kumamon videos. Can you believe how lovable this little bear is?"

"If you ask me, Nohara-san is still the best!"

Akira Takahashi leaned against his desk, his tone full of admiration: "Our station has also produced a lot of promotional short films before, either showing the scenery of Mount Aso or telling the story of samurai. The visuals are nice, but the audience just doesn't buy it. Look at the Kumamon designed by Nohara-san. It's clumsy and cute, and it does little things like picking oranges and bargaining, but it's still memorable."

"Yes! I remember when I first saw the sample footage, I thought this little bear was too silly, it could even trip and fall while walking."

Tetsuya Watanabe scratched his head and smiled sheepishly: "I watched it with my wife yesterday, and she laughed until tears streamed down her face. She even asked me where she could buy a Kumamon plushie. Now that I think about it, it's this 'silliness' that makes it so endearing!"

The discussion in the office grew increasingly lively, and even the usually composed department head, Suzuki Yuichi, couldn't resist joining in.

He held an inquiry letter from the prefectural government in his hand, a smile he couldn't hide on his face: "The people from the prefectural government just called me, asking if we could compile more detailed viewership data for Kumamon, as they need to report it to the governor. Also, TV stations from surrounding prefectures and cities have asked us for copies of the short films, saying that their viewers are calling to ask, 'Where can I see this little black bear?'"

"Really?" Takahashi Akira's eyes lit up: "Then our county station is going to be a hit! In the past, we were the ones asking Tokyo TV and Osaka TV for programs, but now other county stations are actually asking us for short videos!"

"It's all thanks to Nohara-san!" Suzuki Yuichi sighed, his tone full of emotion. "In all my years of doing statistics, I've met at least eighty or a hundred directors, but Nohara-san is the first one who can make promotional short films that audiences watch religiously. He not only knows how to shoot, but he also knows what the audience wants to see. Look at those short films, there are no fancy special effects, no big stars, just a little bear in a suit doing some trivial things, but it just makes people feel warm and interested."

He paused, then added, "Yesterday I went to the market to buy groceries, and the fishmonger, Old Yamamoto, told me that people who come to buy fish these past two days have been talking about Kumamon. Some even said, 'After seeing the little bear helping people pick up oranges, I think the people of Kumamoto are really nice.' You see, this isn't just promoting a cartoon character; it's promoting the warmth and hospitality of Kumamoto!"

The people in the office fell silent, carefully considering Suzuki Yuichi's words.

Yes, Kumamon's popularity isn't just about its image, but also about the down-to-earth atmosphere behind it—the laughter of convenience store clerks, the kindness of taiyaki vendors, and the warm smiles of elderly women.

These things are more moving than any fancy promotional video.

At this moment, the office door was pushed open.

Publicity Minister Yamada Ichiro walked in, followed by Nakamura Kenta, the vice minister in charge of the television station, and Fujiwara Isshin, who was carrying a stack of documents.

"Director Suzuki, how's the ratings data coming along?" Yamada Ichiro asked with a smile as soon as he walked in, his tone full of anticipation.

Yuichi Suzuki rushed forward and handed him the report: "Minister Yamada, look! Yesterday's ratings hit a five-year high, with the morning news at 15.3% and the evening news at 18.7%, all thanks to Kumamon!"

Yamada Ichiro took the report, his eyes quickly scanning the numbers, his smile growing wider.

He looked up at the staff in the office, his tone full of praise: "Thank you all for your hard work! You've been working overtime these past few days compiling data, and now it's finally paying off. You are all heroes of Kumamoto!"

The staff smiled sheepishly, and Takahashi Akira scratched his head: "Manager Yamada, we just did our job. The real hero is Nohara-san. Without his design of Kumamon, we wouldn't have achieved such good results."

"Yes!"

Yamada Ichiro nodded, looked at Fujiwara Isshin beside him, and said with a sigh, "Fujiwara-kun, do you remember the first time we talked to Nohara-san about Kumamon? At the time, I was worried that the image was too 'silly' and that the audience wouldn't like it. Now it seems that I was overthinking it. Nohara-san's vision is indeed much more discerning than ours."

Fujiwara Isshin, holding the documents, smiled and said, "Minister Yamada, I remember Nohara-san saying, 'Publicity doesn't need to be high-class; what audiences like to see is something that makes them smile.' Thinking about it now, that's so true. The reason Kumamon is so popular is because it's authentic and down-to-earth."

Kenta Nakamura also came over to look at the report, his tone full of amazement: "On my way here, I overheard two students talking about Kumamon, saying they were going to stake out the convenience store today just to see the latest short film. Our station's programs never had this kind of treatment before!"

"It's not just students!"

Ichiro Yamada laughed and said, "This morning, I passed by a coffee shop near the prefectural government building and overheard some office workers talking about Kumamon. They said that after watching the scene where Kumamon drops the taiyaki yesterday, their stress levels have dropped a lot. You see, Mr. Nohara not only promoted Kumamoto but also helped everyone relieve stress. It's a win-win situation!"

He paused, then changed the subject, looking at Fujiwara Isshin: "By the way, Fujiwara-kun, how's the Kumamon merchandise thing I told you about before? The prefectural office's phone is ringing off the hook, with lots of people asking where they can buy Kumamon plushies, keychains, and other such items."

Fujiwara Isshin quickly put down the documents in his hand and pulled out a report: "Minister Yamada, rest assured, I've been following up on the peripheral products. We've already contacted three toy factories in Kumamoto, and they're all willing to expedite production. The sample of the doll has been made; it's the same kind I gave to the Koyama family last time, with a round body and paws embroidered with citrus patterns. The feedback has been very good."

He opened the report and pointed to the production plan: "For the first batch, we plan to produce 5,000 plush toys, 3,000 keychains, and 2,000 T-shirts with Kumamon designs. They are expected to arrive gradually next week and will be sold in souvenir shops at the prefectural government, convenience stores, and shops in tourist areas. The prices are also set: 800 yen for each plush toy, 200 yen for each keychain, and 500 yen for each T-shirt. These are prices that the public can afford."

Yamada Ichiro looked at the report and nodded in satisfaction: "The quantity and price are both suitable. However, are five thousand plush toys enough? I heard from the convenience store owner that they have already pre-ordered several hundred."

"Don't worry, I've already spoken to the toy factory."

Fujiwara Isshin explained, "If the first batch sells well, they will immediately open more production lines to ensure supply. In addition, besides these regular merchandise items, we also plan to collaborate with local food factories to launch Kumamon-themed snacks, such as cookies with Kumamon designs, citrus-flavored candies, and taiyaki-shaped sweets. This will not only promote our merchandise but also boost the business of local food factories."

"That's a good idea!"

Yamada Ichiro clapped his hands, his tone full of praise: "It promotes Kumamon and supports local businesses at the same time, killing two birds with one stone. Fujiwara-kun, you've thought of everything very thoroughly!"

Fujiwara Isshin smiled sheepishly: "Actually, Nohara-san reminded me of all this. He said that Kumamon shouldn't just be a promotional character, but should become a 'bridge' to drive Kumamoto's economy. By promoting related products, more local businesses can benefit, which is the only way to truly help Kumamoto."

"Nohara-san is truly farsighted!"

Ichiro Yamada remarked, "From designing Kumamon to making short films and promoting related products, every step was so meticulously planned. If Kumamoto had more talents like Mr. Nohara, how could the economy not improve!"

Kenta Nakamura nodded in agreement: "Yes! Before, when outsiders mentioned Kumamoto, they only knew about Mount Aso and samurai. Now that we have Kumamon, everyone thinks of words like cute and heartwarming. This change is more meaningful than any economic data."

The office staff nodded in agreement.

Akira Takahashi laughed and said, "Yesterday I called my friend in Tokyo and told him that Kumamoto has a cute little bear. He didn't believe me and said that Kumamoto only has volcanoes and samurai. But when I asked him to tune into our prefectural radio station, he watched a short video of Kumamon and actually told me that he would bring his family to Kumamoto next week just to see Kumamon and try our taiyaki!"

"Haha! That's the charm of Kumamon!" Yamada Ichiro said with a laugh. "It not only attracts tourists but also changes everyone's impression of Kumamoto. Fujiwara-kun, you must keep a close eye on the production of related products and make sure there are no mistakes. This is Kumamoto's 'calling card,' so you must do it well!"

"Don't worry, I'll go to the toy factory and food factory every day to keep an eye on them and ensure product quality," Fujiwara Isshin said earnestly. "Furthermore, I plan to announce the release time and location of the merchandise on the prefectural government's official website and television station so that everyone can buy it in time."

Yamada Ichiro nodded in satisfaction, then picked up the report on the table and looked at it, his tone full of anticipation: "At the current rate, it won't be long before Kumamon becomes a sensation throughout the Kansai region, and even all of Japan. At that time, our Kumamoto tourism, catering, and manufacturing industries will all benefit. This is all thanks to Nohara-san!"

Just then, Fujiwara Isshin suddenly remembered something and frowned slightly.

Looking at the production report in his hand, he pondered to himself—although he had already contacted the toy factory and the food factory, there was still no clear person in charge of the quality supervision and sales channel management of the surrounding products.

Although the county government can coordinate, it is, after all, a government department, and it is not appropriate for it to directly participate in commercial operations.

If we hand it over to an outside company, we worry that they might lower product quality for profit and ruin the Kumamon brand.

He lowered his head and thought for a moment, then suddenly his eyes lit up.

He had originally planned to visit Koyama's house tonight to chat with Masaya and Koyama and his wife about their upcoming meeting between their parents and the engagement.

Yoshiharu Koyama, having served as the dean of students at a middle school, possessed extensive experience in management and quality control; while Koya Koyama excelled in interpersonal communication, making him perfectly suited for managing sales channels.

Moreover, the character design of Kumamon is by Hiroshi Nohara. If Hiroshi authorizes the Koyama couple to establish a dedicated management company to be responsible for the quality supervision of peripheral products and the coordination of sales channels, and the prefectural government cooperates, it can not only ensure product quality, but also allow the Koyama family to obtain a good income.

Thinking of this, Fujiwara Isshin couldn't help but smile.

He glanced at Yamada Ichiro furtively, thinking to himself—after discussing things with the Koyama family that evening, he would report back to Department Head Yamada.

This would solve the regulatory problem, give Xiaoshan's family a surprise, and also be considered a small token of his appreciation as their "prospective son-in-law."

Ichiro Yamada, oblivious to Isshin Fujiwara's thoughts, was still discussing viewership data with Yuichi Suzuki: "Director Suzuki, you need to continue to closely monitor the viewership ratings over the next few days, especially in the surrounding prefectures. If the ratings in Fukuoka and Nagasaki also rise, we can apply to the broadcasting association to promote the Kumamon short film nationwide!"

"Don't worry, we've already increased our staff, and we'll be compiling detailed viewership reports for you every day."

Yuichi Suzuki said earnestly, "Furthermore, we also plan to conduct an audience survey to ask everyone which segment of Kumamon they like the most and what kind of new content they would like to see. This will provide Nohara-san with more creative inspiration."

“That’s a great idea!” Yamada Ichiro nodded. “We must do a thorough survey so that Nohara-san knows what the audience wants. By the way, Fujiwara-kun, when you see Nohara-san next time, you must tell him that the prefectural government will fully support his work, whether it’s funding or resources, we can provide whatever he needs.”

"I will, Minister Yamada," Fujiwara Isshin nodded in response, but his mind was already on his trip to Koyama's house that evening.

He had already begun to think about how to bring up the idea with Yoshiharu Koyama and Takasago Koyama in a way that would make them accept the proposal without seeming abrupt.

The discussion in the office continued, and sunlight streamed through the blinds, casting long shadows on everyone.

Everyone had a smile on their face and their eyes were full of anticipation.

The story of Kumamon has only just begun, and this adorable little bear will eventually carry the warmth and hope of Kumamoto to even more distant places.

As Fujiwara Isshin looked at the lively scene before him, his heart was filled with confidence. He believed that with Hiroshi Nohara's talent, the support of the prefectural government, and the help of the Koyama family, Kumamon would surely become Kumamoto's most shining symbol, letting everyone in Japan know that in Kumamoto, there is a cute and warm little bear waiting for everyone to meet.

He glanced down at the production report in his hand, then remembered that he was going to Xiaoshan's house that evening, and couldn't help but smile.

Perhaps tonight will be another important turning point in the Kumamon promotion plan.

……

The wooden door to the Kumamoto Prefectural Governor's office was ajar, and morning light filtered through the blinds, casting dappled patterns that fell onto the washi paper in front of Masao Muto.

A faint aroma of sencha (steamed tea) filled the air. Yamamoto Ichiro bowed, holding a thick statistical report in both hands, his voice steady but unable to hide his excitement.

"Your Excellency, according to statistics from last week, the Kumamon short film has achieved a 92% approval rating among viewers of all ages in the prefecture."

He traced the line graph on the report with his fingertips, the steep upward curve seeming to dance joyfully on the paper: "Especially among children under 12, the favorability rating is perfect—a survey of five kindergartens in the prefecture shows that the children's most anticipated event every day is watching the Kumamon short film before the evening news. This behavior has also influenced their parents and families, having a very positive impact on your poll results." Muto Masao picked up his teacup, the rising steam blurring the fine lines around his eyes.

Instead of looking at the report immediately, he looked out the window—in the county square, several children in school uniforms were circling around a staff member dressed as Kumamon, their cheerful laughter drifting into the office on the wind, carrying a comforting, warm atmosphere.

This is a promotional campaign for Kumamon costumes.

"How's the reaction in Fukuoka?" He took a sip of tea, his voice low but carrying an undeniable composure.

Yamamoto Ichiro quickly flipped over the report and pointed to another page of data: "Fukuoka TV started broadcasting short videos simultaneously last week, and the morning viewership has increased from 7.2% to 11.5%. Yesterday, a councilor from Fukuoka City even called to ask if he could get some Kumamon posters from us, saying that local businesses have been calling the city hall non-stop."

"Oh?" Muto Masao finally put down his teacup and reached out to take the report.

His fingertips paused on the word "Fukuoka," but his eyes didn't show much surprise: "What about Nagasaki and Saga?"

“Nagasaki Prefecture TV sent a letter this morning, hoping to obtain a permanent broadcasting license for the short film; Saga Prefecture is even more direct, sending people from their publicity department to talk to us about cooperation on related products—their ceramics factory wants to make a batch of Kumamon-shaped mugs, saying they’re sure to be a bestseller.”

Yamamoto Ichiro became more and more excited as he spoke, his tone filled with barely suppressed joy: "Your Excellency, the entire Kansai region is talking about Kumamon right now. Kumamoto has become truly famous this time!"

Masao Muto slowly flipped through the reports, his gaze sweeping over the dense numbers before finally settling on a photograph—in which an elderly woman with gray hair was holding Kumamon's paw, her face full of wrinkles as she smiled. Next to her, a stall displayed freshly baked taiyaki, their steaming aroma seemingly able to waft through the paper.

He gently traced the edge of the photo with his fingertips, and a faint smile finally appeared on his lips: "These external influences are secondary."

Yamamoto Ichiro's smile faltered slightly, but he quickly realized that Governor Muto was always pragmatic. More than "fame," he cared about whether the publicity could be truly effective and whether the people of Kumamoto could feel the benefits.

"Rest assured, the feedback from our county is equally excellent."

Yamamoto Ichiro quickly adjusted his tone and pulled out another stack of documents from the reports: "According to statistics from the prefecture's citrus cooperatives, last week's orange sales increased by 30% compared to the same period last month. Many customers said, 'Seeing Kumamon helping an old lady pick oranges made me want to taste how sweet Kumamon's oranges really are.' Merchants in the central shopping street also said that the recent foot traffic has increased significantly, especially on weekends, with many families bringing their children specifically to 'find Kumamon.'"

He paused, then specifically turned to a photocopy of a handwritten thank-you letter: "This was written by Mr. Sato, a fruit farmer from Jonan-cho. He said he was worried that his oranges wouldn't sell this year, but since the Kumamon short film aired, he's been overwhelmed with orders and has even hired two temporary workers to help with packing. He specifically mentioned that he wanted to send a basket of the freshest oranges to the prefectural government to thank you for taking the lead in promoting such a great cause."

Muto Masao accepted the letter of thanks. The yellowed pages were written in neat calligraphy, and the words were filled with sincere gratitude.

He looked at the letter for a long time before gently placing it on the table, his tone warmer: "It's more important than anything else that the people can benefit."

"Now, when the people of the county talk about you, they all say that you are a 'wise and understanding person'."

Ichiro Yamamoto added at the opportune moment, his voice filled with sincere admiration: "In a previous street interview, when people were asked what they thought of the prefectural government's recent work, eight out of ten people mentioned Kumamon, saying that you not only pay attention to economic development, but also think of using such a cute way to add vitality to Kumamon. You are a leader who is 'warm-hearted and capable'."

Muto Masao tapped his fingertips lightly on the edge of the table, but did not reply, though his eyes softened considerably.

Having been in politics for over two decades, he has seen far too many empty and superficial political achievements. Compared to those flashy but impractical reports and figures, the "warmth" that the people say is the most reassuring evaluation for him.

"Speaking of which, we have to thank that young man, Hiroshi Nohara, for the great results this time."

Muto Masao suddenly spoke, his tone tinged with emotion: "When he came to the prefectural office to discuss cooperation, I thought he was just a director who could only make animated films. I never expected that he not only understands film and television, but also knows how to capture the hearts of the people."

Yamamoto Ichiro immediately nodded in agreement: "You're absolutely right! Nohara-san's talent is truly admirable. Our prefectural TV station has produced quite a few tourism promotional videos before, either showing the scenery of Mount Aso or telling samurai stories. The visuals are exquisite, but the audience just can't remember them. But Nohara-san's design for Kumamon is neither high-end nor deliberately sentimental. It just relies on small things like falling down and bargaining, which is why everyone remembers it."

He couldn't help but smile as he recalled the first time he saw the Kumamon sample: "At the time, I was worried that the image was too 'silly' and that it might make the audience think that Kumamoto was low-class. But Nohara-san said, 'What the people like is never a perfect hero, but a friendly presence like a neighbor.' Now it seems that he was absolutely right."

Muto Masao picked up his teacup, took another sip, and his eyes gradually became serious: "Do you remember? During the Tokyo gubernatorial election, Governor Koike Ryuichi won over many young voters and women's votes by using his 'dog lover' campaign plan; and in the Tokyo mayoral election, that old fox Shimazu Yoshihiro used his 'information cocoon' strategy to accurately reach middle-class voters—this young man is not just someone who makes cartoons."

Yamamoto Ichiro felt a chill run down his spine and immediately understood what Muto Masao meant.

Next year will be the election for the governor of Kumamoto Prefecture. Although Masao Muto was elected with an absolute majority in the last election, the demands of voters are constantly changing as the economic situation becomes increasingly tense.

If Hiroshi Nohara could help him, it would undoubtedly greatly increase his chances of re-election.

"Your Excellency, what do you mean..." Yamamoto Ichiro asked tentatively, his tone tinged with caution.

Muto Masao put down his teacup and looked out the window at the prefectural government square—Kumamon was clumsily playing a game of tag with the children, accidentally falling flat on his face, which made the children laugh.

He paused for a few seconds before slowly nodding: "We can't be careless in next year's election. The public's expectations for 'getting things done' are getting higher and higher. Hiroshi Nohara can make a cartoon character so relatable, which shows that he understands what the public wants. If we can get him to help us plan our campaign, our chances of winning will be much greater."

Yamamoto Ichiro's eyes lit up, and he quickly said, "Actually, the current promotion of Kumamon is already the best foundation! The people have seen the project you spearheaded and already have an impression of you as 'pragmatic and warm-hearted.' If we could get Nohara-san to film a few more short films related to people's livelihoods—for example, having Kumamon visit nursing homes in the prefecture or help farmers solve the problem of unsold agricultural products—it would not only further enhance your image but also let the people feel the prefectural government's care."

He paused, then added, "Moreover, Mr. Nohara has a lot of influence on TV Tokyo now. Programs like 'Super Transformation' and 'Tales of the Unusual' are popular nationwide. If we can get him to mention Kumamoto's livelihood initiatives on the show, it might attract investment from Tokyo—haven't you always wanted to promote Kumamoto's tourism and manufacturing industries? This is a great opportunity."

Muto Masao nodded slightly, clearly agreeing with Yamamoto Ichiro's idea.

He tapped his fingers lightly on the table, thought for a moment, and then said, "Make arrangements to invite Hiroshi Nohara to the prefectural office next week. I want to talk to him in person. It doesn't need to be too formal. Just say it's about the follow-up promotion of Kumamon, and invite him to a casual meal."

“Okay! I’ll contact them right away!” Yamamoto Ichiro replied quickly, feeling relieved. He knew that once Governor Muto made a decision, he would act immediately, and Hiroshi Nohara, with whom he had worked well before, would probably not refuse.

Suddenly remembering something, Muto Masao smiled and said, "By the way, how's that old guy Fujimoto Maru doing lately? I called him last time, and he was complaining that his son wouldn't find a girlfriend."

Yamamoto Ichiro paused for a moment, then smiled: "Fujiwara-san, he's finally breathed a sigh of relief! His son, Fujiwara Isshin, is getting along very well with the eldest daughter of the Koyama family, Maya. I heard that their parents are going to meet next week to discuss their engagement. I ran into him at the prefectural government building last time, and he was bragging to me that he finally doesn't have to be pressured by his relatives to get married anymore."

"Oh? That's really good news." Muto Masao's tone became more relaxed. "Fujiwara Honmaru and I have been colleagues for a long time. When he was the head of the finance department at the prefectural government, he helped me a lot. I've also been following his youngest son, Fujiwara Isshin. He's steady and meticulous in his work at our prefectural government, and he's a good match for the Koyama family's daughter."

He paused, then smiled and said, "When you arrange for me to meet with Hiroshi Nohara, please also ask Isshin Fujiwara if he has time to come along. He and Hiroshi Nohara were involved in the Kumamon project together, and he has ideas for the subsequent promotion. Having more people to discuss things together will allow for more comprehensive consideration. Moreover, letting him interact more with Hiroshi Nohara will also allow him to learn something—more experience for young people is good for the future of Kumamoto."

Yamamoto Ichiro nodded quickly: "You've thought it through perfectly! Fujiwara Isshin now greatly admires Nohara Hiroshi. When we talked last time, he said that he learned a lot about publicity from Nohara-san. Letting them interact more will not only advance the subsequent work, but also cultivate the abilities of young people."

Masao Muto stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the still lively scene in the square—Kumamon was surrounded by children, awkwardly signing autographs for them. Although he was just drawing circles on the paper with his paws, the children were laughing very happily.

He paused for a moment before slowly saying, "Kumamoto's economic situation hasn't been good in recent years, and young people are all flocking to Tokyo. We're doing these things not just for the election, but to make Kumamoto better and to encourage young people to come back. Hiroshi Nohara's ability to bring such a small cartoon character to life might give us some inspiration. Sometimes, warmth is more powerful than slogans."

Yamamoto Ichiro also stood up, looking at Muto Masao's back with admiration in his heart.

He knew that although Governor Muto appeared serious, he always had the people of Kumamoto and the future of Kumamoto in his heart.

The appearance of Kumamon is like a ray of sunshine, not only illuminating Kumamon's promotional path, but also giving everyone hope for Kumamon's future.

"Don't worry, I will definitely arrange the meeting with Nohara-san and communicate well with Fujiwara Isshin." Yamamoto Ichiro said firmly, "We will definitely be able to do a better job in promoting Kumamoto and help you get re-elected smoothly, so that we can do more practical things for the people of Kumamoto."

Muto Masao turned around, looked at Yamamoto Ichiro, and nodded: "Thank you for your hard work. We don't seek to do things in a spectacular way, but only to have a clear conscience. As long as we can make the people of Kumamoto live a better life, no amount of hard work is too much."

His gaze returned to the window. The sunlight in the square grew warmer, and the laughter of Kumamon mingled with the children's joy, like a warm song.

A genuine smile finally appeared on Muto Masao's lips.

Kumamoto's future will surely be as vibrant and hopeful as this adorable little bear.

Looking at Muto Masao's expression, Yamamoto Ichiro felt a surge of confidence.

He turned and walked out of the office with light steps—he needed to contact Hiroshi Nohara and Isshin Fujiwara immediately to prepare for their meeting next week.

This collaboration will not only help Governor Muto secure a smooth re-election, but also allow the story of Kumamon to continue to warm the hearts of more people.

In his office, Masao Muto sat back down at his desk, picked up the handwritten thank-you note, and read it again.

On the yellowed pages, the words "Thank you, Governor, for doing practical things for the people" stood out prominently.

He sighed softly and carefully placed the letter into the drawer—inside were thank-you letters from other citizens, each one a source of motivation for him to continue.

He picked up his teacup, looked at the sunlight outside the window, and silently thought: We must make Kumamoto better, and let these simple smiles remain on the faces of the people forever.

Hiroshi Nohara, this young director, may be the key to achieving this goal.

We must have a good talk when we meet next week.

he thinks.

Meanwhile, in Xiaoshan's living room, warm yellow light filled the room, and the aroma of freshly baked dorayaki wafted through the air.

Misae was sitting at a low table, holding a paintbrush in her hand, drawing Kumamon's new image on the drawing paper—a round body wearing a red kimono, holding a big orange in its hand, and the blush on its face was brighter than usual.

"Hiroshi, what do you think of my drawing of Kumamon?" Misae held up the drawing paper, her voice full of anticipation. "I think it looks really cute in a kimono. If it were made into a doll, it would definitely sell very well!"

Hiroshi came out of the studio with a stack of storyboards in his hand. Hearing this, he went over to take a look and nodded with a smile: "It's very cute! Especially the pattern on this kimono, which is very similar to the traditional patterns of Kumamoto. It has both local characteristics and a festive feel. If it were made into merchandise, it would definitely be popular."

Misae's cheeks flushed slightly as she whispered, "I referenced the pattern on the kimono my mother knitted. I thought red was very festive and suitable for launching during the New Year. Oh, by the way, Fujiwara Isshin just called and said he's going to meet with both sets of parents of Masae in a couple of days to discuss the engagement. He also asked if we wanted to come along."

Hiroshi paused for a moment, then laughed and said, "Of course we'll go! Masaya-nee and Fujiwara-kun get along so well, we have to go and support them. By the way, what gift did Auntie prepare?"

“Mom prepared homemade dorayaki and pickles, and said she would knit a scarf for Fujiwara-kun’s parents.” Misae said as she continued to draw details of Kumamon. “Dad also said he would talk to Fujiwara-kun’s father about education in Kumamoto. He was the head of the middle school before he retired, and he is very concerned about education.”

Hiroshi nodded, remembering Yoshiji Koyama's emphasis on education, and couldn't help but smile: "Uncle will definitely have a long chat with Fujiwara-kun's father. By the way, how's the doll you and Yumeya are making? You said you'd make a batch to give to the manga club staff, is it finished yet?"

"Almost done!" Misae said hurriedly, "Mengya just finished sewing the blush on the last doll yesterday, and we can pack it up today. We also embroidered the words 'Future Comic Club' on the doll's paws, which is both beautiful and meaningful."

She paused, then excitedly added, "Oh, right, the people at the manga company also said they want to create a manga series based on Kumamon's image—called 'Kumamon's Daily Life,' telling all sorts of funny stories about him in Kumamoto, like helping an old lady pick up oranges, haggling with the taiyaki vendor, and going on an adventure to Mount Aso. If it gets published, it's sure to sell very well!"

Hiroshi's eyes lit up, and he quickly said, "That's a great idea! It can promote Kumamon and boost the development of the manga company. I can talk to Shueisha and ask them to take a look at the manuscript. If it's suitable, it might be published."

Misae looked up in surprise: "Really? That's great! The people in the manga club will definitely be very happy! They were worried that no one would read their manga, but if it can be published, everyone will definitely be more motivated."

Hiroshi smiled and patted Misae's hair: "Don't worry, your manga is very unique, especially the depiction of Kumamoto's local customs and culture. It's very realistic and heartwarming. Shueisha should be interested. When I meet with Fujiwara-kun and the others next week, I'll talk to him and see if we can get the prefectural government to support it as well—for example, by using the manga as a tourism promotional item for Kumamoto and selling it in shops in tourist areas."

Misae nodded vigorously, her eyes full of anticipation.

Looking down at the Kumamon on the drawing paper, she suddenly felt exceptionally at ease—with Hiroshi by her side, it seemed that no matter what difficulties she faced, they could be easily overcome. The appearance of Kumamon not only made Kumamoto more lively, but also filled her and those around her with enthusiasm and hope.

P.S.: Still begging for recommendation votes and monthly tickets, I'm practically begging you all! If possible, please subscribe to the entire series! I'm bowing down in gratitude!
(End of this chapter)